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

"THE GLORY OF ROSES"

#801 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x24")  Completed Dec. 3, 2004   SOLD

"LILY & ROSE STILL LIFE"

#815 of 1184 Paintings / Pastel  (20"x16")  Completed March, 2005   DESTROYED

"68th BIRTHDAY BOUQUET"

#822 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (20"x 16")  Completed April 30, 2005


"MACY AT THE TABLE"

#408 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  ((40"x 30")  Completed July, 1997

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Grace I open my heart to the grace of God.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015 I love to see flowers awaken to a new day. As the sunlight touches them, they respond by opening their petals in a beautiful display of color. In the same way, I open my heart to the grace of God. The activity of grace in me is as constant as the sun rising and falling. Grace is always present. My heart’s opening takes no personal effort when I surrender to the light within me. Grace comes naturally. I feel warmth, acceptance, and love. With each new moment, I surrender my old ways and embrace more of this divine activity. I let grace bring about perfect outcomes and let go into a deep feeling of trust and peace. Whatever efforts I make in life, grace adds more good than I could ever imagine. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.—Hebrews 4:16

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

NEW PAINTING OVER FIREPLACE

Photos of New Kitchen & Pantry

"These photos were taken with my IPhone and the best that I could do.  It must seem like a jumble to those who have not been in my home but I assure you, everything is in fine order. Leo even managed to be in one of the photos.

 "A MESSAGE FROM UNITY'S DAILY WORD"

Quality I focus on the quality of my experiences.

Friday, September 4, 2015 True joy lies not in the quantity but in the quality of my life experiences. Engaging in too many activities—even fun activities—may leave me feeling drained. I am deeply nourished when I do a few things with great love and attention. I begin my day in prayerful discernment, setting aside, without guilt, any nonessential tasks. By focusing on what really matters I make more heartfelt connections with others. I notice the beauty of my surroundings. I savor my meals. Rather than rushing through an endless list of activities, I focus on each moment of my precious existence. Focusing on the quality of my experiences becomes a habit as I consciously practice doing less and paying more attention. I am aware of God in every moment of the day. The kingdom of God is among you.—Luke17:21

"Floral In Brass Vase" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN BRASS VASE"

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

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

Decisions Every decision offers me a blessing.

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

At Boston Museum of Fine Art / Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RETIREMENT LUNCHEON"

Painting #213 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (21"x25") / Completed March, 1995

"I was at the Boston Museum of Fine Art on Saturday, October 11, 2014.  I started my tour in the Contemporary Gallery and was immediately faced with this work of art below.  You must make your own assessment."

Boston of Fine Art Contemporary Gallery

_____________________________________________________________________________

"I took photos of some of my favorites and most of them, as you can see, are by John Singer Sargent"  Here are some of the photos and tomorrow I will post more."

The Boston Museum of Fine Art

God-Essence God flows in and through me!

Tuesday, October 14, 2014 I am an expression of God. I am love, peace, power, and life. I am all this and more. I am one with God, and therefore, one with the essence that God is. Guided by an inner Light, I turn within in prayer and seek ways to express the presence of God in my thoughts, words, and actions. As I listen to God’s gentle guidance, I learn to be kind to myself. As I practice patience, kindness, and love for myself and others, I manifest the essence of God in the world. When I am centered in God, I behold the Divine in others, and I embrace a life of goodness. I pray to be a conduit through which others experience the essence of God and come to know its fullness. From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.—John 1:16

"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

Four Years Later by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"CLEMENTINES"

Painting #1016 of 1181 / Oil on Linen (14"x14") Completed Nov. 21, 2008  SOLD

"Today marks the fourth anniversary that my Beloved, Karl, made his transition.  It amazes me that I am still here in the physical without him.  A spark of happiness wells up high within me each time my thoughts go to him and I look forward to the time we will be together again.  As I wrote this morning, I was Blessed with a loving and comforting message from Karl."

Two recent slideshow videos:

Portraits From 1990-2014 (The Good, Bad & The Ugly)      Some Nora Kasten Paintings 

Perfect Life

My body temple expresses the perfection of God.

The life of God, which is the source of all life, flows in and through my body temple. I rejoice to know this truth.

Today I see the perfection of God expressed in and through me. Every cell is alive and functioning in accordance with its individual pattern. Every organ is operating smoothly and harmoniously as it performs its unique task. Every muscle expands and contracts so that I move with grace and ease.

I stand straight and tall. I walk with confidence and strength. I ask God’s blessing on all that I eat and my body is wisely nourished. The perfect rhythm of God helps me to balance activity with rest and work with recreation. I sleep soundly and awake refreshed.

My body temple expresses the perfection of God’s life.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him.—Genesis 1:27 

The above is from Unity's "Daily Word"

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Roses Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"

Painting #1117 of 1181   Oil on Canvas  (24"x 20") Completed March 5, 2010

"Here are two recent slideshow videos.   
25 PAINTINGS     NORA KASTEN PAINTINGS IV

Today's message is from Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Guidance

Spirit guides me in the right way.

Before I embark on a journey, I map the route to and from my destination. But life is not as easy to plan. Instead, I trust Spirit within to guide me in the right way at the right time.

Present to each moment, I listen for the guidance I know is available to me. I do not worry about the future, for I know Spirit is leading the way.

I hear the guidance of Spirit when my mind is calm, so I spend time in the Silence each day. I listen for Spirit in the words of others, in Scripture, and in song. I hear Spirit speak to me in my heart. I am not anxious about making decisions, because I trust in Spirit to guide my way.

When you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”—Isaiah 30:21

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Ego & Spiritual Quest by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES FOR THE TABLE"

Nora in France      April 23, 2014

"This is my 9th day home from the beautiful French Countryside and Paris.  Shouldn't jet-lag be over?  I'm not complaining because this resting time has provided me with new Spiritual insights and enlightenment.  

While an unfinished painting remains on the easel, I have been reading "Listening" by the author, Lee Coit.  Well, actually, I've been reading three of his books now.  As is always the case, when we ask, we receive.  I was so hungry and thirsty for more Spiritual leading after returning from the France trip (I Am always eager for more) but a last minute thought before hanging up the phone with my friend, Doris, I asked her if she had a book title for me . . . .  immediately, she told me "Listening".   Right away I downloaded the book from Amazon and I was off and running.  Well not running but walks on the beach and plenty of reading.

I am Blessed abundantly and feel led to share some of my Blessings with you.  I realize that  the world at large does not want to hear about the phenomena I experienced on January 18, 2013 and since March of this year, 2014, I have been quiet about it.  Do you want to know how I became aware not to tell everyone?  If not, don't read any farther.  

One thing I have learned on this special Spiritual Quest for me is that we are actually creating our life here on Earth.  Nothing comes to us that we have not consciously or unconsciously asked  to experience.  I Am experiencing the Peace now that I have asked for even though Karl is no longer physically with me.  I realize now that it was always within me but I didn't know it.  Well, to get to this other thing . . . . . I was being bombarded with one person after another coming to me to talk, talk, talk about themselves, their accomplishments, etc., their egos big time and I just didn't want to hear it.  I truly LOVE everyone so I was put out with myself for feeling this way.  I knew I wasn't pushing my art onto others and I was baffled why this was happening to me.  (I couldn't believe Nora had asked for this in her life).  The answer came, as it always does.  This time it was The Still Small Voice showing me that my messages were for me personally and how I was coming across to others when sharing my Spiritual messages.  Everyone can receive their own messages and they really aren't that interested in mine. 

The Spiritual Quest of this past year has revealed to me how the ego, given free rein, is such a detriment to me on this Spiritual path or journey.  The daily writing and meditations have been so helpful to me and below, I want to share a small portion of the "Morning Pages" I received today." 

"Question everything, Nora, but Trust that All is Well.  You need only to let go (of ego) and stay steady the course laid out for you.  Your path continues on in the Flow of Holy Spirit.  Sometimes you have to lift the oars and just float.  You’ve cried enough tears to fill the ego’s river and what have you received?  The ego’s burden is always too heavy for you.  In the Flow of Holy Spirit, there is no burden.  There is Peace, LOVE, and Harmony.  Yes, be thankful for your gifts.  Use them and open your heart for more.” 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Floral Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"TULIPS"

Painting #1115    Oil on Canvas   (16"x12)    Painted in February, 2010

FROM "THE DAILY WORD"                                       Tuesday, February 25, 2014

FAITH

My life demonstrates the power of my faith in God.

My faith in God inspires me to do more good works than I thought possible. As divine ideas come to me, I act with confidence. I express everything from simple acts of kindness to extraordinary visions of peace. I wait patiently for guidance, knowing that when the time is right, my next step will be revealed. I claim what I need and share the abundance I receive.

The good others see in my life is the flow of God’s love, peace, and substance through me into the world. The secret to my good is that I live in faith. I boldly do what is mine to do. Nothing is impossible! Through faith, my success is assured.

You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was brought to completion by the works.—James 2:22

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

Black Background Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

Before

"ORANGE & YELLOW ROSES"

#1073  Oil on Gallery Wrapped Canvas  (30"x30")  Painted Black Background 11/2013

"This painting is hanging in front of me, here at my desk."

THE DAILY WORD

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

OPTIMISTIC

I anticipate God’s good.

Like the bird singing before dawn, I anticipate the good at hand. As I go about my daily routine, I expect the best. I maintain my awareness of the Christ Presence at the core of my being and acknowledge this same spark of divinity in everyone I meet.

I look for the blessing in every situation. Even challenges motivate me to bring forward my best self. In God, it is all good.

I am centered, optimistic, and I radiate a positive attitude. Christ in me is my hope, resource, and foundation. I live joyously and confidently.

As the day comes to a close, I give thanks for lessons learned, for love shared, and for the anticipation of new days to come.

We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.—Hebrews 6:19

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Watermelon Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"WATERMELON FOR SNACKS"

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014

"It was a very short message that I received today but I want to share it with you."

"Nora, take your pen and write.  The LOVE of God never fails."

FROM THE DAILY WORD

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

CELEBRATE

I celebrate life!

New beginnings are cause for celebration. Like the rising sun shining bright in the eastern sky, a fresh start is reason to rejoice. As we celebrate, we let go of the past and embrace the present. We discover a new opportunity to awaken to the power of Spirit within.

Some celebrations are filled with cheers, songs, and shouts of encouragement; while others are quiet, like the blossoming of a flower. I celebrate life as a continuous learning experience, a gift of growth and expansion from a loving God.

I acknowledge and revere life’s varied celebrations. Joyous in the eternal power and love of God, I celebrate all of life!

I will cause your name to be celebrated in all generations; therefore the peoples will praise you forever and ever.—Psalm 45:17

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE