The Statement of a wise man

Subject: The statement of a wise man.
I loved this when I read it. Merry Christmas and and Happy New Year to all of you and your families!
> The statement of a wise man.> > The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday > Morning Commentary.> > My confession:> > I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not > bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, > bejeweled trees Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel > discriminated against. That's what they are: Christmas trees.> > > > It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't > think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, > I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating > this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger > scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If > people want a crèche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few > hundred yards away .> > > > I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think > Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people > who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I > have no idea where the concept came from that America is an explicitly > atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it > being shoved down my throat.> > > > Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we > should worship Nick and Jessica and we aren't allowed to worship God as we > understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there > are a lot of us who are wondering where Nick and Jessica came from and where > the America we knew went to.> > > > In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a > little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's > intended to get you thinking.> > > > Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson > asked her 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding > Katrina); Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. > She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for > years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our > government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I > believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His > blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?' > > > > In light of recent events...terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I > think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body > found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools , and we > said OK.> > Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says > thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as > yourself. And we said OK. > > > > Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they > misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might > damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an > expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.> > > > Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they > don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill > strangers, their classmates, and themselves.> > > > Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I > think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.' > > > > Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the > world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but > question what the Bible says . Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail > and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding > the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar > and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion > of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.> > > > Are you laughing?> > > > Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on > your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they > will think of you for sending it.> > > > Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than > what God thinks of us.> > > > Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not then just discard it... no one > will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back > and complain about what bad shape the world is in My Best Regards.> > Honestly and respectfully,> > > > Ben Stein> > > > Amen=

WHAT LOVE IS ALL ABOUT

THIS IS WHAT LOVE IS ALL ABOUT!
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 A.M., when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am. I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it waswell healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation. I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. Iwas surprised, and asked him, "And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?" He smiled as he patted my hand and said, "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is." I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, "That is the kind of love I want in my life." True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.

The Season

Merry Christmas. Tis the Season to be Thankful. I know I have been mournful of my lot at this time of year. Then I was confronted by some who have much less and some who have lost all. The devastation along thew coast of Oregon not to far from here has given me a healthy thankfulness for all I have and not for all I have-not. So that being said, I wish all a very happy Yule and a peaceful New Year.
Peace,
Rocco

Now What???

Sight vs Vision

Sight is the ability to see the physical world while vision is the gift of seeing beyond it. Sight enables us to take the world in so we can participate in it with knowledge. It brings pleasure to perceive the colors and shapes of all of nature and human beings. It helps us feel in control, which way we are going, and exactly where we are standing at a given moment. We are able to read, navigate, sense, and perceive how a person is feeling by the expressions that cross there face. As anyone who has lost their eyesight can tell you, there are things that are clearer when you cannot see the world through your eyes. One of the reasons many meditation instructors advise sitting with the eyes closed is because we become more in touch with our inner world when we are not distracted by the outer world. It is in this state that vision becomes our mode of seeing. Vision comes from within and shows us how to navigate the realms of thought, feeling, and emotion. It enables us to see things that aren’t yet manifested in the world of form, and it also connects us to that part of ourselves that exists separately from the world of form.
As we age, even those of us with perfect eyesight will generally lose some of our acuity, but this loss is usually replaced with inner vision. This is the time of life when we are meant to turn inside and take what are sometimes the very first steps of a journey that cannot be traced on a map. We call upon intuition and feel our way along a path that ultimately carries us beyond the realm we can see with our eyes and into the land of spirit.

What do you think?

Quote

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.
Theodore Roosevelt

I have Ben in council with several groups and our topic has been the poor state of personal affairs of the people here in the U S and the world. I for one have seen a different world before and during the second world war. People were much more apt to make sure the neighbors had what was necessary and no-one was without. We made scarfs for the needy in town.We talked to our neighbors and made sure they knew we were there for them, for chat a shoulder to cry on and just a place to come and sit for some small talk. Life was better than ever since. Yes we have more gadgets and we have more distance coverage by what we play with. What we don't have is a fair understanding of our neighbors nor any type of hold on the pulse of or neighborhood. We don't try to get a hold. Why, maybe it is because we are afraid ...a fear made real by the newspaper, radio news, t.v.news and just constant reports of home to lock ourselves in our own homes.

I am not sure if any or all of this makes sense to you by it does to me.

The End and The Begining

The end of 2006 has passed and beginning of 2007 has appeared with little change. There are the usual notations on the casualties of a “war against something or other”. Since the first of the year, prices have gone up and the new billboard ads are trying to get people walk and mass-transit more than drive. The push for private space is starting to be the same as Japan some 160 years ago.
My year was as usual with deaths in December and life beginning in May. A very close friend had to commit his wife in the state mental hospital. ( I trained it back there to help him with the details for the action and the beginning of a divorce. His health is poorly. My sister is doing well after her surgery before Christmas. (I worry about her.)
Heather is in her second quarter at Clark College and enjoying it. Her grades are up there and she is an A student. She may be able to graduate in the Spring of 2008.

Decisions of Life

Decisions of Life
The decisions we make each day shapes who we are and what we are composed of. When we choose one option over another, we shape our lives. The decision making process allows us to enjoy the benefits of self-determination. It can also be a source of anxiety. Decision making forces us to face the possibility of dissatisfaction. As a result, many of us choose to avoid making decisions and allow others to make them for us. We turn our power over to others; spouses, relatives, friends, and colleagues, granting them the power to shape our lives that is ours by right. Though the decisions we make are often difficult, we grow more self-sufficient and secure each time we trust ourselves enough to choose. Ultimately, only we can know how the options before us will impact our daily life and our long-term well-being. Within us lies the power to competently weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each decision. Even if we feel incapable of making a decision, our inner wisdom and our intuitive mind will give us sound counsel if we have faith in ourselves. Try to come to our own conclusions before seeking the guidance of others, and even then, treat their suggestions as suggestions rather than votes pro or con to our own conclusions. Before making our choice, release the fear of wrong decisions. Perceived mistakes can lead us down wonderful and unexpected paths that expose us to life-changing insights. If we can let go of the notion that choices are utterly right or entirely wrong, we will be less tempted to invite others to take the reigns of our destiny. When our choices are our own, we will be more likely to accept and be satisfied with the outcome of those choices. Our decisions will be a pure reflection of our desires, our creativity, our awareness, and our power. Since we understand that we must live with and take responsibility for our own decisions, we will likely exercise greater care when coming to conclusions. As we learn to make autonomous choices, secure in the knowledge that it is our information and not others opinions guiding us, we will gain the freedom to consciously direct the flow of your life without interference.

FEAR AND PANIC

Today was to be my first day in a new class at WRITE AROUND PORTLAND on an independent voyage through the public transportation system. I took a prerun yesterday with the help of my wife and all went sort-of OK. Today I woke in a panic mode.

I am willing to say I was in high pain and ready to dump the day, class and my chance at improving my writing ( which would help me immensely ).

Partly, I am still worried about my slowness in a crowd, partly I keep wrecking my scooter and may not be able to repare it. I have already wrecked the front end twice and broken the fiberglass. It is a brand new scooter from the V A and I've yet to broach them for repairs.

My pain level is up and has been so since the Candlelight tours at Ft. Vancouver this past Saturday. I had a great time and over did my activities by leaps and bounds. The Visitors to the Fort also showed their appreciation for the gig as well. My stories were well received by the children and adults alike.

The tours went from 3 to 10 pm and stopped just right. I won't be at the debriefing, well most likely not be there. I need to get a better hand on my pain and panic attacks. The Oxycodone is better at controlling pain than the Gabapentin I am now taking. I"ll need a refill soon.

Publishing

I have been very busy this past 6 months working at improving my writing and being published in two anthologies. One was published in June 2007 and the other in August this same year. Mostly I am writing poetry and a few prose. Up Coming this Fall is will be strengthening my plot and character development to improve my short story.

I hope to have enough interest to publish my own first edition, " Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow" for the summer 2008 summer season.

Seven Philosophies

Seven Philosophies for the Native American Man.
"Being Indian is mainly in your heart. It's a way of walking with the earth instead of upon it. A lot of the history books talk about us Indians in the past tense, but we don't plan on going anywhere... We have lost so much, but the thing that holds us together is that we all belong to and are protectors of the earth; that's the reason for us being here. Mother Earth is not a resource, she is an heirloom." ~David Ipinia, Yurok Artist,The following was from the Gathering of Native American Men in June 1996 at Colorado. Approximately 2000 Native American Men, families, and friends gathered their from June 1 to 2 representing about 115Tribes.What are the Seven Philosophies?
The Seven Philosophies for a Native American Man are guidelines for Indian men on their journey through life. The wisdom of Native Elders is contained in the Seven Philosophies and is offered to Native American men so that they may be better fathers, sons, husbands, uncles,relatives, friends, Tribal members and citizens of the countries in which they live. The Seven Philosophies point the way towards are turn to the values of Native American culture for the healing of individuals,families and Native Communities.

First Philosophy

TO THE WOMEN The cycle of life for the woman is the baby, girl, woman, and grandmother. These are the four directions of life. She has been given by natural laws, the ability to reproduce life. The most sacred of all things is life. Therefore, all men should treat her with dignity and respect. Never was it our way to harm her mentally or physically. Indian men were never abusers. We always treated our women with respect and understanding. So from now on:• I will treat women in a sacred manner. The Creator gave women the responsibility for bringing new life into the world. Life is sacred,so I will look upon the women in a sacred manner.• In our traditional ways, the woman is the foundation of the family.I will work with her to create a home atmosphere of respect,security and harmony.• I will refrain from any form of emotional or physical abuse. If I have these feelings, I will talk to the Creator for guidance.• I will treat all women as if they were my own female relatives.This is my vow.

Second Philosophy

TO THE CHILDREN As an eagle prepares its young to leave the nest will all the skills and knowledge it needs to participate in life, in the same manner so will I guide my children. I will use the culture to prepare them for life.• The most important thing I can give to my children is my time. I will spend time with them in order to learn from them and to listen to them.• I will teach my children to pray, as well as the importance of respect.• We are the caretakers of the children for the Creator. They are His children, not ours.• I am proud of our own Native language. I will learn it if I can and help my children to learn it.• In today's world it is easy for the children to go astray, so I will work to provide positive alternatives for them. I will teach them the culture. I will encourage education. I will encourage sports. I will encourage them to talk to the Elders for guidance; but mostly,I will seek to be a role model myself.• I make this commitment to my children so they will have courage and find guidance through traditional ways.

Third Philosophy

TO THE FAMILY The creator gave to us the family, which is the place where all teachings are handed down from the grandparent, to the parent, and to the child. The children's behavior is a mirror of the parents behavior. Knowing this, I realize the importance for each Indian man to build a strong and balanced family. By doing this, I will break the cycle of hurt and ensure the positive and mental health of the children,even the children yet to be born. So from now on:• I will dedicate my priorities to rebuilding my family• I must never give up and leave my family only to the mother.• I am accountable to restore the strength of my family. To do this, I will nurture our family's spiritual, cultural, and social health. I will demonstrate trust, respect, honor and discipline; but mostly I will be consistent in whatever I do with them.• I will see that the grandparents and community Elders play a significant role in the education of my children.• I realize that the male and female together are fundamental to our family life. I will listen to my mates council for our family's benefit, as well as for the benefit of my Nation.

Fourth Philosophy

TO THE COMMUNITY The Indian community provides many things for the family. The most important is the sense of belonging; that is, to belong to "the people",and to have a place to go. Our Indian communities need to be restored to health so the future generation will be guaranteed a place to go for culture, language and Indian socializing. In the community, the honor of one is the honor of all and the pain of one is the pain of all. I will work to strengthen recovery in all parts of my community. As an Indian man:• I will give back to my community by donating my time and talents when I am able.• I will cultivate friendships with other Indian men for mutual support and strength.• I will consider the effects of our decisions on behalf of the next seven generations; in this way, our children and grandchildren will inherit healthy communities.• I will care about those in my community so that the mind changers,alcohol and drugs, will vanish, and our communities will forever be free of violence.• If each of us can do all these things, then others will follow our will be a proud community.

Fifth Philosophy

TO THE EARTH Our Mother Earth is the source of all life, whether it be the plants,the two-legged, four-legged, winged ones or human beings. The Mother Earth is the greatest teacher, if we listen, observe and respect her.When we live in harmony with the Mother Earth, she will recycle the things we consume and make them available to our children and to their children. As an Indian man, I must teach my children how to care for the Earth so it is there for the future generations. So from now on:• I realize the Earth is our mother. I will treat her with honor and respect.• I will honor the interconnectedness of all things and all forms of life.• I will realize the Earth does not belong to us, but we belong to the Earth.• The natural law is the ultimate authority upon the lands and water.I will learn the knowledge and wisdom of the natural laws. I will pass this knowledge in to my children.The mother Earth is a living entity that maintains life. I will speak out in a good way whenever I see someone abusing the Earth. Just as I would protect my own mother, so will I protect the Earth. I will ensure that the land, water, and air will be intact for my children and my children's children - unborn.

Sixth Philosophy
TO THE CREATOR

As an Indian man, I realize we make no gains without the Great Spirit being in our lives. Neither I nor anything I attempt to do, will work without the Creator. Being Indian and being spiritual has the same meaning. Spirituality is out gift from the Great One. This day, I vow to walk the Red Road.• As an Indian man, I will return to the traditional and spiritual values which have guided my ancestors for the past generations.• I will look with new eyes on the powers of our ceremonies and religious ways, for they are important to the very survival of our people.• We have survived and are going to grow and flourish spiritually.We will fulfil our teachings and the purpose that the Creator has given us with dignity.• Each day, I will pray and ask for guidance. I will commit to walk the Red Road, or whatever the spiritual way is called in my own culture.• If I am Christian, I will be a good one. If I am traditional, I will walk this road with dedication.• If each if us can do these things then others will follow. From this day forward, I will reserve time and energy for spirituality,seeking to know the Creators will.

Seventh Philosophy

TO MYSELF I will think about what kind of person I want to be when I am an Elder.I will start developing myself now to be this person.• I will walk with the Great Spirit and the grandfathers at my side.I will develop myself to remain positive. I will develop a good mind.• I will examine myself daily to see what I did good and what I need to improve. I will examine my strength and weaknesses, then I will ask the Creator to guide me. I will develop a good mind.• Each day, I will listen to the Creators voice in the wind. I will watch nature and ask to be shown a lesson which will occur on my path.• I will seek out the guiding principles which guided my ancestors.I will walk in dignity, honor and humility, conducting myself as a warrior.• I will seek the guidance of the Elders so that I may maintain the knowledge of culture, ceremonies, and songs, and so that I may pass these on to the future generations.• I choose to do all these things myself, because no one else can do them for me.• I know I cannot give away what I don't have so I will need to walk the talk.What we have is because someone stood up before us. What our Seventh Generation will have is a consequence of our actions today

Away and Back Again

It has been Seeveral months since posted. The past 2+ months have been a had time for me. I am now more confined to a wheel chair than not. I have received from the V A a motorized scooter to allow me get out of the house more and do short travels. NOw I accompany my Bride on her morning 2.5 mile walks. Every one here at home has held up under the strain an allowed me to try to be free.

My new scooter is already in a front smasher. The damage is minor but it is fiberglass and that means payinf someone to repair it. Oh well all in a new day of trying to be independent.

My writting has improved since my last Writer Around Portland group. This fall I will be be taking a course at Clark College and one with Write Around Portland. On the 24th of this month, I will be published in two Anthologies. Since that is the reward for completing the sessions, I will have a third Anthology with at least one more of my works in it.

I will post the two I have published now during this next week, if only for my own pleasure. MY next plan is to try to have a small book published before Christmas. If I can be accepted by the local Portland/Vancouver community, I may be able to spread out over the two states. We shall see what the future holds.

Peace and a good life to all.

Holidays

This week-end is the weeked once called "Decoration Day", and it saw to hold family and friends in our concious minds. It fell on the last day in May, the 31st. Now we hold Decorations Day on the last Sundasy of May and gfive trhose(especially Federal Employees) an extra day off. There are other Holidays doomed to the same fate. Colombus Day, Linclon's Birth Day, Washington's Birth Day to name three more. It won't be long before all Holidays will suffer the same fate of convenience for work sake. New years will be set for the last sunday in december, christmas will be the second from last sunday in december, Thanksgiving will be on some non-discript day in november. Our Veterans Day will be celebrated on a more convenient day in September. There may finally be a recognized day for the celebration of the First Nation Heros seperate from the the rest of the Heros in All of the Americas. There may be some way to make neutral all honoring days. Then again, there may be a way to seperate the Spiritual Holidays for All the people, Blacks, Whites, Yellows and Reds. This could be done so the non-spiritual days could be left to the businesses to decide which days to let their employees off and let everyone off for all religious days. Which religions, ALL religions, showing no favors, and let these days be the traditional days of holy celebration, be they White, Black, Yellow and Red and be available to all people not seperate by reverence.

The Warriors Way

If you have a chance to make life better for others and fail to do so, you are wasting your time on Earth. No matter what our station in life, we are here to serve, even if that sometimes means making the greatest sacrifice of all.

A warrior is challenged to assume responsibility, practice humility, and display the power of giving, and then center his or her life around a core of spirituality. I challenge today's youth to live like a warrior.

"Billy Mills"

These are some harsh words to lay before anyone, much less our youth. Yet, seeing the way our land and spiritual well being are being effected with the absents of "The Warriors Way", it is time to instill these honorable Character in the leaders of tomorrow. Then if that is to be the way, the responsibilities for those lessons fall upon the "Elders and Seniors". There are no excuses. As I was told some 60 years ago, 'if there none in my family tribe who wants to learn and and live the warriors life, go and seek students elsewhere. It is better to have learning passed to someone than to have that knowledge lost forever.'

I am now wanting to set one night aside to help anyone who wants, learn and slowly gather knowledge through chats on IM. Write me if you are interested.

Klahowya

R Two Bears

IF I DARED

If I dare to assume my year started on the normal turn of the year and not on my birth date, I have the honor this year surpasses any single year from my past. I of course exclude the years 1966-68 while I was in The Nam...
Instead of having people shooting at me and me shooting back, I watch my medical life slowly shrink short 15 minute walks. I thought it was hard enough that the local Star Bucks was 3/4 quarter of a mile away... Now is seems to be out of reach by ambulating. No friends or expensive coffee with a nice confection on the side. Sure I can make coffee at home and yes I can make Orange Cinnamon Bismark to have at home. It is true my wonderful wife has an alert mind and shares with me the thoughts of the day as I do for her. There was a reward for being able to traverse the distance of 3/4 miles to retrieve my reward and sit, rest and chat for a few minutes then to return home by accepting the challenge of another 3/4 miles and Safety making it HOME!!! In these past three years I have had the challenge of walking w/o a can (sometimes) to a need for one cane definitely. Then the lower legs and back caused me to need two canes at times, then forearm crutches and now even they are not letting me travel any great distance. An example was yesterday I covered a 15 minute distance of about 100 feet..
I know there are others of a less ability to walk at all. I can go see them in the V A hospital in Portland, or a Vets group meeting at a Vet center, yet I am not talking about them...I am talking about me...
I am not looking for pitty nor am I looking for people to rush to my side showing concern. I am not even calling for help. I just need to vent and hope when you see a person on the street, you will be kind enough to hold a door (whether they like it or not, most do) try not to push ahead so as to knock them off balance. There is no-where so important as to be less then polite and concerned for another human being.
I've had my say and now I can rest here in my favorite spot and watch the birds and listen to their songs.

Peace to you all and to all a GOOD LIFE

Publishing

I am in the process of having one of my short {and I do mean short} stories published in the "Walk Around Portland" Anthology for Spring of 2007. There will be a reading this May around the middle of the month. My excitement has risen to a bit of a high, partly because the Anthology Committee has had a hard time choosing one of the three I had submitted. There was only room for one writing and they could not choose from the three I had submitted.

I am also being encouraged to collect all of my writings and then have them bound and published here in Portland. I think I have someone who will be able to assist me in collecting and revising the works.

I looked for my writings and learned I have spread them all over my office area. That is my first task and one I am needing to learn to save time in the future. The idea of a small journal to carry with me every day and a file of journals is a grand idea. It would help keep all the writings in one central area.

I am looking at this turn in my life as a way to make some spare change and maybe set myself on the road to being a known author in the Portland Vancouver literary arena.

Moving on in Honor

Saying Good-bye To A Home

I was sitting here and thinking about some of the thing my parents and grand parents did when we moved from place to place. I can still remember though it was over 60 years ago. My Grandma was the leader of the family and she started with some singing about the life we shared with our home. She told the spirits how we felt about leaving the place and not knowing if the home would be honored or hurt. We had to move and she explained where we were going and what we hoped to find there, like work or medical or more land to farm. Saying good-bye was and is an important part of moving forward. It gave us a sense of completion so that we are able to fully inhabit our new space, having left nothing of ourselves behind in the old one. In this way, we honor the space that had held and nurtured us. At the same time, we cleanse it and empty it of our energy so that the new residents can make the space theirs. Plan a walk through your home that begins and ends at the front door. Ideally, you will be alone or accompanied only by a person who shared the space with you. Prepare yourself mentally to be as present as you can during this process. Now you enter the house, you might say, "I have come to thank you for being my home and to say good-bye." You might touch the walls with your hands as you move through the house, or you might burn sage as an offering, as well as an energy cleanser. Spend some time in each room expressing your gratitude and gathering or releasing any lingering energy from the room. As you do this, you are freeing your home to embrace its new occupants. Remember to visit your outside spaces as well. Plants are especially sensitive to the energy around them and will appreciate your consideration. As you make your way back to the front door, know that you have completed your final journey through your home and that you have honored and blessed it with this ritual of farewell. As you close and lock the door behind you, say one last good-bye. Now you can walk freely into your future and fully inhabit the new spaces that will keep you safe and warm.

Unqualified Happiness Only

March 30,

Since most of our experiences are rooted in cause and effect, we naturally want to justify our contentment. We envision grand circumstances, stating that if only we could achieve this goal or obtain that possession, we would finally be in a position to attain happiness. As a result, satisfaction is always just out of reach and the very notion of grabbing hold of it seems like nothing more than a pipe dream. But the truth is that sincere contentment and fulfillment are never wholly the result of external events or situations. Though life's joyful moments can ignite the spark of contentment within us, that spark is fueled by serenity long established in our souls. When we forget this, it is easy to become stuck in "if only" patterns of thought. If we concentrate on the natural serenity that exists within us, however, we can move forward unimpeded by disappointment. The circumstances you live through each day have the potential to bring both joy and despair into your life. Relying on the reactions they awaken within you to create an emotional foundation means living on a roller coaster of feeling whose course is determined by chance. Though you may yearn for the object of your desire-be it a new job, financial health, a spouse, or some other symbol of success-you have within you the power to be happy without it. Letting go of your "if only" thinking patterns can be as easy as recognizing that inward emptiness cannot be dispelled with outer world solutions. Try creating a list of your "if only"s. Then literally and figuratively let go of the items on the list by tearing it up or burning it. This simple action can help set in motion the intention to set you free, enabling you to make a fresh and balanced start in the present, unencumbered by regrets and unfulfilled desires. There will likely be periods in your life in which you find yourself tempted to seek a magic formula for fulfillment that is centered upon a single goal or achievement. But the ingredients that come together to form the seeds of happiness that can sustain your spirit throughout the triumphs and trials of existence come from within rather than from without. When your search for satisfaction is focused on your soul, you will never fail to find the joy you seek.

Gift of the Week

Recycled Wrapper Bowls & Coasters

The decisions we make, the thoughts we think, and the actions we take are all parts of a larger web of human development. This means that each and every human being has been blessed with the ability to positively impact the whole of humanity by living conscious lives and making thoughtful choices. Bringing this notion of interconnectivity into our lives in a practical fashion can be as effortless as beautifying our spaces with objects that are evocative of this highly significant concept and that help us connect with individuals from diverse cultures. Recycled wrapper bowls and coasters are handcrafted using colorful recycled snack-food wrappers, forming brilliant and practical items that help improve the lives of the artisans who create them. They also remind us that we are also a part of a larger chain of unified existence. In Nepal, in the remote mountain villages of Lapa, Tipling, and Shertung, what might be viewed as a throwaway item is made meaningful by artisans who weave the recycled wrappers into useful and uplifting works of art. Their efforts, however, are only one part of a larger effort to encourage the collection of non-biodegradable materials and share the importance of a balanced ecology with the inhabitants of these untouched natural areas. Proceeds from these unique, one-of-a-kind objects help fund health care and community education in rural Nepal, while also providing a much needed livelihood for talented artists. Using a set of three recycled wrapper bowls or six coasters is one way of showing that you care deeply for the welfare and well-being of humanity. Should someone close to you comment on these distinctive treasures, you can explain their origin and encourage others to become a more active part of the chain of interconnectivity.

Majical Things

March 23, 2007

Tangible Enchantment

Though the universe as a whole is imbued with an undeniable aura of magic, we can further fill our lives with magic by creating a collection of magical things. More than being simply beautiful, such objects can potentially play an active role in the shaping of our experience as each magical object serves a unique and multifaceted purpose. Some inspire us to reflect while some have the power to positively influence our moods. Others take us back in time, capturing in their essence memories locked in history or helping us reaffirm our connection with the universe. Magical objects can be found almost anywhere and can be practically anything, from gifts of nature to manmade artifacts. You'll know an object is truly magical when it touches you deeply, awakening some primal part of yourself that is more profoundly connected to the ethereal. There is no right or wrong way to introduce a magical object into your life-the collection you create can be large or small, kept in private or publicly displayed. You may already be in possession of such objects. Perhaps you keep a smooth river stone next to your bed because its presence is soothing. Or you find yourself intensely drawn to certain antique items that seem to radiate light and energy. Whatever the nature of the objects you deem magical, there are many ways to utilize them. Those that help you reach a contemplative and relaxed state may best serve their purpose on your personal altar or in some special place in your home. Objects that bring you comfort can be kept in a small pouch and carried throughout the day. Or you may feel compelled to infuse your collection with beauty by making it into a collage that naturally draws your eye and stimulates your soul. Everyone can benefit from surrounding themselves with magical objects. Our lives are made just a little more light and fun when having magical things in our presence. If you feel you don't have anything magical in your life, ask the universe for help, and it will not be long before a meaningful artifact, a simple feather, a special stone, or another powerful item reveals itself to you and fills your life with enchantment.

The Five Finger PrayerThis is beautiful - and it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.
1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2.The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and medicine people/m inisters. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3.The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the our, leaders in business and industry and otherwise. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need guidance.

4.The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5.And lastly comes our little finger the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to Great Spirit and others. Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.Prayer...it surely can't hurt, but it certainly can help.
---The happiest of people don't have the best of everything;they just make the best of everything that comes their way.

They do walk among us...

I walked into a Blimpie's with a buy-one-get-one-free coupon for a sandwich. I handed it to the girl and she looked over at a little chalkboard that said "buy one-get one free". "They're already buy-one-get-one-free", she said, "so I guess they're both free". She handed me my free sandwiches and I walked out the door.

They walk among us and many work retail.

One day I was walking down the beach with some friends when one of them shouted, "Look at that dead bird!" Someone looked up at the sky and said, "Where?" They walk among us!

While looking at a house, my brother asked the real estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning. She asked, "Does the sun rise in the north?" When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, and has for sometime, she shook her head and said, "Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff."

They walk among us!!

I used to work in technical support for a 24/7 call center. One day I got a call from an individual who asked what hours the call center was open. I told her, "The number you dialed is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week." She responded, "Is that Eastern or Pacific time?" Wanting to end the call quickly, I said, "Uh, Pacific."

They walk among us!

My sister has a lifesaving tool in her car designed to cut\n through a seat belt if she gets trapped. She keeps it in the trunk.

They walk among us!

I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area, so I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because she was a trained professional and I was in good hands. "Now ," she asked me, "has your plane arrived yet?"

They walk among us!

While working at a pizza parlor I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if\n he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6. He thought about it for some time before responding. "Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces."
AND........ they reproduce! ".

Prayers

Opal needs prayers as does her children. Dad died last night at 11:00 pm. thanks.

interesting words for my new way to think

I think these are my present 'most interesting' words. scintilla...sclaff...oakling...morion...Mormon...felucca...feria...fence time

The fence time was closed on the Mormon,
And they seemed to know,
For they flew at great speed,
To the waters off the coast of France.

It struggle in the wind.
The breeze on shore was stiff for the little oakling,
It struggle in the salty breeze
A far off scent of seaweed filled the shore.

A felucca moved across the water
Dressed in the colors
For the feria of Santa Luccia,
The greatest feast day for no reason.

On board the felucca
A Wizard gazed into his morion
For a vision of the Future,
As she silently moved on the sea.


There in the morion was the smallest
Laziest sclaff, but it was there,
The wizards eyes were sure now
This was to be a long trip with little profit.

Laughs

Belly Laughs

As children, we laugh hundreds of times each day, delighted by the newness of living. When we reach adulthood, however, we tend to not allow ourselves to let go in a good belly laugh. Inviting laughter back into our lives is simply a matter of making the conscious decision to laugh. Though most of us are incited to laugh only when exposed to humor or the unexpected, each of us is capable of laughing at will. A laugh that comes from the belly carries with it the same positive effects whether prompted by a funny joke or consciously willed into existence. When our laughter comes from the core of our being, it permeates every cell in our physical bodies, beginning in the center and radiating outward, until we are not merely belly laughing but rather body laughing.

Laughter has been a part of the human mode of expression since before evolution granted us the art of speech. Through it, we connected with allies while demonstrating our connection with people we didn't know. In the present, laughter allows us to enjoy positive shared experiences with strangers and loved ones alike. Yet solitary laughter carries with it its own slew of benefits. An energetic and enthusiastic bout of whole-body laughter exercises the muscles, the lungs, and the mind in equal measure, leaving us feeling relaxed and content. When we laugh heartily at life's ridiculousness instead of responding irritably, our focus shifts. Anger, stress, guilt, and sadness no longer wield any influence over us, and we are empowered to make light of what we originally feared. Laughter also opens our hearts, letting love and light in, changing our perspective, and enabling us to fix our attention on what is positive in our lives.

It is easy to laugh when we feel good, but it is when the world appears dim that we most need laughter in our lives. Our laughter then resonates through our hearts, filling the empty spaces with pure, unadulterated joy. We regain our footing in the moment and remember that no sorrow is powerful enough to rob us of our inborn happiness. When we understand that uninhibited laughter is the food of the soul, nourishing us from within, we know instinctively that life is worthwhile.


What do you think?

Angels in the P.O.

I have all too often wished there were more angels in the systems everywhere. Here is one that has captured my heart. Rocco...


Subject: One of the sweetest emails you will ever read! And one I just had to post for you.




USPS Story (US Postal Service)


Our dog, Abbey, died Aug. 23. The day after Abbey died, my 4 year old, Meredith, was SO upset. She wanted to write a letter to God so that God would recognize Abbey in heaven. She told me what to write, and I did. Then, she put 2 pictures of Abbey in the envelope. We addressed it to God in Heaven, put two stamps on it (because, as she said, it could be a long way to heaven). We put our return address on it, and I let her put it in the drop box at the post office that afternoon. She was absolutely sure that letter would get to heaven, and I wasn't about to disillusion her.

So today is Labor Day. We took the kids to the museum in Austin; and when we came home, there was a package wrapped in gold on our front porch. It was addressed to Mer. So, she took it inside and opened it.

Inside was a book, "When Your Pet Dies", by Mr. Rogers (Fred Rogers). On the front cover was the letter we had written to God in its envelope (opened). On the opposite page was one of the pictures of Abbey taped on the page. On the back page was the other picture of Abbey, and this handwritten note on pink paper:

"Dear Mer,
I know that you will be happy to find out that Abbey arrived safely and soundly in heaven. Having the pictures you sent to me was a big help! I recognized Abbey right away!

You know, Mer, she isn't sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me (-just like it stays in your heart-) young and running and playing. Abbey loved being your dog, you know. Since we don't need our bodies in heaven, I don't have any pockets to keep things in-- so I am sendingyour beautiful letter back to you with the pictures--so that you will have this little memory book to keep.

One of my angels is taking care of this for me. I hope this little book will help.

Thank you for your beautiful letter. Thank your mother for sending it. What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you.

God blesses you every day and remember, I love you very much. By the way, I am in heaven and I'm everywhere there is love.

Signed,
God, and one of his special angels
(who wrote this letter after God told HER the words)."


How wonderful is that! I never knew there were angels working the post office!

Talking about subsidies.

Taking the subsidies away from the Tobacco industry would surely stop subsidies the farm industry. It would create food more expensive to the public. This would decrease the amount of extra monies available to purchase new cars every couple of years. We would not be able to take those expensive vacations to Disney World or Cabo San Lucas, or the Bahamas. We would need to live with-in our means.
We live a life style that is subsidized to the hilt. Our economy is held up by credit and an ever more increase in credit to those who are least able to afford off. Farmers get a credit increase on the speculation of next seasons crops. People are given an increase in credit to purchase those “necessary goods” to make their lives a better. One example is the new long term credit line to purchase a new car. WOW! 96 months to pay your new car off. Never mind it will cost you double to have that new car and that you will be top heavy and not be able to sell or trade your car for 5 of those 9 years or 8 years or even 7 years. You have your NEW CAR for now at least. Purchase a home? The cost of home could become something that your debt will be inherited you’re your children to finish paying, if you could ever find a home you could qualify for. Now 50 year loans are being available.

If we are to be a part of the worlds “People” and we must be a part of the worlds paying. The price of gas is subsidized, the price of food is subsidized, the Auto industry is subsidized. Practically everything we use, eat and otherwise pay a lower price for is subsidized. We have been sold a bill of goods that says we DESERVE these things, We have a right to them. We are the strongest and the biggest guys on the world, so we aught to be able to spend and use at the rest of the worlds expense. I wonder?

Love is Here to Stay

THIS IS WHAT LOVE IS ALL ABOUT!
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 A.M., when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated thathe was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am. I took hisvital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hourbefore someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at hiswatch and decided, since I was not busy with anotherpatient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it waswell healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the neededsupplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation. I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursinghome to eat breakfast with his wife. I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if shewould be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longerknew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. Iwas surprised, and asked him, "And you still go every morning, eventhough she doesn't know who you are?" He smiled as he patted my hand and said, "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is." I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, "That is the kind of love I want in my life." True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and willnot be.

On the road again

Sounds like a great song title. I have had my share of travels these past months. This week I am in Utah and doing a service by performing a wedding for a bloodbrother and his younga bit longer est son. As I do NOT fly, the travel is slow but then I do stay on the ground. My concern is the lack of comfortable land transportation. The car is way to expensive and not as earth friendly as I would like. The Bus system is a disaster, both in accomidations and friendliness of the staff in general. I have given up on trying to find a bus with a comfortable seat. The last but not least is the rail system. Because the owners of he different rail services have yet to grow up and realize they have a role to fill as movers of PEOPLE (as well as merchandise), and that people are the major priority, the ability to reach any destination is poor at best. The only line I have found to be of any effective way to reach places, is the norther routes. Then with the decreace in destinations, even that is very selective. What has happened to the priority of service and safety for the public? Why is there nolonger a pride in being a member of the FAMILY of America? Afre we to be set as just another piece of merchandise to be stamped and herded from here to there?

If you are in the least disabled...watchout! Our overall view by the merchant and the government is just a large bit of lip service. i have found the general view is that I am an inconvience and a source of more money by the general public and the travel systems. The bus makes it clear that to travel with them I must be able to manover the steps onto the bus w/o driver of attendant aid. If that cannot be accomplished...tough. after all it is the cheapest way to travel and those who are on fixed income (low to lower middle class) ARE JUST S.O.L..

The trainer are a bit better, there is a small section down in the lower level to aid the disabled to travel. It IS in the wheelwell of the trains. sights are the bottom of boxcars as you pass or the other passenger train wheelwell passangers on the passing trains. Never mind the diner ot the observation areas, the lap top electrical outlets, or the idea of a hot cup of coffee easily available. OH NO!!!!!! Heaven forbid. Don't let anyone see they carry us on the train. It takes special measures to get into that wheelwell from the get-go. Why????? is our money less worthy of the cash box than others. Try a sleeper. If you cannot get to the upper level you arfe not considered a 1st class passenger. Whoa, I just paid the extra 400 plus dollars for my little not see berth, why not 1st class.

Now for late trains! when a train is late say 9 hours, people say...Oh!, that's not too bad, last month I was 12 hours late and had to wait two day for the next trian as the run everyother day. What 12 hours late! Two day wait! Come on folks... if you want better service and more travel destinations AND better service...stop being so understanding and accepting the all too many EXCUSES for BAD service. If your trip is a round trip, you gwet to do it all over again. Remeber that bad service or lack of care of wheelwell passage, you think it has changed? They peoiple change not the service accessability.

You may notice I have not started on Air Travel in those cattle cars. Nor the lack of assurance at the airports you will be safe on this plane. HOMELAND SECURITY will see to you feeling you are atleast due to be threatened by some terrorist from iraq, no wait ireland, no wait china (oops prefered trade nation), no wait MARS,... for the crying out loud. We have more to fear from the homeland security than any one group of people traveling by air. Who's fault was the "9-11" tragity anyway. Moneymakers who didn't care to be more aware of who they taught than how much their 'tills" would ring. So now we have a small form of the Nazi S.S. working well in the USA. Thanks to Mr President and the panic congress fearful they would be seen as cowards not to be leaders and clear thinkers i n taht time of crisis.

Well, it is now 7:14 and the day here is due to begin. See you later.
Peace

To run or not to run

Facing Problems
There are times when change is the right thing at the right time. There are also times when the urge for change is really just a desire to run away from problems that need to be faced rather than avoided. These are the kinds of problems that recur over and over again in your lives. A couple of example, issues with co-workers that seem to arise at every job we take, repeatedly getting into unhealthy relationships. A move might temporarily distract you, and even cure the problem for a time, simply by taking you out of the situation in which the problem fully manifested itself. However, the problem will eventually appear again in your new situation.
One way to make sure you aren’t running away from your problems is to notice whether you are moving towards something that is exciting in its own right, as opposed to something that is appealing only because it is not where you are now. For example, if you are leaving a city because you feel you can’t afford it, you could be reinforcing poverty consciousness, and you might find that you are unable to make ends meet in your new city as well. It would ultimately be less of an effort to stay where you are and look more deeply into your beliefs about money. You may discover that as you address these issues, you are able to make more money simply by changing your mindset. You may still decide to move, but it will be an act with a positive intention behind it and not an escape, which could make all the difference.
Any pain involved in facing your issues is well worth the effort in the end. When you face your problems instead of avoiding them, you free your energy and transform yourselves from people who run away into people who move enthusiastically forward.