#soothing meditation music save me

[brasideios]

One of those mornings where I’ve woken up feeling like I’ve been running on the spot, pumped for action, ready to fight anyone and everyone for no reason whatsoever. No fight is likely or desirable.

Excited to sit down with the bookkeeping I’m expected to do today in this frame of mind, see how that goes. I’m sure it’ll be fantastically easy 😂

[cosmicdream222]

DMT breathwork video to enter the void

This morning after I got up and fed the cats, I felt like going back to bed to meditate. I looked through some of my saved videos for inspiration and decided to do a breathwork video. I have practiced breathwork on and off since around 2018 and I highly recommend it for overall wellness and nervous system regulation, but in the past few months I’ve seen it recommended many times to enter the void or shift.

Wim Hoff style breathwork is the one I’ve seen recommended, but I just could not get over the guy’s overhyping cartoonish-sounding voice 😭 So a few months ago I found this YT breathwork teacher Breathe with Sandy who has Wim Hoff style guided videos. His voice is sooo soothing, his audio/video production and sound mixing are top quality, and the dude really knows what he’s doing!

He published this DMT breathwork video on Christmas and since then I had tried it a few times and enjoyed it. I figured I would do the video and then queued up something to chill out to afterwards.

This kind of breathwork is pretty intense tbh, and I thought there were only 3 rounds, but there are 4. When he said we were starting the 4th and final round I thought omg another one 😭 I need a break for a sec. So I just stopped the breathing pattern for a min and zoned out.

Next thing I know I can’t feel anything, can’t hear the music or Sandy’s voice, can’t hear the loud brown noise I have playing in my room. Holy sh!t did I really just enter the void that easily!? Yes, yes I did 😭 I was so startled and surprised that I couldn’t even feel my headphones or hear anything that I snapped my awareness back to the room to hear the video again.

But omg y’all I wasn’t even trying or affirming for the void cuz I figured I would after the video ended. I’m so shocked it happened so quickly and easily. Next time ima not be so shocked and actually affirm for something 😭

So my fellow void seekers, give this video a try and see what happens. If you’ve never tried breathwork before it can be really intense, and you might need to practice a few times before you get the hang of it. But if you’re someone like me who overthinks and gets too impatient with traditional mediation, breathwork might be the way to go ✌️

Note: “breath retention” means holding your breath. Wim Hoff style breathing, what Sandy uses in this video, does the breath retention on the exhale - when the lungs are empty. The style of breathwork I learned from Tony Robbins and a trauma-informed breathwork coach Samantha Skelly does the breath retention on the inhale - when the lungs are full.

I don’t know the reasoning behind either style, but I prefer to do the breath hold when my lungs are full and that’s what I did this time too.

[kissesandarsenic]

Imagining werewolf girlfriend gets tired of you teasing her about some of her traits and calling her a puppy. So she installs a trigger to make you act like a bitch in heat. Forcing you to hump her thigh and beg like a good little puppy.

I’d like to go with Treat! and my limits are anything involving feet or Anal otherwise go wild

Of course, you don't notice anything amiss when your girlfriend suggests you watch this new video she found online. What could you possibly have to worry about from your adorable loving puppy?

Sure, she's bigger and so much stronger than you. She could tear you to pieces with her teeth and claws if the mood struck her. But she's so loyal and eager to please. And right now, in her humanoid form, you can imagine her large tail wagging excitedly behind her.

Who are you to deny her request?

You sit back on the couch and watch the video and it's... strange. Like a guided meditation? Some strange swirling pattern mixed with a soothing voice and low calming music. Honestly, when you look back you'll have a hard time recalling what exactly you watched.

You nod off part way through and are shaken awake by your girlfriend. You apologise, but she waves it off, metaphorical tail still wagging. That should be a red flag given how upset she normally gets when you fall asleep during the shows she likes. But you're too relieved to avoid the sad puppy eyes to pay any mind.

It's not like you could have done much to save yourself at that point, anyway...

Later that night when you're settling into the bed, you lean over and give your girlfriend a chaste kiss on the cheek. You go to pull away, when she grabs you by the jaw and tilts your face towards her, locking your lips together.

You feel a strange heat tingling at the bottom of your spine... Slowly crawling up up up until it consumes you like wildfire. Sweat beads and trickles down your forehead. Your clothes feel too tight and itchy and you're consumed with the desire to strip naked. A desire that's much too hard to resist.

A whine bubbles up in the back of your throat as you pull off your shirt, pants and underwear. You launch yourself at your girlfriend, trying to lower yourself down onto her thick thigh so you can quench that wanton need by grinding away mindlessly like a silly pup in heat.

Her hands grip into your sides, claws digging into flesh. She's using her strength to keep you from moving. You let out a pitiful sound and get a low chuckle in response.

'Aw...' the sound of your girlfriend's voice drips with condescension. 'Is it all too much, sweetness?'

It's a tone you recognise, one that's poured from your lips dozens of times before. You look into your girlfriend's face and see a wolfish grin stretching her cheeks. If anything, it makes your heart beat faster.

'Are you needy for me, puppy?' she asks. You try to grind down, whimpering, but her claws only dig in more. 'Uh uh, none of that. You thought it was fun to tease me. But now it's your turn to be my cute little mindless pet. Desperate for their owner's touch.'

Fuck. You'd never been one to submit before, but something in those words makes it sound so deliriously good.

You whine again, a mortifying sound not unlike that of a real mutt. She laughs and you feel your cheeks blaze hot.

It's going to be a long night spent grinding up against her, begging for more stimulation and an end to the heat she's triggered inside you.

Trick or Treat Ask Game! Send in a fantasy with a "Trick" or "Treat" attached and I'll elaborate on it!

[merakisphere]

After running my handmade mandala shop for over 4+ years, here are some popular questions I get asked:

Are these really handmade, or do you import them in from somewhere? - Yes, these are handmade by myself. Every order that comes in is handcrafted as you see in the video above.

If you don't have a style I want, can I request my own personalization? - Absolutely! I love custom requests, and can discuss with you about creating the perfect mandala. If I don't have the beads, I will go out and get it. :)

Where are you located? Do you ship to Italy? - I am in Edmonton, AB Canada, and just recently I now offer worldwide shipping, which includes Italy.

I want to try making it! Can I ask you how it's made? - Of course! No gate-keeping here. I believe the process is as soothing and enjoyable as the end product itself. I sell DIY kits with prepared pieces. All you have to do is assemble it. I also have many tutorials on my TikTok and Instagram accounts. Please feel free to ask me any questions as well.

What are some ways to use this mandala thingamajig? - Some ways I use mine, as well as how customers use theirs include: fashionable bracelet, hair bun basket, Christmas tree ornament, sensory fidget toy, unique desk decor, meditation tool, fruit holder, mantle display, air plant holder, gift idea, and more!

Shop my 3D wire mandala stims, bracelets, and Orbi Loops™ from my Etsy shop! Use this share & save link www.merakisphere.etsy.com | Use Code: TUMBLR for a special discount. :)

Thank you for your support! Please consider sharing this so others know my handmade mandalas are #actuallyhandmade! In a world of industrial goods and manufacturing, it’s sometimes hard to know which products are truly made by hand. 🙌🏼

Music: Wander

Musician: @iksonmusic

[graff1980]

They can’t see me, yearning to connect, but stay free, floating in eternity, a soft sparkle in the infinite distant, safe in music, colors soothing, whilst I am moving beyond the atmosphere, and what others imagined here.

I can hear the sound of one body dancing in a vacuum, slowly grooving and loosing all the gravity that was holding on to me.

There is so much more calling. I can almost touch the purple vapors, savor and save sterling sights for later, weightless in my meditation, light years away from the day’s struggles and frustrations, embraced by the solar winds that are racing from Saturn’s rings around the moon and through me.

Free……free… free….floating...

-2023

[poems-from-around-the-world]

Frost at Midnight - Samuel Taylor Coleridge - UK

The Frost performs its secret ministry,

Unhelped by any wind. The owlet's cry

Came loud—and hark, again! loud as before.

The inmates of my cottage, all at rest,

Have left me to that solitude, which suits

Abstruser musings: save that at my side

My cradled infant slumbers peacefully.

'Tis calm indeed! so calm, that it disturbs

And vexes meditation with its strange

And extreme silentness. Sea, hill, and wood,

This populous village! Sea, and hill, and wood,

With all the numberless goings-on of life,

Inaudible as dreams! the thin blue flame

Lies on my low-burnt fire, and quivers not;

Only that film, which fluttered on the grate,

Still flutters there, the sole unquiet thing.

Methinks, its motion in this hush of nature

Gives it dim sympathies with me who live,

Making it a companionable form,

Whose puny flaps and freaks the idling Spirit

By its own moods interprets, every where

Echo or mirror seeking of itself,

And makes a toy of Thought.

                      But O! how oft,

How oft, at school, with most believing mind,

Presageful, have I gazed upon the bars,

To watch that fluttering stranger ! and as oft

With unclosed lids, already had I dreamt

Of my sweet birth-place, and the old church-tower,

Whose bells, the poor man's only music, rang

From morn to evening, all the hot Fair-day,

So sweetly, that they stirred and haunted me

With a wild pleasure, falling on mine ear

Most like articulate sounds of things to come!

So gazed I, till the soothing things, I dreamt,

Lulled me to sleep, and sleep prolonged my dreams!

And so I brooded all the following morn,

Awed by the stern preceptor's face, mine eye

Fixed with mock study on my swimming book:

Save if the door half opened, and I snatched

A hasty glance, and still my heart leaped up,

For still I hoped to see the stranger's face,

Townsman, or aunt, or sister more beloved,

My play-mate when we both were clothed alike!

         Dear Babe, that sleepest cradled by my side,

Whose gentle breathings, heard in this deep calm,

Fill up the intersperséd vacancies

And momentary pauses of the thought!

My babe so beautiful! it thrills my heart

With tender gladness, thus to look at thee,

And think that thou shalt learn far other lore,

And in far other scenes! For I was reared

In the great city, pent 'mid cloisters dim,

And saw nought lovely but the sky and stars.

But thou, my babe! shalt wander like a breeze

By lakes and sandy shores, beneath the crags

Of ancient mountain, and beneath the clouds,

Which image in their bulk both lakes and shores

And mountain crags: so shalt thou see and hear

The lovely shapes and sounds intelligible

Of that eternal language, which thy God

Utters, who from eternity doth teach

Himself in all, and all things in himself.

Great universal Teacher! he shall mould

Thy spirit, and by giving make it ask.

         Therefore all seasons shall be sweet to thee,

Whether the summer clothe the general earth

With greenness, or the redbreast sit and sing

Betwixt the tufts of snow on the bare branch

Of mossy apple-tree, while the nigh thatch

Smokes in the sun-thaw; whether the eave-drops fall

Heard only in the trances of the blast,

Or if the secret ministry of frost

Shall hang them up in silent icicles,

Quietly shining to the quiet Moon.

[arjunasearth]

Music: Source.

 ~When all timelines collide~ Communication of synchronicity: Everything flows together, vibrating, moving. Stillness transmitting pure rhythm~being energy in motion~Everything is flowing~you are beginning to understand nonrationally, but in a sentient way that everything is vibration, dynamics, cycles, spirals. No matter what you look at. No matter what you touch, see or feel. The transmission of energy is pure when I feel the music, when I feel my body vibrating to its vibration, surfing all the waves of electric energy synchronously. Floating like we all are floating through space. Feeling the rhythm of my heart realigning, feeling my soul orchestrating my body expression, my Soul Expression. The waves of Sound are so multidimensional that we unbound ourselves from the third dimension, from our deadlocked perceptions, thoughts, ways of living. We break out from the cage we put ourselves in mentally (and physically as a silmutaneous consequence) ~we break free from what or who we think we are. Our mind, heart, body and soul synchronize naturally with Sound, because we ARE Source energy ourselves. By diving deeper and deeper into the multilayered world of Sound, we realize that our Being is an inherent part of it and it is an inherent part of us, as we are being vibrational energy in motion, our body the cosmic vessel.Feeling music, doing music, dancing to it... it is all part of the same ritual for me: Life. The Connection to my ancestors. The connection to everything surrounding me, of me being part of a gigantic cosmic Web, the Quantum Field. The connection the Divine . To my feminine Nature. To the essence of my soul. To the rhythm of my heartbeat. To a trance-meditative state of mind, where I can let my body express freely what it translates from my Soullanguage into pure movement. Sound truly is time-travel, as you can realign with any timeline you want by channeling this music within or through another medium. There is so much music saved in our mind,body and soul which we can easily invoke, effortlessly, naturally. This IS the Source. In its purest form. Always present, always communicating. Divine. Able, to heal and soothe us at any given time and space. Transmitting the energy of our heart, our body being an extension of the heartcenter, us being the transmitters of Source Rhythm~~

From my heart to yours

Arjuna

[prismaticstreams]

Grieving and letting go: a 12 step guide

I wanted to put together a list of tools, techniques and resources that have helped me in dealing with grief, losses and break-ups. These tips can apply whether the loss is platonic or romantic.  I hope that you find these ideas helpful in your journey!

1. Books: When I go through a major loss, it helps me a lot to read more about how other people have coped and dealt with serious losses as well. When I go through a friendship fall out, it helps to read books about the specific kind of loss you are going through. For instance, if it’s a romantic loss, there are books all about recovering from heartbreak. If it’s a friendship fall out, there are books specially about dealing with the loss of platonic friends. If it’s a death, there are books primarily about grief from the death of loved ones.

2. Music: Over the last five years I have created Spotify playlists about grief, loss, break ups and so on, and I keep adding to them as I find new songs that are relevant. I find music very cathartic and can really help me get in touch with my emotions, especially when I might be feeling a bit numb and disconnected. Sometimes you might want songs that are all about sadness and grief, while at other times you might want angry or empowering songs. Just embrace it all!

3. Healing techniques: There are a number of healing techniques that help a lot in hard times and when processing difficult emotions, especially if a situation is somewhat traumatic. EFT tapping in particular has helped me greatly. Sometimes I make it up on the spot as I go along, sometimes I write and save my own scripts on my computer to go back to, while at other times I do a web search and look for scripts on a particular topic (and often change it to suit me). You can learn EFT for free here: Tapping 101.

4. Visualisation and inner child work: If a particular loss taps into something deeper from your childhood (e.g. abandonment or abuse from a parent, sibling etc) then inner child work may help you. Some people find it helpful to visualise themselves as a child, and imagine holding and soothing themselves - as a parent or adult would do for any child they loved. For more information and tips, I’d recommend checking out books about inner child work and looking up guided inner child meditations on YouTube.

5. Meditation and singing: These two are wonderful for calming the mind and body, because they activate the vagus nerve in particular. Singing with other people is also known to produce oxytocin and feelings of wellbeing, so if you can sing in a choir or a group, even better! Also there are many different kinds of meditation out there so I’d recommend trying a few types to find which methods suit you best. If you have a hard time focusing, perhaps start with short, guided meditations like the Headspace App.

6. Physical touch: Affection and physical touch from loved ones and friends can help greatly to soothe and regulate the nervous system. If you don’t have a partner, consider hugging friends or family, cuddling a pet, or getting a massage. Some people also enjoy attending platonic cuddle parties or find platonic cuddle buddies online. Certain social groups, especially from more affectionate cultures (like South America), tend to be more affectionate. If all else fails, self-soothing touch can also be quite calming and helpful.

7. Friendships and therapy: Getting support from your friends is crucial when going through a tough time, so reach out to your social support network as much as you can. If you need extra guidance and support that your friends are unable to give, then I would highly recommend seeing a therapist. Just remember that if you’re new to therapy, it can take trying several people before you find one who is a good fit - don’t give up too quickly. 

8. Online groups and forums: If you don’t have a lot of offline friends or you’re isolated for some reason (e.g. due to illness, disability etc). then online groups can be a great resource for extra support and companionship. I find online groups can also help to provide a more objective viewpoint on a difficult situation or relationship conflict, especially if the people don’t really know me and aren’t afraid to be completely honest.

9. Spiritual techniques: This may not apply to everyone, but if you are interested in religion/spirituality then you may find certain spiritual techniques useful for dealing with loss and moving on. Many people find prayer and meditation helpful during tough times, and spiritual community can help deal with painful losses. Some people also find it helpful and healing to use practices like cutting energetic cords/spiritual ties, as a way of letting go of past relationships. For more about this see: How to Cut an Unhealthy Bond with Someone.

10. Symbolic steps, ceremonies and rituals: Some people also find it helpful to engage in some kind of ritual to help them let go on a more physical level. This could include a wide range of things like going to a body of water and throwing stones in, writing a letter to let out all your feelings then burning it in a fire, or breaking a stick in half to symbolise an ending. Judith Orloff writes,

“Have honorable closure. This shamanic technique lets you release a relationship, particularly if you keep thinking about the person or sense that they’re thinking about you. Go out in nature and find a large stick. Look at the stick and declare, “This relationship is over.” Then break the stick in half, leave the pieces on the ground, walk away, and never look back. This finalizes the ceremony of closure.”

11. Journalling: Writing in a journal, whether on paper or typing on the computer, can really help with processing emotions and getting things off your chest. Writing unsent letters to get out all your anger, sadness and feelings of love can also help greatly. Check out these prompts to get you started: A Week’s Worth of Journaling Prompts: The Journey of Grief

12. Self care: This might seem obvious but remember to look after your health as much as possible when going through grief or loss. This includes eating healthy food, getting enough sleep, exercising, and avoiding drugs, alcohol, smoking, etc. If you need extra help with this, find an accountability buddy to keep you on track.

[shant20]

ZenCortex Supplements - Health

ZenCortex: A Game Changer for My Mental Wellbeing

As someone who has always juggled a busy lifestyle, I can honestly say that ZenCortex has been a revelation for my mental wellbeing. For years, I struggled with managing stress, finding focus, and getting a good night's sleep. I tried various methods – meditation apps, calming music, even adult colouring books – but nothing truly made a difference. Then, I discovered ZenCortex, and it's safe to say it's been a game changer.

Sharper Focus and Enhanced Productivity

From Scattered to Streamlined: Prior to using ZenCortex, my days were often chaotic. I'd flit between tasks, struggling to maintain focus and easily getting sidetracked. This constant task switching left me feeling overwhelmed and unproductive. ZenCortex's focus programs have been a godsend. I use the "Laser Focus" program before tackling important projects, and it truly helps me zone in and eliminate distractions. The program uses binaural beats and Isochronic tones, which I found surprisingly effective at calming my mind and sharpening my concentration.

Improved Task Completion: Since incorporating ZenCortex into my routine, I've noticed a significant improvement in my ability to complete tasks. The focus programs help me stay on track and avoid procrastination. I find myself getting more done in less time, which has been a welcome change.

Reduced Stress and Enhanced Calmness

Finding Peace Amidst the Chaos: Let's be honest, life can be stressful. Between work deadlines, family commitments, and everyday worries, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. ZenCortex's stress-relief programs have become my go-to tool for unwinding and de-stressing. The "Deep Calm" program, with its soothing soundscapes and guided meditations, is particularly effective at helping me melt away tension and find a sense of inner peace.

Better Sleep, Brighter Days: For years, I battled with insomnia, which only exacerbated my stress levels. I've tried various sleep aids, but nothing worked consistently. Thankfully, ZenCortex's sleep programs have been a saving grace. The "Restful Slumber" program, with its gentle sleep meditations and calming music, has helped me fall asleep faster and achieve a deeper, more restful sleep. Waking up feeling refreshed and energised has made a world of difference to my overall well-being.

A User-Friendly and Personalised Experience

Simple to Use, Easy to Integrate: I'm not the most tech-savvy person, but I found ZenCortex incredibly user-friendly. The app is well-designed and intuitive, with clear instructions and easy navigation. The variety of programs allows me to tailor my experience to my specific needs, whether I need to boost my focus, unwind after a long day, or drift off to sleep peacefully.

A Journey of Self-Discovery: ZenCortex has become more than just an app for me; it's a tool for self-discovery. The guided meditations have helped me gain a deeper understanding of my own thoughts and emotions. I've found them to be a valuable tool for managing stress and promoting overall mental well-being.

In conclusion, ZenCortex has been a transformative addition to my life. It's helped me manage stress, improve focus, and achieve better sleep. With its user-friendly interface and personalised programs, ZenCortex is an excellent tool for anyone seeking to enhance their mental well-being and live a more balanced life. If you're looking for a way to de-stress, improve focus, or simply sleep better, I highly recommend giving ZenCortex a try.

[drawing-way-outside-the-lines]

Eddie Rhoads *Supporting character

Voice Claim: (Pending)

Partner(s): Rosemary Rhoads Parents: Deanna Rhoads & Samuel Rhoads. Kids: None Siblings: None Age: 36 (2022) Birthday: 1st of July. Height: 183cm (6ft) Body type: Slim but toned Eye color: Dark brown/warm medium brown. About: Calm, Elegant, Charming, Active, Considerate, Helpful, Focused,  Challenging, Adaptable, Respectful, Creative, Friendly, Hardworking, Supportive, Resourceful, Organized, Reliable, Practical and Dedicated. ~ Music producer for Dalton’s band, among others. ~ Deep soothing voice. ~ Sexuality: Straight. ~ Married ~ British. ~ Very friendly. ~ Has been a part of the music industry for many years, and knows his way around. ~ Very much in love with his wife. ~ Great cook. ~ Smells like: Sandalwood and spices. ~ Does Yoga and meditation. ~ Likes a simple home-life since his work-life can be rather hectic and chaotic. ~ Down to earth. ~ Likes to keep his customers happy, but will tell you the truth. ~ Loyal. ~ Cares a lot about the people he work with, and often becomes close with them. ~ Sees Dalton as a sort of family member. ~ Great at giving advices, but it’s not always people listen to him. Specially Dalton. ~ Has a good ear for music. ~ The music he listens to at home, is often different than the music he surrounds himself with at work. ~ Ultra soft lips. ~ Is the type of person who’s always rooting for everyone. ~ Specially people trying to turn their life around for the better. ~ Doesn’t take long showers, believes in saving water. ~ Very trusted in his work and looked up to in the music industry. ~ Tries to always stay optimistic. ~ Great listener. ~ Good at observing/reading his surroundings. ~ Wants everyone to succeed. ~ Sees everyone as equal. ~ Believes strongly in second and third chances. ~ Doesn’t like rain. ~ Very trustworthy. ~ Good at keeping secrets. ~ Romantic. ~ Loves: His wife, music, work, helping, cooking, nature, romance, discovering new talents, laughing, seeing people reach their goals and dreams, candlelight, wine, hotdogs, sunrise, supporting people, traveling, giving advices, roasted meat, sailing, apples, reading news paper, going to concerts, honey mustard, air dried ham and London. ~ His style is: Casual, but a bit on the formal side. ~ Is probably one of the most supportive people you will ever come by.  

Eddie’s tag Eddie’s house/home Eddie’s moodboard Handwriting/ask answer pic:

One song to describe him: Stevie Wonder - You Are The Sunshine Of My Life Personal Playlist: 1. Jimi Hendrix - Voodoo Child 2. Gorillaz - Don't Get Lost in Heaven 3. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell - You're All I Need To Get By 4. Aretha Franklin - Ain't No Way 5. Ella Fitzgerald - Misty 6. James Brown - I Got The Feelin' 7. Cat Stevens  -  Moon Shadow 8. Little Simz - Woman feat. Cleo Sol 9. Shirley Bassey - Kiss Me, Honey Honey, Kiss me 10. Nao - Make It Out Alive (Official Video) ft. SiR 11. Prince & The Revolution - Raspberry Beret 12. Elton John - I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues 13. JP Cooper - Holy Water (Gospel Choir Version) 14. Bishop Briggs - Dream 15. Jorja Smith X Preditah - On My Mind 16. Sade - The Sweetest Taboo 17. Ella Mai - She Don't Ft. TyDolla$ign 18. Ray Charles - I got a woman 19. Nina Simone - Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood 20. Quincy Jones - Comin' Home Baby 21. Curtis Mayfield - Superfly 22. Duke Ellington - Satin Doll 23. Chuck Berry - You Can't Catch Me 24. John Coltrane - Blue train 25. Louis Armstrong - Basin Street Blues

[traumacatholic]

