SARK Journal

Doing More Things Badly

 

 

"Do more things badly."

 

My inner perfectionist flipped out when I first heard this recommendation from one of my mentors; Rebecca Latimer, who wrote a book called You're Not Old Until You're Ninety: Best To Be Prepared, However.

 

Rebecca said to me;

"Oh SARK, when you speak to groups of people, would you please let them know that if they meditate and do it badly, it still works? And that goes for everything else too. My best recommendation to you is to do more things badly."

 

I knew from experience that my perfectionistic ways were inhibiting my joy, so I took her recommendation to heart and began consciously practicing doing more things badly, or imperfectly, or just not up to my former standards. I discovered that the more I did "badly" the happier I felt.

 

I found that my perfectionist inside was exhausted by me and my ideas about how to do things. I'd learned really well from my perfectionistic Mother how to do things "the right way," which was basically HER way, but it took me years to figure that out.

 

So that's when I began doing things like eating a chocolate cake with no silverware, lying down in line at the bank, singing Amazing Grace at the Department of Motor Vehicles, doing a TV interview with the back of my hair soaked in coconut oil from a massage the night before and singing Karaoke- without alcohol. I also experimented with tinier, more mundane things too.

 

I've learned that not only is it fun to do things badly, it's such a relief to give up so many of the "rules" I'd grown up with and then imposed on myself. I've also learned that I'm a pretty high achiever, and in some cases, an over achiever, so my dialing down from a 10 on a 1 to 10 scale, to a 5 or 6, is barely noticeable to anyone else!

 

It was noticeable to me however, so I engaged in some practices to support my new freedom.

 

1. Giving myself "primary permission" to do some things badly or imperfectly, or just differently.

I do this by experimenting and practicing, and noticing the results. For example, I'm usually very quick to do favors for people, or fulfill requests. My younger brother had asked me to find out some information for him prior to his wedding, and I simply didn't do it. When he asked for the information, and I confessed that I didn't have it and hadn't done it, he was shocked and annoyed with me. I apologized, but didn't feel guilty. We processed what had happened, and both realized that I was ALWAYS reliable and so rarely faltered, that I'd given myself no room at all to just be human. It was really fun to watch him be "the responsible one" who was getting things done for his wedding, and I got to experience the role of "someone who hadn't come through." I am now really learning to consciously give myself that primary permission first, that I'd always automatically given to other people.

 

2. Ignoring or simply not noticing what others think

I used to get so scared or worried if someone felt disappointed, annoyed or irritated with me about something I had or hadn't done. I had been a people pleaser who relied on being filled up from outside sources in order to feel good. Now that I consistently practice self-love and exquisite self-care, I fill myself up first, and allow others to experience and take responsibility for their own emotions. I don't focus on other people's reactions much at all anymore, and it's felt like such a great relief. I also practice ignoring people when I do unusual things, or I invite them to join in. I got the whole room to sing Amazing Grace with me at the DMV. Several people sat, or laid down with me in the bank line, and it was no problem at all to find people to eat cake with me, with no silverware.

 

3. Practicing self-love and exquisite self-care consistently

I practice living as a "full cup of self-love," ready to share the overflow with the world. I used to live like a half empty cup, looking for people or substances to fill me. Now that I've learned how to care for myself exquisitely, I can respond to the world, instead of reacting. In response, there is a choice, in reaction, there is very little choice. Now I choose what to respond to, and why. When I feel less than self-loving or caring, which is often every day, I engage in specific practices and processes to recenter myself. I am then able to extend so much more love to the world.

 

And of course, in all of the above, I also fail, falter, stumble, flail and flounder and do a lot of things badly, and sometimes very badly. I've discovered that being truly self-loving is a long term relationship with myself that contains EVERYthing, as every relationship does. The point is not to love myself all the time. The point is to practice loving myself as consistently as I am able, in all sorts of conditions. This means practicing loving the fat, forgetful, resistant parts too. And when I turn away from myself in aversion, to bring myself back as lovingly as I am able. And perhaps an even greater challenge, to love the successful, brilliant and soaring parts of myself. Because I sometimes feel more afraid of my joy than my pain. Pain seems easier to relate to, and joy can feel lonely.

 

My early abuse experiences taught me that pain lasts, and joy is unreliable. I've now learned to live more often in a opposite state- joy is everlasting, and pain can't always be trusted. And in between those two states, is the glorious middle spaces where most of my growth takes place. My explorations in doing more things badly have shown me that there is a lot of joy in the mess and chaos of living as a "splendidly imperfect" human bean.

Delight Yourself First

 

 

"Remember to delight yourself first, then others can be truly delighted."

 

This was my mantra when I published my first book in 1990, and still holds true. When we focus on the song of our soul and heart, then others will be touched similarly. Sometimes people wonder or worry whether people will like or approve of their creative expression. It's none of your business. It's your business to stay present and focused for the work of your deepest dreams. It might look crooked or strange, or be very odd-but if it delights you, then it is yours, and will find it's way into other hearts.

And if you'd like some incredible online support for your writing creations, I'm so glad to let you know about my new eprogram called Juicy Journaling with SARK: A Nourishing Adventure to Start Your Day off WRITE. http://www.planetsark.com/JuicyJournaling.htm

The Wonder of this Boy

My spiritual godchild Jonah is a wonder.

 

Here we are in Jonah's living room, with him teaching me how to spar.

 

 

 

 

I'm wearing his helmet and gloves;-)

 

His parents Val & Clark teach him about energy, transformation and the power of manifesting.

 

The other day Val told me that she was late while driving, and needed a parking

space. So she asked Jonah to help manifest it. He said "Sure, Mom." She looked in her rear view mirror to find him in a meditative posture in his car seat. They then found a parking space. She then looked in the mirror to see him meditating again, and she asked what he was doing. And he replied; "I'm manifesting a space for someone else."

Ministers of Love

 

 

Being "Ministers of Love"

I'm noticing more and more how many opportunities there are to give and receive love, especially to "strangers." I don't really believe in strangers- I live in a world of everyone being a friend I just haven't met yet.

 

People often think I'm unusual for being "so familiar," and yet they also like it. We all have an opportunity to be what I call a "Minister of Love." This isn't religious as much as spiritual. The dictionary says that a minister "attends to the wants and needs of others."

 

Recently while waiting at an airport for my flight to depart, I kept track of some of my opportunities to share love:

*A woman traveling to Rome who was desperate for dental floss- I had some

*A crabby man who admitted his back hurt and asked if anyone had aspirin- I had some

*A flight attendant who finally smiled when I thanked her for doing her work so beautifully

*An exhausted parent who appreciated me sitting next to her baby on a chair, so it wouldn't roll off while

she dug in her diaper bag

*A nervous woman traveling with her cat in a carrier, and crying because her cat was crying. I offered to do some interspecies telepathic communication with her cat, and she told me it didn't cry again on the flight

We can each be on the lookout for more opportunities to care for each other. So many people are already doing this, and I'm gratefull every time I'm the recipent of a kindness or offering of love. Every time we extend ourselves in these ways, there is a shift in the world's energy. Let's share our love as true "Ministers of Love." Share your thoughts or stories with me here- I will read them.

 

Love, Susan (aka SARK)

YES to MORE Self-Love for YOU

       

Practicing Loving Ourselves

By SARK (Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy)

How well and often do you love yourself? Are you your own best friend? How kindly and exquisitely do you tend to your own soul? Your answers to these questions may reveal an opportunity to practice more self-love. In my book: Fabulous Friendship Festival; Loving Wildly, Learning Deeply, Living Fully with Our Friends, I write about self-friendship, and have discovered through teaching workshops about it, that about 85% of people do not identify or describe themselves as their own closest friend.

We are taught to love ourselves, from many sources, such as the bible; "Love thy neighbor as thyself" to every metaphysical teaching, yet the actual practice of it is not often or openly discussed. It's as if we're just supposed to do it "naturally" and not need support, permission, reminders or examples.

Most of us are practicing being outer focused first, tending to the needs and requests of others before ourselves. Then somehow, it seems that there isn't enough time left over for ourselves. That's because we're doing it backwards. To truly love and be friends with others, we must practice loving ourselves well and fully on a daily basis. If we don't, we all witness and experience crabby unloved people walking around, living their lives not experiencing self-love (or loving others.)

While in New York city recently, I met a hotel manager who projected absolute radiant positive energy. When I complimented him and told him how much I appreciated it, he enthusiastically said; "I know! I am just so in love with myself!" I felt that love in every cell of my body, and stuck to him like a magnet during my stay at that hotel. When I share this story with groups of people, they laugh because it just sounds so unusual and strange. Yet, when we fall in love with another person, it's perfectly acceptable and expected to exclaim about our love, and everyone cheers and applauds.

We still think that self-love is selfish and narcissistic, forgetting that conscious selfishness is necessary for loving ourselves, and that we cannot truly love others without these experiences of self-loving. We are all selfish-in the best sense of what that means- to care for ourselves first.

I've been practicing loving myself more deeply in a number of new ways, beginning and ending my days

by hugging myself. It began with a moment or two, and it's now escalated to 5-10 minutes at a time. I can feel all my endorphins being elevated, and always end up grinning and beaming. I've begun saying out loud in certain situations; "I'm just so in love with myself!" and noticing the responses. Most people love it and want to join in. As I expand my experiences of self-love, I've observed that I'm more available and loving to friends and family too. It's as if my own inside well is so full of love, that I just naturally share the overflow.

I think I used to feel a little scared that if I really loved myself, I'd become so self-absorbed that there wouldn't be room for anyone else. The opposite is truly occurring and I'm steeped in self-love, friendship with myself and exquisite self-care practices that radiate out directly to the world. I keep a daily joy and gratitude journal, and fill pages with wonderful experiences and morsels of goodness. I'm always on the lookout for more, and this draws more of those kinds of experiences to me. Practicing self-friendship and love also means tending to, and being present for the the times I don't feel positive or self-loving at all.

How do we practice self-love during those times too?

It's easy to love ourselves when we feel good and "things are going our way," it's less easy when we experience self-criticism, frustration, negativity or self-abandonment.

How unconditional is your love for your self?

We are all made up of light and shadows, and many of us try to flee the shadows and stay in the light.

Wanting to live in the light isn't the problem, attempting to flee the shadows is. As long as we continue to turn away from the parts of ourselves that we judge as unworthy, unacceptable or unlovable, we will continue to experience separation and lack of love.

In order to more deeply and consistently practice self-love and self-friendship, it is helpful to have resources. Here are some I personally utilize and recommend:

1. Loving What Is by Byron Katie

2. Ask and it Is Given by Jerry & Esther Hicks

3. The Power of Intention by Dr. Wayne Dyer

4. Relax Into Wealth by Alan Cohen

5. Embracing Your Inner Critic by Hal Stone & Sidra Stone

6. Making A Change For Good by Cheri Huber

7. The Art of Extreme Self Care by Cheryl Richardson

8. All the music of Karen Drucker

9.Yourself

Self-healing is available to each one of us, and we forget the power of it, and don't often include ourselves on such lists. We may be tempted to endow "someone else" with the knowledge or way to go, forgetting that we do the actual work and apply the teachings.

So, become the most marvelous friend to yourself first. Find your broken places and gain strength there too. Practice looking into your shadows (you can use a flashlight) and become aware of how to best care for yourself during those times also, and experience loving yourself unconditionally more often.

Turn your wide heart and loving eyes towards yourself and awaken what you already know:

YOU ARE SEEN

YOU ARE KNOWN

YOU ARE LOVED

By everyone, especially yourself!

 

 

 

Copyright © 2009 SARK

Maybe

   

How To Relax About Money

   

 

Dancing With Difficulties

   

 

 

http://www.audioacrobat.com/play/W9NW6h7s

A is for Awesome

 

 

http://www.audioacrobat.com/play/WQ6xM1Xs

Purple Pen Blessings

Comments

[Teralyn]

You have such great ideas! I'm struggling with a book I'm writing right now -- it's a romance, and I NEVER write romances. I have to be so incredible vulnerable, and since I've never done it before, it's uncomfortable for me. I should stop taking myself so seriously. Maybe I could just write something bad, laugh at it, keep it, and not live in fear that someone's going to pick up my notebook and start giggling at it... or if they do, maybe I could giggle along with them. It's hard, but I need to stop being scared.

[Jenn]

I *must* learn this lesson! It's one of the main things I struggle with as a writer...the feeling that it's got to be perfect the first time 'round!

Jenn
www.momentary.org
what are you grateful for today?

[Denise Michaels]

I love this journal entry. Because so many women have a tendency to be "pleasers" we want so much for things to be "right" before stepping forward and really taking a risk. The challenge is that if it has to be perfect first - so many times we hold back.

I've been a mentor to women business owners for many years and I can't even tell you how many times a woman will spend months or years researching a business idea and then a man who doesn't know as much as her jumps out with an idea very close. We don't get brownie points in heaven for researching and holding back.

Denise Michaels Excellent Adventure
http://www.DeniseMichaels.com

[Delphine]

Yippety, YAHOO!!! I love this...I feel better already. Tonight I plan to get the "badly" going as soon as I get home. Can't wait to see the kids and my husband's reaction...oh what fun! Sark, your the bestest!

[Emily]

I have bookmarked this post so I can return and read it often! What simple, life altering advice! As the oldest I was always the good, reliable one. Trying to be perfect, and never saying no has been a constant struggle.

[Eden]

Love it, wise words once again SARK.
Thank you :)

[Joodie]

What are some of the things you practice and do "...when I feel less than self-loving or caring"??
I just lost my dad and am having lots of days like that.

[Emma]

oh, you last wrote on my birthday! maybe you can write again for those of us wandering about in internetlandia?

[Kelley]

"...joy is everlasting, and pain can't always be trusted."

Thank you for this! Indeed, enjoy the day!

[jen gray]

xo

[TERI REES WANG]

Funny you say that, I just sat through a Youtube video called "Suck it!"..for writers, to learn to suck, a lot, and if you think you suck, you probably don't suck enough.
Don't be afraid to suck! ;P

"Dare to Suck": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nyhv80HDSj4

[KellieS]

Hi,

I appreciate your insight on the self-care topic. So many drown themselves in the affairs of others, forgetting to seek refuge and spirit connection. It always ends up the same way....burn out city! Well, thanks for the post. I just found you, so I'll be back.

Kellie

[Karen L. Valentine]

SARK, I love how you received your pen name. Your web site is so inspiring, thank you. I received the book you have written, Juicy Pens Thirsty Paper for Christmas this year from my son and daughter-in-law. I needed a boost to get back into writing and this is it. I am having so much fun thinking of new ideas or using the old ideas I have that have been just sitting there ready to awaken. Thank you and I send my love back to you.
Peace, Love Karen

[Laura Hegfield]

Such a delightful comment from little Jonah...a wise and generous soul! I remember coming upon my girls meditating at times when they were small...and the remarkable things they would say. My favorite story was my older daughter (probably 6 or so) explaining to her little sister (that puts her around 3), about how life here on earth is like a play. God puts different clothes on our souls so we can be a certain person and then when we are done being that person God changes our clothes so we can be someone else. She was expressing her 6 year old view on reincarnation from her car seat to her toddler sister! I never told her these things...it was her understanding of the journey of a soul...kids are amazing!

[Carol]

You are indeed an enlightened woman ~ Do so enjoy your work ~ Happy Holidays ` Carol

[Terry]

I've been a fan since I worked at a bookstore in Glendale, Az in '78-'79. Reconnected every time I found one of your books or your newer books when I worked in a bookstore in the 90's. I cannot thank you enough for the encouragement you have provided so many through the years. Your vibrant energy spreads through every dogma religion and spiritual journey around the world. I am continually finding myself on the short end of believing in who I am and what God sees in me. Letting others tell me who I am when they cannot accept me as I am has been a lifelong dilema for me. Through open-minded people like you, I continue to have an positive outlook about today. Trials in our lives can bring us to the point of no return, but the light of hope can keep us looking forward with the power of believing in today and tomorrow. Thank you for sharing your life with others. May you continue to be blessed for your continued optimism and joy. We, your fans, will continue to believe in the power of one to bring a smile and dry a tear. God Bless

[Monisha Mittal]

SARK
For some reason, the book at the upper right hand corner caught my eye. I would like to know what book it is, if its at all possible for you to find a chance to reply.
This is my first time writing on your website so I did also want to thank you, for the ability to unlock my heart each time. I am very happy to read your blog posts and looking to commit to the Juicy Journaling offering. THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE.

By the way, in case its not clear, this comment is in response to your Dancing with Difficulties audio post. Thanks, much love, Monisha

[TERI REES WANG]

I need this reminder again Today!

Thanks...in every way.

Be well.
Do good.
All ways.
All days.
Stay true.

[Kari]

This post really spoke to me Susan. I am most definitely my own best friend, and some days I fear my only friend. I do have other friends, but quite honestly the ones who know me best I've never even met in real life.

Either way, I feel I'm of no value to anybody else unless I am happy with and taking good care of myself. It really effects the energy a person gives off I think!

I would like to thank you for your kindness with the Juicy Journaling program. It is just what I need and I'm so happy I stumbled across your work when I did! You inspire me daily and I'm grateful for that!

[WildeWoman]

I am so excited - hoping to be able to sign up for Juicy Journaling this week! I have put my foot down and I am finally committing to delighting myself first! :)

[maria browne]

Your wonderful, inspirational world of color and joy has been my companion since your first book. I used to call the inspiration hotline while I was babysitting to pay my way through UC Berkeley. Now I live in Ireland and often re-read your books during the long grey winters to light up my dark nights and remember to not only see the beauty in the obvious but to keep looking even when it doesn't seem to be there so thanks for many years of good times spent together (in spirit at least). I'm shooting you with positive vibes from accross the planet.

[Journey]

What a wonderful post. Thanks for sharing this story of this wonderful child.

[McNair]

Stop beating up my friend, Jonah!

[Rose-Ann]

I am attending Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper at Kripalu next week and am very excited! Can I buy the book there? I just read Succulent Wild Woman again and responded to the questions - so helpful and uplifting. I am looking forward to meeting you!

[liz elayne]

manifesting a space for someone else.
the wisdom of a beautiful child.
as i read this all i can think is that this is one of those things that life is all about. manifesting space for ourselves, for one another. i often think about creating space and holding the space for someone else when we listen to someone tell their story. this image of manifesting the space deeply speaks to me.
yes. love this. thank you for sharing this story.

[Peggy]

How timely that I read this just now! Last week my friend and I took a two-day jaunt together, and she felt compelled to tell me that my "friendliness" to other people frightened her because she's afraid that some stranger will harm us. This is my best friend, and I respect her feelings, but I felt resentful that she expected me to restrain my interactions with strangers. I speak to everyone as if I've known them all my life; I feel that everyone yearns for acknowledgment. For the rest of our trip, I felt subdued and unnatural.

[Kathryn - Collage Diva]

This is just too precious. Your sweet & wise Jonah reminds me of my own son. I taught my son how to meditate when he was five and now that he is 13, I can see how he uses breathing to keep his calm during stressful situations.

Enjoy Jonah and his parents.
{soul hugs}
Kathryn, Collage Diva

[Wendy Fedan]

What a nice kid! Love that story about the parking space... and I love that photo, too! :) Wild Warrior!

[Jes]

Dear SARK,

1. You have the most BEAUTIFUL voice. It's so comforting and warm and friendly, I feel like I've known you forever.

2. When I travelled in Guatemala, I met a cab driver named Carlos. He was one of those cab driver angels you speak of. He and I instantly clicked and for the first time in 3 months I spoke Spanish without hesitation. Weeks later he saw me on the street and greeted me with hugs and kisses and inquiries about me. I never felt so loved by a "stranger".

3. Dancing with Difficulties... oh boy! I am! I said to my sister earlier today "I LOVE making mistakes, I am learning from them, LET ME make them!!!"

Much love!

[Anil Urmil]

"I don't really believe in strangers- I live in a world of everyone being a friend I just haven't met yet."

Dear Sark,

What an optimistic attitude! I love it. Your words of wisdom enrich, educate, entertain and enlighten me. Thanks for being yourself.

Namaste and Love, Anil

[Sunny]

This resonated with me so clearly.

I have recently accepted "kindness" as one of my purposes for this life. Now when I have to do something in my job that is scary for me - - like walking into a new office half way across the country and meeting new people that I will be training, I just keep thinking that training is my second job here. My first is to be a "light" and to offer kindness to everyone.

[Kerridwen Niner]

Good morning, i came to visit today having stopped by Michelle of Enchanted Inspirations. Her latest post being about your post and your books. It's very interesting what you say and i could instantly think of two occasions yesterday where i was maybe a 'Minister of Love'. One of my hairdressing clients daughter is expecting twins, her first. She is currently in hospital following a bleed, they are keeping an eye on her but not following through with anything they say. I can speak very loudly from experience about how a bad experience with labour and all that followed so you can imagine i kinda jumped on the bandwaggon a bit. Anway i said when you see her 'Give her a big hug from me and tell her to take no 'insert polite alternative for rubbish lol from anyone' and said i would call her mum in the next couple of weeks so see how things were going. I saw a glimmer of something come over her mums face, surprise maybe but i've been there and have been invited into the lives of the family many times over the years i've been doing mums hair including on the expectant mums wedding day so yeah 'i care' :-)

[Michelle Perkett]

Dear Sark,

I am so grateful to you for sharing such wonderful words always. I am grateful for your books I have at home that I look thru always. You inspire me to tears!

I am also on a mission to spread kindness and love, I feel it is so important for all of us to do so. I make it a point to smile at everyone and especially people who need it everyday.

I smiled and thanked the woman at Subway who never smiles and she smiled back at me. I plan on spreading my smile everywhere!

Thank you for inspiring me!

Michelle :)

[sheri lee taylor]

hi sark...quick quick note Happy birthday happy birthday you sweetheart! we love you!
from sherilee ,izabella and jasmine......hey do you see us? have you seen us.....? the pictures i mean the pictures! ( :

[Cindy]

There are soooooooo many opportunities for us to be Love Ministers. I really like that you're talking about this. I have long held a belief that talking about Love in it's purest of forms does more for the transformation of this planet than we can ever imagine.

And, isn't it just delightful to have these kinds of experiences in our lives -- the giving and receiving parts!

I'm participating in your Transformation Experience, and one of the things I'm exploring is my challenging brother relationship. This morning, my Sister sent me one of the most beautiful reminders about how amazing we are as humans, and it made this whole brother challenge reach such an attainable perspective. Her little ministry of love has melted away some HUGE obstacles, and opened the door for change.

She has no idea that I'm participating or 'working' on this little challenge in my life. Yet, her generous sharing has been a ministry of Love she will never ever fully understand. The very best kind of gift -- I dare say.

Thank you, dear soul, for being who you are and inviting us to continue to explore ourselves!

[Tapati]

I always try to be especially kind to anyone in customer service jobs because I know how often they get negative comments or downright rude behavior. I'm always praising them and urging them to have a great day, saying thank you, etc.

Once I read about a woman who had been very active in our local fat acceptance community. She made the papers when she participated in the protest against the miss california pageant that used to be held there. There was an article about how her health had deteriorated and she was housebound and had broken her ankle, so she couldn't get around and couldn't cook for herself. I was also home recuperating and cooking a heart healthy diet for myself, so I contacted the reporter, got her number, and started bringing her food for the week in containers. I also loaned her movies and books. I loaned her 2 of my SARK books, in fact!

A few months later she passed away and no one knew whose books and movies they were so I never got them back, but I like to think that they provided solace and inspiration during the last months of her life.

When I was homeless years ago there were people who took me in and several times I have paid it forward and helped people out in the same way.

Also, when I was a single parent there were people who were kind to me and I try to help out any single parent I know, especially with practical things like doing some housework or cooking or just giving them encouragement. To be a single parent is often to be exhausted and feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. A kind word or a bit of help can give you new energy to go on.

I have given food and money to homeless people because I never forget where I came from. One day a woman was coughing and coughing and sounded terrible. I didn't have any money but I had some cough drops (Ricola) in my purse and dug down deep to find them for her. She was so happy! It's the tiniest gestures sometimes that mean so much. One doesn't have to be wealthy to give!

Now that I am home much of the time, dealing with chronic illness, I am often frustrated that I can't give more. But I read a number of blogs and friend's journals and any time someone is hurting or needs a kind word, I know that is something I can give.

I believe everything we do comes back to us, kind or cruel. How much better to cast kindness out on the waves?

Blessed Be

[marguerite]

Hi Sark
I went to post in the guestbook, and it brought me here instead, where I got to read this amazing minister of love blog you wrote. I love it so much.
Here are a couple minister of love things i like to do:
I pack sack lunches with stuff like peanut butter crackers and granola bars. I always keep a few in my car to give to homeless people when i am out in about. I put a note in each bag that says: You are loved. And when I give it to them, I smile and look into their eyes. I try to do the smile-eye thing to anyone, not just homeless people. It says: you are seen and loved regardless of your circumstances.
i just listened to the recording about intimacy and loved that so much too! I am vibrating with excitement for the conference call in 45 minutes!
Thank you for doing all of this. My life is already transforming. I had the most amazing day yesterday!
Here's my blog about it:
A Mother's Love (photo not included)
The big kid in the center with his arms crossed is Chaska. (pronounced Cha-skay) Three years ago, I dated his father. I had never been with a guy who had a kid he saw on a regular basis, so it was very foreign territory for me. I didn't take well to it at first. But, fortunately for me, he's a very mature and forgiving kid. He gave me many chances to redeem myself. Eventually I grew to love him. Eventually he grew to call me mom. I never had kids of my own, and I never knew until then how good it could feel to hear a kid call you that: "mom." Chaska's real mother is addicted to speed and living on the streets, so he never sees her. He's been through a lot, and he's a shy, sad and quiet kid. He is being raised by his grandparents. It turned out his dad was an alcoholic to an extent that I have never witnessed in any human being before or since. We, of course, eventually had to part ways. I continued to see Chaska for months afterward though. I went to every one of his basketball games, and tutored him twice a week because he was failing 6th grade. Eventually I had to back away. It was becomming difficult and confusing for Chaska, because I couldn't be around his father and remain sane. But I never forgot the kid who called me mom, and I often wondered if he turned out alright.
Fast forward to yesterday. I was doing laundry, and up pulled a van containing a family of 5 and two adorable weiner dogs. As most of you kow,I have a weinr dog and will go up and talk to anyone else who has one. So that's what I did. I became fast friends with the whole family. The 15 year old boy, Andrew, took a special liking to me, and talked my ear off as I did my laundry. He was interesting, articulate and reminded me so much of Chaska. He even looks like him. I asked where he went to school and what grade he was in. He told me, and I asked "You wouldn't happen to know a kid named Chaska, would you?" Lo and behold: they are best friends....
I wrote Chaska a note of reconnection, to say I never forgot him, and Andrew is giving it to him today. I had just gotten a lovely care package from Kimmie, and I used the envelope from her card to put Chaska's note into. (Thanks again Kimmie! You are a part of this miraculous story!) My heart has cracked wide open. I didn't give him my number, because I didn't want to add confusion to his life. I also don't want to open a door for his very charming drunk of a father to walk back into my life.
I did give my card to Andrew's mother, Maria, though. If Chaska wants to reach me, she will let me know. We totally hit it off, Maria and I. I ended up telling her my life story there in the laundromat. I think we may become friends. Most of my close friends are far away: Sonya's in NH, Vanessa's in WA, Vida's in CO, and Nan is moving to OR in a month. I need a new friend. I hope that Maria will be that new friend....
And even though I shouldn't, I wish to hear Chaska call me "mom" again.
A mother's love, even if it's not blood, never dies.

[Mary Schweigert]

Susan,

YOU are my long lost soul sister and are an inspiration to all!!! I have read two of your books recently (given to me by my most succulent nanny) and have completely found my inner self again!

Too often we get carried away with our everyday responsibilities and forget what is REALLY important in life. It all starts within yourself, and YOU have given that power back to me!!!

Thank you for all you do for millions of people around the world!!! You have been that "Minister" to me!!!

Mary Schweigert

[Anna]

Hi SARK. Thanks so much for this! I was crying when i listened.

Currently I am struggling with finding a home. I'm renting a tiny little space from a single mom who is very stressed and often negative. I feel I have no space in which to relax and to regenerate and to be alone with myself. I don't really talk to her as she seems so harsh and I don't want to risk the negativity she might share w/ me.

I want my own home: a place where I can relax and from which I do not have to move unless I decide to. The city in which I live is very expensive, though. I've read many of your books and know about your "magic cottage", and how you bought it. Do you have some tips for me?

Thanks!

ps: would you be able to share a bit of insight into how one might manage to balance concerns over money w/ happiness? I want to live somewhere sunny...and am tempted to move to such a place even w/ o a job... but find myself being cautious. Thanks!

[Jennifer]

this reminds me...early friday night my daughter wanted a bagel so we swung into dunkin donuts and picked one up...i paid the worker and before we left i simply said "have a nice weekend." he looked at me, smiled and said "thank you." it was a very sincere exchange we had that made me smile too. i pointed out to my daughter the importance of just being nice and meaning it and she said " i know Mom" with a little smile.

[Johanna]

HI Sark! My name is Johanna. I just love to take care of others in the sense that I see them as brothers and sisters. When I find myself in a judgemental mood, I repeat "I am you" and it works every time no matter who it is I meet, I realize I've done what they do or been in the same mood or attitude they are experiencing at the moment.

I share in the area where I live:

*When I go for my groceries, I joke with all the cashiers and call them by their name (they love that)
*I like to think of ways to make my friends happy since I have the time for this cause I'm not working presently
*I always leave space for others to pass either on the street or at the mall and am constantly on the lookout for them
*Once I changed the mood of an old man who was sick at the hospital where I was waiting myself to be examined. He kept complaining and fussing and his two sons were trying to ignore him cause he acted kinna spoiled. I thought it would be a great opportunity to see if Reiki at a distance could work in this case and in a matter of a couple of minutes he started to smile, was in a great mood for no reason at all and became the most charming patient around!
*I use Reiki at a distance for anyone I know has a hard time or for anyone who might need it
*I have been stopped a few times by people who ask me why I smile all the time, to which question I am surprised cause I don't realize that I am smiling. I guess it helps me to help them

I don't know you very much, just read a few things on your site which is very lovely by the way, but I hear a lot of great things about you from others and that is why I wanted to receive your news letters.

Thank you very much Susan!

JOhanna

A big HUG to you!

[Wendy]

This reminds me a lot of Leo Buscaglia's philosophy. He sure was wonderful, wasn't he? I especially loved how he gave out hugs after his lectures. I watched this on television with my parents when I was younger.
Thank you for keeping this philosophy alive in your wonderful musings!

[Chelley Azul]

If I will be given a chance to be a writer, I wish to be a Sark of the Philippines. You are truly an amazing person...Your love and dedication to your works radiates like the sun that warms everyone.Hope you can visit the Philippines.

[Eoudia Erasmus]

Thanx for a fantastic you!!
xxx
Ek is van Suid-Afrika en geniet jou boeke baie! 'Hoop en glo daar is ander Suid-Afrikaners wat ook geinspireer word deur jou!
xx

[KesNannasem]

Great site this www.sarkjournal.com and I am really pleased to see you have what I am actually looking for here and this this post is exactly what I am interested in. I shall be pleased to become a regular visitor :)

[Simonn]

Keep working ,great job!

