Spiritual Leanings ... From all faiths. [Archive]

citybutch

03-26-2011, 11:33 AM

Thanks for sharing Andrew. I have a very similar experience. I was in a really tough relationship, my brother was dying of colon cancer... and I was struggling in my career. I had a very difficult time finding my center. I was flying back East once a month to be with my brother and family. A couple things brought me to some level of peace:

Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch was sitting on my Mother's coffee table and I picked it up and never put it down...

My good friend Mary Daly was on the Roseanne Show (talk show) and a bunch of us were there in the Green Room with her and the audience as well... And Mary's words were basically "Get OUT of the Fear"...

And a transformative drive back to San Diego after the taping of that show... I literally had to stop on the side of the highway with what felt like an A-HA moment. I also identify it as a spiritual touch.

My relationship ended shortly after this... My brother died a few months later... But I had my center... somehow I made it through.

By the end of the year I had met the woman who would become my wife, made Comeback of the Year award from my company, among a few other stand out events.

I seek out my spiritual center at many points every day of my life. Although I find guidance from the words of Jesus and the Christ within me... I also draw direction and guidance from many different spiritual traditions.

There is no one path to God....

Thank you for this thread, Citybutch. :hangloose:

I am Roman Catholic. I find a great deal of comfort in my faith. However, along the way, I have been out of the Church for over 20+ years before walking thru the doors of any Church. I returned when my older sister was dying of cancer.

Now, before all of that, in those 20+ years I began to explore many other faiths and belief systems like Buddism, and such. I don't believe that one religion is better than another. I also believe that we all are interconnected, humananity, animals, earth, nature, and such.

I believe in forgiveness, and an after life. I also believe that there is a heaven and hell. Hell can be anything one imagines it to be. I also believe in karma.

I have an alter in my home. I believe in daily prayer. And I believe in praying for other people.

Namaste,
Andrew

Andrew, Jr.

03-26-2011, 12:02 PM

Dear Citybutch,

Thank you for your kind post. It made me smile ear to ear. Yes, the path to God is not a one way street as alot of folks believe it is or would like to think it is.

I have come to learn from others visually like Shirley MacLaine, Roy Rogers and his wife Dale Evans, plus those who have a gift like Damon Brinkley. God has always drawn me from an early age because of the abuse I endured, and I asked for help from God. However, the spirits are very obvious to me. I think because I am not like most people. I don't have a voice like others. My voice is internal. I hope this makes sense.

I feel that there is more to life than what we know it to be. There are those who feel like they have to eat fish on Friday end of story. Then you have those people who have other views. The God I know to be is of love. For example someone said that God is punishing Japan so He caused the earthquake and the tsuami and now the nuclear nightmare. It makes me very nervous so I don't watch the news now. But I know God did not have anything to do with that mess. It is the same with my sister dying of skin cancer. God had nothing to do with that. She died from cancer. Cancer is horrible. It makes me sad, and want to scream at the top of my lungs. I pray for a cure every day. I hope to see that happen one day.

It is my faith and belief system that knows my sister is safe, happy, and healthy now. She isn't suffering. What most people don't know online is that I was the last person to see her alive. She died 45 min. later after I left her. I went directly to St. Jude's Shrine. I prayed to Mary and Jesus to take her. I would rather suffer missing her, and the pain involved, than to witness her suffering.

What I don't understand is why folks want to start a pissing battle online over who is right or wrong on someone's faith? It makes no sense to me. It doesn't matter what site it is on because I have seen it time and time again. That to me is just a reflection of how much this still a big controversy. Again, like someone wants to debate who is/is not psychic, orbs, ghosts, spirits, the knights of Templar, Mormans, and so on. It is what it is.

Now before my sister died from cancer, I had to endure my adopted step father dying from bone cancer, then my adopted mother dying from Altzheimer's Disease. My older adopted gay brother read the book you mentioned. He got alot from the book. I read a few pages and put it down. It went in one ear and out the other. I have no clue as to what I read. Nodda.

I just wish others would have an open mind and heart to this. I just see so much hatred and opinions that it has to be one way only. It isn't. Life is not like that.

Thank you again for your post. I very much enjoyed it.

Namaste,
Andrew

gracefaith

03-26-2011, 01:13 PM

I allow God teach me is my quote...

I love this quote cause this is where I find my spiritual food.

Um, I'm still figuring this out how to go about this writing here...

Um, I'm so glad you began this spiritual thread cause I really feel God's peace here, I really feel God's peace flow through me even now as I'm writing this, I'm so energies in God's power, in God's light, God is a true high for me... I feel God's high right now., so peaceful...

Thank you so much for beginning a spiritual thread...

I love allowing God teach me, cause I can rest then and learn...

Also as I allow God teach me I feel God's flame in my spirit in my chest area... I call God's flame fire of life...

Anyways, when I feel God's flame I feel so much purpose beyond my understanding...

Oh, years back, in my despair when I ask God what happen, it was then I felt God's burn and then, God began teaching me what happen.

my free will I allow God teach me in my midst of it all, and even this I allow God teach me how to allow God teach me, um, its a continue thing for me, to learn and relearn and oh and the renewing of my mind from God,

its like two things are going on, my thoughts and God's thoughts, as God renews my thoughts, but this is through my allowing...

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for beginning this spiritual thread... Thank you...

GraceFaith...

I am a Christian...

But I am one of those Christians who finds wisdom, faith, understanding, and guidance from many sources... not just Christ.

The word Christianity has, in my very humble opinion, been co-opted by a radical right.

I thought I would start a thread where we can post quotes, sayings, words of wisdom, whatever... from various sources.... that may help us as we navigate life's challenges...

Just a thought... that perhaps in our differences we can find our commonality... even on a spiritual level.

Glenn

03-26-2011, 04:32 PM

Ever since I was a baby StoneButch I had, as you call,"spiritual leanings" (if I said this publicly say only 2-3 hundred years ago, I would've probably been burned at the stake). :readfineprint:So I became facinated in my teens, with LSD and mahajuana, magic mushrooms, and peyote, hashish, because it was easily accessible by my "spiritual" group of "friends", and also known, as a first "rite of passage" for certain enlightened common youth of the day. I thought gettin high, was gettin closer to my Higher Self and the Master of Myself, and the entire Universe(what Swami Ram Dass called "knocking on the backdoor of heaven"). I wanted to be "drunk with the Spirit.":confused: To make a long story short, I sure did find what I was looking for in a Honky Tonk Angel! Y'alll may not believe this, but everytime that regular looking old woman touched me, I felt the greatest high imaginable! I've seen her make a group of grown men cry with joy when they visited her..she was truly a Honky Tonk Angel. Unfortunately we'd all come down from this "high", and I never knew where she lived.There are more people in this world who have these gifts. In India, it takes devotee's years of meditation and breathing excersizes to get to Samadhi or Bliss willfully and summon it whenever they please. I believe this is one way to world peace:)

Andrew, Jr.

03-26-2011, 06:11 PM

Gracefaith,

Thank you for your post. I too keep my eyes on the Lord. "My eyes are ever fixed on the Lord, for He releases my feet from the snare. O look at me and be merciful, for I am wretched and alone." Ezekiel 36:23-26

Then I think of the psalm that we sing in Mass - "If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts."

citybutch

03-27-2011, 08:54 AM

Say not in grief that she is no more
but say in thankfulness that she was
A death is not the extinguishing of a light,
but the putting out of the lamp
because the dawn has come.

- Rabindranath Tagore

citybutch

03-27-2011, 10:50 AM

Harmony

I am one in Spirit with all people.

We are all connected by an invisible thread of Spirit that binds us as children of God. As we sing in a popular hymn: "We are one in the spirit, we are one in the Lord." If I am feeling out of harmony with the people in my life or perceive injustice or unfairness in the situations around me, I remember that we are all one in the spirit of God.

Looking beyond outer differences, I remember I am spiritually connected to every individual--from my neighbors, family and friends, to people of all nations around the world. I focus on the values that bind us together--such as harmony, cooperation and love. We are one in the spirit of God and the Spirit transcends any differences.

You are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind.--Philippians 1:27

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

03-27-2011, 12:47 PM

Citybutch,

Everyone has a different perspective on everything in life. Let me try to explain this as best I can. Say someone posts about what it means for them to see someone who is a ftm, and they compare that person to someone else. Then there are a million and one threads on or about what is or isn't man/woman enough if they don't do whatever. It is all about perspective. It can be good, bad, or a mix. For example stereotyping. All guys smoke pipes, cigars, and so on. Or another stereotype is that all guys are atheletic and sports nuts. What about a non-smoker ftm? What about a heavy guy who is not into sports? Does that make him less of a guy? What about a guy who doesn't ride a Harley? What about a guy who looses his job, and moves back with his parents? Is he less than? It is all about perspective.

What I have decided to do is seek out the positive, and rely on the Saints who give me good intentions, feelings, and know my limitations and weaknesses. I also pray for my enemies, family members who I don't talk too, and so on. I do believe that we are all connected in some form or fashion. We may not speak the same language, but it makes no difference. We are all apart of the human race.

Another issue is wealth. Is it wrong that someone is weathly? Heck no. However, I try not to judge that person, but I do. I see how they spend their money. Do they donate to the soldiers fighting in the wars? Japan? Haiti? Hire the unemployed? Help children? Work on helping society grow? I am thinking of someone like Bill Gates.

I hope this makes sense. I tried to cover everything you mentioned above.

Enjoy your Sunday!

citybutch

03-29-2011, 03:26 PM

Be Still

I am comforted in the silence, knowing that all is well.

If I am feeling burdened by life's circumstances, I choose to become still. Turning inward, I affirm God's presence in me and all around me. While it may be easy to see divinity in a serene sunset or a newborn baby, I know that God is present in the difficult experiences of life also. Through stillness and silence, I become present to the Divine in me. I know that all is well.

When the mind and heart are still--when I no longer allow my thoughts to rest on external concerns--God is revealed. As I release my needs to God, I am comforted. I am led out of turmoil into peace.

As my worries transform into peace of mind, I become a sanctuary for others. My influence is calming and comforting.

Be still, and know that I am God! --Psalm 46:10

http://www.dailyword.com/

gracefaith

03-30-2011, 04:55 PM

I feel prayer is a sense of connection, an active connection...

I really feel connected with whom I'm praying for and others...

For I'm not separated from anyone...

Even physical death can't separate me from others, as we're all one in Christ's spiritual body who's spiritual eternal life breathing in us...

I feel so connected when praying...

Sooo....

I thought I would start ... yes, from the Bible. But as I posted tonight in another thread... a thought of love and prayer... I remembered a reading last week from one of my favorite publications:

Pray for Others

I am unified in Spirit with God and with all humanity.

It is impossible to pray for one person without praying for all persons. We are all one in God. Every time one heart is lifted, all hearts are lifted. Every time one life is blessed, all lives are blessed. Entering into the presence of God in the silence, I realize this truth about myself and those I hold in prayer. At the same time, I am reinforcing this truth for all humanity.

As I pray for the protection of a loved one, all persons in danger are enfolded in love and faith. As I affirm the love of God in my heart and rid my mind of all that is unloving, the heart of the world is more loving too. When I feel in tune with life, at peace with myself and the world, I help every confused or restless soul find peace and faith again.And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.--John 12:32

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51874

citybutch

03-30-2011, 10:02 PM

Grace

With God, I co-create my world with grace and ease.

My tasks at home may range from picking up toys to caring for loved ones. My duties at work may vary from the trivial to the essential. No matter my day's activities, with God as my partner, I accomplish them all with grace and ease.

Relationships can present a challenge at times, but today, I speak directly and lovingly with grace and ease. Any rifts of the past or concerns about the future diminish in importance as I hold positive expectations for the interactions of this day.

Every decision, every choice, every relationship brings a gift or opportunity. I gratefully accept each one. With God as my partner, I co-create my world with grace and ease.

Grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever.
--Psalm 45:2

http://www.dailyword.com/

gracefaith

04-03-2011, 02:48 PM

I find this too., journey and not staying in one spot, but actually moving...

Its I who move...

sorry to hear about your sister and cancer...

Many in my family had and has cancer... well when its had then that word is remission... However as cancer has been around me, I hadn't had cancer but for some reason as its around me, it became a norm... Perhaps odd... But it did... Perhaps I've learn the perspective of time...

Um, one thing I've adapt about faiths is taking from them and leaving behind whatever upsets me... In a way I learn not to take it all but only take what benefits me and benefits the ones around me...

I've learn more with this word benefit instead of this word approval...

Um, what are your thoughts about this word benefit and me too., I'm learning more about forgiveness and the benefits in forgiveness?

Thank you for this thread, Citybutch. :hangloose:

I am Roman Catholic. I find a great deal of comfort in my faith. However, along the way, I have been out of the Church for over 20+ years before walking thru the doors of any Church. I returned when my older sister was dying of cancer.

Now, before all of that, in those 20+ years I began to explore many other faiths and belief systems like Buddism, and such. I don't believe that one religion is better than another. I also believe that we all are interconnected, humananity, animals, earth, nature, and such.

I believe in forgiveness, and an after life. I also believe that there is a heaven and hell. Hell can be anything one imagines it to be. I also believe in karma.

I have an alter in my home. I believe in daily prayer. And I believe in praying for other people.

Namaste,
Andrew

citybutch

04-03-2011, 05:09 PM

Inner Peace

I am one with Divine Presence. I am at peace.

When I see rain softly falling on my window and hear thunder in the distance, I feel a connection with something greater than myself. The air is being cleansed and the ground saturated with a renewing shower. The birds and other animals quench their thirst and plants are nourished. I am content knowing that each drop of water has a purpose.

I take a breath and become aware of the activity of Spirit in each element of nature. As I sense its beauty and symmetry, a feeling of inner peace fills me.

I go within to reconnect with Divine Presence; I experience a feeling of spiritual balance, a calm peace in my soul.
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways.

The Lord be with all of you.--2 Thessalonians 3:16

http://www.dailyword.com/

gracefaith

04-03-2011, 05:22 PM

I've never heard of Neale Donald Walsch... I seach him online http://www.nealedonaldwalsch.com/

Wow on his website I learn he invites 12 people or less to stay at his home for 5 days...

This is what it says on his website...

SPEND 5 DAYS WITH NEALE AT HIS OWN HOME...

Twice a year Neale Donald Walsch invites a tiny handful of people (12 or less) to his home for an ongoing informal conversation exploring, more deeply than he can in any other setting, all of the messages of CWG---what they mean and how they can be overlaid upon our moment-to-moment experience. Called THE HOMECOMING, this very special time with Neale is only for those who are deeply committed to learning and applying CWG at a very high level in their daily life.

