I like the analogy of the Universe to a restaurant.

It’s important to decide what you want, like you do at a restaurant. If you don’t order anything, you’ll get water. And maybe bread. You’ll be sustained. Many people are living like that.

Still others are busy looking at what everyone else is getting, criticizing their choice of food or feeling jealous of what they are enjoying. But not ordering.

I often guide people in identifying what they want, what the heart is truly calling for right now. We aim to clarify what feeling or state of being is longing to be realized, to manifest. We imagine that – what it would look like in the everyday, what one might do or wear, who they would be with, etc.

Then we let it go. We set that vision free to be received. The order has been placed. We can act as if it’s on its way. We prepare in any way we may need to. We anticipate that a delicious meal will arrive, although we don’t know exactly when or even exactly what it will look like.

It sometimes looks like opportunity to meet someone, take a new position or move to a new place. It may come as a challenge that will actually teach you what you need to become who you want to be. It can come gently and gracefully as a beautiful surprise that brings joy.

It’s helpful to remember what you ordered. You know how the server sometimes comes over with a bunch of dishes and calls out the name? You all look at the plates she’s holding and try to recognize yours. It can be hard. It might not look as you had pictured in your mind’s eye. Take it anyway. Try it. This is a good restaurant.

In a New Years Day intention workshop this year, I led a group in a decision-making, clarifying process and in creating custom bracelets with words on them to remember our intentions all year.

My word is Simplify.

I ordered too much. It all came in wonderful forms and with challenges, joys and friends in plenty. I can’t eat it all. I can’t enjoy another bite while I’m so full.

If you get the hang of ordering in this Universe, and you follow multiple passions and utilize your unique gifts, this may happen to you too. You may feel weighed down. Your creative spark doused.

When you feel like that, stop. See if someone else wants what you have left. Take a break. Wait until you’re hungry again, then order judiciously. With discernment. In alignment with your intention.

Also remember that you can send food back in a good restaurant, if it’s not to your liking. The Chef will quickly create something else to try to make you happy.