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A Message from Tama

You Are in the Best of Times

I’m growing/making changes in my business and life. “Reinvention” is a lovely term. It sounds like I know what I’m doing. Like some Lexus engineer in a white lab coat, retooling designs based on crash tests, forecasts, and a genius’ scratch pads. All I’ve got is scratch pads.

I need to take actions, but there are many choices and they mean so much. I feel like a contestant on a game show, where it’s all on the line. Choose the wrong thing and you’re buzzed off the show, kicked from the candy store, in front of millions of people who criticize you. Damn, I want to wake up in the palace already, where life is handled and champagne is served at 4:00p.m upon a golden tray. Some days, I don’t want to be a hero. I want a butler. I don’t want to find my secret strength.  I want to watch re-runs of Gray’s Anatomy. 

I know you know what I’m talking about.

It’s not always easy to be really alive, knowing something bigger calls you, knowing you can’t stay where you are, and knowing you don’t always feel up to the assignment of “being great.” And just so you know, I already have amazing success at doing work I love. But the quest is the quest. It’s the journey to continually realize more of who you are, fly higher, burn brighter, shed excuses. 

One day, seeing as the Gray’s Anatomy life plan was out, I wrote a letter to the frightened part of myself. I’m going to share it with you. I want to speak to all the frightened parts of all the heroes at large, some hiding under the covers, others feverishly searching the Internet for what they think will answer them. I want to help you put things in perspective. Help you run another mile. Take another breath. And not just survive--rejoice.

“Dear One,

I know you just want to get through this time. But I want you to woo this time. Don’t rush. Take your time, because nothing that is yours, is a matter of harried timing.  Everything occurs in its own right hour and you simply can’t breach the laws of Reality.

I am proud of you. You will make all the right decisions for you. And you will make new ones on the spot with new information. You will have a thousand chances. Everything is a chance. Step out of linear time into inspired time. Let padlocks burst off ancient doors, dried rivers flow again and flood, payments and contracts come in ways you can’t imagine-- and know that anything is possible for you. Discover a path you can’t imagine by following your desire. This is not a life of calculation, but one of revelation.

The voice that tells you that you only have one chance to get this right is a voice that only has one gnarly, decaying brain cell in its head. It only has one agenda, the agenda to make you wrong. Really, do you think this voice is “protecting” you by shaming and threatening you? Any advice that torments or limits you is not advice. It’s damnation.

I am here to tell you that you are made of astonishment. You are finding your way, even when you are losing it. You will prevail. You will always end up where you belong. It’s in your soul’s DNA and the programming of every particle of life dust. It’s not about the facts of your situation. It’s about the blossoming. You are learning to tune in to the signal that will take you all the way. You are learning to listen to nothing in this life, but that which strengthens you.  So will you --right now-- thank yourself for everything, everything, everything, and I mean everything, past, present, and to come, no matter what? Now that’s a viable prayer. It’s all that matters in the end. It’s what the journey’s all about.

Besides, there are a thousand outcomes that will help you thrive. There is no outcome that will not bless you. You bring the light with you. You’re the homecoming queen thinking she needs to win the election. You’ve already won. You’re already chosen. It’s already done. The whole world is simply waiting for you to choose yourself.  It will wait forever with baited breath. You are that valuable and necessary. We all are. 

No matter where you find yourself, you can always choose again. As long as you have breath, you have choice and chances. There is no maze, there is only this moment.  There is no cheese in the distance. The cheese is here. It’s everywhere. It’s only complex when you do not breathe in self-appreciation and self-forgiveness.  You’re not meant to be in a maze. You are meant to be in amazement.

 Do take in the privilege of being alive, having choices, drama and desires. There are those who are dying right now that would give anything to test their metals once again, explore their capacities, reach for the highest within them, be engaged in the fray of living. They would give anything to be where you are. There are those who are aching to have the chance you have right now—the chance to encourage themselves and try new things and keep going no matter what, until the light runs out. There are those who are fondly looking back to times in their lives, when they stood where you stand right now. The times you are trying to run from, some say were the best in all their lives.

Acknowledge your courage. It is not easy to be born strong and to crave higher ground. You have an adventurer in you. You are made of quester fabric. You knew there were wonders and you came with a satchel.  You would never be happy at the end of your days, having played it airtight and guarded, never knowing where your adventure could have gone. Especially since you do know where the power of love is meant to take you.

You know this world is not quite what it seems, not stable and made of mortar and brick, but really constructed of ideas and thoughts and preferences, nuances and choices. You know it’s made of magic. You want to realize the power of your thoughts. You know you didn’t come here just to buy a nice car. You came to have a ride.

