Visit the resource-packed THRIVE Movement website here.
Honolua Bay, Maui
Monday, November 14, 2011
THE WORLD IS WAKING UP
I just watched an excellent new documentary that I believe goes a long way toward explaining the Big Picture of how and why things got to be the way they are right now on the planet. This movie should be required viewing for anyone who is dedicated to transforming our world. Gratitude and respect to Foster and Kimberly Gamble for their great work on this inspiring project.
Visit the resource-packed THRIVE Movement website here.
Visit the resource-packed THRIVE Movement website here.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
A TAO MANTRA FOR MEDITATION & TRANSFORMATION
Here's one of my favorite mantras for meditation and contemplation. I created this a few years ago, and still use it quite often. I've found it highly effective in calming my conscious mind so I can enter my inner meditative space in a very peaceful, relaxed, and open state. If you already have a meditation practice or a particular technique that suits your needs, but sometimes have difficulty quieting your body and/or your mind, you may want to try incorporating this mantra into your personal meditation practice. There is great meaning and power in these words, so even if you choose not to incorporate them into your actual meditation, you can silently repeat this mantra to yourself at any time throughout your day as a means of soothing your mind and your spirit.
The meditation practice that I've found works best for me follows these steps: first, get into a comfortable position, where you can remain quiet and still for a sufficient period of time, perhaps 20-30 minutes. Then, with your eyes closed, very slowly and silently repeat the mantra to yourself several times, matching the flow of your breathing to the rhythmic phrasing of the mantra, until you're in your desired meditative state. Once you've reached the state in which you wish to dwell, you can either continue repeating the mantra at your own pace, or transition into your usual meditation practice. Here is the mantra, for your consideration:
The meditation practice that I've found works best for me follows these steps: first, get into a comfortable position, where you can remain quiet and still for a sufficient period of time, perhaps 20-30 minutes. Then, with your eyes closed, very slowly and silently repeat the mantra to yourself several times, matching the flow of your breathing to the rhythmic phrasing of the mantra, until you're in your desired meditative state. Once you've reached the state in which you wish to dwell, you can either continue repeating the mantra at your own pace, or transition into your usual meditation practice. Here is the mantra, for your consideration:
"I Allow and Accept
All That Is
In Peace and Harmony"
This mantra was inspired by my favorite book of all the sacred writings I've ever read: Lao-Tzu's Tao Te Ching. In the spirit of the Tao, this mantra is designed to take us out of judgment and separation, and into a place of flow and serenity. There are five essential principles within this mantra, and here is what each of them means to me...
The first principle is the affirmation "I Allow and Accept." The purpose here is to free ourselves from the illusion of the ego's need to try to control all that happens in life, and also to let go of the need to second-guess or judge all that happens in life. When we consciously choose to allow life to unfold in its own time, and in its own way, according to the natural Divine flow that governs all being and all life, we then open ourselves to the fullness of potential. Miracles can and do occur when we're in that space of alignment with the flow of life. But to merely allow is not sufficient unto itself - we must also accept what it is that flows into our lives from the Divine. We might be tempted to say "Well, I allowed life to unfold, and look what happened - it's all wrong!" If we could dispense with the constant judgment of ourselves, of the process of life, and instead freely accept what flows to us, we could deepen our understanding that a higher power is at work in our lives, in the world, and in the universe.
The second principle is designed to clarify exactly what it is you are to Allow and Accept: "All That Is." Those three words leave no room for confusion or misinterpretation. All That Is literally covers everything we can experience in our lives. If we allow, but then say "I accept this, but not that" we actually sabotage or undermine the entire process of aligning ourselves with Spirit and of flowing with that state where miracles manifest themselves. Certain events in our lives may appear one way at the moment when they occur, but then take on an entirely different perspective in the days, weeks, months, or even years that follow. Of course, this is usually how we learn lessons in life: by re-evaluating the events of our lives from a position of greater awareness later on. But how much easier could we make it on ourselves if we affirmed from the beginning that everything that happens is for our highest good?
The third principle describes our spiritual reward; the state of mind we will inevitably experience as a result of choosing to Allow and Accept All That Is: Peace and Harmony. Isn't that what we all really want? Isn't that what we all wish for our world? Imagine how much better our individual and collective lives would be if we experienced more peace and more harmony. It begins within. As more of us learn to cultivate those principles and qualities within ourselves, then the outer world will reflect the same back to us as well. If you believe that thoughts are things, that we create our outer experience with our thoughts, and that the outer world is a manifestation of our inner being, then you also know that as we evolve and mature spiritually the world changes too. It's an endless circle, and a beautiful expression of our true nature, and our innate power, as spiritual beings.
I'll be sharing more mantras and meditative insights in the weeks to come. In the meantime, please let me know how this one works for you!
Namaste,
Gordon
The first principle is the affirmation "I Allow and Accept." The purpose here is to free ourselves from the illusion of the ego's need to try to control all that happens in life, and also to let go of the need to second-guess or judge all that happens in life. When we consciously choose to allow life to unfold in its own time, and in its own way, according to the natural Divine flow that governs all being and all life, we then open ourselves to the fullness of potential. Miracles can and do occur when we're in that space of alignment with the flow of life. But to merely allow is not sufficient unto itself - we must also accept what it is that flows into our lives from the Divine. We might be tempted to say "Well, I allowed life to unfold, and look what happened - it's all wrong!" If we could dispense with the constant judgment of ourselves, of the process of life, and instead freely accept what flows to us, we could deepen our understanding that a higher power is at work in our lives, in the world, and in the universe.
The second principle is designed to clarify exactly what it is you are to Allow and Accept: "All That Is." Those three words leave no room for confusion or misinterpretation. All That Is literally covers everything we can experience in our lives. If we allow, but then say "I accept this, but not that" we actually sabotage or undermine the entire process of aligning ourselves with Spirit and of flowing with that state where miracles manifest themselves. Certain events in our lives may appear one way at the moment when they occur, but then take on an entirely different perspective in the days, weeks, months, or even years that follow. Of course, this is usually how we learn lessons in life: by re-evaluating the events of our lives from a position of greater awareness later on. But how much easier could we make it on ourselves if we affirmed from the beginning that everything that happens is for our highest good?
The third principle describes our spiritual reward; the state of mind we will inevitably experience as a result of choosing to Allow and Accept All That Is: Peace and Harmony. Isn't that what we all really want? Isn't that what we all wish for our world? Imagine how much better our individual and collective lives would be if we experienced more peace and more harmony. It begins within. As more of us learn to cultivate those principles and qualities within ourselves, then the outer world will reflect the same back to us as well. If you believe that thoughts are things, that we create our outer experience with our thoughts, and that the outer world is a manifestation of our inner being, then you also know that as we evolve and mature spiritually the world changes too. It's an endless circle, and a beautiful expression of our true nature, and our innate power, as spiritual beings.
I'll be sharing more mantras and meditative insights in the weeks to come. In the meantime, please let me know how this one works for you!
Namaste,
Gordon
Monday, October 24, 2011
IT'S A JUICY LIFE!
A few months ago, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting an amazing young woman who is almost single-handedly creating a global new media spiritual community. To call Lilou Mace a leader, a visionary, and an inspiration to soul seekers everywhere would be true - but it would also be an understatement. Lilou is a force of nature, and a phenomenon unto herself. Since January 2011, Lilou has been traveling around the US and Canada on her Juicy Living Tour, interviewing the leading authors, healers, teachers, and entrepreneurs in the New Age movement; including Dr. Wayne Dyer, Anita Moorjani, Neale Donald Walsch, Caroline Myss, Dr. Jacob Liberman, and many others. All told, Lilou has self-produced over 1600 videos (all of which are still available for free online) and racked up an incredible 10 million YouTube views.
