Dancing With the Absurdity of Life

Art by Laurie’s Tuxen

“Morning Atmosphere From My House in Skagen” 1916

Anne Lamott has been a bright light in my life for decades. From her early writing, “Operating Instructions: A Journal of My Son’s First Year”, to her recent essay written in regard to school shootings, this woman brings me hope. She helps me understand how to keep on moving forward, with determination and eventual joy. You can find her essays on her Facebook page; her books are readily available from all book sources.

“Writing and reading decrease our sense of isolation. They deepen and widen and expand our sense of life: they feed the soul. When writers make us shake our heads with the exactness of their prose and their truths, and even make us laugh about ourselves or life, our buoyancy is restored. We are given a shot at dancing with, or at least clapping along with, the absurdity of life, instead of being squashed by it over and over again.”
Anne Lamott - Bird by Bird, 1999

“There is one major difference in the role of Heaven’s messengers, which sets them off from those the world appoints. The messages that they deliver are intended first for them. And it is only as they can accept them for themselves that they become able to bring them further, and to give them everywhere that they were meant to be. Like earthly messengers, they did not write the messages they bear, but they become their first receivers in the truest sense, receiving to prepare themselves to give.”
A Course in Miracles W-154.6:1-4

“The author has not compromised conscience to suit the general drift of thought, but has bluntly and honestly given the text of Truth. She has made no effort to embellish, elaborate, or treat in full detail so infinite a theme.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page x:11-13

Universal Harmony

Photo courtesy of Pat Quinn

How many times have you felt that we're on the verge of the realization of universal peace and harmony? I know I have, a number of times. January 1, 2000 felt like a tipping point. Although I don't remember specific dates other than that one, I know there have been many occasions when it simply "felt like" this was it; that we would forget differences and only remember unity and the fact that we are all One. I felt this again today. Any unrest and dis-ease going on around me seemed like a cry for Love. Really, truly, I saw people reaching out for something secure in a material world full of insecurity and fear. We are all the same in the reality of Spirit. The "reign and rule of universal harmony which cannot be lost nor remain forever unseen" is waiting for us to cast off fear and embrace it!

"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 208:20-24 

“Prayer is a way to true humility. And here again it rises slowly up, and grows in strength and love and holiness. Let it but leave the ground where it begins to rise to God, and true humility will come at last to grace the mind that thought it was alone and stood against the world. Humility brings peace because it does not claim that you must rule the universe, nor judge all things as you would have them be. All little gods it gladly lays aside, not in resentment, but in honesty and recognition that they do not serve.” 

A Course in Miracles S-1.V.1:1-

The Spiritual Activist

Quote from Martin Luther King Jr.’s Pilgrimage to Nonviolence - “The phrase ‘passive resistance’ often gives the false impression that this is a sort of ‘do-nothing method’ in which the resister quietly and passively accepts evil. But nothing is further from the truth. For while the nonviolent resister is passive in the sense that he is not physically aggressive toward his opponent, his mind and emotions are always active, constantly seeking to persuade his opponent that he is wrong. The method is passive physically, but strongly active spiritually.” Martin Luther King Jr.

“Perception is the result of learning. In fact, perception is learning, because cause and effect are never separated. The teachers of God have trust in the world, because they have learned it is not governed by the laws the world made up. It is governed by a power that is ‘in them but not of them’. It is this power that keeps all things safe. It is through this power that the teachers of God look on a forgiven world.” 

A Course in Miracles M-4.I.1:2-7

“‘Thy kingdom come;’ let the reign of divine Truth, Life, and Love be established in me, and rule out of me all sin; and may Thy Word enrich the affections of all mankind, and govern them!” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Manual Page 41:19-25

A Sense of Somebody-ness

Today I was remembering a book which won the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction: The Nickel Boys by Colton Whitehead. This book is described as "a spare and devastating exploration of abuse at a reform school in Jim Crow-era Florida that is ultimately a powerful tale of human perseverance, dignity, and redemption." The main character is working in a tobacco shop, where children often steal candy and comic books. The proprietor allows this because he says if he called them on it, their parents would be too embarrassed to shop in his establishment. He has told Elwood to allow them to take things, as he thinks of it as a promotion. This doesn’t sit right with Elwood, and at first he can’t understand why. But a quote of Martin Luther King’s brings it into focus for him: “We must believe in our souls that we are somebody, that we are significant, that we are worthful, and we must walk the streets of life every day with this sense of dignity and this sense of somebody-ness.” Elwood comes to the realization that to do nothing about the kids stealing was to undermine his own dignity. I think that’s the position we the People are in today. To do nothing is to undermine our own dignity. I urge you to listen to your own inner guidance, your soul (if you will), and do whatever it takes to maintain your dignity. 

“Take away wealth, fame, and social organizations, which weigh not one jot in the balance of God, and we get clearer views of Principle. Break up cliques, level wealth with honesty, let worth be judged according to wisdom, and we get better views of humanity.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 239:5-10

“Of your ego you can do nothing to save yourself or others, but of your spirit you can do everything for the salvation of both. Humility is a lesson for the ego, not for the spirit. Spirit is beyond humility, because it recognizes its radiance and gladly sheds its light everywhere. The meek shall inherit the earth because their egos are humble, and this gives them truer perception. The Kingdom of Heaven is the spirit’s right, whose beauty and dignity are far beyond doubt, beyond perception, and stand forever as the mark of the Love of God for His creations, who are wholly worthy of Him and only of Him. Nothing else is sufficiently worthy to be a gift for a creation of God Himself.” 

A Course in Miracles T-4.I.12:1-6

Herd - The Healing Power of Horses

 

Photo of unknown origin

The documentary, Herd, is a film about the healing power of horses, our connection with all things, and compassion. Liz Mitten Ryan is an artist, an author, and a compassionate human. She has developed a retreat in British Columbia where she and ten or so horses, a big old steer, and a few dogs and cats hold healing retreats for people who are ready to face themselves and release pain. As one woman said, “This is not so much a place to escape as it is a place to leave things behind that you don’t want any more.” All the people sharing their stories in this hour-long film had emotional baggage holding them hostage: loss of a young child, abuse of various types, or one man simply wanted to become a better physician and parent. The founder of this beautiful retreat discovered that two of her horses would touch her chakras when she was laying in their midst, and she would feel unified with them. She began to write about this phenomenon and states that she didn’t know if she was telling the animals’ stories or her own. (She says the dogs and cats were in on it, too.) She realized that horses see the invisible all around us, and that's what makes them amazing healers. We have much to learn, and the animals are ready to teach us. When we are in our truth, they come to us, and that is all they ask. 

"As mortals gain more correct views of God and man, multitudinous objects of creation, which before were invisible, will become visible. When we realize that Life is Spirit, never in nor of matter, this understanding will expand into self-completeness, finding all in God, good, and needing no other consciousness." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 264:13

“Think you the world could fail to gain thereby, and every living creature not respond with healed perception? Who entrusts himself to God has also placed the world within the Hands to which he has himself appealed for comfort and security. He lays aside the sick illusions of the world along with his, and offers peace to both.” 

A Course in Miracles  W-194.8:3-5

Friendship

My cat, Scout, and our neighbor, Maggie

“The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, not the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Determine now to see all these people as friends. Say to them all, thinking of each one in turn as you do so: I would see you as my friend, that I may remember you are part of me and come to know myself.”
A Course in Miracles W-68.6:1-3


“Would existence without personal friends be to you a blank? Then the time will come when you will be solitary, left without sympathy; but this seeming vacuum is already filled with divine Love. When this hour of development comes, even if you cling to a sense of personal joys, spiritual Love will force you to accept what best promotes your growth.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 266:5-12

Do You Have Time To Linger?

Photo credit: Don Matt

Invitation by Mary Oliver

“Oh do you have time

to linger

for just a little while

out of your busy

and very important day

for the goldfinches

that have gathered

in a field of thistles

for a musical battle,

to see who can sing

the highest note,

or the lowest,

or the most expressive of mirth,

or the most tender?

Their strong, blunt beaks

drink the air

as they strive

melodiously

not for your sake

and not for mine

and not for the sake of winning

but for sheer delight and gratitude –

believe us, they say,

it is a serious thing

just to be alive

on this fresh morning

in the broken world.

I beg of you,

do not walk by

without pausing

to attend to this

rather ridiculous performance.

It could mean something.

It could mean everything.

It could be what Rilke meant, when he wrote:

You must change your life.”

Mary Oliver - Invitation

from A Thousand Mornings, 2013

“In you is all of Heaven. Every leaf that falls is given life in you. Each bird that ever sang will sing again in you. And every flower that ever bloomed has saved its perfume and its loveliness for you. What aim can supersede the Will of God and of His Son, that Heaven be restored to him for whom it was created as his only home? Nothing before and nothing after it. No other place; no other state nor time. Nothing beyond nor nearer. Nothing else. In any form. This can you bring to all the world, and all the thoughts that entered it and were mistaken for a little while. How better could your own mistakes be brought to truth than by your willingness to bring the light of Heaven with you, 

as you walk beyond the world of darkness into light?” 

A Course in Miracles T-25.IV.5:1-12

“Undisturbed amid the jarring testimony of the material senses, Science, still enthroned, is unfolding to mortals the immutable, harmonious, divine Principle, — is unfolding Life and the universe, ever present and eternal.” 

Mary Baker Eddy Science & Health Page 306:25-29

The Science of the Christ

The first Dan Brown novel I read was “The DaVinci Code”. I enjoy his books because they all deal with a mix of facts and speculation in the realm of religion, science, and secret societies. Currently I’m listening to his book, “Origin”, which speculates there is another possibility, other than creation science or evolution, to explain how humans appeared on this earth. Of course, churches and other powers that be do not want this possibility to be known. And this is what I find fascinating in his writings: why is everyone so afraid of thinking differently about religion and spiritual matters? Is it simply a matter of controlling the masses or is there a deeper fear? I have no answers to the questions Dan Brown is bringing up in his novels, but I love thinking about them! Something which comes up often is the melding of science and religion. People act as though this is something new, but many of us think of it as primitive Christianity. The Science of the Christ. I’d love to hear your ideas about all this!

My weary hope tries to realize that happy day, when man shall recognize the Science of Christ and love his neighbor as himself, — when he shall realize God’s omnipotence and the healing power of the divine Love in what it has done and is doing for mankind.
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 55:15-21

“The world stands like a block before Christ’s face. But true perception looks on it as nothing more than just a fragile veil, so easily dispelled that it can last no longer than an instant. It is seen at last for only what it is. And now it cannot fail to disappear, for now there is an empty place made clean and ready. Where destruction was perceived the face of Christ appears, and in that instant is the world forgot, with time forever ended as the world spins into nothingness from where it came.”
A Course in Miracles C-4.4:1-5

Clap Your Hands!

As we all know, there are many lessons to be learned from children. For instance, imagine a child making a sand castle when a wave comes in and takes it back to its original state. Does the child cry? I'm told that they laugh in delight! Children innately know the impermanence of things and happily accept that -- until they learn differently from adults. Also, think about a child achieving a new benchmark in their young lives. They jump up and down with glee, clapping their little hands in celebration! When was the last time you applauded yourself? I hope it was recently! Part of our "learning" experience tells us that to celebrate ourselves would be a form of arrogance or self-righteous behavior. I don't think an honest appreciation for ourselves is anything of the sort, do you? Life isn't always easy, and when we come through a tough time, or when we perform a task we were afraid of attempting, or when we wake up happy when we have been sad -- well, there are countless things which deserve gleeful hand-clapping. The next time you applaud a friend or loved ones' achievements, think about doing the same for yourself, dear friends. You deserve it!

“You who have been unmerciful to yourself do not remember your Father’s Love. And looking without mercy upon your brothers, you do not remember how much you love Him. Yet it is forever true. In shining peace within you is the perfect purity in which you were created. Fear not to look upon the lovely truth in you. Look through the cloud of guilt that dims your vision, and look past darkness to the holy place where you will see the light. The altar to your Father is as pure as He Who raised it to Himself. Nothing can keep from you what Christ would have you see. His Will is like His Father’s, and He offers mercy to every child of God, as He would have you do.” 

A Course in Miracles T-13.X.9:1-9

"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

What is The Affection and Purpose of the Heart

Have you ever needed to fire an employee, or end a relationship with a significant other, or stop spending so much time with a friend for your own mental health? If so, I hope you had the courage and kindness to be honest about it. In looking back at such situations when they have occurred within my orbit, people often turn the tables on the one they want out of the way. On the other hand, I can think of a few situations where someone has simply told the truth, even in part, in order to end an unwanted relationship. I've recently watched a situation where there were valid reasons to end the employment of a part-time musician, yet no one would do it. Rather, they made things so uncomfortable for the person that he resigned. It was torturous for many of us, with rumors and half-truths floating about. I've watched men and women want out of their marriage, but rather than hurting their spouse's feelings, they make them so miserable that they leave, rather than the one who originally wanted out fessing up to it. I've written many dailies centered around truth-telling. It seems like an easy thing to do. Apparently it is not!

"We should examine ourselves and learn what is the affection and purpose of the heart, for in this way only can we learn what we honestly are." Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 8:28-30

“Forgiveness, truth’s reflection, tells me how to offer miracles, and thus escape the prison house in which I think I live. Your holy Son is pointed out to me, first in my brother; then in me. Your Voice instructs me patiently to hear Your Word, and give as I receive. And as I look upon Your Son today, I hear Your Voice instructing me to find the way to You, as You appointed that the way shall be: Behold his sinlessness, and be you healed.” 

A Course in Miracles W-357.1:1-5

Footsteps of Truth

Photo credit Richard Quick

Almost two decades ago, Jim Young and I brought together a group of people which became known as Metafizzies. During the years we were affiliated with this metaphysical group, I got quite an education! I sat in a metal pyramid, holding a crystal skull, chanting Sanskrit. We had people who gave psychic readings, taught us about Akashic Records, performed Sufi dances — to name a few. Every other week, we welcomed people to present their views. No matter how farfetched they may have seemed on the surface, they were all based in love. I tell you this to give you an idea of my background in spiritual matters. My parents were Christian Scientists. When I left home at 16, I thought there must be something better, but after years of wandering through the in-vogue thought systems of the 1970s, I had found nothing more comprehensive than the book Science and Health, With Key to the Scriptures. Sometime in the 90s, I was at a yard sale and picked up Wayne Dyer’s book When You Believe It, You’ll See It. Immediately I wanted to know who he was because his ideas were exactly what I had learned from Mary Baker Eddy’s writings. And so I discovered A Course in Miracles, including it in the study which had always felt so natural to me. Truth is truth no matter where it is found, and there are many beautiful pathways in this world. Namaste, dear Friends …

“All roads will lead to this one in the end. For sacrifice and deprivation are paths that lead nowhere, choices for defeat, and aims that will remain impossible. All this steps back as truth comes forth in you, to lead your brothers from the ways of death, and set them on the way to happiness. Their suffering is but illusion. Yet they need a guide to lead them out of it, for they mistake illusion for the truth.” 

A Course in Miracles W-155.7:1-5

“Whatever furnishes the semblance of an idea governed by its Principle, furnishes food for thought. Through astronomy, natural history, chemistry, music, mathematics, thought passes naturally from effect back to cause. Academics of the right sort are requisite. Observation, invention, study, and original thought are expansive and should promote the growth of mortal mind out of itself, out of all that is mortal.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 195:15-22

Rocking Chair Moments

 

The Crescent Hotel Balcony

Photo credit: Steve Shogren

One of my favorite authors, Robert Klose, wrote an essay about traveling by plane and dreading a two-hour layover somewhere in North Carolina. When he got to the waiting area, he was surprised to see a row of rocking chairs along the wall. As he happily rocked and people-watched, he noticed that everyone was rushing and distracted. There was a grand piano on the other side of the waiting area and to his delight someone sat down and began to play. His enjoyment was great, as was everyone else’s. He noticed people slowed their pace and even stopped to listen, some swaying along and others even singing to the popular old tunes. As I read this, it occurred to me that we can mentally have our own rocking chairs and pianos within us and enjoy the peace and joy wherever we are! So the next time I’m waiting somewhere I’d rather not be, I shall do my best to have a “rocking-chair/piano moment”. 

“Exclude the outer world, and let your thoughts fly to the peace within. They know the way. For honest thoughts, untainted by the dream of worldly things outside yourself, become the holy messengers of God Himself.” 

A Course in Miracles W-188.6:4-6

“The calm and exalted thought or spiritual apprehension is at peace. Thus the dawn of ideas goes on, forming each successive stage of progress.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 506:11-14

Who We Are

Art by: Catrin Walz-Stein

Catching Up To Who We Are - by Clarissa Pinkola Estes

“We do not become healers.

We came as healers. 

We are.

Some of us are still catching up to what we are.

We do not become storytellers.

We came as carriers of the stories that we and our ancestors actually lived. 

We are.

Some of us are still catching up to what we are.

We do not become artists. We came as artists. 

We are.

Some of us are still catching up to what we are.

We do not become writers.. dancers.. musicians.. helpers.. peacemakers. 

We came as such. 

We are.

Some of us are still catching up to what we are.

We do not learn to love in this sense. We came as Love.

We are Love.

Some of us are still catching up 

to who we truly are.”

~ Clarissa Pinkola Estes

“My angels are exalted thoughts, appearing at the door of some sepulchre, in which human belief has buried its fondest earthly hopes. With white fingers they point upward to a new and glorified trust, to higher ideals of life and its joys. Angels are God’s representatives. These upward-soaring beings never lead towards self, sin, or materiality, but guide to the divine Principle of all good, whither every real individuality, image, or likeness of God, gathers. By giving earnest heed to these spiritual guides they tarry with us, and we entertain 

‘angels unawares.’”

 Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 299:7-17

“Today in gratitude we lift our hearts above despair, and raise our thankful eyes, no longer looking downward to the dust. We sing the song of thankfulness today, in honor of the Self that God has willed to be our true Identity in Him. Today we smile on everyone we see, and walk with lightened footsteps as we go to do what is appointed us to do.” 

A Course in Miracles W-123.4:1-3

Tesla and Eddy

Salt Flats - photo by Aaron Springston

The late 1800s and early 1900s were a hotbed of innovation and enlightened thought. In thinking about Nikola Tesla and Mary Baker Eddy, I am led to wonder about our choices during that time, and how different our lives would be today had we chosen the path which benefited humanity rather than individual monetary gain. Tesla was finding ways to supply the world with electricity and all the benefits which would ensue from it. If we had chosen his way of powering vehicles rather than Ford’s oil-based motor, we would not have the environmental problems we are facing today. Mary Baker Eddy had discovered the key to rising above debilitating physical ailments. Her science of The Christ was not religion, but a way of thinking which had been hinted at through the centuries, but always quashed by old men who wanted to lord over the masses, ruling them through servitude in its various forms. Then medical science began to progress and everyone thought it would be far simpler to let doctors cure them than to take personal responsibility for themselves, in the way a man called Jesus tried to show them. And to think each and every one of these choices have been made because someone wanted to make money.

"Ontology receives less attention than physiology. Why? Because mortal mind must waken to spiritual life before it cares to solve the problem of being, hence the author's experience; but when that awakening comes, existence will be on a new standpoint."
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 556

“The aim of prayer is to release the present from its chains of past illusions; to let it be a freely chosen remedy from every choice that stood for a mistake. What prayer can offer now so far exceeds all that you asked before that it is pitiful to be content with less.”
A Course in Miracles S-1.IV.3:5-6

Seeing Thoughts

Photo from Jane Goodall Institute

I’ve been looking at people, both in the news and in day-to-day life, and they all look exactly like their thoughts. The self-serving politicians look dull and bloated. The fake religious leaders seem plastic and polished. The sad people who feel victimized have a terrible vulnerability showing, frayed around the edges and a bit shaky in demeanor. I could go on and on. But the main point is that you can’t hide your thoughts. What we see is what is there. Now, I don’t mean tall, short, big, small, or any designation concerning what we think of as beauty. I mean what is either glowing or festering within the individuals. While I’m certain there are some exceptions to this rule, I haven’t noticed any since I began to pay attention. While it’s a bit frightening, it is also a wonderful tool when choosing who to represent you in public office!

“Seeing is no less a quality of physical sense than feeling. Then why is it more difficult to see a thought than to feel one? Education alone determines the difference. In reality there is none.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 86

“Today our purpose is to free the world from all the idle thoughts we ever held about it, and about all living things we see upon it. They cannot be there. No more can we. For we are in the home our Father set for us, along with them. And we who are as He created us would loose the world this day from every one of our illusions, that we may be free.”
A Course in Miracles W-132.14:1-5

Living Life Here and Now

Checking Out the Hen House

A man named Adam Becker has written a book, More Everything Forever. He examines what tech billionaires are telling us about the future of the world, and us. He questions why we listen to them, and why they are saying the things they are — without a shred of proof as to why they think we can’t solve our problems. One overly rich venture capitalist says that we aren’t going to meet our climate goals, hence we should put more energy into artificial intelligence in order to make it super intelligent, then let it solve our problems. Good grief. And for whatever reason, people follow along and think this is a good idea! He posits that we acquiesce because we desire to transcend all limits. Since we can’t imagine how to do that on our own, we place our hopes in the unknown, hoping for salvation. He feels that we have done this because we don’t have good conversations between ourselves about what the future could look like, so we opt for a science fiction view, forgetting science fiction is fiction. His solution? Enjoy the earth which is right in front of us: get into nature, turn off your phone, talk to your neighbors. Live the life we have. To those of us practicing the presence, this sounds supremely natural!

“Do not underestimate the appeal of the ego’s demonstrations to those who would listen. Selective perception chooses its witnesses carefully, and its witnesses are consistent. The case for insanity is strong to the insane. For reasoning ends at its beginning, and no thought system transcends its source. Yet reasoning without meaning cannot demonstrate anything, and those who are convinced by it must be deluded.”
A Course in Miracles T-11.V.16:1-5

“Immortal men and women are models of spiritual sense, drawn by perfect Mind and reflecting those higher conceptions of loveliness which transcend all material sense.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 247:15-18

The Fruits of Love

Christmas Tour of Homes

“It is hard to steer a church in an age when no one is listening to the messages and call of the gospel.” This statement was made by a pastor whom I greatly respect. It has prompted me to think about what causes the majority of my friends to listen to their inner knowing, to divine guidance, to their intuition — whatever they choose to call this cosmic consciousness of which we are all part. I know many fine people who are deeply religious. But that, in and of itself, is not enough to cause them to be compassionate. I watch as aware, conscious people handle difficulties in this world, and I learn what it takes to live from the heart, from an open mind, with Love reflected moment-to-moment. My conclusion is that we needn’t be led by sermons and gospel writings in order to live as the reflection, the image and likeness of divine Oneness. We have an ever-present ability to tap into expanding thought. And for this I am grateful.

“Our baptism is a purification from all error. Our church is built on the divine Principle, Love. We can unite with this church only as we are new-born of Spirit, as we reach the Life which is Truth and the Truth which is Life by bringing forth the fruits of Love, — casting out error and healing the sick. Our Eucharist is spiritual communion with the one God. Our bread ‘which cometh down from heaven,’ is Truth. Our cup is the cross. Our wine the inspiration of Love, the draught our Master drank and commended to his followers.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 35

“A major tenet in the ego’s insane religion is that sin is not error but truth, and it is innocence that would deceive. Purity is seen as arrogance, and the acceptance of the self as sinful is perceived as holiness. And it is this doctrine that replaces the reality of the Son of God as his Father created him, and willed that he be forever. Is this humility? Or is it, rather, an attempt to wrest creation away from truth, and keep it separate?”
A Course in Miracles T-19.II.4:1-5

All-Inclusive Wonder

A lot has changed in the last couple of millennia, don't you think? We could spend hours listing changes in our understanding of the universe! Something which has not changed appreciably is our idea of God. Religion has pretty much held us locked in to what has been thought of as the truth. Many of us are fearlessly admitting that we are all, each and every one, the expression and experience of God. We're happily allowing our thoughts to embrace new concepts such as, "I am the light of the world"! This is not a self-important declaration, but an all-inclusive, divine-Love centered exclamation of the wonder we know as Life. Our burgeoning understanding is bringing a joy we never dreamed would be possible on this earth plane. We're starting to see that the kingdom of heaven is right here, within and without, waiting for us to embrace it. Let's go forth today and shine!

“Your will be done, you holy child of God. It does not matter if you think you are in earth or Heaven. What your Father wills of you can never change. The truth in you remains as radiant as a star, as pure as light, as innocent as love itself. And you are worthy that your will be done!”
A Course in Miracles T-31.VI.7:1-5

“Accompanying this scientific consciousness was an other revelation, even the declaration from heaven, supreme harmony, that God, the divine Principle of harmony, is ever with men, and they are His people. Thus man was no longer regarded as a miserable sinner, but as the blessed child of God. Why? Because 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. This is Scriptural authority for concluding that such a recognition of being is, and has been, possible to men in this present state of existence, — that we can become conscious, here and now, of a cessation of death, sorrow, and pain. This is indeed a foretaste of absolute Christian Science. Take heart, dear sufferer, for this reality of being will surely appear sometime and in some way. There will be no more pain, and all tears will be wiped away. When you read this, remember Jesus’ words, ‘The kingdom of God is within you.’ This spiritual consciousness is therefore a present possibility.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 573:11-2

Shake It Off

Eckhart Tolle tells a story about ducks. As he’s sitting by a pond watching them go about their business, suddenly one of the ducks lashes out at another one. They squawk and flap their wings, seeming to be quite angry. Then they shake themselves off, and go back to being ducks on a pond. Even though their feathers got ruffled, when it was over, it was over. I’ve watched similar scenarios with my two cats. One will pass by the other and there will be an altercation — a vicious sounding disagreement with growls and hisses. And then it’s over and they are best friends again. We have much to learn from animals. It seems that fights to the death only occur amongst animals when there are males fighting over territory — and that territory includes females which they consider to be theirs. We have much to learn from animals. The pointlessness of current conflicts around the world break our collective hearts. Since we can only change the world by changing our own thought, let’s begin with our personal interactions with each other. Let there be peace …

“When the divine precepts are understood, they unfold the foundation of fellowship, in which one mind is not at war with another, but all have one Spirit, God, one intelligent source, in accordance with the Scriptural command: ‘Let this Mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.’” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 276:4-9

“Peace is the ego’s greatest enemy because, according to its interpretation of reality, war is the guarantee of its survival. The ego becomes strong in strife. If you believe there is strife you will react viciously, because the idea of danger has entered your mind. The idea itself is an appeal to the ego. The Holy Spirit is as vigilant as the ego to the call of danger, opposing it with His strength just as the ego welcomes it. The Holy Spirit counters this welcome by welcoming peace. Eternity and peace are as closely related as are time and war.”
A Course in Miracles T-5.III.8:7-13

Love Frees Us

Photo courtesy of Blake Lasater

At times, we all feel overwhelmed by life's circumstances -- or, at least, I know I do. Everything seems easier to me now, with grown children, no daily jobs to show up for, and most arduous demands gone from my days. But sometimes things happen and we are drawn into them. I have a friend whose life has been turned upside down when least expected. How do we cope when an illness befalls us or our loved ones, changing the rhythm of life we cherish? Of course, we do what we must, and we pray for strength and guidance, and we listen for answers in whatever form they may appear. This is not an easy task -- but really, what is our choice? To all of us who are afraid, perhaps angry, feeling put-upon unnecessarily, overwrought by things beyond our control -- just breathe. Breathe deeply and find something to be happy for, an idea to be peaceful about. Sometimes we must release a problem in order to find its resolution. We can't change the situation, but we can change our thought about it. Love to you, each and every one, during this time of newborn thought!

“Love is freedom. To look for it by placing yourself in bondage is to separate yourself from it. For the Love of God, no longer seek for union in separation, nor for freedom in bondage! As you release, so will you be released. Forget this not, or Love will be unable to find you and comfort you."
A Course in Miracles T-16.VI.2.

“If divine Love is becoming nearer, dearer, and more real to us, matter is then submitting to Spirit. The objects we pursue and the spirit we manifest reveal our standpoint, and show what we are winning.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 239:18-2

The Light I Share With My Sister

Photo courtesy of Blake Lasater

When we have a misunderstanding or disagreement with someone, we usually have a litany of reasons why we are right and they are wrong. If you’re like me, you try to see things from their standpoint, seeing yourself and your actions through their eyes. And if you’re like me, you probably find more ways why they’re wrong and you’re right. Ha! I am ready to break that ridiculous circular thought process and see through the illusions I have created — both for myself and others. The only way to do this is to join with the light within my sister, to see her as the same creation of Love which we all are. Our ego (mortal mind) doesn’t want us to do that. So we place the ego’s hatred and fear in someone else and declare they are the enemy. To see through that facade is no easy task. But salvation lies in moving through that feeling of separation and truly feeling the Love which we are. Burning off the ego’s dross to see the precious Love which is our true being, we walk through the falsity of human belief and come out on the side. And we see as Love sees. I want this so badly …

“I have said that you cannot change your mind by changing your behavior, but I have also said, and many times, that you can change your mind. When your mood tells you that you have chosen wrongly, and this is so whenever you are not joyous, then know this need not be. In every case you have thought wrongly about some brother God created, and are perceiving images your ego makes in a darkened glass. Think honestly what you have thought that God would not have thought, and what you have not thought that God would have you think. Search sincerely for what you have done and left undone accordingly, and then change your mind to think with God’s. This may seem hard to do, but it is much easier than trying to think against it. Your mind is one with God’s. Denying this and thinking otherwise has held your ego together, but has literally split your mind. As a loving brother I am deeply concerned with your mind, and urge you to follow my example as you look at yourself and at your brother, and see in both the glorious creations of a glorious Father.”
A Course in Miracles T-4.IV.2:1-9

“Sorrow has its reward. It never leaves us where it found us. The furnace separates the gold from the dross that the precious metal may be graven with the image of God. The cup our Father hath given, shall we not drink it and learn the lessons He teaches?”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health 66:30-3

Forgiving My Illusions

Recently I wrote about a couple of old friends, whom I have apparently not forgiven for events in our past. Another dear friend responded that she was willing to talk about anything. In that moment, I realized that at the beginning of the pandemic she and I had gone for a long period with no interpersonal contact whatsoever. I had forgotten completely about this happening, until I read her words. I have always thought of true forgiveness as meaning there was nothing I was judging and condemning, hence there was nothing to forgive. This reinforces that idea, because it never crossed my mind that we had a temporary hiatus in communications. Also this morning, Holy Spirit led me to visit ACIM Lesson #219 as unpacked by Coreen and Nouk. In a beautiful dissertation at approximately minute-mark 12, going through 17”, I found exactly what I needed to hear. I will not go into all the details here, as it would take pages to describe the beauty and truth I found in Coreen’s words. Divine perfect Love is the way to see through the illusion of grievances. I hope to delve deeper into this in future days. Namaste …

“There is nothing you can hold against reality. All that must be forgiven are the illusions you have held against your brothers. Their reality has no past, and only illusions can be forgiven. God holds nothing against anyone, for He is incapable of illusions of any kind. Release your brothers from the slavery of their illusions by forgiving them for the illusions you perceive in them. Thus will you learn that you have been forgiven, for it is you who offered them illusions. In the holy instant this is done for you in time, to bring you the true condition of Heaven.”
A Course in Miracles T-16.VII.9:1-7

“My weary hope tries to realize that happy day, when man shall recognize the Science of Christ and love his neighbor as himself, — when he shall realize God’s omnipotence and the healing power of the divine Love in what it has done and is doing for mankind.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 55:16-21

Thank You Honest Journalists!

It’s been said that lies spread faster than truth. In this age of instant communications, it’s often difficult to separate the two. Our media is prone to spreading deception and distrust, dividing people in ways which seem irreparable. Many of us remember the early days of television, a time when advertising revved up and consumerism became flagrant. Today almost everything we hear and see is designed to sell us something. We must continue to be vigilant in what we allow into our thoughts, not only for our own good, but for the collective. Repeating stories which create divisions through feelings of superiority or inferiority, that’s playing the game which has been created for us. It’s important to use our education, our intuition, our spiritual knowledge, every bit of common sense we still have, in order to discern truth. I am grateful to all the journalists who spend countless hours researching the origins of information, and connecting the dots of current events, so we all don’t need to do so! 

"The human mind, imbued with this spiritual understanding, becomes more elastic, is capable of greater endurance, escapes somewhat from itself, and requires less repose. ... It raises the thinker into his native air of insight and perspicacity."
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 128:14-19

“You will identify with what you think will make you safe. Whatever it may be, you will believe that it is one with you. Your safety lies in truth, and not in lies. Love is your safety. Fear does not exist. Identify with love, and you are safe. Identify with love, and you are home. Identify with love, and find your Self.”
A Course in Miracles W-pII.5.5:1-8

The Perfume of Gratitude

Graphic of Unknown Origin

Are there incidents with people which replay in your mind at the most unexpected times? There are a few long-time friends with whom I’ve experienced periods of painful silence. Being ghosted and not knowing what you did to cause the person to ignore you — well, it was confusing and painful. Although we now talk and all is forgiven, we never talked about those incidents, and I still do not know what happened. Since this is coming up in my thoughts time and again, I take that as a sign I have not truly forgiven them. Since forgiveness is essential in moving forward with the way of life I have chosen, it’s time to examine these things. As a reflection of divine Love, I want to see as Love sees — purely, without judgment — seeing everyone in the same Light, because we are all One.

“Can you imagine how beautiful those you forgive will look to you? In no fantasy have you ever seen anything so lovely. Nothing you see here, sleeping or waking, comes near to such loveliness. And nothing will you value like unto this, nor hold so dear. Nothing that you remember that made your heart sing with joy has ever brought you even a little part of the happiness this sight will bring you. For you will see the Son of God. You will behold the beauty the Holy Spirit loves to look upon, and which He thanks the Father for. He was created to see this for you, until you learned to see it for yourself. And all His teaching leads to seeing it and giving thanks with Him.”
A Course in Miracles T-17.II.1:1-9

“This is what is meant by seeking Truth, Christ, not ‘for the loaves and fishes,’ nor, like the Pharisee, with the arrogance of rank and display of scholarship, but like Mary Magdalene, from the summit of devout consecration, with the oil of gladness and the perfume of gratitude, with tears of repentance and with those hairs all numbered by the Father.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 367:10-16

Put The Glass Down

Photo courtesy of Aaron Springston

There are many great stories about choosing joy rather than pain. The one I’m thinking of today concerns a glass of water. We are asked how much a glass of water weighs. Then we are told it doesn't matter what its weight is, it matters how long we hold it. If we hold it a minute, it's light. If we hold it an hour, our arm and/or hand may become uncomfortable with the weight. If we hold it all day, our arm will feel paralyzed. This scenario is a metaphor for holding on to worries and fears. If we keep them with us, we become convinced that they are impossible to overcome. We are paralyzed from the carrying of this weight. All we have to do is put the glass down to be released from our burden. Then we are free to feel the joy which is innately ours as a child of Love!

“Who that has felt the loss of human peace has not gained stronger desires for spiritual joy? The aspiration after heavenly good comes even before we discover what belongs to wisdom and Love. The loss of earthly hopes and pleasures brightens the ascending path of many a heart. The pains of sense quickly inform us that the pleasures of sense are mortal and that joy is spiritual.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 265:23-30

“It is your thoughts alone that cause you pain. Nothing external to your mind can hurt or injure you in any way. There is no cause beyond yourself that can reach down and bring oppression. No one but yourself affects you. There is nothing in the world that has the power to make you ill or sad, or weak or frail. But it is you who have the power to dominate all things you see by merely recognizing what you are. As you perceive the harmlessness in them, they will accept your holy will as theirs. And what was seen as fearful now becomes a source of innocence and holiness.”
A Course in Miracles W-190.5:1-8

Heroic Hearts

Today brought many personal victories on my road to relearning ways in which to perform daily chores and activities. While I don’t feel the need to recount them here, I did tell a friend and she replied, in part, with this quote from Ulysses by Alfred Lord Tennyson:

“We are not now that strength which in old days

Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are;

One equal temper of heroic hearts,

Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”

I thank everyone who is sending love to those of us who are willing to catch it!

“Miracles are teaching devices for demonstrating it is as blessed to give as to receive. They simultaneously increase the strength of the giver and 

supply strength to the receiver.” 

A Course in Miracles T-1.I.16:1-2

“Spirit is symbolized by strength, presence, and power, and also by holy thoughts, winged with Love.”

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 512:8-9

A Dream of Judgment

I’m noticing a few traits which are shared by many of my favorite humans. They don’t talk about others negatively. Not sharing in this destructive chatter makes life simpler, because we needn’t try to figure out what people’s motivations are: they do what they do. Actually, our happiness doesn’t rely on what others are doing — or not doing. When we put a label on someone, such as thief, then we’ve fixed that person in our mind with a conceptual identity. The mind does this, often focusing on a person’s shortcomings, and then we are trapped. At some point, we realize the more we trap others, the more we trap ourselves. As Jesus said years ago, “Judge not, lest ye be judged”. The world cannot change without a change in thought — our own thought — and it requires vigilance for us to check the words in our head! When we notice our judgments and labeling practices, let’s not think of it as a failure on our part. It’s a great success to catch the thoughts and realize what you’re doing. When you see it, it loses its power over you — and you can choose again!

“The power of the human will should be exercised only in subordination to Truth; else it will misguide the judgment and free the lower propensities. It is the province of spiritual sense to govern man. Material, erring, human thought acts injuriously both upon the body and through it.” 

Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health with Key to the Scripture 246:4-9

"A dream of judgment came into the mind that God created perfect as Himself. And in that dream was Heaven changed to hell, and God made enemy unto His Son. How can God's Son awaken from the dream? It is a dream of judgment. So must he judge not, and he will waken. For the dream will seem to last while he is part of it. Judge not, for he who judges will have need of idols, which will hold the judgment off from resting on himself. Nor can he know the Self he has condemned. Judge not, because you make yourself a part of evil dreams, where idols are your ‘true identity’, and your salvation from the judgment laid in terror and in guilt upon yourself.” 

A Course in Miracles T-29.IX