[Lovely Leslie]

I adore you!!!!
Here I am at 2:42AM, browsing your wonderful site. You are such a generous soul, Susan. You are a gift to the world.
Gavin and I are moving to Vancouver, and when I focus on how wonderful it will be, and how good it feels to purge my home of all this unnecessary stuff, I feel good.
And when I don't focus on that, I feel overwhelmed!
Let me remember that:
1. Packing and moving takes as long as the time allotted
2. I don't have to do it perfectly
3. There are people to help me and I can accept that help.

:)

There is great love here for you, Susan! And for me! And for anyone reading this! And for everyone in the world!!!!

[audrie]

A long time ago I found a book called succulent wild woman. I was at that time learning to be a woman and living through some big challenges. That book was one of the things that helped me through the challenges I was facing. Recently I find myself in another difficult time. Last week I used a staff washroom at a school where I vounteer, and in that washroom there is one of your posters. There you were again, with your beautiful, simple wisdom. I know that nothing is an accident. You and your words have helped me through some tough times, and it looks like you're here to help guide me again. Thank you.

[Beth]

As always Thank you! You remind me to unlock that special place I keep so locked away sometimes. My heart is overcome everytime I read any of your writings.

[Carrie~LoLaEnChAnTeD~]

Wow, I needed that post really bad!! I always forget about me, even when I'm sad or happy! Thanks for sharing that!!

[Allie]

I don't know why I didn't look for you before. I always squinted to read your prints and posters in the catalogs we got at my parents' house, and often cut them out to paste in my journals and sketchbooks.
This is going to be my mantra, because I have been really freaking out about money for most of the last year, and it's not getting any better. Ironically, this is also the most creative period I've had for about 5 years, so I really am on "money recess".
You are Mamma, in the lexicon of Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes.
Awwwoooooo!

[creativevoyage]

what a fabulous reminder and yes that self love allows more love of others. I've got a feeling myself love is a bit low at the moment - the clue is that I'm being grumpy and irriatated by other people. Ie I'm being grumpy and irriated by myself. Time for some self love

Hummm time for Utterly Delicious Cake Making for myself and lounging deliciously with my cat frida

[Wes]

...not only do I love me

...and us

...but you, too, amazing Susan Kennedy!!!

[Jessica I.]

I so needed to read this right now. I'm printing it out actually.
Lately I've been feeling so drained, worried, anxious, not attractive.
I manage to hide it well - but that's not what I should be doing! I've decided I'm going to make time for myself to meditate, to exercise and to take alone time when I need it because I must love myself first and foremost.

[Daisy Sunshine]

When I first heard you talk about hugging yourself I thought it sounded pretty strange but then I tried it (strangely enough while I was laying in the bathtub). I just gave myself a big hug while I was laying there and you know what it felt great and it didn`t even feel that weird. One step towards loving myself more!

Thank you for always sharing things that most people would be embaressed to share as your example inspires me to embrace and love my ENTIRE self.

PS The first time I read your words...YOU ARE SEEN, YOU ARE KNOWN, YOU ARE LOVED I was beside myself as I have waited my entire life to hear that. Thank you.
Thank you Sark

[Diane]

I have always been hard on myself as that was taught as "noble" among the people that raised me. I have a shoppe that sells your books, magnets, cards...and it has taken a while for me to pick up the materials you have written and actually have them begin to penetrate and become important. I not only matter, I deserve to be celebrated....wow! By me! Wow! Thank you for writing in fun colors and giving permission to the Me that is Me to be celebrated as much as the masses I thought I was here to serve. (erp!) You rock! Keep it coming!

[Katell Kennedy]

.....and a lovely Valentine's Day to you too!! :)
All The Best,
K

*and it was just what I needed.

[Laura]

Every year, I hold off on making any "New Year's Resolutions" for my birthday (Feb 6th). It gives me the whole month of January to reflect on the past year's growth and contemplate my focus for the upcoming year. This year, I decided to focus on loving myself more, which has always been very difficult for me. Reading your journal re-affirmed that this is truly the year for me to fall in love with myself. Thanks for your wisdom.
Namaste,
Laura

[Athena]

Hi Sark,

I've always been a self-loving person, and lately it has been so much harder for me! I just went through some pretty big life changes, and for the first time am really at a loss for my usual self love, instead spending way too much time with my inner critic. Something that helps me (in addition to your wonderful books and writings and inspirations!) is to keep in mind that the light-side of me is there too, and that this experience is just a certain "time" in my life. The thought of the permanency of the self-critic can be scary!

Thank you for all your creative support throughout these "times"

[Victoria SkyDancer]

"...many of us try to flee the shadows and stay in the light. Wanting to live in the light isn't the problem, attempting to flee the shadows is."

HO, lovely Susan!
To that end, if I may add two books to your list, both by Debbie Ford:
The Dark Side of the Lightchasers
The Secret of the Shadow

Doing the exercises in these books will Change Your Life, forever & well!

Lotsa (Self-) Lovin' to ya,
VSD

[Amy]

Such perfect timing! Thank you for sharing these beautiful truths with all of us. Your own self-love is so delightful and inspiring.

[Leslie]

How totally wonderful, Susan!!!!
I love this article. I keep waking up feeling full of self-love, and it is wonderful. I am working on making that feeling last all day long!
And I LOVE what you wrote about always being on the lookout for more joy.
Me, too!

xooxoxxoox
LOVE
Leslie

[Dottie]

Thank you for the self-love reminder! I'm going to hug myself everyday!

[Gypsy Alex]

I just love to see this online journal, Sark! Thank you for starting it! xo

[Debbie]

Oh my gosh, I just went back to your list and noticed that the book I suggested was already on there! I was going to check out some of the books that you recommended and there it was! Sorry about that!

Hugs again,
Debbie

[Debbie]

What a wonderful post! As I read your words, a little voice inside of me kept saying, "YES! That is how it is meant to be." How can we truly share our gifts with others, if we aren't willing to admit that we are worthy of them, ourselves. Self-love teaches us how to truly love others. It teaches us to be gentle with ourselves and to treat ourselves with kindness.

Thank you for your beautiful reminder. Another book which is a very good resource on this subject is, "The Art of Extreme Self-Care" by Cheryl Richardson. I just started reading it and I think you would enjoy it.

Big hugs,
Debbie

[Di]

And the magic of the universe made sure I read this on the day I really truly needed it. Thank you :)

[Linda]

Hello, Sark, I am so excited that I found you in blogland!! About 7 or 8 years ago my sister and I read your book, Succulent Wild Woman. We LOVED it so much we gave copies out to our kids who also loved it. In those days everything was "succulent" for us. It was so fun and exciting. Anyway, we just opened a blog for ourselves and we decided that nothing would be better than calling our blog Two Succulent Sisters. So that people would understand about the word "succulent" I posted a picture of your book with the link that goes directly to your website. I hope that is okay with you. Thank you for all the wonderful mindfreeing books. I have several of them. :) Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Linda

http://twosucculentsisters.blogspot.com/

[Arielle Rainbow Butterfly]

Oh beautiful soul,
I just listened to your audio "A is for Awesome" entry and I am bouncing around gitty with joy and love. I love using affirmative words as do you, and I try myself to make others come up with inspiring words, not just the mundane, "this is how it was taught to me, so this is how i say it" type-thing. I love engaging others to go more deeply and move their verbal energies with positive, uplifting, empowering words. The words we use create our reality and it feels ever so much better when we are using affirmative tunes.
Namaste

[Carmen Torbus]

Loving this!

Namasté,

Carmen

[Lisa]

Maybe is filled with such possibility! I was going to choose clarity as my word of focus for 2009. But now I'm thinking that Maybe would be an even better word!

Thank you for inspiring so many people. You inspired Violette, who inspired me. She changed my life because you changed hers...all through the hope of art.

[laurie]

Your energy revives me! When I need a boost, I pull out one of your books and I can instantly regain my enthusiasm for life and a reminder to celebrate ME! I am writing a children's book based on Positive Psychology, as a teacher I see kids who have already lost the ability to enjoy life, be silly and believe in themselves. This scared me into action. Everyone needs a purple crayon to doodle with and a silly hat to dance in. Thanks for spreading such wonderful, enthusiastic, color and joy!
Laurie

[susan twigge]

Hi Sark,
I'm just writng to see if you
are ok? as i've not seen any updates
for awhile.I guess you are busy being
creative and succulent,and await your
next writings with excitement.
Wishing you a very merry sherry xmas.
love Sue xx

[Patricia Gover]

My special friend gave me your book, Transformation Soup, for Christmas. She couldn't wait, nor could I for the 25th. I'm reading it with my colored pencils, water color pencils and paint brush. I can't remember feeling so relaxed and happy. I just finished listening to your journal entry and dare to think there is hope for me. What fun it is to feel a sense of freedom even for a short time. I do believe that with each page I read and color that I will be feeling more and more that sense of freedom. Thanks a bunch. I'm pretending that all these words are bright purple.

[Ginger]

You are one cwazy lady! I am so tickled by your wacky drawing and writing! I want to team up with people like you and get silly and just talk about how great life is and just BE love.

Yeah, I can dance with the difficulites. Twenty years of sobriety in AA taught me that. But you are inspiring me to LIGHTEN UP, BABY!!!

I think I'm groovy when I write to you. I always wanted to be a Flower Child. But my older brother kept getting in trouble so I thought it would be safer to lay low and not get noticed.

I bought a rainbow-colored, tie-died silk scarf over the summer. I haven't worn it yet. ISN'T THAT WACKED? Wait... I'm going to go get it...

Ok, my tie-died scarf is wrapped around my haed. I hope your satisfied! You have saved me from becoming a terminally serious sober person.

Oh, did I mention that I'm queer?

Anyway, this is just the beginning. My first post!

Thanks for witnessing.

Ginger

[Anna]

I really love the flow of creativity with which you write and what you use to write with! Your books have always left me feeling inspired to be a better person and I really appreciate that. Currently I am working on a new kind of journal, one in which I draw in daily. I'm trying to get over being in an abusive relationship for the past four years of my life. So I am trying all kinds of liberating things in my life, what the heck, ya know? Do you have any suggestions of other authors or artists which have given you inspiration to evolve yourself into a better person? Maybe someone you read or spoke to that changed your way of seeing the world or your own life?

