Once Upon Time

 While exploring the New England countryside, I came upon a magical herb garden, and on this full moon night, I could not stop myself from wandering its oyster shell and white pebble path. The garden was in full expression of itself--a living tapestry of vibrant hues and ethereal fragrances, each plant articulating an ancient dialect of the natural world. Under the moonlight, the lavender shimmered with an astral quality, as though it had been touched by celestial beings. The rosemary, with its steadfast and wise presence, emanated an aura of protection, its spindly branches extending like the fingers of a benevolent guardian.

Amid the meticulously arranged rows of basil and thyme, diminutive fae creatures darted about, their laughter interweaving with the gentle rustling of leaves to create a delicate symphony. The mint, perpetually refreshing, infused the air with an invigorating essence, while the sage stood as a solemn sentinel, a repository of ancient wisdom.

Walking through this garden, I could feel the earth's pulse beneath my feet, each step forging a connection to the primordial forces that sustained this verdant sanctuary. It was a realm where the mundane seamlessly converged with the mystical, where each herb encapsulated a secret, a spell, a narrative waiting to be unveiled. Tending to this garden was akin to engaging in a sacred dance with nature, requiring a profound respect, keen intuition, and a touch of magic.

This enchanting path led to the kitchen door of an old manor house, once stately, now humbled by time and years of mindful use. A copper kettle, dented and dulled with patina, gently whistled an invitation to tea. Stepping across the threshold, the worn floorboards creaked beneath my feet, announcing my presence. An unseen charming voice, mellowed by wisdom, called out, "Do have a chair. And share the cream with Celeste."

With that, a large white cat with knowing yellow eyes rubbed against my leg, her purrs harmonizing with the garden's symphony. The scene was one of timelessness, where the garden's magic extended seamlessly into the warmth of the home, inviting a moment of serene presence and the opportunity to form a new friendship. 

A Writing Odyssey

The Journey Begins

Picture this: a cluttered desk, a fresh cup of coffee, and me, staring at a blank screen like it holds the secrets of the universe.

Starting a new writing project is like setting sail on a vast sea of ideas. You've got this mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling in your gut. It's like being at the edge of a diving board, ready to plunge into the deep end of your imagination.

First things first, research. Now, I'm not just talking about Googling random facts (though that's part of it). It's about immersing yourself in a world that doesn't quite exist yet — gathering snippets of history, unraveling obscure mysteries, and falling down rabbit holes of information that might just lead to that golden nugget of inspiration.

So here I am, flipping through dusty old books at the library like a detective on a case. There's something strangely satisfying about the smell of old paper and the weight of knowledge in your hands. It's like each page holds a piece of the puzzle, waiting for me to connect the dots.

Enter, the digital age. Thank goodness for the internet, where a few keystrokes can transport you anywhere in the world or back in time. It's a treasure trove of anecdotes, photos, and firsthand accounts that breathe life into your writing.

Of course, it's not all smooth sailing. There are moments when I feel like I'm drowning in a sea of information overload. Ever had that feeling of chasing a lead only to end up in a Wikipedia vortex about something totally unrelated? Yeah, been there, done that.

Yet, amidst the chaos, there are those moments of pure magic. When you stumble upon a forgotten story that sends shivers down your spine or uncover a detail so bizarre it couldn't possibly be made up. It's these gems that make the whole journey worthwhile.

And let's remember the characters. They're like old friends waiting to be discovered. Each one has a story to tell, a voice that demands to be heard. Sometimes they come to me fully formed, whispering their secrets in my ear. I must coax them out at other times, like coaxing a shy cat from under the bed.

So here's to new beginnings and the thrill of the unknown. Whether you're starting a novel, a screenplay, or diving into non-fiction, remember this: every writer's journey is unique, but we're all in it together, chasing dreams one word at a time.

A More Meaningful Present

    My partner, Callie, first spied the chair on an early morning walk. It lay discarded by the roadside, weathered by time and neglect. Knowing my sensitivity to energies attached to wood furniture, she hesitated, then decided that this chair was worth carrying home. Fifty years of stories and secrets lay hidden beneath layers of dust and grime. It called to me, whispering, hinting at the past, and begging for another chance. I knew I had to reclaim it, not just as a piece of furniture, but as an artifact of living history--its stories deserving of honor and respect.

The process began with a smoke cleansing ritual, to purify and renew. As the fragrant tendrils of smoke curled around the chair, I could almost feel the weight of its history lifting, each wisp carrying away the years of being ignored. With each pass of the smoke, the chair's energy shifted, becoming lighter, and more vibrant. 

Next came the gentle sanding, a meditative process that connected me to the chair's past. As I worked, the wood began to reveal its story. Psychic visions filled my mind; an older woman, chic with age and happily non-conformist, sitting gracefully in the chair. She lit a pipe, the aromatic smoke mingling with the scent of fine bourbon and warm wood. An orange cat and a black dog lay contentedly at her feet. The soothing sounds of Miles Davis drifted from a spinning LP, filling the room with a mellow, timeless melody. Nearby, a kettle announced its readiness for coffee, adding its soft whistle to the symphony of home.

As I worked oil into the dry wood, it was as if I could hear the chair sigh and stretch with relief. Its grain began to glow, revealing the beauty hidden for so long. With each stroke, I could feel the chair returning to life, its spirit blending with mine. I know from where this chair came, though other than a magnetic pull to the beautiful old structure, nothing else referring to the residents of a large, gable-roofed farmhouse, built in 1912 could be sensed. Unoccupied for over 20 years, it still stands atop a hill overlooking the wooded lake where our home now sits. At times, I felt as if I were in the woman's body, seeing what she saw as she looked out arch-paned windows to the trees and water below.

Callie reinforced the back slats, and finally, I applied a light coat of varnish. The satin gloss brought out the chair's shine, highlighting its once-golden accents. It now stands proudly, a testament to its resilience and the love that had been poured into its construction and its restoration. As I gave it a final touch-up, I could almost hear the old woman's laughter, and see her contented smile.

Now, the chair and I share a bond that goes beyond the physical. Each gentle rock is a dance of gratitude, a celebration of the present moment. The rhythm of the chair becomes the soundtrack to my musings, inspiring stories to share. Together, we blend our spirits, creating a harmony that speaks of the past, present, and future.

In reclaiming this old rocking chair, I have also chiseled a new facet of myself. Its herstory and my own have intertwined, creating a tapestry of memories, dreams, and possibilities. As I sit in the chair, I am reminded that every object has a story, waiting to be told and that sometimes, in reclaiming the past, we find our way to a more meaningful present.

  

 

 

A Heartfelt Thank You

Wow! What an incredible honor it is to be writing this blog post today! I am thrilled and deeply humbled to share that I received a Gold Visionary Award from the Coalition of Visionary Resources (COVR). This recognition from such a respected and dedicated community within the Mind, Body, Spirit industry means the world to me.

When I started The Bloglet of Fire, my goal was simple: to share insights, experiences, and resources that could light the way for others on their personal and spiritual journeys. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine this passion project would resonate deeply with so many of you. To be acknowledged by COVR, an organization that embodies the essence of our industry, is truly beyond words. 

First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the members of COVR. Your dedication to fostering growth, connection, and enlightenment within the Mind, Body, Spirit community is nothing short of inspiring. To be recognized by a group of individuals who are so passionate and knowledgeable is a profound honor. Thank you for seeing the value in my work and for this beautiful affirmation of my efforts.

To the readers of The Bloglet of Fire, your unwavering support, thoughtful comments, and shared experiences have been the fuel that keeps this blog burning bright. Each story, each message, and each connection has enriched my life and made this journey incredibly rewarding. Thank you for being a part of this community and for allowing me to be a part of yours. 

As I look toward the future, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. This award is not just a recognition of past efforts, but a beacon guiding me forward. I am more inspired than ever to continue exploring, learning, and sharing with all of you. The Bloglet of Fire will keep growing, evolving, and striving to bring you content that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit. I am especially eager to delve deeper into sharing accounts from my paranormal and metaphysical experiences. These stories have shaped my own journey profoundly, and I believe they hold valuable insights and inspiration for us all.

Many new ideas and projects are on the horizon, and I can’t wait to dive into them with you. From deeper explorations of spiritual and holistic practices to interviews with inspiring figures in the industry, there is much to look forward to. Together, we will continue to ignite the flames of curiosity, wisdom, and personal growth.

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for this incredible honor. Here’s to a bright future and the many wonderful adventures we will share on The Bloglet of Fire.

With immense gratitude and joy,

Amber

Roses & Old Books

(Poems from My Garden, Amber Highland, 2024)

Amid the garden's whisper, where roses bloom in soft cascades of crimson and gold, there lies a world of timeless reverie. The petals, delicate as a sigh, cradle the essence of forgotten summers, each fragrance a whisper of days long past.

Here, in this sanctuary, old books rest, their pages weathered and wise. The scent of aged parchment mingles with the roses' perfume, crafting a symphony of memory and dream. 

In the twilight's embrace, the roses and old books converse in a language of beauty and nostalgia, each telling tales of eternal wonder.

Amber Highland, 2024

A Tapestry of Celebration, Protest, Memory, and Promise

Pride Month is an extraordinary time of year, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of joy, resistance, remembrance, and hope. For the LGBTQIA+ community, it embodies a rich and complex history, capturing the essence of what it means to live authentically in a world that hasn’t always been welcoming. This month is a celebration, a protest, a memory, and a promise all rolled into one.

A Celebration

Pride Month is first and foremost a celebration—a time to honor and rejoice in our identities. It’s a period when the rainbow flags fly high, parades fill the streets with color and music, and communities come together in solidarity and joy. As Jennifer Finney Boylan, a prominent transgender author and activist, once said, "Pride is a celebration of all that we are, of our strength and our beauty, of the incredible diversity of our community. It’s a time to dance and sing, to show the world our true colors."

This celebration is crucial for visibility and representation. It is a powerful affirmation that LGBTQIA+ individuals exist, thrive, and contribute significantly to society. Every joyous moment shared during Pride Month is a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of our community.

A Protest

Yet, Pride is also a protest. It’s a reminder that our rights and freedoms have been hard-won through decades of struggle and activism. A legendary poet and civil rights activist, Audre Lorde poignantly captured this duality: "It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences." Her words remind us that Pride began as a response to oppression and continues to challenge the systemic inequalities that persist today.

The Stonewall Riots of 1969, often considered the catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement, underscore the importance of protest in our history. Pride events around the world continue to honor this legacy by advocating for justice, equality, and the rights of all LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly those within marginalized subgroups who face intersecting forms of discrimination.

A Memory

Pride Month is also a time for memory—a poignant remembrance of those who have fought and those we have lost. It’s about honoring the trailblazers who paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. As we march, we carry the memories of countless activists, friends, and loved ones who dedicated their lives to this cause.

Charlie Craggs, a transgender activist and author, highlights the importance of remembering our history: "We owe it to those who came before us to keep their stories alive, to acknowledge their struggles, and to continue the fight they started." Memorials, moments of silence, and storytelling sessions during Pride serve as powerful reminders of our shared history and the enduring spirit of our community.

A Promise

Finally, Pride Month is a promise—a commitment to a future where love and acceptance prevail over hate and discrimination. It’s a pledge to continue advocating for a world where everyone can live authentically without fear. Gabriel Attal, a prominent French politician and openly gay public figure, speaks to this forward-looking vision: "Pride is a promise to future generations that we will never stop fighting for their right to live openly and freely, without prejudice or fear."

This promise extends beyond legislative battles to the everyday acts of kindness, support, and allyship that help build an inclusive society. It’s about ensuring that the next generation grows up in a world that celebrates diversity in all its forms. 

Pride Month encapsulates the full spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ experience. It’s a celebration of who we are, a protest against the injustices we face, a memory of those who have paved the way, and a promise to keep fighting for a better future. As we revel in the festivities and reflect on our journey, let us carry forward the spirit of Pride throughout the year, striving for a world where everyone can proudly and safely be themselves. Happy Pride! 

A Microcosm of Life

 Reflections on a Tree: A Microcosm of Life

Standing before an ancient oak, I'm often struck by the profound complexity and simplicity that it embodies. A tree is more than a static fixture in the landscape; it's a dynamic, intricate network of life and communication, mirroring the interconnectedness of all living things. 

At the base, the roots delve deep into the earth, seeking sustenance and stability. These roots do more than just anchor the tree; they form an underground network that connects with other trees, sharing nutrients and information. Through this subterranean web, trees communicate distress signals about droughts or insect attacks, demonstrating a form of community and mutual aid. It's a silent symphony of survival, a testament to the power of connection and cooperation, much like human societies. 

Moving up the trunk, we find the sturdy backbone of the tree, a bridge between the hidden depths of the roots and the sunlit canopy above. The trunk symbolizes growth and resilience, standing firm against the forces of nature. It bears the scars of past seasons—storms weathered, branches lost, yet it continues to reach skyward. This resilience reflects our own journeys, marked by challenges and growth, always striving for higher aspirations.

At the top, the highest leaf dances in the wind, basking in the sunlight. Each leaf is a marvel of efficiency, converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, sustaining the tree and, by extension, all life that depends on it. These leaves, reaching out to the light, remind me of our innate desire for growth, knowledge, and enlightenment. They also symbolize the beauty of individual contributions to the larger whole—each leaf, while seemingly insignificant on its own, plays a critical role in the tree's vitality.

A tree, then, is a reflection of life itself. Its roots teach us about the importance of community and support systems. The trunk illustrates resilience and growth through adversity. The leaves remind us of the quest for knowledge and the value of every individual. 

Standing beneath the vast canopy, I see the tree not just as a singular organism, but as a metaphor for the interconnected web of life. Each part, from the deepest root to the highest leaf, plays an essential role, mirroring the interconnectedness and complexity of our own lives. In every tree, we find a microcosm of existence, a silent witness to the profound beauty and intricacy of life.