It is time to repair ourselves, the environment, and the world. We are no longer going to be a “throw away” world. We now understand how our throwaway culture is damaging ourselves and our precious environment.
We must repair ourselves. It is time to focus on healing our body, mind, and spirit. We must balance the energy in our body and reduce anxiety. We need more natural light, spend more time in nature, and reduce our screen time.
We must repair the things in our environment. We can learn to fix things instead of throwing them away. It is time to learn new skills.
We must repair our world. It is time to reduce plastics in our environment. We can reduce the plastics in our homes, use natural containers, and become aware of how much plastic we use.
We can buy natural fabrics for our clothing (cotton, bamboo, linen, and wool). They will last longer and they are better for the body (and energy body, too).
Polyester is is damaging our bodies and the planet. It is a synthetic, petroleum-based plastic that releases microplastics into waterways, is non-biodegradable, and can cause skin irritation, allergies, and potential toxic chemical exposure through dyes and finishing agents.
We also have too much clothing in our world. It is time to stop buying clothing and use what we have.
REDUCE, REUSE, and RECYCLE
Immediate Plastic & Waste Reductions Examples:
Carry Reusable Bags: Keep tote bags in your car or purse to avoid plastic bags.
Ditch Bottled Water: Use a reusable stainless steel or glass water bottle, which saves money and keeps plastic out of landfills.
Reusable Coffee Cups: Bring your own mug to cafes, as many disposable cups are lined with plastic.
Swap Soap Bottles for Bars: Use bar soap, shampoo bars, and bar cleaners to eliminate plastic liquid containers.
Use Glass/Metal Food Storage: Use glass containers or Mason jars instead of plastic baggies and wraps.
Buy in Bulk: Use reusable produce bags or refill containers to avoid excess packaging.
Shop Secondhand: Buy clothes or household items from thrift stores, which cuts down on packaging waste.
Repair/Repurpose: Mend clothing and repair electronics rather than discarding them.
Alice’s Wonder Spray (all purpose cleaner):
2 tsp borax
1/4 cup white vinegar
Hot water – add to 32 oz. spray bottle
1/4 cup liquid dish soap – add last
20 drops of essential oil – optional
Recommend books:
“Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste,” by Bea Johnson
“Zero Waste: Simple Life Hacks to Drastically Reduce Your Trash,” by Shia Su
About a week ago, I read about a woman who worked at Disney World for over 30 years. She said she noticed a big change in today’s children. She noticed children on cell phones, not even looking up. They were visiting the most magical place on earth, yet not participating. What kind of memories are children creating? Just online shorts and nothing real?
Cell phones foster passive participation rather than active participation. Humans are watching and listening to other people and events. Before cell phones, we actively participated in life. We didn’t just watch things on a device.
We need to define what it means to be human. Also, we need to ask, “How can we live our lives to the fullest? And “What takes away from our precious time?”
The cell phone literally pacifies us. We go on it for entertainment and relaxation. But we need to be careful not to let it take away from living life. Screens also dull the mind and train the brain to accept a mediocre life. Humans are so distracted that they accept not being fully present in life.
And, more importantly, we must allow our children to participate fully in life. They need movement and to engage the senses. Every time they look down at their phone, they miss out on living out their childhood and being in the present moment. A human child needs to communicate, play, dream, and create.
The Internet is just like Disney World. It wants our engagement so it can make money. But to participate, we have to follow their rules. Tech companies have spent billions of dollars to find ways to capture our attention.
The system is set up in their favor, not ours. But we still have a choice about whether we want to play. We are at the crossroads, right now, to still have a choice. We need to make some big decisions on how we want to interact with screens and technology.
Open Mic (Poetry Reading) Chanhassen Library 7711 Kerber Blvd., Chanhassen, Minnesota February 14, 2026, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Becoming a Diamond, by GG
My ancestors are buried deep in the Earth’s mantle Over millions (maybe billions) of years, their remains turned into shiny, black carbon Each rotting body dissolved
from earth to water water to fire fire to air air to space
Eventually, each ancestor became a radiant diamond, taking their place in the twinkling sky
The way to the Earth’s depths requires an inward journey My turbulent mind holds positive and negative thoughts The facets of my life reflect the past, present, and future
The intense heat of my emotions rolls on the whipping winds of a swirling storm Daily stress cooks and bakes me into something resilient
Life’s pressures sculpt something precious inside me And I can be brilliant or dull – the choice is mine
My spiritual jewel is revealed when I become awake to a higher consciousness Through meditation and self-reflection, I polish myself into luminosity I am strong and refined
In the midst of death life persists, in the midst of untruth truth persists,
in the midst of darkness light persists.
-Mahatma Gandhi
I love this line by Mahatma Gandhi: “In the midst of untruth truth persists.” No matter what happens in life. No matter how many lies are on the surface. The truth exists at the core.
There is also a truth that is within us. One way to find this truth is to come back “home” to ourselves. The word “home” contains “OM.” There are so many distractions in life that we need to intentionally find the truth within us. Meditation, self-reflection, silence, and yoga are ways to find this truth.
Technology is changing the way we think and function. We must reduce our screen time. Engage with screens and technology in small doses. Each time we are on a screen, our brains change. The dopamine hits light up certain aspects of our brain, which creates addiction. We need to figure out a balance when engaging with screens.
In the documentary “The Social Dilemma,” I recall Jaron Lanier, a computer scientist and futurist, discussing the crucial need for humans who are not manipulated to sit down and have a conversation. He is referring to people whose brains are not addicted to or manipulated by screens. I understood that he said this because we will need humans with normal brain function to make life-changing decisions. People who have become zombies will be of no help.
Also, we must not give children iPads or smartphones. Children are our future, and they are becoming zombies. The human child needs to play, dream, imagine, create, and have space. Screens are rewiring their brains to become addicted, distracted, and have less focus and concentration.
One of the goals of meditation is to learn to focus and concentrate. Screens are the opposite of meditation. The distraction of screens takes us farther away from ourselves. As humans, we need to come back home to ourselves.
We are at a crossroads right now. Each adult needs to do an assessment with their phone, computer, or any other screen. Ask yourself:
How do I physically feel when I’m on my screen for more than an hour?
How does my brain feel after scrolling on my phone?
Do I feel dizzy when I’m on my phone for too long?
In my day-to-day life, do I feel distracted and impatient?
Do I have enough attention span to mindfully listen to someone in person?
Are my emotions more severe after spending over two hours on my phone?
I know that I physically feel dizzy and nauseous if I’m on my phone or computer for too long. I actually start to feel “unwell.” Therefore, I know that phones and computers are unhealthy and dangerous to the human brain.
I still use screens, but in small doses (like radiation, which it is). I do not allow any technology, including my cell phone, in my bedroom. I turned off all notifications except text messages. I also find ways to disconnect by doing art projects, practicing yoga, meditating, exercising, or reading. I also enjoy phone-free conversations with family and friends.
We can find a way to balance our screentime. We need to have normal brain function without manipulation and addiction. We need to find the truth within us.
Mother prepares a canoe. The canoe is ready to bring me across the lake to a new land, a new life. I ride alone with the pull of the magnetic moon. I feel the blue waves pressing. I see the illuminated darkness around me. I am drawn toward the bright light. I am not afraid. I arrive in the new land with my head first and a demanding voice. Then I grow every day, and I look at the shining moon above. I see the yellow sun set on the horizon each night. I experience life. Then, one day, Mother prepares a canoe. It’s ready with love to take me back across the waters to the other side. I ride alone. I am not afraid. The shimmering moon pulls me back toward the night sky. The white lights guide my way.
I chose to write about “Two Canoes” because it brought back a memory of one of my hospice patients. As he neared his death, he would say, “It’s almost time to get into the canoe.” He said it with quiet acceptance.
About eight months ago, my friend Roxanne, whom I’ve known for 25 years, told me about a trip she wanted to take. She wanted to join the 2025 Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope to Rome, Italy, from October 24 to November 1. She found a tour group and asked if I wanted to go. I had planned a trip to Peru at the end of May, so I said no. She invited another friend instead.
Then, about a week before the trip, Roxanne called me. She said her friend and travel companion had pneumonia and canceled the trip. She asked if I wanted to go. I said I would need to check with my husband and ask for time off from work. I was cleared to go on Monday, October 20, but the tour group did not approve the change. On Tuesday, October 21 (three days before leaving for the trip), the tour group accepted me.
Roxanne said it was meant for me to join her on this trip. She had many people praying that I could go, and everything fell into place at the last minute! I had three days to pack—it was a whirlwind! Thankfully, I had everything that I needed since I just traveled to Peru.
Before the trip, I thought about why I was going. I knew one reason was to be Roxanne’s companion. I travel a lot, so I could help her navigate airports and the city (this was my third trip to Rome, and it was Roxanne’s first). There was also a spiritual reason. I wanted to connect with the divine feminine and pray for my family.
During the trip, I connected with my Catholic roots. I also witnessed in every church the crowds were around the statues and paintings of Mother Mary (the Divine Feminine). It made me realize, whether conscious or not, the world is returning to Mother God.
During my meditation, I contemplated the reason why I was going to Rome. The message was clear: Beacons of Light are going to Rome. I would join many others in bringing loving light to Rome. Many times throughout the trip, I mentally put a bright white light around my body. I projected love for the divine Mother.
Rome is the Rose—the foundation of the Catholic Church. The powerhouse of spirituality and human direction. People put their trust and hope in the church. I was in the papal audience, with thousands of other people, at the Vatican. I looked into Pope Leo’s eyes (if it really was him), and I could see the responsibility and even the burden of people’s trust.
I am not the same Catholic girl that I was in my youth. I have opened my eyes to see that many roads do lead to Rome. I am a yogi who believes in the power of my own salvation. Even Jesus said, “The Kingdom of God is within you.”
Ancient Rome is the foundation of the original architects of Tartaria. The Catholic Church puts its stamp on all the ancient buildings. The world of deception is breaking down. Now it’s time to remember.
Although I have distanced myself from my Catholic upbringing, I still believe in the power of prayer. While I was in Rome, I prayed a lot. I prayed for several family members and the world. I prayed in 12 churches during my time in Rome. The tour group also prayed the Rosary almost every morning.
The first Mass of the trip was at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Sassia, near the Vatican, which dates back to the 12th century. I felt connected to this old church and all the history. I felt the holy spirit in my heart and the expansive divine.
Church of the Holy Spirit in Sassia – Photo by GG
Church of the Holy Spirit in Sassia – Photo by GG
My favorite church was the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. I was born in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was a massive church with huge columns and high, golden ceilings. My friend, Roxanne, said it was like a “taste of heaven.” I could feel the spacious, healing energy. I realized that there is divine intervention and it’s not just fate that plays a hand in our lives.
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls – Photo by GG
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls – Photo by GG
Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls – Photo by GG
There are threads of truth in every religion. The truth is about seeking balance, harmony, and peace. It is about consciousness and wisdom as a divine pair. We are on a spiritual journey toward divine light.
Consciousness is the “Christ” that Jesus taught us. Many Eastern religions teach us to let go of the ego and connect with a consciousness that merges with divinity (the Universal Field). Additionally, to transcend the ego, we must seek solutions that benefit humanity. It is the cosmic dance. Humans are part of a greater whole.
We must also humble ourselves because we don’t know everything. When I looked at the majestic buildings and churches, I realized that there was much about our past that we do not know. I felt happy to be on a Pilgrimage of Hope. As human beings, we can change, and there is hope.
According to Wikipedia, a pilgrimage is a journey to a holy place that can lead to personal transformation, after which the pilgrim returns to their daily life. I do feel transformed. I feel calmer and more accepting of all aspects of life.
The energy in the world is stronger. We need to protect ourselves from outside energy. We can do this by purifying the body, mind, and spirit. Eat healthier foods, exercise, do yoga, limit screen time, and connect with our spirituality.
To clear negative energy, we can use sound, just like our ancestors did in old churches—bells, singing bowls, musical instruments, and the voice. Be careful with your thoughts. Meditation is the best tool to clear the mind. We have limited time on earth, so we need determination and wisdom.
When I was at the ayahuasca retreat, our shaman teacher gave us the option to see Donna (not her real name), who offered coca leaf readings for $100.00. The coca leaf comes from the cocaine plant, and many Peruvians chew the leaves. I was curious about Donna after one of the retreat attendees said it was worth having the reading done. She also said Donna was very open – she told the retreat attendee that she’s often too tired to have sex – her boyfriend is 20 years younger than her.
On my way to see Donna, a Peruvian woman who spoke perfect English, I walked with a retreat assistant for 10 minutes through the lush jungle, the sun shining through the branches, and heat mixing with the smell of moss. Upon arrival at her home, a large Brazilian Mastiff greeted us. I was a little frightened because I didn’t know if the dog was friendly or not.
Donna’s boyfriend, a tall man with a long black ponytail, took me into their cozy house to wait for Donna. I noticed a small kitchen with a yellow teapot, a fur rug on the floor outlining a small coffee table, and wooden stairs made with deer antlers leading up to the second floor.
When Donna was ready for me, her boyfriend came to pick me up. I followed him outside to meet Donna. Donna was a petite woman with gray hair pulled into a messy ponytail. She had a sleeveless purple shirt, capris, and no shoes. I followed her to a small maloca (a circular building with wooden supports in the shape of a hexagon). She said I could take off my shoes, which I did.
As I entered the maloca, I noticed white sand beneath my feet. In the center of the maloca, a small table and two cushions were placed. Donna invited me to sit. I sat across from her as my feet sank into the sand. Donna said she wanted sand in her maloca because it helps to ground the people who visit her. She continued to say that many times we want to see the ocean, but it’s the sand that makes us feel good. So, she had a vision to put sand in her “office.”
