Gaia Community: A Truth Seeker's Blog

from "The Dance of the Dissident Daughter"

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Mon, 07 May 2007 02:12:37 GMT

--by Sue Monk Kidd

"The Gnostics didn't fully acknowledge Jesus' humanity and death. They believed it was the knowledge or gnosis of Jesus' message that saved humanity, not the crucifixion. To them he was a divine redeemer, not one who came to suffer and die."

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Perceptions

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 02:43:24 GMT

I knew I was going to be writing something this evening, for I could feel it building...the way one feels a storm brewing...the slow, soft, quiet storms that bring more than just rain with them.

I thought I would be revisiting Socrates...but the impetus to write turned out to be something quite different than the philosophical ponderings over ancient debates of Justice...

My inspiration has come from the dissolution (dis-illusion) of yet another relationship...

Perceptions...a person's perception of a thing, subject, matter, etc are never “wrong”...it is their's, and their's alone. Just as the perspective of a camera lens in tight focus is not framing a “wrong” or “faulty” composition of -- let's say -- a child, because only the face of the child is in view. It is simply not encompassing the totality of that which is before it...and although it could be said that such a perspective is lacking, it still has merit in its own right.

If the camera lens is covered with scratches or debris, then such will show in the composition...although this may not be a desirable picture (and not *truly* arising from the subject), it is still 'right' in the sense that the scratches and lint were present within the focus – albeit exclusively to the lens itself (and not an actual attribute of the subject in view)...

So...when one misperceives a person, subject, event, etc it is not that the mis-perception is “wrong”...there are simply 'things' interfering with a clear view...(and this is where he and I veered in drastically different directions...similar core, foundational philosophical/spiritual views would have prevented such a divergence...but alas...)

On a similar line of thought (same inspirational source)...

Rarely are things what they appear to be on the surface...the surface is often times more a reflection than a window. One has to have the ability -- perceptiveness and willingness, to peer beyond the surface's reflection...a shift of perspective is necessary...only then is the reflection replaced with a view into the deeper reality.

...

All this talk and thought of perceptions, perspectives -- and I've discovered the fog has come to my neck of the woods to rest for the evening...

I wonder where Neptune is sitting...

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Time

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Sat, 02 Dec 2006 04:57:22 GMT

Time...how it shifts, slips, changes and flies.

Wise Einstein passed along such knowledge when he declared Time as being relative...relative to each individual's perspective within each unique moment. Infinite realities, indeed.

Speaking of realities and perspectives -- have you ever stopped to contemplate why we use the verb “spent” when referring to our usage of time...and what the deeper meaning within such may mean? We use the same passive verb when referring to energy...and money. And what is money really, but a symbolic representation of power?

Here's a quick definition of “spent”:

exhausted: drained of energy or effectiveness; extremely tired; completely exhausted
gone: having all been spent; "the money is all gone"

And here's “power”:

possession of controlling influence
(physics) the rate of doing work
ability: possession of the qualities (especially mental qualities) required to do something or get something done
world power: a state powerful enough to influence events throughout the world
one possessing or exercising power or influence or authority; "may the force be with you"
might: physical strength
exponent: a mathematical notation indicating the number of times a quantity is multiplied by itself
supply the force or power for the functioning of

So from there, could it not be concluded that when it is said “I do not have time [to be...; to do...; for...; etc]” that in essence what is being expressed is the belief/thought that “I do not have power [to be...; to do...; for...]”?

“I don't have the power to...”?!? I believe that expression would fall into the category of 'victim mentality/consciousness'. Extremely dis-empowering. Why do we use such language? Cultural conditioning...and lack of awareness.

I believe it would be very wise for us to take the time to first observe what we are expressing...getting to the essence of the thoughts and words used...and then deciding if the results are what we are desiring to achieve. For thoughts and words are the building blocks of Creation, are they not?

Personally, I like the phrase “I will make time...”. Yep, I really like the way that phrase sounds and feels. I find it carries with it creative potential and self-empowerment.

Infinite possibilities, indeed...enjoy your Time.

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For a good laugh :)

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 05:23:04 GMT

http://www.endofworld.net/

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"Soul Mates" by Thomas Moore

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Sat, 09 Sep 2006 02:37:51 GMT

I happened across a book sitting upon a bookshelf amidst a sea of others...and even though I've done extensive reading on the subject, my curiosity was hooked and the book beckoned to be opened.

The preface alone was full of wonderful words of wisdom that I was inspired to share...
and although I've only read the preface and intro, I can tell this is a work that I H I G H L Y recommend to add to one's library...

**********

"It's my conviction that slight shifts in imagination have more impact on living than major efforts at change."

"The point of this book is to free ourselves of longstanding and rigid ideas and images of what it means to love, to be married, to be a friend, or to live in community."

"Although the book is called Soul Mates, it takes that notion broadly, to include the soul in all kinds of relationships...This book extends the idea of soul mate in order to suggest ways of being in any relationship soulfully, and it also celebrates those rare and profoundly satisfying bonds we feel with certain people who in the strictest sense are soul mates."

"The heart has its own reasons."

"The heart is a mystery -- not a puzzle than can't be solved, but a mystery in the religious sense: unfathomable, beyond manipulation, showing traces of the finger of God at work."

"When we focus our attention on the soul of relationship, instead of on its interpersonal mechanics, a different set of values comes to the foreground. We are now interested in fantasy and imagination. We begin to see relationship as the place where soul works out destiny."

*********

For me, this discovery just goes to show that no matter how much knowledge we hold on a given subject, there is always room for another's inpsired perspective to add to, expand and enrich our understanding...

~Namaste

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What if...

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 20:13:37 GMT

Christ's words were actually something more like --

"I AM is the Way"

"I AM is the Truth"

"I AM is the Light"

?

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Discord

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Thu, 20 Jul 2006 21:05:47 GMT

I have been contemplating that which I have borne witness to and it has left me with a spiraling sea of questions that press upon me to be answered.

Are those who profess belief in Higher Truths merely parroting what they have learned in their spiritual explorations?

Are "we" plagued with the very same hypocrisy and lack of True and Right action as the conventional religions we have walked away from? Indeed, from what I have witnessed, I say we are.

Which leads me to question just how wide-spread and deep this plague is among the 'aware and enlightened'. New and improved packaging doesn't automatically reflect the contents.

How do we expect to change the world when so many are still perpetuating the very same paradigms and dramas of mainstream society?

I have seen the chasm between knowledge and wisdom grows wide and the illusions of ego become all the more clever and deceptive as it, too, gains spiritual knowledge.

It is by Divine Grace that I have not lost all hope for humanity and our collective future, for more times than not, those I encounter do not act in harmony with the image of spiritual enlightenment they project with their eloquent and smart words once "pushed" beyond their comfort zones.

But I know in the very core of my being there are those out there whose words and actions create a beautiful harmony and radiate a powerful, dynamic Light. There are those who are consistent in thoughts, words and deeds no matter what circumstance they may find themselves in -- in the easy times, as well as the difficult times.

Where are these willing vessels and conduits of the Divine? The ones who have walked through the Fires of Trial and Refinement and have come out pure, strong and willing to be of service to the Great Work. Where are those who listen and act upon the whispers of Great Spirit?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I also wondered if the differences between men and women are still great during these Times of change we are now in...

The men thus far whom I've encountered and interacted with are only willing to 'aid' or 'give' if it means they can exert control over my actions and words and confine me to their belief systems...in essence, they are willing only if they can possess me.

Lovely, seductive words expressing Higher Truths...sentiments of true, unconditional love and personal freedom for both acting like water to a parched soul. But once they discover I'm beyond categorizing...beyond social norms...beyond being confined to how they think I should be, the illusion is quickly (and somewhat violently) blown away.

My 'silent observer' cannot help but watch with a mixture of amusement, amazement and mild disgust as the other quickly devolves into a fit and strives to exert and gain control over me, not even batting an eyes as they launch 'threats' in my direction if I don't bend to their way -- simultaneously my 'observer' is automatically identifying the triggers and core issues that has given rise to such hypocritical, base behavior.

To speak out of what is being observed? Useless -- it just feeds the power struggle drama. I've learned silence is golden in certain circumstances and I'm learning when to place a 'gag order' on the warrior in me that wants to 'defend' and/or shine Light on the situation at hand...and the desire to return back the energy thrown my way is ever present. But I'll let the Universe deal out karmic balance in the more personal 'areas', thank you very much...don't want my ego getting a hold of

But women, on the other hand...I've watched (either as a third party or by first hand experience) that there is a spirit of True assistance, faith and giving they embody that I've yet to see in men. Perhaps it is the maternal nature inherent in women (as a whole) that lends to this attribute...I surely don't claim to have the answer...but I can't help but wonder given what I've obsevered.

In analyzing and reflecting on these dynamics I have witnessed, the next step in the process leads me to question what still lurks and lingers in my own shadows to attract such experiences into my life after doing all the work I've done thus far along my Path. By George, I believe I've got it! But that is a tale for another forum -- like a book.

So I know the lessons I've gleaned from these experiences and I also know the beliefs I'm tempted to erect from these experiences...but I think in this moment the I've found a Balance...

Never again will I place my faith in men (meaning 'mankind' here now) to act according to his speech until AFTER I see how he responds and reacts when the going gets tough...

Never again will I lay plans in which the success of such are dependent on another person honoring their word -- for the minds and hearts of men are fickle and calculating.

And I do not say this as a person scorned and jaded. It is a matter of recognizing that when an illusion is cast away, it is truly only myself I have to "blame" for placing my trust, hope and faith in anything/anyone other than the Divine directly.

A question that plagues me with these conclusions, however, is "how does one co-create a new paradigm with others in light of these conclusions?".

Like attracts like...

So with detached hope, I will hope that the most recent experiences were a banishment of old thought patterns that still lingered within me and a 'final test'; and that from here on out those I encounter and 'attract' are indeed in harmony with my highest ideals and visions -- for myself and for humanity as a whole.

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Discerning the Keys : The Hanged Man

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Tue, 04 Jul 2006 19:18:37 GMT

In contemplation I have found the drawing of “The Hanged Man” to be very in tune with today...

The energies and symbols I see present point to Jupiter, the number 4 (which can be seen in Jupiter's glyph), Venus, the inverted 4, as seen in the crossed legs of the man in question...and today is the 4^th of July – symbolizing to me rebellion, battle for the greater good, freedom and passionate Fire in the American collective consciousness.

What shall you create on this day of Independence?

And again, the below cited work is not my own (aside from a few interjections here and there) – it has been sourced from Pamela Eakins, PH.D. -- “Tarot of the Spirit”...

THE HANGED MAN : XII

Divinatory Meaning------------------------------------------------------

It is time to retreat, withdraw and surrender to quietude; when the internal waters are stilled, you can see and hear your deep eternal self which is your own truth; through meditative contemplation, you will arrive at truth; your florious nature is revealed when the clear waters of your mind cease to be distrubed by rippling thoughts; this is a time of voluntary withdrawal, reenter the world only when you know you have receiveed answers; do not be pushed or agitated by the whims of others.

Esoteric Qualities------------------------------------------------------

Hebrew attribution: Mem, water

Astrological attribution: Water, the reflective principle [Moon]

Twenty third Path: Mediates between Geburah (the great universal destroyer [Mars, Hecate, Kali]) and Hod (the thinking mind [Mercury, Gemini])

Essence: The Return to the sea of life, the womb of all being

Intelligence: The Stable Intelligence, the original intellect, the deep mind, which is, was and ever shall be

Veil: Thoughts that ripple across the mind's surface are the whole of the truth.

Mystery: In losing your self, you find your Self.

Interpretation------------------------------------------------------------------------

Key XII, the Hanged Man, represents the suspended mind. At Key XII, you are in a time of place of surrender. You are letting go. You are voluntarily retreating. You are evolving and this process necessitates withdrawal.

The Hanged Man immerses himself in Water, the element of deep understanding. There it is possible for him to tap the deep flow of the original intellect, the universal mind [Jung's “collective consciousness”?], the most stable intelligence, the brilliant pattern of thought known before and beneath the myriad dimensions of cultural overlay. He is immersed in the cosmic womb, that which cradles spirit and builds from. This womb is a shell of protection which offers a way of knowing through quieting and releasing the self from preoccupation with everyday matters. The Hanged Man is submerged in deep introspection.

From this womb, which could be compared to a cocoon or an isolation tank, the man – when he so wills – is reborn in newness

I am reminded of the telling of Nicodemus posing the question of how one can be “born again” to Christ...

