Category: blog

Thank You for the Music by Linda Bullock

There is a song of the Universe. Let’s sing it. There is a hymn of praise. Let’s praise it. There is a joy, a beauty; there is a deep, abiding peace. Let’s experience it. Ernest Holmes, Ideas of Power, p. 158

I was raised in a traditional Christian church with acapella gospel music. I have always loved the music in churches, especially when I can sing along. Since coming to learn about and adopt Science of Mind teachings, I cannot espouse religion which preaches a punishing God and declares that I need to be saved. Yet I can still appreciate some of the songs.

My first year of college was spent in a small Christian college in Arkansas. On Thursday nights, weather permitting, a large group of students would gather at the reflecting pond and spontaneously sing hymns, the climax of which was always “How Great Thou Art.” Those occasions were special to me and the voices were beautiful. I still like the first verse of that hymn and find it comforting: “Oh Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the worlds Thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.” The rest of the song mentions the Savior God who sent His Son to die.

I used to love “The Old Rugged Cross” with the words “where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain…” And there’s Amazing Grace “that saved a wretch like me.” The Science of Mind teaches me that I don’t need to be saved. In Living the Science of Mind, Ernest Holmes states that “the future religion will be free from fear, superstition, and doubt,” (page 72).

There is an abundance of New Thought music, and I enjoy the performances and the messages. Our local Center for Spiritual Living Tucson is blessed with talented musicians, led by our creative musical director, Michael Zimmerman.

My current favorite spiritual compilations are written and performed by Rickie Byars in her album In The Land of I Am. “I Release and I Let Go” is often heard at CSL Tucson. Her rendition of “My God is So Good To Me” with a backing choir is an energetic performance sure to raise one’s vibration. She includes beautiful, haunting chants, such as “Om Shanti” and “Oyaheya.” The song “Use Me” is a personal dedication: “Use me, oh God, I stand for you. And here I’ll abide as you show me all that I must do…” Ms. Byars has made her music available in a Songbook online.

Karen Drucker is a prolific songwriter loved among New Thought communities. I find her song “Gentle with Myself” to be especially calming and reflective of the self-compassion evident in her music. Ms. Drucker’s songs are frequently a part of New Thought worship services; “I’m So Grateful,” “Thank You for This Day,” and “I am So Blessed’” among others.

Other outstanding musicians have graced us with their talent. Daniel Nahmod’s “Love is My Decision” is very familiar. He also is prolific, continuing to write and share his music in a weekly online concert. Faith Rivera has an extensive collection of spiritual music including “Rise” and “Power of Now.” Jami Lula has produced lots of spiritual music, including “Love is My Religion” and “There’s a Healin’ Goin’ On.” So much good spiritual music available for us!

Singing Wrong Lyrics with Confidence is an Art; and I’m an Artist.

–Peace and blessings to all. Linda Bullock

Infinite Possibilities by Chris Wheeler

As the New Year approaches, I find myself reflecting on the significance of this time—a period that invites introspection and renewal. It’s fascinating to recognize the myriad traditions celebrated across cultures, each offering unique rituals that highlight themes of renewal, community, and prosperity. These practices not only allow individuals to express their hopes and aspirations but also foster a sense of unity among participants as they collectively step into the new year.

Embracing Renewal

Dr. Ernest Holmes, in his metaphor of a blackboard, beautifully illustrates our ability to erase past mistakes and craft new narratives for our lives. This powerful imagery reinforces the notion that we are in charge of our own happiness and fulfillment. Whether it’s the dawn of a new year or simply the start of a new day, we have the opportunity to choose narratives filled with positive thoughts, affirming terms, and inspiring ideas.

The Power of the Present Moment

I’ve come across the idea that we can restart our day at any moment. Each moment is a chance for renewal and growth, a reminder that we are not bound by yesterday’s experiences. In his writings, Holmes expressed a hopeful vision for humanity: “I would like to suggest that mankind stands now at the very beginning, not at the ending of the human race.” (Dr. Ernest Holmes, “Letters From Other Dimensions,” 1974). This perspective invites us to see every day as a fresh start filled with infinite possibilities.

Looking Ahead

So here we are, on the brink of a new chapter. Let us embrace this moment with open hearts and minds, knowing that the best is yet to come. Together, let’s step forward into this new year with optimism and a commitment to create meaningful narratives for ourselves and our communities.

My Beloved CSLT by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

My Beloved CSLT,

Thank you for this gift, this opportunity to grow with you as not just your minister but as a spiritual being like you. I am truly grateful for all the shifts and changes this past year we have created and will continue to do more I am sure in 2025. As a spiritual community we are embarking on an infinite journey of love and learning together, and I am very excited for us. Wherever you are today, please know you are loved, and a light that shines in this world. My wish for you and our community is peace and infinite expanding love. My heart is full. May you continue to unwrap the gift that you are. Christmas was always a special time because as a child I always enjoyed the stories that were read at Christmas. Today, I wish to share with you a very special story, from my heart to yours…….

From the very beginning of time, there was a promise and a hope that there would be one who would come, who would show the way.

One who would be a light in the darkness, who would be inseparable from the Creator and, by their very being, would express the Truth of human existence.

It had been prophesied from times of old that there would be a child born who would rightfully inherit the kingdom.

One who, by their very nature, would bring Peace, Balance, Harmony, Tranquility and Serenity to this world and all whom they encountered. The world yearned for this coming, the birth of this child, the fulfilled promise. All the earth and heavens yearned for the coming of this child. Wisemen foretold and saw the signs in the heavens, for, indeed, it was to come to pass that a child would be born.

A holy child filled with knowledge, a child filled with love and understanding, one worthy of inheriting the kingdom on this earth. One whom by their very being would bring Love, and by their very existence would bring understanding of who they truly are and where they truly dwell.

The world and even the heavens yearned for the birth of this child, the Christ child, for the universe would not be complete, nor would the world ever be the same again. So, it came to pass in the perfection and fulfillment of time that this child was brought forth into the world.

This child was announced by the angels of heaven that the fulfilled promise had come, for God had become humanity. A new star appeared in the heavens, for a great soul, a teacher, had been born into this world.

And then, in the innocence and wonder of this new experience, YOU took your very first breath.

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanza dear ones.

Namaste, I love you, and so it is…Amen. Rev. Rhoni

Smelling the Roses & All That by Mariann Moery

Seems this season is the time to stop and consider the following quote:

“Enough is as good as a feast. Enough brings satisfaction. Beyond that lies excess, not greater satisfaction. It says a lot about us (and about contentment) that people often wake up to the feast of plain life only when they reach death’s door. There, under the most “reduced circumstances” of all, many a person has discovered the sweetness of things previously too ordinary for them to notice.” Nelson Foster ” Storehouse of Treasures: Recovering the Riches of Chan and Zen pg.168

How many times have we told others…or been told by others ‘to stop and smell the roses.’ It’s good advice, in fact, well and good. Once we get past the stage of….I would if I had time. Oh yes, that bit of circular logic. Or non-logic.

And I am retired. As in no longer working in the world of corporate publishing in Manhattan NYC. Still it doesn’t seem like there is enough time in my life to actually enjoy all the good things I have in it.

And there are many excellent things in my Life. People, photography, good foods, the Catalina Mountains and an ever-increasing number of actively beckoning books on a growing number of subjects I want to know about.

Notice I said ‘know about’ not so much ‘learn about’ which takes time and focus and energy. Same issue different execution.

December I celebrated another birthday, there have been a bunch, and despite best effort not to do it – I once again am focusing on what do I want for me/as me during the next 12 months.

