Written By Rev. Jack R. Elliott, Author and Spiritual Life Coach |

New Thought philosopher Ernest Holmes poses this question: “How can we expect to realize God (Spirit) in the emptiness of space if we have refused to see God in those we meet?  And how can we find God in those we meet and in the events that transpire around us unless we have first discovered God (Spirit) at the center old our being?”

Dear Rev. Jack, I believe that God exists and I know that I’m supposed to “see the God in others” and I’m okay with that. It seems compassionate and kind; but when someone else says that they see the God in me–well that feels wrong to me. I want to believe that God works through me, exists within me, but how do I know that it’s so? – Deb

Dear Deb, Ernest Holmes would say, it is only when we awaken to the idea that God is within each and every one of us that we can be open to seeing God working through everything and everyone around us. Therefore, if you see it in others, then you are at least open to the possibility (idea) that God does indeed work through you and does indeed exist within your total being.

I’m going to give you a task. Write down the name of five people who you admire.  They can be dead or alive; famous or not-so-famous. Then, I want you to write down at least five adjectives that describe why you admire each person. When completed, you’ll have at least 25 adjectives, and it’s perfectly alright if some words repeat. For example, one of my high school students chose Mother Theresa as one of the people she admired and she picked the adjectives; dedicated, thoughtful, self-sacrificing, compassionate, and loving to describe her.

Once you’ve selected all five people, and have written the adjectives to describe each of them, I want you to circle any of the words that repeat. Perhaps you’ll notice that you used an adjective such as “loving” to describe three of your heroes or heroines. Here’s how your list might look:

[Example Graph]

Now, I’m going to ask you to finish the following sentence stem by inserting at least five of the words that repeated themselves when you described your hero or heroine. Here is an example using the graphic above:

“I am loving, compassionate, determined, faithful, and self-sacrificing”

Once you’ve written your sentence, read your sentence over and over again. That sentence is the demonstration of God working through you, and existing within your total being. You see Deb, you would not be able to see it in others if it were not true for you. What you admire in others–the adjectives that you’d use to describe the gifts that others possess–are the gifts that God (Spirit) has bestowed upon you.

You are indeed an example of God’s best work. And if you find yourself “being human,” and forgetting “who you are” for a moment, return to your sentence stem and say it aloud. Say it daily, hourly or with every breath–just say it until you believe it!

Thanks, Rev. Jack

Rev. Jack R. Elliott is the President of Heart and Soul Center of Light in Oakland, CA.  He was ordained in 1985 as a Religious Science Minister with the Center of Spiritual Living (Science of Mind/Religious Science).

Written By Rev. Jack R. Elliott,

Author and Spiritual Life Coach |

Dear Rev. Jack, “Is there one quick thing I can do to break the blues? I find myself sitting on my couch, clicking away on my remote–watching endless hours of TV. I know that this isn’t me, but I come home from work on Friday evening and I’m just exhausted. The next thing I know, its Monday morning and the grind begins all over again. – Bertha

Dear Bertha,

I recommend that you spend some time with your Mother–Mother Nature that is:

Go on a walk with her, you’ll be amazed. I believe that Spirit uses Mother Nature to teach us what we need to know, to transform our own lives. In my twenty plus years as an HR Executive, I noticed that many of my co-executives went for a walk at lunch time. After a few weeks of being the only person in the employee dining room, I decided to walk as well. To assure that I would do it, 12:00 to 12:30 p.m. was marked on my appointment calendar so that my assistant wouldn’t book an appointment during my 30 minute walk.

The first day or two were hard. I kept looking at my watch, as to distract the mind chatter, which was endless: “I should answer Harry’s email; I have that huge deliverable at 2:00, I should be working on that; my feet hurt–why did I wear these shoes…” and so on. But I stuck to it. On the third day, I noticed the scent of some roses as I walked by a neighboring building. “Why are these here?” I answered myself, “They’re here to be enjoyed by the people who walk by.” I was surprised I hadn’t noticed them the prior two days.

The next day, I gave myself a challenge: to notice something else in nature that I hadn’t noticed the day before. What I noticed was flowering ground cover, beautifully stacked rocks, and artfully manicured lawns surrounding the neighboring office buildings. Prior to my daily walks, all of this had gone by unnoticed. Soon, I was excited about my noontime walk, for I knew that Mother Nature had another surprise for me, just around the corner.

I remember one day, when spring was just becoming summer, the warmth of the sun seemed to wash over me as I took my walk. It felt so good. I asked myself, “When was the last time you felt this good!” I couldn’t remember. The image that did come to mind was me as a child. I couldn’t wait to finish my breakfast, so I could get “outside.” When I was a child, I lived for the outdoors. I relished the feel of the wind against my face as I rode my bike down to the playground. The smell of newly mowed grass awakened my senses, and provoked me to kick off my shoes and socks just so I could feel the warmth of the carpet of green beneath my feet.

I remember, lying in the grass for hours taking in the rich blueness of the sky; making up imaginary stories from the imagines I formed in my mind from the clouds as they passed by overhead, “Look it’s a bunny!” I loved watching the tree tops sway in the breeze, and the sound that wind made as it passed through the trees. I was both amazed and comforted by nature. This must be why they call it “Mother Nature,” I mused.

While I’ve always loved the autumn colors, it’s spring that often amazes me. Early one May, I had gone out to gather the morning papers and I noticed that the Crêpe Myrtle Tree near my front door had the tiniest buds–just about to pop! I remember thinking that by the next week, the tree would be in full bloom, but I’d miss it because I was going to be gone.

Later that day, I was working in my den, and I noticed that the day had turned out to be warmer that I had anticipated. Not warm enough for the air-conditioning, but a perfect day to open a window. As I opened the window, I noticed the tree. Something had covered it. I dashed outside to see what had covered the tree only to notice that each and every bud had opened up! The unusually warm day had caused the tree to transform in just five short hours. The tree was filled with beautiful red flowers and rich, fresh green leaves. I was awestruck by nature once again.

As I went back to my writing, I realized that Mother Nature is a great teacher. If a tree could transform in five hours, why couldn’t I? Spirit gave me that metaphor for a reason. Spirit used nature once again to remind me that what may seem to be now, in just a moment, may very well be something totally different.

So Bertha, I invite to see your world from a different point of view. Go for a walk in nature. Let Spirit and nature reveal to you what you need to see. The rain will cleanse you. The sun will surround you with warmth. The Ocean will humble you when your ego becomes too large. The earth will ground you and support you as you take a stand. The mountains will inspire you to grow bigger than you could ever imagine. The flowers, and their fragrance, will remind you that there is a sweet, sweet Spirit that is always with you. Enjoy your walk!  – Rev. Jack

“Going Within”

Written By Rev. Jack Elliott |

Dear Rev. Jack, I find myself drifting from one day to the next without much purpose. I have a pretty good life, but as I approach my 65^th birthday, I’m becoming more and more aware that I am not really making a difference in anyone’s life and I’m starting to question, “do I really want to be here?”  My bills are paid, but I really don’t have any savings to speak of, and my retirement income will only be my $2,300 Social Security Check. I’m a widower and I have two lovely children (a boy and a girl) and they each have good marriages and children of their own. However, if I were to die tomorrow, I’d really have nothing to leave them. Am I just feeling blue, because I’m approaching a milestone birthday? Will this feeling of “I should have done more” go away? – Virgil, Oakland CA.

Dear Virgil,

Think about the drop of water that falls into the ocean. That one drop of water may consider itself to be insignificant when it finds itself assimilating into the vastness of the ocean. However, what that drop of water cannot see is the ripple effect its arrival caused. The ripple moves out from the point of entry, and gets bigger and bigger as it makes it way to the shore.

Your life is like the drop of water. From your vantage point, you cannot see the difference you’ve made. You have no idea of the ripple effect that you have caused. Considered this:

Had it not been for the gift of you, your wife would have never known the love of her children. She would have never been able to hold them, love them or hear their laughter.

Your son would never have had the gift of playing ball with his son, nor would his wife ever known the sound of her son’s laughter, or to have seen the sparkle in his eye.

Had it not been for the gift of you Virgil, your daughter would have never been able to walk down the aisle to see her new husband’s expression of joy on their wedding day. They would never know what it is to be so loved, had it not been for the gift of you.

Do not fret that you have not made a difference. You have made a tremendous difference. You have no idea what your grandchildren may grow up to be. But they could not be that, if it were not for the gift of you. Your grandchildren may become teachers, doctors, authors, or the parents of a great scientist. They may just be the one to save a life, find a cure or bring a new insight to the world. This is why you need to be around. You need to be a witness to, and take in, all that you have caused to be.

In the meantime, get out of the house and get busy. Find some place that you can serve. Volunteer with an organization you care about. Unlike your work world, you’ll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people. At this age, community is everything. You don’t need TV or the Internet to keep you company, you need people. Surround yourself with people that are energetic, rather than those that talk about their aches and pains. Honor the memories of the past, but don’t live in the past. Be willing to see what’s down the road and around the next curve.

Each morning, ask Spirit (or God) to reveal to you what it is that you are to do that day. Listen; and then do it. My intuition tells me that you still have a lot of living to do, and even some more ripples to make. See yourself not just as a retired worker, widower, father or grandfather. That’s far too limiting and I believe that such thinking has become your prison. You are part of the entire world that surrounds us–just as the drop of water is a significant part of the Ocean. It is but a single drop, but it has an effect on the whole sea.

I see that you live in Oakland, so I suggest that you take a trip to the ocean. Throw a rock into the water and watch the ripples swell as they make their way back to you on the shore. While you’re there, allow Spirit to remind you that you have indeed made a tremendous difference for having been here, and your work is not done.

Albert Einstein had a good understanding of humans as an inseparable part of the One, as he writes:

A human being is part of the whole called by us universe. We experience ourselves, our thoughts and feelings as something separate from the rest. A kind of optical delusion of consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from the prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty. The true value of a human being is determined by the measure and the sense in which they have obtained liberation from the self. We shall require a substantially new manner of thinking if humanity is to survive. (Albert Einstein)

As I often say Virgil, “If you want to change your life, you have to change your mind.” The message to you is a universal one: We all have to realize that we are all part of one nature; one thought, one vast energetic ocean of cause. Go with the flow Virgil; allow spirit to show you the way and thank you for teaching us this lesson today. You see, you’ve made a difference in every reader’s life today, just by asking the question. Thank you!  – Rev. Jack.

Written By Rev. Jack R. Ellitott,

Author and Spiritual Life Coach |

Dear Rev. Jack, “I am paralyzed with fear. I have nightmares every night. Do you have any insight for me?” – Linda, from Sacramento.

My dear Linda,

First let me redefine fear for you. I believe fear is nothing more than an anagram. My friend and mentor, Terry Cole Whittaker taught me that fear is truly an anagram for “false expectation appearing real.” Your question about fear and your nightmares reminded me of a story she’d tell to illustrate what she had been taught as little girl. The story goes something like this:

“There was a little boy who night after night had the same dream of a vicious monster creeping into his bedroom. The monster would fly up from the end of the bed belting out a horrendous screech as fire spewed from his mouth.

The little boy would scream with terror and run from his bed down the stairs and throughout the house as the monster chased him. The dream was so horrifying; but before the monster ever caught the boy, he would awaken and then tremble the whole night–fearing the dream would come again.

One night, the monster came again. This time, the monster seemed more vicious and threatening. As the boy ran from his room, the monster got closer and closer. The boy ran down the stairs and back up again with the monster’s hot fiery breath at his back. As he reached the top of the stairs, the door to his room was locked. Not knowing what to do he turned toward the monster and screamed, “What will you do to me?”

The monster paused and looked at the boy and said, “It’s your dream kid. I can only do to you, what you believe I can do to you.”

The boy realized that night that he has the power over any demon, monster or fear he could imagine. He never had that dream again because he understood that fear is merely a false expectation appearing to be real.

What we fear often isn’t based on any factual data, but none the less, the fear often renders us paralyzed. Many times we hear actors tell us that “stage fright,” or the fear of performing, kept them from sharing their talent with the world. But then something happened, and they faced their fear, took a risk and realized that what they have feared would happen, never happened.

A client of mine was in financial crisis and about to lose her home. She was falling behind on her mortgage payments and horrified that the woman who held the mortgage on her home would kick her out. Each time her phone rang, her stomach turned. And if the mortgage holder called, she’d toss the phone under a pillow; she was horrified to hear what the mortgage holder would say. She would even delete the voice mail message without ever listening to it.

Finally, she realized that fear was driving her life. While she didn’t have the courage to call her mortgage holder, she did have the courage to write her a letter, acknowledging her financial situation and asking for the mortgage holder’s understanding.

A few days later, her phone rang; she didn’t recognize the number so she took the call. It was her mortgage holder. “Honey, I so understand; everyone is in crisis these days. I’ll tell you what, for the next year, could you pay half of your mortgage payment? Could you do that, sweetie?” My client was so shaken by the mortgage holder’s kindness she could barely get out a meek little “yes.”

Now my client can afford to stay in her home. But more importantly, she realized that had she faced her fears, and called the mortgage holder sooner, she would not have agonized for three months over something that wasn’t real to begin with. The monster in her dream was of her own creation.

Eleanor Roosevelt is credited with saying “Do one thing a day that scares you.” Linda, I believe if you look your monsters (fears) in the face, instead of giving into them, you will be able to say, “If I can face this, then I can take anything that comes along.” By doing so, you take your power back and no longer project it on to your imagined demons and monsters. – Rev. Jack

Rev. Jack Elliott is a Spiritual Life Coach. You may reach him at revjack@revjackrelliott.org.

Written By Rev. Jack R. Elliott, Author and Spiritual Life Coach |

There comes a time in each of our lives when we evolve more fully into the being we are “called” to be. I call this the age of our Spiritual Maturity. It is the season of our life for teaching and for our most essential learning. This maturity does not happen at any given chronological age–but often comes in what Carl Jung would call the “autumn” of our life.

For me, I’ve come to understand in the autumn of my life, that I am called to teach that which I have experienced, rather than that which I’ve merely, or intellectually, understood. While, I can read and understand concepts and principals, it is not until I internalize those concepts and principals (see them as a manifestation or lessons received) will they become fully integrated into my psyche–my being. Once that has happened, Spirit always finds an opportunity for me to turn around and to share the revelation (teach) with someone else. Such a lesson is the lesson of “detachment,” which can only be understood when one is Spiritually Mature.

You might ask: “What is detachment, and how do I know if I’m spiritually mature or even in the autumn of my life?”

It is in the autumn of your life when you can see yourself as detached from “the other.” This “other” may be your biological parents, spouse, job, athletic skill, or anything outside of ourselves that we have used as a label to describe who we say we are. For example, one might say “I am a computer technical,” or “I am an Oscar winning actress,” or “I’m John and Mary’s son.” It is only when you detach from “the other” and become “Individualized” can you truly reflect your higher self, know who you are or accept your Spiritual calling.

When “detachment” occurs, the Divine (Spirit, God) will be expressed as real, present and profound to you. Rather than being “attached to,” you come to understand that you are “one with” the other people in your life. Detachment doesn’t mean others won’t be in your life, it means you will feel loved and nurtured on an immediate and intimate heart level, without “needing” them in your life. Remember this: No one has been called (brought) into your life to define you or to complete you, nor have you been called into their life to define or to complete them. Once you are “detached,” you are free to divinely “be in the flow” with the others in your life. When this is obtained, then you have obtained Spiritual and Psychological maturity. To be in the flow is to be one with Spirit.

Are you wondering what Spirit has called you to teach? You have been called to teach all the good that has been “revealed” to you. You are called to share those “ah-hah” moments that inspired you, made an impression on your psyche, or changed your direction or perception of life. Start with the moments that changed your life for the better.

“But Rev. Jack, Who am I to teach?”

Don’t worry about this. Once you know what it is that you’ve been called to teach, Spirit will reveal the student.

I love questions. If you have questions about how Spirit (God) has influenced or not influenced your life, ask and we’ll discuss your questions in future columns. Write me at elliott209@live.com.

The Brazilian Healer Who’s Touched The Life of Millions

By Heather Cumming and Karen Leffler

Reviewed for Healthy Beginnings by

June Milligan, M.Ed., CCHt

Dr. Amit Goswami, Quantum Physicist, wrote the Forward to this book and explains that John of God is more than a person; he is a scientific phenomenon of utmost importance. Dr. Goswami    supplements the authors’ loving and beautiful description of the phenomenon that is John of God, with a scientific explanation, describing why he is convinced of the scientific proof of discarnate entities speaking and healing through a living person.

John of God allows “spirit doctors” to take over his body, three days a week, in order to heal tens of thousands of people each year, of every kind of malady; from heart disease, paraplegia, blindness to cancer, and everything in between. Many had been declared terminal or incurable. They come from around the globe or from the next village, seeking healing and hope, spiritual growth or transformation.

Joao Teixeira de Faria is known as John of God by thousands of people around the world, but prefers to be called Medium Joao. He is a full trance medium. The healings take place at the Casa de Dom Inacio, a healing center located in a village called Abadiania, about 70 miles south of Brasilia, in central Brazil. This center has been in existence for almost 40 years. Miraculous healings are a daily occurrence there, and people with untreatable diseases travel there from all over the world.

John of God also travels abroad to do his healing, two or three times a year. When officials in Peru asked him to help with their cholera epidemic, he traveled to Peru and healed over 20,000 people. On his second trip to that country, people slept in line to be able to see him, sometimes for two nights. Men, women and children, the elderly, crippled and blind, as well as those stricken with a variety of illnesses, spent days waiting in single file in the 45 degree weather.  The well-dressed people of means stood in line with the impoverished; the poor wearing only thin cotton pants and shirts. Medium Joao’s sense of justice does not permit privileges and he insists that rich and poor wait together, without favoritism.

The authors explain that the extraordinary abilities and dedication of Medium Joao, and the phalanx of compassionate spirits he incorporates, have been scientifically tested and studied. Television documentaries, media presentations, books and magazines have brought awareness of this miraculous phenomenon to millions who might otherwise never have heard of him. A December 2010 magazine article by Oprah’s Editor in Chief introduced John of God to many more Americans. A steady stream of doctors, scientists, quantum physicists, politicians, professors, actors and filmmakers from all over the world have been treated by the Entities (the “spirit doctors”) speaking and working through Medium Joao’s body.

In the Casa, the Entities’ healing power is boosted by the presence of two Current Rooms, where people who have already passed by John of God sit in meditation. The bioelectric energy created in the Current Rooms is utilized in the healing of all. The Current Rooms are described as “a spiritual banquet” and have standards that are set by the Entities. Concentration in the rooms must be kept stable by people holding the intention of love and the highest good for all. You do not open your eyes or cross your arms or legs. More than two thousand people a day may sit for a time in the Current Rooms.

Healings are done on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Afterwards, pictures of loved ones, which may have been brought by attendees, are scanned and spiritually worked on in private by the Entities; healing energy is then sent to them, wherever in the world they may be. The Entities have their own phalanx of spirits helping them. The Entities view us as a hologram and can perform their spiritual work from a greater perspective. The healings that take place there may involve psychic surgery or not. People may return to their home country and see new X-rays showing internal stitches, but no entry point.

This book gives a realistic description of what you can expect when you travel to the Casa, as well as the important rules to heighten your experience. The authors also give us an intimate picture of the man who makes it all possible, interviewing Medium Joao on a “day off” in his home. They also give us information on past challenges and tribulations suffered by Medium Joao from medical, religious and secular officials who were suspicious of his abilities. Thankfully, that time is over.

Karen Leffler, author and sacred art photographer, is a guide for the Casa de Dom Inacio, accompanying small groups to Abadiania. She has been blessed to receive photographically, wonderful light-filled images of the healing energy of the Entities. She archived thousands of photos of the Casa and is the official photographer when she is in Abadiania. Her website is www.johnofgodphotos.com.

Heather Cumming is one of the official translators for John of God, as well as a shamanic practitioner. She grew up in Brazil and assists John of God and the Entities to view thousands of people a day. She hosts healing tours to Abadiania regularly. Her website is www.healingquests.com.

For an excellent information website, go to www.abadianiaportal.com. This site will help you plan a trip to Brazil, and give you information on reserving a hotel, getting a visa, and much more. Or, to read additional stories about John of God and to gain even more information, go to www.friendsofthecasa.info.

Sometimes spirituality is like a drug; you get high on your beliefs.  They pump you up, ease your conscience, or provide simple answers to complex problems. But then one day you realize that the answers aren’t very good answers, and getting high feeds your ego more than your soul.

There is a trend, seen most strongly in New Age writing, to deny or ignore the dark side of human nature. New Age philosophy tells you that human beings are by nature loving creatures that turn bad only when they have been hurt in some way. If everyone was raised in an environment of unconditional love there would be no selfishness or violence, no greed, power struggles or illness. You are told that your true essence is divine and, indeed, that you are God. You come into the world perfect, and only poor parenting or hurtful life events cause you to behave in selfish or antisocial ways. Sin is nothing more than ignorance of your divine and perfect nature. The New Age viewpoint is that there are just two fundamental emotions in life: love and fear. All other emotions are derived from these two.

These ideas are attractive. They soothe your ego and defend against the unpleasant reality of evil. In the New Age, evil is an illusion and has no independent presence or activity in the universe. Hate and cruelty are ultimately caused by fear, not evil. In this respect, fear is the perfect fallback, as in: “I know I shouldn’t have raped that woman, but I was afraid of emotional intimacy.”

One problem with this belief system is that it sells you short as a human being. In fact, you are capable of far more evil than you probably give yourself credit for. And this capacity for evil isn’t just caused by a lack of nurturance as a child, or out of a fear of success, or a fear of your divinity. You are capable of evil because you are human, and human beings aren’t born whole, they are born unconscious. If you live life well, you become more whole through the process.

You are capable of evil because, like all people, you are egocentric. The more egocentric you are, the more out of sync you are likely to be with your soul and God. If you find yourself on a power trip, the cause isn’t always to be found in fear or an unconscious “inferiority complex.” It could be that you just like the feeling of power. It is a high for your ego. You can be a glutton not because you aren’t getting enough emotional nourishment. Maybe you like being a glutton and have never felt that motivated to change your behavior. You may abuse alcohol or drugs not just because you are spiritually starved. In fact, it could be the other way around. Perhaps you are spiritually starved because you opt for quick and simple solutions, rather than those requiring sacrifice and self-discipline. You may have an affair not because your spouse has been “emotionally unavailable.” Your infidelity may have been driven more by the excitement you feel in breaking the rules. After all, your ego prefers to make rules rather than follow them.

Not only does evil arise from your human egocentricity, it also has a powerful and independent life of its own. Evil is the second-most formidable force you encounter in life, and if you take a Pollyanna view of it, you are that much more likely to become its instrument. Jung once said that “not knowing acts like guilt.” This is especially true of those realities which you should be aware of but are not. The painful truth, the truth you don’t want to see, is that you collude with evil. You collude with it on an individual basis by choosing to remain ignorant of your shadow, or “dark side.” You collude with it by choosing not to explore the motives, methods and masquerades of your own egocentricity. You choose to remain unconscious.

You also collude with evil at a collective level. For example, as a nation we collude with evil by continuing to abuse and exploit the earth, or by building a huge national debt that we will leave for our children and grandchildren (better they suffer than we). You collude with evil when you allow your government to wage war on behalf of corporations, or ignore issues of poverty and social injustice. You collude with evil by accepting the pre-packaged and pre-analyzed “news” of the mainstream media, when deep inside you know that if you aren’t being lied to, you sure as hell aren’t getting the whole truth. You collude with ignorance in order to remain ignorant. You collude with certain spiritual beliefs so as to avoid a more humbling encounter with your soul and God.

This is the problem with candy store spirituality: it tastes good, but it does not nourish. It is not fun to look into a mirror and see a Hitler staring back at you. But, to not look into the mirror is to not own the whole of who you are; the beautiful and the repugnant, the blessed and the evil. You diminish yourself when you do not shoulder the truth of your larger being. You can do good, and you can do evil, and part of your job on earth is to figure out which is which.

References:

1. Chitwood, Terry, EdD. Death: The Beginning of Life. Polestar Publications: Sioux Falls, SD. 1988.

2. Jones, Alan W. Soul Making: The desert way of spirituality. Harper Collins: NY. 1985.

3. Stein, Murray. Jung on Evil, (selected writings of Carl Jung). Princeton University Press: NJ. 1995.

For more info, contact Dr. Andy Drymalski, Reno and Carson City psychologist at 775-786-3818, or visit online at www.renocarsonpsychologist.com.

After a serious injury, piles of medications and treatments that were not working, I turned to Qigong for help. This experience led me down a path toward healing and serenity.

My injury occurred during one of my regular shifts as a flight attendant. It was a normal day, which always included assisting customers with their luggage. As I was helping one gentleman lift his bag up over our heads, he let go and the heavy bag landed on my head, neck and shoulders. I ended up with injuries that would change my life: two ruptured discs in my neck and a torn rotator cuff.

I did what most of us do and went to see the doctor. My doctor prescribed me some muscle relaxers, pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication and sent me home. After about a month of taking medications, I decided to see another doctor. This doctor continued to prescribe the same medications and had me start physical therapy. At the time of the accident, my neck mobility was about 30-40 percent. This new doctor informed me that I would be a candidate for neck surgery. He explained that they would fuse my C5-C6 vertebrae together and that if I chose this route of treatment, the best case scenario for my neck would be 60-70 percent mobility. My doctor also suggested that my airline pay to send me back to school because he did not want me performing certain aspects of my job. He mentioned that he would most likely recommend that I be put on permanent disability. Hearing this diagnosis and treatment plan left me feeling extremely discouraged. I felt hopeless in thinking that my whole life was changing, and not for the better. At 29 years old, I was going to have major physical limitations to my body and have to give up a job that I truly loved.

I shared these feelings and concerns with a friend of mine and he suggested I see a couple that did Japanese restoration massage. I was getting some relief from the massage and physical therapy, but was still in quite a bit of pain. One day, I noticed the word “Qigong” on their business card and asked them what that was? He said, “I think it will really help you.” We began practicing qigong once a week and continued for about three months. They informed me that a Grandmaster of Emei Qigong was teaching a four day seminar in San Francisco. So I decided to go to the seminar.

I came home from the level one seminar and continued practicing a form called Wuji Gong . I practiced this for the next six months and noticed that I had feeling again in my elbow and fingers that were previously numb. The sharp pain I felt in my neck and shoulder started to dissipate. I started noticing tingling and heat sensations in my body. I felt movement inside my body and the pain was starting to go away. I could feel positive changes in my attitude and my hopelessness was being replaced with hope and optimism. I started thinking that there really was something to this practice called Emei Qigong.

I discovered a type of healing that was working to heal so many things in my life that not only included my physical body and injuries, but my emotional state and my spirit. So I continued to study with Grandmaster Fu Wei Zhong in taking levels one, two, three and four over the next five years. During these teachings, I learned many techniques that have not only alleviated pain in my body but have helped balance my emotional state so I can continue to experience self- awareness and spiritual development.

Qigong’s origin dates back at least 5000 years. The word “Qi” means life force, breath or energy and the word “Gong” means practice or cultivation over time. Emei Qigong was formed in 1227 AD, so it has been around for roughly 800 years. Emei Qigong comes from one of the three Buddhist Mountains in China. There are many types of qigong that are practiced in China and throughout the world; Emei Qigong focuses on healing, self-awareness, virtue and spiritual development.

Emei Qigong’s knowledge and practice was developed from 3600 different schools of thought that include Buddhism, Daoism, traditional Chinese medicine,  ancient Chinese philosophies,  astrology and nutrition, to name a few. This comprehensive system was passed down from lineage holder to lineage holder, in order to maintain the purity of knowledge and information that is at its core. Grandmaster Fu Wei Zhong is the 13th and current lineage holder of Emei qigong. His goal is “to pass on all his knowledge and Emei qigong’s teachings to alleviate much of the suffering in the world, so humanity can shine like the sun.”

Emei qigong focuses on self-healing first so that you can then help in healing others. Some of the techniques Emei qigong teaches are Wuji Gong, meditation, feeling Qi, understanding the five causes of illness, Emei sacred healing sounds, Qi information healing, Qi transmission healing and the theories that go along with them.

References:

1. www.emeiqigong.us

2. The Healing Arts of Emei Qigong  by Fu Wei Zhong

For more info, contact Happy Heart Qigong at (775) 843-7899

In most accounts, the English and French word tarot ultimately derives from an Arabic background. Turuq, means pathways in Arabic. Some argue that the word tarot stems from Italy; however, if taken a step further, the Italian word Tarocco derives from an Arabic word that means rejection or subtraction. Others believe the word comes from the Taro River, which is located in Northern Italy.

Tarot cards were first developed in Italy between 1430 and 1450, according to recorded history. People used them as playing cards for a game similar to bridge. Originally, the cards were a four-suit pack, until additional cards with allegorical illustrations were added, at which point, the new decks became known as carte de trionfi or triumph cards. The additional cards were called trionfi, or trump cards.

The game became extremely popular and began spreading throughout Europe. However, it was not until centuries later that French and English devotees of the occult saw magic and mysticism behind the illustrations or symbols on the cards. From that point forward, tarot cards were used as a tool for divination and thought of as an occult artifact, thus bringing us to the present reputation of tarot cards.

Most people are not aware of the background or origin of tarot cards. They are often simply viewed as a fortune-telling card game. However, as the cards evolved over nearly six centuries, so did the meaning and use of the cards themselves. There are tarot card decks that were made for card games, secret society use, pagan magic, meditation and some decks that were simply created as works of art.

Regardless of how tarot cards are viewed, they are widely used today, across the United States and the world. In a time where one questions his or her beliefs, morals and ideals, society tends to hold fast to anything that offers peace of mind. Tarot cards present a sense of hope to those who seek it.

References:

1. www.wikkipedia.com
2. www.tarothermit.com

Spiritual Truth might seem a daunting topic, both too vague and too vast to define. It is, after all, intangible, going beyond our 5 senses. In the stubbornly left-brained logical, rational culture in which we find ourselves, things that cannot be materially quantified are often pushed to the background and even demeaned as not being worth our time.

Then there are those that believe their particular religious traditions hold the only keys to spiritual truth, excluding others who believe exactly the same about their brand of faith. The radical Muslim suicide bomber who dies violently in the market place and the Christian zealot who murders the abortion doctor do, after all, share a deeply held conviction in the respective ‘spiritual truths’ that they believe their actions embody. These people have aligned themselves with a belief system that demonizes and objectifies others.

Herein lies one thing that real spiritual truth certainly is not – exclusionary or based solely on a dogmatic belief system. Core spiritual truth would have to be universally true regardless of any of our secular divisions. It would be true for all people at all times. In a world characterized by unbounded information on a variety of cultures and seemingly endless opposition to others points of world view, fettering out even a few aspects of truth gives us pause. What would be the value?

To answer that, let’s first look at what is endemic in our current state of affairs: widespread division, conflict, financial chaos, confusion and despair. That these are prevalent in the current climate is indisputable. That this threatens quality of life is equally apparent. Like the demeanor of the soldier in the foxhole, knowing his own death could be imminent; he is faced with the choice of objectifying the enemy or realizing they are, like him, another human being. It is in times exactly like these that spiritual truth becomes especially alluring.

Webster’s definition of spirit is “a life-giving force; the animating principle; soul.” This will be the premise of this article – that there is such a source that is omnipresent and that can be drawn upon for direction and that, further, when this direction is taken will ultimately lead a person to a heightened state of well-being. The resulting decision-making and actions benefit not only them but also the world at large. In short, the result is a win-win for the individual and the collective.

Throughout all of human history reference to this source is documented and given a place of sacred reverence. It harkens us to live in ways that are for our highest good. It is called The Light and being out of it is like what many are experiencing in the dark hours of the current financial and confidence crisis. It is that persistent feeling we get that something is just not right. It beckons us back toward itself, spiritual truth. It comforts us and assures us that there are ways to live replete with love, beauty, meaning and fulfillment. It engenders trust in life, promising a sigh of relief and rekindling hope and optimism.

Spiritual truth does not require belief in a specific religion or even deity because it is innate and instinctual. Reverence for the dynamic and multifaceted-beyond-comprehension unfolding of the life process; the indescribable natural rhythm that runs through everything in this universe, is alignment with Spiritual truth.

You are where it starts. Spirituality is inner-directed, a deeply personal experience. It requires going within and honing your ability to hear that “still, small voice”. It is not small in the sense of being timid or inconsequential, but soft and non-intrusive. It beckons but does not demand, honoring our free will. It requires a state of stillness and of being conscious in the present moment. It holds the power to transform a thought, a feeling, a moment and a life.

Following one’s spiritual truth can actually lead away from established religious practice or societal norms at times. It is mysterious in that it is the opposite of a ‘know-it-all’ position. “…We carry the conviction (often only faintly) that even though we don’t know where we’ll end up, we’re following a soul-path of immense richness, that we’re supposed to be on this path, that it’s required of us somehow. We move in a sense of rightness, of lure, of following a flute that pipes irresistible music.” Sue Monk Kidd

Core spiritual truth is inclusive, never objectifying others but rather seeing them as people with wants, needs and passionate beliefs just like our own. Objectification of others leads to vilification of them and then we are drawn further to points of view (we call them facts) that justify our conclusions. Our information gathering mechanism then becomes tainted, or prejudiced. We become arrogantly judgmental. It is worth noting at this point that taking this rigid, judgmental stance toward ourselves is equally as damaging.

This is not to preclude even hearty disagreement. It does, however, require empathy and consideration for the others point of view, along with a healthy dose of enough humility to know that our own understanding of things is not omniscient. We may still, in good conscience, staunchly maintain our course for a certain cause, but will now do so holding our opponent in high regard as a person with equal value to ours. Whether in a corporation, political debate or a family unit, this stance of “a heart of peace” will facilitate both high quality and more enduring outcomes.

Too rarely, yet every now and again we will hear a political leader with “a heart of peace” making a definitive stand on a topic while still being graciously respectful of the opponents’ point of view. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Junior demonstrated this character when dealing with those who disagreed with their policies. It is noteworthy that both made considerable, respected and lasting historical imprints. The parent who approaches their child with an open heart, willing to hear them out while at the same time holding fast to their standards will have a far higher probability of positively influencing that child than the parent who engages in an intractable power struggle. The same holds true with a schoolteacher or a manager at the office.

“A heart of peace”is a primary component of spiritual truth because it embraces the inherent humanity of each and every individual. Taking this truth to heart is being guided by love and putting it into action leads to inner peace, which is the central for peace to the whole. Tuning into Spiritual truth is a surrendering that is an ever-evolving process. Love is misunderstood to be an emotion; actually, it is a state of awareness, a way of being in the world, a way of seeing oneself and others. “It is always the false that makes you suffer, the false desires and fears, the false values and ideas, the false relationships between people. Abandon the false and you are free of pain; truth makes happy, truth liberates.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj.

References:

1. The Arbinger Institute. The Anatomy of Peace Resolving the Heart of Conflict
2. Monk Kidd, Sue. The Dance of the Dissident Daughter
3. Tolle, Eckhart. A New Earth Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose

For more info, contact Terry Lowey MFT at (775) 322-1924

by Andy Drymalski, EdD |

This article examines the concept of evil from a psychological perspective. Its relevance lies in the fact that our beliefs and attitudes regarding the nature of evil have far-reaching effects for the way we live and understand our life. For example, reconciling the reality of love, beauty, creativity, and healing in the world with the coexistence of hate, violence, and cruelty is a dilemma that has led many people to a place of spiritual cynicism and resignation.

We all have our own way of defining evil, and the behaviors or events that one person, country, or religion might call evil, another might call good. This may lead one to believe that the categories of good and evil are always relative judgments without objective basis. However, this perspective ignores the fact that although the attribution of evil may be applied differently by different people, some uses of the term may be more valid than others. As Jungian author Murray Stein writes, “Just because the categories of good and evil are the product and tool of consciousness does not mean that they are arbitrary and can be assigned to actions, persons, or parts of persons [that is, parts of the personality] without heavy consequence. Ego discrimination is an essential aspect of adaptation and consequently is vital to survival itself. Ego consciousness must take responsibility for assigning such categories of judgment as good and evil accurately or they will lose their adaptive function. If the ego discriminates incorrectly for very long, reality will exact a high price.”

In his study of the psyche Carl Jung documented the innate urge of the personality to manifest its deepest potential. Just as an acorn is “hard-wired” to become an oak tree, so each personality is driven from within to give fullest expression to its unique talents and creative gifts. Jung called this instinctual drive towards wholeness and fulfillment of the personality individuation. Through the process of individuation people are challenged to grow in consciousness and to actualize the creative potential of the mature personality. Because our potential is so vast, individuation is not a process that is ever completed in life. The important matter is not where we are in our individuation journey, but our attitude towards this process. Is the ego facilitating the unfolding of the larger personality or is it pursuing its own, narrow agenda instead?

From the perspective of Jungian psychology, evil could be defined as a force, which opposes or parasitizes the natural development and maturation of the personality, including the development of the spirit/soul and of consciousness. Although every religion defines evil in its own way (some even denying its existence), each communicates certain beliefs about the nature and proper aspirations of human beings in life. Certainly, consciousness is one of the defining characteristics of being human, and without it there would be no discrimination of thoughts and behaviors into the categories of good and evil.

It is consciousness which gives a co-creative quality to humankind, along with the burden of responsibility for the decisions we make and actions we take.
One way of conceptualizing evil is through the analogy of the predator-prey relationship. We often describe as evil things or processes that prey upon the “good.” From the perspective of a rabbit, the fox might be the “devil.” Burrowing insects are the devil to a tree. For human beings, diseases, psychopaths, and nations with opposing ideological viewpoints are perceived by some as carriers of evil. We use the term evil to describe not only forces that are detrimental to the physical body, but those that are detrimental to the spirit and psyche as well. We generally recognize the latter to be the more important of the two. When we hear the story of someone who sacrificed his life for the sake of others and that of his own soul, we may regret it had to be so, yet we feel he did the right thing.

Certainly evil is a paradoxical entity; it can be difficult to correctly identify. For example, an egocentric person is tempted to refer to anything that thwarts his will as evil. And yet the opposition he encounters in life may be the expression of his deeper self trying to reorient him to his true path. The cancer that would take the life of a young woman may yet open her eyes and heart to a new level of reality or knowledge of herself. Depending upon the attitude taken by his victim, the taunting of the playground bully may become a psychological trauma or an opportunity for learning how to stand up to life. The sterilization procedures used in hospitals may help prevent post-operative infections, but may also hasten the development of new, more virulent forms of bacteria. Likewise, great technological advances can be helpful or harmful. The energy of nuclear fission can be harnessed to create electricity, or unharnessed to kill millions of people. The internet can be a portal of communication and knowledge, but also of pornography, cyber addictions, and identity theft. And the person who has “found God” may become an instrument of peace, love, and healing or the self-appointed apostle who turns others away from God through his/her arrogance and manipulative behaviors.

It is apparent that the drama of “good” and “evil” is very much like nature itself in that nothing goes to waste. For every creature there is another that feeds upon it (even bears and lions must contend with parasites). In fact, the very diversity and beauty of the biological world would not exist were it not for the timeless dance of the predator-prey relationship. For every new invention and creative spark, a door is opened for their misuse. For every spiritual experience there exists the risk of its distortion and misappropriation by the ego. It seems that the dilemma of evil is part and parcel of consciousness and spiritual growth. It can be their enemy and the motivation behind their development, at the same time. Like nature herself, evil can be a trickster, taking life or provoking it to become stronger.

“The lion shall lie down with the lamb.” This is a future-oriented vision, the goal and promise of a time when peace rules the world. It suggests a state in which the cunning, aggressive, and deadly forces in life find friendship and harmony with those of childlike innocence, trust, and receptivity. Projected into the future of human society, it is the idea of a utopia. Projected into life after death, it is heaven. This image is often interpreted as pointing to a time when the predator stops being a predator, evil is banished, and all creatures live together in harmony.

There is another way of looking at this image, one that does not require the denial of the lion’s instinctual nature. The predator lying down with its prey can also symbolize an inner attitude in which we find peace–or make peace–with the predator-prey duality that forms the foundation of our being and of our world. Can we find a way to accept that as long as we are conscious and, therefore, able to form judgments about events, the dilemma of good and evil will always be present? This proposes the acknowledgment and acceptance of life’s fundamental nature, and the fundamental nature of the psyche. To ask that life be otherwise is like trying to have wanting to have light without shadows. Perhaps peace is not to be found in the denial or obliteration of life’s duality, but in making peace with that duality.

To make peace with the existence of evil does not mean that you adopt a passive stance toward what you “believe” to be evil. But it can mean becoming more attentive and discerning as to the nature and ways of evil (and goodness). Just as biologists and ecologists study the relationships of animals and plants to each other and their environment, we are challenged to become ecologists of the soul. To do this we may need to focus a little less upon the way we think life should be, and a little more upon the way it is. We may need to focus less upon the ways that we have been hurt, cheated, tricked, and abused in life, and a little more on what these experiences can teach us about ourselves, other people, and the universe. We may need to move from the worldview of a victim to the more assertive and proactive standpoint of the warrior.

Although at times we strenuously protest evil’s presence in the world and in our lives, and cry out in anger, frustration, and hurt regarding its unfairness and apparent lack of purpose, it is possible that at some time we ourselves consented, and do daily consent, to the rules of this “game” because we know that the game ennobles us, matures us, deepens us, and draws us further into the beauty and mystery of a universe we help create. And we know intuitively that it does this far better than any game without risk and death, puzzles and sorrow ever could.

References:

1. Peck, M. Scott. People of the Lie: The Hope for Healing Human Evil. Simon & Schuster, Inc., NY 1983.
2. Sanford, John A. Evil: The Shadow Side of Reality. Crossroad Publishing, NY 1982.
3. Stein, Murray (Ed.). Jung on Evil. Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ 1995.

Written by Rev. Diane Hageman |

There is little argument that we are living in challenging times. Women have long had the traditional role of caretakers, and as we have begun to move into our own power we are facing more and more challenges. For women, it is now more important than ever that we find within ourselves all of our true beauty and power. Now is the time for women to truly empower themselves, to let go of limiting beliefs, negative thoughts and fears.

Author Louise Hay states, ”when we as women learn to take care of ourselves in a positive way, to have self-respect and self-worth, life for all human beings, including men, will have taken a quantum leap in the right direction. There will be respect and love between the sexes and both men and women will honor each other. We will learn that there is plenty for everyone and that we can bless and prosper each other.“ We can create a world where it is safe for us to love each other, where we can all be happy and whole.

How do we, as women, start to create that world?  The change begins with each of us. We make a conscious decision to allow our light to shine and embrace our feminine spirit. We decide to be in control of our life and own our power.   As Melanie Tonia states, “every time we rely on someone or something outside of us to provide us with love, success or happiness, we hand our power over. As soon as they don’t provide it we are defeated. Ironically, when we decide to be loved, we easily attract the people, events and objects that supplement this state.”

Take time to explore and re-discover your own unique feminine spirit.  Here are just a few ways you can do that.

1. Stop all negative self-talk. Too often we beat ourselves up over our perceived imperfections. Love and accept yourself. This isn’t to say we stop learning and growing, just give yourself permission to be who you are now.

2. Don’t compare yourself to others. You are you own unique beautiful woman. Release the need of anyone else’s approval. Do not let anyone else define who you are, this includes the media.

3. Be creative. Everyone does have a creative side; find how to express your own creativity. Creativity is a wonderful way to feel fulfilled and can also be a big help reducing daily stress.

4. Have quiet time for yourself every day. Even ten minutes of meditation or quiet time will make all the difference. Some deep breathing, relaxing and meditating will help energize and renew your spirit.

5. Have a strong spiritual connection to all of life. Exploring your own spiritual path and honoring all of life helps to enhance your relationship with your inner self. As your relationship with yourself grows and deepens so does your inner strength and peace of mind.

As women move forward toward self-empowerment, we need to remember there is a tremendous collective power. This means “Women in Support of Women.” We can do this with a commitment to support each other’s divine feminine spirit.  We as mothers, daughters, sisters and friends can  always remember and remind each other, especially when the world is feeling very unfriendly, of the beautiful goddess within each of us.

References:

1. Hay, Louise. Empowering Women – Every Woman’s Guide to Successful Living. Hay House, 1999.

2. Pearls of Wisdom – Awakening Personal & Global Consciousness – Empowering Women http://www.sapphyr.net/

For more info, contact Rev. Diane Hageman of Om Home at (775) 250-7756, specializing in metaphysical and meditation classes and workshops.

WHAT DOES CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU?

Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holiday on the planet. Yet, do we really know why we celebrate the way that we do? Do we know where our family traditions came from? Do we know the true meaning of Christmas?

The Christmas tree originated during the time of Pagan winter celebrations when an evergreen tree, which represented life and hope, was brought inside and hung upside down. Holly and mistletoe have their roots in the winter solstice traditions as well and hung on doors and windows to keep out bad spirits.

The tradition of Christmas stockings began in Germany. Originally stockings were meant to hold five small gifts, one for each of the five senses: taste, smell, touch, sight and sound. Embroidering the stockings with names kept Santa’s confusion at bay.

The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of years to a monk named St. Nicholas. One of the best known of the St. Nicholas stories is when he assisted a father with his three daughters. The three young sisters were destined for a life of poverty because their father didn’t have the dowry to offer for the care and honor of his daughters in marriage. St. Nicholas gifted the family with enough gold to ensure their marriages. St. Nicholas was devoted to assisting the lives of those in need. He rendered the most basic teachings of giving and caring. His joy was in the spirit of giving, the spirit of touching people’s lives and making a life long difference in the quality in which people lived.

Christmas has the capability of bringing out the best of human nature. Random acts of human kindness are most common at Christmastime. Out of all the traditions the one that reigns truest, longest, and most complete is the tradition of human dignity and kindhearted action.

What gift will you give at Christmas time this year? What family tradition will you pass along to the next generation? How will you inspire your friends and family this year? What does Christmas mean to you?

References:

1. www.professorshouse.com/family/holidays/christmas.aspx
2. www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=mini_home&mini_id=1290

How to Take a Personal Retreat

By Gyandev Rich McCord, Director of Ananda Yoga Teacher Training at The Expanding Light |

Everyone occasionally needs some inner rejuvenation. Whether you want to break new ground, spiritually speaking, or you simply want to reclaim your peace in the midst of a hectic life, going on retreat can be a perfect solution.

A true retreat is much more than a vacation—it can be a time of conscious, spiritual opening, of making an enjoyable effort to rise to an entirely new state of awareness. Here are a few tips for a retreat experience that is both relaxing and spiritually rewarding:

Find a supportive environment. The right environment can give you a tremendous boost—and the wrong one can work against you. (Isn’t that part of why you need a retreat in the first place?) If possible, choose a place with an established spiritual tradition, one that is harmonious with your own spiritual inclinations. For example, if you are primarily devotional, you probably won’t feel nurtured in a strongly intellectual environment, and vice versa. Look also for a place with the uplifting influence of beautiful natural surroundings, and with space to be alone whenever you wish.

If you’re new to being on retreat, go to a retreat center that offers individual guidance. Optional, guided group activities—such as yoga postures, meditations, nature walks, etc.—are also a plus. Occasionally tapping into a group magnetism can help even experienced retreatants keep their energy high and focused.

Other scheduling possibilities include guided yoga postures and/or meditation before breakfast, and possibly again later in the day.

While you might feel that you really need your sleep, you’ll find a tremendous benefit in starting the day with guided practices, even if you need to nap later in the day! Consider trying more guided sessions of yoga and meditation than you might want to at first—you may discover a more satisfying sense of relaxation and rejuvenation than you get from sleep or lounging around.

Just a word about food: Many people go on retreats hoping to lose weight. As much as possible, try not to make a big deal of food during your retreat. If you are able to touch a deep part of your being, to experience your soul, to feel God, this is much more central and long lasting. Since the food at your retreat center might be different from what you eat at home, you may want to bring along some healthy snacks, such as nuts and dried fruit. You probably won’t need them, but they may give you the confidence not to over-eat at meal times. Overeating will make you feel lethargic and will be counterproductive to your overall goals.

Prepare yourself. Just as athletes need training for peak performance, you’ll get more out of your retreat if you prepare in advance. Eat right and get rested; otherwise, you may need the first day or two of your retreat just to pull yourself together. If you already engage in spiritual practices, get a head start by putting extra energy into them before departing.

Go on a “worry fast.” As soon as you leave home, put all problems forcefully out of your mind. Preoccupation with problems can suffocate your retreat; while a worry-free retreat can actually help you solve problems more effectively.

What you do is not as important as whether your inspiration and “joy level” are high. You don’t have to pray and meditate all day long; few people can do that constructively, anyway. You don’t even have to stay in silence or solitude, though many people find these beneficial. And don’t “over-retreat”: if you’re a first-timer, 2–4 days is plenty. Focus on enjoyment, rather than “shoulds.”

Schedule variety into your retreat. For example, you might use the mornings for your most interiorized efforts: prayer, meditation, journal writing, or spiritual reading. Then be more expansive in the afternoons: walk in nature, do something creative, or listen to uplifting music or lecture tapes. Reserve your evenings for lighter fare: a spiritual video, a humorous book, or simply relaxed, quality time with like-minded people. And always allow for the inspiration of the moment; don’t be locked into anyone’s agenda—even your own.

Above all, relax and enjoy your retreat. Don’t put pressure on yourself to see immediate, dramatic results. When you go on retreat, you are planting a spiritual seed. If you water it by your own continuing spiritual efforts, in time it will surely sprout into the flower of peace and joy that you seek.

For more info, contact The Expanding Light Retreat at (800) 346-5350 or www.expandinglight.org, specializing in spiritual retreats for radiant health, meditation and stress reduction.

•• Living the Wisdom of the Tao ••

By Wayne Dyer, published by Hay House, June 2007 |

19th Verse, Tao Te Ching

Give up sainthood, renounce wisdom,

and it will be a hundred times better for

everyone.

Throw away morality and justice,

and people will do the right thing.

Throw away industry and profit,

and there will be no thieves.

All of these are outward forms alone;

they are not sufficient in themselves.

It is more important

to see the simplicity,

to realize one’s true nature,

to cast off selfishness

and temper desire.

***

Living Without Attachment

Upon first reading this 19th verse of the Tao Te Ching, it appears that Lao-tzu is encouraging us to abandon the highest principles of the Tao. Renounce sainthood, wisdom, morality, justice, industry, and profit, says the great sage, and all will be well. Lao-tzu tells us that “all of these are outward forms alone” and are insufficient for living according to the highest Way.

The first of these categories represents education and the way you look at your sources of learning. This verse advises you to alter your concept of being saintly just because you follow the teachings of an organized religion, and to change your view of self-importance because of degrees you’ve received from an educational institution. Lao-tzu gently informs you that it’s far more valuable to cultivate your true nature.

As with virtually all of the teachings of the Tao, the greatest trust is placed in your accessing the sacred Tao center of yourself. Within you lies a piece of God that instinctively knows what to do and how to be. Trust yourself, Lao-tzu advises, and reevaluate the ultimate importance of educational and religious institutions. When you modify how you see them, you’ll notice that the true essence of you is “a hundred times better for everyone.” Lao-tzu might say that a truth is a truth until you organize it, and then it becomes a lie. Why? Because the purposes of the organization begin to take precedence over that which it first attempted to keep in order.

“Throw away morality and justice,” this verse urges, “and people will do the right thing.” Here, in the second of the outward forms, Lao-tzu reveals a legal system that takes precedence over your natural internal integrity. When you know that you emerged from an impeccable source of honor and equality, you don’t have to rely on a system of justice. Lao-tzu reminds you that it’s very important not to view yourself as relegated to an inferior position because laws of morality tell you who you “really” are. See yourself centered with the perfection of the Tao, which is your nature, rather than needing to consult a law book, a courtroom, or a judge to determine your ethical standing. These labyrinthine systems designed to determine all issues of right and wrong are evidence of our drift away from the simplicity of our inborn nature.

The last of the outward forms is the whole world of business. “Renounce profit seeking, give up ingenuity, and discard record keeping, and thieves will disappear altogether,” could be one interpretation. Lao-tzu advises you to stay centered within the all-encompassing integrity of the Tao and to release your view of profits and monetary gain as indicators of your level of success. When you see your life through the perspective of the Tao teaching, you’ll have no need to hoard large sums of money. Instead, you’ll discover the pleasure of serving others in a spirit of endless generosity. Or, as this translation of the Tao Te Ching puts it, you’ll “cast off selfishness and temper desire.”

These then are the three outward forms: education, justice, and business. You’re being encouraged to update how you see the reasons for, the methods used by, and the way you’ve been taught to value those arenas of life by well-meaning people. When you change how you see them, you’ll note the simplicity and sacredness of a higher principle, which will enrich those institutions with the free-flowing Tao. You’ll realize your own true nature, cast off selfishness, and temper your desire. Be in the world of education, justice, and business—but not of it—and you’ll see the inner world where you’re centered in the Tao.

For more info about this book, visit www.hayhouse.com.