Bright Shining StarI want to be more. I want to truly shine. My desire for refinement inspires me to brave the treacherous journey into the frontiers of my dark interior. The ways in which unknown possibilities haunt, illuminate and seduce me have evoked a mental travel diary of my hopes and desires - a vision if you will. The cinnamon toast of my existence cries out for new experiences. A new direction… spiritual evolution.

So I’ve been rethinking my life in small and large ways, painful but ultimately fruitful. What journey do we undertake that does not bring to light unwanted stowaways – long ignored out of habit?  Owning up to the dead ends in our private lives, our business approach – even our relationship with ourselves – is the ultimate enlightenment. Yet we face our demons reluctantly. I certainly do. I realize that unless I undress my flaws, see them for exactly what they are - I’ll never dance at the edge – find no reason to push the envelope.

If only the path were easier. Risk free. We all want the sure thing. But the payoff truly comes in the taking of risks. A single roll of the dice can change our lives in ways we might never dream possible. Even our dreams have boundaries. So why not throw out our limitations and pre-conceptions? Take that chance?

Wouldn’t it be great if we could just stop things at pivotal moments, stand back, and write our own ending? How would it be different? What price would we pay for safety?

We have to risk something. We just do.

I am aware that I’ve made mistakes in this life. Big ones and I own them. But they are mine because taking chances not only nets terrific results and fantastic rewards, but miscalculations and losses as well. Because of this, and this alone – my ultimate gains taste even sweeter.

I am not here on this earth as a mere visitor. I am not content to be seated in the audience either. I want to be the star. So I’ll gather my courage and unleash my adventuresome spirit. I’ll take my chances. Because I know exactly what I want. And simply by making the effort, I will shine brighter.

 
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91 Comments on Evolution

OCT
01
2008
152,259 Points 19 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Jen, You are a star.  Whatever you want in life it is there for the taking, don't ever be afraid, you have many people that love you.

11:49pm • #1
480,278 Points 151 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jen Jen... you want to be more?  Just hang out with me.... ;o)

Seriously, I agree 110%, we do have to risk something. And I know what one of your risks need to be and I am sure you know also. And it's part of unleashing your courage and adventuresome spirit & will...  not knowing the unknown is the worst that you can do for your body and soul.... just my .02.

jeff belonger

11:53pm • #2
261,713 Points 26 Featured Posts Outside Blog

you are a star - a bright star in many of our hearts

11:57pm • #3
OCT
02
2008
873,702 Points 68 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I've never met anyone who is a brighter star than you. When we met in person, you showed you had an inner light that you just don't see. I am a better person just for having met you!

Don't sell yourself short,

Todd Clark, Helping Families Home - www.IFoundYourNewHome.com

12:06am • #4
595,030 Points 63 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer all good points. Mistakes are part of life. We must risk to grow. I agree with what Audrey said. You ALREADY are a star. Believe it. I already do about you. Now that Sardi character, he needs some polish, but you're up to it  : )

12:31am • #5
373,081 Points 23 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Jennifer its always nice when you came and do your introspective and poetic posts..!  I like your 'pivotal' moments........that and those 'kodak' moments that are embedded in our heads....everything is risky........doing nothing probably the greatest risk of all! 

12:50am • #6
3 Featured Posts Outside Blog Hit Router

So wonderful to know exactly what you want. Truly liberating and freeing! go for it! and thanks for the Dido song.

2:12am • #7
183,534 Points 9 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Life happens so fast that we often drift along in our comfort zone.  The idea of carefree adventure is alluring but for most calculated risk is all we can handle.  Getting there is all the fun... Enjoy the journey!

5:34am • #8
140,821 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog

My Jen - Who hasn't made mistakes. The way I look at it is, you make the best decision at the time with the information you have. Learn from it and then move on, otherwise you can drive yourself nuts. You'll always be a star.

One moment in time can change our life forever.

6:13am • #9
224,366 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jenn, you are a star.  A bright and lovely one.  I admire your courage.  There are many things in life that I simply can not or will not face.  It does hold you back but it takes major courage to face them and I'm not there yet.  Spent the better part of my life pretending they are not there.  It's tiring.  This was a wonderful post, beautiful lady.  xxoo

7:01am • #10
303,385 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Hi Jennifer,
Sometimes I think you are inside my head!  You put into words what I think but cannot verbalize.  Playing it safe is comfortable but stepping outside that comfort zone is where we grow, learn and experience the best of the best. 

7:17am • #11
3 Featured Posts

Your sense of self always shines through. Your willingness to search your dark side and your ablilty to admit that you don't know or can't face some of it is what makes you so special. Mistakes are all around us, owning them and learning is what makes the sweetness matter.

9:15am • #12
178,142 Points 14 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

WOW!

"I am aware that I've made mistakes in this life. Big ones and I own them."

 That is the most profound lesson a person can learn and through which we can evolve. Step on out there girl, it's scary but you just need to remember you have those fabulous wings... so fly!

9:23am • #13
265,973 Points 59 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Striving for a better you... in every way every day, is something we should all implement.  The far reaches of our hearts, our minds, our souls, & our physical selves have no limits... or so I've been told. 

You are my star, my brave soul hiding in the shadows but willing to step into the light.  Each step can be an evolution, can mean a greater us.

I love my very wise Jennifer;-)

9:24am • #14
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Thank you Audrey :)  We hear that everything is just within our grasp, but those few inches in between can seem like the farthest distance we ever have to travel. Mwa!

10:21am • #15
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Belonger... Yes I do know. And I'M GOING FOR IT!! All I can say is thank you for your support and genuine friendship. You know better than most the layers I'm shedding to get to the best part of me.

10:23am • #16
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Thesa... Honestly, that means a lot to hear that. I'm not sure why I don't already know it with all the love and support I get around here :)

10:27am • #17
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Todd... Now why do I remember it differently? YOU were the bright star that day. You are bubbly, happy and uplifting. I could learn something from you. We should hang out more!

10:29am • #18
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Gary... How sweet of you to say that! But I disagree about my Sardiboy - he shines so brightly I have a perpetual tan :) He just likes to throw you off once in awhile.

10:31am • #19
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Liz... You're absolutely right. Doing nothing at all is the worst risk we ever take. While I would love to re-orchestrate those pivotal moments, it's a good thing I can't. I would never want to be anywhere else right now.

10:38am • #20
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Alex... Yes it is! You know that better than most. See you this afternoon :)

10:40am • #21
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Dano... Very well said my wise friend. I can do the drifting thing pretty well too. I love that song! Great way to start my day :)

10:42am • #22
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Sandra... No kidding! Funny how a single moment - taking a single risk - can change our lives entirely. Good and bad. Fortunately, I'm letting go of the bad mistakes and hanging my hopes on my good fortune.

10:52am • #23
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Susan... Don't for one moment think you're alone in that. I can be exactly the same way. It can go on for years with me. And THAT is my biggest mistake. It's absolutely scary. But if I don't make the effort, I won't know what it is to really live. I want to experience it fully.

You are such a sweetheart! Mwa!

10:54am • #24
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Cynthia... Sometimes I AM! Lol! Too bad that groove is so comfortable. Until it's not - which is where I am at this juncture. Wish me luck!

10:56am • #25
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Beth... I appreciate that. But just hold me to it, ok? I can easily slide into avoidance and I don't want to pay the price for that ever again. Thank you so much for your support. I wish we could hook up at Stahley's again later :) Pour me another drink!

11:00am • #26
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Russell... You have a very good memory! And you are oh so right. I will my friend. Count on it!

11:02am • #27
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Beautiful Jason... You inspire me. I look at you and think how I wish I had some of what's inside you.(!) Seriously, you do inspire me - you inspired this post. You teach me that resting on what we've done is never enough. I remember your saying that we are only as good as our last performance. It couldn't be more true.

YOU are my star baby...

I love my blazing Jason!

Mwa & Fwa!

11:07am • #28
595,030 Points 63 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jenn, as you can tell from the comments, we ALL here already know YOU are a star. Don't doubt yourself. OK, since you know Jason better than me, I'll get my sunglasses out to deal with his brightness. But don't forget to keep giving him that loving that we all need. I trust you will.

11:34am • #29
1 Featured Post

Shine on Jenn I have lots of sunscreen :)

And no I haven't fallen off the planet, just had my nose to the grindstone.

3:56pm • #30
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Gary... You can completely trust me on that! He's the brightest star in my sky. I will love that boy until the last star burns out. And then some :)

5:21pm • #31
213,631 Points 16 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jen,

Beautiful post and very timely for me at this point in my life as I step off of a cliff into a wide chasm (with open arms waiting below to catch me (((-:   ).