Of course you’re frightened-- but it’s because you’re in the game. Your blood pumps and your breath quickens. You’ll bleed if the knife cuts and that’s a good thing. It means you haven’t given up. You’re still invested.

 You didn’t come into this lifetime to avoid desire and risk and get to the finish line without a smudge, a scar, or a difference in your point of view. You want to have dared. You want to have put everything into it. You want to have been broken open, shaken, touched, moved, for something you wanted, something you believed in, something you trusted in the deepest part of your being. You won’t look back and wish you’d tucked your tail in and given up. You won’t wish you’d sat it out and watched the others on television live amazing lives. You wanted to get wet. You wanted to know. You did know.

Yes, dear one, it’s good to be afraid.

It’s important that you’re living a life that matters.”

That’s what I wrote. That’s what I know. That’s what I’m holding for myself-- and all the awakening hearts who are gathering in this revolution-- of evolution. We are many, by the way.

Now I’ll leave you with what Edward Abbey wrote in The Benediction:

“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds. May your rivers flow without end, meandering through pastoral valleys tinkling with bells, past temples and castles and poets' towers into a dark primeval forest where tigers belch and monkeys howl, through miasmal and mysterious swamps and down into a desert of red rock, blue mesas, domes and pinnacles and grottos of endless stone, and down again into a deep vast ancient unknown chasm where bars of sunlight blaze on profiled cliffs, where deer walk across the white sand beaches, where storms come and go as lightning clangs upon the high crags, where something strange and more beautiful and more full of wonder than your deepest dreams waits for you­ beyond the next turning of the canyon walls."


Tama

P.S. I have a self-loving suggestion for you: if you want daily inspiration, motivation, and reminders, come join me on my Facebook Fan page. In addition to my daily post, you'll enjoy the love and intimate sharing that goes on there. Join us now and tell your friends and loved ones, too!

©Copyright 2011 Tama J. Kieves. All rights reserved.

Feel free to forward this copy to anyone you think might enjoy it. Please keep the entire message intact, including contact, logo, and copyright information. Thank you. This message is from Tama's monthly email newsletter
www.AwakeningArtistry.com

BEHIND THE SCENES AT AWAKENING ARTISTRY

Hey everyone, I’ll just get to the BIG NEWS first. We have a publication date set for the release of Tama’s next book. It’s scheduled to be released in late August of 2012 by Tarcher/Penguin. Although things can still change this early in the process, the title is currently set to be Inspired and Unstoppable: Wildly Succeeding in Your Life’s Work! If you think This Time I Dance! Creating the Work You Love was powerful and inspiring, wait until you read this one! With her usual irreverent humor, naked honesty, grounded practicality, and engaging writing style, Tama takes us on the journey of bringing our life’s work into the world and taking it all the way. We’ll have many more exciting things to share as we get closer to the big release date.
 
 Here are a few things going on right now…
 
*** Tama is launching a new group coaching program! YAY, please. We’re really excited. For years, people have wanted to coach with Tama individually and we couldn’t always make that happen or they couldn’t. Or they couldn’t make it to one of her life-changing retreats. Now you can join Tama (LIVE!) and get weekly support, guidance, assignments, and ENERGY—from your kitchen or living room. And you will love the other members of this amazing group! Sign up by Nov 15th and you’ll get a big discount. The program starts in February.

THE PASSION FINDER MONTH LONG PROGRAM: UNLEASH YOUR CALLING!
A month long group coaching experience (via phone) with TAMA!
Thursday nights, February 2-23, 2012, 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Want to find your calling or bring it full on into your life? Let’s talk!
MORE INFO:
http://www.awakeningartistry.com/pdf/PassionFinder-Feb2012.pdf
REGISTER:
https://www.awakeningartistry.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=162

NOTE: This program was originally planned to start  in October. It was rescheduled to accommodate Tama’s travel schedule.

SIGN UP BY November 15, and you will save $100.00!! Plus you’ll love securing your space.

*** It’s not official but there’s a good chance that Tama will be speaking at the TEDx  conference in Denver this December! This is an independently organized TED event with ties to the main TED conference. Tama and TED. We love the sound of that! Tama has always loved the fresh and revolutionary contribution TED has brought to our world.

