Author: TracySchruder

  • Writers and Healers: My Tribe

    Who are your favorite people to be around?

    By Tracy Schruder

    I’m drawn to these types of people because they possess extraordinary qualities: writers and healers. To truly appreciate writers, one must first be a reader. Writers’ unique personalities captivate me:

    Types of Personalities Writers Possess

    Vivid imaginations:

    Writers have a remarkable ability to craft entire worlds, characters, and stories.

    Creative problem-solvers:

    They find innovative ways to express complex ideas and emotions.

    Observant and perceptive:

    Writers often possess a keen understanding of human nature and the world around them.

    Passionate communicators:

    They convey their thoughts and feelings through powerful, evocative language.

    Healers

    Healers, too, hold a special place in my heart. Their selflessness, compassion, and dedication to helping others inspire me. I’m drawn to various types of healers, including:

    Types of Healers

    Reiki practitioners:

    Using energy healing to balance and harmonize the body, mind, and spirit.

    Medical professionals:

    Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers who provide essential care and treatment.

    Therapists and counselors:

    Mental health professionals who offer guidance, support, and healing.

    Alternative healers:

    Acupuncturists, herbalists, chiropractors, and others who provide holistic approaches to wellness.

    Shared Qualities

    Both writers and healers possess qualities that I deeply admire:

    Consciousness and energy:

    They radiate a unique, positive energy that draws me in.

    Passion and dedication;

    Writers and healers are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

    Creativity and innovation:

    They find new ways to express themselves, help others, and make the world a better place.

    My Gratitude and Aspiration

    I’m grateful for the opportunity to be around writers and healers. Their presence inspires me to become a better writer and Reiki healer myself. I strive to emulate their qualities, and I’m humbled by the experience of being among like-minded individuals who share my passion for creativity, healing, and personal growth.

    In their presence, I feel a deep sense of belonging, respect, and encouragement. I’m grateful to be part of this community, and I look forward to continuing to learn from, support, and be inspired by these remarkable individuals.

  • Western Style Boots

    Tell us about your favorite pair of shoes, and where they’ve taken you.

    My Embroidered Cowgirl Boots

    My favourite pair of shoes is a trusty pair of boots. These boots hold a special place in my heart because they’re my faithful fairground companions. Over the years, they’ve accompanied me to various local fairgrounds, where I’ve enjoyed the festivities to the fullest.

    As a country girl, I frequent the local agricultural fairs, and the Merrickville fair is my absolute favourite. Every August, I eagerly pull out my boots from the closet, dust them off, and get ready for a fun-filled day. Since Merrickville is my hometown, attending the fair feels like coming home. I love hobnobbing with the locals, reminiscing about past fairs, and creating new memories.

    The Merrickville Agricultural Fair
    The Merrickville Agricultural Fair

    My boots and I make the most of the fair, boot-scooting our way through every booth and barn. We ride the attractions, visit the beer tent to catch up with friends, and dance to live music at the beach. The dust flies as I kick up my heels in my beloved cowgirl boots.

    Lombardy Fairgrounds

    These boots have been my faithful companions at many fairs, including the Lombardy Fair, which holds a special place in my heart. It was there, in 2000, that my boyfriend (now husband) took me on our first date. We had an amazing time watching the mud bog races, riding the attractions, and winning a cute stuffed animal at one of the game booths.

    The stuffed toy

    As we enjoyed the music at the stage, I was smitten – and the band, possibly Tragically Hip, became a pleasant background memory.

    My husband and I
    💗🌸💗

    When I slip into my beloved boots, I feel an undeniable rush of joy and confidence. The worn leather molds to my feet, a reminder of the countless memories we’ve shared. With each step, I stand a little taller, my feet rooted in the comfort and security of my trusty boots.

    They are longer just reserved for the fairgrounds or special occasions, my boots have become a constant in my daily life. I wear them to run errands, meet with friends, and explore the countryside. The more I wear them, the more they seem to become an extension of myself.

    The broken-in leather has a level of comfort that’s hard to match. My feet feel completely at home, whether I’m strolling through the village or dancing under the stars. It’s as if my boots have become a part of my identity, a symbol of my country roots and carefree spirit.

    As I look down at my boots, now scuffed and worn from countless adventures, I’m reminded of the simple pleasures in life. My boots may be just a piece of footwear to some, but to me, they represent the joy of living, the comfort of familiarity, and the confidence that comes with being true to oneself.

  • Nieces

    Share one of the best gifts you’ve ever received.

    My Nieces Rita, Jena and little Tracy

    One of the best gifts that I’ve received was the gift of becoming an aunt.

    My Sister’s Girl is My Girl

    By Tracy Schruder

    From Rita’s first breath, I was undone,

    Fifteen and awestruck, my heart had just begun

    To overflow with love for this precious soul,

    My sister’s daughter, my heart made whole.

    Then Jena arrived, a sweet serenade,

    A melody of laughter, a heart that’s not afraid

    Her beauty shines, a light in my day,

    A blessing from above, in every single way.

    Tracy, oh Tracy, with a smile so bright,

    You light up my world, and make everything all right

    Your intelligence and kindness, a treasure to see,

    A gift from my sister, a blessing to me.

    I never had children of my own to hold,

    But God had other plans, a love that would unfold

    Through my sisters’ girls, I’ve experienced the delight

    Of being an aunt, a love that shines so bright.

    So to my sisters, I offer my gratitude and praise,

    For bringing these blessings into my life’s gaze

    You’ve given me a gift, a treasure to behold,

    A love that’s pure, and a heart that’s made of gold.

    Rita, Jena, and Tracy, my loves, my shining stars,

    You’ve brought joy to my life, near and far

    I promise to always be here for you,

    To support, to guide, and to love you true.

    My sister’s girls are my girls, a love that’s strong and true,

    A bond that’s unbreakable, a heart that beats for you.

  • A Inspired Thought About Gratitude for Government

    By Tracy Schruder

    As a proud Canadian, I’m grateful for our country’s functioning government. Since its inception, Canada’s government has been built on the faith of its citizens, who have felt the determination and desire to do good things from those who have run for office. This foundation of trust and dedication has allowed our country to thrive and become the strong, united nation we know today.

    One example of a country that struggles with governance is Venezuela. In recent years, Venezuela has faced significant political and economic challenges, including hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, corruption, authoritarianism, and human rights abuses. The country’s government has been criticized for its handling of the economy, suppression of opposition voices, and erosion of democratic institutions.

    In contrast, Canada is widely regarded as a stable democracy with a strong, functioning government. Our government is characterized by free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, a robust system of checks and balances, strong protections for human rights and the rule of law, and a diverse and inclusive society.

    Every country has its unique challenges and strengths, but Venezuela’s struggles with governance and stability provide a stark contrast to Canada’s reputation for good governance. This example reminds us of how difficult things could be, and I’m thankful that we’re not on this path.

    Our government’s history is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of representation. The House of Commons, where politicians from various parties come together to discuss and vote on laws, is a great example of democracy in action. Every politician has a voice and a vote, ensuring that the wellbeing of all Canadian citizens is taken into account.

    Despite our differences, it’s essential to recognize that politicians are human beings doing an extraordinarily difficult job. Each politician deserves our respect, support, and understanding. By looking beyond party lines and getting to know our politicians as individuals, we can drive positive transformation and increased transparency within government institutions.

    As Justin Trudeau once said, “Canadians come from every corner of the world, speak two official languages and hundreds more, practice many faiths, and represent many cultures. Multiculturalism is at the heart of Canada’s heritage and identity – and as Canadians, we recognize that our differences make us strong.”

    Let’s strive to build a better, stronger, and more united Canada, where love and respect for one another are the guiding principles. By working together and supporting our politicians, we can create a brighter future for all Canadians.

