tracyschruderblogspot

The Writer in Me

  • A Risk That Paid Off: My Journey with Reiki

    Describe a risk you took that you do not regret.

    By Tracy Schruder

    One risk I took that I don’t regret is learning and practicing Reiki. Despite being surrounded by skeptics and doubters, I remained committed to my journey. In fact, not having the support of my closest family members turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Working with friends and strangers to hone my skills forced me to grow and improve as a practitioner.

    Through Reiki, I’ve had the privilege of helping numerous individuals, including those struggling with serious health issues and emotional challenges. Witnessing their progress and improved quality of life has been truly rewarding. This journey has also led to lifelong friendships and a loyal client base.

    My passion for Reiki only grew stronger, and I decided to take my practice to the next level by becoming a certified Reiki Grandmaster. There’s nothing quite like seeing my students discover their own potential and passion for helping others. Sharing this knowledge and watching others grow has brought me immense joy and fulfillment.

    I’m grateful for the risk I took in pursuing Reiki, as it’s led to a deeply rewarding career and a sense of purpose. If you’re considering exploring Reiki or other alternative healing modalities, I encourage you to take the leap. You never know where it might lead you.

  • A Missed Opportunity: What I Wish I’d Done Differently

    Write about a time when you didn’t take action but wish you had. What would you do differently?

    By Tracy Schruder

    Looking back, I recall a time when I didn’t take action on an opportunity that could have potentially changed the course of my career. I was 23 years old when I was recruited by Choice Hotels Canada to be the midnight auditor at Day’s Inn in Brockville, Ontario. Initially, I accepted the position and excelled in my training, demonstrating my ability to sell and process rooms, as well as provide excellent hospitality to guests.

    However, as time went on, I found the demands of the job overwhelming. Managing the scheduling for the housekeeping staff proved to be a significant stressor, and balancing two jobs and school left me exhausted. After four months, I made the difficult decision to quit.

    In hindsight, I wish I had approached the opportunity differently. Instead of juggling multiple responsibilities, I wish I had focused solely on the midnight auditor role and my education. With dedication and hard work, I might have been able to move up the corporate ladder and secure a leadership position within the company.

    Although I don’t regret the choices I made, I believe that my youth and inexperience at the time contributed to my decision to quit. If I had been older, perhaps in my 30s, I might have taken the job offer more seriously and been better equipped to handle the challenges that came with it.

    This experience taught me valuable lessons about prioritizing my goals and being mindful of my limitations. While I may not have taken full advantage of the opportunity at the time, I’m proud of the path I’ve chosen and the success I’ve achieved. Nevertheless, it’s interesting to reflect on what could have been, and I’m grateful for the wisdom gained from the experience.

  • Embracing My Shadow: A Risk That Changed Everything

    Describe a risk you took that you do not regret.

    By Tracy Schruder

    I’ll never forget the day I decided to take a risk that would alter the course of my life forever. It was the day I embarked on a journey of shadow work, confronting the parts of myself that I’d long suppressed or denied. This journey wasn’t easy, but it was transformative.

    As I dove deeper into my shadow, the floodgates of my mind and heart opened, releasing a torrent of creativity and self-awareness. My desire to write, which had previously been stifled, suddenly took off. My imagination came alive, and I found myself expressing thoughts and emotions I’d never dared to explore before.

    One of the key catalysts for this journey was Glenn Harrold’s Inner Child Meditation. This powerful tool allowed me to connect with my inner child, heal old wounds, and develop a deeper understanding of myself. By embracing my inner child, I was able to tap into my creativity and unlock my full potential.

    Through shadow work, I learned to stop judging the darker parts of myself and others. I realized that these aspects are a natural part of being human, and that embracing them is essential to personal growth. By facing my shadow, I won a deeper understanding of myself and developed a sense of compassion and empathy for others.

    I’m grateful for the journey I’ve been on, and I encourage everyone to explore their own shadow. It may not be easy, but the rewards are immeasurable. By embracing our shadows, we can unlock our creativity, develop greater self-awareness, and live more authentic lives.

