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

"BABY SUNFLOWER"

 #1030 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (10"x8")  Completed April 22, 2009    SOLD

"HARP & FIDDLE"

#1081 of 1184 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (12"x 12")  Completed Nov. 14, 2009

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Gratitude Gratitude draws my good to me like a spiritual magnet.

Saturday, October 10, 2015 Gratitude is a spiritual magnet. I put my attention on the positive and draw more of the same to me. Friends, family, the comfort of home, and the beauty of nature bless me every day. I live from a place of gratitude and find an abundance of joy! At times, I may feel less than blessed. I may face financial or health challenges. I may be going through a transition and feeling lost or confused. Then, I refocus on gratitude. I make a list of five things for which I am grateful. As I think about my blessings, my attitude changes. The difficulties do not seem as large as they did just a moment ago. I attract more blessings as I practice gratitude and see life through a new perspective. I am fulfilled. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES"

Painting #1032 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (12"x12") Completed May 7, 2009   SOLD

"The suitcase is on a guest bedroom bed waiting to be filled.  I leave for Barcelona one week from today.  Can I share the message I received this morning with you?"

Friday, December 5, 2014     9:00am
“The Spiritual Eye does not see as the physical eye.  Both are necessary for a well balanced life.  You can walk in Spirit while here on Earth.  Make this your intent.  Be open to receive the help.  It is always available.  It is joyful to be in Spirit.  The Spirit is healing and nourishing.  Set the ego on the shelf.  Let it gather dust.  The ego can’t survive in this higher vibration and would like to keep you from surviving too.  Listen to your Higher Power for you are always safe and protected.  No harm can befall you.  Trust, Nora, trust.  Be aware and trust.”

Protected Divinely protected, I live boldly and confidently. Friday, December 5, 2014 The protection of Spirit is boundless. Wherever I go, I am guided and safe. The all-seeing wisdom of God is within me, as my inner voice and intuition. It is my steadfast lighthouse, gently guiding me away from stormy situations. Enlightened in the love of God, I am steered toward my highest good. Knowing I am divinely protected, I live boldly and courageously. I navigate through uncertain situations with supreme confidence, always expecting good. God is within and around me, calling forth the highest expression of humanity in myself and others. Wherever I am called to be, and whatever I am called to do, Spirit’s omnipotent power is with me. I am protected by the infallible Presence; I am always harbored in love. Do not fear, greatly beloved, you are safe. Be strong and courageous!—Daniel 10:19 Spirit Message received by Suzanne Giesemann this morning Body, mind, and spirit … in this reality in which you find yourself, they work together.  Spirit and mind express themselves through the body.  You say, “Listen to your body.  What is it telling you?”  This is good advice, but the body does nothing on its own.  You are far more than the body.  It is directed by the other two team members.  Spirit is at work all the time and all around you, but in this dimension it is often unnoticed without body and mind.  Mind appears to make decisions and choices, but these are for naught if not impelled by spirit and enacted by body.   All is a team effort, as is everything in your world.  Were it not for your personal team’s interactions with other teams around you, little would be accomplished and growth would be stymied.  Listen to your body.  Use your mind to make the highest choices.  Honor the spirit, and then see these three aspects in all around you.  This view changes things, and change—most especially in the direction of growth toward love—is the name of the game.

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"IRISES"

Painting #304 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x24") Completed in May, 1996  SOLD

Heroic Aligned with Divine Mind, I boldly express my truth. Tuesday, November 11, 2014 Sometimes I’m unsure about what to do in a given situation. Circumstances may call for a particular action that does not feel right to me. Although I could simply do what others want me to do, I want to act from integrity. I choose to be true to myself. At times like these, I pray. I become quiet and listen for the still, small voice of Divine Mind. Aligned with Spirit, I receive the direction I seek and the wisdom I desire. I find the courage to do what is mine to do without doubt. Assured of God’s guidance, I move forward with confidence and conviction. As I bravely act in integrity, I feel at peace and trust in the perfect outcome for all concerned. Attuned to Divine Mind, I discover the truth that brings freedom. And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.­—John 8:32

Good Memories by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED GERANIUMS"

Painting #1001 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x 30") Completed in 2008    SOLD

"OCTOBER, NAPLES SUNSET"

Painting #1161 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (6"x 6")  Completed October 23, 2011

"The man in this painting transitioned earlier this year and yet his essence (spirit) is still with us.  It is so good to see him smiling now and letting us know he is happy.  His nature was to be helpful to others and he is still doing that."

Sunday, September 21, 2014

From time to time, I may find myself judging another person for their actions or choices. Yet condemnation does not help others change. The best way for me to help another person is to behold their divinity—the Christ in them.

I empathize with others, because I understand that everyone makes mistakes. We may try in vain to get satisfaction from the world, while deeply longing for the fulfillment only Spirit can bring. When we awaken to the Truth that we are sacred beings, we find the Source of true happiness and joy.

I let go of judgment and see the Truth in myself and others. The Christ is in all of us. I behold our sacredness with love and acceptance. I rest knowing we are One.

When I awake I shall be satisfied, beholding your likeness.—Psalm 17:15

Vacation To Maine by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ORANGE BEGONIA"

Painting #1074 of 1181   Oil on Canvas (24"x24")  Completed October 30, 2009

 I enjoy viewing this painting here in my home now in Naples, FL  

WOW!  Today, I am going to Maine.  It's a vacation.  I will arrive in Portland, ME late tonight.  Tomorrow I will be with good artist friend and art gallery owner, Susan Roux.  Check out her gallery here.  Roux & Cyr International Fine Art Gallery.  

Friday, September 5, through Sunday, September 7, I will be in Stetson, ME.  After that, it's up for grabs.

Rest

Through the restorative power of the Silence, I rest

Rest is essential for achieving excellence in my work and relationships. To be at my best, I must have energy, enthusiasm, and a clear head. Being tired or frazzled reminds me that it is time to recharge my batteries.

When in need of rest, I turn to the restorative power of the Silence. I begin by simply placing my attention on my breath. I set aside any concerns, responsibilities, or tasks, and reconnect with the calm and loving energy of Spirit. As I close my eyes, I become aware of my body and relax each part of it, from my head to my toes. I surrender all of me to the Silence. Its power restores me—body, mind, and soul. I am rested and refreshed.

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.—Matthew 11:

Karl & Messages by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"KARL BY FIRESIDE"

#10 of 1181 Paintings  Oil on Canvas  (24"x36")  Completed in 1990      Destroyed

"This painting was painted by looking at the photo I had taken of Karl.  We had only been in our home, "Pine Haven" on Lamb Lake for about 10 months then.  I'm sorry that I destroyed this painting but so glad there is still an image of it.

Some of you know and some of you don't that since January 14, 2013, I have been meditating and writing every morning.  On January 18, 2013, Karl came to me.  I saw him and he gave me many words, a message, that I hold most dear.  That was over 1 year and 7 months ago.  Since then I have received messages daily from Karl and my guides.  It is time to share with those who have an interest.

Usually, I don't receive my messages in rhyme and yet lately that is what is so often happening.  I don't record or transcribe my words or questions I have written before the message arrives from the guides . . . . you see, Karl is also a guide.  I received a message in rhyme  this morning but I would like to share this one I received on Wednesday, 8-20-2014 with you first."

Wednesday, August 20, 2014     11:30am

“Write, Nora, for you want to recall this.  You are on the right track and your path is made easy for you.  Tune in often to get your updates.  Keep your Energy up high and avoid the static.”

Message in Rhyme IV / Wednesday, August 20, 2014

You are not alone as you live and abide,

Keep your eye on the center line and stay on your side.

Don’t crowd out another, give us plenty of room.

And you don’t have to travel at break neck speed,

Slow down, slow down, be aware, take heed.

See all around you, enjoy the view,

Please don’t miss what God has for you.

Arrows point in many directions,

You say, I’ll go here, I’ll go there.  Oh, so many selections.

Now, don’t be dismayed at the task set before you,

Resource to accomplish all you set out to do,

Is always within you . . . . who knew?

Healing:  from Unity's "Daily Word"

Wholeness is my true nature.

Sunday, August 24, 2014

I am innately whole and healthy. Divine Life is real, abiding, and eternal, and I am Life in expression. To experience the fullness of Life, I first realize that I live, move, and have my being in the universal life flow of God.

I center my feelings, thoughts, and words on Oneness and the perfect Life within me. I feel and know Life is present and available to me in all its fullness. When my mind is focused on the divine idea of wholeness, I am in conscious harmony with the rhythm and flow of Divine Life. I demonstrate wholeness in mind and body.

Wholeness is my true nature and my birthright. I confidently claim it by affirming: Life, sweet Life!

Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness.”—Genesis 1:26

Studio & Office Walls by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ORANGE BAG"

Painting # 906  Oil on Linen  (20"x16")  Completed October 21, 2006

In the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Jason Simrell

"This is my office and studio I woke up to this morning.  I didn't run out of paint.  I couldn't move the heavy glass desk and couldn't reach the top of the wall over it.  The solution was to leave the wall over and under the window white.  I am so happy with the result and it seems like one of those "happy accidents" has happened.  It's amazing how a pencil and level can help us."

"The left-side view.  This photo shows my easel and a painting in progress.  The wall in back of the easel is still white.  By the way, that painting was started months ago.  Will I finish it?"

"The right-side corner view.  I am so pleased to have such a beautiful workspace and view."

"Today's message from Unity's "Daily Word" is perfect for me today.  Remember, I am 77 years old and I really enjoyed being on the ladder and painting walls yesterday."  Actually, this message is perfect for all of us.  Enthusiasm and Gratitude . . .  . WOW!"

SILENT SLIDESHOW

Ageless

I honor my ageless nature by living with enthusiasm and gratitude.

The essence of my being is ageless. The spark of divinity, of God within me, is everlasting. It was there before my birth and will continue beyond my physical body.

What a blessing it is to know that this most real part of me is always fresh and vibrant! As I cherish memories, wisdom, growth, and a bounty of lessons learned throughout my life, I understand that my fundamental nature remains ageless.

No matter my chronological age, my spirit is as new as a budding leaf. I visualize myself in the flow of all that God is. I honor my ageless nature by living this day with enthusiasm and gratitude.

Their leaves will not wither … but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary.—Ezekiel 47:12

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Non-Resistance by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PINK ROSES IN CLEAR VASE"

Painting #547 Oil on Linen  (10"x 8")  Completed September 4, 1999 

"I totally agree with the words of Unity's "Daily Word" for today."

Nonresistance

I do not resist change for I know only God, the Good, governs me.

I do not resist change, however challenging it may be. When I am called on to meet it, I know this truth: As the door to a former way of life closes, another door opens. I know that only good governs me, my circumstances, and my environment, for God governs me.

I do not resist change. I maintain my poise. I do not give way to fearful thoughts. I do not persist in the feeling that I cannot be happy in other circumstances or other places.

I find that change is easy to make when I remember that God has not given me a spirit of fear but a spirit that is wonderfully flexible and adaptable. God has given me a spirit that welcomes new ideas, new ways of living, new places, new friends. God has given me a spirit that is willing to grow, a spirit that is willing to unfold and to change.

Grow in the grace of our Lord.—2 Peter 3:18

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Art & Meditation by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ONIONS & MELON"

Painting #501  Oil On Linen  (25"x 30")  Completed September 11, 1998

In the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Weber Gaskin

"Wow! What a revelation came to me yesterday when I attended this introduction for "Mindfulness Meditation".  What I have learned by going within and listening to my Higher Being, is being taught in a scientific and factual manner. . . . . .  right here close to Naples."

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) When Monday July 28, 2014 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM EDT Add to Calendar   Where Integrative Mindfulness 3372 Woods Edge Circle, #102 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Driving Directions Greetings!       This is an invitation to join me for an hour of information and education about mindfulness and the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program.   MBSR is a unique program developed to help people better understand and work with all the stressors in their lives - medical, psychological and social. MBSR is taught worldwide and was recently a cover feature in Time Magazine.  It is an education-based course in which you learn to bring the practice of mindfulness into your life, in both formal and informal ways. Learning goes on both within class sessions and at home through daily practice. Attend this free introductory session and see if this program is right for you. Feel free to bring a friend or colleague. Get more information Register Now! I can't make it Sincerely,   Madeline Ebelini MA, RYT Integrative Mindfulness Madeline@IntegrativeMindfulness.net 239-590-9485

Below is from Unity's "Daily Word" today

Harmony

The harmonizing power of God works in every area of my life.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

If situations in my life feel out of sync, I pause for a moment of prayer. As I turn within, I come back to center. I pray to understand how I can harmonize with the ways of the Divine. I am reminded that “all things work together for good.” A higher power is at work in my life and in the lives of those I hold dear.

In the stillness of prayer, I relax and let go of any worry or concern. I give thanks for the power and presence of God. My life is unfolding as it should, and I am patient. In tune with God, I know what is mine to do and when to do it. All is well. I rest in this peaceful awareness and emerge with a new sense of direction, appreciation, and joy.

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.—Romans 8:28

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Painting #620 by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN BRASS POT"

Painting #620 of 1181 paintings / Oil on Linen/ (30"x 24") September, 2000  SOLD

"This is the first painting up this morning as I'm scanning them now from old photos.  I Am so glad that I photographed right from the beginning (1987) of my years of painting.  I did not know how to use a computer yet. . . . . or a camera very well."  Karl and I were living in our beautiful home in Key Colony Beach, Florida when I did this painting.  My memories are so very good of that time in life and I'm truly them.   This summer of 2014 is especially good for me and I wish that to be also for everyone of you."

Below is from Unity's  "Daily Word"        

Camaraderie               Saturday, July 26, 2014

The love of God is expressed through my friends.

One way the love of God expresses is through friendship. I feel valued and valuable as I connect with my friends. They deepen my experience of life, and our camaraderie is mutually supportive.

With encouraging words and supportive actions, we lift one another’s spirits. We share times of joy and adversity, growing together in friendship. We accept each other as we are and hold faith in positive outcomes for one another. We share a love that has no opposition, only respect, kindness, and a sense of ease.

As I encourage, reassure, or console a friend, I am expressing Divine Love and that love is expressed back to me.

All of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.—1 Peter 3:8

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Ego & Spiritual Quest by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES FOR THE TABLE"

Nora in France      April 23, 2014

"This is my 9th day home from the beautiful French Countryside and Paris.  Shouldn't jet-lag be over?  I'm not complaining because this resting time has provided me with new Spiritual insights and enlightenment.  

While an unfinished painting remains on the easel, I have been reading "Listening" by the author, Lee Coit.  Well, actually, I've been reading three of his books now.  As is always the case, when we ask, we receive.  I was so hungry and thirsty for more Spiritual leading after returning from the France trip (I Am always eager for more) but a last minute thought before hanging up the phone with my friend, Doris, I asked her if she had a book title for me . . . .  immediately, she told me "Listening".   Right away I downloaded the book from Amazon and I was off and running.  Well not running but walks on the beach and plenty of reading.

I am Blessed abundantly and feel led to share some of my Blessings with you.  I realize that  the world at large does not want to hear about the phenomena I experienced on January 18, 2013 and since March of this year, 2014, I have been quiet about it.  Do you want to know how I became aware not to tell everyone?  If not, don't read any farther.  

One thing I have learned on this special Spiritual Quest for me is that we are actually creating our life here on Earth.  Nothing comes to us that we have not consciously or unconsciously asked  to experience.  I Am experiencing the Peace now that I have asked for even though Karl is no longer physically with me.  I realize now that it was always within me but I didn't know it.  Well, to get to this other thing . . . . . I was being bombarded with one person after another coming to me to talk, talk, talk about themselves, their accomplishments, etc., their egos big time and I just didn't want to hear it.  I truly LOVE everyone so I was put out with myself for feeling this way.  I knew I wasn't pushing my art onto others and I was baffled why this was happening to me.  (I couldn't believe Nora had asked for this in her life).  The answer came, as it always does.  This time it was The Still Small Voice showing me that my messages were for me personally and how I was coming across to others when sharing my Spiritual messages.  Everyone can receive their own messages and they really aren't that interested in mine. 

The Spiritual Quest of this past year has revealed to me how the ego, given free rein, is such a detriment to me on this Spiritual path or journey.  The daily writing and meditations have been so helpful to me and below, I want to share a small portion of the "Morning Pages" I received today." 

"Question everything, Nora, but Trust that All is Well.  You need only to let go (of ego) and stay steady the course laid out for you.  Your path continues on in the Flow of Holy Spirit.  Sometimes you have to lift the oars and just float.  You’ve cried enough tears to fill the ego’s river and what have you received?  The ego’s burden is always too heavy for you.  In the Flow of Holy Spirit, there is no burden.  There is Peace, LOVE, and Harmony.  Yes, be thankful for your gifts.  Use them and open your heart for more.” 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Home from France by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GOLD EARRINGS"

Painting #1153  Oil on linen on board (20"x16")  Painted in March, 2011 Destroyed

"The French Countryside Tour came and is now over.  It was a first, going to Europe for me and I am so thankful.  Monet's Giverny, the impressionist museum, Musee` d'Orsay and the Louvre were what I treasured most.  Being able to see the Impressionist's paintings up close at the Musee` d'Orsay was like visiting dear, old friends.  What a wonderful experience!"

This is from Unity's "Daily Word"

Strength

I meet every challenge with strength.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Strength enables me to persevere when I am challenged; yet I don’t need to endure alone. The presence of God strengthens me whenever I need energy to meet any adversity.

Just as I nourish my body at mealtimes to remain physically strong, I nourish my spiritual strength through prayer and meditation. Prayer reminds me that God and I are one, that everything I need is already available to me. I connect with God’s mighty presence by affirming: My resilience comes from Spirit within. My strength is the energy of God.

As I partner with God in prayer, I become stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally. I meet any challenge through the presence of God that strengthens me.

The Lord is my strength and my might, and he has become my salvation.–Exodus 15:2

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Roses Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES, ROSES, ROSES"

Painting #588   Oil on Linen   (40"x30")  Painted in March, 2000    SOLD

This is a bad photo of a beautiful Painting

From "THE DAILY WORD"                                                          Sunday, April 6, 2014

PERCEPTION

Behind all of life, I perceive Infinite Love.

Our physical senses allow us to perceive the world from a certain perspective. Yet as we expand our view spiritually, we perceive so much more. We open ourselves to a consciousness of Oneness—harmony and connectedness that radiates through everything and everyone.

With our thoughts on the Divine, we attune to the Infinite Love behind all life. This radiant energy is present in every circumstance and in every person, even if it is not readily seen or heard. Evaluating life only through the filter of our physical senses, we might perceive discord or lack. Yet when we look at our lives with our hearts and minds on Spirit, evidence of the Divine is unmistakable.

Whoever is from God hears the words of God.—John 8:47

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Oil Painting, Destroyed Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"DIAMOND EARRING"

Painting #1086 of 1180 paintings  Oil on linen  (12"x16") Painted 11/2009  Destroyed

From "The Daily Word"                                                              Sunday, September 22, 2013

TURNING POINT

Today is my turning point, and now is my moment.

Every moment brings an opportunity to experience life anew. Every day carries the potential for transformation and growth—for adopting a fresh perspective, making a different choice, or taking a new path.

I choose to make today a turning point day. Whether the changes I make are large or small, each one propels my growth. I discover more about myself, how Spirit works in and through me, and how to express my divine nature in meaningful ways.

As I connect with Spirit within, I know I am supported in every way. I step out in faith to experience life more fully. I am confident and excited as I venture into new territory and embrace this turning point in my life.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Roses" & New Home for Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES"

      Painting #891 of 1180 paintings   Oil on linen  (24"x20")    painted July, 2006      SOLD  

"Yesterday, I purchased a house at Grasmere At Wyndemere here in Naples and the closing is two weeks from tomorrow, September 23, 2013.  This condo I bought a year ago is just fine but I have always felt it was temporary.  Now, I am so looking forward to moving into a nice home again." 

From The Daily Word at Unity                           

My highest good is always unfolding.

Circumstances change. Plans get interrupted. Life takes unexpected turns. Even so, I remain calm and unshaken as I stand on the solid ground of faith, knowing that my highest good is unfolding.

Beneath every outer change is the unchanging Truth of God—stable, unvarying, consistent. In God, nothing is ever lost. In God, there is enough power and strength to meet any life experience. In God, I know I am not alone. I maintain the courage and will to embrace all that life offers.

As conditions change, I am flexible, moving through times of transformation with ease and grace. I expect the manifestation of my highest good, and I embrace whatever form it may take.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change.—Psalm 46:2

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"ROSES, ROSES, ROSES"

Painting #743 of 1179 paintings / Oil on canvas   (30"x40")    Painted in August, 2003

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Please click on the link ( "How Could Anyone Ever Tell You" ).  Enjoy the song.

"Daily Word"  from Unity                                       Wednesday, August 21, 2013

PROTECTED

Resting in the awareness of God’s infinite presence, I know true safety.

I want to know that my loved ones and I are always safe and secure. At times, however, I may become so eager to establish safety that my actions create turmoil. For instance, while trying to protect others from mistakes, I might become overbearing or interfering. To protect myself from emotional hurt, I might erect walls that cut me off from receiving love.
To let go of the urge to control, I enter the Silence. I remember that divine love and wisdom are within me, and in every person and circumstance. The people I care about are safe and protected because God—as boundless love and perfect wisdom—is with them and within them at all times. In this knowing, I feel safe and secure.

The beloved of the Lord rests in safety—the High God surrounds him.—Deuteronomy 33:12