Bohemian B’s Beat

Don’t hesitate – Fumigate!(Part 1)

Today’s column is a tribute to all the parents, step-parents, teachers and role models who play an active and positively influential role in our lives and the lives of our children.

I have been very fortunate to have received the upbringing I had and the exemplary example from my parents, grandparents, step-father and mentors to follow.  I was taught (what one would think is) basic principles such as morals, integrity and dignity.  I am a firm believer in humanity.  In helping others where I can, in offering a compliment or a kind word and for giving the benefit of the doubt.  But because I am like that, I’ve always naturally assumed everyone else is, but trust me, I have learnt the hard way that there are so very different characters around.  Over the course of my life and up and till today I have missed some opportunities and messed up others. I have my share of regrets and sad edges around a relationship or two. I’ve disappointed my family, friends and even more often myself. I have complained, whined, and been noisy, and then other times been silent when I should have spoken up. But tonight I will go to sleep with a smile knowing that tomorrow is right around the corner and another chance to get it right will be waiting for me.  It all comes down to a few basic principles in life really, taking responsibility for one.  Take responsibility for your own actions and your own life and stop pointing fingers and practicing your self-righteous judgment on others.  I do hate to surprise you but nobody died and put you in charge of placing judgment.  Integrity, it is my understanding from what I have witnessed throughout my life and (disappointingly) more recently that a large amount of people need to look up the meaning of the word to understand it, many act as if they have never heard/learnt the word at all.  If this is you, do yourself and the rest of the world a favour and buy a dictionary or look up the meaning of the word ‘integrity’ on google, whichever is easier for you and then while you are at it take a look at the word ‘dignity’.  I might not have much, achieved much or acquired much in my life, I don’t have a mansion, a Rolls Royce nor a multi-million dollar company to call my own, but what I DO have is integrity and dignity. 

How do you define yourself?I don't worry about the things I don't have, or the problems I might still have to face.  I think about the goals I have and still will set for myself and the things I will do to reach them, and then, more importantly, what I will do once I have achieved them (and believe me I WILL achieve them).  I find it amusing the way some people don’t even realise what a fool they are making of themselves when they presume a role and try to enforce their own preconceived reality on someone else’s life, situation or circumstance. 

My mom taught me that if you don’t have anything good to say then don’t say anything at all, she also taught me to remain silent in a situation concerning something I know nothing of, thereby combatting looking ignorant and foolish.  Unfortunately though it seems as if a few never got the same message, speaking out of turn about things they know absolutely nothing about (in many cases due to their own lack of taking responsibility for their own situations/life) resulting if looking like an absolute uneducated, morally challenged and undignified fool. However, she also taught me to take responsibility for my own action and to stand up for myself. There are only two ways to handle a difficult situation: 1) The fool’s way of pointing fingers, passing judgment, threats of violence and slander or 2) The wise way of acting in maturity and maintaining a high level of integrity whilst keeping your dignity intact and addressing the problem in a calm and rational manner.  Each option producing very different results which could either intensify the problem or create a solution. Now, try answering the question:How do you define yourself?

Don’t miss next week’s column for part 2 of ‘Don’t hesitate – Fumigate!’

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Follow me at: http://bohemianb.blogspot.com/  for more Bohemian B ramblings

Socially acceptable

Truth.  Something we all want, something we all strive for and often something we all hide from, maybe not all truth but very often our own truth.  We hide behind the mask of fitting in socially, fitting in to a set standard expected of us, standards which are normally set by others who are nowhere near succeeding at setting standards of their own. 

   This Bohemian B has often been referred to as a mess and all too often I hid behind the silliness  I can easily summon up out of hurt, disappointment or offensive emotions  to ‘laugh it off’, yet (without displaying the emotion, still feel the stab of Pain which accompanies the hurt, disappointment and even offence).  Until one day, probably from sheer exhaustion of trying to keep up the facade of ‘fitting in’, I decided to embrace the ‘mess’ that I am and to forget social acceptance choosing  to rather live my truth, right out in the open, no more hiding my ‘me-ness’ or apologizing for my ‘ much-ness’.  What did I have to lose anyway– the good ‘ol opinion of others?   Others, who don’t seem to know how to ‘do’ life either quite frankly, I choose to live life with a dash of spice and only because this is my own personal flavour,.  But along with  living my truth  comes the merciless task of making ( sometimes) life changing decisions, which have had and occasionally still have the tendency to leave a bitter sweet taste in my mouth, dancing along my taste-buds.   New lessons are learnt almost daily and new discoveries made along the way, all about my-self, is intoxicatingly exhilarating and horrendously scary all at once.  As fascinatingly scary as this new journey is, it is all part of the growing process and the ominous and not so easy exercise of self embracing and honest and real truth of you and as you start to unfold in this process so you start living, not just existing.

Self acceptance, self truth, self love......all vital criteria in self discovery, after all you are not a reflection of people who can’t love, accept or even tolerate you, you must be a reflection of your own truth radiating  self assurance to everyone around you.   As so you (slowly at first maybe) start to realize your worth and proceed to remove yourself from situations that do not serve you nor add value to your life.  Shakespeare said, “To thine self be true”.  Often we think that we need to persevere and remain in a certain place as not to be named ‘quitter’.  Believing that 1) we are no better than what we are receiving or 2) have a superior ego believing that our pure presence will turn things around in our own favour and sometimes this could be your very truth, however, not to your own detriment.   I realized that staying in an unsavoury situation or with someone even who doesn't appreciate you isn't loyalty, but rather stupidity.  No, this is not an act of selfish defiance, but rather an act of bravery and self empowerment.   Reclaiming your own ‘you-ness’ is not a selfish act but rather heroic.  Be the hero of your own life story.  We all know the basic principle of accepting others for whom (or even what, in some cases are!) that we should adhere to, yet the same does not apply to ourselves, mmmm ....maybe we should actually start practicing what we preach?  I know that I am not beautiful like you, I am beautiful like me.  I cannot be you, nor do I want to, as I’m (only now really) starting to enjoy being me. A good example would be that personally I like affection, but I have found that nowadays most people don’t like holding hands in public, especially if you don’t know them...... yes I know that was a lame joke, but I happen to think its hilarious considering the fact that that I have an active imagination, a cheeky and often mischievous side and think in pictures.  You may not share the same sentiment and that’s alright, because if I have to be completely honest , for the first time in my life, I really don’t mind what you think, I am not here to win a popularity contest, well not with you anyway but certainly with myself and yes, I win.  I may not be many things and am certainly not everyone’s ‘cup-of-tea’, I fall. I rise. I make (many) mistakes. I LIVE, not merely exist.  I’ve been hurt, but I’m alive.  I’m human.  I’m not perfect, but I am thankful.

