Human Craving for Something Better

photo credit: Aaron Springston

Thinking of ourselves as unlimited contradicts everything we've been taught. Many of our first memories are of being told to be careful or else something dire will happen. Quantum physics is helping us to understand form isn't as solid as we've been told. With that understanding, it becomes clear that many limitations we've placed upon ourselves are nothing more than beliefs in material laws. Limitations are discarded when an athlete breaks a record in the Olympics, or if someone performs a seemingly-impossible feat like lifting a car off of trapped loved ones. We've all heard people tell tales we think of as supernatural, such as falling great distances and feeling as though they've landed on a cushion, or so-called incurable diseases disappearing. Now, I'm not suggesting we exchange one human belief for yet another, but rather that we listen for divine Mind to tell us the truth of our being, then allow ourselves to be led in paths we wouldn't have considered otherwise. Thought is shifting so rapidly at this time, don't you think? Let's not be afraid to listen.

“A mortal, corporeal, or finite conception of God cannot embrace the glories of limitless, incorporeal Life and Love. Hence the unsatisfied human craving for something better, higher, holier, than is afforded by a material belief in a physical God and man.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 258: 1-6

Truth Knocks at the Portal of Humanity

photo credit: Aaron Springston

Are we finally ready for truth? I've heard it said that we, as a human race, can’t stand to hear the truth. This is said about everything from extraterrestrial life to religious doctrine, but I think we are ready to hear it! People say if truth were known about everything, society would break down. It seems to me this might be a good thing, because our current belief systems don't appear to be functioning too well! Yet perhaps everyone's dissatisfaction stems from feeling we’re being lied to on many levels. A few centuries ago, a total eclipse of the full moon would cause many fear-based reactions when the orb turned red, disappeared, then reappeared. As the truth has set us free from that irrational fear, so it may in other ways, allowing us to joyfully look up in happy expectation and welcome what this new understanding will bring!

“Truth, independent of doctrines and time-honored systems, knocks at the portal of humanity.” Science & Health Page vii:13-15

Going to the Dogs -- For Advice!

Scout, the Cat

I’ve been observing our dogs facilitate change and I’m sure there’s a lesson there for us all. Daffy the Doberman generally sleeps/lays wherever she wants. Jeter has his favorite places, but acquiesces to the Alpha dog. Recently we rearranged the furniture in the living room and, in the process, decided that Jeter would have to give up his couch, so we removed the cover and told him “no”. He seemed okay with this, but was at a loss as to what to do with himself when the love of his life, Kevin, was at work. In the bedroom, Daffy had her special bed which was closest to the door and she would growl if Jeter tried to walk by her to get to his nighttime bed against the far wall. So Jeter would lay in the hallway, occasionally trying to sneak past her if she was snoring. Then suddenly we noticed they had switched beds! Jeter is sleeping closest to the door and Da​phne​ has taken the far wall position. The lessons we can all take from this could be varied, but what I’m seeing is that change can happen with patience and, eventually, cooperation. Actually, we think that Scout the Cat was instrumental in this shift, so perhaps it simply takes a strong leader to help us move forward. Whatever the case, I trust we can all work together as well as our dogs!

​"Love giveth to the least spiritual idea might, immortality, and goodness, which shine through all as the blossom shines through the bud. All the varied expressions of God reflect health, holiness, immortality -- infinite Life, Truth, and Love." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 518:19

Unity in Difference

photo credit: Heather Peters

There are many situations which bring on "knee-jerk" reactions, and it's a good thing to be aware of what we're doing. If someone is rude or mean we may become defensive, or perhaps we feel superior to them when we show kindness in return. If politicians or others in the public eye display ignorance (lack of knowledge), we can easily have a sense of self-righteous judgment. I often remind myself that we are all One, and no one is more special or enlightened than another. For instance, I'm a food snob. There are numerous things I don't eat and it's always interesting to watch how I try to impose my beliefs on others. It is yet another example of feeling superior because of an opinion. Eckhart Tolle often puts things in perspective for me, and he has done so once again when he was asked if we should be vegetarian. He said it was purely a personal preference, and if we have strong opinions about this we should remind ourselves that the Dalai Lama eats meat and Hitler didn't! Namastè to each and every One!

"One infinite God, good, unifies men and constitutes the brotherhood of man; ends wars; fulfills the Scripture, "Love thy neighbor as thyself;" annihilates pagan and Christian idolatry,--whatever is wrong in social, civil, criminal, political, and religious codes; equalizes the sexes; annuls the curse on man, and leaves nothing that can sin, suffer, be punished or destroyed." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 340:23-30

Facts of Being

photo credit: Gerry Toler

When you ask someone who/what they are, the answers typically will be name, profession, perhaps astrological sign, and things of this sort. We are learning that we embody something entirely different from our history and the material stories which have acted as our identity. I remember hearing about a local story which was described to me as being a tale of “betrayal, bordering on fraud”. Apparently a young woman came to town a couple of years ago and got a job in a popular restaurant. Everyone liked her, she was competent, and helped the business to grow. Then it came to light that she was not who she said she was. Whereas everyone thought she was from somewhere in the Hebrides and knew her by a certain name, it seemed she made everything up and was “not who she said she was”. Upon hearing this, I had to laugh! As my friend told me of people’s reactions to this fantasy, I stopped her and said that we shouldn’t make assumptions about any of this. What if the woman had something traumatic happen and wanted a brand new start, and so she went all the way with a complete change of her story? Whatever the case, I hope that all involved can put their ego-based reactions aside and listen with their heart, letting Love lead their actions, with their intention set for a good result!

“To divest thought of false trusts and material evidence in order that the spiritual facts of being may appear, — this is the great attainment by means of which we shall sweep away the false and give place to the true.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 428:8-12

You May Be Right About That -- NOT!

photo credit: Steve Shogren

During the years I worked with the public, I learned to say "you may be right about that" when someone said something with which I disagreed. It's a good way to say absolutely nothing, yet somehow not agree. But now there are too many injustices being perpetuated all around us to be silent. When I hear someone say that healthcare is not a right, it's a privilege, I must say that it is a privilege for the privileged at this point in time, and that is not right. When someone tells me they've worked hard for what they have and if someone can't take care of themselves then they haven't worked hard enough, I wonder what sect they come from, because the man for whom Christianity was named did not teach this. When someone tells me a woman's body is everybody's business and we should dictate its purpose, I can't even fathom where that idea originated. People who think oil is more important than the natural state of things, when they find fault with the power of the sun and wind and water, I wonder what corporation they are bowing down to. When I am told we can't feed the world by organic means and we must use pesticides and genetically modify our foods, I know the brainwashing which got them to this way of thinking -- because I've seen it develop in my lifetime. I could go on and on, as I'm sure you could, too. But the bottom line is I will no longer be saying, "you may be right about that", when I know darn well they are not. 

"Think of this, dear reader, for it will lift the sackcloth from your eyes, and you will behold the soft-winged dove descending upon you. The very circumstance, which your suffering sense deems wrathful and afflictive, Love can make an angel entertained unawares." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 574:25

What Did You Say?

Clear and concise communications have been on my mind today. Of course, we have miscommunication for many reasons: perhaps we don't listen closely, maybe the person speaking doesn't order their thoughts in a manner which can be easily understood. Perhaps someone doesn't want us to understand, and so they talk in double-speak or circular, unformed thoughts. It is easy to mislead, and it is easy to misunderstand. We must do a better job of conveying our thoughts and hearing others' words. When writing, I'm often reminded of the difference in meaning which punctuation can make. For instance: "Woman, without her, man is nothing." Or this: "Woman, without her man, is nothing." The way we speak that sentence makes a huge difference in conveyance of thought, demonstrating the power of the comma, whether on paper or in words. I recommit to asking questions to make sure I know what is going on around me, and I will strive to be a clear thinker in this world of muddled communications and purposeful misdirection. We're all in this together, and most of us truly want to feel the unity which is our natural state. Namaste...

"In sleep we do not communicate with the dreamer by our side despite his physical proximity, because both of us are either unconscious or are wandering in our dreams through different mazes of consciousness." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 82:13

Meeting the Past in New Ways

Mongolia - Photo Credit: Aaron Springston

In today's recording session with the Presbyterian minister and two musicians, we had a discussion centered around how everyone was doing in their daily lives. Ben teaches choir at a local school and part of his comments were directed toward how much his choir is improving since they are focused on technique rather than getting ready for performances. They had a virtual online tryout for state choir and were excited to be judged in that way, even though the excitement of travel was not part of the experience. But they loved it and did well. Sharon is busy thinking of new and innovative ways to produce an online Celebration Choir performance, and she and Ben are coming up with some cool possibilities. We shall see in the next few weeks how this virtual performance will come together. John, the pastor for the church, also substitute teaches. His life is busier than ever, and more rewarding. He says these times have challenged him as he preaches to an empty room, but he is building a stellar musical group to enhance the services, and is seeing ways to help others in all facets of life. My organ and piano skills are working back to the level they were 50 years ago, and my bridge game is better than ever. And I love making soup! We all have challenges unique to these times, and perhaps some of our problems which were easily swept under the rug in the past are refusing to stay out of sight. But that's a good thing. Please, feel free to post your experiences on the blog, about this or anything else you'd like to say!

"In the material world, thought has brought to light with great rapidity many useful wonders. With like activity have thought's swift pinions been rising towards the realm of the real, to the spiritual cause of those lower things which give impulse to inquiry. Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 168:1

The Way I See It

photo credit: Aaron Springston

"The Way I See It", is a documentary about Pete Souza's photographs from Reagan to Obama. We get to see true emotions from our presidents, translated through the lens of this caring, sensitive photojournalist. The deep feelings of joy brought forth by this film were surprising, and welcomed. If you're looking for something uplifting for this chilly winter weekend, I highly recommend this! Let's never forget what is important in life, even in times which seem confusing. Sending virtual hugs to everyone today!

"Love inspires, illumines, designates, and leads the way. Right motives give pinions to thought, and strength and freedom to speech and action. Love is priestess at the altar of Truth. Wait patiently for divine Love to move upon the waters of mortal mind, and form the perfect concept. Patience must "have her perfect work."
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 454:18-24

Willingness

photo credit: Aaron Springston

The idea that we have a choice between joy and pain may not be easy to accept. Let’s not allow mortal mind​,​ or ego​,​ to lay a guilt trip on us in this regard. The only thing we are guilty of is a mistaken perception, for which there is immediate remedy: Change your thought! Through the wonder of social media, I have become acquainted with a woman I never would have met otherwise, as her life’s circumstance and mindset are on the opposite side of the world from mine. She openly writes of her pain and weaknesses, lashing out at others in a way so honest my heart aches in empathy. I feel I know this woman, perhaps because there was a point in my life I could have been her. I felt victimized by circumstances and didn’t think there was a way out. It’s difficult to believe we have a choice when everything we see appears solidly hopeless. Unfortunately, it will stay that way as long as we believe it to be true. What can cause our mind to open up to the lightness of hope? The willingness to do so…

​"​Willingness to become as a little child and to leave the old for the new, renders thought receptive of the advanced idea. Gladness to leave the false landmarks and joy to see them disappear, — this disposition helps to precipitate the ultimate harmony."  ​Mary Baker Eddy - ​Science & Health Page 323:32-4

Translating Our Thoughts

Photo Credit: Dale Johnson

There seems to be much to fear these days. My son lives in Colorado and the fires are visible from his house. The political races are escalating in their vitriol, and it's easy to jump up and down and stamp our feet in protest or agreement. The virus infections rates are rising and people are reacting in various ways to the isolation of the times. Yet according to a Gallup poll, 56% of people are happier now than they were four years ago.  Of course, other polls tell us that suicide rates are up and chronic depression is at an all time high. I've long held to the thought that physical circumstances have nothing to do with happiness and contentment, and now this view is being put to the test. How do you feel compared to four years ago? Ten years? Many things bring us joy, but it doesn't seem money is one of them. The contentment of being in a safe, cozy home with a cat or two and a nice man is enough for me to feel better every day. But in the back of my mind there plays a little video of fires and facism and fury of various sorts. Worrying about these events is sort of like praying for something bad to happen. And so when I think of these things, I'll translate them into their harmonious counterpart and visualize that as a prayer. May you find peace today in the quiet spaces between your thoughts. Namaste...

​"Error of thought is reflected in error of action. The continual contemplation of existence as material and corporeal -- as beginning and ending, and with birth, decay, and dissolution as its component stages -- hides the true and spiritual Life, and causes our standard to trail in the dust." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 550:15

​

Spiritual Ideas

photo credit: Aaron Springston

Many mind-over-matter systems are practiced in the world. In the 1800's, mesmerism and hypnotism were thought to be the route to changing our physical experience and getting us what we want. Today we have "The Secret" and other systems telling us how to get the mate of our dreams, hot cars, and other material desires. Some may think A Course in Miracles or Christian Science falls into the same category, because we are "resolving things into thoughts". Here is an example of how it differs: Let's say we need a place to live. How do we think about this in order to manifest it in our existence? By understanding the substance of an idea! What are the spiritual qualities of this place to live, this house, this home? What does it represent? Some of the qualities of home could be warmth, comfort, peace, safety, beauty, love, hospitality. So the thought of "home" is really a spiritual idea, and these qualities of home already exist in our individual consciousness. We don't have to go out and find them, because they're already a permanent part of our being. We can express all these qualities included in the concept of home, no matter where we are. And when we express these qualities, we are cherishing our spiritual home, and this blessing is extended to others as well. 

"Divine Science, rising above physical theories, excludes matter, resolves things into thoughts, and replaces the objects of material sense with spiritual ideas.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science and Health Page 123:12-15

Separation or Unity

photo credit: Gerry Toler

We hurt ourselves by believing in separation more than unity. Feelings of aloneness are manifested in many ways in our daily life. Perhaps we think everyone is out to get us, or maybe we feel like no one knows what's best other than those in our particular tribe. There are any number of ways we assert our specialness and keep ourselves separate from God, hence from everyone, and sometimes this separation is manifest in ugly ways. Maybe something is said to another which we wish we could take back, or perhaps anger flares suddenly and we feel guilt over our feelings and shame about the outcome. There are a multitude of human actions we may regret, but the acceptance of our heritage as a child of divine Love allows us to forgive and choose again. For this, I am grateful.

“Error begins by reckoning life as separate from Spirit, thus sapping the foundations of immortality, as if life and immortality were something which matter can both give and take away.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 539:3-7

Tipping Point is Near

photo credit: Arthur Bruno

I have always felt as though there is a tipping point in mass consciousness, a point ​where everyone sees their perfection and recognizes there is no difference in their own self and the self of that person over there. In this sight, there is a world bathed in peace and contentment. There are no conflicts because everything good and pure is done for the good of everyone, and nothing contrary exists because we do not have such thoughts in the face of beauty and Love. There is no world of separation because we are all One and happily recognize this ​t​ruth. In order for perfection to emerge, error must be washed away. A dear friend, who has never believed these things I espouse, called to ask me what’s happening to this tipping point of Love, as he feels we’ve tipped the other way. Once again, I reiterate: Every thought is important! I feel like we're getting close!

​​"We cannot build safely on false foundations. Truth makes a new creature, in whom old things pass away and ‘all things are become new’."  ​Mary Baker Eddy ​Science & Health Page 201: 7-9

Open to Peace

 

photo credit: Aaron Springston

Let it go. Just breathe. We hear these instructions when learning how to break the hold of distress and open ourselves to peace. It took me years to realize that someone or something wasn't "making" me upset; that it was my perception and interpretation and reaction to things which caused these feelings. Even with this realization, it's sometimes difficult to not get caught up in the craziness of the world. When I find myself becoming agitated about anything, I will remind myself to "let all the world be blessed with peace through us." [ACIM Workbook Lesson #360] After all, I can't change anything but my own self. How wonderful that it’s the most important thing to do!

"Let us learn of the real and eternal, and prepare for the reign of Spirit, the kingdom of heaven,—the reign and rule of universal harmony, which cannot be lost nor remain forever unseen." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 208:20

Relaxing Into Oneness

photo credit: Aaron Springston

I often remind myself that if I have a choice of being right or being kind, I’d rather be kind. That's not to say I always am, but I sure do want to be! Another choice I try to make is peace over specialness. I’m sure I’ve gladly proclaimed to others about my pain, my divorce, my cold, my sciatica, my low bank account — you get the picture! It’s much nicer to look past MY specialness, watching and praying for guidance from divine Mind which is everywhere, allowing feelings to flow with the Love which is eternal, and to live with the excitement of Spirit lifting daily activity to the miraculous adventure it can be when I stop dictating reality. Gratitude and appreciation is a peaceful, easy feeling. Today I want to choose the harmony of unity, releasing separation as I relax into our Oneness!

"Let us rid ourselves of the belief that man is separated from God, and obey only the divine Principle, Life and Love. Here is the great point of departure for all true spiritual growth." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 91:5-8

Just Love

photo credit: Aaron Springston

Today's simple hope is that everyone will love each other. Whether it's your child, spouse, friends, or strangers, just love them. A rather well-known seer once advised us that it's easy to love those who love you, but to love your enemies, to bless those who persecute you, that is the difficult task. In an age when almost everyone seems determined to make someone an enemy, this is particularly good advice. A dear friend told a story about herself in which she was terse with a loved one over a small act which made no difference in the scheme of life. During these days of high emotions and hateful rhetorical speech, it's easy to become ensnared in the collective turmoil. So let's be aware that we may not be feeling our own emotions, but those being sold to us by people who will benefit from our angst and division. Whatever the case, just love. It's not easy to understand each other under the best of circumstances, but with a pandemic and political unrest afoot, it can seem almost impossible. But it is not. Sometimes we may falter, but forgive yourself and begin again. We always get a second chance to be kind...

"If a career so great and good as that of Jesus could not avert a felon's fate, lesser apostles of Truth may endure human brutality without murmuring, rejoicing to enter into fellowship with him through the triumphal arch of Truth and Love." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 40:19

Rat Wins Award for Animal Bravery

photo credit: Richard Quick

I’ve often mentioned the book, “Kinship With All Life” by J. Allen Boone. Its principles are dear to my heart and, I feel, pertinent in our daily lives. A story has recently come to us about a rat in Cambodia. Rats have often gotten a bad rap, as they are thought of as dirty and creepy, yet those who live with them report something entirely different. They are reportedly smart and affectionate, almost as easily trained as dogs. Recently a little rat named Magawa has won a British charity’s award for animal bravery. For the past seven years, he has been finding unexploded bombs in Cambodia. These land mines are a serious problem in 59 countries, with more than 7,000 deaths occurring in 2018 because of people stepping on them. The award this rat received has only gone to dogs in the past, but a rat can safely discover more mines because he is light enough to not set them off when sniffing them out. So here’s to new ways of doing things, and a big shout out to Magawa and the Belgiums who trained him for this most important mission!

"All of God's creatures, moving in the harmony of Science, are harmless, useful, indestructible. A realization of this grand verity was a source of strength in the ancient worthies." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 514:29

Changing Responses

photo credit: Aaron Springston

All the insecurities, the feelings of loss and lack, the guilt and blame, all these things are losing their reality to us as we begin to understand there is no reason to hold on to them. Now that we see the unreality of these beliefs within ourselves, it's hard not pointing them out to others when they present themselves! But I am trying to change my response when presented with negativity, fear, anger, and hate. After a snide racial comment from a terse-lipped woman, I said, "Keep smiling!" Upon which she gave me a fake smile, and I gave her a small Namastè bow and left. When someone asked my advice about their unhappiness, (knowing through experience that none of us can fix any other of us) my only suggestion was to concentrate on what brings joy and fulfillment, and the unhappiness and emptiness will be lost in its face. We live what we've learned, giving to others from our receiving. I trust today will bring opportunities to practice this art.

“We are all sculptors, working at various forms, moulding and chiseling thought. What is the model before mortal mind? Is it imperfection, joy, sorrow, sin, suffering? Have you accepted the mortal model? Are you reproducing it? Then you are haunted in your work by vicious sculptors and hideous forms...To remedy this, we must first turn our gaze in the right direction, and then walk that way. We must form perfect models in thought and look at them continually, or we shall never carve them out in grand and noble lives.” Science & Health Page 248:12

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

photo credit: Aaron Springston

In this time of great change, it’s easy to long for the comfort of ritualistic actions and old habits. How nice it would be if we simply floated along, happily enjoying yesterday’s fruits. But life doesn’t seem to be that way. We wake up every morning and experience things in different ways. Changing thoughts bring on changing circumstances. I hope we can all hold onto each other and know that this is a good thing. Personally, I have no idea what tomorrow will bring, but I relish the possibilities!

“The image of Spirit cannot be effaced, since it is the idea of Truth and changes not, but becomes more beautifully apparent at error’s demise.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 542:5-7     

New Beginnings?

 photo credit: Aaron Springston

Don't we all love new beginnings? Every symbolic new beginning we experience gives hope that there truly will be one this time. We yearn for peace and plenty, purity of heart and environment, joy, satisfaction. Sometimes we catch glimpses of what it could be like. I felt a big shift on New Year's Eve in the year 2000. There was a palpable expectation of change, and now, two decades later, I feel it is upon us. A true new beginning is at hand -- your hand and mine, today, right now. Let’s not be distracted by ego-based taunting to play the game being enacted all around us. I will look through the temptation to stay stuck in this muddle of material belief by giving energy to the lower propensities. Raising thought above what cries out so loudly for attention, I'll see the beginning in every situation. If there is no end, can there be a beginning? Ah -- ever-flowing forever. Now!

“The infinite has no beginning. This word beginning is employed to signify the only, — that is, the eternal verity and unity of God and man, including the universe.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 502:24-27

The Origins of Our Discontents

 I'm reading this book by Isabel Wilkerson. We have learned prejudice throughout the years. Here are a couple of quotes from this enlightening book. Have a beautiful Sunday. Know thyself!

“In our era, it is not enough to be tolerant. You tolerate mosquitoes in the summer, a rattle in an engine, the gray slush that collects at the crosswalk in winter. You tolerate what you would rather not have to deal with and wish would go away. It is no honor to be tolerated. Every spiritual tradition says love your neighbor as yourself, not tolerate them.”

“Throughout human history, three caste systems have stood out. The tragically accelerated, chilling, and officially vanquished caste system of Nazi Germany. The lingering, millennia-long caste system of India. And the shape-shifting, unspoken, race-based caste pyramid in the United States. Each version relied on stigmatizing those deemed inferior to justify the dehumanization necessary to keep the lowest-ranked people at the bottom and to rationalize the protocols of enforcement. A caste system endures because it is often justified as divine will, originating from sacred text or the presumed laws of nature, reinforced throughout the culture and passed down through the generations.”

A New Earth

 Before I started this daily, I looked at Facebook. A woman had asked a question earlier in the day and I had responded in part that I saw this as an opportunity to create a new way of living. She asked specifically what I meant by that, and I quickly responded. As I proofread it, I realized I couldn't write anything I like more this evening, so here it is. :) 

Mongolia - photo credit: Aaron Springston 

I see a world built on honesty in every endeavor. All liars will be uncovered and replaced with honorable human beings who value lives more than cash. Schools will teach children to love learning, rather than to spit out rhetoric. Religious institutions will be there to help those in need, finding ways to supply their material needs while feeding their spirit. We will be allowed to know what Spirit is, rather than simply repeating religious belief which manipulates and punishes. We'll know about the good in ourselves as well as our neighbors and love ourselves more as a result. We then see the value in making art -- music painting, creativity of all kinds -- and understanding how those practices allow us to be whole, rather than automatons which spit out facts and figures. I see a world where we can trust ourselves enough to stand up for what is right and just for all, not just those in our tribe. Let's build back a world where all its resources are kept intact and nurtured, using the things which never run out, realizing the sun shines on us all equally, and is here for our supply. We will know the value of every living creature, realizing that the loss of one leaves a hole in the music of the earth. We will be proud of knowledge, science, learning of any and all sorts. We will see that we can understand God, because we are Its reflection and that source lies within us. Whew! Thanks for asking!

"St. John's corporeal sense of the heavens and earth had vanished, and in place of this false sense was the spiritual sense, the subjective state by which he could see the new heaven and new earth, which involve the spiritual idea and consciousness of reality." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 573:19

The Hope Flag Project

Eureka Springs has a wonderful project happening right now! A Hope Flag Project, sponsored by our community center and the Eureka Springs School of the Arts. There are detailed instructions on either of their websites, but basically you can pick up small, hangable blank flags and decorate them with messages of hope and love. I think this is just what we need, don't you? Four years ago, eight years ago, we were filled with hope before our elections. It's been difficult to find any this year, but we each individually are filled with love and are searching for hope in every nook and cranny of our existence. So let's make our own, with flags, with letters, and with our actions. Write letters to the editor, make positive social media posts, call your friends and tell them good news, cook dinner for your neighbor, send a note to an old friend. Today's message from me can fall under the category of "don't let the bastards get you down"! There are lifeboats of goodness waiting for us, but we must recognize them and reach for them. Help your friends if they're caught up in the downward tide. Give them something to hold onto, no matter how small it may seem. Together these messages are powerful. Together we can do it...

"Man walks in the direction towards which he looks, and where his treasure is, there will his heart be also. If our hopes and affections are spiritual, they come from above, not from beneath, and they bear as of old the fruits of the Spirit." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 451:14

All Things Born to Break

 My neighbor sent a video for me to watch, only saying “watch closely”. I did that three times and took away more insights into its beauty every time I watched it. I give you the gift she gave me, a link to this amazing piece of art. Have a beautiful day!

https://youtu.be/n0zqQxz4DHs

ALL THINGS BORN TO BREAK

Hafez

All things born to break
In meek sacrifice
For another’s sake,

All man’s striving vain,
Lavish’d as the price
Of the heart’s hid pain—

Long, O spirit-bird,
Of thy lonely fear
Hast thou sung unheard

In hope’s moon-lit wood,
While no creature near
Knew nor understood.

Don't Waste a Good Crisis

St. Patrick's Day in Eureka Springs - PC: Richard Quick

As we go through the day, words and actions we witness make an impact on us. Today I heard Miten, Deva Premal’s husband, say this is the time for compassion, creativity, devotion to positive change. He advised us to not “waste a good crisis”! I love that, don’t you? Crises seem to be the impetus which force us to a better place than where we were. I could name numerous times in my personal life when I was urged upward and onward through sadness and fearful circumstances. And the second thing which struck me today was reading about a woman in Philadelphia who lived near where the strangely-named proud boys were going to have a rally. The people of the area got together and had a fun fair in the park where the men planned to gather. There was music, games, happy clowns, balloons, children, animals — beautiful, joyous people were everywhere doing what happy people do! The gun-toting men who showed up seemed confused and wandered around briefly before leaving. Let’s do that today and everyday, when we meet any sort of derision. We need not be afraid when bringing Love to the table, no matter what the event!

"Clad in the panoply of Love, human hatred cannot reach you. The cement of a higher humanity will unite all interests in the one divinity." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health page 571:18

Most Of Us Are Kind and Helpful

Suzie Bell fixing her neighbor's roof

Growing up, I don't remember being around people who held themselves above everyone else; people who thought the world revolved around them and had no consideration for others. Maybe it's faulty memory, but it seems as though everyone was considerate of other people. Maybe that's only because my parents were kind and helpful. Everyone who lives on my street is kind and helpful. Everyone I know well is, also. These things cause me to truly believe that most of the world's population lives by the "golden rule", to treat others the way you want to be treated. Yet we hear of just the opposite, constantly, from media of various sorts. In our circle of friends, there are those who save dogs and cats, provide free medical treatment for those in need, and work tirelessly for causes which improve the world and its living creatures. We are energy, and that energy can be described in many ways, but my favorite is Love. God is Love, and we are that reflection. Anything other than that truth is an illusion created by lost children. We can help them return to Love by bombarding them with it, no matter what.

"The serpent of God's creating is neither subtle nor poisonous, but is a wise idea, charming in its adroitness, for Love's ideas are subject to the Mind which forms them, -- the power which changeth the serpent into a staff." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 515:6

Heroes, Then and Now

Who are your heroes? After watching the movie Hidden Figures, which tells how three women were integral in getting the United States space program off the ground, my heroes are every woman who has continued to do her best in the presence of ugly racism. This movie helped me to realize the depth of prejudice and the senselessness of racism and sexism. Every time this understanding reaches a deeper level within me, it becomes more difficult to understand its origins. How did we become a society which looks down on someone because of their skin color, gender, or social standing? Social standing, what the heck does that even mean? I look forward to the day we see people for who they are, appreciating qualities such as kindness, intelligence, integrity, morality, creativity, and such. And my heroes today, specifically, are the women who are running for political office, speaking truth to lies, showing us what kindness and integrity mean through their actions, those who walk the talk. Suzie Bell comes to mind first and foremost. Saying these words remind me of other heroes I see every day. I think I'll write them notes telling them so, because they probably don't know how valued they are!

"Ignorance, pride, or prejudice closes the door to whatever is not stereotyped." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 144:25

Birth of a New-Old Idea

Arches National Park - PC: Aaron Springston

Change is everywhere. Some of us do not care for the changes we are making, while others are seeing more efficient ways of doing things they always took for granted. The avenues we've become accustomed to strolling are sometimes closed, causing us to turn disappointedly down new paths. I love seeing disappointment turn into joy when a new talent is discovered. Perhaps someone you know has the freedom now to explore ways of life they had only dreamed about prior to this major shift in our lives. Speaking of dreams, is anyone else having vivid, lucid dreams? I look forward to going to sleep every night to see what new ideas I'll wake up to! My friend, Carol Peacock, posted a great idea to Facebook today. For Halloween, the kids (and adults!) can dress up and hang out in their yards, while we drive by and toss candy to them! I love this new/old way of thinking, don't you? Before we thought we knew everything, we were always dreaming of new and better ways to express ourselves. I'm watching a huge orange harvest moon show itself right now, wondering that something so familiar can seem so exciting and brilliant. You and I are like that, too. Shift our thoughts just a bit, look at a friend in a new light, be willing to watch and wait...

"As a material, theoretical life-basis is found to be a misapprehension of existence, the spiritual and divine Principle of man dawns upon human thought, and leads it to 'where the young child was,' -- even to the birth of a new-old idea, to the spiritual sense of being and of what Life includes. Thus the whole earth will be transformed by Truth on its pinions of light, chasing away the darkness of error." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 191:8

Namaste, Mr. Trump...

Colorado Fall - photo credit: Aaron Springston

Today someone said to me that she felt as though we are living through a Shakespearean play. I replied that I did, too, with added elements of many dystopian science fictions books. Our president is now in the hospital with the virus which is sweeping the world. Throughout the past years, I have come to expect hyperbole and fibs to flow from this man’s mouth, and so my first reaction upon hearing he had tested positive was that he is probably faking symptoms in order to avoid prosecution for the multitude of crimes which are coming to light faster now than ever before. My first reaction was not sympathy, as it would be for anyone else, and for that, I am sorry. It feels like a failure on my part that I have reacted this way. When I stop to think about that, I could name any number of reasons why I am not sorry for my lack of compassion, but it doesn’t really matter. I am judging another human being who has been crying out for love his entire life. It’s not my job to try to change him, but it is my job to give him the love he thinks he does not have. Unbeknownst to him, he’s always had this divine Love which permeates eternity, surpassing the limited love we feel in this third dimension. There is much to be corrected within myself, and this writing is the beginning of my work toward that end. Namaste, Mr. Trump...

"The wrong done another reacts most heavily against one's self. Right adjusts the balance sooner or later." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 449:7

The World Will Change Because We Are Changing

Marianne Williamson is now writing a column for Newsweek. I draw strength from her words.

"These are such diseased and disastrous times, it’s a challenge to keep the toxicity of the world from poisoning our bodies and souls. It’s a difficult task to bear brutally honest witness to the dangers of this time without being personally infected by them. From meditating to yoga to eating well to reading more - and more than anything else, to thinking deeply about what the world is going through and trying to see how best we might help - all of us are navigating our individual boats through the turbulent waters of a societal storm. There is an invisible captain, a wind at our back, a map that leads us to calmer waters if we are silent and still enough to perceive them. Inner activism is done in silence. Our capacity for stillness is as important now as is our capacity for movement. This is the alchemy of personal and societal transformation that will bear amazing fruit a bit of time from now. The world will change because we are changing. This is the winter of our collective agony, but if we dwell within it with grace and power we will one day see a miraculous spring. Faith and patience and hope and love are the angels that light our way." Marianne

"Never fear the mental malpractitioner, the mental assassin, who, in attempting to rule mankind, tramples upon the divine Principle of metaphysic, for God is the only power." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 419:25