I brought three small bundles of white sage to give to Donna as a gift. She was happy to receive them. My shaman teacher said they don’t have sage in Peru.
Donna asked me to grab a bunch of dried coca leaves from her zippered pouch. Then she instructed me to hold the leaves between my palms and blow on them three times. After I blew on them with my warm air, I opened my palms to let the leaves fall onto the table.
I looked at Donna as she stared at the leaves. She asked me, “Are you a healer?” I said, “Yes, in a Western sense of the word. I work for a hospital helping people who are dying.” Donna shook her head as she understood.
Donna said, “The leaves tell me you take on too much sadness from your patients and their families. But I also see you were born a healer.” I wasn’t expecting her to say I was a healer. But I was pleasantly surprised that she was intuitive. At that moment, I felt a deep connection to Donna. She also told me to look up paintings by Alex Grey. She said he captures the human spirit in his paintings.
I had prepared four questions in my small dollar store notebook. The first one was, “Is there anything I need to work on for my spiritual development?”
Donna said I need to breathe. She said, “Breath is spirit, and you need to connect with your spirit without any concepts.” She continued to say that meditation will help me. In my head, I agreed with her.
Then she looked at me with concern. She asked me, “Why do you doubt yourself so much? You need to stop that!” I agreed with her – I do doubt myself sometimes. I also get into my head way too much. I need to let go more.
My second question was, “Do you have any insights on my marriage?” Donna smiled a little. She said my husband, Jeff, is a good man, and he loves me very much. She also said I should stay married to him, and we were married in a previous past life.
Donna encouraged me to have more fun with my husband and to breathe together. My thoughts went back to when we were dating. I remember Jeff and me lying together in bed, in my newly rented townhouse, with the soft light of the sunset. I felt warm as we held each other and practiced tantric breathing. We would breathe together on the inhale and the exhale, creating a natural rhythm.
The third question was about my job: “Any messages about my job?” Donna encouraged me to think about starting my own business (like a death doula). She also said I have too much education. I need to focus on spirit and not on more education. I have everything I need to work with people who are dying. Instead of seeking more education, I need to work with my intuition, open my heart, and mind. I need to work on staying in the present moment.
My final question was, “How can I become enlightened in this lifetime?” Donna said I must let go and return to spirit. She said we have things backward. We should cry when a baby is born because of the challenging life that awaits, and be happy for people who die because they are done with their journey on earth.
She didn’t answer my question directly – whether I will become enlightened in this lifetime. Instead, she said that this is her last life on earth – she will not be returning. Maybe she has reached enlightenment.
Donna answered all my questions. I gave her $100 in US cash (which I thought was a lot of money for a thirty-minute reading). She placed the cash under her tablecloth. We both stood up, and Donna led me out of the maloca.
I found the coca reading intriguing, and I’m glad I decided to do it. There are some things to consider, especially her comments about my marriage and returning to Spirit. I am working on positive thoughts and letting go of things in the past.
The Buddhist Metta Sutta tells a story about 500 monks who went into the jungle to practice meditation:
Approximately 500 monks who had gone into the jungle to practice meditation were disturbed and frightened by certain spirits. Whereupon they returned and reported the matter to the Buddha. The Buddha then advised the monks to return to the same place, armed with the sword of Metta (loving-kindness) for their protection.
The monks returned to the jungle and radiated their lovingkindness to the jungle and those spirits. Thereafter, they continued with their meditation without any hindrance. These same spirits who had earlier created disturbances later repented and paid their respects to the monks.
This is, therefore, an important Sutta to recite and radiate your loving-kindness to every living being. By doing so, you can overcome any disturbances, find peace and happiness, and help others live peacefully by practicing this great virtue. (From the book, “Daily Buddhist Devotions, by Venerable K Sri Dhammananda.)
Lately, I’ve been practicing a loving-kindness meditation at night, before I go to sleep, or in the morning before I get up. Here is the meditation: Loving-Kindness Meditation: To begin, you can sit or lie down. When you are comfortable, take a deep breath. Feel your breath expand the body, and then relax. Focus on the words “loving-kindness” in your heart (chest area). At first, do not think about sending loving-kindness to anyone – just feel the love in your heart. Let there be space in your mind. After a few minutes of focus, you can expand the loving-kindness to yourself, your family and friends, pets, and all living beings. You can close the meditation by bringing your palms together, creating a sense of balance in the body. Or you can rest your hands on your chest.
In this turbulent world, how do you keep calm and loving? How do you protect yourself from outside energy and influences? Please leave a comment (see above near the title).
Tunnel Vision 8 