As we near the end of our stay at the Waimea Plantation Cottages—a getaway my husband and I try to take once or twice a year—I find myself in a contemplative state. I’ve spent these days reading, writing, meditating, and sharing deep conversations with my husband. I even fit in a little nightly TV. It has all been very nourishing.

What I’ve gained is greater clarity about my purpose here on Earth. I’ve spent time relishing the dreams that are closest to my heart. I’ve reignited my love for the teachings of the Science of Mind, for the labyrinth as a sacred tool, and for my commitment to helping women release shame and guilt through my Red Dress work. There is still so much to do.

I feel ready to reenter the world. These days have been like walking a labyrinth of transformation. Because I’ve also been taking a class on inner purpose and the power of intention, the time has felt even more meaningful.

Here’s what I’ve come to know—for all of us:
No matter our circumstances, beliefs, gender, or race, we each have a responsibility to ourselves to become conscious. What does that mean? Ask yourself:
Do you know who you truly are?
Are you aware of the thought patterns that shape your experience?
Are you conscious of the beliefs that might be holding you back?
Do you make exciting intentions only to slowly talk yourself out of them—perhaps without even realizing it?

Too often, we live on autopilot, unaware of how powerful our thoughts really are.

If you’re feeling trapped in a cycle of self-doubt or destructive thinking, I want to share something that helps me: mindfulness.
It can be as simple as taking a deep breath, repeating a positive mantra, and sitting in quiet. There are countless books, podcasts, and teachers who can help—but the journey always begins with the breath, the moment, the willingness to pause.

This is a time of great transformation for all of us. The planet needs us awake. We cannot afford to walk around with unhealed wounds, unconsciously projecting pain onto others. That is how wars begin—not just global conflicts, but everyday battles within our homes and relationships.

We each have a sacred duty to tend to the garden of our own mind.

There is a global shift underway, but it starts on the individual level. From there, it ripples outward into communities—into circles of people who are awakening, questioning, and sharing. There are others who think like you. There are teachers—myself included—who have dedicated their lives to this work. And no, we don’t have to carry the burden alone.

This world is a beautiful place. I invite you not to get swept up by the naysayers or the noise of false narratives. We can help heal the collective by being living examples of possibility and love. We can stand for something—and against nothing. We can choose unity over division, recognizing that even in those we dislike, there is a piece of ourselves.

As for me—my life is shifting. The things I once thought were so important are gently fading. New ideas, new energies, and new passions are emerging. Why? Because I’ve made space for them. I’m willing to look within. I’m not afraid of my shadows. I’m willing to forgive.

So I ask you:
What are you willing to do to stand in your truth?
How will you contribute to this planetary shift?
What new creation might arise from the ashes of the old?

Perhaps we can’t put Humpty Dumpty back together again—and maybe we’re not meant to.
Maybe it’s time to build something entirely new:
A world born from healing, wholeness, and radiance.

Let’s begin.

Love and Aloha,

Rev. Dr. Rita Andriello-Feren, Author, Co-Founding Spiritual Director CSL Kaua’i