Dr. Ben Hardy is one of the major proponents of ‘focus today on who/how you want to be in the future”, rather than on the stickiness of today. Which I’ve decided flows well with

“I must let my thoughts encompass more and more of what I want and at the same time become more of what I really am.” Ernest Holmes, A New Design for Living, pg.155

To that end I am changing my morning journaling to the practice of declaring where I will be as I move on from where I am. Which has meant forgoing whining to my pages about all the stuff that makes me crazy: including acts by me as well as others. Letting that go is hard.

“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” – Winston Churchill

So for the next 12 months (and foreseeable future), I work toward stopping to metaphorically smell the roses and instead to realistically take those moments for the actions which bring me joy and a richer Life.

-May your next year bring you brightness, peace and joy! Mariann

Peace be Unto Thee, Stranger by Sharon Whealy, RScP

Peace be unto thee, stranger, enter and be not afraid. I have left the gate open and thou art welcome in my home. There is room in my house for all. I have swept the hearth and lighted the fire. The room is warm and cheerful, and you will find comfort and rest within The table is laid, and the fruits of Life are spread before thee. The wine is here also, it sparkles in the light. I have set a chair for you where the sunbeams dance through the shade. Sit and rest and refresh your soul. Eat of the fruit and drink of the wine. All, all is yours, and you are welcome. Ernest Holmes

This invitation is found on the dedication page of The Science of Mind. Years ago, when I “discovered” the welcome, I printed and framed it. It currently hangs on my refrigerator, as a reminder that Spirit is always home, the table is laid with the abundance of the Universe, and that I am always welcome. All I need do is accept the invitation.

I also read this on a human level – is my gate open, am I welcoming, is there room for all? Am I sharing my abundance and making my home a place of renewal, so that our souls may be refreshed? Or am I guarded, protecting what’s “mine”? How often do I close myself off to those who might make me uncomfortable?

When we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate the love, the light, and the peace of the season and I often hear reminders that this Love, Light, and Peace is available year-round. Can we hold compassion in our hearts and minds for everyone, regardless of if they look, believe, or celebrate as we do?

This year, Hanukkah is December 25 through January 2nd. This eight-day celebration honors the miracle of abundance and never-ending light. God is always with us, providing what we need, without hesitation or limitation.

Kwanza, the African American celebration of family, community, and connection, is celebrated December 25 through January 1st this year. As we honor this tradition, this year can we be inclusive in our definition of family, can we expand our community? Let us celebrate the connection we have with one another.

This is my holiday blessing for the season and the year to come,
May we welcome the stranger with open hearts and minds.
May we be the Love and Peace of the season, allowing it to radiate into the world.
May we honor the Light that dwells within each one of us, and express gratitude for the neverending flow of good.
May we celebrate the connection of family and community as a reminder we are never alone.
May we be blessed with knowing all is well, and all will be well.
God is Good, all the time!

–Sharon Whealy, RScP

Disappointment by Linda Bullock

We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr

I am among those who were disappointed in the results of our recent national election. The outcome was a surprise, and I experienced sadness, anger, anxiety and frustration. My reaction was sincere, yet I know not to live in despair for too long. We are to keep moving, attend to self-care and get back to center, where we are guarded and guided by the Living Spirit.

According to Brene Brown, disappointment is unmet expectations. The more significant the expectations, the more significant the disappointment. Our expectations are often set on outcomes totally beyond our control. We come away from experiencing disappointment feeling bad. Our negativity is tinged with astonishment and surprise, and, at the same time we’re trying to think positively and urging ourselves to move on. It’s exhausting.

She cautions that there are too many people in the world today who decide to live disappointed rather than risk feeling disappointment. This can take the shape of numbing, foreboding joy, being cynical or critical, or just never really fully engaging. (Atlas of the Heart, pages 43-44 and 50)

Disappointment happens to all of us. Some writings on the subject stress the opportunity for growth and change. It takes courage to address our disappointments by facing reality and finding out about ourselves, rather than experiencing it as a wound that makes us retreat from future relationships and situations.

In his book Consolations, the poet David Whyte declares “To be disappointed is to reappraise not only reality itself but our foundational relationship to the pattern of events places and people that surround us, and which, until we were properly disappointed, we had misinterpreted and misunderstood; disappointment is the first fruitful foundation of genuine heartbreak from which we risk ourselves in a marriage, in a work, in a friendship, or with life itself.” Ouch.

I have learned that I have often had unreasonable expectations of others, particularly if I haven’t expressed my expectations. No one can read my mind. Sometimes the risk of vulnerability keeps us from stating our expectations. Shifting a desire to a preferred rather than expected outcome can soften hurt feelings. Ultimately, I want to feel compassion for the other individual by listening to their perspective and assumptions. Lower expectations mean fewer disappointments.

When it comes to expectations in our spiritual practice, Ernest Holmes affirms that we can expect to receive the Good we desire. “The structure of our whole philosophy is based on two things: the Universe as Law and Order, and the Universe as a Divine Presence. The one with which or whom we may commune; the other that we may use. I believe God is the only Presence there is, infinite, intimate and personal to each one of us; present with each one of us, and in each one of us as what we are. Our word goes out as law. This is a glorious concept, for it teaches us that at any moment we may transcend the past no matter what happened…” (The Essential Ernest Holmes, pages 174- 175)

Wishing peace and blessings to all during the holiday season.

–Linda

REMOVING & MOVING – SPIRITUALLY Chris Wheeler

Lately, I’ve been experiencing episodes of paralyzing fear. This is not a place I want to dwell, as it is far too uncomfortable. Fear urges me to react in ways that are counterproductive to living a happy and peaceful life. In response, I’ve been turning to books, seeking the regeneration that comes from gaining perspective through the printed page.

This approach is working. Recently, I came across an insightful concept. I made some small edits, but the core message remains unchanged.

**The Law of Non-Resistance** Edited excerpts from “Working With The Law” by Raymond Holliwell.

Resistance fails because it is not in harmony with universal law and order. By practicing non-resistance, one can tap into the universal flow of energy, leading to a more harmonious and fulfilling life experience. Think flow like water, water has no agenda water simply moves according to the force acting upon it.

If we go through life fighting, opposing, resisting, and arguing, we are bound to encounter many obstacles and may become so occupied with battling them that we lose sight of our true objectives. If we constantly brace ourselves for opposition or trouble, we can expect plenty of it. In contrast, if we strive to minimize obstacles and keep our minds focused on our goals, we may have to navigate winding paths, but perseverance will ultimately lead us to success.

When a person resists a situation, it clings to them. If they try to run away, it follows like a shadow, repeatedly reappearing. However, if they ignore the difficulty and fearlessly work around it, they will eventually find that the condition has been absorbed and removed.

Accept the condition as evidence of some good. Seek out that good, and by being open to it, more evidence of good will appear. We attract what we expect. Definite statements produce definite results. Add in some positive expectancy and we are off to a good start.

Remove and dissolve every obstacle by blessing it and being willing to understand it. Transform it from a stumbling block into a steppingstone toward your highest good.

–Chris Wheeler

Welcoming and Embracing Change within the CSLT Community by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

“Behold, I make all things new.” There is nothing permanent but change and the infinite intelligence can never be caught in anything It does. (How to Use the Science of Mind, 1948)

As Dr. Holmes points out, change will always occur whether we are ready or not, it will always be a constant in human existence. In the next 6 weeks CSLT will be stepping into an experience of being a different spiritual community. After 20 plus years of being renters and wandering like nomads through the desert of temporary homes, we will be putting down roots at 3617 Camino Blanco, Tucson. We, unlike Moses, will cross over into the promised land near the cross streets of River and Craycroft. We did it everyone and thank you all for supporting this move into a very bright and growing future.

