Worship and Freddie Mercury

One little known fact about me is that I’m a movie buff. I’m not a movie buff in the sense that I can quote random factoids or name every actor in a certain movie. I may not know what film won the academy award for best picture which year, or know the history of a certain genre; But, I’m the type of movie buff who is drawn to any good story. I will watch any genre, and I will find the deeper themes and chew on them for hours, days, weeks and even years. I will return to films and process new concepts over and over. I will connect them to my life, and even more often, to my faith.

Tonight I saw “Bohemian Rhapsody”. Now, I am a Christian, but this is not a Christian review of the movie. I’m not going to tell you how family friendly it is, or what the content is, because there are a million other websites out there to tell you that. Instead, I want to use it as a starting point for a discussion about worship.

Worship you say? From a movie about the life of Freddie Mercury? How do you get that?
(there aren’t really any spoilers here, so feel free to read on even if you’ve not seen the film)

Towards the end of the movie, there is a long portion capturing Queen’s performance at Live Aid in 1985. In the scene, they are playing to thousands and thousands of people in person and on television. While watching it, I felt something rise in my chest. A deep, aching feeling of passion. Tears came to my eyes, though the scene wasn’t necessarily sad. I sat back and thought about the emotions that were being evoked in that moment. It was a feeling I have felt many times before, but not typically in this environment.

The feeling I felt was the same as I feel on a Sunday morning, eyes closed, worshipping Jesus while surrounded by my family (my church). The feeling was one of worship. In the movie, there were thousands of people steeped in an atmosphere of worship.

Now, we can debate on the object of worship in the film. Was it a man? An idea? Music?
I don’t really care to answer that, but rather, I would like to explore the call to worship that exists deep in the soul of every human. A call that must be answered, and when devoid of an adequate connection to the divine, tends to pour out into worship of other things, people, or concepts.

I believe in the nucleus of worship itself, God has placed the desire for connection. Worship, in it’s truest form is connection with the divine, while also connecting with the divine in those around us. It is community. It is souls joined together in mutual admiration of truth, in deep reverence for, and passion towards that which is greater than us.

Recently, in worship at church, this is the very thing God has been showing me. Many times I’ve found myself more in awe of the family around me than God while worshiping. At first I thought this was a bad thing, a sign that my focus was off. But, Jesus began to speak to me about the fact that He was revealing His heart to me. His heart for His people. My reveling in the community around me was still part of my worship of the Lord. I could feel Him and see Him in the faces to the right and left of me. Seeing faces in rapturous wonder, others with tears streaking down their skin, and still others in tight embrace, many speaking truth over another brother or sister. How could this not be worship? How could enjoying the presence of the Lord in the family around me not be the deepest heart of worship?

So, what is my point besides a meandering exploration of a fascinating spiritual concept? Well, it is simply to share that it is so much more than a concept. If we do not grasp the heart of worship, we will lose the opportunity to love others fully, and introduce them to the one who can love them best.

Worship opportunities lie all around us. Have you ever been to a sporting event? You’ve seen worship at work. Mutual admiration. Comradery. Exclamations of praise and passion. At atmosphere of worship permeates a stadium. Art shows. Concerts. Rallies. Worship opportunities lie outside of the church, and many times they are backed with much more passion and zeal than the church can begin to emulate.

If we cannot grasp the heart of worship as a people of Christ, how can we begin to ask others to worship with us? And, it is our hearts, open and vulnerable to those around us that opens an atmosphere of worship in a place. It is not standing in straight rows singing the same songs. Any children’s choir can do that. It is not perfectly tuned instruments and voices, with choreographed dance moves or facial expressions. It is open hearts. It is seeing the other. It is loving the person to your right, feeling gratitude well up for the person on your left. It is laying disagreements at the door and entering in to a family, and laying your heart bare for anyone to see.

That is worship. Caring more about the divine before you, than the dirt you’ve left behind you. It is recognizing that divine fingerprint in those you see. It is embracing love to the fullest degree.
So church, go worship today.

Arborvitae Breakdown

Arborvitae

Thuja plicata

Arborvitae is a relatively unknown oil and that's truly a shame. It is a powerhouse oil that address viral, bacterial and fungal needs. Preventing the decay of the tree when it dies, this oil is derived from the sawdust cast off from the wood processing, making it both powerful for our bodies and the environment.

Description:

Known as the “tree of life,” Arborvitae is majestic in size and abundant in unique benefits. Our arborvitae essential oil is sourced from the heartwood of the Thuja plicata tree. It is also known as Western Red Cedar and is native to North America (primarily Canada and the Northwestern United States). This unique source of arborvitae essential oil contains a distinct chemical profile and is uniquely concentrated in methyl thujate. The sourcing arrangements for this oil are done in an innovative, environmentally-responsible way through distillation of residual wood materials to ensure no trees are unnecessarily harvested for production. Native to Canada, all parts of the Arborvitae tree were used extensively by Native Americans for health benefits and for building vessels, totem poles, baskets, and clothing. Because of its natural preserving properties, Arborvitae prevents wood from rotting, which makes it popular in woodcraft and for preserving natural wood surfaces.

Directions for Use:

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Primary Physical Benefits:

Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and spray on surfaces or hands for a quick DIY cleaner.
Apply to wrists and ankles while hiking.
Diffuse to purify the air and to repel insects inside the home.
Mix 4 drops of Arborvitae essential oil and 2 drops of Lemon essential oil for a natural wood preservative and polish.
Use during meditation for a sense of peace and calm.
May help promote clear, healthy looking skin when applied topically
Powerful cleansing and purifying agent
Natural insect repellent and wood preservative

Primary Emotional Benefits:

Trust in divine help, surrender, peace, ability to release what is burdensome

Negative emotions addressed:

Struggle, need to handle things on your own, distrust, unyielding

Aromatic Description:

Woody, warm, earthy

Body Systems addressed:

- Respiratory System

- Integumentary System

- Immune System

Cautions:

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

Other Arborvitae references:

Arborvitae Study

Arborvitae uses and benefits

Arborvitae Spotlight

All about Arborvitae

Bug Off

Trick or Treat Roller Blend

Wood Essential Oils

To purchase Arborvitae connect with the wellness advocate that directed you here. Or if you are not currently connected with a wellness advocate visit my sales site at www.mydoterra.com/maggiedubois or contact me directly here for an opportunity to get your oil at a discounted price.

Sources: www.doTERRA.com, Emotions and Essentials Oils: A modern resource for healing

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Sandalwood Breakdown

Sandalwood
Santalum album

Sandalwood is one of my most requested oils to smell during classes. Many are familiar with the rich, woodsy smell that serves to increase a calming environment. It features in colognes and perfumes alike and should be a part of any emotional support oil collection.

Description:
Sandalwood is a name given to a class of fragrant woods that, unlike other aromatic woods, can retain their fragrance for decades. Both the wood and oil have been highly valued for centuries and Sandalwood has a documented history of many applications. It was traditionally used as an incense in religious ceremonies and for enhancing meditation, and the Egyptians used sandalwood for embalming. Sandalwood is very beneficial to the skin; it can help reduce the appearance of skin imperfections and it promotes a healthy, smooth complexion. Sandalwood has a sweet, woody aroma that can enhance mood and is frequently used in meditation for its grounding effects.

Directions for Use:
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity

Primary Physical Benefits:
For an at-home spa experience, fill a large bowl with steaming water, then apply one to two drops of Sandalwood to your face and cover head with a towel. Place your face above the steaming water. Your skin will feel nourished and rejuvenated.
Apply one to two drops to wet hair to help restore moisture and give hair a silky shine.
Inhale Sandalwood directly from palms or diffuse to lessen tension and balance emotions.
Promotes healthy looking, smooth skin
Reduces the appearance of scars and skin imperfections
Enhances mood
Frequently used in meditation for its grounding and uplifting properties

Primary Emotional Benefits:
Enhances sacred devotion, calming the mind, clarity of spiritual perspective, connected to the divine

Negative emotions addressed:
Disconnected from the divine, too focused on material/worldly realities, unwilling to surrender

Aromatic Description:
Woody, dry, sweet

Body Systems addressed:
- Emotional System
- Integumentary System
- Nervous System

Cautions:
Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

Other Sandalwood references:
Sandalwood Spotlight
Healthy Cell Renewal
Hawaiian Sandalwood Spotlight
Santalol
Using the wood essential oils
Hair Perfume
Maintaining Clear Skin
Shaving Cream
Skin Cells and Essential Oils
Yoga and Essential Oils
Fun in the Sun
DIY Furniture Polish

To purchase Sandalwood connect with the wellness advocate that directed you here. Or if you are not currently connected with a wellness advocate visit my sales site at www.mydoterra.com/maggiedubois or contact me directly here for an opportunity to get your oil at a discounted price.
Sources: www.doTERRA.com, Emotions and Essentials Oils: A modern resource for healing
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Aromatouch Breakdown

Aromatouch
Massage Blend

Aromatouch is not usually one of the first oils purchased when someone begins using natural wellness solutions... but it should be. Aromatouch's soothing aroma and feel will bring a sense of calm and relief to pained body parts and emotional states.

Description:
AromaTouch, doTERRA’s proprietary massage blend, combines the unique benefits of oils known to provide relaxing and comforting effects. AromaTouch combines our essential oils of Cypress, Peppermint, Marjoram, Basil, Grapefruit, and Lavender essential oils in a perfect blend that adds many important benefits to various massage techniques. This popular blend is a vital part of the doTERRA AromaTouch Technique, a proprietary method for applying essential oils to produce a profound whole-body wellness experience.

Directions for Use:
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Primary Physical Benefits:
Apply to neck and shoulders to promote feelings of relaxation and lessen tension or use with a carrier oil for massage.
Give your loved one a hand massage using the AromaTouch Hand Technique and AromaTouch Massage Blend.
Add to Epsom salts and enjoy soaking in a hot bath.
Comforting and relaxing effects
Helps to lessen tension
Adds an aromatic experience to a soothing massage

Primary Emotional Benefits:
Able to relax, Grounded, Allows for flow, Open and flexible, Comforted

Negative emotions addressed:
Rigid, Overly Tense, Stressed out, Closed, Unwilling to bend

Aromatic Description:
Clean, Fresh, Mint, Powdery

Body Systems addressed:
- Cardiovascular System
- Emotional System
- Skeletal System
- Nervous System

Cautions:
Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

Other On Guard references:
Aromatouch
Keep Calm
Finding the Perfect Massage Oil

To purchase Aromatouch connect with the wellness advocate that directed you here. Or if you are not currently connected with a wellness advocate visit my sales site at www.mydoterra.com/maggiedubois or contact me directly here for an opportunity to get your oil at a discounted price.
Sources: www.doTERRA.com, Emotions and Essentials Oils: A modern resource for healing
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

On Guard Breakdown

On Guard
Protective Blend

Even if you have never used essential oils there is a very good chance you've heard about On Guard oil, and this is for good reason. This is a core of the immune system/health support oil regimen. It covers so many bases, and I recommend it as a staple for every natural medicine cabinet. It's spicy, sweet fragrance is a welcome addition to my home, especially when I remember how well it cleanses my air and space.

Description:
doTERRA On Guard, a proprietary essential oil blend, provides a natural and effective alternative for immune support when used internally.* As one of doTERRA’s best-selling blends, doTERRA On Guard protects against environmental and seasonal threats with essential oils known for their positive effects on the immune system when ingested.* doTERRA On Guard can be taken internally on a daily basis to maintain healthy immune function and support healthy cardiovascular function.* It can also be used on surfaces throughout the home as a non-toxic cleaner. When diffused, doTERRA On Guard helps purify the air, and can be very energizing and uplifting.

Directions for Use:
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Primary Physical Benefits:
Add two to three drops in a veggie capsule for an immune boost.*
Add to water for an effective all-purpose surface cleaner.
Soak sliced apples in water and a few drops for a healthy, immune-boosting snack.*
Combine a few drops of doTERRA On Guard with Fractionated Coconut Oil for a natural hand cleanser.
Supports healthy immune and respiratory function*
Protects against environmental threats*
Supports the body’s natural antioxidant defenses*
Promotes healthy circulation*
Energizing and uplifting aroma

Primary Emotional Benefits:
Strengthen inner self, Protected, Strong boundaries, Reinforced, Able

Negative emotions addressed:
Lack of boundaries, Unprotected, Easily influenced, Manipulated by others, Parasitic relationships

Aromatic Description:
Warm, spicy, camphoraceous, woody

Body Systems addressed:
- Immune System
- Emotional System
- Respiratory System

Cautions:
Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

Other On Guard references:
On Guard
On Guard Pancakes
Hand Cleansing Spray
On Guard Study
On Guard Home Care Video
On Guard Popcorn
On Guard Spotlight
On Guard and Frankincense for Self Care
Protecting your Body
Always be Prepared
Hand Cleansing Gel
DIY Bubbles
Stone Cleaning Spray
On Guard Pumpkin Smoothie
A Clean and Healthy Mouth
DIY Cleaning Wipes
Dishwasher Detergent Tabs

To purchase On Guard connect with the wellness advocate that directed you here. Or if you are not currently connected with a wellness advocate visit my sales site at www.mydoterra.com/maggiedubois or contact me directly here for an opportunity to get your oil at a discounted price.
Sources: www.doTERRA.com, Emotions and Essentials Oils: A modern resource for healing
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Citrus Bliss Breakdown

Citrus Bliss
Invigorating Blend

You aren't supposed to have favorites amongst your children, and while I love all my oils equally, I must say I like citrus bliss the most. This soothing, uplifting, bright and vibrant smell simply transports me emotionally and physically. It serves to deeply effect emotions, physical environments and even physical detoxification. Everyone needs a little extra bliss in their life...

Description:
Citrus Bliss Invigorating Blend merges the benefits of citrus essential oils. We combine the powerful essences of Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Tangerine, and Clementine with a hint of Vanilla Absolute to form this unique and harmonious blend. Citrus Bliss has natural, potent compounds with cleansing properties. Mixed with water, Citrus Bliss is a perfect solution for wiping down countertops and other surfaces while producing a fresh, sweet scent.

Directions for Use:
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. Avoid UV exposure to area of topical use for at least 12 hours after applying.

Primary Physical Benefits:
- Diffuse to help lift mood.
- Put 1 drop on your wrist and rub both wrists together for a great everyday perfume.
- Add 2–3 drops to dryer sheets to add a refreshing aroma to your laundry.
- Combine with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil for a cheerful hand massage.
- Cleanses and purifies the air
- Helps reduce stress and uplifts mood
- Positively affects mood with energizing and refreshing properties

Primary Emotional Benefits:
Motivating, Inspirational and invigorating, Stimulates creativity and childlike wonder

Negative emotions addressed:
Disconnected, withdrawn from the creative, lack of motivation, insecure

Aromatic Description:
Citrus, Sweet

Body Systems addressed:
- Digestive System
- Emotional System
- Detoxification System

Cautions:
Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

Other Citrus Bliss references:
Citrus Bliss Spotlight
Doterra Citrus Bliss Blog
Confetti Bath Bombs
Floral Perfume Spray
Moisturizing Lotion Bars
Strawberry Citrus Slush
Using the Citrus Oils

To purchase Citrus Bliss connect with the wellness advocate that directed you here. Or if you are not currently connected with a wellness advocate visit my sales site at www.mydoterra.com/maggiedubois or contact me directly here for an opportunity to get your oil at a discounted price.
Sources: www.doTERRA.com, Emotions and Essentials Oils: A modern resource for healing
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

What is your launch trajectory?

Most of us have heard the platitude about an arrow being pulled back before it can go forward, as an illustration for managing the tough things in life. But I want to extend this. Not only does an arrow have to be pulled back, but the chord holding the arrow must be pulled taught. It strains and tightens, building up great energy. Then,  when that arrow is released,  it plows ahead with terrific force.

I believe that the things in life that cause tension and strain,  also cause great momentum when that tension is released and returned to a normal state.  The direction of that momentum however,  is up to the archer and the direction the arrow is facing. Will it plow into the dirt, or will it soar directly at the target?

When we face tough times we have a choice.  We can continue to zero in on our trajectory, even if for that season we don't make any forward progress.  We can continue realigning and focusing on the end goal all as the tension and difficulty grows and grows.

We can live in depression,  feel sorry for ourselves,  blame others for everything going wrong. We can mourn our lot in life and lament that others don't deal with this stuff (spoiler alert: your struggle isn't unique and you give it way more power when you pretend it is. Others have overcome similar, and wisdom can be found when we don't push others away ). Then when tension is over,  you'll plow right into the dirt. The place you've been aiming for all along.  And you'll be picking emotional, financial, mental and spiritual mud out of your hair for a long time.

We can live in distraction. Ignore the situation and live for momentary pleasure. We can pursue numbing agents to ignore the current reality.  And then when that tension is released we'll head in any direction but forward.  Off course, far from where we want to be,  and spending a long time finding ourselves.

Or, we can remind ourselves of the truth. We can surround ourselves with mentors that will counsel and encourage us. We can focus on self development, time with God, time with community. We can live open hearted and focused on our promises. And then, when that tension is released,  we will fly straight at our goals. The stress of life will propel us directly towards the best things in life.  Our trauma will become our testimony,  and our stress our speed at which we race towards the promises.

Where is your arrow pointed today?