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

"EMERALD RING"

 #932 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (20"x 16")  Completed May 25, 2007   SOLD 

"FRESH ROSES"

#1136 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (16"x20")  Completed June 8, 2010

detail of "THE HAIRCUT"

 #1131 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x10)  Completed May 12, 2010  ARCHIVED

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Inner Peace I am calm, centered, and serene.

Friday, November 27, 2015 Peace emanates from the inside out. Even if I feel like I am in the midst of a storm, I can reestablish inner peace. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” This verse from the Book of John reminds me that peace is in the midst of me as the Christ Essence, calming my troubled heart. I breathe deeply and focus on my natural state of peace. I let my body relax. Once inner peace is restored, my perceptions and responses are sharpened. I function in the world of activities and responsibilities, present to whatever is happening, yet I am centered in Spirit. I proceed with joy and confidence. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. –John 14:27

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE EMERALD RING"

 #932 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (20"x16")  Completed May 25, 2007    SOLD

"NAPLES HOME INTERIOR"

 #940 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x40")  Completed July 13, 2007

"ROSES, ROSES, ROSES"

 #588 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x 30")  Completed March, 2000   SOLD

"HARP & FIDDLE"

#1081 of 1183 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas (12"x 12")  Completed November 14, 2009

"ROSE MEDLEY"

#747 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed September, 2003   SOLD

Inner Peace I am one with Christ and I am at peace. Monday, August 3, 2015 Spelunkers explore and descend through underground tunnels and vertical shafts to reach the depths of a cave. They find secret places and absolute quiet. They discover the mysteries of the earth. In a similar way, I descend to my core to connect with my Christ Self. I discover pure tranquility. I receive understanding, love, and peace. I find this center of my being through my spiritual practices of prayer, meditation, and silence. I find the way on my own—it is my journey to peace. Once found, I return often. Inner peace comes through regular connection with my inner core of love. I find answers and comfort in knowing God is always there. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds.–Philippians 4:7

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & QUEEN ANNE'S LACE"

 #596 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed June 15, 2000

"THE BLUE VASE"

#608 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30") Completed July 24. 2000   SOLD

"PANCAKES"

#875 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (16"x20")  Completed May 22, 2006   ARCHIVED

"EMERALD & GOLD"

#1106 of 1183 Paintings / Acrylic & Gold on Canvas (8"x 8")  Completed January, 2010

"THE BEAUTY OF PEONIES"

#835 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x36")  Completed June 7, 2005

New Beginnings I am free to begin anew. Friday, July 31, 2015 In the legal world, judges are bound by precedent—generally what was decided before dictates the outcome of a present case. Thankfully, the laws of Spirit, not man-made laws, truly govern all of life. As Thomas Troward, a noted British judge, said, “Principle is not bound by precedent.” In Truth, I am not bound by the past—not my own, my family’s, or anyone else’s. I am liberated by spiritual principles of unconditional love, infinite grace, and divine wisdom. I am free to choose a new path of greater love, peace, and joy. I embark on new beginnings with a positive outlook. I expect wholeness, love, and freedom. Uplifted by my consciousness of spiritual Truth, I know all things are possible. For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.—Matthew 19:26

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES  IN TIFFANY"

Painting #716 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x18") Completed April, 2003

MORE PHOTOS OF LEO

Self-Care I honor God by caring for myself. Wednesday, July 1, 2015 As fast as life goes sometimes, I may find it difficult to stop, rest, and take care of myself. I may feel pressured to do things for others and keep a hectic pace to meet their requests. I remember the lyrics of a country song, “I’m in a hurry to get things done. Oh, I rush and rush until life’s no fun.” I stop hurrying and care for myself. The most important person to focus on is me. Caring for myself is honoring Spirit within. I rest, breathe, and step away from pressures or worries. I take time to connect with God through prayer and meditation. I also take time for fun! Caring for myself does not take away from my ability to care for others. It energizes me and strengthens my relationship with God. Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.—Psalm 16:9

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES"

Painting #1032 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (12"x12")  Completed May 7, 2009  SOLD

Leo, the Miniature Schnauzer         June 9, 2015

"Leo posed for me to take these photos this afternoon after arriving home from Home Depot."

Let Go, Let God I release old habits, and fill my mind with divine ideas. Monday, June 8, 2015 Old beliefs or habits sometimes reappear in my life. They may resurface if I am distracted or stressed. Every time I “wake up” from the actions of the old me, I pause for a deep breath and remember to let go, and let God. Some deeply rooted habits or beliefs may take longer to eliminate from my consciousness. I acknowledge them as habitual energy that has lingered from the past. Yet no mind pattern is stronger than God. In prayer, I affirm my truth: I release old patterns, habits, and beliefs. I am filled with confidence and courage. As I let go, and let God within lead my life, my mind is filled with divine ideas. I am confident, creative, and compassionate. I am one with God. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.—1 Corinthians 13:12

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.

"Floral In Brass Vase" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN BRASS VASE"

Painting #701 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x 24")  Completed May 6, 2002  SOLD

"Let's look at some more paintings hanging in The Boston Museum of Fine Art"

Decisions Every decision offers me a blessing.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014 When making a decision, I relax knowing that every choice offers me a blessing. I do not allow myself to become anxious that one choice will be “wrong” and another “right.” Whether I turn right or left; go or stay; say yes or no, God is with me. I ease my mind by knowing I am never apart from the Divine Creator. I claim my power to choose and celebrate the wisdom that guides me. Any direction I take is a fresh path to adventure, new experiences, and deeper understanding. I don’t dwell on what might have happened on another path. With God, I cannot make a wrong choice. I embrace my journey! My lessons, gifts, and blessings are right where I am. The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs … and you shall be … like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.—Isaiah 58:11

At The Beach by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & BAVARIAN CUP"

Painting #913 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (5"x7")  Completed January 22, 2007

LOWDERMILK PARK, BEACH / NAPLES, FL

"Yesterday, for the first time in four weeks I was at the beach.  It was late afternoon but certainly not as dark as the photo appears.  It was beautiful and I was richly Blessed to be there.  It's raining again today here in Naples but maybe a walk in the rain on the beach is just what I need . . .  . is that an orb in the photo on the lower right hand side?"

Free I am free; I am unlimited.

Monday, September 22, 2014 In autumn, leaves let go of their branches. They catch a breeze, float freely through the air, then gently fall to the ground. Like the leaves, I let go of what I have been holding on to and find new freedom of expression. A whisper of inspiration guides my thoughts and actions as I drift to new experiences, ways of thinking, and patterns of living. I am not tied to one idea, one job, or one habit. I have freedom of choice. Just as the leaf has no fear as it falls from the tree, I have no fear of change. I am one with God, imbued with unlimited potential. I look forward to new growth and adventures, new freedom to express who I am. I am free. I am unlimited. I am ready for new horizons. As servants of God, live as free people, yet do not use your freedom as a pretext for evil.—1 Peter 2:16

"Roses In Vienna Vase" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE"

Painting # 418 of 1181  Oil on Linen   (30"x 24")   Painted in August, 1997  SOLD

"Another painting from an old CD.  I wish this were a better photo because I really liked this painting.  Notice the maple coffee table.  I had kept this piece of furniture from the 1950s and 1960s "Early American" years simply because I liked it.  It blended in just fine with the "Country French" style I was doing in the 1980s and 1990s.  Renditions Fine Art of Indianapolis sold this painting in April, 1998."

Saturday, July 19, 2014         From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Becoming

Guided by Spirit, I become all that I am.

Spirit guides me to be all that I am, all that I came here to be.  I am a spiritual being having an earthly experience. As this awareness unfolds in me, I learn to allow my spiritual nature to direct my thoughts, words, and actions every day.  As I move through my life experiences, I invite Spirit to teach me how to respond to difficult situations with grace and ease, and I pay attention to the guidance I receive. 

I let go of old patterns that may have caused pain and suffering.  I learn how to be heart-centered and develop ways to interact with others gently and lovingly. Through the workings of Spirit, I am becoming more of my true Self. I am who I came here to be.

Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.—Philippians 4:9

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Children Playing Cards Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GO FISH"

Painting #145 of 1181      Oil on Linen   (26"x 38")          Painted in June, 1994 

"Of course, this isn't a "good" painting but I do like it because these children are my grandchildren, Kristin, Dustin and Jessica.  It was a Sunday afternoon at our home on Lamb Lake in Indiana.  Karl had taught them how to play "Go Fish" and often played cards with them.  The good man that he was, Karl secretly let each one "beat" him from time to time because it encouraged and brought them such joy.  I remember Kristin saying to Karl, after a particularly good game, "You are the bestest grandpa in the whole world".  What good memories!    Note little Jessica. . . . She's only two and a half years old and is happy, pretending she is playing too."

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"                 Friday, July 4, 2014

Freedom

Today, and every day, I celebrate my freedom!

Who is in charge of my freedom? I am! I have been given the gift of free will. I alone choose how I will live. I alone choose my attitude. I am free to choose the thoughts I think and to speak the words I wish to speak. I can choose to rest in the Silence, where I meet with Spirit and receive guidance. If ever I feel restricted or constrained, I affirm: The Spirit of the Lord is in me, and I am free!

If I am unhappy or feeling unfulfilled, I am free to make a new choice. I choose to let go of limiting thoughts. Instead, I imagine my highest good and my limitless possibilities. I choose how I spend my time and set priorities accordingly. I live the best life I can. Today, and every day, I celebrate my freedom!

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.—2 Corinthians 3:17

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE