Decisions and The Divine Flow

December 27, 2009

Dear Friends,

As I briefly mentioned in a message a few weeks ago, Carol and I recently moved into a new home here in Sedona. This house is in the same planned community as our former home, and the floor plan is the same one, too.

There are a few differences, though. One of my office walls is now a half-wall instead of a full wall—opening it up to the living room. The foyer is no longer a raised area. And there is an extra window in our bedroom.

Little did we realize how those differences would affect where we placed some of our furniture and where we hung our art. We assumed that everything would go right back where it was before. But it didn’t work out that way. Many times we would put a chest or a painting in the same place it was before, but it just wouldn’t “feel right.” So we would move it somewhere else, and see how that felt. Often, we had to move something several times until the cabinet or picture or piece of pottery finally found its new and perfect home.

And so it is with living life in the divine flow.

Ideally—by tuning into your intuition, and by paying attention to divine signs and synchronicities—you are able to sense in advance if a step you are about to take is the most beneficial one for you to take at that time . . . or not. But that’s ideally. Occasionally, there will be times when your divinely-guided next right step will still be somewhat unclear to you, and yet the moment has come when you have to make a decision.

In times like that, you simply have to make that decision, and then—like Carol and I experienced with decorating our new home—see how things feel after that step has been taken.

Of course, many of the decisions we have to make in life are a lot more serious than where to hang a painting, or where to put a table. So it is understandable that waiting to find out if a decision feels right after the fact is not especially desirable. But that situation does not have to be a source of undue stress for you if you keep in mind one of the fundamental principles for living life in the divine flow: Everything can be a stepping stone to your higher good.

Even if you make a decision based on the fears of your ego rather than the faith of your spirit, the universe can still guide you to a greater good from wherever you wind up. Your job is simply to remain open and receptive to divine direction by maintaining a positive outlook, and by avoiding shaming yourself or blaming others.

This process is not unlike what happens when you have a navigation device in your car, but you miss the exit it was directing you to take, or you turn the wrong way. It simply offers you a brand new route from wherever you now happen to be.

Remember, too, that there are always valuable lessons to be learned from whatever circumstance you find yourself in . . . which means that every decision you make—divinely inspired or not—gives you an opportunity to gain further clarity about yourself, and to grow in wisdom, compassion, understanding, and so on.

So, my friends, before you take any step, do your best to intuitively discern whether it really is your next right step or not. But more importantly, always remember that no matter what decision you make, the universe can always “make it right” in the end.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Secret of a Merry Christmas

December 20, 2009

Dear Friends,

This coming Friday is the day that many of us will celebrate the birth into this world of the being we call Jesus. There are many different opinions about the exact nature of this extraordinary man’s mission on this planet. But I do believe there is one aspect to his life that most of us can agree upon: Jesus was the perfect example of living a life of unconditional love. And he made it quite clear that we would all benefit greatly by living our lives in the same loving way.

Fortunately, loving others is one of the most natural things in the world for you to do. For I believe that love is not only in your nature, it is your nature. Love is the divine essence of who you truly are at the core of your being. And you know what? It feels good to express the truth of who you are! It feels good to love!

When you love, you feel happy. When you love, you feel joyful. When you love, you feel downright . . . well . . . merry!

So, do you want to have a truly merry Christmas this year—and every year? Then be true to yourself! Be the love that you are this season, and a merry Christmas will be yours, indeed.

Merrily, Merrily, Merrily, Merrily,

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Gift Of A Christmas Present

December 13, 2009

Dear Friends,

One of my favorite sayings is this one:

THE PAST IS HISTORY.
THE FUTURE, A MYSTERY.
BUT THE NOW MOMENT IS A GIFT.
THAT’S WHY IT’S CALLED THE “PRESENT.”

In this season of gift-giving, I invite you to remember that the true gifts of the holidays are always in the now moment. But to receive those “presents” you must first be present yourself. Instead of focusing all of your time, attention, and energy on what’s coming next, make a conscious choice to be fully present in the here and now.

Be present for the gift of a child’s laughter,
and for the gift of bright, twinkling lights.

Be present for the gift of fresh-baked cookies,
and for the gift of sweet-smelling evergreens.

Be present for the gift of a soundless snowfall,
and for the touch of a single snowflake on your tongue.

Be present for the gift of friends you may have taken for granted,
and for family members you haven’t seen in ages.

Be present for the gift of unconditional love
that embraces each of us this season.

And be present for the unbounded joy
that this season elicits in us all.

Here’s wishing you one of greatest gifts you could ever hope to receive this season: the gift of a Christmas present.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Christmas and The Divine Flow

December 6, 2009

Dear Friends,

Well, here it is again—the Christmas season. For many of you, this is the busiest time of the year. As usual, you still have to go to work, handle family responsibilities, clean the house, feed the pets, work in the yard, pay the bills, and take care of a multitude of other tasks and chores that are a routine part of daily life.

But on top of all that, you may also have to decorate the house, trim the tree, host parties, prepare special meals, entertain company, visit relatives, and send out cards . . . not to mention buy gifts, wrap gifts, pack gifts, and ship gifts.

The list goes on and on. And yes, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by it all, and to lose the very sense of joy this season is supposed to elicit.

But take heart, because the divine flow is ready to come to your rescue! There is no task too small for the divine flow to focus its attention on. And there is no schedule too complex for the divine flow to manage.

At every given moment the divine intelligence of the universe is simultaneously orchestrating the most effective and efficient accomplishment of every single thing you need to do this season.

I remember a time that I thought I would have to make three separate trips over a two week period to fulfill the most important items on my “To-Do List.” But instead, by simply paying attention to the subtle guidance of my intuition one day, all three tasks were taken care of in one single hour, with not one bit of preparation or planning on my part. Everything just fell into place, and I just kept showing up in exactly the right place at exactly the right time to achieve what I wanted to achieve.

The way everything worked out for me in such an incredibly coordinated fashion was simply astounding. And your experience this holiday season can be a similar one. If you take the time to listen to your intuition—to literally feel what your next right step is, and to continue listening and continue taking those divinely guided steps—you may be amazed at how all of your holiday commitments can be accomplished in a virtually effortless and seamless manner.

Here’s to an exceptionally joyful and fulfilling holiday season. May everything flow beautifully for you and yours!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Coping With Change

November 29, 2009

Dear Friends,

As the popular saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” It is easy to see how that saying relates to the divine flow of life. Obviously, as you pursue your goals and dreams in life, you must be willing to “row with the flow” and continually adjust to any unexpected changes in the course of the current.

But did you realize that even when you do reach your chosen destinations in life, change is something that you may still have to cope with?

I end most of my workshops by telling a story about a dear friend of mine who followed the divine flow to the job of her dreams. But guess what? After a few years, things changed . . . and that job no longer exits.

Similarly, I have often written about the wonderful house in Arizona that Carol and I were divinely guided to rent. And yet, after three years, things changed . . . and Carol and I just moved into a different house a few blocks away.

As I see it, there are two main reasons why things we have miraculously manifested in our lives don’t seem to last:

For one, you must remember that—on a deep soul level—true satisfaction in life arises mostly from the process of manifesting. Once something has been manifested, your spirit is hungry to create anew, and it inspires you to begin the process all over again. That’s why a painter doesn’t stop painting after completing a single work of art. He or she will continue to create one work of art after another.

Another reason that things we love in life tend to change over time is because of the ripple effect initiated by free will choices. In the last year alone, most of our lives have changed dramatically due to the radically different economic landscape. And many experts believe that landscape was directly altered by some misguided choices that were made by people working in the financial sector.

No matter what initiates it, a change of any kind can be a source of tension and anxiety. Even when a change in your life is obviously for the better, you may still resist it—clinging to a familiar past for comfort. Even when the future seems ripe with positive possibilities, you may still feel uneasy about stepping into the unknown.

If you are going through a major shift in your life right now, take a moment to reaffirm what you know to be the Truth. It is the Truth that everything can be a stepping-stone to your highest good . . . if you are willing to see it that way. It is the Truth that you are continually being guided by The Divine to a life of greater happiness, satisfaction, and ease . . . and your job is simply to remain open and receptive to that guidance by maintaining a positive outlook.

