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

"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

"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 IN VIENNA VASE"

Painting #418 of 1183 / Oil on Linen (30"x24) Completed August, 1997   SOLD

"A very good day, today!  My move is completed and I will be sending out Address Change announcements soon."

Good Judgment

With confidence and clarity, I use good judgment.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

I use good judgment when I know how far to pull my car into the garage or how much to pay for an item. But there is a higher judgment I can call on. When I encounter a difficult situation or when I have to make certain choices, I turn within for divine guidance before making any decisions.

When I seem to be making decisions purely by appearances, I remember there may be more to the situation than what I see. If I experience some doubt, I take a moment to breathe and become still. A feeling of “rightness” is a clear sign to move forward. I exercise good judgment. I seek to have my decisions be “win-win” whenever possible.

With confidence and clarity, I use good judgment.

Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.—John 7:24

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

"A JAR OF ROSES"

Painting #1124 of 1187 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (20"x 12")  Completed 4/9/2009

"Christmas, 2015 was especially meaningful to me and I can never again say, "I don't like Christmas", as I have in the past.  I am most thankful . . . . and happy beginning 2016!  

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith I am meant to live a great life! Monday, January 4, 2016 As I begin the new year, I step out in faith. I am excited to know that God has given me all I need to have a great life. “It is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” I gratefully accept! The energy, life, and love of Spirit move through me easily and effortlessly. I open to divine ideas and discern what is mine to do. I am blessed with unlimited possibilities to experience God. Opportunities to connect with the Divine arrive in new and unexpected ways. I am now conscious of others expressing kindness, joy, and peace. I feel one with all that is. I feel certain that my circumstances will work out favorably, perhaps in unimaginable ways. As I deepen my connection with God, my faith grows ever stronger. I am meant to live a great life! For we walk by faith, not by sight.—2 Corinthians 5:7

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

"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

"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

"THE GLORY OF ROSES"

#801 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x 24")  Completed December 3, 2004   SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Release I make room in my world for new good to appear.

Monday, November 30, 2015 To experience greater peace and prosperity, I make a habit of releasing unwanted and unneeded belongings. By letting go of what no longer serves me, I make room for new good to appear. Release makes my world more spacious. It opens the way for the free circulation of God’s infinite supply. Letting go need not be painful. I am free to keep useful, artistic, or sentimental items, and release whatever has fulfilled its purpose. Donating, recycling, or selling unneeded possessions can also create breathing space in my home. No matter where I begin, I ask for divine guidance. I then joyously set into motion the cleansing power of release. For one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.–Luke 12:15

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

"ROSES ARE RED"

#1117 of 1185 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20") Completed March 5, 2010

"ORCHIDS WITH CHAKRA BACKGROUND"

#1186 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (24"x 36")  Completed November 12, 2015

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Comfort Divine energy soothes my spirit and I am at peace.

Saturday, November 14, 2015 One of the joys in life is warmth at a fireside. Whether I am taking in the rich aroma of a meal cooking outdoors, or being warmed by the heat in my home, comfort emanates from the hearth. Relaxing into the warmth of home, I let go of all concern and feel blessed and at peace. In the same way, the warmth of my inner hearth is a place of sustenance and calm. Comfort fills my heart, and pain and sadness fade away. My soul moves into the quiet. I feel divine energy restoring my spirit. I am enfolded in the comforting love of God. New hope arises for a satisfying, orderly life. I am comforted, healed, and renewed in mind, body, and spirit. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.—Psalm 84:3

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

"RED ROSES"

#1032 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (12"x12")  Completed May 7, 2009    SOLD

"ORANGE BLOSSOMS"

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

"MOTHER & DAUGHTER"

#942 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 20")  Completed July 21, 2007

From Unity's  "DAILY WORD"

Patient I practice patience and take life one step at a time.

Friday, October 16, 2015 When I think of patience, I may think of inventors like Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, and Sir Isaac Newton. They exhibited great patience as they tried repeatedly to create something new. What gave them perseverance? Perhaps it was their faith in the end result. They knew what they were doing was important and they ultimately would succeed. Newton referred to this as “patient attention.” I practice patience as part of loving myself. I relax and release, trusting God to guide me. I give my life and my concerns “patient attention” rather than hurried attention. I take life one step at a time, knowing God guides me each step of the way. I am perseverant and I am successful. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.—Romans 12:12

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & BAVARIAN CUP"

 #913 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (5"x 7")  Completed January 22, 2007

"RED GERANIUMS"

#1001 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed January, 2008     SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Knowledge I demonstrate my faith by putting knowledge into action.

Monday, October 5, 2015 As I move through life, I learn in myriad places. In school I gain a basic understanding of our world. I continue to learn at work, home, and in my community. The more skills and knowledge I acquire, the greater my chance of worldly success. Yet there is a greater education offered to me each day. It is a spiritual knowing—a deep understanding. It is knowledge I put into action as I live my life more prayerfully and thoughtfully. I express love unconditionally, I forgive continuously, and I demonstrate my faith courageously. I pray in positive, life-affirming ways. Through my spiritual knowledge, I make conscious decisions and live life to its fullest. If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.—James 1:5