In January of this year, I was chosen as your Spiritual Leader, and I was, and I still am excited to lead us all on not just a spiritual journey but one that will have a foundation. A foundation is important to build upon, it’s not just about the potlucks, holidays, special groups, plus other experiences as a community. It is about being a “family.” It isn’t just about Sunday’s either, it’s about every day. In Religious Science Aka Science of Mind, “We believe in the unity of all life, and that the highest god and the innermost God is one God. We believe that God is personal to all who feel this indwelling presence.” Part of our foundation as a spiritual family is knowing that wherever we are God is. What I hope will emerge as we gather in our new home is we will see new ways and opportunities of gathering, as in forming groups of common interest. We will have time to have special events and celebrate the holidays. There is so much more, but I know it is all Divine time.

As the week of December 16 gets closer, we will be packing and organizing our education office as we start our journey North. As I reflect on the last 11 months with all of you, my heart is filled with gratitude and great love. Who knew (except God) we would have this opportunity to expand in love as a spiritual community. I am truly grateful for the conversations Dr. Jonathan Zenz and William Summers, and I have had these last 6 mos. What has impacted me the most is the outpouring of love from the Unity community to assist us in creating this opportunity. I must be honest, Unity has “bent over backward” and done a few flips in the air to welcome us. Dr. Jonathan and I are very secure that our two communities will remain individual but come together for special occasions or work together for the common good of the property. As I see it, we are, two wings, one bird coming together as metaphysical/new thought communities. We will certainly be a beacon of light on a hill here in Tucson. If you have any questions, please reach out to me, I will be glad to talk with you. Please know, I love you all so very much and thank you for being the Possibilitarians you truly are, creating this and so much more.

~Namaste, Rev. Rhoni

And Now . . . . by Sharon Whealy, RScP

As I write this it is days before our national election. When this is published it will be the day after, and we will be awaiting the results. Whoever wins the election, according to polls, half the country will be disappointed with the outcome. I have been doing CSL’s 100 days of peace for our national election based on Prentis Hemphill’s book, What it Takes to Heal; How Transforming Ourselves Can Change the World. Hemphill presents ten “principles of embodiment” that are the inspiration for the daily prompts. From 100 Days, below are some of the thoughts and prayers:

1. Vision “We have a vision that’s deep, steep, and deeply rooted in possibility and potential so that whatever happens with our national election, we come to a deep understanding that we are spiritual beings having a human incarnation, meaning that we are resilient. We are resourceful and whatever happens, we’re going to build a kind, just, loving society, compelled by right action.” Day 1, Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith, Agape

2. Heal “We heal ourselves through mindfulness, intention, and a commitment to change. We can heal ourselves, our communities, and our nation, but we must first truly want to be healed. Healing takes courage. Sometimes we have to dig deep down in our hearts to find the courage to heal.” Day 52. Shahrazad Taylor, SLC-Atlanta, GA

3. Feeling and the Body “Any reflection on your feelings is a moment you can turn into gratitude. Thank rage for reminding that your feeling for justice runs deep. Thank happiness for showing how much you really like the situation you’re in. Thank anxiety for reminding you of your own tenderness and vulnerability… Ultimately, any feeling we have shows us we care and or what we care about today.” Day 43. Jericho Brown, poet.

4. Remapping Relationships (Rewiring) “The practice of rewiring is about shifting our attention. Every time we notice that which is rising up, that old story, that belief system, that judgement, that fear, we say no, and we choose to look at something else; to turn our mind to prayer, to turn to a higher idea, to turn to love, to turn to compassion. We are engaging in a practice of stopping and redirecting our thinking.” Day 44 Rev. Elisha Christopher, CSL Santa Cruz

5. Engage with the World “Breathe in peace, knowing this moment is for you. This is the moment to stretch beyond what you thought was possible and do one more thing for justice, one small action beyond all imagining to bring about the world we dream of. …This is the moment you are called to take your action. The world is calling your name and all you have to do is breathe and answer the call.” Day 65. Rev. Karen Strauss, Unitarian Universalists 6. Expanding our We “in order to form a more perfect universal union, I choose to assist and secure the blessings of life, love, beauty, wisdom, power, joy, and liberty to the posterity of all. I hereby broaden my me to we with a firm acceptance of the protection and power of the divine intelligence within all humanity, and pledge my life to the sacred honor of expanding our we.” Day 66, Rev Dr. Jay Willick, New Though Spiritual Center

