Rise Above!

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Ever had one of those days, weeks, or even seasons where nothing seems to go your way? In fact, opposition from every angle threatens to strangle the life out of everything you try to accomplish.

Extended periods of troubles seems to provoke not just weariness, but a hopelessness if we do not quickly see welcome light at the end of a tunnel of despair.

Financial lack, relationship squabbles, persistent health battles--all take their toll on our peace. Add to that all the persistent pesky problems that plague us, like sitting in standstill traffic, technology bugs, feeling the pressure of too many tasks to accomplish. Not to mention the long-term fears that often wake us up in a middle-of-the-night-panic about our future.

You are not alone!

We all experience difficulties that seem like obstacles to our happiness, but the truth is, without these trials, we do not tend to grow in strength or character. We NEED challenges to grow, but rarely would we ever choose the process because of the pain involved in the stretching.

A leader of mine says that worry is meditation on the wrong things. Truth!

When we find ourselves in a discouragement funk, we really need to be able to rise above the problems, to try to glimpse the bigger picture of what is happening and where we are headed.

Sometimes those flying dreams we experience accomplish this if we realize what is happening. When we see from a higher viewpoint--the Divine Perspective--then we find the peace to proceed with confidence, trusting for a productive outcome.

Survival tips:

• Welcome the trials. In doing so, you are saying you are ready for expansion! You set the course for overcoming with a winning attitude.

• Don't panic, freeze, avoid, ignore, or resist. Buckle down and engage--tackle the problems head-on, as quickly as possible, thus avoiding unnecessarily extended discomfort.

• Take it as a compliment that you are chosen at this time for this struggle. It means you are able to handle it. If you were not making a difference in the world, you probably would not be facing the opposition that is coming against you.

• Accept that there is purpose in what you are experiencing.  As you walk in victory, you step further into your destiny. In those areas where you overcome, you have greater ability to help others succeed as well. You gain authority and become the 'expert' that can help others navigate similar struggles.

• Don't try to escape. The only way out of a situation is usually through it. If you try to skirt around it, you may find yourself in a similar position in the near future because you need to learn a lesson that is invaluable for your success. Put a spring in your step and lock horns with the opposition until you win!

• Stop whining. The more you complain, the more you hear yourself spread negativity and make the situation even worse. A humorous outlook and a grateful heart keep the gloomies in check.

We live in a bad news world. Many folks live on the very edge of miserable. Everyone has struggles, and isn't it refreshing to experience smiles and quiet trust from someone in the midst of a storm?

Everyone needs encouragement. We can rise above and help others along the way even when we lack clarity for our own situation. Be the light in those dark places, even when you feel temporarily dimmed.

For me, knowing who I am and what my purpose in life is, gives me the hope I need to persist and not give up. I know I am going somewhere, that I have great things yet to accomplish, and that I need to learn skills and strategies along the way to get to where I am going.

What more could we ask than for challenges to propel us into our destiny?  If we cooperate, joy manifests in our Dream Journey and we are made whole in the process. 

OK, world, BRING IT ON!!

No Business as Usual

No Business as Usual

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Holiday time is wrapping up, a season which usually demands a shift from 'normal' to accelerated activity, both in schedule and bank account. I don't know about you, but I have had way too many items on my task list, many of which never got done, either because of limited time, energy, money, or sincere motivation on my part.

Or maybe all that stuff wasn't necessary in the first place.

I have felt like I was behind on everything! Christmas is barely past, 2013 not quite here yet, and I spotted Valentine and Easter displays in the stores already. Am I really behind, or is something in our culture a little amiss?

Holidays dawn upon us, along with their delights and demands. But hopefully a chance to fully engage at the most positive and joyful level possible.

Families grow, circumstances change, finances tighten, and we find ourselves having to examine priorities and forcing adjustments to our traditions and attitudes.

Sometimes painful, this shift can also become blissfully liberating. We get to ask, "WHY are we doing this, and is it serving us well?" If not, we can let it go and make room for something much better.

I think many of us fear not meeting perceived expectations and disappointing those around us. Can we possibly bake enough, keep a sparkling, twinkling home, and shine brilliantly for all those parties? What will people think and say, if we don't keep up?

Some of our friends expect us to perform and give, and we hate to disappoint. How much pressure, though, comes from within, from not meeting our OWN expectations, that are based on, WHAT?

Let's agree to a healthy change this coming year.  Take a breath, and instead of running on autopilot, let's evaluate our current priorities, make wise choices, and kick the guilt to the curb.

A reboot of perspective rattles the routine but produces restful, refreshing resolve in the process.

It is time to get grounded. We need to seize the realization of Who we are and What we are created to do--so that we can focus, prioritize, and use our time and resources to launch squarely into our destiny, not looking to the left or the right, not letting culture or anyone else dictate to us who we are 'supposed' to be.

We must say 'no' to the non-essentials and non-helpfuls that keep us off-center.

2013 is the year to step fully into our destiny as world-changers and light-bringers. May you live your dreams this year and courageously shine out loud in a world that pressures us to conform to…'normal'.

#CommunicationFail By #InsiderLingo

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

I recently spent many hours navigating through a hosting change for my website. It was something that could probably have been quickly accomplished, but language got in the way. Repeated tickets and indistinguishable responses punctuated my peace throughout the day. For every response I received from customer service, I had to ask for a translation.

No, it wasn't because the 'experts' work in another country and don't speak English. It was because they spoke highly polished technical jargon that might as well have been modern Greek, from my perspective. All day I felt confused and ignorant because I did not understand phrases like, "cpanel login details of cloud server 293.333.9476.998…" or "update your domain name with name servers to point them to (X) server at your domain registrars end"...to name but a couple of the instructions I received.

