We asked women who inspire us to share their thoughts on life, love and beauty. Here are their responses.

What is success to you?
I don’t think of success in terms of business or money in the least. I left a corporate job 6 years ago to move to the middle of nowhere here in New Mexico to experience the serenity that this place provides. Being closer to nature, and being able tap into my creative energy again. I have succeeded in the goals I set to live an authentic, quiet life filled with creativity
and peace.

What is magic to you?
Magic is my medicine. I think it has to live internally first. It is something you have to be open to, and aware of letting into your life. Taking the time to be aware of magic moments can add so much joy and fulfillment to your life. For me, magic is in the land, in nature. It is in the way the light hits the Sangre de Cristo mountains at sunset, it is in the pair of swallows that nest over our front door to give way new life every year. It is in the vegetable garden that I tend. Watching new things grow never ceases to amaze me. That is always magic to me. It is in the plants and animals that manage to survive in this harsh high desert climate. It is in a summer thunder and lightning storm that rolls across the sage covered plains. It is surrendering to Mother Nature. Our plans are insignificant. She will do what she wants. She is all powerful. So much can be learned from watching and listening to Mother Nature and the Universe weave their magic.

What is love for you?
Love, to me, is doing things for others without any expectation of reciprocation. When I love someone, I want to do all that is in my power to make them happy and feel loved and appreciated. It warms my heart to do these things

What is your beauty /health practice?
Since moving out to New Mexico, I have found that I am more connected to the land and to myself. The need for material things and makeup has dwindled, and is more in line with natural products. Sitting quietly and watching nature do its thing is a regular practice of mine. Listening to what the land has to say. There are always answers on the wind if you listen. My connection to the earth has proven to be the most powerful
medicine of all.

What makes your spirit glow?
Giving to others. Connecting with my family, my animals, and with the land. My sister is my best friend. She is expecting her first baby in early February and it has been such a joy to help her prepare and plan. The arrival of my nephew will be, I suspect, one of the greatest joys of my life.

How do you stay centered in the middle of chaos?
Luckily I don’t have much of that in my life since we live in such an isolated place. It is part of the reason I moved to a rural environment. I have suffered from anxiety and depression for most of my life. I have been able to do away with medication almost completely. I owe that to living a simple life surrounded by nature. When I do find myself in a chaotic situation, I try now to just shut it out and breathe intentionally. A sort
of meditation in the midst of what I find stressful or chaotic.

What causes /organizations are you passionate about?
I have always been passionate about caring for animals and the planet. I want to live a life full of compassion and empathy. When you are an empathetic person, you tend to be very sensitive to the worlds plights, or friends and family’s anguish. I tend to take those things on as my own anguish. It is a challenge to learn to live with great empathy without carrying the burden too heavily.

If you could say one thing to the world what would you say?
Live and practice life full of compassion for your fellow man. I think it is pretty simple, and yet the world seems to be full of fear which manifests itself into hate and feelings of not having enough, or fearing that things will be taken away from you. It is a victim mentality. This is a dangerous thought process. If you can practice gratitude for everything you have, you will soon realize how very blessed you are, and in turn you will become a happier, more fulfilled individual. Practicing compassion for others will come when you are grateful and not full of fear. My hope is that taking care of one another will become second nature, rather than turning our backs on our brothers and sisters in need.

If you aren’t a mother can you at least describe how you use your Mothering energy to help the world?
With much of what I mentioned above. Filling our lives, and others lives with compassion, tolerance, and gratitude. These practices are not difficult. If you practice them, you can spread the love and light to others, and in turn they can continue this heart work.

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