I do all I can to focus on the positive, some days its easy and some days the PTSD gets to me and I am bummed out and anxious.

Thank You so much for your time! I look forward to reading your latest publication! I think it might be right up my alley.

Anna

[Betsi]

Thanks for sharing this! I second what another comment said - is there any chance this poster will be back in publication anytime soon? I simply MUST have it up on my studio wall!

[Janet Whitehead]

ps. Ditto on "Come to Canada!" Anything I can do to help make that happen?

[Janet Whitehead]

When I grow up, I want to be just like you, SARK! Actually, I'm good with being me, but I do have to say I adore your brilliant inspirations that you are sharing with so many people worldwide! I'm a kindred spirit doing similar work. Observing you and your playwork.. is always a 'rekindling' experience. Thank you.

Recess... Yup, I'm going to hula hoop AND firedance! (They never allowed that one in school.. oh the freedom of recess now that I'm not in school) What a breath of fresh air that we have a recess from money and the pressure we put on ourselves to have some of it hanging around. (smile)

Also want to add.. Thanks, Sherrilee, for sharing your inspiring story!

[Sue Phillips w/a Gillian Doyle]

Hi Susan,

I have had the money poster on my office wall for so many years, and recently moved it to the front of my refrigerator. Now friends and family want copies! I started searching online today. I can't find one anywhere. Is there any chance that it will be printed again?

[sheri lee taylor]

hi....its me again.
i have a bit more time today,so i wanted to send another comment about your wonderful entry here "RELAX ABOUT MONEY"
i came upon this at the most perfect time!!!!
when i was in mendocino i was doing just that!
in fact susan.....if i had waited to AFFORD such a trip i never would have gone!
i felt as i was being called and in fact there was someone i really wanted to meet. someone that has a big influence on me regarding music.......i was thinking alot about your juicy living page that says "invite someone dangerous to tea"...well i sent an invite to this person to come to my campfire and roast marshmellows!! ( :AND have a warm drink.
i had a full tank of gas.....ALOT of food...a check from my boyfriend to pay for a few days of a campsite and ONLY 15 dollars cash, HMMMMMMM
we left for mendocino monday night and had the beautiful almost full moon to light the way.....and she stayed with us throughout the week!
anyway.....we found a beautiful place to set up camp and
decided to pretend "WE LIVE IN MENDOCINO" hehehe( :
on tuesday i went to the market and realized i needed fuel for the stove....a ten dollars left....a by wednesday i had 75 cents left.
all the while just eating, sleeping and touring around mendocino......wednesday night, WE WERE HEADING BACK TO CAMP AND BELLA INSISTED WE HAVE SANDWICHES FOR DINNER AND COULD WE JUST STOP AND EAT NOW!
AT FIRST I SAID NO NO WE NEED TO GET TO CAMP TO COOK A HOT DINNER...BUT SHE TALKED ME INTO TAKING THE NEXT TURN, TO THE LIGHT HOUSE... we had the entire pt.cabrillo lighthouse to ourselves!!! and sang my childrens song out loud......and one of the verses we were living!!!
hahahahaha "SUNSET MOONRISE
SINGING TO THE SEA,
IM A PART OF YOU ,YES YOUR A PART OF ME
TWIRLING ROUND AND ROUND ,FLIPPING
CARTWHEELS ON THE GROUND
THANK YOU FOR SHOWING ME
THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE
FREE!!!!!!!!!!"
IZABELLA 6.....JASMINE 4 AND I RUNNING AROUND IN THE ORANGE GLOW.......THEN THIS HUGE BEAUTIFUL MOON RISING
IT WAS AMAZING....(everytime the light from the lighthouse would turn onto the girls< they would hop like frogs)
IT WAS SO CUTE!
BASKING IN HAPPINESS AND JUST LIVING IN THE MOMENT!
WE WERE SUPPOSED TO GET BACK BY THURSDAY...THE WEATHER WAS SO INCREDIBLE I DID DECIDE TO LET BELLA MISS SCHOOL
AND WHILE THE GIRLS WOULD NAP I WOULD MEDITATE BY THE STREAM AND SIT AND LET COMPLETE GRATTIUDE FILL MY BEING.
TO HAVE THIS OPPOURTUNITY TO SPEND TIME, (without clocks)
WITH MY TWO HEALTHY DAUGHTERS, IN THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE WITH AMAZING WEATHER.
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! AMAZING!
BY SATURDAY I DISCOVERD THE "WISDOM HOUSE"
THAT WAS INCREDIBLE...AND ANYONE WHO READS THIS MAY YOU FIND THE WISDOM HOUSE IN MENDOCINO...FOR A PLEASANT SURPRISE OF BEAUTIFUL ARTWORK AND INSPIRATION!!!!BY REV.SHILOH!!!
OVER THE DAYS ....I CONTEMPLATED WOULD I USE THE 75 CENTS FOR THE 50 CENT SHOWER AT THE CAMP OR TO CALL MY SWEETHEART AT HOME.....??????
ALL THE WHILE THE TRIPS FROM CAMP TO TOWN I WAS USING UP THE GAS IN THE CAR, HMMMMMMMMMM HOW WOULD I GET HOME?
I JUST NEVER WORRIED ABOUT IT!
INFACT.....AS I MET INCREDIBLY AWESOME MOTHER BEAR TYPE WOMEN WHO MADE ME FEEL COMPLETELY COMFORTABLE TO EVEN ASK FOR THE GAS MONEY.....SPIRIT TOLD ME NOT TO ASK FOR MONEY.
SO I DIDNT.
MY INTUITION TOLD ME TO MAKE THE MONEY TO GET HOME MYSELF!
SO ON SUNDAY...THE GIRLS AND I SET UP A LITTLE STAND AT THE ALBION FARMERS MARKET...WE SOLD PAINTED ROCKS AND IZABELLAS ARTWORK. I PAINTED FACES.
WE MADE A LITTLE SIGN THAT EXPLAINED WE NEEDED GAS MONEY TO GET HOME.
WE HEARD INCREDIBLE STORIES FROM FOLKS WHO STOPPED BY.
AND WE HAD SO MUCH FUN.
I NEVER WORRIED ABOUT MONEY.
I DID HAVE TO WORK AT IZABELLAS SCHOOL FOR 6 HOURS SOMETIME BEFORE MONDAY AT 9 AM SO I HAD TO GET HOME.
SOMEHOW I JUST KNEW IT WOULD WORK OUT.
I HAD FELT CALLED TO MENDOCINO AND THE TIME SPENT THERE WITH MY GIRLS AND THE FOLKS WE MET. THE SEEDS THAT WERE PLANTED ALL MEANT TO BE.I KNEW THERE WAS A REASON THAT I ONLY HAD A BIT OF MONEY IN FACT I WOULD HAVE LEFT EARLY IF I HAD MONEY HAHAHA
IT WAS 745PM SUNDAY EVE AND I WAS STARTING TO FEEL OK ABOUT MAKING A SIGN AND PARKING AT THE GAS STATION.....
AND ASKING FOR HELP TO GET HOME.
I HAD A BRIEF THOUGHT ABOUT THE PERSON WHOM I HAD INVITED TO MY CAMPFIRE....INSPIRED BY "JUICY LIVING"...AND HOW HE NEVER SHOWED UP. AND MAYBE I SHOULD HAVE TRIPLE DARED HIM TO COME.HAHAHAHAHA!!!
JUST AS I STARTED TO MAKE THE SIGN I HAD AN OVERWHELMING FEELING TO GO TO THE TOWN MARKET....THEN IZABELLA SAID "mom i need a bannana" well i knew the market was closing soon SO i headed RIGHT over.
just as i pulled in......THERE HE WAS!!!!
THE PERSON I HAD INVITED TO MY CAMPFIRE!
MY GIRLS WERE DRESSED IN COSTUME JUST FOR FUN.....JASMINE WAS A VILLAGE GIRL ALL DRESSED IN BLUE AND BELLA WAS A PIRATE......JUST AS WE ARRIVED TO THE STOREFRONT
ANOTHER MOM WITH THREE KIDS ALSO SHOWED UP IN FULL COSTUMES.
THE PERSON WHOM I WAS LONGING TO MEET ASKED IF THERE WAS A PARTY AND BOTH OF US MOMS SAID "no this is just for fun"
SO AS THE CHILDREN PLAYED IN THERE COSTUMES AROUND THE STOREFRONT.....I WAS ABLE TO TALK WITH THIS PERSON...AND I HOPEFULLY PLANTED SOME SEEDS FOR A FUTURE COMMUNICATION AND A POSSIBLE PROJECT ONE DAY WITH THIS PERSON!!!
AND I WAS ABLE TO TELL HIM A BOUT MY LACK OF GAS TO GET HOME AND HE OFFERED 20 DOLLARS. WE ENED OUR LOVELY CONVERSATION WITH A GREAT BIG HUG! AS HE LEFT THE MOTHER WITH THREE CHILDREN SAID....THAT SHE USED TO LIVE IN SEBASTOPOL AND SHE WOULD LIKE TO OFFER ME ANOTHER 20 DOLLARS.....SHE INSISTED THAT MONEY WAS GOOD FOR HER IN THIS MOMENT AND SHE REALLY WANTED TO SHARE IT WITH ME!( :
AFTER THE KIDS PLAYED AND WE HEADED OVER TO THE GAS STATION THAT TAKES ATM CARDS AND I HAD ONLY CASH....I ASKED A MAN WHO CAME IF HE HAD AN ATM & CAN I GIVE YOU THIS 40 DOLLARS AND CAN YOU PUT THE GAS IN PLEASE??.....HE SMILED AND SAID SURE!!!!!
AS HE COMPLEMENTED THE GIRLS IN THEIR COSTUMES AND TOLD ME WHAT A GREAT MOM I AM FOR TAKING MY GIRLS CAMPING HE PUT 48 DOLLARS IN!!!
AMAZING!!!!
SO WE HEADED HOME AND I CLEANED THE SCHOOL!!!
AND I HAD EVEN ENOUGH GAS TO GET TOO AND FROM THE PLACES IVE NEEDED TO GO THROUGH THIS WEEK!
SO TO ALL THAT READ THIS....GO AHEAD....TRY IT IT WORKS!!
RELAX ABOUT MONEY AND EVERYTHING ELSE!!
HAVE FAITH!! BELIEVE!!!
SARK THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR INSPIRING ME TO BECOME MORE FREE...AND TO LIVE IN THE MOMENT.
I HAVE TRULY HAD SOME AMAZING MOMENTS SINCE I ADAPPTED THIS WAY OF LIVING......I HAVE SO MUCH GRATTITUDE AND LOVE FOR YOU SISTER....MAMA BEAR!!!
I HOPE ITS OK I WROTE ALL THIS. I FELT SO COMPELLED TO SHARE.
LOVE SHERILEE

[sheri lee taylor]

oh susan!!!!!
thank you! this is awesome!
izabella ,jasmine and i just got back from almost a week of camping in mendocino! pure MAGIC!
i wish i had time to share what happend but i have a feeling you will hear about how a ran into mary...MARY! shes so awesome!(and where i ran into her) she was full of wisdom( :
her mother bear energy was so comforting...her story was so inspiring.
she was still glowing from her visit with you!
xxxxhope you are feeling wonderful!

[creativevoyage]

yes ! relax about money !

I've noticed how much I love creating and how much satisifying that is compared to shopping. Knitting or baking something gives me infinate more pleasure than buying something from a shop.

[Liv]

Thank you for your amazing words!

[Mary Kate]

Dear Sark,
Thank you for your colors and your pages and your stories.
Once upon a time there was a girl who was in a library with her friend. They were looking at books about psychology and then they found this book, Eat Mangoes Naked by a lady named Sark. Then they started reading the book and were so overjoyed by its context that they each checked it out and read it. One of them read it all at once devouring it quickly. The other read it slowly taking each page in turn. Then they both went out again the next day and realized that they were far more alike then before and they shared some of there darkest secrets. The weight lifted off their shoulders turned into tiny sparrows and flew away. Then they went on with their day happier then they had ever been before and able to find pleasure in everything including the continuous squeaking of the playground swings.

[emcee]

i love to see how artist/creatives respond to the challenges offered by this time, it is awe inspiring, and your words will be most needed!

(ps: i'd love to see you around canada too!)

[RobinW]

Very wise words. I really hope you come to Canada some time soon.... We really really really want you to visit!

[Debbie Abram]

Hi Sark
I just listened to Dancing with Difficulty. Thank you so much for sharing yourself. I have been dancing with a job layoff. I go back and forth with oh my-what am I going to do and wow what is next for me. I too have found sharing with others helpful. People are kind.People are helping in the ways they know best-prayers for me,circulating my resume,references,suggestions and referrals,buying me lunch,phone calls etc. Your words were helpful and reminding me to dance my dance.
Love
Debbie aka Dancing Boots(I am a cosmic cowgirl)

[Sheryl Karas]

Hi! I'm really looking forward to seeing you at the Capitola Book Cafe on Thursday. It's my birthday and you're one of my favorite authors. Great blog! Mind if I include a link here from mine? I have a list of blogs and websites I recommend for inspiration. (http://healingcommunication.blogspot.com/)

Sheryl Karas

[liz elayne]

thank you for this...i pulled out this book tonight and have been reading through the pages...

i also pulled out living juicy and discovered many notes i had written while listening to your inspiration line when i was in college years ago. all those wise words and quotes and book suggestions that got me through that time in my life.
thank you for that.

[Deirdra Van Duzer]

I LOVE TO READ!!!! So far this year, I have read 36 books. I am on book 36 right now. "The Thieftaker". I have an autistic son and I am bipolar so this is quite an accomplishment. They range from "The Magician", "The Sorceress" to "Cold Mountain" and "The Lovely Bones". Also two of your books which brings my collection to six. You said write if you love writing and reading. I am also BIG on journal websites as journaling helps me find my center. You GO GIRL!!

[Leslie Lewis Sword loves Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy!]

Thank you for the reminder, Susan!
Something I thought of tonight is that: all these people affected by this market tumult means that EVERYDAY PEOPLE ARE INVESTING--It's not just for the rarefied few anymore. This is a really good thing. Surviving a market panic like this makes people better investors. And this panic will end. This just means that good stocks have gone on sale.
Anyway, I know it will all work out for all of us.
Thanks for inspiring this rant!
xoxooxox
L

[Shell]

Hi Sark. I'm so glad you have a blog now. I remember this poster from way back in the day. It holds up today as it did then. I really need to remember to relax about money.

[Salubrious Stacey / Create a Balance]

Thanks for sharing your 1990 artwork about money. Reading it now was calming. Money Recess - Yes! This is just a money recess.

Thank you Susan for all of your inspiration. I now have an exciting writing practice and in November my "Authentic Voice" artwork will be appearing in my first ever art exhibit. All of this success is a DIRECT result from all of your mentoring. Thank you, again, for helping me share my stories, my words, and my art with the world.

[Virginia age 10]

Hello! SARK, I love your writing! I 've been writing poems and chapter books since 1st grade. I don't know why I'm sharing this, but I do crazy things sometimes[wild succulence!]. I'm mostly interested in "Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper", and "How To Be Really Alive". Especially that last one. I plan to get a poster of it and hang it in my room.

Thanks,
Virginia

[Spring]

WOW!!! I have loved SARK forever and just found this blog. Yippee!

SARK, thank you for inspiring us and helping us to see all the beauty that exists everywhere.

Thank You!

The world needs more SARKs!

[sheri lee taylor]

dear hippichick,
read your comment post this a.m!!
much love and well wishes being sent your way in this moment!
you are strong!! your courage is inspiring!!
sherilee

[Terri the Writer]

Dear Super SARK,
Your books are helping me through a difficult time. I keep buying them as gifts for others because they lift me up and I want to share that. It amazing what you give to us all just by being you.

[Hippichick]

Dear Susan:
I almost hesitate to write to you, but my heart is pumping through my fingers right now. Your message was so relevant for me this week: Dancing with Difficulties. I have a 19 year old daughter who is developmentally delayed and suffers from anxieties. Now and then she becomes unbalanced and needs her medications adjusted. Visiting her psychiatrist on our regular scheduled appointment recently, we found out she had been discharged by her therapist without our consent. We ended up having to go through emergency to get her intake back into her mental health clinic pushed forward. Long story short, she is in mental health crisis and we cannot see her psychiatrist until there is a cancellation. It has been difficult maintaining a positive attitude faced with a daughter I hardly understand as she battles her mental illness. My family is supportive in the way they know how (lots of home cooked food and warm wishes), but I sometimes feel very alone as I try to keep up a strong front for my family. I do not often allow myself to be weak and express my fears and frustrations. Writing in my journal.... a lot, and reading your books and listening to your journals has helped me in so many ways. I thank you for your inspiration and your creative motivation.

[Heidi (the girl with that crazy car in tempe, arizona)]

My difficulties are being awfully good dancing partners tonight! We've got the music pumping and everything. Thanks a ton for being you and for releasing your words out to us -- if I'm learning one thing from you and your difficult dancing today, it's that sharing your words is worth it and that you never know whose heavy load those words will lighten today. Mwah!

[Heather]

Hi Susan,
What a glorious audio post. Hearing about the sweet cab driver made me want to cry. He truly describes how blessed we are to live in America and how we should all be thankful. And him crying at the site of the Bay Bridge. I get teary too, when I see pictures of home. :( I miss living in the Bay Area. AZ is nice, but I love having lots of greenery. I especially miss having big trees.
I'm so happy you have chosen to have a blog whether written or audio (that's a wonderful new feature). I like how you've personalized it to be 100% you! :)
Thank you for being such a blessing in my life and countless others. As that old Sunday School song says, "This little light of mine. I'm going to let it shine. This little lite of mine. I'm going to let it shine. Hide it under a bush. Oh no. I'm going to let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine." Not sure I got it completely right, but you get the gist of it. You definitely have your light shining big and bright!!! :) You're a beacon of hope! XOXOXOXOXO

[Elena]

Dear SARK,

it's Elena here, one of your new friends from Belgium (a tiny country in Europe... after travelling around for a while I got used to having to explain this :-) )

I discovered your works recently and have been reading (and scribbling into) a few of your books; and more and more I got the feeling "how sad that I'm so far away from California or even the US - I might never meet her ..."

But now I can listen to your voice on this website and that's wonderful ! I just wanted to let you know all of this and send you and the whole community (creatives, women, humans ... you know, all of them) my love !

E . L . E . N . A
n . o . n . u . l
t . o . e . r . . l
h . o . r . t
u . o . g . u
s . o . y . r
i . v . . . . i
a . e . . . n
s . . . . . g
m

[sheri lee taylor]

oh susan sweethuman heart!!
i must first say im so sorry to hear about your lower back pain and i also suffer from that when im doing too much!!!
there have been many times ive been "DOWN" and had to rest for it to go away so i can be the best me i can be ...to be good for my children and everyone else! ( :
IT WAS ONE OF YOUR BOOKS!!!! THAT REALLY TAUGHT ME TO LET THOSE TIMES BE A GIFT (IF POSSIBLE) AND TAKE TIME TO REST...now this can be hard when off traveling ) : and people counting on you.....i hope you got a chance to rest dear!!!
thank you so much for this online journal & inspiration line ..... and for always KEEPIN IT REAL GIRL!!!! you are so awesome!!!!!!i have often left some pretty "REAL" messages....just to get off ones chest makes a world of difference!thank you!! thank you!!!
izabella and jasmine say hello!
xoxoxoxoxo jasmine wanted you to know she got a purple dress for her birthday last week! ( : it made her think of you!
hope new yorl is a amazing adventure full of surprises!!!

[liz elayne]

i remember calling your inspiration line years ago when i was in college and hearing your voice in some of my most difficult moments and being reminded that i was not alone on my path...

hearing your voice today hugs me again, just like it did then.

i often say the phrase, "i am dancing in my life." to me, this means i am trying to stretch and grow while also embracing all of it...the goodness and the shit. i am trying to dance within it all...but i am also giving myself permission to rest when i need to. there is something so powerful about giving yourself or others permission to rest...this is part of the dance as well.

blessings to you,
liz

[Salubrious Stacey / CreateaBalance]

Dear Sweet Susan, I send you a purple flashlight with twinkling purple glow to light your way. You are not alone. xoxox

[fiercepeoples aka Jenn]

For me, it's been a matter or allowing myself to be flawed. That it's ok not to feel good, and ok not to feel happy all the time. With my seperation/divorce/whatever it is, I've felt like I had to be "on my game" to make people feel comfortable around me. Yesterday, I realized I didn't and it felt good. I can be crabby, work through it, and come out the other side in a better place. I can be tired and sleep until my energy returns. (Which I just did.) I can do the things my body and my self needs and it's ok because I'm tending to my own needs and that's more important than I used to give it credit for being.

Safe travelings
Love,
FP

[Kathryn - Collage Diva]

Dear Sark,
Your journal thoughts are so relevant, so authentic, and so true. Since I saw you in Raleigh, NC, I've decided to start writing and publishing. You've told people that you've been writing since you were a little girl. You were clearly born to write. I'm now telling people that I'm going to make money "cutting and gluing" paper. I've started. While I'm not making money, YET, that will come, I have started writing and publishing. As a young girl I spent hours making my own paper dolls cutting out JCPenny and Sears catalogs. Today, I publish each week a {soul journey} where each day a new step in the journey is revealed. Women from all over the world have signed up to discuss the journey and their participation. In less than a month 94 brave, creative, powerful women signed up to journal along with me! How lucky to know that I'm sharing my journey and walking with so many *soul sisters.* Your journal entry today relates to the theme of this week's soul journey exercise titled, "Lost and Found." In our art journals we find things to put in our books, we visit each other's blogs and leave comments and find comments and write affirmative I statements and the last step is to remember and journal about something lost. I was so happy to hear from you this morning and to be reminded how important it is to dance with my difficulties. I was concerned that I was taking my fellow *soul sisters* to painful spots by encouraging them to write about something lost, but now I feel confirmed by your words that we should dance, dance, dance - be it when we are happy, sad, mad, or excited, and then talk about it and witness it for others. Okay, long post must end. Thank you again - and, take care of yourself! You need your back! xoxo k

[Nadia]

can I say AGAIN how happy I am that you have a blog? and how I check it EVERYday to see if you have posted. I am dancing with difficulty over the same thing and I can't get it out of my head. I am working on travel albums from past trips and creating new ones for future adventures. I love the process of making them, picking supplies, organizing the pages for my days of travel. As I was adding some pictures to the albums (something I have just recently started doing) I keep noticing how wide my hips are, how my chin is saggy and how I could really work on my wardrobe more. wth? I keep on pointing out the negative and I do this instead of focusing on the positive. I wish I could stop, but I am not sure how...thank you for posting and I hope you have a fabulous friday!

[Painted Maypole]

this was perfect as I had been in a good mood all day, but my tiredness was getting to me and the crabbies were coming on. so, thank you.

"dancing with difficulties" is reminding me of a phrase we sang in church on Sunday that just delighted me to no end "the hopeless will dance with delight"

[susan twigge]

Hi succulent sark,
I have just read your monthly e mail 'the wonders of self love'...I find this the hardest love of all...a life time of self critisism... about my body,creative imperfections,never being good enough,etc and lately ageing.
Thankyou for your recent e mail and the suggestions you recommended...I am now trying to love myself and the wise
self is taking over...a BIG thankyou for your wonderful books,journals and e mails

[Lovely Leslie]

SUSAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOW WONDERFUL THAT I'VE NOW FINALLY GIVEN MYSELF THE PLEASURE OF READING YOUR AWESOME BLOG!!!!!!!!!!
it's WONDERFUL.
WE ARE SO LUCKY to have yet another way to hear your beautiful voice.
I love you!!!!
xoxoxooxoxooxoxo
Leslie

[wise / open jil]

you inpsire so many with your wonderful enthusiasm & complete honesty. you are a bright, sparkling opalescent lavendar & purple star with rays glowing down on all your readers & fans!
hugs from jil

[Wendy]

SARK, I finally got around to ordering your book and read it ... in ONE day. Enjoyed the heck out of it, and am looking forward to going through the chapter of exercises.

I wasn't going to post here, but then I saw Roberta's post and wanted to give her the rest of the words to her song. My cousin sang this when she was 4, and I've loved it ever since:

A you're Adorable, B you're so Beautiful,
C you're a Cutie full of charm,
D you're Delightful and E you're Exciting and
F you're a Feather in my arms.
G you look Good to me, H you're so Heavenly,
I you're the one I Idolize,
J we're like Jack and Jill, K you're so Kissable and
L you're the Lovelight in my eyes.
M, N, O, P, I could go on all day
Q, R, S, T, Alphabetically speaking, you're OK!
U make my life complete, V you're so very sweet,
W, X, Y, Z ...
It's fun to go through the alphabet with you
And tell you what you mean to me.

[Effervescent Cheryl]

Dear S is for Succulent, A is for Absolutely, R is for Real and K is for Kindred. Yes, indeed this is delightfully juicy good fun I would say. Thank you for another great Sarkism...

[Mahala]

Hello Sark! Welcome to Blogland!

[sue twigge]

wHaT a great idea...my favourite is B is for BUBBLES...just saying the word...makes me feel full of joy... and playing with bubbles is
such fun and calming. rainbow colours floating magically in the air..BUBBLES

[Finola]

Hi SARK, I just got here via the creativity portal - what a fun blog you have! I've just started blogging and it's so good but a little scary sometimes as I've never written anything entertaining for people to read before only reports and proposals - not such fun reading. I love the idea of positivity, it's changed my whole outlook on life and what I know I can do - I'm gonna link to you and do a daily alphabet of positivity bit on my own blog, thanks for being so inspiring!

[susi bernstein]

This is just so much fun and joy...
a = affectionate
b = bold
c = connected
d = delicious
e = evolved
f = fireworks
g = giving
h = hilarious
i = intimate
j = joyful
k = kind
l = laughing
m = marvellous
n = nurturing
o = olala
p = phantasy
q = quality
r = relaxing
s = supportive
t = tango
u = universe
v = vanilla icecream
w = world peace
x = xxxl love
y = you and me
z = zen

With love from Susi

[Christine]

I love this! I'm totally doing it. I'm asked to spell my last name, all the time, and it will be great fun. S as in Stupendous, C as in Creative, H as in Hallelujah... Yeah, I think I can get on board with this.

[Claire Gillen]

I love it! I'm going to do it! I don't use the standard words either as I can never remember them. So I usually say D for um... um.. DOG! the person on the line does laugh sometimes - not sure why... maybe it's the way I say it? Anyway, yours is a great idea - thanks!

[Martha Garvey]

I am uber-grooving on your book, especially the 5-second accomplishments.

[Linda DeChow]

I was having one of those stressful, forhead furrowing days, and I listed to your journal, "A is for Awesome" and before I knew it, you had me smiling! Thank you so much, your energy is a blessing.

[Hayden]

I LOVE your purple pen! Years ago a friend gave me a CD wrapped/disguised as a 6 1/2 foot long graphite pencil! After I extracted the CD I carefully put it back together and kept it as sculpture for many years until it was tired of moving here and there and broke forever.

I miss it.

[emcee]

welcome in the blogosphere dear Sark - i'm looking forward to get my copy of the new book, and hopefully meet you sometime soon!

emcee

[julia]

oh, you are truly a gift, an inspiration to the world. And bring such joy, a light in the darkness. Its so true about the way we learn the alphabet and yes! we need so much more positive affirmation in the world. So thank you, thank you for thinking of doing this and for being daring enough to ask people (from the bank) to play!

When i am in the States I would really love to meet you.
blessings and love to you xx

[Goddess Leonie]

this is so funny...

for as long as i can remember, whenever i have been asked "how are you today?" i like to answer as EXTRAVAGANTLY as i can. i'm not going to say "oh, i'm okay" or "fine thanks"... i'll be "AMAZING" or "DOUBLE THUMBS UP!" or "FREAKING TOPS THANKS!"

i do get asked how on earth I can be so happy all the time.

What I've learned is if you start with something FABULOUS, the rest will follow. If I start with average, I've got nowhere to go from there.

Big hugs and red grins,
Leonie

[Marg Murnane]

Oh Sark - what a happy accident that I stumbled across your page. It doesn't matter how, the blessing is that I did and I am already hooked. All my kids (year 6) have their own blogs and this week's blogging task will be to create their own Affirmative Alphabet. I am going to place an order somewhere for "Juicy Pens and Thirsty Paper" and also intend to subscribe to your eletter which I will share with my literacy group at work. It is sooooo refreshing to hear happy, positive things in todays somewhat selfish and at times grizzly world. My glass of inspiration is definitely half full:)

[ROberta]

Hello, dear SARK! I want to say:
WOW
-- you had the courage to go on TV - I think that is so huge.
ALSO
Since I SAW and HEARD you at the same time, I have seen a new side of you that I like:
a POWERFUL side.
I am so used to your wonderful, free, whimsical published self that I didn't realize that you are a HEAVY HITTER.
RIGHT out of the ballpark! Holy balls! Now I have a whole new way to receive the things that you write. THANK YOU for putting yourself out there and going on TV interviews. And thank you for that heavier, powerful side of your character that drives you to express yourself. It's a revelation!

[Margaret Franklin]

Hi SARK! What a wonderful idea! It reminds me of a song I used to hear a lot when I was a kid. In fact it was on the first Sesame Street album. I think I still have it somewhere. I hope it hasn't been given away. If I still have it I want to listen to a certain song and write down the words because I don't remember them all but I remember it started like this:

"A, you're adorable, B, you're so beatuiful..."

[Painted Maypole]

oh, I will definately have to try that out! how fun!

it reminds me of a game I play when I teach theatre, called "yes!"... and after the group gets the hang of it I then tell them to use any affirmative word or statement. It's always awkward at first, but everyone ends up enjoying it.

[Ritergal]

Dear SARK,

You got me so excited with your new alphabet that I started making name posters with it. You can see the first one on a blog post I just did at http://snurl.com/3njmu [heartandcraft_blogspot_com]

I'm so glad you are doing a journal. Keep posting. I look forward to each new one. They keep me going between eLetters.

[Diane]

Sark, I'm with you on the happy, positive words! Here's a webpage with lots more good ones... some maybe a little serious, but definitely positive!
http://www.virtuesproject.com/virtues.html

[Nan Rad]

Sark-
I'm in the midst of leaving for Big Sur to celebrate my birthday tommorow....and I had to tell you this before I hit the road!!
I live on 48th avenue..(SF!!)and you know who folks are always leaving free stuff on the street? A neighbor left a bunch of books,and one is your Prosperity book,which I haven't read. I was overjoyed,and packed it immediately...then there I was fretting about the $$ thing,thinking I really shouldn't be going down ,with the gas prices...then the mail came.Along came a a check,then one with a Trader Joe's gift card in it...
Am I implying if you just TOUCH the book ,prosperity will come to you?? No,but magic happens everywhere...!!Can't wait to read it...
Love,Nan and my kittie,Mia Mermaid

[SisterJulia]

Lovely, lovely, lovely!

[Cathy]

I am so glad to have found this blog. I'm in graduate school in Philosophy, and moving in three and a half months to a whole different life. It's frightening and I'm not sure I will keep going with my dissertation, but I'm also not sure what I can do besides this. I really want to be a writer, but I don't feel very confident about it.

Anyway, I just started feeling so sad for some reason this evening, and then I thought... maybe Sark has a little blog. (A friend of mine introduced me to you with Inspiration Sandwich, back when we were both in college.) I'm so glad you exist, and that you've given people a chance to gather together and share their stories on this site. Thank you for reminding us about things like love and joy.

[vivienne]

leonie's song is going to be stuck in my head for days!!!

and thank goodness for juicy pens and spontaneity! i know i for one would love to have a purple pen blessing!

i'm off to by your new book SARK! Then sit in a park on my soft pink scarf with my journal in hand and soak up all the beautiful offerings you give to us in your books!

[Painted Maypole]

thanks for the blessing

[Kristin Hubick]

Hi Sark! I'm SO PLEASED to be one of the winners of your blog contest!!!! I traveled from Indiana to California a few weeks ago to go the the ZNE convention you were speaking at on Saturday at the senior center. A few things on Saturday prevented me from going to your speaking event that morning and I was so sad. I was mostly disappointed b/c I wanted to buy your new book and have it signed. HOW EXCITED was I when a few days after I returned home I got news about winning the contest!!!!!! It was meant to be :).
I also traveled to California two years ago to participate in your Pajama party retreat in Sonoma. I gave you a present (a Sarkalicious magnet) wrapped up with polka dot paper and a ribbon. You put it on your head and walked around with it :).
Thank you for gifting me with your wonderful new book!
Love,
Kristin

[Braha]

Dearest Susan,

I have loved you and you are one of the mothers who truly birthed me when I woke up from abuse at age sixteen. My aunt sent me a copy of Inspiration Sandwich and you began mothering me right then and there with a vision of a world freed of al the stuff and filled with joy and spontaneity and self trust and adoration.

I love you.

I hope you continue to do well, well in the best sense of the word, well like a shower of stars, wonderful white explosions, coalescing galaxies of wonder.

Braha

[gentle soul]

Thank you so much for everything. The Atlanta event was truly one of the most important times in my life and I will cherish it always.

Thank you for the purple pen blessing for my sweet husband and thank you for being in this world and sharing your heart with us all.

I will never forget meeting you.

Never.

[Liberty]

Hello Miss SARK!
I just wanted to thank you for coming to St.Louis I had such a fabulous time (I think Steve did too even though he will not admit it). The event Exceeded my expectations and your stories are even better live! Thank you again for signing my book and for the photo! I will cherish the day forever! You are so much fun! I appreciate that we are friends through books I do wish were friends for real. You are so awesome!I am so happy that I got to meet you! I cannot wait to read the childrens book you are working on!
Love, Liberty

[Amy]

Just bought Juicy Pens last night! LOVE IT!!!! Thank you for your gifts and wisdom!
zoessplendor.blogspot.com
mybeautifulashes.blogspot.com

[m]

wow SARK you are blogging ! Enjoy your tour.

[Melissa]

Oh, Miss Succulent Wild Woman herself(I'll never forget reading that your mother said that she was the original.), I just listened to your hotline and I LOVE YOU! And you know what? Right now, I love myself as well. Which happens to be a rare occurance, but I cherish it every time it comes around and I absolutely relish in it.

I preordered Juicy Pens Thirsty Paper and I'm not even half way through it. I've read the majority of your books in a feverish flurry of happiness, but this time I am trying to savor your beauty and make every few days that I do pick it up, special. It's so hard not to just keep reading. I am so very happy that I bought this book and look forward to what you will coerce out of me.

Much love and sparkles. <3<3

[Helen]

I attended your book signing in St. Louis on August 28. You threw out paper plates and said that those who catch them have an assignment. "Go to my online journal and let me know what happened to you after catching the plate."

As I drove home from COCA (sponsoring your event), it began to rain. Winds whipped through trees and rattled streets signs into submission. Since Hwy 40 is closed due to construction, I had to find an alternative route. And I am directionally disabled (but that's another story). As I drove, I hoped I was going in the right direction for the alternate route that I was making up as I drove along. I felt lost, although the territory was familiar.

It occurred to me that this was my metaphor for my life. I have often felt lost in familiar territory. But, just as in my directionally disabled life, I always end up getting to my destination, no matter what convoluted route I take, no matter how long the distance or time. I still arrive at my destination.

And here I am -- in my place in this world, on your website in the "post a comment" section, back in my own space. I always carry my own space with me, no matter what other spaces I occupy.

Thanks for a wonderfully freeing event at COCA. It was great to be in a space where "freedom of expression" was not only welcomed but encouraged.

[Jackie]

Sark,
Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper is AWESOME! i am so lucky working in a bookstore that i get to see and grab new books right from the box! i work in the right place to absorb all the wonderfull and inspiring authors to assist me in someday writing my own book.
MICRO-MOVE-MENTS- i just have to keep doing it! i know that is the only way. alittle everyday.
thank you so much for sharing your writing adventures with all of us! the Big Purple Pen rocks! i love the idea of putting little notes in it. maybe you could share them in a book someday!

[Maddie]

SARK, you've inspired me to create my own online art shop! I paint custom tee shirts for all my friends and make little notebooks and other creations! So far my shop is still in the works, but I would LOVE for you to look at it...

imaginepirineos.etsy.com

Thanks for being awesome!

[Kathryn-collage diva]

Oh SARK, You are a dear one. I so enjoyed hearing you at the Regulator bookstore in North Carolina. I happened to be visiting NC and noticed from your Web site that you would be there. What a treat! I'm now back at my tree house in the queen city. Can you believe we met a tree house builder? I had to tell him that I live in a tree house, really I do and I'm moving into one when I get to NC. It is in Raleigh and it is so perfect. I has a tranquility nook and a hub. You know we need different types of spaces for different types of work. Well, I'm just here to send you a little more love. {Here is a hint to remember me by: I was wearing the red glasses and made a bookmark for you.} Best of luck on your book tour. You were funny and INSPIRING. I'm sure to blog some more about you. Oh, btw I did find my juicy pen! Many thanks, k

[sheri lee taylor]

dearest sark....
izabella,jasmine and i really enjoyed meeting you in corte madera california....at the release of your newest book JUICY PENS THIRSTY PAPER ( :i cant wait to get a copy!!
jasmine had so much fun with the big purple crayon and i cant wait to see the photos that a nice lady took that night!!izabella could not stop talking about how you told her how, "much you love her" hahahaha!(THANK YOU FOR THAT)
it was pretty special to be there since it was an unplanned last min adventure!! ( :
a few days after we met you the girls and i were out on a photo shoot for OUR book "A WORLD OF SWIRLS FROM A TO Z"
this book was thought of by my daughter IZABELLA (six year old)completley inspired by YOU!! about a year ago.....
while she was thumbing through your books and she started drawing swirls....her first book (that she mailed to you) hahaha was "THE LITTLE SWIRL" very cute short book.
anyway...this "SARK" inspired adventure has become a family project!!!!the photos are just turning out to be so amazing!!! pinch me....is this reall happening?
we are making a book....with little or no money ....we are just winging it......moment to moment and believing we and this project are ALL possible!
with so much thanks to you!!!!!!!!!!
we took some time out from our book photo shoot for the letter "R" to take some photos just for you, to say THANK YOU!!!!for all that you share!!
please see the photos on my myspace
under album titled "SARK"
theses photos were taken especially for you in honor of the release of YOUR new book!!!!
i was hoping to contribute more to the blog contest....
i did do some writing....under my blog titled "CROSSROADS" and of course there is the blog about my serendipitous anventure with your friend EARL!!! hahaha
i would love to see MEGS win the contest though
her writing is so amazing and i love how much you have inspired her!!! look at the gifts she shares with the world!! GOOD STUFF!
one more thing.....the sunday after we met you i went to ms.vals AWESOME womens circle!!!it was magical! (:
afterwards we stopped by my boyfriends parents place...for a small b-day gift exchange for my bday(AUG 18th) where they served PURPLE wrapped chocolates......swirl wrapping paper.....AND........"FABULOUS FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL"
what an awesome book!!!! i had a yard sale over the weekend and shared it with the niegbors and patrons!!! ( :
it was so fun!
well sweet lady , we are sending you BIG love and look forward to hearing more about your magical adventures!!
thank you for doing this journal! its awesome!!
muahxoxox,
sheri izabella and jasmine

[Glenda Poulter]

Thank you so much for coming to the Regulator Bookstore in Durham, NC, last night. My partner and I enjoyed your presentation so much. It had been a long time since I saw her smile and you had her laughing last night. I haven't had an opportunity to read the book yet, but I brought it to work with me today and plan to start devouring it on my lunch break (when I usually write, but today I plan on dipping into your well of inspiration instead). Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Glenda

[Stacey / CreateaBalance]

My writing practice is discovering new swirls everyday thanks to your magical new book. I'm working on making my words dance...sometimes they tango and cha-cha...and other times they tumble and trip. The dance, however, continues.

[Christina]

Omgoodness! I have so many things I can write tributes on, now that you have shared your sweet idea you used for your duvet cover! : )

That purple marker is love!

: )

[Kate]

I can't imagine anything better than a big purple pen :)
I was excited when I saw that you will be visiting Durham next week, and I immediately brought all your books to the school I work at and said, "Who wants to go on a succulent adventure?" One of my close friends snatched up all the books, and she told me last night that she's read two of them straight through and is going to spend the weekend in her pajamas reading the rest. :)

[tricia]

Oh I love purple pens. They are the best! I can't wait to get your new book:)

[Goddess Leonie]

oh i heart this so BIG.
and so true, people are SO open to adventure, laughter, blessings and love all the time.
like two weeks ago, i hugged eighty people at work in one day.
and i just made a new song to sing at the office that requires people participation. i personally think it is going to be a WINNAH:
"2008, 2008, what else does it rhyme with?
Hibernate. Hibernate, hibernate, what else does it rhyme with?
Approximate. Approximate, approximate, what else does it rhyme with?
Masturbate. Masturbate, masturbate, what else does it rhyme with?
Luxuriate. Luxuriate, luxuriate, what else does it rhyme with?
I'm so late. I'm so late, I'm so late, what else does it rhyme with?
Penetrate. Penetrate, penetrate, what else does it rhyme with?
Eat cake. Eat cake, eat cake, what else does it rhyme with?
Alleviate. Alleviate, alleviate, what else does it rhyme with?

It really is the most addictive, compelling, beautiful song in the world I feel. Try it.

I can't stop singing it.

It's fate. It's fate, it's fate. what else does it rhyme with?