Lilou has described the Juicy Living Tour as "everyday inspiration...from everyday people." But Lilou's contribution to the uplifting of consciousness at this important juncture in our spiritual development has been anything but commonplace. Yet, for all of her success and stature, Lilou exudes an honesty, humility, and a sweetness of spirit that is in itself captivating. Lilou Mace is a beautiful, soulful woman who lives a life of radical inspiration. She constantly challenges herself to trust the flow of life, to discover and experience all the "juice" life has to offer, and she in turn radiates that juiciness out to everyone she touches with her work. While recently contemplating a major decision in my own life, it was often Lilou's voice I heard encouraging me to ignore my fears, and to follow my heart and soul.
Lilou relies purely on the contributions/donations of her many "co-creators" to support her travels and her work, and it has been truly inspiring to see so many people step forward with housing, transportation, and everything else she has needed to keep the Tour moving forward. What a powerful reminder of how inter-connected we all are, and of how loved and supported we all are when we step forward with courage and trust.
I highly encourage everyone seeking a greater sense of spiritual community and soul-full inspiration to please check out Lilou and her invaluable work - and please support her in any way you can!
Lilou's main Juicy Living Tour site can be found here.
Lilou's main YouTube site, which includes her archived videos, can be found here.
Lilou's other Juicy Living site, which features spontaneous updates and short videos she posts from her iPhone, is here.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
IN MEMORY OF STEVE JOBS...A MASTER OF INSPIRATION & STYLE
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life.
Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."
Friday, August 26, 2011
RADICAL TRANSFORMATION...BARRIERS ARE DISSOLVING
I had just settled into my daily meditation when Dao, my inner Master teacher and spirit guide, asked me "Do you really want to know what's going on right now?" I knew instantly, intuitively, he was referring to the increasingly obvious changes in all spheres (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual) of our world. I was somewhat caught off guard by the directness of his question, because I had been meaning to ask my guides about some of the inner impressions I had been perceiving, but had not even formulated my own question. (This is just one of the many benefits of working with inner guides and teachers: they always seem to know what you want and/or what you need before you do.)
So here now is what I was told, exactly as I transcribed it immediately after the conclusion of my meditation that day, several weeks ago...
Barriers are dissolving. Inner barriers (that separate us from various things) such as: past life memories, life lessons, dramas, individual and shared karmic lessons, man-made barriers between us and God, us and Nature, us and each other, and between us and our destiny. Some are conscious barriers we have erected over the course of this life, or many lifetimes, in order to keep things compartmentalized so we can 'make sense' of our world. Outer barriers between time and space and dimensions.
Some of it is caused by the Divine Plan: now is a time of acceleration and learning, because God wills it this way. Some of it is caused by "wish fulfillment" on the part of a critical mass of Humanity that has asked for it, desired it, dreamed of it, and that has incarnated now in order to experience it.
This is an opportunity for healing much pain and suffering, on many levels: past lives, current lives, repressed memories, individual and group dramas, and tragedies. As these barriers dissolve, and the consciousness or awareness of no separation (no separation in time, space, proximity, seen and unseen dimensions, etc.) expresses - or erupts, as the case may be - into the physical world, it can take many forms.
Some who are not awake, aware, or conscious at this time may experience it as a nightmarish scenario of personal and/or collective hell coming into being and manifesting in their daily physical reality.
Others who are awake, aware, and conscious at this time can and will experience it as a spontaneous and instantaneous healing, rapture, oneness, beauty, and instant connection to their past, present, and future dimensions. What is manifesting for those individuals is full consciousness and awareness of ALL THAT IS. For these souls, it is an amazing opportunity for growth, development, karmic balancing, acceleration, learning, enlightenment, even cosmic consciousness.
What is happening right now is happening to all of us. The cause is the same everywhere for everyone. But the effect is different for each individual, and it depends not on their drama, their story, or their circumstances, but on their intention and their courage to face it all, and to allow it, and to accept it, and to be it.
The time for compartmentalizing life is coming to an end. Going forward, it's all going to play out in real time. Like Neo in The Matrix, when he realizes he is 'The One.' He sees all as one, with no more separation or barriers.
The unconscious will experience this as a time when they can manifest much more rapidly their lower desires or aims - but the repercussions will be instant as well. This will provide them with an opportunity to awaken if they choose to do so.
Similarly, those who are in alignment will now experience their lives as an opportunity for real magic - as their positive vibrations link up with the higher Divine energy to manifest miracles on a daily basis.
It is up to each of us to set our intentions accordingly. If you know, realize, and recognize that the barriers are dissolving more rapidly than ever before, and welcome that energy, and embrace that opportunity, then spontaneous healing, spontaneous enlightenment, and perhaps spontaneous God-realization, are possible now.
Gratitude, Forgiveness, Courage, Humility, Peace, Joy, Creativity, a sense of One, Service, Cooperation, Trust, right use of Power, Love, Wisdom, Life, Positivity, Strength, Vulnerability, Openness - these are some of the traits that are needed now, and that should be cultivated now.
Namaste = "the God in me bows to the God in you."
Love Consciousness = the Divine recognizing itself in all, everywhere, at all times.
The soul is the storehouse of experiences, memories, learned and unlearned lessons, and our connection to the Divine. When barriers dissolve, it opens us to tap into all the soul has recorded, all that it holds. If we allow, and accept, and embrace all that comes out of it, we reap the benefits instantly in the form of "free" consciousness. This is the payoff. If we resist, or deny, or ignore what comes out of it, we experience the payback of the separation of the energy, the un-consciousness. In that case, the energy cannot rise, so it stays stuck in darkness. But when we release it to the light, it rises, and manifests as goodness, as beauty, as love, as pure Divine presence.
A final note from Gordon: as I was typing this, my guides reminded me (or should I say gently reprimanded me) that although this information may not speak to everyone who reads it, I must not hold it back out of fear, as I have done these past several weeks. I must release it to the world and let it take its course. I hope it speaks to you, and that it perhaps positively changes the way you think, feel, and act in these most interesting times.
Namaste!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
ANITA MOORJANI'S INCREDIBLE NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE
Anita Moorjani was diagnosed with cancer in 2002. In early 2006, she lapsed into a coma, and was rushed to the hospital. Anita's organs had shut down, and even after years of chemotherapy and other treatment, lemon-sized tumors filled her body. Doctors advised Anita's husband that she had less than 36 hours to live. But as Anita's family members rushed to her bedside to share her final moments, Anita was leaving her body and "crossing over" to another dimension of life - and love.
What happened after that can only be described as incredible. This is an amazing and magnificent story, and one that can truly transform our lives if we open our hearts to receive Anita's beautiful message.
Please watch Lilou's interview with Anita here.
Please visit Anita's website here.
Namaste!
What happened after that can only be described as incredible. This is an amazing and magnificent story, and one that can truly transform our lives if we open our hearts to receive Anita's beautiful message.
Please watch Lilou's interview with Anita here.
Please visit Anita's website here.
Namaste!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
PATHWAY OF THE IMMORTAL
I'm happy to be working with the renowned Christian Mystic, Author, and Teacher, Elizabeth MacDonald Burrows, editing and updating the 30th Anniversary Edition of her 1981 book Pathway of the Immortal, in preparation for its e-book release in 2012. As I discussed in a previous post, Walking the Path Part 2, I first met Elizabeth in 1981 shortly after she had originally written Pathway, and later became a student of hers for several years. There are thousands of books that endeavor to teach us about living a spiritual life, but I've always considered Pathway of the Immortal to be among the very best of its kind.
This is a book that can literally change one's life, by deepening one's understanding of what it means to walk the dedicated path of spiritual mastership. Having achieved Cosmic Consciousness (Union with God) herself in 1971, Elizabeth expertly teaches how to climb the mountains of mastership, and does so with an attention to detail and flair for the dramatic that could only come from one who has scaled those heights themselves. In Pathway of the Immortal, Elizabeth definitively explains such commonly-misunderstood concepts as Creation, Evolution, Past Lives, Karma, Life After Death, Meditation, Prophecy, Spiritual Powers, Biogenics, Healing, Humanity's Spiritual Destiny, and more. Along the way, some long-lost esoteric teachings are revealed, and some long-standing myths are shattered.
Although inexpensive used copies of the original Pathway can still be found on Amazon, I highly encourage anyone interested in this book to wait for the revised e-book version currently in the works. I'm hoping to include as a bonus an up-to-date interview with Elizabeth in which she reflects on the book, her life, and her 40+ years as a Mystic. That alone would be priceless, and worth waiting for the publication of the new version.
More to come on this project as we get closer to completion, but in the meantime here's a video of Elizabeth teaching Session #1 of her popular Spiritual Initiation class.
This is a book that can literally change one's life, by deepening one's understanding of what it means to walk the dedicated path of spiritual mastership. Having achieved Cosmic Consciousness (Union with God) herself in 1971, Elizabeth expertly teaches how to climb the mountains of mastership, and does so with an attention to detail and flair for the dramatic that could only come from one who has scaled those heights themselves. In Pathway of the Immortal, Elizabeth definitively explains such commonly-misunderstood concepts as Creation, Evolution, Past Lives, Karma, Life After Death, Meditation, Prophecy, Spiritual Powers, Biogenics, Healing, Humanity's Spiritual Destiny, and more. Along the way, some long-lost esoteric teachings are revealed, and some long-standing myths are shattered.
Although inexpensive used copies of the original Pathway can still be found on Amazon, I highly encourage anyone interested in this book to wait for the revised e-book version currently in the works. I'm hoping to include as a bonus an up-to-date interview with Elizabeth in which she reflects on the book, her life, and her 40+ years as a Mystic. That alone would be priceless, and worth waiting for the publication of the new version.
More to come on this project as we get closer to completion, but in the meantime here's a video of Elizabeth teaching Session #1 of her popular Spiritual Initiation class.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
ON A JOURNEY OF THE HEART...THERE'S SO MUCH TO SEE
Our beloved Co-Creator Lilou has been in full-on Paradise mode in Hawai'i the past few weeks...
See her soaring to new heights here: http://www.youtube.com/user/liloumace#p/u/4/MODLmp4G8O8
See her sharing from the heart here: http://www.youtube.com/user/liloumace#p/u/0/6xkrbrFtdqE
Much more to come from Lilou (and Hawai'i) as this magnificent story continues to unfold in the weeks ahead!
See her soaring to new heights here: http://www.youtube.com/user/liloumace#p/u/4/MODLmp4G8O8
See her sharing from the heart here: http://www.youtube.com/user/liloumace#p/u/0/6xkrbrFtdqE
Much more to come from Lilou (and Hawai'i) as this magnificent story continues to unfold in the weeks ahead!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
WALKING THE PATH, PART 3...
The 1980's were a time of self-indulgence for many, and I was certainly no exception. Music continued to be a passion of mine, but in the '80's the spirit of soulful discovery that characterized much of what I loved about the 1970's was gradually replaced by the cold-hearted reality of the Reagan era. By the spring of 1987, I had spent 7 years in the music business - first as a nightclub DJ, then a Music Programmer, Producer, and Engineer - and I was burned out from partying and staying up late all the time. I was ready for a major life change.
My good friend David had made the decision to return to college in his late 20's, and he told me how much more he was enjoying school as an older student. Even though I had barely made it through high school 10 years earlier, I valued my friend's experience and I trusted his advice. After carefully weighing my options, I decided to give college a try at age 29. I quit my job in the recording studio, requested my high school transcripts (ugh) and enrolled in the local community college. Initially, my intention was to pursue a degree in Communications (for sports broadcasting) which would have merged some of my existing interests and talents (sports, writing, public speaking) and perhaps developed a few new ones as well. But as is so often the case, the Universe had other ideas.
Because I had enrolled just a few weeks before Fall classes began, I was only able to pick up a single broadcasting class - which I hated. My childhood fantasies of being a professional sportscaster ended after just 2 weeks of doing the morning sports reports for the school radio station. Free of that illusion, I turned my attention to my other class: an interdisciplinary course that featured English and Mythology. It was a fascinating combination, and the constant reading and writing stimulated my rusty mind and slowly began to re-awaken my spiritual capacities. One of my professors was an eccentric philosopher genius named Mark Levensky, and as fate would have it, we bonded instantly. In what was clearly a harbinger of things to come, I even did a speech that featured the Tao Te Ching! But the real eye-opener came toward the end of Fall semester, when it came time to register for my Winter classes. I was done with sports broadcasting, but I still wanted to try my hand at Communications.
I had reviewed the course offerings for Winter and made my tentative selections when Mark Levensky asked which classes I planned to take. I showed him my list of the various Communications classes I hoped to register for. Professor Levensky looked at my list, pursed his lips, and with a hint of disgust, slowly shook his head. I watched in shock as he took out his pen and started crossing out my class selections. "Hey, what are you doing?! I already know which classes I want!" But he just ignored me as he opened the class catalog and started making his own list. When he finished, he handed me the revised list and said "NOW you're ready to continue your education." His list: Introduction To Philosophy, Contemporary Moral Problems, Philosophy Of Religion. "Philosophy?!" I moaned. "What makes you think I'll like Philosophy?" I asked. I will remember for as long as I live (perhaps even longer) the bemused look on Mark Levensky's face as he turned, eyed me intently, and said "because it's my job to know what's good for your soul."
And at that precise moment, somewhere in the far distant reaches of the Universe, a choir of angels (or at least my guides) probably started singing Hallelujah. The arc of my education, my destiny, and my soul were never the same after that brief divinely-inspired intervention by Mark Levensky. Thanks to his advice, I belatedly discovered Socrates, Plato, and the rich history of Philosophy - which rekindled my love of learning and wisdom. I kept in touch with Mark for a few years after that episode, and 24 years later, I remain grateful for the profound effect he had on my life. Even as I write this today, I find myself filled with a certain love and admiration for Mark Levensky, who embodies the true spirit of what it means to be a Teacher.
To be continued...
My good friend David had made the decision to return to college in his late 20's, and he told me how much more he was enjoying school as an older student. Even though I had barely made it through high school 10 years earlier, I valued my friend's experience and I trusted his advice. After carefully weighing my options, I decided to give college a try at age 29. I quit my job in the recording studio, requested my high school transcripts (ugh) and enrolled in the local community college. Initially, my intention was to pursue a degree in Communications (for sports broadcasting) which would have merged some of my existing interests and talents (sports, writing, public speaking) and perhaps developed a few new ones as well. But as is so often the case, the Universe had other ideas.
Because I had enrolled just a few weeks before Fall classes began, I was only able to pick up a single broadcasting class - which I hated. My childhood fantasies of being a professional sportscaster ended after just 2 weeks of doing the morning sports reports for the school radio station. Free of that illusion, I turned my attention to my other class: an interdisciplinary course that featured English and Mythology. It was a fascinating combination, and the constant reading and writing stimulated my rusty mind and slowly began to re-awaken my spiritual capacities. One of my professors was an eccentric philosopher genius named Mark Levensky, and as fate would have it, we bonded instantly. In what was clearly a harbinger of things to come, I even did a speech that featured the Tao Te Ching! But the real eye-opener came toward the end of Fall semester, when it came time to register for my Winter classes. I was done with sports broadcasting, but I still wanted to try my hand at Communications.