Free books on Catholic Meditations

Anonymous - Considerations and Devout Meditations for Every Day During the Holy Season of Lent 'There is nothing more united and less united than the soul and body. When one advances, the other recoils; when one rises, the other descends; when one is in health, the other is sick; when one is strong, the other is weak. It is necessary, then, in order to strengthen and give health to the soul, to bring the body under subjection, and weaken its evil propensities by penance and mortification. I am not a man if I obey my passions; I am not a Christian if I do not combat with and overcome my passions; I am not a true penitent if I do not mortify my passions. Since my body is polluted by sin, it ought to be purified by pain; and since it has part in the pleasures of the soul, it ought to glory in sharing its sorrows.' Download PDF     Anonymous - Flowers of Mary 'Lonely and forsaken, wandering on the mountains, fain would I be taken, to the living fountains; Where the gushing waters, in the soothing music flow, and my heart could never, never more feel woe. A bark upon the ocean, when the storms are raging high, ever in restless motion; So, alas, am I! Care and trouble cease not; Whither shall I flee? O Redeemer, Saviour, I will come to Thee! Keep me, then, oh keep me, while roaming on earth's mountains, until Thou dost take me, to the living fountains.' Download PDF     Anonymous - Meditations for Advent and Easter 'Oh, what a holy, beautiful, peaceful light is the light of the Infant Heart of Jesus! How it longs to come forth and manifest itself to all, to console, to instruct, to illuminate! Are we, also, longing to receive this light? Are we praying with our whole hearts that it may come to us, and that we may be prepared to receive it? However great our spiritual enlightenment may be, we are still, in some measure, "sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death." But the light is coming; already we can see the dawn upon the mountain. When Mary was born, the first ray of light tinged the eastern sky; when Jesus was born, the light of this mystic moon was as the light of the true sun, because of her perfect union with Him; and the light of the sun was sevenfold, as the light of seven days. The light was sevenfold; that is, the light was perfect, for it was the light of God.' Download PDF     Rev. John Wyse - Devout Exercises - Meditations and Visits to the Sanctuaries of the Blessed Virgin 'Today, therefore, let us begin by considering the end for which we were created. In the first place we must recall to our memory, that "man was created to praise, reverence, and serve his God, and by this means to save his soul." And, we may ask ourselves, who was it that created us but God, Whose majesty and goodness are infinite? He need not have created us: for He was perfect without us. We are therefore the work of His pure mercy; and hence, as His bondsmen and slaves, we are obliged, whether we like it or not, to love and serve Him, and obey Him in this life. But Almighty God, in His endless love for man, has added besides a supreme reward in the next world, to be gained by those who obey Him in this. Thus, not only is it our duty to serve God here; but, having served Him, it is our privilege to be happy with Him for ever hereafter.' Download PDF     St. Anselm of Canterbury - Meditations and Prayers 'For the singing of the new song to God is this, to crush the desires of the old man, and with thy whole heart's endeavour, and with a sole desire of eternal life, to walk the ways of the new man which have been pointed out to the world by the Son of God. And he sings a hymn to God who treasures in pure mind's recollection the joys of that heavenly home and strives to reach them, supported by the consciousness of a holy life, and relying on the gift of supernatural grace.' Download PDF St. Francis de Sales, St. Jane Frances de Chantal - Meditations for Retreats 'BLESSED are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; cursed, therefore, are the rich in spirit, who are attached to the things of this world, for the misery of hell is their portion. You have vowed poverty. O how happy you are if you observe it faithfully, and how honored should you not regard yourself to belong, to so blessed a company! Our Lord, Our Lady, St. Joseph, were poor; love, then, this holy virtue as the dear friend of Jesus Christ, who lived and died in poverty. Reflect that to be poor means to be in need, to want many things. Behold the example of the poor and divine Jesus: "The foxes," says He, "have their dens in the forest; and the birds of the air, nests; but the Son of man has no place whereon to rest His head." O Religious! who have vowed to be poor with Jesus Christ, do you not blush with shame for wishing at all times to have your desires gratified and to want for nothing?' Download PDF Bl. Peter Julian Eymard - Month of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament 'If, then, we desire to be the children of this loving Mother, we must clothe our selves with her modesty. Let us make it the ordinary subject of our meditation, for it is the heritage left us by Mary. Let her modesty be the rule of our virtues. Let her simplicity, which forgets itself to see only God, which inclines to duty rather than to pleasure, to God rather than to His consolation, to love for love, be our portion, the aim of our efforts, and the seal of our life.' Download PDF     St. Thomas Aquinas - Meditations for Lent 'The Pope, St. Leo the Great, says that the thieves were crucified, one on either side of him, so that in the very appearance of the scene of his suffering there might be set forth that distinction which should be made in the judgment of each one of us. St. Augustine has the same thought. "The cross itself," he says, "was a tribunal. In the centre was the judge. To the one side a man who believed and was set free, to the other side a scoffer and he was condemned." Already there was made clear the final fate of the living and the dead, the one class placed at his right, the other on his left.' Download PDF    

All of these books are free and legal to download

[pressedinthepages]

Solivagant

Latin. noun. someone who wanders or travels alone; a solitary adventurer.

Fandom: The Witcher

Pairing: Geralt x Jaskier x Reader

Word Count: 1347

Rating: M

Masterlist

a/n: Reader Request by @theichabbieclub​: “ Geralt x Jaskier x Reader. Reader is covered in a bunch of fresh blood and their nose is bleeding. They are in shock (their eyes are wide, their breath is rapid and deep, their hands are shaking and they keep rambling about how they never knew someone could have so much blood in them. Geralt and Jaskier finally succeed in calming the reader down. (Grey's Anatomy 6x23 when April finds Reed is what I'm thinking off. It's on youtube 🖤🖤🖤) THANK YOU.!!!!!!!!” (this has also been posted to AO3 but I don’t wanna link to an outside site cause of the whole thing with the tags…we’ll see what happens)

Tags: @whitewolfandthefox @havenoffandoms @queenxxxsupreme @mishafaye @criminallysupernatural​ @weathervanes-my-oneandlonely​ @magpie343​    (There is a link on my page where you can be added to my taglist :D)

Warnings: angst, comfort, blood, brief descriptions of violence

You stumble into camp, covered in blood, and Geralt and Jaskier have to figure out what happened.

    I swear if Jaskier doesn’t play something different, I’m gonna rip his damn fingers off. Jaskier has been working on some new song, only humming absentmindedly as he scribbles in his little journal. He keeps playing the same string of chords over and over and over, and Geralt is *this* close to losing his mind. 

    Geralt forces himself to take a deep breath through his nose, the scent of smoke and lute oil settling in his chest, settling his mind. He closes his eyes and lets his mind wander, slipping into something close to his meditative state. The air is quiet, the crackling of the fire and the repetitive melody of the lute drowning out the other noises of the forest they are camped in. He lets himself follow the music, breathing in and out with each echo of the same chords…

    Until Jaskier’s fingers slip, missing a beat. He curses loudly, causing Geralt’s eyes to snap open as his state of relaxation shatters. Geralt flies to his feet, mouth open and intent on telling the bard off for being so relentless in his quest to annoy the ever-loving shit out of him tonight, but the sound of a twig cracking at the edge of their camp catches both his and Jaskier’s attention. 

    Geralt turns slowly and sees you brace yourself on the side of a tree as you stumble into view. Your entire being seems to be in disarray, your purple shirt hanging askew and there is a tear in the side of your trousers above the knee. Your hair is wild and tangled on itself, and there is a small cut on your forehead, and another on the crest of your cheek.

    The metallic stench of blood is overwhelming, burning the insides of his nose as both he and Jaskier rush to your side. In the light of the fire, Geralt can see now that your shirt isn’t purple, it’s blue, and drenched in blood. It stains your neck and along your forearms, and small drops fall down the point of the dagger still clenched in your hand. None of that is what really bothers Geralt, though.

    Your eyes, usually bright and shining with life, are dull, as if a cloud had settled beneath your eyelids. You are staring at nothing in particular, your mouth slack as your chest heaves with every breath. Jaskier whispers your name, moving closer with a hand stretched out, as if towards a skittish deer.

    The second his hand grips your arm you are shocked back to reality, staring into his eyes, so clear and blue it is almost haunting. Geralt mimics Jaskier, slowly walking towards you with his arms raised, palms facing you. He sees your eyes flit back and forth between them, blue and gold full of worry and confusion. He can hear your heartbeat, quick and panicked under your skin.

    “What happened, love? We thought that you just went into town to grab some supplies,” Jaskier whispers, his voice low and soothing under the stars. Geralt sees your eyes start to shine with tears, but something is off in your expression, like you are not fully with them in the camp.

    You meet Jaskier’s eyes, holding them in your own. Your voice wobbles when you speak, standing completely still and holding onto the dagger like a lifeline. “Did you know that blood has gold in it?”

    Geralt can almost see the gears in Jaskier’s head turning, trying to figure out what’s wrong. “I-what? Uh, no, no I didn’t know that…” Jaskier whispers, not moving any closer until he figures out what exactly is going on. He glances back to Geralt, worry seeping from his pores. 

    “It does,” you say, bringing Jaskier’s eyes back to you. “It’s only a little bit, but it’s there…” you fall silent, but your heart is pounding mercilessly against your chest. Your words start to come faster, pouring out of you in a rambling torrent of gibberish.

    “You know, I’ve seen lots of blood before, I know what it looks like when stuff bleeds, it doesn’t make me sick or anything” your voice is growing higher with each breath, shaking and tumbling as tears begin to fall unbidden down your cheeks. “But, I don’t think I’ve really seen a person bleed, not like that anyway, I didn’t know we had so much blood, you can’t even really picture it until it’s all just spilled out on the ground and you can’t look away and you can’t move and you can’t breathe…”

Geralt swiftly moves forward, gently gripping your shoulders and turning you to face him. One hand moves slowly down to the dagger, covering your hand in his. “Look at me, take a deep breath. In through your nose, out through your mouth.”

Under the metallic sharpness of blood, Geralt scents the sour tang of fear. Not fear of him, but of whatever it is that you saw, what you did.

You follow his instructions, keeping your eyes locked on his as you take a slow, shaky breath in and let it back out. You do that a few more times, growing more in control with each exhale. Geralt hears your heart begin to slow, still fluttering rapidly but not enough that he’s terribly worried. 

“Now,” he murmurs, making his voice as smooth and soothing as possible. “Tell us what happened.”

“I-I was on the way back here,” you start, your voice small and timid now that it isn’t fuelled by panic. “I was cutting through the woods when I heard men’s voices. They were talking about us, planning to sneak up on us in the night a-and kill us.”

Your voice breaks, sobs finally slicing through your chest as you crumble, Geralt surging forward to catch you. Jaskier moves too, wrapping his arms around your back as you cry into Geralt’s chest. The three of you sink to the ground, Geralt pulling the dagger from your hand and placing it safely out of your reach. Jaskier is murmuring quiet things in your ear, calming reassurances that you’re all safe and okay. Geralt isn’t sure what to say, so he settles on resting his cheek on the top of your head as he gently rocks you in his arms. 

You stay like that for what could be hours, days, you don’t know. But when Geralt feels you calm again, your chest no longer heaving with sobs and your hands no longer shaking with unbridled hysteria, he moves back a bit, giving you room to breathe. Jaskier’s head rests on your shoulder, his thumbs making gentle circles along your arms. 

“I killed them,” you whisper, Jaskier silently quirking an eyebrow at your words. “I snuck up on them, used the dagger...I got one of them in the chest, but I hit the other in his neck, and when I pulled back, gods it was just everywhere…”

Jaskier shushes you, crooning low in your ear as they both hold you tight. You can hear their hearts around you, Jaskier’s fast and light at your back, and Geralt’s slow and steady under your head. 

“Thank you,” Geralt says, his chest rumbling with the words. You lift your head, eyebrows crinkling as your mind races. 

“Yes, love, thank you, you saved us,” Jaskier’s voice is soft in your ear as more tears fall from your eyes. Jaskier places a light kiss to the skin still exposed on your shoulder, hugging you tight to his chest as he does. 

Geralt once again follows Jaskier’s lead, leaning forward and placing a kiss to your forehead. As he pulls back and wraps his arms around both you and Jaskier, holding you close, you relax into him and feel your mind start to finally calm. 

All of your legs are twisted together on the ground, your arms are crunched up against Geralt’s chest, and you can feel the blood drying on your skin and getting sticky. But as you sit, enveloped by the warmth and safety of the men you call your family, you would not move for the world.

[thesongthesoulsings]

God  & Goddess Self-care Routine

I love to take care of myself and feel like an ancient queen or priestess.

However, I don't like to spend a lot of money and I know for a fact, that expensive products often can't reach the quality of cheaper alternatives! (Multiple tests show that. A body lotion for 2 Euros has proven to be three times more effective than the 30 Euro Vichy alternative e.g. You pay for the brand, not the ingredients and their efficiency)

I've read a lot of Self-Care posts but none of those spoke to me on a deeper level, so I thought I might share my routine with you all, in the hope of maybe inspiring you to try it as well.

Once a week I treat myself by playing some ancient egyptian and roman music or ambiance sounds while starting with the "procedure" that is supposed to nourish my body and soul.

All your senses should get involved in your little God/Goddess SPA-Program, which means that everything you use should smell wonderful, everything you hear should sooth you, what you taste should satisfy you, what you feel should be enjoyable and what you see should be aesthetically pleasing to you.

DON'T FALL FOR THE SCAM SOCIETY IS TRYING TO MAKE YOU BELIEVE: YOU DON'T HAVE TO SPEND A LOT OF MONEY TO FEEL LUXURIOUS!

First make sure everything is clean and nice - nobody wants to shower in a dirty cabin or bathe in a dirty bathtub! (You can clean it the day before, if you don't want to exhaust yourself by cleaning before your SPA-Moment)

Put on the ancient ambience sounds or music. [Playlist and examplary ambiance link below]

Burn some incense and use products that smell seductively wonderful (Rose, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Sandlewood e.g. - whatever you prefer)

I recommend using a body peeling - it frees you from dead skin cells, makes your skin smooth and stimulates blood circulation. You can make your own and save some money! I like to use grounded coffee and cocount oil. Alternatively you can look up alternatives with sea salt e.g.

After that is the perfect time for shaving, if you intend to do so - if not, skip ahead.

While showering or bathing close your eyes - listen, smell and breath in meditative manner.Feel yourself, capture your power internally and make yourself aware of your innate potential. You are strong, you are capable, you are beautiful/handsome and nobody will be able to damage you, because you'll always rise from the ashes like a phoenix.

Feel your hands on your scalp while massaging in the lovely smelling shampoo, feel the water around you, feel it drumming against your skin when it falls on your body. The purifying water flows down your body like a river - you are part of something bigger.

When you are clean and feel like your true strong self, take a towel and feel it taking in every drop of water left on your body. It is as receptive to the water, as you should be to the world. It was designed to play into your demands, and the world can be designed the way you want it to be, too. Manifest your wishes while carefully drying your body. NO RUBBING!

