2nd Path to Joy 2023, Financial Health
They key to understanding if something is truly precious is to ask if we can hold it, for things truly precious cannot be held. Craig D. Lounsbrough All “Illustrated Wisdoms” in this 2023 Paths to Joy were created by splattering viscous Dylusions shimmer spray on 11×14, 98 pound, Canson mixed media paper, then spritzing with water to see how the colors would run and gather. When dry, the above quote was evoked by “feathering” with water washes and tempera paints, meant to suggest the power of the oceans and of music. The final work was creating the darkness in upper right corner so that the stars could be seen and the universe’s vastness suggested. How Louisbrough’s quote was interpreted: When the paper dried, upright, a ruler was used to draw the two-tone [green and gold] rectangular shape with water soluble ink pencils [Derwent]. The lines were softened with light water spritzes, suggesting the ephemeral and ethereal eternal. What do you see? Write me. PS Art is available with and without the quote. Shop Sandra’s Galleries. Paths to Joy 2023 updates and enhances a series first presented in 2020. It was adapted from The Treasure Chest, published by National Religious Press, which no longer exists. The 2nd Path to Joy encouraged financial prudence and care for material resources. Have you heard the saying that money is the root of all evil? Author Mark Twain’s response was, “The lack of money is the root of all evil.” With that belief, Life Onyx lists six “Fantastic Benefits of Being Wealthy,” which include, Access to the best levels of care and medical resources. The wealthy access expensive, higher quality food, some not always available to the public. During disasters, the wealthy can leave quickly. They also access elite classes of insurance that provide secure evacuations and recovery of luxury items. Read more To become rich, Life Hack suggests, Think about what people need, or things that could improve society, which could become a trending product in the future. Cut expenses Do one thing better than anyone. Work on it, train it, learn it, practice, evaluate and refine it. Read more Eric Kim’s 35 tips for becoming wealthy include, Never be an early adopter Only own one of each thing Anchor your mind to lower prices Don’t become a slave to money. Let money become your slave. Read more Hold onto your money! Several months ago, this note arrived from retirementinvestments.com: I spent a couple of hours checking out your site, [SuccedandSoar.com] and honestly, it’s great. You have fantastic content, and that’s why I want to reach out to you. I was originally researching for my article, Personal Finance 101: How To Manage Your Money Effectively. Here’s the thoughtful article about investing for retirement. BTW, through May, 202, SucceedandSoar.com. contained over 100 posts. I’m now updating the blog so that — in the next few weeks — the nearly 200 arts inspirations E-Mailed since October 31,2019 can be viewed online. [Six were added today!] While planning this post, I was thrilled about sharing Jim Rohn’s video, “Why You Must Be Rich. Wealth Is A Power.” Today, I discovered it’s no longer available. Darn! It was so inspiring. Fortunately, these three reasons to become financially independent were noted: Money is no longer a time-consuming consideration The ability to help others from a position of strength is tremendously increased More resources are available to develop the person you must become In the video, Rohn also stated, “The millions are not important. what you do and how you become wealthy is most important.” View the above “CAN MONEY BUY HAPPINESS” VIDEO HERE [2 minutes, 49 seconds] Answer: Yes! This 12-minute video explains the science of HOW TO BUY HAPPINESS WITH MONEY. Also check out comedian [and new Shark Tank investor] Kevin Hart talking to Joe Rogan about learning “The Importance of Financial Freedom” VIEW HERE [12 minutes] Contains Adult Language. This Month, Shop Sandra’s Art on Onesies As well as tote bags, tee shirts, journals, puzzles, phone cases, ornaments, face masks, towels, blankets, cups, pillows, shower curtains and more The high quality and unique Onesies produced by Fine Art America: Come in four sizes [6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months] Are 100% pre-shrunk cotton Offer choice of 12 colors [including white, gold, pink, red, Kelly green and more] Are machine washable Price: $26 CUSTOMIZE. Use tools with item to: Enlarge, reduce size of art Change placement of art and text Choose from twelve, onesie colors Purchase this onesie [choose from 4 sizes] Shop All Art and Collections HERE. Depending on Browser, Puzzles may be a stand-alone category or listed in Lifestyle Section. Thanks for shopping!