I like what Tom Braatz said once in a comment on one of my posts ~ "We are the heroes and victims of our own mind's direction."  How true.

Jo

5:30pm • #32
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Keith... Then you're probably doing better than most here. I'm glad to hear you're busy but I still miss seeing you around :)

5:35pm • #33
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Jo... Wow! That's a great quote from Tom! And whatever it is you're daring to do - I know it will turn out purposeful and with the intent of a true heart. That's the most we can control. Keep me posted,...and ride your courage like a crazy bull!

5:38pm • #34
3 Featured Posts

Jennifer, I haven't been a fan very long, but I'm definetely a big fan of your writings. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and as the cliche goes, keep on reaching for the stars!

6:43pm • #35
OCT
03
2008
Outside Blog

Good points.  It is always good to take time and reflect.  Agents get stressed and lose sight of what is important in life.

10:27pm • #36
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Greg... You're a sweetheart. But you knew that! I don't need you to be a fan, but I do want you to know how much as I appreciate your good wishes and enthusiasm. YAAGFTH!

10:30pm • #37
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Jean... I completely agree. Sometimes we have to shed our layers and take a long hard look at our approach to everything. These are stressful times in our industry to be sure. So glad you stopped in :)

10:32pm • #38
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

You just HAD to do it didn't you my beautiful dork!!!

10:46pm • #40
OCT
04
2008
580,722 Points 95 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Jennifer, You are a STAR!  We grow more from our mistakes then we do from our successes.

Unfortunatley. And the best things we obtain in life come from taking risks and putting it all out there. The one thing that will never fail you, is your gut.

If you know what it is saying you will be fine. Close out all the voices and listen to that part of our being, our spirit or some call a soul. It never fails.

5:48am • #42
206,256 Points 19 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer,

There is a reason marriage has survived so long, two people working together as one, are so much more than the sum of their parts! You've made your decision. Now implement it! It's hard to be a star on one's own.

Uncle Bill

6:35am • #43
409,527 Points 74 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Miss Jen soon to be Mrs.Sardi,

As I mentioned to you in our little side room:)...you have to go for what you think is best and as long as you're happy then you shouldn't worry about whether or not it turns into a mistake. Chances are taken every day and if you don't go for a good opportunity then you'll never know how it will turn out...I've made some heavy gambles in the past and most have been fine. as long as it isn't life threatening then it's ok...just don't be wrestling too hard with Bro or he might break a few of your bones...he shouldn't mistake you for Mick:) You're softer!

8:45am • #44
255,512 Points 34 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

So, Jennifer what is it? This is like the beginning chapter of a "great read book" and I am not fulfilled with the one and only chapter. Just as mentioned above Jenn, you are a star in others eyes. What is important is that you experience that feeling within.

I would imagine that all people that love you see you shine daily. We certainly do. But, now I want to know more. The why? The when? The how?

And, the largest question is...what's going to make you look at yourself the way we see you?

Next chapter please.

Later in the rain~Deb

10:58am • #46
300,472 Points 3 Featured Posts

Man what a blog.. This is... well you know. With all the comments here one would have to say you have reached stardom. But don't be like a "Candle in the Wind. Keep reaching and always remember there's another star even higher.

11:28am • #47
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Jason... In tune? Stop with the links and just sing to me baby. You know how much I love it. In tune or not ;)

12:14pm • #48
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Missy... Well that is the trick isn't it?? Being quiet enough and clever enough to listen to exactly what our gut is telling us. Here's my dilemma... my gut/soul speaks in rhymes. In fact, it makes Alice in Wonderland seem sane! If I could make heads or tails out of my why instincts are telling me - I would have a whole lot fewer skinned knees.

So, I just have to follow my heart. And this time, I pray it knows the way.

12:18pm • #49
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Uncle Bill... You know what? I have a little assignment for you:  Get licensed to marry people. Something tells me that if you wave your magic wand over us as we exchange our vows - we'll survive as long as you and Brenda! That is my dream!

I find it interesting that you tapped into one of the key motivations behind our relationship - our belief that together we can shine so much brighter than the sum of our lights combined. Be patient with us. It will happen soon enough. And in the meantime, we are married in our hearts. We decided that a long time ago. And that's really where it counts the most!

Mwa!