Instead of resisting change, why not choose to actively embrace it? Instead of fighting the current, make a conscious decision to “row with the flow,” and allow yourself to experience the peace that comes from consciously cooperating with life . . . even when it unfolds in very unexpected ways.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Thanks for Everything!

November 22, 2009

Dear Friends,

On Thursday, November 26th, citizens of the United States will be celebrating Thanksgiving Day. It’s a day when we express gratitude for all the things in our lives that we really do appreciate, but often forget to be consciously thankful for . . . such as food, family, and friends.

Well, here’s a challenge for you: Can you also be thankful for the things in your life that you do not appreciate? Can you be thankful for the people in your life that you hold resentments against? Can you be thankful for the circumstances in your life that have brought you discomfort . . . or even pain?

Yes, you can . . . if you see those challenges as opportunities to discover what your blocks to loving are. Yes, you can . . . if you see those challenges as opportunities to heal wounds you may have forgotten you have. Yes, you can . . . if you see those challenges as opportunities to remember how precious life is, and to renew your appreciation for it.

When you look at the challenges in your life as opportunities to mature emotionally and spiritually, everything that occurs in your life can be viewed as a blessing. And blessings are something that you are thankful for, right?

So this Thanksgiving—and throughout the year—be thankful not only for the “good” in your life, but also for what you judge to be “not so good.”

Be thankful for the entire experience of life, including the opportunities it gives you to grow in wisdom and compassion.

Be thankful for the entire experience of life, including the opportunities it gives you to grow in your ability to love others—and to love yourself —unconditionally.

Be thankful for the entire experience of life, including the opportunities it gives you to remember that life itself is a sacred gift . . . a gift that is meant to be enjoyed to its fullest, and never taken for granted.

Giving thanks today and every day . . . for everything . . .

Steven

P.S. I am especially grateful to each and every one of you who have supported my work this past year with your tithes and offerings. It is your generous gifts that make this ongoing labor of love possible, and I greatly appreciate your help. Thank you one and all!

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Flow in a Relationship

November 15, 2009

Dear Friends,

I’m sure you’re well aware that you rarely—if ever—get anywhere in life completely on your own. Usually, reaching your chosen destinations in life requires the participation, cooperation, and support of others. This is especially true when you are in a very close relationship with another person—a spouse, a partner, or a family member, for example.

When your choices immediately and directly affect someone else, it may feel as if you and that other person are literally "in the same boat”—that you are both in the same “Relation Ship,” so to speak. That's when rowing your boat in harmony with each other becomes of paramount importance.

The question is, how do you both "row with the flow" when the two of you do not immediately agree on a goal, or do not agree on the next right step for reaching a goal? That particular question is one that I often get asked. And here is my answer:

For a couple to stay in the flow—or even for a close-knit group to move forward in a mutually beneficial way—it is helpful when each person in that relationship is willing to do four things:

Take the time to attune himself or herself to his or her inner guidance.

Have the patience to wait for that inner guidance to unfold for everyone involved.

Practice loving kindness so everyone feels safe enough to express their thoughts and feelings during the process.

And most of all, let go of what he or she originally thought was best.

As most of you know, I have been in a close relationship with my loving partner, Carol, for many years now. Our daily life together has always felt like it was "in the flow." But does that mean that on a day-to-day basis we always instantly agree on every single step we are considering taking? No.

There are plenty of days when we try to point "our boat" in completely different directions. But when that happens, we take the time to slow down and listen to our hearts. We pause, and sense how alternative options "feel." In other words, we focus our attention on our inner wisdom—our intuition.

When we do that, one of two things usually occurs: One of us will let go of his or her plan because it becomes apparent that it was just an ego-driven impulse, and not a true desire of the heart. Or, one of us will be divinely inspired with a completely new and different idea—one that is not only mutually beneficial, but one that also "feels right" to both of us.

The beauty of intuitive guidance is that it always benefits all parties. And why does it? Because the ultimate source of your intuitive guidance is the One Spirit that unites us all—that creative, loving, divine energy that we are all expressions of . . . resulting in the kind of guidance that is always in the best interests of everyone.

So, are you in the kind of relationship with another person—or a group of people—where mutual support and cooperation is necessary to get where you want to go? Then remember to treat everyone involved with loving kindness, and take the time to listen to your heart. You will be amazed at how people with diverse needs, ideas, dreams, and desires can all come together and be part of one mutually fulfilling flow . . . an effortless flow . . . a flow that is nothing less than divine.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Discernment and The Divine Flow

November 8, 2009

Dear Friends,

Last week I suggested that you refrain from acting hastily whenever someone encourages you to “push through” a problem—to “force your way forward,” so to speak. Although the accomplishment of a goal or dream may require a great deal of patience on your part, the divine flow will never ask you to “force” anything. Nor, usually, will it require you to endure extreme conditions of any kind. Generally speaking, the path of the flow is always one of grace and ease, even when it takes an unexpected turn.

Like most weeks, I received a lot of nice responses to my message. But this time, I noticed that most of the readers who wrote to me had gotten more out of my message than was actually spelled out in “black and white.” They read between the lines, and saw the bigger message that was implied.

Today, I want to go ahead and say what was left unsaid. And that is simply this: No matter what anyone encourages you to do, and no matter how much you respect their advice, opinions, or suggestions, it is up to you to decide what is best for you.

I am not asking you to ignore the suggestions of others. In fact—in addition to divine signs and synchronicities—one of the primary ways that you receive divine direction in life is through others. But never forget that your most valuable and reliable source of guidance is always your own intuition.

Even if someone makes a suggestion that sounds like it is “in the flow” and not at all forceful, it is still up to you to access you inner sense of “knowing” to decide whether that advice is right for you or not.

No matter what people say, or what the signs and synchronicities “seem” to indicate, it is always important to practice divine discernment—to get quiet, go within, and get in touch with that subtle, inner sense that helps you distinguish between “yes, this feels right for me,” or “no, this doesn’t feel like it is in my best interest.”

As Rev. Suzanne Bishop of Payson, Arizona wrote to me this week: “I have learned the importance of taking personal responsibility for my own well-being—to not allow anyone to override my internal guidance, and to resist the efforts of someone else to push me beyond what I intuit is good or safe for me at the time.”

Friends, it is helpful to receive guidance from “without”—from signs and synchronicities, and from friends, family, teachers, and other leaders. But for the most part, that information should just be used to confirm what your own heart is telling you. In the end, every decision that you make, and every action that you take, should be based on the wisdom that lies “within”—on the wisdom of your very own spirit.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Being In The Flow Is "No Sweat"

November 1, 2009

Dear Friends,

Since it has been all over the national news lately, most of you are probably aware of the tragedy that recently occurred here in Sedona during a sweat lodge ceremony. During this event, two people died, about twenty others became seriously ill, and a third person died later from her injuries. (For more information about sweat lodges, click here.)

Usually, a sweat lodge is reasonably safe, because the person in charge of this sacred ritual continually monitors the well-being of the participants, and allows anyone to leave the lodge if they are experiencing severe, physical discomfort. Although the leader of this particular sweat lodge did not physically restrain anyone from leaving, one survivor of the ordeal claims that those who did attempt to leave—or complained about their distress—were encouraged to “push through it.” In other words, it sounds like the lodge leader encouraged them to endure their discomfort, to persevere, and to literally “sweat it out.” The results of that attitude proved disastrous.

No doubt there are many lessons that can be learned from this sad turn of events. What it immediately brings to my mind—and is pertinent to the focus of my work—is the importance of knowing the difference between “flow” and “force” when it comes to pursuing your chosen destinations in life. When you ignore the divine flow of life, and choose, instead, to push ahead and force your way forward, there can be undesired consequences.

That’s not to say that being in the divine flow always feels completely comfortable. In fact, there may be times when the divine flow will purposely invite you to step out of your personal comfort zone. But if you look closely at what your personal comfort zone is, you will see that is usually a “box” that was artificially created by your own personal history and conditioning . . . and it feels good to finally move beyond that limited—and limiting—space.

It appears, though, that the leader of this lodge was doing far more than asking people to move beyond their personal comfort zone. He was inviting them to tolerate extreme discomfort, and encouraging them to ignore what their bodies were trying to tell them. There are physical limits to what the body can endure, and to what the body can do. And even though professional athletes are continually stretching those boundaries, those expansions happen very gradually, and in very tiny increments.

Friends, there are going to be plenty of times in life when you will run into a formidable obstacle that seems to be blocking you from reaching your desired destination. And there will probably be well-meaning people around you who will encourage you to “push through it.” In those times, just remember to refrain from acting hastily, and—through prayer, meditation, or contemplation—try to discern if the next step that you are considering taking feels “fluid” or “forceful.”

Remember that being in the flow is not about taking a step just because you can. It’s about attuning yourself to divine guidance, and taking the step that you are being divinely directed to take . . . a step that is usually a tiny, little, baby step—one that is right in front of you, and relatively easy to do.

Remember that being in the flow is not about forcing your way through an obstacle. It’s about flowing around that obstacle, or sometimes—through the power of divine love—watching that obstacle dissolve right before your eyes.

In other words, remember that being in the flow is not about sweating it out. It’s about the grace and effortless ease you experience in life when all of your decisions and all of your actions are divinely inspired.

Do you have a particular goal or dream that you are pursuing right now? Then why not allow the divine flow to lead you to your desired destination. About the hardest thing you will have to do is exercise a little patience. Other than that, getting there should be . . . well . . . no sweat.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Desire & The Divine Flow

October 25, 2009

Dear Friends,

There are those who believe that the key to happiness lies in eliminating your personal desires. I, for one, don’t believe that is the key to happiness. In fact, I don’t believe that is even possible. Why? Because having desires is an inherent and inescapable part of your divine nature.

As an individual expression of that creative energy commonly called God, it is in your very makeup to be a Creator, and to be constantly creating. And that’s all that your desires really are—intentions to create something in this world that didn’t exist before . . . especially experiences.

It’s interesting to note that if you look up the word “desire” in the dictionary, you will see that it came from a combination of the Latin words “de” and “sidus,” which translates literally as “from a star.” To me, that supports the idea that desire itself is not of earthly origin, but is a celestial attribute . . . one born from that higher place—that Higher Self—that shining star that is your Spirit.

That said, it is true that how you handle your desires can be a issue. For instance:

If you are overly attached to having your desire manifest in one particular way, that can be an issue.

If you believe that you can’t be happy until your desire is fulfilled, that can be an issue.

If accumulating possessions becomes an obsession, that can be an issue.

So yes, it is very important for you to carefully monitor what your ego is doing with your desires. But that doesn’t mean that you have to deny yourself the pleasure of having desires and pursuing their fulfillment. You just have to keep your desires in their proper perspective.

Remember that for everything you think you want in your mind, there is a deeper desire of the heart—of your Spirit—that underlies that idea, and initiated it. Remember that the Universe knows exactly what that deeper desire is in its purest form—unaltered by intellect or ego. And remember that it is to the fulfillment of that deeper desire that the divine flow is guiding you.

So, by all means, have your desires and pursue their fulfillment. But remember to let go of the specifics of your desire, and allow the divine flow to lead you to a destination that may be different from the one you originally intended. You will happily discover that what your Spirit desires for you is probably an even greater good—something that is grander than anything your mind ever imagined possible; something that is more deeply fulfilling; and something that is always in the best interests of all.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com.

Watch Your Step!

October 18, 2009

Dear Friends,

The last activity I lead in my Divine Flow Retreats is a hike to the top of Mescal Mountain, one of Sedona’s lesser-known Red Rock formations.

When I first explored this area of Sedona, I was painfully reminded of one of the principles for living life in the divine flow: Always keep your focus on your current step!

You see, this particular trail is not only loaded with lots of loose rocks, but it also has lots of cacti growing all along the way. If you don’t watch where you are stepping, you might slip on the rocks and fall. Or, you might walk right into a prickly cactus . . . which is exactly what I did. Ouch! Instead of paying attention to where I was walking, I was looking too far ahead, and I suffered the consequence.

The same thing can happen as we pursue our desires in life.

As I frequently mention, living life in the divine flow requires present-moment awareness. The divine flow is always giving you the next right step to take to reach your goal. And that step is always right in front of you, relatively easy to do, and free of painful obstacles. But to see that step, you must stay focused in the here and now, instead of being focused somewhere in the future.

That doesn’t mean that there isn’t value in looking ahead and seeing where you want to go. In fact, that’s a requirement. Choosing a destination is what sets the whole flow in motion in the first place. But after that, you must return your attention to the present moment, so you can see the next step that the flow is guiding you to take.

It’s sort of a back-and-forth thing: You visualize your goal, then return your awareness to the present. You picture your dream, then come back to the current moment. If you are continually daydreaming about where you are headed, you may miss the very step that is leading you there. Or worse, you may make a misstep and find yourself sitting by the side of the trail pulling barbed bristles out of your skin!

Do you have a goal that you would like to accomplish, or a dream that you would like to realize? Great! Just remember that getting there is a step-by-step process, and your journey will be a lot more peaceful and pleasant if you stay focused on each step as it comes along.

Happy Trails!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Ego and The Divine Flow

October 11, 2009

Dear Friends,

In these weekly messages I often mention the word “ego,” and I write about the various ways that choices made from your ego can severely limit your ability to be “in the flow” and fulfill your heart’s desires effortlessly.

Usually, the ego is associated with an inflated sense of self-importance—of pride, arrogance, or grandiosity. And it is easy to see how decisions based on those aspects of your ego can lead you into troubled waters.

But did you realize that the opposite is also true? A low sense of self-worth—of being less than others, or undeserving—is also an expression of ego. And, just like an inflated sense of self-importance, a low sense of self-worth can also make life more difficult for you than it has to be.

You might wonder how both of these extremes in self-perception can have the same source. Well, the answer lies in the way that many spiritual teachers define “ego,” which is simply “a thought that you are separate.”

Any thought that causes you to feel greater than others, or less than others, is a thought that—in your consciousness—separates you from others. And since we are all individual expressions of the same all-pervading energy that is commonly called God, that means that any thought that separates you from others will also—in your consciousness—separate you from that supportive divine energy.

And therein lies the problem. When you are in ego, you are disconnected from G.O.D.—from the “Guidance Of the Divine,” and life can quickly become a struggle.

In other words, when you are in E.G.O. you have “Edged God Out,” and any decision that you make—even one made with the best of intentions—is limited by your own incomplete knowledge and imperfect understanding.

As I have mentioned time and time again, to live life in the divine flow it is important for you to maintain a conscious connection with divine direction. And that means that thoughts of separation must be avoided. Instead of belittling others and inflating yourself—or the other way around—it is important to consistently affirm the Truth about yourself and others.

And what is that Truth? It is the Truth that each and everyone of us is a Beloved Child of The Divine—that each and everyone one of us is equal at birth and equal in worth to every other person on this planet . . . and thus, equally deserving of whatever it is we want to have, do, or be in life.

May we all enhance our ability to live life in the divine flow through thoughts of oneness instead of separation.

May we recognize the underlying Truth that every single person in this world is not only our brother or sister in Spirit, but is actually a part of ourselves . . . another wave in that ocean of universal energy that gave birth to us all, nurtures us all, and sustains us all.

Steven

P.S. If you struggle with a low sense of self-worth, I have written a set of Self-Worth Affirmation Statements that can help improve the way you value yourself. You will find it under AFFIRMATIONS on the order page of my website, and you can download it for free. To go there now, click on www.rowrowrow.com/order.html.

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Divinely "Dispatched"

October 4, 2009

Dear Friends,

You have probably noticed that the stories I use to illustrate particular points are almost always events that Carol and I have personally experienced . . . or readers like you have personally experienced.

Once in a while, though, I hear a story on the news that is such a perfect example of the divine flow in action, I feel compelled to share it. Here is one such story:

There is a taxi driver in Phoenix, Arizona, who was repeatedly called to the pick up the same woman time and time again. That was somewhat unusual, because the taxi dispatching system is fairly random. It is mostly based on what driver happens to be in the immediate area at the time. The fact that this man would be continually dispatched to pick up the same person over and over again, seemed to defy the odds.

Over time, the driver noticed that his passenger was not a very happy person. In fact, she seemed downright grumpy. He began to suspect that it had something to do with where he was always driving her—to a kidney dialysis center.

One day, the driver felt inspired to do some research about kidney dialysis, and he discovered that it is a procedure that would try anyone’s patience, especially if it had to be endured frequently. He also learned that the only way around dialysis is for the patient to receive a new kidney.

When the driver talked to the passenger about her problem, he found out that the reason she had not yet received a kidney transplant was because an adequate genetic match had not been found. As the driver put it, that night he “talked to God” about the situation, and he felt “called” to find out if one of his own kidneys would be a match for this woman.

You know where this story is going, right? Yes, you guessed it. Not only was the driver a good genetic match, he was as close as you can come to being a perfect match without being this woman’s brother! Feeling divinely directed by this amazing coincidence, the taxi driver offered to donate his kidney to his passenger, and she gratefully accepted.

But wait! There’s more!

When this man’s story hit the national news, a daughter that he had been separated from for 30 years saw it on television, called him, and now they are happily reconnected.

Wow! Now that is the divine flow in action! Through a series of divine synchronicities, and a selfless act motivated by divine inspiration, not only was a woman relieved of her physical and emotional suffering, but a man was reunited with a long-lost loved one. As it always is with the divine flow, all involved benefited!

May each and every one of us live our lives like that taxi driver. Whenever we perceive that we are being divinely “dispatched” . . . may we heed that “call” and do what we are being divinely asked to do.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Joy of Life

September 27, 2009

Dear Friends,

As long as you have the divine right to choose freely, life can—and undoubtedly will—have its challenges.

Your conscious and unconscious freewill choices, combined with the conscious and unconscious freewill choices of others, can quickly carry you out of the flow and into some fairly undesirable situations. You may suddenly encounter rocks and rapids, instead of more calm and tranquil waters.

In those circumstances you may experience fear, sadness, disappointment, or anger. But believe it or not, underneath it all, there will also be . . . joy. Not joy in the typical sense of feeling elated in the moment, but the joy of your spirit—a kind of joy that embraces all of life and living . . . not just the peaceful parts.

Consider this: When you go to an amusement park, don’t you choose to go on the scary rides as well as the pleasant ones? Why is that? Isn’t it because you feel fundamentally safe? And isn’t it the combination of contrasting experiences that brings you joy?

So it is with your divine spirit. To your spirit, life is one, big amusement park. And as an eternal being, your spirit always feels safe enough to enjoy (have joy in) the experience of life as a whole.

In times of stress or distress, remember to take a moment to affirm who you truly are at the core of your being. In prayer and meditation, consciously connect with your divine essence—your eternal spirit—and get in touch with the joy that resides there.

It’s the joy of just being alive and in the world. And it’s a joy that is there no matter what part of the stream you happen to be in . . . or what kind of ride you happen to be on.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Life's Divine Cairns

September 20, 2009

Dear Friends,

As most of you are well aware, this year I started offering Divine Flow Retreats here in Sedona.

The very first activity I offer in these retreats is a guided meditation on a Red Rock formation called Bell Rock. Many people believe that Bell Rock has amazing healing and energizing properties, and it is one of the most popular places here.

If you have spent any time in Sedona yourself, you probably know that it is not extraordinarily difficult to reach the higher parts of Bell Rock. However, without knowing the best way to ascend, you can easily run into a dozen dead ends, and repeatedly encounter crevices that cannot be crossed.

To make it easier for hikers to reach the higher vistas, the National Forest Service has placed piles of rocks called “cairns” to guide the way. When you travel from cairn to cairn, you are able to climb up Bell Rock in the most efficient and unobstructed way possible.

And so it is with the divine flow in your life.

When you follow your intuition, when you are open to the intuitive guidance of others, and when you pay attention to the divine signs that are all around you, you will find yourself being directed toward the fulfillment of your heart’s desires in a virtually effortless and obstruction-free manner.

That doesn’t mean that your path will always be direct—a straight line from where you are to where you want to be. Nor does it mean that your journey will be swift. It is common to experience lots of twists and turns along the way, and reaching your chosen destination can take longer than you expected. But if you remain patient, and take one divinely guided step at a time—focusing only on the step that is right in front of you—your journey will still feel like a flow . . . a flow that is helping you get to your highest good in the most beneficial way possible.

Here’s to following life’s divine “cairns,” my friends. Here’s to noticing and heeding the divine markers that have been placed along the way to help us accomplish our goals without undue struggle or strain . . . and to help us reach even the loftiest of our dreams with effortless ease.

Steven

P.S. To see a photo of Bell Rock and one of its cairns, click here.

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Divine Flow & The Illusion of Control

September 13, 2009

Dear Friends,

On the page of my website that is titled ABOUT THE AUTHOR, there is a sentence that says I am “a recovering control-freak.” Notice the word recovering. It doesn’t say recovered.

Yes, even though I am one of the world’s foremost masters at living life in the divine flow (a great big smile and a wink go here), when something happens that “threatens” me, I am occasionally challenged by the urge to make a decision, or take an action, for the sole purpose of making me feel secure again.

I am not talking here about divinely guided decisions or divinely directed actions. I am talking about choices that fool me into feeling like I am in the “driver’s seat” again—that I am in control of the situation, and thus, in control of my future. But am I ever really in control? Are any of us ever really in control of anything?

The answer is, of course, no. Control is merely an illusion. No matter how well we have organized our lives, and no matter much we think we have all of our “ducks in a row,” life can—and frequently does—surprise us.

Now, that doesn’t mean that you should never make any plans. You may be surprised to know that I am actually a very big planner. But—and this is what’s key—I am willing to alter or let go of my plans quickly, because I recognize that life can change things in the blink of an eye. Planning is not a problem in itself. Remaining rigidly attached to a plan is the problem.

To live life in the divine flow is to accept the uncertainty of life, and find your security in the knowledge that no matter what happens—or why—the divine flow continues to guide you to your highest good from right where you are, wherever you are.

Living life in the divine flow is not about taking a step in order to feel secure again. It is about taking a step that arises out of the security you already feel—the security that comes from knowing that you are always divinely protected because you are always being divinely directed.

Your job is to be patient enough, prayerful enough, introspective enough, and observant enough to discern that divine direction in the midst of changing, surprising, or unwanted circumstances.

Here’s to us all becoming Masters of The Flow . . . rather than Masters of Illusion.

Steven

P.S. For those of you who like to listen to spiritual material on your portable digital players, my Audio Book is now available as a digital download. For more information about that, visit the order page on my website at http://www.rowrowrow.com/order.html.

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Dealing With Loss Once Again

September 6, 2009

Dear Friends,

Once again, wildfires have raced across parts of California, scorching the earth, and destroying dozens and dozens of homes. And once again, I saw television interviews with several families who lost their homes in these tragic fires.

It was nice to see that all of these people recognized that, in the largest sense, life is not about things. It is about love. And even though their houses—and all of the things in them—were gone, each of these families felt extremely grateful and blessed to still have each other.

The loss of one’s home, however, is still a very real—and very significant—loss. And once again I think it is important to acknowledge that fact.

A home, as you well know, is much more than bricks and mortar, stucco and tile. It is much more than a structure, a shelter, or even—in some cases—a work of art. A home is a box of memories, containing cherished mementos, souvenirs, keepsakes, heirlooms, and photographs. All of those treasured things are physical symbols of the people and the experiences in our lives that we hold near and dear to our hearts.

Although the memories themselves remain intact, it is still understandably tragic when the “memory collage” that one has spent a lifetime constructing, has been destroyed by fire, wind, water, or a shift in the earth itself.

As I often mention, one of the keys to living life in the divine flow is maintaining a positive attitude. But that positive attitude must be genuine. And that means that feelings such as grief, sadness, and sorrow must first be allowed to run their natural course.