Here is an opportunity of a lifetime…

…to dine, to play (there are parlor games in the evenings), to swim in the grotto-pool, and most of all to sit quietly and to talk uninterruptedly with the author of the worldwide bestseller Conversations with God about how the messages affected his life and how they can affect yours. An intimate and personal visit with Neale and his wife, the American poet Em Claire, these five days on a hilltop home in beautiful Ashland, Oregon will prove to be...

…A SPECIAL TIME THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET.

Wow that's something else about how the author invites people to his home and spends time with them...

Thanks for sharing Andrew. I have a very similar experience. I was in a really tough relationship, my brother was dying of colon cancer... and I was struggling in my career. I had a very difficult time finding my center. I was flying back East once a month to be with my brother and family. A couple things brought me to some level of peace:

Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch was sitting on my Mother's coffee table and I picked it up and never put it down...

My good friend Mary Daly was on the Roseanne Show (talk show) and a bunch of us were there in the Green Room with her and the audience as well... And Mary's words were basically "Get OUT of the Fear"...

And a transformative drive back to San Diego after the taping of that show... I literally had to stop on the side of the highway with what felt like an A-HA moment. I also identify it as a spiritual touch.

My relationship ended shortly after this... My brother died a few months later... But I had my center... somehow I made it through.

By the end of the year I had met the woman who would become my wife, made Comeback of the Year award from my company, among a few other stand out events.

I seek out my spiritual center at many points every day of my life. Although I find guidance from the words of Jesus and the Christ within me... I also draw direction and guidance from many different spiritual traditions.

There is no one path to God....

Andrew, Jr.

04-03-2011, 05:29 PM

I am very wary of when famous people or celebrities invite the public to their homes. I have too many experiences of the above, with negative outcomes. For me and me alone, it is a matter of trust. Remember you just do not know what happens behind the closed doors of a home. There are just too many risks involved with that in my opinion.

gracefaith

04-03-2011, 06:06 PM

I read what you wrote...

you've gone through so much.

I too have gone through a lot...

There's times though I had found me so angry at God though., but it seems then eventually God and I talk about my anger... its like God is still teaching me about anger... I have a ways yet to go about anger...

I can at times trust God even when it doesn't make anysense, but other times its as if I need to let my anger out towards God...

now how did I go towards this word anger... I don't know, but it seems there's this hope, purpose, desires, and when its taken away, I have deep emotions and there's times I'll try to suppress these emotions and all it does is it gets worse...

But its like I can't suppress my emotions for long as I eventually dirrect my emotions at God.

But the part I'm learning is my relationship with God is: eventually through my allowing God, then the very emotions that I dirrect to God is renewed and God teaches me more about the emotions...

I guess what I'm saying is: there's no way I can be nice 100% to God at all times... It seems that God gets my all, all of me, just as I am...

And I really am learning and in my learning, its so personal and yet, if someone was going to observe me, actually my own folks, looks down on me, for the type of relationship I have with God., as my folks are more church looking good type with so many laws they try to keep...

I can't do that, keep any image...

There's so manythings that happens that brings me down that I dont' know how people can actually always have a nice image with God...

I can't have a nice image with God, and in this, as I'm real with God, ...

I went to God when so down, and it wasn't pretty, but it was then I learn first hand from God.

God is my friend and there living in me,

thankyou for sharing...

Dear Citybutch,

Thank you for your kind post. It made me smile ear to ear. Yes, the path to God is not a one way street as alot of folks believe it is or would like to think it is.

I have come to learn from others visually like Shirley MacLaine, Roy Rogers and his wife Dale Evans, plus those who have a gift like Damon Brinkley. God has always drawn me from an early age because of the abuse I endured, and I asked for help from God. However, the spirits are very obvious to me. I think because I am not like most people. I don't have a voice like others. My voice is internal. I hope this makes sense.

I feel that there is more to life than what we know it to be. There are those who feel like they have to eat fish on Friday end of story. Then you have those people who have other views. The God I know to be is of love. For example someone said that God is punishing Japan so He caused the earthquake and the tsuami and now the nuclear nightmare. It makes me very nervous so I don't watch the news now. But I know God did not have anything to do with that mess. It is the same with my sister dying of skin cancer. God had nothing to do with that. She died from cancer. Cancer is horrible. It makes me sad, and want to scream at the top of my lungs. I pray for a cure every day. I hope to see that happen one day.

It is my faith and belief system that knows my sister is safe, happy, and healthy now. She isn't suffering. What most people don't know online is that I was the last person to see her alive. She died 45 min. later after I left her. I went directly to St. Jude's Shrine. I prayed to Mary and Jesus to take her. I would rather suffer missing her, and the pain involved, than to witness her suffering.

What I don't understand is why folks want to start a pissing battle online over who is right or wrong on someone's faith? It makes no sense to me. It doesn't matter what site it is on because I have seen it time and time again. That to me is just a reflection of how much this still a big controversy. Again, like someone wants to debate who is/is not psychic, orbs, ghosts, spirits, the knights of Templar, Mormans, and so on. It is what it is.

Now before my sister died from cancer, I had to endure my adopted step father dying from bone cancer, then my adopted mother dying from Altzheimer's Disease. My older adopted gay brother read the book you mentioned. He got alot from the book. I read a few pages and put it down. It went in one ear and out the other. I have no clue as to what I read. Nodda.

I just wish others would have an open mind and heart to this. I just see so much hatred and opinions that it has to be one way only. It isn't. Life is not like that.

Thank you again for your post. I very much enjoyed it.

Namaste,
Andrew

gracefaith

04-03-2011, 08:59 PM

This is an awesome group...

Thank you for sharing spiritually...

gracefaith

04-03-2011, 11:18 PM

That's awesome Andrew me and you keep our eyes on the Lord... Yes yes yes...

however there's times I don't have my eyes on the Lord and I really feel it in my spirit... However I'm learning... Learning how to keep my eyes on the Lord...

Um, as strange as this may seem; but let me run this across you ok...

(first I must let you know, at times I struggle with communication ok, I'm improving a lot so maybe its not noticeable...)

ok, um, there's times I have needs yet I'll dismiss my needs in order to align to someone else's idea of what they think is right.

In this I've been learning from God, that I need to align not on someone's so call what is right but actually align on doing what direction I was planning on and doing that direction onto God...

I wonder if this sounds so confusing... But this group is about spiritual learning and well this is the latest thing I've been learning...

Let me see if I can sum this up...

for you see, I have difficulties directing myself as I tend to be a people pleaser, or shall I say very passive...

anyways, I've been learning lately in order for me to do the area that I'm week in which is directing myself in a decision, I can't lean on if it looks good or right in anybodies eyes, but instead, to go lean on doing it onto God...

What happens is I'll get my eyes off of God and onto how others feels as a reverence for my direction.

so this I'm learning is in-spite how my own mind trips me up through analyzing how others feels, I'm doing a direction onto God and its ok to be look upon as wrong or bad, as I do it onto God,

ok do you see what I mean how its difficult for me to communicate?

if non of this makes sense; um, I guess maybe it'll take me time to find words;

to do onto God and not serve others emotions, but go in a direction onto God while other emotions happens while I do nothing about other emotions, but just do onto God my direction plan.

when I do nothing about other emotions, it allows me not having other emotions as my false god.

for when I do for others emotions I then no longer do onto God but I have my eyes off of God and have my eyes on others emotions...

this is what I'm learning... Lately...

I tend to want to make everyone happy and this in it self traps me to have my eyes off of God and onto other emotions...

When I wonder if someone is not happy I go crazy and want to fix it... This keeps my eyes off of God and onto a false god called emotions...

so I'm a baby in this learning and stumbling all over; but for me to keep my eyes onto God, I'll allow God teach me in the midst of the two things happening; any pulls that pulls me towards a false god called others emotions, while in the midst allowing God teach me how to continue my direction doing onto God;

its as if to be in it yes while allowing God teach me how; yes; be in it and allow God teach me;

not to run from but be in it, and allow;

yes yes yes...

allow; I feel God's peace as I'm in it, I'm in it, the pull... I won't run; but instead allow God teach me how...

how to do it onto God a direction yes,

any typing error please then interpret it in your mind to how it should be. Cause this is a long post I wrote...

Gracefaith,

Thank you for your post. I too keep my eyes on the Lord. "My eyes are ever fixed on the Lord, for He releases my feet from the snare. O look at me and be merciful, for I am wretched and alone." Ezekiel 36:23-26

Then I think of the psalm that we sing in Mass - "If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts."

Andrew, Jr.

04-04-2011, 11:45 AM

Dear Grace,

Let me start by stating I appreciate your posts. I enjoy them.

One of the questions you asked me is about my life from what I gather. I look at my life like this. I would love for everyone to get along, and to be a part of our whole community as 1. However, there are people who have different personalities, and different cultures/regions/religions/identities that separate us. Again, we don't know what the masterplan is that God has for us, individually or as a whole.

There is a huge difference between being sensitive, taking things personally and defending one's honor vs gossip. It is risky letting people into your life. But God tells us to love each other, help each other, take care of each other, and grow with each other. Over time you learn who is trustworthy and who is not. Who is this or that, and they know the same of you. Same with God. Are you a spectator for God and working on the sidelines? OR a disciple for God?

Now my house is built on a firm foundation. It isn't built on sand or dirt. The rains will come, and the floods have come. Winds, tornados, winter storms, heat, and on and on. I believe that most people want to do what is right, but deciding to do what is right is hard for them. They want to be a part of a click. That power of emotion is so great. The rock of my foundation comes from God. Pure and simple. I pray, I used to fast, before I was diabetic. I go to Mass. I read/listen to God's Word (Bible). But I also read/listen to other religious beliefs. There is more to God than just one religion. God is in nature. God is in each one of us. We are all children of our creator. To be treasured and loved.

I hope this answers some of your questions.

Namaste,
Andrew

citybutch

04-05-2011, 08:28 AM

Faith

I am strong, positive and powerful.

Every person has a purpose. I may discover mine when I am troubled by a situation and feel called to be part of the solution. The path may not be perfectly clear; I may not know what action to take. Nevertheless, I begin right where I am. I trust my inner wisdom to show me the way.

Rather than worry about making a mistake, I pray and take one small step. I trust that God will place a lamp before my feet, guiding me as I go.

As I give of myself in sacred service, everything I need is provided. I joyfully do what is mine to do. My faith grows even deeper as I give from my abundance. As I step out in faith, I am strong, positive and powerful.

You see that faith was active along with his works.--James 2:22

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51893

gracefaith

04-05-2011, 03:37 PM

Hi Andrew...

I'm glad you enjoy my posts and I thoroughly enjoy your posts too... (smiles...)

You said, "I would love for everyone to get along, and to be a part of our whole community as 1 However, there are people who have different personalities, and different cultures/regions/religions/identities that separate us. Again, we don't know what the masterplan is that God has for us, individually or as a whole."

Me responding: me too., I would love if everyone get along and be part of our whole community as one... And I understand about separation due to these things you mention...

I think this is the most challenge for me is this so call either connection or feeling separated...

I think where its most painful in separation is when it happens in the family from grandparents to grandchildren or parents to their children; something there when separated is so core,

this area puzzles me in hours of analyzing and very deep pull for me to tend to want to fix when I sense this any where,

Another thought to ponder is: does it begin in the family and then branch outward to community in this area of either connection and separation?

if any separation from these things you were speaking of, are they stem from family upbringing if one digs far enough where its coming from?

Also I too, don't know all of God's master plan, but I have been learning why I'm on earth its for my deeper understanding about relationships between God and us and all of us in what sharing means...

You say, "There is a huge difference between being sensitive, taking things personally and defending one's honor vs gossip. It is risky letting people into your life. But God tells us to love each other, help each other, take care of each other, and grow with each other. Over time you learn who is trustworthy and who is not. Who is this or that, and they know the same of you. Same with God. Are you a spectator for God and working on the sidelines? OR a disciple for God?"

Me responding: I do know I'm way overly sensitive and many times take things very personally... This type of personality that I have clashes with other personality that's fast pace on the go all the time...

I feel I'm a disciple for God, I notice an area of learning that's personal, and it might not jive with others if I speak about what I'm learning; this in it self I wonder if God teaches all of us in a different ways and different insights, for our unique personalities...

I hear you about loving others and helping others and take care of others, but also understanding who we can trust, for some might be dysfunctional and might pull us into their dysfunctional ways...

To know these things and not get caught up in it but keep our eyes on God, is even my challenge, I tend to get pulled into perhaps this is gossip now thinking of it,

I'd never thought of it as gossip, but pulled into others dysfunctions and then become very dysfunctional too as I tend to want to fix, I'll look more into this, as this came to me as I'm writing you this posts - I've never associated this with gossip but now thinking of it - its gossip.

You were saying, "Now my house is built on a firm foundation. It isn't built on sand or dirt. The rains will come, and the floods have come. Winds, tornados, winter storms, heat, and on and on. I believe that most people want to do what is right, but deciding to do what is right is hard for them. They want to be a part of a click. That power of emotion is so great. The rock of my foundation comes from God. Pure and simple. I pray, I used to fast, before I was diabetic. I go to Mass. I read/listen to God's Word (Bible). But I also read/listen to other religious beliefs. There is more to God than just one religion. God is in nature. God is in each one of us. We are all children of our creator. To be treasured and loved."

me responding, "I'm glad your house is built on firm foundation and not on sand and dirt... I hear you, as I'm learning more about firm foundation...

My only type of identity that's built on firm foundation is that I'm a child of God. any other identity I understand is temporary and I can't count on them, for if I did then I will have a foundation on sand...

If I could sing, could I rely on my identity that I can sing; no... for singing is built on sand... for what will happen if something happens to my voice, I'll have an identity crises... however weather I can sing or not, I can be a child of God., so this I can count on for my identity...

I'm using singing as an example...

you mention about and I too was writing about emotions; I so agree with you my rock of my foundation comes from God. also I agree with you about other religions; I love learning from other religions as well, I learn form Buddhism about the circle and I apply this in my life...

I also believe we're all children of God... I believe God lives in all of us, and we're not separated from God... its of lies that people believe they're separated, and I think this is what happens in separation of communities is of lies as well...

however there's people who really believe they're separated from God and or from others, even I had believe in these lies when it came to separation from others: especially when it looks like I'm separated from others... feeling alone...

One of the things I hadn't of yet experience is feeling separated from God, I hadn't of yet felt this or believe in this lie of that.,

my life has been more a struggle feeling connected with people and during my dark hours I had only God to go to., so I hadn't of yet experience this lie that I'm separated from God, however I have witness others who actually believe they are separated from God and or believe that others are separated from God...

So I agree with you, how we're all children of God and how we can learn from other religions... as well as I have found the richness form learning from God who lives in me...

Thank you so much for sharing and yes your answering questions; my wondering is how to write a posts, does that make sense?

to articulate is a fine art...

thank you for being you here and sharing...

Dear Grace,

Let me start by stating I appreciate your posts. I enjoy them.

One of the questions you asked me is about my life from what I gather. I look at my life like this. I would love for everyone to get along, and to be a part of our whole community as 1. However, there are people who have different personalities, and different cultures/regions/religions/identities that separate us. Again, we don't know what the masterplan is that God has for us, individually or as a whole.

There is a huge difference between being sensitive, taking things personally and defending one's honor vs gossip. It is risky letting people into your life. But God tells us to love each other, help each other, take care of each other, and grow with each other. Over time you learn who is trustworthy and who is not. Who is this or that, and they know the same of you. Same with God. Are you a spectator for God and working on the sidelines? OR a disciple for God?

Now my house is built on a firm foundation. It isn't built on sand or dirt. The rains will come, and the floods have come. Winds, tornados, winter storms, heat, and on and on. I believe that most people want to do what is right, but deciding to do what is right is hard for them. They want to be a part of a click. That power of emotion is so great. The rock of my foundation comes from God. Pure and simple. I pray, I used to fast, before I was diabetic. I go to Mass. I read/listen to God's Word (Bible). But I also read/listen to other religious beliefs. There is more to God than just one religion. God is in nature. God is in each one of us. We are all children of our creator. To be treasured and loved.

I hope this answers some of your questions.

Namaste,
Andrew

Andrew, Jr.

04-05-2011, 05:33 PM

Dear Grace, (f)

Thank you for your post to me. I am sure others enjoyed it as well.

For me, I use other religious principles like Buddist, & Judism intertwined with my Christain values. For me, there is no right or wrong when it comes to worship or praising God. It is a means of living life - making the right decisions for me (and me alone).

Life is a struggle for me. Every day is tough. But like I say one day is enough. So I live day to day. For the last 2-3 years I have endured major loss, personal devistation, and my health has really gone down hill. If you have your health, you are so very blessed. It is so expensive to be sick here in the States. That is why I am such a huge advocate for universal healthcare coverage for everyone. My faith is the only thing that has kept me going.

I never wish evil on anyone, but at the sametime, there are some people I just do not wish them well. It is a personal take of mine. I have witnessed karma in action and it is a bear. Something I never want to endure.

People are people every where you go. Good and bad. It is a matter of figuring them out. I struggle with that.

I hope this makes sense.

Namaste,
Andrew

storyofmylife

04-07-2011, 08:47 AM

What a Blessing to read!

citybutch

04-07-2011, 10:16 AM

The Buddha summarized the correct attitude and actions in the Eight-fold Noble Path:

(The first 3 are avoiding the 10 non-virtues of mind, speech and body:)

1. Correct thought: avoiding covetousness, the wish to harm others and wrong views (like thinking: actions have no consequences, I never have any problems, there are no ways to end suffering etc.)

2. Correct speech: avoid lying, divisive and harsh speech and idle gossip.

3. Correct actions: avoid killing, stealing and sexual misconduct

4. Correct livelihood: try to make a living with the above attitude of thought, speech and actions.

5. Correct understanding: developing genuine wisdom.

(The last three aspects refer mainly to the practice of meditation:)

6. Correct effort: after the first real step we need joyful perseverance to continue.

7. Correct mindfulness: try to be aware of the "here and now", instead of dreaming in the "there and then".

8. Correct concentration: to keep a steady, calm and attentive state of mind.

Hmmm wonder what it means "avoid sexual misconduct"?... I kinda enjoy some kink! hehe

citybutch

04-08-2011, 02:09 PM

1. What Is Right View (Thought)?

When the steps of the Eightfold Path are presented in a list, usually Right View is the first step (even though there is no "first" step). Right View supports wisdom. Wisdom in this sense is the understanding of things as they are, as explained in the teachings of the Four Noble Truths.

This understanding is not mere intellectual understanding. It is instead a thorough penetration of the Four Noble Truths. Theravada scholar Wapola Rahula called this penetration "seeing a thing in its true nature, without name and label." (What the Buddha Taught, page 49)

Vietnamese Zen Teacher Thich Nhat Hanh wrote,

"Our happiness and the happiness of those around us depend on our degree of Right View. Touching reality deeply -- knowing what is going on inside and outside of ourselves -- is the way to liberate ourselves from the suffering that is caused by wrong perceptions. Right View is not an ideology, a system, or even a path. It is the insight we have into the reality of life, a living insight that fills us with understanding, peace, and love." (The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching, page 51)

In Mahayana Buddhism, prajna is associated with the intimate realization of shunyata -- the teaching that all phenomena are empty of intrinsic being.
Cultivating Right View

Right View develops from practice of the Eightfold Path. For example, the practice of samadhi through Right Effort, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration prepares the mind for penetrating insight. Meditation is associated with "Right Concentration."

Ethical conduct through Right Speech, Right Action and Right Livelihood also support Right View through cultivation of compassion. Compassion and wisdom are said to be the two wings of Buddhism. Compassion helps us break through our narrow, self-centered views, which enables wisdom. Wisdom helps us realize nothing is really separate, which enables compassion.

By the same token, the wisdom parts of the path -- Right View and Right Thought -- support the other parts of the path. Ignorance is one of the root poisons that brings with it greed and ill-will.
The Role of Doctrine in Buddhism

The Buddha taught his followers not to accept his or any other teachings on blind faith. Instead, by examining teachings in the light of our own experience, we judge for ourselves what teachings we accept as true.

However, this doesn't mean the doctrines of Buddhism are optional for Buddhists. Many converts to Buddhism in the West seem to think that all they need is meditation and mindfulness, and that the many doctrines of the Four This and Six That and Twelve Something Else can be ignored. This frivolous attitude is not exactly Right Effort.

Walpola Rahula said of the Eightfold Path, "Practically the whole teaching of the Buddha, to which he devoted himself during 45 years, deals in some way or other with this path." The Buddha explained the Eightfold Path in many different ways, to reach people in different stages of spiritual development.

While Right View is not about doctrinal orthodoxy, that doesn't mean it has no connection to doctrine at all. Thich Nhat Hanh says, "Right View is, most of all, a deep understanding of the Four Noble Truths." Acquaintance with the Four Noble Truths is a big help, to say the least.

As I explained earlier, the Eightfold Path is part of the Four Noble Truths; in fact, it is the Fourth Noble Truth. Right View is penetrating insight into the nature of reality as described in the Four Noble Truths. So, while Right View is something much more profound that merely understanding doctrine, doctrine is still important and should not be brushed aside.

Although these teachings do not have to be "believed in" on faith, they should be understood provisionally. The teachings provide essential guidance, keeping us on the path to genuine wisdom. Without them, mindfulness and meditation can become just self-improvement projects.

A grounding in the teachings presented through the Four Noble Truths includes not just the Truths themselves, but also teachings on how everything is interconnected (Dependent Origination) and on the nature of individual existence (the Five Skandhas). As Walpola Rahula said, the Buddha spent 45 years explaining these teachings. They are what make Buddhism a distinctive spiritual path.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/rightview.htm

The Buddha summarized the correct attitude and actions in the Eight-fold Noble Path:

(The first 3 are avoiding the 10 non-virtues of mind, speech and body:)

1. Correct thought: avoiding covetousness, the wish to harm others and wrong views (like thinking: actions have no consequences, I never have any problems, there are no ways to end suffering etc.)

2. Correct speech: avoid lying, divisive and harsh speech and idle gossip.

3. Correct actions: avoid killing, stealing and sexual misconduct

4. Correct livelihood: try to make a living with the above attitude of thought, speech and actions.

5. Correct understanding: developing genuine wisdom.

(The last three aspects refer mainly to the practice of meditation:)

6. Correct effort: after the first real step we need joyful perseverance to continue.

7. Correct mindfulness: try to be aware of the "here and now", instead of dreaming in the "there and then".

8. Correct concentration: to keep a steady, calm and attentive state of mind.

Hmmm wonder what it means "avoid sexual misconduct"?... I kinda enjoy some kink! hehe

Andrew, Jr.

04-08-2011, 02:24 PM

CityButch,

For me, it is the 10 Commandments. What part is hard for anyone to really follow? I know that personally I struggle with the commandment about honoring one's parents. Mine are nuts. So with that said, I just go with the flow. I avoid them, as they do me. But really when you break it down, it is a matter of the Golden Rule.

Andrew

citybutch

04-08-2011, 07:18 PM

2. Right Intention (seems as though the first three are closely related in thought and action):

The second aspect of the Eightfold Path of Buddhism is Right Intention or Right Thought, or samma sankappa in Pali. Right View and Right Intention together are the "Wisdom Path," the parts of the path that cultivate wisdom (prajna). Why are our thoughts or intentions so important?

We tend to think that thoughts don't count; only what we actually do matters. But the Buddha said in the Dhammapada that our thoughts are the forerunner of our actions (Max Muller translation):

"All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him, as the wheel follows the foot of the ox that draws the carriage.

"All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him, like a shadow that never leaves him."

The Buddha also taught that what we think, along with what we say and how we act, create karma. So, what we think is as important as what we do.
Three Kinds of Right Intention

The Buddha taught that there are three kinds of Right Intention, which counter three kinds of wrong intention. These are:

1. The intention of renunciation, which counters the intention of desire.
2. The intention of good will, which counters the intention of ill will.
3. The intention of harmlessness, which counters the intention of harmfulness.

Renunciation

To renounce is to give up or let go of something, or to disown it. To practice renunciation doesn't necessarily mean you have to give away all your possessions and live in a cave, however. The real issue is not objects or possessions themselves, but our attachment to them. If you give away things but are still attached to them, you haven't really renounced them.

Sometimes in Buddhism you hear that monks and nuns are "renounced ones." To take monastic vows is a powerful act of renunciation, but that doesn't necessarily mean that laypeople cannot follow the Eightfold Path. What's most important is to not attach to things, but remember that attachment comes from viewing ourselves and other things in a delusional way. Fully appreciate that all phenomena are transient and limited -- as the Diamond Sutra says (Chapter 32),

"This is how to contemplate our conditioned existence in this fleeting world:

"Like a tiny drop of dew, or a bubble floating in a stream;
Like a flash of lightning in a summer cloud,
Or a flickering lamp, an illusion, a phantom, or a dream.

"So is all conditioned existence to be seen."

As laypeople, we live in a world of possessions. To function in society, we need a home, clothing, food, probably a car. To do my work I really need a computer. We get into trouble, however, when we forget that we and our "things" are bubbles in a stream. And of course it's important to not take or hoard more than we need.
Good Will

Another word for "good will" is metta, or "loving kindness." We cultivate loving kindness for all beings, without discrimination or selfish attachment, to overcome anger, ill will, hatred and aversion.

According to the Metta Sutta, a Buddhist should cultivate for all beings the same love a mother would feel for her child. This love does not discriminate between benevolent people and malicious people. It is a love in which"I" and "you" disappear, and where there is no possessor and nothing to possess.
Harmlessness

The Sanskrit word for "non-harming" is ahimsa, or avihiṃsā in Pali, and it describes a practice of not harming or doing violence to anything.

To not harm also requires karuna, or compassion. Karuna goes beyond simply not harming. It is an active sympathy and a willingness to bear the pain of others.

The Eightfold Path is not a list of eight discrete steps. Each aspect of the path supports every other aspect. The Buddha taught that wisdom and compassion arise together and support each other. It's not hard to see how the Wisdom Path of Right View and Right Intention also supports the Ethical Conduct Path of Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood. And, of course, all aspects are supported by Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration, the Mental Discipline Path.
Four Practices of Right Intention

The Vietnamese Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh has suggested these four practice for Right Intention or Right Thinking:

Ask yourself, "Are you sure?" Write the question on a piece of paper and hang it where you will see it frequently. Wong perceptions lead to incorrect thinking.

Ask yourself, "What am I doing?" to help you come back to the present moment.

Recognize your habit energies. Habit energies like workaholism cause us to lose track of ourselves and our day-to-day lives. When you catch yourself on auto-pilot, say, "Hello, habit energy!"

Cultivate bodhichitta. Bodhichitta is the compassionate wish to realize enlightenment for the sake of others. It becomes the purest of Right Intentions; the motivating force that keep us on the Path.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/rightview.htm

The Buddha summarized the correct attitude and actions in the Eight-fold Noble Path:

(The first 3 are avoiding the 10 non-virtues of mind, speech and body:)

1. Correct thought: avoiding covetousness, the wish to harm others and wrong views (like thinking: actions have no consequences, I never have any problems, there are no ways to end suffering etc.)

2. Correct speech: avoid lying, divisive and harsh speech and idle gossip.

3. Correct actions: avoid killing, stealing and sexual misconduct

4. Correct livelihood: try to make a living with the above attitude of thought, speech and actions.

5. Correct understanding: developing genuine wisdom.

(The last three aspects refer mainly to the practice of meditation:)

6. Correct effort: after the first real step we need joyful perseverance to continue.

7. Correct mindfulness: try to be aware of the "here and now", instead of dreaming in the "there and then".

8. Correct concentration: to keep a steady, calm and attentive state of mind.

Hmmm wonder what it means "avoid sexual misconduct"?... I kinda enjoy some kink! hehe

gracefaith

04-08-2011, 07:35 PM

I can really relate with this:

The Buddha taught his followers not to accept his or any other teachings on blind faith. Instead, by examining teachings in the light of our own experience, we judge for ourselves what teachings we accept as true.

That's great it says color red, I was trying to make that part red... I guess taking me a bit to get the hang of it around here lol...

but the reason why I can relate: is cause this blind faith can be dangerous when following a teaching from someone - remember Jim Jones was his name?

Look what happen blind faith to Jim Jones...

Can you imagine if the followers to Jim Jones would had examine what Jim Jones was saying?

What are your thoughts on this?

gracefaith

1. What Is Right View (Thought)?

When the steps of the Eightfold Path are presented in a list, usually Right View is the first step (even though there is no "first" step). Right View supports wisdom. Wisdom in this sense is the understanding of things as they are, as explained in the teachings of the Four Noble Truths.

This understanding is not mere intellectual understanding. It is instead a thorough penetration of the Four Noble Truths. Theravada scholar Wapola Rahula called this penetration "seeing a thing in its true nature, without name and label." (What the Buddha Taught, page 49)

Vietnamese Zen Teacher Thich Nhat Hanh wrote,

"Our happiness and the happiness of those around us depend on our degree of Right View. Touching reality deeply -- knowing what is going on inside and outside of ourselves -- is the way to liberate ourselves from the suffering that is caused by wrong perceptions. Right View is not an ideology, a system, or even a path. It is the insight we have into the reality of life, a living insight that fills us with understanding, peace, and love." (The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching, page 51)

In Mahayana Buddhism, prajna is associated with the intimate realization of shunyata -- the teaching that all phenomena are empty of intrinsic being.
Cultivating Right View

Right View develops from practice of the Eightfold Path. For example, the practice of samadhi through Right Effort, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration prepares the mind for penetrating insight. Meditation is associated with "Right Concentration."

Ethical conduct through Right Speech, Right Action and Right Livelihood also support Right View through cultivation of compassion. Compassion and wisdom are said to be the two wings of Buddhism. Compassion helps us break through our narrow, self-centered views, which enables wisdom. Wisdom helps us realize nothing is really separate, which enables compassion.

By the same token, the wisdom parts of the path -- Right View and Right Thought -- support the other parts of the path. Ignorance is one of the root poisons that brings with it greed and ill-will.
The Role of Doctrine in Buddhism

The Buddha taught his followers not to accept his or any other teachings on blind faith. Instead, by examining teachings in the light of our own experience, we judge for ourselves what teachings we accept as true.

However, this doesn't mean the doctrines of Buddhism are optional for Buddhists. Many converts to Buddhism in the West seem to think that all they need is meditation and mindfulness, and that the many doctrines of the Four This and Six That and Twelve Something Else can be ignored. This frivolous attitude is not exactly Right Effort.

Walpola Rahula said of the Eightfold Path, "Practically the whole teaching of the Buddha, to which he devoted himself during 45 years, deals in some way or other with this path." The Buddha explained the Eightfold Path in many different ways, to reach people in different stages of spiritual development.

While Right View is not about doctrinal orthodoxy, that doesn't mean it has no connection to doctrine at all. Thich Nhat Hanh says, "Right View is, most of all, a deep understanding of the Four Noble Truths." Acquaintance with the Four Noble Truths is a big help, to say the least.

As I explained earlier, the Eightfold Path is part of the Four Noble Truths; in fact, it is the Fourth Noble Truth. Right View is penetrating insight into the nature of reality as described in the Four Noble Truths. So, while Right View is something much more profound that merely understanding doctrine, doctrine is still important and should not be brushed aside.

Although these teachings do not have to be "believed in" on faith, they should be understood provisionally. The teachings provide essential guidance, keeping us on the path to genuine wisdom. Without them, mindfulness and meditation can become just self-improvement projects.

A grounding in the teachings presented through the Four Noble Truths includes not just the Truths themselves, but also teachings on how everything is interconnected (Dependent Origination) and on the nature of individual existence (the Five Skandhas). As Walpola Rahula said, the Buddha spent 45 years explaining these teachings. They are what make Buddhism a distinctive spiritual path.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/rightview.htm

Andrew, Jr.

04-08-2011, 07:51 PM

Citybutch,

There is too much for me to read. Let me focus on 1 item that really came out strong to me. It was your idea on thoughts and prayers. Artdecogoddess has a saying that she says and believes in. I have to say that it has served me well over the years. She says that every thought is a prayer. It is true. Every thought is a prayer. And that is how I try to live my life. Everything and everyone that I am involved with has a thought during any situation I am in. The same with all the decisions I have to make. That thought is positive. Always positive.

Make sense?

Andrew, Jr.

04-08-2011, 07:56 PM

Gracefaith,

I am not sure I understand blind faith in all honesty. I agree with you about the ugly side of it being deception. I have had wayyy too many people who were in authoritive positions/roles in my life who were all talk no action. They lacked integrity if you ask me. That is always why I have a hard time trusting most people.

Enjoy your weekend!

Andrew

gracefaith

04-08-2011, 08:25 PM

Andrew and to any others who's finding difficulties with their parents...

My dad told me this morning he never wants to see me again nor wants me to ever come over again...

so what does this mean to honor parents.

but what about this: to learn not to honor the verbal abuse from the parent;

I'm really learning this area deeply to learn what is the true parent in the parent - and what is the abuse...

I really feel I fail my dad as he's verbal abusive, it led me to honor his verbal abuse towards me where to the point I panic and now my dad told me he never wants to see me again;

plus, my dad thinks I don't like him:

what?

I've tried so hard to connect with him, but I was trying mistakenly connecting to his abuse, thinking my dad will be happy...

In my trying to connect to my dad's verbal abusing me, I fail to connect to my dad,

however its way to high of an expectation for me to meet to try to connect, as how can I connect to my dad if he clothes in his verbal abuse and doesn't know how to be a parent the truth of a parent,

while I fail at connection and then lost it (my way of losing it is through a means of panic), then my dad told me, he never wants to see me again;...

so honor? isn't it the truth of the parent, for why honor any abuse? What are your thoughts on this?

you were saying about how you handle it with your folks is going with the flow and avoid, I think I need to do this too and stop trying...,

tons of tears fell down my face today. maybe I'm way overly sensitive also...

I love my dad and I did try to show him that I love him, but it fail again...

What is love when I'm not believed

is it then only me going beyond my spirit in an area that is no longer love, but what am I seeking to save then, is save not love - if not love and as I'd analyze this word love, meaning only what God is is love, what am I doing then, if I try and it fails, what am I doing then?

to fail when try to show love is the trying then no good, if I look bad, then what about my trying, or shall I only do what you do, avoid and go with flow;

to try to show love is like an invisible prison.

gracefaith

CityButch,

For me, it is the 10 Commandments. What part is hard for anyone to really follow? I know that personally I struggle with the commandment about honoring one's parents. Mine are nuts. So with that said, I just go with the flow. I avoid them, as they do me. But really when you break it down, it is a matter of the Golden Rule.

Andrew

gracefaith

04-08-2011, 08:49 PM

Hi Andrew

One thing I learn in Judaism or ones who study Judaism is they tend to to ask themselves what are they learning, where I notice with Christians they tend to cling to repentance,

could it be that the Judaism had given up keeping all their hundreds and hundreds of laws so then decided to find a different purpose and just then learn through asking what they're reading - where as for Christians they only have 10 laws to follow and have a loop hole called repentance so then try to perfect their laws still to this day?

I've notice this; I'm not saying all ok, but I've notice this...

Have you notice this?

Christians rely on repentance to perfect and Judaism rely on asking what they learn to do giving up on trying to follow so many hundreds of laws.

I just notice this seems to be their comprehension aim when reading;

I can't find me to use the loop hole of repentance, but I can go in the area of asking what am I learning; however with the old and the new testament, then, is a combination of Judaism and Christian, however I feel the new testament should had been after Jesus risen,

Jesus walk the earth in the old testament what are your thoughts on this; did Jesus walk the earth during a new testament or still the old testament?

gracefaith

Dear Grace, (f)

Thank you for your post to me. I am sure others enjoyed it as well.

For me, I use other religious principles like Buddist, & Judism intertwined with my Christain values. For me, there is no right or wrong when it comes to worship or praising God. It is a means of living life - making the right decisions for me (and me alone).

Life is a struggle for me. Every day is tough. But like I say one day is enough. So I live day to day. For the last 2-3 years I have endured major loss, personal devistation, and my health has really gone down hill. If you have your health, you are so very blessed. It is so expensive to be sick here in the States. That is why I am such a huge advocate for universal healthcare coverage for everyone. My faith is the only thing that has kept me going.

I never wish evil on anyone, but at the sametime, there are some people I just do not wish them well. It is a personal take of mine. I have witnessed karma in action and it is a bear. Something I never want to endure.

People are people every where you go. Good and bad. It is a matter of figuring them out. I struggle with that.

I hope this makes sense.

Namaste,
Andrew

gracefaith

04-08-2011, 11:29 PM

Life is a struggle for me too; Andrew,

and in my dark time, God is my light; burning in my spirit fire, I feel for you as you injured major loss, personal devastation, and your health...

I wonder what it'll be like someday when we have bodies that won't die and get sick

I"ve learn about my moods which even though you welcome me a great weekend; it'll soon be the weekend; my moods as of right now are on the slight over the the side of where I'm going more into surrender and even more into surrender; ;

and in the midst of my dad saying he doesn't want to ever see me again; this is triggering this mood thats quite interesting; I tell you; in the midst of this mood, I will worship God, allow God to teach me;

for a while I was rebelling against this mood, as I regress backward into my huge panic, as if this mountain of fear and I tell you; I feel I'm on the same page as you, faith that gets me through;

oh at times I'll enjoy dissecting different faiths; such as grammar, did Jesus walk the earth during the old or new testament; fun to dissect...

but there's this: in this mood this mood that I'm in, if I lose everyone if I become homeless I have God.

I won't become homeless now; but I have been homeless before; so I know what that's like; but the point I'm making is; if I lose everything; everything; I have God; I have God who's my home, who's my rock; who's my identity;

all I need is God;

I will live by faith and not by sight; I will be cloth in God's white light; white light that feeds my spirit fire of life; fire of life in my spirit in my chest area; if I fail; God will use it; if my dad never sees my love for him; God will use it; I'm available God;

God I pray; I pray onto you; I give you me; just as I am in this mood; in the midst of this mood; in the shadow I will walk in God; to those who can't forgive me and who never want to see me again; such as my dad; the type of forgiveness where I can't live up to his expectations; if he can't forgiven me then I'll see him in heaven - for he doesn't want to see me here on earth;

to whom rejects me; I'll see in heaven; in this fire of life healing; where there's no death but connection for truth will only be; and this includes even me; where I need healing; my own blame where I went wrong; all can be heal; all is good in God;

I'm in this mood; yet I won't try to rid of this mood; instead in the midst of this mood I'll allow God teach me; yes God yes God a personal relationship;

Andrew actually as this is in this thread; any who reads this; I have zero compass; I had no guidelines I don't know how to be here; I don't know the rules; if I address to you; I'm sure its ok if others writes too; but it is this; I feel God's peace right now; it is God who I will serve, I'm God's child

I might be silent for a while; cause I need God; I need to drink God be alone with God; I need to cry onto God; but I will dress in faith my spiritual clothing God; white light; that lives in me... burns fire of reason to go on;

I'm married to God. God is my husband. I'm God's wife. God is my butch... I'm God's femm...

this I'm attach to, die to self; live as Christ; I will die to self yes and live Christ;

[/COLOR][/SIZE][/QUOTE]

gracefaith

04-09-2011, 01:02 AM

I think I've been writing long post and they're not very well structured...

These are the 3 websites I need to study that will improve my writing...

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/

http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html

http://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/resdoc5e/

Once I study these 3 websites I'll know how to write very well and it'll show when I write posts, but the problem is: I hadn't study them yet...

So I want to apologies how my posts looks and if they're difficult to read...

God bless...

gracefaith

Glenn

04-09-2011, 09:52 AM

gracefaith

04-09-2011, 02:42 PM

Thank you Thank you Popcorninthesofa; yes so true; as I too my words are merely pebbles and many times I've even ask if any needs to they can take my words and change them...

I do the best I can to use words to describe spirituality.

Thank you...

Your message is so a breath of fresh air...

I'm so glad you understand.

Thank you,
gracefaith

Why must Goddess/God be called Allah, a king, prince, father, etc.? The answer is that it is impossible for words to define or explain God/Goddess. All that man can do is use the best words he knows for the greatest BEING, the SUPREME BEING, and uses these words because he can't find any other or a better one. "The difference between human words and Divine words is this: a human word is merely a pebble, it exists, and that's all, it's nothing else. The Divine word is a Living word like a grain of corn, one grain is not just one grain, it is hundreds of thousands of grains. In this grain, or Divine word is an essence, which is always multiplying and Showing the perfection in itself."-Hazrat Khan

gracefaith

04-09-2011, 03:55 PM

What do you like about Buddhism?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]I like about Buddhism about the circle. Have you ever heard about the circle?

Andrew, Jr.

04-09-2011, 05:27 PM

Gracefaith,

You are going to have to give me time to respond to your posts. I promise I will.

Enjoy your evening!

Andrew, Jr.

04-09-2011, 06:17 PM

Gracefaith,

Let me try to hit on a couple points here. I am not a really good reader or good at reading comprehension.

1: The masterplan is not for us to know. Only God knows what it is.

2: I asked Rosie, who is Jewish, about the Judism questions you asked. She told me that there are a number of levels of it. The ultra religious known as Hasidict (sp?) follow everything to the book, and they discuss, study, & pray all the time.

The next level is orthodox, which really do the same as Hasidict, but not to the same intensity.

After that is conservative. They are more modern and less strick when comes to the Rites.

Then there is the reformed, which is the least religious.

In the end, the most important thing is that you do have a belief in God or Abba or something.

3: Buddism. The principles they have for human beings to me, is nothing like I have ever seen before. It is tranquil and peaceful. Nothing like what people live life today.

I hope this makes sense.

Andrew

citybutch

04-09-2011, 10:45 PM

All I am saying ... is that true spiritual connection is discussed, focused on, and the intent of most religious paths... there is no one.... know one ...

My friend Mary called it Background...

Right Speech:

3. The moral discipline portion of the Buddhist Eightfold Path is Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood. This essay explores the meaning of "Right Speech."

In Pali, Right Speech is "samma vaca." The word "samma" has a sense of being perfected or completed, and "vaca" refers to words or speech. "Right speech" is more than just "correct" speech. It is the wholehearted expression of our Buddhist practice, and with Action and Livelihood it is interconnected to the other parts of the Eightfold Path -- Right Mindfulness, Right Intention, Right View, Right Concentration, Right Effort.

Right Speech is not just a personal virtue. Modern communication technology has given us a culture that seems saturated with "wrong" speech -- communication that is hateful and deceptive. This engenders disharmony, acrimony, and physical violence.

We tend to think of violent, hateful words as being less wrong than violent action. We may even think of violent words as being justified sometimes. But violent words, thoughts and actions arise together and support each other. So to do peaceful words, thoughts and actions.

Beyond cultivating beneficial or harmful karma, Right Speech is essential to personal practice. Abbess Taitaku Patricia Phelan of the Chapel Hill Zen Group says "Right Speech means using communication as a way to further our understanding of ourselves and others and as a way to develop insight."
The Basics of Right Speech

As recorded in the Pali Canon, the historical Buddha taught that Right Speech had four parts:

1. Abstain from false speech; do not tell lies or deceive.
2. Do not slander others or speak in a way that causes disharmony or enmity.
3. Abstain from rude, impolite or abusive language.
4. Do not indulge in idle talk or gossip.

Practice of these four aspects of Right Speech goes beyond simple "thou shalt nots." It means speaking truthfully and honestly; speaking in a way to promote harmony and good will; using language to reduce anger and ease tensions; using language in a way that is useful.

If your speech is not useful and beneficial, teachers say, it is better to keep silent.
Right Listening

In his book The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching, Vietnamese Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh said, "Deep listening is the foundation of Right Speech. If we cannot listen mindfully, we cannot practice Right Speech. No matter what we say, it will not be mindful, because we'll be speaking only our own ideas and not in response to the other person."