Embracing your messy ‘you-ness’ and living your truth may not win you any popularity contests or ambassador awards, but it is indeed  liberating to realize the freedom to be, unashamedly you.  

   So go on then, embrace the glorious mess that you are and proudly be you, the real you.  Live your own truth and be personally acceptable opposed to being moulded into a clone by society to carry the mundane label, ‘socially acceptable’. 

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Follow me at: http://bohemianb.blogspot.com/  for more Bohemian B ramblings 

Bohemian B’s Beat

Sparkles and Rascals

Well this week has been a considerably difficult week in terms of this column, purely for the reason that my mind is overflowing with topics I want to share with you.  What is top of the ‘ever ready to over flow’ list of topic possibilities is the magical subject of dreams.  I read somewhere, many moons ago, that dreams have a shelf life and if ‘it’ is only a dream without taking action to bring ‘it’ to life, it will go stale and will eventually be removed from the shelf all together, facing the looming threat of discontinuation.

   Can you remember that magical moment the first time you dreamt the dream?  That moment before worry, self-doubt and fear took over?  We have all lived in that moment at some point in our life, briefly even for some.   Writer Carrie Wilkerson once wrote, “Your only limitation is how much action you are willing to take”.Ultimately, the life or death of your dream lies in your own hands.There is a very popular saying, “If you can dream it, you can achieve it”.  Well the problem that I am constantly faced with concerning this, often proclaimed quote, is that my dreams are not only big but often humongous to the point of irrational impossibility.  Besides that ‘little’ hiccup of an obstacle, there is the issue of my stubborn determination. 

Now determination is generally not a bad character trait, however, combine that with a pinch (okay...maybe a bucket full) of stubbornness and you have one of two outcome probabilities: 1) A dynamic and award winning ingredient for massive success or 2) A dynamic and award winning ingredient for a massive downfall, obviously all depending on the key factor, which is ultimately your motive and reasoning behind your ‘full throttle, all or nothing’ drive force. 

I have had the pleasure of experiencing both of these dramatic outcomes as well as the sad discontinuation of what could have been the ultimate, dream-come-true.  Had I perhaps taken the necessary action at the time and maybe checked my motivation and essentially, believed in myself a little more, opposed to aligning myself with worry and fear, perhaps my magical moment of the dream-come-true could have been achieved.  Me being the Bohemian me that I am (The movie character from ‘Me, Myself and Irene’  has nothing on my ever colourful,  real life drama - Me, Myself and I and Me and Me!).

    All too often we sell ourselves short when we look in the mirror, believing the negative illusions we condition ourselves with.  Yes the truth is that often the action required to cultivate your dream is immensely challenging and to put it plain and simple, very hard work.  However, once I read the following quote, my mind-set underwent a change in direction so to speak. Joel Osteen, from Osteen ministries stated that, “When you have big dreams, you are going to face big challenges.  If you were an average person, you would have average challenges”.  Well....let me proclaim something right now, literally on black and white, there is nothing average about me and I’m almost sure that there is nothing average about you either. I adopted a ‘Paula van der Lecque’ (from SA’s renowned house-hold name soapy, 7de Laan) attitude. I will not settle for “middelklas en voorspelbaar” (middle-class and predictable) especially concerning the magic moment of dreaming and the satisfactory and proud eternity of bringing the dream to life. Yes the challenges are probably terrifyingly huge, but as Joel said; “Big dreams face big challenges”, and an honest truth which I have discovered is that a mere 20 seconds of bravery can alter the entire course of your life. 

   Magic is mystical and dreams are magical and taking action and perusing your big dreams will ultimately produce a miracle.  You (yes....I am talking to you) are the sparkle between a dream and a miracle. So how about we stop believing the nightmares and start believing in our own magic.  Start expecting great things for and from ourselves.  Maybe this week you can allow yourself to dream big and be the sparkle not the dream discontinuing rascal! 

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Follow me at: http://bohemianb.blogspot.com/for more Bohemian B ramblings

Bohemian B’s Beat

Impossible possibilities

As a lover of literature I have always been able to find my escape if you will, in the written word. As a child I would use the medium of books to ‘get lost’ in. It was there were I would always be the heroine, the fairy princess, the ruler of candyfloss planet with my castle made of candy, a flying unicorn with sparkly silver wings that would fly me to another world called fantasia to visit the jelly tot queen. This was the place in time where my imagination boomed (more like exploded) and my dreams started to form. I would read anything and everything from cereal boxes to poetry; words intrigued me, fascinated me and eventually became my mode of self expression. Some words are beautiful and roll over my tongue smoothly and if I had to put a taste to them I’d call them vanilla words. Others are quite ‘sticky’ and take some serious twisting of my tongue to pronounce, these particularly ‘obnoxious’ words would probably taste like peanut-butter (not as smooth to swallow as vanilla ice-cream, yet equally delicious. I don’t know if you've noticed exactly how complicated the English language can be, but I sure did. Although I never really saw it as complicated but rather as a series of possibilities for different outcomes, an automatic auto correct if you will. I can just imagine your expression as you try fathom how I managed to reach this conclusion. Let me explain by using the word ‘oxymoron’ as it is specifically this would which my conclusion is derived from. According to wikkipedia ‘An oxymoron (plural oxymora or oxymorons) is a figure of speech that juxtaposes elements that appear to be contradictory. Oxymora appear in a variety of contexts, including inadvertent errors (such as "ground pilot") and literary oxymorons crafted to reveal a paradox. The most common form of oxymoron involves an adjective–noun combination of two words.’ For example, the following line from Tennyson's Idylls of the King contains two oxymora: ‘And faith unfaithful kept him falsely true’. (..... my sentiments exactly. or as I’d say when utterly confused, ‘Ja,nee’ ) Many oxymorons have been popularized in vernacular speech. Examples include "controlled chaos", "open secret", "organized mess", "alone in a crowd", and "accidentally on purpose” Writers often use an oxymoron to call attention to an apparent contradiction. An oxymoron allows for a perfectly explained manner of self expression, sometime a situation can if fact be bitter sweet eg; I’m sad to leave but excited to embark on a new journey. However, the sugar candy I am eating is sweet, not bitter. Often some people, myself included, use the ‘oxymoron way’ to deliver a venomous statement by lacing their derogatory or hurt intended words with honey. ‘It’s nothing personal but the cake you baked is sickly sweet, I wouldn't do it that way’. If it’s nothing personal, why do you feel the need to,1) say it’s not personal and 2) comment at all? You may not like that specific cake, but there are others who enjoy it tremendously. ‘There is nothing wrong with you as a person....’ Really? as a person?, opposed to what exactly, an umpaluma from the chocolate factory perhaps? And then the all time winner of ‘excusable inexcusable insults, ‘I don’t mean to be rude but......’. Well if you don’t mean to be rude then don’t and if you do mean to be rude then don’t use the defenseless oxymoron as a scapegoat.

