In Your Heart and Listen To Brother Bear…
Wherever you go, go with all your heart.
Confucius
Last February I moved from sunny Florida to cold and snowy Pennsylvania. Although the
Winter was dark and cold outside, the love of my life and I moved into a hundred and ten
year old house which we now joyously call our home. Our love has taught us so much about
patience, kindness, and the remembering of true relationship, between a man and woman in love, and of embracing joy. In many ways I seemed to be in hibernation while creating my new home, full of anticipation for Spring and my home to exhibit all the beauty that I saw underneath its rough finish.
I came to Pennsylvania with all my heart…by following my heart.
Often I thought of the bear and how he goes into a different state and spends much time in his cave during winter but in Spring comes out to hunt, play and enjoy the beauty of creation.
As we surrender to a deeper love, dark places within ourselves are illuminated, because the light of our beloved, softens us and allows us vulnerability, as well as happiness.
Brother Bear started visiting us in the spring. I first saw a Mother and two cubs, cross the road. They simply moseyed by, in no hurry, undisturbed by my presence. Each time I see the bear, I am in awe of their power and beauty. The blackness of the bear, in contrast to the shining green forest is breathtaking. I have never felt threatened by the presence of Bear, instead I feel joy and am honored by his appearance.
We rode our bikes down the trail by the river each week of spring and summer. Each time bear
made his or her presence known. One bear sat in the edge of the woods, seemingly awaiting our arrival. We could see his nose and eyes. As soon as we were close, he simply looked at us
and went into the woods. Another huge male bear, waited as we took pictures and then
crossed the river proudly.
My very wise lady friend , a Native American friend told me that bear is about strengthening the heart, physically, mentally and spiritually. As I cherish the memories of the past several months I know that Bears messages gave me strength.
Since Ben and I were joined, I realize that both of our hearts have become stronger, because of the love we share for each other. I also begin to understand that Creator gives us everything we need to be happy. We have all the love, talent, support, friendship, and guidance available to us all the time. We only must pay attention and be thankful for all that we have. The truth is that if I had not experienced the hardships, made the mistakes, and been lost at times in confusion, I would not have had the courage to make the leap that I did.
When we had our Joining Ceremony, (Native American Wedding Ceremony) Each of us there ate a strawberry offered by Brother Bear, reminding us of the sweetness of life. One of the greatest gifts of finding love at this time in my life is knowing that each day is a gift.
I realize now that he has been with us all along and my life has surely become sweeter.
In Love, Peace and Blessings,
Teresa
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