This reminds us that our speech is not just our speech. Communication is something that happens between people. We might think of speech as something we give to others, and if we think of it that way, what is the quality of that gift?

Mindfulness includes mindfulness of what's going on inside ourselves. If we aren't paying attention to our own emotions and taking care of ourselves, tension and suffering build up. And then we explode.
Words as Nourishment or Poison

Once I took a cab ride with a driver who was listening to a talk radio show. The program was a litany of the host's resentments and anger toward other individuals and groups.

The cab driver apparently listened to this poison all day long, and he was quivering with rage. He responded to the litany with foul expletives, occasionally slapping his hand on the dashboard for emphasis. The cab seemed filled up with hate; I could barely breathe. It was a great relief when the cab ride was over.

This incident showed me that Right Speech is not just about the words I speak, but also the words I hear. Certainly we cannot banish ugly words from our lives, but we can choose to not soak in them.

On the other hand, I can think of many times in my life when someone's words were a gift that healed and comforted.
The Four Immeasurables

Thinking of Right Speech reminds me of the Four Immeasurables. These are:

1. Loving kindness (metta)
2. Compassion (karuna)
3. Sympathetic joy (mudita)
4. Equanimity (upekkha)

Surely these are all qualities that can be nurtured through Right Speech. Can we train ourselves to use communication that furthers these qualities in ourselves and others?

In his book Returning to Silence, Katagiri Roshi said, "Kind speech is not the usual sense of kindness. It can appear in various ways, but ...we should remember that it must constantly be based on compassion.... Under all circumstances that compassion is always giving somebody support or help or a chance to grow."
Right Speech in the 21st Century

Practice of Right Speech has never been easy, but thanks to 21st century technology speech takes forms unimaginable in the Buddha's time. Through the Internet and mass media the speech of one person can be flung around the world.

As we look at this global net of communication, there are plenty of examples of speech used to inflame passion and violence and to separate people into sectarian and ideological tribes. It's not so easy to find speech that leads to peace and group harmony.

Sometimes people justify harsh speech because they are speaking on behalf of a worthy cause. But, ultimately, stirring up acrimony is planting karmic seeds that will hurt the cause we think we're fighting for.

When you live in a world of acrimonious speech, practice of Right Speech requires Right Effort and sometimes even courage. But it is an essential part of the Buddhist path.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/rightspeech.htm

citybutch

04-09-2011, 10:48 PM

gracefaith

04-10-2011, 03:28 PM

Andrew and City butch,

Andrew please don't think I was rushing you to respond... Sorry if it may seem I was... I didn't know I was...

I appreciate you asking your friend about our conversation about Judaism.

Very interesting what your friend said about the levels of Judaism, Hasidict, Hasidict, conservative, reformed...

I wonder how they figure which one they feel more comforting to belong to...

Oh, about Buddhism, I like what you say how It is tranquil and peaceful - I can relate as I'm feeling tranquil, peaceful with in my pain of loss...

I feel this way, as I've been allowing God teach me through my feeling of a loss... I feel God's inner peace and God's light in my spirit in my chest area as I'm grieving my loss...

Perhaps this tranquil and peaceful that you describe in Buddhism that I feel, however its in the midst of my other feelings that I feel in my loss, I'm realizing now its healing in my loss... Does this make sense?

City butch; thank you so much sharing about speech; so true what you say about Communication is something that happens between people.

I think I need to learn more about this communication is between people as this is my second day that my dad won't speak to me as well as a good friend online won't speak to me...

I'm really feeling a failure in this area of communication;

Speaking about the cab driver I can understand why you felt so relieve when the cab ride was over;

I really like what you say: Certainly we cannot banish ugly words from our lives, but we can choose to not soak in them...

Very good advice... I'll look into this: if I'm soaking in what I hear that's negative.

Thank you City butch and Andrew... I hope you a good evening...

I might be gone for a while as I'm taking care of personal matters... Letting you know this as I've been sharing here...

allowing God teach me in the midst of my circumstances,
Gracefaith

Andrew, Jr.

04-10-2011, 04:13 PM

Gracefaith,

You are not rushing me at all. It just takes me a few min. to get my thoughts and ideas together.

I never heard of the Buddist circle. Please tell me more about it.

Thanks!

citybutch

04-11-2011, 10:14 AM

Free

Today and every day, I am unbound and unlimited.

I am free, and I choose the responsibility that comes with spiritual freedom. Free to say what I want, I speak words that uplift and support my growth and the well-being of others. Free to think as I please, I hold thoughts of love for myself and everyone.

If a situation arises where my freedom seems limited, I look more deeply. Nothing and no one can hold me in bondage. I am only limited by limited thinking. A consciousness of freedom delivers me from all self-imposed restrictions.

Today and every day I am unbound and unlimited, because no condition or situation can limit the freedom of my soul. Responsive to life and responsible for my choices, I am the spirit of freedom in expression.

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.--2 Corinthians 3:17

http://www.dailyword.com/

citybutch

04-11-2011, 10:17 AM

4. Right Action

Right Action is the fourth aspect of the Buddhist Eightfold Path. But what is "right action," exactly?

For me, the words "right action" evoke social and environmental activism, and such work can be examples of right action. But "Right Action" in the Buddhist sense also means acting in harmony with the other aspects of the path. These aspects are:

1. Right View
2. Right Intention
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration

This means that when we act "rightly," we act without selfish attachment to our work. We act mindfully, without causing discord with our speech. Our "right" actions spring from compassion and from understanding of the dharma. Each aspects of the path supports all the other aspects.
Right Action and the Precepts

Right Action, Right Speech and Right Livelihood make up the ethical conduct part of the path. Most basically, Right Action refers to keeping the precepts. The many schools of Buddhism have various lists of precepts, but the precepts common to most schools are these:

1. Not killing
2. Not stealing
3. Not misusing sex
4. Not lying
5. Not abusing intoxicants

The precepts are not a list of commandments. Instead, they describe how an enlightened being naturally lives and responds to life's challenges. As we work with the precepts, we learn to live harmoniously and compassionately.

Read More: The Buddhist Precepts: An Introduction
Read More: The Three Pure Precepts
Right Action and Mindfulness Training

The Vietnamese Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh said, "The basis of Right Action is to do everything in mindfulness." He teaches Five Mindfulness Trainings that correlate to the five precepts listed above.

The first training involves respecting life. In awareness of the suffering caused by destruction of life, we work to protect all living things and this planet that sustains life.

The second training involves generosity. We give freely of our time and resources where they are needed, without hoarding things we don't need. We do not exploit other people or resources for our own gain. We act to promote social justice and well-being for everyone.

The third training involves sexuality and avoiding sexual misconduct. In awareness of the pain caused by sexual misconduct, we honor commitments and also act when we can to protect others from sexual exploitation.

The fourth training involves loving speech and deep listening. This means avoiding language that causes enmity and discord. Through deep listening to others, we tear down the barriers that separate us.

The fifth training involves what we consume. This includes nourishing ourselves and others with healthful food and avoiding intoxicants. It also involves what books we read or what television programs we watch. Entertainments that are addictive or cause agitation might best be avoided.
Right Action and Compassion

The importance of compassion in Buddhism cannot be overstated. The Sanskrit word that is translated as "compassion" is karuna, which means "active sympathy" or the willingness to bear the pain of others. Closely related to karuna is metta, "loving kindness."

It's important to remember also that genuine compassion is rooted in prajna, or "wisdom." Very basically, prajna is the realization that the separate self is an illusion. This takes us back to not attaching our egos to what we do, expecting to be thanked or rewarded.

In The Essence of the Heart Sutra, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote,

"According to Buddhism, compassion is an aspiration, a state of mind, wanting others to be free from suffering. It's not passive -- it's not empathy alone -- but rather an empathetic altruism that actively strives to free others from suffering. Genuine compassion must have both wisdom and lovingkindness. That is to say, one must understand the nature of the suffering from which we wish to free others (this is wisdom), and one must experience deep intimacy and empathy with other sentient beings (this is lovingkindness)."

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/right-action.htm

citybutch

04-13-2011, 08:16 AM

5. Right Livelihood

Most of us sustain ourselves by working at a job and earning a paycheck. Your job may be something you love doing, or not. You may see yourself as serving humanity, or not. People may admire you for your profession. Or, you may see your profession as being more ethical than Mafia Hit Man, but not much. Does this matter to Buddhist practice?

In his first sermon after his enlightenment, the Buddha explained that the way to peace, wisdom, and nirvana is the Noble Eightfold Path.

1. Right View
2. Right Intention
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration

The fifth "fold" of the path is Right Livelihood. What does this mean, exactly, and how do you know if your livelihood is a "right" one?
What Is Right Livelihood?

Along with Right Speech and Right Action, Right Livelihood is part of the "moral conduct" section of the Path. These three folds of the Path are connected to the Five Precepts. These are:

1. Not killing
2. Not stealing
3. Not misusing sex
4. Not lying
5. Not abusing intoxicants

Right Livelihood is, first, a way to earn a living without compromising the Precepts. It is a way of making a living that does no harm to others. In the Vanijja Sutta (this is from the Sutra-pitaka of the Tripitaka), the Buddha said, "A lay follower should not engage in five types of business. Which five? Business in weapons, business in human beings, business in meat, business in intoxicants, and business in poison."

Vietnamese Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh wrote,
"To practice Right Livelihood (samyag ajiva), you have to find a way to earn your living without transgressing your ideals of love and compassion. The way you support yourself can be an expression of your deepest self, or it can be a source of suffering for you and others. " ... Our vocation can nourish our understanding and compassion, or erode them. We should be awake to the consequences, far and near, of the way we earn our living." (The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching [Parallax Press, 1998], p. 104)
Consequences, Far and Near

Our global economy complicates the precaution to do no harm to others. For example, you may work in a department store that sells merchandise made with exploited labor. Or, perhaps there is merchandise that was made in a way that harms the environment. Even if your particular job doesn't require harmful or unethical action, perhaps you are doing business with someone who does. Some things you cannot know, of course, but are you still responsible somehow?

In The Seventh World of Chan Buddhism, Ming Zhen Shakya suggests finding a "pure" livelihood is impossible. "Obviously a Buddhist cannot be a bartender or a cocktail waitress, ... or even work for a distillery or a brewery. But may he be the man who builds the cocktail lounge or cleans it? May he be the farmer who sells his grain to the brewer?"

Ming Zhen Shakya argues that any work that is honest and legal can be "Right Livelihood." I'm not sure I agree with that. However, if we remember that all beings are interconnected, we realize that trying to separate ourselves from anything "impure" is impossible, and not really the point.

And if you keep working in the department store, maybe someday you'll be a manager who can make ethical decisions about what merchandise is sold there.

Honesty the Best Policy

A person in any sort of job might be asked to be dishonest. Years ago I worked for a company that produced educational books for children. Sounds like Right Livelihood, right? Unfortunately, the owner of the company expected me to boost profits by cheating the vendors -- typesetters, freelance artists -- and sometimes even the clients. I left.

Obviously, if you're being asked to cheat, or to fudge the truth about a product in order to sell it, there's a problem. There is also honesty involved in being a conscientious employee who is diligent about his work and doesn't steal pencils out of the supply cabinet, even if everyone else does.
Right Attitude

Most jobs present endless practice opportunities. We can be mindful of the tasks we do. We can be helpful and supportive of co-workers, practicing compassion and Right Speech in our communication.

Sometimes jobs can be a real crucible of practice. Egos clash, buttons are pushed. You may find yourself working for someone who is just plain nasty. When do you stay and try to make the best of a bad situation? When do you go? Sometimes it is hard to know. Yes, dealing with a difficult situation can make you stronger, but at the same time an emotionally toxic workplace can poison your life. If your job is draining you more than nourishing you, consider a change.

A Role in Society

We humans have created an elaborate civilization in which we depend on each other to perform many labors. Whatever work we do provides goods or services to others, and for this we are paid to support ourselves and our families. Perhaps you work at a vocation dear to your heart. But you may see your job only as something you do that provides you with a paycheck. You're not exactly "following your bliss," in other words.

If your inner voice is screaming at you to follow another career path, by all means listen to that. Otherwise, appreciate the value in the job you have now.

Vipassana teacher S.N. Goenka said, "If the intention is to play a useful role in society in order to support oneself and to help others, then the work one does is right livelihood." (The Buddha and His Teachings, edited by Samuel Bercholz and Sherab Chodzin Kohn [Shambhala, 1993], p. 101) And we don't all have to be heart surgeons, you know.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/rightlivelihood.htm

citybutch

04-13-2011, 08:18 AM

Guidance

In the quiet, I am aware of divine possibilities.

Whether I call it intuition or insight, inner knowing emanates from the spirit of God within me. I know the right action to take and when to take no action at all as I remain open to Spirit for guidance and illumination.

Clearing my mind of any uncertainty about what I can do, I open myself to what God's Presence can do through me. In quiet times of prayer, I receive divinely inspired direction. Free of any doubt or fear, I let divine possibilities flow into my conscious awareness.

Through prayer and meditation, I become attentive to the still small voice of intuition, the "inner teaching" of Spirit. I know when to speak and act and when to be still.

After he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray.--Matthew 14:23

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

04-13-2011, 11:42 AM

The last 3 evenings I spent with a music ministry of an elderly woman who is from CA. She is very involved in researching the background and what happened to the folks such as Mary M., Martha, and Lazarus after Christ died. What happened to them, where their lives took them. And so on.

The one thing she spoke of is "relationships". The love of our Creator to us, with us, and us with other people. We are all born perfect, and in His image. There are no mistakes in life. The mistakes made, are all human. We need to find that place of peace, to accept not only ourselves but others as they are. And she used the example of when Martha invited Christ to dinner. She thought it was just Him. Jesus brought his Disciples, friends, women, and on and on. So think about the cooking that had to be done. The food that had to be hunted, cleaned up, cooked, and so on. To say one thing, and yet something totally different happen. To share a meal with anyone for me, I find that to be so incrediably loving and a gift. It is something that I enjoy and charish. And back in those times, it was a huge deal. Martha had a large garden with herbs, flowers, and vegetables. When Martha and Mary got back to Martha's house, Mary went outside to pick flowers to put by Christ's bed. Now mind you, Martha was angry. Think about all the people coming to eat dinner, and the food required hot and ready to eat. And here is Mary out in the garden picking flowers. :fastdraq: Her thinking was off. But was it really? Everyone has a gift. We have no idea if Mary M. could cook, bake bread, or even plant a garden. Maybe that is all she was able to do. So why be mad at her?

I think that words and meanings is what Gracefaith and I struggle with. Please correct me if I am wrong with this Gracefaith. We say 1 thing, mean something else in our mind totally at times, and how people react is yet another way. It is the same with Martha inviting Jesus to dinner. She thought it would just be Jesus. Instead, it is a huge crowd. And there is her sister Mary M. out picking flowers. :|

Make sense?

Peace to all here today.

Namaste,
Andrew

citybutch

04-21-2011, 09:23 AM

Commandment

I act lovingly toward others.

Before the Last Supper, Jesus washed his disciples' feet as a demonstration of love and humility. As he did, he commanded them to love one another. As I think about Jesus' words, I consider the ways in which I express love to others.

There are many types of love: the love of a parent for a child and of family members for one another; the love experienced in friendship and companionship; the love expressed in sharing ideas and beliefs.

Considering Jesus' commandment, I make a new commitment to actively express love toward others. I look for opportunities to give and receive love, knowing that I am putting into motion the truth that Jesus shared--that love is the greatest power of all.

I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you.--John 13:34

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

04-21-2011, 11:48 AM

Yes, today is Maundy Thursday. Feet Washing - I am on the list to have it done to me tonight at Mass. It is something very special to me to have done. For me it is a sign or ritual of compassion and love that our Creator has for us, even today.

I was watching the OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) on TV. There were two episodes about spirituality. The first was on Maureen Sweeney-Kyle of Holy Love Shrine (ministry) in Ohio. She claims to be receiving messages from Mary to give out to the world. Her husband taperecords her talk with our Holy Mother. Crowds of people show up because they claim to see aberitions of Mary & Jesus, and have taken pictures of both.

The second episode was about Freedom Valley Worship Center in Gettysburg where miracles are performed by the minister every day. The minister speaks in tongues that is said to be the voice of God. Not Christ or Mary or the Holy Spirit. One of the women interviewed was in her 40's who had multi-tumors in her spinal cord, and after receiving a session with the minister, the tumors are smaller or gone.

What does everyone here think of this?

Peace be with you all.

citybutch

04-21-2011, 09:02 PM

6.Right Effort

Right Effort, sometimes called Right Diligence, is the sixth part of the Eightfold Path of Buddhism. The Buddha tuaght that the Eightfold Path is the means to realize enlightenment. Right Effort (in Pali, samma vayamo), along with Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration, make up the mental discipline section of the Path.

The most basic, traditional definition of Right Effort is to exert oneself to develop wholesome qualities and release unwholesome qualities. As recorded in the Pali Canon, the Buddha taught there are four aspects to Right Effort. Very simply --

1. The effort to prevent unwholesome qualities -- especially greed, anger and ignorance -- from arising.
2. The effort to extinguish unwholesome qualities that already have arisen.
3. The effort to cultivate skillful, or wholesome, qualities -- especially generosity, loving kindness, and wisdom (the opposites of greed, anger and ignorance) -- that have not yet arisen.
4. The effort to strengthen the wholesome qualities that have already arisen.

Supporting the Eightfold Path

If you look at the entire Eightfold Path, you can see how Right Effort supports the other seven parts. The Eightfold Path is:

1. Right View
2. Right Intention
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration

It's important to understand that the Eightfold Path is not a series of progressive steps you master one at a time. Each aspect of the path supports every other aspect, and to practice any one aspect properly requires the practice of the other seven aspects. For example, if we look at what the Buddha said about Right Effort, we can see that it includes cultivating wisdom, which supports Right View. Developing wholesome qualities while purifying oneself of unwholesome qualities supports the ethical practice section of the Path, which is Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood.
Practice "Right," Not Hard

You might think Right Effort means practicing hard, but that's not necessarily so. Do not forget the Middle Way, between extremes. Don't force yourself to endure aesthetic practices or push yourself to exhaustion. If your practice becomes a "chore," that's a problem. Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh says, "The Fourfold Right Diligence is nourished by joy and interest. If your practice does not bring you joy, you are not practicing correctly."

The Buddha taught that practice should be like a well-tuned string instrument. If the strings are too loose, they won't play a sound. If they are too tight, they will break. Practice should be nourishing, not draining.
The Five Hindrances

When I think of Right Effort I also think of the Five Hindrances, from the Nivarana Sutta of the Pali Canon. These are:

1. Sensual desire (kamacchanda)
2. Ill will (vyapada)
3. Sloth, torpor, or drowsiness (thina-middha)
4. Restlessness and worry (uddhacca-kukkucca)
5. Uncertainty or skepticism (vicikiccha)

These are five qualities that interfere with Right Effort. The Buddha taught that mindfulness -- of body, sensations, feelings and thoughts -- will overcome the hindrances.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/Right-Effort.htm

Andrew, Jr.

04-22-2011, 07:07 AM

Citybutch,

Can you please tell us more about Mary? Her personality? What she was like in real time? And so on.

Thanks.

Peace,
Andrew

citybutch

04-23-2011, 08:52 AM

Earth Blessings

I am rich in the wonders of the Earth.

In nature, I am reminded of God's wonder. I feel a commitment and desire to do all I can to sustain the health of Mother Earth. From a place of stewardship and love, I know I can effect change.

Each day, I am grateful for the ways my life is enriched by the earth. Through my actions, I honor and respect her. Every time I nurture and love myself and others, I extend the same love and support to Mother Earth.

Her ability to survive and thrive is apparent as I lovingly work the soil or sink my feet into the sand. The pulsating energy of Spirit is alive in her. I am comforted by that knowledge. In awareness of her splendor, I silently express joy and thanks to God.

Then God said, "Let the earth put forth vegetation: plants yielding seed, and fruit trees of every kind...." And it was so.–Genesis 1:11

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51911

Andrew, Jr.

04-23-2011, 04:43 PM

Happy Easter to All!

I wish you all a wonderful, fun-filled, peacefull day. God bless each and everyone here.

Namaste,
Andrew

Lynn

04-23-2011, 05:41 PM

...just to clarify more about Judaism. Chasidism is not a mainstream "level" of Judaism. It's really outside of the practice of mainstream Judaism. One online definition states (thefreedictionary.com):

n. pl. Ha·si·dim or Has·si·dim also Chas·si·dim (ä-sdm, ô-, hä-)
A member of a Jewish mystic movement founded in the 18th century in eastern Europe by Baal Shem Tov that reacted against Talmudic learning and maintained that God's presence was in all of one's surroundings and that one should serve God in one's every deed and word.

It is not a single movement, but varies in many ways from one Eastern European community to another. If you live in NYC, you will see different styles of dress and traditions which are very much associated with different regions.

Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist Judaism are distinguished by differences in ideology and interpretation. One who practices any of these types of Judaism is no less religious than another, though. If you practice faithfully what you believe, then you are religious. But, an Orthodox Jew is much more traditional than a Reform Jew. If you're Orthodox, you might dismiss the other practices of Judaism as invalid. But, not necessarily. There is much room in Judaism for questioning.

Thank you for letting me fill in the blanks a little, so that understanding can be a little clearer.

Lynn

Glenn

04-24-2011, 06:47 AM

Happy Easter to All!

I wish you all a wonderful, fun-filled, peacefull day. God bless each and everyone here.

Namaste,
Andrew

Peace, Grace, and Love in the name of Jesus Christ also to you, my brother. Happy Passover and Resurrection Day to all.

Glenn

04-24-2011, 07:13 AM

The Queen of Heaven is misunderstood. It's a shame too because she is the mother to us all. She brings peace, healing, and love to all who come near her.Imagine the perfect mother....now multiply that times one-thousand. In order to birth Love, one has to be Love itself. One day we will all understand her role. Hopefully, that day will be very soon. Without deep love and honor for the female aspect of Divinity, the world can never be complete. The Mother's love is truly a gift.

citybutch

04-24-2011, 10:49 AM

"The Easter Bunny is not actually a ‘bunny’ or rabbit at all, but is actually a hare. The hare was the sacred animal of Eostre (or Oestra or Ostera), the ancient Teutonic Goddess of the Spring Moon. At the time of the vernal equinox (March or April) the hares are famed for going ‘mad’ and it was at this time of the year that out of character for its species, one of Eostre’s hares laid an egg. Not just any old egg, but the Egg of New Life - the Easter Egg. But surely Easter is a Christian festival marking Jesus Christ’s resurrection after dying on the cross, and not ceremonial to a Pagan hare-headed goddess? Well, actually it’s both. Following debate at the Synod of Whitby in the 5th Century, the ‘Christian Easter’ is destined to fall roughly around the same time as the ‘Pagan Easter’ due to its association to the Judaic Passover which is also fixed by the lunar cycle. Both festivals could also be said to reflect new life, either Christ’s return from the dead or the blossom and birth of Spring. So it was not much of a stretch for the ascending Christian Church to merge both festivals. This is known as ‘assimilation’ and was a habit frequently employed in those times and these isles to ease and encourage rather than force the conversion of heathens. Perhaps it is a little surprising, however, that the pagan name was retained."

http://beautiful-grotesque.posterous.com/happy-easter-eostre-oestra-ostera-oh-just-pas

citybutch

04-24-2011, 10:50 AM

Christ Is Risen

Christ is Risen! Life is renewed and I am grateful.

Jesus, our Way Shower, lived a life of overcoming. Through awareness of his eternal nature and oneness with God, Jesus demonstrated mastery even over death. His followers were amazed and overjoyed as they recognized the risen Christ Jesus.

Easter is a celebration of the resurrection. With joy, I acknowledge the rising of my own Christ nature. Following the teachings of Jesus, I overcome trials of doubt and fear that may have darkened my mind. One with the overcoming power of Christ, I rise and shake off the past. Any stone of despair lying heavy on my heart rolls away in the bright morning light. Guided by my inner Christ Presence, I joyfully walk in the newness of life.

Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.--Romans 6:4

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

04-24-2011, 08:54 PM

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

Alleluia! :praying:

storyofmylife

04-26-2011, 04:45 AM

I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter His courts with praise....

I hope everyone has a Blessed day!:candle:

citybutch

04-26-2011, 08:40 AM

"So long as we are infatuated with the promise of technology and power, we remain largely deaf to the realm of Spirit. We are entranced, instead, by the narrow realm of ego, a fragment thinking it stands alone and seeking endlessly to be a whole while simutaneously turning its back on that from which it manifests and which sustains it."-Gus DiZerega, Pagan writer/blogger

citybutch

04-27-2011, 07:45 AM

Gratitude

I am grateful for everyone and everything.

As I awake, I take a deep, body-filling breath in and out. With each breath, I express love and gratitude for the new day and the many opportunities that await me. Gratitude and praise open the way for greater joy and richer life experiences.

Appreciation fills me with vitality and enthusiasm. I feel renewed and filled with life's energy. My heart is open and receptive to new experiences, knowing that whatever comes my way, I will see and feel the good in it.

As I go about the activities of my day, I feel myself swaying with the rhythm of love and gratitude. I audibly say, "Thank you!" as if the whole world could hear it, and I imagine it responding back to me, "You are welcome!"

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me. --Psalm 103:1

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51915

citybutch

04-30-2011, 02:30 PM

Doors

I confidently open the door to my good.

A door can be a symbol either of freedom or of bondage, depending upon my viewpoint. Some closed doors are opened with the turn of a doorknob, others must be opened with a key, while others require only a push.

When a door appears closed, some action on my part may be necessary. Faith may be needed to turn the knob; prayer may be the key to unlock the door; willingness and persistence may supply the push to open it.

A door is a meaningful symbol, for it represents both leaving and entering. Some doors lead away from a phase of my life that is complete. Through others I enter a new phase or untried path. Today I confidently open the door to my good.

Look, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.--Revelation 3:8

http://www.dailyword.com/

citybutch

05-04-2011, 07:52 AM

Mindfulness

I am mindful of the presence of God within and all about me.

Mindfulness is a spiritual practice that leads to a richer life experience. It infuses ordinary activities with love and joy. When I am mindful of my relationships, I become fully present with my loved ones, listening with love and sharing from my heart. When I am mindful of my physical well-being, I hold thoughts of health and wholeness. When I am mindful of my finances, I appreciate my prosperity and give thanks by sharing from my abundance.

When I am mindful of the presence of God within and all about me, I am more patient, loving and kind to myself and others. Mindful living allows me to enjoy all that life offers, one moment at a time.

For the Lord their God will be mindful of them and restore their fortunes. --Zephaniah 2:7

http://www.dailyword.com/

As I opened the webpage this morning.... the news was on and they had a bit on Mindfulness... at exactly the same moment!!

citybutch

05-04-2011, 07:54 AM

7. Right Mindfulness

Right Mindfulness traditionally is the seventh part of the Eightfold Path of Buddhism, but that doesn't mean it is seventh in importance. Each part of the path supports the other seven parts, and so they should be thought of as connected in a circle or woven into a web rather than stacked as if in an order of progression.

Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh says that Right Mindfulness is at the heart of the Buddha's teaching. "When Right Mindfulness is present, the Four Noble Truths and the other seven elements of the Eightfold Path are also present." (The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching, p. 59)

What Is Mindfulness?

The Pali word for "mindfulness" is sati (in Sanskrit, smriti). Sati can also mean "retention," "recollection," or "alertness." Mindfulness is a whole-body-and-mind awareness of the present moment. To be mindful is to be fully present, not lost in daydreams, anticipation, indulgences, or worry.

Mindfulness also means observing and releasing habits of mind that maintain the illusion of a separate self. This includes dropping the mental habit of judging everything according to whether we like it or not. Being fully mindful means being fully attentive to everything as-it-is, not filtering everything through our subjective opinions.

Why Mindfulness Is Important

It's important to understand Buddhism as a discipline or process rather than as a belief system. The Buddha did not teach doctrines about enlightenment, but rather taught people how to realize enlightenment themselves. And the way we realize enlightenment is through direct experience. It is through mindfulness that we experience directly, with no mental filters or psychological barriers between us and what is experienced.

The Ven. Henepola Gunaratana, a Theravada Buddhist monk and teacher, explains in the book Voices of Insight (edited by Sharon Salzberg) that mindfulness is essential to help us see beyond symbols and concepts. "Mindfulness is pre-symbolic. It is not shackled to logic," he says. "The actual experi*ence lies beyond the words and above the symbols."

Mindfulness and Meditation

The sixth, seventh and eighth parts of the Eightfold Path -- Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration -- together are the mental development needed to release us from suffering.

Meditation is practiced in many schools of Buddhism as part of mental development. The Sanskrit word for meditation, bhavana, means "mental culture," and all forms of Buddhist meditation involve mindfulness. In particular, shamatha ("peaceful dwelling") meditation develops mindfulness; people sitting in shamatha train themselves to stay alert to the present moment, observing and then releasing thoughts instead of chasing them. Satipatthana vipassana meditation is a similar practice found in Theravada Buddhism that is primarily about developing mindfulness.

In recent years there has been a growing interest in mindfulness meditation as part of psychotherapy. Some psychotherapists find that mindfulness meditation as an adjunct to counseling and other treatments can help troubled people learn to release negative emotions and thought habits.

Four Frames of Reference

The Buddha said there are four frames of reference in mindfulness:

1. Mindfulness of body (kayasati).
2. Mindfulness of feelings or sensations (vedanasati).
3. Mindfulness of mind or mental processes (cittasati).
4. Mindfulness of mental objects or qualities (dhammasati).

Have you ever suddenly just noticed that you had a headache, or that your hands were cold, and realized you'd been feeling these things for a while but weren't paying attention? Mindfulness of body is just the opposite of that; being fully aware of your body, your extremities, your bones, your muscles. And the same thing goes for the other frames of reference -- being fully aware of sensations, aware of your mental processes, aware of the phenomena all around you.

The teachings of the Five Skandhas are related to this, and are worth reviewing as you begin to work with mindfulness.

Three Fundamental Activities

The Venerable Gunaratana says mindfulness comprises three fundamental activities.

1. Mindfulness reminds us of what we are supposed to be doing. If we are sitting in meditation, it brings us back to the focus of meditation. If we are washing dishes, it reminds us to pay full attention to washing the dishes.
2. In mindfulness, we see things as they really are. The Venerable Gunaratana writes that our thoughts have a way of pasting over reality, and concepts and ideas distort what we experience.

3. Mindfulness sees the true nature of phenomena. In particular, through mindfulness we directly see the three characteristics or marks of existence -- it is imperfect, temporary and egoless.

Practicing Mindfulness

Changing the mental habits and conditioning of a lifetime is not easy. And this training is not something that only happens during meditation, but throughout the day.

If you have a daily chanting practice, chanting in a focused, fully attentive way is mindfulness training. It can also be helpful to choose a particular activity such as preparing a meal, cleaning the floors, or taking a walk, and make an effort to be fully mindful of the task as you perform it. In time you will find yourself paying more attention to everything.

Zen teachers say that if you miss the moment, you miss your life. How much of our lives have we missed? Be mindful!

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/right-mindfulness.htm

Andrew, Jr.

05-04-2011, 11:21 AM

We do not use only our voices and our lips when we sing a song. We utter an inner song because there is in us Someone who listens. ~ St. Augustine

Prayer:

Dear Father, let me sing Your praises with all that I am, with all that I think, say, or do. Grant that my whole being in life will reflect Your abiding presence within me to everyone I encounter.

Amen.

:vigil:

Andrew, Jr.

05-05-2011, 03:12 PM

Today is the Nat'l Day of Prayer. I hope everyone had some time to spend with their creator.

Glory to God in the highest, and peace to all of His people on earth.

citybutch

05-08-2011, 07:07 PM

Mother's Blessing

I bless my mother and all mothers around the world.

We are all born out of the energy of Divine Love. Like a million tiny seeds blown across the earth, each of us takes root to grow into a unique expression of the one Love that created us.

Whether the seed of my being landed on a soft fertile place or a rocky path, I was created out of Love and I am an expression of Love. I give thanks for the womb that gave me life and the love that supported my growth. My eyes are opened to see anew all the love I have received. Strong and gentle, liberating and supportive, love has nurtured my growth. Whether the mother who gave me these gifts of love is with me now or not, I send a blessing of loving gratitude to her today.

Your mother was like a vine in a vineyard ..., fruitful and full of branches. --Ezekiel 19:10

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

05-08-2011, 08:45 PM

Thanks be to God for all mothers.

Andrew, Jr.

05-10-2011, 01:46 PM

I hope everyone is doing well here.

Namaste,
Andrew

citybutch

05-10-2011, 02:57 PM

8. Right Concentration:

In modern terms, we might call the Buddha's Eightfold Path an eight-part program toward realizing enlightenment and liberating ourselves from dukkha (suffering; stress). Right Concentration (in Pali, Samma Samadhi) is the eighth part of the path.

It's important to understand that the Eightfold Path is not an eight-step program. In other words, the eight parts of the path are not steps to be mastered one at a time. They are to be practiced all together, and each part of the path supports every other part of the path. The entire Eightfold Path is:

1. Right View
2. Right Intention
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration

Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration are all associated with mental discipline. These three aspects of the path might sound somewhat alike, especially mindfulness and concentration. Very basically,

* Right Effort involves cultivating what is wholesome and purifying oneself of what is unwholesome.
* Right Mindfulness is being fully present and aware of one's body, senses, thoughts, and surroundings. It is the opposite of being lost in daydreams.
* Right Concentration is focusing all of one's mental faculties onto one physical or mental object and practicing the Four Absorptions, also called the Four Dhyanas (Sanskrit) or Four Jhanas (Pali).

The Role of Meditation

Right Concentration is most often associated with meditation. In Sanskrit and Pali, the word for meditation is bhavana, which means "mental culture." Buddhist bhavana is not a relaxation practice, nor is it about having visions or out-of-body experiences. As explained by the Theravadin scholar Walpola Rahula,

The Buddhist bhavana, properly speaking, is mental culture in the full sense of the term. It aims at cleansing the mind of impurities and disturbances, such as lustful desires, hatred, ill-will, indolence, worries and restlessness, sceptical doubts, and cultivating such qualities as concentration, awareness, intelligence, will, energy, the analytical faculty, confidence, joy, tranquility, leading finally to the attainment of highest wisdom which sees the nature of things as they are, and realizes the Ultimate Truth, Nirvana." [Walpola Rahula, What the Buddha Taught (Grove Press, 1974), p. 68]

Bhavana really involves all parts of the Eightfold Path, but the particular role of Right Concentration has to do with the dhyanas.
The Four Dhyanas (or Jhanas)

The Four Dhyanas, Jhanas, or Absorptions are the means to experience directly the wisdom of the Buddha's teachings. In particular, through Right Concentration we can be freed from the delusion of a separate self.

In the first dhyana, passions, desires and unwholesome thoughts (see akusala) are released. A person dwelling in the first dhyana feels rapture and a deep sense of well-being.

In the second dhyana, intellectual activity fades and is replaced by tranquility and one-pointedness of mind. The rapture and sense of well-being of the first dhyana are still present.

In the third dhyana, the rapture fades and is replaced by equanimity (upekkha) and great clarity.

In the fourth dhyana, all sensation ceases and only mindful equanimity remains.

In some schools of Buddhism, the fourth dhyana is described as pure experience with no "experiencer." Through this direct experience, one perceives the individual, separate self to be an illusion.
The Four Immaterial States

In Theravada and probably some other schools of Buddhism, after the Four Dhyanas come the Four Immaterial States. This practice is understood as going beyond mental discipline and actually refining the objects of concentration themselves. The purpose of this practice is to eliminate all visualizations and other sensations that may remain after the dhyanas.

In the four Immaterial States, one first refines infinite space, then infinite consciousness, then non-materiality, then neither perception-nor-not-perception. The work at this level is enormously subtle.

So is this enlightenment? Not quite yet, some teachers say. In other schools, it is understood that enlightenment is already present, and Right Concentration is a means for realizing this.

http://buddhism.about.com/od/theeightfoldpath/a/Right-Concentration.htm

Sachita

05-10-2011, 03:28 PM

Stillness

I am renewed in the stillness between thoughts.

When I enter into meditation, I may find my thoughts tumbling and stumbling over one another in an attempt to be recognized. The most refreshing moments in meditation are those moments of silence--the serene space of stillness in between thoughts.

To create that space, I acknowledge and recognize each thought, but I do not dwell on my thoughts. I gently release them or set them aside. I honor the healing space between thoughts, the stillness which renews and energizes me. Gradually, that space widens and I go deeper into the silence where I am in communion with the essence of my being, the Spirit within.

For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him. --Psalm 62:5

http://www.dailyword.com/

I find stillness and truly being in the moment the most connected I can feel. I've walked so many paths and tried so many things that have names and labels. Being one with all, still, in the moment does it for me.

I also have a spiritual experience every time I sit on my porch with a glass a wine, looking over my farm and listening to the waterfall in my fountain.

citybutch

05-10-2011, 03:29 PM

Indeed :)

I find stillness and truly being in the moment the most connected I can feel. I've walked so many paths and tried so many things that have names and labels. Being one with all, still, in the moment does it for me.

I also have a spiritual experience every time I sit on my porch with a glass a wine, looking over my farm and listening to the waterfall in my fountain.

Andrew, Jr.

05-12-2011, 10:52 AM

Today I was thinking of the hymn we sing in Mass "The Charity of Christ". :bunchflowers:

citybutch

05-13-2011, 09:24 AM

Empowered

I am energized and empowered as I rest in an awareness of God.

At times I may not feel empowered to do anything at all. Rather, I may feel emotionally drained or unsure of myself. To remind myself of God's power within me, I stop and pray.

Releasing the burden of worry or self-criticism, I allow myself to feel the presence of God. As I pray, I realize that I am a spiritual being. I have powerful and unique gifts to give to the world. I have divine strength and energy to do what is mine to do.

Prayer empowers me. Moments of silence--spontaneous or planned--allow me to reaffirm my oneness with God. I emerge energized and enlivened, ready to face my responsibilities with renewed joy and confidence.

For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you.--1 Thessalonians 1:4

http://www.dailyword.com/

Luv

05-13-2011, 08:29 PM

Someone asked me once why I love my Faith..and I answered it this way..
My Faith makes life a little easier,when I have sorrow it gives me comfort and hope, when I think there is nothing left of me and I am devastated, my Faith hold me and will show me the littlest thing to show me that my God cares for me,,like a butterfly landing on my hand and just looking right at me. Its makes it easier to live..gives me hope so its not so scarey to die. Everyone believes on something,,even some believe there is nothing..for me..I would rather believe and be wrong,than not to believe and be wrong. There is always hope..and my hope lies in my faith.

these are the words to my favorite Hymn..its called Because He Lives

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives.
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone!
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives!

Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither

Andrew, Jr.

05-15-2011, 02:43 PM

I wanted to post about the blessings of laughter. Karl Barth once stated "Laughter is the closest thing to the grace of God." How true it is! Joy, hope, humor, and laughter - they are all God's tender blessings.

Peace be with you all.

Andrew, Jr.

05-17-2011, 03:12 PM

P - Pray

U - Until

S - Suffering

H - Help and Blessings Pour Down Upon You

citybutch

05-25-2011, 08:18 AM

Acceptance

Freely and with love, I accept myself and others.

Great freedom comes from accepting people and circumstances as they are. Through acceptance, I release my need to control or change people or situations that are not mine to control. Peace comes from allowing things to unfold as they will. Through acceptance, I am free to embrace every situation and every person in a spirit of love.

The most important person for me to accept is me. I see myself as a child of God following a divinely inspired path to spiritual unfoldment. I let go of self-criticism and trust God. With a renewed sense of freedom and peace, I accept the people and circumstances in my life with love. I give thanks for the blessings they bring.

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.--John 13:35

http://www.dailyword.com/

Andrew, Jr.

05-25-2011, 09:40 AM

Citybutch,

I was thinking of the horrible aftermath of the storms down south (tornados). People who have lost everything and yet have the strength to help others. That is what life is about in my mind and soul. Life is about giving the other person a helping hand up, instead of finding ways to defeat them for self-serving purposes. You can see this happen in Japan, in Haiti, and now in America. Love is what life is all about.

Andrew

Andrew, Jr.

06-08-2011, 10:18 AM

I hope everyone is doing well.

Andrew

citybutch

06-16-2011, 09:13 PM

Flexible

I experience the fullness of life.

Because I am flexible, I never give up on myself or my dreams. When a change seems to alter my plans, I don't give in to feelings of helplessness or hopelessness. My divine purpose is to be creative and to find fulfillment in whatever I am doing.

Any tendency to be rigid in my thinking falls away as I welcome divine ideas into my awareness. There is more than one way to the fulfillment of my heart's desires. A whole new world of possibilities is open to me.

Pressures or fears may threaten to derail my dreams; however, I am a spiritual being and I do not veer off the course on which Spirit is leading me. I eagerly move forward and experience the fullness of life with flexibility and the expectancy of good.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.--Philippians 4:13

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51964

citybutch

06-16-2011, 09:14 PM

Simplicity

With childlike simplicity, I am carefree and at ease.

At times it may seem as if my life has become too busy or complicated. My obligations feel overwhelming, and I desire a simpler life. How can I recapture the joyful feeling of childhood, living in the moment, carefree and at ease?

I seek simplicity by remembering what is most important to me. I purposefully set aside a few moments each day for playful activities. Perhaps I drink in the delicate beauty of a flower, watch the clouds pass by, or appreciate the feel of sunshine on my face. I seek simplicity by balancing busyness with a renewed awareness of beauty. I am refreshed as I become like a child, seeing the world with a sense of awe and wonder.

Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.--Matthew 18:3

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51963

Andrew, Jr.

06-26-2011, 09:21 AM

I hope everyone here is doing well. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace be with you. :vigil:

Andrew

citybutch

07-13-2011, 08:44 AM

Time Enough

This is a day of accomplishment and fulfillment.

Whenever I seem to be running out of time to do what I need to do, I take a reality check. Starting with this simple observation: There is the same amount of minutes and hours in each day. Check! I am the "master" of my time because I can make choices. Check! I have no reason to feel out of control as I look forward to the next few hours or days. Check!

I gain confidence about being the authority over my time by first starting my day with prayer. Centered and relaxed, I don't fight time; I go with the flow. I think with clarity and act efficiently. I know when to say yes and when to say no. I feel composed, and my day flows smoothly.

But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing."--Luke10:41-42

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51992

Glenn

11-20-2011, 10:30 AM

Oh Birther! Mother-Father of this cosmos,
Focus Your light within us-
make it useful.
Create Your reign of unity now through our fiery hearts and willing hands.
Help us love beyond our ideals,
and sprout acts of compassion for all creatures.
Animate the Earth within us,
and feel the Wisdom underneath supporting all.
Untangle the knots within, so that we can mind our heart's simple ties to each other.
Don't let surface things delude us,
But free us from what holds us back from our true purpose.
Out of You, the astonishing fire,
Returning light and sound to the cosmos. Amen/Aum

Glenn

02-01-2012, 10:45 AM

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on Earth where moth and rust decay and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for for yourselves your treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal..For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

"No one can serve two masters, for either she/he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon."

"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about what you will eat and drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is life not more than food and the body more than clothes?"

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet God feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"

"Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to your stature? So why worry about clothing? Consider the lillies of the field, how they grow, they neither toil nor spin, and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed as fine as one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will not God much more clothe you, oh you of little faith?

"Therefore, do not worry, saying: "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we drink?" or "What shall we wear?" For after all these things the gentiles seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about it's own things. Sufficient for the day is it's own trouble."

LeftWriteFemme

06-23-2012, 09:47 PM

http://img.timeinc.net/time/daily/2009/0906/alysa_stanton_0606.jpg
Alysa Stanton poses in front of an ark in the synagogue at Hebrew Union College, Thursday, May 21, 2009, in Cincinnati.Stanton is to be ordained June 6, as mainstream Judaism's first black woman rabbi. She will become the rabbi at Congregation Bayt Shalom in Greenville , N.C. , on Aug. 1.(From Time magazine; also featured on ABC news
Alysa Stanton, of Lakewood , Colorado , will
soon be the first female African-American rabbi anywhere.

Cleveland Heights native Alysa Stanton, an African-American woman who
converted from Christianity to Judaism two decades ago, is about to
change the course of world history.

The 45-year-old single mother of an adopted teenage daughter recently
completed rabbinical school and is about to become the first ever black
female rabbi, experts say.

Alysa Stanton
• Age: 45
• Born: Cleveland , lived in Cleveland Heights
• Achievement: First black women to be ordained a rabbi.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in psychology; master's in counseling
and multiculturalism; and a master's in Hebrew letters.
• On God: "I don't believe one has to warm a pew to be religious or
spiritual. I can find God in the mountains, in the trees, in the smile
of a baby. My God is too big to be boxed in."

Stanton will be ordained June 6 in Cincinnati where she graduated from
Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. She has already
secured a position at a synagogue in North Carolina .

Scholars believe Stanton will be the first black clergy woman in the
history of a religion that traces its roots back thousands of years to
Old Testament patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The Reform and Conservative movements of Judaism first began ordaining
women in the 1970s and 1980s. But no black woman has been ordained
until now.

"I try not to think about it," Stanton said in a telephone interview
from Cincinnati this week. "It's daunting. I'm taking it with a sense
of awe and reverence. And a healthy dose of fear.

"I try not to focus on being the first. I focus on being the best --
the best human being, the best rabbi I can be."

Stanton was born in Cleveland and lived in Cleveland Heights, attending
Boulevard Elementary School , until she was 11 when her family,
Pentecostal Christians, moved to Denver .

It was in Cleveland Heights , she said, where she began a spiritual
quest, sampling various Christian denominations, but eventually coming
to Judaism.

"I believe I was born Jewish, but not of a Jewish womb," she said. "I
had to make it legal."

Stanton said she was attracted to the culture, creed and social justice
work of Judaism. "It involves more than worship," she said. "It's a way
of life."

In 1987, she converted, becoming one of the few black members of
Denver 's largest synagogue, Temple Emanuel , where she taught religion
and was a cantor.

With academic degrees in psychology and counseling from Colorado State
University in Denver , Stanton worked as a psychotherapist before
enrolling in Hebrew Union College in 2002. She studied in Israel her
first year.

"It's been quite a journey," she said, noting that along the way she
amassed $250,000 in student loan debt.

Asked whether she still carries remnants of Christianity, she quickly
responded: "I'm a Jew. But the fabric of our lives -- each thread --
hones us into who we are.

"My mom, for example, gave me the undeniable, unshakable faith in God.
That didn't change by my becoming a Jew. My history makes me therabbi
that I am. I want to help people in their spiritual journey whatever
that may be."

Joking, she added, "Some of my best friends are Christians."

Stanton is one of 43 rabbinical students who graduated this year from
the three campuses -- New York , Los Angeles and Cincinnati -- ofHebrew
Union .

Only about half of them have found work. Because of tough economic
times, school officials say, congregations are contributing less money,
forcing synagogues to tighten budgets.

Large congregations are going without assistant rabbis. Small
congregations are merging. And shrinking retirement funds are forcing
veteran and retired rabbis to keep working, crimping the job market.

"I am blessed," said Stanton, who, on August 1, will become rabbi of
Bayt Shalom in Greenville , N.C. , a 53-family congregation affiliated
with both the Conservative and Reform movements.

"I was their first choice," she said. "They were my first choice."

The irony of a black woman presiding over a white congregation in the
deep south is not lost on Stanton .

"God has a sense of humor," she said.

Rabbi David Weisberg, who taught Stanton Biblical studies at Hebrew
Union , said he was confident his student will do well wherever she goes.

"She's a good teacher and she brings lots of faith," he said. "I hope
some day we won't be concerned whether people are black or white, but
what they contribute to the community. Alysa makes a big contribution
to the community of humanity."

Stanton 's ordination has drawn widespread media attention from dozens
of news outlets as far away as England and Israel . And the buzz is
traveling quickly throughout the Jewish community worldwide.

Jewish scholars Jonathan Sarna of Brandeis University and Ori Z.Soltes
of Georgetown University , both told The Plain Dealer they know of no
evidence of a black female ever being ordained a rabbi.

"It's very exiting," said Soltes.

Rabbi Joshua Caruso of Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple inBeachwood said
Stanton was treated like a celebrity when she came to his temple in
January last year for a Martin Luther King Day service.

"People were fascinated," he said. "She is a special lady. She's very
charismatic. As a preacher, she has some wonderful stylistic skills and
deliveries that will grab people."

More than 50 friends and relatives from 12 states and Canada are going
to Cincinnati to celebrate Stanton 's ordination. Her mother, Anne
Harrison, 79, and daughter, Shana Michaela Stanton, 14, will be there.

So will the press.

"I'm living in a fishbowl," said Stanton , longing to be out of the
limelight. "But that comes with the honor I've been given.

"Up until now I've avoided interviews. But now it's celebratory time
and it's nice to be able to spread a little hope, inspiration and joy."

LeftWriteFemme

06-25-2012, 05:49 PM

4uOhD67028I

Kenna

07-29-2012, 11:56 PM

I am a Christian...

But I am one of those Christians who finds wisdom, faith, understanding, and guidance from many sources... not just Christ.

The word Christianity has, in my very humble opinion, been co-opted by a radical right.

I thought I would start a thread where we can post quotes, sayings, words of wisdom, whatever... from various sources.... that may help us as we navigate life's challenges...

Just a thought... that perhaps in our differences we can find our commonality... even on a spiritual level.

1 John 3:18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.

I had forgotten about that verse, to quote it word for word... being raised in the Dunkard Brethren Church, I should have had this committed to memory...I remembered the concept, but not the words... I am recently reminded, in a good way, how much I have lived my life by those words, and how my life was shaped by it's teachings...

mariamma

07-30-2012, 12:47 AM

Pray for Others

I am unified in Spirit with God and with all humanity.

It is impossible to pray for one person without praying for all persons. We are all one in God. Every time one heart is lifted, all hearts are lifted. Every time one life is blessed, all lives are blessed. Entering into the presence of God in the silence, I realize this truth about myself and those I hold in prayer. At the same time, I am reinforcing this truth for all humanity.

As I pray for the protection of a loved one, all persons in danger are enfolded in love and faith. As I affirm the love of God in my heart and rid my mind of all that is unloving, the heart of the world is more loving too. When I feel in tune with life, at peace with myself and the world, I help every confused or restless soul find peace and faith again.And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.--John 12:32

http://www.dailyword.com/dailyword/51874
I am a Pagan, on the Shamanic path and feel very much as you do. I see in others this practice, of accepting others where they are and I see the other behaviors. Where people have to convert others to their view in order to feel validated?? feel like they're right???
I don't get that need. I do talk too much at events and people don't get that behavior trait. Point it, we're all where we are in life. We are all on a path in life whether we like it or not. It's nice to see others who feel similarly. The honest thing to do in these cases is to reach for what we have in common and all the big religions have the same things in common (one Unifying God/Creator/Source, good actors, bad actors, spirits, people, animals, upper world and lower world, the major point....be a good human, etc.)
Thanks for the thread :poc-love:

mariamma

07-30-2012, 01:51 AM

Why must Goddess/God be called Allah, a king, prince, father, etc.? The answer is that it is impossible for words to define or explain God/Goddess. All that man can do is use the best words he knows for the greatest BEING, the SUPREME BEING, and uses these words because he can't find any other or a better one. "The difference between human words and Divine words is this: a human word is merely a pebble, it exists, and that's all, it's nothing else. The Divine word is a Living word like a grain of corn, one grain is not just one grain, it is hundreds of thousands of grains. In this grain, or Divine word is an essence, which is always multiplying and Showing the perfection in itself."-Hazrat Khan
Thank you for the quote. I usually say The Source because the term does not imply status on a power level. The Creator also works. The Great Spirit also works.
I do energy work. I have learned from my spirit guide that estrogen is the hormone you use to connect to the Source. Serotonin is another psychic hormone and it puts spirit energy into matter. I tend to piss people off a lot when I say this (especially spiritual men). I had a very hard time believing this and yet, all we do/think/feel is because of a hormone, neurotransmitter or other trace protein structure. Estrogen is the hormone that engenders grace, beauty, patience, respect, change, acceptance, etc. all the great traits of The Source.
We do get all this thru our perception, it's all filtered thru our personality type (for example, alpha, beta, gamma, delta) and all expressed thru the action or inaction of our hormones and neurotransmitters. The concept of God is so profoundly deep and beyond me at many moments during the day. It's good to get reminders that we're all in this together, we're all seeking, exploring and making sense of this path and we all are specks of light in the sparkling , dazzling eye of the Source.

Glenn

07-30-2012, 09:59 AM

A.When throbbing of mooladhar begins, the whole body shakes involuntarily, the lungs fill with air, and is forcibly exhaled out. Without volition deep exhaling of breath starts and the body gets uncontrollable, know then, that the kundalini energy has awakened. You then should give up your assertions, and witness what happens.
B. When your body begins trembling, hair stands on end, you laugh or begin to weep without your wishing, your tongue begins to utter deformed sounds, you are filled with fear or see frightening visions, Think that the Kundalini Shakti has become active.
C. When your posture becomes fixed, and orgasm comes involuntarily, your tongue reverts back or rises up toward the palate, and the whole body becomes active that you are unable to stay still, your hands and legs stretch out forcibly, then you ought to know the Divine Power of the Goddess Kundalini has come into action.
D. When your posture becomes fixed and sight is attracted toward the middle point between the eyebrows, the eyeballs begin to revolve, you get automatic Kewal-Kumbhak cessation of breath comes, with no effort for inhaling or exhaling and the mind becomes vacant, void of all knowledge, understand that Maharamaya, the first born Shakti, the Goddess of Kundalini has come into action.
E. When you feel currents of energy (Prana) rising up your cerebrum within you, automatic Aum starts and the mind experiences waves after waves of blissful beautitude (as experienced by catholic saints also), think the Universal Mother Kundalini has come into action.
F. When different kinds of Nad become audible, your spinal column experiences vibrations, and feeling of bodily existence becomes lost. Your eyes open and close without volition, electric like currents flow up and down the nerves, and you have convulsions, konow that Mahamaya Kundalini has come into action.
G. When your mind gets influenced spiritually as if some spirit has taken possession of your body, and you can do different postures of yoga without pain or fatigue, and you feel increasingly energetic, and strange sort of breathing excersizes start, think that the Divine Power Of Kundalini has come into action.
H. When you no sooner have sat with eyes closed than the body begins to show activity of throwing out limbs, utter sounds like those of animals, birds, frogs, lions, wolves, jackels, dogs, tigers, fear inspiring and not pleasing to hear, understand that the Great Goddess Kundalini has come into action.
I. When you feel vibrations of energy at different stages inside your body, and feel it's flow wherever you fix your attention and nerves begin to show easy jerks like electricity passing through them, know that the Goddess Kundalini has come into action.
J. When all day and night you feel within your body some activity of energy. Wherever you concentrate your mind, your body at once begins to shake or toss, yet your mind remanins full of joy and bliss, and you can feel energy rising even in your dreams, you are experiencing HER Presence. Know that the joy inspiring Kundalini has come into action.
K. As soon as you sit for prayer your body begins to shake with the ecstacy of joy and you begin to sing songs/hymns of charming music, and write poems naturally, you must know that the Goddess Saraswati of speech has awakened into action.
L.When you feel intoxivated without taking any drugs, while walking your steps float majestically or are awkward, and you stagger,like one drunk of divinity, know that your Atma Shakti Kundalini, the power of Self, has come into action.
M. While walking, your mind is filled with an impulse to walk faster, and your feet begin running, you feel lighter than air, and do not feel fatigued having gone far, and you feel energetic and happy even in your dreams, and you can keep the balance of your mind undisturbed in all ups and downs, and you acquire inexhausible energy for work, know that Brahma Shakti Kundalini has come into action.
N. When you are in meditation the future unfolds it's secrets to you, hidden meanins of Scripture become clear, you acquire insight into occult practices, understand that Kundalini the bestower of occult power has come into action.
O. When seated in meditaton, your sight becomes fixed in the middle of the eyebrows, and your mind plunges into an ocean of bliss, you have the power of Kundalini.
P. When at morning and evening hours punctually and automatically your body becomes charged with energy and divine influences and you become overpowered by HER, know the Goddess Kundalini is rightly functioning.

From Deva Shakti (Kundalini) Her Divine Power
by Swami Ram Tirtha.

mariamma

07-30-2012, 03:00 PM

This is a hard lesson for me to learn and re-learn. I admit I am a Prima Donna. I'm spoiled and have wants and desires. All wants, craving, MUST HAVE feeling is related to how one runs dopamine. And dopamine is ... intense and mean. There is no other way of seeing it.
James Holmes out in Colorado...his dopamine has spiked, probably with testosterone and he spiraled into a T, D, violent and euphoric state. Now he's looking blank (a flat affect is a sign of lack of dopamine, former meth-users have this same look) according to the media. People are wondering how he can be so emotionless (they are giving him serotonin-increasing meds, S and D work at inverse proportion to each other)
The hoarding, the serving 2 masters (usually in secret), the fear-induced clutching for possessions, goods, the best foods, etc......it's dopamine related. I want what I want because I have the delusion that I am entitled to whatever I want.
Serotonin engenders well-being and happiness. You feel what you need (I need air. I need water, I need healthy foods and not really much more.). No hoarding because there's no fear-based clutching onto possessions. The focus is away from ego protection, status protection, "saving face", escalating desires, etc. Because the fallacy of dopamine is that having our wants and desires met will make us happy. This is far from true. Dopamine will only make us crave more. There is no end to the bottomless pit of want/desire.

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on Earth where moth and rust decay and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for for yourselves your treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal..For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

"No one can serve two masters, for either she/he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon."

"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about what you will eat and drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is life not more than food and the body more than clothes?"

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet God feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"

"Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to your stature? So why worry about clothing? Consider the lillies of the field, how they grow, they neither toil nor spin, and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed as fine as one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will not God much more clothe you, oh you of little faith?

"Therefore, do not worry, saying: "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we drink?" or "What shall we wear?" For after all these things the gentiles seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about it's own things. Sufficient for the day is it's own trouble."