Here is a bit of crazy wisdom that will help avoid sweet sorrow. Say what you mean and mean what you say. If you can’t master that art however( I know, sometime our mouths have a mind of its own and spits the words out before we even realize it’s doing that) rather implement a deafening silence, or a forward retreat opposed to being faced with a quiet riot.



Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Broken Crayons still Colour

If you have ever been within a few meters of any children’s playroom, be it at home, at school or even in a restaurant that offers such facilities, you would have observed (if you do observe that is) the magnitude of broken crayons laying around.  The majority of kids I've had the privilege of interacting with one way or another, don’t have a huge hang-up about colouring with a broken crayon, simply for the reason that it still works.  Whether this crayon is being used to create an artwork masterpiece to be taken home for mommy to put up on the fridge, to bring a colouring-in book’s page to life or normally from our younger budding artists to add a splash of colour along the long drab passageway at home.  Whatever the canvas may be, the point is that the broken crayons work just as well as the shiny new and whole ones. 

   I love taking a moment to just observe little ones and how they interact with each other but more importantly how they see the world and implement their own reasoning.  They demonstrate such simplicity and pure innocence, untainted by the ‘grown-up’ world. 

Once you and I used to demonstrate this absolute simplicity, but then we grew up and proceeded to do what we do best... complicate life as we know it.  And during this complication process, we get knocked down, hurt, broken even and for some unknown reason (probably due to our complex minds) we end up feeling useless, worthless and broken, aka, un-useable. 

   During my grade 8 year of high school (standard 6 in those years), I was forced to attend the mundane home economics class (today I wish I had shown more of an interest back then, but it is also a known fact that pre-adolescents are ‘very clever’), where the teacher attempted to teach us ‘little ladies’ how to be good home creators.  Although cooking and sewing never appealed to me much, there was one class which did grab my attention and made such an impact on me that to this day I can look back with fond memories.  We learnt a beautiful skill in the form of candle making and what was imperative was to impart our own special touch and create something using our own creative imaginations.  The tools needed for this exercise were very basic, a pot, broken candles to melt for wax,  a stick with string attached (to tie and dip the candle in the making in the hot wax melting in the pot), a plain, white candle and you guessed it - broken crayons.  As the wax melted in the pot we added crayons to make coloured wax which we then dipped our plain white candle into to transform it into a one of a kind master creation candle.  What stood out for me then already, was that these ugly looking broken and seemingly useless crayons that was used added the beauty and unique character to a once plain, boring and even lifeless looking candle.

   Broken crayons still colour.  If you feel that life has knocked you around and rendered you relatively (or even completely) broken, never forget that broken crayons can still colour.  Just add glitter and you will still shine!

Inspiration flows where your will go, keep thinking of broken crayons, glitter and all things shiny and maybe, just maybe inspiration will follow.

Glitter greeting (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Wide open spaces.....

“And as soon as she let go and exhaled, she felt a diminishing sensation detecting a gradual void in her interior. The void wasn't of emptiness but a void of space, increasing and expanding slowly; in and out, back and forth, up and down stretching her inner-self like when a bubble is tenderly blown within its elements allowing the breath of being to pass expanding throughout; to the point where she sensed her heartbeat and total peace of mind.” ―A passage from the novel, - “Her Will” by Floranova B. Msc.

    No, I have not read this entire novel, although I am intensely motivated to, I have only read a few short passages such as this one, however I feel a distinguishing likeness and identification as to what this author  is portraying.  The phrase ‘Wide empty spaces’ could sum up a magnitude of scenarios, encouraging many mental images varying from person to person, for me it describes the void inside of myself which I had harboured and even nourished for way to long.  A void which only I myself could fill as it was a void of self acceptance, self love and self respect.  On way too many occasions in the past, I have ‘sold my-self short’, allowing circumstances, society, peers and even those people closes to me who I love dearly to dictate my worth, my value and even my purpose to me. 

   Now if there is one thing I have come to realise, it is that if you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.  You will cling to things which do not necessarily serve you, but make you feel special, needed and important even. However, as you are not rooted into something steadfast, as the winds of change blow, you find yourself swept up and away as the wind scoops all that has no roots.  Depending on the strength of this wind, you could be tossed and twirled and blown this way and that and eventually could find yourself landing in the most unlikely place for you to be.  The wind will settle, as will you and because you are not rooted, you will cosy up to the next comfortable thing to cling to, where you will once again feel special, needed and important.  But what if you have landed on a spot which is used as a compost heap?  If you are carrying a void inside of yourself much like the one Iv described, then you will believe that this compost heap needs you, that you are very lucky to be there and should consider yourself lucky to have this purpose.  You will believe this compost talk until they day you discover your most important component......Your WILL.

 “In the midst of her torment, she felt a sense of hope and trying to understand the gravity of the situation, she thought, 'the circumstances do not own me. I am in the moment and I am capable to decide, either to leave or to stay.' Leading her to understand that it didn't matter how low her self-esteem was; for there was another sensation within her, an oomph driving her forward with certainty and not doubt. The people around her could diminish her self-esteem all they wanted; nevertheless no one was competent to take away the source of her dreams, her drive, a faculty that she was inescapably bonded with, but she had not quite identified within--Her Will.” – Another passage from “Her Will” by Floranova B. Msc.

  Ultimately, we need to learn to let go and letting go is never really an easy thing to do, however if we do not learn to let go of whatever it is that is holding us back from our pre-designed destiny and our dreams and if we do not anchor ourselves firmly in the belief that we have a purpose, then we will continue to settle amount the compost leaves.  I don’t know about you, but I would much rather be used in an elaborate and majestically flamboyant bouquet of colour, encouraging a sense and feel of joy, positivity and creatively motivated thoughts posed to the dismal idea of a compost heap.

As we let go of our void within (whatever it may be) we could find that those ever increasing wide empty spaces which cause us to be forever searching for the missing ingredient, are actually wide OPEN spaces and not really empty at all.  Open to be filled with all the ingredients you already possess, but might not be aware of, ingredients such as; self-worth, self-acceptance, hope, creativity, capability.......your own WILL’.  And in letting go of the low-self esteem instigating thoughts and realising your own self-worth and will, your soul and mind and even your heart could find peace, love, hope and  joy......self-acceptance, the very things you may have been searching for all  these years.

So off you go, letting it go and finding something to stand for (if you haven’t already) make your wide open spaces work for you and fill them up with shiny, glittery beauty!

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

All that glitters......

As the steady decline to the end of the year speeds up, we start feeling the pressure of ‘the race to the finish line’ of 2014.  Year-end finals, wrapping up business deals, finalising projects, year-end functions and not to mention holiday arrangements, family gatherings and the highlight of the year, Christmas.  Throughout the year everybody works diligently at earning a living... basically to just remain living.  How often have I not only heard, but said, “We work to survive only, not actually to live”.  We have become so materialistic and even greedy, wanting more and more and more that we have forgotten what the essence of life really is.  As we progress in our careers and move up the corporate ladder so to speak, our standard of living goes up to.  Not that we can afford what we are adapting to, but rather because we have a status image to uphold.  So we end up working harder and longer hours just to be able to meet our self-set needs (which we don’t actually need really, but want rather).

   Then comes Christmas, December holidays, and the ever anticipated count-down to the ‘Happy-New-Year’ celebration and all our hard earnings and savings are blown in a matter of weeks.  365 days minus the holiday and Christmas season of (give or take) three weeks equals 344 days of build up, saving, hard work and hours behind the grinding stone so that we can lavishly enjoy a time of rest and relaxation and rejuvenation before the onset of the bright new year which lies ahead, holding untold adventures, opportunities and truck loads of fortunes to be made. It seems like the more we have the more we want and the more we want the more we spend.  The more we spend the harder we have to work and the harder we work the more time we have to dedicate to work.  The more time we sacrifice the less time we spend with what matters the most, that which is of more value than our comfy homes, luxury vehicles, plasma televisions and the latest’s craze in whatever it is that society dictates to us, our family, friends and loved ones. 

   The mad rush of society has got me (and many others I am sure) frazzled, worn out and exhausted as I try to ‘keep-up’, I find myself craving simplicity.  It is so easy to get caught up in the stigma, in the downward spiral of becoming labelled stereo-type, easily forgetting what really IS of value, what is irreplaceable. Quite frankly I've never been able to ‘fit in’ with the way society works, not really.  Oh, I've played the part well before I managed to come to the conclusion that I don’t need to be like everybody else, I don’t want to be a sheep ( not that I have anything against sheep, they are delightful little fluffy beings, if not a tad on the ‘slow’ side).  I have always been told that I am ‘Stroom op’, yes I guess I am, but I just find it relatively impossible to be ‘stereo type’.  I have always danced to my own rhythm, prancing around in my own little bubble and even though I do love all that glitters, I have realized that it is not all it makes out to be.  However, what does remain loyal and ever present is that which carries more value than all the riches, Christmas presents and elaborate holidays? The people I love. And who love me.  My family, my children and my friends.  Turns out I am rich beyond any comparison.  Blessed with the riches of true love from those closest to me.  And they love me enough to accept me just the way I am. I decorate them in all things shiny and all that glitters (metaphorically speaking of course) as I overpower them with my numerous personalities (only the shiny ones of course) and overwhelm them with glitter in abundance, you see I am an all or nothing kind of girl and I know my all is MUCH and sometimes too much for some to handle, but that’s alright, I love them anyway. I realise I am a special kind and it takes a special kind to ‘survive’ me.  It is for this reason that I acknowledge their value in my life and count myself radically wealthy. 

   As for my year-end holiday, I will not be going to the most elaborate destination lying on a beach and sipping cocktails to my heart’s content, I will rather choose the route of simplicity and dote love on whom ever I get to share the holiday season with (not a lot of R’s needed).

   So happy mad rush and crazy business season as you tie up all the loose ends of 2014 and plan your grand entrance to 2015.  Only nine and a half weeks to Christmas… try not to shop till you drop.  Remember all that glitters is not always gold.

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

  

Bohemian B’s Beat

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Spring is the most exciting time of year for me, watching the world come to life is truly inspiring and for me, this year, it carries so much relevance to life in general, if we look closely enough that is.  In my opinion, this ‘happy’ season brings renewal and inspires new hope.Suddenly the world looks brighter, happier and friendlier as you notice many smiling faces and the sweet aroma in the air is almost intoxicating.  Spring symbolizes new beginnings and the ending of old things.   From the bland browns, grey's and gold colours of winter to the many shades of luscious greens dotted with a flamboyant array of colour as flowers start to bloom.  What’s not to love about this season? As Iris, a dear friend of my Nana once said, “Spring reminds me of romanticism, evoking thoughts of hand written love letters between forbidden lovers, left under the blooming Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow bush in secrecy for the other to find”.

Being the season of renewal, I came to the realization that one of the best services to the world is the service of looking after yourself.  If you cannot love yourself and recognize your own self-worth, you are more of a burden to the world than a pleasure.  How can someone love and respect you if you, yourself don’t deem yourself worthy enough?  Changing this mind-set is not always the easiest thing to accomplish, remembering the change is always a challenge but also not forgetting that it is the opportunity for growth and self-awakening.  Your density is in your hands, the job is yours to achieve and complete, the responsibility is yours alone.  If you can’t make you happy, how can anyone/thing else accomplish that? If you are constantly faced with the negativity in every situation, it is more than likely that you have chosen to feel this way.  Once you decide and commit to something and once your mind is consumed with certain thoughts, you eventually portray what you are thinking to the world.  Remember, misery loves company and the image you portray is what you eventually attract to yourself.  Depending on another to ‘make you happy’, is not only your lack to take responsibility for your own happiness and life but also a huge and unfair responsibility you are placing on another person. 

   I see it like, if you pick flowers from your neighbours garden instead of yours, you are taking what does not belong to you.  Why don’t you plant and tend to your own flowers?  If you ride on someone else’s ‘coat tails’ as they reach for success, then it is their success, not yours, you still need to work for your own.  Yes we all want to feel loved, appreciated, wanted and welcome, however, forcing your way into a certain place or situation or even relationship, is not a recipe for success but rather disaster. Building your happiness on somebody else’s demise or pain will also get you absolutely nothing but an open door for the same thing to happen to you eventually (remember our friend Karma?).

The moral of the story is this, your life is your story.  Your life is your responsibility.  Plant and tend to your own flowers, don’t take what does not belong to you.  Thinking of the Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow bush again, yesterday it was planted, today it is in full bloom and tomorrow winter comes and it will wither and die, making place for the new buds to be welcoming-'ly' appreciated in the new season. 

   Stop, observe, listen and take in the beauty of spring.  Take a moment to smell the fragrance of renewal in the air and choose to be, not only a pleasure, but also of service to the world.  The grass may appear greener on the other side of the fence and maybe it is, but the other side of the fence is not your garden, not your grass.  Work at making the grass on your side of the fence greener as your side is your responsibility.  Don’t try to take somebody else’s grass as you may end up being sorely disappointed in the end with no sense of accomplishment of your own.  So put on that sexy new bikini you've been waiting all winter to flaunt and get busy in your own garden, watering your own grass and tending your own flowers.

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Don’t Blink

Amazing is the magnificence of our town’s very large numbers of self-educated drivers who enthusiastically demonstrate their free spirited nature, mistaking our rough terrain roads for Khyalami.  The use of indicators are seemingly only necessary when traffic officers are spotted in the distance.  And you dare not blink whilst driving as you could open your eyes to complete change in scenery as many of these brilliant drivers have a growing love for abstract metal art. 

