When Are You Going To Live Your Best Life?

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Maroon Bells, Aspen Colorado (July 2026)

I’ve heard somewhere that things come in threes. Well, in the last two months, three people in my life died – two good friends and my uncle (my dad’s brother). After these deaths, I’ve contemplated my life. I asked myself, “Am I living my life fully?”

I saw a friend at a festival recently, and she said, “Don’t travel so much. I never see you.” First of all, I don’t travel that much. But her comment struck a chord with me. I am living my best life when I travel. I love to travel, and I realized that I’m frugal in other areas of my life so I can afford to travel at least once a year.

Also, as a hospice massage therapist, I witness the revolving door of life. So I ask my readers, “When are you going to live your best life? Are you going to start living your best life from your grave? Good luck with that! There are no guarantees of anything! As my grandmother said, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

The time to live your best life is right now. We can live our lives authentically and with wisdom. We need to look into the mirror of life and decide what is important to us. Where do we want to spend our time? And with whom? Can we live a life of balance?

The perspective must come from within. We need to realize that everything exists in the unified field. To tap into the unified field, we need to visualize what we want in life. We can change ourselves from the inside out. It’s all about consciousness.

After working in hospice for over eight years, I’ve met with patients who think they are going to heaven. They are putting all their eggs in one basket. Many people never live their full lives in the hopes of living fully in heaven. We have one beautiful life right now. Why waste it on a myth?

People are waking up to the truth. The world is changing, and so are we. We can wake up every morning with gratitude in our hearts for having another day to live life to the fullest.

Namaste.

Manifesting Power

July 31, 2026August 5, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Sedona, Arizona, trip 2016: Sister Lucy Bruskiewicz, Joe Lineweaver, Gina Gafford, and Trina Smith.

My good friend, Joe Lineweaver, whom I’ve known for 30 years, passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026 (he was 88 years old). Joe left a folder with a quote that has propelled my spirituality forward. I think sometimes we receive messages when we are ready for them.

Here is the quote “Manifesting Power” by Jose Luis Stevens (from the book “Praying with Power”):

In order to manifest, we have to generate the power to propel intent into physical reality. Although we are each born with an ample supply of power, it tends to leak away wastefully through bad habits, worry, negative thinking, and a host of faulty behaviors. Eventually we become depleted and wonder why we have such trouble manifesting anything. All shamans know that to manifest something requires juice, and so we need to stop up the leaks and then start gathering and storing more energy.

There are many methods of gathering and storing energy, some physical, some mental, and some emotional. Being out in nature and working with chi gong (qigong) and tai chi are the most effective ways to gather and store energy physically. Studying how the universe works builds power through mental processes, and opening the heart and talking to Spirit builds power through emotion. All three are important to cultivate.

While I was on a yoga retreat recently (www.vajrasoltravel.com), I came to this conclusion: If I am divine and created in the image of the Gods, then I must have powers.

Manifesting Power, by GG

manifest hidden power
manifest ancient power
manifest divine power
manifest gentle power
manifest blessed power

Namaste.

Create Peace – Be Peace

June 20, 2026July 10, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Lake Superior, Minnesota (photo by GG)

It’s been about a month since I deleted my Facebook (FB) account. At first, I missed FB. I felt FOMO (fear of missing out). Mainly, I thought I’d miss photos of my granddaughter, Athena. But knowing that I wasn’t on FB, my daughter regularly texts me photos of Athena. Plus, I’d rather see her in person.

There is one thing I noticed since deleting my FB account: I have more peace. My family and friends can text or call me anytime. I’m here for them. But it feels so good to take back my life.

I no longer feel the pressure to keep up with everyone, and I’ve had more time to do things I enjoy. If someone says they posted something, I just say, “I’m no longer on Facebook.” I’m free from any commitments.

The good thing about FB is that I can rejoin at any time. But for now, I love the peace. I’m also limiting my time on all screens – which reduces my anxiety. I create peace. I am peace.

I want to share a heart meditation that I find helpful. It’s from the book “Awakened Sleep: An Ayurvedic Approach to Getting Rest and Unlocking Optimal Health,” by Suhas Kshirsagar and Sheila Patel.

Heart Chakra Meditation:

Do the heart meditation anytime after 6:00 pm or before going to sleep at night.
Lie down in a comfortable position.
Scan your body from head to toe. Observe any tension in your body.
Let go of any tension. Take a few deep breaths.
Focus on your heart. Feel any sensations without fear. Feel love and gratitude.
Return to your breath. On the inhale, focus on your heart area. On the exhale, say to yourself, “OM SHANTI.”
Repeat, focusing on your heart on the inhale and saying the mantra on the exhale.
Do this meditation for 15-20 minutes or allow yourself to go to sleep (if you do the meditation before bedtime).

It’s a special time to be alive. There is a “Great Awakening” happening. But with this awakening, we need to bring peace and love into our lives. We need to set boundaries and take back our precious time.

May peace be with you.

Namaste.

Books Soon to be Published – by GG

May 29, 2026July 31, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

I have two books that will be published soon. Here is some information about them:

Meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting perfectly still. In Athena’s Meditation Adventure, children explore mindfulness through imagination, movement, and animal friends.

Inspired by author Gina M. Gafford’s experiences as a Montessori teacher, where she taught meditation and yoga to preschool children, this heartwarming story celebrates Athena—named after the author’s granddaughter, who was born with a limb difference. It honors the resilience, curiosity, and beauty that make all children wonderfully unique.

Includes a mandala coloring page.

In The Butterfly Spirit, Gina M. Gafford shares unforgettable stories from her years as a hospice massage therapist. Along the way, she explores spiritual insights, mysterious experiences, and the profound grief of losing her parents. Blending personal stories, Buddhist teachings, and practical wisdom, this book offers gentle guidance for aging well, living fully, and approaching death with greater peace and understanding.

Transformation in a Crazy World

May 25, 2026June 1, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Right now, a lot is going on in the world. It can feel overwhelming. But in times of transition, we must go within. The external world wants to drag us down, but we have a choice to go inwards to find peace and love. When we have wisdom, we see all things as impermanent. If all troubles and problems are removed, what remains is our tranquil minds. Remember, all the answers are within us.

We need to be careful with information on the Internet, including on AI (Artificial Intelligence) platforms. I noticed that when working with AI, it doesn’t always give correct information. There are still filters built into the model. Also, it’s becoming difficult to determine what is real and what is not. We need a good dose of discretion and also not to take everything so literally.

Even though it may seem like we are in scary times, it is a gift to be living right now and to witness the transformation of the world. You are alive right now because your wisdom is needed. Each of us can help shape the world.

Last night, I had a fascinating dream. I dreamt that I could fly! My dream appeared to be in the near future. I was wearing some sort of flying saucer around my waist. I also remember it was an option for people to use the device. I had ChatGPT create an image for me:

According to ChatGPT, the flying saucer-like device around a woman’s waist is both futuristic and symbolic. The image may represent freedom, transformation, protection, or a rise in consciousness. Because the waist and core are often connected to balance and personal power, the dream could reflect inner strength, movement, or spiritual growth. Its vivid and unusual nature made it feel almost cinematic, blending spirituality, technology, and imagination into one powerful symbol.

I interpret the dream as futuristic. I think we could have a flying device like the one in my dream in the future. Also, I agree with ChatGPT, I think the waist does connect with personal power. In Tarot decks, the belt is often a symbol of self-control, power, and the ability to direct one’s energy with purpose. The dantian (energy center) is also located in that area.

There are several ways we can transform in a “crazy world.” The main way is to take back our personal time. We need time, away from screens, to reflect, meditate, do yoga, and tap into creativity. At first, it might look like boredom, but with some stillness, you will find ways to be more creative.

We can transform our thinking. It’s easy to have negative thoughts about all the drama in the world. However, negative thoughts bring us down and make us feel depressed. When we have positive thoughts, we feel lighter and more hopeful. We need to separate ourselves from the bad news.

We are living in exciting times! We can replace fear with excitement! How will AI transform the world? Can we make a better world for all living beings? Do we need a little “shake-up” to get to a more balanced world?

I hope these words are helpful to you. May you have peace and joy.

Namaste.

Awards Exhibit – Arts Consortium of Carver County (ACCC) Gallery

May 3, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Awards Exhibit
By Gina Gafford
Photography
Sponsored by the Literary Committee of the Arts Consortium of Carver County
ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center (artsofcarvercounty.org)
March 1 – April 30, 2026

Begonia, Como Zoo Park and Conservatory (11×14)

ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center.

The Great Repair

April 14, 2026April 24, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

There is no such thing as ‘away’.

When we throw anything away,

It must go somewhere.

-Annie Leonard

It is time to repair ourselves, the environment, and the world. We are no longer going to be a “throw away” world. We now understand how our throwaway culture is damaging ourselves and our precious environment.

We must repair ourselves. It is time to focus on healing our body, mind, and spirit. We must balance the energy in our body and reduce anxiety. We need more natural light, spend more time in nature, and reduce our screen time.

We must repair the things in our environment. We can learn to fix things instead of throwing them away. It is time to learn new skills.

We must repair our world. It is time to reduce plastics in our environment. We can reduce the plastics in our homes, use natural containers, and become aware of how much plastic we use.

We can buy natural fabrics for our clothing (cotton, bamboo, linen, and wool). They will last longer and they are better for the body (and energy body, too).

Polyester is is damaging our bodies and the planet. It is a synthetic, petroleum-based plastic that releases microplastics into waterways, is non-biodegradable, and can cause skin irritation, allergies, and potential toxic chemical exposure through dyes and finishing agents.

We also have too much clothing in our world. It is time to stop buying clothing and use what we have.

REDUCE, REUSE, and RECYCLE

Immediate Plastic & Waste Reductions Examples:

Carry Reusable Bags: Keep tote bags in your car or purse to avoid plastic bags.
Ditch Bottled Water: Use a reusable stainless steel or glass water bottle, which saves money and keeps plastic out of landfills.
Reusable Coffee Cups: Bring your own mug to cafes, as many disposable cups are lined with plastic.
Swap Soap Bottles for Bars: Use bar soap, shampoo bars, and bar cleaners to eliminate plastic liquid containers.
Use Glass/Metal Food Storage: Use glass containers or Mason jars instead of plastic baggies and wraps.
Buy in Bulk: Use reusable produce bags or refill containers to avoid excess packaging.
Shop Secondhand: Buy clothes or household items from thrift stores, which cuts down on packaging waste.
Repair/Repurpose: Mend clothing and repair electronics rather than discarding them.

Alice’s Wonder Spray (all purpose cleaner):

2 tsp borax

1/4 cup white vinegar

Hot water – add to 32 oz. spray bottle

1/4 cup liquid dish soap – add last

20 drops of essential oil – optional

Laundry Soap Recipe:

13 cups of hot tapwater

4 tablespoons of washing soda

2 tablespoons of borax

2 tablespoons of castle soap

You will need one cup detergent for one large load of laundry (adjust as needed).

Preparation suggestions:

Save an empty laundry detergent, water, or milk jug that holds at least 1 gallon. Mark on the outside of the jug the 13-cup measurement. Add all ingredients and shake lightly before each use.

Recommend books:

“Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste,” by Bea Johnson

“Zero Waste: Simple Life Hacks to Drastically Reduce Your Trash,” by Shia Su

Namaste.

Manufactured World (Poem)

March 30, 2026April 22, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

Manufactured World, by GG

Fake lines of clouds torch the blue sky
The brilliant sun still triumphs with a smile

Divinity buried with our silent ancestors
Golden tablets glisten and ring

Churches stuffed with rubbish
Christ consciousness lives in the beating heart

Photoshopped blue marble earth
Yin and yang on a stationary earth

Manufactured humans
We are one breath with spirit

Active Participation in Life

March 24, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

About a week ago, I read about a woman who worked at Disney World for over 30 years. She said she noticed a big change in today’s children. She noticed children on cell phones, not even looking up. They were visiting the most magical place on earth, yet not participating. What kind of memories are children creating? Just online shorts and nothing real?

Cell phones foster passive participation rather than active participation. Humans are watching and listening to other people and events. Before cell phones, we actively participated in life. We didn’t just watch things on a device.

We need to define what it means to be human. Also, we need to ask, “How can we live our lives to the fullest? And “What takes away from our precious time?”

The cell phone literally pacifies us. We go on it for entertainment and relaxation. But we need to be careful not to let it take away from living life. Screens also dull the mind and train the brain to accept a mediocre life. Humans are so distracted that they accept not being fully present in life.

And, more importantly, we must allow our children to participate fully in life. They need movement and to engage the senses. Every time they look down at their phone, they miss out on living out their childhood and being in the present moment. A human child needs to communicate, play, dream, and create.

The Internet is just like Disney World. It wants our engagement so it can make money. But to participate, we have to follow their rules. Tech companies have spent billions of dollars to find ways to capture our attention.

The system is set up in their favor, not ours. But we still have a choice about whether we want to play. We are at the crossroads, right now, to still have a choice. We need to make some big decisions on how we want to interact with screens and technology.

Namaste.

The Dream of Coco

February 28, 2026February 28, 2026 / Tunnel Vision 8 / Leave a comment

The Dream of Coco
By Gina M. Gafford
Magical, Mystical and Just Plain Cool
Reading/Poem
Sponsored by the Literary Committee of the Arts Consortium of Carver County (ACCC)
Sower Gallery (Shepherd of the Hill Presbyterian Church, Chaska, Minnesota)
February 8, 2026, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Whenever I am near a horse, I feel like everything will be okay. My heart gallops in rhythm with the horse. Dust fills my nostrils, always bringing me back to my youth.

When I was 10 years old, I met Heidi at school. She was two grades younger than I, but we connected right away. She introduced me to the world of horses. Heidi had a hobby farm on the outskirts of Chanhassen, Minnesota. I would walk to the hobby farm by cutting across fields. Back then, there were a few houses, and the business district was still a dream.

My first ride was on a Shetland pony named Thimble. Thimble was always tolerant of our shenanigans. We would ride on Thimble’s neck (I know that wasn’t very nice), invite her into the kitchen to eat out of the refrigerator, and take her into town where people would slow down to see the cream-colored pony.

Thimble was my first love until I met Coco a few years later. Coco was a chestnut brown quarter horse. She appeared so tall. I learned how to put on a bridle, saddle, and a lead rope. Coco was so majestic, I was in love.

I loved kissing her velvet nose and rubbing the white stripe on her forehead. I could feel the massive muscles under her short, rough fur.

Heidi and I took the horses for a swim in Lake Ann. It was a quiet lake; no motorboats were allowed. I rode Coco. I gently walked her into the calm, cool lake. She appeared confident as we got deeper and deeper.

Then in one mystical moment, I was swimming with the horse. I didn’t even know horses could swim. As we rode bareback, Heidi and I laughed and laughed. Then Coco turned her head and bit me on my left thigh. After the sharp pain, I fell off the horse and began to cry. Heidi jumped off her horse to grab Coco’s halter. I couldn’t believe Coco bit me! The red spot turned into a huge black and blue bruise, the size of a grapefruit, and I had a new respect for horses. I forgave Coco for biting me.

Through the years, I rode Coco and other horses that joined the hobby farm. I begged my parents to buy me a horse, but they said they couldn’t afford one, and that we’d have to board it. Later, I volunteered at We Can Ride, which is a therapeutic riding program. I volunteered so I could be near horses and help children and adults with disabilities. It was an excellent program, and because of this reflection and story, I’m thinking about volunteering again.

The Dream of Coco, by GG

In the quiet stillness of the star-filled night,
Coco dreamt of running free.
She felt her dark gray hooves pounding on the packed white snow, 
and her warm, pumping breath, mixed with the glow of the morning sun. 
Her chocolate-brown mane whipped in the cool air. 
She had the confidence of a Mustang, wild and free.
In the morning, once the yellow sun reached the horizon,
Coco woke from her dream.
She shook her dusty mane
and felt the cool air filled with possibilities.
Coco’s spirit will always be wild and free.

Namaste.