7. Things fall apart (Release) Release is our mental, spiritual and emotional exhale. …To actively let go of our attachment to all of those prior experiences, everything that has happened up until now to make some space to invite something different, to invite something new, to acknowledge that something new is possible. Can you make room in consciousness for something bigger, something more joyous and wonderful than you have previously imagined possible? Day 37. Bill Marcion, Spiritual Director @ New Thought Philadelphia

8. Change is a Process “As we move into this space of possibility in our country, as we move into a space of no longer holding on to what was and embracing what can be, that change is truly possible, let us calm our nervous system and trust and know that we are safe in the midst of this change, that even if we feel unsafe, we are here for one another as community, we are here to promote possibility.” Day 48. Rev. Darrell Jones, Soul Gym Focus Ministry

9. Courage “We, my friends, have the God given courage to move through this time because we care so deeply. We care so deeply about each other, our country, and about our shared humanity. …we can together, as a collective, hold the vision of peace in our lifetime. We are made for this love. Let our loving courage lead the way.” Day 99. Shannon O’Hurley, Community Spiritual Leader, New Thought Center, Oswego, OR.

10. Love at the Center “For as long as it takes, look past others’ personality and differences and call upon ourselves to love the divine soul within them. Each of us has come to this planet to expand our consciousness of love. Ad we have the perfect opportunity to do that right now; maybe now more than ever, to practice this higher expression until it simply becomes who we are.” Day 80. Jim Blake, CEO Unity Headquarters.

— Sharon Whealy, RScP

Thinking and Singing about Love by Maria

The end of my term on the board is up this week. Wow, how far we’ve come and knowing the best is yet to be.

My last article is going to be a love play list. Thoughts and songs that get me “in the mood” for Love (that’s capital Love.)

Love dissolves all fear, casts out all doubt and sets the captives free.

Love, like the River of Life flows through me and refreshes me with its eternal blessings.

Love cannot be afraid; it is fearless and strong, and is mighty in its works.

It can accomplish all things through the Inner Light of faith in the All Good,

Which fills my very Being with a Powerful Presence.

Ernest Holmes, The Science of Mind 522

One of the great designs of life is that humans can only think one thought at a time. It is possible to quickly switch back and forth between thoughts, but only one thought can happen at a time. Whenever I am sliding into fear and doubt, I can sing myself back to love. Another great design! sound/music (mechanical waves created when “chunks of matter” vibrate) and hearing (which is too complicated to describe between parenthesis).

This is a love song I can imagine God playfully singing to me.

Do you want to know a Secret 

You’ll never know how much I really love you
You’ll never know how much I really care

Listen
Do you want to know a secret?
Do you promise not to tell?
Whoa, oh, oh

Closer
Let me whisper in your ear
Say the words you long to hear
I’m in love with you
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh ooh…

The Beatles were so New Thought.

The second song is like the first part of a Spiritual Mind Treatment, with a gospel beginning which raises my joy. I Walk in the Love Of God by Rickie Byars.

There is a Power, a Presence, One Life of all

and no other power can exist outside of the Infinite

One Love, (there can only be) God’s Love

Oh yes I know that I walk in the Love of God.

 The last song is my present theme song. It was written by John Denver and never released on an album. It’s called Wandering Soul.

Suddenly the mystery is clear
That Love is only Letting Go Of Fear

Love is the answer, love is the way
Love is in knowing just what to do and what to say
Love is the reason, love is the why
Love is in heaven right here on Earth and peace inside

Inside my heart, deep in my soul
Within each part and in the whole

Love is the answer, love is the way
Love is in knowing just what to do and what to say
Love is the reason, love is the why
Love is in heaven right here on Earth and peace inside

–In love and light, Maria

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