Thinking along these lines forced me to retreat into my Bohemian bubble of deep thought and see the relevance of this scene in my own life.  I realised (with horror) that along the rough terrain of my life journey, I have often changed the route direction on many occasions (to many to mention due to pure embarrassment) without indicating, leaving behind other life journey terrain users wondering what had happened to me and where I had veered off to.  Now, whilst I’ve made this decision and embarked along the detoured route, in the process leaving important happenings, opportunities, people and dreams behind, I made the big mistake of blinking.  When I opened my eyes again (they were only closed for a second), years had passed, people had disappeared, dreams had expired, priorities had changed and opportunities had been missed.  If I had followed the coordinated route planned for my life journey and stuck to it, I might have been a ’bonafied’ rocket scientist today, not just the self-proclaimed one I am. Maybe if I had indicated instead for just swerving into the new lane paved with sparkles and glitter (which could actually have been tin foil and shards of glass), someone who knew better (a real rock scientist) could have stopped me and at least have warned me of the dangers of travelling alone.

I would still have continued on that route but at least someone would know where I am and keep watch from a distance while I explore the adventures of curiosity and stubbornness.  The point is this, you are where and when you are in life because that’s where you are meant to be at the right time just don’t veer off without indicating.  And be careful of the adventure trail you chose because initially it may be so adventurous that you lose time and by the time you do open your eyes, finding your way back to the coordinated path might be harder than expected. Only veer off if you are fully prepared to learn the lessons which you will be taught along this road. I don’t regret taking the adventure trail at all, I value each lesson learnt along the way and cherish each memory.   I regret losing everything I gave up (without even realising I did) and all for just that, an adventure. So remember, indicators are not just for vehicles and blinking is a time machine!

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Colour me fabulous

I discovered something so majestic in beauty that I was left in a state of awe recently as I was surfing along my much loved companion, namely social media.  I discovered a wonder of nature which some of you may be familiar with, however this was a first for me, therefore I am obliged to share (sharing is caring after all)

  “Fire Rainbows”.....well....I love beautiful images and the wonders of nature enthrall me with its beauty time and time again. I do love rainbows and I do love fire.  I had to find out more about these Fire Rainbows as I was completely intrigued! So I asked my very knowledgeable and good friend, Google for an explanation and this is what the genius had to say, “Fire Rainbows are neither fire, nor rainbows, but are so called because of their brilliant pastel colours and flame like appearance.  Technically they are known as circumhorizontal arc - an ice halo formed by hexagonal, plate-shaped ice crystals in high level cirrus clouds.  The halo is so large that the arc appears parallel to the horizon, hence the name. Brightly coloured circumhorizontal arcs occur mostly during the summer and between particular latitudes. When the sun is very high in the sky, sunlight entering flat, hexagon shaped ice crystals get split into individual colours just like in a prism”.  Of course genius Google had much more to say on the subject, but I won’t spoil your fun, I know you enjoy Mr Google-ishious just as much as I do, so you can have a chat with him yourself.  Anyway, as per usual, this got my many minds thinking many things that represent this colourful and fiery wonder.    Colour....Bohemians love colour. The more the merrier.  Brighter is better.  Colour also has much significance and reflects one’s mood.  (Once again, information from Google, except this time on the subject of colour therapy.)  And this is where my trail of thought ventures deeper......

   Have you ever heard the saying, ‘don’t lose the moon whilst counting the stars’? Or ‘don’t throw away a diamond while picking up pebbles’?  Well here’s another one for you, (a-la Bohemian B), “don’t miss the colours of the rainbow while chasing the pot of gold at the end”.  We are always so fixated on something else, some form of distraction which in turn has the ability to steer us away from what is beautiful in life, the rainbow for instance.  When we forget to take a minute to ‘smell the roses’ or take in the beauty of the rainbow, because we are too busy chasing that something better, ‘funner’, easier, prettier, we may one day, wake up to the rude awakening  that we have not only lost the colours, but also the fire.  That fire that burns within, our passion.   

  “The conditions required to form a “fire rainbow” is very precise – the sun has to be at an elevation of 58° or greater, there must be high altitude cirrus clouds with plate-shaped ice crystals, and sunlight has to enter the ice crystals at a specific angle. This is why circumhorizontal arc is such a rare phenomenon.”- We are like that I presume, our conditions have to be miraculously perfect for our inner fire to burn, for our radiance to shine. Perhaps if we rather focus on our own inner fire and radiance, our conditions in life could be easier to tolerate and perhaps a bit more manageable. We’d be so consumed with life splendour and our inner beauty and fire would keep us motivated and passionate, that the incredible hardships and disappointments in life would not be all consuming and devastating (even the really ouchy ones) because we would know our own strengths and recognise our beauty and be satisfied in who we are as individuals.

   “Circumhorizon arcs are often seen between lower obscuring clouds”.  This sentence inspired me; it is at our lowest point that we should excrete radiance.  It should be at this low point that we should allow our inner fire to burn the hottest. That to me represents inner strength, a devoted character and true beauty.

I also realized that colour really can lift ones mood and after exploring the benefits of colour therapy  was amazed at what certain colours not only signify, but also how they can lift your spirits and motivate and encourage a happier, more vibrant and self confident you.  It’s time for me to break away from the bleak colours of my winter demeanor and instead, introduce my ‘me-ness to a summery feel good mood. 

   So colour me fabulous! No more chasing pots of gold and picking up pebbles, it’s time to get that inner fire ignited again to blend with the colour of me.  I think I’ll start off with red, which signifies vibrancy and fullness of life. Red also signifies love, passion, excitement, energy and intensity. Red is the colour of fire. (And those who know me know of my fascination with fire......).   So go on then.......try on a colour and be radiantly you!

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

With eyes wide shut......

 I’ve often heard so many people, including or perhaps especially myself, saying they want to mean something to the world, to be remembered, to leave a significant mark.  Everybody wants to make a difference.  Everybody wants to leave some sort of legacy........alright, maybe not everybody, but most certainly all of my ‘me’s’......this has been my ‘unicorn’ that I have chased after for many, many years. 

