The Tower of Babel story from Genesis teaches some interesting lessons. Mankind was of a single mind and language. They spoke of God but were faithless. Therefore, they came together on the plain of Shinar and began constructing a great city, a testament to man’s greatness. At the heart of the city was a tower. This tower was to be constructed of “bricks like stone” for it was being built not only to last, but also to reach Heaven itself. God then reached down and scrambled their language, making it impossible for them to continue working together, so they scattered, leaving the tower and great city unfinished. Hubris aside, what else does this lesson teach?
Consider the times throughout history when men have come together in secular (though very often wrapping themselves in God) common cause. Purges, revolutions, crusades, jihads, wars and persecutions that have lead to, arguably, more death and destruction than any other cause. The argument can, and accurately, be made that many of these things happened to stop or address a greater evil, that if arms were not taken up a greater injustice would have taken place, history being the final judge. Clearly, man has been employing secular answers (though often laying them at God’s feet) and reaping the same results since the days of Shinar. War has yet to stamp out war; Persecution leading only to new generations of persecutors; Prejudice, of all stripes, teaching another generation to jump to conclusions, to marginalize. We cannot get sick enough to cure one person. We cannot get poor enough (in fact or spirit) to help those struggling.
Living on the Spiritual Basis, we take a different tack. Today we choose to live on a different basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God. To be clear: Does this mean that we bury our heads in the sand, leave our homes unlocked, our children unprotected, offering our neck to any who would threaten us? Without equivocation, no. Continue to protect and stand for those who are incapable of protecting themselves, keep good locks on your doors, stay informed and involved in the issues of the secular world, in short, trust in God but cut the cards. Living on the Spiritual Basis has nothing to do with a Polly Anna approach to living; in fact, it is the opposite.
Living on the Spiritual Basis, we reconstruct the tower, as God would have us, each brick truth, the mortar faith. Be involved in life and living. Standing in the light the world not only needs what you have to offer, the path demands it of us. The truth will set you free. Wear your faith as a loose garment, but never deny you are wearing it.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
THE TOWER OF BABEL
Babel: n
1. confused noise: a confused noise, especially the noise of loud unintelligible voices all talking at once
2. noisy place: a scene or place of noisy confusion (Encarta)
What would the world look like if we all spoke the same language, had complete access to unfiltered information? Today it is possible to read accurate translations of newspapers and periodicals from around the world, to immerse ourselves in unfamiliar cultures. Unfortunately even in the most prosperous nations most fail to read even their local newspaper and many of those who do rarely get beyond the headlines, comics, horoscope and sports page (which is why corrections and apologies are found on pg A23). Those living in underdeveloped regions or nations with strict information controls, if they see any outside information at all, have a very limited view of the outside world. Is it any wonder why it is nearly impossible for individuals and nations to agree if one believes black is white while the other believes white is black and each can site “their” source as the truth? The truth is not subjective.
Living on the Spiritual Basis is the path of the common tongue we all share, when we practice the presence of God in all our activities, the heart speaks, and when the heart speaks, hearts listen. Whether we speak English, French, Russian or any other language for secular communication the Language of the Heart is universal. Regardless of our spoken language, if are beginning each day asking in morning meditation to be shown the way of patience, tolerance, kindliness and love we speak as one. If we are asking throughout our day to be shown how we can be of service to God and our fellows, we speak with one voice. When we consistently place the welfare of others ahead of our own, we demonstrate the universal language of Divine Love. What would the world look like if we all spoke the same language, the language of the Heart? Heaven.
1. confused noise: a confused noise, especially the noise of loud unintelligible voices all talking at once
2. noisy place: a scene or place of noisy confusion (Encarta)
What would the world look like if we all spoke the same language, had complete access to unfiltered information? Today it is possible to read accurate translations of newspapers and periodicals from around the world, to immerse ourselves in unfamiliar cultures. Unfortunately even in the most prosperous nations most fail to read even their local newspaper and many of those who do rarely get beyond the headlines, comics, horoscope and sports page (which is why corrections and apologies are found on pg A23). Those living in underdeveloped regions or nations with strict information controls, if they see any outside information at all, have a very limited view of the outside world. Is it any wonder why it is nearly impossible for individuals and nations to agree if one believes black is white while the other believes white is black and each can site “their” source as the truth? The truth is not subjective.
Living on the Spiritual Basis is the path of the common tongue we all share, when we practice the presence of God in all our activities, the heart speaks, and when the heart speaks, hearts listen. Whether we speak English, French, Russian or any other language for secular communication the Language of the Heart is universal. Regardless of our spoken language, if are beginning each day asking in morning meditation to be shown the way of patience, tolerance, kindliness and love we speak as one. If we are asking throughout our day to be shown how we can be of service to God and our fellows, we speak with one voice. When we consistently place the welfare of others ahead of our own, we demonstrate the universal language of Divine Love. What would the world look like if we all spoke the same language, the language of the Heart? Heaven.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
THE BOOK OF GENESIS
Genesis: n
beginning: the time or circumstances of something’s coming into being. (Encarta)
When did your book of genesis begin? The first chapter the day you choose to live on a different basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God. An argument could be made that the book of our lives should begin with our birth, and in truth, it does. For most, unfortunately, this is their only book of life. The conscious decision to Live on the Spiritual Basis closes the old book of our lives and opens the new, for we are reborn. Consider the circumstances that brought to a head the moment you cried out for change. Our rebirth into the light is brought about in pain, just as our physical birth was, made all the more difficult because we are fully conscious for all of it. Pain is the only instrument sharp enough to cut away the excess of self. Is it any wonder this is the path least taken, the road less traveled? Many pay it lip service, few willing to pay the price required, a great sadness indeed. Pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth. We can wish it were not so with all our might, but in truth, without the facilitation of pain few, if any, would act.
As you write in your book today, thank God for knowing Him better. Ask in meditation and prayer what you can do today for those struggling to open the account of the rest of their days in the light, for not only do you have much to give, being reborn, Living on the Spiritual Basis demands it of us.
beginning: the time or circumstances of something’s coming into being. (Encarta)
When did your book of genesis begin? The first chapter the day you choose to live on a different basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God. An argument could be made that the book of our lives should begin with our birth, and in truth, it does. For most, unfortunately, this is their only book of life. The conscious decision to Live on the Spiritual Basis closes the old book of our lives and opens the new, for we are reborn. Consider the circumstances that brought to a head the moment you cried out for change. Our rebirth into the light is brought about in pain, just as our physical birth was, made all the more difficult because we are fully conscious for all of it. Pain is the only instrument sharp enough to cut away the excess of self. Is it any wonder this is the path least taken, the road less traveled? Many pay it lip service, few willing to pay the price required, a great sadness indeed. Pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth. We can wish it were not so with all our might, but in truth, without the facilitation of pain few, if any, would act.
As you write in your book today, thank God for knowing Him better. Ask in meditation and prayer what you can do today for those struggling to open the account of the rest of their days in the light, for not only do you have much to give, being reborn, Living on the Spiritual Basis demands it of us.
Friday, August 28, 2009
THE CONQUERING HORSE
“Driven by a hundred forms of fear, self-delusion, self-seeking, and self-pity…(AA pg 62).” Whether it be the individual or nation, every war, criminal act, acts of self-destruction, all cruelty are embodied here. What conquering horse do you ride? Freedom or bondage? Am I willing to let others suffer, for any justification? Do I look down my nose at anyone for any reason? Do I believe in freedom for all? Do I trust God? Really? Am I willing to stand for the truth or do I soft pedal it to save hurt feelings?
How many of mankind’s worst moments started out of “good intentions”? Lenin and his followers promised freedom for the average man from the yoke of aristocracy. Hitler was elected on the promise of a new prosperity and freedom for Germany. Millions died in the course ill-fated Christian Crusades. Millions more died when the tide turned and Islam swept across Europe. Both sides in the “War Between the States” claimed God would see them to victory.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we no longer hide behind generalities. We are all God’s children or none of us are. God either is or He isn’t. When I marginalize you, I marginalize everyone. To ride the conquering horse to freedom requires more courage than we are capable of on our own, but with God all things are possible. Abandon yourself to God, ask Him to remove the lingering prejudices and sacred cows still holding you back, grab the mane of the conquering horse as it speeds by and hold on with all your might. Do not try to reign him in or guide him for he will toss you off if you do. His vision is clear, his sights set, his destination the heart of God, for it is none other than God himself who sent him to you and He will give you the abiding strength to hold on, to freedom.
How many of mankind’s worst moments started out of “good intentions”? Lenin and his followers promised freedom for the average man from the yoke of aristocracy. Hitler was elected on the promise of a new prosperity and freedom for Germany. Millions died in the course ill-fated Christian Crusades. Millions more died when the tide turned and Islam swept across Europe. Both sides in the “War Between the States” claimed God would see them to victory.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we no longer hide behind generalities. We are all God’s children or none of us are. God either is or He isn’t. When I marginalize you, I marginalize everyone. To ride the conquering horse to freedom requires more courage than we are capable of on our own, but with God all things are possible. Abandon yourself to God, ask Him to remove the lingering prejudices and sacred cows still holding you back, grab the mane of the conquering horse as it speeds by and hold on with all your might. Do not try to reign him in or guide him for he will toss you off if you do. His vision is clear, his sights set, his destination the heart of God, for it is none other than God himself who sent him to you and He will give you the abiding strength to hold on, to freedom.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
THREE WILD HORSES
Three of the four horsemen of the apocalypse are generally, but not universally, seen as destructive to the world. Emmet Fox teaches that the Pale Horse represents the physical body and its destruction through all forms of addiction, the negative as well as the seemingly positive. The Red Horse destruction by our emotions and feelings. The Black Horse destruction through intellect.
The Pale Horse is the most obvious to observe typically, It is difficult for the drunk or addict to hide their affliction. But what of the person who is addicted to exercise or work? The gym, running/biking trials or the office can become an escape from the world just as powerful as booze or any drug and just as spiritually destructive. The alcoholic in their cups or the loaded addict has a difficult time “fitting” into polite society while the workaholic is often praised for their accomplishments, with little regard to the other areas of life and living sacrificed in the name of success or providing for the family. The family they are never present for, the children who do not “understand” how hard mom/dad is working for them, the ungrateful spouse who “out of left field” files for divorce.
Who doesn’t want to have a slim sculpted body? We have all snuck glimpses at the magazines by the check out counter promising the six-pack abs on the cover model in thirty days. Physical activity and exercise in moderation is always a good idea, but when it crosses over into narcissism, it becomes as sure a block to spiritual growth as any drink or drug. Additionally the stories of lives and families ruined from unchecked sexual desire are legion.
The Red Horse represents destruction through emotions and feelings. How many lives have been lost or ruined when an individual or nation acted on overheated emotions or inflamed feelings? How many fights, confrontations and wars could have been avoided if cooler heads had prevailed? To be clear: We are emotional beings. Without emotion, this world would be a very drab place, bereft of music or art. It is when we are controlled, dominated by our emotions and feelings that we shut ourselves off from the sunlight of the spirit.
How many worship at the God of intellect? They would never of course see it as worship, but is there really a whit of difference in commitment between the minister on Sunday preaching from the pulpit or the professor/scientist/politician speaking with absolute certainty on any subject? Consider the science textbooks of even just 30 years ago, regardless of discipline, are worthless today because of new discoveries. Isn’t it the height of hubris to think that “now” we have all the answers in any area of study or science? We ride the Black Horse when we close our minds and stop asking questions, for our path is to strive to expand our consciousness.
The Pale Horse is the most obvious to observe typically, It is difficult for the drunk or addict to hide their affliction. But what of the person who is addicted to exercise or work? The gym, running/biking trials or the office can become an escape from the world just as powerful as booze or any drug and just as spiritually destructive. The alcoholic in their cups or the loaded addict has a difficult time “fitting” into polite society while the workaholic is often praised for their accomplishments, with little regard to the other areas of life and living sacrificed in the name of success or providing for the family. The family they are never present for, the children who do not “understand” how hard mom/dad is working for them, the ungrateful spouse who “out of left field” files for divorce.
Who doesn’t want to have a slim sculpted body? We have all snuck glimpses at the magazines by the check out counter promising the six-pack abs on the cover model in thirty days. Physical activity and exercise in moderation is always a good idea, but when it crosses over into narcissism, it becomes as sure a block to spiritual growth as any drink or drug. Additionally the stories of lives and families ruined from unchecked sexual desire are legion.
The Red Horse represents destruction through emotions and feelings. How many lives have been lost or ruined when an individual or nation acted on overheated emotions or inflamed feelings? How many fights, confrontations and wars could have been avoided if cooler heads had prevailed? To be clear: We are emotional beings. Without emotion, this world would be a very drab place, bereft of music or art. It is when we are controlled, dominated by our emotions and feelings that we shut ourselves off from the sunlight of the spirit.
How many worship at the God of intellect? They would never of course see it as worship, but is there really a whit of difference in commitment between the minister on Sunday preaching from the pulpit or the professor/scientist/politician speaking with absolute certainty on any subject? Consider the science textbooks of even just 30 years ago, regardless of discipline, are worthless today because of new discoveries. Isn’t it the height of hubris to think that “now” we have all the answers in any area of study or science? We ride the Black Horse when we close our minds and stop asking questions, for our path is to strive to expand our consciousness.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
THE FOUR HORSEMEN
Terror, bewilderment, frustration and despair. All who have chosen the road of happy destiny know these hideous four horsemen. Terror: Does God exist? What if He doesn’t? Bewilderment: If He does, who or what is the path, and how can I ever hope to find it? Frustration: Is it Yahweh, Zeus, Jesus, Buddha, Mohammad, Zoroaster, Ganesha or some other deity or teacher that is the true path, how do I choose? Despair: If I choose wrong will I “burn” in hell as some strongly state, lost for all eternity, terrorized and tortured?
Fortunately, there is good news for we found that God does not make too hard terms with those who seek Him. To us, the Realm of Spirit is broad, roomy, all-inclusive; never exclusive or forbidding to those who earnestly seek. It is open, we believe, to all men. In my life, the saddest people I have known are those who insist that there is only one way to freedom, their way, and if you do not believe their way you will be lost for eternity, oh, but God loves you. The foundation of our true relationship to God is found in the opening two words of the Lord‘s Prayer: “OUR FATHER”. God is the Father of all, rich and poor, famous and infamous, believer or infidel and does not play favorites. All are provided with limitless opportunities to grow and learn, remember; we are not of this flesh but are as eternal as God for we are made in His likeness. Would a loving parent cast away a wayward child, forever, or would they continue to help in any positive way they could, forever? Would God, Our Father, do any less?
Cast off the fetters of constrictive thinking and embrace the whole of His love and guidance. Be quick to see where religious people are right and make use of what they offer, praying to be shown the truth of being, meditating daily on how to be of service to God and our fellows, trusting in your connection to the Infinite and acting accordingly. Keep an open mind, remain willing to learn and grow, regardless of the source and stay honest with yourself on what you truly believe, for the unexamined life leads to the bondage of self. When we live this way the riders are unseated, their horses turned out to pasture.
Fortunately, there is good news for we found that God does not make too hard terms with those who seek Him. To us, the Realm of Spirit is broad, roomy, all-inclusive; never exclusive or forbidding to those who earnestly seek. It is open, we believe, to all men. In my life, the saddest people I have known are those who insist that there is only one way to freedom, their way, and if you do not believe their way you will be lost for eternity, oh, but God loves you. The foundation of our true relationship to God is found in the opening two words of the Lord‘s Prayer: “OUR FATHER”. God is the Father of all, rich and poor, famous and infamous, believer or infidel and does not play favorites. All are provided with limitless opportunities to grow and learn, remember; we are not of this flesh but are as eternal as God for we are made in His likeness. Would a loving parent cast away a wayward child, forever, or would they continue to help in any positive way they could, forever? Would God, Our Father, do any less?
Cast off the fetters of constrictive thinking and embrace the whole of His love and guidance. Be quick to see where religious people are right and make use of what they offer, praying to be shown the truth of being, meditating daily on how to be of service to God and our fellows, trusting in your connection to the Infinite and acting accordingly. Keep an open mind, remain willing to learn and grow, regardless of the source and stay honest with yourself on what you truly believe, for the unexamined life leads to the bondage of self. When we live this way the riders are unseated, their horses turned out to pasture.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
ACCEPT NO SECOND-BESTS
Happy, Joyous and Free. Generally content, feeling OK and somewhat unrestrained. Which would you rather be? Purchasing “seconds” at the outlet mall to save a few bucks is all well and good, but when it comes to our spiritual consciousness never settle for anything but the fullest expression of our inheritance as children of the Divine, to be Happy, Joyous and Free.
