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

"JUST WAITING"

Section of #924 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24")  Completed April, 2007  DESTROYED

New Kitchen Continues to be Installed

"The call just came from Salvia Tile.  They will deliver and install granite tomorrow afternoon.  Such good news!"

LOWDERMILK BEACH IN NAPLES, FL, TUESDAY AFTERNOON, 7-7-2015

"Today was the first day at the beach for me since April or May and this was the scene 30 minutes after I arrived.  Hurrying, as best I could, I made it to the car just as the rain began to fall.  Though I wasn't at the beach very long, it was delightful to be there again as my Semi-Sabatical continues.  I am successful controlling the Peripheral Neuropathy if I get the much needed rest everyday, manage my meds and be careful not to overextend physically.  I've learned the price is too high to pay in pain and misery if I don't adhere to these guidelines.  Stress cannot be a part of my life now and my motto has become "Let go and let God".

Reading is and has always been a huge part of my life.  Some fiction but for the most part I read to learn.  Being on this Spiritual Awaking Journey, of course, has led me to read everything I can on The Spirit and Energy.  Einstein has shown us that all matter is Energy, including our bodies.  I love learning . . . . even during this later phase in life.

Below is a photo of one of the books I am reading now on my IPad and IPhone.  "The Grace in Aging" (Awaken As You Grow Older) by Kathleen Dowling Singh.  It's not a book that I'm reading straight through as I'm led to read other books as well.  "The Power Of Now" by Eckhart Tolle is still my all-time favorite."

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"SUMMER ROSES"

 Painting #820 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (10"x 8") Completed April 16, 2005

"Today, I want to share with you this message I have received from my Guides.  I have been receiving messages on a steady basis since January 18, 2013 but have been reluctant to share.  I believe it is time."

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Painting Archives from Artist, NORA KASTEN

 "THE BURNING BUSH"

Painting #692  Oil on Linen   (30"x24")   Painted in April, 2002

"Today, I am transferring painting photos from CD's to an external hard drive for the Apple Mac.  It will probably take several days to do this but I Am enjoying viewing the paintings that I did several years ago." 

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"    Monday, June 23, 2014

Trust

I open my life as I trust the wisdom of God.

It can sometimes be difficult for human beings to trust one another. Trust requires willingness to surrender and to be open and vulnerable.

In learning to trust, I begin by trusting the Divine within. By placing my trust in God, I will never be led astray. This does not mean that I adopt a passive attitude. Rather, it means being alert and responsive to divine wisdom and discernment, to love and beauty, to divine order and truth. As I do, I learn to trust myself to judge rightly and act on the wisdom that I receive.

Spirit will guide me to people and experiences that bless me, and I will find others with whom I feel comfortable sharing my thoughts, ideas, and feelings. As I trust, a world of blessings opens up to me.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.—Psalm 56:3

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Roses" Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES"

Painting #1009  Oil on Linen  (36"x 24")   Painted in April, 2008  Archived

From Unity's "Daily Word"

Comfort /I am never alone.       Saturday, June 14, 2014

The lights in the night sky remind me of my infinite connection with All That Is. As I allow my thoughts to turn away from the day’s events, I focus on the truth that I am one with God, one with all life. This brings me comfort. Gazing at the heavens filled with distant stars and planets, I see my life from a cosmic perspective. I feel my divine connection with these many little dots in the sky.

I am comforted by my powerful connection with Spirit and the knowledge that I am never alone. The lights of the heavens shine upon me. The wisdom of Spirit is my guide. The strength of Spirit is my support. The peace of Spirit lies deep within me. I am surrounded and enfolded in God’s ever-present love.

I, I am he who comforts you.—Isaiah 51:12

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Oil Painting,"Macy-Red Dress" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MACY - RED PROM DRESS"

Painting #1010   Oil on Linen   (16"x12")   Painted in May, 2008

Free

I choose freedom, and I soar!

From Unity's "Daily Word"                                                 Wednesday, June 11, 2014

When a butterfly leaves its chrysalis, it abandons its former way of life. The transition takes time as the newly formed butterfly waits for its wings to dry. Once ready, it takes flight, leaving old ways behind as it soars freely.

Like the butterfly, I may find that my freedom from a former way of life takes time. I cocoon myself in prayer and meditation. I consciously let go of old thoughts, ideas, and habits that keep me from the full expression of who I am.

I let go of the past and live in the present. I am no longer held back by fear of failure or defeat. Through the power and presence of God within, I am free to soar through the garden of life.

For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters.—Galatians 5:13

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Floral by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL BALLERINA"

Painting # 1083   Acrylic on Canvas   (7"x5")    Painted in Nov., 2009

"Over the week-end, I finished reading "The Star Keys" by Eron & Walter Starckey.  This book was such a Blessing to me and maybe it is just what you are looking for too.

From Unity's "The Daily Word"  

Envision

As I believe, I gratefully receive.

Monday, June 9, 2014

The power of imagination is an amazing gift from God. With faith, I visualize what I want to manifest in my life. Sending forth a powerful affirmative prayer, I picture in detail what I seek to create. My vision is specific, broad-reaching, and impactful.

By seeing the result first in mind, I generate the feelings that accompany success. I may feel a sense of pride, relief, or joy as I envision a favorable outcome. I am grateful for what I know will be achieved. I internalize that sensation, and whenever I imagine my goal, the positive feelings return.

When my good comes to fruition, I welcome it with appreciation and joy. As I believe, I gratefully receive.

Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.—Mark 11:24

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Peonies & Iris by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PEONIES & IRIS"

Painting #1036 / Oil on Linen (12"x 24")  Painted in May, 2009 In Collection of Mr. & Mrs. Jason Simrell

FROM "THE DAILY WORD" by UNITY

Wisdom

I see the world clearly from my heart and soul.

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Wisdom is more than intellectual discernment or logic; it comes from the heart and soul. With wisdom, I look beyond appearances and perceive the divine potential inherent within every circumstance and every person, including myself.

Through my prayer practice, I develop and strengthen my ability to make wise choices. I connect with Source and open my heart and mind to possibilities I did not recognize before. A daily connection with my divine nature helps me listen deeply, see clearly, choose wisely, and advance joyfully. From within the sweet silence of prayer, new possibilities arise and my capacity for wise discernment grows.

You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.—Psalm 51:6

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

Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RADKA"

Painting #938    Oil on Linen    (36"x24")    Painted in June, 2007

From "THE DAILY WORD"                                            Tuesday, April 1, 2014

JOY

Gratitude brings me joy!

According to the Law of Increase, what I focus on multiplies. Knowing this, I refrain from dwelling on my challenges and struggles. I choose instead to center my thoughts on what brings me happiness—my friends and family, beloved pets, satisfying work and interests, the beauty of nature, and so much more. As I appreciate the blessings in my life, they multiply abundantly.

I joyously and continuously give thanks for my ever-increasing good and stand in awe of the activity of God. As I dwell in the energy of gratitude, its radiance expands within me, blessing not only myself, but also those around me.

You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest.—Isaiah 9:3

"GOING TO FRANCE" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"

Painting #1117  Oil on textured canvas  (24"x20")  Painted in March, 2010

"I AM GOING TO FRANCE!"

"Wow!  The travel plans are now confirmed.  The tour begins April 21 and ends May 5, 2014.  My 77th birthday is April 23 and this trip is a birthday present to myself.  This is a first time trip to Europe for me during these 77 years and I Am so looking forward to the experience.  The tour is offered through the Florida Gulf Coast University/ Renaissance Academy and I feel most privileged to be part of it.

I used to always say "I will have to wait for my next life to go to Europe".  Now, look. . . . .  that is not so.  We cheat ourselves by putting on limits to the gifts God has for each of us.  Who can say what next wonderful gift is ours?"

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                   Wednesday, March 5, 2014

TRANSFORMATION

I am a new creation in Christ.

If I have been preoccupied with improving or transforming my image or outer appearance, I may feel an inner nudge to pay more attention to my spirit and soul. As I turn my attention inward, I remember that I am an expression of the Christ Spirit, which needs no alteration. My Christ Self—the highest expression of God in me—is all I will ever need to be.

As I let this awareness grow in me thought by thought, I begin to fully embrace its truth, and I am transformed from the inside out.

I honor the sacred perfection of the Christ in me. I am continually renewed. I am Spirit-filled!

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!—2 Corinthians 5:17

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Self Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"NORA At 76"

              Painting #1180   /   Oil on linen on board  (20"x18")        Painted August 29, 2013

"This is me alright, minus the wrinkles.  Artists can be such wonderful plastic surgeons, you know. 

Now, I can't stop smiling.  The second cataract eye surgery was done on Wednesday, August 28, 2013 and I can see Sooooo Well!   Am I ever thankful!!!   Dr. Corrent of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute can be my "Angel of Sight" now."

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

From Unity's DAILY WORD                  Saturday, August 31, 2013

POSSIBILITIES

I am one with the divine Presence, and all things are possible.

It may seem that a situation is impossible, or a problem is unsolvable, but I know that with God, the impossible becomes possible.
As I open my heart and mind to the presence of God, I grow in awareness of the divine potential that is present in all of life. The Presence transcends any appearance of lack or limitation.
I connect with God in prayer and meditation, where the fullness of life becomes clear. My imagination and faith allow me to see possibilities beyond outer appearances. My wisdom and will empower me to realize and manifest new possibilities.
At one with the divine Presence, I embrace my unlimited potential. Right outcomes are coming to fruition.

For God all things are possible.—Matthew 19:26

"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

Painting Archive "A Small Bouquet" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A Small Bouquet"

Painting #1112 of 1179 paintings    Oil on linen  (8"x10")   Painted in February, 2010   SOLD

Please click on this beautiful song:   "How Could Anyone Tell You"
I've been listening to this song all day and want to share it with you.  It's good to sing along.  

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"DAILY WORD" from UNITY             Monday, August 12, 2013

I work with others in harmony and cooperation.

Today I am grounded in a spirit of cooperation. Whether at work or at home, I look for ways to be in agreement. In every discussion, I keep an open mind. I may not solve problems or settle questions in the same way as others, but I do not criticize them or take disagreements personally.
If I find myself in the minority of thought, with others preferring an answer or approach different from my own, I open to see the situation in a new light. I release any need to be right or in control. Instead, I focus on harmony and cooperation. I calmly release feelings of resistance and bless the situation and all involved. Life is a give-and-take activity. I am content as I work with others in harmony and cooperation.
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!—Psalm 133:1

Self Portrait & Spiritual Truths by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"16th Anniversary Necklace"

Painting #627 of 1179 paintings /  Oil on linen  (18"x14")  Painted in November, 2000

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Sunday, August 4, 2013

WORTHY

I am worthy of my good!

Like all people, I want a good life—loving relationships, rewarding work, and abiding peace. Yet these blessings may elude me until I awaken to my inherent worth.
I am created in the image and likeness of God. My worth does not depend on my behaviors. I am intrinsically worthy because I am a living, loving, divine creation.
When doubts arise, I remember the truth of my being. The good I seek is right where I am. The love I desire is the love of God already present. The work I long to do is Spirit’s calling within me. As I stand in my own sacred worth, I feel the blessings of God infill me. I am worthy of my good. I expect the best, and I am ready to receive!

Now, my daughter, do not be afraid, I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman.—Ruth 3:11

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

The Soul & Eternal Life / by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GREEN SCARF"

 Painting #985 of 1179 paintings   Oil on linen  (10"x8")  Painted December, 2007

"While walking on a Naples beach, yesterday for nearly an hour, this was my view.  The sun was always shining on me while the dark, heavy clouds were blowing 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

The Charismatic Experience / Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Fruit & Dried Flowers"

Painting #506 of 1179 paintings / Oil on linen  (30"x40")  Painted September, 1998   SOLD 

From Unity's "The Daily Word" /  Monday, July 22, 2013

PROTECTED

By the power of Christ in me, I am directed and protected.

A turtle is protected by its shell. A bird is protected by flight. A tree is protected by its deep roots. And I am protected by the power of the Christ within.
Christ within is the essence of my being, imbuing me with love, wisdom, strength, power, and faith. When I think, speak, and act from my spiritual center, I have access to all I need to meet challenges and overcome obstacles.
As I focus on the power of the Christ within me, I release error thoughts of worry or fear. I may not know how circumstances will unfold, but I trust that I am secure, that I will know what is mine to do, and that all is in perfect order.

I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these.—John 14:12

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"A Mother's Love" Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A Mother's Love"

Painting #561 of 1179 Paintings / Oil on linen  (30"x24")  Painted November, 1999  

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Art & The Spiritual Quest by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Onions & Cantalope"

Painting #501 of 1179 Paintings   Oil on linen  (24"x30")   Painted September, 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Spirituality update for Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Red Dahlia"

Acrylic on canvas   (6"x6")       SOLD

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE