The Expanded Contest

     I love this time of year as it is near 11.11.11, the day of The Butterfly Gathering.  For each of the past eleven years, we have celebrated this event.  Plus, every other year this event has been a highly successful virtual event.  Last year we met in the White Mountains of AZ in person and my friends from around the world, joined me via email.  That delightful Sunday, we were the guest of the wonderful Believe program; held at the Tuscan Pizzeria Venti...oh so overflowing with ambiance.  Plus, the date was 10/10/10 which was close enough to fall for restaurant owner, Lisa to bake a an amazing pumpkin pie from fresh pumpkin!!

     Two years ago, I *The Home Whisperer* hosted a contest to celebrate PoSivityDay.com.  The quest was for entrants to write in one of their wishes to Re-Take...a Mis-take they have learned from and although they regretted it then and even afterwards, they were able to forgive themselves.  For truly, we should not dwell in this energy because it is an illusion.  Once we embrace all of our lives-as it is said, warts and all, something marveloous, mystical and magical happens.

     In 9.9.09 the prize amount was $1,118.00, the exact same number as PoSivityDay.com's actual celebration day, 11.18.  Karla McWhorter was the 9.9.9 winner- Once again, Congratulations Karla and also once again for 11.11.11's Celebration, Prices and Gifts are valued at $1,118.00.  The winner will be announced  11.11.11 @ 11 PST via email.  As posted earlier on this blog titledr THE CONTEST, the requirement is to write about the time you left home.  I have added more prize value and there is no purchase required. 

     This contest is in honor of our grandson Ryan (19) who left home for the first time to attend university.  One week after he arrived on campus, he was rushed to the hospital for an appendectomy and once he was in surgery, Crohns disease was discovered.  Although he is attending on a sports scholarship, he is under the doctors care and not released to participate.  The staff in South Dakota were excellent.  While his precious mom Amy attended to him all those 23 hours away, my hubby Jay and I drove to the Phoenix area to backstop his dad Jeremy and brothers and sister in their active life.  In fact, even though Amy has returned home, at their request, we are still here. They are a strong family and we are honored to know them! Which goes for the rest of our grands and their parents!!

     On my Facebook page, I am quoting Johann Wolfgang von Goethe-it is only beneficial that I do so here too.  His insights line up with my universal beliefs such as "Life is transitory" and "Leap and the net will appear."  These are true, true, true. 

I invite you to join The Contest and write from your heart~everyone has a brilliant story and we want to hear yours!  You Are Talented & Certainly, YOU ARE THAT YOU ARE So You Can Write!  Please forward because if one of your referrals wins, there is a lovely prize for you too.
Double your pleasure and double your chances.

                              

         


Over the years, I have been inspired by Goethe's quote, "Whatever you do, or dream you can do, begin it.  Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it NOW."  This wisdom continues to be a catalyst for living confidently into my highest best.  Recently I was introduced to as paul Harvey would say, 'the rest of the story.'  This stream of though speaks to the heart of humanity's purpose and underscores how important COMMITMENT is in living an intentional life.
     "Until one is committed, there is hestitancy, the chance to draw back-concerning all acts of initiation (and creation), there is one elementary truth that ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans; that the moment one definetely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.  All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred.  A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents meetings, material assistance which no man chould have dreamed would come his way.  The Summary is Worth Repeating: Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it.  Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.  Begin it now."  
         

"Regardless of the outer chaos, the circle widens, the clan is strengthened and the world is indeed becoming a better place.  We are lovingly part of broader connection that bridges and moves forward universal consciousness.  As an agent of change my goal is to help humanity create inner and outer balance, harmony and sustained stability. Beginning within the home and work space, an evolved beauty continuously goes forth out into the world.  Healing, wisdom and awareness are hardwired into the soul's circuitry.  The art and science of Feng Shui joyously brings them to life.

After recent doors closed in my life, the doors of heaven were miraculously opened to an even more prosperous path.  One I could never have imagined.  Over these past two years, our worldly investments spiraled away, however I was encouraged and truly at peace. I never felt like we lacked because we always found deeper resources to tap.

What a bonus to serve the greater good and live from a place of beauty-in communion with peace and love.  Within my heart of hearts, I knew our new porfolio was more about the process not the outcome.  Even when circumstances may have appeared dark, life simply took on a deeper and richer shade of transformation.  I developed the art of flexibility and gratitude and all the while, felt truly abundant. Flexing my abundance muscles gave poise and poster to lasting prosperity of mind, body & spirit.  Yes, this abun-dance continues to magically serve me via traveling, new friends, harmony, health (hey-to date, I have lost 30 lbs and 30") and laughter.  Not to mention playing golf 4X@week for free! I love being a Winter Texan-I have come full circle!!
 
As we know, Global Change is also afoot.  It took the USA many years to find a working government and yes, that system is undergoing tranformation too.  Please send love to the Middle East and lest we forget that Wisconsin. In all places, may wisdom and peace be discovered. Today, be encouraged with these many shifts and changes. Don't get stuck in a judgement mode because indeed, this is a new time.  We are living and creating a new chapter of history.  Be a part of the solution, write your own story~live from a place of beauty, healing, gratitude and speak forth the a language of love. Be a person who embraces tolerance.  This my friend is how one develops into and masters the Art of Flexibility.  Be in nurtured and one with the circle or mantle of Unity."

Okay, this is where my heart is for today's blog...but truly, isn't it an amazing life?  

Number 7 ~ Lady and Lord of the Joyous Lake

On February 4, 2011 the Feng Shui Solar or 9 Starr Chi (more traditionally known as 9 Star Ki) began. In theUniversal Life Cycle Phase, it finds the Number 7 in the Tai Chi or heart of the Bagua. This lends its presence central to the common good and creates delicious opportunities for re*invention and re*finement of not only one's world, but the world at large. It is considered a metal element and echos the Gold or Metal White Rabbit's year of influence. Let us be clear that on February 3, the Lunar Chinese New Year or as it is also known, the Spring Festival was celebrated. The 9 Starr Chi or Solar year highlights the reflective lake, creativity, the inner child and of course, it is a year of deep re*flection. 

For anyone interested in becoming a Lady or Lord of the Joyous Lake, this series is dedicated to making its timeless wisdom accessible. I re*call one of my early (1995) Feng Shui workshop's premise to not only re*solve one's intentions but to make your very own predictions for an amazing future. This comes under the Vision Quest Dream book or board series. For more information on this powerful project, please see past my archived articles.  It is important to re*mind the reader that supporting each energy field is a numerical, color palette, direction of flow, geometric symbolism, one of five elements, iconic value, IChing trigram and unseen essence.   

In the science and art of Feng Shui, the five elements enjoy a Productive and a Controlling cycle of energies, each confluent upon one another. In the productive cycle, Metal condenses water thus creating it. In the Controlling cycle, it chops or reduces wood. The latter is meant to balance unbridled or too much growth with spiritual insights and intuition. In the productive cycle, metal contains water preventing it to flow out and away from its true course. There fore being cut off from its re*sourcefulness. Too little water and one is not nourished where rigidity of mind and heart begins to set in. Flowing emotions become stagnant blocking one's expression. Metal s water's vessel to be re*freshed & re*filled.

Since water is essential to your life, introduce a water fountain or any water feature to your home or work space. Although you can wear the color of black and feel its watery influence, in this Metal Golden Rabbit year, consider opting for the color of blue. You can also adorn your wrists and necklines with the Lapis Lazuli stone. This was the semi-precious gem in Kin gSoloman's famous ring of wisdom. Plus, the Egyptians considered Lapus the stone of sacred secrets and this stone is inlaid in King Tutankhamun's death mask overlaying his head & shoulders. The following is list of its attributes:

THE HEALING ENERGY OF LAPIS LAZULI

• Heavenly stone harmonizing relationships

• Spiritual development

• Strengthens body and mind connection

• Assist with positive manifestations

• Connected with the throat chakra which is the seat of communication

• Mental Clarity

• Illumination, Tranquility or Vitality

• Stone of total awareness

• Improves immune system

• Upgrades one's process of reasoning

• Expands ability to organize ordinary responsibilities

• Sacred Knowledge

As is my custom with each of my clients, I intuit a gemstone for them to wear. For one of male clients of 2007, he was asked to introduce Lapus Lazuli into his life. The very next day, he attended a Gem show with his family. The door prize was a stunning man's Lapus Lazuli ring from Afghanistan and yep, he won! Lapus was already seeking him.

Today, re*member to re*fine and predict your dreams and wear BLUE.  Next week's~the number 7's lucky essence.

“Being deeply learned and skilled, being well

trained and using well spoken words; this is good luck.”

~Prince Gautama (563-483 B.C.) aka Buddha

Think Rabbit's Foot! On February 3, 2011, the Fortunate, Metal Rabbit is honored as Chinese New Year's mega-star. The Lunar or Chinese calendar began in 2600 BC and is the longest chronological system in history. Just like our western Gregorian calendar which is considered a solar version and is arithmetical, the Chinese calendar also changes annually. The long-standing Chinese New Year celebrations last for fifteen days culminating in the jubilant Lantern Festival. To draw distinction between three Chinese disciplines, it is essential to understand their similarities and their differences. The first is Feng Shui (earth), this art and science is the study of space; as in an environment or actual location. Secondly, Nine Starr Chi (heaven) are the celestial influences present during the time you were born; how you are hard-wired. Thirdly, the Chinese Celestial Mythological (heaven and earth) customs can be likened to the Native American's respect for the animal kingdom and their symbolic wisdom. For 2011, Metal Rabbit is embodied within this ancient tradition and is kindred to the Mayan, Mexican and Native American's history of associating certain traits to specific animals. There are twelve Chinese Celestial Animals that cycle through twelve years. Assigned to each are five different elements of either wood, fire, earth, water or metal that move throughout a 60 year time line. Last year the Golden Tiger stirred things up but now it is the healing Metal Rabbit's time to shine.

One must be asking, “What is the meaning of the Metal Rabbit?” To better explain the Metal Energy, the following is from one of one of my previous articles titled Metal’s Infinite Influence~ “Metal is the energy of the accomplished…it encompasses the mind and clarity. It has two polar opposite influences, the right-brain and the left-brain. The right side of the brain is associated with being vital as it’s activity spins and pulls and pushes creating a pattern of various energies coming together in a unified position. The left-brained phase is dense which behaves like a magnet drawing scattered energies. It is where the intellect and the ego (or the lower frequencies) are found. When attuned to higher awareness, this discernment gathers to clarity. When properly hydrated, this area enhances focus and all mental tasks. Together with intuition and intellect in balance, this clarity pulls energies and awareness into unity. In Feng Shui, too much metal in a space creates rigidity and too little metal creates a lack of clarity. The balance is mental knowledge, notable precision of mental processes and the exact words expressing one’s true thoughts. This elegant process highlights a refined communicative skill bringing forth greater understandings. Maintaining a delicate balance between the two enables one to enjoy focus, harmony, a gentle calm; plus effortless and continuous moments of awakening.” Metal is also associated with bling so beautiful jewelry is big this year!

This brings us full circle and back to this year's Fortunate Metal Rabbit which has long been associated with good luck by the Celts and even the Egyptians. For centuries, Americans have thought of the rabbit and especially the rabbit's foot, to denote abundance. In folklore, the Rabbit's ability to procreate gave them the name of “Bringers of the Dawn” symbolizing new life. This energy always bodes well for endeavors beginning in a Rabbit year. It is said they have better than greater chance of prospering. Plus, the Metal Rabbit's elegant energy of re*newal stands ready for re*grouping one's dreams, visions, intentions and wishes. How great is this? With better planning, attention to detail, ability to leap forward and the skill to make a quick shift are readily available. The Metal Rabbit is also known for its longevity as it can live a healthy life of up to 10 years. As one knows, good health is true wealth

The last year the Metal Rabbit showed up was1951. One of the many of the Metal Rabbit characteristics is an inherent love of the arts and international affairs. As one can imagine, it is no surprise when that year's successful Broadway production of GiGi starred a debutante named Audrey Hepburn, plus the movie African Queen premiered also starring Audrey and the much beloved veteran actor Humphrey Bogart. The 1951 film to garner 6 Academy Awards was An American in Paris and to add even more global sophistication to the New York stage, Rodgers and Hammerstein's The King and I enjoyed a three year engagement that began the last Metal Rabbit year.

It is a time of great re*purposing which can prove to be rich and wonderfully playful. The promise of leaping humanity forward into places of greater awareness by way of improved communication is inherent. Reclaiming the Metal Rabbit's peace-loving energy as the Chinese would say, 'that hides in your heart' can assure one of a highly rewarding discovery process. Being re*newed within one's mind opens the door to fortune and great wealth of wisdom. For it all lies within and is but waiting to be transformed. In addition, forgiveness is now easily accessible to folks who have held a grudge for far too long, only to realize they are the ones hurt most by their actions. The sensitive Metal Rabbit loves to mend fences as his is a course of diplomacy. This is a lovely year when people are better able to see the best in one another. Metal Rabbit honors other lifestyles where tolerance flourishes. In this year of harmony, unscrupulous virtues, gentleness, aesthetic finesse is found a more re*fined concept of simply BEING. In addition, all Rabbit years encourages being philanthropic. Plus opportunities for improvements and advancement are forthcoming. To better learn about the Metal Rabbit's Process of Re*finement, Fifteen Days of the Chinese New Year's Traditional Celebration and Team Humanity, check out www.posivityday.com, .

Before the fun list history's famous rabbits, be happy to know that the family-oriented and deeply romantic Metal Rabbit inspires singles to find their long-lost soul-mate plus in strengthening an existing relationship. The natural physical and spiritual beauty of the Rabbit person is profound. Think Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt...both were born in the year of Rabbit and each love their family-they are also quite philanthropic. I know these characteristics first hand as we have three Rabbit beauties in our family...two of our daughter-in-laws; Tracy Nicole and Kirsten Elisabeth were born in 1975 and they are gloriously elegant examples. Our creatively artistic grand daughter Gabrielle Suzanne was born in 1999. The Rabbit birth years are as follows: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999 and now 2011.

Okay, here are some famous rabbits...ENJOY~

The Velveteen Rabbit who just wanted to be real,Bugs Bunny-What's Up Doc?, Grace Slick w/Jefferson Airplane's White Rabbit,Roger Rabbit, Peter Cottontail & Flopsie by Beatrice Potter, The White Rabbit whom Alice followed into the rabbit hole,The Mad Hatter,Were Rabbit from Wallace & Gromit, Harvey-a 6'3” tall rabbit in the 1950's film starring Jimmy Stewart, Oswald The Lucky Rabbit-the forgotten Walt Disney rabbit; The Hippity, Hoppity, Happy Easter Bunny, The Tortoise and the Hare; From the book Winnie the Pooh, Rabbit; Thumper from Bambi, Br'er Rabbit from Uncle Remus Tales, the Playboy Bunny—too funny!

Be Inspired,

Sharyn Jordan Hathcock  ~Cheerleader for Team Humanity

Author, Symbolist  & Environmental Healer 

  2011~The Year of Metal Rabbit's Re*finement

"The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking."  ~Albert Einstein

     It is impressive that the revered Albert Einstein likened the refinement of one's everyday thinking as the whole or the inspiration of science.  Since the definition of science is "a proficiently, systematic knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation and experimentation", Mr. Einstein knowingly merged science and the sweetness of an evolving awareness.  The whole of science is indeed about refining one's thinking for scripturally, we are taught, "As a man thinketh so is he." Now gift that truth to the whole of humanity and via one person at a time, the world can and will be upgraded and eventually, HEALED. True to the high energy of the celestially, playful Rabbit coupled with the Metal element which denotes refinement and mental acuity, this year promises to move humanity far forward.  Along the way, one must be mindful of the small changes-albeit seemingly chaotic activities, that are actually forging the way to a bigger and more beautiful picture. These transformations are re*leasing old and broken systems and as they fall away life is being melded into a glorious, joyous, renewed  reconnected and reinvented place where that is being synchronistic, seredippitously and synergistically evolved.  For such is the process of re*finement.

     To do my part in spreading this amazing re*finement far and wide, my PoSivityday.com blog is dedicated to helping one connect and activate their own deep and profound re*sources from within.  Okay, so I am the PoSivity cheerleader~ask my wonderful husband Jay, he will affirm i simply cannot help myself.  Since I am hardwired for this sense of purpose,  this year I am delighted to share such rich symbolism and support so deliciously available to everyone.  I am fascinated and very well acquainted with the power of myth and how belief systems mold thinking patterns; thus reflecting back to a person their life experiences.  This site playfully explores and generously shares the vast opportunities for expansion, innovation and inspiration.  This entire year will be filled with how to live into the refinement of everyday thinking and be one with a joyous awareness.       Along with the Metal Rabbit's mythological order, 2001 enables us to enjoy the Metal 7's Joyous Lake TaiCh'i or central position in the Grid of Life.  In Feng Shui, this teaching is considered the Creativity and Children energy where one learns how to look at life in childlike wonder.  For an overview, we will be discussing how to cultivate Deep Peace of Mind, Forgiveness, Diplomacy, Flexibility, the Concept of BEING-being inspired, Being Lucky, Grace, Communicative, Genius, Encouragement, Elegance, the Muse, Optimistic, Successfully Pursuing  One's Passions, Dancing (think abun--dance), Living Life Magically-Mystically-Marvelously-Magnificently, Imaginative and Being Fully Invested in Pure and Jubilant Joy.

     As I wrote in my book, The Home Whisperer-Feng Shui Simplified, "When the mind realizes its cosmic connection with wholeness it becomes free of fear. Re*leasing this illusion creates a child-like trust unfolding a beautiful and deeply abiding peacefulness. Joy bubbles up from the wellspring from within.  Once you have experienced this timeless knowing, you're forever aware of true and lasting harmony."  You can connect with the Metal Rabbit and 7's energy right now by acknowledging the many blessings you DO have.  This begins to re*lease greater re*sources to flow up from within and into your path from without.  Open you heart and mind thus embracing this new place of refinement where grace, comfort and beauty attend your every thought.  Re*ceive the Angels of Healing who are forever blessing you.  Know that you are being gifted with everyday thoughts of love~so please accept and radiate them back to the world.  Until Tomorrow...

Be Inspired,
Sharyn Jordan Hathcock
Author, Symbolist, Environmental Healer & Cheerleader for Team Humanity      

P.S.  Tomorrow we will have fun with the Lucky Aspect of each symbol...think Rabbit's Foot.

Gemstones

The Mysteries of the Universe

     Since the Stone Age gemstones, also known as crystals have been a powerful influence. Throughout time, all civilizations have studied their mysteries. They hold within them the storehouses of evolution and reveal universal truths.  They are the very catalyst for electricity, flight, astrological pursuits and highly advanced systems in the ancient Atlantean age.  In the Bible, gemstones are referenced hundreds of times. Each gemstone is unique unto itself communicating a vibration or energy to its beholder.  They also transmit and provide healing; support, and return vital energy back to the earth.  In fact, the crystal or gemstone holds the earth’s DNA.

     Gemstones have long been acknowledged as a method of creating greater well-being and a remarkable means of increasing one’s life force or chi. Gemstones are noted to enhance one’s personal life path, augment clarity, enlarge one’s perception, boost personal creativity, and promote compassion.  These descriptions are but a few of a gemstone’s properties.  Through studying their abilities, please note that a gemstone is a naturally occurring crystalline form of a mineral and were created as the earth was formed.

     A crystal or gemstone takes on an outward appearance of its inner qualities.  The crystal and semiprecious stones each emits electromagnetic waves and have healing properties.  In Feng Shui, each aspect of one’s home is relevant to one’s life path and the quality of your experiences and also hold healing properties.  For example, the Career or Journey is located in the front middle section of your home.  If you have a cluttered entrance with overgrown or dead flowers around it, you will have stale chi and less than excellent career advancement opportunities.  However, if the entrance has curb appeal, is clear and you place an onyx close to the doorway, you are inviting in greater prospects for advancement and fulfillment.  The onyx promotes vitality, stamina, and is symbolic of connecting with the Whole of Life.  It is a stone that furtively stimulates wise decision-making enabling one to become self-confident.  The perfect stone for this area is either the obsidian or onyx.  The obsidian provides a shield or protection against all negativity within an environment.  There are several types of obsidians such as the Apache Tear which is heralded as a great comfort during times of grief.  Without going too deep, this area of your home is governed by water and this is where we mourn. Black Obsidian is powerful in helping one's creativity.  Brown Obsidian induces independent thoughts, and Grey regards cooperation in all levels of living; Blue increases one's knowledge, Gold connects one with the all-knowing and Green Obsidian enhances the heart chakra.       

     Standing in your doorway and looking into your home, please note the Self-Cultivation and Knowledge area.  It is located to the far left of the entrance quadrant of your home.  The Lapis Lazuli is an excellent stone to place in this section as it stimulates enlightenment and dissolves emotional repression.  The Family/Roots section is found in the left hand middle section of your environment and is enhanced by the Emerald known as the healing stone. The Emerald promotes positive action assisting one in accessing universal laws of order and to bring forth greater awareness. 

     The Pure Abundance region is found in the upper left hand side of your home and is aligned with the wealth stone-the amethyst.  This is a beautiful stone that sheds its light, stability, and contentment.  It also inspires new ideas.  The Fame and Recognition area is situated at the very back of your home, in the very middle. This is associated with fire and passion-the Sunstone is perfect to enhance this energy.  It is the stone of alchemy transforming the darkness into the Light.

     In the far hand part of your home, dwells the loving energy of Intimate Relationship.  The Rose Quartz has long been associated with the purity, blissful, and the deep commitment of unconditional love.  Its greatest lesson is how to love yourself for in turn; you are then able to fully love another.  The middle right hand side of your home is called Creativity and Children.  The children may be your very own offspring’s or projects that you are pregnant with and are birthing. Joy, joy, joy…the joie de vivre. The King of Crystals of the Diamond inspires creativity, ingenuity, and clarity. 

     In the far right hand front part of your home, please find the Helpful People and Travel aspects.  Symbolic of being a helpful person and being supported by a series of folks who in turn, help you, this mystical area is said to hold the heart of humanity.  It is the celebration of life’s mentors-the pioneers who have boldly created a better way to live by listening to and then by honoring, the call to create peace and love on earth.  Angelite represents kindness at its very best. It provides divine protection, raises the conscious awareness, and promotes balance.

     The center of one’s home is called the Tai Chi/Unity…the place where all of the above life aspects are balanced.  This hub is only as healthy and peaceful as the sections around it.  Jasper is a sacred stone of harmony.  It provides a strong internal center and solid place to reside. It is known as the ultimate nurturer as it balances the yin/yang energies.One of the more precious Jaspers is called the Rose-Eye because it protects one's physical and mental environment. It aides in the process of manifesting your dreams into reality.  Picture Jasper literally looks as if it were painted upon and each picture holds its own mystery or message from the past.  It enhances creative imagery and future time travel. It is a stone for the small business person because its energy inspires abundance. Its earthy scenes connects the owner to the understanding of yesterday with an appreciation for today.  And lastly, the Wonderstone Jasper enlarges the imagination and helps one to walk the path of faith and to believe in the real goodness of life itself.  It helps to disolve depression and for the benefit of pure, peaceful, mental clarity.             

     For more information, please go to www.homewhisperer.net and discover how the mystery of your birthstone supports your everyday life.  Wearing or placing crystals/gemstones and/or semiprecious stones in one’s environment creates peace, balance and harmony. Truly, these are the intended state of one’s being.  Be open and allow Feng Shui and the remarkable gemstones to personally reveal the universe’s sacred, multifaceted mysteries. 

The Code of the West

“The Old West is not a certain place in a certain time;

It is a state of mind.  It is whatever you want it to be.”  Tom Mix

Having grown up in Texas, it was not a given that I would identify with the Wild West however it was my father’s immense Zane Grey book collection that romantically pulled me into this genre.  My dad’s workshop/library held a timeless fascination. Inside that oh-so-magical place, when in the 1950’s rotary phones were considered high-tech; this was the place where I was transported back in time.  Aside my dad’s WWII footlocker, in his over-stuffed chair with the spicy fragrance of cedar, just as millions of readers before and after me, read Zane Grey’s compelling old west adventures.  Glued to every page, I could easily imagine his colorful characters that were eventually dwarfed by his magnificent landscapes.  In complete awe and in retrospect, I know now that Mr. Grey sent me my first Arizona calling card.  In fact, in 1974, my husband and I moved our young family to Tempe, AZ. Then in 1985, when we relocated to the beautiful White Mountains, I fondly recall thinking, “At long last, I am home.”  To this day, the highly integrus character of Zane Grey's heroes continues to speak to me and is embedded within. 

Zane Grey’s novels inspired the early ideas of western life as he defined the frontier’s myth and folklore.  His tales depicted a source of sublime imagery with stories that came richly alive. He brilliantly asked his characters to interact with nature’s beauty and they delightfully complied.  He captured the unique and sacred spirit that freely abounds in the west. It is true that his novels also set the format for cowboy movies when in 1916; he sold the film rights for “Riders of the Purple Sage.”  As the decades rolled on, nearly fifty of his novels were converted into over one hundred films. The strong, silent and highly moral cowboy bound by the unwritten code of the west, exquisitely acted by either Tom Mix, Randolph Scott or Gary Cooper forever forged strength and overcoming into our hearts and minds.  From his books and on the silver screen, he shaped how the world perceived the Old West. You MUST read The Rainbow’s Trail, The Code of the West; oh the list goes on and on…gives yourself the gift of Zane Grey.

As I wax nostalgia, there were additional western stories adapted to the then-new field of television and certainly they helped to popularize this new media. Shows such as the Tales of Wells Fargo, Gunsmoke, Have Gun Will Travel, Maverick, Zane Grey Theatre by Dick Powell, The Lone Ranger and then in the early sixties, a colorized Bonanza were weekly standards in our home!  Lest we overlook the 4^th longest running TV western called Rawhide and for some trivia, did you know that Clint Eastwood wore the same boots in Rawhide( 1959-1965) as he did in Unforgiven(1991)? Speaking of the big screen and also of the fifties, films like Davy Crockett, The Blazing Sun, Broken Arrow, Gunfight at the OK Corral, Good Day for A Hanging were only a few of the stand-outs. I would be remiss if I did not include the toe-tapping musicals Oklahoma and Annie Get Your Gun.  With a maiden name of Oakley, yes like Annie Oakley, but no relation, I was not a sharp-shooter or even a cowgirl but I could sing all their songs. 

Saturday mornings found me faithfully watching Roy Rogers and Gene Autry tame the west.  Plus I actually met Hopalong Cassidy at the Clover Lake Dairy where he autographed my lunchbox! Yes, that is cheesy but oh so much fun.  However tracing back to the prime reasons I fell in love with the Western Way of Life was inspired not only by Zane Grey’s stories, but the core values of the western way of life.  I identified with being self-reliant which is a strong western characteristic, the ability to overcome life challenges, to pioneer something worthwhile, and the aptitude to make a difference.  These unwritten rules of the Wild West were quite refined and this creed mirrors the Salt of the Earth Principles and will increase one’s quality of life in today’s world.  In fact, Living Well in 2010 can be based on the code of the west.  Per Zane Grey, it is as follows: 

Live Each Day with Courage
Take Pride in Your Work 
Always Finish What you Start  
Do What has to Done
Be Tough but Fair
When You Make a Promise Keep It
Talk less & Say More
 Remember that Some Things Are Not For Sale
Know Where to Draw The Line
 If Needed, Help A Neighbor Get Back On His Feet
 Endure Hardships without Complaining ~Don’t Make Excuses
 Be Cheerful  ~Be Strong  ~Be Accountable
 Be Generous with your Life & With Your Resources
Live By the Golden Rule.”

                                                                                 Indeed, it is an honor to live in the West. 
             The Code of the West's rich heritage affords everyone to live admirably thereby furthering its values around the world.

By Sharyn Jordan Hathcock ~ Author, The Home Whisperer & Wellness Advocate.