Living life in the divine flow is not about stuffing your feelings to maintain an "appearance" of positivity. There is such a thing as legitimate pain in life. It is not the kind of pain that you bring upon yourself through needless worry or thoughtless actions. It is the kind of pain that occurs most often with the sudden and unexpected loss of something, or someone, that you deeply love.

If you are dealing with a loss in your life right now, it is okay to go ahead and let yourself feel your feelings about it. In fact, it is necessary. Give yourself permission to experience all of your feelings freely and fully. Allow them to come, and go . . . and come again . . . and go again. It is the only way that they will eventually dissipate.

If, instead, you attempt to suppress those feelings, they will continue to exist at an unconscious level. And, in the end, that will just delay your ability to heal and feel joy again. And by "joy" I mean that underlying sense of appreciation for the total experience of life . . . a joy that embraces all of life’s twists and turns . . . a joy that may be best described as "bittersweet."

To each of you who have recently lost a loved one, a beloved pet, or anything else that occupies an important place in your heart, please know that kindred spirits the world over are supporting you in the restoration of your sense of wholeness, and the recovery of your sense of peace.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

We Are All In The Same Boat!

August 30, 2009

Dear Friends,

Two weeks ago I wrote about a small miracle I experienced during the annual gathering in Pacific Grove, California, of the United Centers for Spiritual Living. Today I want to describe another miracle that occurred during that week-long event at the Asilomar Conference Center.

This miracle involved a new friend of mine, Jeanette Alexander of Seattle, Washington. Jeanette is a wonderful composer/pianist, and her beautiful instrumental pieces truly touch the heart.

One evening, anyone attending the conference was invited to participate in a talent show. Even though Jeanette rarely sings, she had just written a song that she wanted to perform while she played the piano . . . and she wanted to have some additional musical accompaniment, as well.

Although this conference always hires a large group of accomplished, professional musicians to play at the general sessions, Jeannette only asked two musicians she already knew to join her.

Well, events at this conference usually start very early in the morning, and they end very late in the evening. And on this particular night, right before it was Jeanette’s turn to perform, the musicians who had agreed to accompany her were so exhausted, they excused themselves early—with apologies—and went back to their rooms.

To say that Jeanette was disappointed would be an understatement. Performing solo was not her desire, and not what she had signed up to do. She was really counting on having the musical support she needed to make her song come alive in the way she heard it in her mind.

For a while, Jeanette considered dropping out of the show. But something inside of Jeanette urged her to perform anyway, and she decided to heed that internal nudge. She took the stage, sat down at the piano, and announced that she had not planned to perform by herself, but she was willing to do it.

As she started to play and sing, guess what happened? The drummer she had asked to accompany her had not yet left the building. And when he heard Jeanette, he hurried onto the stage, sat down at his drum set, and began to play along.

Then, a bass guitarist—someone Jeanette had not previously asked to help her—walked onto the stage, picked up his guitar, and added a bass line to the piece.

Within a few more moments, an acoustic guitarist joined in. And finally, one more musician stepped in and started playing his flute.

Right before the eyes (and ears) of the audience, what began as a solo number was evolving into a full-fledged performance by a well-coordinated ensemble.

Jeanette was so elated by what was miraculously manifesting, she smiled at the audience and sang out, “I’ve got me a band!” But this wasn’t just any band. For the most part, this band was comprised of the highly acclaimed musicians who had been hired by the conference. It was a group of very talented artists that Jeanette had long desired to play with . . . and now—unexpectedly—it was happening!

The way that Jeanette’s piece expanded right there on the spot was even better than Jeanette’s original intention. And everyone in the audience was profoundly touched by the magic of that moment.

So, what’s the “moral” of this story? It is something I mention quite often in these weekly messages. It is simply that fact that when it comes to living life in the divine flow, we are all “in the same boat!” We all need the help of each other to get “down the stream” to fulfill our mutual dreams.

Each musician who stepped onto that stage sensed that truth within himself, and felt divinely inspired to come to the assistance of a fellow traveler—to literally play the part that he was being divinely directed to play so another’s dream could be fulfilled.

One day soon, you, too, will feel called to aid someone on his or her journey. And you can rest assured, that after you render that assistance, you will be blessed in a similar manner.

Trust that the Universe knows what you need, it knows who can help you, and it is always encouraging those helpful people to come to your assistance.

By the way, guess what Jeanette’s song was about? It was about getting where you want to go in life “on a wing and a prayer”—knowing that Spirit is always there to support you.

How incredibly appropriate.

Steven

P.S. For more information about Jeanette’s music, visit her website at www.JeanetteAlexanderMusic.com.

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Small Miracles, Continued

August 23, 2009

Dear Friends,

Last week I wrote about all the small miracles that occur in our lives—the kind of synchronistic events and happy coincidences that seem so insignificant, we tend to easily forget them and begin to take our good fortune for granted.

But that raises a question. Can any miracle actually be “insignificant?” In other words, is there even such a thing as a “small” miracle?

Certainly, by direct comparison, one miracle can appear to be more significant than another. But if you look closely at how that larger miracle came to be, you will usually see that there were a number of smaller miracles that were involved in the process.

For instance, the wonderful home that Carol and I are now living in was not the one that we had originally agreed to rent. That deal fell through. But we then manifested a home that was better in several important ways. It had the Red Rock view we wanted, the storage and office space I needed, and enough flowering bushes to satisfy Carol’s desire for a little “green” out here in the desert. It was a magnificent manifestation, and Carol and I love to tell the story of how it all came about.

There is, however, one part of the story that I tend to forget about. You see, when Carol and I were in Sedona looking for a home to rent, it was the first week of August, 2006. But we couldn’t really move here until three months later. At that time, homes were renting so readily in Sedona, the only way a house could be “held” for us, was if we went ahead and started paying rent immediately . . . and that was something we just didn’t want to do.

Well, as it turned out, we didn’t have to. Not only was the home that we manifested perfect for us in both form and function, it wasn’t even available for rent until the first of November—exactly when we wanted to move in. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect for all involved.

So, was that little synchronicity a “minor” miracle? Not in the scheme of things, no. It was a major component of the whole process. Which brings me back to the question I asked at the beginning of this week’s message: Is there even such as thing as a “small” miracle?

My answer is, of course, no. Generally speaking, every happy coincidence and every synchronistic event plays an important part in the flow of your good. And, like I wrote last week, if you want to experience the flow’s miracles more freely and more frequently, it is up to you to recognize the value of every miracle of every size, and be consciously grateful for each and every one.

Here’s to living life in the divine flow, and celebrating all the “small” miracles that have made such a “big” difference in our lives.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Small Miracles & The Divine Flow

August 16, 2009

Dear Friends,

I just returned home from presenting my workshop in Pacific Grove, California, at the annual gathering of the United Centers for Spiritual Living.

Like I always do, I passed out a form at my workshop so people could sign up to receive my weekly inspirational messages via email.

Soon after my workshop, I sat down to enter all the email addresses I had collected into my contact list. One of the email addresses was difficult to read, and when I sent a test email to that address, it bounced back as “no such address.” I tried several more letter combinations, but none of them worked either. Finally, I gave up.

The only thing I knew for sure was that this person’s first name was Sadhna. And sadly, Sadhna was not going to be receiving my weekly emails. I did not know who Sadhna was. And whoever this person was, he or she was just one individual out of over 800 people attending this particular conference.

About an hour after giving up on Sadhna, I had a sudden urge to go down to the social hall for a cup of tea. When I walked onto the deck of the center, someone motioned me over. It was a woman who had attended my workshop, and she wanted to tell me how much she had enjoyed it.

We had only talked for a few seconds, when another woman standing nearby asked me if she could purchase a book from me. This woman happened to be wearing a green jacket with her name clearly embroidered on the front. And guess what that name was. You got it! Sadhna!

Out of 800 people—and in a very short amount of time—the divine flow had brought Sadhna and me together, and I was able to sign up her up for my weekly emails after all.

Now, this story is no major miracle—I realize that. But that is exactly the point I want to make today.

I think I have made it very clear in my book, in my workshops, and in these weekly messages, that it is extremely easy for you to unconsciously block or limit the experience of the divine flow in your life. Obviously, when you live life forcefully or fearfully, you are going to experience the divine flow to a lesser degree, because you are actually interfering with the manifestation process itself.

But even if you are doing a pretty good job of recognizing and cooperating with the divine flow in your life, that experience can still be diminished if you don’t make a conscious effort to appreciate each and every little miracle that manifests in your life—even something as “seemingly” insignificant as two people running into each other in a timely manner.

Like everything in life, even the divine flow can be taken for granted. And the more you take it for granted, the more likely you are to easily forget many of the miracles that have happened in your life—especially the smaller ones. Even recent occurrences can quickly be forgotten.

If you really want to fully experience the divine flow in your life, I suggest that you always take a moment to stop what you are doing and be consciously grateful for every little miracle that occurs. Celebrate it! Revel in it! Only then will you begin to get an accurate sense of how miraculous this world of ours truly is.

As Albert Einstein is quoted as saying: “There are only two ways to live your life: One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”

I choose the latter way of living. And it has improved my life dramatically.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Meditation and The Divine Flow, Part 3

August 9, 2009

Dear Friends,

This message concludes my three-part series on meditation, and how a daily practice of meditation greatly enhances your ability to live life in the divine flow.

Two weeks ago I explained how meditation helps create gaps between your thoughts, so you are more readily open to divine insights, inspiration, and intuitive guidance. Last week I described the way that meditation helps you stay more connected to your spirit throughout the day, so you can respond to challenging people and situations in a wiser way.

This week I want to point out how meditation helps you maintain present-moment awareness, which is one of the keys to living life in the divine flow.

If you are not familiar with meditation, you might assume that it’s all about mentally escaping the now moment. And yes, there are plenty of guided meditations that do, indeed, take you somewhere else in time and space. But strictly speaking, most guided meditations are really visualizations, which serve a different purpose.

The form of meditation that I practice is specifically designed to center all of your attention in the here and now, by focusing first on your breathing (because your body is always in the present), and then focusing on a mantra (a special phrase you repeat to yourself) to help displace your usual thoughts—the kind of thoughts that propel you elsewhere.

It’s true, that after your meditation is over, it may be a challenge for you to stay in the present moment, and not drift off into reflections on the past or projections into the future. But your tendency to do that will be greatly reduced . . . especially after several weeks of consistent practice.

And the benefit of being more centered in the here and now? You will be much more aware of all the divine signs and celestial synchronicities that are guiding you to your highest good.

As I have said many times before, the presence of the flow is sensed in the present. The present is where you have to be in order to see the signs and notice the synchronicities.

In short, to receive the gifts of the flow you must be here, now. And being here—now—is what meditation, as I practice it, helps you do.

I hope that my last three messages have added to your understanding of meditation, and the important part that it plays in living life in the divine flow—how it helps you be more intuitive, more responsive, and more present.

For more information about the form of meditation that I practice, here is a webpage I found that describes it nicely:
www.alternative-medicine.net/meditation/english.html

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Meditation and The Divine Flow, Part 2

August 2, 2009

Dear Friends,

Last week I wrote about meditation, and how it helps you live life in the divine flow by opening up tiny gaps between your thoughts. It is through those gaps—as small as they may be—that you are able to sense divine direction, and recognize your next right step.

But that’s not the only value of meditation. There is another benefit that I would like to share with you, as well: A daily practice of meditation helps you respond to situations rather than react to them.

Do you know the difference between responding and reacting?

Reactions are automatic and robotic. They are instantaneous thoughts and actions that are triggered by personal programming and conditioning. These thoughts and actions are not divinely derived, but are, for the most part, ego-based and fear-driven. And they are usually accompanied by feelings of tension and anxiety.

A response, on the other hand, is based on the wisdom of your spirit. It is not self-serving, but is always in the best interests of all involved . . . and that includes you. Even when time is of the essence, and a decision must be made quickly or an action must be taken immediately, when you are coming from spirit you will still experience an underlying sense of peace.

A regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—is helpful because it enables you to stay more connected to your spirit throughout the day. And because of that, you are better equipped to appropriately and effectively respond to situations, rather than rashly react to them.

This can be true even when you are in immediate physical danger, and you need to protect yourself. For example, on a road trip to Las Vegas in 2007, I suddenly noticed that a tire had flown off of an approaching truck, and the tire was now in my lane and hurtling straight at me! Instead of hastily reacting to the situation, I found myself actually taking the time to more accurately assess which way I should steer my car in order to avoid a collision . . . which—contrary to my first impression—turned out to be to the left. The entire incident only spanned a few seconds, but when you are open to the calming influence of your spirit, that is more than enough time to make a more thoughtful choice.

If you want to experience life as an effortless flow of major and minor miracles—instead of an endless, arduous struggle—remember that, to a great degree, it is a matter of personal responsibility. That is, it’s a matter of your response ability.

Commit yourself to a daily practice of meditation and you will find your ability to respond greatly enhanced, and your tendency to react greatly reduced. And that’s a good thing. That’s a God thing.

If you are new to meditation and would like more detailed instructions, here is a link to a webpage that will answer most of your questions:
www.alternative-medicine.net/meditation/english.html

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Meditation and The Divine Flow, Part 1

July 26, 2009

NOTE: During my Divine Flow Retreat in July, I spent a fair amount of time emphasizing the value of a daily practice of meditation. I feel that the time has come to repeat my thoughts on this important subject. Similar to my series on Freedom and The Divine Flow, this message will also be delivered in three parts. I trust that you will find this series to be of value.

Dear Friends,

In my experience, just becoming aware of the ways that I receive divine guidance, and becoming aware of the ways that I block or limit my experience of that guidance, has been enough to greatly enhance my ability to live life in the divine flow . . . and fulfill my heart’s desires effortlessly.

Most people are looking for more than “awareness,” though. They want something concrete that they can “do” to be in the flow. They are looking for some kind of technique or tool that they can employ to experience the flow’s miracles more freely and more frequently.

Well, there is one thing that you can do that will dramatically magnify the experience of the divine flow in your life, and I highly recommend it. That, quite simply, is to meditate—and to meditate on a daily basis.

For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the practice of meditation, there is nothing really mystical or magical about it. Meditation is simply a way of slowing down your thoughts. Generally, it involves focusing your attention on one solitary thing, such as your breathing, or a comforting phrase, or a peaceful image.

As other thoughts arise—as they invariably will—you observe those thoughts, but you don't let yourself get caught up in them, or get carried away by them. Instead, you simply allow those thoughts to pass by—like watching clouds floating across the sky—and you gently return your awareness to the focus of your meditation.

And how, exactly, does this enhance your ability to be in the flow? Meditation dramatically increases your ability to “hear” G.O.D.—the Guidance Of the Divine.

It is difficult to hear that still, small voice when your mind is always full of noisy self-talk . . . that endless chatter in your head about what just happened, what it might mean, and what might happen next. A daily practice of meditation is an effective way to quiet your mind, and open up enough gaps between your incessant thoughts so divine guidance can come through.

That guidance may not come to you during the meditation itself. But a regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—can help you maintain a state of mind that is much more open and receptive to divine direction throughout the day.

When you start your day in a meditative way, thoughts that enter your mind later that morning, or in the afternoon, are much less likely to immediately take hold, take over, and consume you. Instead of automatically connecting one thought to another, and to another, and to another, you are more readily able to leave a little room between your thoughts.

It is through those open spaces that Spirit speaks to you. It is through the gaps between your thoughts that divine insights and divine inspiration can make their way into the world.

In short, a daily practice of meditation helps you become more "open minded," so you can be more receptive to divine direction all day long. And, in the end, that’s what living life in the divine flow is really all about.

If you are new to meditation and would like more detailed instructions, here is a link I found that will answer most of your questions:
www.alternative-medicine.net/meditation/english.html

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Freedom and The Divine Flow, Part 3

July 19, 2009

Dear Friends,

This week’s message concludes a three-part series on the relationship between freedom and the divine flow.

Two weeks ago I wrote about the freedom that you have as a child of the divine to choose what you want to have, do, or be in life . . . and the freedom that you have to pursue those goals in any way that you see fit.