Paths to Joy 2023, Introduction
Embrace the healing power of these three things: Music, the Ocean, Stars — Source Unknown All “Illustrated Wisdoms,” the featured art in this 2023 “Paths to Joy” series were created by splattering viscous Dylusions shimmer spray on 11×14, 98 pound, Canson mixed media paper, then spritzing with water to see how the colors would run and gather. When dry, the above quote was evoked by “feathering” with water washes and tempera paints, meant to suggest the power of the oceans and of music. The final work was creating the darkness in upper right corner so that the stars could be seen. My understanding of this Illustrated Wisdom will change as the art reveals itself in new ways. What do you see? Write me. Three years after Succeed and Soar first presented the twelve “Paths to Joy,” the theme is revisited, with more enriching resources. The goal: No matter the troubling energies disturbing the world outside us, sanctuaries can be created where joy can flower within. Separate but a complement to “Paths to Joy” will be a four-part, “Re-Creating Eden” series. For those with interests in writing and reading, “Wordsmith Stars” and “Word Witty” will continue. There’ll also be three “Story Talk” posts where novels I’ve read are explored for author technique and craftsmanship. The one Succeed and Soar series that is done, with much joy, are the Select Short Videos, which will present brief, beautifully-produced stories ranging from heart-warming charmers to a mystery that’s both amusing and macabre. Lots to look forward to, including next week’s post. where Thrive! presents a tiny fruit with huge health benefits. In the meantime – and throughout the year – remind yourself of these five things daily [from Heartfelt Holistic Healing], I am amazing. I can do anything. Positivity is a choice. I celebrate my individuality. I am prepared to succeed. Succeed and Soar! This Month, Shop Sandra’s Art on Face Masks As well as tote bags, tee shirts, journals, puzzles, phone cases, ornaments, yoga mats, towels, blankets, cups, pillows, shower curtains and more When will we ever get back to plain, old flu season? In the meantime, safety is a great policy. Why not do so with style and pizzazz? This Face Mask is #8 from Succeed and Soar’s 2020 Path’s to Joy series. The face masks produced by Fine Art America are: 100% polyester Two ear loops with adjustable grommets for comfortable fit Sizes: Adult Large, Adult Small,/Youth Large Styles: Flat or Pleated NOT surgical mask grade See more details with item Price: $17.00 CUSTOMIZE. Use tools with item to: Enlarge, reduce size of art Change placement of art and text Choose background colors Purchase this face mask. Shop All Posters and Art Collections HERE. Thanks!
Happiness
Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product. — Eleanor Roosevelt Of what might happiness be a by-product? The Dalai Lama says, “compassion.” Another suggests, “… letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like.” Sam Sunquist advises, “Some days, you have to create your own sunshine.” Over 2,000 years ago, Aristotle said, “Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.” If so and happiness is like success, a journey rather than a destination, here are items for the suitcase: Deep breathing, it reduces stress. Giving sincere compliments, regular exercise and plenty of sleep boost happiness along with these habits. Rev. Billy Graham described happiness as circumstances that are pleasant and free from troubles. He added, “The kind of happiness that’s lasting is an inner joy and peace, which endures in any circumstance no matter what comes our way. It may even grow stronger in adversity.” From April 4 to June 20, 2020, Succeed and Soar published “Twelve Paths to Joy.” The posts reminded to celebrate your magnificence, follow your bliss, remember that a grateful heart is a magnet for miracles and no one knows what palaces we may build with beautiful thoughts. Enjoy more. Because some friends, family, co-workers, etc. must have missed Aristotle’s memo, keep Abraham Lincoln’s insight in mind, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” So, nurture and protect your own path toward inner joy. Along it, plant birds of paradise, roses and lilies of happiness. Grow sunflowers, poppies and chrysanthemums of peace. Succeed and Soar! Here are books I’ve been reading this month. All offer fascinating topics for Succeed and Soar’s next Zoom chat.Nothing to See Here. Kevin Wilson’s novel shows how a lonely young woman learns what family means while caring for children who burst into flame when upset. Captivated Reading Review. Toms River. Dan Fagin’s research is an astonishing exploration-explanation of how beautiful dyes connected with unusually high cancer rates in Jersey Shore children. New York Times Review. Born A Crime. Trevor Noah is one of comedy’s brightest voices. Recalling the apartheid world where he was never supposed to exist, Noah presents his life story, of “a lovable delinquent making his way through a damaged world in a dangerous time.” C.aprichos Books Review Eleanor’s Insights Succeed and Soar’s “Eleanor’s Insights” series is illustrated with photographs of ‘wild places.’ Art is available as prints, framed and on canvas as well as on journals, greeting cards, weekender bags, shower curtains, puzzles and much more. Shop Here
Path to Joy: 12th of 12 – Your Magnificence
Let us remember that within us there is a palace of immense magnificence. Teresa of Avila The last of these Twelve Paths to Joy is: Allowing Our Magnificence. This concept aligns with the United States’ founding belief, written by Thomas Jefferson:We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Now, add these uplifting thoughts: Limitless is your potential. Magnificent is your future. Gordon B. Hinckley Be magnificent. Life’s short. Get out there. You can do it. Everyone can do it. Everyone. -Andy Serkis When we focus on special gifts that allow happiness, what wonderful lives become possible. What joys can bloom in the world. Read the entire Declaration of Independence that begins: When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for a people to dissolve political bands which have connected them with another … I hope you enjoy this “Paths to Joy” series. I’m working on a beautiful little book. When it’s finished, Join My Mail List and you’ll be the first to know. Each “Path to Joy” and its art is in this special section here at Succeed and Soar. Stop by for refreshments, and be sure to view The Right Cut [Kut Kings] video. This true story about a barber shop on wheels will warm your heart, make you smile and shed a tear of joy. A Path to Joy Arts Meditation: Your Magnificence What I like best about the picture The glowing flowers. Why They’re like a meadow of Independence Day fireworks, seeds grown into fields of bright possibilities. What does this picture teach? I understand each Illustrated Wisdom is a symbol-rich reminder from my heart and soul to my mind. This one teaches that I exist in a field of many who glow with magnificent talents. How can these insights lead to joy? Marianne Williamson gives a great answer, We are all meant to shine, As children do. We were born to make manifest The glory of God that is within us. Read entire poem Seek joy! NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. For information about and to purchase the art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 11th of 12 – Follow Your Bliss
If you follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living. Wherever you are — if you are following your bliss, you are enjoying that refreshment, that life within you, all the time. – Joseph Campbell What is bliss? Answer: Perfect happiness. Gladness. Pleasure. Delight. Joy. I first heard “follow your bliss” on the eve before traveling to the Dow Creativity Center in Midland, Michigan. That charming town’s library had a whole section of Joseph Campbell interviews and lectures. After watching one every morning, I realized that life could be understood as an amazing and magical journey. In myths, heros encounter dragons and shape-shifters, unicorns and gryphons, basilisks and phoenix birds. I’ve found those traits in people. Against obstacles built by trolls and opportunities opened by fairy godparents, one goal is clear: Maintain personal truth, grace and internal harmony. As Abraham Lincoln said of the 11th Path to Joy: I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I have. In that light, happiness is possible. How? Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony. – Mahatma Gandhi A Path to Joy Arts Meditation: Grace & Harmony The soul is dyed the color of its thoughts. Think only on those things that are in line with your principles and can bear the light of day. The content of your character is your choice. Day by day, what you choose, what you think, and what you do is who you become. – Heraclitus What I like best about the picture: The flowing, multi-colored lines. Why I like the image: The lines suggest the graceful, harmonious, effortless dance that life can be. What the picture teaches: To me, this picture suggests letting my life flow toward beauty, grace and harmony. The insights gained: Be true to your work, your word, and your friend. — Henry David Thoreau I gain the belief that living in my best and brightest truth [despite the price], in finding and following my unique way through life as best I can is a Path to Joy. Seek joy and stay safe! NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. For information about and to purchase the art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 10th of 12 – This Moment
Write it on your heart that each day is the best day in the year. – Ralph Waldo Emerson The Tenth Path to Joy is “This Moment” which is, as Francis Bacon said, “sparkling like a star in our hand.” While researching the concept of ‘time,’ I found a video on how time travel works. Although revisiting the past or imagining the future can be easier than making the most of the moment, here are reasons to stick with what’s actually happening, right now: The present moment is the only one we control Each moment is a gift [because we don’t know how many we have] Staying out of the past and future improves mental, physical and emotional health. Read more. Although piling up time travel frequent flyer miles can be tempting, here’s help for staying present: How to Stay in The Present Moment 4 Tips to Stay in The Present Moment Feel Happy and Stress Free, 7 Steps How