One of my sisters asked this question on Facebook and I see this question as too powerful, to simply respond in a fugacious manner. So many of us contemplate these very questions and it is, in my humble opinion, important to share our experiences and understanding.
Question of the day?
I have heard it said “Everything about you is spiritual.” What does this mean exactly? Does it mean you are in this world but not of this world (as scripture says) or something else?
For me, in a nutshell, yes! “We are in this world but not of this world,” sums it up quite nicely! However, if you want to go further down the rabbit hole, I would add this:
The truth drawn from this question is difficult to address. It can be even more difficult to grasp, if one has not reached a minimal level of awareness with respect to consciousness vs. form. Such an answer tests the very foundation of everything that one holds as ‘true’ and will continue to do so as we continue to evolve. Man has long-held the notion that what is being experienced, in what we have come to know as Earth/human life, is a solid experience. It is not. It feels solid, but that is the ‘initial’ point. The human body is a bio-spiritual suit/vehicle made up of complex networks that are connected to a larger manifestation grid. It is designed to assimilate multivariate levels of consciousness via thinking, feeling and action, and through observation and introspection, assess those elements of experience and how they impact the personal journey and other aspects of life (as a collective), in order to perpetuate mastery and evolve consciousness; to expand and mature the quality of soul.
Every thing in the world is a microcosmic model of the divine macrocosmic truth. School Systems, Jobs, Legal Systems, Governments, Marriage, Family, Social Structures, Gaming, Technology, etc., all of these systems came from an innate desire to train, to teach, and to facilitate opportunity for growth and evolution. However, if one is to truly master what IS, we cannot merely study it and observe, we must become a part of it to actualize enlightenment of the greater inherent truths (What works, what does not work, why, what thinking/actions perverted it, am I in agreement with it, is there a need for corrective action and so on). The subjective nature of which allows for a more finite understanding of the infinite. Enlightenment is a rung in the evolutionary ladder of soul and cannot be explained in absolution, it can be subjectively described, but in truth, can only be experienced. It is the gateway from individuality to unity.
What we call spiritual is that which is pertaining to the unseen nature (truths), specific to, and transcendent of, what we objectively know and, or experience as physical within the Hu-man program; inclusive of the Creator (God), Heaven, Hell, Angels, etc. Faith is a great example of what is spiritual, since it serves as an innate connection, a deep knowingness, that is not and cannot be created in the mind. Faith, like most things Spiritual, can be difficult to explain; yet, it does not make it any less true. Some people confuse wishes, desire and belief, for Faith. It is not the same. Faith is an unshakeable knowing! It exceeds the scope of belief. It is a confirmation received in Spirit (that which is incorporeal), of that which is yet to be seen (manifest in the physical). To say that every thing about you is spiritual is to understand that there is a greater purpose connected to all that you are and do… that there is Divine Plan, unseen systems at play of omniscient design, that you are a part of. You are not your body nor your personality. They are modalities of this plane, used to facilitate actualization of consciousness, in form. Your birth (by design), Your gender (by design), Your parents (by design), What you are attracted to (by design)… Your life challenges (by design) and so on. We are here to master urges, influences and challenges of the flesh, and reconcile them with higher consciousness (purer), while in body, for the greater and collective purpose of harmonizing creation. Like the many diverse ecosystems that coexist, side by side, without violation or harm of the other, now… larger, more independently intelligent systems in creation must achieve the same harmony to illuminate love, which is the true essence of all. The Hu-man program is a part of the balancement, equipoise, of this Divine equation.
“How then does one for or function in the natural world?”
How one functions is dependent on their understanding and Knowledge of Self. It is a process of development and awareness. To live by the spirit is to live beyond the veil; to see beyond worldly perceptions, detached from reactions predicated purely on emotional stimuli and, or lack of higher understanding; knowing that you are not your body or persona; to know thyself in greater purpose and design, and then… to “think and act” from that truth. Just as… When we subscribe to certain behaviors and thinking in the world it gives us access to or restricts us, it is also true, of the unseen; as above so below, as within so without. On a moment to moment basis one must remember what “IS” and let go of attachments which only enslave, and restrict access to divine consciousness (impersonal, objective). When you choose to navigate through the world in such a manner, you are not bound by the laws of the world; other laws (unseen) become activated and supersede what would otherwise be considered “law, normal, or expected.”
Let me know your thoughts on this. I would love to share in your understanding as well. Blessings and love…
Always in Love
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We are all spirit beings on an earth bound mission encased in a human body. The human body is a well designed machine housing many aspects of our lives, spirit, mind, body. A healthy body can be the foundation for pleasure, function, peace, fun, enjoyment and fulfillment if taken care of in a way that promotes its youthfulness, flexibility, synergy and flow.
Our body’s need solid foods and liquid nourishment to feed the cells, tissues, organs and provide energy to the muscles, bones and brain. One of the most essential and much over looked forms of liquid required for holistic health is water. Water that is clean and alkaline provides an energizing fluid hydrant most necessary for the inner workings of the body. Everything in the body is energy and movement – vibratory frequency. The bloodstream, organs, brain, muscles, heart, stomach, in fact, the entire body requires fluid to function and work properly together.
Water is a conductor which facilitates movement in the body through the cells, tissues, vessels, organs, and all matter in the body. It energizes the inner environment that is constantly required to vibrate and flow. Water is vital for our hearts to lovingly pump the blood that is transported through out the body to brain. Water is critical for the blood to be liquified in the right proportions to be able to flow without stagnation and for the heart to pump without intermittent timing, palpitations or even failure.
Water is a conduit for God’s vibrational frequency & energy to be transmitted to our spirits and for our spirits to send and receive the connection to the Source, God, Creator. Water, too, has a spiritual nature and thus has memory. Water can take form as liquid, solid (ice/frozen state) and vapor (steam/fog). Without water, nothing on this planet would survive. Without water everything including our bodies would be dried up, dehydrated, lifeless and useless. It is the God consciousness in water that is the prime memory that is most suitable to soothe, energize, moisturize, cleanse and maintain the body to function, give and receive from spirit. Even when we take in and absorb food, we are extracting the spiritual nutrients with which to fortify our whole selves. That extraction requires a measure of fluidity.
The body can utilize the nutrient water from vegetables and fruits which would be considered a form of liquifying the body and that is good and necessary, however no liquid should nor can, take the place of good clean tepid, room temperature water on a daily basis in intervals throughout one’s day. Pure clean tepid water is absorbed without shocking or stressing the system or the heart, digestive tract, brain and other vital organs. For those that prefer cold water, cool is exceptionally more suitable to the inner workings of the body than icy cold.
Adequate hydration supports all internal functions and cleanses the body of dense waste matter, toxins and phlegm. Digestion and bowel function require adequate water hydration to optimally function. Our eyes are a prime example of the need for molecular hydration because our eyes are partially embedded within our body and partially exposed to the outside environment. In order to move and rotate without pressure and stiffness the eyes must be maintained in a certain amount of fluid which is nourished by adequate intakes of water.
The skin is the largest organ of the body and requires water from inside and out. Flawless supple skin is maintained by adequate intakes of water and bathing. Often wrinkled skin is housing a dehydrated body and may smooth out substantially with adequate hydration and moisture. Water also cleanses the skin which allows the pores to breathe and create an effective barrier to stave off ordinary germs.
Our hair and scalp needs water. Course and coily textured hair is often dry and revels from regular wetting, misting and moisturizing (just like a dry house plant that revives when watered). Hands and feet appreciate a good soak in nice warm water. Applying certain essential oils to the soaking water will also assist in detoxifying and drawing out toxins from the body. Spirit, mind and soul tremendously benefit from internal intake of water and water bathing, prayer and oils.
Whenever the body’s immune system is compromised or cold, flu, allergies, disease and toxicity is imminent, water is essential to flush and rinse out and neutralize. The water purifies and regenerates. Colonic hydrotherapy is very useful for cleansing, refreshing and anti-aging as it breaks up and rinses out accumulations and waste matter in the colon. This method of internal cleansing has been used by many Yogis and health enthusiasts worldwide and the method instructed to the ancients is referenced in ‘The Essene Gospel of Peace” by Edmond Bordeaux Szekely.
Water has been called the river of life and rightly so because without it life would cease to exist. We can go without food for a good number of days but not water. The efficacy and purification of water has become a controversial subject around the globe, because some water due to the detriment of man’s behavior and/or even climactic changes render some water unsafe or impure or too acidic to be beneficial to the health of humans, Mother Earth and all forms of life. In future offerings we will write and present views on various types of water suitable for consumption (bottled, filtered, spring, deionized, purified, mineral, tap, pond, well, structured, alkaline, and we will discuss water storage (plastic vs. glass).
There is an African proverb spoken by the traditional Ifa Yoruba Prophet Orunmila who said, ‘Water has no enemy’ which was immortalized in a song by the late Fela Ransom Anikupolo Kuti, ‘Water No Enemy Get’, which means that all life force needs elemental water. Water is used for pouring libations and for spiritual purification bathing.
The Japanese author Dr. Masaru Emoto wrote many books about the memory and spirituality of water including, ‘The Secret Life of Water’, ‘The Message From the Water’ and others. He brought to the forefront in his writings the knowledge that “human consciousness has an effect on the molecular structure of water” and that “water takes on the resonance of the energy which is directed at it” and that “polluted water can be restored through prayer and positive visualization”.
The Iranian physician Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj presented the book ‘Your Body’s Many Cries For Water’ in which he suggests drinking 2 quarts of water every day and 1/2 teaspoon of salt which balances the inner water balance. He also maintains that regular water consumption can eradicate toxins and diseases from the body.
The Holy Bible speaks of water in Revelation 22:1-2 “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city.”
The 34th Divine law or commandment in the 42 Principles of the ancient Egyptian Khemetic Goddess Ma’at, was proclaimed daily by devout followers stating, “I will not waste water” and another translation of the 34th and 35th Divine Laws of Ma’at state “Thou shalt not waste the running water” and “Thou shalt not pollute the water or the land”.
The Indian holy scriptures of the Bhagavad-Gita state “One may cleanse himself daily by taking a bath in water but if one takes a bath even once in the sacred Ganges water of Bhagavad-Gita, for him the dirt of material life is altogether vanquished.” Often a special cistern or vase of water is kept inside the home in a sacred space.
Baha’u’llah, the Persian noble Prophet who founded the Bahai faith said in his book “The Seven Cities”, those who are the thirstiest will most appreciate water.”
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus left us with a truism to ponder “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.”
The Holy Koran says “We have created every living thing from water”.
The native American Cherokees consider any body of flowing water such as a stream, river, creek or tributary to be sacred. Many purification sacred rites were conducted in pristine moving bodies of water.
To the Buddhist’s water represents purity. Many cultures all over the world revere the sacredness of water and keep an open vessel, vase, glass or container of water near the head of their bed when they sleep at night to absorb and cast off negative energies.
Why can “we” see “our” reflection in a body of water? As it is said in the Bible, English Standard Version, Genesis 1:2 “The spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Many traditions and cultures world wide appreciate and understand the spiritual significance of water on many levels and in many dimensions.
It is said that whomever offers water to another offers life. even to his or her own self. When you drink water you are offering life to yourself.
And now a days there is an app for your phone called Daily Water. You set the number of times per day it should pop up and remind you to drink water. Soon it will become habit.
Drink some good clean water. Give yourself the gift of life now.
TMZ reported on a socially and morally damning conversation, allegedly held between NBA basketball owner, Donald Sterling, and his alleged, now ex-girlfriend, V. Stiviano.1 Sterling’s purported comments may have single-handedly taken us back two or three millennia without the courtesy of a Silver DeLorean and white-haired guy named Doc. When we look at our phones, tablets, watches and calendars we may see the year 2014; however, the energy present over the NBA right now is reflective of a time more akin to 18th and 19th century America, when chattel slavery was alive and well, rather than the more liberal mindset of the 21st century. The alleged attitude of LA Clippers’ owner, Donald Sterling, bears the sentient fruit of generational programming, born of a society of separatist and elitist mentalities, rooted in racial and national prejudice.
It has been reported on various Media Outlets, News Channels, etc., that Sterling allegedly became agitated with Stiviano after hearing that she posted pictures of herself posing with NBA Hall of Famer, Magic Johnson. Those pictures have since been removed from Instagram. Nevertheless, the tensions continued to brew between them… so much so, that Miss V, found it necessary to fight back. During the showdown, she was the quickest on the draw. V pulled out the big guns and recorded their conversation, where she emotionally triggered him, repeatedly, provoking him to speak passionately and openly, in order to expose the secrets of his heart and mind to the world. But why? This is obviously not the first time that she has been privy to this type of conversation with Sterling and she knew that she could benefit from the damaging things that he says. When you consider who he is and what he has at stake there is a quite a bit on the table to be compromised, lost and damaged. TMZ reported that Stiviano has more than 100 hours of audio on Sterling and reports that he has come right out and asked, “How can we make this go away?” Was all of this a calculated ploy to get money from Sterling and to keep her hand in his purse? Probably! However, that does not change the fact that Sterling is responsible for his own actions and there would be nothing to control him with if there was nothing incriminating smoldering beneath the smoke. Is this is a case of the chickens coming home to roost?
At this point, Rochelle Sterling, Wife of Donald Sterling, has openly stated that she is disgusted by her estranged husbands comments, referring to the audio that was released, which at minimum confirms that it is indeed Donald Sterling’s voice. Rochelle and Donald have been married for more than 50 years. I find her to be the most credible in recognizing Sterling’s voice.
Mr. Sterling is no stranger to discrimination allegations. He has been in court numerous times since 2003 for discriminatory behaviors specific to his real estate practices and actions as a NBA team owner. According to CNN, “The Nonprofit Housing Rights Center and a group of tenants who lived in Sterling’s properties filed a federal lawsuit in 2003 against Sterling, accusing him of ‘numerous discriminatory statements and housing practices,’ according to court documents.” This case was dismissed after reaching a settlement, where the judge ordered Sterling to pay almost $5 million in plaintiff attorney’s fees, other details of the settlement are undisclosed.2 Deadspin,3 referenced at the end of this article, has posted quoted information on the depositions from the 2003 case, acquired by ESPN The Magazine’s, Peter Keating.4 In 2006, Sterling settled yet again, for nearly $3mil in response to claims made against him by the Department of Justice for refusing to lease his Beverly Hills properties to African-Americans, Non-Koreans in Koreatown, Los Angeles and to families with children.2 As if that is not enough smoke within a 6-year span to alarm us of a real fire, LA Clippers former executive vice president and general manager (1986 to 2008), Elgin Baylor, also alleged discrimination in a 2009 lawsuit against Donald Sterling. Baylor claimed that he was underpaid and that Sterling treated him “as a token because of his race.”2 Some of you are probably asking the same question that I did, “If that is true, why did you stay for 22 years?” Was Baylor selling out? Baylor also contended that Sterling wanted a ‘Southern Plantation type structure for the team with poor black boys from the south and a white head coach. (Fused quotations)2 By evidence of his own behavior, Baylor, had no intention of leaving the Clipper’s organization and the only reason these alleged truths came out when they did is because Baylor wanted to defend what he purportedly believed to be a wrongful termination. Despite when this information came to the table, and despite whether or not Baylor won his case, his claims may very well be true, proven or unproven. But what escapes me is this: How is it possible that an African-American executive vice president/general manager, could and would, knowingly stay with an organization, an owner, who held such a racist visage? Was Baylor content being the HNIC until he was axed (pardon the adage)? What other reasons would he have to stay if his claims are true? Is it possible that Baylor, who is just a little shy of 5 months younger than Sterling himself, mirrors the thinking of man with same cultural afflictions, brought on by generational influences and scores of socioeconomic and sociopolitical changes through the years that is an inevitable byproduct of a not-so-distant antebellum south? I point this out to help each of us to soberly examine the role that we may be playing in this type of madness, on some level, but perhaps are remiss to it and the damage that it is wrecking. All of us have a story. No, one person, is a villain alone, they have help in becoming that. Therefore, let us recognize that any behaviors that we participate in that honors separation and bias against another human being, publicly or privately, regardless of how small, gives life to the collective agreement for this distortion.
Examine the audio for yourself . What do you hear? Do you find Sterling’s (alleged) comments racist?
Doc Rivers, current coach for the Clippers had this to say during an interview, “It’s disturbing. Listen, it’s disturbing if you hear it from anyone. It doesn’t matter if he works with us or works for us.. Uh, it doesn’t matter. It’s a disturbing comment. Uh… but we have to be above it, uh, right now. It’s about being human. You know, so, we’re not going to get to what race we are, uh… because we represent each other and this is our team and that’s the way we’re going to keep it. And, no one was happy about, JJ Reddick was just as pissed as Chris Paul. You know? And that’s the way it should be. Uh, having said that, our goal is to win the NBA title and we’re not going to let anything stand in the way of that. Uh, that’s adversity that we didn’t want, but we have it, we have to deal with it. We’re gonna play and we’re gonna play hard. Our enemy right now has to be Golden State and we have to get that focus on them. Why should we let someone’s comments stop us from what we’re trying to do? Uh, we’re trying to do something too, here. And, uh, we don’t want that to be, to get in the way of what we want to do.”
Lebron James shared his feelings about Sterling’s alleged comments, “There’s no room for that in our game. We’ve uh… found a way to make this the greatest game, uh… in the world and, and for comments like that, it… it takes our game and we can’t have that. We can’t have it from a player, we can’t have it from an owner, we can’t have it from a fan and so and so on. It doesn’t matter if you’re Black, White, Hispanic, or whatever the case may be. Uh… we can’t have that a part of our game and uh… You know the Commish, uh… will take care of it. Uh… we’re sure of that and we’ll continue to build this game the best way we can because it’s been an unbelievable 2014 playoffs and we don’t want Donald Sterling’s comments to overshadow what this game means to everyone, including the fans.”
While I understand Doc Rivers, Lebron James and many others’ stated views, not to allow such ignorance to overshadow what the players, the league, the fans and so many others enjoy, I have to say, “Pause!” In my humble opinion, this is not a time, to keep it moving. This is a time ripe for making a statement and taking action! This is not about basketball! Basketball is simply the catalyst that is shining a microscope on an illness that is very real and prevalent in our society and it must be addressed. Something far greater is a stake, the quality of humanity! I’m Sorry, but NO MORE
“nighttime, sniffling, sneezing, aching, coughing, stuffy-head, fever, so you can rest medicine.”
We do not need to suppress the symptoms so that we can rest! It is not a time to sleep on the issues. We need to realize that this fever we are experiencing is therapeutic and the temperature of our culture is rising to heal the bacterial and viral elements of this unhealthy state of being. We must address this very primitive thinking that, like a cancer, seeks to destroy its host. This shadow aspect of the self does not understand that when it wins, it loses, just like cancer!
As you can hear, the audio is very revealing. Unfortunately, this is an issue that is very old and spans many cultures and ages. It is going to take more than one conversation, article or book to dissolve the surmounting issues of non-acceptance, intolerance, racism, etc. I wish the situation were as black and white as it appears (no pun intended), but the truth of the matter is this is a deeply complex psychological virus that has rooted itself in the very root directory of our human physiology. It is so deeply integrated into who we are at a fundamental level, it doesn’t seem far-reaching to think it may be coded into our BIOS Utility. I do not say this facetiously, but from a perspective of staunch resolve.
Donald Sterling’s alleged comments, “it’s been that way historically,” refers to his observations of the judgments that we as a human family hold against one another based on our tribal differences and he believes those observations justifies his frame of thinking.1 Sterling lives in a subculture dominated by manipulation and control; a system of reward and punishment; above average perks for being a good player; for accepting their place as a pawn in the strategy of a larger plan. People who essentially trade their soul because of fear, security, money, etc., have a difficult time seeing pass what they are choosing because they, themselves are slaves. This is what they know and it is who they are. When they reach a certain point, neural pathways have been created, and there is a chemical script running as a program in the background. It would take some real effort to override those programs and too many are afraid to think for themselves; for them the stakes may just be too high!
Did you know that hate groups have risen by 56% since the year 2000, according to Southern Law Poverty Center dot org. The question is why? And the answer remains the same as it always has, FEAR! These groups represent the extremist reactions to fear, fear amplified.6
The mentality of much of White America during the periods of slavery and for some, thereafter, have always been disparate. Not all Whites hated African-Americans. Some, were simply afraid to admit their association with or lack of hatred for, African-Americans because they did not want to bring any danger, exile or suffer any other type of ramifications against themselves, their friends or their families. This was a very real factor for them. The hatred was so deep that certain groups of whites would do unconscionable things to other whites, simply for fraternizing with or showing any level of compassion towards blacks, and such mentalities still exist today. All of this is certainly an outrage and overtly cowardly, and while I do realize that communities are deeply triggered (not just Blacks), but we must not let our emotions run the show. This subject has always been devastatingly hard to face, as it digs at the deepest aspects of our vulnerabilities and challenges our emotional intelligence. However, we must stay centered. It is a new day. A new earth is anchoring and inviting us all to perceive beyond the veil and to identify the true elements of this vialpathology that continues to infect the hearts and minds of our people. Many white and Non-Whites alike, do not believe that they are racist because they do not have anything against a particular group, per se. They are, however, in bed with or somehow connected with people who are, and unfortunately, are not willing to take a stand that personally puts them at a disadvantage with the counterparts they believe “define” who they are in society.
Let me be clear, “I am not, in any way, shape, form or stretch of the imagination, defending these behaviors nor am I denigrating the very real impact that such behaviors have on our society or any particular peoples, individually or as a group.” However, it is my role to stay objective and to identify, as best I can, truth, unclouded by or conflated with emotional fogs. And if we are going to call a thing a thing, as our sister Iyanla Vanzant says, we must be willing to tell the hard truths, despite how uncomfortable that may be. If we are really honest with ourselves, we can admit that we are not judgment free on this issue. Many of us have had our own personal challenges with healing the behaviors of such infected thinking; behaviors that we, ourselves, are not proud of. This disease has taken its toll on many, to greater and lesser degrees; yet, the fight remains. The truth is, there are levels of racism and some levels are far more egregious than others, but ALL must be healed. The measure of imbalance is a determinate of the degree of threat that will impact our personal growth and evolution of society at large. We want to walk around saying it’s 2014, as if reminding ourselves of the year is somehow going to instantly catapult us, like a portal out of a Marvel story, into a paradigm of spiritual awakening and maturity. We think to ourselves, “it’s all good” and to some degree it is, but we are still responsible for being mindful of the real dangers of the hatred that is amongst us. We must do the work! We must each take responsibility for our part is this still, very real, illness. Energy flows where attention goes! Like ripples in a pond, our behavior and thinking effects not only our immediate environment, but reaches distances beyond our imagination. When we recognize the evidence of distortions within ourselves, let us choose to “Pause,” then choose actions that are more responsible, more healthy and more loving. May mercy be upon us as a people.
Tomorrow, we will reveal deeper insights about the conversation that has the world stewing and what it is all really about. You might be shocked at what you hear. Stay tuned to learn more, as the insights unfold!
Disclaimer: All information herein is shared with the pure intent to celebrate and promote the movement of meditation and to align with the deeper aspects of the Self. There is absolutely no intention of copyright infringement. I do not own the copyright to any of this material. This writing serves as a record of my own experience, which I chose to share to inspire others to get in the flow with their true value and creative reservoir. In no way, am I receiving any proceeds, gifts or otherwise from this material nor do I make any claim to any of this information. All rights are reserved by its owners. If you would like to access this lesson or any other lessons within this meditation series, please see the links at the bottom of this page. Other Meditation series are offered by The Chopra Center and can be accessed through the links provided below as well. Namasté
Day 2: FINDING HAPPINESS
CENTERING THOUGHT
“I am the source of unlimited happiness.”
SANSKRIT MANTRA
VAM
I am happiness.
COLLECTIVE INTENTION
May you gently open to the flow of your pure joyful expression. Namasté
MESSAGE OF THE DAY:
Day 2 – Finding Happiness
Today in meditation, we will tap into the source of happiness that lives deep within each of us. In our practice today we invite inner joy and contentment into our daily activity. Together, we will discover that by accessing the source of joy inside, we access a sense of happiness that doesn’t vary with the ups and downs of everyday life.
Today’s Quote
“Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.” — Denis Waitley
Message from Oprah:
“Welcome to day 2, ‘Finding Happiness.’ What is your real experience of happiness? Is your happiness interrupted as things you desire come and go? True happiness is deeper than any one thing you may desire. True happiness, authentic happiness, it’s your birthright. You can feel happy or you can be happy. I’m here to tell you that you have the power to access and sustain deep lasting happiness, all the time. Today, instead of pursuing happiness from the outside in, we begin to cultivate the magnificent happiness that is already there, inside. We open up the wellspring that is waiting to flow. Go with that flow and the happiness within you, will emerge, with ease and abundance. Instead of feeling anxious about your desires, relax in the certainty that your deepest desires are leading you to the very best expression of yourself. Get still, listen… your inner voice is speaking to you and that my friends, is where your true happiness comes alive!
Let’s get quiet and open up to the flow of happiness within as we listen to Deepak’s words.
Message from Deepak:
“Usually we think happiness comes from outside, from the object or experience that we take pleasure in. The external things in life can make us happier for a time, but that happiness may fade, as the luster of whatever external objects or circumstances we are focused on, fade. Today, we will access the source that allows us to sustain this joy.
Happiness is an inner state. If you are depressed the most beautiful sunset loses its charm. If you are anxious the most delicious food is unappetizing. We color everything we perceive. By awakening the flow of happiness within, we begin to experience the ever accessible inner source of joy and fulfillment; releasing the need to reach outside ourselves for external cues or things to make us happy. Our inner happiness has wisdom built into it and guides the flow of our everyday desires to greater joy and spiritual fulfillment. Fighting against your desires doesn’t make you more spiritual, only more frustrated. Desire is natural; yet, when it’s out of balance, it can become the source of judgment, guilt, depression and addictive behavior. Starting today, when you gently experience yourself as happiness and pleasure itself, the flow of desire becomes a joyful expression of inner happiness and your spiritual growth will unfold as the path of desire, not self-sacrifice or denial.”
MEDITATION
As we prepare for meditation together, let’s take a few minutes to focusing on today’s centering thought,“I am the source of unlimited happiness. I am the source of unlimited happiness.”
Let’s begin. Please find a comfortable position and close your eyes. Breathe naturally and effortlessly. Notice the inflow and outflow of your breath. Bring your awareness to your body and notice any tension it might be holding. Allow your breath to wash away this tension. Begin to release your thoughts and expectations. With each inhalation and exhalation, allow yourself to become more relaxed, more comfortable, more at peace. Now gently introduce the mantra, VAM, repeating it mentally and allowing it to flow with effortless ease. VAM is a Sanskrit mantra that when repeated during meditation, will help you open the source of inner happiness. Repeat it silently to yourself, VAM… VAM… VAM… Whenever you find yourself distracted by thoughts, noises or physical sensations simply return your attention to silently repeating the mantra, VAM… VAM… VAM… Please continue with your meditation. I’ll mind the time. At the end you’ll hear me ring a soft bell to indicate that it’s time to release the mantra. VAM… VAM… VAM… just mentally… VAM… VAM… VAM…. Bell Sounds to begin(7:15)
Note to Self: The actual meditation is only 10 minutes; give yourself fully to this moment. You can set your timer for exactly ten minutes and come back to complete today’s focus.
Bell Sounds on actual audio at (17:13):
DEEPAK:It’s time to release the mantra. Take some time to sit restfully, inhaling and exhaling slowly. When you are ready you can open your eyes.
As you continue with your day, contemplate the centering thought, “I am the source of unlimited happiness. I am the source of unlimited happiness. I am the source of unlimited happiness.”
To keep the flow of happiness in motion today, take time to appreciate beauty in the ordinary experiences of life – a warm breeze, the taste of tea, the sound of children playing. Anything can become an occasion for noticing that happiness is an inner state of awareness. The more you connect the inner and outer, simply by taking notice, you will be strengthening and magnifying the knowledge that pleasure and happiness are already within you. Over time, you will recognize that by shifting your attention from the world out there, to the world in here, you’ll give yourself the ability to enter the state of contentedness and happiness anytime you want. Namasté
Reflection Journal:
Question 1 of 4
Write about a time when you were happy because you got something you wanted, like a new relationship, a new car, or a great job. Under that, write about another time when you were just as happy even though you didn’t have those things. What was the common feeling in both cases? Write about your state of mind. What was it about you that made you happy in both instances?
Question 2 of 4
Write down an experience you had this week when you felt happy for no special reason at all. Maybe you were walking home or eating lunch with a friend, and you noticed a quiet elation for simply being alive. This is your unfiltered core happiness shining through. Bring that memory and feeling back into your body with a few deep breaths, feeling it settle in the area of your lower abdomen as a ball of effervescent joy. Write down a description of how this happiness feels inside.
Question 3 of 4
Write about one thing in your life right now that you associate with happiness. It could be your grandson’s laughter, your beloved’s brown eyes, or the view of flowers in your garden. Whatever it is, connect that joyful experience with the bliss center in your lower abdomen and write down the full experience.
Question 4 of 4
Use this space to reflect further on your experience today.
For a fuller experience, where you can gain full benefit of the connection and the energy tapped by Deepak and Oprah, visit the Chopra Center Meditation online store. The online store provides unlimited access to purchased meditations. You can access these exercises on multiple devices (Laptop, Desktop, Smartphone or Tablet). There are two options available. You can either stream them or access them in a downloadable version that do not require an internet connection, it’s completely up to you!
Disclaimer: All information herein is shared with the pure intent to celebrate and promote the movement of meditation and to align with the deeper aspects of the Self. There is absolutely no intention of copyright infringement. I do not own the copyright to any of this material. This writing serves as a record of my own experience, which I chose to share to inspire others to get in the flow with their true value and creative reservoir. In no way, am I receiving any proceeds, gifts or otherwise from this material nor do I make any claim to any of this information. All rights are reserved by its the owners. If you would like to access this lesson or any other lessons within this meditation series, please see the links at the bottom of this page. Other Meditation series are offered by The Chopra Center and can be accessed through the links provided below as well. Namasté
Day 1: FINDING SECURITY
CENTERING THOUGHT
“My security and peace are within.”
SANSKRIT MANTRA
Lam
I am security.
Collective Intention:
May your day be filled with grounded energy rooted in peace and your unshakable inner truth. Namasté
Message of the Day:
Day 1 – Finding Security
The flow of life is composed of various streams of energy.. our impulses for security, happiness, power, love, creativity, insight, and self- actualization all move together to form our unique life expression. In living this expression, we find our flow, the universal rhythm within… that is the infinite source of joy, balance, harmony, and love. We begin our journey by establishing our core sense of security as the stable basis for all the growth to come.
Today’s Quote
“Security represents your sense of worth, your identity, your emotional anchorage, your self-esteem, your basic personal strength or lack of it.” —Stephen Covey
Message from Oprah:
“Welcome, Friends. Deepak and I are so happy to have you join us for this powerful new 21 day meditation experience, “Finding Your Flow.” For those of you who are new to meditation, this will be an experience of heart-opening expansion and joy… I certainly hope so. For those of you who have been with us before, you already know this is a beautiful new journey. For everyone, we are about to share an inner guide for transforming your life.”
One of the truths I most deeply believe is that everything in life, E-very-THING is energy.” Within every one of us is the energy that makes the sun rise every day and keeps the planets aligned. It’s there, already inside of you, waiting for you to know it. And when you tap into your connection with that Source… that miraculous energy… what I know for sure is that the universe rises up to meet you in unimaginable ways and will help you create the life you want.
This is the path we will be traveling over the next three weeks.
In week one, we’ll begin to understand how energy works, the energy within. We’ll find and awaken the powerful flow that is available to us in every moment. We’ll explore the kinds of energy we are creating, whether we know it or not, and begin to connect to the essential knowledge that we are safe in the Divine Energy, in the order of everything.”
In our second week, we’ll harness that powerful inner energy as we begin to activate our flow. We’ll connect to the seven key energy centers within each of us and use that connection to begin to build a grounded state of peace and possibility.
And in week three, once we’ve opened and begun practicing how to influence our own energy, we’ll experience transformation as we settle into the comfortable expression of our individual, magnificent flow. It’s a powerful current that will allow joy, and love, fulfillment, to come to life in you, through you, and for you. So let’s begin. Listen as Deepak guides us to a grounded place of safety and stillness. From there, ohhhh will we flow! “
Message from Deepak:
“We’ve learned from neuroscience that specific brain regions take on the functions of different areas of life. There are areas for the five senses, for emotions, and for basic needs like hunger and sleep. Meditation directly affects these centers, which is why the most research indicates that within a few minutes of a person’s first meditation, physical changes begin to appear such as heart rate, blood pressure and hormone levels. Each day on this journey we will use meditation to awaken a different aspect of the self corresponding to a specific brain response. In the spirit of the ancient wisdom traditions we will use meditation to find our flow in life.
There is a wellspring of deep, quiet, beautiful energy within and when you unleash it, it will begin to shape your intentions, shape your thoughts, and especially your actions. For centuries, the road to this inner world and its gifts has been through meditation, which allows you to naturally access its hidden energy. Today, we will awaken the flow of security, the place inside you that knows only safety, peace, and a sense of grounding. Everyone has the basic need to feel safe; without it, life feels insecure and stress magnifies that insecurity. We also have a core of stability inside that we can return to throughout the ups and downs of everyday life. Once you experience this safe place inside, you have found the flow of security; the core of yourself that isn’t shaken by outer events. Centered in this place, you can access a sense of safety and security, even when you’re having a bad day or facing a personal challenge. Today is about grounding yourself with the energy of safety, security, stability and peace.
Meditation
As we prepare to meditate together, let’s take a moment to consider our centering thought, “My security and peace are within. My security and peace are within.”
Now, we’ll begin our meditation. Please find a comfortable position, placing your hands lightly in your lap and closing your eyes. Notice the inflow and outflow of your breath, just as it is. Feel your body, noticing any tension it might be holding on to and let it melt away with each inhalation and exhalation. Let go of all thoughts and expectations. Trust that your meditation experience today and each day will be exactly right in the moment. Now, gently introduce the Sanskrit Mantra, LAM. Repetition of this mantra during meditation cultivates a state of inner peace that helps you to feel grounded and safe. Repeat it silently to yourself, LAM… LAM… LAM… Whenever you find yourself distracted by thoughts, noises or physical sensations simply return your attention to silently repeating the mantra, LAM… LAM… LAM….
Continue with your meditation. I’ll mind the time and at the end of the meditation you will hear me ring a soft bell. LAM… LAM… LAM…. just mentally… LAM… LAM… LAM….Bell Sounds to begin.
Note to Self:The actual meditation is only 10 minutes; give yourself fully to this moment. You can set your timer for exactly ten minutes and come back to complete today’s focus.
Bell Sounds on actual audio at (16:47):
DEEPAK: It’s time to release the mantra. Take some time to rest, inhaling and exhaling slowly. When you feel ready you can open your eyes.
Release the mantra. Take some time to rest, inhaling and exhaling slowly. When you feel ready, you can open your eyes.
As you continue with your day contemplate the centering thought, “My security and peace are within. My security and peace are within. My security and peace are within.”
To keep the essence of today’s meditation with you as you travel through the day consider making time to check in with your experience of security. Several times today, notice how you feel. Do you feel centered and grounded? When uncertain moments arise, do you feel safe or unsafe, secure or insecure? Just observe and be with your feelings. Pay attention to the moments that you do feel grounded and secure. This natural state is one that you can always access and come back to for peace and clarity. The flow of feeling safe is part of your essential being; there to support you and bring you home to yourself, your true self.” Namasté
Reflection Journal:
Question 1 of 4
What does it mean when all the parts of your life are flowing smoothly? What does that look like? How does it feel? As you write, allow yourself the freedom to explore, knowing there is no wrong answer to this question.
Question 2 of 4
What are your intentions for this 21-Day Meditation Experience? What do you want to learn and create in your life during our time together? Be very specific with your intention – it is a powerful way to start any journey. After writing, take a moment to visualize each intention as a seed you are planting today within your heart. The time you spend meditating and journaling each day is the water and sunshine that allows your vision to sprout.
Question 3 of 4
Write down a memory from your past when you felt completely secure, safe, and content. Know and feel that this presence of security is permanent and always available.
Question 4 of 4
Use this space to reflect further on your experience today.
For a fuller experience, where you can gain full benefit of the connection and the energy tapped by Deepak and Oprah, visit the Chopra Center Meditation online store. The online store provides unlimited access to purchased meditations. You can access these exercises on multiple devices (Laptop, Desktop, Smartphone or Tablet). There are two options available. You can either stream them or access them in a downloadable version that do not require an internet connection, it’s completely up to you!
Changing The Game…Do you think Twitter, Facebook, and other social media forums are just a place for mindless chatter? Social Media is a virtual world, connecting people via their interests and drawing them to a centralized location. It’s like a mall with an array of diverse businesses where you shop or visit the places that fit your interests. You can find whatever you want right there in one location. Everything is connected and the world is refracting the interconnectivity and truth of Oneness at every turn, within everything, for us to see.If you are experiencing mindless chatter and uninspiring rhetoric, then examine your thoughts & intentions and look for ways to cocreate the experience that you want. You may be friends with someone on Facebook, however, you are constantly seeing posts by them that are offensive or annoying and you do not wish to be a part of that, but you don’t want unfriend them, per se, elect to stop receiving “notifications” of their posts in your newsfeed. This way you can personally go to their wall and post or interact in whatever that you choose, when you want to connect. How do I do that? Go to your friend’s page, place your cursor over the “friends” button & a drop down icon will appear on the button, move your cursor down the menu. The first option will be “Get Notifications.” If it is checked, click on it to uncheck it and you’re done. Same thing if you want to receive notifications every time a particular person posts, make sure “Get Notifications” has a check by it. 2ndly, Click “Like” on the pages you are drawn to & subscribe to their notifications to regularly receive the type of information that you do enjoy and want to come to you! Reminder: Pages are not the same as personal profiles. Pages are generally businesses or landing pads for specific interests. “Remember, Energy Flows Where Attention Goes!”
Social Media Etiquette Tip: When you see something that inspired you, provokes thought within you, etc. on FB “Like It, Share It, Comment.” For Twitter, “Favorite It, Retweet It and Follow.” Let those who shared their heart to inspire others know that you would like to see more from them. Social Media is a virtual model of life’s grander model, you don’t have to be exposed to things you don’t agree with, you simply need to realize that you are influencing your experiences and choose to actively participate in the moments of your life; otherwise, you will be stuck with whatever shows up. Participator vs. Spectator, participating in your life is like having a luncheon at work. You can be that person that takes an active role in informing someone what you do and do not eat so that your needs can be considered during the planing and ordering processes (Participator). If you don’t choose to take an active role then you will be subject to whatever shows up, which may or may not be something that you like or want (Spectator). If you are blessed to be exposed to people who uplift you, let them know it, support them so that they will continue to be encouraged and continue to share what feeds you. We all Need that! Embrace the change, understanding it more deeply will expand the quality of your experiences!
To subscribe to my Facebook profile click here! Love & Light ~ Namasté
The nursery rhyme “Rock-A-Bye Baby” has a history that purportedly dates back to the 1600s. There are several different theories as to when the rhyme was written. However, it has been a very popular lullaby for hundreds of years, passed down from generation to generation. There is also a second stanza that was supposedly added at some point that was undoubtedly written by someone other than the original author because the energy imprints from the first and second are as different as night and day. I have not included it here, as it is not relative, in my opinion. The focus of this post is not about when Rock-A-Bye Baby was written or by whom. It is about the intention of the author.
What does this nursery rhyme mean?
In recent history it’s popularity has declined significantly. Why? Well, we have entered an age where tradition isn’t taken, simply at face value, and passed on as good anymore. People have started to question whether certain traditions are still valuable in the current day, including old time nursery rhymes, and whether or not they want to pass them on to their children. Some who have considered the rhyme and its wording have even said that its words are brutal and unloving, and questions why anyone would sing such a thing to their little ones.
What are your thoughts on this?
Again, there are several variations of this, but this is the one that I grew up with.
Rock a bye baby on the tree top
When the wind blows the cradle will rock
When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall
And down will come baby, bough, cradle and all
When I connected with this nursery rhyme, I was drawn into an era in time where people attempted to put life’s complex lessons in short story forms, often times with a tune, like a nursery rhyme, to share its wisdom.
The tune itself was purposeful in a way that was akin to putting medicine in food. It helped to soften the blow of the bitter taste (Truth). Hence, most people were oblivious to the words and found themselves more resonant with the melody.
It feels like a warning lullaby; one that mother’s sang sweetly to their children to impress a deeper sense of knowing upon the subconscious of the child to prepare them for the world they would soon face.
The original words were said to be, ” Hush-A-Bye Baby”
Hush-A-Bye Baby: Quiet yourself now and listen (pay close attention) On the Treetop: To be in or on the tree top is symbolic to being in high places far above the common world; to be in a state of grace When the wind blows: When life happens; when the elements of life’s possibilities present, you will be challenged. ( The natural elements of life petitions us to change and threatens our false sense of security. This is a bittersweet reality. It is generally uncomfortable, but also necessary to grow and learn). The cradle will rock: When we are cradled and in a state of grace we are presumed protected. Whilst this is true, it doesn’t mean that you will not be challenged. Therefore, never become so comfortable that you forget to examine what is before you and around you. Stay true to yourself and the path. Be mindful that even in high places we can become vulnerable to the nature of energies around us and our sense of security threatened. In the rocking (the ebbs & flows of life) we can become distracted by the hustle and bustle of the world and find ourselves mind numbingly comforted or complacent. We can fall asleep (mentally). What feels good and soothing is not always what is best for us. Remember, the rocking of the cradle is purposeful, but anything in excess brings danger. When the bough breaks: The bough of the tree (branch) is symbolic to the tree of life and represents the physical (the natural world) and spiritual (the phenomenal world) and all its associative laws and elements. The breaking of the bough or the breaking of its relative laws is evidence that there is an imbalance. Our actions or lack thereof can weigh heavily on the boughs our life and weaken the grace (support of the bough) we once experienced. The cradle will fall: When the bough (law or energy) that was supporting your experience is no longer available (has broken) and the grace (cradle) that was protecting you is now reduced, you will have entered a lesser realm of expression. And down will come baby, bough, cradle and All: This line reemphasizes its overall warning to the little soul and the impact of the boomerang effect. How we respond to what is perceived as normal (natural world) life happenings impacts the way that the unseen (phenomenal world) responds to our choices. We must always be aware of our state of mind and being and considerate of what we have accepted as truth because every choice comes with burden or reward.
In Summary: Pay close attention little one and always take heart in rest, but never sleep (mentally). Whatever rocks the cradle induces sleep and whomever sleeps chooses behaviors that threatened the integrity of the bough. Remain true to yourself and the path of righteousness. The nature of life itself will challenge you, it is true. Be not weakened by what seems normal or threatening, to seduce you to make bad decisions. Too many mistakes can cause you to fall to low places and suffer much grief. The irony of this message is that it is a lullaby meant to put the child to sleep, but the main idea of the message is “Don’t Sleep! ”
The Synergy Lounge 