If you want your skin protected, do yourself a favor and use face cream. I usually do my ritual at night before going to bed, so I use my night-care skin cream. Your body lotion shouldn't be forgotten either. It keeps your skin hydrated, soft and young.

Put on something nice. Nightwear is underestimated - believe me. I like to put on one of my silk - or imitation silk - nightgowns or pyjamas. It feels great, looks great and you'll feel like a God/Goddess.

My last step is to put on some lip balm and if possible meditate. It doesn't need to take long - even 5 minutes can improve your mental well-being and inner balance.

Treat yourself with some fruit, a piece of cake or whatever you might like. Just make sure you don't ingest a whole pizza after the routine - it is too heavy on the stomach and influences your perception of your body. I love Pizza and most of the unhealthy stuff around and I certainly eat far too much of it, but I'm working on eating healthier and would recommend you to do the same.

I hope you enjoy the routine and may create your own along the way. Know your worth, take care of yourself and when that is done, you'll be a more balanced blessing for the world.

My own Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7FTvqQd1Xmp72K80P9rWJk

Ambiance example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cYFK-2x3d0

[bethestaryouareradio]

Sacred Spaces

“Nature is the original church. Worship there daily.”  Alan Cohen

If we have learned anything from the pandemic of the past eighteen months, it is that our greatest blessing is to be able to go outdoors to breathe fresh air. Many people choose to hike the hills, walk the reservoir, or take a jaunt to the ocean to calm nerves and preserve sanity. For those of us fortunate enough to have a garden, balcony, porch, or patio, we can open a door to escape the confines of lockdown.

The majesty of Mother Nature rivals the most exquisite man-made cathedral. Throughout my landscape, I have designed special areas that stimulate my senses, inducing a sense of tranquility and connectivity with the natural world. I have dubbed these my “sacred spaces”, places where I can meditate, watch the wildlife, listen to birdsong, commune with the breeze, rest my weary legs, take a nap, or just sit and contemplate life. My “sacred spaces” provide a structure amidst the chaos, a respite against the turmoil of the times.

We can expand our living environment by crafting outdoor elements that nurture our spirits, emotions, and bodies. Here are a few of my favorite strategies to help gardeners recast their yards into a serene, yet lush oasis. 

Water

The sound of water is immensely soothing. Listening to the gurgling of a fountain or the rippling of a stream heightens my creativity. Birds splashing in a birdbath bring a smile to my face. A pond with a recirculating pump provides a happy home for frogs, and if deep enough, fish. 

Hammock

Hanging a hammock from two trees is the ultimate in shaded relaxation. I have double hammocks strung between a giant magnolia and Japanese maples. There is nothing quite like swaying in the hammock looking up at the light as it dances between the branches. The colors of the leaves are forever changing. For an afternoon nap on a hot day, a hammock provides a piece of paradise.

Swing

I’ve installed a metal garden swing behind my pond flanked by orange Birds of Paradise and midnight blue agapanthus. By adding comfy cushions, I can silently swing while listening to the aerating pond and watching the aerial antics of squirrels spiraling through the loquat tree. 

Tables, Chairs, and Benches

Throughout my landscape, I have placed multiple tables, chairs, and benches in specific areas to encourage me to take a break from the hard labor. A wooden picnic table under an apple tree begs me to take a lunch period. A bench facing the hills beckons me to behold a doting doe with her twin fawns as they forage. A small rocking chair in a cozy nook allows me to remove my mud boots and watch the sunset.

Paths and Walls

Whether you use gravel, bricks, decomposed granite, pavers, or flagstone, creating paths throughout the garden allows for interesting patterns and yard exploration. Because I believe in recycling, upcycling, and repurposing, I always utilize whatever materials are available when I’m building stairs, paths, or walls. A former built-in redwood bench is turned on its side to be reused as a retaining planter box. Used bricks add a separation element to the revamped below-deck walkway bordering the tangled wisteria forest. 

Pergolas, Gazebos, Decks

A deck is always a great gathering spot. A gazebo or pavilion is a stately structure to sit, embrace the view, and offer gratitude for outdoor rooms. On my deck, under my grape, wisteria, and bower vine-covered pergola, I unwind after a long day by soaking in the hot tub. This is my prayer place as I gaze at the twinkling stars above.

Plantings

The selection of specific plants is critical to the overall color and scale of any garden. My goal is always to witness botanical interest 365 days a year through express attention to the trees, flowers, shrubs, bulbs, vegetables, herbs, and bushes. Every season brings a change to the landscape. Roses bloom for nine or ten months when regularly dead-headed. Perennial sweet peas flourish with their pretty purple pea heads from spring until autumn. Pink naked ladies pop up to smarten the summer soils when most other plants find it too hot to shine. Deciduous trees such a Japanese maple, pistache, crape myrtle, and liquid amber offer spectacular autumn colors.

When you think about creating your sacred spaces, make sure you are bringing the indoors out and the outdoors in. Expand your home environment by mimicking and mingling colors, patterns, themes, and shapes through both areas. Great design amplifies your emotional well-being. Rediscover forgotten or overlooked spots. Feel the vibes as you develop your scheme keeping comfort and safety at the forefront. Use your imagination to unearth the endless possibilities.

Mother Nature is the original church. When we honor Her, we will attain a more balanced life with peace as a bonus gift, no matter what is happening around us. As this latest Delta variant spreads its dangerous virus tendrils, I urge everyone to talk with their physicians, listen to the science, and get vaccinated. Discover your sacred space, breathe, and spend as much time outdoors as possible. 

A Be the Star You Are!® volunteer from Minnesota emailed me “I go for walks on our nearby trail as often as I can because it’s a way to escape to nature, and I know how you feel about that!  So off I go.”

Off you go!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

Saturday, September 25th, Be the Star You Are!® will participate in the first live event at the Pear and Wine Festival with a booth sponsored by the Lamorinda Weekly(www.Lamorindaweekly.com) and MB Jessee painting (www.MBJessee.com). Wear your mask and visit us! Details at https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-events

Phots and more: https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1513/Digging-Deep-with-Goddess-Gardener-Cynthia-Brian-Sacred-spaces.html

Press Pass: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2021/08/18/sacred-spaces/

Happy Gardening. Happy Growing. 

Cynthia Brian, The Goddess Gardener, is available for hire to help you prepare for your spring garden. Raised in the vineyards of Napa County, Cynthia is a New York Times best-selling author, actor, radio personality, speaker, media and writing coach as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Tune into Cynthia’s StarStyle® Radio Broadcast at www.StarStyleRadio.com.

Buy copies of her books, including, Chicken Soup for the Gardener’s Soul, Growing with the Goddess Gardener, and Be the Star You Are! www.cynthiabrian.com/online-store. Receive a FREE inspirational music DVD and special savings.