12:25pm • #50
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Neal... But I LOVE wrestling with him! Truth is... I am STILL healing from our antics last weekend ;-) Seriously, I know you're right. I know exactly where I belong and while I might be taking a chance, I doubt it. I can't imagine spending my life with anyone else.

~ Soon to be Sardigirl!

12:33pm • #51
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Sardi... Yep! And you love it ;-)

12:51pm • #52
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Deb... Wow. Ok, but you're really asking for it! I'll think about how to write the 'next chapter' without giving away too many private details that would likely either shock you into changing your opinion about me or bore you silly. In any case... thank you for your kind words. I see myself as a star on good days, but I need to do much better. It's been a very trying year for me and I'm raising the bar on myself until I get it right. If I don't, it will be at my peril. You understand.

12:57pm • #53
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Charles... I won't ever be like that - though you might find it interesting to know my birth name is Monroe. I'm changing it back very soon as a matter of fact. At least for a little while :)

Thanks for stopping by!

12:59pm • #54
615,294 Points 244 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Jennifer, Did you know I never know what the heck you and Jason are talking about? I guess my mind is just waaaaaay too slow. I enjoyed the read though:)

1:22pm • #55
265,973 Points 59 Featured Posts Outside Blog

@ Bryant - You aren't alone.  I'm sure Jennifer gets this as much as I do;-)

5:45pm • #56
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

BB... We have our own secret language and we laugh at all of those who THINK they get what we're saying. If they only knew!! ;-)

6:11pm • #57
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Jason... I am responding to you telepathically ;-)

6:56pm • #58
241,199 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Beautiful... very beautiful.    You certainly do shine as the star.  I love the attitude - very inspirational.  Thank you.

6:59pm • #59
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Thank you Stephanie & Christopher :) Hope to see you here again...

7:34pm • #60
206,256 Points 19 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer,

Wow! What an honor.

It would have been easy in Nevada, I'll have to check out Texas.

I'd gladly write the vowsfor you two, to be officiated by a legal pastor.

You know as the first AR wedding you should probably be married by The Right Ravened Billy Tiutus!

Uncle Bill

PS: Does this mean I don't have to have my red dress let out, again?

9:02pm • #61
OCT
05
2008
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Somehow I don't think that's what Uncle Bill had in mind sweatheart. If you want to dance with me, (or Uncle Bill), it needs to be a little more like this!

4:37pm • #64
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Uncle Bill... No, don't let the red dress out. I'm famous for ripping my clothes in one way or another, so it will make me feel a lot better if you rip your seams too ;-)

4:52pm • #65
206,256 Points 19 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer,

How about your favorite beach at sun rise? Think of the symbolism, a new day a new life! (Whoops... I meant the two of you, not little yous. Well, your choice.) And, think of the savings on dresses!

Best of all most people don't dance in the sand. We could all stand around an fail our arms to a solo bugler playing reveille! If the bugler is really good we could try the "Maccoraina" or the "Hoke-Pokie!"

Uncle Bill

5:28pm • #67
OCT
06
2008
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Susan... I'm with you! I could sure use some of that in my life right now :)

10:02am • #68
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Uncle Bill... Do I sense a reluctant dancer? I hope you know you're obligated to at least one dance with the bride! I admit that if I have to have an actual wedding, the beach is the perfect place for one. My Sandra and I have already talked about how Hilton Head would be the perfect place. But we'll see. I'm lobbying for a less elaborate affair. Like eloping :)

10:49am • #69
224,366 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I have a major crush on Antonio Banderas and it makes my 12 year old so mad!!  Between my hearing impairment and Antonio's accent, I can rarely make out what he is saying with captions.  My son, when he was about 10 looked at me and asked me how I thought I could marry him if I can never understand what he's saying!!  How do you explain that we wouldn't actually have to talk and that I wouldn't necessarily have to marry him??  Lol!

10:56am • #70
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Susan... Oh sweetie, I completely understand! I don't have the slightest attraction to Antonio (I mean, look at how hot my honey is?? I'm set!), but did you know that I am severely hearing impaired as well? I miss so much of what is said and I don't care all that much either. Other than missing what he's whispering to me in the dark, I am entirely focused on the body language ;-)) And I guarantee I'm not missing a thing!!

Big loud MWA!!!

11:25am • #71
224,366 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mwa back at you pretty lady.  I didn't know you were hearing impaired.  It makes life interesting, doesn't it?  The things I think people say are usually much more interesting and entertaining that what is actually going on!  The down side, like you said, is I don't hear tender endearments in my ear, and my children have never been able to whisper in my ear as I need to read their lips.  But, you play the hand you get dealt and make the best of it.  xxoo

11:30am • #72
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Susan... That's exactly right! There asre far worse things. My best friend teases me because if I don't understand what someone says to me, I presume they just told me that I'm beautiful! LOL! No wonder I have such a high opinion of myself :))

xoxo back at ya!

12:30pm • #73
260,536 Points 30 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer- A short hello to you, and to Jason...it never matters to me what he says, I just know that he is a special kind of guy, that cares.  That's enough for me :)  And you have to be the same or he wouldn't care for you....again that's enough for me.

1:53pm • #74
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Hi Kathy... He very much IS a special kind of guy that cares. I think he may have inherited a double dose of that gene :) I'd like to think I'm worthy of his affection. If nothing else, I am aware of what a gem I have in him and I am very fortunate. And for the record... I DO care - very, very much.

6:27pm • #75
OCT
07
2008
2 Featured Posts

My Jenn. I am always late to the party... Does this mean our Gypsy girl is spreading her wings and letting go? The wings, yours and his, will keep you just safe enough to never want to look back, but never so safe that you won't feel speks of stardust on your skin...  Fly, dear Jenn! You were always meant to:-)

8:47am • #76
OCT
08
2008
4 Featured Posts

Jennifer ~ Good to have lunch again.  Boy have I missed the three of us...Thank you for sharing yourself with us and those of us who get to know what things mean to you feel very honored to be a part of the life you own.  Hugs to you...

10:37am • #77
OCT
15
2008
139,803 Points 13 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jennifer - I wish nothing but the best for you. May your star continue to blaze as you forge your unique path.

8:36am • #78
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Inna... That is such a lovely thing to say. I have every intention of doing exactly that... :)

Mwa!

11:39am • #79
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Sarah... As always, I had so much fun :) We make a great team... wish we could all do more business together!

11:40am • #80
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Tom... Thank you! I genuinely hope it does :)

11:41am • #81
OCT
22
2008
265,973 Points 59 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Write another post my dear.  Poetic prose awaits its muse...

6:59pm • #82
OCT
24
2008
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

My Jason... You are too sweet when you kick my ass :)

9:28am • #83
OCT
26
2008
109,108 Points 5 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

A little late to the party I am!  I love your post, Jen!  Have you read A New Earth?  It's taking me forever to get through it....a lot of "rereading" on my part to make sure I'm getting it...AWESOME BOOK. You would love it! 

mwah!

8:32am • #84
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Hi Antoinette! No, I haven't read it but I'm going to check it out now...

Mwa right back at ya...

 

9:36am • #85

We should all try to remember: before the bloom it was a bud- before the bud it was a stem- before the stem it was a seed and all that started because someone thought to put it in some mud. Jennifer you seem to be a super bloom!

Carol

8:22pm • #86
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Carol... That is such a lovely vision and I thank you for including me in it! Mwa!

9:32pm • #87
NOV
08
2008
363,583 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

One has to remember that life is a journey, not an end. Enjoy the journey with family and friends. Makes for a much more pleasant end.

1:58am • #88
DEC
04
2008
138,889 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog

Nobody wants to sit on the sidelines in life; in fact I don't even know what that would be called but I doubt it would be living. I heard a line, though it is only an idea to me now, in a movie once (and no I don't remember the movie) that the last thing the main character wanted to do during that instant when they review our life just before death is to realize that there were things they did not do and wish they had. That regret in an instant can seem to stretch to eternity. As my friend Debbie Malone says, and has even titled her blog, carpe diem (minus the bumper sticker, that is much too cliche). Congrats on your upcoming nuptuials and for a successful journey thus far.

11:04pm • #89
DEC
16
2008

always venture off the wisdom path...this is how we grow... this is how we learn...I love to read your blog Jennifer... enjoy the Holiday Season!

10:22pm • #90
DEC
17
2008
109,908 Points 8 Featured Posts

Hi Patty!... Thats a sweet thing to say and I wish you a very Merry Christmas too! Love your graphic :)

11:44am • #91

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Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe *

Allentown, PA

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Address: Allentown, PA, 18109

Office Phone: (503) 974-1570

Cell Phone: (503) 974-1570

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