I had reviewed the course offerings for Winter and made my tentative selections when Mark Levensky asked which classes I planned to take. I showed him my list of the various Communications classes I hoped to register for. Professor Levensky looked at my list, pursed his lips, and with a hint of disgust, slowly shook his head. I watched in shock as he took out his pen and started crossing out my class selections. "Hey, what are you doing?! I already know which classes I want!" But he just ignored me as he opened the class catalog and started making his own list. When he finished, he handed me the revised list and said "NOW you're ready to continue your education." His list: Introduction To Philosophy, Contemporary Moral Problems, Philosophy Of Religion. "Philosophy?!" I moaned. "What makes you think I'll like Philosophy?" I asked. I will remember for as long as I live (perhaps even longer) the bemused look on Mark Levensky's face as he turned, eyed me intently, and said "because it's my job to know what's good for your soul."
And at that precise moment, somewhere in the far distant reaches of the Universe, a choir of angels (or at least my guides) probably started singing Hallelujah. The arc of my education, my destiny, and my soul were never the same after that brief divinely-inspired intervention by Mark Levensky. Thanks to his advice, I belatedly discovered Socrates, Plato, and the rich history of Philosophy - which rekindled my love of learning and wisdom. I kept in touch with Mark for a few years after that episode, and 24 years later, I remain grateful for the profound effect he had on my life. Even as I write this today, I find myself filled with a certain love and admiration for Mark Levensky, who embodies the true spirit of what it means to be a Teacher.
To be continued...
Saturday, June 25, 2011
GAILE LYNN'S "I AM" MANTRA MASTERPIECE
More than any other healer or teacher I've seen, Gaile Lynn embodies the powerful archetype of the "New Feminine" - the magical, mystical, feminine energy that is now healing individual lives and transforming our world in the process. In Gaile's case, the New Feminine manifests in her deep connection to Nature, her profound sense of gratitude for All That Is, and in the way her spirit just radiates through her heart.
It was that incredible radiant spirit and beautiful open heart that first grabbed my attention, while watching an interview Gaile did from her home in Maui, Hawai'i for Lilou's Juicy Living Tour. Then, as I learned more about Gaile and her work, I discovered something else that truly blew me away: a 10-minute "I Am" Mantra she had created herself and recorded with her own vocals. It's brilliantly conceived and perfectly executed - easily the best work of its kind I've ever heard.
I urge everyone who is interested in connecting with their Source and the power of the New Feminine to experience Gaile's amazing mantra, and if possible, to utilize it in their own contemplation, meditation or personal ritual. Gaile's I Am mantra is a wonderful gift from her heart to ours, and I believe it's an invaluable spiritual resource that can not only inspire deeper soul journeys, but remind us who we really are.
Gaile has graciously allowed us to access her "I Am" Mantra here.
Learn more about Gaile and her healing and teaching services here.
Watch Gaile's interview with Lilou for the Juicy Living Tour here.
Mahalo nui loa, Gaile!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
RESONANCE OF THE HEART
Friday, June 17, 2011
BEAUTIFUL, LOVED AND BLESSED
Something mysterious and truly profound has been unfolding around here the past several weeks. I'm not exactly sure what it is, or how to characterize it, but the shift in the energy I've been experiencing on a daily basis feels absolutely wonderful. The best way I can describe it is to quote the title of a song by Prince and Tamar from a few years ago, called Beautiful, Loved and Blessed. For well over a month now, I've felt more deeply connected to Spirit, to Nature, my heart, my soul, my intuition, my sense of purpose, and to the people in my life, than I can ever recall before.
My daily meditations have been unusually comforting, instructive, and peaceful - but even saying that doesn't quite do justice to the way I've felt both during and after meditation. My guides told me awhile back that changes were coming, and that I could expect a deepening or an expansion in my consciousness around the end of May - but I had no idea it would be this obvious or this powerful. Nothing in my external world has really changed (yet), but inside, everything feels different. On one hand, there is a sense of calm, and a peaceful acceptance as I go about my daily routine. On the other hand, part of me feels like shouting from the rooftops - and telling anyone who will listen how beautiful, loved and blessed they are, too.
Certain truths keep popping up into my consciousness over and over again, as if they want to make sure I don't forget. One is that life is an innately (or is it insanely) beautiful experience, if we will just awaken to that awareness and understanding. Every moment is an opportunity to see, feel, hear, taste, and touch the Divine - we are surrounded by it no matter who we are, where we are, or what we're doing at any given time. Another reminder is that no matter what our circumstances may be, or how present or aware we are of the Divine, we are truly never alone - we are always loved, always guided, always protected, always supported in every meaningful way. It always comes back to our state of consciousness, and how we choose to perceive life. If we perceive our life as a gift, as a blessing, as a miracle, then the Universe seems to respond in kind and send more confirmation of that reality to us. If we choose to focus too much on the perceived negative aspects of our challenges, or our circumstances - instead of living by what's real, and true, and lasting - then the Universe confirms that for us.
What's real and true and lasting to me is my constant connection to Spirit, Nature, my heart, my soul, my intuition, my sense of purpose, the people in my life, and opening myself to experience the Divine in all of its aspects. I am aware of it, I am grateful for it, and more than anything I am conscious of it. Perhaps there is a synergy, or some kind of exponential magic, that happens when we get in that space and we perceive life that way, where that blessed feeling keeps growing and growing until we surrender to it and allow all that beauty in. It sure feels that way right now.
What is real and true and lasting to you?
My daily meditations have been unusually comforting, instructive, and peaceful - but even saying that doesn't quite do justice to the way I've felt both during and after meditation. My guides told me awhile back that changes were coming, and that I could expect a deepening or an expansion in my consciousness around the end of May - but I had no idea it would be this obvious or this powerful. Nothing in my external world has really changed (yet), but inside, everything feels different. On one hand, there is a sense of calm, and a peaceful acceptance as I go about my daily routine. On the other hand, part of me feels like shouting from the rooftops - and telling anyone who will listen how beautiful, loved and blessed they are, too.
Certain truths keep popping up into my consciousness over and over again, as if they want to make sure I don't forget. One is that life is an innately (or is it insanely) beautiful experience, if we will just awaken to that awareness and understanding. Every moment is an opportunity to see, feel, hear, taste, and touch the Divine - we are surrounded by it no matter who we are, where we are, or what we're doing at any given time. Another reminder is that no matter what our circumstances may be, or how present or aware we are of the Divine, we are truly never alone - we are always loved, always guided, always protected, always supported in every meaningful way. It always comes back to our state of consciousness, and how we choose to perceive life. If we perceive our life as a gift, as a blessing, as a miracle, then the Universe seems to respond in kind and send more confirmation of that reality to us. If we choose to focus too much on the perceived negative aspects of our challenges, or our circumstances - instead of living by what's real, and true, and lasting - then the Universe confirms that for us.
What's real and true and lasting to me is my constant connection to Spirit, Nature, my heart, my soul, my intuition, my sense of purpose, the people in my life, and opening myself to experience the Divine in all of its aspects. I am aware of it, I am grateful for it, and more than anything I am conscious of it. Perhaps there is a synergy, or some kind of exponential magic, that happens when we get in that space and we perceive life that way, where that blessed feeling keeps growing and growing until we surrender to it and allow all that beauty in. It sure feels that way right now.
What is real and true and lasting to you?
Friday, June 10, 2011
AWAKENING FROM THE DREAM
I was going to try to write some kind of introduction for this post - but the material contained in this essay is so concise, so powerful, and so full of wisdom, that I decided to just let it speak for itself.
If you want to understand what is unfolding with the transformation of our planet, and perhaps even discover a deeper, hidden aspect of your role in the transformation process, then you must read this.
