Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE BRASS VASE"

#1021 of 1186 Paintings / Completed December21, 2008         SOLD

"ONE FOR LUNCH

#108 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (17"x 19")  Completed November, 1993   SOLD

"This date, December 3, is especially meaningful to me.  My beloved husband, Karl, and I first met in Indianapolis, IN on December 3, 1982."

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God

I freely let go and let God be God in me.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

One of the key words in the phrase “let go, let God” is the word let. Allowing myself to let go means stepping out in faith. If I am accustomed to self-reliance, this act of trust may feel more like a leap than a step.

I take that time now. I relax and allow myself to simply be with God. I let go of the need to be in control. I remember that I do not have to know and do everything. I do not have to be in charge; I can relax and just be. What a freeing feeling! What a comfort to know I do not have to do anything alone.

There is a continuous presence at work in my life guiding me on my way, blessing and supporting every step. I let go and let God be God in me.

Let each of you lead the life that the Lord has assigned, to which God called you.—1 Corinthians 7:17

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES WITH BRASS"

#869 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 36")  Completed April 21, 2006   SOLD

"DARK RED ROSES"

#1009 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (36"x 24")  Completed April, 2008

"A TRAIN RIDE”

Saturday, October 17, 2015

“You’re on the right track now, rumbling along.

Hear the sound of sing song, sing song.

The rail you are traveling does not have a glitch.

Your train stays on the rail, and won’t go to the ditch.

The cars run behind you, all in a row,

The baggage car last, just let it go.

Supplies are within you, all that you need.

You need never beg, you need never plead.

There is a destination, not to worry about that.

It’s the journey that counts and that is a fact.

Pleasures untold, this journey brings,

Happiness, Love, Laughter and Joy . . . among other things.”

(Below)   From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Forgive I learn from mistakes and give thanks for my growth.

Monday, October 19, 2015 Mistakes are part of the human learning experience. I may say things unskillfully and hurt other people. Others may have made errors that hurt me as well. When I learn to see mistakes as lessons, with compassion and forgiveness, I let go of resentments and move on. I do not allow the error to increase its impact by holding grudges or allowing negativity to fester. I do not condemn or shame others or myself. Instead, I employ the tool of forgiveness as soon as I notice hurt or regret arise within me. I engage in forgiveness by recognizing my feelings, releasing the need to punish or be right, and letting it go. I seize the transformative opportunity human error offers and give thanks for my growth. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”—Luke 23:34

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

"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

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

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:

Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN PINK" (Heather)

Painting #925 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (36"x 24")   Painted in April, 2007

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"        Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Illumination

The light of a new day is dawning in my consciousness. I walk serene and sure.

Let us unite in prayer for the realization of spiritual light, which will illumine our ways in the days to come. In scriptural symbology, a new day represents a degree of unfoldment in spiritual consciousness. When the light of a new day dawns in our consciousness, it dissipates any condition of spiritual darkness that may have preceded it, just as the sunrise following the dawn dissipates the night and makes all things clear and beautiful.

As the light of a new day dawns in our consciousness, all indecision and all uncertainty are done away with. We see before us opportunities for realizing our good, for practicing good will toward all people, for loving God with all our hearts, minds, and strength. Each day, each moment offers us new opportunity.

If my people … pray … then will I hear … and will heal their land.—2 Chronicles 7:14

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"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

"Roses In Antique Pitcher" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN ANTIQUE PITCHER"

Painting #410 of 1181  Oil on Linen    (24"x 20")   Painted in July, 1997   SOLD

"Another painting I found on a CD this summer.  Renditions Fine Art Gallery in Indianapolis sold this painting the same year."

Quote from  ADAM JAMES               Friday, July 18, 2014

"Children are naturally happier because they don't care what others think of them. They can play, laugh, be themselves, and be connected to their souls without a single worry or fear of what others think of them. This is freedom. Freedom creates happiness, joy and bliss. Freedom from the opinions of others creates tremendous joy.

 You can gain this freedom by understanding that most people are too absorbed by their own thoughts and realities to really care what you do. While you care what others think about you, others think about what you care about them. I find this funny.

 You can escape the trap of caring what other people think of you by shifting your focus from what others think about you, to what YOU think about THEM.

 Also realize that the only reason people judge you negatively or criticize you is because something you're doing is bringing up resentment or jealousy or limiting beliefs in them. When you do something that upsets someone else, it has nothing to do with you. It's their problem. It's a problem with their insecurities.

 Everyone knows that the reason you think negatively about others is because you think negatively about yourself. The world is your mirror. When others think negatively of you, or judge you poorly, or criticize you, it's a matter of their own insecurity. Secure people do not think negatively of others.

 So do whatever you want, be yourself, allow your true nature to be expressed, and if anyone has a problem, realize that it has nothing to do with you but rather their own insecurities.

 This level of liberation from others' opinions will open up infinite doors for you.

Intending your highest good,

Adam James"

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE 

"Macy" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MACY"

Painting #479 of 1181      Oil on Linen  (18"x18")       Painted June 12, 1998

"This painting of granddaughter, "Macy" was not executed as well as yesterday's "Megan" but the Love is just as great.  Macy was almost six years old when I painted this.  

"MACY"

Painting #406 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (30"x 24")   Painted in June, 1997

"Sure, I know these paintings were poorly done but I'm really enjoying seeing them again.  Finding these early painting photos on old CDs this summer is really a Blessing for me."

Fearless   From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

I release my fear and activate my faith.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Fear is the opposite of faith. While fear may sometimes strike, I do not let it control me; instead, I activate my faith. I am strong; I am confident; I am fearless, because I have faith in the powerful love of God.

Anytime I face a situation that may cause anxiety or uneasiness, I pray. Praying helps me release my fears and open to the love of God. Praying calms my mind, soothes my emotions, and frees my spirit to accept the good that is mine to receive. I cannot be afraid when I am filled with the love of God.

God’s all-providing love surrounds me and each person for whom I pray. Where there is faith, there is no room for fear. In God’s love, I am faith-filled. I am fearless!

For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption.—Romans 8:15

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Old Self Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE HAIRCUT"

 #673 of 1181 Paintings  /  Oil on Linen  (15"x 13")  Painted December 7, 2001

"This summer as I'm transferring painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive, it is a wonderful trip down memory lane.  I remember exactly how I felt, where I was and even the weather while I was painting.  Of course, Karl was always with me during the painting years and the memories make me happy.

It's an eye-opener for me to realize that through the years my hair was often cut short.  In my mind I always thought of myself with long hair but that wasn't true . . . . . maybe, I just wanted my hair to be long."

Quote from ADAM JAMES today   /   July 14, 2014 

"The reason someone disapproves of you is because they disapprove of themselves. You cannot please someone who is not pleased with themselves.

No matter how great you are, they'll always find or create something wrong with you.

So why bother trying to please people?

All that matters is that you please yourself. All that matters is that you love yourself and create a life that you love.

As you do this, you'll draw more and more people who naturally love and appreciate you, and you'll quickly drop those who don't, simply because you love yourself too much to put up with people who don't value you. That, or the people who used to appreciate you less will appreciate you more, because you appreciate yourself more. Other people usually treat you the way you treat yourself.

It's a good idea to stop seeking love and approval. Love and approve of yourself, do things that are loving to yourself, and then you'll naturally draw people who love you rather than having to seek the love of others.

Not everyone will always love you, but it won't matter. When you fully love yourself, who cares if anyone else loves you? Loving yourself makes you magnetic to love, attention, friends, and the opposite sex, but you won't care. You'll love yourself so much that none of this will matter anymore.

If it doesn't matter already, congratulations, you're well on your way to full self-love. Wonderful things will result from this self-love, in just a matter of time."

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Floral & Portrait" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL WITH PORTRAIT"

Painting #1149  Oil on linen on board  (36"x24"Oval)  Painted in Feb., 2011

Inspiration

Divinely inspired, I create a wonderful life.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

I cherish my capacity to receive inspiration from Spirit, to create and use the power of my thoughts, words, and actions to manifest my good in the world.

At the center of my being is an all-­knowing guide. This divine source contains the ideas and answers I need to create a wonderful life. My job is to design that life and call on the wisdom of divine guidance to create it in the physical world.

Through prayer, I ask Spirit to show me the way. I listen carefully and discern what is mine to do. I trust my intuition and realize I am here to live in happiness and joy. I deserve to be inspired by Spirit. I deserve to have a beautiful life.

O you who dwell in the gardens, my companions are listening for your voice; let me hear it.—Song of Solomon 8:13

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Destroyed Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"SUNDAY MORNING TREAT"

Painting #1035  Oil on Linen   (36"x 24")   Painted in May, 2009   Overpainted or destroyed

"This may be my last Post for a couple of weeks.  I leave for France on Monday, April 21, 2014 and return on Monday, May 5, 2014.  This is my first trip to Europe and I feel so very happy and grateful.  It's my 77th birthday present to Nora.  The IPad and IPhone will be with me and who knows . . . .  maybe I can post from France.  This Digital Age is a wonderful experience, isn't it?" 

From "The Daily Word"                       Saturday, April 19, 2014

FORGIVE

I forgive, and I am forgiven.

Today I choose forgiveness for myself and others. I let go of the perception of how things should have been and open my heart to accept life as it is. I make a choice for my serenity and peace of mind.

I forgive any error I may have made in my thoughts, words, or actions. I quickly release any harsh judgment and step into expressing my best self. In so doing, I become more accepting, tolerant, and free.

As I forgive others, the Divine in me connects to the Divine in them. Even if no apology is spoken, my forgiveness cleanses me of any bitterness. Forgiveness creates harmony and builds communication and understanding. By forgiving both others and myself, I gain an open heart and peace of mind.

For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call on you.—Psalm 86:5

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

Oil Painting from Photo by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ME & MY BROTHER"  1948

Painting #921   Oil on Linen  (36"x24")   Painted in March, 2007

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                                Saturday, March 29, 2014

WONDER

I am amazed at God’s good.

Wonder reflects a sense of reverence for all of life. I am filled with wonder as I gaze at a drop of rain perched on a leaf or behold the first ray of sunlight over the horizon at dawn.

I expand my sense of wonder by taking nothing for granted. I am captivated as I contemplate the world we live in. Each breath is a miracle­—an intricate collaboration between the cells of my body and nature. Gravity holds me securely to Mother Earth, yet the birds fly with ease in the sky above.

I am immersed in awe and gratitude for what God can do. Whether a tiny baby or a majestic mountain; a grain of sand or a work of art—the creative activity of God is on display within and around me.

God has done this, so that all should stand in awe before him.—Ecclesiastes 3:14

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Destroyed Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN BLUE SHIRT"

Painting #916  Oil on Linen    (16"x12")    Painted in February, 2007   Destroyed

From Unity's "The Daily Word"      Wednesday, March 26, 2014

COMFORT

God is my all in all.

It is possible to be alone yet not lonely; to feel down but not out; to experience loss and recover. All is possible because the spirit of God fills me with a steady stream of comfort and love. If I experience loss or a broken heart, I invite the love of God to heal me. Divine love is powerful in restoring my body, mind, and spirit.

If I am grieving, I trust in the promise of Spirit’s comfort and restoration. I recall the story of Job, who went from having everything to losing everything—possessions, friendships, social status, and health. Eventually, God restored it all to Job, even beyond what had been lost. I trust in God within to restore me to wholeness. The ups and downs in life are temporary, but God’s love is constant and sure.

Remember, I am with you always.—Matthew 28:20

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Message in Rhyme by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PEACH ROSES"

Painting #1123  Oil on Canvas  (24"x20")  Painted in April, 2010      SOLD

KNOWLEDGE   

(A Spiritual Message in rhyme by NORA KASTEN / March 8, 2014)

  “Turning left or right, I have a choice.

It is always made clear by the Still Small Voice.

Can I really know for sure, I say.

Of course you can, you always may.

The knowledge is vast that you’ve asked to gain.

Stay steady the course and you will attain.

This knowledge is not outside of yourself,

It’s not hidden somewhere on a shelf.

