Amazing Grace

Yes, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the starcards are being sent out into the universe in different forms. I am hopeful that some more of them will find their way back to me and I will post them as they come, but for now, a few of my own thoughts as to inspiration and creativity.

Another movie for you about creating miracles -- have you seen Amazing Grace? It's a Hollywood rendition of the true story of William Wilberforce, the man credited with changing the hearts and minds of Britain, culminating in ending the slave trade.

Never forget that one person truly can change the world.

This is an entertaining, inspiring movie starring a powerhouse cast of talent, including Ioan Gruffudd (as Wilberforce), Albert Finney, Michael Gambon, Rufus Sewell, and Ciaran Hinds. The movie came out in 2007, just in time for the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade across the British Empire. I highly recommend it.

For more information on the movie and the man, you may be interested in the following:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Wilberforce

http://www.wilberforcecentral.org/wfc/index.htm

http://www.amazinggracemovie.com/index.php


As for the mighty phoenix...

A symbol of hope, transformation, rebirth, reinvigoration, the phoenix has always been a central symbol in our family. There have been times in our life together when we felt it truly reflected our experiences. And a few years ago, our nearly 13-year-old son, who loves all things fantasy and whose favorite color has been yellow since he could grasp objects at 2 months, took on the mythical animal as his favorite (though it's neck & neck these days with dragons).

I believe we are all capable of great things, and that no matter what mistakes, what bad choices or strange circumstances we have been confronted with in our own lives, we have the capacity to rise from our own ashes and soar to mighty heights. Often, we shackle ourselves with negative thoughts or self-criticism, crippling or sabotaging our own efforts to move forward.

So today, as I decide to continue my own journey with my beloved starcards, I offer you an image of the phoenix, the inspiring legendary firebird that reinvents itself to live a new life:



I salute your journey, I honor your dreams, I bless you on your path... May you find the courage, the hope and the joy you need to change your world, in whatever way you choose.

It's within you. Be inspired. Allow yourself to shine!