Being Present in The Moment Can Increase Well-being: Seek joy and stay safe! A Path to Joy Art Meditation: #10 This Moment Find your eternity in each moment Henry David Thoreau What I like best: The circles contain the numbers one through twelve, as though they are clock faces. Yet they make me think of jellyfish floating forward, effortlessly. Why I like the image: I like how the ‘jellyfish’ suggest that each second can be experienced in many ways, as time drifts, bounces and rolls forward. What the picture teaches: Every second offers many opportunities. The insights gained: These words of wisdom make me smile: The future is always beginning now. Mark Strand The art of life is to live in the present moment, and to make that moment as perfect as we can by the realization that we are the instruments and expression of God. Emmet Fox My last defense / Is the present tense. Gwendolyn Brooks The here and now is all we have, and if we play it right it’s all we’ll need. Ann Richards Note: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. The Illustrated Wisdom: For information and to purchase the Paths to Joy art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 9th of 12 – Where the Stars at Night are Really Big and Bright
I believe very much in the idea of kindness. … It lies at the core of beauty. – Jan Morris One of my happiest memories is of driving around the big island of Hawaii with a Swiss woman who taught me to sing, in German, “The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas!” My goal was to surprise a darling friend made during those six weeks on Hawaii’s eastern side, in the rainy jungle. Karin rehearsed me over and over, insisting that I get the Germanic pronunciation right. Two days ago, I asked my German friend to remind me how to write those words. Thorsten EMailed back at 2am Hamburg time: Die Sterne in der Nacht sind groß und hell, tief im Herzen von Texas! Twenty-plus years after circling Hawaii’s gorgeous coast, I think of the 9th Path to Joy and how we can all be stars in our own worlds while shining big and bright in the lives of others. As Bishop Desmond Tutu said, “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” Benevolence is good will, good wishes and wanting good for others. Beneficence is the joy of putting those intentions into action. Seek joy and stay safe! PS Jan Morris’ full quote is: I believe very much in the idea of kindness. I think kindness is the answer to all our problems. It lies at the core of beauty. Source: Battleship Yamato This Post’s Featured Art, “Beneficence,” An Illustrated Wisdom “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” Howard Zinn 1922-2010 What I like best about the picture I like the starbursts that, on second thought, look like fireworks. Why Ever since I first saw the Leonid Meteor Showers [behind the screen of a drive-in movie] and saw those shooting stars sprinting across the sky, I’ve understood how spectacular and uplifting unexpected lights in the night can be. Fireworks displays have the same effect. They’re such gifts to the eye the heart and the spirit. They’re so uplifting. So joyful. What does this picture teach me? Shooting stars are natural parts of the universe, just like kindness. How joyful if our lives glittered with lots more. How can these insights lead to joy? I think these words answer best, If you light a lamp for someone else, it will also brighten your path. — Buddha NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. THE ART: For information and to purchase the Paths to Joy art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 8th of 12 – Fun & Fascination
Find three hobbies you love: one to earn money, one to stay in shape, and one that allows you to be creative. Anonymous Author Phyllis McGinley said, “A hobby a day keeps the doldrums away.” Winston Churchill advised, “To be really happy and really safe, one ought to have at least two or three hobbies, and they must all be real.” What are hobbies? Essentially, they’re work that we do for fun. Along the way, hobbies can sharpen our thinking, enrich our personal-emotional lives and improve health. Why are hobbies important and a Path to Joy? They: Relieve stress by focusing attention on pleasant activities Make us more interesting and build bonds with others Help us grow spiritually and expand mentally Read More Here’s a list of 101 Hobbies to consider this year, which include physical activities, sports, travel, arts and more. For the practical-minded, here are 65 Hobbies That Make Money. If you’re seeking new ways to handle these Stay At Home times, check out these Ten Fun, Quarantine Friendly Hobbies A personal favorite is learning magic tricks. See how to perform The World’s Best Card trick [amazing!] in the video. A Path to Joy Arts Meditation #8: Hobbies What I like best: The multi-colored shooting stars with their fantastical tails. Why I like the image: The many talents and possibilities sailing to the star. What the picture teaches about Hobbies: Each of us is the star of our universe. Like the sun holding our solar system together, hobbies can add to our brightness. The insights gained about the 8th Path to Joy: There’s an old saying: All work and no play makes Jack [and Jill] dull folks. The sun’s shape reminds me to be well-rounded. Beyond the efforts needed for survive, I can thrive by finding time for refreshing challenges and as many enriching, uplifting and inventive possibilities as possible. Hobbies are the work that brighten and lighten life. Musician and artist Graham Coxon said, “My hobby is my job. It’s a jobby.” What a happier world if everyone had jobbies! What joy! NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. THE ART: For information and to purchase the Paths to Joy art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 7th of 12 – Magnet for Miracles
