Lessons in the Key of E

I’d been having trouble with the ‘e’ key on my Dell laptop for a couple of weeks –once in a while the text was not showing up. I thought it no big deal, just a bit of dust that would naturally work its way out. A couple weeks later the problem escalated to a much greater frequency, so I used some canned air to clean any possible dust. With no change in the situation, I called Dell Tech Support and after troubleshooting, the news was that I needed another keyboard. However, it turned out that my costly, premium 3-year warranty had expired 8 days before and so my laptop was no longer covered. I’d have to pay full price plus a hefty S+H fee for a new keyboard, and there was no way we could afford that.

My business is computer-based, so I couldn’t just ‘make do.’ Hence, I spent much time on numerous occasions with various people at Dell getting tech support and then trying to get someone with authority - and a generous heart – to make an exception and extend the warranty to cover a replacement keyboard. I pointed out that this current keyboard in fact had been replaced by Dell just in January, less than one year’s use before breaking down; that replacement warranty covered a time period of about as long as it takes to walk from my office to Rog’s. I did not succeed in Dell granting me a keyboard gratis despite my pulling out all stops, even suggesting to them that it would be Dell’s Christmas gift to me!

Now, it’s one thing if the ‘z’ key doesn’t always work with ease and grace; but for a vowel key (except maybe the ‘y’), this is madness. First, I used the spellchecker when in Word and Outlook to get the ‘e’ inserted by correcting ‘errors’; this wasn’t perfect since spellcheckers are limited. But there was also the problem of what to do in the Google bar – no spellchecker there!

Then I tried copying the ‘e’ and pasting it after I’d written my entire document. That was pretty time consuming, so I started using Ctrl+’V’ (keyboard shortcut for pasting) each time I needed an ‘e’. This wasn’t too bad as long as I didn’t forget that I’d put something else in the computer’s memory which overrode my ‘e’.

It reached the point that Rog had to send me an email with the ‘e’ and its capital partner ‘E’ to have them to cut and paste. We had some good laughs, but it was insane. So we went out and bought a new external keyboard that didn’t work at all, and then a used one from Goodwill that did, even if it was warped.

After much research, price comparison, and adjusting the budget, I finally ordered a used laptop keyboard. It arrived yesterday, and I practically kissed it – especially the ‘e’ key! I installed it and all is working fine. My neck and eyes are happier too. I am so grateful.

Now, I learned numerous lessons during this comedy of errors, including:
. It would be wise to set up a tickler file for warranty expiry dates and check it regularly.
. Addressing problems sooner than later could mean a smoother, quicker solution.
. It doesn’t hurt to ask for help on the same thing from many people.
. Perseverance is worthwhile for even if you don’t get what you want, you can meet some nifty people and gain knowledge along the way.
. My laptop keyboard was a breeze to remove and insert – a confidence booster!

Ah, but where’s Spirit in this here blog? Well, when I realized how utterly grateful I was to have my precious ‘e’ key working on the replacement internal keyboard, it made me think how there are so many things I am used to, pay little or no attention to, and, yes, perhaps take for granted.

Large or small it doesn’t matter. I want to appreciate every person, place, situation – everything – in my life. That’s about consciousness. That’s about holding an attitude of gratitude. And, that’s about Spirit.

A Successful Day

Yesterday was a full, rich day – I nourished myself in many ways, the ways that I believe this body, mind, and spirit needs to be fueled up.

The morning was spent mostly on my spiritual life:
. Meditation time and daily readings
. ‘Kawfee’ time and spirituality-focused conversation with Rog
. Writing for You, Me, and Spirit blog

Afternoon time was mind-focused, mostly work oriented, and included the following:
. Internet reading and research
. Posted listing online for my freelance technical writing, editing, and graphics services
. Design work for one of our e-newsletters

Throw in a little bit of socializing with people other than Rog, healthy eating, and fresh air and sunshine. I finished up the day with a Yin/Flow yoga class, fueling my body, mind, and spirit all at once.

There’s always room for improvement, i.e., volunteer work, but I was pleased with the day. I treated others kindly. And, I took good care of myself, something that I’ve not been doing religiously but which is so vital for my spiritual condition. If I’m not in fit spiritual condition, then my emotional, mental, and physical conditions are adversely impacted – and that means those I come into contact might be also; that would not be loving for anyone.

I know that “it’s an inside job” and “peace begins with me.” When I take care of myself and am at peace, I’m walking my path and helping to heal the world. That’s a successful, meaningful day to me. I am grateful.

Joy of the Deepest Kind

I get a thrill when a message in my various daily morning readings shows up in more than one, for I feel that there is synchronicity there and Spirit is clearly trying to communicate something that’s pretty important. This morning I got my thrill.

The topic of today’s Daily Word was Listen. The text included: In prayer, meditation, or with my own intuition, I pause and know what I am to do. For the good of myself, those near to me, and those I have yet to meet, I listen for and act on spiritual guidance.

Excerpted from today’s Science of Mind reading:

When we have reached the place of “nowhere to turn,” let us remind ourselves, as Jesus taught, it is the Father within who doeth the work. Our only responsibility is to go within to our own Christ Consciousness and accept divine guidance.

We begin to experience harmony in our lives and affairs to the degree that we allow spiritual guidance to influence our lives.

Affirmation
I lift my heart and mind to dwell on spiritual truths. I am transformed by the renewing of my mind.

Which leads me to today’s reading in Norman Vincent Peale’s Positive Living Day by Day: The individual who finds something useful to do beyond himself, who gives of himself, knows joy of the deepest kind.

For most of the past 20 years, a great deal of my ‘going beyond myself’ has been aimed at the 12 Step community. I came to believe in a Power greater than myself, recover from my addiction, and had my life and being transformed drastically. I found community that I so easily felt a part of. And, there I found meaning and purpose to my life as in no other place. I volunteered in a myriad of positions and, more importantly, directly helped people through peer counseling and holding a sacred place. This getting out of myself, going beyond myself, and finding something greater to contribute to the healing of the world brought me great joy. And, that joy is the deepest joy, feeling one with Spirit.

Since becoming inactive in the OA these last couple of years as my spiritual path took me beyond the 12 Steps, and not giving of much of myself in that way, I have lost and missed that higher meaning and purpose to my life. And, despite joys and many blessings in my life today, that “joy of the deepest kind” is asleep and I find my life and affairs not as harmonious as they could be.

Through increased prayer, meditation, my own intuition, and affirmation of my own Christ Consciousness, I am moving towards reawakening that joy as I look to serve in something bigger than me. I’m getting messages as to where to be of service and I am acting on that guidance. I am grateful.

As I give of myself, to that which is greater than myself, I heal myself and others. That is Oneness, that is God. Therein lays “joy of the deepest kind.”

Blessings in Disguise

The following is the full reading for 12.27.08 from Science of Mind: A Guide for Spiritual Living. You may have already heard the story of the Chinese farmer and realized its message. I loved reading it again for I know that it is always a good reminder for me to not judge circumstances from my limited perspective.

Happy reading!
_______________________

“... man himself shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.”
- Romans 8:21

“All things work for our good. Suffering should teach is a lesson which would cause us to refrain from making more mistakes; it carries a blessing with it when we learn how to garner knowledge from the experience.” - The Science of Mind, page 485

There is a Chinese story of a farmer who used an old horse to till his fields. One day, the horse escaped into the hills, and when the farmer’s neighbors sympathized with the old man over his bad luck, the farmer replied, “Bad luck? Good luck? Who knows?”

A week later, the horse returned with a herd of horses from the hills and this time the neighbors congratulated the farmer on his good luck. His reply was, “Good luck? Bad luck? Who knows?” Then, when the farmer’s son was attempting to tame one of the wild horses, he fell off and broke his leg. Everyone thought this to be very bad luck. The farmer’s only reaction was, “Bad luck? Good luck? Who knows?” Some weeks later, the army march into the village and enlisted every able-bodied youth they found there. When they saw the farmer’s son with his broken leg, they let him stay. Now, was that good luck or bad luck? Who knows?

Everything that seems to be a challenge may be a blessing in disguise. We are wise when we leave it to God to decide what good fortune is and what is a challenge, and thank the Divine for blessings.

Affirmation
I am blessed by the Infinite Power that creates every situation. I look for the pearl of wisdom in every situation and am blessed no matter what the appearance.

Celebrate

This is the season of joy, love, and light; and, a time to celebrate with friends and families. But it is also a time when beings – humans and pets – often choose to leave.

Whether due to failing health and feeling it’s time to go rest and let God take them, or due to seemingly hopeless despair and departing through their own hand, this season can be a challenge due to loss and grief.

