Life's Song (Book 1 Law of Attraction Trilogy) Read online

  “No, I wish! It’s not that at all. Believe me, you’ll be the first one I tell. It’s just…I don’t know...it’s everything. I told you what my life was like before. Everything’s turned around, and life is so amazing now. It’s good to feel good. Learning about the Law of Attraction has changed my life.”

  “You know,” Gail leaned forward in her chair, “I’ve been thinking about that. It makes sense. I think I’ve been using it in my life without even knowing it. It explains so much. I’ve always believed there was some kind of greater power out there, but I never really knew how I fit into the scheme of things. This theory puts me right in the center of everything. It just feels right.”

  “Well, you do like to be the center of attention,” Rachael teased.

  “And if I’m at the center of my own experience,” Gail went on, ignoring the jab, “that puts me in control. It makes me God—a little part of God, anyway. I’m beginning to see God as the combination of all humanity coming together at the center of the Universe.”

  “You really have been thinking about this. That’s so unlike you,” Rachael responded, surprised and delighted that her friend had given so much thought to a topic that was dear to Rachael’s heart. “Okay, so then how have you used the Law of Attraction in your life? Give me an example.”

  The server brought their drinks, and Rachael ordered a veggie wrap. Sipping her latte, she looked across the table at her friend who such a short time ago had been only an acquaintance. She was thrilled with how things had worked out. Gail had dated her brother for a while, and though nothing ever came of it, she kept in touch with Rachael and told her about the job opening where she worked. Rachael didn’t have all the qualifications they were looking for, but because of Gail’s recommendation, they hired her and trained her on the job.

  “I’ve experienced both good and bad,” Gail responded. “And looking back, I can see a pattern. I had it easy growing up. I was happy, with everything a kid could want. Things came easy for me. But when I was seventeen, my best friend’s mom died unexpectedly. I started questioning life and death and God. I watched my friend’s life go from bad to worse. When her dad went bankrupt, I started questioning financial security. I wondered whether it could happen to our family.

  “That got me focusing in a negative direction,” she continued. “For several years, I was really confused and dissatisfied with my life. I went through a series of bad relationships and dead-end jobs. I was miserable. Back then I called it bad luck. But now I can see I attracted it by my negative thoughts.”

  “So how did you turn things around? You have a great relationship now, and you make good money. You’re happy and successful. What did you do to change your thinking, which obviously changed your circumstances?”

  “I don’t know,” Gail shrugged. “I guess I just got so tired of being broke and unhappy, I was determined to change things. My parents have always been a positive example. They always encouraged me. I’m sure some of their thinking must have rubbed off on me.” She sat back and took a sip of her Purple Haze.

  Rachael had to smile. Gail was always ordering drinks with exotic names. She was fun and unpredictable, so different from Rachael’s quiet, orderly ways, yet they got along well. They complemented each other and even seemed to be asking many of the same questions in life.

  “The Law of Attraction is amazing,” Rachael agreed enthusiastically. “It’s at work whether we know about it or not, but what excites me is that we can use it deliberately. I’ve been testing this for a while now, and I’ve seen consistent results.”

  “Sounds like you’re doing a science experiment.”

  “It is scientific. Don’t laugh. It’s a proven Law of the Universe. People have used it to attract wealth, fame, better health, pleasing relationships—there’s no limit to what we can attract once we start to use it intentionally. It’s not enough for me just to haphazardly apply this and hope for the best. I’ve been studying all I can about it. I’ve been keeping journals and documenting the…”

  “Girl! We’ve got to find you a man,” Gail interrupted, shaking her head. “You need some fun in your life. All that studying…whoa! You need balance, you need romance.”

  “I know, I know,” Rachael laughed at Gail’s theatrics. “You’re right, but I’m going to use the Law of Attraction to find the perfect guy.”

  “Oh yeah, I can see you now.” Gail squinted her eyes as though trying to imagine the scene. “In the laboratory with Mr. Milton B. Perfect, the famous quantum physicist.”

  “No, I don’t think he’s a scientist. Remember, Mr. Perfect is independently wealthy and loves to shower me with gifts,” Rachael joked. She’d shared with Gail once what she wanted in a man, and they’d come up with a comprehensive list. “He’s confident but not conceited; talkative but doesn’t rule the conversation. He’s good looking with a boyish charm. Tall. Never married…”

  “Oh yes, I remember. He’s in his early thirties. He wants children. He’s sensitive in a manly way; loves reading and travel and…oh yeah, dogs,” Gail added. “But do you really think you’re going to find this exact guy? Maybe you shouldn’t be so specific. What if he’s everything you want, but has been divorced or is allergic to dogs or gets air sick?”

  “He’ll be the essence of everything I want in a man. You’re right, though. Maybe I shouldn’t focus on the details so much,” Rachael conceded. “But a guy that gets air sick? Yuck!” She laughed and made a face. “He’d never qualify.”

  “Well, my dear, speaking of good men, I have one waiting for me at home.” Gail stood up, reached in her purse and threw some cash down on the table. “This one’s on me. Can I give you a ride?”

  “Thanks anyway, but I think I’ll sit here a bit longer. I’ll see you Monday.” Rachael smiled and then inquired, “What are you guys up to this weekend?”

  “We’re going to the cottage tomorrow; we’ll be back on Sunday. We have tickets for a dinner theatre, tonight. It’s supposed to be good. It’s been sold out for a few weeks. How about you?”

  “My sister and I are going to a movie tonight. I have some shopping to do tomorrow. Sunday, I have a stack of books I’ve been dying to read.”

  Gail rolled her eyes. “Let me know what profound new truths you uncover—but just the essence; spare me the details.” She started to walk away, then turned and added, “Hey, why don’t you read at the park? Mr. Perfect might be out walking his dog.”

  Gail could always make her laugh; she was such a good friend, and Rachael truly appreciated her. She noticed a hint of envy, however, as she thought about the great relationship that Gail and her partner, Rob, had. No, I’m not going to focus on what I don’t have, she silently reprimanded herself. I will meet a great guy one day, but until then, I want to enjoy being single. I want to spend this time learning new things and finding out about myself. Everything happens in its perfect time.

  She ordered another latte and sat staring out the window. As much as Gail teased her, Rachael did love studying and learning; she got so much satisfaction out of it. Overall, she was content with her life. The only time she felt any dissatisfaction was when she let herself think about the lack of a relationship. But with so many other enjoyable things on which she could focus, she was able to maintain her optimism.

  One important truth she’d learned was that the mind can only focus on one thing at a time. She understood now that she was in control of what that thing would be. At one time it seemed as if her thoughts were controlling her—coming in uninvited to torture and torment her, but now that she made a conscious effort to think thoughts on purpose, she felt like she was in command.

  The day that she’d read about the Emotional Scale,1 and realized that from depression she couldn’t jump to joy or bliss, was a turning point in her life. She discovered that she could move slowly and deliberately through anger, frustration, overwhelment and hope—and that each movement produced a feeling of relief. Once she reached hope, not only did she feel incredible in comparison t
o where she’d come from but she also began to see evidence of real change happening in her life.

  Rachael was proud of how persistent she’d been. She’d overcome depression. It had been almost three years since she’d felt helplessly and hopelessly depressed, and that was a real accomplishment.

  As she remembered with satisfaction her own triumphant journey, her thoughts turned to Jenna. Rachael was sure that Jenna was struggling with depression; it seemed so obvious, and she longed to be able to share the life-changing teaching. But whether Jenna called her or not, Rachael knew she had to find a way to believe in Jenna’s well-being. Someway, somehow, Jenna would attract the help that she needed. She was asking, and the Universe had the ways and means to give her the answers that she desired.

  Chapter 3

  Jenna wandered aimlessly through the mall, questioning why she was even there; she really wasn’t in the mood to shop. Geoff had some work to do at home and had suggested she go out for the morning. A change in routine had appealed to her, but now she was beginning to regret her decision.

  She stopped to look at some clothing, thinking that maybe a new outfit would make her feel better. As she picked up a navy tweed jacket, she took a moment to admire the fine detailing, but as the sales clerk approached, offering assistance, Jenna put the garment back on the rack. She really didn’t feel like trying on clothes.

  A large home décor shop caught her attention, and on a whim she decided to check it out. She had been meaning to get some new towels. She’d been considering redoing the main bathroom—painting it a different color, maybe adding some new accessories. In the past, decorating was something that Jenna really enjoyed, but now the thought felt heavy and altogether too much effort. She decided to just get the towels.

  “Hi, Jenna.”

  Jenna looked up to see Rachael standing on the opposite side of a large display table. Masking her surprise, she replied politely, “Hi, how are you?”

  “Great! I see we have the same agenda this morning. I’m planning to redo my bathroom,” Rachael offered amiably. “I have my own place now, and it needs some work. I’ve never really done much decorating, so I thought I’d tackle the smallest room first. I just didn’t realize that there was so much to choose from.”

  “Are you doing everything yourself?”

  “Well, I hired a contractor to paint the whole house. That really brightened things up. Only, now it looks like a blank canvas. I picked up some decorating magazines to get some ideas.”

  “Do you have a color in mind?” Jenna asked, suddenly aware that talking with Rachael seemed easier than with most people. Something about her put Jenna at ease, and it felt refreshing.

  “I have a picture I found in one of the magazines. I like everything about it, so I thought it would be just a matter of coming to a home decorating store and finding the things in the picture, but it’s a bit more complicated than that. There’s so much to choose from, even in towels.” Looking at the towels Jenna was holding, Rachael inquired, “I like those ones; do they have them in gold?”

  “I think so,” Jenna replied. Then, with a confidence that surprised her, she explained, “These are Egyptian cotton—that’s usually the best quality. Stick with 100% cotton and look for double loop, like this.” Jenna let her feel the towels. “The velvet ones feel nice, but they’re not as absorbent.” She was amazed at how good it felt to talk about something she used to be passionate about.

  “Wow, that’s great advice. You sound like an expert. You must love doing this kind of thing.”

  “I’m not an expert. I do like decorating...but I haven’t done much lately,” Jenna added, realizing how much she missed the hobby she’d once enjoyed.

  Rachael hesitated a second and then said, “I was wondering…have you thought about going for coffee sometime? No pressure, but if you’d like to talk…” Her words were humble and sincere. “I suffered from depression for a long time, and it’s taken me a while to get to a place of feeling good consistently, but my life is back on track now.”

  “When you asked me, I was going to say no,” Jenna admitted. “But now, I think I might like to.” She still felt scared, but something inside was compelling her. Even though it could mean sharing her personal life, Jenna felt hopeful—as if it might just be the answer to her prayers.

  “We could go today if you have time. I can do this shopping anytime.”

  “Why don’t I help you pick out some of the things you need first?” Jenna suggested, feeling bold. “We could stop for coffee afterward. Do you have that picture with you?”

  “Yeah, it’s here in my bag.” Rachael reached in the side pocket of her oversized purse. “I really appreciate your help. I’m a complete novice, so any advice you could offer would be great.”

  “It sounds like a fun challenge,” Jenna answered truthfully. It would be a way for them to get to know each other as well, before sitting down to talk in a coffee shop.

  ~

  In just over an hour, they managed to find all the things that Rachael needed. She had luxurious, gold-colored towels and a fabulous rattan shelving unit to put them on. They found a matching wall shelf, linen curtains and a variety of decorative accessories.

  At Jenna’s suggestion, Rachael purchased an elegant countertop set that included a black marble soap dispenser with gold trim, and a matching toothbrush holder and cup.

  Rachael hadn’t even heard of things like hurricane vases, but she was now the owner of one as well as an assortment of candles and polished glass beads. They also got sea sponges, loofah scrubbers and several wicker baskets for storage.

  Everything was coordinated in soft creams and gold with little hints of black. Rachael was thrilled, and she couldn’t wait to see how it would all look in her bathroom.

  “Jenna, you’re amazing!” Rachael announced as she piled the packages in the back seat of her car. “I could never have pulled everything together on my own. Thank you so much! And it’s still early; why don’t we get a bite to eat,” she suggested. “It’s my treat.”

  They decided on Monticello’s, which was close by and had great food. With private booths and lots of plants and dividers, it was a perfect place for intimate conversation. Rachael wanted Jenna to feel comfortable. She wasn’t sure whether she would be ready or willing to share how she was feeling, but Rachael hoped she could put her at ease.

  Jenna had been talkative when they were shopping, and Rachael was sure she had enjoyed herself. But now that they were sitting face to face in the restaurant, Jenna was quiet and seemed uncomfortable. Rachael thought about making small talk, but instead she opted to dive right into the subject that she knew was on both their minds.

  “Jenna, you don’t have to share what you’re going through if you don’t want to, but let me tell you some of what I’ve been through. It helps to know that you’re not alone in what you’re feeling.”

  Jenna nodded.

  Rachael began to tell Jenna about her life growing up. “I was an average teenager. I had a pretty good family life and some close friends. I didn’t have any grand ambitions. I didn’t know what I wanted to be or do, but I wasn’t worried. I guess I thought I’d figure it out as I went along. Then one day my parents told me that they were getting a divorce. I had no idea. My sister said she saw it coming, but I was devastated. I cried and begged them to stay together, but it didn’t help. My dad moved out that day, and my life was never the same. I couldn’t seem to get past it. Somehow, it seemed to shatter my perfect world, and everything looked different after that.

  “Maybe if I’d had plans or goals for my future,” Rachael continued, “I could have poured myself into that. But at sixteen, I felt my world had come to an end. Even my friends treated me differently. No one I knew very well had parents who were divorced, and I felt as though everyone was looking at me, talking about me. Then my mom moved us halfway across the country. She’d always wanted to live closer to her family and thought it would be good for me to be near my grandparents. My brother was
on his own by then, and my sister refused to come. She was nineteen and going to college here.

  “I shut down after that, and to make a long story short, I went into a depression. Clinical depression, they called it. Mom took me to doctors and counselors. They put me on medications and tried different treatments, but all that seemed to do was make me feel nothing at all. At first I didn’t mind. It was better to feel nothing than the sadness and confusion I was feeling before.”

  Rachael stopped as she noticed a tear running down Jenna’s cheek. “Oh Jenna, it’s okay to cry. I hope I didn’t upset you. I haven’t told that story in a long time. It’s past and I’m happy now. I just wanted to let you know that there’s hope. I got through it, and you can, too.”

  “It’s good to know that someone can relate to what I’m going through,” Jenna sniffed. “I’m not sure I’m ready to talk about my life, though. I’ve spent so much time trying to bury my past. I don’t know whether I want to dig it up and rehash everything. It would just be too painful.”

  Their meal arrived, and neither of them spoke for a few minutes. Rachael had come to learn that silence wasn’t something to fear, and she treasured those moments now. She used the time to connect with her Inner Being. This Being, in Rachael’s mind, was radiant with long flowing hair, she was wise and loving, patient and kind—someone who was always with her. It was a comforting image that had helped her through all kinds of situations from fear to confusion. Now she just wanted the wisdom to help Jenna.

  “Jenna you don’t have to dig up the past,” Rachael asserted, suddenly remembering something she’d read in one of her favorite books. “I know that’s what the therapists usually want you to do—go back and deal with the demons of your past, but what I’ve been learning takes a totally different approach. In this teaching, there are only two points of relativity: where you are and where you want to be. The past has nothing to do with where you’re going. It’s all about your focus and the understanding that you create your future reality by the thoughts you’re thinking right now.”