   We all have fears (although I deny this as much as possible as I want/need to come across as a ‘tough-cookie’, fearless beyond reason......why? [shrugs shoulders and shakes head in absolute confusion] honestly, I have no idea.....) But I think, this past weekend I just realised my biggest fear, the fear of being obsolete. Athazagoraphobia- ‘a fear of being forgotten’.  (http://www.symptoms-of-anxiety-depression.com/athazagoraphobia-fear-of-being-forgotten.html and http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/athazagoraphobia)Athazagoraphobia.  Athazagoraphobia is basically the fear of being forgotten, ignored or abandoned. However, when I saw the enormity of this word, I realized that I cannot possibly have a phobia with a name bigger than the problem! Although, generally speaking, people who suffer from this phobia understand that it is not life-threatening, but often cannot control their feelings. Why are people afraid to be forgotten? Apparently, according to the above mentioned sites, the fear of being forgotten is something totally natural (uhem....normal? ok, obviously not a fear applicable to my selves and I then) because everyone wants to feel important and appreciated by their loved ones.  (And here’s the duzzi of awakenings.....) Loved ones, now you see this is exactly it, so often we are trying insanely hard to leave an impression for THE world that we forget OUR world.   I very recently watched a deeply touching movie, “Tasting the stars”, which immediately stopped my ‘phobia inclined thought patterns’ in their tracks.   As I mentioned, I’ve been chasing the ideal of ‘never being forgotten’ by the world, that I never for one moment realised that I won’t ever be forgotten, by MY world, the ones who are closest to me. The friends and family, who love me, and how I insult them, daily, by creating the impression that they are not important enough to me, that I continually have to chase down, run after, over compensate  and, ....well just to ‘be remembered’.   It should be enough, no, rather it should be all that matters, that I will always be loved, accepted and remembered by them, always.   You want to leave an imprint on the world? Start with your world.  We are so busy chasing ‘something’ that we forget the ‘someone’s’ in our life.  Now this does not for one second mean stop doing ‘good’ for ‘THE’ and ‘YOUR’ world though.  Another interesting conversation I came across is that the worst regret we have in life, is not for the wrong things we did, but rather for the thousands of right things we did for the wrong people. The following response made a universe of sense to me, the response was, “I agree and disagree. The fact that I helped someone who did not deserve it only takes something away from them - not me.  As long as I don't keep helping them after I have realised my error.  I give because I have ‘good’ in me and that's all we need to remember.  I can't own others behaviour - only my own”.  This ties in perfectly with my earlier epiphany.  When we realise our acceptance with the ones who choose to be by our side (whether it be by blood or by choice) and continually endeavour to positively infect our world, we will, with self-confidence and self-esteem, overcome fearful insecurities and as we reach out to those who accept us for who we are, we will inevitably be extending a kindness to the world. The best service you can do to yourself and to others is to live with eyes wide open opposed to wide shut.  Noticing the people who will accept, love and remember you always, not only for the good you possess in your heart, but purely for just being you.

   Don’t stop being a good person and doing good deeds and certainly make sure that you keep your good intentions (even if they are mocked or criticised) but don’t lose sight of yourself  for one, nor the ones closest to you, who continually love you.  Don’t lose sight of the rainbow’s beauty as you chase after the pot of gold.

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Hug a tree day

When you go out into the woods and you take a look at the trees, you will be amazed to see how many different trees there are.  Some are bent, some are straight, and some may be evergreen while others are... whatever, the point is, they are all trees.  You look at the different trees and just accept them for what they are - trees. You ‘allow’ them to just be trees.  You just understand the unspoken explanation for why they all appear so different. You understand that maybe the smaller trees didn’t get enough sunlight and that’s why it turned out the way it did.  You don’t get all emotional about it.  You just allow it, you still appreciate the trees.

However, the minute we get near humans, we lose all that understanding and acceptance.  We are constantly remarking, “you’re too this, or I’m too that”, and our judging mind comes into play and we can’t just allow a human to be human, like the trees.  Maybe we should start looking at people as trees and just appreciate them the way they are.

Every human tree should have a vision for their own life and actually believe in your own ability to ‘figure things out’. We should each use the peaceful principle that trees represent and without self affliction, attempt to have fun making our dreams happen, no matter how little sunlight you have to grow in.  We should adapt the trees patience to grow but always remain persistent.  Most importantly though, we should respect the other ‘trees’ around us as we are all growing, we are all playing the same game of life. 

So how about today we try something different  and put on our rose tinted glasses and imagination caps and see people as trees rather than humans and appreciate them for all the amazing things they are and not any of the things they are not.  Just allow the ‘trees’ to be ‘trees’ and love them for their beauty. Maybe just for today we should look at our own reflection in the mirror and see ourselves as trees, appreciating and loving our leafy, twiggy or just plain tree bark beauty, allowing ourselves to be the tree we were planted to be. Maybe even take it one step further and hug a ‘tree’...go on then... wrap your twigs around a ‘tree’, or even around yourself and just be a happily accepted ‘tree’.

And in parting, remember this, we don’t see things the way they are - we see things the way we are.

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Have a Kit-Kat…

What with working full time, running a dance school (however small, still jam packed with fun), being a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a glorified events planner (for the dance school), performer and never forget… mommy to the four legged kids, free time is an illusion found on comedy central.

   Free time? Nope, I don’t think I am familiar with concept at all.  Now, any mom would know that where kids are concerned, there is always SOMETHING on the program, right now for me, it is one of the biggest happenings in a teenage girls life, that terrifying (and exuberantly expensive I might add) Matric Farewell (has rendered me as wobbly as a jelly fish!). Anyone who knows me and is familiar with my daughter knows that she is a complete ‘mini-me’ - dramatic, eccentric, adventurous and ever so theatrical. This does not make any task a walk in the park I assure you and what makes it even more traumatic is that I know I am exactly the same…  Lucky for me though I have the support of my partner (who is superman by the way… he must be as only a super hero would survive living with my numerous personalities and me!). I also have a best friend who is not only a courtier and a master in the art of creative and ‘mind blowing’ creations, but also the best dose of inspiration and encouragement a friend could wish for.  What does NOT help me in anyway, is that it is apparent that I look like an ATM machine. 

   Anyway, I’m wondering away from the topic again, let me get back to that mysterious illusion called free time.  Just today I was sitting in my miracle working friends’ studio discussing the little princesses elaborate matric farewell attire (well him discussing and me whining). I mentioned to him about my ongoing battle with the ominous time factor and he asked me a very simple question, he asked “but why?” shaking his head in realization that he would need to lay it out for me in Bohemian B’s kind of layman terms, he continued to say that, no matter how much I did or not get done today, tomorrow would still come. He said, “Do what you can today and what you can’t finish today can be done tomorrow.  Tomorrow you handle what you can and what doesn't get done tomorrow will patiently wait for the next day… and so forth.  Obviously, me being me, always having an answer (or argument) for everything, I simply (or maybe a bit more dramatically) replied, “NO! This HAS to be done today!”  His eyes got as big as dinner plates as he asked in horror, “Why? Who is going to die due to your lack of getting to everything?”  Okay, this made me stop, pay attention and even think about what he said. 

   And there you have it wonder-woman.  If it is detrimental to your job, a life or death situation with your family or at home or a horrendously huge national disaster threat which could destroy the plant, then do it today.  If not, tomorrow is another day.  By managing your precious time and dealing with one ‘train-smash’ at a time and ultimately learning to loosen the reigns a bit could benefit you in more ways than you can imagine.  For one, you will enter the day of tomorrow with one less grey hair, one less wrinkle and much more enthusiasm, resulting in efficiency. So now, how about that cup of stress-free tea, undisturbed by your self-inflicted business. 

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Living deliberately, Fate versus fact

Fate vs fact, an on-going dilemma in the history of... well for as long as I can remember.  “I can’t believe that happened to me”.... “Why” and “How” are probably the most commonly asked questions and normally asked with a sense of surprised shock and horror, when very often (no, I never said always) it’s partly, if not completely, our own doing. 

   I do not necessarily believe in coincidence, I believe in living with deliberation and choice.  We were all blessed with the gift of free will and that includes choices.  Sometimes (and I talk from experience) we have a ‘gut’ feeling that we shouldn’t do a particular thing, say a certain thing, go to a specific place, but what do we do? We ignore the little voice and do it anyway.  And oh the horror when things go pear shaped and turn bad and all the while that little voice is looking you up and down smugly and with distain mumbling, “I told you so”. So why do we do it? Are we all natural born dare devils? Or maybe we think we are superior to ‘the voice’ (I’m a famous one for always thinking that I know best… if you don’t believe me just ask, I’ll tell you!).

   But for whatever reason we do what we do, we all have to eventually pay the price for our careless, callous or downright stupid choices.  Payday may not be immediately, but eventually it’ll come knocking on the door demanding its levy. (And trust me, I owe so much to the ‘simply silly or subtly stupid choices levy fund’, that   I’m considered a registered employee there already)

   I am also a firm believer in making mistakes, purely for three simple reasons: 1) Because I make so many of them; 2) Because I am human (referring back to last week’s BBB) and 3) (and this is a ‘biggy’) It’s an opportunity to learn from said mistake and grow from it.  However, a mistake is just that, a mistake.  When it happens the first time it is a mistake, if it happens again it becomes a choice.  It is not coincidental that you end up in the same situation over and over again, it is your choice to continually revert back to square one. 

   I recently read some good advice, “Every moment is a choice.  Every thought, word and deed is creating your future and for that matter the future of the one’s closest to you.  Choose wisely and positively.  Banish fear from your choosing capabilities. Never be afraid to do what is right, especially if the well-being of another person is at stake. Always live with deliberation and make your choices wisely and take the utmost care to avoid the knock on the door when it is time to ‘pay up for your ‘coincidences’.”

   I choose to make a conscious decision to put every effort into making good choices and to avoid coincidence and the consequences at all cost… I will also try to remember that I am classified a human and will not beat myself up for my unintentional mistakes.  “Learn from yesterday. Live for today. Hope for tomorrow.”

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Bohemian B’s Beat

Teleporting pink unicorns

Potholes, public transport, out-of-order traffic lights, reckless drivers, traffic obstructions and the list goes on and on and on.  When you see these words it should evoke feelings of outrage, disbelief and all round negativity (If you reside in Ermelo of course and if you are an earthling).

I was driving in town recently, swerving from one side of the road to the other in an ongoing attempt of dodging the abundance of potholes (some so big that I fear if I fall in there I will either 1. have to wait for a search party to come looking for me or 2. face the possibility of falling right through to the other side of the earth ball...) reminding me of a 4 x 4 trail.  I was just at the point of losing my cool completely as my morning was one where all of the above mentioned ‘hazards’ played a significant role in stripping me of my ‘pink fluffy unicorns, dancing on a rainbow’, happy mood. I have to swerve again to dodge yet another one and swerved myself into a whole new dimension apparently as I got to thinking, what if I was given the task of writing about something horrendously negative using only ‘happy thought’, transforming the entire story line.  So, instead of losing my mind completely (with smoke bellowing from my ears and the whole shebang, like the funny looking little men in cartoons) I proceeded to ‘re-write’ this ongoing squeal of a negative soapy and try fill it with positivity.

 “What if potholes are not potholes at all, but rather portholes to another world?  What if public transport is not in fact public transport at all but rather a teleportation method?What if faulty traffic lights are not faulty but rather just communication devices which are experiencing jammedsignals, as other worlds try (in vain) to contact us? 

This answers a lot of questions actually.  Have you ever met someone and wondered if they are even human at all? (Oh wait…….I’m sure you all think that when you meet me!)   Well to be honest, no I am not human at all, I am super human! (I have reached this conclusion judged by my own standards, so please, don’t get your knickers in a knot)  I think maybe I ‘arrived’ here by means of a teleportation device, through a porthole after the communication signal was received…….. This is the only explanation I can think of which makes any sense (in my world anyway).  Why else would teleportation devise’s, who misunderstand the communication signals, continuously seem to have the urgency to get up close and personal with me by means of swerving as close to me as they possibly can or horridly cut in front of me, forcing me to slam on brakes and notice them?

 Why else would I be surrounded by so many portholes which seem to manifest themselves right in front of me all the time and everywhere?  Could it be that the bubble blowing, pink fluffy unicorns from Rainbow world are missing their Bohemian……? I can only imagine how bored they must be without me……

   Alright, I’ll stop, what I am actually trying to say here is, instead of allowing these very annoying, joy stealing, ‘in your face’ obstacles to ruin your day, rather transform these frustrations into something bazar and hilarious.  This could help turn your frown upside down. Make up your own story and the plus point is, you can re-write it as many times as you need, it’s your story after all, just like your life…..

Well that’s it for today, dreaming up these kind of candy floss thoughts render me hungry……. (For pink smarties)

Glitter greetings (and all things shiny)

Bohemian B

Native American Zodiac Sign Meanings:

Otter: Jan 20 - Feb 18
A little quirky, and unorthodox, the Otter is a hard one to figure sometimes. Perceived as unconventional, the Otter methods aren't the first ones chosen to get the job done. This is a big mistake on the part of others - because although unconventional, the Otter's methods are usually quite effective. Yes, the Otter has unusual way of looking at things, but he/she is equipped with a brilliant imagination and intelligence, allowing him/her an edge over every one else. Often very perceptive and intuitive, the Otter makes a very good friend, and can be very attentive. In a nurturing environment the Otter is sensitive, sympathetic, courageous, and honest. Left to his/her own devices, the Otter can be unscrupulous, lewd, rebellious, and isolated.

Wolf: Feb 19 - Mar 20
Deeply emotional, and wholly passionate, the Wolf is the lover of the zodiac in both the physical and philosophical sense of the word. The Wolf understands that all we need is love, and is fully capable of providing it. Juxtaposed with his/her fierce independence - this Native American animal symbol is a bit of a contradiction in terms. Needing his/her freedom, yet still being quite gentle and compassionate - we get the picture of the "lone wolf" with this sign. In a nurturing environment the Wolf is intensely passionate, generous, deeply affectionate, and gentle. Left to his/her own devices the Wolf can become impractical, recalcitrant, obsessive, and vindictive.

