For those of you that are observant, you may have noticed a new header at the top of the blog page. 'Book' is now an active tab and "The Last Enchanted Forest" is available for purchase. By clicking on the book cover you can view the first two pages and get a "feel" for the story offered. It is a children's book with an adult message. Beyond a heartwarming story in poetic form, there are vivid illustrations to fire the imagination of any child, along with "teachable moments" within the context of the tale. If you have children, grand kids, nephews or nieces, this e-book provides an opportunity to connect with them in the realm of fantasy, superimposed with real life lessons. If you have a teenager that has started "babysitting," this e-book may prove an invaluable tool bonding with those in his or her care. If you are an adult who relishes a good yarn, rich and interwoven with meaning, this book is for you. In other words, its for anyone and everyone. It is my sincere hope that you will purchase the book and join Willie on a journey of a lifetime.
http://site.baybridgecentral.com/giftgratitudegod/book.html
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Sacred Masculine
I recently watched a documentary entitled; "Buck." It occurred to me then that I had several posts concerning the Sacred Feminine, but none regarding what it means to honor the masculine. Although I am anything but a cowboy, I was still able to relate to the documentary. The metaphor of life being a horse and the way one interacts with it was unmistakable to me. In addition, Buck's (Brannaman) early childhood was extreme. That he was able to integrate the violence inflicted on him to an understanding of "horsemanship" that refined the dynamic is a wonderful life lesson. If you have Netflix you can access the documentary. I highly recommend it. It displays the "unconscious competence" that lies at the heart of the truly masculine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOM5saEFBgM
(I have included a short video from youtube to give you a sense of the man)
Update: 11:50 PM 11-19-13 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCJPll_5lPc
(For someone special)
Update: 5:37 PM 4-17-14 (they never realized how special they were)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOM5saEFBgM
(I have included a short video from youtube to give you a sense of the man)
Update: 11:50 PM 11-19-13 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCJPll_5lPc
(For someone special)
Update: 5:37 PM 4-17-14 (they never realized how special they were)
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Self-Inflicted Wounds
"If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn't sit for a month." ~ Theodore Roosevelt
The operative word in the quote above is "most." I am aware and understand that Life can bring events where we are blameless. But in general, the statement stands up to scrutiny, does it not? If so, what's to be gained by spending time on anyone else's blame, fault, involvement with or contribution to, what is ultimately our responsibility?
Take the energy you usually spend deflecting, shielding, or outright denying the extent of your involvement, and apply it to self-examination. How did I arrive here? What was it I was hoping to accomplish? Was I simply showing off ? Attracting attention to myself? Trying to impress someone? Did I feel the need of validation so strongly that I stepped outside of "me" to become something I thought more acceptable to "you?" When I am around certain people do I feel less than? Subservient to? What happens to my self-esteem when I find myself in the company of such people?
Another possibility is you simply didn't take anyone else into consideration. It was all about you. The collateral damage though, is something less desirable and too revealing for you to embrace. The unflattering picture must be minimized and what better way than blaming someone, or something, else? So you pour your energy into creating an alternate version of reality that places you in a more favorable light. You lie to yourself.
The problem with that is, it further exploits why you felt the need to: show off, try to impress, gain validation, or prop up your self-esteem in the first place! You perpetuate that which you wish to end. Like a hamster in a cage with a wheel, you run and run and run to exhaustion, only to maintain the very position you find unbecoming. You can't seem to break the cycle of behavior. You continue to shoot yourself in the foot--or bang your head against the wall--all the while in denial that your gun is smoking and that your forehead is bruised.
Well, here's the good news; you wouldn't be on this blog if you weren't ready for change. There is a linked article, video, song or photograph that is specific to you. A sentence or paragraph that fired your imagination and was written just for you. Trust what it says. Act on its influence. Go where it beckons. There is an amazing Gift waiting for you. Be brave enough to accept it.
The operative word in the quote above is "most." I am aware and understand that Life can bring events where we are blameless. But in general, the statement stands up to scrutiny, does it not? If so, what's to be gained by spending time on anyone else's blame, fault, involvement with or contribution to, what is ultimately our responsibility?
Take the energy you usually spend deflecting, shielding, or outright denying the extent of your involvement, and apply it to self-examination. How did I arrive here? What was it I was hoping to accomplish? Was I simply showing off ? Attracting attention to myself? Trying to impress someone? Did I feel the need of validation so strongly that I stepped outside of "me" to become something I thought more acceptable to "you?" When I am around certain people do I feel less than? Subservient to? What happens to my self-esteem when I find myself in the company of such people?
Another possibility is you simply didn't take anyone else into consideration. It was all about you. The collateral damage though, is something less desirable and too revealing for you to embrace. The unflattering picture must be minimized and what better way than blaming someone, or something, else? So you pour your energy into creating an alternate version of reality that places you in a more favorable light. You lie to yourself.
The problem with that is, it further exploits why you felt the need to: show off, try to impress, gain validation, or prop up your self-esteem in the first place! You perpetuate that which you wish to end. Like a hamster in a cage with a wheel, you run and run and run to exhaustion, only to maintain the very position you find unbecoming. You can't seem to break the cycle of behavior. You continue to shoot yourself in the foot--or bang your head against the wall--all the while in denial that your gun is smoking and that your forehead is bruised.
Well, here's the good news; you wouldn't be on this blog if you weren't ready for change. There is a linked article, video, song or photograph that is specific to you. A sentence or paragraph that fired your imagination and was written just for you. Trust what it says. Act on its influence. Go where it beckons. There is an amazing Gift waiting for you. Be brave enough to accept it.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Clarity
Sometimes I hit upon a subject that is so important Life comes along and says; "Hey, that's great! Not sure you needed to use all the big words though. Let me help." And I am introduced to a person, place, or thing that assists me in providing clarity. That is how I met Sara Bareilles this morning. It is a wonder how things work...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGmixpdf7Kw
So, yesterday's message is now obvious and explicit, yes? Go out and rock'em with your authentic self.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGmixpdf7Kw
So, yesterday's message is now obvious and explicit, yes? Go out and rock'em with your authentic self.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Role Playing
It is what it is...but it ain't what it's gonna be.
Here is where you come in. This is your role. The transitional figure to take us from where we are to "how it's gonna be." It's going to be peaceful, inclusive, and loving, if you are. It's going to be supple and flexible and intuitive, if you are. It's going to be patient, tolerant, and kind, if you are.
Is there a more superb learning experience than observing what is possible? Evidence that alternative expressions to negative stimulus are not only possible, but incontrovertible, because you yourself have born witness to it. The more provocative the circumstances, the more potential to infuse the moment with an "exceptional response." The extraordinary. The way others long to be but are unfamiliar with. Show them. Be a living, breathing "teachable moment." Be that which you aspire to be.
Here is where you come in. This is your role. The transitional figure to take us from where we are to "how it's gonna be." It's going to be peaceful, inclusive, and loving, if you are. It's going to be supple and flexible and intuitive, if you are. It's going to be patient, tolerant, and kind, if you are.
Is there a more superb learning experience than observing what is possible? Evidence that alternative expressions to negative stimulus are not only possible, but incontrovertible, because you yourself have born witness to it. The more provocative the circumstances, the more potential to infuse the moment with an "exceptional response." The extraordinary. The way others long to be but are unfamiliar with. Show them. Be a living, breathing "teachable moment." Be that which you aspire to be.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Paradox
John D. Caputo (Power of the Powerless) states; "Whatever it is you say God is, God is more. The very constitution of the idea is deconstructive of any such construction...the very formula that describes God is that there is no formula with which to describe God."
I absolutely agree with Mr. Caputo. Still, what is G-G-G if not a formula, or at the least, a process? And my contention is, ultimately, within the dynamic (process) an ASPECT of God is experienced. How can I embrace both views? By simply allowing the "Gift" to be whatever it is that is experienced. That no limitations, boundaries, or expectations be imposed on the experience. We allow it (Life) to come through unfiltered--accept it in Gratitude--then decide what, if anything, we choose to do. If a situation is rife with discord, do we wish to add to the cacophony? Or do we desire a peaceful resolution? Choice is always part of the Eternal Now. Even if that choice is that you refuse to choose.
Here is an example. Many people I talk to want "peace" in their life. A reduction, if not a cessation, of so much "drama." I ask them how they would rate their "patience." The usual answer is; it needs work. Well, I say, how many opportunities does Life provide (on a daily basis!) for you to improve or enhance your level of patience? Rather than an attitude of, I can't take any more of this crap; you develop a response that perceives the event as an occasion (Gift) to explore the parameters of what makes you angry or reactive. To question; what button of mine was just pushed? Why did I react so forcefully to something that, in truth, really isn't that important to me? Do I actually see patience as capitulation? Am I really all that interested in becoming a patient person, or is it simply a characteristic I think I am suppose to have?
So, the formula becomes what I experience and how I respond IS the very formula for which there is no formula. Because I am not describing God, I am experiencing God. I am not saying what God is, I am saying how I understood Him in the moment. That I realize the creativity of the Creator, though beyond my comprehension, does not preclude a manifestation of that creativity in my life. That paradox is, in the end, nothing more nor less than another aspect of God.
Or is it?
I absolutely agree with Mr. Caputo. Still, what is G-G-G if not a formula, or at the least, a process? And my contention is, ultimately, within the dynamic (process) an ASPECT of God is experienced. How can I embrace both views? By simply allowing the "Gift" to be whatever it is that is experienced. That no limitations, boundaries, or expectations be imposed on the experience. We allow it (Life) to come through unfiltered--accept it in Gratitude--then decide what, if anything, we choose to do. If a situation is rife with discord, do we wish to add to the cacophony? Or do we desire a peaceful resolution? Choice is always part of the Eternal Now. Even if that choice is that you refuse to choose.
Here is an example. Many people I talk to want "peace" in their life. A reduction, if not a cessation, of so much "drama." I ask them how they would rate their "patience." The usual answer is; it needs work. Well, I say, how many opportunities does Life provide (on a daily basis!) for you to improve or enhance your level of patience? Rather than an attitude of, I can't take any more of this crap; you develop a response that perceives the event as an occasion (Gift) to explore the parameters of what makes you angry or reactive. To question; what button of mine was just pushed? Why did I react so forcefully to something that, in truth, really isn't that important to me? Do I actually see patience as capitulation? Am I really all that interested in becoming a patient person, or is it simply a characteristic I think I am suppose to have?
So, the formula becomes what I experience and how I respond IS the very formula for which there is no formula. Because I am not describing God, I am experiencing God. I am not saying what God is, I am saying how I understood Him in the moment. That I realize the creativity of the Creator, though beyond my comprehension, does not preclude a manifestation of that creativity in my life. That paradox is, in the end, nothing more nor less than another aspect of God.
Or is it?
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Child of the Universe
If you haven't had the pleasure of reading Desiderata, you are in for a treat. If you have, and its been awhile, it will be like a pleasant reunion with a good friend. Either way, enjoy.
Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield against sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever you labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
~ Max Ehrmann (written 1927)
Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield against sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever you labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
~ Max Ehrmann (written 1927)
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