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Hey, if you’re a teenager and you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought,“I hate my body,” “I wish I looked different,” or even, “I wish I were someone else entirely,” I want you to know something right up front: You are not broken. You are not weird. And you’re certainly not alone. You’re growing up in a world where you’re constantly surrounded by images of perfect faces and perfect bodies. Social media, movies, influencers—they all quietly send the message that your body is only acceptable if it looks a certain way. So when you catch yourself thinking, “I’m so fat,” “I hate my hair,” “I hate my nose,” or something similar, your feelings are understandable. But those thoughts are not facts, and they don’t define your worth. One of the most powerful things you can learn is acceptance. Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up on growth or pretending everything is perfect. It means you stop fighting yourself. There’s freedom in that. When you accept yourself as you are right now, other people’s opinions lose their grip on you. And the truth is, a lot of insecurity actually lives in your mind, not in your body. Once you stop attacking yourself, real self-improvement can finally begin—from a place of respect instead of shame. Comparison is another huge trap. If you compare yourself to friends or people online, you will always find something wrong. Online images are edited, filtered, and staged. No one actually looks like that all the time. Have you ever seen movie stars without their makeup? Everyone’s body develops differently and at a different pace. That doesn’t mean you’re late or defective—it means you’re human. It also matters how much attention you give to negativity. Some people project their pain onto others. Constant criticism—especially online—can wreck your confidence if you let it. It’s okay to block comments, take a break from posting, or step away from social media for a while. Protecting your mental health is not weakness. It’s strength. And pay attention to how you talk to yourself. And, yes, you can talk to yourself and you can talk to your body. Your inner voice matters more than you realize. If you constantly insult yourself, your body starts to feel like an enemy. When you speak to yourself with kindness, even if it feels awkward at first, something shifts. You start to feel lighter. More at peace. Now, we all have things we don’t like about our bodies. Some things can change, some can’t. Instead of hating your body, care for it. Eat better. Get sleep. Move your body. Take care of your skin. These don’t have to be extreme changes. Treating your body with respect builds confidence because it reminds you that you matter. Sometimes body hatred comes from deeper places—bullying, teasing, or always being compared to others. Talking to someone you trust, or even a counselor or therapist, can help you figure out where those feelings started. And it’s okay to distance yourself from people who constantly make you feel bad about yourself. You don’t owe access to your life to people who tear you down. And here’s something really important I want you to hear clearly: Your body is not a mistake. It is the physical expression of who you are meant to become in this lifetime. Your body and your soul are connected. They are not enemies. During the teenage years, emotions are intense, identity can feel shaky, and confusion can feel overwhelming. Believe it or not, that’s normal. But when you feel uncomfortable in your body, it can be tempting to believe that the solution is to reject your body or rush into becoming someone else entirely—especially when others suggest that changing yourself is the answer. But confusion is not clarity. Strong feelings are real, but they are not permanent. Big, life-altering decisions should never be made when you’re feeling pressured, insecure, or overwhelmed. Growth takes time. Understanding yourself takes time. Your body deserves patience, not rejection. You don’t need to rush. You don’t need to label yourself permanently. You don’t need to change your body to be worthy of love or belonging. Your teenage years are a season of becoming—and your body is part of that process, not the problem. If you’re somewhere safe right now, try this with me. Take a slow breath in through your nose…and gently let it out through your mouth. Do that again. In… and out. Now, just notice your body—not to judge it, not to fix it—just notice it.Feel your feet. Feel your breath. Feel that you’re here—in the present moment and all is well. Silently, or out loud, repeat these words: My body is a blessing.I don’t have to rush.I am allowed to grow at my own pace.My body and my soul are on the same team.I choose patience over pressure.I choose respect over self-hate. Take one more deep breath…and when you’re ready, open your eyes. You don’t have to have everything figured out today.You’re allowed to grow—slowly, safely, and in your own time. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode, where I want to talk about something that sits right at the intersection of spirituality, science, and our everyday lived experience — something that, once you see it, changes the way you understand your body, your healing, and even your spiritual path. It’s this simple but very deep idea: God works through biology. Most of us were taught, either by religion or by modern spirituality, that the body is something we’re supposed to rise above. That it’s either sinful, broken, or just temporary and therefore not very important. And yet, the more I’ve studied consciousness, healing, and and spiritualoity and the way life actually works, the more I’ve come to see that the body isn’t in the way of the soul at all. The body is how the soul expresses itself here. Think about how you experience life. You don’t experience love in some abstract spiritual cloud — you feel it in your heart, in your chest, in your nervous system. You don’t experience fear as a theory either. You feel it in your stomach, in your muscles, in your breath. Your entire inner world is being translated into physical sensation through biology. That’s not a flaw. It’s a design. Then, from a spiritual perspective, your body isn’t just something you’re riding around in, the way you drive a car and then step out of it. It’s actually the physical expression of your consciousness itself. Yes, you inherit certain traits from your parents, but you also bring into this lifetime the imprint of your own soul — your experiences, your patterns, your lessons, both the light and the unfinished pieces from the past. All of that shows up in your physical form in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. And even though the soul eventually leaves the body at the end of a lifetime, the body is still one of the four vehicles the soul uses here — the physical, along with the mental, emotional, and memory levels — to experience, learn, and evolve in the physical world. Your body isn’t separate from your spiritual journey. It’s woven into it. And this is why healing the body changes so much more than just how you feel physically. Have you ever noticed how, when someone finally starts to feel better — when their pain eases, when their energy returns, or when your inflammation goes down — they don’t just feel better in their body, they become a different person? They’re calmer. They’re more patient. They think more clearly. They feel more hopeful. They’re more open to love, to God, to life itself. Health is so important, and that’s because consciousness rides on biology. A nervous system that is constantly inflamed or exhausted can’t easily hold peace. A brain that is overloaded with stress hormones struggles to access higher awareness. We often try to meditate our way into enlightenment while our cells are still in survival mode. And that’s not how we were designed to work. I want to share something personal here, because this isn’t just theory for me. I’ve always prioritized my own health and the health of my family, not only because it makes practical sense, but because I’ve always understood it spiritually. When your body is struggling — when you’re exhausted, inflamed, in pain, or depleted — it becomes much harder to stay connected to the God within you. It’s not that God isn’t there. It’s that the instrument you’re using to feel and express that connection is under strain. And I’ve seen it over and over again, in my own life and in the lives of others, that when the body is supported, the spiritual connection becomes clearer, stronger, and more stable. And of course there are many physical practices and healing modalities you can do that help clear and cleanse the physical body, with the main one being fasting, but there is also practices such as yoga, tai chi, qigong, and numerous others. Basically, your body is designed to heal. To regenerate. To restore balance. To come back into harmony when it’s given the right support. That intelligence didn’t come from a lab. It came from the same Source that created everything else in nature. Every time a cut closes, a bone heals, or inflammation resolves, you’re watching divine intelligence in action. And what’s fascinating is that science is now catching up to what spiritual law has always said — that the body responds not just to chemicals, but to light, to energy, to information, to signaling. Our cells are not dumb. They’re communicators. They’re listening all the time. And they’re responding to what we give them. That’s why I find it so exciting that there are now gentle, non-invasive technologies emerging that don’t try to force the body to heal, but instead remind it how. Instead of overriding the system, they work with the body’s own regenerative intelligence. And that, to me, feels deeply aligned with how God works — not through force, but through awakening what’s already there. If this way of looking at the body and healing resonates with you, I just want you to know that you don’t have to struggle or push your way into health. Your body already knows what to do. Sometimes it just needs the right kind of support. And if you’re curious to explore that more, which I certainly understand because this is how I’ve lived my life, I’ve made information available at my website on something that my husband and I have found to be incredibly supportive to our physical well-being. Check it out if you have any interest and I am happy to answer any questions you might have. It’s at: lifewave.com/nancyroses. The link is in the text. There you will find resources for people who feel called to support their physical body as part of their spiritual journey. Because the truth is, you are not a soul trapped in a body. You are a soul expressing itself through a living, intelligent biological temple. And when your biology begins to heal and regenerate, your consciousness naturally rises with it. That’s not an accident. That’s how God designed it. Have a wonderful day. See you next time. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello everyone, and welcome back to Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect. I’m Nancy Showalter, and today we’re unlocking one of the most liberating spiritual principles there is: Responsibility — not as blame, but as the “ability to respond.” This episode is about reclaiming your power, mastering your reactions, and remembering that no one controls your inner world except you. So let’s dive in. 1. Responsibility Is Not Blame or Burden— It’s Power Most people associate responsibility with burden, guilt, duty, or blame.But the deeper spiritual meaning is something entirely different: **Responsibility = Response-Ability, the Ability to Respond vs. React The ability to consciously choose your response.** Reaction comes from fear, conditioning, or old habits.Response comes from awareness and inner mastery. Remember the spiritual adage, “You are never a victim of circumstances unless you choose to be.” Responsibility is not about fault.It’s about freedom — the freedom to choose how you think, feel, and act. No government, parent, partner, boss, or stranger can force you to think or feel anything.They can influence — but only you decide what enters your consciousness. 2. Reaction vs. Response Let’s look at the difference: Reacting * Automatic * Triggered * Emotional * Fear-based * Disempowering * Rooted in old patterns * Reinforces victimhood Responding * Aware * Thoughtful * Grounded * In alignment with your Higher Self * Empowering * Creates karma consciously * Builds mastery Elizabeth Clare Prophet taught that every moment we choose between the human ego and the Higher Self within. When we react, the outer self leads.When we respond, the I AM Presence leads. 3. Wayne Dyer’s Orange Example: “No One Makes You Angry Without Your Consent.” Wayne Dyer loved to tell this story: A woman once said to him,“Dr. Dyer, my husband makes me so angry.” He smiled gently and said: “No one can make you angry unless you allow them inside.What they do is what they do.What you feel is what you choose.” Then he gave his famous orange analogy: If you squeeze an orange, what comes out?Orange juice.Why?Because it’s what’s inside. And when life “squeezes” you — through criticism, stress, or conflict — what comes out of you is what you’ve been storing inside: * Peace * Anger * Patience * Love * Fear * Judgment The “squeeze” doesn’t put it there.It simply reveals what’s already inside. This is responsibility in action: You don’t control what others say or do.You do control what you hold within, and how you respond. “No one may enter the chamber of your consciousness unless you open the door.” Responsibility is inner sovereignty. 4. No One Can Control Your Inner World Jesus said: “The kingdom of God is within you.”— Luke 17:21 The kingdom is not outer circumstances — it is your inner consciousness. He never taught: * “You will be blessed if Rome behaves.” * “You will have peace when everyone else stops irritating you.” Instead he taught: * “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” — Proverbs 23:7 * “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 * “Choose you this day whom you will serve.” — Joshua 24:15 You cannot be a victim and a creator at the same time. Responsibility is choosing to be the creator. 5. Viktor Frankl: The Power Between Stimulus and Response Viktor Frankl, the great psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, wrote one of the most profound statements on responsibility ever recorded: “Between stimulus and response there is a space.In that space is our power to choose our response.In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Frankl lived through horrors beyond imagination — and yet he realized: * they could control his environment * they could control his body * they could control his food, his work, his freedom …but they could not control his inner world. He wrote: “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms — to choose one’s attitude.” Circumstances do not dictate your consciousness.Only your choices do. Responsibility is not blaming yourself for the outer conditions —it is claiming the supreme power of choice within those conditions. 6. Responsibility and the I AM Presence The I AM Presence — is the true responder. When you choose to respond rather than react, you are literally allowing your Higher Self to act through you. Try affirming: “I AM the Presence choosing my responses with wisdom and love.” or “I AM the master of my world. Nothing moves me from my center.” And one of my favorite ones is, whcn facing a difficult situation that you cannot readily see a solution, “Might I AM Presence, you take command of this situation. I shall not be moved! And you stay anchored in your Higher Self and allow God to work it out in the best interest of all concerned. Responsibility isn’t heavy —it’s empowering. It’s the moment you stop giving your power away. 7. Practical Tools: Training Yourself to Respond, Not React 1. Pause before speaking Response requires a moment of awareness. 2. Feel your body If your chest tightens or your jaw clenches, that’s a sign you’re about to react. 3. Ask your Higher Self “What is the most loving, wise response in this moment?” 4. Invoke the Violet Flame Clear the emotional charge: “In the name of the I AM THAT I AM, blaze the Violet Flame through this reaction now.” 5. Look for the lesson “What is this teaching me?”“What is being revealed in me that is ready to be healed?” Responsibility always reveals opportunity. 8. Remember: Responsibility Is Spiritual Freedom Responsibility is not about blame. It is about power —the power to choose your direction, your vibration, your thoughts, your feelings, and your future. It is the recognition that: * You are not a victim. * You are not at the mercy of life. * You are not controlled by others. * You are a creator. * You are a co-worker with God. * You are endowed with the ability to respond consciously. Wayne Dyer taught it.Viktor Frankl lived it.Jesus embodied it.And the Ascended Masters champion it. Responsibility is the foundation of spiritual masteryand the key to inner freedom. Make your choice today to master Responsibility. ________________________________________________________ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode where we’re talking about one of the most sensitive and personal topics of our time — gender, identity, and the soul. Maybe you’re a teen or a young child listening who has wondered, “Was I born in the wrong body?” Maybe you’re a parent hearing those words from your child. Wherever you are in this conversation, I want you to know — this is not about judgment. This is about compassion, about truth, and about remembering who you really are. “When spirit meets science, something remarkable happens… take a look.” The Heart of the Struggle It’s not unusual for young people to look in the mirror and feel out of place. Maybe you don’t like your body, or maybe you’ve experimented with clothes or roles that don’t fit what people expect. Those feelings are real, and they can be confusing. When you’re young, it’s natural to explore. Some young children like to dress up as the opposite sex or play games that are usually associated with one sex or the other but don’t necessarily think about wanting to become the opposite sex. As a teenager with all the physical and emotional changes that teens typically face, it is not unusual to even question who you are. Sometimes that also shows up as wanting to dress like the opposite sex, or wishing you were born different. But psychologists have noticed something important: many children and teens outgrow those feelings when they’re simply given space, love, and time. For example, psychiatrists like Dr. Susan Bradley, a Canadian psychiatrist, and her colleague Dr. Kenneth Zucker worked with children who felt uncomfortable in their birth gender. What they observed is that most of these kids didn’t carry those feelings into adulthood. The desire often faded as they matured, especially when no one rushed them into permanent changes. Even today, voices like Dr. Stephen Levine, a psychiatrist who has worked with gender-distressed patients for decades, remind us that these feelings often point to deeper emotional wounds. He says it’s vital to explore the psychology and the soul first, because changing the outside won’t necessarily heal the inside. What this shows us is that your feelings are real—but they don’t have to be forever. What seems like the only answer right now may shift as you grow, as you discover more of yourself, as you heal. And that’s okay. You are not broken—you are in process. And don’t let society or peers pressure you into anything permanently that will affect your future. The Spiritual Dimension It’s important to address the spiritual perspective, which is often overlooked or not even be considered. You are not an accident. You didn’t just land in a random body. Your soul chooses — or is karmically required— to embody as a male or female for a purpose. Here’s something you may not have heard before: no matter your body, you are both masculine and feminine. If you’re in a female body, you are 51 percent feminine and 49 percent masculine. If you’re in a male body, you are 51 percent masculine and 49 percent feminine. That means you already carry both sides within you because you were made in the image and likeness of God. “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” …”So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. - Genesis 1:26-27 So if you feel some imbalance, or like you don’t fully fit in your birth gender, that’s not a mistake — it’s part of your growth. There are lessons, strengths, and energies to master in the gender you were born into. Changing your body on the outside doesn’t heal the lessons your soul came here to learn on the inside. Why Might Someone Feel Like They are in the Wrong Body? Again, from a spiritual perspective, in addition to the societal trends or pressures we see put upon individuals, teens and even children, there are several reasons why someone may not feel comfortable in their birth gender. For instance, an individual who has had many lifetimes in one gender may not feel comfortable in the opposite gender, even though their karma or their divine plan dictated it. Or an individual might be rebelling against his or her karma and refuses to fulfill the purpose for that lifetime. Whatever the reason, changing your gender can have a serious impact on your ability to balance karma and fulfill your life’s plan. In the case of children who have recently arrived in the physical dimension, they are still feeling their wholeness, which is also a reason why they might innocently dress as the opposite sex or play with toys or engage in sports typically associated with the opposite sex. This does not mean that the child should be encouraged to change his or her gender. In fact, it is not spiritually lawful to interfere with a child’s divine plan in this way. It is important that the soul has the freedom to identify with its plan for its life, which includes the body in which they were born. When Culture Adds Pressure But today, culture sends a very different message. Instead of encouraging teens to explore those feelings safely, our society often pushes, “Maybe you were born in the wrong body. Maybe you need to change.” Even comedian Bill Maher — who says he is an atheist — has raised alarms. He’s pointed out how, in some places, the rise in trans identification seems tied to social influence, even calling it “trendiness.” He asked, “If this spike in trans kids is all biological, why is it regional?” It’s an uncomfortable question, but one worth asking. He has also said that people should be allowed to ask questions about the human race “changing at a previously unprecedented rate” without it being attributed to bigotry, especially when it comes to kids. “We’re literally experimenting on children,” he said of puberty blockers and other measures that are part of an LGBTQ “trend” among America’s youth. And some parents — with the best of intentions — even find themselves swept up in it, almost comparing notes about who has “a child transitioning.” When something as serious as altering your body becomes a cultural fad, it’s time to pause. And yes, parents are sometimes told by psychologists that if you don’t let them transition, there is a great risk they will commit suicide. The standard phrase the many parents hear is, “Do you want a live boy or a dead girl?” Real-Life Stories and the Irreversibility of Change I want to share two stories with you, because they show the human cost of rushing into decisions about the body. One is Keira Bell, who transitioned as a teenager in the UK. Later, she spoke about her deep regret, saying she was rushed into puberty blockers and hormones before she could fully understand what it would mean. She shared openly that she lost the natural ability to have children and the possibility of nursing a baby — things she never considered as a teen. “I cannot reverse the physical, mental, or emotional damage I have suffered,” she said. Another is Chris Beck, a decorated U.S. Navy SEAL who transitioned to live as a woman for nearly a decade before detransitioning. He later admitted he had been rushed into surgeries without being warned of their permanence. His words were stark: “You can’t undo what’s been cut away.” These stories remind us: while feelings about gender can shift, surgeries and hormone treatments often leave permanent scars. Organs that are removed cannot be replaced. The ability to father children, to give birth, to nurse — these are gifts that, once lost, cannot be regained. The Soul’s Wholeness So here’s the truth: you are already whole. You don’t need to erase your body to find yourself. You need to remember who you are beyond your body — a soul, carrying both masculine and feminine, born into this life with purpose. And the body you were born into indicates which gender is for this life. If you’re a parent listening, remember that children are still unfolding. They are not ready to make permanent, life-changing decisions — and we don’t expect them to in any other area. We don’t let children drink alcohol, vote, or sign legal contracts. Why would we rush them into altering their bodies forever? Give them love, give them space, give them truth. Let them know it’s okay to feel confused, but it’s not forever. Most children, if left alone and supported, will grow into peace with who they were born to be. Closing EncouragementIf you’re struggling right now with gender, identity, or your body, I want to speak directly to you: you are not broken. You are not a mistake. You are a soul with infinite worth, created with intention. The culture may tell you the answer is to change your body. But the deeper answer is to heal your soul — to remember your divine spark, your Christ within, your eternal wholeness. You are loved. You are enough. And the body you were given is not your enemy. It is the temple of your soul, designed for the lessons, the growth, and the victory you came here to achieve. As you go forward, may you remember this: you are not a mistake.You are a soul of infinite worth, born with purpose, clothed in a body that is your temple. May you find peace with who you are today, courage for who you are becoming, and the strength to listen to the quiet voice within that whispers, “You are whole. You are loved. You are enough.” Carry that truth with you, and let it be a light on your path. __________________________________ For more spiritual-expanding teachings, check out my book: You Were Born to Be a Christ But You Were Taught You Are a Sinner – Awaken to Who You Really Are “Every so often you come across a book that fits

Welcome back, friends. In our last episode, we discovered that true focus is not about discipline or willpower—it’s about passion. We saw that when you care deeply, focus comes naturally. And I ended with a truth worth repeating: Passion and focus don’t retire. Today, we’re going to talk directly to those of you who are retired—or approaching retirement. Maybe you’ve closed the chapter of your career. Maybe the routines that defined your life for decades have shifted. And perhaps you’ve wondered: “Where do I fit now? What is my purpose in this stage of life?” The good news is this: retirement isn’t an end. It’s a beginning. It’s a sacred opportunity to realign with what your soul cares about most. Storytelling: A New Season of Focus I once spoke with a man who had just retired from a long career in engineering. For years, he told me, his focus had been on deadlines, projects, and responsibilities. But now, with no meetings and no boss, he felt adrift. Then one day, he walked into a community center and volunteered to help tutor young students in math. And something clicked. His passion was reignited—not for equations, but for helping children believe in themselves. He said, “I’ve found more joy in these last few months of retirement than I did in years of work.” That’s the beauty of this season: the external demands quiet down, and you have space to listen to your heart. Challenges of Retirement But let’s be honest—this new chapter isn’t always easy. Many retirees face very real challenges. Some experience empty nest syndrome, where children have grown and left home, leaving a silence that feels unsettling. Others struggle because their identity was so wrapped up in their career that without the job title, they feel lost, unvalued, or even invisible. There’s also the challenge of shifting routines. The structure of workdays and responsibilities disappears, and at first it can feel like drifting without an anchor. And let’s not overlook the subtle societal message that aging means stepping aside, when in truth, wisdom and presence are more needed now than ever. Acknowledging these struggles is important—because they are not signs of failure, but invitations. Invitations to rediscover that your worth is not tied to a career, a title, or a role—but to who you are in essence: a beloved soul with a divine purpose that continues to unfold. Spiritual Reflection Spiritually speaking, retirement is not about stepping out of life—it’s about stepping deeper into life’s purpose. The soul never retires. God’s call on your life doesn’t fade with age; it ripens. Scripture reminds us: “They will still bear fruit in old age; they will stay fresh and green.” (Psalm 92:14) The wisdom you’ve gathered, the experiences you’ve lived, the compassion you’ve developed—these are treasures the world needs now more than ever. Practical Flow: Rekindling Passion in Retirement So how do you discover—or rediscover—your passion in this season? 1. Reflect on what moves you. Is it mentoring others? Creative expression? Service in your community? Travel? Prayer and deeper spiritual study? Pay attention to what stirs your soul. 2. Notice what brings tears or joy. Just as in earlier life, your emotions are signposts pointing you toward what matters. 