what's your symbol for 2014?

Symbolic representation of the Cherry Blossom: Chinese meaning is feminine power and the Japanese is transience of life. This too shall pass both of these meanings spoke to my heart and I feel are a perfect representation of how 2014 will be lived each day.

While I really didn't give any thought to having a mantra or goal for 2014, one of the things I did do was to create a 2014 collage, made on a round pizza cardboard, and divided up into 8 sections of what I consider to represent "WELL-BEING". Not overly fancy, certainly not each category evenly divided. Because some where along the road of life, I gave up on the balancing act. My thoughts on balance are simple: At some points in my life, different aspects are more important to me, and that's where much of my primary focus goes. Not to say that each category doesn't have it's place. Because they most certainly do, just not always evenly. A whole lot less stress when I'm not struggling with balance.

So in the midst of this collage fun little brainstorm, I got thinking about life, change, transition, opportunities and doors opening and closing, equally. Because I have found often that when a door closes, if you are aware you will see another open a crack for you to explore further...If you choose?! And this past week has been door openings galore. Which makes for a smiley, happy me, because 2013 was the year of letting go, trying to forgive, setting healthier boundaries, and making some tough choices. 2013 was the year of transition.

I spent the day working on my collage. Cutting, pasting, writing, painting, re-arranging just like life....Only a more dreamy. More about seeing into the future. Planning, creating a clip-art vision poster so to speak. It was a crazy mix of magazines scattered every where. Glue sticking to all of it, color, shapes, textures, and of course my journal sitting by my side as thoughts came to my head, I could scribble them down before they were washed away in a sea of ideas. That would about sum up how my brain works when I am in creative mode. Crazy, every where, fun, in color, dis-organized, spontaneous, irrational yet calmly in-tune with my own thought process. I love making collages. They inspire, help and direct me to paths I would otherwise never stumble upon.

While looking through gardening photos, because I have a boat load of them. I ran across what I have considered one of the most beautiful trees in the world. My dream yard would be landscaped by these breath taking beauties and all they represent. Which I have to tell you...I didn't know what they represented?! It was only after doing a Google search that I realized they have a long history of symbolic value in both Japan and China. Again, it always amazes me how when I am least searching for something, it finds me. When I stop looking, sit still, listen and be aware, that is when the most profound and amazing things become visual and guide me.

I sat in awe of the incredible photo of the Cherry Blossom tree, and re-read several times the symbolic meaning of natures truest works of art. Between China and Japan's meaning, I felt it encompassed everything I was feeling at that moment, while putting together my personal and business vision for 2014. Life is exactly as the Cherry Blossom, Short and beautiful. With such limited time here, why not be inspired by something as stunning and symbolic as a tree? I feel an amazing connection each time I close my eyes now and visualize the color of the blossoms. It calms me, and re-directs my sometimes conflicting thoughts.

Though I still don't have specific goals, I have a vision. While I choose to not have a word of they year, I feel I have a symbol that encompasses all my passion for art, creativity, life, helping others, building connections and mostly making each moment count. Isn't that what it's all about? Making the short moments we have COUNT?

I believe 2014 will bring inspiration, opened doors and beautiful connections because I have given myself the gift of allowing it to be. Creating a symbol to keep close to my heart, keeps me focused on what I value, and what I offer to help others to see the beauty in their own lives as well. Even when it's in transition. After transition comes serenity. I feel it with each passing moment, and every breathe I take. The Cherry Blossom for me is my center to that calm.

Do you have a symbol for 2014? An inspired way that you have welcomed in the New Year? Maybe a non-traditional method that helps to not only keep you focused on what you desire, but also keeps you centered, aware and in the moment? Would love to hear others who have found ways to start the year off being truly inspired, and deeply moved to create a life that is second to none!

((HUGZ))
Shel

Ps.  I am in the process of doing some gardening work to my blog, so to speak. With my new found inspiration in the symbolic meaning of the Cherry Blossom, I am also using this as a guiding light to breathe new life into my blog....

As part of this change, I am hoping to be able to find some guest writers who would be interested in sharing their stories, inspiration, triumphs, victories, setbacks, and challenges on my blog. If you have any interest, please feel free to shoot me out a message either here or on Facebook.

Thanks again, and I hope everyone's New Year is off to an amazing start!!
xoxo
Shel

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