I know of two men that made their transition during this past week, one an elderly gentleman, the other a 35 year-old dad of two young sons. I had the honor of attending a memorial service for my friend’s 81 year-old father, and I was so struck by the theme of celebrating this man’s life. Yes, no doubt grief was in the mix despite Fred’s advanced age, but it was clearly about celebrate, celebrate, celebrate! Stories were told, music was played, photographs displayed, poems recited, and yes, even laughter and joy about “a long life well lived.” With a legacy left behind in the form of offspring, projects accomplished, etc. this man lives on here on the earth plane and his spirit lives forever.

I don’t know that the memorial service of my other friend’s son’s life will be as joyful although I hope it is. There will perhaps be greater grief at a life cut short by Greg himself, and much pondering about the big “Why?” and if anyone could have done anything to change the outcome. Still, his family and loved ones can choose to focus on the life he did live and celebrate him, the people he touched, the sons he brought forth. My prayers are with them all. This man lives on here on the earth plane and his spirit lives forever.

I never met Fred or Greg... God bless them both.

Yes, this is a season of joy, love, and light. Let’s celebrate it and the people dear to us no matter where they are.

Meaning in Life

It is only when we realize that life is taking us nowhere that it begins to have meaning. - P.D. Ouspensky

I sure hope so!!

These days, with the world heading for a meltdown through a variety of venues, it can be difficult to see the light through the darkness. However, it is a wonderful time, filled with many opportunities.

I am releasing attachments to ‘things’ and praying for increased closeness with Spirit. With less things as a distraction, it is easier to focus on my inner life and create it to be what I want it to be: all about Spirit. It is then easier to be in the outer world, i.e., people, places, circumstances.

The meaning in my life comes from helping, healing, and walking in peace, love, and joy with Spirit.

Lessons from Garlic, Onions, and Peppers

Rog and I spent a couple of days in Tucson visiting with some family and dear friends for the Christmas holiday.

We volunteered to help our friends prepare dinner one evening and then breakfast the next morning. Some of the most wonderful food was whipped up, and, to my surprise, personal growth too.

I learned a new way of peeling garlic gloves and using a garlic press after many years of doing it my way. Karleena tried a new way of making garlic bread which proved easier as well as delicious. Rog learned how to caramelize onions and peppers.

And then there was John who learned that he could easily and lovingly supervise and teach us assistant chefs in a way that did not disturb his peace and was actually enjoyable and worthy of accolades. All this while saving him time and effort too – he didn’t have to do it all alone.

It was a gift for me to receive an impromptu experience and demonstration of true teamwork, cooperation, and community. I’ve experienced it in some 12 Step service projects, but for the most part have little experience of it from my family of origin. It’s not something to be seen or had easily these days, although it is mine and Rog’s hope to see it and be a part of it in greater abundance in the times to come.

We are seeking to live in community - with harmony. It takes consciousness, openness, honesty, love, and respect. I know it is possible - thanks to our dear friends – my true family – and Spirit. What a delightful Christmas gift!

Christmas Eve Prayer

Give us, O God, the vision which can see Your love in the world in spite of human failure.
Give us the faith to trust Your goodness in spite of our ignorance and weakness.
Give us the knowledge that we may continue to pray with understanding hearts.
And show us what each one of us can do to set forward the coming of the day of universal peace.

~ Frank Borman, Apollo 8 space mission, 1968

On the Right Track

Our discussion last night was confirmation to me that those of us who attend the Gilbert Spirituality Meetup are, for the most part, not traditional in our belief system.

Last evening’s topic, “What does the Holiday Season Mean to You?,” traveled into the territory of organized religion –no surprise there!- and how many of us have had to shed the (sometimes) full package of what religions and cultures (familial, national) try to sell us particularly when we were just starting out in life. Coupled with life changes, such as divorce, empty nest, and relocation, we have attached our personal definitions and created new traditions to make the holiday season meaningful to us.

That is following one’s own path to Spirit. And, if the holiday season is supposed to be one of joy, peace, and love, then I’d say we are all on the right track.

Light

Yesterday was the Winter Solstice – yippee, now the days will be longer, full of more light. Hmmm – is that one reason why the holiday season is called the Season of Light?

The Winter Solstice astronomically marks the beginning of shortening nights and lengthening days. Worldwide, interpretation of the event has varied from culture to culture, but most cultures have held a recognition of rebirth.

Then there’s Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, which began at sundown last night. It is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. The Temple was purified and the wicks of the menorah miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day's lighting.

According to the chabad.org website, Chanukah celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of purity over adulteration, of spirituality over materiality.

And, of course, coming up later this week is Christmas, the holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus. Jesus was born at a time when society was infested with spiritual ignorance and unrighteousness (superstition, greed, hatred, hypocrisy, etc.). He came as a spiritual guide (Guru) or Savior Form of God to guide people to Liberation from spiritual ignorance or ego (sin), the root cause of suffering. We each have the light and love of the Christ Presence within, which is our spiritual nature.

So there are numerous reasons for calling this time of year the Season of Light. I see it as a time that reminds us of The Light: the truth, the goodness, the God within - indeed great cause for joy and celebration.

Today's Thanks

Dear Spirit of the Most High;

Thank You for getting us home safely tonight after a full day of activities.

Thank You for the Christmas caroling –a hootenanny to me – hosted by East West Exchange. I had three solid hours of singing Christmas songs, improvising harmonies, and feeling a part of the small group of warm folks (including my dear yoga instructor) who gathered. It was exactly as I would have wanted it: no pressure, perfection not required, people who love singing, a feeling of togetherness. I don’t organize or participate in such singing groups much these days, so it was an extra special treat: Singing at Christmas time! Thank You, Spirit, once again.

Thank You for Lisa and Chip and their creating East West Exchange. It is a home away from home.

Thank You for all the people who listened to and sang Christmas carols indoors on a sunny Arizona holiday shopping Sunday and hence provided me with a delightful, uplifting afternoon.

Thank You for a pleasant Sunday dinnertime at Rog’s mom’s home, with his brother, David, another unique occasion since David is visiting from Washington State and the four of us have never before shared an intimate cozy meal together.

Thank You for a healthier intake of food this day after yesterday’s Wyer Family Christmas celebration with too many goodies!

Thank You, of course, for my beloved Roger (and his improving physical state).

Thank You for the peace I feel this evening after starting the day in a not-so-peaceful state.

Goodnight.

A Bedtime Prayer

This Muslim prayer, found on www.beliefnet.com, focuses on the glory of Allah, and is attributed to the theologian Al-Ghazali (1058-1111):

In Thy name, Lord, I lay me down and in Thy name will I rise up... O God, Thou art the first and before Thee there is nothing; Thou art the last and after Thee there is nothing; Thou art the outmost and above Thee there is nothing; Thou art the inmost and below Thee there is nothing... Waken me, O God, in the hour most pleasing to Thee and use me in the works most pleasing to Thee, that Thou mayest bring me ever nearer to Thyself.

Prayer From a Friend

The following was emailed to me by a friend who had received it as part of a holiday greeting:

There are 12 months/ 12 disciples/ 12 tribes of Israel / Jesus' birth celebrated in the 12th month. Prayer is one of the best free gifts we receive. There is no cost, just a lot of reward. Make sure you pray, and pray believing God will answer. May today be all you need it to be. May the peace of God and the freshness of the Holy Spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight, and conquer all your fears. May God manifest Himself today in ways you have never experienced. May your joys be fulfilled, your dreams be closer, and your prayers be answered. I pray that faith enters a new height for you; I pray that your territory is enlarged. I pray for peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, true and undying love for God.

There was nothing attached but it was suggested that it be sent to twelve others. Perhaps you’ll feel moved to do so...

Celebration

Today was a day full of celebration – a long day of celebration!

We attended Rog’s daughter Emily’s boyfriend’s college commencement, then gathered to break bread and celebrate Nick’s achievement. There was conversation, the making of new friends, getting acquainted with family members, a bubbly toast, homemade cake decorated with the colors of Nick’s school, and the opening of gifts and greeting cards to acknowledge and congratulate Nick on earning his B.A.

Tonight’s service at The Little Chapel was an extra special one focused on Christmas. Jesus was the focal point of the message, special music was presented, gifts given – all in celebration of the birth of Jesus and what this special man gave to the world. Repeatedly we heard the message that God loves every single one of us. There is such joy in that idea, such power - and strong reason to celebrate.

On the drive home we tuned in briefly to Delilah’s radio show. People express their love for someone in their life and dedicate a song to them. It’s a celebration of love and gratitude.

It’s not often that I have such a full day of people celebrating people, but it sure is an uplifting experience and a reminder of the goodness in life and the vastness of love to be shared.

An Afternoon Prayer

Dear God,
May we never lose sight of what is of true value, those things which alone remain forever.
And, as we go about the remainder of this busy day, may we shine Your Light, Your Love, and Your Joy upon all whom we meet.
Thank You.
And so it is.

It’s a Small World...

It’s a small world after all,
It’s a small world after all,
It’s a small world after all,
It’s a small, small world.

Do you remember that song from Disney, the one about peace? I first heard it at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair when I was a young girl. You can click here to learn more about the history of the song and the Disney ride.

Today Rog and I lunched with LB to catch up a bit on our respective lives. We first met when a mutual colleague invited LB to our weekly Tuesday morning conversation group Rog and I used to host at our business Conversation Point: Another School of Thought. We also worked closely with LB when he held workshops at our venue. It’s always fun getting together with LB, getting to know him more and growing closer.

Tonight I met JW for tea to find out more about some interesting volunteer work she is passionately involved in with youth at risk. Rog and I first met her and her fiancé, ZW - now husband - when they came to us for a wedding coaching session. When Rog and I were ordained as non-denominational ministers, JW & ZW jumped at asking us to marry them. We did (couple-to-couple) and since then have kept in touch and shared some wonderful, warm times, getting to know one another along the way and feeling more and more connected, like family. We helped them and they were a wonderful blessing to us - and continue to be.

This evening I learned that JW knows LB! That’s a thrill for me. They live on opposite parts of the valley, work in different fields, come from different cultural backgrounds, etc. However, they are both active in Landmark, and because they are in community there, they are in community with us. “Six degrees of separation” come to mind.

We are all so closely connected to one another in this seemingly vast world and oftimes don’t know it – until further conversation and exploration reveals it is so. Yet, Spirit is always there. It is indeed a small world.

It's a world of laughter, a world of tears,
It's a world of hopes and a world of fears;
There's so much that we share,
That it's time we're aware
It's a small world after all.
It's a small world after all,
It's a small world after all,
It's a small world after all,
It's a small, small world.
There is just one moon, and one golden sun,
And a smile means friendship to ev'ryone;
Though the mountains divide,
And the oceans are wide,
It's a small world after all.

Click to hear the song – enjoy strolling down memory lane!

Thank You for Roger

Dear God;
Thank You for my life.
Thank You for this day.
Thank You for my mental health – for my sound disposition.
And for my emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Thank You for Roger.
Thank You for...

“Thank You for Roger.” Whoa!

Wow! – What Rog and I have is pretty phenomenal. When I really think about who he is, our relationship, our compatibility, our love, there is really no question that only God – Something greater than us – could have brought us together!

We met through match.com although the geographical parameters each of us set should not have retrieved my profile when he went about his search. And, I was just about ready to end my subscription. That was only the beginning of some odd circumstances and synchronicities that appeared on the horizon as we began our courtship.

I had had serial monogamous relationships, but never married. While there had been love, I’d never met “The One” and since I hadn’t wanted children, I hadn’t felt compelled to ‘settle down’. On the other hand, Rog had been married for 24 years to the same woman and had three children.

While I enjoyed, learned, and grew from each of my relationships, my own shortcomings, and sometimes questionable choice in partners born of those shortcomings and ego were evident. Rog’s character, spirituality, consciousness, etc. were quite a few rungs up the ladder! And, I by the time we connected, I was able to meet him there. God had gotten me ready.

Rog and I are business partners and spend a lot of time together (totally out of choice), probably much more than most couples. With our combined skills and knowledge, and odd overlap of experiences - how many (non- Native American) people do you know have worked on an Indian reservation or been employed by a railroad?! -, along with our personalities, everyday is an adventure, full of growth, laughter, and many hugs. Rog is my “bestest”, “bestest” friend. And, yes, indeed only God could have brought my twin flame and me together.

I am so grateful. Thank You, Spirit!

My Very First Request

This morning I was in my quiet time, thanking God for my life and for this day. Then I asked God for help, especially financial - that caught my attention. I changed it to faith - a feeling of certainty that Rog and I would be well, not just ‘okay,’ no matter what. That immediately got changed to peace - ah, peace beyond all understanding. Isn’t that what truly underlies faith? Or, perhaps it’s that peace gives rise to faith which then loops back into peace...

Well, it is surely not financial that comes first! Emmet Fox says “As long as there is fear, or resentment, or any trouble in your heart, that is to say, as long as you lack serenity, or peace, it is not possible for you to attain very much.” (The Sermon on the Mount – The Key to Success in Life, page 42)

So I’m asking for peace- that is my request. From there all flows with ease and grace. All is well.

Thank You.

Morning Prayer

O God, this morning we remind ourselves of Your all embracing Presence, help us to reflect upon our relationship with You, and to grow in our love for You and each other.

We bring with us our uncertainties and false tracks, our loves and cares, our successes and failures, our sorrows and hopes. Give us the grace to be able to hear You speaking in the midst of our busy lives.

Help us to be sensitive to all the grace-filled moments in our day and give us the strength and faith to turn our awareness of You into actions that build up Your people and establish Your kingdom in our world.

Bless all our family members, friends, and neighbours.

May all enjoy a peace-filled day.

From the website www.prayerandspirituality.com

Judging or Loving?

If you judge people, you have no time to love them.
- Mother Teresa

I just came across this quote online and it really hit me powerfully.

Judging others has been one of my major character defects. Sure, we can get into the psychological reasons for it, starting with my family of origin, but the ‘why’ of it isn’t really that important especially after reading this quote.

Love is such a wonderful feeling and, a direct connection to Spirit. Time is precious and how I waste it and deny myself and others the joy of loving them if I am judging them.

What I am interpreting Mother Teresa’s statement to mean is that judging and loving are opposites – I don‘t think I’ve looked at it that way before. So how do I want to spend my time? The answer is obvious: I want to extend love always, and leave my judgments behind. Remembering this quote will be a useful tool when I notice judgment creeping into to my head and it will serve to move me to my heart, to love – and God.

If you judge people, you have no time to love them.

Dear Spirit;
May I remember we are all children of God, all perfect, all deserving of giving and receiving love.

Inner Journey Prayer

Here’s a particularly soothing prayer from Vicky Thompson’s website “Journey with Spirit.”

A Prayer for Blessed Peace

In my hidden heart, I know this feeling.
Deep inside, the river flows
with the peace of the world.
This world, this place of love unbridled,
is where you and I meet.
Alone, but together,
silent, but joyful,
we share this deep peace as one.
Peace dwells within me.
Always waiting patiently,
knowing that I will return to its embrace.

I let go, I let go, I am peace.
I say yes, I say yes, I am peace.
I choose love, I choose love, I am peace.
In my heart, I know this place.
In my heart, I am peace.

F-A-I-T-H

Considering that the topic of faith was discussed Monday evening at our Gilbert Spirituality Meetup Group, and last night I thought more about it as I blogged, it’s no surprise to me that in the wee hours of the morning today, when I was in between wakefulness and sleep, the topic came into my mind.

It was about 3 am, and I got this hit that the word “faith” was an acronym: Face All In New Thought And Heart. Wow!

When Rog heard that I’d gotten that the word was an acronym, he was a bit impressed because it’s not a very short word to come up with something. But, hey, it was Spirit, not me! As I started telling him what the letters stood for, I realized I had ‘received’ an extra letter in my semi-awake state – the ‘n’. Duh - the word is spelled f-a-i-t-h!

Okay, so Face All In Thought And Heart. It’s not as good as “fear”: false evidence appearing real (or some other doosies I’ve heard), but it has meaning.

And, it doesn’t really matter, because I feel that nonetheless Spirit was sending a message to me. I need a NEW perspective in how I’m looking at (facing) and living my life these days. New thoughts, new heart – feels refreshing to me! And, through all the changes, God will always be there to support me. That’s f-a-i-t-h!

Faith and Hope

You know, more often than not, the topics I choose for discussion at the Gilbert Spirituality Meetup Group are not ones that I am perfectly clear about in my own life and am thus seeking some input – that’s an advantage of being the facilitator! That said, I really enjoy hearing other peoples’ perspectives and real life experiences. I see how we have so much in common; we are more alike than different.

Last night we discussed faith and hope...oh yes, trust too.

Now, when I refer to faith, I am not referring to religion. I am pointing to my relationship with Spirit, God, Higher Power, Great Mystery, whatever I choose to call the Spirit of the Most High. In fact, after growing up in a not-so-religious family, being a devout atheist for many years thereafter, and then coming to believe in God, I still claim no religious affiliation and don’t suppose I ever will. Faith is about my personal relationship with God, not a man-made organized structure.

This is some of what I heard at last night’s meeting with my additional musings.

Faith is absolute, a knowing, a certainty; hope implies doubt. If that be the case, give me faith, any day, over hope!

Ah, but is faith something that is or can be always? I find there are times when I am so full of faith, and other times when I’m not. When I’ve got it, I’ve got it – and when I don’t, I surely don’t! Why is that? I would love to always have it ALL the time. To trust in Spirit in all ways, always. If it’s a choice, then we’re talking about a mental process, but to me it’s a feeling and a knowing - from the heart.

Faith is to being as hope is to doing. I guess this idea is similar to faith rests in principle while hope rests in phenomena ... Faith is accepting things for what they are; hope is trying to change things. So when I accept things as they are, I am in a being state (faith), whereas when I am trying to change things, I am in a doing state (hope). Faith as a principle just is, while hope is of a lower level, a possibility. Someone suggested that maybe hope is “baby faith,” a stepping forward towards faith.

Someone shared her experience about hope vis-à-vis despair, which captured essentially what George Bernard Shaw wrote in Caesar and Cleopatra: “He who has never hoped can never despair.” That’s quite a tradeoff!

Faith is the opposite of fear (false evidence appearing real) and where there is one, the other cannot exist. When I am in fear, I am thinking about the future and wallowing in negativity. In the now, there is no fear, and faith can preside.

I was taught that if I don’t have faith, I can act as if I do, and eventually it will come. I pray to Spirit to have faith - certainty that all is well no matter what - in all ways, always.

Feels like Home.

A Change in Soul

According to Emmet Fox, prayer is “...our only means of returning to our communion with God” and “... is the only thing that change’s one character. A change in character, or a change in soul, is a real change.“ (The Sermon on the Mount – The Key to Success in Life, page 41)

This reminds me of the story set forth in the book of Alcoholics Anonymous, in which an alcoholic American businessman was told by Dr. Carl Jung that the only possible hope for the man’s recovery was to have a vital spiritual experience. To Jung, “...these occurrences are phenomena. They appear to be in the nature of huge emotional displacements and rearrangements. Ideas, emotions, and attitudes which were once guiding forces ... are suddenly cast to one side, and a completely new set of conceptions and motives begin to dominate...” (page 27).

With this spiritual experience, we tap into a resource which is something greater than ourselves and experience a profound alteration in how we deal with life. This is certainly how it was for me when I ventured into the 12 Step program many years ago. As I studied and practiced the principles of the program to the best of my ability, over time my soul was changed, awakened – which could only be for the better. It was changed by a Power greater than myself and as I expressed those changes, there was a ripple effect on others. My awakening always affects the world in some way.

So it is with prayer. We cannot pray without making a difference in ourselves to some degree and hence in others.

Any time I pray, it is a spiritual experience, one in which my soul is changed, and to some extent yours too. We are One.

Prayer

What is prayer? It is a mental process and when I’m in the ‘right’ space it is surely a heartfelt thing.

Years ago when I first joined a 12 Step program, I learned that prayer was talking to God. For me, it is a time like no other in which I am communing with Spirit, just the two of us building our relationship. Sure there are other times when I’m building that relationship, like when I’m being of service helping another person, for surely when two or three of us are gathered in His name, therein is God in the midst of them... But to be alone with God, one on one, is a different encounter, a different experience.

So if prayer includes the aforementioned, then as this morning’s reading pointed out, it’s not a device for getting you what you want. “Prayer is a means of bringing you to the point where you will accept what God wants.” Furthermore,

“You learn to say, “This is what I’d like to have, Lord, if You think it’s all right for me, but if You don’t, then give me what You want me to have or show me what You want me to do.”

– Positive Living Day by Day, Norman Vincent Peale, page 356

I find myself more and more releasing what I think I want, and asking God to show me His will, His way. I am letting go. And, I am gaining more peace, for which I am grateful.

Home

When there is nothing I can find joy in as I ponder today’s world of craziness, I can always go back to God. In fact, that is really the best place for me to be always, at all times.

God is my Source, my Home. Why would I want to be anywhere else? The outside, physical world just seems to be getting more and more insane and silly as each day passes by. Just watch TV commercials and you can get an idea of the type of values that are being trumpeted, the things in life that are considered important. Brrrrr!

I choose to go inside more and more, to the world of peace, and love, and joy, and light. There I find comfort, strength, revitalization. Then, I am fortified to deal with the craziness of the illusion, which one day will disappear and I shall be at Home in God at all times and in all respects.

Blessings to You!

May the blessings of God rest upon you
May God’s peace abide with you
May God’s presence illuminate your heart
Now and forever more.
- Sufi blessing

Dialogue

During this morning’s time in the silence:

Dear God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, and Higher Unlimited Self;
Thank You for my life and this day.
Help me to do Your Will throughout the day and have the ability to carry it out.

THEM: Do you really mean that?

JOYCE: Well..................probably not. I guess it would be better to say...
Please give me the desire to so want to do Your Will, with such a passion, a knowing, an understanding that You truly are First Cause, my Source and so I so strongly want to do Your Will. Then it will be natural for me to carry it out...it’ll feel easy, it’ll run all through me and not feel like a burden.

THEM: OK.

So my prayer this day, and really every day, is summed up as “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God,” one of the beatitudes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. I strive to be one of those “pure in heart.”

Emmet Fox, in his book, The Sermon on the Mount: The Key to Success in Life explains it this way:

“Blessed are they who recognize God as the only real Cause, and the only real Presence, and the only real Power; not merely in a theoretical of formal way, but practically, and specifically, and wholeheartedly, in all their thoughts, and words, and actions; and not merely in some parts of their lives, but in every nook and corner of their lives and mentalities, keeping nothing back from Him, but bringing their own wills in every last particular into perfect harmony with His Will – for they shall overcome all limitation of time, and space, and matter, and carnal mind; and realize and enjoy the Presence of God forever.”

“Beatitude” is defined as “the perfect happiness and inner peace supposed to be enjoyed by the soul in heaven.” It is a state of utmost bliss.

To know God in every fiber of my being, and more - that is what I pray for.

And, yes, I really mean that!

Forgiveness

Today has been an exercise in forgiveness and a lot about letting go and letting God.

I have to forgive myself for trying to live a certain way in a world that is an ever shifting illusion where people are doing the best they can - including moi – and it simply is impossible to work anywhere near perfect.

I have to forgive myself and let go of expectations.

Okay, I do forgive myself for still playing the role of “good little girl.”

I forgive myself for thinking that others hold the same values as I do.

I forgive myself for living in the past and projecting into the future. There is only Now.

I forgive myself for not having answers to situations.

I forgive myself for judging my thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

I forgive, turning it over to Spirit to be healed, and I am free.

The Prayer for Protection

I’ve gotten into the habit of chanting the following when I’m lying in bed:

The Light of God surrounds me;
The Love of God enfolds me;
The Power of God protects me;
The Presence of God watches over me;
Wherever I am, God is!
And, all is well!

The aforementioned is known as the Prayer for Protection and it was written by James Dillet Freeman, a prolific poet, essayist, and columnist. I think some folks at Unity, who Freeman wrote for, added the last line, which sits well with me.

I’m somewhat familiar with the prayer, but because I was going to blog about it tonight, I thought I’d Google it. It was a fascinating and worthwhile search, one which I had to finally stop so that I could get to bed sometime while it was still Tuesday!

I learned some interesting history about the prayer, including that it was written for all soldiers during World War II, and there is a long version. "Prayer for Protection" is one of two Freeman compositions carried to the moon by Apollo astronauts. Mr. Freeman served Unity School of Christianity, the parent organization of the worldwide Unity movement, as a teacher, writer and speaker, and was an adventurous, spiritual, colorful character. Click here to read more about James Dillet Freeman.

I have found the prayer quite helpful. When I’m lying in bed with my mind still racing at 100 miles an hour, repeating the prayer several times calms me down and I soon fall fast asleep. If I feel fearful, it gets me back on track, for when God is everywhere that I am and all is well, what else matters? Therein is faith, and, where there is faith, fear can not exist.

To that I say, “Amen!” and “Goodnight!”

Spiritual Preparedness

Well, the Thanksgiving holiday is over, it’s December 1st, and holiday preparations are on full throttle!

We’ve gone from a morning where it looked like few of the Wyer family would be together during Christmastime, to this evening’s exciting news of folks coming in from parts west of here. I’m really looking forward to the holiday and getting to better know Rog’s immediate family. It’s going to be fun, fun, fun – and busy, busy, busy!

So, am I ready for another blast of entertaining and activity? Will I take good care of my soul amid the flurry of activity, expectations, preparation, etc.? Yes, yes, yes! I really want to be present and enjoy the time.

I am not much fun or of great use to anyone else if I do not take good care of me, and socializing becomes a not so joyful time. Thanksgiving experiences and insights are still ripe in my memory. To experience the joy of the upcoming season, I will take time to b-r-e-a-t-h-e. The breath is so in the moment, a relaxing foray into peace and connection with Spirit.

As I make plans for our company, so too I will make plans for my spiritual being, both worthy of my love, kindness, and caring attention.