Practical spirituality for a complicated world.
This week's Walk Your Talk is a special one. This is my 245th column. I wanted to do something special to mark the occasion, therefore I am writing about some very inspirational women I know. These are truly Women of Power. Each, in her own unique way, has brought valuable gifts, not only to her own family, and community, but to the planet, at large.
The first Woman of Power in today's column is someone I'm blessed and honored to call a friend, the author and teacher, Chris Griscom. If I had to choose one word to describe Chris, it would be…magnificent. Thank goodness I don't have to limit myself to only one word today, for there is much I wish to say about Chris. As you undoubtedly know, 20 years ago, Chris founded the Light Institute in Galisteo. The spiritual work of the Light Institute has benefited thousands of people, from all over the world. Chris has also authored numerous books, amongst which, in my opinion is an absolute masterpiece,
Psychogenetics
. The information in this book has the potential to literally change human history and evolution on this planet. This spiritual gift comes from a Woman of Power, right here in our own community. If you don't already have this book, then go get it right away. It is literally one of the most intriguing books I've ever read. In addition to the beauty of her spirit, Chris is also exceedingly beautiful physically. She has a graceful, shining beauty, and an innate feminine persona which seems effortless, as it flows from the deep well of her soul. I'm quite simply amazed by her. Chris is also a mother. When you read her books, you discover that Chris basks in the joyful light of motherhood, as well as glorying in womanhood. Chris has a strength of spirit which manifests outwardly in ways that demonstrate how comfortable and at home she is with being a woman. In my humble opinion, Chris is a shining example of womanhood. I suppose you can tell that I am, as well as her friend, a great fan.
The next Woman of Power in today's column is one of the most special people I've ever known. Bettina Giancana is one of those people whom one would immediately spot in a crowd. She exudes charisma. She is a Woman of Power. Bettina, along with her husband, Sam, is also an author whose books have made multiple appearances on the bestseller list of the New York Times. She is someone who seems as if she has always been a part of my life. She is also a strikingly beautiful woman, whose physical beauty enhances her spiritual vision and authority. I really enjoy her wit, and her earthy sense of humor, which seem to spring forth effortlessly in her conversation. She is one of those rare people who never have to remind you of their power and authority. Bettina simply is powerful. I enjoy being around her and observing how at ease she is with herself and her life; at how her energy manifests in a centered, feminine strength. I find it fascinating to observe how she combines intellect, talent, spiritual authority and a nurturing spirit. I also greatly admire her as a writer. She is incredibly gifted, very versatile in her craft. I continue to be overwhelmed by her generosity of spirit. Bettina is such a healthy role model for young women learning how to walk in their own power and authority, because it is obvious that she quite simply enjoys being a woman. Thanks, Bettina.
The last Woman of Power in today's column is my paternal grandmother, Nancy Callahan Odom. I always called her Mama. She was born in May 1899, in another world, really. I've never met anyone else who truly practiced love as a matter of course, on a daily basis. She was my first example of walking your talk, and she constantly practiced spiritual principles in all her dealings with people. She didn't always have an easy life, but she always lived her life with grace. Neither did I always have an easy life; however without my Mama, I wouldn't have survived, at all. She saved my life more times than I'm aware of, I'm sure. Mama probably never heard the term, "Woman of Power," but she always was a Woman of Power. She was raised by Men and Women of Power. Her mother and grandmother were violated by Yankee soldiers during the War for Southern Independence. Despite that horror, they continued their daily lives and resisted the invaders in creative ways. Mama said that when the Yankees brought bloodhounds to track down local men and boys hiding in the forest to escape imprisonment, the women sprinkled cayenne pepper on the trails so the dog's noses would become inflamed, and they couldn't follow the scent! These women refused to sign the Union loyalty oaths demanded by the Yankees, and openly defied the enemy soldiers! What Women of Power I am descended from!
She knew all of the old traditional ways of healing with herbs. She made asafoetida bags, filled with awful smelling stuff, which during the winter, we had to wear around our necks to ward off colds. It also warded off any contact with the neighbors! Can you imagine what a closed up classroom of children wearing asafetida bags smelled like? Mama took great care with her appearance, and always conducted herself in the most ladylike manner. I miss her more than it is possible for me to express. I am, indeed blessed to have so many wonderful, positive, supportive women in my life. There are many more than I've been able to write about today. There is my sweet friend, Marlene, who has successfully juggled her career as an attorney, along with being a single parent for her two children, and now a granddaughter, as well. There is also my fabulous friend, Alexandra, totally committed to walking her spiritual path. She manifests her power in a beautifully feminine way, free from the anger and spite so common these days.
These Women of Power I've shared with you today need to be held up as role models, for they live their lives in ways that are genuinely powerful, yet each is unique. To all of them, I offer my profound thanks. They are women who effect lasting change for the better in the world around them. We all benefit from their gifts.
OM
To ask Robert a question, visit his Web site at www.RobertOdom.com, email desertrj@msn.com or send mail to PO Box 33, Santa Fe, NM 87504.
