tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23939971673552567432024-03-05T13:43:41.465-08:00Mindful LivingPhilliphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02856318118390236784noreply@blogger.comBlogger313125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-18850533144936532712017-04-02T14:27:00.000-07:002017-04-02T14:27:14.849-07:00It Whispers in Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RbPGYLugYMyUcfDV7ABNf8evZIcd2HS8Vib5uFoiLXnPJvAE3z0ohS8bA6pma3aZes3HWV3kEc9nINFNWWsW4-JrZL-qNQfqP2XxD_SmL8OY0xZAYJQM698en8EXgKqMLnTKwLs3NMw/s1600/20150129_173404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RbPGYLugYMyUcfDV7ABNf8evZIcd2HS8Vib5uFoiLXnPJvAE3z0ohS8bA6pma3aZes3HWV3kEc9nINFNWWsW4-JrZL-qNQfqP2XxD_SmL8OY0xZAYJQM698en8EXgKqMLnTKwLs3NMw/s320/20150129_173404.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b>Venice Beach</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
We are very familiar with the every day part of ourselves. The part that has gender, religion, likes and dislikes, friends, family, beliefs and so on. We are less familiar with the part of ourselves which sends a message to our gut that we should take one course of action over another. <br />
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This part of ourselves has unlimited information about ourselves and the world, and the knowledge which can lead us to our highest fulfillment. If this "higher" part of ourselves is sending us information occasionally, is there a way for us to access this information so that we will make better decisions? In other words, if the communication flows one way, why can't the communication flow the other way as well? It can.<br />
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It whispers in silence. The more still and silent we are, the more we can hear it, the more information we can receive. We don't have enough information to know how the communication will come or what it will contain. So it is important to not have expectations or judgments about the information. It might be a dream. Or a feeling. We just have to be open. <br />
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How can we tell the difference between intuition, instinct, and impulse, such as our urge to have a cigarette if we are trying to quit smoking? When we follow the guidance from our greater selves, we will feel peaceful about the decision. If we feel anxiety or physical distress, we are not following our intuition.<br />
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Since guidance will be heard more clearly in silence, how do we become silent? The best way that I know is through a consistent practice of meditation. When the mind is quieted through meditation, there is space for the information to come through. <br />
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Let's listen to the whispers in our silence.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-59116478459055728572017-02-19T11:15:00.000-08:002017-02-19T11:15:31.140-08:00Faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_RKovUgOvg-yM7fPeUSt3eDZgu4DjhjhXr4uC_y58hYFtUglwzqvUpQ2gP3QmU60sq2Umhz43D2GolaIHWPWU-im8gM8fhQQxODdV0aquc-U9gA4iOIbTXfXq5QBGnZEofvV2CNg-Q4/s1600/IMG_2242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_RKovUgOvg-yM7fPeUSt3eDZgu4DjhjhXr4uC_y58hYFtUglwzqvUpQ2gP3QmU60sq2Umhz43D2GolaIHWPWU-im8gM8fhQQxODdV0aquc-U9gA4iOIbTXfXq5QBGnZEofvV2CNg-Q4/s320/IMG_2242.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<i><b>Sand Bar, Bay of Islands, New Zealand</b></i><br />
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There is nothing that anyone can say to prove the existence of an Intelligent Energy Source. There are no words that can adequately describe it. The word "God" has been so laden with religious dogma through the centuries, that it has been rendered practically useless. If it cannot be proven and it cannot be described, why would we believe it exists? <br />
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We can know the truth of its existence through experience.<br />
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Many of us have experienced spontaneous moments of grace and elation. Out of nowhere, we feel spiritually connected and euphoric. We are in an altered state of Bliss. These feelings do not last, try as we might. <br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Is there a way to induce these experiences? </i><br />
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We can bring this state of connectedness into our present moment by choosing <i>being</i> over <i>thinking</i>. When we choose being over thinking, we experience the peace, love, joy and freedom that is our natural state. Do I believe that the Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of the Bodhisattva? I have no idea. Do I believe that he has achieved a state of grace, peace and love through practice and discipline? Absolutely. <br />
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Is faith required in order to experience the Divine? I believe it can be helpful. When we are in a state of stress, we can remember that, in the past, we have experienced the euphoria of being present. This remembering is faith. When we are lost, we remember when we were connected, and have faith that we can be there again. With this faith, or remembering, we can take steps to reconnect with Source.<br />
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Every moment is a choice: Being or thinking. If we stay vigilant in presence, we can sustain our connection with the Divine for as long as we are able.<br />
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Let's have faith and surrender to Presence.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-85500188577558497102017-02-12T10:39:00.001-08:002017-02-12T10:39:52.793-08:00Uncertainty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Russell</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
It is very stressful not knowing whether Trump is going to start a war or infringe on our freedoms which we take for granted. It is hard to relax when we know that the company we work for is downsizing and we have no idea whether or not we will be laid off. How can we be at peace when we are waiting for the result of a biopsy? <br />
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<i>The only certainty is uncertainty</i>. We may think we have everything wired and under control, but we really cannot be certain that we will be alive even tomorrow. We must become comfortable with uncertainty. Since we have no actual control, we might as well give up <i>trying</i> to control everything. <br />
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We must have faith that when we give up control, we will not be lost. We will not be led astray. In fact, when we give up control, we are in partnership with an energy source which is beyond description and comprehension. <br />
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If we surrender to Uncertainty, we will be led with peace, love and joy to our highest fulfillment.<br />
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Let's be comfortable with uncertainty and surrender to the Great Unknown. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-50976964689709262432017-01-16T09:27:00.000-08:002017-01-16T09:27:05.787-08:00Stop Making Decisions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfB6zkTwmUk3wLIXGoO77HDD6SCrt7xvglD6N2JfBxTQoVdr4LY4MbuSx8ywmbxFGvfr0xIRYBwdytO8OPlwB8o1E1MGRqPJL2y-W5Qkj_FqvlL0Be6gRn21B_Z8EcMdnvhEysaSApko/s1600/IMG_2293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfB6zkTwmUk3wLIXGoO77HDD6SCrt7xvglD6N2JfBxTQoVdr4LY4MbuSx8ywmbxFGvfr0xIRYBwdytO8OPlwB8o1E1MGRqPJL2y-W5Qkj_FqvlL0Be6gRn21B_Z8EcMdnvhEysaSApko/s320/IMG_2293.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<b><i>Pierre at the Tapeka Pools</i></b><br />
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Wouldn't it be incredibly relaxing if we never had to make another decision? <br />
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What if every decision was made for us and was the perfect decision for everyone involved? I am not speaking about taking direction from a parent, teacher or autocrat. What if we could ask advice from our own future self? What if we could ask advice from another version of ourselves who, not only knows the future, but knows what everyone that we know is thinking and doing? Would we follow their advice? Of course we would. This is what happens when we surrender our will to Universal Energy.<br />
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When we have to make a decision, we can make a list of the pros and cons associated with either decision. We can ask the advice of experts and trusted friends. We can do research and explore every possible angle. In the end we do not have enough information to know which decision will lead to a positive outcome. It does not do us much good if we win the lottery and are hit by a bus on our way to claim the prize. <br />
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By surrendering our will to that of Universal Energy, we will always be led to the best decision for everyone concerned. <br />
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How can we tell the difference between intuition and unconscious impulses? Following our intuition will always make us feel peaceful and open. When we follow our impulses, we often feel uneasy and our bodies feel constricted. When we relax our minds and are in presence, we are in harmony with our true nature. Decisions flow naturally without effort. <br />
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Let's surrender to the flow of life. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-39714524633063107972016-12-29T20:24:00.000-08:002016-12-29T20:24:31.052-08:00The Observer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin09n1CHtVx2doXPRpD6utym0kGsPCkLq6IYOl3dVuvystRBP1seSbjBgLEQ_CPDcASlOsxHSUZ9qGAQMgjba-u9ezCb2tI6oZ2-v7xkMNfPFZDMxcr5Kf_DogyQIDZnRzqAn3UVE2R0/s1600/IMG_2185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhin09n1CHtVx2doXPRpD6utym0kGsPCkLq6IYOl3dVuvystRBP1seSbjBgLEQ_CPDcASlOsxHSUZ9qGAQMgjba-u9ezCb2tI6oZ2-v7xkMNfPFZDMxcr5Kf_DogyQIDZnRzqAn3UVE2R0/s320/IMG_2185.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<b><i>Phantom</i></b><br />
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Do we sometimes (or often) feel a general sense of unease, as if something bad has happened or is going to happen? Do we feel overwhelmed by all of the information we receive and decisions we have to make in a single day? Do we sometimes feel like the deck is stacked against us, and that we are unable to find happiness or connect with people?<br />
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Stop. Surrender. Allow. <br />
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We do not have to look for a solution, because we are the solution. We do not have to find what we are looking for because we are what we are looking for. By observing our feelings and thoughts instead of reacting to them, they lose the intensity of their hold on us and easily pass through us. <br />
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What is destroying our mood is our instantaneous knee jerk reaction to a thought or feeling. Our body constricts and the negative thoughts start to feed upon themselves. We start spinning and the unease increases. Our constricted bodies also accelerate the negative feelings. We end up anxious and frustrated. <br />
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If we observe our thoughts or feelings without reacting, they soon pass like clouds moving across the sky. The observer is who we really are. When we are in a state of observing instead of reacting, we are in a state of peace, love, joy and freedom. <br />
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There is nothing that anyone can say to convince someone of the truth of this. However, it is easy enough to try. If we try it, we will soon see results when we experience "negative" events, thoughts or feelings. <br />
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Let's observe instead of reacting.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-75498232189918320622016-12-11T11:19:00.000-08:002016-12-11T11:19:17.914-08:00Mindfulness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFFEgCBLxU44Z0APgMA2j8pJ7BPhghzm9J-G7SdNftdI3B29vrPxEBlXTc4evTI6J4qOTU61T5pQxrOWdsyjy3Iapxj1kK2CY2AgXRtmjm609UPzWNiTCUGyuxNZ215_c89W80kNciQM/s1600/IMG_1528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFFEgCBLxU44Z0APgMA2j8pJ7BPhghzm9J-G7SdNftdI3B29vrPxEBlXTc4evTI6J4qOTU61T5pQxrOWdsyjy3Iapxj1kK2CY2AgXRtmjm609UPzWNiTCUGyuxNZ215_c89W80kNciQM/s320/IMG_1528.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<i><b>The Other Venice</b></i><br />
<br />
How often do we actually pay attention to what we are doing? Are we remembering past events with regret or wishing things would turn out a certain way in the future? When someone is speaking to us, are we listening or waiting to say something?<br />
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So much of our thoughts are consumed with remembering the past or imagining the future with dread or hope that we lose sight of what is happening to us in the present moment. We are sleepwalking through life. Since our thoughts consist of lies and do not help us with our present situation, our time and energy is wasted. We are missing out on the grace and beauty of Life. Not to mention all the miracles we could be experiencing.<br />
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When we slow down and pay attention to what is happening in the present moment, we are in harmony with our Divine nature. We see the beauty in small things. We experience the peace which comes from slowing down and paying attention. We are more productive. <br />
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Let's be mindful of what we are doing. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-67982477387850045562016-12-04T12:10:00.000-08:002016-12-04T12:10:39.050-08:00Presence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtACSfW9iofT0IodTfIicLUdet-962fR8Pf_4NaCrfzotnwlctuIfL_HREQgnBiG60MfqqB9EW0INp4fiRRos_sQyQzQzh3NJxq7V2NoeewhiArq8OQbZhhjAlXC2-FmoyIQqtiIPcYg/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtACSfW9iofT0IodTfIicLUdet-962fR8Pf_4NaCrfzotnwlctuIfL_HREQgnBiG60MfqqB9EW0INp4fiRRos_sQyQzQzh3NJxq7V2NoeewhiArq8OQbZhhjAlXC2-FmoyIQqtiIPcYg/s320/IMG_1960.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><i>Venus over Santa Monica Beach</i></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
It is extremely difficult to shed the belief systems which are so deeply ingrained in our consciousness. <br />
We have been conditioned since birth to believe that we are a male or a female, of a certain age, of a certain religion, education, economic status, residence, political party, etc. Each of these identities carries a complex and mandatory set of beliefs, which must be adhered to. <br />
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A series of thoughts emanates from these belief structures. We have a constant internal mental monologue of thoughts, all arising from the belief systems which were created by our exposure to family, friends, teachers, the media and so on.<br />
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We maintain our identity and sense of safety from belonging to these various groups and belief systems. However, most of these beliefs were not chosen by us and do not serve us. Since these belief systems are built upon a foundation of lies, instead of feeling a sense of belonging and satisfaction, we are frustrated, angry and afraid.<br />
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What is the alternative? We can live an authentic life of peace, joy, love and freedom by surrendering our beliefs and allowing Presence into our lives. It takes courage and faith to take the leap away from our societal beliefs into the Unknown. We believe that we will be lost without our identity. We are afraid of losing what little we have. <br />
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We will not be lost. We will not be alone. When we surrender our beliefs and turn our awareness towards the Infinite Energy Source, it turns towards us to meet us. In every single moment of our lives, God is whispering to us to join him/her. God whispers, never shouts. It can only be heard when we are still and quiet. When our minds are filled with thoughts, we cannot hear the whispers. When our awareness is in the present moment, we are in harmony with the Universe. Things start to turn our way. Good things happen unexpectedly. We experience the peace, joy and love which are our natural state. <br />
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Let's turn our awareness away from thought and towards Presence. <br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-24319779052612789892016-11-27T11:11:00.000-08:002016-11-27T11:11:33.573-08:00Stillness<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxt6jjItjpCbrvoVPQkvrKyBuM_9j4r7-GZ7yMxZrtgQUSUrHdNseYLTy2mwWwBosUz_sEUwcy-CFsphVMYuOE7RR2TUfX_posbElo4gSkZh2sse-QAlHaXR6NQKR5_6JI1vVBXbCIUY/s1600-h/New+Zealand+%26+Fiji+2005+091.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125762148027338434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxt6jjItjpCbrvoVPQkvrKyBuM_9j4r7-GZ7yMxZrtgQUSUrHdNseYLTy2mwWwBosUz_sEUwcy-CFsphVMYuOE7RR2TUfX_posbElo4gSkZh2sse-QAlHaXR6NQKR5_6JI1vVBXbCIUY/s320/New+Zealand+%26+Fiji+2005+091.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><i><b>East Cape, New Zealand</b></i><br />
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Are we feeling unhappy? Afraid? Lonely? Unloved? Angry? Frustrated? Do we believe that life keeps putting one obstacle after another in front of us? Do we believe that the Universe is a horrible place, where bad things happen to good people? Or at best a random place, where we have no control over what happens to us? <br />
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Our fear and unhappiness are caused by our thoughts, and <i>our belief that our thoughts are true</i>. Our natural state is one of joy, peace, love and freedom. How do we access that state when it so strongly contradicts our thoughts and beliefs?<br />
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We can return to our natural state through stillness, the space between thoughts. We cannot stop our thoughts. However, once we comprehend that <i><b>our thoughts are not true</b></i>, we can stop identifying with them and view them with indifference. Once that separation between who we are and who we think we are occurs, we begin to experience peace, which is our natural state.<br />
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It is very difficult to create this separation in our very busy, media infused lives. The only way that I know to slow our thoughts in order to create this separation, is through meditation. <br />
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When we meditate, our thoughts begin to slow. When our thoughts move slower, we are able to realize that in every given moment we have a choice. We can be lost in thought, believing that we are who we think we are, or we can experience who we truly are: Infinite Presence. <br />
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When we choose presence over unconscious thought, we are aware of our connection to (please insert your most comfortable label for the Infinite Wisdom which permeates us all). Let's call it God. <br />
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When we surrender our will to God's, we can stop driving the bus. Our life is guided by the Universe, and every action that we take is for the highest good of all concerned. Things start to go our way. Our anger and frustration diminish. Good things start to happen, although often in very unexpected ways. Old habits and friends may fall away, but we attract people who are in harmony with our energy. Our life's purpose is revealed. <br />
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Let's be still. <br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-24335215704938843532015-12-26T23:10:00.000-08:002015-12-26T23:10:15.224-08:00Truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICwFjOucmPBSei6D4RXJAmXeXfxoW1OR9ikcSRvxuoe5IQq3bkCfRTJmd8vVWw-zROimqnYBje2ITF4tTdYc6H4rc1YO-rabccbzeEw8jVrJBLh2d3B2siZmOu2YCvTXxij_SNrCLO8c/s1600/image6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICwFjOucmPBSei6D4RXJAmXeXfxoW1OR9ikcSRvxuoe5IQq3bkCfRTJmd8vVWw-zROimqnYBje2ITF4tTdYc6H4rc1YO-rabccbzeEw8jVrJBLh2d3B2siZmOu2YCvTXxij_SNrCLO8c/s320/image6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b>Bay of Islands, New Zealand</b></i><br />
<br />
We cannot think our way out of our problems. We can try, but, since our thoughts are the cause of our troubles, thinking about solutions will, at best, give us temporary relief. Since thinking is the cause of our problems, it cannot provide real answers. <br />
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To solve our problems, to live a life of peace, joy, love and freedom, to have our prayers answered, and to be fulfilled, we must transcend thought. We cannot think our way through our problems because our thoughts are not true. They are created by our belief systems which have been built up over a lifetime of conditioning. If we examined all of the thoughts that we have in any given day, it would be a mixture or regret about past events, worry about the future, guilt, dread, as well as pure gibberish. <br />
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The only way that we can see our situation clearly is by choosing presence rather than thought. We awaken to a new world of being by realizing that our thoughts are not true and turning our attention to the present moment. <br />
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Thinking about the past and the future will never get us anywhere good. When we believe we are who we think we are, we are living a life of illusion. Thinking about past events with regret or imagining what the future will be is a waste of time. <br />
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If we are not who we think we are, who are we? We are the awareness which is trying to solve our problems by thinking through them. <br />
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Instead of finding answers by thinking them through and adding something to our lives, we can find Truth by surrendering all of our thoughts, beliefs, and judgments. When we surrender all of the ideas of who we think we are, we are left with pure awareness, i.e., that which perceives, without judgment. When we become one with Awareness, we experience the peace, love and joy that we are seeking. <br />
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Let's surrender our thoughts and be present.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-8228642592939883132015-11-29T12:47:00.001-08:002015-11-29T12:47:40.188-08:00Courage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3Wz6nPZirSJPKh0fjm2r_7xsZ1WmvcyoebXQrb_BYYGFU1Q_R7U7iFb84_r_l9PNFU65U1FpwGvtkXoNeJ9KVInMmlQv4HCfV5dsJ89JpBBLVoSL7sZ5CcAkiNTZzwA0CL4DT5nQQig/s1600/IMG_4948.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647760993166982706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3Wz6nPZirSJPKh0fjm2r_7xsZ1WmvcyoebXQrb_BYYGFU1Q_R7U7iFb84_r_l9PNFU65U1FpwGvtkXoNeJ9KVInMmlQv4HCfV5dsJ89JpBBLVoSL7sZ5CcAkiNTZzwA0CL4DT5nQQig/s320/IMG_4948.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a> <strong><em>Te Kouma,</em></strong> <strong><em>Coromandel, New Zealand</em></strong><br />
<strong><em><br /></em></strong>
It takes courage to awaken. When we move into presence, all of the thoughts and beliefs that we have pushed down into our unconscious because they were too painful to deal with, begin to surface. Facing thoughts that we have pushed down for so many years (since our childhood traumas) requires courage because we think that our thoughts and beliefs are true. They are not.<br />
<br />
Once we realize that our thoughts are not true, we can have the courage to accept and release them, regardless of how heinous we believe they are. The more we comprehend that our thoughts are not true, the less courage that is required. When we stop believing our thoughts, They lose their power over us. <br />
<br />
When we observe our thoughts, we realize that 99% of them are pure gibberish. They do not serve us. They hinder our awakening and interfere with our peace and joy. When we can watch our thoughts without judgment, we can laugh at their ridiculousness. No courage required. Hilarity ensues. <br />
<br />
Let's have the courage to be present.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-29896582477636483302015-11-01T14:06:00.000-08:002015-11-01T14:06:53.258-08:00Who We Are<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0t51obgBySb6vzzA7vOjctJph70ciH7Rm5AgbBg-Xk-khkHIQn4YvvVIxLG4Glf053hCDL1rI0WwaSeqjITGV1Q7ujxfMjYNk29tPs9svxiGB3W9-ZmqfxgNgPSJyVXj3G_lsAoOISmE/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0t51obgBySb6vzzA7vOjctJph70ciH7Rm5AgbBg-Xk-khkHIQn4YvvVIxLG4Glf053hCDL1rI0WwaSeqjITGV1Q7ujxfMjYNk29tPs9svxiGB3W9-ZmqfxgNgPSJyVXj3G_lsAoOISmE/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The best moment of our lives is the moment when we realize that our thoughts are not true. <br />
<br />
Aren't our greatest moments those where our basic assumptions are challenged, such as when someone loves us even though we believe that we are unloveable, or we get a big promotion even though we feel that we are unworthy? One of my most elated moments was the moment I heard that I was accepted to Stanford Law. It challenged my basic self-assumption that I was mediocre.<br />
<br />
If we are not who we think we are, then who are we? That is the most significant question we will ever face. If we are not our thoughts or beliefs, who are we? We are what remains when we surrender our thoughts. We are awareness. We are the being who perceives. The being who perceives is part of the Infinite Being Who Perceives. <br />
<br />
http://www.outerplaces.com/science/item/4518-physicists-claim-that-consciousness-lives-in-quantum-state-after-death <br />
<br />
Let's appreciate the moment.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-28609014343565762362015-10-23T21:29:00.000-07:002015-10-23T21:29:29.417-07:00Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkqBRXsyUGUGhHcaCXYl_VpYBcQ2g8wUQ1ivYLITF3rQpfNaBiQ337KB0rkLZryvU8o0u3vA7tH2f62VOBJFZ3d4DNV6ocNv6Xp57jODCiOYlQPMWyC7usL2FdPTaGxCzU9y_H4DH9SU/s1600/IMG_0633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkqBRXsyUGUGhHcaCXYl_VpYBcQ2g8wUQ1ivYLITF3rQpfNaBiQ337KB0rkLZryvU8o0u3vA7tH2f62VOBJFZ3d4DNV6ocNv6Xp57jODCiOYlQPMWyC7usL2FdPTaGxCzU9y_H4DH9SU/s320/IMG_0633.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b>Venice Beach</b></i><br />
<br />
Peace is what we all crave, yet we don't know how to find it. We seek it out through relationships, money, career, etc. If we only had X, our lives would be at peace. But even if we achieve X, we do not find peace.<br />
<br />
What is peace but the absence of thought? Isn't it our thoughts which cause us to be agitated? <br />
<br />
We cannot find peace. It is what we are. How simple is it to know that what we crave is what we are. <br />
<br />
We just need to choose it in any given moment. What about this moment? We will never find it in the future. The future does not exist. We can only choose peace in this present moment. <br />
<br />
By moving away from thought and bringing our attention to the present moment, we are one with our peaceful eternal selves.<br />
<br />
Let's choose peace. Right now and forever.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-76779452162060540992015-10-18T14:22:00.002-07:002015-10-18T14:22:37.411-07:00Loneliness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUzWuGMW2gs4K7Ai8SGpAI9LxMlLdgalbgr5XB7VNm8iN-4GaQ0WV8mafORaFUE2oRkZi5w0sa0192n9AkAE9f-eYpAAS6DD4fnVZ_qRB3Q_ZUAfyHNL1F5nQrfdwVFKhw5GTur5vFw4/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUzWuGMW2gs4K7Ai8SGpAI9LxMlLdgalbgr5XB7VNm8iN-4GaQ0WV8mafORaFUE2oRkZi5w0sa0192n9AkAE9f-eYpAAS6DD4fnVZ_qRB3Q_ZUAfyHNL1F5nQrfdwVFKhw5GTur5vFw4/s320/IMG_0195.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><i>Paris</i></b><br />
<br />
Sometimes it seems like we are utterly alone, even when we are surrounded by friends and family members who love us. We are not alone. We are a divine portion of Universal Intelligence.<br />
<br />
How do we become connected when we do not feel that way? <br />
<br />
We connect with the Divine Energy by surrendering our will to Universal Intelligence. We do not have to do this alone. When we towards towards the Divine, It turns towards us. God will never <i>insist</i>, but only <i>sugges</i>t. <br />
<br />
It is identification with thought which makes us feel lonely. When we are connected to All That Is, we can never feel alone. In fact, we embrace our solitude because it assists with our connection to Universal Energy. <br />
<br />
Let's surrender our thoughts and choose Presence.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-45672652816527480872015-09-27T16:21:00.002-07:002015-09-27T16:21:53.211-07:00Reality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaEPSUoYSakSpD9pnixmZ5tO4w7pibMLtnnp4AIs2z9G0znfVKZWP4RHVVKR2i1E5I8C5rFKqQ48LxQL3DbvYoxqR_8v2rb-up7IDDp1wHPQLzzWKZcjQ_j5Uut4vKw8Axe36UwvhHpY/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaEPSUoYSakSpD9pnixmZ5tO4w7pibMLtnnp4AIs2z9G0znfVKZWP4RHVVKR2i1E5I8C5rFKqQ48LxQL3DbvYoxqR_8v2rb-up7IDDp1wHPQLzzWKZcjQ_j5Uut4vKw8Axe36UwvhHpY/s320/IMG_0603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><i>Blue Thunder</i></b><br />
<br />
We do not see reality for what it is because we see it through the filter of our conditioned beliefs.<br />
<br />
When we look at someone or something, we see it through the prism of our gender identity, our social status, our ethnicity, our political leaning, our educational background and so on and so on. We see a stranger and we think about their color, age, looks, clothes. We instantaneously make many judgments about each person we encounter. We put them in a box, which is generally far from what is true.<br />
<br />
We can never have true understanding when we don't see things as they are. We can never experience the peace, love, joy and freedom that comes when we are in harmony with All That Is.<br />
<br />
How do we remove the filter and see things as they are? By seeing without judgment or belief. By looking without labelling what we see. <i>By seeing without thought. </i><br />
<br />
When we look at the world without thought (i.e., through presence), we see things as they really are. All the barriers that divide us from others fall away. When we look at the world without judgment, we also see ourselves clearly for the first time. <br />
<br />
We experience the peace, love and joy which is our natural state. We realize that all of the labels and judgments we have been believing are <i>not true</i>. They are merely reflections of society's conditioning. We stop behaving like programmed robots. Our lives unfold with passion and excitement.<br />
<br />
Everything is new. Old habits fall away and new patterns emerge. We vibrate at a higher level and attract people who have similar energy. We are awake.<br />
<br />
Let's see reality just as it is.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-3570451695421838432015-08-29T12:26:00.001-07:002015-08-29T12:26:28.143-07:00Self love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjZ_8ps21C9aQZTHNxk9_ORLtMUp6W2gnvjSHeVvCpURJUkMM1U6kAy9AF8H08e39Fh3ryS5rKf-Jh3zv3u3gAWD20kyDBGAN9tMZsAT82-MDhmeZiWZB9lJf0U2_XqrQCYk7774ANF0/s1600/20150129_173413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjZ_8ps21C9aQZTHNxk9_ORLtMUp6W2gnvjSHeVvCpURJUkMM1U6kAy9AF8H08e39Fh3ryS5rKf-Jh3zv3u3gAWD20kyDBGAN9tMZsAT82-MDhmeZiWZB9lJf0U2_XqrQCYk7774ANF0/s320/20150129_173413.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b>Venice Beach</b></i><br />
<br />
It is a constant refrain that "we don't love ourselves." We have all heard that we can't love another until we learn to love ourselves. But I could never figure out how to do this. It made sense to me, but I didn't have the slightest idea how to go about it. You can't just do it, if you don't feel it. <br />
<br />
I now realize that self love is not something we can find, do, or achieve. We do not need to figure out how to love ourselves. <br />
<br />
We are already loved in a much larger way than we can ever imagine. Love is what we are. We just need to surrender to it. When we turn our attention away from judgement, thought, and beliefs and towards the present moment, we are aligning ourselves with the Infinite Energy Source. The Source is pure non-judgmental love. When we surrender to it, we experience waves of Infinite Love. <br />
<br />
We don't need to worry about self love and how we find it. That just causes more stress and more self loathing when we are unsuccessful. We need to peel away the layers of conditioned beliefs and judgements and experience our natural Selves. Whenever we are in presence, we are bathed in Love. We feel it. Others see it in us. Our neuroses and anger fall away. <br />
<br />
How do we stay in presence? A daily practice of meditation is the best tool for breaking our addiction to compulsive thinking.<br />
<br />
Let's surrender to Love.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-68132740971882210122015-07-12T09:19:00.001-07:002015-07-12T09:19:22.495-07:00Decisions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqjDcsNJRGHeHJzpq1RkCn4gxCLUKLhUxITUqOwwT4DYwWaiNR6agEityqFSueX2R0GkgaapE3kN_gXx6LeMYzq6xCiNQE1RUQ_nDLwGYSmABrqJYt-ceJZ9d40MNXJqMvnL2uxLhEZ4/s1600/IMG_0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqjDcsNJRGHeHJzpq1RkCn4gxCLUKLhUxITUqOwwT4DYwWaiNR6agEityqFSueX2R0GkgaapE3kN_gXx6LeMYzq6xCiNQE1RUQ_nDLwGYSmABrqJYt-ceJZ9d40MNXJqMvnL2uxLhEZ4/s320/IMG_0203.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Notre Dame</i></b><br />
<br />
Wouldn't it be incredibly relaxing if we never had to make another decision for the rest of our lives? Wouldn't it be terriic if we could sit in the back of the limo and be driven safely and comfortably to our destination?<br />
<br />
When we have an important decision to make, we can weigh the pros and cons of each alternative. We can write the positives and negatives on a piece of paper and add them up and choose the one with the most positives and least negatives. We can ponder the decision endlessly, stressing over whether we are indeed making the right decision with the information we have. <br />
<br />
There is a better way to make decisions than through thought.<br />
<br />
We do not have enough information to determine which decision is the best for us. The road which seems the best may be the road where we are run over by an out of control car. Since we have no idea what will happen to us tomorrow or even in the next moment, how can we make a rational decision?<br />
<br />
We can make the best decisions by surrendering our decision making to Universal Intelligence. How do we do this? By allowing decisions to be made by our intuition, our knowingness. Instead of weighing the pros and cons, we choose the alternative which makes us feel peaceful. It can be difficult to differentiate between intuition and impulse. An addict will always be compelled to choose the substance that he is addicted to. <br />
<br />
Intuition is a tiny voice which requires stillness to be heard. If we are lost in compulsive thought, we will never hear that voice. We can slow down our thoughts so that we can hear and feel the messages. We can become still through meditation. <br />
<br />
Lets stop making decisions and instead allow decisions to be made.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-5461812105053370342015-06-28T15:59:00.000-07:002015-06-28T15:59:19.765-07:00Stillness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9d5e9YWjkZVIL63fKuVppfVVyqeJlWnrd9npvQWKEBdUh8vHer2iAAaQRZmHUvsfBoR0lP_aF8ee3HKLj7MnN8rcv0xTxYBGtMDYYLxVPOfH9cnAxM-llgQ72Y9K0nXwsrDgUNbC6H0/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9d5e9YWjkZVIL63fKuVppfVVyqeJlWnrd9npvQWKEBdUh8vHer2iAAaQRZmHUvsfBoR0lP_aF8ee3HKLj7MnN8rcv0xTxYBGtMDYYLxVPOfH9cnAxM-llgQ72Y9K0nXwsrDgUNbC6H0/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For the first time in history, all of the information and knowledge on the planet is available to most of the people on Earth. This power makes us God-like. However, we do not have the emotional maturity to handle this much power. <br />
<br />
Forty years ago, we had seven television channels. Motion pictures, print, television and radio were the only media available. The messages were very controlled and the rules for living were well defined and easy to follow. <br />
<br />
Now, with infinite access to different cultures, lifestyles and ways of being, we do not know what to think or believe, or how to act. <br />
<br />
It used to be that finding a Playboy Magazine was a titillating secret. Now any child has easy access to every type of pornography. The access to information is overwhelming. Isis is very effectively using social media to recruit and train. The rest of society does not know how to respond to this new and unique threat. <br />
<br />
Facebook and other social media has connected us with our friends and other groups in powerful ways which would have seemed inconceivable just a few years ago. Yet at the same time we feel disconnected, disaffected and isolated. <br />
<br />
There is only one solution to this crisis. <i>Spiritual awakening.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
There is too much information to process and too many variables and possibilities to handle. <i>We cannot figure out the way to live by thinking our way through it. </i><br />
<br />
The only way to handle the ocean of information without becoming neurotic or psychotic is by choosing to turn our attention away from thought and towards <i>presence</i>. <br />
<br />
Technology is changing so fast that there is no way to keep up with it. However we can handle all of these changes by adopting <i>stillness</i>. When we live in presence, we are in harmony with Universal Intelligence. Life unfolds exactly as it is supposed to for the highest good of all concerned. We are able to fulfill our life's purpose. We experience peace, love, joy and freedom. <br />
<br />
Let's be still.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-33103788211057965392015-04-26T11:05:00.000-07:002015-04-26T11:05:01.995-07:00Peace<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AiivOl7Vmi5UZWxlE_R_3MCdOdC8doN-pJaWUNCxQnSkGhNpKH6mnCag8sy3SlLNAQwpoKLLTFIkX5G4Dv0wVyi6wsOv_42CNxEl_k8eHPlNoZ3WDe9Q6IdQz55rUaLpSGzXxlflu9c/s1600/Japan+004+-+Asakusa+Festival+%25281%2529.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AiivOl7Vmi5UZWxlE_R_3MCdOdC8doN-pJaWUNCxQnSkGhNpKH6mnCag8sy3SlLNAQwpoKLLTFIkX5G4Dv0wVyi6wsOv_42CNxEl_k8eHPlNoZ3WDe9Q6IdQz55rUaLpSGzXxlflu9c/s320/Japan+004+-+Asakusa+Festival+%25281%2529.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547245049766642354" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><b><i> Asakusa Festival, Japan</i></b><br />
<in and="" br="" cruelty="" degradation="" despair="" do="" face="" find="" fundamentalism="" how="" of="" peace="" planet="" radical="" terrorism="" the="" war="" we="">
<br />With all the turmoil, war, terrorism, ignorance, cruelty, degradation of the planet, chaos, etc, how is it possible to find peace? </in><br />
<in and="" br="" cruelty="" degradation="" despair="" do="" face="" find="" fundamentalism="" how="" of="" peace="" planet="" radical="" terrorism="" the="" war="" we=""><br /></in>
<in and="" br="" cruelty="" degradation="" despair="" do="" face="" find="" fundamentalism="" how="" of="" peace="" planet="" radical="" terrorism="" the="" war="" we="">We find peace by turning away from compulsive thinking and towards presence (turning off the news once in awhile doesn't hurt either!). The more we turn our attention towards being present, the more peaceful we will become. <br />
<br />
We choose to bring our awareness (i.e., our attention without judgment) away from frustration, anger and fear towards love, joy, freedom and peace.<br />
<br />
How do we become peaceful? By reacting differently to whatever occurs. We choose peace. How can we choose peace? We choose peace by slowing down our thoughts in order to realize that we have a choice. We slow down our thoughts by having a daily meditation practice. It's as simple as that.<br />
<br />
Let's choose freedom. Let's choose love. Let's choose joy. Let's choose peace.</in>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-16557596612164706322015-04-19T14:18:00.002-07:002015-04-19T14:18:36.036-07:00Awakening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9x7XAL7rnk8w0AuChGIaWdq9XkzsZwo1bkqcT5MXb8IlhW25Gy6EIlyLCX5dATVrxV2KrVMHIE5W1LiZb9NssJIGVeQnY6RaRSdqLYQmL3z58mKsDTtl0oLdNzwUWvADDmn_vTpKQgM/s1600/20140821_203514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9x7XAL7rnk8w0AuChGIaWdq9XkzsZwo1bkqcT5MXb8IlhW25Gy6EIlyLCX5dATVrxV2KrVMHIE5W1LiZb9NssJIGVeQnY6RaRSdqLYQmL3z58mKsDTtl0oLdNzwUWvADDmn_vTpKQgM/s1600/20140821_203514.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b>Zombies at the Pier</b></i><br />
<br />
Thoughts about awakening are not awakening. Awakening is simply the shifting of our attention away from thought and towards Present Awareness.<br />
<br />
We acknowledge and surrender our thoughts. We continue to surrender our thoughts that come from the deepest part of our subconscious. Painful thoughts, happy thoughts, frightening thoughts. Like peeling an onion, we surrender layer upon layer of thought and beliefs. <br />
<br />
We even surrender thoughts of spirituality, thoughts of God and thoughts of awakening.<br />
<br />
We surrender our thoughts to the fire of the light of Awareness. <br />
<br />
Let's surrender our thoughts and awaken to Presence. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-42084168237130978332015-04-12T09:30:00.001-07:002015-04-12T09:30:48.270-07:00Surrender<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvIv_kZovRtNvX0Z9qdQAstGdHo2G9LTOg-K34i-jhgfyfryjgpN1bk0Pd2x3j-1rqQbjCdZAMSzMKnB5_xL65K4an6v38BqGJu2xPstGaUoth8p2esYcWXWnWzn1NvnrNf1YT66Ba-o/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvIv_kZovRtNvX0Z9qdQAstGdHo2G9LTOg-K34i-jhgfyfryjgpN1bk0Pd2x3j-1rqQbjCdZAMSzMKnB5_xL65K4an6v38BqGJu2xPstGaUoth8p2esYcWXWnWzn1NvnrNf1YT66Ba-o/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" height="229" width="320" /></a></div>
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We do not have enough information to know what is good news or bad news. We may be excited about a new job or a promotion, but it does not do us much good if we are hit by a bus the next day. If we get divorced or get fired, how times have we heard people say a year later that getting divorced or fired was "the best thing that ever happened to me."<br />
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Similarly with death, we have no way of knowing whether our consciousness continues to have wonderful experiences or whether our awareness is extinguished. Why would we assume the worst?<br />
<br />
Since we have no way of knowing how life will unfold, what is the best way to live our lives? When we surrender our desires and expectations, and surrender our will to the Infinite Energy Source, we are in harmony with Universal Intelligence. When we align ourselves with Source, we will always receive the best outcome for all concerned in every situation. We see the beauty in life. We understand our life's purpose. Unexpected, Divine, positive occurrences (i.e., Miracles) happen at an increasing rate the more we surrender to Divine Intelligence. We embody peace, love, joy and freedom.<br />
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All we have to do is try it to experience the truth. <br />
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Let's surrender to the Infinite Void.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-27456927599807134752015-04-05T18:04:00.000-07:002015-04-05T18:04:25.469-07:00Meditation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPrf7isCNYxw19Dlqd95hwY5NVp_kzDkW2u3qbUIttq1feYdi8P6EtXF4OVxw5Vs5x7ar3Mj1FAZ7UaItlE-Od-UnhFtHuaIw8p1qZvw-qk09JJiWGtBUw1dBlN5pieFVAA6bYtWLJ7I/s1600/IMG_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPrf7isCNYxw19Dlqd95hwY5NVp_kzDkW2u3qbUIttq1feYdi8P6EtXF4OVxw5Vs5x7ar3Mj1FAZ7UaItlE-Od-UnhFtHuaIw8p1qZvw-qk09JJiWGtBUw1dBlN5pieFVAA6bYtWLJ7I/s1600/IMG_0018.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<i><b>Venus in Venice</b></i><br />
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The more we slow down our thoughts, the better able we are to make the choice between love and fear. In every given moment we have that choice, whether we realize it or not. We can choose fear, which makes us stressed, damages our health and causes us to be frustrated and angry. Or we can choose love, which brings the highest outcome for all concerned, including ourselves. <br />
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We do not make a choice, because we do not know we have a choice. If we did know that we have a choice, why would we ever choose fear and misery over love and joy? <br />
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In order to realize that we have a choice, we have to slow our thoughts down so that we have awareness of them. Only in that awareness, choices can be made.<br />
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The best way to slow down our thoughts and realize that we have choices is through meditation. <br />
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If we meditate first thing in the morning, the whole day will go differently. We will make different choices. When we choose presence or love in the face of "stressful" circumstances, we will experience different outcomes. By reacting differently to things that occur, not only will we be better able to handle the situation, <i>reality will change. </i>Things will go our way. We will manifest more positive and more fulfilling events.<br />
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Do we really not have time to spare 20 minutes a day in order for our entire day, and actually our entire lives, to dramatically improve?<br />
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Let's meditate daily<i>. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>http://www.feelguide.com/2014/11/19/harvard-unveils-mri-study-proving-meditation-literally-rebuilds-the-brains-gray-matter-in-8-weeks/ </i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-52328127306359829512015-03-15T12:35:00.001-07:002015-03-15T12:35:30.186-07:00Simplicity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRc7X7yBjAbpplV8QhTVF8WfHvjwAC72aP5FPneoCpD6FdBT5_DLFtiOgoRRSayyCMhq2JR1pHE-QwfgNvz4SeZV6MVMtU0IdN29GbHudeaViOn7zsBI1GeEOYqJ5D8dbfNlRjeRU7bJk/s1600/20140808_120205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRc7X7yBjAbpplV8QhTVF8WfHvjwAC72aP5FPneoCpD6FdBT5_DLFtiOgoRRSayyCMhq2JR1pHE-QwfgNvz4SeZV6MVMtU0IdN29GbHudeaViOn7zsBI1GeEOYqJ5D8dbfNlRjeRU7bJk/s1600/20140808_120205.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<b><i>Central Park</i></b><br />
<br />
It is very simple. <br />
<br />
We can live a life of peace, love, joy, freedom and fulfillment, or we can lead a life of frustration, anger, fear and self-loathing. The choice is that stark. We can either live a life of compulsive thinking, where our every action and thought is programmed through our lifelong conditioning, or we can live in presence, where every day is fresh and a new opportunity to be fulfilled. <br />
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Freedom from compulsive thinking is possible. It seems too difficult, but it is only as hard as we make it. It requires a strong intention, discipline and courage,<br />
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Thoughts about awakening are not awakening. Awakening is the transcending of thought through presence. <br />
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We need a strong intention, because, while simple, awakening is not easy. The pull of compulsive thinking is very strong. We need discipline to consistently apply the tools which we have at our disposal. Meditating daily is certainly one of our best tools. And we need courage to face our unconscious thoughts which come to the surface. We acknowledge them without judgment and surrender them to the Void. Acknowledge and surrender.<br />
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Let's choose presence.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-2336408510069517442015-03-08T20:58:00.001-07:002015-03-08T20:58:50.800-07:00Energy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHR5uas8-4e3otYNwFAJiY3QtrTONEbJwh8m8YFYXfx-kdgWSIzTixa0LQae_ar8YAconTOfTZ4tpsxdxlR-XbwN8UA1IBTtFL3POfm8Z6HBDYkJBqsb-lthEVxkOqFQr6GQxeJV6sBMQ/s1600/20140706_084240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHR5uas8-4e3otYNwFAJiY3QtrTONEbJwh8m8YFYXfx-kdgWSIzTixa0LQae_ar8YAconTOfTZ4tpsxdxlR-XbwN8UA1IBTtFL3POfm8Z6HBDYkJBqsb-lthEVxkOqFQr6GQxeJV6sBMQ/s1600/20140706_084240.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<i><b>Red Rock, Topanga</b></i><br />
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We are like an appliance plugged into an electrical outlet. When we are stressed or resistant, we are blocking the flow of energy. We become listless, depressed and frustrated. Our health declines. <br />
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When we turn our attention towards presence, we are plugged into the Infinite Energy Source. We are Energized! Supercharged! Revitalized!<br />
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This may sound like nonsense, but all we have to do is try it to see that it is true. <br />
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Living in presence allows us to live with passion and find our true purpose. We choose to bring our attention away from compulsive thinking and towards being, fully inhabiting our senses.<br />
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Let's be present.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-68729163664256027992015-02-28T12:56:00.000-08:002015-02-28T12:56:21.439-08:00Choices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Natadola, Fiji</i></b><br />
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Every moment is a new opportunity to make a different choice.<br />
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When we are lost in unconscious thought or gripped by emotion, we do not realize that we <i>have</i> a choice. When we are faced with a "difficult" situation, fear often overcomes us. <br />
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<b style="font-style: italic;">Fear, stress and resistance have never brought any benefits to a difficult situation. </b>They are only destructive. When we are relaxed and open, we can deal with any situation, no matter how difficult, with clarity and effectiveness. <br />
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Since we have a choice and we know that fear and resistance do not help us in any situation, <i>why not make a different choice?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
How do we make a different choice? It seems difficult because <i>we are unconscious.</i> We can make a different choice by bringing the light of awareness to our thoughts. We can make a different choice when we know that we <i>can</i> make a different choice. We can make a different choice when we <i>remember</i> we have a choice. <br />
<i><br /></i>
When faced with a difficult circumstance, challenging crisis, or an irrational person, let's bring as much <i>love</i> as possible into the situation. Let's bring as much <i>openness</i> as possible into the situation. Let's bring as much <i>presence</i> as possible into the situation.<br />
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Let's choose love.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2393997167355256743.post-6398452999170045472015-02-22T12:47:00.002-08:002015-02-22T12:47:21.785-08:00Attachment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGS_m1M0P2aGSAIjfXBP4b9OmG2LKfh7EPCRY67zgOWohC-FVvlylfVrkIw4IhYQSw_24tBsGjKZqJIJVmowD1lIL9blzofulX3DsdA8C1ZdIj2THIeBOpU96KOOkCbrf1wWfRWLn8eY/s1600/20150129_173413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGS_m1M0P2aGSAIjfXBP4b9OmG2LKfh7EPCRY67zgOWohC-FVvlylfVrkIw4IhYQSw_24tBsGjKZqJIJVmowD1lIL9blzofulX3DsdA8C1ZdIj2THIeBOpU96KOOkCbrf1wWfRWLn8eY/s1600/20150129_173413.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>Venice</i></b><br />
<br />
There is nothing wrong with having nice things. It's when we believe that these things will make us whole that we get into trouble. <br />
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The key to peace, love, joy and freedom in our lives is not about acquiring anything, it is about surrendering beliefs. The more beliefs we shed, the more joyful our lives become.<br />
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We may believe that having a romantic partner, landing a new job, or having financial security is what we need for our happiness and well being. Once we acquire those things, we may be happy or feel secure for awhile, but soon discomfort and unease return. Then we move on to the next thing that will bring us peace, and so on. It is a never ending cycle of desire and frustration. <br />
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We can enjoy things without being attached to them. As long as we do not believe that any material object or person can bring us true satisfaction, we can take pleasure in all that this world has to offer. <br />
Also, we do not have enough information to determine what is good for us or what is not. We may think that having an expensive sports car will make us feel whole, but if we have a bad accident and end up paralyzed, perhaps not so much. Miracles occur when we surrender our desires to the Infinite Energy Source. <br />
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The key to satisfaction is gratitude. When we are grateful, we are satisfied with the things that we have. As a bonus, gratitude triggers the Universe to give us more abundance. Non-attachment and gratitude are the keys to happiness. <br />
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Let's be non-attached to all things and grateful for the things we have. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09720603226636674066noreply@blogger.com0