Author: CSLT-Faces

The Power of Conscious Thought: Shaping Your World from Within! by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

In the vast landscape of metaphysical thought, a single, profound truth stands as the cornerstone of all spiritual practice: thought is a creative force. This isn’t just a feel-good phrase; it’s the fundamental principle that governs our lives. Every experience you have, every outcome you witness, and every reality you inhabit is first born as a thought, a belief, or a feeling in the great laboratory of your mind.

The universe, in its infinite wisdom and creative power, is a non-resistant medium. It’s a field of pure potentiality, a canvas waiting for an artist. Your mind is the artist, and your thoughts are the brushstrokes. The universe does not judge the quality of your thoughts; it simply responds to them. If you focus on lack and limitation, the universe, in perfect harmony with your mental state, will bring you experiences that mirror that feeling. If you focus on abundance, joy, and opportunity, the universe will likewise conspire to bring those things into your life.

This is a beautiful and sometimes daunting responsibility. It means we are not victims of circumstance but rather co-creators of our own destiny. Our freedom lies not in controlling the world outside of us, but in mastering the world within.

So, how do we harness this incredible power? The secret lies in moving from passive, unconscious thinking to active, conscious thought.

Practical Exercises for Conscious Creation

Here are two powerful tools to help you take control of your creative power:

1. Affirmative Prayer (Spiritual Mind Treatment): This is not a prayer of begging or pleading, but an affirmative statement of truth. It’s a conscious alignment with the reality you wish to create.

o How it works: Instead of saying, “Please give me a new job,” you would say, “I am now employed in a fulfilling position that brings me joy and prosperity. I am grateful for this opportunity and the gifts it brings.” You are speaking as if the desired outcome is already a fact, impressing the idea of completion upon the Universal Mind.

2. Visualization: Your mind doesn’t know the difference between a vivid imagination and a real-life event. By using visualization, you can impress a new reality onto your subconscious mind, which then works to manifest it.

o How it works: Find a quiet place and close your eyes. Picture in your mind’s eye what it would feel like to have already achieved your goal. If you desire better health, visualize yourself full of energy, engaging in activities you love. Feel the joy, the freedom, and the gratitude of that reality as if it were happening right now.

The power of conscious thought is the ultimate tool for personal empowerment. It teaches us that our inner world is the true command center, and that by tending to our thoughts with care and intention, we can create a life of purpose, joy, and unlimited possibility. As we learn to master this art, we step fully into our role as divine co-creators, shaping not only our own lives but contributing to a more beautiful and abundant world for everyone.

–Rev Rhoni

“Otherness” by Mariann Moery

I’ve been thinking and reading and wondering what it is within us humans that assigns doubt, fear and distancing to those who are seen as different. “Otherness” is the current naming for it, and it occasionally runs amok through the world.

And it is NOT restricted to any one political party or group.

Literal distance can certainly be a contributing factor, though it is not a requirement. Neighbors can be ‘other.’ A friend was telling me about a current cable series which is based on a society that has two groups. One, of course, socially more elevated with the ‘other’ group bound by rules, laws and behaviors strictly regulated and enforced. Not hard to take that metaphor into daily life historical and current.

But it needn’t be that overt. Each of us carries definitions of what is acceptable and what makes us nervous and reluctant to interact.

City mouse and Country mouse. Even in children’s literature the divide has been recognized.

And yet …

God wills us to have everything. As we express life, we fulfill God’s law of abundance, but we do this only as we realize that there is good enough to go around—only as we know that all of God’s gifts are given as freely and fully as the air and the sunshine… alike to all.

Ernest Holmes:  The Science of Mind 459.2

Imagine there’s no countries
It isn’t hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion, too

Imagine all the people
Livin’ life in peace

John Lennon – Imagine

When we realize that God and man are One and not two, we shall love both. We shall love man as an expression of God, and God as the Life Principle in all…. We are to look for God in each other and love this God, forgetting all else. But would this compel us to accept from people that which is not good? Of course not! …for this would be like suffering for righteousness’ sake, which is always a mistake. We should be wise in the ways of the world, as well as imbued with Divine wisdom.

Ernest Holmes: The Science of Mind 459.5

And so the hard and harder part….to accept each and all as emanations of Spirit – the love that knows no bounds – while remaining able to disagree without hate or anger. It has been proven anger overrides intelligence. It limits our vision as to what might otherwise be possible.

It seems the times in which we live are well past ‘interesting’ and deeply into challenging.