If you want to understand what is unfolding with the transformation of our planet, and perhaps even discover a deeper, hidden aspect of your role in the transformation process, then you must read this.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
WAKE UP EVERYBODY
We are living in a time of tremendous change and upheaval, on many levels. We are experiencing these changes in virtually every sphere of our lives: 1) Physically, in the natural/material world with a seemingly never-ending series of environmental crises - which also correlates with our bodies and the litany of health-related challenges so many people face now due to poor nutrition and the impurities in our air, water, and food supplies. 2) Interpersonally, in our relationships with family, friends, and loved ones, as many people are forced to confront life-altering roles and responsibilities brought about by aging parents, families losing their jobs and homes, retirees running out of money, and children growing up in a high-tech, latch-key world largely devoid of values. 3) Socially, as obsolete cultural institutions inevitably rot from within due to fraud, corruption, sex-abuse scandals, and endless war, and long-standing government regimes topple under the forces of revolution. 4) Globally, as the booming world population experiences the planet actually shrinking thanks to the instantaneous connection speed of the internet - and simultaneously wonders what will become of the human collective.
So that's the backdrop. All things considered, we've not seen changes of this magnitude since the 1960's, which, according to noted Bay Area astrologer Jessica Murray, were the cause that created the echo effect we're experiencing now. Apparently The Beatles, JFK, RFK, MLK, and Vietnam were only the beginning. Murray says "we've incarnated into a time of explosive social turmoil. I think our souls wanted action." But amidst all this chaos and turmoil, more than anything else these times we live in are an opportunity: a chance for incredible personal and spiritual transformation. The echoes of the 60's we're hearing are a clarion call to go deep within, to change ourselves and our world.
Given that these changes are occurring whether we want it or not, and whether we like it or not, the real questions then are these: how can we maximize this opportunity, so we not only survive the changes but actually thrive within them? How can we be, and what can we do, to really go deep, to suck every last drop of the juice out of this time, and embrace the chance we've been given - the chance of our lifetime. Because this is it. The time is now. There is no turning back, no going back to the old days or the old ways, no shrinking from this moment. Shakespeare said "all the world's a stage" and we are living in a time when each must play their part in the drama unfolding before us. Are you ready?
I believe what is most needed, what is required of each of us, in the years ahead - and just to clarify, I'm looking at the next 10 years as an absolutely critical timeframe in our joint evolution - is consciousness. But what do I mean by consciousness? Why is it so important now? Why is it the single most indispensable principle we all must cultivate at this time? There are several ways of understanding consciousness. Superficially, it means being awake, being aware, and paying attention. On a deeper level, consciousness means activating all our senses - and not just the 5 we most commonly use to go about our everyday lives. Consciousness means being present - Be * Here * Now - to a degree that you can actually transcend time and space and realize the Divine beauty and perfection that is all around you.
While consciousness alters the way we experience the outer world, it begins within. It begins with you. When you awaken, become aware, pay attention, and are present to what is unfolding around you, then you can access certain abilities and make certain connections that in turn enable you to consciously, proactively, intentionally, create your new life. You literally become a conscious co-creator, working with God/Goddess/All That Is to create the deep transformation you want to experience in your life. The result is like a ripple that becomes a wave on the ocean...as the positive effect of each person waking up impacts everyone else it touches. This is not an ego exercise - in fact, quite the opposite. Contrary to typical motivational techniques, this is not about setting goals, or making plans, or mapping out your success; although you may do those things. This is about surrendering to the flow that is already present, already happening all around you right now, and aligning yourself with that flow to create a new life, a new humanity, and ultimately a new world.
We can begin by consciously tuning in to the material world, which is reflected in our physical bodies and the natural environment. Proper diet, exercise, and health will all be critical in the challenging times ahead. Gardening in general, and growing our own food in particular, are both wonderful ways to simultaneously heal ourselves, increase our physical vitality, and consciously connect our souls to the living spirit of our Earthly Mother. Consciousness in relationships means setting aside petty disagreements of the past, practicing forgiveness, and recognizing that only by uniting in the spirit of cooperation can we create the lives we want. Emotionally, we all want and need to feel loved and appreciated. What better way to experience those beautiful, positive vibrations than to radiate them out to others as frequently as possible. It never ceases to amaze me how differently people respond to one another when they sense genuine caring and compassion.
Consciousness in society means recognizing that the old paradigms that were based on fear and greed are dying - and then letting them go. If they weren't sustainable in the first place, there's no point in trying to resuscitate them. Better to let them die, and instead focus our individual and collective energies on fresh, new ideas and bold new inventions that serve our greatest needs without enriching the few at the expense of the many. Similarly, we all must be courageous enough to look within ourselves and with all honesty confront those ingrained thoughts of division, selfishness, and superiority that we've held. Our lower nature actually thrives on unconsciousness...feeling, thinking, saying and doing the same things over and over. In order to be cre-ative and pro-active, we need to stop being re-active.
Consciousness in the global community means opening our minds to realizing that we are all much more alike than we are different, and opening our hearts to let that new sense of unity take root and grow. The divide-and-conquer politics of the past are history; humanity can no longer afford the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual toll of living a fundamental lie by thinking ourselves separate and not equal. As we consciously evolve and awaken to our true nature as spiritual beings living in a material world, we will learn to apply our new-found wisdom to the well-being of the collective. Yes, we each have our own karma, our own lessons to learn, and each person must walk their own unique path to their highest destiny. But we all share this planetary classroom, and our mission is to create heaven on Earth, together.
The essence of consciousness is that of the Divine reflecting upon itself, in perfect peace and harmony. When we finally recognize that we are part of that Oneness, and that we can choose to experience it in every moment - within ourselves, within each other, within nature, and in Spirit - then the infinite universe of perfection, possibility and potentiality opens up and welcomes you in. It's all there, just waiting for you. Still your body and it's there. Close your eyes and it's there. Silence your mind and it's there. Open your heart and it's there.
Wake up!
So that's the backdrop. All things considered, we've not seen changes of this magnitude since the 1960's, which, according to noted Bay Area astrologer Jessica Murray, were the cause that created the echo effect we're experiencing now. Apparently The Beatles, JFK, RFK, MLK, and Vietnam were only the beginning. Murray says "we've incarnated into a time of explosive social turmoil. I think our souls wanted action." But amidst all this chaos and turmoil, more than anything else these times we live in are an opportunity: a chance for incredible personal and spiritual transformation. The echoes of the 60's we're hearing are a clarion call to go deep within, to change ourselves and our world.
Given that these changes are occurring whether we want it or not, and whether we like it or not, the real questions then are these: how can we maximize this opportunity, so we not only survive the changes but actually thrive within them? How can we be, and what can we do, to really go deep, to suck every last drop of the juice out of this time, and embrace the chance we've been given - the chance of our lifetime. Because this is it. The time is now. There is no turning back, no going back to the old days or the old ways, no shrinking from this moment. Shakespeare said "all the world's a stage" and we are living in a time when each must play their part in the drama unfolding before us. Are you ready?
I believe what is most needed, what is required of each of us, in the years ahead - and just to clarify, I'm looking at the next 10 years as an absolutely critical timeframe in our joint evolution - is consciousness. But what do I mean by consciousness? Why is it so important now? Why is it the single most indispensable principle we all must cultivate at this time? There are several ways of understanding consciousness. Superficially, it means being awake, being aware, and paying attention. On a deeper level, consciousness means activating all our senses - and not just the 5 we most commonly use to go about our everyday lives. Consciousness means being present - Be * Here * Now - to a degree that you can actually transcend time and space and realize the Divine beauty and perfection that is all around you.
While consciousness alters the way we experience the outer world, it begins within. It begins with you. When you awaken, become aware, pay attention, and are present to what is unfolding around you, then you can access certain abilities and make certain connections that in turn enable you to consciously, proactively, intentionally, create your new life. You literally become a conscious co-creator, working with God/Goddess/All That Is to create the deep transformation you want to experience in your life. The result is like a ripple that becomes a wave on the ocean...as the positive effect of each person waking up impacts everyone else it touches. This is not an ego exercise - in fact, quite the opposite. Contrary to typical motivational techniques, this is not about setting goals, or making plans, or mapping out your success; although you may do those things. This is about surrendering to the flow that is already present, already happening all around you right now, and aligning yourself with that flow to create a new life, a new humanity, and ultimately a new world.
We can begin by consciously tuning in to the material world, which is reflected in our physical bodies and the natural environment. Proper diet, exercise, and health will all be critical in the challenging times ahead. Gardening in general, and growing our own food in particular, are both wonderful ways to simultaneously heal ourselves, increase our physical vitality, and consciously connect our souls to the living spirit of our Earthly Mother. Consciousness in relationships means setting aside petty disagreements of the past, practicing forgiveness, and recognizing that only by uniting in the spirit of cooperation can we create the lives we want. Emotionally, we all want and need to feel loved and appreciated. What better way to experience those beautiful, positive vibrations than to radiate them out to others as frequently as possible. It never ceases to amaze me how differently people respond to one another when they sense genuine caring and compassion.
Consciousness in society means recognizing that the old paradigms that were based on fear and greed are dying - and then letting them go. If they weren't sustainable in the first place, there's no point in trying to resuscitate them. Better to let them die, and instead focus our individual and collective energies on fresh, new ideas and bold new inventions that serve our greatest needs without enriching the few at the expense of the many. Similarly, we all must be courageous enough to look within ourselves and with all honesty confront those ingrained thoughts of division, selfishness, and superiority that we've held. Our lower nature actually thrives on unconsciousness...feeling, thinking, saying and doing the same things over and over. In order to be cre-ative and pro-active, we need to stop being re-active.
Consciousness in the global community means opening our minds to realizing that we are all much more alike than we are different, and opening our hearts to let that new sense of unity take root and grow. The divide-and-conquer politics of the past are history; humanity can no longer afford the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual toll of living a fundamental lie by thinking ourselves separate and not equal. As we consciously evolve and awaken to our true nature as spiritual beings living in a material world, we will learn to apply our new-found wisdom to the well-being of the collective. Yes, we each have our own karma, our own lessons to learn, and each person must walk their own unique path to their highest destiny. But we all share this planetary classroom, and our mission is to create heaven on Earth, together.
The essence of consciousness is that of the Divine reflecting upon itself, in perfect peace and harmony. When we finally recognize that we are part of that Oneness, and that we can choose to experience it in every moment - within ourselves, within each other, within nature, and in Spirit - then the infinite universe of perfection, possibility and potentiality opens up and welcomes you in. It's all there, just waiting for you. Still your body and it's there. Close your eyes and it's there. Silence your mind and it's there. Open your heart and it's there.
Wake up!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
WALKING THE PATH, PART 2...
Musical gurus like John Lennon, Maurice White, and Stevie Wonder were the brilliant creative spark behind my initial spiritual journeys as a teenager, but as I moved into adulthood I longed for more direct personal experience with a spiritual teacher. I eventually found what I'd been looking for just a few months shy of my 23rd birthday.
In early 1981, I saw an ad in the newspaper for a seminar by a woman named Elizabeth Burrows. What first captured my attention was that, in the picture accompanying the ad, Elizabeth was dressed in a white tunic. The ad described the Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Burrows as a Christian Mystic, who taught something called The Secret Teachings Of Jesus. I had never been a Christian, but I had no particular feelings one way or the other about Jesus as a spiritual teacher; it was his Bible-thumping followers who annoyed me. But the idea of learning about his "secret teachings" definitely piqued my interest. As a critic and skeptic of all mainstream religions, I was intrigued by Elizabeth's willingness to not only embrace, but teach publicly, a subject that flew squarely in the face of traditional Church dogma.
I attended that seminar and found the Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Burrows to be a compelling speaker, with a commanding presence that exuded a distinct blend of power, love and wisdom. During her introduction, Elizabeth claimed her expertise in the esoteric (hidden) teachings of Christianity, and described her spiritual journey in terms of having previously attained the state of Cosmic Consciousness (or Oneness with God) in 1971. I had read and heard about the concept of spiritual enlightenment and Cosmic Consciousness, and thought I understood the basic idea - but in Elizabeth Burrows, I saw a real person whose very being clearly emanated a higher vibration. Elizabeth went on to explain that she wore the all-white clothing to honor and respect the traditions of the Essenes; the white symbolizing the purity of soul consciousness manifest in the ancient Brotherhood of which Jesus was believed to be a member.
Elizabeth Burrows taught that the highly-advanced spiritual state of the Essene communities, and which she herself had achieved, was not the exclusive domain of Jesus, some famous saints, or a chosen few: Cosmic Consciousness/Union with God was available to all, and was in fact the inevitable destiny of all spiritual aspirants who had passed the necessary trials of countless lifetimes. According to Elizabeth, each and every person would eventually conquer the lofty peaks of spiritual mastership - because God's eternal Laws of evolution and soul progression promised as much. If there ever was such a thing as a key to unlocking the highest potential of one's soul, I was convinced that Elizabeth Burrows had found it, and I knew upon meeting her that I wanted and needed more of what she had to offer.
The impression Elizabeth Burrows left on me with that initial seminar proved to be indelible. I purchased two of her books (Pathway Of The Immortal and The Gospel Of Peace Of Jesus The Christ) that first day and immersed myself in a wisdom that was both simple and profound. Some of Elizabeth's teachings relating to Jesus and the Essenes were based on the works of Professor Edmond Bordeaux Szekely, who had discovered the original texts of The Essene Gospel Of Peace buried in the Archives of the Vatican in the 1920's. Elizabeth studied directly with Professor Szekely prior to his passing in 1979, and spoke fondly of this spiritual giant of a man whom she reasoned had left the world a legacy it could likely never repay. From that point forward, I studied Elizabeth's books side-by-side with Professor Szekely's material, and before long I discovered a strong inner connection to Professor that would only deepen in the years ahead. Elizabeth Burrows was in some ways the spiritual descendant of Professor Szekely, and in my heart I felt blessed just to be part of their incredible lineage.
When I read in The Gospel Of Peace that Jesus had actually taught his inner circle of disciples a health and nutrition program based upon strict vegetarianism, I immediately cut all meat products from my diet. As it turned out, becoming a vegetarian was one of the easier aspects of walking what Elizabeth called "The Path Of Mastership." Although I occasionally attended classes or seminars, and continued reading the books, it quickly became apparent that I lacked both the discipline and the maturity to progress much further on my spiritual path. Elizabeth often reminded her students that man cannot serve two masters, and my 1980's music-business lifestyle wasn't about to go quietly into that Dark Night.
To be continued...
Elizabeth Burrows taught that the highly-advanced spiritual state of the Essene communities, and which she herself had achieved, was not the exclusive domain of Jesus, some famous saints, or a chosen few: Cosmic Consciousness/Union with God was available to all, and was in fact the inevitable destiny of all spiritual aspirants who had passed the necessary trials of countless lifetimes. According to Elizabeth, each and every person would eventually conquer the lofty peaks of spiritual mastership - because God's eternal Laws of evolution and soul progression promised as much. If there ever was such a thing as a key to unlocking the highest potential of one's soul, I was convinced that Elizabeth Burrows had found it, and I knew upon meeting her that I wanted and needed more of what she had to offer.
The impression Elizabeth Burrows left on me with that initial seminar proved to be indelible. I purchased two of her books (Pathway Of The Immortal and The Gospel Of Peace Of Jesus The Christ) that first day and immersed myself in a wisdom that was both simple and profound. Some of Elizabeth's teachings relating to Jesus and the Essenes were based on the works of Professor Edmond Bordeaux Szekely, who had discovered the original texts of The Essene Gospel Of Peace buried in the Archives of the Vatican in the 1920's. Elizabeth studied directly with Professor Szekely prior to his passing in 1979, and spoke fondly of this spiritual giant of a man whom she reasoned had left the world a legacy it could likely never repay. From that point forward, I studied Elizabeth's books side-by-side with Professor Szekely's material, and before long I discovered a strong inner connection to Professor that would only deepen in the years ahead. Elizabeth Burrows was in some ways the spiritual descendant of Professor Szekely, and in my heart I felt blessed just to be part of their incredible lineage.