Hire Cynthia for writing projects, garden consults, and inspirational lectures.

Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com

www.GoddessGardener.com

[basenji18]

Tangled Web

Although its effects are widely felt, the term “post traumatic stress” is not widely bandied about in the animal world, much less the insect. A being whose entire energy is given over to its moment to moment survival does not have any left over to spend pondering its own moral choices, the life it could have had if past events had shaken out differently, or whether reacting to every new event as a possible threat is exhausting it into an early grave before a predator can.

This applies as much to little boys as to insects.

The words are not well known to bugs or little boys. And big traumas need only little triggers to set them off.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ms. Ladybug was not often up this late. Miss Spider was in her nocturnal stride, humming gently under her breath as she tidied the kitchen. Her four eyes made full use of the dim light, and Ms. Ladybug could just see her stark white stripes as she moved through the shadows, crawling up the walls and sinking to the floor to dust every nook.

Like the Earthworm, Miss Spider had stayed horizontal after their transformation, while the rest of them had wound up bipedal and multi-armed. She would never say it to the dear, but sometimes the arachnid’s crouched, almost stalking movements still sent an unsettling chill along Ms. Ladybug’s spotted carapace.

It was much better now, of course. Before, the sight of long, thin legs - climbing in and out of the shadows, circling her, hanging over her - would have signaled the end of her life. Now, with the sound of that deep, sonorous humming, it sent her nodding into her tea as she tried to summon the energy to excuse herself and go to bed.

It’s like those Tibetan meditation bowls, moving all around you. I think the Yank talked about that. Something in National Geographic, no doubt.

She couldn’t understand the French words, even if the song had been loud enough for her to catch all of them. But it was a gentle, happy sort of sound tonight. Sometimes they were happy, sometimes sad. Always hypnotic. Sometimes she sounded so mournful Ms. Ladybug wanted to throw all four arms around the dear and remind her she had a safe home and loving family, and didn’t ever need to sing such songs again.

She’d spoken about the spider’s singing habits to the Old Green Grasshopper. A music lover himself, he’d told her that all spiders were beautiful singers. Ms. Ladybug had not known this.

“Few do,” Mr. Grasshopper said. “They are solitary creatures. They sing to themselves as they weave their webs, and few get to hear them for whom it is not the last thing they hear.

“At any rate,” he continued, “the beauty of music is it allows us to find the beauty in any emotion, sorrow included. And we may induce a sweet ache to experience its sublime comfort, even in the best of times.”

Ms. Ladybug didn’t quite understand that, but it sounded like something Miss Spider would understand (the old English man and the young French woman had tonal similarities in their artistic spirits), and so long as it meant she was happy when she sang her sad songs, that was alright.

The song had stopped.

“James.”

Ms. Ladybug awoke at the sound of the boy’s name. She’d dropped off all the way, her teacup half empty on the table. She blinked in the dim light, sending a warm smile to the pale face peeking in the kitchen. Another blink and she registered the worried look on James’ face, and the note of the same in Miss Spider’s voice. Alarm brought her fully awake.

“What’s the matter, love?”

James didn’t answer. He slipped into the kitchen, barefoot and in pajamas. His lower lip trembled, and as he came into the light, lines on his cheeks glistened.

“Oh, love.”

Ms. Ladybug opened four arms to embrace him, but at that moment, James burst forward and threw himself around the neck of the spider next to her. The boy’s breath came in hitching, hyperventilating sobs, and the glistening lines became rivers.

Miss Spider spoke rapidly and low, in mixed English and French, shushing and soothing.

“Mon cher, are you hurt?”

James shook his head, but seemed unable to speak. He remained in a death grip around the large spider, who held him back tightly.

“It is okay...you are fine...Just breathe.”

She rubbed circles against his back, nuzzling her heart-shaped face against his. Slowly, the desperate spasms of grief relaxed out of the boy. He still held her, tears streaming, but his breathing was much more controlled.

“Shall we go sit?” Miss Spider asked.

James sniffed and rubbed his eyes, but nodded. Ms. Ladybug produced a handkerchief and dried his face. The two bugs and the small boy adjourned to the living room, James’ arm still around Miss Spider’s shoulders, and hers around his waist.

Since they did not sit upright, Miss Spider and Mr. Earthworm had comfy cushions on the floor among the couch and the arm chairs of the rest of the room. Miss Spider led James to hers and settled there with him, the boy snug against her, wrapped in a pair of arms and several legs. Ms. Ladybug threw a blanket over the two of them, and offered James a glass of water. When the boy had had a few sips to calm the hiccups, she asked, not unkindly,

“Now, what’s all this then?”

James looked from one lady bug to the other.

“I had a nightmare.”

“Mon cher...”

Miss Spider kissed his cheek. James’ eyes welled again, and he buried his face in the green neckerchief she wore.

“It is over now, mon petit. You are safe.”

“It wasn’t me.”

His words were muffled against her neck. Miss Spider and Ms. Ladybug exchanged a look. Miss Spider started her slow circles again, while Ms. Ladybug leaned close.

“What wasn’t you, dear?” Ms. Ladybug asked.

James pulled back, wiping his eyes.

“I dreampt about a book we read in school.”

“A frightening book?”

“No. It’s call Charlotte’s Web. It’s about a spider who saves a pig from getting butchered by writing words about him in her web that make the farmer thing he’s too special to eat.”

“That sounds nice.”

“Yes, but...”

James was getting some of his color back. Ms. Ladybug felt a relief that was mirrored in four amber eyes still focused on the boy.

“We’ve been reading it in class for two weeks, and I was really enjoying it. And today we finished it, and...and...”

James’ face crumpled.

“And Charlotte dies! She never makes it back to the farm, she doesn’t see winter with Wilber, she just - she dies, she - “

Miss Spider swooped around James and pulled him close as his words dissolved into sobs. She purred assurances over him.

“Shhh, shh shh. Mon cher, mon petit ami, I am here. I will not leave you. We are here together, everything is fine. James, darling, everything is fine. I am here. I am right here.”

Slowly the boy’s sobs slowed down. He and Miss Spider stayed wrapped around each other, rocking gently. His gaze when he finally pulled his face out of her neck was vacant, exhausted. His voice rang hollow.

“I dreampt it was like when my mom died. But it was you. I wanted to run to you, but everyone wanted to take my picture with the spider web”

Miss Spider kissed him.

“I am alive, and with you. I am going to stay that way. You know this, yes?”

James gave her a gentle, less desperate hug.

“Yes, ma’am.”

It came out, to Ms. Ladybug’s ears, sounding a lot like “mum.”