As the twenty-third path on the Tree of Life, Key XII mediates between Geburah, the universal force of dissolution, and Hod, the Hanged Man's intelligence or patterns of thought. On the twenty-third path, the Hanged Man must experience the dissolution of former patterns –Death – in order to evolve. Thus, the womb is also a grave or tomb, in that the process of change requres laying ot rest, or leaving room for the new to emerge. The Hanged Man's process is therefore akin to a metamorphosis. Just as the larval of an insect becomes the pupa which then transforms into the adult, the Hanged Man eventually emerges in a more evolved state. Reborn, ho now sees the world from a new perspective, a point of views which is uncolored by his prior socialization. He has abandoned thought patterns which were overly complicated, false or misguided.

As one situation ends and another begins, the submerged one is redeemed. He is freed from the constructs which led him into bondage. As is symbolized by his legs crossed in an inverted 4, the Hanged Man in submersion is reconsidering his relationship to the material world. He is engaged in the human quest to overcome conditioned limitations. He is rethinking the purpose of his existence. Gareth Knight states; “...perhaps the most basic Spiritual Law of the Universe is, however much appearances seem to indicated to the contrary, you get out of life exactly what you put into it.” Key XII, the Hanged Man, holds the answer to discovering what you are going to put into life. Your first task is to make your mind into a clear receptive vessel operation with pure, unfettered and unclouded universal mind. Once social conditioning is cleared away, your true purpose has room to emerge.

Submerged, you will find your Self at the door of reason. This is a door to the “mighty Waters of Ain Soph,” the realm in which the cosmic atom of the inner Self – the Self freed from social constraints – is encountered. In this realm, you arrive at an understanding of the nature of consciousness and perceive the truth purely and clearly. Submerged, you begin to come to terms with the vast and mighty power of the massed and steadfast intention of the will-to-good.

To achieve a state of clear awareness, you must learn to see as the Buddha saw. The Buddha said, “In what is seen there must be just the seen; in what is heard there must be just the heard; in what is sensed (as smell, taste or touch) there must be just what is sensed; in what is thought there must be just the thought.” Zen Buddhist Philip Kapeau states that for many of us, whose minds are usually “checkerboards of reflection, opinion and prejudice”, bare attention becomes difficult to achieve. Our lives have become centered not in reality itself but in our ideas of it, and the mind, when agitated or disturbed by an excess of stimulation, cannot reflect the deepest inner reality. Only when the pool of consciousness is stilled can we begin to perceive the true reflection of the One Self. To enter into a new way of knowing, we must strip the mind of extraneous thought and allow our selves to fully experience that which IS on the innermost plane.

In order to perceive its own true nature, the mind must first be brought to a state of emptiness. This is why retreat or withdrawal – secluded submersion—is so important. In this state, certain characteristics of existence are illuminated. In diving below the built up layers of our human experience, we begin to come to grips with the divine law of cause and effect. We come to understand the exacting nature of karma: the necessity of production and solution as well as the necessity of dissolution. We understand that we create and control our own reactions and reflections. We learn that at every moment, we are taking the first step upon a new path. At each moment, we create the karma in which our path is bound. Most importantly, we learn that true and lasting freedom is achieved through successfully aligning our own “free will” with the cosmic will. We learn that love is the will, love under law. We have created to conditions of our own bondage.

Through our deepened understanding, and attunement to the guidance of the Higher Self, we can overcome the conflicts we feel in our everyday life. Through willingness to submit to the dictates of our highest conscience and consciousness – which will inevitably point to love as the highest of all principles – we are regenerated and born again. In the way of love, we sacrifice aggression, greed and selfishness for vulnerability, openness and selflessness.

As we emerge from submersion in the might waters of the cosmic sea, the realm where we discover the elemental Self, the efforts of body and mind are consolidated, focused and energized. Our intelligence is clear, stable and consistent. Stress dissolves. WE have seen the Inner Self and we have learned of its higher purpose.”

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

and here is a link to the site where the accompanying image was sourced...

Tags: intelligence, Moon, karma, Tarot, Venus, 4, tree of life, Jupiter, the Hanged Man, Waters, Major Arcana

Dancing with the Elements :: 7.3.6

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Mon, 03 Jul 2006 22:24:34 GMT

Summer is well at hand and the element of Fire bursts forth in the most unexpected places.

Rich with symbolism I have found the Land I am now in to be...what do your surroundings whisper to you?

Bees, Fire, Wood, Weaving, Adventure and Travel, The Sea, Sensuality, the Sun...god, I love Summer.

What visions are conjured from contemplating over what the archetypal symbols stir within our souls – individually and collectively?

Tis a Time of Dynamic energy, and if one has taken the time to cultivate such, it can be a most wonderful energy to work and play with. Mythologically (and dare I venture to say historically), Summer is a season that has been rich with tales of the archetypal god and goddess coming together, stories of liberation and freedom...among many other tales of adventures and noble quests.

Do you watch the patterns of your life running parallel to archetypes and mythology? Do you dare to embrace your dreams of both day and night?

I have found myself blessed with standing at The Tower – in awe and deepest appreciation to All that which carries within it a spark of the Divine.

It is no longer a question of what shall the Future bring us, as we have heard spoken with deep passion in the past, but a question of what shall we make of the Future? To build, what is necessary? Plans, Tools and a Foundation. I would classify information, knowledge, balance and present energy as being tools, myself.

What knowledge will you consciously choose to acquire? We 'watch' what physical ingredients we bring into our bodies striving for physical strength and health, is it so illogical to watch what type of information we bring into our minds? I think not.

Do you listen to what stirs within your soul? The Soul is quickened by the Divine Spirit – can you hear It? Do you trust yourself to discern and interpret what is before you? I shall say, I have my moments where I doubt the source of what I'm “hearing” – and I believe we have all found ourselves facing such inner questions and doubts, but I also know that I could not be where I am in this moment had I not pushed through the doubt. It is not an easy Path to walk, but the rewards are truly awe-inspiring.

Quiet yourself and listen to the Wind as it blows and dances around you, as your soul will understand the whispers of Its messages. Breathe the Wind in as deeply as your body can contain, for clarity is but one of the gifts carried upon the Wind – will you accept the gift when it is presented to you?

Do you dare leap to meet your Dreams?

I feel the strong impulse to begin building – how could I not when I find myself blessed to be holding company with brothers and sisters of Saturn and Uranus?

And then there is the urge to beginning communicating again, after an extended silence on the Web...Swords, Spiders, Wind, Mercury, Lightning, Towers and Castles...these images arise together and point back to each another in my ponderings. In my dreams they come to me, while walking in the glory of Nature I spot them in the Sky, while meditating in the brilliance of the Sun the whisper to me, in the company of a kindred spirit they peek between the gazes...