When I read in The Gospel Of Peace that Jesus had actually taught his inner circle of disciples a health and nutrition program based upon strict vegetarianism, I immediately cut all meat products from my diet. As it turned out, becoming a vegetarian was one of the easier aspects of walking what Elizabeth called "The Path Of Mastership." Although I occasionally attended classes or seminars, and continued reading the books, it quickly became apparent that I lacked both the discipline and the maturity to progress much further on my spiritual path. Elizabeth often reminded her students that man cannot serve two masters, and my 1980's music-business lifestyle wasn't about to go quietly into that Dark Night.
To be continued...
Saturday, May 14, 2011
WALKING THE PATH, PART 1...
I never knew it at the time, but looking back on it now it's clear to me that as a child I was fortunate to grow up in a household environment where my parents never exerted any particular religious influence on me, other than the typical "do this, don't do that" moral teachings. In fact, with the exception of an Easter Sunday service I attended in 1963 with my beloved maternal grandmother (she was a faithful Catholic), I don't think I ever set foot in a church as a kid for anything other than a funeral or a wedding. Unencumbered by any religious affiliations or specific ideologies - and the suffocating dogma that goes with them - I gradually developed a very natural curiosity for spiritual ideas and the meaning or purpose of my life as a youth growing up in the late 1960's and early 1970's.
My earliest and most profound memory of what I would now consider a life-changing event with serious spiritual ramifications came in 1971, when I heard a song called "Imagine" on the radio:
Imagine there's no heaven, it's easy if you try
No hell below us, above us only sky
Imagine all the people, living for today
Imagine there's no countries, it isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for, and no religion too
Imagine all the people, living life in peace
You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will be as one
Imagine no possessions, I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger, a brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people, sharing all the world
You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope someday you will join us, and the world will live as one
As a 13-year old with a keen ear tuned for the Pop music of the day, I was familiar with The Beatles and John Lennon. But Imagine was very different - those lyrics struck an inner chord that was far deeper and more compelling than anything I'd ever heard. Of course, John Lennon wasn't the first person to evoke the notion of a "Brotherhood of Man." Mystics, philosophers, and spiritual masters throughout history have repeatedly written and spoken of our inter-connectedness; linking the act of relating to one another as brothers and sisters with the dawn of a great "Golden Age" of humanity. Nonetheless, to my impressionable teenage ears, Lennon's utopian vision was no less sublime than the greatest teachings of the ancient masters.
In the high school years that followed shortly thereafter, my love for music frequently merged with my expanding interest in spiritual ideas, until eventually the two were inextricably bound. After "Imagine" came two more songs that created a profound and lasting impact on my life. In 1974, a song by my favorite band, Chicago, reflected the same sense of a growing deeper meaning I was experiencing in my own life. "(I've Been) Searchin' So Long" quickly became a coming-of-age anthem; and one which has only continued to inspire me in the years since:
As my life goes on I believe, somehow something's changed
Something deep inside, ooh a part of me
There's a strange new light in my eyes, things I've never known
Changing my life, changing me
I've been searchin' so long, to find an answer
Now I know my life has meaning
In 1975, the "soundtrack" for my path of spirituality broadened again when I discovered the mystical themes explored by Earth, Wind & Fire. The band's name derived from the elements associated with the zodiac signs in leader Maurice White's astrology chart. Powerfully uplifting songs such as "That's The Way Of The World" became my equivalent of sacred hymns for the devout - guiding my ongoing quest and greatly influencing my worldview in the process:
You will find peace of mind
If you look way down in your heart and soul
Don't hesitate 'cause the world seems cold
Stay young at heart 'cause you're never, never old
That's the way of the world
Plant your flower and you'll grow a pearl
A child is born with a heart of gold
Way of the world makes his heart stone cold
By the time I was 20 years old, I'd taken night classes in Astrology and Psychology, studied past lives and reincarnation, and read many of the spiritual classics, including such perennial favorites as Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet," Hesse's "Siddartha," and Lao-Tsu's "the Tao Te Ching." But still I felt something was missing. No matter how many insights I gained, or influences I absorbed, I sensed somehow that I hadn't found the missing puzzle piece; the key that would allow me to unlock more of my inner self and realize more of my potential as a spiritual being. However, that all changed in 1981...
My earliest and most profound memory of what I would now consider a life-changing event with serious spiritual ramifications came in 1971, when I heard a song called "Imagine" on the radio:
Imagine there's no heaven, it's easy if you try
No hell below us, above us only sky
Imagine all the people, living for today
Imagine there's no countries, it isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for, and no religion too
Imagine all the people, living life in peace
You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will be as one
Imagine no possessions, I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger, a brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people, sharing all the world
You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope someday you will join us, and the world will live as one
As a 13-year old with a keen ear tuned for the Pop music of the day, I was familiar with The Beatles and John Lennon. But Imagine was very different - those lyrics struck an inner chord that was far deeper and more compelling than anything I'd ever heard. Of course, John Lennon wasn't the first person to evoke the notion of a "Brotherhood of Man." Mystics, philosophers, and spiritual masters throughout history have repeatedly written and spoken of our inter-connectedness; linking the act of relating to one another as brothers and sisters with the dawn of a great "Golden Age" of humanity. Nonetheless, to my impressionable teenage ears, Lennon's utopian vision was no less sublime than the greatest teachings of the ancient masters.
In the high school years that followed shortly thereafter, my love for music frequently merged with my expanding interest in spiritual ideas, until eventually the two were inextricably bound. After "Imagine" came two more songs that created a profound and lasting impact on my life. In 1974, a song by my favorite band, Chicago, reflected the same sense of a growing deeper meaning I was experiencing in my own life. "(I've Been) Searchin' So Long" quickly became a coming-of-age anthem; and one which has only continued to inspire me in the years since:
As my life goes on I believe, somehow something's changed
Something deep inside, ooh a part of me
There's a strange new light in my eyes, things I've never known
Changing my life, changing me
I've been searchin' so long, to find an answer
Now I know my life has meaning
In 1975, the "soundtrack" for my path of spirituality broadened again when I discovered the mystical themes explored by Earth, Wind & Fire. The band's name derived from the elements associated with the zodiac signs in leader Maurice White's astrology chart. Powerfully uplifting songs such as "That's The Way Of The World" became my equivalent of sacred hymns for the devout - guiding my ongoing quest and greatly influencing my worldview in the process:
You will find peace of mind
If you look way down in your heart and soul
Don't hesitate 'cause the world seems cold
Stay young at heart 'cause you're never, never old
That's the way of the world
Plant your flower and you'll grow a pearl
A child is born with a heart of gold
Way of the world makes his heart stone cold
By the time I was 20 years old, I'd taken night classes in Astrology and Psychology, studied past lives and reincarnation, and read many of the spiritual classics, including such perennial favorites as Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet," Hesse's "Siddartha," and Lao-Tsu's "the Tao Te Ching." But still I felt something was missing. No matter how many insights I gained, or influences I absorbed, I sensed somehow that I hadn't found the missing puzzle piece; the key that would allow me to unlock more of my inner self and realize more of my potential as a spiritual being. However, that all changed in 1981...
Sunday, April 24, 2011
SIMPLE ACTS OF BEAUTY
Sometimes when you least expect it, the Beautiful and the Good just finds you...
My daughter and I went out for dinner yesterday. When we got to the restaurant, the hostess seated us in a booth with a view of the parking lot. I'd have preferred a more private or scenic setting in which to dine - but within moments of sitting down at our table, I found myself giving silent thanks for the profound blessing of our location.
As we waited for our meal to arrive, I noticed a sedan pull into the Handicapped parking space just outside the window where we were seated. I watched as an elderly woman emerged from the driver's seat, set her purse on the roof of the car, and then made her way around to the trunk. She was stylishly dressed, and probably weighed no more than 100 pounds. The lady opened the trunk, then slowly lifted a folded-up wheelchair out of the trunk and placed it on the pavement. It was only then that I looked back in the car and noticed an elderly gentleman sitting quietly in the passenger's seat. The woman slowly unfolded the wheelchair and set it up.
There was something indescribably beautiful and peaceful about the poise with which this Being went about her task. I sensed she'd performed this exact drill countless times before - and with that repetition had come a certain grace of movement. My mind wandered for a few moments, and I visualized scenes from the couple's Wedding Day, many decades ago. I saw them performing their vows "...for better and for worse, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live." I smiled as they raised champagne glasses and toasted their love for one another. In that moment, I felt in my own heart the depth and sincerity of the commitment she had made that day.
Back in the present moment, she had pushed the wheelchair around to the passenger side of the car and begun to help her husband out of the car. He was a large man, and he moved very slowly and deliberately. With one hand on the wheelchair and the other helping her husband, this lovely woman somehow got him out of the car and into the wheelchair. He nodded his approval as she locked the car, retrieved her purse, then began to push him toward the sidewalk. A few minutes later, I saw them coming through the front door of the restaurant. The hostess led them to a table just 10 feet away from where I was eating with my daughter, and I watched again as the woman helped her husband get settled for dinner.
My mind wandered again, and I intuitively sensed how frequently variations of this exercise repeated themselves on a regular basis: get him out of the bed or the EZ chair and into the wheelchair. Push him to the car. Get him out of the wheelchair and into the car. Put the wheelchair back in the trunk. Get the wheelchair out of the trunk, get him out of the car and back into the wheelchair. Push him to wherever. As I saw these scenes playing out over and over every day, my heart swelled with the same compassion that this woman must feel for her beloved husband. Her entire aura radiated loving - and a peaceful resolve to serve...beautifully.
After we had finished our meal and I had paid the bill, I told my daughter to follow me. I waited until the elderly couple were between bites, then I approached their table. I gently touched the gentleman on the shoulder and excused myself for interrupting their meal. He nodded, then smiled broadly as I knelt down next to him and told him how inspired I had been by his wife's dignity and grace. We agreed that he was a most fortunate man to be married to such a beautiful, loving partner. She blushed and said "we make a great team, and I know he'll be out of that chair and walking again in no time." I thanked them both for their gift of inspiration, then we left them alone to share their evening together.
As soon as we were outside the restaurant, my daughter asked "why did you go talk to those people?" I explained that whenever we are blessed to witness the truly Beautiful and Good up close and personal, we have an obligation as spiritually-minded beings to not only notice it or recognize it as such, but to openly acknowledge it - and if at all possible to celebrate it with the very people who are giving us the gift in that moment. The simple truth is, we are surrounded by beauty and good, in one form or another, in every moment. We just need to be conscious of it, and then share it with one another until it expands and touches everyone.
Allow yourself to look for the Beautiful and Good every day, to find it in the most unusual or unexpected places, to be inspired by it - and then resolve to acknowledge it, celebrate it, and share it with others.
My daughter and I went out for dinner yesterday. When we got to the restaurant, the hostess seated us in a booth with a view of the parking lot. I'd have preferred a more private or scenic setting in which to dine - but within moments of sitting down at our table, I found myself giving silent thanks for the profound blessing of our location.
As we waited for our meal to arrive, I noticed a sedan pull into the Handicapped parking space just outside the window where we were seated. I watched as an elderly woman emerged from the driver's seat, set her purse on the roof of the car, and then made her way around to the trunk. She was stylishly dressed, and probably weighed no more than 100 pounds. The lady opened the trunk, then slowly lifted a folded-up wheelchair out of the trunk and placed it on the pavement. It was only then that I looked back in the car and noticed an elderly gentleman sitting quietly in the passenger's seat. The woman slowly unfolded the wheelchair and set it up.
There was something indescribably beautiful and peaceful about the poise with which this Being went about her task. I sensed she'd performed this exact drill countless times before - and with that repetition had come a certain grace of movement. My mind wandered for a few moments, and I visualized scenes from the couple's Wedding Day, many decades ago. I saw them performing their vows "...for better and for worse, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live." I smiled as they raised champagne glasses and toasted their love for one another. In that moment, I felt in my own heart the depth and sincerity of the commitment she had made that day.
Back in the present moment, she had pushed the wheelchair around to the passenger side of the car and begun to help her husband out of the car. He was a large man, and he moved very slowly and deliberately. With one hand on the wheelchair and the other helping her husband, this lovely woman somehow got him out of the car and into the wheelchair. He nodded his approval as she locked the car, retrieved her purse, then began to push him toward the sidewalk. A few minutes later, I saw them coming through the front door of the restaurant. The hostess led them to a table just 10 feet away from where I was eating with my daughter, and I watched again as the woman helped her husband get settled for dinner.
My mind wandered again, and I intuitively sensed how frequently variations of this exercise repeated themselves on a regular basis: get him out of the bed or the EZ chair and into the wheelchair. Push him to the car. Get him out of the wheelchair and into the car. Put the wheelchair back in the trunk. Get the wheelchair out of the trunk, get him out of the car and back into the wheelchair. Push him to wherever. As I saw these scenes playing out over and over every day, my heart swelled with the same compassion that this woman must feel for her beloved husband. Her entire aura radiated loving - and a peaceful resolve to serve...beautifully.
After we had finished our meal and I had paid the bill, I told my daughter to follow me. I waited until the elderly couple were between bites, then I approached their table. I gently touched the gentleman on the shoulder and excused myself for interrupting their meal. He nodded, then smiled broadly as I knelt down next to him and told him how inspired I had been by his wife's dignity and grace. We agreed that he was a most fortunate man to be married to such a beautiful, loving partner. She blushed and said "we make a great team, and I know he'll be out of that chair and walking again in no time." I thanked them both for their gift of inspiration, then we left them alone to share their evening together.
As soon as we were outside the restaurant, my daughter asked "why did you go talk to those people?" I explained that whenever we are blessed to witness the truly Beautiful and Good up close and personal, we have an obligation as spiritually-minded beings to not only notice it or recognize it as such, but to openly acknowledge it - and if at all possible to celebrate it with the very people who are giving us the gift in that moment. The simple truth is, we are surrounded by beauty and good, in one form or another, in every moment. We just need to be conscious of it, and then share it with one another until it expands and touches everyone.
Allow yourself to look for the Beautiful and Good every day, to find it in the most unusual or unexpected places, to be inspired by it - and then resolve to acknowledge it, celebrate it, and share it with others.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
IT BEGINS WITH A DREAM...
At one time or another, we've all dreamed of living in a peaceful, loving world. We can imagine a beautiful new world built on love and cooperation, rather than fear and greed. I believe the reason we dream of such a world is because deep inside each of us there lives a seed of Divine recognition, quietly reminding us that it is our destiny to bring that enlightened world into being.
We can create our "Heaven on Earth" by aligning ourselves with our Source - the single Divine Consciousness that creates, sustains, and animates all life. It is our spiritual birthright and our life mission to become One with God/Goddess/Spirit by awakening to our higher potential and utilizing the incredible transformative power of that Divine seed within each of us.
Now is the time for all of us - individually and collectively - to begin consciously fulfilling this most sacred responsibility. I look forward to working together with you to make this dream a reality...
We can create our "Heaven on Earth" by aligning ourselves with our Source - the single Divine Consciousness that creates, sustains, and animates all life. It is our spiritual birthright and our life mission to become One with God/Goddess/Spirit by awakening to our higher potential and utilizing the incredible transformative power of that Divine seed within each of us.
Now is the time for all of us - individually and collectively - to begin consciously fulfilling this most sacred responsibility. I look forward to working together with you to make this dream a reality...
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