Monday, August 24, 2009
ALTER YOUR LIFE
Does God play favorites? Are some “chosen” for success while others for failure? Does God want us all to be “Happy, Joyous and Free”? Is He all “Our Father” or not? Living on the Spiritual Basis, we have chosen to live the examined life. Answering these questions defines what we really believe. We lived speaking in generalities using bumper sticker length platitudes as answers when we were of the world. Now being in the world but of God, by choice, we look beyond easy vacuous greeting card answers to life and living and get down to causes and conditions. A price has to be paid and the price is the surrendering of self.
We alter our lives by taking the road less traveled. Here difficulty arises since we often find ourselves seemingly traveling alone, encountering questions and challenges greater than we see others facing. To be clear: everyone faces the same questions and challenges, the form they take alters for each individual, but they all are born of the same bedrock and we will either seek answers, live in denial or induced oblivion if the pain of living becomes to great. Selfishness, self-centeredness, self-seeking, fear in all its guises are handicaps to spiritual freedom. The world is continually providing “self help” answers to the questions of life, a new book, a seminar or training program to solve our problems. How many have come and gone in the course of your life, promising everything but only succeeding in draining bank accounts or running up credit card balances, then fading away?
A relationship with the Source requires nothing and everything. There is no need to bring your wallet, but helping those in need, as you see fit, is highly recommended. You do not have to join anything, but congregating with like-minded individuals is a plus. God is the same today as yesterday and promised to be in the future, yet living in the light we grow and change day by day, sometimes moment by moment. The path is available to all, rich to poor, literate or illiterate, high born or born of the earth, the only impediment is our own fear, which leads to our seeming separation from eternal truth. Everything needed to have a conscious contact with God is available to us now, if we are willing to go to any lengths for a spiritual awakening. Willing to go to any lengths. What an order, but in the light of truth, is there really any other choice?
We alter our lives by taking the road less traveled. Here difficulty arises since we often find ourselves seemingly traveling alone, encountering questions and challenges greater than we see others facing. To be clear: everyone faces the same questions and challenges, the form they take alters for each individual, but they all are born of the same bedrock and we will either seek answers, live in denial or induced oblivion if the pain of living becomes to great. Selfishness, self-centeredness, self-seeking, fear in all its guises are handicaps to spiritual freedom. The world is continually providing “self help” answers to the questions of life, a new book, a seminar or training program to solve our problems. How many have come and gone in the course of your life, promising everything but only succeeding in draining bank accounts or running up credit card balances, then fading away?
A relationship with the Source requires nothing and everything. There is no need to bring your wallet, but helping those in need, as you see fit, is highly recommended. You do not have to join anything, but congregating with like-minded individuals is a plus. God is the same today as yesterday and promised to be in the future, yet living in the light we grow and change day by day, sometimes moment by moment. The path is available to all, rich to poor, literate or illiterate, high born or born of the earth, the only impediment is our own fear, which leads to our seeming separation from eternal truth. Everything needed to have a conscious contact with God is available to us now, if we are willing to go to any lengths for a spiritual awakening. Willing to go to any lengths. What an order, but in the light of truth, is there really any other choice?
Sunday, August 23, 2009
YOUR INVISIBLE DICTAPHONE
Besides the curious way our recorded voice always sounds odd to us when played back, if you have ever recorded a long conversation the playback was eye opening in our word choices, cadence etc. Most unfortunately will never experience this because they will never record more than a voice mail greeting. Living in the digital world many a politician has been embarrassed by the ease of retrieval of a flip flop recorded for posterity.
The price of continuing spiritual freedom is vigilance. It is easy to drift back into negative thinking and speech. The “good” natured gossip with a friend or joining in(or worse, instigating) a bitch session about a co-worker or boss. Taking sides in any romantic or marital dispute. If we are talking about anyone for any reason and would be embarrassed if we found them standing behind us, we are wrong. If I am saying anything about anyone that I would be unwilling to say to their face, I’m wrong. Gossiping and tale telling rarely if ever embodies patience, tolerance, kindliness or love and these are some of the watchwords Living on the Spiritual Basis requires. As far as taking sides in romantic squabbles, we have all done it only to become the enemy when they reconcile. Be supportive but avoid setting yourself up later to be the bad guy.
Everything we say, do or observe is recorded. Everything. Not by God, by us. It is written upon our heart, recorded in the subconscious. Every crummy or negative thing we have ever said or done (as well as the good, but the good isn‘t the problem)is still with us and it seems the Devil himself drags these things up into the conscious mind to hold us back. We are powerless to control which thoughts float up from the subconscious. We have complete control over what action to take when we become aware of them (we don’t always catch them right away, the subconscious mind is cunning, baffling and powerful). We pray and meditate. Turn the sunlight of the spirit upon them and assert the truth in being, that you have been forgiven, completely and forever, that Our Father’s love is unconditional and these negative thoughts specters, insubstantial, powerless in the face of God’s love and guidance. Stay vigilant and avoid negativity towards others but above all never beat yourself about the head and shoulders with the past for you are now living on a different basis, the basis of trusting and relying upon God.
The price of continuing spiritual freedom is vigilance. It is easy to drift back into negative thinking and speech. The “good” natured gossip with a friend or joining in(or worse, instigating) a bitch session about a co-worker or boss. Taking sides in any romantic or marital dispute. If we are talking about anyone for any reason and would be embarrassed if we found them standing behind us, we are wrong. If I am saying anything about anyone that I would be unwilling to say to their face, I’m wrong. Gossiping and tale telling rarely if ever embodies patience, tolerance, kindliness or love and these are some of the watchwords Living on the Spiritual Basis requires. As far as taking sides in romantic squabbles, we have all done it only to become the enemy when they reconcile. Be supportive but avoid setting yourself up later to be the bad guy.
Everything we say, do or observe is recorded. Everything. Not by God, by us. It is written upon our heart, recorded in the subconscious. Every crummy or negative thing we have ever said or done (as well as the good, but the good isn‘t the problem)is still with us and it seems the Devil himself drags these things up into the conscious mind to hold us back. We are powerless to control which thoughts float up from the subconscious. We have complete control over what action to take when we become aware of them (we don’t always catch them right away, the subconscious mind is cunning, baffling and powerful). We pray and meditate. Turn the sunlight of the spirit upon them and assert the truth in being, that you have been forgiven, completely and forever, that Our Father’s love is unconditional and these negative thoughts specters, insubstantial, powerless in the face of God’s love and guidance. Stay vigilant and avoid negativity towards others but above all never beat yourself about the head and shoulders with the past for you are now living on a different basis, the basis of trusting and relying upon God.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
YOU ARE ALWAYS TREATING
Everything is connected. Every word and action. Every thought. Nothing happens without consequence, without touching everything else around it, that then touches everything around them, and on and on. Consider the still pond. A pebble is tossed into the middle and concentric rings from the disturbance begin emanating on the surface towards the sides of the pond. Observe carefully and you will see the rings rebound back from the shore toward the center, often at oblique angles, eventually touching even the hidden shores of the pond. This is what we can see, what of that which happens beyond our sight? As our pebble falls through the water to the bottom of the pond it continues to send out waves of disturbance, though invisible to the eye, touching every part of the pond and every creature that calls the pond home.
The effect of our pebble reverberating in the pond is akin to our thoughts, words and actions effect on our selves and the world about us. Nothing happens in a vacuum. Our words and actions reverberate throughout the world, unseen or consciously noticed unless we command a position of international prominence, but the effect is there none the less. The analogy of “a butterfly flaps its wings in Africa and a drought happens in China” has been used by climatologists to suggest that the smallest actions can produce major effects is illustrative.
Never doubt your importance or connection with the Divine. You are the literal son or daughter of the Most High. Regard yourself accordingly and assert your true place in thought and deed as a demonstration of God’s love and guidance and the world rejoices.
The effect of our pebble reverberating in the pond is akin to our thoughts, words and actions effect on our selves and the world about us. Nothing happens in a vacuum. Our words and actions reverberate throughout the world, unseen or consciously noticed unless we command a position of international prominence, but the effect is there none the less. The analogy of “a butterfly flaps its wings in Africa and a drought happens in China” has been used by climatologists to suggest that the smallest actions can produce major effects is illustrative.
Never doubt your importance or connection with the Divine. You are the literal son or daughter of the Most High. Regard yourself accordingly and assert your true place in thought and deed as a demonstration of God’s love and guidance and the world rejoices.
Friday, August 21, 2009
GOD SAYS NOW
What are you waiting for? Living on the Spiritual Basis we have decided to get off the bench and into the bus. Everyone sits on the bench for a time, watching bus after bus stop and pick up passengers, rationalizing and justifying reasons for not taking the trip, yet. Fear keeps us on the bench, a mustard seeds worth of faith gets us moving. Get off your butt and get on the bus. The fare is willingness, open-mindedness and honesty. The destination salvation and freedom, the driver none other than God himself. Yes, it will be a long strange trip, oh but the sights and vistas along the way remarkable beyond words, breathtaking in the awakening, the driver providing perfect pitch commentary.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
BLUEBEARD DRAWS THE LINE (OUR SECRET ROOM)
When I began truly applying spiritual principles in my life I had to address my “secret room.” I didn’t have any secrets as horrendous as Bluebeard’s but there were something’s I was not proud of and didn’t really want to shine any light on them. Employing rationalization and justification I had sold myself a bill of goods, neatly locking these things away from sight. When the time came to ruthlessly face my past, if I wished to grow spiritually, the reasoning that locked these things away melted like spring snow. I placed them on paper and said them out loud to a trusted advisor and God. When this was done it felt as if an actual weight was lifted from my shoulders, it was a stunning moment. This happened many years ago and in the intervening years I have watched the same thing happen in hundreds of lives, the only requirement being for successful consummation of the process is that they were thorough and honest in clearing out their secret room. The truth will set you free.
A few weeks after reveling the inventory of my secret room I asked God to enter every nook and cranny of my life, to short circuit any false notion that there exists any aspect of my life that God does not know about. Looking back it seems foolish that I believed I could “hide” things from God, but I did. As a wise teacher said many years ago “live your life as if it is being filmed, a permanent record available to any who would care to look.” In truth no camera eye follows us around (thankfully), but the eye of God does (thankfully). Clear out your closet if you haven’t already, for God already knows what is in it. Tear the door of your secret place off its hinges, and live in the light, free of the fear of the past.
A few weeks after reveling the inventory of my secret room I asked God to enter every nook and cranny of my life, to short circuit any false notion that there exists any aspect of my life that God does not know about. Looking back it seems foolish that I believed I could “hide” things from God, but I did. As a wise teacher said many years ago “live your life as if it is being filmed, a permanent record available to any who would care to look.” In truth no camera eye follows us around (thankfully), but the eye of God does (thankfully). Clear out your closet if you haven’t already, for God already knows what is in it. Tear the door of your secret place off its hinges, and live in the light, free of the fear of the past.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
TRIUMPH OVER DANGER
Honesty, open-mindedness and willingness. We triumph over danger and life’s inevitable challenges not by the exercise of willpower and brute force but by tapping into the power of the universe. There are many paths that lead to the realization of the existence of God, some seek His face through selfless service, most however travel the roadway of pain, seeking Him when all else has failed and they are bereft of answers. Sickness (our own or a loved ones), addiction, financial stress, failed relationship and death (a loved ones or contemplating our own) are all entry points to the road all will travel. The only instrument sharp enough to cut away the excess of self is pain. The greatest gift you can give yourself is a foundation in faith before the assault on self begins. The pain and discomfort of dealing with the ultimate questions of living will not be lessened, but you will have a clear cut direction to follow out of the wilderness.
Be quick to see where religious people are right. Make use of what they have to offer. Set aside any preconceived ideas and put on a new pair of glasses. Listen and learn with your heart, for in the end, isn’t finding a way out more important than who provides it? If you were drowning and a rope appeared held by a long hated enemy would you refuse it? Put aside your prejudice against any spiritual path, make use of what they offer and join us as we trudge the road of happy destiny.
Be quick to see where religious people are right. Make use of what they have to offer. Set aside any preconceived ideas and put on a new pair of glasses. Listen and learn with your heart, for in the end, isn’t finding a way out more important than who provides it? If you were drowning and a rope appeared held by a long hated enemy would you refuse it? Put aside your prejudice against any spiritual path, make use of what they offer and join us as we trudge the road of happy destiny.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
OUR ASSURANCE
Some things in life are assured: taxes, death, politicians, less sleep and more bathroom trips after 50, at least one new diet a month that promises: better sex, drop 20 pounds in 20 days with no exercise, fewer bathroom trips and better sleep. The newspaper/nightly news will lead with a scary story. Oh, and of course the Cubs.
What of spiritual assurance? Spiritual tomes and teachers state matter-of-factly some pretty strong promises of what will happen, for good or ill, based on our actions. What do you believe? The world (man) is always presenting some new and improved way to solve problems, to address the issues of living. All that is required is your vote and/or your money/credit card number and everything will change for the better. In truth, nothing in the news today is new. Politicians may not technically belong to the worlds oldest profession (I have my doubts) but if not they have been around nearly as long. Additionally there was a time, and not that long ago, when leeches and blood letting where central to a patients care and most patent medicines would definitely make you feel better, considering they consisted mostly of alcohol and some form of opium, but did little else.
We are asked to trust people and institutions, to place our faith in governments and “learned” experts. Yet the same problems that plagued the ancient Greeks and Romans still plague us today: healthcare, jobs, secure borders, taxes, immigration, elder care, safe and available food, education, road and bridge maintenance, etc. Studying the history of worldly assurances; both micro and macro, it becomes apparent that outer assurances have done little to fundamentally change the world.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we have found the timeless assurances of spiritual teachers becoming real for us because we stepped out in faith and did the work ourselves. By placing our trust in the miraculous, turning from the outer to the within through prayer and meditation, trusting in infinite God rather than our finite self, we have found peace and the ability to meet calamity with serenity. Our reliance based on our work in raising our consciousness, expanding our conscious contact with God, not the assurances of others. The promise of life eternal beyond the limitations of the flesh real, for we are in the world but no longer of the world. Now if I could just cut down on those bathroom trips in the middle of the night, maybe if I change my diet...
What of spiritual assurance? Spiritual tomes and teachers state matter-of-factly some pretty strong promises of what will happen, for good or ill, based on our actions. What do you believe? The world (man) is always presenting some new and improved way to solve problems, to address the issues of living. All that is required is your vote and/or your money/credit card number and everything will change for the better. In truth, nothing in the news today is new. Politicians may not technically belong to the worlds oldest profession (I have my doubts) but if not they have been around nearly as long. Additionally there was a time, and not that long ago, when leeches and blood letting where central to a patients care and most patent medicines would definitely make you feel better, considering they consisted mostly of alcohol and some form of opium, but did little else.
We are asked to trust people and institutions, to place our faith in governments and “learned” experts. Yet the same problems that plagued the ancient Greeks and Romans still plague us today: healthcare, jobs, secure borders, taxes, immigration, elder care, safe and available food, education, road and bridge maintenance, etc. Studying the history of worldly assurances; both micro and macro, it becomes apparent that outer assurances have done little to fundamentally change the world.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we have found the timeless assurances of spiritual teachers becoming real for us because we stepped out in faith and did the work ourselves. By placing our trust in the miraculous, turning from the outer to the within through prayer and meditation, trusting in infinite God rather than our finite self, we have found peace and the ability to meet calamity with serenity. Our reliance based on our work in raising our consciousness, expanding our conscious contact with God, not the assurances of others. The promise of life eternal beyond the limitations of the flesh real, for we are in the world but no longer of the world. Now if I could just cut down on those bathroom trips in the middle of the night, maybe if I change my diet...
Monday, August 17, 2009
OUR PROMISE
Living on the Spiritual Basis promises much: “We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness. We will not regret the past or wish to shut the door on it. We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace…That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear…Self-seeking will slip away. Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change. Fear of people and of economic security will leave us. We will intuitively know how to handle situations which used to baffle us…When we look back, we realize that the things which came to us when we put ourselves in God’s hands were better than anything we could have planned…As we felt new power flow in, as we enjoyed peace of mind, as we discovered we could face life successfully, as we became conscious of His Presence, we began to lose our fear of today, tomorrow or the hereafter. We were reborn.”
“Are these extravagant promises? We think not…They will always materialize if we work for them” (Alcoholics Anonymous pgs 63,83,84 & 100 respectively).
If this and more is promised to those suffering from addiction, could you expect anything less in your life? Place your will and life into His hands and this and so much more is yours, for it is the promise and God keeps all His promises.
“Are these extravagant promises? We think not…They will always materialize if we work for them” (Alcoholics Anonymous pgs 63,83,84 & 100 respectively).
If this and more is promised to those suffering from addiction, could you expect anything less in your life? Place your will and life into His hands and this and so much more is yours, for it is the promise and God keeps all His promises.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
OUR DELIVERANCE
Often I have worked with someone who prays, but then sabotages themselves, essentially negating the prayer. Living on the Spiritual Basis we now trust and rely on God for guidance, strength and direction but it is up to us to demonstrate our belief. If we pray but don’t really believe that we deserve to receive or that somehow the difficulty we are in was delivered by God to “teach” us a lesson than our prayer is answered accordingly. What do you believe? If God is the Father and we are the children, would He teach through pain and suffering anymore than you would your child? Living in grace we are forgiven our transgressions as soon as we ask, the pain comes when after having our consciousness raised we choose to act in a manner we know in our heart is wrong. God does not punish us, we do. He does not keep score, we do. Everything we have ever done or said is written on our heart, in our hand, not God’s. God wants us to be happy, joyous and free, if I’m not it is because I have taken back up the reins of my life and am running the show again for God is a gentleman and will always hand the reins back when I reach for them.
Our deliverance comes from trust and demonstration. Trust in Him who has all knowledge and power and you will demonstrate the life you desire, continue outlining and attempting to run the show and you will demonstrate more of what you are praying to have removed! Avoid lending God a hand in the running of your life, He really doesn’t need our help.
Our deliverance comes from trust and demonstration. Trust in Him who has all knowledge and power and you will demonstrate the life you desire, continue outlining and attempting to run the show and you will demonstrate more of what you are praying to have removed! Avoid lending God a hand in the running of your life, He really doesn’t need our help.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
OUR FORTRESS
What do you believe in? We believe in all sorts of things but typically fail to take the time to consider them. Everyone lives by a set of values, has a code, things they will and will not do but rarely stop and examine what they are. Living on the Spiritual Basis, we choose to examine our beliefs, become clear on our values and the code we live by. In so doing we build the structure of our mentality, our consciousness a stone at a time. Our decision to live the examined life builds the fortress of our faith, provides sure footing in times of trouble, protection from the vagaries of random wild negative thoughts and raised ramparts to better view the landscape of our lives.
All structures require maintenance, lest they fall into ruin. I have been watching the Tour De France bicycle race for years. One of the things that brings me back every year is the stunning pictures of France. Much of the race is followed with helicopters, showing panoramic shots of famous structures in proximity to the race. France is dotted with castles/fortresses, typically situated on a prominent high point overlooking a village or critical choke point along an invasion route. A few are still occupied, but most have been allowed to deteriorate, their walls crumbling, moats overgrown. Just as these physical walls fail without care, the fortress of our faith will suffer as well without consistent prayer and meditation. If we fail to do this and rest on our laurels the seeds of fear will find their way into the stones, take root and eventually breach the walls. Having done the work in faith to build your fortress, stay vigilant for the beginning shoots of fear, negativity and depression and when they appear, and they will, address them immediately reaffirming your faith and trust in God.
All structures require maintenance, lest they fall into ruin. I have been watching the Tour De France bicycle race for years. One of the things that brings me back every year is the stunning pictures of France. Much of the race is followed with helicopters, showing panoramic shots of famous structures in proximity to the race. France is dotted with castles/fortresses, typically situated on a prominent high point overlooking a village or critical choke point along an invasion route. A few are still occupied, but most have been allowed to deteriorate, their walls crumbling, moats overgrown. Just as these physical walls fail without care, the fortress of our faith will suffer as well without consistent prayer and meditation. If we fail to do this and rest on our laurels the seeds of fear will find their way into the stones, take root and eventually breach the walls. Having done the work in faith to build your fortress, stay vigilant for the beginning shoots of fear, negativity and depression and when they appear, and they will, address them immediately reaffirming your faith and trust in God.
Friday, August 14, 2009
THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY
There are no atheists in foxholes. When things are going well we all have a tendency to slack off a touch on our spiritual work. This is natural. The sun is shining, the clouds in the sky just decoration, perfect for watching lying on a soft bed of grass. Life is good. If we have been consistent in our spiritual work and demonstrations we enjoy these times but are not complacent. Like the athlete who trains daily for the occasional competitions, we pray and meditate daily to keep our connection to the Divine fresh and open for the inevitable times when dark clouds gather and the wind howls as the rain begins to fall in our lives. Living on the Spiritual Basis we understand that the rain falls on the just and the unjust equally, we are not being punished. Living on the new basis, when the rain comes we gently step back into the shadow and shelter of the Almighty, out of the wind, continuing to pray and meditate until the storm passes and the sun returns. Having embraced eternity we know the truth of being, that behind every cloud, the sun still shines.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
THE SECRET PLACE
Within as without. What we believe at our core always finds it way into the light. The thief, liar and cheat all eventually fly their colors and become known for what they are, in spite of their attempts to hide it. Those who speak of God yet act godless are the saddest of all. They recognize the beauty and importance of a spiritual connection only from the standpoint of exploiting it for their own gain. If there ever was a creature who deserved our pity, they qualify. They truly “miss the forest for all the trees”, their focus self-centered, the majesty and connection to the author of all obscured.
Only you know your heart. When our relationship with God is right, all other relationships can and will fall into place. The secret place is our consciousness, where we lay the foundation and place the order for the future. With God as our partner the foundation is sound, the future secure in the knowledge that we have tapped the universal mind for guidance and strength. The world will always clamor in its attempt to invade our serenity, to infect our heart with fear, to turn us from the miraculous to the mundane. Turn off the news, put down the newspaper, switch off the radio and let the phone go to voicemail. Pick up whatever spiritual tome is at hand or appeals to you and spend sometime with it. Read a few lines and quietly reflect on what they mean to you. Continue doing this until it is time to stop, you will know. Your heart will be filled, peace re-established, perspective restored. This all happens in your secret place, your soul, your connection to the Divine cleansed. The forest in clear view, the beauty of the trees evident.
Only you know your heart. When our relationship with God is right, all other relationships can and will fall into place. The secret place is our consciousness, where we lay the foundation and place the order for the future. With God as our partner the foundation is sound, the future secure in the knowledge that we have tapped the universal mind for guidance and strength. The world will always clamor in its attempt to invade our serenity, to infect our heart with fear, to turn us from the miraculous to the mundane. Turn off the news, put down the newspaper, switch off the radio and let the phone go to voicemail. Pick up whatever spiritual tome is at hand or appeals to you and spend sometime with it. Read a few lines and quietly reflect on what they mean to you. Continue doing this until it is time to stop, you will know. Your heart will be filled, peace re-established, perspective restored. This all happens in your secret place, your soul, your connection to the Divine cleansed. The forest in clear view, the beauty of the trees evident.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
TAKE GOD FOR YOUR PARTNER
How different would the fabric of the world look if all business were operated on spiritual principles. All the justifications and rationalizations for poor of spirit decisions regarding layoffs, exorbitant salaries, pollution, leaving communities where they have been central to employment for decades just to improve the “bottom line”, etc would evaporate like morning dew on a desert flower. To be clear: change is natural. People who perform at exceptional levels should be compensated accordingly. If a business is not profitable and healthy, it should and must change. It is the manner and choices in change that matter. Hinduism taught over 3000 years before Jesus: “One should always treat others as they wish to be treated.” This simple, straightforward spiritual principle (think Golden Rule) is central to every spiritual path and religion, though first recorded over 5000 years ago, is routinely ignored. If business and governments employed just this single spiritual pillar, the world would be transformed overnight.
Through our continued prayers and meditation, we raise the consciousness of the world, but what of the individual? If you have not invited God into your business, do not lose any more time. Living on the Spiritual Basis, you have tapped a resource of unimaginable depth and power, yet so many who adhere to spiritual principles in their personal life allow themselves to waver when it comes to business. This happens because the competition does not employ these principles and the fear is that if we do we will lose out. Is it really any wonder then that spiritual principles like the Golden Rule are absent from “secular” business decisions? Once again, there is no secular. Everything and everyone is part of the Divine. All supposed divisions are merely convenient illusions to perpetuate the false belief that there are areas of our lives that God is not involved in or a party to. Seek then His guidance and love in the workplace as well. Whether we clean the executive washroom or rule the boardroom, deliver the mail or pass judgment from the highest court in the land, weigh every decision and choice in spiritual light, lean on the greatest partner you will ever have because In God We Trust is not situational, but a way of life.
Through our continued prayers and meditation, we raise the consciousness of the world, but what of the individual? If you have not invited God into your business, do not lose any more time. Living on the Spiritual Basis, you have tapped a resource of unimaginable depth and power, yet so many who adhere to spiritual principles in their personal life allow themselves to waver when it comes to business. This happens because the competition does not employ these principles and the fear is that if we do we will lose out. Is it really any wonder then that spiritual principles like the Golden Rule are absent from “secular” business decisions? Once again, there is no secular. Everything and everyone is part of the Divine. All supposed divisions are merely convenient illusions to perpetuate the false belief that there are areas of our lives that God is not involved in or a party to. Seek then His guidance and love in the workplace as well. Whether we clean the executive washroom or rule the boardroom, deliver the mail or pass judgment from the highest court in the land, weigh every decision and choice in spiritual light, lean on the greatest partner you will ever have because In God We Trust is not situational, but a way of life.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
I AM THAT I AM
No, this isn’t about Popeye, he said “I yam what I yam and that’s all that I yam.” Living on the Spiritual Basis is about unlimited potential and growth, our connection to the infinite. Popeye chose limitation, that what he is is all he is and that’s it. Living on the new basis the question must be asked why Popeye chose fear over freedom. Was he locked into a cycle of failure because of his overbearing father, Poopdeck Pappy, always trying to impress him but invariably falling short? Was it because he feared losing Olive Oyl if he flew his colors as a man of God? The condescending personal attacks from Bluto/Brutus if he announced his faith? His inability to say no to Wimpy’s endless requests for support of his burger habit a demonstration of his weakness, not trusting in God to provide? Or was it the fear that to truly live on the spiritual basis he would have to surrender his spinach addiction? Sadly we may never know. But we can learn from Popeye’s suffering and choose to live an unlimited life. Trust in God and carry the good news of His love and light into all your affairs, your life a demonstration of the new basis, the basis of trusting and relying on Him who has all knowledge and power. Let us hope Popeye in his final days, out of the limelight, his days of beating Bluto/Brutus senseless behind him, having released Poopdeck Pappy with love, finally free of the co-dependent relationship with Olive Oyl, no longer enabling Wimpy, that he found peace and serenity. Toot Toot.
Monday, August 10, 2009
GOD’S ABUNDANCE FOR YOUR NEED
The Tenth Commandment: You shall not covet…anything that is your neighbor’s (Exodus 20:17). From Encarta:
Covet: v
1. Want somebody else’s property: to have a strong desire to possess something that belongs to somebody else.
2. Yearn to have: to want to have something very much.
How many wars have been started and crimes committed because of coveting? How many millions/billions put to the sword because someone coveted their land and/or possessions? Alexander, Caesar, Genghis Khan, Hitler and Stalin coveted the world. The purse-snatcher to the well dressed individual draining the savings of thousands with outright lies.
Living on the new basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God, we now know the truth of coveting. To covet is to be in fear. Fear of lack, of not getting what we “deserve”, of failure. None of the “Great” conquerors died fulfilled. They all expired with plans on the table for further conquest, coveting still more. The thief, whether it be the few dollars in your pocket or billions in trusted investment, still covet more. They are like the damaged vessel, regardless of how much water is added is never full, the water draining away nearly as fast as it is added through the hole at its base.
But what of those who never act out to realize that which they covet? To covet is to allow fear to reign in our lives, whether we act on it or not, to countenance shortage and lack. Living on the Spiritual Basis lack and shortage exist in their true light, that God is the only source and all lack and shortage illusion. God is infinite supply and nothing is lacking or missing. When we covet, we place our finite selves ahead of the infinite Source. To covet is to deny God’s “allness”, God is either everything, the true Source or else He is nothing, what is our choice to be?
Covet: v
1. Want somebody else’s property: to have a strong desire to possess something that belongs to somebody else.
2. Yearn to have: to want to have something very much.
How many wars have been started and crimes committed because of coveting? How many millions/billions put to the sword because someone coveted their land and/or possessions? Alexander, Caesar, Genghis Khan, Hitler and Stalin coveted the world. The purse-snatcher to the well dressed individual draining the savings of thousands with outright lies.
Living on the new basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God, we now know the truth of coveting. To covet is to be in fear. Fear of lack, of not getting what we “deserve”, of failure. None of the “Great” conquerors died fulfilled. They all expired with plans on the table for further conquest, coveting still more. The thief, whether it be the few dollars in your pocket or billions in trusted investment, still covet more. They are like the damaged vessel, regardless of how much water is added is never full, the water draining away nearly as fast as it is added through the hole at its base.
But what of those who never act out to realize that which they covet? To covet is to allow fear to reign in our lives, whether we act on it or not, to countenance shortage and lack. Living on the Spiritual Basis lack and shortage exist in their true light, that God is the only source and all lack and shortage illusion. God is infinite supply and nothing is lacking or missing. When we covet, we place our finite selves ahead of the infinite Source. To covet is to deny God’s “allness”, God is either everything, the true Source or else He is nothing, what is our choice to be?
Sunday, August 9, 2009
THE TRUE WITNESS
The Ninth Commandment: You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor (Exodus 20:16). So, we shouldn’t lie about people, but what of the price if we fail to adhere to this truth? Living on the Spiritual Basis we observe those bearing false witness invariably reap as they sow. Dishonesty becomes the norm and it infects every facet of their lives. The ultimate price being their inability to demonstrate the true from the false at the most critical junctures of their lives. Having lived their lives as dishonest, when the truth becomes crucial, they know only deep despair, having become constitutionally incapable of being honest, they continue to suffer until they accept spiritual help.
We are always working on our spiritual demonstration, for good or ill, we choose the path we walk throughout our day. We build our consciousness by our actions, so be ever vigilant of the path your feet rest upon. Telling tales and engaging in gossip, even if it seems “innocuous”, brands us accordingly. By our fruits we shall be known or to quote Emerson: “What you are shouts so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”
We are always working on our spiritual demonstration, for good or ill, we choose the path we walk throughout our day. We build our consciousness by our actions, so be ever vigilant of the path your feet rest upon. Telling tales and engaging in gossip, even if it seems “innocuous”, brands us accordingly. By our fruits we shall be known or to quote Emerson: “What you are shouts so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”
Saturday, August 8, 2009
BY RIGHT OF CONSCIOUSNESS
The Eighth Commandment: You shall not steal (Exodus 20:15). The laws regarding theft are well known, but what of spiritual theft? Stolen property or wealth never belongs to the thief. It may be in their possession for a time, but soon moves on. They dispose of it in some way, the items or cash finding its way into another’s hands. When discovered the thief is punished accordingly, the items or money returned if it can be located.
Let’s consider material possessions and wealth. Everything around or on you belonged to someone or something else before it came to you, and one day will leave you. Your car belonged to the manufacturer/dealer before it was purchased and though it may be in your possession, if you are still making payments it “belongs” to the lender until paid off, eventually to be sold, traded in, handed down or scrapped. Your clothes, even if you made them you bought the material and thread from someone else, first belonged to the store where you purchased them and one day will find their way to Good Will, a garage sale or become a rag eventually finding its way to a land fill. Consider the ancient Egyptians. They constructed intricate tombs in an attempt to “take it with them”, to hold onto their possessions and wealth beyond the grave. A visit to a museum quickly demonstrates how well that worked out. Is it any wonder why some refer to archaeologists as “grave robbers”?
Nothing is permanent beyond the soul, the spark of the Divine within each of us, our indestructible connection to the universe, existing outside the strictures of time. The work we do to raise our consciousness stays with us, forever. Those who have tried to demonstrate a connection to God for the sake of material success never succeed in the end. Personal wealth, possessions or false pride never pass beyond the grave. You cannot steal or fake a relationship with God. The difference between secular theft and spiritual is eternity. Even if you succeed in convincing everyone else, in the end both you and God know the truth, so what was the point? As a wise teacher said: Where do wish to build your kingdom? Here, where it is subject to time and deterioration or in Heaven, which is eternal. No one gets out alive. This flesh will fail. The work you have done to raise your consciousness remains with you by spiritual right, forever. Your relationship with a Power Greater than Yourself is forever beyond the reach of any thief or the ravages of time.
Let’s consider material possessions and wealth. Everything around or on you belonged to someone or something else before it came to you, and one day will leave you. Your car belonged to the manufacturer/dealer before it was purchased and though it may be in your possession, if you are still making payments it “belongs” to the lender until paid off, eventually to be sold, traded in, handed down or scrapped. Your clothes, even if you made them you bought the material and thread from someone else, first belonged to the store where you purchased them and one day will find their way to Good Will, a garage sale or become a rag eventually finding its way to a land fill. Consider the ancient Egyptians. They constructed intricate tombs in an attempt to “take it with them”, to hold onto their possessions and wealth beyond the grave. A visit to a museum quickly demonstrates how well that worked out. Is it any wonder why some refer to archaeologists as “grave robbers”?
Nothing is permanent beyond the soul, the spark of the Divine within each of us, our indestructible connection to the universe, existing outside the strictures of time. The work we do to raise our consciousness stays with us, forever. Those who have tried to demonstrate a connection to God for the sake of material success never succeed in the end. Personal wealth, possessions or false pride never pass beyond the grave. You cannot steal or fake a relationship with God. The difference between secular theft and spiritual is eternity. Even if you succeed in convincing everyone else, in the end both you and God know the truth, so what was the point? As a wise teacher said: Where do wish to build your kingdom? Here, where it is subject to time and deterioration or in Heaven, which is eternal. No one gets out alive. This flesh will fail. The work you have done to raise your consciousness remains with you by spiritual right, forever. Your relationship with a Power Greater than Yourself is forever beyond the reach of any thief or the ravages of time.
Friday, August 7, 2009
FALSE ALLEGIANCE
The Seventh Commandment: You shall not commit adultery (Exodus 20:14). Pretty straightforward. The Old Testament lays out a pretty harsh penalty for those breaking this commandment: death. That would certainly clear the dockets in divorce court, but what does this mean to us today in the light of Living on the Spiritual Basis? The case can be made that shall not also means can not. Clearly married people are and have been hooking up with people other than their spouses since the institution of marriage became accepted. The can not applies to the inner self, the subconscious, our soul, were we always pay the price for our actions, secular justification and rationalization meaningless. When a student has approached with a question about infidelity, to date it has always been after the fact. When someone begins to have the stirrings, considering an affair or fling, the last thing they want to do is talk about it before consummation. When I’m approached the conversation usually begins with something like “it wasn’t planned, it just happened” “I don’t know what I was thinking” “I never wanted to hurt my wife/husband” or some such other nonsense.
Don’t know what you were thinking? You were thinking about sex with someone other than your spouse. It wasn’t planned? Your pants just happened to drop, in a secluded place, and you figured what, must be God’s will? You never wanted to hurt your spouse? So, if circumstances were reversed, how would you feel? Let me be clear here: If it is time for a marriage to end, then it should, divorce is not wrong or evil. People grow at different rates, develop new interests that take their lives in conflicting directions or even falling in love (before having sex) with another are all valid reasons to end a marriage, the lying (to our spouse and ourselves) and the false flags flown are the problem.
We make a commitment, before God, to another when we wed. We owe them, ourselves, and God the truth. Many an otherwise good relationship has been irreparably damaged from a passing infatuation, the union crippled because of dishonesty, for had they been honest about their feelings and intentions before the act, though still uncomfortable, the death penalty would have been avoided. The death penalty called out in the old testament today plays out as the death of trust, love, peace of mind, serenity and turning our back on the spiritual principles we have come to hold dear, seemingly shutting us off from the sunlight of the spirit. The death of a piece of our soul. A high price indeed considering the long road of forgiveness we then have to travel to regain the peace of mind cast away.
The truth will set you free. The price of rigorous honesty may be high, even painful, but we must be willing to pay it if we expect to grow spiritually.
Don’t know what you were thinking? You were thinking about sex with someone other than your spouse. It wasn’t planned? Your pants just happened to drop, in a secluded place, and you figured what, must be God’s will? You never wanted to hurt your spouse? So, if circumstances were reversed, how would you feel? Let me be clear here: If it is time for a marriage to end, then it should, divorce is not wrong or evil. People grow at different rates, develop new interests that take their lives in conflicting directions or even falling in love (before having sex) with another are all valid reasons to end a marriage, the lying (to our spouse and ourselves) and the false flags flown are the problem.
We make a commitment, before God, to another when we wed. We owe them, ourselves, and God the truth. Many an otherwise good relationship has been irreparably damaged from a passing infatuation, the union crippled because of dishonesty, for had they been honest about their feelings and intentions before the act, though still uncomfortable, the death penalty would have been avoided. The death penalty called out in the old testament today plays out as the death of trust, love, peace of mind, serenity and turning our back on the spiritual principles we have come to hold dear, seemingly shutting us off from the sunlight of the spirit. The death of a piece of our soul. A high price indeed considering the long road of forgiveness we then have to travel to regain the peace of mind cast away.
The truth will set you free. The price of rigorous honesty may be high, even painful, but we must be willing to pay it if we expect to grow spiritually.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
EXPRESSING WHAT YOU ARE
The Sixth Commandment: You shall not murder (Exodus 20:13). The old King James translation is: Thou shalt not kill. The New King James Version does away with the archaic idioms of speech from 15th and 16th century England; additionally the original Hebrew and Greek texts dating to the 5th century have been compared to the Dead Sea scrolls to provide the most accurate translation to date. Many lacking knowledge of the Bible have cited the old King James version of this commandment as support for all manner of causes, when reading the next chapter of Exodus (21) it would be clear to anyone the old testament not only allowed killing but set out very specific guidelines and methods. Murder as described and understood at the time of the writing of the old testament was the unethical or immoral taking of a life, the punishment of which was typically killing the offender in the manner proscribed by Jewish law (remember, this was around 3500 years ago and the world was a much wilder and lawless place).
Living on the Spiritual Basis, we look beyond the outer to the inner, for there are deeper layers to this commandment. No one can assassinate, murder your character, peace of mind, reputation or connection to God unless you open the door. Living on the new basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God, we stand in the light, fearless (though often trembling) of the world, for we are in, but no longer of this world, walking the road less traveled. Rejecting gossip, character assassination and condemnation of others we are set free, for we now know in our heart of hearts the truth of being: that we are all children of the Divine and will reap as we have sown. Our job to be of service to all who earnestly seek and to pray in private for those struggling with the truth, asking God to do for them what they cannot do for themselves, never answering the unasked question but willing and ready to help when asked.
Living on the Spiritual Basis, we look beyond the outer to the inner, for there are deeper layers to this commandment. No one can assassinate, murder your character, peace of mind, reputation or connection to God unless you open the door. Living on the new basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God, we stand in the light, fearless (though often trembling) of the world, for we are in, but no longer of this world, walking the road less traveled. Rejecting gossip, character assassination and condemnation of others we are set free, for we now know in our heart of hearts the truth of being: that we are all children of the Divine and will reap as we have sown. Our job to be of service to all who earnestly seek and to pray in private for those struggling with the truth, asking God to do for them what they cannot do for themselves, never answering the unasked question but willing and ready to help when asked.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
POLARITY
The Fifth Commandment: Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you (Exodus 20:12). If we were raised in a loving, respectful, two parent home this commandment is pretty straightforward on the surface. What about those who were not? Does God expect us to honor an abusive or absent/missing parent? Yes, since they are children of God just as we are, but that does not mean we have to invite them into our lives. Living on the Spiritual Basis, we recognize their shortcomings, defects of character, and release them with love. Do not misunderstand: releasing someone with love does not wipe the slate clean, absolving them. If they have committed a criminal act, the proper authorities should be notified. If they were emotionally abusive and show no interest in changing, releasing them with love does not mean we place ourselves in a position to continue to be harmed or worse allow the grandparent to visit their abuse on the grandchild. Additionally an absent parent who suddenly appears and wishes to become a part of your life; their only passport being the contribution of sperm or 9 months in their womb, must be weighed accurately in spiritual light, since our first inclination is to allow them access in a way that we would never grant anyone else we have just met, so go slowly.
To be clear since emotions run very high on these issues: Exercising forgiveness and releasing with love does not mean that we forget and blindly place others or ourselves in a position to be harmed. Loving all spiritually; in Source, does not mean we have to like them or sit across the table on Thanksgiving. Release all with love, visualize God’s love and guidance towards them in prayer and meditation but never lose sight of the truth that the leopard, no matter how much we may wish it, rarely changes its spots. “Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.”
Living on the Spiritual Basis this commandment takes on a deeper meaning as well. Perhaps the greatest teacher of all cleared up any ambiguity about our relationship with the divine, that of literally being parent to child when he delivered the Sermon on the Mount. We are all children of God, and by honoring Him, placing our will and life in His hands, do we find true peace, freedom and long life in the spirit as we walk the road of Happy Destiny, eyes wide open.
To be clear since emotions run very high on these issues: Exercising forgiveness and releasing with love does not mean that we forget and blindly place others or ourselves in a position to be harmed. Loving all spiritually; in Source, does not mean we have to like them or sit across the table on Thanksgiving. Release all with love, visualize God’s love and guidance towards them in prayer and meditation but never lose sight of the truth that the leopard, no matter how much we may wish it, rarely changes its spots. “Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.”
Living on the Spiritual Basis this commandment takes on a deeper meaning as well. Perhaps the greatest teacher of all cleared up any ambiguity about our relationship with the divine, that of literally being parent to child when he delivered the Sermon on the Mount. We are all children of God, and by honoring Him, placing our will and life in His hands, do we find true peace, freedom and long life in the spirit as we walk the road of Happy Destiny, eyes wide open.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
A TIME TO REST
The Fourth Commandment: Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (Exodus 20:8). 3500 years ago when this commandment came into being, people rarely enjoyed a day “off” let alone one day a week devoted to spiritual pursuits. Most worked dawn to dusk, their life expectancy less than 30 years. This New Testament (it didn’t become “old” for around 1500 years) laid out rules and conditions for living and conduct that for the first time applied to all, rich and poor, high and low born, rags or royalty. The Sabbath wasn’t just for the priests to observe, but everyman was to stop and rest, to take time to contemplate god, the commandment making it spiritual law, superseding secular.
For 1500 or so years this stood as the model for those who embraced the new covenant, the covenant of a single God. Then Jesus raised the consciousness of man again with his teaching/demonstration of belief removing the last bastion of any supposed separation from God, our true relationship being one of parent to child, not figuratively but literally.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we pray and meditate through out our day, every day the Sabbath, every moment sacred, the truth of our relationship with God demonstrated. Turning our will and lives over to the care of God invites His love and direction into our lives 24/7. Living in a raised state of consciousness we carry the message into all of our activities, practicing spiritual principles in everything we do and with all we meet, the Sabbath not a day of the week but the living daily expression of our connection to the miraculous.
For 1500 or so years this stood as the model for those who embraced the new covenant, the covenant of a single God. Then Jesus raised the consciousness of man again with his teaching/demonstration of belief removing the last bastion of any supposed separation from God, our true relationship being one of parent to child, not figuratively but literally.
Living on the Spiritual Basis we pray and meditate through out our day, every day the Sabbath, every moment sacred, the truth of our relationship with God demonstrated. Turning our will and lives over to the care of God invites His love and direction into our lives 24/7. Living in a raised state of consciousness we carry the message into all of our activities, practicing spiritual principles in everything we do and with all we meet, the Sabbath not a day of the week but the living daily expression of our connection to the miraculous.
Monday, August 3, 2009
THOUGHTS ARE THINGS
The Third Commandment: You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God in vain… (Exodus 20:7) Per Encarta:
Vain: adj
1. excessively proud: excessively proud, especially of your appearance
2. unsuccessful: failing to have or unlikely to have the intended or desired result
a vain attempt at persuading them
3. empty of substance: devoid of substance or meaning
[14th century. Via Old French from Latin vanus “empty, without substance” (source of English evanescent and vanish).]
We demonstrate what we believe by our actions. Someone who states they love everyone but acts with cruelty is vain. The man who stands as honest yet lies and steals at every turn is vain. Their words mean nothing, are devoid of substance, used only in an attempt to enjoy a reputation they know they do not deserve so they can further their selfish desires.
History is replete with those who spoke of God, their love of God, preached how their connection to God was the true path, only to be unmasked as vain, using God as the vehicle to further their own selfish ends.
Fortunately the only demonstration we need be concerned with is our own. Living on the Spiritual Basis we understand the necessity of walking the way we talk. Talking about a power greater than yourself but failing, even refusing to follow the dictates of a higher power leads to pain and suffering, how could it not? We place ourselves at odds, by choice, with the creative intelligence of the universe and then wonder why we struggle. Our actions, demonstration, show that our relationship with God is devoid of any real substance or meaning, vain, we do not walk the way we talk.
The good, no great news for us is that as soon as we do indeed turn our will and life over to the care and direction of God the scales begin to fall from our eyes, our relationship with the Divine taking on substance and meaning because of our new demonstration, vanity replaced with purpose.
Vain: adj
1. excessively proud: excessively proud, especially of your appearance
2. unsuccessful: failing to have or unlikely to have the intended or desired result
a vain attempt at persuading them
3. empty of substance: devoid of substance or meaning
[14th century. Via Old French from Latin vanus “empty, without substance” (source of English evanescent and vanish).]
We demonstrate what we believe by our actions. Someone who states they love everyone but acts with cruelty is vain. The man who stands as honest yet lies and steals at every turn is vain. Their words mean nothing, are devoid of substance, used only in an attempt to enjoy a reputation they know they do not deserve so they can further their selfish desires.
History is replete with those who spoke of God, their love of God, preached how their connection to God was the true path, only to be unmasked as vain, using God as the vehicle to further their own selfish ends.
Fortunately the only demonstration we need be concerned with is our own. Living on the Spiritual Basis we understand the necessity of walking the way we talk. Talking about a power greater than yourself but failing, even refusing to follow the dictates of a higher power leads to pain and suffering, how could it not? We place ourselves at odds, by choice, with the creative intelligence of the universe and then wonder why we struggle. Our actions, demonstration, show that our relationship with God is devoid of any real substance or meaning, vain, we do not walk the way we talk.
The good, no great news for us is that as soon as we do indeed turn our will and life over to the care and direction of God the scales begin to fall from our eyes, our relationship with the Divine taking on substance and meaning because of our new demonstration, vanity replaced with purpose.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
POCKET GODS AND GRAVEN IMAGES
The Second Commandment: You shall not make for yourself a carved (graven) image… (Exodus 20:4).The passage goes on to state that we must (shall) not bow down or serve them. We all have a friend, acquaintance or relative whom has been retelling the same story, recounting in passionate detail a lost love, opportunity, when they were wronged or a medical procedure/condition, seemingly forever. We have heard it so many times that when we think of them we cannot help but think of their “story” as well, their lives defined by it. Instead of applying spiritual principles, they have carved an image that is dragged out at any opportunity and displayed, the eternal search for the sympathetic ear. A solution or growing spiritually beyond his or her “story” of no real interest, only the telling because “no one really understands” and in truth they cannot envision life without it. Their identity so intertwined with their story the fear of letting go, moving forward, so overwhelming that “I may be in shit, but it is warm and familiar and I know what to expect” being preferable. Living on the Spiritual Basis, the basis of trusting and relying on God, we have turned out all of our pocket gods (sacred cows) and given over our “stories” our carved images of resentment, ailments and anything else that stands between us and the sunlight of the spirit. Living in this way we transcend ordinary levels of consciousness, placing aches, pains, and secular living concerns in their proper perspective, our relationship with God paramount.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
RAISED CONSCIOUSNESS
The First Commandment: You shall have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:3). Everyone worships something. The atheist who reverentially, with deep conviction preaches the religion of non-belief, The Darwinist speaking from the mount of science, painting all who disagree with the taint of ignorance, the evidence of their position clearly incontrovertible. The preacher condemning all who do not share their limited interpretation of scripture, certain in their self-righteousness, worshiping at the altar of spiritual pride, cocksure in their vision. The Red Sox fan casting out the demons of New York and those sad souls of Norte Dame who have rejected the truth of USC. Only slightly with tongue in cheek, if only as much time, hell, half as much was spent studying our spiritual nature as is invested in fantasy sports leagues or watching reality TV the entire planetary consciousness would soar. To be clear: even though we state our belief in God, we worship where we place our attention. From Encarta:
Worship: v
1. religion treat somebody or something as deity: to treat somebody or something as divine and show respect by engaging in acts of prayer and devotion
2. love somebody deeply: to love, admire, or respect somebody or something greatly and perhaps excessively or unquestioningly
3. religion take part in religious service: to take part in a religious service
: n
1. religion religious adoration: the adoration, devotion, and respect given to a deity
2. religion religious rites: the rites or services through which people show their adoration, devotion, and respect for a deity
3. great devotion: great or excessive love, admiration, and respect felt for somebody or something
So many times a student has approached in difficulty and when asked about their prayer and meditation life has responded "when I remember" or"if I can find the time." When we place anything before our relationship with God, we will reap the crop we have sown. Let nothing take a more prominent position in your life, place your full attention on your relationship with Him who has all knowledge and power, and everything else will fall into place in due course.
Worship: v
1. religion treat somebody or something as deity: to treat somebody or something as divine and show respect by engaging in acts of prayer and devotion
2. love somebody deeply: to love, admire, or respect somebody or something greatly and perhaps excessively or unquestioningly
3. religion take part in religious service: to take part in a religious service
: n
1. religion religious adoration: the adoration, devotion, and respect given to a deity
2. religion religious rites: the rites or services through which people show their adoration, devotion, and respect for a deity
3. great devotion: great or excessive love, admiration, and respect felt for somebody or something
So many times a student has approached in difficulty and when asked about their prayer and meditation life has responded "when I remember" or"if I can find the time." When we place anything before our relationship with God, we will reap the crop we have sown. Let nothing take a more prominent position in your life, place your full attention on your relationship with Him who has all knowledge and power, and everything else will fall into place in due course.
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