My prayer is that enough of us learn to lean past our anger and open to knowing we are all One and that is the only way to move on.

–In Peace, Mariann

A World That Works for Everyone: Wisdom from Indigenous Traditions, Science of Mind, and the Beauty of Transience. by Chris Wheeler

What if the dream of a world that works for everyone wasn’t just a distant hope, but a path we could walk together—one mindful step at a time? We find inspiration for this journey in the deep-rooted wisdom of Indigenous peoples, the empowering philosophy of Science of Mind, and an appreciation for the fleeting, precious moments that shape our lives.

Across continents and ages, Indigenous cultures remind us that we are all family—woven together with each other and the living world. For Aboriginal Australians, the Dreamtime stories aren’t just ancient myths; they’re living blueprints for honoring the land and nurturing each other. For Native peoples across the Americas, spirituality isn’t just a practice—it’s the heartbeat of daily life, guiding land stewardship and community relations alike.

These traditions encourage us to treasure our connections, act with generosity, and live in a way that keeps the world wholesome and beautiful for generations to come. Isn’t that a world we can all find hope in?

Life moves quickly, and its moments—like wildflowers or a song on the wind—are beautifully transient. But fleeting doesn’t mean meaningless. On the contrary, every small act of kindness, courage, or care can leave a ripple that touches countless lives. Dervish wisdom reminds us that qualities like love, humility, and spiritual discipline change not only ourselves, but the very fabric of the world, often in ways we’ll never fully see. When we appreciate the passing nature of things, we feel inspired to cherish each day just a little more, to bring our best selves to this shared human adventure.

The Science of Mind philosophy, rooted in the teachings of Dr. Ernest Holmes, offers a heartening and practical roadmap for living with purpose and hope. At its heart, Science of Mind tells us that:

  • Every person is an expression of a loving, infinite Reality—call it Spirit, God, or Infinite Intelligence.
  • We are not separate from the creative energy of the universe; our thoughts and intentions shape the world.
  • Through conscious intention, spiritual practice, and kindness, we participate in the unfolding story of creation, both shaping ourselves and uplifting others.

It’s an approach that warmly welcomes everyone. When we shift our awareness toward love, wholeness, and unity, we tap into a wellspring of possibility. Each positive thought, prayer, or action becomes a building block for the better world we long for.

Walking the Path—Together
The beauty of this vision lies in its simplicity—and its invitation.

  • Pause and listen to the lessons of the land and the people who have tended it before us.
  • Cherish the little moments, making each connection, each kindness, count.
  • Practice the principles of Science of Mind by infusing your thoughts and actions with intention, love, and hope.
  • Come together in community, building systems—at home, in your neighborhood, and beyond—that nourish the dignity and well-being of all.

Imagine a world where everyone has a place at the table, where the wisdom of our ancestors harmonizes with the creative spirit stirring in each of us. A world where we remember, day by day, that we belong to each other and to this Earth. Let’s take each gentle step forward—rooted in wisdom, open to wonder, and committed to the loving, conscious co-creation of a planet where everyone truly thrives.

–Chris Wheeler

The Hallways of Life by Rev Rhoni Tretsven

Hello beautiful souls, recently I have had the privilege of having many conversations concerning what I name as the “Hallways of Life.” You know the pesky place that feels like you are in the doldrums. Nothing appears to move in any direction for us to understand where we are going, what our next step is, and there isn’t any light for us to see ahead to our future. Where is that door or window to let us out and unleash our talents to the world? I have many times ended up in that hallway. Wondering, wishing, watching. It is when I let go of how things “should be”, and trust the Divine Self, all will be revealed as I am to know it.

During one of my “stays” I, like most of us turn to books for inspiration or even a glimmer of how to escape the darkness of my mind. Yes, ministers are human too. As I scrolled through a few “Self Help” inspirational video’s, I happened upon a monologue given by Steve Harvey the host of Family Feud. It was about “Jumping” to your highest potential. I feel it is not just inspirational, but it gives us the gift of remembering who we are.

Steve Harvey did this impromptu monologue between tapings of the show. What I truly embrace is he encourages people to take a leap of faith and pursue their God-given talents and dreams, rather than staying in a safe but unfulfilling existence. He encourages us all to “Jump.” He explains, everyone has a gift: emphasizing that every individual is born with a unique gift or talent. This isn’t just about traditional artistic abilities; it could be anything from networking to cooking, teaching, or even landscaping. He further tells us, you have to jump to use your gift. To truly live and achieve success, you must take a chance and jump off the cliff of life. This means stepping out of your comfort zone and dedicating yourself to your gift. The parachute won’t open immediately. Harvey candidly warns that when you first jump, your parachute (success, support) will not open right away. You’ll likely face setbacks, failures, and hardships – you’ll hit the rocks and get some skin torn off.

Eventually, the parachute must open. This is the core message of hope. He assures listeners that if they persist and keep believing, their parachute will eventually open, as it’s a promise from God. He cites his own life experiences and God’s faithfulness as proof. Staying safe means never knowing your potential.

Harvey argues that if you choose to remain on the cliff, never taking that leap, your parachute will never open. You’ll never truly discover what God has in store for you or experience the abundant life you’re meant to have. Bills will always be there. He addresses common excuses like I have bills. He points out that bills exist whether you jump or not and living a life of just existing is not truly living.

As he continues, we suddenly understand this is a call to action, inspiring each one of us to overcome our fears, embrace our potential, and take the necessary risks/steps to live a life of purpose and fulfillment. I promise it will move you in many ways. I am grateful I can share some of my ah-ha moments along my journey of life with all of you, and the path I took to “see the light” and realize it is not an oncoming train.

He has written a book with the title, “Jump” if you choose to explore more.

–Namaste – Rev. Rhoni

 

Giving Peace a Real Chance in 2025 by Rev. Sue Oliver

This week’s theme is based on John Lennon and the Plastic Ono band’s iconic song “Give Peace a Chance,” sung in 1969 as a Vietnam war anthem (their YouTube video). The song’s main lyrics “All we are saying is give peace a chance” are even more relevant and important today than they were back then. These days, the internet, social media, and various channels predominantly broadcast the bad news – conflicts, wars, and other crises in the world, such that peace can seem like an everdistant dream or fairy tale. Yet, spiritual wisdom and our own experiences as metaphysicians remind us of the great news: peace doesn’t start on the world stage – it begins within. In Religious Science, we speak of a “world that works for all” – one that is ever emerging and evolving, despite appearances to the contrary.

Although I can and do experience various human emotions, such as fear, doubt, worry, anger, sadness, and others, in reaction to events in my life and around the globe, there is always an inherent peace at the center of my being, my true identity. Even when I feel irritated when someone cuts me off in traffic or outraged at some injustice in another country or our own, peace is still a possibility for me to choose…or not.

Ernest Holmes wrote, “Peace stands at the door of your consciousness and awaits your acceptance of It.” (Holmes Reader on Change, p.59) Thus, we do not need to chase peace, as it is present and available in, though, and as each of us – here, now, and always. Similarly, the Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh taught, “Peace is present right here and now… every breath we take, every step we take, can be filled with peace.” (Peace Is Every Step) Our task is not to search for peace, but to wake up to it, moment by moment.

Well, to be honest, I frequently fall asleep at the consciousness wheel and forget this spiritual truth for myself and others. So, I don’t always give peace a chance in my own life, let alone in the world. Holmes reminds us that “even one individual grounded in peace can uplift a group caught in conflict.” (Science of Mind Magazine, 1955) This is the ripple effect of spiritual practice and the power of a spiritual community like CSL Tucson, where we can remind each other of our divine identity that is peace, love, prosperity, and so much more.

So, how do we respond, instead of reacting, to the dissonance and challenges that we might experience in today’s world? How do we know and affirm a peaceful world that works for all, even when it can seem so futile?

We can start right where we are, with even the smallest of peaceful thoughts and actions: spending a few minutes each day in meditation and affirmative prayer, speaking words of peace instead of criticism, choosing to see others – even the most difficult ones – as expressions of the Divine, sharing a smile, offering a random act of kindness, and, of course, participating in the CSL Tucson community. These actions are not trivial – they are the real work of spiritual peacemaking that feeds and waters a world that works for all.

Let this be our affirmation and action: Peace begins with me. Peace moves in me, through me, and as me, into the world. I am giving peace a real chance today. And so it is!

–Rev. Sue Oliver

We Are All…. by Mariann Moery

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Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing is a field. I will meet you there. — Rumi

 

 

 

I don’t know where your political, mental, spiritual or emotional energies are now, but for many of us it’s all a whirling haboob bringing nothing but hot wind and wtf [whiskey tango foxtrot (: )] . Doesn’t matter where we stand, sit or fall.

So, for me, it is time to return to one of the most amazing stories of reclamation and love triumphant that I have ever had the great gift of knowing about.

Father Gregory Boyle, Jesuit priest, has spent the last 30 years creating and building one of the most successful street “ministries” ever. HOMEBOY INDUSTRIES is the largest gang intervention program…in the world. Thousands transformed – hundreds buried. Homeboy Industries has grown to include multiple businesses all run by homies who have found their way there. (Homies is the preferred term now – since there is no gender exclusion.) Father Boyle, or “G” as he is known mostly has baptized many in prison, some more than once. Once they are part of this, they remain so – a fall from ‘grace’ simply means a delay in being welcomed back ‘home’.

Homeboy’s only and unwavering principles:

We are ALL unshakably good – no exceptions.

We belong to each other – no exceptions.

Why is it that the simpler the rule, the harder it is to actually follow?

Father Boyle’s books are available through Abebooks.com, Stacks Books, and likely, Bookmans locally, as well as Amazon. Maybe Tattoos on the Heart is already on your own bookshelf. His latest, Cherished Belonging, is a fine place to start but they are all worth a read and the realization that the most amazing things are indeed possible.

I periodically try to remember that we are all living essences of God and despite actions to the contrary, that is the actual Truth. My experience is quite mixed. The more separate the ones identified as “transgressor” are from my world, the easier they are to accept and love.

However, when the “transgression’ happens on my turf: physical, emotional, mental – well, my response tends to be guided with a lot that happens on the lower end of Life choices.

Because it is all by choice. True we have been trained not just in this life, but through centuries of “might makes right”, Manifest Destiny forever, and so on.

And, yet an alternate view of the rules above has been with us for just as long. From Jesus the Christ to Islam (which actually incorporates them) to say nothing of the Baháʼí.

We probably aren’t the mother in Cherished Belonging who while visiting her son in prison, waits for the guards to be momentarily distracted and then reaches into her bra and pulls the still warm burrito from his favorite store with the comment ‘it’s the special one’.

But we do all have those opportunities to share rather than glare. It usually is f’ing hard. From fear, from disdain, from simply not understanding.

If we start from a distance, it’s a start. Checks written, clothes donated, holiday meals served – but if we truly desire a better world – not just for thee and me – but for all. This is the best possible time to start. Everywhere.

It really is beautiful, and hard.

In Peace, Mariann

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. — Anne Frank

Remember Who You Are, Sharon Whealy RScP

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“You are a powerful, loving, and creative child of God. You are very loved.”

For the past several weeks, I have been drawing a card from Doreen Virtue’s Archangel Oracle card deck to help me ground my week. This week’s card was “Remember Who You Are,” a great reminder as I begin navigating a career change at 65 years old. I have been doing bookkeeping for decades, and I’m good at it; it is easy for me, and it is safe. It is also something I have been feeling complete with for a while now. Did I mention bookkeeping feels safe?

As I consider creating something entirely new, I have been experiencing self-doubt, procrastination, and fear. What if I’m not good enough? What if no one wants what I have to offer? What if doing something that feels like my soul’s calling won’t support me and pay my bills? What if, what if, what if …?

When we were kids, if we asked our mother, “What if …?” she would reflect the question back at us, saying something like, “Well, what if …?” She would not even entertain a question rooted in what is essentially fantasy thinking. Why is it that when we imagine a new future for ourselves, our first thoughts are all the ways things could go wrong, rather than imagining all the ways things could go right?

The expanded message of the card reminds us:

“You are made in the image and likeness of your Creator, so you embody aspects of all those qualities. Your inner Divine light is pure and bright in truth, and no mistakes can undo God’s handiwork of true perfection. Don’t be afraid of your power, your magnificence or your wisdom. When you succeed, you inspire others. When you change your life so that it’s more aligned with your interests, you inspire others. Be powerful! Be magnificent! This is who you are.” Archangel Oracle Cards ~ Doreen Virtue

When I pulled this card from the deck, I knew this was exactly the reminder I needed. I am Spirit incarnate; my inner Divine light is pure and bright in truth. Who am I to hide that light in self-doubt and fear? There are no mistakes in God’s world, and I am guided in this new venture. Changing my life to be more aligned with what my soul is calling me into allows me to step into my wisdom, my power, and my magnificence. When I align with my soul’s calling, I align with Spirit’s highest expression of Itself as me. I am powerful and magnificent.

And so are you!

My reminder to myself, and my reminder to you, is that we are all made in the image and likeness of our Creator, and that God, Spirit, Life is best served when we allow ourselves to shine brightly, to own our wisdom, to be in our power, to follow our dreams, and be magnificent.

–Sharon Whealy, RScP

I Want to Live in Peace: Claiming My Right to Self-Determination by Chris Wheeler

In a world that often feels divided by politics, algorithms, and echo chambers, I find myself yearning for something simple and profound: peace. Not just the absence of conflict, but a deeper peace—a freedom to live authentically, to communicate my values without fear, and to participate in the ongoing progress of humankind.

Freedom to Express, Freedom to Forgive
I want to be able to speak my truth, whether or not it aligns with any group or ideology. True freedom means not being forced into silence or conformity. It means being able to share ideas, ask questions, and even make mistakes without the threat of persecution or retribution.

But freedom of speech is only part of the equation. I also want to improve my ability to forgive, even when forgiveness feels undeserved or difficult. Forgiveness isn’t always the obvious or easy choice, but I believe it’s essential for healing and moving forward—both personally and collectively. By practicing forgiveness, I can help break cycles of resentment and open doors to understanding.

Doing the Work of Inclusion and Humility
Inclusivity doesn’t happen by accident. It requires effort, empathy, and a willingness to listen. I want to do the work necessary to be inclusive, to recognize my own biases, and to make space for voices that have been marginalized or silenced. That means practicing humility—acknowledging that I don’t have all the answers and that every human being has inherent worth.

Rising Above the Noise
It’s easy to get swept up in the chaos and negativity amplified by social media algorithms. These digital forces often reward outrage and division, making it harder to see each other’s humanity. I want to rise above that noise. I want liberty and justice for ALL—not as slogans co-opted by partisan politics, but as real, lived values that guide our actions.

The Right to Learn and Dialogue
Education is a cornerstone of freedom. I want the ability to educate myself without censorship or ideological gatekeeping. I want safe, open dialogue where people can share ideas and experiences without fear of being attacked or ostracized. Progress depends on our willingness to listen, to question, and to grow together.

Learning from the Past, Shaping the Future
I don’t want to recreate some imagined “golden age” or demand adherence to any prescribed religion or philosophy. I want to learn from our shared history—the triumphs and the mistakes—so we can build something better. My actions, not just my beliefs, can be an agent of change.

Balancing Individual and Collective Rights
Personal freedom is essential, but it must be balanced with the rights and freedoms of others. Societies achieve this through laws, dialogue, and institutions that mediate conflicts and promote mutual respect. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary if we want to live in peace.

My Commitment
I claim my right to self-determination. I commit to doing the hard work of inclusion, humility, and forgiveness. I will speak my truth, listen to others, and strive to be an agent of positive change. I want to participate in the progress of humankind—not as a bystander, but as an active, compassionate, and thoughtful citizen.

Let’s choose peace. Let’s choose understanding. Let’s choose liberty and justice for all.

–Chris Wheeler

The Summer of Love…All the Time 365/24/7 by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

As we try to “beat the heat” I thought a way to “cool down” would be to celebrate the “Summer of Love,” June through August, stepping back into the 1960s with music of that era being my talk titles and the music sung during our Sunday experience. So, I encourage everyone to wear your best tie dye, bell bottoms, peace signs and grooooovy sunglasses as we are turning back time. The year is 1967, San Francisco…. From a spiritual perspective, the Summer of Love wasn’t just a cultural phenomenon; it was a profound yearning for transcendence and a collective awakening to new forms of consciousness. Against a backdrop of war and societal unrest, the youth of the 1960s sought spiritual liberation, turning to Eastern philosophies, psychedelic exploration, and communal living as avenues for personal and collective transformation. This period saw a widespread rejection of materialism and traditional institutions in favor of inner peace, universal love, and a deeper connection to the divine. The spirit of the Summer of Love was, at its core, a call for humanity to shed its illusions, embrace its interconnectedness, and discover a more authentic, joyful, and spiritually attuned way of being.

Beyond the external manifestations of flower power and free love, the Summer of Love embodied a spiritual quest for inner peace and collective consciousness. It was a time when many sought to transcend the confines of conventional thought and embrace a more holistic understanding of existence. The influx of Eastern philosophies, particularly Zen Buddhism and Hinduism, coupled with the exploration of psychedelic substances, aimed to unlock deeper levels of perception and foster a sense of unity with all beings. This pursuit was not merely an escape, but a deliberate effort to create a world built on principles of compassion, interconnectedness, and a radical faith in the inherent goodness of humanity – a vision of a global spiritual family rather than a collection of competing nations.

