Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"I WONDER"

#831 of 1186 Finished Paintings / Oil on Linen (5"x7")           May 29, 2005 

"THE ROSE"

#502 of 1186 Finished Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x 30")           September 14, 1998

From Unity's "DAILY WORD" Spiritual Intelligence I am a spiritually intelligent being making divinely inspired choices. I am blessed with intelligence greater than my mental IQ—my spiritual intelligence. This deeper knowing guides me through any situation in life as I continue my life’s journey, growing in wisdom and understanding. My spiritual intelligence reveals itself as intuition. If I am challenged by a circumstance, I say “Thank you, God” because I know I have been given an opportunity to evolve spiritually. I meet doubt or uncertainty with patience and faith, remembering that all fruits ripen in their own time—just as the gift of spiritual intelligence continues to ripen within me. I have a growing faith that is enriched through prayer. I know this because I am a spiritually intelligent being making divinely inspired choices. God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore.—1 Kings 4:29

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ORANGE BLOSSOMS"

#1049 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x12")  Completed August 13, 2009  SOLD

"LEO"

#1183 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (48"x 48")  Completed July, 2015

"A friend asked me about this painting of "Leo" thinking I had removed it from the blog but no, it's still here.  It was completed in July and appears in the "Blog Archives" which is located in the right hand column of my blog.  Click on July, 2015.

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Mindful I embrace life by focusing on the present moment.

Monday, September 14, 2015 Technology leads me to engage in multiple activities at once. I may eat while watching TV; talk on the phone while walking in the woods; or check my email while having lunch with a friend. Multitasking keeps me from being fully present in each activity. It may leave me feeling disconnected. To restore harmony I practice mindfulness—the art of focusing attention on the present moment. When I eat, I savor every bite and enjoy different textures and flavors. In nature, I listen to the sounds of birds singing and notice the beauty of the landscape. I engage fully in conversations and listen with empathy. If my thoughts wander, I gently bring them back to this moment. Mindfully awake, I embrace my connection with Life. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.—Psalm 23:2-3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Plumbago & Lemon"

Painting #823 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (20"x24")      Completed May 4, 2005

Will I use my human willpower to act on divine ideas in the world. Sunday, November 23, 2014 My human willpower helps me to accomplish things in the world. When I align it with the power of God, I can do anything. Will is the capacity to make choices, and I use it to shape my ideas and my life. When I act on a thought, I bring it to life. I use this power to make healthy choices, choose positive thoughts, or focus on a goal and achieve it. With the ability of will, I direct my life. I make wise choices to be the best person I can be. I align my willpower with the power of God. In prayer and meditation, I listen to divine ideas of peace, reconciliation, forgiveness, and love. I choose to act on these divine ideas for myself and others, even in difficulties. In this way, I manifest Spirit in the world. If God is for us, who is against us?—Romans 8:31

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES IN BRASS POT"

Painting #440 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x 36")     Completed November 14, 1997

Declaration I claim my divine inheritance through powerful affirmations. Monday, November 3, 2014 I claim my good knowing it is already mine. Unity cofounder Myrtle Fillmore declared, “I am a child of God and therefore I do not inherit sickness.” She claimed her health despite a diagnosis of tuberculosis. Myrtle stayed focused through daily prayer, affirming words of praise and encouragement to her body. She continued to declare health as the truth of her being, until her body responded and the good she claimed was fully manifest. I claim my good by declaring aloud the truth of my divine inheritance: I am loving and loved. I am prospered by Divine Ideas. I am healthy and whole. I feel the power of my affirmations. Regardless of outer appearances, I call forth my good through the power of my words. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.—Ephesians 6:20

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

"KARL KASTEN" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"KARL, 2007"

Painting #929 of 1181   Oil on Linen  (16"x 20")  Completed May 18, 2007

"This painting was done from a photograph I took of Karl while we were visiting our four Freeport, Illinois, Snowbird friends.  I don't know where the painting is.  I just discovered the photo of it this summer while transferring the painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive.

Oneness

I am one with God and my supply is abundantly provided.

Jesus taught unity with God: “As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us.” Many enlightened teachers have said that separation is an illusion. We are one with God, the Source of All.

In meditation, I become aware of my oneness with the unlimited Source. I gain a deeper understanding: As I am one with my Source, I have access to unlimited health, abundance, protection, and love. Unity teacher Emilie Cady wrote: “There is really no reason for jealousy or envy, for all persons are one and the same Spirit.”

I let go of thoughts of separation. Good flows to me and through me at all times. I experience God’s good in my life and my needs are abundantly met.

The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one.—John 17:22

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Self-Portrait Slideshow by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Aquarium Scene"

Painting #1101  Oil on Canvas   (6"x 6")  Completed December 26, 2009     Destroyed

"This is one of the paintings I termed at the time,"Modern Expressions".

Here is a slide show of all the self portraits I have done (37 of them). 
 "The Good, Bad & The Ugly" 

Today's quote from Adam James

"The universe always responds to your beliefs. You always manifest what you believe. It doesn't need to be for your highest good, it doesn't need to be for anyone's highest good. If you (for some reason) firmly believe that killing a million people is your highest good, then the universe will assist you in doing this. 

The universe doesn't judge. It simply responds to your beliefs. If the universe only manifested what was for everyone's highest good, the world would be perfect. The world isn't perfect. The universe responds to peoples beliefs and that's all there is to it. Everyone has free will. 

Few people take conscious control of their beliefs. Those that do, become the masters of their universe.

Intending your highest good,

Adam James"

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

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

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

UTube Slideshow by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Red Geraniums"

Painting #1001  Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed January 17, 2008     SOLD

"Please click on "SLIDESHOW" for 20 paintings on UTube.  I plan to do more and hopefully, I will get better at creating them.  The message below from Unity is perfect for me everyday."

Below is from Unity's "DAILY WORD" today.

Let Go, Let God

I let go and find answers within.

Monday, July 28, 2014

Confinement can be self-inflicted. Just like the monkey who reaches in a jar to grab a banana: When he makes a fist around the food and refuses to let go, he becomes stuck. Sometimes I find myself cramped and confined, stuck in patterns, beliefs, or behaviors that do not serve me well.

My return to freedom and renewal begins with realizing my limitations are self-imposed. With awareness, I can release my grip and turn to the Divine Presence. “Letting go” allows me to relax and realize I am not alone. “Letting God” leads me to answers, healing, and peace of mind. I am no longer confined to the ways of the past. As I place my faith in God, I open to new opportunities.

Happy are those who make the Lord their trust.—Psalm 40:4

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Lady In The Mirror" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN THE MIRROR"

Painting #334 of 1181  Oil on Linen   (30"x24")  Painted in August, August, 1996  Archived

"This painting could have been titled "Diamonds & Furs".   Karl and I were living at Lamb Lake in Indiana when I painted this on a hot August day.  Air conditioning is always such a blessing for us.

Since transferring painting photos from old CDs this summer to an external hard drive, I have thought of making a video of the paintings for UTube.  Somebody beat me to it though and I don't know how they did it.  I felt led to Google Nora Kasten this morning and look what came up.  I just wish the photos were better quality and I believe I will learn how to do one of my own. Please click on this link."         http://youtu.be/WpmeY_LG7F0

Here is a slideshow I had of my Fiddler's Creek home.   I think I'll be able to do this.   http://youtu.be/90XYxB_xXu0

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"      INNER PEACE                     Monday, July 21, 2014

The peace of God enfolds me. I am serene.

When the busyness of daily life leaves me feeling overburdened, it is time to seek the peace of God.

I understand that God not only knows my needs, but brings me peace if I permit it. I turn to Spirit within and repeat this Scripture quietly: God is not the author of confusion but of peace. If I still feel tension or stress, I repeat the prayer until I begin to feel the calming peace of God enfolding me.

The tangle and clutter of the day disappear as my thoughts become more orderly. I am able to return to my day, not rushed or confused, but confident that God’s will for me is peace. Spirit is with me always, helping me regain peace whenever I call on the Divine Presence.

For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.—1 Corinthians 14:33 (NKJV)

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

Beautiful Leticia by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LETICIA"

Painting #600 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (20"x 16")   Painted June 26, 2000

"Tish is my son Jason's wife and a dearly beloved daughter-in-law.  Karl and I had moved permanently to Key Colony Beach, Florida when they were visiting us and Tish graciously consented to sit for me.  As many of you know, it is exhausting to sit still under a spot light and let the artist stare at you and paint, stare and paint, stare and paint.  Tish did great!"

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"             Friday, July 11, 2014

Flow

I am a divine being in the constant flow of life.

Divine energy moves in and through all of life. I experience this flow as Life itself through my breath, ideas, creativity, health, and wholeness. Life is an unceasing river of good.  Throughout my day, I am conscious of this stream of divine energy as I focus on every blessing I receive—a friend’s message, a hug, a lesson. I am energized and empowered. I am in the flow.Conscious of ways I may be blocking the flow of good, I adjust my outlook from concern to confidence. A change in attitude can make the difference between failure and success. Grateful for the energy and power of Life, I am a divine being in the flow.

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb.—Revelation 22:1

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Old Self Portraits by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A LADY IN RED"

Painting #67    Pastel on Sanded Paper  (14"x 18")    Painted in October, 1992

"NORA AT SIXTY ONE"

Painting #500   Oil on Linen  (24"x 24")    Painted in September, 1998    Archived

"ART & THE ARTIST"

Painting # 905  Oil on Linen  (60"x 30")  Painted in October, 2006     Destroyed

"I Am still in the process of transferring my painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive for the computer.  It's really fun, yet it may take all summer to finish.  It's interesting and amazing to me these four old self portraits don't even look like the same woman, let alone me.

Who remembers when ladies wore hats?  We thought we were so stylish and I guess we were . . . for the era.  That red hat was my last for fashion and I have such good memories of wearing it."

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"                            JULY 3, 2014

Love

I am a perpetual winner in love.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

In the children’s game of hide-and-seek, at least one player is hidden while another is seeking to find those in hiding, often with excited anticipation. Usually the person hiding is found amid shrieks of joy.

In the game of love, I don’t need to hide or seek. The truth is I am always found by love, and this is a joyful discovery. Love is here, inside me. I am a perpetual winner in love.

Whether love manifests as friendship, romance, service, or simply a warm feeling, it reminds me that the infinite love of God is with me always. I am loved beyond measure, and I share this love with others, unconditionally. I need not seek, nor can I hide from love. Love is present here and now, and I carry it in my heart.

The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love.—Jeremiah 31:3

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 & 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