A grateful heart is a magnet for miracles. — Anonymous Every year, the third week of May is International New Friends Old Friends Week. So, why not write old and new friends letters letting them know why and how much you appreciate them because, as this proverb says, There are good ships and wood ships, ships that sail the sea, but the best ships are friendships, may they always be! Positive Psychology defines gratitude as, “a positive emotion that serves a biological purpose.” What purpose? Happify Daily reports, “People who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they’re thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems.” Read more. Here are more tools and resources for traveling this 7th Path to Joy: The magic of the gratitude letter Download a FREE Gratitude Journal 31 Benefits of Gratitude Why You Need a Gratitude List How to Make Your Own Gratitude Journal Did you know that each year has several friendship celebrations? February is International Friendship Month. The first Sunday in August is National Friendship Day. Women’s Friendship Day is two weeks later. More opportunities for joy! Be sure to view this 3-minute video. This Post’s Featured Art, “Gratitude,” a Visual Meditation To live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven. – Thomas S. Monson What I like best: The hands. The open palms. Why I like the image: I experience joy from the open palms. As the picture formed in my mind, I thought the gathering of hands would suggest wings outspread, taking flight. Now that the picture is done, I like the joy the open hands convey. I smile. My heart gladdens. What the picture teaches: I’m reminded that letting people know how they are appreciated and that what they do is valued [the hearts] can bring joy to both the giver and receiver. The insights gained: Seeing the many hearts being offered so generously, so freely reminds me of these words: We have to fill our hearts with gratitude. Gratitude makes everything that we have more than enough. -Susan L. Taylor There’s always something to be thankful for. If you can’t pay your bills, you can be thankful you’re not one of your creditors. – Unknown Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for. -Zig Ziglar I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. -Gilbert K. Chesterton Celebrate International New Friends Old Friends Week May 17 to 23rd! NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. For information and to purchase the Paths to Joy art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.
Path to Joy: 6th of 12 – Peace and Good Will
Peace is joy at rest. Joy is peace on its feet. – Anne Lamott Can vigilantes be part of a healthy, flourishing society? For me, the answer is in Ahmaud Arbery’s story. His death reminds that a cure is needed for another kind of COVID-19, the self-appointed judges and juries who then execute other human beings based on verdicts reached in their own minds. This Paths to Joy series has so far been built on values of simplicity, money, words, friendship and generosity. On the 6th Path, individuals can become cures for the Lynch Virus, the dis-ease killing the possibility of safe and harmonious communities. Wouldn’t you agree that when people choose peace, light expands [rather than darkness, distrust and destruction]? Couldn’t a brighter world then grow when individuals approach each other with good will, opportunity-by-opportunity, as best we can. How? Enjoy this beautiful video. Join the song. Sing along with Vince Gill. This Post’s Featured Art, “Peace and Good Will,” A Visual Meditation What do I like best about the picture? The stars in the darkness. Why do I like these things? To me, the stars in the darkness are the presence of light, hope, peace and guidance through turmoil, chaos, danger and [blindness] the inability to see. What does this picture teach me? I can sow light, hope and peace like seeds. How can these insights lead to joy? There is the parable of one who wanted to change the world. Failing that, they tried to change their country, their community then their family. Finally, they understood the only change possible was themselves, so that by individual [my] choices and actions, one [I] can bring peace and good will into the world. NOTE: These ‘Paths to Joy’ are adapted from The Treasure Chest, an old book I found years ago. Page 117 contained “The Twelve Rules of Happiness.” Of special delight is using paints markers and ink to illustrate meditations inspired by this wisdom. The technique is adapted from the book Visual Journaling, Going Deeper Than Words, by Barbara Ganim and Susan Fox. For information and to purchase the Paths to Joy art, visit Sandra’s Galleries.