Many of you IT friends might understand these words, because you have studied and work with the concepts and are familiar with them.

I'm not a total ignoramus!  But as the day wore on, I struggled with sinking frustration that comes with searching, deciphering, and repeatedly asking for help. I felt belittled. A couple of times I responded, "Please treat me like I am a first-grader and keep your instructions clear and simple so I can understand what you are asking."

Task accomplished! But not without some pain. I now know a few more words that sound more like codes.

My customer service conversation exasperation is not uncommon to most of us.  But how often are we the 'perpetrators' of treating people thusly?

Every one of us may be guilty of not assessing our 'audience' or conversation partners' ability to understand before we launch into words and concepts well over their comprehension level.

It does not communicate love, compassion, or desire to help when to make others strain and work to understand what we say.

Effective communication better occurs when we make the effort to get out of our own little world and consider others' history, worldview, abilities, and language--and speak to them accordingly.

Often, this means dropping our specialized Insider-lingo. Outsiders don't understand it. And we make them feel more like an Outsider when we use it.

Adjusting our approach is the considerate thing to do, whether our 'business' is web, banking, sales, ministry, teaching, dream interpretation, parenting, or anything else.

If we make that effort (which requires listening to them a little bit, paying attention to THEM), the other person won't end up feeling stupid because we acted arrogant and condescending toward them.

It is a dream of mine to be an excellent communicator, surpassing mere verbiage and addressing peoples' hearts as well as their task needs. I consider it a rewarding challenge, to study people, build a relationship bridge, and successfully connect so that everyone feels honored.

I'm curious--

In what settings do you often find yourself feeling like an Outsider because you do not understand the lingo being spoken?  

In what settings might you be guilty of using Insider lingo in a way that is confusing to others? What steps can you do to make a change toward more effective communication?  

Which Way is the RIGHT Way? (Pondering life in a gym)

Which Way is the RIGHT Way?

Submitted by Merry Bruton

I went to do my daily power walk in a gym yesterday, thus avoiding 107 degree temps outside. Since I was new to the gym, I found my way to the track and carefully read the sign that said, "Walk to the right on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Walk to the left on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday."

No one else was there when I started walking to the right, clockwise. But others shortly arrived and began walking and running--in the OTHER direction. I stayed to the inside, where the 'slower' walkers were supposed to hike, and I had to half-jog to dodge around people heading toward me. And they were all giving me dirty looks and refusing to budge to let me go by. Round after round.  

I got confused. I went back to the sign to see if I mis-read the instructions. I looked at my watch to make sure it was indeed Wednesday. I double-checked my brain to see if 'right' meant clockwise.

I felt stupid. I knew I was 'right'. But what to do? I thought of several options:

• Turn around and go with the flow

• Keep going and hope they think and get the message

• Stand by the sign and point to it as everyone walked by

• Ask someone for help or explanation

• Stop everyone and tell them they are going the wrong way

• Give up and go home

I should note that this kind of situation is not a big deal for me--which way to walk around a track. I hope I am way more flexible than getting bent out of shape about such a tiny issue. I found myself giggling as I thought about this weird situation, and how it pictured dilemmas we face in life.

I ask myself, "If this were a dream, what would it mean?" It mirrored how I often feel when I follow what I feel I am called to do in life....perhaps you do as well...

• "I feel like a fish swimming upstream."

• "I have the right direction for my life. Why does there seem to be so much opposition? Why do things have to be so HARD?"

• "I'm trying to follow the 'rules', but doing so is not WORKING. Others didn't read the same rule book of life."

I finished up my workout, (going in my original direction and smiling in response to every disparaging eye roll) and went to the front desk and asked what the protocol should be in this situation.

Her response: "Everyone doesn't follow the guidelines. But if you don't want to get jostled or sneered at, reverse your direction and just go with the crowd."

I can do that on an exercise track. I could choose to get angry, drop hints, point out others' wrong choices, or boycott the gym.  

But in certain things I know I am called to, character and destiny-wise, let's face it: I will have to go against 'normal' and have to deal with opposition along the way.

But may I not be the one blocking others or judging them as they take a different direction. 

Victory Can Be Pre-Ordered

Victory Can Be Pre-Ordered

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

As I clicked through my emails yesterday, I saw an ad for a video game that made me laugh out loud: "Victory can be pre-ordered". Clever! Purchase this game and you automatically become a Winner. The message implies that you can't lose. If you plan ahead, invest in this game, you secure the deal. Sign up early for your name to top the battle charts.

Is it possible that real life could work like that? What if we could face life with the guarantee that we WIN, no matter what?

We all have our major life struggles. Will I get this job? How will I be able pay my bills? Will I survive this disease? Will my marriage survive? Will my children grow up safe and happy? Do I have to work at this job that I hate…forever? How can I continue to live with my fears, my regrets, my pain, my stress, the consequences of my bad decisions? What is my purpose in life? What if I am missing it?

Real life is not like a video game, though there are metaphorical similarities. There is more at stake, certainly. It seems as though a battle is always upon us, if not even a war.

As we survive each round, we strive to keep going, and with each victory, we gain more tools in our tool belt to survive the next siege. What doesn't kill us makes us stronger. Just when we think defeat is near, we find the strength to get up and keep going. But just around the corner is another enemy plot in place to take us out in the next round.

In life, the pain and exhaustion are real. We have to take time to grieve and heal and gather ourselves to face the next onslaught. One step at a time, one day at a time, one challenge at a time. Sometimes we have to agonize through each one-hour increment in order to survive.