  • My Approach to Budgeting

    Write about your approach to budgeting.

    My Approach to Budgeting: A Journey of Growth and Adaptation

    By Tracy Schruder

    Over the years, my approach to budgeting has undergone significant changes. When I first started living on my own, my top priority was paying my rent. I would set aside one-quarter of my rent money each payday, which was every week, thanks to my job at the time. With a steady income and ample overtime opportunities, I had a comfortable financial cushion.

    After covering my rent, I would allocate funds for groceries, buying whatever I needed and wanted without worrying about a strict budget. My cable bill was relatively affordable at $40 per month, which I could easily cover with a single paycheck.

    As I grew older and my career advanced, my financial responsibilities expanded. I took on a mortgage, telephone and satellite bills, car payments and maintenance, insurance premiums, and education expenses. With these added obligations, I had to develop a more sophisticated budgeting strategy to manage my finances effectively.

    Although my financial situation has changed, I still prioritize my housing costs, paying my mortgage weekly, just as I did with my rent in the past. However, I now have to allocate my income among multiple bills each month, taking care to account for fluctuating expenses like hydro and food. To manage these variables, I set aside a specific amount for each expense category, ensuring I have enough funds to cover my needs.

    This adaptive approach to budgeting has helped me navigate the complexities of financial responsibility while maintaining a comfortable standard of living. By prioritizing my expenses, allocating my income wisely, and regularly reviewing my budget, I’ve been able to achieve a sense of financial stability and security.

  • A New Perspective on The Grandfather Paradox 

    By Tracy Schruder

    Essay Collection 

    Time travel, a staple of science fiction, has fascinated humans for centuries. The concept of traversing through time, visiting the past or the future, raises a multitude of questions and paradoxes. One of the most enduring and mind-bending paradoxes is the grandfather paradox. However, I propose a theory that challenges the very existence of this paradox, suggesting that our existence is divinely ordained, and therefore, cannot be altered or prevented.

    The grandfather paradox, first proposed by René Barjavel in 1943, states that if a time traveler were to go back in time and kill their own grandfather before he had children, then the time traveler would never have been born. But if the time traveler was never born, then who killed the grandfather? This paradox highlights the potential inconsistencies and logical problems that arise when dealing with time travel.

    However, I argue that the grandfather paradox is based on a flawed assumption: that our existence is dependent on the physical vessel of our ancestors. In other words, the paradox assumes that our existence is solely the result of a series of physical events, such as our grandparents meeting, falling in love, and having children. But what if our existence is more than just a physical phenomenon? What if our existence is divinely ordained, spiritual, and chosen?

    From this perspective, our existence is not dependent on the physical actions of our ancestors. Instead, our existence is a fundamental aspect of the universe, a unique and special occurrence that cannot be altered or prevented. This means that regardless of what actions our ancestors took, we would still exist. Our existence is not a product of chance or physical circumstance, but rather a deliberate and intentional act of creation.

    This theory cancels out the grandfather paradox, as it renders the physical actions of our ancestors irrelevant to our existence. Even if a time traveler were to go back in time and kill their own grandfather, it would not prevent their own existence. Instead, the time traveler’s existence would continue unabated, as it is a fundamental aspect of the universe.

    This perspective also raises interesting questions about the nature of free will and the concept of destiny. If our existence is divinely ordained, does that mean that our choices and actions are predetermined? Or do we still possess free will, but within the context of a larger, cosmic plan?

    In conclusion, 

    the grandfather paradox, while a fascinating thought experiment, is based on a flawed assumption about the nature of existence. Our existence is not solely dependent on physical events, but rather is a divinely ordained, spiritual, and chosen occurrence. This perspective cancels out the grandfather paradox, and raises intriguing questions about the nature of free will and destiny. Ultimately, our existence is a mysterious and wondrous phenomenon that continues to inspire and awe us.

  • A Patriotic Citizen

    Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you?

    I am a patriotic Citizen of Canada. For me, being a patriotic citizen means standing by my country, its values, and its institutions, rather than blindly defending a particular government or leader. Political processes have and always be a part of the governance so, I don’t waste too much time on the political candidates nor are any particular politicians a reason for my patriotism. My patriotism involves, upholding the principles enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. I actively engaging in critical patriotism to promote positive change. I am always willing to stand up and join in protests pertaining to human rights and dignities. Fair and just laws and ethical standards tethered to the overall well being of our citizens is a very important issue for me. Paying Taxes has never been an issue, I’m grateful to contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of our great country.

    In conclusion,

    as a patriotic citizen of Canada, I believe that my loyalty lies with the country’s values, institutions, and principles, rather than with any particular government or leader. By upholding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, engaging in critical patriotism, and advocating for human rights and dignities, I strive to contribute to the betterment of our nation. Paying taxes is not just a duty, but a privilege that allows me to support the upkeep and maintenance of our great country. Ultimately, my patriotism is rooted in a deep love and respect for Canada, its people, and its values, and I will continue to stand up for what I believe in, while promoting positive change and a more just society for all.

  • Breaking The Law

    Have you ever unintentionally broken the law?

    Yes, I did unintentionally break the law, once. I misappropriated funds. It happened when I worked at a drive-through coffee shop. It was the year 1994, and I was a young woman trying to earn a decent living to support myself but sometimes my cash ran a bit shy. I had worked for the company for two years at the time, when the incident occurred. I had been offered a position to run a drive-through location, which meant opening up at 4:00 a.m. and working 12-hour shifts until the afternoon staff relieved me.

    Initially, there were three employees, but we eventually split the shifts into eight hours and hired a couple more staff members. As part of my responsibilities, I would prepare the cash float for each shift. One day, while my boss and I were counting the bank deposits, I mentioned that I had to take $10 from my purse to balance the deposit from my shift. She told me that occasional shortages happened and that it wasn’t my responsibility to cover them.

    I then confessed to her that the shortage was due to my borrowing $10 from the cash register the day before for a cab ride home. She looked at me seriously and told me that I wasn’t allowed to do that. I had no idea it was against the rules. I thought that as long as the money was back in the cash register before the next deposit, I believed that it was okay. I was still young and learning.

    My boss explained to me that it was, in fact, against the law and considered to be theft, which could result in up to five years in jail. Although it was an innocent mistake, she wanted to make sure I understood the severity of the situation. I admitted to her that it wasn’t the first time I had done it, I had borrowed money for a cab on three separate occasions but returned the money each, following morning. Fortunately, she let me off with a warning but she scolded me, telling me never to do it again.

    I thanked her and was grateful for her trust in me. I then underwent a couple more weeks of management training, and everything went smoothly from then onwards. I never misappropriated, anything after that. I’m forever grateful to her for her understanding and the second chance that she gave me.

  • Lost In The Dream

    If there were a biography about you, what would the title be?

     A Life of Self-Discovery and Transformation :

    The title “Lost in the Dream” may seem a bit paradoxical, but for me, it accurately describes the essence of my life’s journey.

    As I reflect on my experiences, I feel that this title is fitting and I imagine it to be similar to a lost puzzle piece, once found, can complete the puzzle.

    Growing up, I was a child with a vibrant imagination, I often escaped into fantastical worlds full of utopian societies constructed with 5D ideals, of my own creation.

    While my imagination served me as a source of comfort and inspiration, it also made life somewhat challenging for me. I had difficulty connecting with others and navigating the complex nature, of the real world. I often felt like I was living in a dream, detached from the world around me yet, very much a flesh, blood and bones, part of it. 

    As I entered my teenage years, this illusionary sense of disconnection continued to exist. I struggled to form meaningful relationships, and when I did, I found myself drawn to people, who were unavailable to me and often my love was not returned.  I felt as if I was searching for a sense of validation and love in all the wrong places and this was more truth than fantasy. I felt like was lost in a dream of idealized love and relationships.

    As I joined together the dots in this pattern of behaviour, I allowed it to continue well into my adult life. I struggled more and again I attempted to find my place in the world.

    I most definitely needed to define myself and my purpose. I felt like I was drifting through life on a loosely secured raft , without direction or an anchor to hold me to my path of travel. I often felt trapped in this never-ending dream. I believed that I was unable to wake up to reality. I refused to see the obvious truth.

    However, as I approached my thirtieth birthday, something shifted within me. I had to accept a life without being able to contribute to life, in its most sacred way, there would be no children for me. I had to be honest with myself and face the truth, head on. I had to find another way to make my life matter.

    I began to take responsibility for my actions, my emotions and the space I that inhabited on this planet.

    I began confronting the patterns and behaviors that had held me back, for so long. It was a painful and difficult process, but it marked the beginning of my journey towards self-discovery, self compassion and transformation.

    I ultimately realized that life was short, and that I had a choice to make. I could continue to drift through life, lost in my dreams, or I could take action, pursue my passions, and make a meaningful impact on the world.

    The title “Lost in the Dream” may have once described my life, but it no longer defines me. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the journey I’ve taken, the lessons I’ve learned, and the growth that I had experienced. I am no longer lost; I am found, and I am living my best life with intention, purpose, and passion.

  • How Developing a Conscious Collective Mind Can End War

    War has been a pervasive and devastating aspect of human history, with its roots stretching back to ancient civilizations. From the battles of the Roman Empire to the global conflicts of the 20th century, war has left an indelible mark on humanity. But who is responsible for the perpetuation of war? The answer lies not in a single entity or group, but rather in the collective unconscious of humanity.

    For centuries, humanity has been driven by a dominant masculine energy, characterized by aggression, competition, and domination. This energy has fueled the engines of war, as nations and empires have sought to expand their power and control over others. The feminine energies of nurturing, cooperation, and compassion have been suppressed, leading to a profound imbalance in the human psyche.

    However, I firmly believe that war is not an inevitable aspect of human nature, but rather a manifestation of our collective thoughts and actions. As I see it, war is the unwanted, unloved child of our thought and action manifestation process. It seems that, for now, our reality is being shaped by a greater number of violent thinkers and doers, rather than people like myself who have nothing but great dreams and love for our future – a future that encompasses every living, sentient being on this planet.

    But I remain hopeful. I believe that we have the power to change our reality by shifting our collective consciousness. As more and more individuals awaken to their true nature and the interconnectedness of all life, a new collective consciousness is emerging. This new consciousness is characterized by cooperation, compassion, and mutual understanding.

    The concept of a “New Earth” is not just a figment of imagination or a title of a book by Eckhart Tolle. It is an actual movement and process that has been taking place on the planet. As we continue on this journey of collective transformation, we are witnessing the emergence of a new human experience. It is an experience that is rooted in love, compassion, and unity, rather than fear, separation, and conflict.

    I have faith that we are creating a new earth, a new experience, and that we are at the beginning of a beautiful human transition. This transition is not just about ending war, but about creating a world that is just, equitable, and peaceful. It is a world where every human being has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

    As we move forward on this journey, it is essential that we continue to cultivate a conscious collective mind. This means recognizing the interconnectedness of all life and the inherent value and worth of every human being. It means seeking to resolve conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than violence and aggression. And it means working together to create a world that is just, equitable, and peaceful for all.

    In conclusion, developing a conscious collective mind is the key to ending war and creating a new human experience. As we continue on this journey of collective transformation, I have faith that we will create a world that is rooted in love, compassion, and unity, rather than fear, separation, and conflict. We can shape our reality with our thoughts and actions, and I choose to dream of a future filled with love, peace, and harmony for all.