Karen Loenser writes on page 23 of Life Mapping, “It’s our soul’s desire to immerse ourselves with other humans to share experiences that will help us evolve into higher beings of light and love. This, in its simplest terms, is the meaning of life.”
What an amazing book! Bravo, Karen!! At 63, a retiree and “seeker” myself, I was so excited to put this book on my Kindle! Aware that angels and guides surround me, I was interested to learn about what Karen calls “the blueprint of my soul map” (23). Defining lessons during this pandemic period certainly did shine a light on love based living versus fear based living. The many beautiful quotes and references throughout Life Mapping truly spoke of perseverance, character and hope. I truly found this book to mirror lots of the religious/spiritual teachings ingrained in me since my childhood. Ask and it shall be given you (Matthew 7:7 New Testament), holds true for “unlocking the keys to life’s purpose” (44).
As Karen walked readers through the processes of examining personal milestones, identifying soul squads, understanding where we’ve been via lessons and decoding, to label just a few areas of “Life Mapping” exploration, she shared her own precious story, and also some of those who partook mapping their lives. Karen’s emphasis on not over-thinking or getting caught up in the details was most affirming. Looking at our stories in “the 3rd person” was really key, removing ego and judgement (51-52). Where our focus lies speaks loudly of where our own life mapping takes us (61).
(I have to stop here for a moment and applaud those beautiful human beings! Very raw and honest sharing occurred in those pages. Thanks to Lena, Carolyn, Marie, Allison, and all of you, for your bravery and spirit!)
Remembering that the present is the only thing we can control (64), and that those who come into our lives come for a reason and purpose and are part of our “soul tribe” (73). Remembering with gratitude all these experiences and knowing free will allows many lessons along the path is part of the map (77).
Karen’s comparison of a plant and our life is “rooted” so beautifully, taking us back to recalling ourselves as children, and loving that young person (119-120). Writing out the “I AM” statements shows connections and “refills us” (149). “If you knew who walked beside you at all times, you would never experience fear or doubt ever again. Where there is great love, there are always miracles” (172-Williamson quote). Ultimately, we have “to take responsibility for (our) own life and own happiness” (178). “Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn here” (202). And, “A belief is just a thought you keep thinking,” (204-A. Hicks quote).
Forgiveness is part of the life mapping experience, too. Karen recognizes the wounds that come along the way, and gives us an opportunity to re-see the “hidden favors” in relationships (208). Moving forward on the path and honoring the present moment in those “hidden favors” reveal themselves.
The most impactful passage I’ve ever read on staying in the present moment was told in Karen’s book by Allison Feehan, with the story of her traumatic child-birthing experience: “Trusting in the plan of what should be and not having control over a frightful situation led me to truly TRUST the Universe and the bigger plan already decided for us. The plan we put in place prior to this lifetime” (220-223). Staying present……
Karen uses a beautiful reference to Mr. Holland’s Opus, and shares about being present. When I stop to think of the lessons it took me to see that, WOW! And, now, when I hear people share about what is on their agendas….OMGoodness…. “One of the keys to manifesting everything we desire” comes from being present (232 & 244). Letting go and letting GOD!!
I appreciate Karen’s naming the “not enough’s” for what they are….EGO and FEAR (258). I know in my own girls (“daughters,” nieces, students, friends) it is an all too often line thrown out there! How great to be able to share “That voice IS NOT YOU!!” trying to talk you out of your next step (258)! And, reinforce it! Flip it, and realize what comes from your Higher Self and what comes to teach you (269, 273). “The thought is the thing” has been a personal mantra for me for a couple of decades, and Karen expresses it beautifully throughout this book. And, since reading this I have added “SEE IT/VISUALIZE IT + BELIEVE IT + ALLOW IT = MANIFEST IT (302 & 318). “Speak your truth and activate” those thoughts (325). “Reactivate and Re-calibrate” and know you’re worthy of your dreams, with intention and inspiration (330)! Give it to God, and let it go!! And, know in your heart, “the life you ought to be living is the one you are living” (337).
Karen gives us so many beautiful ways to get to where you want to be…embracing nature and water, intentional breathing, trusting your vibes, watching your words, avoiding low energy people, chasing that ego away when it slips in to visit, writing out your desires, making a sacred space for yourself, letting go of expectations, and seeking out ways to serve others…..THE PLAN IS ALWAYS AT WORK (366)!
What a wonderful journey this Life Mapping has been! It caused me to think…to listen…to pray…to venture out. I have learned that the best teachers are students! And, Karen is a seeker, always ready to learn, as am I! No coincidence, I read this book during the season of Lent, which for me is a time of reflection and stillness and listening. This truly made my time very special. I have one week left, with Holy Week upon us, and I will be using new mantras. I feel oh so blessed having read this book.
I am thinking one of Karen’s next moves could be a LIFE MAPPING WORKBOOK, to accompany this book, and, maybe a LIFE MAPPING JOURNAL to record "present moment" thoughts relating to the experience, that can be looked back on later!
What a great adventure, Karen!! Thank you, with LOVE!!!!