Restarting is certainly not as easy as pressing a button on a video game.  Depending on our perspective, every day can begin with a fresh start,  with us functioning at a higher level than before.

It is our perspective that makes all the difference. The Operating Systems, the "terms and conditions" that we agree to in life--our attitudes, our beliefs, our faith, our God, the people and support systems we choose--all of these dictate the degree of victory or defeat that we will experience through our trials.

I actually do believe that Victory in life can be pre-ordered, that we can find strength and an overcomer attitude that comes from a Source beyond ourselves. If we know that we ultimately win the war, we find the strength to keep fighting each battle to get there.  

Keep engaging and never quit. Even in pain and difficulties, life can become a joy-filled adventure as we learn to take the hits in stride and still respond with gratitude and faith that we can often hit the 'pause' button, take a deep breath, experience supernatural peace, and launch deeper into Ultimate Triumph.   

Old and New Tell-A-Vision

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Several weeks ago, our old TV bit the dust.  Such a thing would usually not a big deal, but we're talking about our ONLY family TV, a 1974 Magnavox console. We bought it used when our son was a baby, 26 years ago, and we've never had a lick of trouble with it. They don't make things to last like they used to. Anyway, it finally literally went up in smoke.

Our family got a little wistful about this old TV. Our son even (half)-jokingly called it a 'sibling', as he and my husband hauled it out to the recycle center.

I was secretly relieved when it died with dignity, because I couldn't read titles on it anymore, and it had been a long time since we had seen the color red. I was ready for an upgrade.

We got that upgrade! And I cannot stop staring at the beautiful, high-definition color set that now sits in the place of its predecessor. We can turn it on and off without having to get up and walk across the room, and we can mute the commercials, too.

Wow, what took us so long to step into the 21st century?

Frugally speaking, we had decided to wait until the old TV passed before we invested in a new one. The passage seemed to take forever. We were teased mercilessly for our old-style TV.

Note my subtle segue into dream interpretation…TV's often represent 'vision' being revealed, revelation that is shown via 'tell-a-vision'. Sometimes in dreams, TV's give insight for what is ahead or for how to handle a situation, as in training videos.

I believe that  we often need an 'upgrade' in our vision of life.  People may complain about our 'stuckness' and indeed, we may stay in a rut of seeing the world from an old perspective.

And many times, the dream-giver may be offering amazing disclosure, but we may find ourselves holding too tightly to the past or the present to let go and receive new insight for adventures ahead.

Recently I had a TV dream (before the 'death'), where I was reminded of wonderful days gone by, where I was actively using some of my creative gifts and abilities, but I had laid them aside a while back. I sensed the dream telling me it was time to pick them back up again and incorporate them back into my life.

A new joy entered my heart as I pondered the possibilities of enjoying a fresh vision from Creator, who knows me and wants the best for me. Today I am so grateful for that upgrade in mission, now daily reminding me in a fresh way via our new Big Screen Color Television. I cannot stop admiring what lies before me.

But sometimes the old vision has to die before we can take hold of the new.  Sometimes we get to choose the timing, and other times we have to wait.  

Just when we may think things in our life are going up in smoke, at just the right time, we are reminded of the Marvelous and Mysterious ahead.  And I am grateful for the role that dreams can play in refreshing and renewing our lives, if we are paying attention and are willing to risk stepping into something new.  

And I love it when dreams and real life--the spiritual, the symbolic, and the literal events coincide as confirmation that we are on the right track.  

Boot Scootin' and Dream Walkin'

Submitted by Merry Bruton

I live in West Texas with bunches of 'normal' people--and cowboys. It is not unusual to go somewhere and hear the familiar 'thud/clink thud/clink thud/clink' produced by someone walking by wearing boots with spurs. I grew up in a big city, and when I moved to small-town Texas, let's say I experienced culture shock that lasted for several years. Surprise, snickers, and scornful thoughts often crossed my heart path before I adjusted to Texas.

We all have to adapt to the culture around us in order to become effective members of our community. I rebelled for awhile, but now, I love Texas, and I own three pairs of cowboy boots. (No spurs, though).

My thoughtful husband bought me my first pair of boots for my 50th birthday last year. He took a risk and said he wanted something to match my personality and something to complement my destiny--colorful and outrageous! Surprisingly, the boots were a hit (pictured).

I view my boots and my small boot 'collection' as a prophetic picture of transformation--from a shy, 'don't-make-waves' kind of girl to a much bolder, kick-butt, dream-interpreting minister/pioneer. I know I am called to go into dark, discouraging spaces to bring light and encouragement.

Boots are 'equipment' for protection, peace-bringing, and STYLE. A tangible reminder of who I am, where I live, and how I am to live. I want to be instrumental in stomping out evil negativity wherever I go, with supernatural power and creative flair, inspiring others to walk a similar path. My boots have taken me through some fun adventures.

A friend told me about a dream she had recently--as she is starting a new outreach with prisoners. She was given a new, fancy outfit, and some beautiful, shining, golden boots. They radiated light.  Because of her dream, she felt loved, excited, and ready to launch.  

Now that's what I'm talking about….boot scootin' two-steppin' destiny! Yeehaw!

I reckon the time is NOW that we all should, in our own style--Boot up and Boot out! 

Dog Training: Lessons Learned from Othello

Dog Training: Lessons Learned from Othello

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Our old doggie, Othello, departed from this life only a few days ago, but memories of him stay vivid as life goes on without him. We miss his quirky antics and his oh-so-sweet spirit.

We rescued him over ten years ago. He was bone thin, had been severely abused, and was fearful of everything and everyone. Gradually, though, he learned that supper was always available, no one was going to hurt him, and that he could relax. We even taught him how to growl and play.

He still had issues, though, like the continuing need to 'nurse' his security blanket, and he got unsettled when his routines were disrupted (like missing the daily walk). He 'ministered' out at ArtWalk with our dream team every month for seven years. He was sweet, gentle, and loved everyone. He especially liked to entice children to tug on his precious blanket or a rope toy to engage them in play.

His doggie legacy lives on. Othello's mottos for living life:

• When an 'enemy' enters into your territory and you don't know what to do, a good head-butt works

• Enjoy every single pillow that life presents--every soft spot and restful place needs to be fully appreciated

• Treat the tender little ones with the utmost care because they might get scared if you come on too strong

• Sometimes you just have to howl or sing a bit to let off a little steam

• Wag your tail when you eat so your mommy knows you appreciate the dinner she made

• Even the deepest wounds can be healed with a little time, love, hugs and kisses

• A warm bath and blanket snuggles are a great way to end the day

• Look cute and keep your people laughing. The more joy, the better

• Do your part in lawn care by weed whacking and watering the landscape

• Stay strong and keep on loving, even when you don't feel too good

• When you mess up, acknowledgment and humility go a long way toward cleaning things up

• Greet everyone you meet with a wag and hearty excitement. Then they know they are loved

I'm missing my old dog. But we have so many good memories of him and are grateful for our time with him. He regularly appeared in my dreams--usually representing friends or people that I am responsible for. I imagine he will still show up in my dreams--I look forward to seeing him there again sometime soon!

Rest in peace, Othello.

What are some things you have learned from your beloved pets?

Don't Miss Now

Don't Miss Now

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Do you ever find yourself in a bubble of time where you regularly vacillate between analyzing your past and dreaming about your future? Perhaps you experienced wounds or failures that can threaten how you perceive your destiny potential if you don't 'clean house' and move into victory mode. Maybe today is painful and it would be easier to escape  into another time zone somehow.

Reflection is a super, necessary tool, as long as we don't allow ourselves to continually camp out in 'Analysis Paralysis'.

Dreaming BIG stretches us, sometimes so much that we can get frustrated if we are not walking into those hopes and visions NOW. It does take time to build those blueprints into concrete reality.

In the process of learning from our past experiences and moving into what's ahead though, often we forget to live in the Present. If our eyes are looking simultaneously in the rear view mirror and the windshield as we fast forward through life, we might fail to notice the person sitting next to us, what Spirit is revealing to our heart for the day, or some sweet memory-in-the-making. We only get to experience the gift of NOW once.

There are plenty of seasons of my life that I simply do not remember any more. Part of the reason, I think, is because I was so busy looking backward or forward, that I missed being fully aware and alive enough to remember those times as they were unfolding.

Let's make sure we don't neglect to be 'nowfully' present. Sit in the floor and play with your children while they are young, today, because one day soon they will grow up. Take time out from your hard work to enjoy THIS moment….it will keep you grounded and grateful so that you are primed for what is next.

A favorite song of mine by Downhere called Don't Miss Now :
(I've made it my ringtone)

The life you chose -
There's never a list for it
Of cons and pros
You find what you love, and you commit

And you're looking so far down
The road so well
That you could forget your crown
Isn't just somewhere else

 

And though the price you pay

Is costlier than it seems

It's worth another day

The end justifies your means

 

All that you're working for

Could blind you to the treasures all around you

So don't miss these moments, please

The joy before the crown you seek

 

Chorus: 

You get bumped and bruised and worse

For choosing the road less traveled

You know the reward is rich

If you persist through the darkest battles

Open your eyes, 

Your prize is right before you, somehow

Whatever you do, just don't miss now

  

5 Tips to Experiencing Breakthrough in 2012

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

It's New Year time again--time to reflect on 2011 and ponder the possibilities of 2012. I don't usually make New Year's resolutions, but I do spend time getting still and examining the past year, and seeking insight about the year to come.

2011 was a difficult year for many people--11 representing a time of 'transition'. Transition is necessary and usually beneficial, but it can also be chaotic.

My son and his wife just moved at Christmastime to their first home, a beautiful new 'nest', a wonderful change for them. But getting the paperwork done, arrangements made, the possessions boxed, transported, and unboxed, the new house and the old apartment cleaned appropriately took some major effort.

The number 12 (of 2012) can represent order, right government, authority, and a sigh of relief for those of us who prefer stability and peace instead of shaking and upheaval!

Let's cooperate with the natural shift in season. Push past the distractions, find a quiet afternoon, get still, and focus on some personal 'housecleaning' so that you are ready for 2012's adventures with gusto. I usually like to invite my most treasured friend, the Spirit of Truth, to guide me and give divine insight to this process.

1) Make a list of the negatives of 2011. What mistakes did you make? What did you learn from them? What can you do to avoid them in the future? Which projects or relationships in your life need a different perspective or approach? Is there anyone you need to forgive (possibly yourself)? Is there anything you need to release and not carry with you into the new year?

2) Make a list of the positives of 2011. What goals were you able to accomplish? What did you learn along the way? What worked well for you? In what areas did you experience breakthrough (emotional, educational, physical, business or work, financial, mental, spiritual)? Did you receive answers to prayer?  What are you grateful for?

3) Change. What would you like to accomplish in 2012? List the areas of your life that you would like to change, and list some steps--even tiny advances you can take under each one--to make them happen. What areas of your character need overhaul, tweaking, strengthening, or polishing?

4) Life-end goals. Write your obituary. What accomplishments and character traits do you want to be remembered by your loved ones, peers, acquaintances--and by the world? You are a unique individual, gifted with plenty of strengths, experiences, and precious treasures. No one else in the world is like you. What does the world need from you? What is something ONLY you can do (or BE) to make an impact on lives around you?

5) Listen to your dreams. Ask the Giver of dreams to release more nighttime love messages to you about your purpose and destiny. And, ask for the dream interpretations as well. Write them down and pay attention. If you kept a dream journal, go back to analyze 2011's dreams. You may begin to realize that you are being called to pull off feats way beyond your own abilities. Exploits that will require supernatural involvement to make them happen. Dream Big!

What is one simple step you can do TODAY to launch with power into 2012?

Post it here, if you like, and GO DO IT!

Happy New Year from Destiny Dreamz! 

Choosing the Easy Way or the Hard Way

Choosing the Easy Way or the Hard Way

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Yesterday at the doctor's office,  the assistant queried me about the level of pain I felt during a procedure I was undergoing. When I expressed discomfort, she brought me this tiny tube of 'relief gel' that is designed to 'desensitize' me to pain. I mock-expressed dismay at the tiny tube and requested a vat-full of the miracle relief instead.

I experienced a few moments of satisfying comfort just imagining myself soaking in a big tub of the stuff whenever life got uncomfortable or painful.

Wouldn't that be nice?

It made me think of Staples' Easy Button campaign designed to convince customers to take the 'easy way' in getting their office needs met. How many times do we face difficult circumstances and wish we could press the Easy Button to take care of matters?

However, with most of our challenges, the only way OUT of them is to go THROUGH them. Life provides us with endless opportunities to grow, get stretched, and overcome. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, the saying goes. I think we would all agree that those painful seasons, though excruciating at times, always bring us to a new level of power and hardiness, especially if we cooperate. No pain, no gain.

Human nature almost always desires the easy way out. Not just in our difficulties, like experiencing sickness, financial troubles, or emotional devastation, but also in our learning and growing opportunities. If given a choice in learning something new, how often do we usually try to slide by with the least amount of effort and cost from us?

Our outlook plays an important role in how much we choose to resist or embrace our trials. Do we view them as a chance to tackle and conquer, trusting that we will become better people in the process, or do we see them as something to avoid and complain the whole way through about how much it hurts?

I'm not advocating the idea that we all become martyrs or always choose the painful route, possibly subtly letting people know how much we are 'suffering'. But there are times when we can benefit greatly by welcoming our problems, seeing them as Divine compliments, knowing an end WILL come, and realizing there is a purpose for us as we plug away. We can look back and see how the journey has transformed our thinking and our character--all for the better.

One of my favorite authors says, "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way." (James 1:2-4 The Message)

I think if we choose to conquer life with a positive attitude, once in a while, we get to enjoy heaven-sent fellow journeymen who are willing lighten our load by sharing their Relief Gel with us.

Pay Attention!

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Have you ever found yourself obviously divinely planted in just the right place at just the right time? A moment reveals an assignment that requires timely precision and action to step in and perhaps prevent a looming disaster?

A few days ago I was out walking my dogs and we approached an intersection. I had a 'sense' of something approaching, and I made my dogs sit and stay. Just ahead of me was a college girl talking on her phone. She stepped out into the street without looking. Time seemed to slow down like I was in warp speed, as out of the corner of my eye I spied the SUV heading straight toward her. I grabbed the girl's arm and yanked her clear out of the path of the speeding car.

My adrenaline spiked and I knew I had just be privileged to save her from extreme injury, if not death. I was shaky and wanted to hug this gal because I felt an instant bond with her.

Her response? She kept talking on her phone and kept walking. As if nothing happened. No acknowledgment, no eye contact, no "Thank you." Like having her life saved was not even a tiny blip on the screen of her consciousness.

I was stunned! I didn't need to be thanked, but wow, her ungratefulness and apathy took me by surprise. My first thought was that if she didn't learn to become more aware of her surroundings, she will keep walking in front of cars and eventually experience some sort of hit that could really take her out.

But then it hit me. Spirit said to me, "Merry, you are the same way. You don't see the dangers that are averted away from you every day. And you don't develop gratefulness for all those near-misses. You just keep on going and fail to learn because you are not paying attention."

My response: "Let me see some of them so I can change my outlook and attitude."

Let's just say that tuning in lately has shaken me, as I've personally experienced several narrowly-missed incidents that could have been tragic:

• Things like my garage door somehow left open while we are gone for the entire evening (in a robbery-prone neighborhood) and nothing is disturbed.  

• Falling into a hole on my nightly walk with no injury. (I tripped and fell like a feather)

• 'Almost' landing in a ditch on a bike ride but miraculously didn't, because 'someone or some thing' moved my front tire back on the path

• Pausing at an intersection in my car, then watching a truck run the red light--thus NOT plowing into me

• 'Happening' to be home when a fire erupts. A neighbor sees it and we put it out before our house catches fire

I'm not accident-prone, really!  These are everyday occurrences that I would  normally, quickly dismiss.  

But I have come to believe way more deeply that I'm divinely protected in so many incidents and ways--big and small--that I don't even notice. Or acknowledge. Or become grateful for. I'm realizing more how I am not really in control. But Someone is. And He has got my back. Even when I don't say, 'Thank you."

It all seems to add a little more joy to life, knowing that I can be bold and not walk in fear…or in ignorance either. I can entrust my life to Creator to a greater degree, and that makes my heart more thankful.

And if I learn to focus more intently and step aside more quickly, how many hard hits in life might I actually avoid altogether?

Have you experienced any near-misses lately? What could you learn from those events?
 

Engaging the Unseen--The Bigger Picture

Engaging the Unseen--The Bigger Picture

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Lately I've been catching myself increasingly doing a lot of 'double takes' as I 'see' or sense something out of the corner of my eye that I didn't realize was actually there. A startling flash of dark or white light, a figure, a creature, a door, or even descriptive words hanging in thin air. When I look back, my eyes don't see anything, but flickered image remains, as well as a real sense of its continued presence.

Some people might call it old age, or say my eyes are playing tricks on me, or think that I need more sleep, or accuse me for having an overactive imagination.

But the fact is, for many years, I've been asking for eyes to see the unseen world--what is going on in the spiritual realm 'behind the scenes', so that I can know how to interact and cooperate with Divine assignments. I want God to use me to bring encouragement and hope into our world. I figure the more I can see what he is doing, the more I can step in with understanding and compassion.

I think many of us see this kind of stuff but we may be too quick to dismiss it for fear people would call us crazy or weird. Or we don't know what to do with what we detect.

One of my favorite stories in the ancient scriptures concerns a prophetic guy, Elisha. He was famous for his continual, accurate 'insider information' from God's heart that protected his leaders. So he was hated and hunted by his enemies.

One morning he discovered he was surrounded by 'impressive fighting forces' from the other side. Elisha's servant panicked and said, "Oh, master! What shall we do?"

Elisha calmly answered, "Don't worry about it--there are more on our side than on their side." And he prayed for God to open the servant's eyes and let him see.

"The eyes of the young man were opened and he saw. A wonder!   The whole mountain-side full of heavenly horses and chariots of fire were surrounding Elisha." (2 Kings 6). This turn of events led to a supernatural victory over the evil army because Elisha could clearly see the bigger picture. Appearances through the natural eye can be deceiving.

I believe we can live in greater confidence and faith if we become more aware of both the negative plots that are pitted against us, as well as the positive or angelic armies protecting us and working for us. Perhaps we would feel much less stress as well.  

If I see something extra, maybe I'm being invited to join in somehow. I want to live a fully engaged life and make a difference for Good.

So, regarding those imgage flashes, scary, strange, puzzling, and often inconvenient--I say, "Thank you, Creator!  BRING THEM ON! Open my eyes to see, and my ears to hear, and give me the courage to respond." 

Picture:  Ron DiCianni "Chariots of Fire"

Striking the Sweet Spot in Dream Interpretation

Striking the Sweet Spot in Dream Interpretation

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

If you are a student of dream interpretation, you know how crucial it is to think metaphorically in order to interpret dreams accurately. You learn the process of determining the focus of a dream--who or what the dream is about, what are the major or most important symbols, the minor or less critical symbols, and of course their possible symbol meanings.

The more you practice, the better you get at knowing your colors, numbers, common themes, the sources of dreams, as well as summing up a dream's meaning along the way.

In essence, it becomes second nature to Simplify, Symbolize, and Summarize. But we can't forget the last step, the most important: Striking the Sweet Spot.

The sweet spot is not a bakery, but it is the point or area on a bat, club, or racket which makes the most effective contact with the ball when hit just right. If you master awareness of the sweet spot and learn how to 'use your equipment/equipping' correctly,  you will shoot  the ball directly where you are aiming, with ease.  

What is 'the sweet spot' in dream interpretation? It is discerning the 'WHY' of the dream. It is not only knowing the message of the dream, but understanding why the dream was released to the dreamer.

We need to understand the purpose of the dream (see the list of dream types). Is it awarning? An encouragement dream? A dream giving direction or highlighting a fear that needs to be addressed?

What is the Dreamgiver's heart and love message for the dreamer?

Without 'nailing' the sweet spot, our interpretations will fall flat and not connect deeply with the dreamer's spirit.

To become an excellent dream interpreter, take time to go deeper and listen for how to deliver the message with purposeful impact. Dream message + Sweet Spot + your love for the dreamer = power to transform lives, one dream at a time!

How Much Heat Can You Take?

How Much Heat Can You Take?

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Deep in the heart of Texas, we are experiencing summer heat and drought like no other summer that I can remember--relentless heat wave with no rain for many months. Every morning our newspaper headlines highlight drought complications. Today marks our 40th day in a row over 100 degrees--some days my thermometer reads 110.

Our region normally experiences hot summers, but not sustained dry seasons like this current fiery streak. Folks have been irritable and testy because of the weather, water shortage, and outrageous utility bills.

I asked Spirit, "Have we done something wrong? Why are things so miserable? Can you please send rain and give us relief?"

The answer I heard back took my breath away: "You don't need relief. You need to learn to endure the heat. How much heat can you take?"

The only response I could think of was, "OK, I will take as much heat as you deem necessary. Bring it on. Teach me how to live graciously in all circumstances. Not only that, but douse me with accelerant and set me on fire!"

That means not complaining or fretting in the midst of wildfires all around, our dead lawns, or sweltering car rides. After all, we do have air conditioning and iced tea!

Often natural happenings reflect what is happening in the spiritual realm. Are you experiencing extreme pressure in areas of your life like tests in character, finances, or relationships?

I expect many of us are having the 'non-essentials' of life shaken or burned away, so that we can move forward in greater strength, better attitudes, with less deadweight. It helps if we cooperate instead of whine and resist.

Already, folks here in the heat wave district are adapting. Last night during my late night walk, other walkers were delighting in the 'cool breezes' that two months ago we felt were killing us!

l believe we also are developing spiritual ability to handle more adversity--so that we are better prepared for days ahead.  Purifying and refining comes from heat!

This morning I noticed a sweet sight in my garden. My favorite rosebush, which I thought was heat-stroke-dead because it is brown and has lost all of its leaves, is blooming! Two fragrant, albeit scraggly roses made me smile and feel a glimmer of hope that no matter how HOT life gets, we can be survivors and thrivers. Through scorching, burning, searing, red-hot trials of every kind:

"These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever." (The Message)

How much heat can YOU take?

Lessons from the Desert

Lessons From the Desert

Submitted by Merry Bruton

My husband and I were 'planted' in Abilene, Texas--for the second time--seventeen years ago. Just out of college, we escaped this fine little West Texas city the first time to move to Denver, where we fully fell in love with mountains and cool weather for ten glorious years.  Following a dream, we then sold everything we owned in hopes of moving to a foreign mission field--with a planned year-long stop backin Abilene for training and fundraising.

But we never made it to our desired destination, getting 'stuck' in Abilene--sigh--again. The people are wonderful here, but scenery is sadly lacking, especially if one has been spoiled by living in pretty places. Believing that we were supposed to 'bloom where we are planted', we put down roots, raised our children, and have ever been trusting that we have a mission to accomplish here, and that in God's timing, we might get to relocate to a more pleasant place of paradise.

We have learned to be content in the waiting for change, but not without some groaning. Our spirits sometimes sag with the  summer heat (yesterday it was 107.6 degrees in the shade), high electric bills, hot winds, fried, brown lawns, and dust storms that leave your teeth gritty if you dare try to smile outside. And smile big, we try--it makes life more enjoyable.

Just a few lessons learned from Desert Time (think metaphorically):

* Desert seasons produce hardy people. We have no mountains to escape to or to 'wander around'. Landscape seems flat and boring. We see the wide horizon, but any change ahead seems, oh, so far off. Strong character is produced as we practice taking scorching 'heat' with gracious patience, living life faithfully, making a difference around us, one day at a time--while keeping our eyes focused on dreams ahead.

* Help the weaker ones. Spiritually speaking, we must put others' needs first. To share with those who are struggling, help them keep protected along their journey. We do this out of our own strengths and victories.

* It's easy to get dehydrated, so drink a lot. Water, yes. Fine wine occasionally, yes. Spirit, most definitely yes! Drink deep, drink long, drink until we are full, every day. Because we humans leak and need a constant refilling and refueling in order to survive. We may look parched or weather-worn on the outside, but inwardly, we are being renewed day by day by the One who made us.

* It only takes a careless spark to start a wildfire. "By our speech we can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell." (James 3:6) It is easier to prevent a fiery disaster than to control it once it has begun. Note to self: Quit complaining!

* Sometimes relief comes in the form of a storm. We pray consistently for welcome 'rain' and the answers often appear in the form of pounding hail, tornados, water torrents, or high winds--that force violent cleansing within our lives. Allowing our roots to go deep during difficult times keeps our foundation firm when we are shaken to the core.  

* We all need to take a break once in a while. Get out of dodge, take a vacation, refresh in a different locale. See another part of the world--we return 'home' with a renewed perspective that will sustain us until seasons change.

Just call me 'Desert Rose'--because I am hoping and learning to thrive by blooming and producing divine fragrance in all sorts of dry places.

Question: What kinds of adversity are you learning to persist through? What's your strategy? What are some of the lessons you have learned in the process?
 

Merry Bruton's blog  Dream Interpretation

Is My Dream Literal or Symbolic?

Is My Dream Literal or Symbolic?

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

In dream interpretation training, a major concept emphasized repeatedly is that dreams are symbolic. Too often we miss the meaning of a dream because we interpret it--or specific symbols in a dream--too literally. We may think our boss in our dream really represents our boss, rather than someone in authority over us that is 'bossing' us around. A good interpreter will ALWAYS first consider the symbolic possibilities of a dream.

However, that doesn't mean that dreams are never literal. Some of our 'dreams' are actually 'visions' of the night (a little different from a dream), and visions tend to communicate more literally. Some of our dreams are just plain, straightforward revelation about a crucial situation that needs unlocking.

How do we know whether we should interpret a dream symbolically or literally? Rule of thumb is to interpret symbolically first. This interpretation will even apply if the dream is more direct. We interpret, then apply the interpretation. Often the application is literal. Or literally symbolic.

Like the time I dreamed I had rats feeding in my basement. It was upsetting and I knew that I needed to look into my life to see what 'garbage' was hidden that was empowering a feeling of being 'eaten' up and defiled. I found some some attitudes and behaviors that needed to be cleaned up. But in the process, we realized we really did INDEED have rats living in our basement. They were coming in through the doggie door! There was an 'open entry point' that needed to be tended to. And rat eradication wasn't as easy or as quick as we hoped. It was a slow, steady process that required patience and tenacity. Double dream meaning!

Don't dismiss possible literal applications for dreams. For example:

* If you dream that you get a job promotion and will make a difficult but rewarding move to Philadelphia, you can keep your ears open for such a possibility at your job, but also keep in mind that your heart may need a 'shift' toward greater 'brotherly love' that will challenge you but increase your happiness.

* If you dream that your friend Alison drowns, your dream may be telling you that she is feeling overwhelmed in life and needs some help. But you might also pray for her physical safety. Or even call her and ask her to be extra careful at the lake house this weekend.

* If you dream your front rear tire is low on air, you might acknowledge that your spirit needs a 'refilling'. But also, check that tire before you leave for work.