3. Experiment with small steps. Volunteer for a cause that matters, pick up a creative project, or simply dedicate time each day to something you love. Often, passion grows when we give it space. And here’s the key: when you align with that passion, focus becomes effortless—even in retirement. It’s no longer about “filling time.” It’s about fulfilling purpose. Sharing Wisdom and Mentorship One of the greatest gifts of this season is the treasure chest of wisdom you’ve accumulated. The lessons you’ve learned through victories, failures, relationships, and life experience are not meant to stay hidden. Retirement can be the perfect time to mentor others—whether it’s guiding young professionals, supporting new parents, encouraging community leaders, or simply being a steady presence for friends and family. When you pour your wisdom into others, not only do you give them the gift of your experience, but you also find renewed focus and joy. Your story becomes a lantern that lights the path for someone else. Story Vignette Here’s an example of what I mean. A woman who had been a nurse for over 40 years. When she retired, she felt at first that she had stepped into a void—no patients to care for, no hospital buzzing around her. She said, “I didn’t know who I was without my scrubs.” But after some time of rest, she began volunteering at a local health clinic, mentoring young nurses who were just starting out. She didn’t have the long hours or stress anymore, but she still shared her wisdom, her calm presence, and her love for people. And she told me, “I feel more alive now than I did when I was working full-time.” That’s the beauty of mentoring: it’s not about doing more, but about being present with the gifts you already carry. Permission to Rest and Enjoy And let me say this clearly: retirement is also a time for rest. If you’ve spent decades working hard, raising families, or serving others, it is perfectly natural—and healthy—to take a season to do very little. To sleep in, to travel, to experience other cultures, or simply to enjoy the gift of unhurried time. There is no guilt in rest. In fact, rest is holy. Even God rested on the seventh day. So please don’t hear me saying you must keep “working.” What I’m inviting you into is not more labor, but more living. You may rest, you may play, and when you’re ready, you may discover new passions or ways to share your wisdom. Retirement gives you that freedom—the freedom to choose. Encouragement: Honoring the Gift of This Stage Too often, retirement is framed as slowing down, fading away, or simply living for leisure. But spiritually, it’s a season of harvest. You’ve sown much in your life—now you can pour your wisdom, love, and passion into what matters most. Imagine the clarity and energy you’d experience if you spent the majority of your time on the things closest to your heart. That is the invitation of this stage of life: not to retreat, but to shine in a new way. So, if you are retired—or nearing it—remember: passion and focus don’t retire. They simply take on a new form. The world still needs your fire, your vision, your compassion. This is not the time to step back from purpose—it’s the time to live it more fully, more freely, and more joyfully. May you embrace this season as a divine gift, a new chapter where your heart leads the way and your soul finds fresh expression. Until next time, may your passion guide your focus, and may your focus bring you into deeper joy and purpose each day. ___________________________________ Check out my book: You Were Born to Be a Christ But You Were Taught You Are a Sinner – Awaken to Who You Really Are Every so often you come across a book that fits into the current times. We know at some point we have to stop and take a serious look at our mental, emotional, and most importantly, our spiritual beliefs in order to navigate so many challenges. Nancy has done an excellent job of putting together a valuable spiritual narrative. I highly recommend this book and thoroughly enjoyed it myself. - International NY Times best-selling author Dannion Brinkley This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome, friends, to today’s episode. Let me begin by asking you a simple question: Would you love to have more focus in life? We’ve all seen people who seem laser-focused—whether it’s an Olympic athlete in training, an entrepreneur building a business, or a musician pouring heart and soul into their craft. We admire them, maybe even wonder: “How do they do it? How do they stay so focused?” At first glance, we might think focus is all about discipline, sheer willpower, or even some superhuman quality. But the truth is simpler, and far more beautiful: focus comes from passion. When you care deeply about something, when your heart is stirred by a cause, a vision, or a purpose, focus is no longer forced. It flows. Storytelling: The Power of Caring Think about the last time you accomplished something really meaningful. Chances are, it wasn’t because you forced yourself with grit alone—it was because you cared. You cared enough to stay up late, to put in the hours, to endure the setbacks. Passion is the fuel that makes focus possible. And on the flip side, when we struggle with focus, it’s often because we haven’t found what really matters to us. Without that spark, life feels scattered. We might get through the motions, but our energy and attention drift. Spiritual traditions tell us that what we care about is not random—it is the whisper of the soul. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” When your treasure—your passion—lines up with your soul’s calling, focus comes naturally. Practical Flow: How to Find What You Truly Care About So how do we gain focus? Not by whipping ourselves into tighter discipline, but by discovering what we care about deeply enough to act upon. If you have not yet uncovered your passion, try this simple practice: * Make a list of the things that stir your heart. Not just hobbies, but causes, ideas, or possibilities that move you deeply. * Pay attention to what makes you cry, or what fills you with joy. Those emotions are signposts pointing you toward your passion. * Order that list by intensity. Which one rises to the top? Which one would you gladly give your time, energy, even your life to? When you find that passion, discipline takes a back seat. Focus becomes effortless. Spiritual Insight Now from a spiritual perspective, passion is divine fire. It’s the soul remembering why it came to earth. Passion stirs us to align with our higher purpose, and when we do, focus becomes not just a mental exercise but a sacred act. It is God within us saying, “This matters. Pay attention here.” And here’s the mystery: when we give our focus to what matters most, we are transformed. We no longer just move through life—we are moved by life. Encouragement & Expansion So if you’re struggling to focus in your career, your relationships, or your personal growth, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, see it as an invitation. Perhaps the Spirit is nudging you to realign, to discover what really matters. Because when you care enough—when your passion is ignited—you’ll find yourself in the perfect state of mind. Not anxious, not overwhelmed, but energized and compelled to act. And remember this truth: passion and focus don’t retire. They are timeless. No matter your age or stage in life, when you care deeply, your soul lights up with purpose. Today we’ve explored focus and passion for everyday life—for careers, families, and personal dreams. But I want to leave you with a preview: in our next episode, we’re going to explore what this looks like in retirement. Because retirement isn’t an ending—it’s a new beginning, a sacred season where passion and focus can be reborn in fresh and Gaining Focus: Caring Enough to Take Action powerful ways. So join me next time as we talk about Passion and Focus in Retirement: A New Season of Purpose. Until then, may you find what your heart truly cares about—and may that passion guide your focus into a life of joy and purpose. __________________________________ Check out my book: You Were Born to Be a Christ But You Were Taught You Are a Sinner – Awaken to Who You Really Are Every so often you come across a book that fits into the current times. We know at some point we have to stop and take a serious look at our mental, emotional, and most importantly, our spiritual beliefs in order to navigate so many challenges. Nancy has done an excellent job of putting together a valuable spiritual narrative. I highly recommend this book and thoroughly enjoyed it myself. - International NY Times best-selling author Dannion Brinkley This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Everyone wants to be strong—but what happens when the weights you carry aren’t physical, but emotional, mental, and spiritual? That’s when you discover the true measure of strength: the strength within. Welcome, friends. Today, we’re going to talk about a strength that doesn’t show up at the gym or on a weight chart—but it’s the one that determines how you face every challenge, every loss, and every opportunity in life. I’m talking about inner strength. Why do we need inner strength? Because life will test us—through uncertainty, loss, pressure, and unexpected change. And in today’s world, those tests come faster and harder than ever. We live in an age of constant distraction, rapid change, and emotional turbulence. News cycles churn fear, technology pulls our attention in a thousand directions, and the demands of daily life can leave us feeling drained. The truth is, the greatest battles we face are not out there in the world, but inside ourselves—battles of fear, doubt, and discouragement. And the greatest victories also come from within—when we discover a source of strength deeper than circumstances, deeper than emotions, deeper even than our own willpower. Physical power has its place, but in our modern world, the ability to govern your thoughts, emotions, and choices is far more valuable than being able to bench-press 500 pounds. With inner strength, you gain resilience, clarity, and peace, no matter what’s happening around you. So let’s look at 10 ways you can build inner strength—practical steps paired with timeless spiritual truths. 1. Know the Source of Your Strength Let’s begin at the foundation. Inner strength isn’t just willpower—it flows from your Higher Self, the Divine Spark within you. When you’re aligned with that inner light, you tap into a wellspring that doesn’t run dry. The more you anchor in this inner center, which is the flame of life within your heart, the less you are shaken by the storms of life. As the ancient Greek maxim says, “Know thyself”—a truth inscribed at the Temple of Apollo at Delphi and echoed by Socrates. And Jesus Christ affirmed the same reality when he said, “The kingdom of heaven is within you.” To know yourself is to recognize that your true strength lies in the divine presence already alive inside of you. Once you know where strength comes from, the next step is to stop giving it away. 2. Complain Less When we complain, we hand over our power. Complaining says: “Life controls me, not the other way around.” Instead, take ownership. If you can change the situation, do it. If you can’t, accept it with grace. That’s not weakness—it’s spiritual mastery. Strength also grows when we train ourselves to complete what we start. 3. Finish What You Start Completion is a discipline of the soul. Every time you finish what you begin, you strengthen your will. Each unfinished task is like a leak in your inner reservoir. When you honor your commitments—even the small ones—you build a record of victory that reinforces your confidence. And one of the oldest spiritual disciplines that builds this confidence is fasting. 4. Practice Fasting Fasting, whether from food, media, or distractions, builds mastery over desire. Gautama Buddha’s Four Noble Truths say: life involves suffering, suffering arises from craving and attachment, suffering can be ended by eliminating craving. So fasting teaches you that you are more than your cravings, more than your appetites. In spiritual terms, fasting is a reset button. It strengthens your ability to say “yes” to what uplifts and “no” to what diminishes you. And speaking of discipline—another way to build strength is to embrace discomfort. 5. Embrace Discomfort A cold shower may seem trivial, but it trains you to endure discomfort without flinching—not to mention the health benefits associated with a cold shower. Life will present far colder waters than what comes out of the faucet. When you learn to stay calm in discomfort, you develop resilience, patience, and equanimity—the qualities of a seasoned soul. To stretch yourself even more, try making growth a daily practice through challenge. 6. Set a 30-Day Challenge Commitment over time is where transformation happens. Whether it’s meditation, prayer, exercise, or creative practice, a 30-day challenge builds stamina of both body and spirit. Each day, you reinforce the truth that growth comes from consistency, not intensity. As you take on challenges, remember—you’ll need to encourage yourself along the way. 7. Be Your Own Cheerleader What you say to yourself is more powerful than what anyone else says to you. Negative self-talk drains your energy; positive self-talk recharges it. Remind yourself daily: “I am strong. I am capable. I am connected to the infinite.” Speak life into your soul, and watch your inner power grow. Along with affirmations, visualization can multiply your strength even further. 8. Visualize Your Victory Imagination is really a spiritual faculty. When you see yourself overcoming obstacles or reaching a specific goal, you’re rehearsing your success. Visualization aligns your energy with the reality you seek. Hold the image, feel as if it is already real, and life will meet you at that vibration. And once you see it in your mind, the next step is to practice it in real life. 9. Practice and Prepare Inner strength is forged in practice. When you rehearse for life’s tests—whether through prayer, study, or skill—you develop confidence in your abilities. Practice transforms anxiety into readiness. Remember: every small act of discipline is training for the greater trials ahead. And when you’re ready, always push just a little bit beyond what you thought you could do. 10. Do More Than You Planned Going the extra mile builds spiritual momentum. When you stretch beyond your original plan, you strengthen the part of you that refuses to settle for mediocrity. Doing just a little more each time proves to yourself that you are more resilient, more capable, and more committed than you thought. Inner strength is like a muscle—you build it by using it. The more you practice these ten ways, the more unshakable you become. Imagine your life if your inner strength doubled. What fears would fade? What dreams would feel possible? And remember—today’s world requires this strength more than ever. We live in times of uncertainty, division, and constant change. Without inner strength, it’s easy to be swept away by fear, confusion, or negativity. But with it, you become centered, resilient, and able to stand in the light of truth even when the world feels dark. True strength doesn’t come from circumstances—it comes from the divine presence within you. Anchor yourself there, and you will discover reserves of courage and endurance you never knew you had. In the end, the strongest person in the room isn’t the one who can lift the most weight—it’s the one who can lift their own spirit, rise after every fall, and shine their light no matter how dark the world becomes. Take a moment this week to choose just one of these ten ways and practice it daily. Notice how it shifts your energy, your perspective, and your strength. And if this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need encouragement today. Together, we can help each other grow stronger from the inside out. ________________________ Check out my book: You Were Born to Be a Christ But You Were Taught to Be a Sinner - Awaken to Who You Really Are. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to today’s episode where we are exploring a practice that’s been used by mystics and Olympic athletes alike. For sure, it’s a practice your higher self already understands, even if your mind has forgotten. I’m talking about the power of visualization. What Is Visualization and Why It Matters Visualization is more than just daydreaming. Yes, it uses the power of your imagination but combined with the conscious creation of mental images with the purpose of linking your inner desires to your outer reality. It’s intentional. It’s focused. And when done correctly, it can literally rewire your brain and reshape your life. Saint Germain, in his book Saint Germain on Alchemy, said this: “All that the mind of man can conceive and believe, the mind of man can achieve through the God flame within.” The God flame is the Divine Spark in your heart that gives you life. And notice he said, “conceive and believe.” Doubt alone can sabotage the outcome. Visualization is how we bring that “God flame” into focus. It’s the spiritual sketchpad for the life you want to manifest. When you visualize clearly—whether it's a healthy body, a thriving relationship, a successful business, or a deeper spiritual connection—you begin to tune in to that possibility. You raise your frequency to meet it. You don’t just think about it—you feel it. And that’s where the magic happens. What Science Is Now Confirming Neuroscience now tells us that the brain doesn’t know the difference between something vividly imagined and something actually experienced. When you visualize yourself succeeding—say, giving a public talk or running a marathon—your brain activates the same neurochemical sequences it would if you were doing it in real life. You trigger your motor cortex, your planning centers, your emotional response systems—all from within. They say that this process helps build new neural pathways and rewires your beliefs. You literally create a “new normal” in your nervous system. Visualization also activates your Reticular Activating System, which is like a filter in your brain that starts scanning the world for opportunities that match what you are visualizing and focusing on. Think the law of attraction meets neuroplasticity. The Athlete’s Secret Weapon Let’s bring this down to earth with a real-world example. Michael Phelps, the Olympic swimmer, is a master of visualization. His coach revealed that for years before major races, Phelps would mentally rehearse every detail of his performance—the strokes, the turns, the crowd noise, even the water getting in his goggles. And during the 2008 Olympics, something extraordinary happened. In one of his races, his goggles did fill with water. But Phelps didn’t panic. He had already “swum that race blind” in his mind so many times, he executed it flawlessly—by memory. He won gold. Why? Because visualization was his training. The inner image shaped the outer reality. And many other athletes have said the same thing about rehearsing in their minds before a game or a competition. A Spiritual Perspective on Playful Power Remember how, as children, we could imagine anything? A cardboard box became a spaceship. A blanket became a cape. That was our divine creative power at work—before it got filtered by fear, logic, and “reality.” Visualization brings that divine play back into your life. It reconnects you to your spiritual innocence and your creative authority. Saint Germain also taught that visualization isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a command to the ethers. When combined with emotion, it creates form. So don’t just think it. Feel it. See it. Be it. You step into that reality, seeing and experiencing the outcome. How to Start Today So if you have never consciously visualized something you wanted to create, accomplish or draw to you, here are some pointers to begin: * Pick one goal. Be specific. Specificity is very important. Let’s say, “I want to confidently deliver my next presentation.” * Then close your eyes and imagine yourself walking up, breathing calmly, smiling, and delivering your talk smoothly. In fact, deliver that talk in your mind. * Then add feeling. Feel the joy, the confidence, the energy of your audience. Feel and hear them laughing when you say something funny or amusing. See them intently listening to your every word. * Repeat daily. Let it become so real in your mind that your body starts believing it's already happened. * Let go of the ‘how.’ Stay open to the divine orchestration of events that will align with your vision. This is your creation. Visualization is a spiritual art as well as a neurological science. It’s how we speak to our subconscious. It’s how we co-create with God. Saint Germain reminds us: “The flame of God never fails. And all that is imagined through the sacred mind of God, and claimed in righteousness, must come to pass.” So, if you're ready to step into your next chapter—don’t just work harder. As they say, work smarter. See it. Feel it. Live it—before it even happens. Because once your soul sees it… it’s only a matter of time before your world does too. Thanks for tuning in today. If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend—and remember: your imagination is not just fantasy. It’s the blueprint of your destiny. Until next time—stay awake, stay wise, and never stop creating from the God flame within. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode where we skip the fluff, challenge the narratives, and dive deep into the soul work that actually transforms your life. Today we’re going to talk about something you won’t find on most meditation apps or spiritual influencer reels—emotional buttons. I think you know what I’m talking about… those triggers that, when pushed, bypass your logic and throw you into an instant emotional reaction. Someone cuts you off in traffic. Your partner interrupts you mid-sentence. You walk into a cluttered room after a long day—and boom. You're suddenly angry, annoyed, or just shut down. It happens fast, almost like a reflex. But here’s the spiritual truth: No one is pushing your buttons. You’re reacting to your own unhealed stuff. So, let’s talk about how to disconnect these buttons—not repress your emotions, but actually understand, rewire, and ultimately reclaim your power. Know Thy Triggers (Because They Know You) We all have emotional buttons—but they’re not universal. Yours may be triggered by a late text message, while someone else couldn’t care less. That’s the first clue: These reactions are personal. They're built from your own experiences and internal beliefs. The first step is simple but not easy: Observe yourself.Start paying attention. When you get angry, anxious, or offended, hit the pause button. Ask yourself: * What just happened? * Who was involved? * What was said? * What emotion came up? And—here’s the kicker—does this feel familiar? Because chances are, it’s not the first time this button’s been pushed. You’re not crazy or broken for reacting. But you are responsible if you want to change. Getting Real with Yourself (And Maybe a Few Trusted Friends) Self-awareness isn’t always a solo project. Sometimes we need mirrors—people we trust to tell us the truth. Ask a few close friends or family members: “What do you think sets me off emotionally?” You might be shocked. What you think is a “normal reaction” might look like an overreaction to others. But don’t take it personally—use it. It’s feedback and that’s valuable. Then, take what you’ve learned and make a list. Write out your emotional triggers. Don’t judge them, just name them. You can’t heal what you won’t face. This alone can be a revealing exercise. The Hidden Cost of Being Triggered The truth is, your emotional buttons are hurting you. They’re not just an inconvenience. They’re blocking your peace, your growth, your success, and even your spiritual evolution. Think about it: * Are your buttons damaging your relationships? * Making you look unprofessional? * Sabotaging your confidence? Every time you react instead of respond, you give away your power. Reacting and responding may seem similar, but they come from very different places within you. Reacting is often immediate, emotional, and unconscious—it's a knee-jerk impulse driven by old wounds, habits, or ego defenses. It usually happens without thought and often leads to regret or escalation. Responding, on the other hand, is intentional. It’s a conscious choice made after pausing, observing, and considering the situation. Responding comes from awareness rather than reactivity—from the higher self rather than the wounded self. In essence, reacting is being controlled by the moment; responding is taking control of the moment. Uncover the Origin Story Now here’s where it gets deeper: Where did these buttons come from?Childhood? A past betrayal? A controlling parent? A traumatic event? Dig into the why. For example, if being ignored sends you into a rage, ask yourself: When in my past did I feel invisible? That question alone can lead to profound healing. This is shadow work. And it’s sacred. Rewrite the Script Now that you have identified your triggers, it’s time to ask:What would a healthy, empowered response look like? Not the spiritual bypass version. Not the fake smile. But the real you—responding with awareness, not reaction. Play out scenarios in your mind. “Next time I feel disrespected, I’m gonna pause, breathe, and speak my truth calmly.” It is possible to interrupt your emotional reactions. Mentally speak to yourself by name, “Nancy, stop, I’m handling this.” Then take a step back, evaluate and respond. And remember, silence is a response if that is what is the best response is in a particular situation. It won’t be perfect at first. But every time you pause instead of explode, you weaken the old wiring. Practice, Fail, Repeat Spiritual mastery doesn’t mean you never get triggered. It means you notice it faster and recover quicker. You’re building new emotional reflexes and that takes time. Be patient with yourself. Your nervous system has to rewire. Your soul is learning to lead. And every time you choose consciousness over chaos, you gain ground. This isn’t self-help stuff. This is warrior-level soul work. Learning your emotional buttons—and choosing not to be ruled by them—isn’t just good psychology. It’s good spirituality. It’s what Christ meant when he said, “Be in the world, but not of it.” It’s what every true spiritual master teaches: Know thyself. Master thyself. Be thyself. So, the next time someone presses your buttons, remember—they’re not the enemy. They’re just showing you where you're still enslaved. Take the opportunity to grow. Thanks for tuning in today. If this episode hit home for you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And as always—stay positive, grateful and true to your soul. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello, everyone, and welcome to today’s episode where we are talking about a kind of intelligence that doesn’t get tested on any standardized exam—yet it’s the most important intelligence you’ll ever develop—spiritual intelligence. To sum it up in one statement, spiritual intelligence is your level of awareness of who you are, of the divine power that resides within you, and how to use that power for constructive change. This isn’t about head knowledge. This is about soul power. And here’s the hard truth: the world we’re living in today—chaotic, distracted, shallow—is designed to keep you from developing this intelligence. Because once you do, you stop being easy to control. So, what is spiritual intelligence really? Let’s define it clearly. Spiritual intelligence is not religion. It’s not being “nice.” It’s not about knowing every verse in the Bible or quoting every Eastern sage. It’s the living, breathing awareness that you are a co-creator with God—and that your thoughts, emotions, choices, and prayers have real consequences, both in the energetic and physical world. It’s waking up to the truth that you are not a victim. You’re not stuck. You’re not small. You’re not powerless. You are a son or daughter of God. Spiritual intelligence means taking radical responsibility for every area of your life—your health, your finances, your relationships, your happiness, your purpose.It’s not about blaming others or getting stuck in resentment over your past. You don’t get to blame your parents, your ex, your boss, your genetics, or the government for the rest of your life. Yes, life can be hard. Yes, injustice exists. But the most dangerous lie is that we are powerless against it. YOU ARE PART OF THE ANSWER There’s a powerful near-death experience testimony floating around on YouTube—maybe you've seen it. It’s called “I Saw How Prayer Actually Changes Reality .” One moment in that video that was especially relevant to what we are talking about today is when the woman, Alice Carter, said she was told by the angel who was communicating with her—who she called Gabriel—showed her what she described as “a kind of a DNA structure made of light.” Gabriel explained that this structure was the pattern of all possible answers to any given prayer. He said prayer doesn’t change God’s mind, but it does change what’s possible within the framework of Free Will and Divine Law when humans pray. Remember, we’ve been given free will in this dimension and karma impacts Divine Law. Gabriel also said that people praying are not convincing God to act differently. Rather, they’re participating in the process of creation itself. Alice said, “I watched as prayers actually altered these light structures opening new possibilities and closing others. It was like watching a cosmic chess game where each prayer moved pieces in ways that affected countless other moves.” Think about that. You pray for healing, and God may send you to be the one who brings comfort. You pray for peace, and you may be the one who is called to forgive. You pray for change—and you may be the one God uses to carry it out. That’s what it means to be a co-creator. That’s spiritual intelligence in action. It’s about partnering with God to bring divine solutions into physical form—through your own hands, heart, voice, and will. WHAT SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE IS NOT Now let’s be clear—spiritual intelligence is not about running out and joining a protest just because everyone else is doing it. This is not about performative activism. It’s not about getting “loud for a cause” that you barely understand because it makes you feel relevant. True spiritual action comes from deep discernment and understanding, not emotional reaction. It’s guided by the inner voice of Spirit, not the mob. It’s about divine justice—not cancel culture, not virtue signaling. In fact, some of the loudest voices today are fighting for "justice" without the faintest clue of divine law or karma. That’s not spiritual intelligence—that’s spiritual immaturity with a megaphone. Spiritual intelligence is inner government. It’s self-mastery. And when you govern yourself, you can more effectively help heal the world around you. USING YOUR POWER FOR CONSTRUCTIVE CHANGE So, what do you do with this intelligence? You use it. You bless where you used to curse.You speak truth where you used to stay silent.You bring light where you used to project fear.You take up your spiritual tools—the violet flame, meditation, affirmations, decrees, prayer—and you go to work. And when you pray, don’t stop at the prayer. Ask: What can I do to be part of the answer? That’s spiritual adulthood. That’s what the world needs now—not more slogans, not more blame, not more noise, not more hate or violence. But spiritually intelligent people who are awake, aligned, and know how to constructively use the power of the Divine within them. So, I leave you with this question: Are you living like a spiritual adult—or are you still finding excuses or blaming others? Because here’s the deal: Spiritual intelligence isn’t just a nice idea. It’s your opportunity to serve and fulfill your reason for being by projecting light into dark situations, by sending healing energy to those who are in need, and by using the violet flame to transmute negativity. It’s your key to personal freedom. And it’s the only way we’re going to shift this world from chaos to clarity, from breakdown to breakthrough. Remember, the power within you is greater than any power outside of you. Be part of the solution. I’ll see you next week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome back to Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect—the podcast where we blend the raw realities of everyday life with the timeless wisdom of the soul. If you're feeling like the world is spinning faster than ever, you're not alone. We’re living in a time of extreme uncertainty—economically, politically, emotionally, spiritually. And the truth is, life isn't always fair. But what if I told you that you were never meant to face these challenges alone? Today we’re talking about coping strategies—but not just the kind you'll find in psychology textbooks. We're going deeper. We're talking about spiritual coping strategies—tools that allow you to not only survive but spiritually transcend the chaos around you. So let’s get into it. First, 1. The Human Experience… with Divine Help It’s true—disappointment, fear, and confusion have always been part of the human experience. Whether it was ancient humans facing wild animals or modern folks dealing with inflation, divorce, or health issues, suffering isn't new. But neither is divine assistance. When life hits hard, you have the right to call to Archangel Michael, the defender of faith and protector of light. Simply saying, “Archangel Michael, help me now!” is more powerful than you realize. His legions of blue-flame angels are standing by—not to remove the test, but to empower you to meet it with strength and courage. You are not alone in your battles, and you never have been. 2. Problem-Solving… with the I AM Presence Psychologists say that there are two ways to cope: productively or dysfunctionally. You can face the issue—or spiral into brooding, denial, or blame. Sound familiar? We see a lot of that these days. But here's the twist: when you remember who you are as a divine being, you can tap into the I AM Presence within, that inner spark of God who knows the solution before the problem even arises. Instead of brooding, go within. Firmly tell yourself to “Stop!” Then quiet yourself, meditate, breathe deeply and say: “Beloved I AM Presence, show me the way.” Suddenly, you’re not reacting from fear—you’re responding from clarity. That’s divine problem-solving. 3. Balance… and the Power of Gratitude Loss and grief are part of life. Relationships end, careers shift, loved ones pass. The emotional stages are real—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance. But here’s a spiritual secret: Gratitude shifts grief. Even in sorrow, you can say, “Thank you for the time I had. Thank you for the love I experienced. Thank you for the growth this pain is teaching me. Thank you for life.” Gratitude is not denial—it’s divine reframing. It raises your vibration so you are able to handle the situation in a higher state of mind. And it creates balance, giving you permission to both feel and heal. 4. Moving Forward… by Transcending Victim Consciousness Without coping strategies, we stay stuck—replaying the same problems, blaming the world, waiting for someone else to rescue us. But victimhood is a trap. And it’s one you don’t have to stay in. The spiritual path invites you to reclaim your power and say: “I AM empowered. I AM a co-creator.” Now, does this mean that you deny negative feelings or grief? Absolutely not. Allow yourself to feel the emotions but don’t identify with them. Emotions are energy-in-motion. Acknowledge them and let them pass through you. The stages of grief can be moved through naturally if you do not cling to the negatives and realize that those emotions are not your reality—they’re just energies passing through you. You’ve fallen? Get up. Dust off your soul. Call on the angels. Decree your victory. Ask your Higher Self to blaze the violet flame through your limitations, transmute the pain and move forward. Every trial is a training ground for your ascension. 5. Resilience… and the Alchemy of the Soul Resilience isn’t just a mental trait—it’s spiritual muscle. And you build it every time you turn to God instead of fear. Every time you choose prayer over panic. Every time you pick up your spiritual sword instead of laying down in despair. Want to build resilience? * Start your day with a simple I AM affirmation and repeat it until your vibration raises:“I AM the Resurrection and the Life of my courage, my peace, my purpose.” * Make time for silence. * Decree light into every challenge. * Stay connected to spiritual community. * And remember: you are stronger than you think—because God lives in you. And the power within you is greater than any power outside of you. Coping strategies are more than survival tools—they’re spiritual practices. They help you navigate this imperfect world with inner strength, divine insight, and a heart that refuses to give up. So, next time life throws you a curveball, remember this:You're not powerless.You're not alone.And you are not a victim. You are a spiritual warrior, backed by archangels and many angels, filled with the light of your I AM Presence and Christ within, and capable of transcending any difficulty with grace. Thank you for joining me today. If this episode resonated with you, share it, leave a review, and come back next week as we keep pushing through the nonsense—together—with truth, fire, and love. Until next time, stay grounded… and draw down Spirit into your life. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hi, welcome back to my podcast—the place where truth cuts through the fluff, and we dive deep into the spiritual meaning behind what others might call everyday life. Today, we’re talking about something that everyone experiences but few are willing to admit or talk about openly: failure. Yes—failure. And not just the falling down part, but the fear that creeps in and tries to paralyze you before you even begin. Now before you hit pause or skip to the next episode, stay with me. Because what we’re really talking about here isn’t just failure—it’s transformation. It's about how you can stop letting failure define you, and start letting it refine you. So, let’s break this down. Psychologists, business leaders, spiritual teachers—they all agree on one thing: fear of failure is one of the biggest roadblocks to personal growth, success, and spiritual fulfillment. Preparing for the Fear of Failure So, let’s begin with preparation—because every battle starts in the mind. The first step to overcoming fear of failure is redefining what failure actually is. What if failure wasn’t the enemy? What if it was a teacher? A spiritual initiation? A signpost that you're actually moving forward instead of staying stuck? In business, leaders have started calling failures “learning moments.” And spiritually, we can see them as, let’s say, karmic steppingstones—tools that chisel away the ego and bring out the soul’s brilliance. Like Michaelangelo said: "I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free." Shifting your mindset is critical in getting past a fear of failure. Here are a few mindset shifts that can help: First, redefine failure. It's not the opposite of success. It’s part of success. Think about this every time you flip on a light switch. It was not until 1879, a full 72 years after the first breakthrough experiment, that Edison, after about 2000 failed attempts, produced what we now call a “light bulb.” So, failure simply means, try a different approach. Second, find the “gold” in past failures. Every failed relationship, every lost opportunity—it taught you something you could not have learned otherwise. And this is challenging. It’s challenging you to forgive yourself for making a so-called mistake and focus on the positive outcome, which is, “What you are taking away from the experience?” Next, Stop seeing failure as a threat: Instead, see it as a challenge. Your soul doesn't evolve without challenges. A challenge is something that puts you to the test. Then, set “approach” goals, not “avoidance” goals: Now what I mean by this is, don’t set goals like “I hope I don’t mess this up.” Rather, set goals like “I’m going to learn something new today.” Feel the difference? It’s important what you say and what your words mean and convey to the Universe. Preparing this way shifts your frequency and perspective. You go from fear to curiosity. From contraction to expansion. Confronting the Fear Now let’s talk about confronting fear in the moment—because preparation’s great, but at some point, you have to walk through the fire. You have to face the dragon and realize…it’s just a shadow. The first step is to develop that habit of letting the fear pass. Feel it—but don’t bond with it. Don’t become it. Think of emotions as visitors, not roommates. Let them pass through. If your plan isn’t working, don’t freeze. Adjust the plan. The only real failure is staying stuck. Changing goals in the middle of the journey doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re wise enough to adapt. And don’t forget the power of confidence. Real confidence isn’t arrogance. It’s remembering what you’ve already become. Think back to a time you thought you wouldn’t make it—but you did. Confidence is a spiritual resource. And the more you call it up, the stronger it gets. Listen to your intuition. Listen to that still small voice and connect with your Higher Self for confidence and direction. Recovering from Failure Of course, even with all the right tools and mindset, failure can still happen. That’s part of life on Earth. The question isn’t “Will I fail?” It’s “What will I do after I fail?” Here are three essential steps: Treat yourself kindly. I don’t mean to let yourself off the hook completely—but don’t beat yourself up either. You wouldn't berate your best friend for trying their best and falling short. Extend that same grace to yourself. Accept your mistakes. Own them. Not as a badge of shame, but as a stepping stone. This is how we learn. This is how we evolve. And learn from it all. Every single mistake holds a message. Look for it. Ask your Higher Self: What am I being shown here? What truth am I now ready to face? Spiritually, failure can be a form of purification. It dissolves pride, it forces our humility, and it invites grace. It's how we come to know what’s really important—and who we really are. If you're afraid of failing right now, let me offer you a new perspective: Maybe the fear is there because your soul needs to grow. Maybe the thing you're afraid of doing is the very thing that will open you up and birth a whole new level of who you are. So, redefine failure. Confront it with courage. And if you fall, fall forward. Rise again. Stronger. Wiser. More connected to the divine spark within you. Thanks for joining me today and if this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who's in the midst of a challenge. And remember—every so-called failure is just part of your path to greatness. Until next time, stay grounded, stay real, and stay spiritually awake—even when it’s politically incorrect to do so. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode. I’m so glad you’re here with me today, because we’re diving into something that affects every one of us—whether we think we’re “goal-setters” or not. And that is: the difference between setting short-term, achievable goals… and setting major, Soul-level goals that define the trajectory of our lives. Two Pivotal Experiences Let me begin by taking you back to two moments that shaped my perspective throughout my life. The first one was when I was attending grade school and when the teacher gave the class an assignment to write out and turn in three wishes if I could have anything at all—no limits. Well, I thought very long and hard to come up with the three things that were most important to me. And this one assignment turned out to actually “set the sail for my life.” I turned in my answers: 1) All men know God 2) Everyone has perfect health 3) There is peace on earth For me, this pretty much described what I later called “living in a Golden Age on earth.” When the teacher read some of the answers students turned in, I was shocked to hear the mundane answers about wanting a new bicycle or certain clothes, etc., etc. I thought, “surely they didn’t understand the question.” Then later, when I was in my twenties, full of spiritual passion and attending a personal development seminar. At one point, the leader posed this question: “What is the single most important goal you want to achieve in this life?” Well, I took that question seriously too, just as I had the earlier assignment. I thought long and hard about what mattered most. And when it was my turn to answer, I said—without hesitation—“Total spiritual enlightenment.” I’ll never forget the leader’s response. He paused, then said something like,"Well, maybe you should set a goal that’s a little more achievable." At the time, that response stunned me because I felt it was more achievable than three wishes I had in grade school! In my mind, at least I had more control over this goal than one that involved the whole world. But over the years, I’ve come to realize that I wasn’t wrong in either case—I just had a different lens. You see, we live in a world that celebrates immediate results, quick wins, 30-day transformations. And yes, those things have their place. But what about the long game? What about the deep soul goals that aren’t achieved in a month—or even in a decade—maybe not even in a lifetime? That moment in the seminar taught me something. There’s a difference between setting goals that are realistic and time-bound—and setting directional goals, goals that point your compass toward your highest self. You may never “check them off” in the traditional sense, but they guide everything you do. Let’s call these two kinds of goals: One, Short-term targets – Goals that produce tangible, measurable outcomes. “Lose 10 pounds,” “Buy a house,” “Finish the book.” And Number 2, Soul goals – Aspirational, defining, and often lifelong. “Awaken my full spiritual potential.” “Live in alignment with divine purpose.” “Be a vessel for God’s light on Earth,” or “Total spiritual enlightenment.” Soul goals don’t expire. They evolve with you. And here’s the irony: those “unrealistic” goals? They often become the fuel that helps you achieve the smaller, practical goals too. When you’re living with a big vision, the daily grind becomes sacred. Spiritual Perspective Now, let’s take it even deeper. From a spiritual perspective, every soul comes into this life with a divine blueprint—a purpose that spans many lifetimes. So, when you feel a calling to set a massive, even otherworldly goal like enlightenment, don’t dismiss it. Honor it. It may not be fully achieved in this one life, but it can define the quality of this life. The ascended masters didn’t achieve their status by playing small. They lived big visions, and they lived them daily, moment by moment. And let me say this clearly: If your goal is “total spiritual enlightenment,” then you’re already on the path. Because it’s not about arriving at some mountaintop moment—it’s about who you become as you walk the path. Practical Guidance So, here’s a little exercise for you: List 3 short-term goals that are measurable and time-specific. These keep your momentum going. And then, write down your soul-level goal—the one that sets your heart on fire, even if it feels “unrealistic.” Let it be big. Let it be bold. Let it be yours. Take your time and give it some quality time. Then ask yourself: How can I align my short-term actions with my long-term soul direction? When your short-term goals serve your soul goals, you’re not just accomplishing things—you’re evolving. So, here’s my encouragement to you today:Don’t let the world’s addiction to “achievable” goals rob you of your birthright to dream big. Let your soul speak. Let your Higher Self set the tone.Yes, set goals that pay the bills and build the life you want—but never forget to also set goals that build the you your soul came here to become. Remember, Soul goals don’t expire. They evolve with you. For instance, my life goal has evolved to ascending to permanent reunion with God at the end of this life, becoming an ascended master no longer needing to reincarnate on the earth and to be of much greater service to God and the world from the higher realms. Thanks for joining me today. And if this episode sparked something in you, I’d love to hear about your soul goals you’re setting. Reach out, share your vision, and keep walking that sacred path. Until next time—dream bigger than what’s “achievable.” Because with God, with faith, and with your soul leading the way—all things are possible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode, and today, I’m inviting you to a quiet moment of reflection. I want to ask you an important question--something that most of us don’t consider often enough: If you knew this was your last chance to speak… what wisdom would you want to leave behind? Please don’t think this is morbid—on the contrary, it’s clarifying. There’s something powerful that happens when we think from the end and work backward. Our lives suddenly come into sharp focus. The petty things fall away and what matters remains. One of my favorite quotes is from Mark Twain. He said: “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” That’s what we’re going to explore today: the “why.” Searching for Purpose All around the world, people are searching. Quietly, sometimes desperately. They’re scrolling through social media, reading books, attending workshops, even going on pilgrimages—all in the hope of answering one haunting question: “Why am I here?” We crave meaning. We want to know that our life matters. That we’re not just here to work, pay bills, and die. That somewhere in the mix of our talents, our heartbreaks, our longings, and our quirks—there’s a purpose. A calling. A passion we were born to fulfill. But so many people feel lost. Or worse—they feel numb. Like they’re just going through the motions. If that’s you, I want to say something directly to your heart: You are not lost. You are becoming. From a spiritual perspective, our ultimate purpose is to fulfill our reason for being and permanently reunite with God. But what about this life? What are you meant to fulfill? Accomplish? Contribute? Master? Meditation is certainly a tool for connecting to the Divine within and receiving wisdom, guidance and purpose. But purpose isn’t always a lightning bolt—it’s can be a quiet unfolding. A sacred breadcrumb trail. Sometimes it whispers before it roars. If This Were My Last Chance… So, if this were my last opportunity to speak into your life, here’s the wisdom I’d want to leave behind: 1. You came here for a reason.There is something your soul came to express that no one else can. Don’t compare your journey to anyone else's. Your uniqueness is your purpose. 2. Don’t wait for the world to validate your calling.If it burns in your heart, that’s validation enough. Start where you are. Use what you have. Let it be imperfect. 3. And Love more freely.If you think you’re being too loving, too forgiving, too open—you’re probably just beginning to scratch the surface of your soul’s power. 4. Your presence is healing.Don’t underestimate what your smile, your listening ear, your compassion, your courage can do. You may never see the full impact—but trust me, it’s real. 5. Time is precious—but it’s not the enemy.You’re not behind. You haven’t missed your moment. The divine plan unfolds in a perfect timing. Stay present, stay faithful. And if you do feel you need to catch up, then take the time to become quiet, meditate, spend time in nature and let God speak to you. Discovering the Why Let’s circle back to Mark Twain. “The day you were born…”“And the day you find out why.” If you haven’t yet found your “why,” don’t despair. It might not come all at once. It might come in layers. You might wake up one day and realize that the way you’ve loved your family, the way you’ve encouraged your friends, the way you’ve kept going when everything inside wanted to give up—that was your purpose all along. Purpose isn’t always a career. Sometimes, it’s a vibration. A presence. A quiet service that no one applauds but Heaven sees clearly. So, let me turn the question to you: If you knew this was your last chance to leave your wisdom—what would you say? Think about it. Maybe even write it down. What would you want your children, your friends, or even a stranger to remember? What truth would you want to echo beyond your final breath? Whatever it is… start living it now. Speak it. Embody it. Become the message. Because here’s the secret: When you live as if your words might be your last, you tend to say what really matters. Thanks for sharing this sacred moment with me. Until next time, may you live on purpose, love without limits, and trust the journey—because you’re here for a reason. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe