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

"PEACH ROSES"

#1123 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20")  Completed in April, 2010  SOLD

"PEONIES IN SILVER POT"

#306 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed in May, 1996     SOLD

"BOUQUET OF ASTERS"

 #330 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x12")  Completed August, 1996   SOLD

"RED ROSES IN BRASS POT"

#440 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x36")  Completed in November, 1997

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God I let go and open my mind and heart to guidance from God.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015 I may push myself to near exhaustion. When this happens, Spirit guides me to rest my weary brain and body. As I let go, the wall built from my “do-it-all-myself” attitude begins to crumble. With the first opening, the light of God shines through. The words of Jesus come to me: “I am with you always.” I relax in the awareness of Spirit within me. My breath anchors me and I release my tight hold on challenges and circumstances. Letting go brings down the perceived wall of separation. Divine love, wisdom, and understanding flow in me. I am open to receiving God’s help. By consciously letting go and letting God, I keep the channel open for answers, guidance, and love, assuring me I am never alone. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.–Matthew 28:20

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BROWN EGGS"

#895 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (14"x 11")  Completed July 12, 2006   SOLD

LEO AT BED BATH & BEYOND CHECKOUT (Yesterday)

LEO IN PARKING LOT / ON HIS WAY TO THE CAR

"We're shopping for new things for the soon to be finished new kitchen."

Relaxation I relax and reconnect with Spirit in me. Thursday, July 30, 2015 The Universe balances the activity of the day with the stillness of night. In a similar way, I relax after work, a long drive, or strenuous exercise. My self-care practice also includes short breaks throughout the day. Wherever I am, I take a few minutes to rest and reconnect with Spirit. I begin by focusing on my breath. I breathe in and my mind is at peace. I breathe out and let go of stress. I notice my breath flowing into each part of my body—my head, my shoulders, and my chest. I breathe out through my arms, down my torso, and all the way out the bottoms of my feet. My heart, mind, and soul rejuvenate in God. Spirit flows in me with ease. After a few minutes, I bring my attention back to where I am sitting. I return to my activities with a peaceful heart. You will find rest for your souls.—Matthew11:29

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MOSTLY ZINNIAS"

#848 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed Aug. 3, 2005   ARCHIVED

Let Go, Let God I let go and give thanks for abundance. Tuesday, July 28, 2015 I may go through frustrating times when I just can’t seem to reach my goals. Christ within leads me to reflect on what may be blocking my abundance. Is my mind clinging to one outcome? Have I set limits on my abilities? Am I considering the many ways for a situation to work out? I am invigorated as I acknowledge the infinite wisdom and power of God. I identify any narrow thinking and judgments. I let go of a limited vision of the good available to me. With new clarity, I remember God may have something even better in mind! I focus on my own positive qualities and the good in others. I let go and give thanks for abundance—right before my very eyes. What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.—1 Corinthians 2:9

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

"FIRE & RAIN"

 Painting #1107 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Canvas (10"x10")       Completed Jan. 30, 2010

"PAPER ROSES"

Painting #1104 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Canvas (30"x40")    Completed Jan. 20, 2010

Growth I continue to grow in spiritual awareness. Tuesday, May 5, 2015 As an adult, I have stopped growing physically, yet I have many opportunities to grow emotionally and spiritually. Willingness to consider new ideas is key to my growth now. A plant grows in the right conditions and with proper nourishment. Similarly, I grow as I feed my mind and spirit. I pray and meditate regularly. I read uplifting books and articles. I may take part in classes and workshops to expand my spiritual understanding. As I grow, I broaden my awareness of what is around me and within me. I become mindful of beautiful serendipities in my life. I learn to observe my feelings and thoughts, my actions, reactions, and responses. In all things, I see the presence of God. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom.—Luke 2:40

New Companion / Art & Spirituality by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN PINK"

Painting #925 of 1181 paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x24") Completed April 29, 2007

"LEO"

"Leo" has come into my life and he is a much loved, good and faithful companion.  He is a two year old miniature schnauzer that I adopted from The Naples Humane Society and he is considered a rescue dog.  I believe I am the one who was rescued though."

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY UPDATE

"What I have come to refer to as "My Sabbatical" continues.  Taking Tramadol three times a day for pain and still lots of rest is keeping me on an even keel for which I am most thankful."

Love When I center on Spirit, I experience greater love. Monday, April 6, 2015 What I focus on grows. Spirit is the ultimate source of all love, and the more I center on Spirit, the more love is expressed and evident in my life. I regularly practice focusing on God rather than the many distractions of the world. As I do, my awareness of love’s abiding presence expands. In the Silence, I cultivate my ability to perceive love as the very nature and essence of my being. I express love freely from within, rather than seek compulsively from without. In prayer and meditation, I recognize love as the unifying power behind all existence. I experience the fullness of divine love, which sustains and connects us as One.

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED GERANIUMS"

Painting #1001 of 1181 paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x30") Completed Jan. 17, 2008    SOLD

Harmony My body reverberates in harmony with Spirit. Tuesday, January 27, 2015 Unity cofounder Charles Fillmore taught that the body is like a musical instrument. When attuned to Spirit, it radiates the health and harmony of Divine Mind. I attune my body by quieting my mind and aligning my consciousness with the one thought of God. As I breathe, I become aware of my oneness with Spirit—my innate wholeness. I sense the still, small voice reverberating from the depths of my being. This vibration of Divine Love is sweet music to my soul. It is a hymn of joy and peace sending currents of well-being throughout my body. Spirit’s melody radiates in, through, and as me. As I manifest wholeness and harmony in every cell of my being, I praise God in thanksgiving. Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy.—Psalm 47:1

"LADY IN PINK"

Painting #925 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (36"x24") Completed April 29, 2007

"Today is day six that I've been home from Barcelona, Spain and a Mediterranean Sea Cruise. This afternoon is the very first time I have been well enough or have the strength to come to this computer.  On December 22nd, while in the taxi taking us back to the hotel in Barcelona from the Costa Cruise ship, a horrible attack of vertigo came upon me.  How I wish I had never gotten on that cruise ship.  Barcelona is a wonderful city and that is where I probably should have stayed instead of taking the cruise.  Doing the Epley Maneuver for the vertigo helped me to be able to make the flight back home on the 24th.  Christmas Day was rough but nothing like the vertigo that came on me the next morning.  I'm telling how bad it was so you will know how thankful I am to be getting well today.  A dear friend, Marta and her daughter, Kasey, became my Angels of Mercy and came to my rescue.  Without them, I would still be in a hospital today.  Did Karl send them to me?  I believe so.  How do you thank somebody who does so much?  The cruise wasn't bad.  It was just bad for me."

Dream Through the power of God within me, my dream comes true and blesses others. Tuesday, December 30, 2014 A divine plan for good is at work in my life and in the Universe. My dream is a part of that plan. It comes from God—a vision and desire planted in my soul. To outpicture this vision, I use my faculty of imagination. With my mind’s eye, I see myself achieving my dream. I allow myself to savor how it feels to see it accomplished. If I face challenges, I do not become discouraged. I keep focused on my vision, and trust Spirit to reveal my purpose and direction. Confidently, I take the next step. My heart’s desire propels me through any obstacles. My dream comes from God, and it is for my soul’s unfoldment. I joyfully take my part in the divine plan and bless the world. You have given him his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips.—Psalm 21:2

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

Maine Vacation by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"NORITAKE CREAMER & PLUMS"

Painting #602 0f 1181  Oil on Linen  (8"x 10")  Completed June 28, 2002

"Home today after a 12 day vacation to Maine and then a great visit with my son, John, his wife, Colleen and daughter Priscilla in Dawsonville, Georgia.  More about the trip tomorrow."

Harmony I am an instrument of harmony.

Monday, September 15, 2014 I enjoy the pleasing blend of sounds when musical notes are sung or played in harmony. The music resonates with my soul, stirs my emotions, and offers a welcoming interlude in my day. Similarly, harmony within relationships enriches my life. I seek affinity with family, friends, and associates. We may each see life differently, but as we hear each other’s ideas and suggestions, and respectfully discuss any agreements or disagreements, we compose a harmonious song. Musical notes combine to produce a masterpiece. In the same way, the varying qualities and gifts of individuals combine to make a greater whole. Harmonious relationships are a blessing to me. Clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.–Colossians 3:14

"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