Again, I pose a question – what do these images conjure for you? A Mercury Retrograde is slated for the skies – I find myself contemplating just how to best utilize the flow of energy that shall be present. As a child of Saturn (in retrograde, no less), I have quite the affinity to the task of turning a seeming pitfall into a bounding leap up the mountain side...I think I shall have much fun with the experiment that has presented itself.

"That which does not kill me only makes me stronger" is a motto spoken with grave seriousness by those who have shared in the adventures of mountain climbing throughout one's Life.

And speaking of tools – those in which we use to heal, to learn, to build...I've begun a study of a form of the Golden Art of Tarot...what a rich history the Tarot holds. I think I shall begin a post on my own personal study – and invite you to ponder over the questions posed and share what you come back with.

I've discovered in my inner quest that I am often at my most happy and content times when I'm reading, studying, writing and teaching others with what I share. I've heard people say (and have even felt them think) that I am “doing things wrong” by not adhering to the societal norms in how I choose to walk my Path and live my Life (there are those within my life that have gone so far as to claim I was mentally ill in court proceedings -- what a tale to tell that is). "Malicious slander" those who truly know me would say.

But aside from that, the experience has served rightly to show me just how irrationally many still cling and hold tight to preconceived notions formed from the faulty conditioning of their past.

And I know I am safe in my assumption that I am not the only one who has faced such intolerance and the condemnation that arises from it. I say to you who have experienced an echo of this in your own life -- do not faint and do not allow the perceptions of others to detour you from where your soul is leading you. Hold fast and stay the course...it is always darkest just before the breaking of the Dawn.

So here I am, defying others logic and reason and doing what brings me inner peace and satisfies my soul's spiritual ideals...I can think of know better way to obtain the highest possible outcome in my Life – and therefore in the lives of those whom I hold near and dear to my heart.

Am I crazy? Perhaps I am. I do know for sure, however, that I do not choose to live the type of life I see so many living and what results from their striving to play the game by rules set forth by a system that does not honor its word -- infested with hipocracy and back-stabbing in each and every division and rank...a system that has inflicted great harm upon the Earth and Our Children. No thank you. I've assessed the situation and from that assessment have chosen to see what a different paradigm shall give rise to – looking to the lost Arts, Higher Teachings and Elders to help plot a course and guide my way.

Care to join me? I bet fantastic Tales will be weaved from such a Quest...

Tags: dreams, Summer, archetypes, Mercury, retrograde, Elders, symbols, elements, Saturn, paradigms, Uranus

Discerning The Keys : The Lovers

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Mon, 03 Jul 2006 17:25:41 GMT

Hello All~

After a period of much activity and the introspection of such, my 'silence' on the Web seems to have broken, as I have much I wish to share with other kindred souls and spirits.

I thought I would see how a study of “Tarot of the Spirit” , with my own interjections here and there, would do – wondering what shall unfold from the sharing of such. The companion book to this particular style of Tarot deck was written by Pamela Eakins, PH.D., in 1992 and published by Weiser Books. Her cited work below is denoted by italics. Once my scanner is back at my finger tips, I will more than likely scan the accompanying cards that I believe to be the art of Dr. Eakins sister.

The cards I share here are chosen intuitively – and it is quite fun to see how the cards seem to pull synchronistic events into perspective.

This particular work by Pamela Eakins is a most powerful tool that I highly recommend. I hope her teachings shall aid all those along their Path who read her thoughts and conclusions – as it has mine.

KEY VI – THE LOVERS

Esoteric Qualities -----------------------------------------------------------

Hebrew attribution: Zain, the sword

Astrological attribution: Gemini/Mercury communication

Seventeenth Path: Mediates between Binah (the Eternal Mother Principle) and Tiphareth (spiritual beauty and light manifested on the plane of earth, the Eternal Son Principle).

Essence: The Lovers are the children of god, also referred to as the children of the voice of super consciousness.

Intelligence: The Separating or Disposing Intelligence; in order to join, separation must first be acknowledged.

Veil: Each one of us is a completely separate entity. We are born alone and we die alone, remaining forever disconnected.

Mystery: Separation is essential for evolution; part of the self stays in ascension while part of the self descends into manifestation. We are each a spark of the one flame.

And some of my own thoughts...

Numerological attributes:

2.6.8 and

1.7 = numbers compsing the 17TH Path

2 = Polarity

6 = card number

8 = 17 (17TH Path)

1 = The Creative, Male, Dominant, Alpha, Leader, Ambition,Initiation, Individualism, Self, Arrogance, Aggression,Attainment, Happiness, Fulfillment, Glory, Fame, Birth, Fire, Unique, Omniscience

2= The Submissive, Female, Dualism, Cooperation, Consideration, Cooperation, Balance, Mediation, The Other, Love,Flexibility, Adaptability, Grace, Dance, Harmony, Devotion,Obedience, The Subconscious, Water, Soul Mate

6 = The Protector, Provider, Healer, Nurturing, Children,Empathy, Intuition, Sympathy, Quality, Sustenance,Love of Community, Unconditional love, Circulation, Economy, Agriculture, Charity, Balance, Grace, Evolution,Simplicity, Sorcery

7 = The Analyst, Thinker, Science, Learning, Education, Study,The Written Word, Logic, Alchemy, Secrets, Myth, Religion, Ritual, Understanding,Knowledge, Isolation, Chastity,Dignity, The Collective Consciousness, Genius

8 = The Manifesting, Wealth, Power, Riches, Status, Material,Pragmatism, The Ego, Provision, Aggregation, Dictatorship,Multiples, Business, Investment, Employment, Appearance,Customs, Skills, Exchange, Reality, World Transformation.

And I have found for myself -- personally, that the symbolism of Swords, Fire, Crows, Keys, Travel (to name but a few) have been nearly prolific around me at the moment – which I can most definitely see the reflections of such in the interpretation of the card “The Lovers” with recent surrounding events...what fun ;-)

So following is Dr. Eakins' interpretation of “The Lovers”, sharing a harmony of different beliefs and perspectives regarding the cards and the meaning behind the symbols. I believe she provided an amazing depth of insight, connecting and blending a myriad of harmonious beliefs.

Interpretation---------------------------------------------------------------

The Lovers represent the sword that slashes down through the cosmos separation the whole of us into discreet forms. The sword distributed gender and polarity through the universe, creating the tension of opposites. Polarity is the basic principle of manifest existence. It is the antithesis of the nail (see Key V : The Hierophant) The nail binds. The sword cleaves, cuts, divides, separates. The sword of Zain cuts apart and places all that exists into the distinct forms of manifestation. It is the force that takes the limitless substance of the universe and categorizes it [Gemini, Mercury]. It creates form in the formless, name in the nameless. It separates night from day, black from white, female from male, negative from positive, cold from hot, wet from dry, loss from gain, pleasure from pain. Zain, the sword, is the tool that separates the life force into discreet entities; trees of the garden from beasts of the field from birds of the air from man and woman [Adam and Eve, creation story myths].

It is through the sword of Zain that we know ourselves as individual and unique. Through Zain, we understand our separation. The fact of split-apartness causes us great joy as well as great grief. We know the jubilation and the devastation of having descended into manifestation to be ensouled in a physical body. The process of becoming manifest provides us with a tremendous opportunity to create just as it is the source of our frustration. We feel hopeful, but cut off. Therefore, we continually strive to reunite with the great force of the limitless substance, even as we fear that same reunion.

Further, we seek to unite with others just as we seek peace within ourselves. This is the dilemma of the Lovers. The tension of separation facilitates our desire to reconnect. As such, our very separateness becomes the basis of our love. The desire to reconnect is the driving force. We seek the unification of opposites within in order to know inner balance. We seek all that we are missing in order to make us whole.

The polarity of the Lovers can be understood on several levels. On one level, the Lovers can be taken literally to refer to sexual and sensual unity. This aspect of the Lovers involves attraction and approaching. It is the recognition of the Self [the Soul] divided from the whole. The Self feels removed and yearns for that which is beyond. This is the desire to connect intimately with another and experience completion. This urge is beautifully expressed in the...interchange from the Song of Solomon in the Bible...

In many tarot representations of the Lovers, they are depicted as nude figures. Their nakedness demonstrates the innocence of their love. In their nakedness, they are clothed only by the holy spirit of their love. The Lover, in purity and innocence, mirrors aspects of the Self and completes that which is lacking.

On another level, Key VI symbolizes a royal or exalted marriage. This is the marriage [or alchemy] of the Emperor (Key IV) and the Empress (Key III). The marriage of yang and yin, animus with anima, heaven with earth, force with form. Their love conveys the delicate balance of equally-weighted opposites.

On the Tree of Life, this is the marriage of Chokmah and Binah, the Eternal Father with the Eternal Mother principles. This marriage unifies, even as it defines and separates, Fire and Water, The two primary elemental forces. Through the marriage, [or combination of energies] the son is born. Thus, Key VI is the path the connects the Universal Mother with the Universal Son [Christ and the virgin Mary]. Paternity is, once again, the hidden cause of this connection.

In the tarot, the Lovers has several layers of meaning. The meaning has been in debate for centuries. Who, really, are the Lovers? Some say the Lovers are man and woman. Some say they represent balance within the Self, the divine inner marriage which results from Self-love. Still others say the Lovers represent the connection between Self and God. Finally, Key VI is said to represent brotherhood [Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table] or sisterhood [a Coven or Priestess-hood]. Brotherhood, for example, refers to an association of people who are united in a common interest such as a belief system. This, too, is union.

Just as the meaning of the Lovers in the tarot has been widely debated, the identification of the Lovers in Song of Solomon has always been in dispute. Suffice it to say, the Song works on many levels. Some see the Song as a genuine love story conveying a true and genuine affection between two people. Others say the male is is God and the Female represents the People of Israel. Others claim that the man is Christ and the woman is the Church.

...I would say it is not a matter of one over the other, but more so that it is unique unto each experience and each individual, and I think that is what Eakins points to in the information she has chosen to share and expound on.

A good symbolic representation works on many levels at once. As a spiritual symbol, the Lovers represents the unification of the levels of consciousness within the Self. It refers to the true merger of the three modes of mind: the super-conscious (higher consciousness; the light), the waking consciousness and the subconscious (the dark). In linking these layers of consciousness, the link between the individual and the holy guardian angel is formed. This link is the link between the individual and the spirit as well as between the individual and the personality.

Through separating out and understanding the true relation among the three modes of consciousness – and thereby beginning to ascertain clear the messages of the universe – we begin to attain a knowledge of our individual purpose on a higher level. Understanding this entails a complete transformation on four planes, a transformation which is told in the original stories of creation. So then, the Lovers is also the key of creating a new universe [emphasis mine]. Key VI separates out and recombines. It leaves us with the questions: of what are things composed; how shall we recombine them [the Art of Alchemy]?

Once we have heard the messages of the universe clearly and begun to perceive our calling, we must retain faith in our perceptions. Taken even further, the Lovers is the experience of faith in the higher self. Part of this faith is the understanding that in order to grow, we must let go, or separate out, that which no longer fits. This is the experience of giving birth. One must surrender to the fact of birth in order to experience the new life that is emerging. On the spiritual plane, the new birth can be seen as the birth of light and faith.

The Lovers is the Seventeenth Path on the Tree of Life. This path mediates between Binah...and Tiphareth...The separation of Binah and Tiphareth contains the magical image of the power of surrender (see the Three of Wind). In the Lovers, you learn that you must give up one form in order to gain another. You must surrender in order to achieve victory. You must understand your sense of sorrow and separation even as you recognize your oneness with all things.

In all cases, the Lovers is the experience of the agony of separation and the bliss of union. We learn that there is a certain ecstasy in separation and that is the triumph of individual achievement. There can also be a terrible agony in union. Union, without a sense of oneness, can feel like unfulfilling bondage.

The fact of separation contains union and union contains separation and these two concepts repeat infinitely within each other. Knowing love is an opportunity and a curse. The object of the Lovers is to tune into basic goodness, to attune to pure unconditional love, both on the inner and outer levels. Key VI tells us that unconditional love is the driving force of the universe. The secret of Key VI is the knowledge that things of matter in the universe are separated by the boundaries of matter and that love is the glue that binds all things. As we learn this lesson, we understand that Key VI represents the emergence of the Christ-consciousness [Buddha, Quan Yin] on the physical plane.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As always, I welcome and embrace any discussion, as I believe we have so very much we can learn and teach one to the other.

Be safe and blessed amidst your adventures...and may your thoughts be those of Clarity, Truth and Wisdom.

Tags: psychology, mercury, tarot, alchemy, mysticism, the Lovers, Tree of Knowledge, the Lightning Path

Nature takes a Stand

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Sun, 26 Mar 2006 16:34:07 GMT

I received the below link with a request to pass it along... After taking a peek, I had to make sure I honored said request... http://www.channel4.com/fourdocs/film/film-detail.jsp?id=1575

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When it rains...

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 02:49:23 GMT

it pours.

So often I hear people using this turn of phrase to express exasperation over a stream of less-than-pleasant events.

But what of a downpour of blessings? How inexpressible the feeling of being showered by Goddess...but...can you feel it? It is this feeling, in timing with the coming of Spring, that I wish to share with you in this Moment.

I invite you to pause for just a moment and feel what it is I have to share with you --for it is just as much yours as it is mine. To feel it is a way in which you can lay claim to your inherent right to Divine Love and Its abounding blessings. Do you dare stretch yourself to feel across this electronic medium? Do you dare defy logic and catch the magic these words carry?

I dare say there is nothing more exquisite to a parched soul than to be wrapped in a storm of Divine synchronicity and blessings...to be swept away in the Flow that brings one to that which has been sought beyond Time and Space...that which words could never fully express...that which is found in the Silence and in the Stillness.

I KNEW beyond logic and reason that Spring would bring to me all that which I had been searching for. I knew in my very bones, despite the past "crashes and burns" that this Process has brought about, that this Spring would unfold in magical ways.

And it happened.

How? By surrender.

In surrendering all the dreams that I had pursued and guarded ferociously over to Goddess, I found them returned to me...Divinely refined and perfected --in ways I had not imagined.

I have found surrender to be one of the Keys I had been searching for all along. And as with all things, that which we search for most intensely is always first found within.

What do you know in the very core of your being? What do you feel is laying wait for you along your Path? What are the questions you ask when you find yourself in a place of solitude? I challenge you to speak forth the questions that run through your mind --and I garuntee the answers WILL be given...you just have to BE AWAKE so you can hear the answers as they come pouring in.

The Time is NOW...

Me -- I have begun a new leg in my Journey and wanderings...I am bound for Seattle to manifest my wildest imaginings in this most auspicious Time we are now in.

I just returned to Florida after spending a brief time there --to confirm that which I already knew and ~~to set into motion~~ (still having to remind myself of the art and nature of surrender) to be swept away by the Flow of Goddess...hence, my absence from this wonderful community (and speaking of pouring --all this while needing to launch a Pod as an Ambassador for Zaadz...)

I dare say my Moments here shall continue to be sporadic until I have had a chance to settle in a bit to this beautiful new city that Goddess has revealed to me...

So...please forgive my delays in responding, corresponding, and posting while I move through this amazing period of transition. And although my presence may not be so obvious during this time --know that I am with all those whom I have begun to forge fast and true connections with...and those yet to be made.

Infinite Light, Love, Laughter and Blessings to All~

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SHALL WE LET THE PAST REPEAT ITSELF?

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 04:44:14 GMT

From the Black Mesa Indigenous Support:

Dear Friends of the Indigenous Peoples of Big Mountain, Black Mesa, AZ:

Something critical is about to happen concerning the traditional communities on Big Mountain and surrounding areas on Black Mesa.

Today, more than 30 years after the passage of Public Law 93-531, the original "Navajo-Hopi Relocation" bill, a new bill is before Congress that sets a new timetable for the forced relocation of a number of Navajo families on Black Mesa.

Senate bill S. 1003 "The Navajo Hopi Land Settlement Act Ammendments of 2005" is now on the Seante Calendar and may be passed at anytime without debate or serious consideration unless the public acts now.

The last major relocation bill was approved by the Senate within a month after being placed on the Senate Calendar and stayed in the House of Representatives less than a week before becoming law.

It's difficult to convey the serious nature of these new developments. The passage of this bill would effectively devastate these traditional communities of Navajo, or Dineh, stripping them of their identity and way of life which is tied into the land itself.

Native people's lives and livelihoods are on the line!

This bill will permanently displace the indigenous families of Big Mountain and surrounding communities on Black Mesa from their ancestral lands and will relieve the federal government of any further responsibility for the relocated people.

S. 1003, sponsored by Senator John McCain (R-AZ), comes as Peabody Coal, the world's largest coal company, is planning to expand its strip mining of American Indian lands, drawing down a high quality residential aquifer in the process.

Only one thing stand in Peabody's way: indigenous people live on the land below which lies billions of tons of low-sulfer coal. As with their ancestors, the land is the basis for the Black Mesa people's traditions, sprituality, and livelihoods.

There is still time to act!

S. 1003 may pass the Senate and the House of Representatives within the next few weeks. Senage Bill 1003 may become law anytime now once again starting the machine of forced relocation. But fortunately, a small window of opportunity exists to stop it. It must first pass the Senate so the Senate Indian Affairs Committee and your Seantor must hear your voices today.

The indigenous families from the Big Mountain and Black Mesa communities have not been represented in this process.

It's up to us, the public and the international community, to demand that Congress educate themselves before they vote. After passing the earlier relocation act, PL 93-531, in 1974, several Senators expressed misgiving about the law, but it was too late. We cannot allow this to happen again.

The people of Big Mountain are asking us to jump in and shake up the political landscape. our outcry may be their only hope.

We must tell those who would once again sell out the people and the land that there will be a political price to pay. It's easy to make decisions from afar if you never risk meeting the people who will be affected. Demand that Congress listen to the people. Maybe it is possible to reach their hearts.

In an era of transnational corporate dominance, the methods of seperating indigenous peoples from their land and natural resources have outstripped the ability of any agency or nongovernmental organization to monitor or regulate.

The importance of building alliances cannot be stressed enough.

The elders of Big Mountain such as Roberta Blackgoat have shown us the way to the survival of our planet and the danger to us all if sacred lands are destroyed, warning us of what is now happening long before global warming and gaia became common words.

The people of Big Mountain connot win this fight alone and need the support of all people who love justice, human rights, and the Earth.

Thank you and Peace,

Black Mesa Indigenous Support

Please join us.

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The Invitation

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 15:24:19 GMT

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain. I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day, and if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, "Yes!"

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
copyright 1999 by Oriah Mountain Dreamer.

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Divine Possession

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 03:13:37 GMT

The Wind
I love the way the Wind incites the Trees to dance patterns across my body
I revel in the caress of the Wind as it cools the heat of the radiant Sun searing my pain away

The Wind commands my attention
In the moment the Wind stirs about me, nothing but the feeling of its presence matters
Time stands still as I breath in its essence and listen to its whispers
In these moments I can feel my soul reaching
Longing to slip away and take flight with the Wind

Divine, it is, to be Alive with the elements in such sacred harmony
To feel the Wind extend itself and bring upon its currents blessed serenity
Carrying away all but Peace

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THE REPUBLIC --Plato

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Wed, 15 Feb 2006 03:22:18 GMT

BOOK II

Socrates, what do you see in our search after justice...?

I shall tell you...Justice, we say, is the attribute of an individual, but also of a whole city, is it not? And is not a city greater than an individual?...

The origin of a city...is, in my opinion, due to the fact that no one of us is sufficient for himself, but each is in need of many things...

Come then...let us in argument construct the city from the beginning. Apparently it will be the outcome of our need...

The first and greatest of our needs is the provision of food to support existence and life...

The second, the provision of a dwelling place and the third, clothing and so on...

How will our city be able to supply a sufficiency of all those things?

Will it not be by having one man a farmer, another a builder and a third a weaver? Shall we add a shoemaker and perhaps another provider of bodily needs?...

Then the city of bare neccesity will consist of four or five men...

Should each of these men place his own work at the disposal of all in common?

For example, should our one farmer provide corn for four people and spend fourfold time and labor on the provisions of corn and then share it with the rest;

or should he pay no attention to the others, and provide only a fourth part of the corn for himself in a fourth of the time and spend the other three-fourths of the time in providing a house, clothes and shoes?

Should he not have the trouble of sharing with others, but rather provide with his own hands what he wants for himself?

Adeimantus answered: The first alternative, Socrates, is perhaps the easier.

Well, it certainly is not strange that it is...I myself was thinking that, in the first place, no two of us are by nature altogether alike. Our capacities differ. some fit for one work, some for another...

**********

Because the work of our guardians is the most important of all, it will demand the most exclusive attention and the greatest skill and practice...and will it not need a nature fitted for this profession?

Do you not think, then, that so far as their fitness for guarding is concerned...that [they] must be sharp-sighted, quick of foot to pursue the moment they perceive and strong enough to make captures and overcome opposition when necessary? And since they are good fighters, they must certainly be brave.

But will either horse or dog or any animal be brave if it is not spirited?

Have you not observed that spirit is unconquerable and irresistable?

Every soul possesed by it will meet any danger fearlessly and unshrinking...

Then...with such natures as these, how are they prevented from behaving savagely towards one another and the other citizens?...

We must have them gentle to their fellows and fierce to their enemies.

If we cannot effect that, they will prevent the enemy from destroying the city by doing it first themselves...

[The guardian] must [also] be by nature philosophical and fond of learning...

**********

I have a multitude I would like to discuss regarding the above passage, but thought it best to let it stand alone for a moment...but don't let my pause in thought stop you...

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A confession...

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Tue, 14 Feb 2006 04:42:21 GMT

I have a confession to make...

A secret indulgence that some have snorted in righteous disapproval over...

I watch reality shows...

I know, I know...I know all the arguments against it, but I can't seem to help myself...

I don't even watch tv, I disconnected from it quite some time ago and had not watched one since (well, ok...there was that time I fell of the wagon and watched a couple back in late summer --but it was only for a couple of months --I swear)...

But by a series of events totally beyond my own doing (seriously now), I happened to catch a flash and I took the bait --hook, line and sinker.

I'm a people watcher by nature and the reality show phenomenon seems to be a heightened level of the more mundane day to day exchanges I've been known to observe...human beings fascinate me.

Damn it man, I'm a junkie...

I'm both intrigued and disgusted simultaneously as I watch in utter amazement the elaborate, yet simple illusions and charades that are constructed and enacted...and watch as the weaver of such tales actually believes the story they have spun...and then further amazed that their story is taken as truth by others...

"Hello?!? Don't you see what is going on?!?", I have sometimes been known to yell at the tv in utter frustration at the voluntary blindness of another (my equivalent to the men who jump up and scream at the box when the ump calls a strike when it was clearly a ball...or the ref calls a foul when there was no intentional tripping being executed by your favorite player in the green jersey...or the quarterback fumbles...or..you get my point)

I sit in guilty amusement and then a rising indignation over the dynamics I watch unfolding..."Can they really be that silly, petty, self-absorbed, and at times out-right viscious?", I wonder to myself as a group of women seem to attack another women...and of course, this is done in the most weak and cowardly of fashions --behind her back, when they think she is nowhere near. I don't even ask myself "why" anymore, for I know the answers to such --it does not take much for a pack mentality to form when individuals in a group feel threatened by the quiet strength of another.

Why am I drawn to watch these interactions when I already know the why's as to what motivates human beings to do what they do? Is it because I prefer my drama to be a vicarious experience now, as I've had enough first hand experience to last me this lifetime (and probably the next one, too)? Is there some new depth of knowledge that I am seeking that may perhaps be found in the land of reality show drama? Or is it just a pointless pleasure that is beyond my logical mind?

Ah, confessions feel good.

I wonder if anyone else indulges in this sport...

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My Angel

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Fri, 10 Feb 2006 20:20:33 GMT

So I've had a few questions about my daughter, even a suggestion to post some of her pictures up.

I am touched by the curiousity over my Angel of those I am building friendships with here.

But I'm fiercely protective of her, and no matter how proud of her I am, I just can't bring myself to post her pictures online (predators in spiritual clothing comes to mind here)...she just turned 8 on the 4th of February (an Aquarian genius, she is *beaming smile*) and she is too old for me not to consult her wishes but still too young to make a fully informed decision..but take my word, she's beautiful and you can see the Light shining from her intense eyes ;-)

And she is the one thing that I am very guarded and reserved on in talking about...and to explain why would delve into areas I'm just not ready to talk about in such an open forum...soon, I'm sure...but not yet.

So *thank you* for asking and wondering over such a huge aspect of my life that has been so instrumental in shaping me into the woman I am now...and keeps me anchored here when I'd rather float off into other realms ;-)

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Seeking the Balance in Respect, Kindness & Compassion

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 15:21:04 GMT

Recent (and not so recent) “happenings” have brought up a current area that I’ve been exploring with friends both in open forums and in personal exchanges…

Many a friend I have spoken with seems to be pondering over finding the balance in being respectful, compassionate, loving and honest…in varying degrees.

I see this as most blessed, as too many are prone to merely recite back Truths, instead of integrating them. When we do not go through the process of integration, we find ourselves presented with an opportunity to put these wisdoms to test. If we do not remain conscious and aware, we can find ourselves reacting as if these pearls of wisdom had never graced our awareness. …and the “test” shows us where we are at in our beliefs and thought structures so that we may choose to evaluate and make the necessary adjustments…if we do not stay awake, we will find ourselves repeating the same thing (in varying shades) over and over and over again until we choose to see what is before us and then integrate it into our way of being…so our ideals become our living Truths.

We have got to move from philosophy and theory to practical application.

Respect…what does it truly mean to respect another? Well, here is the word “respect” as defined by the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary:

RESPECT (HONOUR)
noun [U]
1. Politeness, honour and care shown towards someone or something that is considered     important.

2. When you accept that something which is established or formally agreed is right or important and do not attempt to change it or harm it.

3. When you accept that different customs or cultures are different from your own and behave towards them in a way which would not cause offense.

respect
verb [T]
1. To treat something or someone with kindness and care.

2. To accept the importance of someone's rights or customs and to do nothing that would harm them or cause them offence.

3.To accept that something which is established or formally agreed is right or important and not to attempt to change it or harm it.

What does one choose to respect when interacting with another individual when the one you are interacting with is so split from their very essence –from Spirit? Do we respect the ego or the soul?

There truly is no “right” or “wrong” course of action.

But if one wishes to act according to their highest potential in harmony with their ideals, then it becomes an exercise in discernment (Not just discerning where another is coming from, but discerning where we are coming from, as well).

How do you extend compassion, respect and love to one who is acting and reacting from a wounded ego…some even from a base level infused with ill intent? Once you have defined what is and is not acceptable forms of interaction with another for yourself and they violate your set “boundaries”, what do you do?

Some simply turn and walk the other way from the onset…others, however, choose to stand their ground. Both are equal in their respective positions…we all have our own Paths to walk, even when traveling with kindred spirits, and therefore have unique reasons for experiencing the infinite possibilities Life gifts us with.

Myself, I’ve come to a place of standing firm for as I see it in this Moment, in order to actualize the end of separation and conflict we have to work our way to it so that we may then turn back and extend ourselves to others coming after us –it does not magically go *poof* by mere knowledge…all the knowledge in the world matters not if it is not transformed to wisdom –if it is not put into action.

There are those of us who are here to show others a different way for those who seek and desire peace, happiness, joy and abundance. Society is desperate to be shown a higher possibility…A way of being that can stand in the face of adversity without malice and a “system” that does not collapse with the first storm that passes.

How do we show them? How do we offer up an alternative that would “entice” them from their current point of functioning? By putting into practice that which we preach and by being willing to openly acknowledge mistakes that are made along the way…for we have nothing to loose and everything to gain by doing so.

Here are a few thoughts I have shared with friends recently:

Perhaps going back the words that we use to express would help...

What is the definition of kind? Dear Merriam gives us this:
2 a : of a sympathetic or helpful nature b : of a forbearing nature : GENTLE c : arising from or characterized by sympathy or forbearance <a kind act>
3 : of a kind to give pleasure or relief

We, as a society have a collective understanding (or misunderstanding) regarding symbols/words that evolves over time...sometimes the original intent/definition of the word gets "lost" by society projecting attributes to the word...when using it to describe a particular thing, society then begins to carry a "mental picture" of what it is "kind" by how it has been applied to a given subject...

So, is it "kind" to sit back and watch a fellow human slit their wrist because another may judge the intervention as cruel, harsh or uncaring?

Is it "kind" to turn the other way when a mother strikes a child in a blind rage, because to call light to what she is doing may bring her pain?

Indeed, we would all agree not doing something could be considered an act void of compassion, kindness, and love...
Because of the beliefs that have been taught and passed down throughout generations, people no longer use their gifts of discernment to accurately gauge a situation...to look beyond the surface of things...whether contemplating their actions, or those of another...

I think the ultimate question when dealing with inter-personal relationships is "what is the *intent* behind the words/action?"

If one chooses to see clearly, the Truth does reveal itself...”

***
“The only compassionate thing I can do, the only compassion I can offer you is Truth…”
”Sometimes, the Truth does indeed hurt.”

***
“Compassion…which is a “higher” compassion: To allow someone to continue in negative thought patterns and violate others boundaries (who have not yet learned to defend their boundaries) by tip-toeing around the pink elephant in the room; or to call to light in Truth the dynamics and undercurrent at play so as to provide all involved individuals the opportunity to make a better choice?”

***
Respect… "tis a matter of offering it up and then from that point it is each individual’s choice to decide what to do with it."

***

So when we are interacting with another it is first and foremost essential to discern why another’s words are provoking the responses that they are in us…

Essential to discern if our response is born of the ego, or the soul, or a mixture of the two…

Essential to ask ourselves what is the intent behind what we would like to say/do…

Essential to ask ourselves if we are attached to any particular outcome once we respond –being affectionately detached is a key to preventing being caught up in a power-struggle, even if it is with “good intent” and with the desire to enlighten the other individual…sometimes our dear egos can take a good intention and wreak havoc with it ;-)

Once we have taken the time to pause and reflect inwardly before responding, we then have the wonderful opportunity to then look outwardly, see beyond the surface and act in accordance to our highest potential within any given moment…

And then *bless them* regardless of the outcome.

“Why? Because they are messengers and teachers unaware…they present us with the wonderful opportunities to test our resolve…they help teach us how to find the Balance in polarities…and sometimes they speak a Truth we need to hear, even if it is spoken from a lower vibration and with less than noble intent. They provide us the ability to gauge and “check” our current level of understanding and see if there are areas that need to be adjusted.”

Who, what, when, where, why, how…

“The courage to fearlessly ask questions is at the core of your spiritual awakening” –The Pleiadians

But what does one do with the answers once they receive them?

Free will and infinite possibilities…gotta love it!

I would love to hear others' thoughts and perspectives on this…tis a beautifully tapestry we are in the process of weaving and we each have so very much to offer in the formation of such~

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Treasures Found in The Hunt~

http://atruthseeker.gaia.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 18:39:37 GMT

When art is alive in any person, whatever his kind of work may be, he becomes an inventive, searching, daring, self-expressing creature.

He becomes interesting to other people. He disturbs, upsets, enlightens and he opens the ways for better understanding.

Where those who are not artists are trying to close the book, he opens it, shows that there are still more pages possible.

The world would stagnate without him, and the world would be beautiful with him; for he is interesting to himself and he is interesting to others.

He does not have to be a painter or a sculptor to be an artist. He can work in any medium. He simply has to find the gain in the work itself, not outside it.

~Robert Henri, The Art Spirit

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