The spiritual dimension of the Summer of Love went far beyond mere cultural trends; it represented a profound rejection of the perceived spiritual emptiness of post-war consumerism and materialism. Many of those who flocked to San Francisco were seeking authentic meaning and a deeper connection to something beyond the mundane.

This search manifested in various ways

• Exploration of Eastern Philosophies: There was a significant turn towards practices like yoga, meditation, and the study of Zen Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. Figures like Alan Watts popularized these concepts for a Western audience, offering alternative paths to understanding the self and the universe. The idea of “cosmic oneness” often associated with psychedelic experiences resonated strongly with these Eastern mystical traditions.

• Psychedelic as Sacramental: For many, LSD and other psychedelics were not just recreational drugs but seen as tools for spiritual awakening and expanded consciousness. The belief was that these substances could break down ego barriers, induce mystical experiences, and reveal the interconnectedness of all things, thereby facilitating a direct encounter with the divine or a higher reality. Timothy Leary’s famous mantra, “Turn on, tune in, drop out,” while often misunderstood, had a spiritual undertone, advocating for an inner transformation that would lead to a re-evaluation of societal norms.

• Communal Living and Shared Ideals: The formation of communes and intentional communities was an attempt to live out spiritual principles in practice. These groups often emphasized cooperation, simplicity, and a rejection of competitive individualism. They sought to create micro-societies based on love, peace, and mutual support, reflecting an ideal of a more harmonious and spiritually aligned human existence.

• Reclaiming the “Sacred”: There was a conscious effort to find the sacred in everyday life and to integrate spirituality into all aspects of being. This involved a rejection of rigid religious dogma in favor of a more personal and experiential spirituality. Music, art, and dance became vehicles for spiritual expression, fostering a sense of collective ecstasy and communion. Events like the Human Be-In were intended as “gatherings of the tribes” to celebrate this new spiritual awakening and to demonstrate the power of collective consciousness.

• Antinomianism and the Pursuit of Authentic Self: The Summer of Love fostered an antinomian spirit, a rejection of established rules and norms, in the belief that true spiritual liberation lay in shedding societal conditioning and embracing one’s authentic nature. This often extended to expressions of sexual freedom, viewed not just as rebellion but as a natural part of a liberated and holistic self.

While the Summer of Love was ultimately fleeting and faced challenges with commercialization and practical difficulties, its spiritual undercurrent left an indelible mark on Western culture. It laid groundwork for the New Thought movement and continues to influence contemporary spiritual practices and a broader openness to diverse forms of consciousness and self-discovery.

“You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find you get what you need.” – Mick Jagger (from The Rolling Stones song, 1969)

–Namaste – Rev. Rhoni

 

Quiet, Please by Mariann Moery

All poetry quoted is from David Whyte’s What to Remember When Waking. Essentials p. 52

“To become human
is to become visible
while carrying
what is hidden
as a gift to others.

What gift lies hidden within each of us. So much of the time to be ignored if not actively put away.

“You are not
a troubled guest
on this earth
you are not, an accident
amidst other accidents,
you were invited
from another and greater
night than the one
from which
you have just emerged.

How often do we measure our worth, indeed our reason for being – our personal why – by judging ourselves against the standards of other, their assumed greater importance or a value we attribute to others. Neglecting, hiding, ignoring or simply denigrating ourselves.

Lest we seem arrogant, pushy, prideful. (We all know what happens with pride – going before that oh-so-deserved fall.)

Plus, it frequently seems easier to stay within our hidden aspects, not giving anyone a “handle” to maim us.

“What shape
waits in the seed of you
to grow and spread
its branches
against a future sky?

For me right now, it seems incredibly difficult to hear my singular inner voice amidst the turmoil that is the current moment. It doesn’t actually matter your position or place on the violently adamant V that has replaced the bell curve of human behaviors, it is simply very, very hard to find the quiet to be.

“What you can plan
is too small
for you to live.
What you can live
wholeheartedly
will make plans
enough for the vitality
hidden in your sleep.”

In closing – a favorite blessing from John O’Donohue. One I keep on or by my computer and placemark what I am reading. Because this is the blessing and prayer I frequently give myself and send to all the world.

TO COME HOME TO YOURSELF
May all that is unforgiven in you
Be released.
May your fears yield
Their deepest tranquilities.
May all that is unlived in you
Blossom into a future Graced with love.

John O’Donohue To Bless the Space Between Us (pp. 97-98).

May this find its way into your heart and soul. Peace, Mariann

All poetry quoted above is from David Whyte’s poem What to Remember When Waking. Essentials pages 52-53.

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