* During a sad time in our family, I dreamed we all rolled around in the floor playing with a little black and white puppy, laughing through waves and waves of deep belly heaves. I awoke with tears of healing from the laughter. A heavy weight lifted. The next day, we found out that our father-in-law had just spontaneously bought us a little Boston terrier puppy....a happy harbinger of joy sent into our lives after a season of grief.

It never hurts to cover all the bases that you can in applying a dream interpretation. Dreams are subjective, sometimes very clear, very often confusing. Amazingly often, if we are paying attention, we notice a correlation between internals and externals--what a dream says about what is happening within us isconfirmed by natural events or conditions. We can always ask for further Divine information.

An amazing treasure about dreams is how they can speak to us on many different levels. Literal. Symbolic. Hidden. Somewhere in between. And all of the above. Dream interpretation does not fit in any kind of box. What a great gift we receive from the Dream Giver, who employs all sorts of creative ways to speak guidance into our lives.

Share:  What dreams have you experienced that seemed to speak more literally to you?  Or had several layers of meaning--symbolic as well as 'real life' stuff?

Five Things Not to Do in Dream Interpretation 
 

Reboot Thyself

Submitted by Merry Bruton 

Humans naturally gravitate toward ruts--boring routines or habits that rule. Our repetitive actions can be positive or negative, productive, lazy, damaging, internal or external.

I believe our externals reflect what is happening internally. If we are thinking imaginatively or creatively, we radiate with renewed energy. If we focus on what isn't working well in our life, our lack of victory or gratitude can sour the atmosphere around us--and folks notice it.

Which areas are you most prone to succumb to a default mode? Mental, physical, or emotional? Foods and exercise? Work? Relational? Spiritual? Thinking patterns?

Dream interpreters can get stuck in humdrum habits all too easily, mostly if we aren't tending to our spiritual life. But to strengthen our dream interpretation abilities, it especially helps to flush out any filters that may have gotten clogged from too much linear or literal thinking. We must experience free back-and-forth flow of right-brain and left-brain processing, balanced by quiet peace--in a noisy world--so that we can Dream Big and connect with the Releaser of Dreams.

Our biggest hurdle, of course, is to recognize our ruts. Then it is a matter of discipline to reverse and revoke them. Try keeping your brain stirred up. Renew vigor by varying as many of your routines as possible. Here are just a few suggestions:

* Set your alarm clock to a new station or sound. Processing unfamiliar sounds wakes up your brain a different way.

* Journal your dreams in a different way to remember them. Draw a picture or a map of the action instead of using words.

* Get dressed with your eyes closed. Pick out your outfit the night before and then blindly rely on your other senses to get yourself ready.

* Brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand, challenging different nerve cells in your brain.

* Swap lunches with your co-workers or friends. Or try a different restaurant and a new type of food that you've never tasted before. Lay off foods you are addicted to for a season.

* Have a silent family dinner. No talking while eating. Figure out how to communicate your day or your requests without words, in a visual way, which will spark creativity.

* Spend a day 'unplugged'--set the computer, TV, and phone aside--spend time outdoors, doing something you don't normally do.

Reboot thyself. Reset, clear the cache, delete any necessary 'cookies' (or unwanted, extra 'junk files' in your memory), download and install new mental and spiritual updates. Reconnect to your Power Source. Then you are ready to fire up again with more power and clarity.

Fully Present

Fully Present

Submitted by Merry Bruton on Mon, 05/16/2011 - 5:13pm

When is the last time you spent an afternoon with someone without interruption of any kind? How did that feel?

I had to think back to quite a while ago. It had to involve a time NOT in a public place, not ordering food or drink of any kind, with cell phones muted and set aside--an extremely rare occurrence these days.

Consistently, we may schedule a meeting with someone in Starbucks or in a restaurant and start to dig deep into each others' lives. A deep personal thought begins to take verbal shape, when....

--the waiter appears to take our order

--we need a drink refill

--another friend stops by to visit

--our phone beeps with email, call, reminder, or text. Oops, forgot to mute it!

--our friend's phone rings, beeps, or dings--and they answer it, while we are in mid-sentence

I admire folks who can multi-task well. A business owner can get a boat-load of work done from any mobile position anywhere in the world. And once in a while there is an emergency we need to know about. But there are definitely down sides to allowing immediate technological access.

In relationships, something gets lost when we are sharing about a story or a personal dilemma to someone we've scheduled time for, and suddenly we realize we are talking to ourselves, because our companion is reading and responding to a text instead of listening. Can't it wait a FEW more minutes so we can enjoy our time together?  

What do I communicate to people when I abruptly leave a face-to-face conversation and focus on my phone or turn my eyes toward the TV?  I am essentially saying, "You are not important enough to warrant my full attention."

I often see couples or families walking or eating out together, while one parent disappears into cell-phone-land, while the others wait and hope for a quick return of 'dad' or 'mom' or 'date' time.

The problem is not with technology, but with our values and choices.

I remember being a young mother who always had laundry to fold, dishes to wash, meals to prepare, messes to clean up, and yet my toddler closely clung, clamoring for my expert assistance in building a tower from blocks or book reading. I decided eventually that heart tending was my highest priority. Easier said than done, with all the distractions. I had to force myself to sit in the floor and put my focus solely on becoming the best block stacking, Seuss-reading mother...ever.

In order for me to interpret dreams--or to connect with people at a sacred level--I must get quiet, shut down everything else to focus on the task at hand. I'd get in trouble and not deliver anything of quality if I tried to decipher dreams or try to connect at a deep level with anyone while chatting online or updating my Facebook status.

Question: How many people do you have in your life who deserve and receive your undivided, 'unplugged' time? Are you able to set everything aside and be fully present for them? If so, how do you manage it?  If not, why not?

Thank you for reading