Falcon: Mar 21 - Apr 19
A natural born leader, the Falcon can always be looked upon for clear judgment in sticky situations. Furthermore, the characteristics for this Native American animal symbol never wastes time, rather he/she strikes while the iron is hot, and takes action in what must be done. Ever persistent, and always taking the initiative, the Falcon is a gem of a personality to have for projects or team sports. The Falcon can be a little on the conceited side - but he/she is usually right in his/her opinions - so a little arrogance is understood. In a supportive environmental the Falcon "soars" in his/her ability to maintain passion and fire in relationships, and always remaining compassionate. Left to his/her own devices, the Falcon can be vain, rude, intolerant, impatient, and over-sensitive.

Beaver: Apr 20 - May 20
Take charge, adapt, overcome - this is the Beaver motto. Mostly business, the Beaver is gets the job at hand done with maximum efficiency and aplomb. Strategic, and cunning the Beaver is a force to be reckoned with in matters of business and combat. One might also think twice about engaging the Beaver in a match of wits - as his/her mental acuity is razor sharp. The Beaver has everything going for him/her - however tendencies toward "my way or the highway" get them in trouble. Yes, they are usually right, but the bearer of this Native American animal symbol may need to work on tact. In a nurturing environment the Beaver can be compassionate, generous, helpful, and loyal. Left to his/her own devices the Beaver can be nervous, cowardly, possessive, arrogant, and over-demanding.

Deer Native American Animal Symbol Deer: May 21 - Jun 20
This Native American animal symbol is the muse of the zodiac. The Deer is inspiring lively and quick-witted. With a tailor-made humor, the Deer has a tendency to get a laugh out of anyone. Excellent ability for vocalizing, the Deer is a consummate conversationalist. This combined with his/her natural intelligence make the Deer a must-have guest at dinner parties. Always aware of his/her surroundings, and even more aware of his/her appearance, the Deer can be a bit self-involved. However, the Deer's narcissism is overlooked because of his/her congeniality and affability. In a supportive environment the Deer's natural liveliness and sparkly personality radiate even more. He/she is an inspiring force in any nurturing relationship. Left to his/her own devices the Deer can be selfish, moody, impatient, lazy, and two-faced.

Woodpecker: Jun 21 - Jul 21
Woodpeckers are usually the most nurturing of all the Native American animal symbols. The consummate listener, totally empathic and understanding, the Woodpecker is the one to have on your side when you need support. Of course, they make wonderful parents, and equally wonderful friends and partners. Another proverbial feather in the Woodpeckers cap is the tendency to be naturally frugal, resourceful, and organized. In a nurturing environment the Woodpecker is of course caring, devoted, and very romantic. Left to his/her own devices the Woodpecker can be possessive, angry, jealous, and spiteful.

Salmon: Jul 22 - Aug 21
Electric, focused, intuitive, and wholly creative, the Salmon is a real live-wire. His/her energy is palpable. A natural motivator, the Salmon's confidence and enthusiasm is easily infectious. Soon, everybody is onboard with the Salmon - even if the idea seems too hair-brained to work. Generous, intelligent, and intuitive, it's no wonder why the Salmon has no shortage of friends. This Native American animal symbol expresses a need for purpose and goals, and has no trouble finding volunteers for his/her personal crusades. In a supportive environment, the Salmon is stable, calm, sensual, and giving. Left to his/her own devices, those that bear this Native American animal symbol can be egotistical, vulgar, and intolerant of others.

Bear: Aug 22 - Sep 21
Pragmatic, and methodical the Bear is the one to call when a steady hand is needed. The Bear's practicality and level-headedness makes him/her an excellent business partner. Usually the voice of reason in most scenarios, the Bear is a good balance for Owls. The Bear is also gifted with an enormous heart, and a penchant for generosity. However, one might not know it as the Bear tends to be very modest, and a bit shy. In a loving environment this Native American animal symbol showers love and generosity in return. Further, the Bear has a capacity for patience and temperance, which makes him/her excellent teachers and mentors. Left to his/her own devices the bear can be skeptical, sloth, small-minded and reclusive.

Raven: Sep 22 - Oct 22
Highly enthusiastic, and a natural entrepreneur, the Crow is quite a charmer. But he/she doesn't have to work at being charming - it comes easily. Everyone recognizes the Crow's easy energy, and everyone turns to the Crow for his/her ideas and opinions. This is because the Crow is both idealistic and diplomatic and is quite ingenious. In nurturing environments this Native American animal symbol is easy-going, can be romantic, and soft-spoken. Further, the crow can be quite patient, and intuitive in relationships. Left to his/her own devices, the Crow can be demanding, inconsistent, vindictive, and abrasive.

Snake: Oct 23 - Nov 22
Most shamans are born under this Native American animal symbol. The Snake is a natural in all matters of spirit. Easily attuned to the ethereal realm the Snake makes an excellent spiritual leader. Also respected for his/her healing capacities, the Snake also excels in medical professions. The Snake's preoccupation with matters intangible often lead others to view them as mysterious, and sometimes frightening. True, the Snake can be secretive, and a bit dark - he/she is also quite sensitive, and caring. In a supportive relationship the cool Snake can be passionate, inspiring, humorous, and helpful. Left to his/her own devices, the Snake can be despondent, violent, and prone to abnormal mood swings.

Owl: Nov 23 - Dec 21
Changeable and mutable as the wind, the Owl is a tough one to pin down. Warm, natural, with an easy-going nature, the Owl is friend to the world. The bearer of this Native American animal symbol is notorious for engaging in life at full speed, and whole-hearted loves adventure. This can be to his/her detriment as the Owl can be reckless, careless, and thoughtless. Owls make great artists, teachers, and conservationists. However, due to his/her adaptability and versatility - the Owl would likely excel in any occupation. In a supportive, nurturing environment the Owl is sensitive, enthusiastic, and an attentive listener. Left to his/her own devices, the Owl can be excessive, overindulgent, bitter, and belligerent.

Goose: Dec 22 - Jan 19
If you want something done - give it to the Goose. Persevering, dogged, and ambitious to a fault, the Goose sets goals for accomplishment, and always obtains them. The goose is determined to succeed at all cost - not for the approval of other - but those with this Native American animal symbol competes with his/her own internal foe. Driven is the watchword for the Goose's dominating personality trait - which makes them excellent in business and competitive sports. When tempered with supportive, nurturing family and friends, the Goose excels in all things he/she attempts. In a loving environment the Goose can be very passionate, humorous, gregarious, and even sensual. However, lead to his/her own devises, the Goose may fall into obsessive or addictive behaviors that will inevitably be his/her demise.

Source: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/native-american-animal-symbols.htm