Be still, be quiet and go within,

See for yourself.  Write with the pen.

Thank you, thank you.  Why have I not seen this before?

Because You chose this moment, but hush, there is more.

Breathe in deep the life Energy Force,

You must have This strength to continue the course.

We are speaking of the desired Higher Learning here,

This knowledge comes in a manner most precious and dear.

What seems to be a phenomenon is really not that,

It is of Spirit and It is a fact.

Spirit is pure Energy and creates everything.

This Truth alone, causes One to sing.

The Truth that matter is Energy, everyone knows,

See the Soul, see how It glows?

Love comes to mind but who can define?

Is Love All in All or just Devine?”

Copyright__By Nora Kasten / March 8, 2014

___________________________________________________________________________

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                                   Saturday, March 8, 2014

GRACE

I make room for God’s grace.

Some days I may feel stuck in negativity. I may wallow in complaint or find my mind fixed on a certain story, belief, or plan that has me feeling troubled. In such instances, my mind has no room for divine ideas, nor is it receptive to the wisdom and inspiration of Spirit.

As I gently dismiss limiting thoughts and claim the truth of Spirit’s bountiful good, I make room for God’s grace in my life.

I recognize that abundance, vitality, and well-being are already present within me. I let go of any preconceptions of what my good should look like and embrace the fullness of God’s good as it is expressing right now. An abundant, grace-filled life is already mine.

You have stripped off the old self with its practices and have clothed yourselves with the new self.—Colossians 3:9-10

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN A DISH"

Painting #1143    Oil on Gallery Wrapped Canvas   (6"x6")       Painted in December, 2010

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                           Sunday, February 23, 2014

JOY

The Universe celebrates itself through me.

If ever I question my purpose in life, I may find the answer in knowing that life is a purpose unto itself. I am alive, I am living, and that is enough.

My life is an expression of the Divine. I am divine consciousness manifested in human form, capable of sensing, perceiving, and expressing. Through my senses I perceive creation. Through my feelings and actions I express love, drawing good into my life and the lives of others. With joy, I cele-brate the miracle of life!

The Universe celebrates itself through me. I am its instrument of expression. It sings itself into my soul: “You are alive, whole, and loved!” By saying yes to life, I joyfully celebrate God’s greatest gift—Life itself.

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouts of joy.—Job 8:21

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PITCHER OF ROSES"

Painting #1057    Oil on Linen    (16"x12")   Painted in Sept. 2009   SOLD

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                         Saturday, February 22, 2014

BLESSED

I am blessed by my friends.

My friends and loved ones are gifts from God. We celebrate when our lives are smooth, easy, and filled with joy. And we stand together in challenging times of loss or disappointment.

Regardless of what is happening in our lives, my loved ones are a blessing. Each moment together is a gift we share. Our connection is a manifestation of divine love and harmony. We are here to bring out the best in one another.

The spirit of God permeates my relationships. Whether in times of challenge and crisis, or times of happiness and joy, I open my heart to my friends and we grow together in love. With God in the midst of our friendship, we are truly blessed.

Some friends play at friendship but a true friend sticks closer than one’s nearest kin.—Proverbs 18:24

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Acrylic Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BIRDS OF A FEATHER"

Painting #1092  /  Acrylic on Canvas  (5"x 7")   /   Painted In December, 2009     Destroyed

From "The Daily Word"                                                   Saturday, February 15, 2014

HEALING

I am healthy, whole, and well.

When I scrape my knee or cut a finger, I apply antiseptic and a bandage, and allow the healing process to begin. In time, the pain subsides and the wound heals.

Emotional healing is much the same. If I am hurt about a broken relationship or suffering a loss of any kind, I apply the antiseptic of love and the bandage of forgiveness, and allow healing to begin. Then I add the powerful medicine of affirmative prayer.

Prayer heals at a deep level. I hold in mind my innate perfection and affirm my true nature: I am whole, one with the life of God. Healing starts in my consciousness and brings peace to my soul. I come to see myself as I am: healthy, whole, and well.

It will be a healing for your flesh and a refreshment for your body.—Proverbs 3:8

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE