Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

Five Paintings Left In Amsbury, MA / August 25, 2016

#1196 "Mixed Roses"  Oil on Canvas (14"x11")

 #1190 "Queen Anne's Lace"  Oil on Canvas (18"x18")

 #1197  "Roses"  Oil on Linen  (10"x20")

 #1199  Lilacs"  Oil on Canvas  (14"x11")

#1200  "Abstracted Floral"  Oil on Linen  (14"x11")

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Inner Truth God-life within assures me that all is well.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 Deep inside me is a truth I want to know consciously all the time. When I am centered in it, I know all is well in my life and the world. When I am aware of it, there is no room for struggle or problems of any kind. I find it in the place the psalmist called “the secret place of the Most High.” I simply become still and rest my attention on God-life within. Then I, too, discover this secret place where the highest truth dwells. I meet God at the core of my being. Here I find solace, passion, joy, and a sense of oneness with all life. Resting in the Silence, I hear and see through spiritual ears and eyes. No matter the circumstances of life, I know this deeply seeded and ever-available truth: God is here and all is well. You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.—Psalm 51:6

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN MOONLIGHT"

Painting #1194 / Oil on canvas (16"x12") 8-5-2016

Free I am free to live a full and meaningful life.

Saturday, August 6, 2016 Theoretically, if a clear barrier is inserted into an aquarium, a fish will attempt to swim through but will eventually adapt to the smaller space. If the barrier is removed, the fish remains confined as though the obstacle remained. Are my habits or perceived obstructions limiting me? I am free to live a full and meaningful life. If fearful thoughts are limiting me or if I’ve grown accustomed to having others tell me “No,” I affirm: I am free to live a full and meaningful life. I have gifts and talents to share, ideas to explore, and dreams to pursue. I accept myself as a child of God having abundant potential and freedom to be my best self. For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.—Galatians 5:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Pale Roses"

Painting #834 of 1183 paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x24") Completed June, 2005

"There is a painting underway now and it is Good to be painting.  I am in a new place now and my easel and painting setup is in the living room.  Good lighting is available throughout the day.  The painting I am working on now is a Still Life and I'm hoping to have it completed by June 28, as we leave Naples for the Summer that day."

Let Go, Let God I release fear and allow God’s blessings to flow into me. Saturday, June 11, 2016 When I want to declutter, I sort through my clothing and other belongings and get rid of any items that I no longer like or use. Letting go of things may be difficult. But I challenge myself to create space. I also take regular inventory of my thoughts, actions, and commitments. They serve specific purposes in my life, so if they are not working for my highest good, I let them go. I spend time in meditation to strengthen my power of discernment and know what is mine to release. I make room for new insights and experiences that usher God’s good into my life. I release what holds me back, and I open myself to future blessings. Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?—Isaiah 43:18-19

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

"FRESH CUT ROSES"

Painting #1136 of 1183 / Oil on Linen (16"x 20")   Completed June 8, 2010

Guidance

The Christ within guides me to my good.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

Whether I’m consciously aware of it or not, my life is continually guided step-by-step toward my best and highest good.

I begin by stilling my mind then trusting in divine wisdom to see me through any seeming obstacle. Resting in a comfortable position, I close my eyes. With deliberation, I shut out the outside world. Like a fog lifting, my mind clears, and I tune in to God’s message for me. I remain open to divine direction.

With a willingness to listen, I now hear the still, small voice within. This divine whisper of encouragement guides me on my spiritual journey. Through sacred listening, I gain clarity to take inspired action. I am blessed.

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.”—Genesis 12:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Roses With Brass Pot"

#869 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x36") Completed April 21, 2006     SOLD

"Yesterday's golf lesson was successful but I have yet to hit a golf ball.  We'll see what happens in tomorrow's golf lesson.  The main thing I've learned is  . . . . I have a lot to learn."

Guidance I listen to my inner guidance. Thursday, February 18, 2016 As I sit quietly in prayerful reflection and center myself in my heart space, I discover everything I need to know. Extraneous concerns pass away. My breath moves in and out gently and evenly. Whatever the perceived problem in my life, I know that right now I am in the presence of the spiritual resource that answers every need. This perfect place of rest contains everything necessary for me to proceed with perfect grace and clarity. If a question comes to mind, I ask it and then release it, trusting that the right answer will come forth. My question may be answered in a dream, a book, a word, a quiet knowing. Spirit has infinite ways of communicating, and I am open to them all. O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling.—Psalm 43:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Roses For The Table"

#899 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24") Completed July 30, 2006

"This will come as a surprise to my golfer friends and family.  Tomorrow, I am having my first golf lesson . . . . . . from a Pro.  It is so exciting!

Faith I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. Tuesday, February 16, 2016 How much faith is needed to achieve great results? Jesus taught that even a small amount of faith can move mountains: “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.” If I am lacking the faith to pursue big dreams, I start with small ones. Trusting in the presence of God within to guide my way, I steadily advance toward a larger, divinely inspired vision for my life. To build my faith, I use the spiritual tools of prayer, imagination, affirmation, and action. I see divine order in all that unfolds, both large and small. I devote time each day thanking God for perfect results. I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. I have faith in faith itself. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.—Hebrews 11:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PALES ROSES"

#834 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x 24")  Completed in June, 2005

"MERRY CHRISTMAS"      

 To ALL

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Joy

Joy is always just a thought away.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

While receiving a gift may make me happy, unadorned joy is itself one of the greatest gifts I can experience. Joy lifts my heart. As I exude happiness, others are uplifted as well.

Joy may be quiet, such as the tug at my heart I feel when I see a child happily playing. It may be boisterous, like shared laughter that brings tears to my eyes. Yet all joy is an experience of the heart—an experience of God.

Joy is always just a thought away. When I am experiencing stress in my life, I stop to remember my many blessings. I think of kindnesses given and received.

My spirits are lifted as I recall the good I have witnessed in so many people and circumstances.

When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.—Matthew 2:10

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

"WHITE ROSES"

#760 of 1186 Paintings / Pastel On Sanded Paper  (24"x 18") Completed Dec., 2003

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Guidance Spirit guides me to my highest good.

Saturday, November 21, 2015 Every moment of every day brings the opportunity for new choices. The freedom to choose what I think, say, and do can be a liberating joy. On the other hand, the options for how to live my life may seem overwhelming. Should I go back to school? How can I serve humanity? From everyday events to major life changes, I have choices to make. If I rely solely on my mind to endlessly weigh pros and cons, I may feel lost in a sea of possibilities. Instead, I turn to my internal guidance system. God’s guidance is always available to me. As I contemplate major life choices, I move from my head to my heart. I pray and patiently wait for the still, small voice within. Spirit guides me to my highest good. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.–John 16:13

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN ANTIQUE PITCHER"

#410 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x 20")  Completed July, 1997     SOLD

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE" 

#418 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x 24")  Completed August, 1997   SOLD

"These paintings were photographed with one of my early digital cameras and this was the best I could do.  . . . . 

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith Right where I am, God is.

Saturday, October 31, 2015 Life is filled with beginnings and endings. Autumn leaves turn gold and crimson, then fall from the trees. One part of the cycle comes to an end. A period of dormancy is about to begin. My own life is also a cyclical process. I need not fear change, for it is normal. We all experience endings: the loss of a job, leaving a home, or the passing of a loved one. During these times, I turn to God in prayer. I affirm: Right where I am, God is. God is my ever-present source of comfort and strength. Just as I trust new growth will bud on the trees come spring, I have faith new growth will take place in my life. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going.—Hebrews 11:8

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

"BOUQUET OF YELLOW ROSES"

#590 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30")  Completed April, 2000   SOLD


"FLORAL BOUQUET"

#507 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x9")  Completed Sept., 1998   Destroyed

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Change I gracefully move through life’s transitions.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015 As colder days approach, trees shed their leaves and animals prepare for hibernation. They instinctively move through the seasons. In contrast, humans are prone to resisting change even though we know it is an essential part of growth. I may notice myself worrying or fighting change. Then I remind myself I am able to prepare and move through any change I encounter. I envision myself shedding old beliefs and ways of being just as a tree releases leaves. Like the hibernating animals, I prepare my mind and body for a time of quiet and reflection. I see divine order in the leaves reappearing each spring. My life also follows a pattern. I emerge from each season stronger, wiser, and more loving. For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1

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

"THE BRASS VASE"

"ROSES IN JULY"

Painting #896 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24")  Completed July 15, 2008

Kasey & Leo                 January 10, 2015

"Kasey graduates from 5th grade tomorrow here in Naples.  She is a beautiful and precious young lady and she and her mother were the influence for me to adopt Leo back in January.  I am so thankful.  "Congratulations" to you, Kasey. "

Forgiveness Thank you, sweet Spirit, for the gift of forgiveness. Tuesday, June 2, 2015 I both give and receive the gift of forgiveness when I release a painful situation to God. This does not mean I condone what happened—I simply choose to let it go. My past has only as much power over me as I give it. I can let my past hold me back or I can move on. I can carry the weight of emotional pain forever, or lay it down and release it to God. I choose to be free from resentment, anger, and hurt. As I release the pain of the past, I claim the life of peace I deserve. My load lightens, my pain heals, and my heart opens. Forgiveness frees me to laugh, love, and embrace a life of joy. Thank you, sweet Spirit, for the gift of forgiveness. He will wipe every tear from their eyes ... mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.—Revelation 21:4

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FRESH ROSES"

Painting #1136 of 1182 paintings / Oil on canvas (16"x20")  Completed June 8, 2010

"Leo" is waiting for me to toss this toy so he can run as fast as he can to retrieve it.

"Leo" having fun with his purple toy.

Love Love transforms my world. Tuesday, May 26, 2015 Through the power of my thoughts, I can alter my perception of the world. Where I once may have seen anger, jealousy, or fear, I now can perceive the presence of Love. My outlook changes as I become more aware of God expressing through us all. I intentionally look for examples of love in my world. As I observe people in their daily interactions, I notice strangers holding doors open for one another; parents hugging their children as they get off school buses; store clerks making friendly conversation with customers. As I focus on gestures of kindness, my awareness of the goodness in life grows. My life is transformed by Love. If we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.—1 John4:12