Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Would You Follow Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1ryO4c_94w

The Law of Reciprocity

Take heed what ye hear: (look at what you listen to) with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: (what you give will be given to you) and unto you that hear shall more be given. ~Mark 4:24

If you share G-G-G, you will receive G-G-G. Not only that, understanding (unto you that hear) the message means additional methods can be shared. Let me know if you are interested.

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Scaredy Cat

You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.

~Rabindranath Tagore

Friday, December 26, 2014

They Know Not What They Do

But you do. So do it.

"This regular motif in the stories of prophetic vocations symbolizes the difficulty of speaking God's word. The prophets were not eager to proclaim the divine message and were reluctant to undertake a mission of great strain and anguish." ~ Karen Armstrong, A History of God (Knopf 1993) pp 42

I understand. I get it. And I ask you do it anyway. Share the message of G-G-G. Then stand back and observe the way the Universe works. Examine the dynamics and your reaction to them. If it is a "mission of great strain and anguish," it is because you insist on a predetermined outcome. The trick is seeing any particular result as FLUID. Do not determine a conclusion where there has only been an effect. (you will know you have concluded an outcome if gratitude escapes you) Instead, see the "result" as a button being pushed--that can trigger a switch which will lower a lever causing rotation of possible outcomes. Everything is still in play as long as you are. Do not be deterred. Adversity is simply a signpost announcing you are near your destination.

Friday, December 12, 2014

Erosion

Wave after wave after wave--sand swept from the shore. So it is with your resolve. Renewal must become your watchword. Make peace with your idiosyncrasies. They are your mediators, your guides, to empathy and tolerance; not only of yourself, but of others. Celebrate your efforts regardless of  success or failure. Whisper your truth to the Universe.

Monday, November 10, 2014

Step And Fetch

How much of your faith is dependent on God doing your will? If your prayers aren't answered in a reasonable amount of time (or not at all) do you discard the idea of God as demonstrably false? Is your relationship with God built on a belief system that God exists to manifest your desires? Have you created a dynamic where proof of God is the fulfillment of your wish list? These and questions like them will provide context for a better understanding of how you project your idea's on the Deity.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

For Your Eyes Only

The cosmos was your incubator. The death of a star the beginning of your birth. The elements necessary for your construction forged in a thermonuclear furnace and spewed out into space. You are, at the very core of your being, an interstellar creation.

You belong here.

The solar system is your home and the earth is your backyard. The people that populate your planet the means to understand your mission.

You belong here.

"Need to Know" is a security clearance to access information. Even if one had other official approvals (ie Top Secret) one WOULD NOT be granted access to certain information unless they had a specific 'need to know.' That is, the information was critical to conduct their business.

You belong here.

You have had doubts. You have questioned your purpose. Therefore, I have been instructed to send you this encrypted message. Enact after reading.

You belong here.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Heaven Can Wait

So many people are so very concerned about life after death.

Isn't the far more important issue life before death? Relish today as if it were your last.

Sunday, October 26, 2014

A Blind Pig

There is an adage in America (and perhaps your country as well) of a "blind pig finding an acorn." So it is with me. I have blindly stumbled upon the correction to the problem I am sure, in some fashion, I created. Regardless, this last week has been eventful, and the ability to post if I desire is once again an option. Other than driving Gwenn to distraction, no persons have been harmed in the solution to this problem.

One of the books I am currently reading is Walker Percy's "Lost in the Cosmos." In it he poses the following question; which of these two sentences more nearly describes you? a) You are extraordinarily generous, ecstatically loving of the right person, supremely knowledgeable about what is wrong with the country, about people, capable of moments of insight unsurpassed by any scientist or artist or writer in the country. You possess an infinite potentiality. OR b) You are of all people in the world probably the most selfish, hateful, envious, the most treacherous, the most frightened, and above all, the phoniest.

He asks that you answer as honestly as you can which of the two sentences more nearly describes you: 1) a 2) b 3) neither 4) both. What is interesting about this is that 60% of people answer "both." (I proceeded to pose the question to the next friend I talked to and before I could even supply the four possible answers, he had responded "both.") If you answered as the majority answered, Walker asks; "how can this be?"


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUtH0DDJorM

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Technical Difficulties

Nothing but problems with my computer. A formatting "restrictor" of unknown origin has been placed on the blog. Editing is next to impossible and I will have to take my own advice of "letting it go" and work within the limited parameters that exist. Felt compelled to update you after Open Parenthesis. Perhaps Life is telling me something regarding the blog. (insert smiley face emoticon here)

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

The Open Parenthesis

I certainly thought I had accomplished my purpose. The two years spent on Gift Gratitude God was a journey that had (in my mind) come full circle. I was satisfied (pleased, actually) I had done what I had set out to do. The intangible concept of "God" had been explored and presented in a methodology for you to "put to the test." The rest was going to be up to you. Dim the lights, lower the curtains, take a final bow and exit, stage right. Yet...

First: I was wrong about the availability of the web site. The first link that appears after Googling WP Grogan is the blog; the next link is the actual web site. (Gift Gratitude God) Although nothing can be added or subtracted, the web site is still accessible. This I am grateful for--if for no other reason that the post A Cautionary Tale (7-22-14) demonstrates context is of the utmost importance. I am not here to mislead. Nor am I a "sheep in wolves clothing." (a wonderful Freudian slip that revealed [to me] the persons true subconscious understanding they were tangled up in their own projection) Still, I cautioned that the web site would vanish July 3rd and I was wrong. What I discovered was GGG was still "housed" within Gwenn's AuburnWebsiteDesign.com and would be available as long as the site exists. It goes to my level of ignorance regarding the world of computers.

Second: An ongoing sense of revelation. The latest example being the 9-27-14 post. (Wanna Go With You) The actual title of the song is "Another Country." Today, September 29th, the blog received a visit from someone in Kyrgyzstan. To be absolutely honest, I didn't know that country even existed. The break up of the former USSR created several new countries that I am not familiar with. But now I am. And as ignorant as I may be, the larger point is Life slammed home the coincidence that "another country" had come to the blog. Admittedly, that wasn't the thrust of the post. But how could Life create a context for me to share nebulous feelings of unexpressed longing on the one hand, and an unexplored, unexplained affinity for you on the other...you, who I don't even know?

Perhaps this will better describe what I am experiencing.

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/anomalous-events-that-can-shake-one-s-skepticism-to-the-core/

If you don't fully understand who Michael Shermer is, or the implications in the article he wrote, take a quick peek...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Shermer

Third: I have the inexplicable notion that something is afoot. Whether the blog is a means to identify what that something is, is up in the air. An open parenthesis if you will. The blog continues to attract visitors (well over 500) since the "close of the show." This surprises me no end.

Fourth: It is now October 14th, 16 days since I drafted this post. I have straddled the fence about relaunching the blog with no "end game" strategy. I honestly questioned the significance of "Another Country." Then another new country came aboard, (New Zealand) and then another! (Austria) Third times the charm and I surrender. For no reason other than I want to, (need to?) I will see what's in store with a continuation of this blog. God help me. (in both the figurative and literal sense)    

Update: The Places We Have Been. Australia--Austria--Belarus--Belgium--Brazil--Canada--Chile--China--Columbia--Finland--France--Germany--Georgia--Greece--India--Indonesia--Ireland--Israel--Jamaica--Japan--Kazakhstan--Kenya--Kyrgyzstan--Lithuania--Malaysia--Mexico--Netherlands--New Zealand--Pakistan--Philippines--Poland--Romania--Russia--Serbia--Singapore--Slovakia--Spain--South Africa--South Korea--Sweden--Switzerland--Suriname--Taiwan--Tanzania--Thailand--Turkey--Ukraine--United Kingdom--United States--Venezuela--Zimbabwe. (reaching an even fifty with New Zealand carried a bit of significance as well)

Friday, October 10, 2014

Irish Kundalini

      Serpent of Brigid

She lies at the core of my being
In wait
Silent still coiled spiraled
Bearing the fruit of millennia
Knowledge of the Grandmother's
She longs to uncoil
Open to me the secrets
Kiss alight each cell
The burning to know
To remember
But she is bound
Stilled by my fear
I dream of dancing the mists
Unbound
Past the chains of patriarchy
The Malleus Maleficarum
The stink of scorching flesh
The disease of ignorance
The broken bodies of lust
The malice of the servants of Jehovah
I long to open to joy
Know the wisdom
Speak the stories
Feel the uncoiling
Brigid, I invoke thee
Reveal in me your living flame
Swathe me in your brat*
Quench my voice at your healing well
Let me proclaim unto the stars
The "Serpent is Arisen"       

~Mary Sander

*brat: cloak

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Wanna Go With You

Father, cleanse me of my imperfections, but none too vigorously. I have found, despite my posturing, to be a frail vessel indeed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yl2I0kwyJyY

Friday, August 22, 2014

So You Know

I taste what you taste. I know the kind of lyrics your soul most likes.
I know which sounds will become resplendent in your mind
And bring such pleasure your feet will jump and whirl.

When anything touches or enters your body
Never say it is not God, for He is just trying to get close.

I have no use for divine patience--my lips are always burning
And everywhere I am running from every corner of this world and sky
Wanting to kiss you...

I am every particle of dust and wheat--you and I are ground from His own body.
I am rioting at your door; I am spinning in midair like golden leaves
Trying to win your glance.

I am sweetly rolling against your walls and shores all night
Even though you are asleep.
I am singing from the mouths of animals and birds
Honoring our beloveds promise and need: to let you know the truth.

My dear, when anything touches or enters your body
Never say it is not God, for He and I are just trying to get close to you.

God and I are rushing from every corner of existence
Needing to say, "We are yours."

Never Say It Is Not God   

~Hafiz

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

A Cautionary Tale

On July 16th I received the following electronic message. The structure, punctuation, and emphasis, is that of the individual who sent it.

"u talk about the spirit & soul but ur heart is far from this**u attach on & remind me of a sheep in wolves clothing**u catch vulnerable souls reaching out**then u proceed to destroy their faith u built up** dropping ur responsibility u've taken on as a life coach**why don't u just be u**whoever that may be????????? u just flit around like a bumble bee not a care in the world or who may be revealing their soul to u**u haven't the credentials to take this task on**as usual I poured my soul out to someone not deserving**a reminder from my JESUS whose blood HE shed for a fool like me**ur "top of the morning" showed u do have biblical upbringing**how did u come to this**wounding spirits trying to soar??????"

It certainly is challenging when our efforts are viewed in such a light. The accusations are intense. But I decided to share them because they are not unknown to me. I alluded to reactions of this sort in a poem in the GOD section of the web site.

Hail! You prophets of tomorrow
Proud, erect, yet full of sorrow
Timeless eons since last you saw
Our children's souls so red and raw

Your task will be a difficult one
Bringing light where there is no sun
Duties many, rewards but few
Rare are ones who'll believe in you

An ancient wisdom your minds will hold
The coming future you shall unfold
Still they'll mock the Sons of Light
Feign a worship toward the Lords of Night

Yet, as it was an ever will be
You're to assist the blind to see
So forward now to the task at hand
Lead them back to the Promised Land.

Hopefully you'll be able to excuse the "poetic license" employed as I wrote about you--as well as placing myself in a position that I was qualified to do so. (elevating myself as evaluator of prophets) I explained in Siren Song (4-15-14) how the poetic process works for me. The larger point is, I am familiar with the reactions expressed by the individual who sent this message. By sharing them, I hope to dampen the possible damage a similar situation might cause for you.

The sole comment posted by the individual in question was made on the Handle With Care post of 10-24-13. (the first of four) I am left to surmise this is what is meant by; "as usual I poured my soul out to someone not deserving." (In the interest of full disclosure, they didn't start reading the blog until much later, perhaps 3 months ago. But I would, on occasion, link an older post to Facebook in an effort to widen my audience.) I believe the heart of the matter is revealed in the reference to Jesus and my "biblical upbringing." This seems to be the point of contention. That and the 7-2-14 post entitled "Schooling God," which she obviously took great exception to.

My views of God were expressed before any blog was ever posted. The web site Gift-Gratitude-God was a tour de force of my perspective. I didn't hide it--I celebrated it. I even encouraged people to make copies of the other sections of the web site as recently as 5-8-14. (Kanpai) And it was in that post I stated: "To Christians, once they see where I am coming from, not at all what they had in mind." (as to the limitations in the web site name) As I've said, I am familiar with the dynamic when one pushes up against another person's paradigm. Once a world view is challenged (real or imagined) the consequences can be devastating. I wish to let you know it isn't your responsibility to take on another person's projection.

In this we can take a cue from one far more accomplished than we are. (See Matthew 10:25)

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Roll Credits

Gwenn Jones. Sorry if I'm being repetitive, but without Gwenn I would never have had the opportunity for a web site/blog. "Thanks" just doesn't cut it, as far as my gratitude goes. She was the sole source that made it possible.

Lance Buffington. A behind the scenes benefactor. Most recently sent money to cover the cost of the domain name registry--just in case I had a change of heart. Also added that if I didn't, to keep the money anyway. Lance was my "go to guy" when I needed critique about the vagary of my writing style.

God. Whatever He/She/It is, It was with me every step of the way. The artists, articles, and pictures  that came my way...inexplicable. The timing...exquisite. Flying by the seat of my pants didn't seem to pose a problem for Life.

To the artists...the music in particular was humbling. To uncover talent the likes of Mia Sable, Marie Digby, Snatam Kaur, Deva Premal, Yasmeen Amina Olya...mind-boggling. Even if the posts I produced were worthless, the music was worth the price of admission.

Me. Yep, I get some credit too. Like the little drummer boy in the Christmas tune of the same name, I didn't have a gift to bring that was fit for a king. Like him, I am a poor boy too. So I played my drum (this blog) for him. I played my best for him. Then he (through you, the reader) smiled at me--me and my drum.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT1fA59oH7Q

Thank You. ~WPG

Update: 6:56 AM  Wow! Finished my post and went on-line to see the breaking news that Louie Zamperini passed this morning. On November 2nd, 2013, I posted "Unbroken" and selected a couple paragraphs from the book of the same name. The significance is, that post received (BY FAR) the largest number of "hits" of any post in the two years of this blog. (I even called Gwenn to see what was wrong!) Point is, Life apparently wanted Louie and his record setting number of hits in the "credits."

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Schooling God

God needs your input. He/She/It resonates on all levels, but oscillates (vibrates) at a frequency of amplitude. (the squeaky wheel gets the oil) Let me explain.

In the 15th chapter of Luke, verse 1, Jesus is approached by "publicans (tax collectors) and sinners" who wished to hear him speak. There were also scribes and Pharisees there as well, who commented that "this man (Jesus) receiveth sinners, and eateth with them." Jesus then shares three stories, the last one being the Prodigal Son. All three revolve around redemption.

The overriding point of the three stories is that those who already believe and follow spiritual guidelines (pharisees and scribes) should rejoice that those who have been lost are now found. (the publicans and sinners) The way the story unfolds is the younger brother asks for his inheritance early and  proceeds to squander it in the most unseemly fashion. ("riotous living") The younger brother hits rock bottom and decides to return home because even his father's servants "have bread enough, and to spare, and I perish with hunger." The father (God) sees him coming, runs out to meet him, "and fell on his neck, and kissed him." The younger son then makes an honest and full confession of his misdeeds ("Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son). The upshot is, the father directs the servants to "bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry."

When the elder son returned from the fields, he heard music and dancing and asked a servant what was going on. Informed that his brother had returned and his father had killed a fatted calf in celebration of his homecoming, the older brother is "angry" and refuses to enter the house. Significantly, the father comes out to talk to his older son, "and entreated him." (entreat; to ask earnestly, beg, beseech, implore) The older son then responds with his grievances: "Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time your commandment: yet thou never gavest me a kid, (goat) that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf." The father then tries to placate the elder son with, "thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine." He ends by saying that "this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found." The story ends and we are left to our own devices to decide how the situation is resolved.

Many Christian apologetics make much of the older brother's resentment and bitter heart. Nonsense! If ever there was a place for resentment, this is the place. His anger was justified. And I think this is demonstrated by the father coming out to "entreat" him. I think it dawned on him (the father) that he hadn't fully appreciated his oldest sons efforts. Why hadn't he ever offered a goat to his son so he could enjoy a demonstration of his father's favor, let alone a fatted calf? In strictly human terms, try treating a self-actualized partner that way and see how long they stick around. Taking another for granted over a long period of time is a sure fire way of ending a relationship. No, the truth is, the father screwed up royally. When he heard the elder son's complaints, he could have acknowledge them there and then. He could have said, you are right, I have been amiss. Give me a chance to set things right. But for now, let us come together. Please, enhance your father's joy by joining us.

I am sure, to some, it seems blasphemous to "correct" God. Still, there is biblical basis. After reading the first 13 verses of Exodus, chapter 32, tell me Moses didn't "school" God. Verse 14 says; "And the Lord REPENTED of the EVIL which he thought to do unto his people." As I have said a number of times, I am not a Bible literalist, but believe the Bible is "wonderfully instructive." If there is to be a relationship with God, how can it be a one-way street? If we are to be co-creators, how is it that our voice cannot be heard? If we are valued, would not our opinion be valued as well? It is here, in the crucible of being heard (vibrational rate) the amplitude is established at a frequency where we resonate with God. Another term for this would be "praying." But do not come as a beggar before a king, but as a son before a loving father. And tell your father you aren't interested in your inheritance as much as you are in honoring and celebrating him now, before his metaphorical passing. To do so though, entails validation of loyalty to the degree, at least, as being lost. Call the servants. Send out runners to the neighbors...a second calf is about to be placed on the spit!

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Monday, June 30, 2014

Evidence of God Part 3

Like Tristan, we are the children of sadness. Western people are children of inner poverty, though outwardly we have everything. Probably no other people in history have been so lonely, so alienated, so confused over values, so neurotic. We have dominated our environment with sledge-hammer force and electronic precision. We amass riches on an unprecedented scale. But few of us, very few indeed, are at peace with ourselves, secure in our relationships, content in our loves, or at home in the world. Most of us cry out for meaning in life, for values we can live by, for love and relationship.
~ Robert A. Johnson  We

The question is, why? Why do we experience poverty when our cup is overflowing? Perhaps Erich Fromm (You Shall Be As Gods) can explain:

"The fiction is thereby created that anyone who uses the concept (God) is referring to the substratum of experience underlying it. Once this happens--and this process of alienation of concepts is the rule rather than the exception--the idea expressing an experience has been transformed into an ideology that usurps the place of the underlying reality within the living human being.

To which reality of human experience does the concept of God refer? Is the God of Abraham the same as the God of Moses, of Isaiah, of Maimonides, of Master Eckhart, of Spinoza? And if he is not the same, is there nevertheless some experiential substratum common to the concept as used by these various men, or might it be that while some common ground exists in the case of some, it does not exists with regard to others?

A concept can never adequately express the experience it refers to. It points to it, but it is not it. (It) is only an approximate expression of the experience. This is necessarily so because no person's experience is ever IDENTICAL with that of another; it can only approximate it sufficiently to permit use of a common symbol or concept."

And therein lies the rub. We have limited our spiritual experience to fit a 2000 year old mold. This mold was constructed in a socio-political environment that has no bearing on life as it is lived today. It has become a diluted ideology that is neither accessible nor potent. So we flounder. We grope blindly for relevancy. We cry out for meaning in our life.

I have said, speaking of God; "I am the Source and I am the Course. I am that I am and all that you are." I wasn't kidding.

A single consciousness, an all encompassing wisdom pervades the universe.
~Gerald L Schroeder The Hidden Face of God

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=848PLy3VXNI

1) In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth 2) And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the waters. 3) And God said, LET THERE BE LIGHT...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15pOr1E6hvc

Friday, June 27, 2014

Evidence of God Part 2

Define: 1. a) to determine or set down the boundaries of b) to trace the precise outlines of, delineate 2. to determine or state the extent and nature of; describe exactly 3. a) to give the distinguishing characteristics of b) to constitute the distinction of; differentiate 4. to state the meaning or meanings of.

We face some problems here. To define God means placing boundaries, outlines, or extents, to something who's distinguishing characteristic is it doesn't have boundaries, outlines or extents. All is not lost. Read the following article.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/longterm/books/chap1/brainongod.htm

First off, yesterday's dangling question (effect) is answered dramatically. To wit; "If you contemplate God long enough, something happens in the brain, neural functioning begins to CHANGE." (that dear readers, is most certainly an effect) But we said we had to define something to understand it. How do we define God?

"Our research has led us to the following conclusions: 2) Every human brain assembles it perceptions of God in uniquely different ways, thus giving God different qualities of MEANING AND VALUE."
(note--there are five conclusions; see link for the other four)

Newberg also states; "In fact, the more a person thinks about God, the more complex and imaginative the concept becomes, taking on unique nuances of meaning that differ from ONE INDIVIDUAL TO THE NEXT."

So, the definition of God is: there is no one definition of God.

Pat, Pat, you using sophistry! No, I am simply sharing with you what a neuroscientist came up with    from his studies at the University of Pennsylvania. Truth be told, I had never heard of Andrew Newberg before yesterday. Regardless of how absurd it may seem, the only definition of God that matters is the one you hold in your head. And that definition is going to be different than mine (and his, hers, or theirs). This can debilitate you, or liberate you in ways unimagined. The gift is yours to do with what you wish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZEVOenOwYU                 

(A review of the God section might be worthwhile)

http://site.baybridgecentral.com/giftgratitudegod/god.html

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Evidence of God

Excluding this from your life would kill you in three minutes. No one is exempt. And the funny thing is, you can't see it, taste it, touch it, hear it, or smell it. It is invisible. Know what I am talking about?

Air.   

Seriously, when was the last time you thought about air? It is the most basic, fundamental, essential component for your existence, yet it isn't detectable by any of your five senses. So why do you believe air exists?

Another example. Science claims black holes exist even though a black hole has never been seen. How does science make such a claim? Through observational (or indirect) evidence. That means they can see the EFFECT on the space (matter) around the black hole. They don't see "it," they see what effect "it" causes.

If this is a fair standard of scientific evidence for black holes, why isn't it a fair standard for God? Throughout this web site I have said "try it" (G-G-G) and see what happens. I know if you perceive life as a gift and you respond with gratitude, God will manifest. But what I know means nothing--that is my experience. What is important is what you know. And you will only know God if you have an experience (feel the effect) yourself.

So I think it fair to say we need not see, taste, touch, hear, or smell God, to claim He exists. We KNOW air exists and none of the criteria applies. And similar to a black hole, observing an effect is evidentiary to asserting a claim that it (whatever "it" is) exists. What is fair for the goose must be fair for the gander--or there is no fairness at all. That leaves us with the task of proving whether or not God causes an effect.

In the next post we will examine the definition of the word God. Only by understanding (defining) a thing can we come to know what it actually is. And how can we determine if a thing has an effect unless we define what that thing is?

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Suggestion Box

On June 11th I posted Back to the Basics and started a series of posts designed to illustrate the dynamics of how our brain works and responds to sound. (language) I then offered three ways of reacting to events (breathe/acceptance/gratitude) that are the most accessible/effective methods available to us that enhance our well-being. I linked all my suggestions to scientific evidence. At our current level of scientific understanding everything I have presented is indisputable.

I also snuck in a post (We Are Alive--and isn't Marie Digby amazing?) that spoke directly to your attitude toward being "alive." I proposed that if astonishment (astonish: to fill with sudden wonder or great surprise) wasn't part of your outlook, you might consider a course correction. The fact is, there is no cognitive rationale for you even being here.

http://visual.ly/what-are-odds

The tacit message was life is a gift. Your inability or reluctance to experience it as such might be an insight as to what issues you need to address. Or not. You are always the determining factor. If you don't "buy in," nothing occurs. You continue with your life as it was. I would ask one question though; how is that working for you?

So, if you're still reading, I will presume that we have an agreement: you see life as a gift you can be grateful for. These last few days I will present what evidence I have for God being the final part of the equation.

Monday, June 23, 2014

As Good As It Gets

Well, Gwenn was busy over the weekend. She changed the header of the blog, enabling access in the future under WP Grogan (rather than Gift Gratitude God). What I do with it is moot. My intention is to bring it to a close--Gwenn's argument simply being access, and I have no problem with that. As I mentioned, the actual web site's domain name is not being renewed, so access to everything other than the blog ends July 3rd.

I do wish to explain the "goodness is great if you're good to yourself" quote on the header. It is from a "poem" (not sure it qualifies) in the About Me section. Written years ago as a post script to a friend, she responded favorably to the sentiment. It comes as close as anything else as a "motto" for what it is I promote. To save you time flipping to that section (and perhaps, a future visitor) I will include it here:

Goodness is great if you're good to yourself
And patience is fine if you give yourself time
Trust is must begin with yourself
Loving is due but don't forget about you.

I believe people sometimes get caught in the trap of being "nice." They do and say things they think others want or expect of them. Because the impulse is one of accommodation and not genuine service the ego will (eventually) demand compensation. The tendency then is toward resentment. Instead, the metaphor of a fruit tree illustrates the innate characteristic of "good works." Your nature is to give of yourself. It makes you feel good to do so.

http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2011/05/28/helping-others-is-good-for-your-health-an-interview-with-stephen-g-post-phd/

Understanding your impulse, my effort is to refine this instinct to include yourself. Until you learn to be good to yourself, any thought of authentic goodness toward others is flawed. It is conditional and perpetuated only by acknowledgement or validation--rather than a realization of mutual benefit. Including yourself in the equation of being "good" goes a long way in sustaining efforts that fulfill you spiritually. It is a gift you give to yourself.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Emphasis on an Echo

Sound is nothing more than vibrations. In Sound Off I tried to impart how sound affects us. I wish to make clear that language is simply sound units (or sequences) that are related to specific meanings.

http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/UCSF-study-shows-how-the-brain-sorts-sound-to-5190015.php

The importance of this is my use of the term, "resonate." A number of entries on this blog have recommended that you find that which you resonate with. Resonance is the tendency of a system to oscillate (vibrate) with greater amplitude at some frequencies than others. (amplitude is: the maximum extent of vibration measured from a position of equilibrium)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUFZznShv_c

Your internal dialogue is "heard" as well, and the point being emphasized today. When you go through your day that "little voice " in your head is exactly that--a VOICE that emits sound.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263428.php

That being the case, it is crucial the frequency at which you vibrate is tuned to that which serves you best. You must be vigilant of what and how you think. What you think is the "dial" (vibration) that determines what "radio station" (frequency) you tune into. The radio station that provides the greatest amplitude is where we wish to reside (resonate). That station has the "call letters," G-G-G.

Gratitude is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all others. ~Cicero

http://happierhuman.com/benefits-of-gratitude/

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

We Are Alive

Shake off all of your sins and give them to me...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rccbhr56nMk

Whatever you've done that fell short of your true intent, acknowledge it. Where you can, atone for it. Life will present opportunities for you to do so. Speak your truth and accept the events that follow. Accountability and acceptance are blood brothers. That done, open yourself to what happens in your life as an Instruction Manuel. You are not a finished product. You will continue to be honed and refined throughout your life. This can be an exciting prospect--expansion is inherent in your DNA. Life's continuous expansion manifests in change. Be alert to the opportunities change offers.

One possible change you can weigh is your current approach. If it doesn't include astonishment that you are alive, experiencing the inexplicable reality of your own existence, you may want to ponder your direction.

Monday, June 16, 2014

Acceptance

You have to come to terms with how you operate. The simple fact is, through evolution, you have a built-in "negativity bias." Here is an article explaining it.

http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2013/06/14/overcoming-your-negativity-bias/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0

You have to start accepting Life on it's own terms. "It is what it is." People spend an inordinate amount of time resisting what is. How often do you hear or speak phrases like, "I don't believe it. Why did he/she/they DO that? This is bullshit." And you know what? You may be right. It is unbelievable, or inconceivable, or down right nonsense. But it is what it is--and you are going to have to come to grips with the reality of the moment. You must also realize you are going to have a predisposition to interpret it as bad or a threat. You brain is wired for just such a reaction.

The truth is, we honestly don't know that it is bad. And if you can bring yourself to accepting it as a gift of unknown potency, power, or possibility, you will have changed the dynamic. It is what it is...but not what it is going to be. Like a magician, you have the power to transform what it is, to what it is GOING to be.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpuDyGgIeh0

Carl Jung said, "what you resists, persists." I want you to fully understand that, and why acceptance is so important. If you deny the reality of the moment, you empower it. You dwell on it. You gnaw on it like a bone. You play and replay the unfairness, the betrayal, the selfishness, or the violence in your head, saying all the while--it cannot be. Yet, it has already taken place! The resulting pain, sadness,  disappointment, or heartache, will still be waiting at the end of your denial. Though we may not wish a  particular situation unfold, it is the emotions (reactions) to that event that create the components that determine how the next event in our life will be understood. If we can develop a technique where all life is seen as a gift, we rewire our neurons and create a self-sustaining "operating system."

Friday, June 13, 2014

Just Breathe

Every moment is an opportunity to come to awareness. By far the easiest way to do this is to focus on your breathing. While breathing is part of the Autonomic Nervous System, (ANS) we have the ability to purposely, mindfully, take control of this function. The benefits can be enormous. Here is a short article by UCI that covers the basics. (you can find countless articles on-line to fit your level of interest)

http://www.healtheducation.uci.edu/stress/breath.aspx

You nervous system is divided into three parts: the sympathetic--parasympathetic--and the enteric (which regulates your gastrointestinal system and isn't going to play any further part). The SNS (sympathetic nervous system) is the "flight or fight" aspect of the system while the parasympathetic
(PNS) regulates the "rest and digest" response. If you are like most people these days, you have been unconsciously victimized by your SNS while paying little, to no attention, of your ability to actively engage your PNS. View the world at large to come to your own conclusion as to how this is working out. (know also that VOLUMES have been written on this subject and I am giving you the briefest overview)

Activating the SNS releases stress hormones (epinephrine and cortisol) into your blood stream. In dire situations, or where passion is needed, these hormones are wonderful. Reacting to routine daily occurrences that are minor (road rage--personal slight--long wait in line) in a similar fashion (with fear, anger, anxiety, or even saying "no;" see linked Psychology Today article in yesterdays post) sends these hormones coursing through your body. This causes a lower production of dopamine and serotonin. Over extended periods of time this is extremely detrimental to your well being.

Finding yourself angry is a gift. It immediately informs you that something is amiss. How do you react? Is it life-threatening? Or has somebody pissed you off? If you are simply pissed off, don't compound the situation by doing damage to yourself! Calm yourself through controlled breathing. Here's how: first, give the offending party "Godzilla Atomic Breath." Purse you lips and blow out, all the while imaging you are Godzilla destroying Tokyo. Really empty your diaphragm. Incinerate the offending party. Incinerate their ashes! Now, take a normal breath. Next, clench your butt cheeks and take a normal breath. Third, trace the outside of your lips with your index finger while taking a long slow breath through your nose. Hold for a count of two. Exhale through your mouth. Last, think of the one person in the whole world you care for most. That's it! You're back on good footing. (I won't bore you with all the scientific explanations for what we just did--you either trust me or you don't)

Responding to negative situations with controlled breathing is your "go to guy." It is your "trump card." It is your "solution that never fails." Try it and see.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAlWxZK-ps4

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Sound Off

Understanding sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oElbMctAVlY

Why is this important?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvJAgrUBF4w

Sound is a form of energy, just like electricity and light. As I have posted several times, you are similar to a radio station with both a transmitter and receiver. Combining yesterday's post with today's, lets examine some mental reactions we experience regarding language. (sound)

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/words-can-change-your-brain/201207/the-most-dangerous-word-in-the-world

Now go to the Home page and look at the message at the bottom of the bridge by Dag Hammarskold.

Realizing most all came here through the blog, I can only hope (at some point) you looked over the entire web site. Seeing the Home page began a process you may not have been aware of. Specifically, and metaphorically, you CROSSED that bridge and "tripped" Dag's message. I absolutely assure you your subconscious mind saw and recorded that message. It has been germinating. These last few weeks will be spent tending and nurturing that seed (message) so it fully sprouts in your conscious mind.

ADVANCED STUDY: http://edge.org/conversation/how-does-our-language-shape-the-way-we-think

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Back to the Basics

With Gift-Gratitude-God coming to an end July 3rd, I figure it is a good time to go back over the basics. Lets review so as to leave no doubt about my claims. (be sure to hit the link at the bottom to see the second page)

http://www.thethinkingbusiness.com/brain_zone/brain-tour/thinking-process

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Monday, June 2, 2014

Update

To understand the update you need to some perspective. Here is the week of blogs from 5-19 to 5-26-2013

http://wpgrogan.blogspot.com/2013_05_19_archive.html

Reading from bottom to top (yes, yes--I know there are even more references to earlier posts. Read them at your own risk; vis-a-vis apathy or cynicism) you get to experience Zach and a bit of context. I want to share the latest developments.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iTImZGOtc4

If 23 minutes is too much time to spend understanding the miracle life is, how about 4? Watch...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLhUS_QjcZY

"If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't give up a moment. I am a...I'm a blessed woman, I truly am, to have had that child in my life." ~Laura Sobiech

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Elliot Rodger

My effort the last 22 months has been to share a technique that I believe would enhance your life. The October 27th, 2013 post, "Crossroad at the Crossword" explained: God has..."set up a dynamic that is available to one and all. We just need to recognize and utilize the inherent, universal technique. Kind of like tuning in a radio--we need to find the proper frequency."

A full year before that (October 24th, 2012) I had explained in "Top O' the Morning" that; "every time you take in the good, you build a little bit of neural structure. Doing this a few times a day--for months or even years--will gradually change your brain, and how you feel and act, in far reaching ways." (Rick Hanson PhD "Buddha's Brain")

What I took for granted was your understanding that the gift can be corrupted. That its application is just as effective when applied in a manner opposite of the suggestions of this site. Elliot Rodger is the manifestation of this truth. His story, My Twisted World, bears witness: "This is the story of how I, Elliot Rodger, came to be. It is a story of sadness, anger, and hatred. It is a story of a war against CRUEL INJUSTICE." So begins the litany that he will come to repeat over and over and over again; "life is unfair." It is Elliot's mantra. It is the cause of his actions last Friday night.

(Please note--it is not my intention to belittle or blame. I believe Li Chin and Peter Rodger did the best they could as parents. Parental mistakes aside, Elliot was provided with countless opportunities to find another course. That said, the environment that Elliot came out of goes directly to his behavioral problems.)

Elliot was the eldest child of his family. His mother was Chinese (born in Malaysia) and his father British. The Chinese tradition towards the eldest son is of no small significance. Neither is this paragraph from page 21 of the manifesto: "Mother always got me what I wanted, right when I wanted it. At mother's house, all my needs were met with EXCELLENT PRECISION, whereas at father's house, there would always be a time delay because father and Soumaya had less time for me, and paid less attention to me."

Elliot was conditioned to always get what he wanted. It doesn't say he was ever refused at his father's house, only that there was a TIME DELAY. And his reasoning for that delay was his father and step mother had less time for him, and paid him less attention. The culture of indulgence and immediate gratification is set, and Elliot's emotional development ceases. He will expect and DEMAND from life what he experienced at home. If life doesn't play along, it is unfair. It is cruel. It becomes a "living hell." But not until he reaches puberty.

"...fifth grade was my favorite school year in elementary school. I played with more people than I ever did in previous grades, I was less shy, I wasn't a dork, and I had an awesome time learning how to skateboard and hacky-sack. It was a memorable year filled with joyful experiences."

 "Seventh Grade flew by very fast. My school life was a continuation of Sixth Grade. I mingled with acquaintances here and there, and behaved nicely with everyone. The difference is that I was having so much fun outside of school with my friends at Planet Cyber that I really didn't care about getting popular at school or getting attention from girls. I was enjoying my last year of childhood. My twelve year was one of the BEST YEARS of my life, and the last year I was happy."

Okay, so far so good. Nothing here that smacks of Asperger Syndrome. Besides the normal difficulties all children face, Elliot seems fairly happy. What goes wrong?

"Finding out about sex was one of the things that truly destroyed my entire life. Sex...the very word fills me with hate. Once I hit puberty, I would always want it, like any other boy. I would always hunger for it, I would always covet it, I would always fantasize about it. But I would never get it. Not getting any sex is what will shape the very foundation of my miserable youth."

"As middle school (8th Grade) approached it's ultimate end, I was having a miserable time. I was extremely unpopular, widely disliked, and viewed as the weirdest kid in the school. I had to act weird in order to GAIN ATTENTION. I was tired of being the invisible shy kid. Infamy is better than obscurity."

By Elliot's own admission 7th Grade (12 years of age) is "one of the best years of my life," while 8th Grade (13 years of age) is "miserable." Puberty is the defining factor and Elliot wants sex. To get sex he needs a girl. To get a girl he needs to be popular. He is "extremely unpopular."

"This was the start of hell for me. Going through puberty utterly doomed my existence. It condemned me to a life of suffering and unfulfilled desires. Even at that young age, I felt depressed because I wanted sex, yet I felt UNWORTHY of it. I didn't think I was ever going to experience sex in reality, and I was right. I never did. I was finally interested in girls, but there was no way I would ever get them."

Elliot's account of bullying at Crespi during his freshman year prompts a change to Taft High School for the 10th Grade. He lasts a week. ("My first week at Taft was a living hell.") He takes a MONTH to recover (playing World of Warcraft) while his parents decide which continuation school he should attend. He lands at Independence High, which has three buildings and only 100 students. It had a "relaxed and calm environment." He figures it is "the best option for me."

At 16 Elliot has a breakdown at the Bubenheims (family friends) house. "I realized how much I've been missing out on in my life." This revelation came when friends of the daughter show up at the end of the dinner and start talking about their "awesome lives and their parties." Elliot cries in front of everyone and tells them he "wants to commit suicide." His father, step-mother, and the hosts spend three hours trying to "cheer me up." It is also around this time he "realizes, with a lot of clarity, how truly unfair my life is. I compared myself to other teenagers and became very angry that they were able to experience all the things I've desired, while I was left out. I never had the experience of going to a party with other teenagers, I never had my first kiss, I never held hands with a girl, I never lost my virginity."

Then Elliot turns seventeen. There are FIVE and a HALF more years of this. Elliot never holds a job other than working 3 weeks with a family friend on a spiral staircase. (he has no carpentry skills) After graduating high school, he completes TWO classes (6 units) in four and a half years while
attending first Pierce, then Moorpark, and finally Santa Barbara Community College. (15 units is a normal class load for a single semester) He drops classes because he can't stand the sight of hot girls with their "brute boyfriends." He resents his mother because she won't marry her wealthy boyfriend. He tells his mother she should sacrifice her well being for the sake of his happiness, because "money would solve everything." Elliot believes "wealth is one of the most important defining factors of self-worth and superiority." He spends eye-opening amounts of money on the lottery. ($1600.00 that he actually states--more that he doesn't) He has $700.00 to spend on a Glock; later $1100.00 on a Sig Sauer. (he actually had a third gun in his BMW [as well as 400 rounds of ammunition] but the treatise doesn't mention it) Still, he wants to "punish all of the popular kids and young couples for the CRIME of having a BETTER LIFE THAN ME." Elliot never ONCE asks a girl out. ("I wish I had the courage to go up to them and ask them on a date, but they would have seen me as a creep. Girls are so cruel.")

This is just a SLICE of the self-indulgent, victimized view Elliot carried around with him. I could share another boatload of quotes like; "I cried every day when I imagined how much fun and pleasure other teenagers were having as I languished in despair." But even this synopsis of Elliot's 137 page diary grows more than tedious. I believe you can gather (to some degree) the incredible sense of entitlement Elliot felt. Where did he come by such a distorted world view? More importantly, once observed (as it surely was) why wasn't it corrected?

Elliot was given psychological help early. (Elliot only fesses up that he had visited psychologist Dr. Randy Gold at age 13 when he decides to stop seeing Dr. Sophy for prescribing Risperidon [he
researches it on-line] and giving the "same useless advice that every psychiatrist, psychologist, and counselor had given me in the past.") Elliot concludes his "parents wasted money on therapy as it will never help me in my struggle against such a cruel and unjust world." I wonder if that "useless advice" was you (Elliot) need an immediate attitude adjustment of the most monumental kind, and by any means necessary? And why oh why would parents even need to seek psychological help for such an obvious diagnosis?

I wonder if you better understand now, the first two paragraphs of the GIFT section of the web site? Or the GOD section that states "our reality of life is made up of our perception, and our perception is our truth." Elliot Rodger's truth can be found on the last page of his manifesto; "I am the victim in all this. I am the good guy." His last sentence is even more revealing. "Finally, at long last, I can show the world my true worth."

That you did Elliot, that you did.

Monday, May 26, 2014

Santa Barbara

George Chen--Katie Cooper--Cheng Yuan Hong--Chris Michael Martinez--Weihan Wang--Veronika Weiss.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_qIhrB73Uo

I'm so very sorry...

Friday, May 23, 2014

Scroll V

I will live this day as if it is my last.

And what shall I do with this last precious day which remains in my keeping? First, I will seal up its container of life so that not one drop spills itself upon the sand. I will waste not a moment mourning yesterday's misfortunes, yesterday's defeats, yesterday's aches of the heart, for why should I throw good after bad?

Can sand flow upward in the hour glass? Will the sun rise where it sets and set where it rises? Can I relive the errors of yesterday and right them? Can I call back yesterday's wounds and make them whole? Can I become younger than yesterday? Can I take back the evil that was spoken, the blows that where struck, the pain that was caused? No. Yesterday is buried forever and I will think of it no more.

I will live this day as if it is my last.

And what then shall I do? Forgetting yesterday neither will I think of tomorrow. Why should I throw now after maybe? Can tomorrows sand flow through the glass before today's? Will the sun rise twice this morning? Can I perform tomorrow's deeds while standing in today's path? Can tomorrow's child be born today? Can tomorrow's death cast its shadow backward and darken today's joy? Should I concern myself over events which I may never witness? Should I torment myself with problems that may never come to pass? No! Tomorrow lies buried with yesterday, and I will think of it no more.

I will live this day as if it is my last.

This day is all I have and these hours are now my eternity. I will greet this sunrise with cries of joy as a prisoner reprieved from death. I lift mine arms and give thanks for this priceless gift of a new day. So too, I will beat upon my heart with gratitude as I consider all who greeted yesterday's sunrise who are no longer with the living today. I am indeed a fortunate man and today's hours are but a bonus, undeserved. Why have I been allowed to live this extra day when others, far better than I, have departed? Is it that they have accomplished their purpose while mine is yet to be achieved? Is this another opportunity for me to become the man I know I can be?

I will live this day as if it is my last.

The duties of today I shall fulfill today. Today I shall fondle my children while they are young; tomorrow they will be gone and so will I. Today I shall embrace my woman with sweet kisses; tomorrow she will be gone and so will I. Today I shall lift up a friend in need; tomorrow he will no longer cry for help, nor will I hear his cries. Today I shall give myself in sacrifice and work; tomorrow I will have nothing to give and there will be none to receive.

And if it is my last, it will be my greatest monument. This day I will make the best day of my life. This day I will drink every minute to its full. I will savor its taste and give thanks. My last must be my best.

I will live this day as if it is my last.

~excerpt from "The Greatest Salesman in the World" by Og Mandino

Thursday, May 22, 2014

If I Was A Highway

I'd stretch alongside you
I'd help you pass by ways
That had dissatisfied you
If I was a highway well I'd be stretchin'
I'd be fetchin' you home.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2h9AjhL7RZI

~Emmy Lou Harris  Lyrics by Butch Hancock

Can't help but think how well those lyrics capture the purpose of this blog. The realization too, of how antiquated I am. That there are freeways and interstates to take you where you wish to go more expediently and quickly than I ever could. And that's alright. I can't help but believe that there are some who aren't in a hurry. That view time with an arched eyebrow and a tiny grin tugging at the edge of their mouth. Who savor the comfort of a destination decided--no matter how long it takes to reach it.

http://www.rv-trips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Route_66.jpg

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Did I Stutter

Yes, Parker, you did. But so slightly and negligibly, it was far more endearing than vexing. Take a listen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iICFjbIAs7Y

Ever and always others will highlight your shortcomings. Too big, too small, too short, too tall. Too blond, too red, too starved, too fed. Too curly, too straight, too early, too late. Too black, too white, too loose, too tight. Too wild, too tame, too cool, too lame. When and where does it end?

Parker stated; "Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will." We know this though--we covered it way back in October of 2012. Read again...

http://wpgrogan.blogspot.com/2012/10/not-good-enough.html

It is time to take it to heart.

Monday, May 19, 2014

Book of Padrac

You would do well becoming less anxious about things. Learn to anticipate what it is you want rather than being anxious of what you fear.

Book of Padrac: Section 1 Discourse 2

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Heaven or Hell

(the fact of the matter I'd choose the latter)

Lend me your ear
'Cause I want to make it clear
That I fear you'll miss something
If you don't listen to me
It's free, won't cost you a dime
Just a little time, so listen...

I was spending all kinds of mind time
Searching for God, was he a fraud?
Was it a lie, this guy?
And how 'bout the devil
Was he on the level?
I was determined to find out, about
Heaven and hell
Well it happened in May
On the twenty-second day
That through some mysterious way
I found myself in the park, right after dark
And there, for all to behold
Was a fellow sold
On the Golden Rule
With Bible in hand
He had taken a stand
Against that evil dude
And I started to brood
Was Satan so bad
Such a miserable cad
That he deserved such a verbal lashing?
It wasn't right, I was getting uptight
And I asked for positive proof
Something to act as a roof
To shelter and protect
Against possible defect
In this man's house of belief
And it was with relief that he answered me
Young man I'm glad you asked the question because:
I've come to tell a story
I've come to tell a tale
I've come to stretch the truth
More than Jonah and the Whale
With that he tapped his Bible
And swore that he'd stand liable
If one falsehood, deception, concealment, distortion, and or misrepresentation of the truth so much as crossed his lips-
Then he launched
With faith true and staunch
Into the story of a carpenters' son
Who had played in early AD
Near a sea called Galilee
But it seems this Jesus had
Provoked the prevailing fad
And crossed a number of Jews, who's views
Differed somewhat in their technical aspect than his own
The outcome of course, resulted in force
And the trial that was set was a fix
Without much ado
They said, "we want you
And let Barabbas go free."
The verdict was in
King of the Jews his sin
And they tortured the man on a cross
Laid him for dead under moss
But it is now a fact
This was Christ's second act!
And not the close of the show at all
For it seems he arose, bid adios
And returned to his home and his Father
But he left word for his friends to make amends
And be sure to live their life's in love
For above, that's what it was all about
He did also state, on some later date
He'd return to adjourn the world as we know it
But never to fear, he's near
and hears our thoughts and prayers

Well! It seems as that man spoke, I suddenly woke
From a life filled with sin and corruption
With no doubt in my mind
The course that I'd find
Was one in the footsteps of Christ
The rest of my life was one filled with strife
As I struggled to stay in good standing
Just imagine the weight
Of supporting the freight
That a man of virtue must carry
When my life had played out
Due to a case of the gout
I was weary and ready to go
Then picture the shock
As the gates were unlocked
And the scene before me revealed
The heaven on high was a terrible lie
And nothing at all what I thought
Foreseen as serene, but boy what a dream
This place was laced with presumption
The insolence they wore was quickly a bore
And the greatest of all was the Christ
His haughtiness in fact, was devoid of all tact
And in his greeting to me, he explained you see
"The lowly aren't holy, and off limits to all personnel."
Without a moment to waste, I turned in all haste
And beat a retreat to the gates
But Peter in glee, had hidden his key
And it looked, as if I were booked
For a long term engagement...

Reports would come in
On the Kingdom of Sin
And the party they were having below
All the friends that I knew
Lived in that Paradise of red-hue
Burning, but learning, how to enjoy
And though I did not sweat
You could make an odds-on bet
That if I had a choice, I'd rejoice
To be there with them
For my days are filled with loneliness
My nights are just as bad
Spent in contemplation
On all the fun I might have had!
So let this be a teaching
If but one of you are reaching
For salvation as you know it, please forgo it!
For the final truth is found
Six feet underground
But by then it's much too late
Once you reach that pearly gate
The lesson that you'll learn
It's a helluva lot nicer just to burn

~WPG

(Parody: treating a serious subject in a nonsensical manner, as in ridicule)

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Immortality

Because there aren't any written records, (excluding cave art if we expand the definition) all history before (circa) 4000 BC is speculative. It is similar to you sitting in your house and hearing the squeal of tires followed by the sound of metal on metal. Without actually seeing the car accident, you can deduce that there HAS been a car accident. It is the specifics that must be generalized. By the same token, if you come upon the accident 5 minutes after the event, SEEING certain things (i.e. the extent of the damage to the cars, if a fatality was involved) other information can be generalized. (relative speed of one or both of the vehicles) So it is with us moving from the Neolithic period (10,000-4000 BC) to the beginnings of recorded history. (Uruk; 4100-3800 BC)

One deduction is, during the Neolithic Age (if not much earlier) man formulates a worldview (religion) of "animism." (anima = soul; Latin) It is the idea that everything (including inanimate objects) have a spiritual essence. "Most animistic belief systems hold that this spirit survives physical death. In some instances, the spirit is believed to pass into a more leisurely world of abundant game and ever ripe crops, while in other systems...the spirit remains on earth as a ghost, often becoming malignant (evil) in the process." Further; "From the belief of the survival of the dead arose the practice of graveside rituals such as the offering of food or of lighting fires to honor the dead...(that) later became an act of full fledged ANCESTOR WORSHIP." ~New World Encyclopedia

If you think I paint with too wide a brush, there is this: "Animism was originally the religion of all Hunter-Gathers, our ancestors for most of the last 200,000 years. How do we know that? Through archaeological traces of our ancestors and comparative anthropological studies of present day hunter gatherers ALL of whom are animists. ~Introduction to Animism  Lanie Johnson, M.A. and Ken Fischman  Ph.D.

So what can we state with some assurance? Homo sapiens believed from the beginning they would have an afterlife. The concept of heaven (abundant game and ever-ripe crops) and devils/demons (a ghost, often becoming malignant) emerges. Totemism (early form of statue or idol veneration) and Shamanism, (the priesthood) both "off-shoots" of animism, draw a more complete picture of how religions evolved.

The rest, they say, is history. Which it is...because we have a written record. The emerging civilizations (Sumer and Egypt) bear testimony to the truth. The only question remaining is, why? Why do humans believe in immortality? Here is one possible answer.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140127164835.htm

End of Series

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Kanpai


Photo: Dusk at an Osaka torii
Photograph by Paul Whitton, Miyajima Torii
(as appeared in NationalGeographic.com) 



Well, it finally happened. After 77 days, we had a visitor from Japan! Beginning February 12th and stretching through the 19th, I logged 5 posts in an attempt to entice someone from Japan to this site. Yesterday, between 10 and 11 AM, (PST) he or she showed up. Arigatou! I would absolutely love it if you (provided you come back and see this) would comment on the circumstances that brought you to this website. (blog) And to the Jamaicans, Spaniards, and Chileans (see full list at the post; Wakarimasen 2-12-14) that came aboard shortly after those Japanese orientated posts, you are most welcome here. Just because you weren't the specific object of intention does not mean you aren't valued. Serendipitous events are always enjoyed and appreciated.

To some trivial matters: I have mentioned I have not retained rights to the domain name. So I doubt your continued access to the website proper after July 3rd. (the blog is a separate identity) I would encourage you to make copies of the other sections. (Home--Gift--Gratitude et al) The time might come when you would wish to review them. This also means there is little time left to purchase The Last Enchanted Forest in PDF. (which I believe superior to other options--you can make copies!)

The picture that appeared as you came on this post is "implanted" because of Gwenn Jones. I asked her if she would be so kind as to place the picture rather than you having to link to it. Wonderfully aesthetic, I find it a testimony to the whole effort of "bringing Japan on board." (I suppose I would have felt the same if Ireland hadn't been among the earliest visitors) The larger point is how appreciative I am of Gwenn. I've never met someone as gracious giving than Gwenn has been to me. You can read all about her at the 7-13-13 post.

Though I wish to leave it an "open parenthesis" as to posting after July 3rd, I am doubtful I would continue. After reconsideration, I believe the name of the site is too limiting. To the secularist the name is easily dismissed. (religious "pie-in-the-sky" crap) To Christians, once they see where I'm actually coming from, not at all what they had in mind. I believe it has left me with an exceptional audience who already know what it is I am sharing, but one so narrow and confined as to (seemingly) invalidate the effort. Of course we know better--all is a gift. And I am grateful if, for no other reason, we can revisit the quote from That Man is You: "Genuine confidence doesn't say; Oh, well, too bad this didn't work out but I am reconciled to the idea. Instead of that, it maintains, what seems a poor shot still hit the bulls-eye."

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Back to the Beginning

To view the possible beginnings of spring festivals, we have to peer back in time. (prehistoric--prehistory--before recorded [written] history) Here is the archaeological record.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/evolution/becoming-human.html#becoming-human-part-3

Sometime in the last 50,000 to 100,000 years, man learned to control fire and bury his dead. More important was the advent of language. The action of scooping water (for instance) could be enacted by a fallen hunter (perhaps a broken leg in a hunting accident) to express the IDEA that he was thirsty and desirous of a drink. It isn't difficult to imagine grunts and gestures incubating and developing into language. Even today certain people are described as "talking with their hands." But things really begin to reveal themselves 30,000 to 40,000 years ago. Discovery of cave art is evidence that man understood concepts and symbols. Humans display non-linear thinking.

http://www.bradshawfoundation.com/chauvet/chauvet_cave_art.php

"Thus cave art was thought provoking, and the thoughts it provoked provided the impetus for men and women to lay the foundation of theories of life, and of the universe. Precisely because of its non-material, its metaphysical (beyond the physical) qualities, art became the father of religion." ~ Paul Johnson   Art: A New History

I would add a caveat to Johnson's idea: dreams and visionary plants. (hallucinogens)

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/11/081104-israel-shaman-missions.html

"The tendency to perceive reality in the terms provided by the SACRED marks a fundamental difference between primitive and modern Western societies, where the distinction has been destroyed. The openness to the world as a sacred reality is probably the most pervasive and common meaning in all forms of primitive religion and is present in definitions of time, space, behaviors and activities." ~Charles Long   Primitive Religion

http://www.robertschoch.com/sphinxcontent.html

Following the rational for the Sphinx being 9000 to 11,000 years old, we know the reason it points east; the spring equinox. This then, is the genesis for spring festivals: death and resurrection. (i.e. immortality)

http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/gem-projects/hm/0102-1-pyramids/page03.htm

Contrary to accepted thought, we have a much longer cultural history than acknowledged. It is time to surrender to what we don't know, or won't believe...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pf5-0FhGY4

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/4/prweb10657023.htm

To Be Continued

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Spring Has Sprung

And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go, THAT THEY MAY HOLD A FEAST UNTO ME IN THE WILDERNESS. Exodus 5:1

Verse 3 goes on to say; "...let us go we pray thee, three days journey into the desert, and sacrifice unto the Lord our God; lest he fall upon us with pestilence, or with the sword."

This is the first of several encounters between Moses and Pharaoh and the rational Moses uses as his argument. Passover has not occurred. Yet, a springtime festival is of such importance Pharaoh must--let my people go lest he (God) fall upon us with a pestilence.

And what are springtime festivals? Celebrations of rebirth. Winter (death) has been overcome and life (metaphorically) reborn in the form of a god. The Sumerians had Tammuz (Dumuzid), the Egyptians Osiris, and the Greeks Dionysus, hundreds (and hundreds!) of years before Passover.

"Different references to Passover in the Torah as well as knowledge of other ANCIENT RITUALS that took place at the same time of year indicate that there may have been several origins of the Pesach festival. The ancient Israelites took what was originally one or more separate Canaanite spring holidays and imbued them with a HEIGHTENED SIGNIFICANCE when they made Pesach a commemoration of the Exodus from Egypt." ~My Jewish Learning (see link)

http://www.myjewishlearning.com/holidays/Jewish_Holidays/Passover/History.shtml

A week ago Sunday was Easter and the oh so typical debate was rehashed; is Easter a pagan ritual? Christians deflect this inquiry (which can't be refuted at face value) with, "we aren't celebrating Easter, but Passover." This dodge falls flat once the origins of Passover become known however. The Jews themselves acknowledge the source of their spring festivals. The difference is simply they have infused the pagan ritual with "heightened significance."

So it is with Christians. They have taken what is older than written symbols (cuneiform and hieroglyphics) and recast it in another light. That Jesus was the only begotten (monogenes) Son of God who died and was resurrected. But the motif--the theme--is well known. The evidence in the form of springtime festivals in all cultures goes back thousands of years. (circa 3000 BC for the Sumerians) What is it about us (homo sapiens) that insists on eternal life? That death be overcome? What is it that seems to be in the very fabric of our DNA?

To Be Continued

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Was There a Resurrection

Alas, no. The Gospels contradict themselves so strongly it is obvious it did not happen. Lets look at the evidence.

(Note--it is assumed you are going to read the entire chapter referenced)

Matthew Chapter 28: Verse 6) He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay 7) And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there you shall see him: lo, I have told you. 10) Then said Jesus unto them, "Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee and there shall they see me." 16) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

Mark Chapter 16: Verse 7) But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you. 8) And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulcher; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid. (Note: the authenticity of verses 9-20 is very controversial. Google Mark 16: 9-20 to enter the fray.)

Luke Chapter 24 Verse 33) And they rose up the same hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them 36) And as they spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, "Peace be unto you." 49) "And, behold I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." 50) And he led them out as far as to Bethany and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them 51) And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. 52) And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy

John Chapter 20 Verse 17) Jesus saith unto her, "Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. 18) Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her 22) And when he said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, "Receive ye the Holy Ghost." 26) And after eight days again the disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace be unto you." 27) Then he saith he to Thomas, "Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing." Chapter 21 Verse 1) After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself .

Acts Chapter 1 Verse 3) To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them 40 days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: 4) And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, "which" saith he, "ye have heard of me. 5) For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." 9) And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. Chapter 2 Verse 1) And when the day of Pentecost was come, they were in accord in one place; 4) And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The problems seem insurmountable to me. Matthew and Mark have the disciples going to Galilee. Luke, John and Acts have them remaining in Jerusalem. Luke has Jesus ascending in a single day; Matthew, Mark, and John don't specifically say; Acts in 40 days. Acts has the Holy Ghost coming on Pentecost while John has Jesus breathing the Holy Ghost on the disciples (v. 22 receive ye the Holy Ghost) the day of the resurrection. John even disputes himself with the supposed instruction to Mary Magdalene (v. 17 touch me not, for I have not ascended) versus Thomas. (v. 27 thy hand, and thrust it into my side) It is one thing to have minor discrepancies of eye-witnessed events. It is another thing
all together whether the event occurred in Los Angeles or San Diego, the 5th or 22nd of the month. Those aren't discrepancies; those are different stories altogether.

To Be Continued

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Instruction Manual

I have repeatedly made claims about the benefits of G-G-G. I have espoused that science backs up those claims. Here, yet another example.

http://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/therese-borchard-sanity-break/5-steps-to-find-calm-an-interview-with-robert-j-wicks/?xid=aol_eh-emo_11_20140421_&aolcat=HLT&icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl11%7Csec1_lnk3%26pLid%3D468991

Reading all 5 steps isn't necessary, (although there is a wonderful Zen story in #2) just read #4 and hit the link there. (it is the word 'grateful' in blue)

Interesting the 3rd paragraph has gift in quotation marks, isn't it? (as well as several places in the first link without quotations) The next to last paragraph also suggests that parents teach teenagers to think "outside the box" about what may be interpreted as a negative. (a breakup or not getting into their school of choice)

So what is left is simply IMPLEMENTATION. How are you coming along with making G-G-G a part of your life? Demonstrating it not only for your children, but all who you come in contact with? And in what manner is God manifesting in your life? Or are the self-imposed limitations you carry with you regarding God negating the experience?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx4AATLY7L8

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

PHI

Less known than it's more famous "cousin " Pi (3.14159265 etc.).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8ivF5GqzKo

There are certain things you need to be exposed to before the curtain comes down--Fibonacci and the Golden Ratio being one of them.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Siren Song

It is a long, lonely road, that of a poet. There are, of course, incredible highs. Oft times, when Erato whispers in your ear, the whisperings are so intimate and seductive one literally loses one's mind. This is not a permanent condition--no, only a momentary transformation where one is overtaken and brought to ground by Creativity and Inspiration. These co-conspirators wish to access you, possess you, if only for a short time. (all too short a time) They wish you look from their vantage point, from their perspective, and rethink all it is you've come to know as true.

Many people ask me how it is I write poetry. As best I'm able, I try and convey that it (poetry) comes through me, not from me. There is no other way I can describe it. Mentally I "hand over" the conscious mind and try to follow where it is I am being led. Some describe this as the siren song, others as having a muse. While acknowledging and embracing these metaphors, I tend toward using the term, "Sacred Feminine." The reason is simple; when Creativity and Inspiration come, they often come by directive of their older sister, Love.

I am no sailor. The siren's song has never beckoned me to the rocks. For me she appears as wood nymph or forest sprite. It is uncharted glens and moonlit glades I am drawn to. Where cathedrals are formed by the looming presence of towering trees and ritual consists of ancient dances so powerful, so passionate, and so intimate, the very stars pay homage. The visitation comes at a price though, one must try and navigate the way home. That trek can be arduous and bereft of meaning after witnessing so sacred a ceremony.

Is it worth it? Sometimes I wonder. My description above (long, lonely road) is accurate of my experience. There is another aspect I haven't touched on, perhaps the most difficult. Finding the vulnerability to actually express what has occurred. (who believes what a river knows?) This can lead to a slew of doubt and misgivings, unmet expectations. Still the sisters are insistent--share! Nothing comes so readily to mind (speaking fluent 'Catholic' as I do) as John the Baptist; "I am a voice crying out in the wilderness." And we all know how it turned out for John.

Which brings me to the point of this post. After a lifetime of questioning, an answer. I wish to be specific; it was neither written nor sung for me. Not in the sense that anyone would recognize. But I do. It is Life calling out to Itself. It is validation and acknowledgement that "your currency is poetry." Let me introduce you to someone who appeared to me in the guise of an archetype. Her name is Mia Sable.

http://iacmusic.com/play2.aspx?songID=56174&source=Mia

Mia wrote that song 6 years ago. It is timeless. It is the song sung in the glade while I struggled to find my way home. Who knew?

Mia is a story well worth your time. Google away and be sure to listen to "It's Easy." She is amazingly gifted.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Frere Pierre

By means of all created things, without exception, the Divine assails us, penetrates us, molds us. We imagined it as distant and inaccessible, when in fact we lived steeped in its burning layers.

We are not physical beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a physical experience.

God is not remote from us. He is at the point of my pen, my shovel, my paint brush, my sewing needle--and my heart and thoughts.

The world, this palpable world, which we are wont to treat with boredom and disrespect with which we habitually regard places with no sacred association for us, is in truth a holy place, and we did not know it.

Our duty, as men and women, is to proceed as if the limits to our ability did not exist. We are collaborators in creation.

Science alone cannot discover Christ. But Christ satisfies the yearnings that are born in our hearts in the school of science...Science will, in all probability, be increasingly impregnated by mysticism.

Above all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay. We should like to skip the intermediate stages. We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new. And yet it is the law of progress that it is made by passing through some stages of instability--and that it might take a very long time. And so I think it is with you; your ideas mature gradually--let them grow, let them shape themselves without undue haste. Don't try to force them on, as though you could be today what time will make of you tomorrow.

~Pierre Teilhard de Chardin     (May 1, 1881- April 10, 1955)

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Sacred Feminine

People's life's are just tapestries
Of who we our and what we'll be
We weave and hope to make them rich
With utmost care on every stitch

Our looms they take on different looks
Influenced by people, places, and books
But intermingled and wove with care
Are all the loves that we have shared

I think that mine reflects a tone
Where love was taught and finally shown
My colors now run deep and true
And for that, I must thank you

Tints and shades both subtle and bold
Reveal a love that's proudly told
And any stranger could easily see
How much you mean in my tapestry

You're the one who always heard
My inner feeling, the silent word
Knew the glance, reassured my smile
Didn't mind if I searched awhile

You're the one who meant so much
Brought love to bloom with a single touch
You're the one who enriched my life
But never considered to be my wife

So now from you, oh lovely queen
On velvet night with stars serene
I must reclaim what's left to me
The portrait of you, my tapestry

~WPG

https://www.thetapestryhouse.com/tapestries/view/14/the-kiss-1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMYlP5sqq-o

Thursday, April 10, 2014

The Sleeper Must Awaken

                                                    Bene Gesseit "Litany against Fear"

I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.

~Frank Herbert  Dune

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Persistence

I will persist until I succeed.

The prizes of life are at the end of each journey, not near the beginning; and it is not given to me to know how many steps are necessary in order to reach my goal. Failure I may encounter at the thousandth step, yet success hides behind the next bend in the road. Never will I know how close it lies unless I turn the corner. Always I will take another step. If that is of no avail I will take another, and yet another. In truth, one step at a time is not too difficult.

I will persist until I succeed.

Henceforth I will consider each day's effort as but one blow of my blade against a mighty oak. The first blow may cause not a tremor in the wood, nor the second, nor the third. Each blow, of itself, may be trifling, and seem of no consequence. Yet from childish swipes the oak will eventually tumble. So it will be with my efforts of today.

I will be liken to the rain drop which washes away the mountain; the ant that devours a tiger; the star that brightens the earth; the slave that builds a pyramid. I will build my castle one brick at a time for I know that small attempts, repeated, will complete any undertaking.

I will persist until I succeed.

I will never consider defeat and I will remove from my vocabulary such words as quit, cannot, unable, impossible, out of the question, improbable, failure, unworkable, hopeless, and retreat; for they are words of fools. I will avoid despair but if this disease of the mind should infect me then I will work on in despair. I will toil and I will endure. I will ignore the obstacles at my feet and keep my eyes on the goals above my head, for I know where dry desert ends, green grass grows.

I will persist until I succeed.

~Og Mandino  The Greatest Salesman in the World  Excerpt from Scroll III

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtbEIMAsBsY

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

The Eternal Question

Here, a truly haunting song by Blackmore's Night...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHRlWdMtvok

~Lyrics by Ritchie Blackmore and Candice Night

Does this timeless query make you uneasy or fearful? Apprehensive? Depressed? The most overt symbol employed by this blog/web site is the "bridge." It certainly wasn't by accident. It has been my intention to suggest a means to span the "abyss." How the abyss manifests in your life is important only by it's identifying characteristic; hopelessness. Once one becomes disempowered or disillusioned, hopelessness thrives. Hopelessness is Hell's most efficient assassin.

I share this because renewal for the domain name has come up--and will be allowed to elapse. I speculated this would be the case last July. The remaining three months will be more than sufficient to say what hasn't been said, if indeed, things have been left unsaid. If the idea you are a dolphin in search of the ocean hasn't registered yet, allow Robert Frost to express it with more elegance:

We dance round the ring and suppose
But the secret sits in the middle and knows

Monday, March 31, 2014

The Presence

I was born in the mountains
And hatched from the sea
I travel by moonlight
Or waft on the breeze
I'm ever before you
While I ride the rear guard
I'm a song from the minstrel
And the words of a bard

I lurk in the shadows
While I stream from the sun
You've seen me in many
But I am the One
In pieces and fragments
I make myself known
I'm ever beside you
As you dance on your own

~WPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r82fyOb8F5w