Last week I wrote about the freedom you experience when you let go of your attachment to a specific outcome, and when you realize that your happiness does not rely on reaching any destination at all.

This week I want to remind you that you are still not truly free as long as you are subject to the tyrannical rule of ego—of that “little, limited self” that tells you that you don’t have enough, and that you need more; that “little, limited self” that tells you that you are not good enough, and that you need to be better; or that “little, limited self” that tells you that you are better than everyone else, and they are simply not good enough for you.

As long as you are subject to the rule of ego, your ability to experience a joyful and fulfilling life is restricted and constricted in almost every single way.

So—right here and right now—I invite you to declare your freedom from ego’s oppressive and dictatorial rule. It is the freedom that comes from recognizing that you have enough because you are enough. You are holy child of the divine . . . of divine birth, and divine worth . . . free of all limits, and free to receive all that the universe so freely offers you.

Remember that every day is Independence Day, whenever you get in touch with your Higher Self . . . with that divine spirit that freely lives—and freely loves—at the core of your being.

Here’s to the gift of absolute freedom!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Freedom and The Divine Flow, Part 2

July 12, 2009

Dear Friends,

Last week I wrote about the freedom you have as a child of the divine to choose what you want to have in life, to choose what you want to do in life, and to choose what you want to be in life. And I wrote about the freedom you have to pursue those goals in any way that you see fit.

This week I want to expand on that message. I want to point out that you are never truly free as long as you remain overly attached to one specific outcome. Nor are you truly free if you believe that you must achieve that outcome in order to be happy.

Always keep in mind that no matter what it is you “think” you want, the divine flow may be guiding you to something even better—something that may be greater and grander than you anything you ever imagined possible, and something that will always fulfill your desire in a truly deep, lasting, and meaningful way. True freedom comes from letting go and allowing the divine flow to lead you to that destination—to a destination that may be quite different from the one you planned on or expected.

And even then, you are not truly free if you believe that you can’t be happy until you reach that destination . . . or any destination. As the saying goes, “It’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey.” And happiness, my friends, is found in the journey—not the destination.

Happiness comes from realizing that the manifestation process is just that—a process! Just as an artist must create a painting one stroke of the brush at a time, you must create your life one stroke of your “oars” at a time. And you are not truly free until you can enjoy the process as much as the finished product.

In fact, when all is said and done, you are not truly free until you can momentarily forget your goals and dreams altogether, and just appreciate what life has to offer you right here, and right now!

You are not truly free until you remember that nothing outside of yourself has the power to make you happy—nothing that you acquire, and nothing that you achieve.

You are not truly free until you recognize that happiness is fundamentally a choice. It is something that you allow yourself to feel, and something can only come from that innately joyful place within you—from that inner sanctum where your spirit resides.

So, my friends, here’s to letting go of attachments! Here’s to finding happiness within! And here’s to experiencing the true freedom that comes from that.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Freedom and The Divine Flow

July 5, 2009

Dear Friends,

July 4th is Independence Day, the day that we in the United States celebrate our right as a people to create our own futures and pursue our own dreams . . . free from oppressive and dictatorial rule.

But let us remember, too, that when it comes to our relationship with that Divine Intelligence that is commonly called God, every day is Independence Day . . . and should be recognized and celebrated as such.

Each and every day, you have the freedom to choose what you want to have in life, what you want to do in life, and what you want to be in life. And you have the freedom to pursue those goals in any way that you see fit.

That doesn’t mean that accomplishing those goals is totally up to you—and you alone. Quite the contrary. You are continually receiving divine assistance. You are constantly being divinely guided and supported in fulfilling your heart’s desires in the most beneficial way possible. But you will never be forced to do anything that you don't choose to do.

You always have the freedom—the independence—to follow divine guidance . . . or not. You can choose to row with the divine flow, and reach your chosen destinations with effortless ease. Or, you can choose to take a more arduous route, and row against the flow by ignoring or resisting divine direction. It's up to you.

The wonderful thing about your freedom of choice is this: Every choice you make in life—whether it is guided or unguided, divinely inspired or ego-driven—gives you an opportunity to learn from your experience, grow in wisdom and compassion, and ultimately discover more about your own divinely loving and creative nature.

But again, it's your choice. You can choose to learn and grow from the experiences you create . . . or not.

Here's to the joy that comes from creating our lives and living our lives by choice. May we always be grateful for the freedom we have to do that.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Flow Knows!

June 28, 2009

Dear Friends,

Four years before Carol and I moved to Sedona, Arizona, I was given the opportunity to house-sit for a friend-of-a-friend who lived there. I jumped at this wonderful chance because I was writing my book at the time, and I thought (correctly so) that Sedona would be a very inspiring place to work.

Once I got to Sedona, I found out that my job was not so much house-sitting, as it was bird-feeding. This house had about six bird feeders in the front yard, and it was my duty to make sure that all of the wild birds in the area had enough to eat each day.

Every morning I would fill up the feeders, pour myself a cup of coffee, and sit down on the porch to watch the birds fly in and feast. Before that house-sitting experience, I never would have guessed that bird-watching is something that I would enjoy doing. But one day, I looked down at my watch, and I realized that I had been sitting on the porch for a full two hours—totally mesmerized by the comings and goings of all the colorful finches, bluebirds, cardinals, hummingbirds, and more. I learned something new about myself that day.

When Carol and I finally decided to move to Sedona, there were two things in particular that I wanted our home to have. First, a bird feeder (of course). And second—if at all possible—a view of Sedona’s famous Red Rock formations.

Well, the Universe not only directed us to a home that had both of those things (which is an amazing story it itself), but this home also came with something that I, in particular, wasn’t looking for: Eleven rose bushes; nineteen other flowering plants and shrubs; four climbing vines; three evergreen trees; two large cactus plants; and even a wall of leafy green bamboo—all in our own backyard!

We have been in this home for almost three years now, and I am just now fully realizing how important all that flowering foliage is to me. The profusion of plants and beautiful blooms in our backyard gives me such a wonderful sense of well-being, I can sit there peacefully for hours on end . . . even when there’s not a single bird about.

You would think that my “need for green”—even among the inspiring Red Rocks of Sedona—is something that would have been very apparent to me all along. But the fact is, until recently, I wasn’t consciously aware of that need at all! Which brings me to the point of this week’s message:

You may not know yourself as well as you think you do!

Regardless of how certain you are about what makes you happy, I suspect that there are many things in life that could bring you great joy, and you are relatively unaware of what those things are. There are many experiences that your soul hungers to have that you are simply not in touch with . . . yet.

Fortunately, the divine flow knows you better than you know yourself. It not only knows what you “think” you want, but it also knows what you really need deep down inside. It knows what makes your spirit soar, and it is continually guiding you to the effortless fulfillment of those unconscious desires . . . as well as your more conscious ones.

That is why I continually stress in these weekly messages to let go of your attachment to any specific outcome, and allow the flow to lead you in a direction that you hadn’t planned on, and to a destination that you hadn’t dreamed of.

By all means, go ahead and let the Universe know where it is you “think” you want to go. But remember to always be open to arriving at a different destination than the one you originally set your sights on. Because when you let the divine flow lead the way, chances are it will direct you to a destination that is greater, grander, and more deeply fulfilling than anything you ever imagined . . . or even thought possible.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Fatherhood and The Divine Flow

June 21, 2009

Dear Friends,

Many of the churches where I present my talks and workshops refer to the divine power at work in this world as “Father-Mother-God.” The reason is apparent. It is a simple reminder that this higher power that many of us call God, not only has a nature that we associate with fatherhood, but it also has characteristics that we associate with motherhood . . . such as nurturing.

I’ve never had an issue with the notion of God as Mother. But I’ll be perfectly honest with you. For much of my life I was very uncomfortable with the concept of God as Father.

You see, I used to harbor a lot of resentments towards my own father, and whenever I heard the word “Father” used in reference to God, I would cringe a little.

Then one day I had a revelation—one so simple, I was astounded that it didn’t occur to me sooner. I remembered that I was a father. And what, as a father, did I feel towards my children? Nothing but unconditional love. And what, as a father, did I want for my children? Nothing but for them to be happy and fulfilled . . . and I would gladly do anything in my power to help them live abundant and joyful lives.

For the first time, I could finally relate to idea of God as Father . . . as a loving, generous, powerful presence in my life that was continually providing for my needs, and continually guiding me towards the fulfillment of my heart’s desires.

At that moment, I not only changed the way I felt about God as Father, but I began to feel differently about my own father, as well. I began to look beyond his human shortcomings to see the divinely loving spirit within him. And I am happy to say that today I can truly appreciate many things about my father that I ignored or took for granted in the past.

Here’s to all the men who have been “fathers” in our lives—who have provided for our well-being, and guided us in effective ways of providing for ourselves . . . just like the divine flow guides and provides.

Here’s to our earthly fathers . . . and here’s to our heavenly one, as well.

Happy Father’s Day!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Opportunity Is Knocking

June 14, 2009

Dear Friends,

I’m sure that most of you are very familiar with the age-old adage, “Opportunity Only Knocks Once.” I have heard that statement countless times throughout my life. And for much of my life, I never doubted it. But the more I learn about living life in the divine flow, the more I question the accuracy of that popular saying.

It is true that sometimes there are very unique opportunities that only exist for a short amount of time, and then those opportunities are gone forever. But, as I have mentioned many times before, the Universe (God/Divine Mind) isn’t limited by that. No matter what it is you think you specifically want, the Universe recognizes the underlying general experience you want to have—an experience of comfort, security, or freedom, for example—and the Universe sees a multitude of opportunities that you can give you that experience . . . not just one.

Remember, too, that many of the opportunities that come “knocking on your door,” aren’t the final destination you are trying to reach, but are merely stepping stones that move you closer to that chosen destination. And again, when it comes to getting where you want to go, the Universe sees a virtually unlimited number of ways to get there . . . not just one.

And finally, whether it’s simply a step in the right direction, or it’s that final step that will completely fulfill your heart’s desire, the Universe will tell you what that step is repeatedly . . . not just once. When, for example, the divine flow was leading me to my publisher, it told me exactly what step to take three different times, in three different ways, all within one week.

So, is it true that “Opportunity Only Knocks Once?” Sometimes, sure. But after that, opportunity will probably ring the doorbell, tap on the window, call you on the phone, text message you, mail you a letter, send you an email, and/or contact you through Facebook, MySpace, or Twitter!

Instead of getting too hung-up on the limited, singular idea that “Opportunity Only Knocks Once,” I invite you to embrace a more expansive idea. It’s the idea that “Opportunities Abound” . . . and they are always trying to get your attention—over and over and over again!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

The Pleasures of Life

June 7, 2009

Dear Friends,

One of the first big hits by the world-famous singer/songwriter called Sting, was centered around this lyric: “We are spirits in the material world.” Last weekend, I got to see a great example of that.

I was in Dallas, Texas, for the first birthday of my grandson, Cole. If you want to actually see spirit, just look into the eyes of a one-year-old. As you can see from the picture below, the divine light that comes shining through those eyes is unmistakable.


















And what fun it is to watch that spirit enjoying the material world it finds itself in.

My birthday gift to Cole was a small Native American drum from Sedona, and he immediately began to bang on it with relish. You could feel his excitement grow with every beat. And the expression on his face seemed to say, “Listen to the sound I can make! Listen! Listen!”

And then, when I banged on the drum myself, he began to wiggle and jiggle his body to the rhythm. I felt like I was witnessing Cole’s soul—his divine, eternal spirit—being fully aware of its presence in this material world, and consciously enjoying the pleasures that this world has to offer. “Look, I have a body!” “Look, I can move it all around!”

So, you may ask, what does that have to do with living life in the divine flow? Simply this: Always remember that your enjoyment of life has little to do with reaching the chosen destinations you are “rowing” toward.

Sure, fulfilling a desire or realizing a dream feels great! But that is just the icing on the cake. The real, deep-down enjoyment of life comes from allowing yourself to appreciate the entire journey, and all the wonderful things that journey presents to you along the way.

As you pursue your goals in life, remember to take the time to laugh, sing, dance, and read . . . to eat your favorite foods . . . to listen to your favorite music . . . and, if you are so inclined, to bang on a drum.

Make sure that you allow your spirit to do what it really came here to do in the first place—just to enjoy the experience of being alive and in the world!

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

Pulling Your Own Weight

May 31, 2009

Dear Friends,

A while back, a gentleman I know described a day when he was really “in the flow.” He told me how every single step that needed to be taken, was taken for him by an “Earth Angel.” He said he didn’t have to do much of anything to accomplish his goals for the day. Every desire was fulfilled divinely and effortlessly.

As I delved deeper into his story, however, I discovered that, in truth, his “angels” were simply friends and family members who were taking on responsibilities that were actually—as far as I could tell—his to take. He wasn’t pulling his own weight, so they pulled it for him.

Obviously, friends, living life in the divine flow is not about sitting in your boat and expecting other people to do all the rowing. Living life in the divine flow is about taking the steps that are yours to take. And there’s rarely a reason not to take those steps . . . because the kind of steps that the divine flow asks you to take are generally right in front of you and relatively easy to do.

Does that mean that you should never ask for help, and that you have to handle every single problem that comes along all by yourself? Of course not. When you genuinely need assistance in life, an “angel of the flow”—a helpful person that you know or don’t know—will be divinely directed to come to your aid. And there will always be plenty of things that the divine flow is handling on your behalf that you don’t even know about.

But all of that is quite different from one person feeling compelled to take up the slack caused by another person’s lack of action.

May we all have the kind of wisdom it takes to know what is truly ours to do in life . . . and not do. May we all have the kind awareness it takes to row our boats responsibly down the stream . . . as well as gently.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com

It's Not Always About You, Part 2

May 24, 2009

Dear Friends,

In my message a couple of weeks ago, I told a story that perfectly illustrated the point I wanted to make that day—the point that the divine flow is not always about you.

As I wrote, “Sometimes you are being divinely guided to say something or do something that will help someone else fulfill his or her dream . . . not necessarily yours. You may be guided to simply help another person live life more abundantly. Or, you may be guided to help another person live, period.” (To review the entire message, click here.)

After reading that story, Chris of Payson, Arizona, wrote to me and told me about his own experience with this particular aspect of the divine flow. And today I would like to share his example with you.

Dear Steven,

A few years ago I was driving home after picking up some groceries at the market. I usually make a quick stop at the Post Office along the way, but this time a “small voice within” kept telling me not to stop to pick up my mail. Instead, I was strongly directed to go home immediately. I didn’t understand this message, but I followed this strange, intuitive nudge anyway.

As I drove down the street near my home, I was surprised to spot a small boy standing right in the middle of the road! He was only about a year old, and was still dressed in his pajamas. I quickly pulled over to the side of the road, got out of my car, and walked up the child.

As I unsuccessfully tried to find out from the little boy where he lived, another motorist stopped behind me. Then, suddenly, the boy’s father came running up to retrieve his son, and took him safely home.

Like you said, Steven, the divine flow is not always about me. That day in particular I felt like I was being divinely guided to help someone else . . . someone who was in danger, and who needed help.

Chris

Friends, if there is anything else I can add to the idea that the divine flow is not “always about you,” it would simply be this: Contrary to the way some people have been describing the nature of the Universe lately, I do not see the Universe as some kind of “Genie” that can only act when we consciously command it to, and can only respond to our desires in a very literal, robotic manner.

To me, the Universe seems to be much more intelligent than that. It not only knows what we want on a conscious level, but it also knows what lies deep within our hearts. And it is constantly guiding us, leading us, and bringing us together in ways that can heal our lives . . . prosper our lives . . . and sometimes, even save our lives.

I think that kind of all-knowing, compassionate intelligence deserves a better title than mere “Genie.” I, for one, think another G-word is appropriate.

Steven

© 2009 by Steven Lane Taylor
Author of Row, Row, Row Your Boat:
A Guide for Living Life in the Divine Flow
www.rowrowrow.com