Category Archives: Uncategorized

The Dichotomies of Life

From what I’ve learned, the best advice I can give to current and future generations is to trust the unknown spiritual processes that shape our lives by guiding us to where and what we are intended to be and by giving us challenges to overcome that will make us stronger. When faced with adversity, do not ask why; rather ask, “How can I respond in a way that is uplifting and affirmative?”

The old adage, “Everything happens for a reason.” is supremely true in our daily lives. Trust that you are being guided and follow the path laid before you. Along that path you will face failure and success; sorrow and joy; pain and pleasure; sickness and healing. These life contrasts lead us to greater spiritual understanding and shape us into more kind, loving, compassionate, and generous human beings. Expression of these four attributes along with experiencing the above dichotomies of life constitute the purpose and meaning of life. 

You might like to see the following related articles:

How Life Works

The Quintessence of Life

Earth Karma

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Cause and effect applies not only to our interactions and treatment of people. It also applies to our actions concerning the natural environment and the planet as a whole.

As citizens of Earth, we have an obligation to not only care for one another, but also for all living things. We should view ourselves as stewards of the Earth, all of its inhabitants, and its physical and ecological environs.

We will be held accountable for our actions that result in, or contribute to, the destruction of habitats, extinction of animal and plant species, pollution, and climate change. Retribution for our past abuses of the planet have already begun.

You might like to see the following related articles:

How Life Works: The Law of Cause and Effect

The Karma of Thoughts 

One Species Among Millions

The Karma of Thoughts

The forces of cause and effect operate not only in response to behaviors, things we do or do not do, but also to the nature of our thoughts. If our thoughts are filled with love and compassion, then good things will come to us. If our minds are filled with anger, hate, or malice, then we will not have happiness and fulfillment, and spiritual retribution is sure to come.

You might like to see How Life Works: The Law of Cause and Effect. for a more general discussion of this topic.

Religion and Spirituality

  • Aurora Borealis by Matt Houghton

 

In my view, spirituality and religion are related, but not the same thing. Religion has arisen in an attempt to codify spiritual thought and ideas by the establishment of doctrines, creeds, stories, and other traditions – and to make it “experiential” through ritual and repetitive prayers.

But these things can distract us from the organic spirituality present in all of us. They can distract us from the spontaneous human experience of our spiritual nature and longing.

 

You might like to see the following related articles:

The Key to Effective Prayer

The Essence of Spirituality

The Key to Effective Prayer

Prayer will be heard with greatest effect when it comes spontaneously from the heart and soul expressing in your own words your desire to help others or to become a more spiritual person.

Do not pray for material things because God has already provided what you need. Do not pray for elevation of your earthly status, for it counts for nothing in the spiritual realm. Rather, pray for elevation of your soul through your expression of love, compassion, and service.

 

You might like to see the discussion of prayer that appears on pages 76-81 in The Teachings of Silver Birch, edited by A.W. Austin.

A Message for Frontline Medical Workers

We have seen you gathered in groups around COVID 19 patients working together in an effort to save lives and minimize suffering. It is difficult work and requires you to find the courage to risk your own health to help the afflicted. Somehow you have found a way to work in the midst of suffering all around you and not let your compassion and grief overwhelm you. Your strength is greater than you realize.

Know this: You are not alone. There are spirits standing behind you to give you strength and support, and to aid you any way they can. We are witnesses to your unwavering commitment to help, heal, and save lives while sacrificing so much of yourself in the process.

For this you have been blessed and you will have a special place in our world when it is time for you to join us.

We have seen your tears and felt your grief for the lives lost in the dark hours of the long night. Do not hold back your outpouring of compassion and tears because its release makes way for renewed strength and commitment when the morning comes.

You might like to see the following related articles:

Compassion as Healing

How is My Divine Self Revealed?

Step One

The Red Lotus: Symbol of Love and Compassion

Genuine, heart-felt compassion is step one for becoming a spiritual person. We cannot claim to be spiritual in any way without it.

Once we take that step and consistently look outward (as well as inward), we will have set out on a path to greater spiritual awareness.

Compassion is a powerful, unspoken prayer for mercy and healing for those who suffer.

You might like to see the following related articles:

Compassion as Healing

Pillars of Spirituality

How is My Divine Self Revealed?

For those who grieve the loss of a loved one…

Try not to grieve too long. Strive to transform your grief into gratitude.

Gratitude for the time that you had them in your life.

Gratitude for the wonderful times you had together.

Gratitude for the cherished memories that will never be forgotten.

Strive to create a legacy for them that is composed of memories of love and joy rather than grief and loss… 

…For their connection with you is not severed by death.

Thanksgiving Prayer

My dear God, thank you for all of the blessings and gifts that I have; that I have had; and that I may have in the future.

But most of all, thank you for your love and compassion, not just for me, but for all of your human children.

May each person strive to love all people around the world without prejudice, fear, or favoritism.