    If you’re considering embarking on a similar journey, I urge you to take the first step. You never know where it might lead you. With shadow work, you’ll discover parts of yourself that you never knew existed, and you’ll emerge stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.

  • Toxic Dance

    By Tracy Schruder

    Never let them see behind your mask,

    They don’t know your intentions, and they don’t know your past.

    Never crumble when they cry,

    If they ask for truth, tell them lies.

    Don’t share their bed, and they won’t get in your head,

    Keep them at the ready, because you bring wars that are steady.

    Never wipe their tears, never comfort their fears,

    Leave them laying broken on the floor.

    Convince them they are broken, so they won’t walk out the door,

    Keep them in chains of doubt, and never let them soar.

    This dance of power, a toxic game,

    Where hearts are bruised, and love’s to blame.

    (This poem explores the dynamics of a toxic relationship, highlighting the manipulation and control that can be present. The title “Toxic Dance” captures the idea of a twisted and damaging interaction between two individuals.)

  • Celebrating Earth Day: A Time for Reflection and Connection

    By Tracy Schruder

    Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, is a global event that aims to promote environmental protection and sustainability. Founded in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, this day has become a significant occasion for people worldwide to come together and raise awareness about the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources.

    Our Love for the Planet

    As I reflect on my connection with the Earth, I’m filled with love and appreciation for this incredible planet. Earth is the only known haven for life in our solar system, and its unique balance of elements makes it an extraordinary place to call home. I’m not an environmentalist, but I believe it’s essential to be mindful of our actions and their impact on the planet. By being aware of the harm caused by certain practices and products, we can make conscious choices to reduce our footprint and live more sustainably.

    Earth: A Living Being

    The Earth is often referred to by different names, such as Terra, Gaia, or Mother Earth, reflecting the deep connection humans have with the planet. This connection goes beyond mere sustenance; it’s a symbiotic relationship where the Earth provides us with life, and we, in turn, have the responsibility to care for it. By acknowledging the Earth as a living being, we can foster a deeper sense of respect, gratitude, and reciprocity.

    Cultivating Connection with the Earth

    One way to strengthen our bond with the Earth is by engaging our senses. When we listen to the sounds of nature, touch the soil, or feel the breeze on our skin, we become more attuned to the planet’s rhythms and cycles. This connection can inspire a sense of love, respect, and responsibility towards the Earth. By living in harmony with the planet, we can create a more sustainable future for all living beings.

    Meditating Outside

    Celebrating Earth Day

    Today, as I celebrate Earth Day, I’ll take a moment to express my gratitude to the planet. I’ll walk barefoot, feeling the earth beneath my feet, and enjoy the sensation of springtime mud squishing between my toes. I’ll also meditate outside, absorbing the loving energy of nature and acknowledging the Earth’s role as our life giver and sustainer.

    Joining the Movement

    As we mark this Earth Day, let’s remember the power we hold as individuals to make a difference. By embracing sustainable practices, reducing waste, and promoting renewable energy, we can work together towards a brighter future for our planet. Let’s cherish this moment to reconnect with the Earth and recommit to protecting its beauty and wonder for generations to come.

  • Beyond Remembrance

    By Tracy Schruder

    Don’t remind me who I used to be,

    That’s not me, open your eyes and see.

    Life changes everything,

    From dawn till dusk, from first steps to last breaths.

    Time holds no value until value has no time.

    I’m not you, I’m me, it’s my life,

    My reality, I am that I am,

    The genuine presence, untethered and free.

    I’m not who you remember from that moment in time,

    Don’t remind me who I used to be,

    Think of yourself, life is fleeting,

    Cherish the now, let go of the past’s refrain.

    (This poem explores the theme of personal growth and transformation, urging the reader to see the speaker as they are in the present moment, rather than holding onto past perceptions.)

    Thank you for reading 😊🤗🙏

  • The Anxiety of Unexpected Doctor’s Appointments

    What makes you nervous?