*** “ This was the best thing that has ever happened to me! And you can quote me.” That’s what Cathy Purcell said about Tama’s retreat earlier this month at the renowned Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in the Berkshire Mountains of Lenox, MA. Tama is still getting thank you letters from that retreat and she’s still in touch with the tribe. Missed it? No worries. Tama is leading another Unleash Your Calling: Create the Work and Life You Love retreat at Kripalu January 6th - 8th, 2012. Plan now to kick off your New Year right! Give yourself the gift of you. These retreats are amazing opportunities to find new clarities and a tap into strength and inner resources that you didn’t know existed. Surrounded by beauty and spacious time, you’ll have an opportunity to connect with your own inspired wisdom through group interaction, Tama’s world-class coaching and guidance, and breakthrough exercises.
MORE INFO:
http://www.awakeningartistry.com/pdf/UYC-Kripalu-Oct11Jan12.pdf
VIDEO REVIEWS:
http://www.awakeningartistry.com/kripalu-review-video.html
REGISTER:
http://www.kripalu.org/program/view/ULYC-121/unleash_your_calling_creating_the_work_and_life_you

*** Also kicking off the New Year, if you’re in Denver or can get to Denver, join us for a retreat day with Tama, “Living Your Sweetest Year Yet: Ushering in the New Year with Intention and Grace”
MORE INFO:
http://awakeningartistry.com/pdf/YourSweetestYearYet-Dec2011.pdf
REGISTER:
https://www.awakeningartistry.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=165

***And finally, want to read This Time I Dance! Create the Work You Love with a book group in January? Join other book groups and (book groups of one) on Tama’s Facebook page for virtual support and discussion with TAMA. You might want to “LIKE” her Facebook page now so you’re set to go!
 
Wishing you all continued blessings on your journey,

Paul

RETREAT SPOTLIGHT: Says Tama: "If you could only do ONE thing towards living your dreams, this is it. I'd suggest getting to this retreat even more than signing up for personal coaching with me. I'd make less money -- but there is nothing like this experience!" January 6-8, 2012 UNLEASHING YOUR CALLING: An Intensive to CREATE THE WORK & LIFE YOU LOVE In the Berkshire Mountains at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health Lenox, Massachusetts Do you feel empty in your career? Or wish you could catapult your vision or creativity into the world, and pay the bills? Come join Tama Kieves, best-selling author of THIS TIME I DANCE! Creating the Work You Love and learn how to get past fears and step into your unparalleled work in this world. As a former corporate Harvard Law School-trained attorney, turned writer, international teaching catalyst, and sought-after career coach, Tama will mentor and ignite your career transformation with breakthrough exercises she's used to help thousands world-wide to discover and live their true work in the world. Meet amazing, creative, intelligent people like you who are committed to the adventure of their lifetimes. An optional support group follows. Bring some friends...and really kick up your energy and commitment! More information: For more information or to register, phone Kripalu at 1-866-200-5203, or: Download an event flyer (PDF) Visit the event page on the Kripalu web site Learn more about Tama's Kripalu programs Watch video reviews of Tama's Kripalu programs

THE PASSION FINDER: New Group Coaching Program Beginning in 2012 with Tama, register NOW and SAVE!

What's new? A month long group coaching experience (via phone) with TAMA!

Still not sure what your calling is -- or how to create the work you love? Let's talk. How about Thursday nights? February 2-23, 2012, 6:00-7:00pm Mountain Time (Starts 5:00pm PST, 7:00pm CST, 8:00pm EST).

Says Tama: “I want you to develop the ability to experience miracles. Following your passion isn't about taking an assessment test - it's about uncovering your crazy love and giftedness and approaching life on terms that honor your individual calling. Believe me: you have a calling. And the world is waiting for you to put it to use; it's ready to open up with opportunities, connections and success . . . but only once you choose to obey your inner voice and stop compromising on your desires."

4 weeks of intuitive laser attention and direction with Tama herself, a career coaching catalyst for 20 years, "rocket fuel for your destiny," someone who is wildly passionate about her work....and yours.

Come experience the crazy momentum of working together with a group of powerful, courageous souls-- devoted to living their highest purpose & true lives NOW! This program costs $299.00 and includes the audio recordings of every session and a special message board forum where you can discuss your breakthroughs, questions, insights and concerns with Tama and the group. If you booked an individual 40 minute session with Tama, it would cost $245.00. This entire month-long program costs $299.00...or less!

Tuition Information:
Introductory Rate: $199 (offer expires November 15, 2011)
Standard Rate: $299 (offer expires January 15, 2012)
Late-to-Class Rate: $349 (offer expires January 31, 2012)

October 2011

October 29 -- Denver CO
Inspired Success Bootcamp: Wildly Succeeding in Your Life's Work
Workshop offered through Colorado Free University
[ More info ]


November 2011

November 1 -- ONLINE
Creating the Work You Love E-Course
Twelve-week self-paced E-Course begins
[ More info ]
[ Watch intro video ]

November 8 -- ONLINE
A Course in TRUST
Eight-week self-paced E-Course begins
[ More info ]


January 2012

January 6-8 -- Lenox MA
Unleashing Your Calling: Creating the Work and Life You Love
Retreat at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
[ More info ]


February 2012

February 2-23 -- By Phone
NEW: The Passion Finder Month-Long Program: Unleash Your Calling!
New group coaching program!
Four Thursday nights, 6:00-7:00pm Mountain Time
[ More info ]


June 2012

June 8-10 -- Red Feather Lakes, CO
Unleashing Your Calling: Creating the Work and Life You Love
Retreat at the Shambhala Mountain Center
[ More info ]


August 2012

August 10-12 -- Rhinebeck, NY
Unleashing Your Calling: Creating the Work and Life You Love
Retreat at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies
[ More info ]






DESTINATION VACATIONS:

We are very excited about the world-class destination vacations and life-changing retreats Tama has scheduled for 2012, and want to help you plan ahead and not miss out on the time of your life!!

January 6-8, 2012
UNLEASHING YOUR CALLING:
CREATING THE WORK & LIFE YOU LOVE
In the Berkshire Mountains at the world-renowned Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Lenox, Massachusetts

Do you crave meaningful work? Or ache to creatively express yourself or help the world...and get paid for it? Your wildest dreams are not frivolous. They are your source for inspired abilities and explosive direction. And in uncertain economic times, true passion is your greatest security.

Come join Tama and experience moving past fears and confusion, to uncover and thrive in your authentic calling. As a former corporate Harvard Law School-trained attorney, turned writer and international teaching catalyst, she has personally walked the path of creative and unconventional success. In a synergistic and supportive environment, you will work through the inspired and practical strategies she's used to help thousands world-wide to discover and live their true work.

Take the time to step into another life...and join other entrepreneurial and creative minds in this hands-on, joyful, and transformative intensive. Learn how to: live from inspiration instead of fear* choose the right passion and stay on fire *tap unstoppable inner strength* turn your talents into income * uncover compelling strategies to achieve your dreams* get the support you need and *trust the power and magic of unconventional choices. Packed with turn-your-life-around exercises, heightened creativity, group support, personal attention, and passionate mentoring! And an Optional support group follows. For more information or to register, phone Kripalu at 1-866-200-5203, or:

• Download an event flyer (PDF)
• Visit the event page on the Kripalu web site
• Learn more about Tama's Kripalu programs
• Watch video reviews of Tama's Kripalu programs

June 8-10, 2012
UNLEASHING YOUR CALLING:
CREATING THE WORK & LIFE YOU LOVE
Retreat at Shambhala Mountain Center
Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Do you crave meaningful work? Do you yearn to express yourself creatively, help the world, and get paid for it? Your wildest dreams are not frivolous. They are your source for inspired abilities and explosive direction. In uncertain economic times, true passion is your greatest security.

Using inspired and practical strategies, you will learn how to live from inspiration instead of fear; choose the right passion and stay on fire; tap unstoppable inner strength; turn your talents into income; uncover compelling strategies to achieve your dreams; find the support you need; and trust the power and magic of unconventional choices. Packed with breakthrough exercises, inspired group support, and passionate mentoring, take your dreams to the next level!

For more information, please download an event flyer.

August 10-12, 2012
UNLEASHING YOUR CALLING:
CREATING THE WORK & LIFE YOU LOVE
Retreat at the world-famous Omega Institute for Holistic Studies
Rhinebeck, New York

Join us at the world-famous Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck, New York (there is a shuttle from Manhattan). Omega's healing lakeside facility is set on 195 acres of rolling hills, meditative gardens, surrounded by woodlands. It's a walker's paradise and a healing place to slow down, relax, and breathe.

Do you feel stuck in your career? Wish you could start a business, take time out, dive into your art---and pay the bills? Your wildest dreams are not frivolous. They are your source for inspired abilities and explosive direction, and in uncertain economic times, true passion is your greatest security.

Join Tama and learn how to get past fear to discover and flourish in your authentic calling. A former corporate attorney, Tama reveals lessons she learned from her career transformation—plus practical strategies she's used to help thousands world-wide to discover and live their creative dreams. This program is packed with powerful life-changing exercises, fear-busters & fun, soul-stirring creative time and space, & passionate mentoring. Come get the support you need!

For more information, please download an event flyer.