Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

Five Paintings Left In Amsbury, MA / August 25, 2016

#1196 "Mixed Roses"  Oil on Canvas (14"x11")

 #1190 "Queen Anne's Lace"  Oil on Canvas (18"x18")

 #1197  "Roses"  Oil on Linen  (10"x20")

 #1199  Lilacs"  Oil on Canvas  (14"x11")

#1200  "Abstracted Floral"  Oil on Linen  (14"x11")

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Inner Truth God-life within assures me that all is well.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 Deep inside me is a truth I want to know consciously all the time. When I am centered in it, I know all is well in my life and the world. When I am aware of it, there is no room for struggle or problems of any kind. I find it in the place the psalmist called “the secret place of the Most High.” I simply become still and rest my attention on God-life within. Then I, too, discover this secret place where the highest truth dwells. I meet God at the core of my being. Here I find solace, passion, joy, and a sense of oneness with all life. Resting in the Silence, I hear and see through spiritual ears and eyes. No matter the circumstances of life, I know this deeply seeded and ever-available truth: God is here and all is well. You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.—Psalm 51:6

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LILACS"

Painting #1199  Oil on Canvas  (14"x14")  Completed August 16, 2016

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Guidance My light shines as confidence and understanding.

Saturday, August 20, 2016 Elisabeth Kübler-Ross wrote, “People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” I am guided by divine light, in good times and in difficult times. This light illumines my path and gives me the inner strength and confidence to move forward without fear or concern. As I become more attuned to divine light, I become more insightful and intuitive. I am more conscious of God’s direction, leading me to wise choices. With my path illumined, I am confident that all will be revealed to me at the right time and in the right way. For it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.—2 Corinthians 4:6

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Pots of Begonias"

Painting #1195  Oil on Canvas  (12"x16")  Completed August 9, 2016

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Resilience I am flexible. I am resilient.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016 As I ponder the spiritual quality of resilience, I am reminded of the beautiful willow tree that sways in the wind but does not break. The resilience of the willow tree is a powerful example of how it is possible to be stable, strong, and flexible. In order for me to be healthy and strong through any challenge, I must also remain flexible. I remember to stay open to the support that Spirit offers me on my spiritual path. Rather than closing myself off, I trust in God. I surrender my thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes and gain a deeper understanding of who I am. I become more flexible and open in my thinking. Centered in God, I open the way for possibilities to enter my life. I am flexible. I am resilient. They are like trees planted by streams of water.—Psalm 1:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"QUEEN ANNE'S LACE"

Painting #1190  Oil on canvas  (18"x18")  Completed July 13, 2016 in Amesbury, MA

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Self-Esteem I accept and respect myself.

Monday, August 8, 2016 At times we all face challenges we cannot overcome without help. Admitting that a situation seems beyond our control can be the first step toward positive results. Accepting ourselves even if we make a mistake is an act of love and respect that builds self-esteem. Henry Ford—who admittedly failed many times—said, “Failure is the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently.” Life is a progression of learning, trying, starting over, and realizing more of our divine potential. Our spiritual nature holds the seeds of wisdom, success, and love. As we recognize our own spiritual qualities, we feel good about our endeavors and love ourselves even though we will always have lessons to learn. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.—2 Timothy 1:7

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN MOONLIGHT"

Painting #1194 / Oil on canvas (16"x12") 8-5-2016

Free I am free to live a full and meaningful life.

Saturday, August 6, 2016 Theoretically, if a clear barrier is inserted into an aquarium, a fish will attempt to swim through but will eventually adapt to the smaller space. If the barrier is removed, the fish remains confined as though the obstacle remained. Are my habits or perceived obstructions limiting me? I am free to live a full and meaningful life. If fearful thoughts are limiting me or if I’ve grown accustomed to having others tell me “No,” I affirm: I am free to live a full and meaningful life. I have gifts and talents to share, ideas to explore, and dreams to pursue. I accept myself as a child of God having abundant potential and freedom to be my best self. For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.—Galatians 5:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"HYDRANGEA IN AMESBURY"

LEO/RIKI

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Trust My trust is strengthened by my joyful heart.

Friday, July 29, 2016 Martin Luther once compared the exercising of faith to placing a joyful wager on God’s unexpressed goodness. Every time I center myself in a positive spirit, I am truly praying. When I lift up my heart in joy, I move in the direction of better outcomes in my life. Trust and joy are linked within me, resulting in answered prayer. What can I do right now, in the midst of whatever is facing me, to raise my spirits? I engage my cheerful nature with a sense of optimism about a positive result. I begin by trusting that all things are working together for my good—in my life and in the lives of all those I care about. My joyful heart is giving me the energy that empowers this answered prayer. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid.—Psalm 56:4

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"IN MEMORY OF A LADY"

This was painted in Amesbury, MA  7/26, 2016  (20"x16")

From "UNITY'S DAILY WORD"

Inner Peace I practice peace in this tranquil moment.

Wednesday, July 27, 2016 No matter where I am, or what situation I find myself in, peace is always available to me. Peace is a sensation free of conflict or turmoil. It is a knowing of calm, serenity, and tranquility. I acknowledge that in my life there are situations that may leave me feeling unsettled. In times of change or challenge my unchecked thoughts can turn to worry or fear. My actions may become rushed and reflexive. Noticing this frenzied state, I make a conscious effort to calm my thoughts and practice peace in this moment. Taking a few deep breaths, I hit the pause button. I whisper to myself: Peace, be still. I affirm that God is present right where I am, guiding me to the right and perfect outcome. He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm.—Mark 4:39

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

From Unity's "Daily Word"

Saturday, July 23, 2016 The poet Maya Angelou wrote that “the ache for home lives in all of us. The safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.” I cherish the people to whom I have consistently been able to turn to for a sense of security and unconditional love. I also appreciate those special places where I feel a greater sense of unity with all life. With profound gratitude, I acknowledge how my spiritual growth has significantly impacted my sense of belonging. The more I abide in God’s love, the more often strangers and foreign places begin to feel like family to me. No matter where I am or whom I am with, I carry with me a sense of unconditional acceptance as a refuge not only for myself but for all whom I encounter. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.—1 John 4:16

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Pale Roses"

Painting #834 of 1183 paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x24") Completed June, 2005

"There is a painting underway now and it is Good to be painting.  I am in a new place now and my easel and painting setup is in the living room.  Good lighting is available throughout the day.  The painting I am working on now is a Still Life and I'm hoping to have it completed by June 28, as we leave Naples for the Summer that day."

Let Go, Let God I release fear and allow God’s blessings to flow into me. Saturday, June 11, 2016 When I want to declutter, I sort through my clothing and other belongings and get rid of any items that I no longer like or use. Letting go of things may be difficult. But I challenge myself to create space. I also take regular inventory of my thoughts, actions, and commitments. They serve specific purposes in my life, so if they are not working for my highest good, I let them go. I spend time in meditation to strengthen my power of discernment and know what is mine to release. I make room for new insights and experiences that usher God’s good into my life. I release what holds me back, and I open myself to future blessings. Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?—Isaiah 43:18-19

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

Leo with purple toy - Summer, 2015

Leo, day of adoption at Humane Society 1-10-2015

Leo on walk-April, 2015

Leo shops with me and rides in cart at Bed Bath & Beyond /  August, 2015

"Leo's name is "Riki" now and I believe he is happy with his new name and living a new life in Toronto.    I was blessed and I am so thankful for the year he spent with me."

Website:  NORAKASTEN.COM

  

Divine Order

I allow divine order to work through me.

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Gardeners plant spring bulbs in the fall before the ground freezes. The bulbs require exposure to cold temperatures to flower well when conditions are right. The resulting blossoms announce the arrival of springtime and the fruition of an orderly growth cycle that began underground, beyond my sight.

The desires, goals, and ideas I hold in mind are like these spring bulbs. I hold them close and nurture them with positive thoughts. I believe in my dreams and the indwelling power of God at work to help me achieve them. In time and with each divinely inspired step, they begin to take shape and form. I fulfill my heart’s desires with perseverance and faith by allowing divine order to work through me.

Let your good spirit lead me on a level path.—Psalm 143:10

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES"

Painting #891 of 1183 / Oil on Linen  (24"x20")  Completed July, 2006     SOLD

FROM UNITY'S DAILY WORD

Friday, March 25, 2016 I am a physical, spiritual, and social being. Within me are hundreds of parts that comprise my whole. My skeleton frames me. My heart circulates blood infused with oxygen courtesy of my lungs. My brain monitors processes. Each part of my body has a specific function and purpose. I am the sum of these parts that allow me to think, breathe, move, and feel. Divine energy flows within me, infusing every cell, tissue, and organ with strength and vitality. There is only one of me, and I am a magnificent creation of God. I give thanks for my body and the amazing way that it works without my even being aware of it. I praise my body for its strength, and I give thanks to God for creating me. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well.—Psalm 139:14

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FRESH CUT ROSES"

Painting #1136 of 1183 / Oil on Linen (16"x 20")   Completed June 8, 2010

Guidance

The Christ within guides me to my good.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

Whether I’m consciously aware of it or not, my life is continually guided step-by-step toward my best and highest good.

I begin by stilling my mind then trusting in divine wisdom to see me through any seeming obstacle. Resting in a comfortable position, I close my eyes. With deliberation, I shut out the outside world. Like a fog lifting, my mind clears, and I tune in to God’s message for me. I remain open to divine direction.

With a willingness to listen, I now hear the still, small voice within. This divine whisper of encouragement guides me on my spiritual journey. Through sacred listening, I gain clarity to take inspired action. I am blessed.

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.”—Genesis 12:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE"

Painting #418 of 1183 / Oil on Linen (30"x24) Completed August, 1997   SOLD

"A very good day, today!  My move is completed and I will be sending out Address Change announcements soon."

Good Judgment

With confidence and clarity, I use good judgment.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

I use good judgment when I know how far to pull my car into the garage or how much to pay for an item. But there is a higher judgment I can call on. When I encounter a difficult situation or when I have to make certain choices, I turn within for divine guidance before making any decisions.

When I seem to be making decisions purely by appearances, I remember there may be more to the situation than what I see. If I experience some doubt, I take a moment to breathe and become still. A feeling of “rightness” is a clear sign to move forward. I exercise good judgment. I seek to have my decisions be “win-win” whenever possible.

With confidence and clarity, I use good judgment.

Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.—John 7:24

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Roses With Brass Pot"

#869 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x36") Completed April 21, 2006     SOLD

"Yesterday's golf lesson was successful but I have yet to hit a golf ball.  We'll see what happens in tomorrow's golf lesson.  The main thing I've learned is  . . . . I have a lot to learn."

Guidance I listen to my inner guidance. Thursday, February 18, 2016 As I sit quietly in prayerful reflection and center myself in my heart space, I discover everything I need to know. Extraneous concerns pass away. My breath moves in and out gently and evenly. Whatever the perceived problem in my life, I know that right now I am in the presence of the spiritual resource that answers every need. This perfect place of rest contains everything necessary for me to proceed with perfect grace and clarity. If a question comes to mind, I ask it and then release it, trusting that the right answer will come forth. My question may be answered in a dream, a book, a word, a quiet knowing. Spirit has infinite ways of communicating, and I am open to them all. O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling.—Psalm 43:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Roses For The Table"

#899 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24") Completed July 30, 2006

"This will come as a surprise to my golfer friends and family.  Tomorrow, I am having my first golf lesson . . . . . . from a Pro.  It is so exciting!

Faith I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. Tuesday, February 16, 2016 How much faith is needed to achieve great results? Jesus taught that even a small amount of faith can move mountains: “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.” If I am lacking the faith to pursue big dreams, I start with small ones. Trusting in the presence of God within to guide my way, I steadily advance toward a larger, divinely inspired vision for my life. To build my faith, I use the spiritual tools of prayer, imagination, affirmation, and action. I see divine order in all that unfolds, both large and small. I devote time each day thanking God for perfect results. I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. I have faith in faith itself. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.—Hebrews 11:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A JAR OF ROSES"

Painting #1124 of 1187 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (20"x 12")  Completed 4/9/2009

"Christmas, 2015 was especially meaningful to me and I can never again say, "I don't like Christmas", as I have in the past.  I am most thankful . . . . and happy beginning 2016!  

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith I am meant to live a great life! Monday, January 4, 2016 As I begin the new year, I step out in faith. I am excited to know that God has given me all I need to have a great life. “It is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” I gratefully accept! The energy, life, and love of Spirit move through me easily and effortlessly. I open to divine ideas and discern what is mine to do. I am blessed with unlimited possibilities to experience God. Opportunities to connect with the Divine arrive in new and unexpected ways. I am now conscious of others expressing kindness, joy, and peace. I feel one with all that is. I feel certain that my circumstances will work out favorably, perhaps in unimaginable ways. As I deepen my connection with God, my faith grows ever stronger. I am meant to live a great life! For we walk by faith, not by sight.—2 Corinthians 5:7