    By Tracy Schruder

    As someone who’s generally comfortable visiting the doctor for common ailments like colds or ear infections, I’m often surprised by the anxiety that creeps in when I receive an unexpected call from my doctor requesting bloodwork and a visit. It’s as if the unknown diagnosis creates a sense of unease that’s hard to shake off.

    The Fear of the Unknown

    At the core, we all tend to believe we’re healthy unless proven otherwise. However, when a doctor initiates a visit without an apparent reason, it’s natural to feel apprehensive. My past experiences have contributed to this anxiety, particularly a misdiagnosis that lasted six years. It was a challenging time, and the fear of it happening again still lingers.

    The Importance of Trust and Self-Care

    Despite my concerns, I have faith in my medical team and their ability to provide quality care. Currently, they’re keeping a close eye on a couple of health issues, and I’m grateful for their attention. When anxiety starts to feel overwhelming, I turn to exercise and meditation to calm my nerves. These self-care practices help me stay grounded and focused on the present moment.

    Finding Strength in Uncertainty

    I know I’m not alone in feeling nervous about unexpected doctor’s appointments. It’s natural to worry about the unknown, but I’ve learned to cope with these feelings by trusting my doctor and myself. While I’ll always feel a bit anxious until the visit is over, I’m confident in my ability to handle whatever life brings my way. By acknowledging my fears and taking care of myself, I’m able to face uncertainty with a sense of resilience.

    Conclusion

    Unexpected doctor’s appointments can be daunting, but it’s essential to approach them with a mix of faith in our medical team and self-care practices. By acknowledging our fears and taking steps to manage anxiety, we can navigate these situations with greater ease. Whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or simply trusting in our healthcare providers, we can find the strength to face uncertainty head-on.

  • Don’t Hold Back: The Importance of Responding to Nature’s Call

    By Tracy Schruder

    Have you ever found yourself putting off a trip to the bathroom, thinking it’s no big deal? Perhaps you’ve been too busy or didn’t want to take a break from your activities. However, ignoring nature’s call can have unintended consequences on our health. As a society, we need to prioritize good bowel and bladder habits to prevent various health issues.

    The Risks of Holding Waste

    Holding waste for extended periods can lead to a range of health problems, including:

    – Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements can cause stool to become hard and dry, making it difficult to pass.

    – Bowel distension: Holding stool can cause the bowel to stretch and become enlarged, leading to discomfort and pain.

    – Incontinence: Weakening of the bladder and bowel muscles can lead to incontinence issues.

    – Other complications: Holding waste can also lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other complications.

    A Personal Story of Recovery

    I learned this lesson the hard way. As a child, I would often hold my waste until it was almost unbearable. Unfortunately, this habit led to complications later in life, including an enlarged bowel and weak bladder. However, I’ve been fortunate enough to reverse the damage through lifestyle changes. By eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water, and responding to nature’s call when I need to, I’ve been able to cure my problems and regain control over my bowel and bladder health.

    The Power of Lifestyle Changes

    My experience has shown me that damage caused by holding waste can be reversed with the right approach. By prioritizing good bowel habits and making simple changes to our daily routines, we can take care of our health and prevent various complications. Here are some tips:

    – Respond to nature’s call: Don’t delay trips to the restroom when you feel the urge to go.

    – Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help soften stool and promote regular bowel movements.

    – Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.

    – Practice good bowel habits: Develop a consistent bowel routine, and avoid straining during bowel movements.

    Conclusion

    By listening to our bodies and responding to nature’s call, we can take care of our health and prevent various complications. My personal story serves as a testament to the power of lifestyle changes in reversing damage and achieving good health. Let’s prioritize good bowel habits and encourage others to do the same. By making small changes to our daily routines, we can make a big difference in our overall well-being.

  • A Tribute to Pope Francis: A Man of Compassion and Honesty

    Pope Francis

    By Tracy Schruder

    As someone who isn’t Catholic, I’ve had the privilege of following Pope Francis’ journey through the media, and I’ve been deeply moved by his unwavering commitment to compassion, honesty, and understanding. Despite our differences in faith, I’ve come to admire his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of their religious beliefs or views. His message of love, kindness, and acceptance has resonated with me, and I believe it’s a testament to his remarkable character.

    A Legacy of Love and Service

    Over the years, I’ve witnessed the passing of five popes, from Paul VI to Francis. Each has left their mark on the world, but Pope Francis’ dedication to social justice, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue has been particularly inspiring. His encyclical “Laudato Si’” has become a rallying cry for those working towards a more sustainable future, and his advocacy for the poor and vulnerable has reminded us all of the importance of compassion and empathy.

    A Champion for the Marginalized

    Pope Francis’ commitment to serving the marginalized and vulnerable has been a hallmark of his papacy. He’s spoken out on issues like income inequality, immigration, and climate change, challenging us all to think more critically about our role in creating a more just and equitable society. His actions have shown us that even small acts of kindness and compassion can have a profound impact on those around us.

    A Bridge-Builder Between Faiths

    One of Pope Francis’ greatest strengths has been his ability to build bridges between different faith communities. He’s reached out to leaders of other faiths, fostering greater understanding and respect. His visits to synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship have demonstrated his commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

    A Legacy That Will Endure

    As the world says goodbye to Pope Francis, we’re reminded of the power of his legacy. His message of love, compassion, and service will continue to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds. As the Vatican prepares to appoint a new pope, we can only hope that his successor will continue to build on the foundations laid by Pope Francis, promoting a more just, equitable, and compassionate world for all.

    Thank you for reading 😊🙏

  • How I Unwind After a Stressful Day

    How do you unwind after a demanding day?

    Laughter

    By Tracy Schruder

    After a demanding day, I find relief in watching funny videos and television shows that make me laugh. This simple pleasure has a profound effect on my stress levels, allowing me to shift my focus away from the pressures of the day. Interestingly, laughter also triggers memories of past stressful situations that, in hindsight, have become humorous anecdotes.

    One such experience that comes to mind is a particularly harrowing incident from my time working in a factory on the paint line. The machinery consisted of moving hangers that suspended metal pieces above shoulder height, carrying them into an electrified paint system. On this particular day, I was preoccupied with my thoughts and not fully present. Before I knew it, one of the hangers caught my shirt sleeve at the shoulder, lifting me off the floor and propelling me towards the dangerous machinery. Thankfully, my boss spotted the situation and shut down the line just in time. I was yelling, and my heart was racing.

    At the time, the experience was terrifying, and the aftermath was stressful. We had emergency safety training, which meant everyone had to stay an extra hour after their shift. Some co-workers were understandably frustrated, but were ultimately glad I was okay and took it easy on me. Some of them actually found it quite funny and giggled about the whole situation. I reflected on the incident later, I realized that laughter could be a powerful antidote to stress.

    When I shared the story with my husband, his reaction surprised me. Instead of offering sympathy, he burst out laughing. Initially, I was taken aback, but his infectious laughter soon had me giggling too. The relief was palpable, and we spent the rest of the evening chuckling about the incident. For weeks afterward, whenever he asked about my day, he’d smile and say, “Any more paint line adventures?” and we’d laugh together.

    This experience taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of humor in coping with stress. By choosing to see the lighter side of unfortunate events, I’ve found that I can alleviate some of the tension and anxiety that comes with them. When all else fails, I turn to my favorite comedies, and laughter does the rest.

    Conclusion

    In the end, laughter is a potent tool for unwinding after a stressful day. By finding the humor in challenging situations and allowing ourselves to laugh, we can shift our perspective and reduce tension. Whether it’s watching funny videos, sharing humorous stories, or simply enjoying a good comedy show, laughter has the power to transform our experiences and leave us feeling lighter, freer, and more at peace.

    Thank you for reading 😊🤗🙏