Intimacy

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-08T22:34:00.000-05:00

Now that's Justice!

2007-12-16T22:17:00.000-05:00

Being so very busy these days to the point that a cold caught me, took my voice and laid me down for several days.

During this time, I began reading Sir John Templeton's book "Wisdom from World Religions" an even the Introduction had some passages which I want to share and address:

The world operates on spiritual principles just as it operates on the laws of physics and gravity. ...You might ask, "What is a spiritual law?" We may answer that it is a timeless law or principle and, being of spirit, is not visible. However, spiritual law is quite real. Spiritual law is not shaped or determined by any person's current opinion or whim. Spiritual laws are impartial in that they apply equally to everyone, everywhere throughout our world. They work without prejudices or bias at all times and in all places. These laws are self-enforcing and are not dependent on human authority or commandments.

The rest of Sir Templeton's book is to assist us in mastering these "laws of life."

During the illness, I believe that I found that the process of creation is what lies between invisible thought and visible action. The more we think on Spiritual Laws and the fact that we are not able to change them (nor should we want to if we could), the more enjoyable life becomes. You can live without a mink coat for warmth, a hummer for transportation, a 20-room house for shelter, and less -- so much less. This does not mean that those who already have these things for themselves and five other people should go out and get more because I am not using them.

Somehow I believe that it may take a sudden and mass revelation having the purpose to awaken all of us at once -- aligning us in one mind for the mutual benefit of all for how ever brief the moment. Possibly it would hold and that would be the move to Justice!

As the Gregorian clander year of 2007 (9) comes to a close, may the year 2008 (1) allow us to see that what all of the great prophets, sages, and holy ones throughtout time have asked us to "see" is that we are all one.

Memorials

2007-05-19T19:28:00.000-04:00

In Loving Memory of

Nana Akuamoah the 7th of Ghana, W. Africa
Mrs. Natia Bliadze & Mr. Bliadze
Tom Fuss (a reader's special friend)
Dorothy Grace Price (Helen's Mom)
Dorothy Wilson (Darnell's Mom)
Minister Karen "Butterfly" Hall
Wilhelmina Mary Panyik
Francince Elizabeth Coles
Emmett Crocheron ~ The Patriarch
Samuel Solomon Ogolla Aluoka (Otineo's Dad)
Erastus Oyugi (leaving 3 baby girls)
Michael James Hong (a friend & student)

This list was first published on September 1, 2005 at 12:50 a.m. and will continually be updated. If there are names that you would like added, please note them in the comment section of this entry.

It is in reverence that I recall your name
honor the form in which you last stood
Being left behind
I secure a pose of gratitude
to have this opportunity.

How precious was your first breath
How inadequate was my attention to your presence
How short the time we had in which to meet
How holy is our union in Spirit
How blessed is the world to have you visit.

We are forever One.

[The artwork above entitled "Balasana" is published here by permission from the artist Bonnie Herman Zachary at zacharyart.com. The memorial is authored by the Founder of Peace of the World International.]

"Did You Know That I Know Your Journey?"

2007-04-25T23:25:00.000-04:00

Extraordinary

2007-03-13T23:01:00.000-04:00

Preview Below

..

Let Your Voice Be Heard!

2007-02-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

Click Here to sign the Darfur Petition!

A WISH LIST

2006-12-29T19:16:00.000-05:00

WISH LIST OF PEACE OF THE WORLD INTERNATIONAL

At Peace of the World International, we are a not-for-profit organization and run entirely on the kindness and generosity of donors like you all over the world. At present, we in addition to the projects listed above by Dr. Asaviour, we have the on-going projects which we are are requesting your assistance:

To support offices in Kenya, Ghana & Pakistan (approx. $7,200 per year to be sent to the individual offices)
HIV-AIDS testing kits to Kenya, Ghana, & Pakistan (approx. $300 for 60+ kits for each country office or equivilent number of kits sent directly to each country)
First Aid kits for children in Kibera's Samaritan Ark (approx. $300 or kits totaling the amount shipped directly to Kenya)
Sanitary Towels for girls in Kenya slums -- project in cooperation with CPDA Kenya (approx. $700 or equal amount in towels sent directly to Kenya)
Sponsor for establishment of incubator to host recycling plant in Kibera – Kenya
(approx. $5,000)
Stipend for students attending vocational training classes (approx. $2,520 for 30 students in each country; funds will be sent directly to each country for distribution)
Furniture and Equipment for Kenya, Ghana, & Pakistan offices (approx. $3,000 each to be sent to the individual offices)
3 vehicles - van/truck [one for each Peace of the World Intl locations – Kenya, Ghana, & Pakistan (approx. $9,000 each)
Funds for over-limit shipping of supplies and goods to to Kenya, Ghana, & Pakistan (approx. $240 for each country)
12 computers with peripherals (approx. $2,000 [x 3 for each of the three locations –Kenya, Ghana & Pakistan] or the equivalent product sent directly to the country in need of product)
Payment for telephone installation and 6-months service in Kenya, Ghana, & Pakistan (approx. $480 for 6 months for each country)
Salaries for staff for the next one year (approx. $21,940 for each location)

Currently, Peace of the World International is running three locations under the direction of three different organizatios in their respective countries. All details can be forwarded to you as contributions are made or as requested here.

To make contributions, please use the MC/Visa "Donate" Button to the left of the screen under Peace of the World International. This button also allows contributions through PayPal should you wish to use that method. Thank you for all you do for Peace & the world's children.

Coming Peace

2006-12-23T16:37:00.000-05:00

I feel it...Peace...Is coming...

Whole Soul

2006-12-22T17:02:00.000-05:00

It seems

to me

we can never

give up

longing and wishing

while we are alive.

There are certain things we feel

to be beautiful and good,

and we must hunger for them.

-George Eliot

What Do You Believe?

2006-11-13T20:14:00.000-05:00

...you only have to talk about what you do for five minutes at parties

but you have to live what you do every day of your life

so better to do what you love

and forget about how it looks.

And this, I believe.
- Yolanda O'Bannon "Living What You Do Every Day"

Love Makes All the Difference in the World

2006-08-05T04:27:00.001-04:00

At some point between standing and falling, the man on the ground became one with Keshia Thomas. Her heart opened and Andrew Cutraro (freelance photographer) caught the moment. Keishia was 18 at the time and we can wonder how and why at 18, this young African American woman came to be in such a position?

On June 22 in Ann Arbor Michigan, Keishia used her body for the purpose many say Jesus used His - to cover the sins of another. She shielded a man from a crowd of anti-Klan demonstrators who were beating him with sticks after he was spotted wearing a confederate flag shirt during the Klan rally that day. Ms. Thomas is reported as saying: Just because you beat somebody, doesn't mean you going to change his mind." Prior to this, it is reported in People magazine, that she was one of the angry demonstrators who rushed toward the man who was reported to be a spectator (not a participator); yet he wore the trappings of a Klan supporter. As the attackers reached him, the blows, kicks and punches began. But this Black high school senior from Ypsilanti risked injury and threw herself over the fallen man to protect him. Though she may have thought him to be a white supremacist, Thomas is reported saying: "He's still somebody's child." Later on, Keishia is reported adding: "People don't have to remember my name. I just want them to remember that I did the right thing."

Keishia may not know it or label her action as love, but it was the ultimate expression of the virtue of which the Master teachers have been speaking. She helps us to believe that truly Love does make ALL the difference in the World.

Thanks Eddie for reminding me.

Directions

2006-07-23T05:35:00.000-04:00

If there is any source from where one can get the direction on how to act in life, it is to be found in one's heart. The exercises of the Sufi help to get to the source where one can get the direction, the right direction, where there is a spark of the Spirit of Guidance. Those who care to be guided by the spirit, they are always guided, but those who know not whether such a spirit exists or does not exist, they wander through life as a wild horse in the woods, not knowing where it goes, why it runs, why it stands. It is a great pity to be thirsty and remain thirsty when the spring of fresh water is within one's reach. There can be no loss so great in life as having the spark glittering in one's heart and yet groping in the darkness through life. ~~~ "Sangatha II, Saluk: The Good Nature", by Hazrat Inayat Khan (unpublished)

nobody

2006-07-02T12:45:00.000-04:00

The man in whom Tao acts without impediment harms no other being by his actions, yet he does not know himself to be "kind," to be "gentle."

The man in whom Tao acts without impediment does not bother with his own interests and does not despise others who do.

He does not struggle to make money and does not make a virtue of poverty.

~~~

He gets his way without relying on others and does not pride himselfe on walking alone.

While he does not follow the crow, he won't complain of those who do.

Rank and reward make no appeal to him; disgrace and shame do not deter him.

~~~

He is not always looking for right and wrong, always deciding "yes" or "no."

The ancients said, therefore, "The Man of Tao remains unknown. Perfect virtue produces nothing. 'No-self is true self. And the greatest man is nobody."

*************

(from The Way of Chuang Tzu, by Thomas Merton)

Soul Profile

2006-05-17T01:38:00.001-04:00

Who are your heroes in myth and legend?

My Parents

The thousands of unknown social workers across Africa and babies who survive in spite of their circumstances

Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Security

2006-04-20T19:58:00.000-04:00

Why do we so desperately seek security? Anything we can see or touch is impermanent. “Things” (and people) come and go. A new car depreciates the minute we drive it off the lot. A gemstone is only worth what someone will pay for it, and prices change minute to minute.

The only permanence, the only unchangeable, is spirit.

We can find our security in our faith.

(Painting: The Highest Hera by Joannis Antoniadis)

Symptoms of Inner Peace

2006-04-07T01:02:00.000-04:00

Watch for signs of Peace.

The hearts of a great many have already been exposed to it, and it seems likely that we could find ourselves experiencing it in epidemic proportions.

Some signs and symptoms of inner peace:

Tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than from fear based on past experiences.

An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.

Loss of interest in judging other people.

Loss of interest in judging self.

Loss of interest in interpreting the action of others.

Loss of interest in conflict.

Loss of ability to worry (a very serious symptom).

Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.

Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature.

Frequent attacks of smiling through the eyes from the heart.

Increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen.

Increased susceptibility to Love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.

If you have all o r even most of the above symptoms, please be advised that your condition may be too far advanced to turn back.

If you are exposed to anyone exhibiting several of these symptoms, remain exposed at your own risk.

This condition of Inner Peace is likely well into its infectious stage. Be forewarned.

(from the Olympia Fellowship of Reconciliation Newsletter)

Solitude

2006-03-30T01:28:00.000-05:00

A Companion

2006-03-03T03:53:00.000-05:00

The doll is one of the most imperious necessities.
     -Victor Hugo

     The doll is made in the image of man and is therefore like ourselves—except that it does not and should not move.

     That is why dolls are lovable creatures, to be taken in the hands and held close and caressed and put down where they can be seen and talked to.  And there is the species, too, of teddy bears, and spotted dogs, and white rabbits that respond so quickly to the touch and are the most steadfast and dependable of friends.  Self-abnegating, a doll’s nature is all serenity.  It yields to our demands without hesitation or rancor, though struck it does not strike back, though humiliated it does not hate.  Dolls comfort us because they never wish us anything but well.  They are without desire, and though as old as time, they have no memories.  Patient, understanding, and above all there whenever needed, dolls are faithful forever.

     As we grow older, our dolls grow younger, until they cease to be.  Still the urge to behold a three-dimensional image remains.  And so we surround ourselves with objects that also inhabit the space where we are – porcelain figurines, plaster-of-paris statuettes, the glass menagerie, figures carved in wood and placed like household deities on table and mantle, pert china kittens, ivory elephants and jade kings, the iron beasts that guard a gateway, the stone lions at the entrance to the New York Public Library on the corner of 5th Avenue and 42nd St.  Perhaps we cannot love the stiff creatures, cannot hold and caress them, but they afford a modest comfort and protect us against the little nameless fears, are happy objects that mean well by us and we by them.

(Author unknown)

Bewildered

2006-02-28T19:15:00.000-05:00

How could we

have been

so blind

for so long?...

to have lived in a garden

we were unable to recognize

and in a paradise

that escaped our seeing?!!!

(Mary Southard CSJ)

Peace

2006-01-30T00:59:00.000-05:00

Be a Breath

of life

to the body

of Humankind,

a dew

to the soil

of the human Heart,

and

a fruit

upon the tree

of humility.

Questions Looking for Answers

2006-01-21T03:20:00.000-05:00

Starhawk in her book the Fifth Sacred Thing is confronted by two questions: How do you resist violence without becoming what you're resisting? and how do you take a vision and a dream that's based on cooperation and interconnection, and protect it in a world full of violence?

Let the suggestions begin.

Recipe for Dissolving Stone

2006-01-13T23:04:00.000-05:00

As we mature,
some of us pretend
that we don't remember
what
desire is
or feels like.

We have shut the door
on sensuality
because
our outer appearance
does not conform
to public standards.

Can I share a secret?

Actually,
it is your seasoning
that should
make you tender and
more appealing to
the pallet of
your lover.

(Yes, we are talking about Intimacy)

Love lies in Service

2005-12-24T15:32:00.000-05:00

Only that which is done,

Not for fame or for name,

And

Not for appreciation or for thanks

Is Love’s Service.

IntimART

2005-12-12T20:12:00.000-05:00

IntimART

StoreHouse of Ihoha

Now open to serve the endearing You.

(ART: The Offering by McCray)

All Aboard!

2005-12-11T02:12:00.000-05:00

Platform for the Quest

2005-12-11T02:06:00.000-05:00

Astrophysics would seem to be approaching the ancient view, that of the constant coming into being and disappearance into rest of numberless universes within the field of the infinite. This field is pervaded by consciousness so that, as the philosophers of all time have said, Divinity is like an infinite circle whose center is everywhere and circumference is nowhere. This implies that every minuscule particle and the most gigantic conglomeration of heavenly bodies are equally permeated with a divine quality, with consciousness. From such a source comes the vitalism, the dynamic drive to growth, the constant emergence out of the unfathomable potential resources of Space, of new qualities, refinement after refinement of spirit and matter.

Here is where we must search out the reason for existence, the meaning of life and its manifold productivity. The urge is toward ever more unfoldment from some center within each entity, of the limitless latent possibilities awaiting the conditions and the opportunities for expression. There is nothing haphazard when the sequence of cause and effect is inescapable. The encouraging feature is that the growth and unfoldment of finer and yet finer faculties are constant and unending.
--I M. Oderberg, Mind and Spacetime

Affirmation

2005-12-07T18:16:00.000-05:00

I affirm my independence from
superstition and ignorance.
Divine intelligence is guiding me.
I accept this guidance
as now flowing forth
into action through me.
Therefore
I shall do that
which I should do,
I shall know that
which I need to know,
I shall encounter those new ideas I need.
With nonresistance
and complete acceptance,
I let the inward stream of life carry me.
Every good I have experienced is
now increased.
Every joy that has come into my life is
multiplied, and
there is a new influx of inspiration into my thought.
And so it is.

Freedom

2005-12-06T07:41:00.000-05:00

Diva

2005-12-01T06:09:00.000-05:00

To all Would-be Divas and Divas-in-Training

Before you jump to claim your position in the list of women who have either called themselves or been labeled by others “Diva,” let us define the title:

Diva:  (fr. Latin divus, god – fr. Italian) an operatic prima donna; the lead female performer in an operatic company described as being temperamental and conceited (Italian, “first lady”).

Now then, how many of you are left?  I thought so.  Not many when we really take the intended definition and superimpose that onto ourselves.  How many tempermental, conceited first ladies could the world take?  But there is a “lady” who has been labeled a “diva” by many people in many articles, magazines, and reports.  You and I know her as Candi Staton

The story of Candi Staton is more closely that of what one reporter called a soul survivor.  As it would appear that the hounds of hell were on Candi’s heels as she traveled through life.  But, she refused to let them catch her.  Born Canzata Maria Staton in Hanceville, Alabama, in 1943, Staton grew up helping her parents pick cotton and tending to the chickens.

Candi sings soul, pure, clear, soul but it is her gospel numbers that are making the charts "because, really, soul music is born of gospel." And Candi Staton knows about gospel because she started singing at four years of age in the local church with her six-year-old sister and two other little girls, standing on chairs so the congregation could see them.  Her first solo was at age five.  As the years passed, Candi’s voice grew as well.  She and her sister, Maggie, attended Jewel Christian Academy in Nashville, Tennessee.  While attending, she and Maggie were asked to join another young singer, Naomi Harrison, and form the Jewel Gospel Trio.  "I was 11 or 12 when I came to the Jewel Christian Academy," Staton recalled in a 1997 interview with The Tennessean.  The Trio enjoyed relative success on the gospel circuit, touring with future gospel, r&b and soul luminaries Aretha Franklin and the Staple Singers, plus recording singles such as "Jesus Is Listening" and "Too Late" for Nashboro Records.

"The crowds would get very emotional," Staton recalls.  "At the time, I didn't really know why they were crying. Once, I remember, the audience got so emotional, they started throwing their pocket books at my feet and so on, that I got really scared and ran off to my mother."

Though Staton was performing gospel music, its reported that she was not treated with much "Christian charity" within the music industry, rarely being paid for her performances and often having to rely on the compassion of more senior members of the traveling ensemble to get by.  When Staton turned 17, she left show business for a relationship with Lou Rawls; but the relationship did not last long and Staton soon married another man and had three more children.  But this relationship too ended when Staton could take no more of her spouse's violence.  Having witnessed the rise of her fellow gospel circuit performers, Candi (who had been out of the music scene for some seven years) decided to return performing at local clubs.  It was at one such performance that Staton met soulster Clarence Carter who she later married and later obtained a contract with Fame Records.
Staton described her third husband, Jimmy, in an interview in 1999 as "a pimp and a hustler.  It was the worst mistake I ever made in my whole life…he was a big cocaine user and carried a gun. I was often frightened that he would kill me."  Though Staton's career was riding high, her troubled love life and a growing dependency on alcohol threatened to ruin everything.  "Alcohol became my husband, my lover, my kids, my comforter, my god.  I worshipped alcohol.  I couldn't get up in the morning with out a drink," she admitted in her interview with The Tennessean.
A fourth marriage—this time to Diana Ross’ drummer, John Susswell—seemed to be the straw that would break the camel's back.  Himself, a serious cocaine user, it seemed unlikely that Susswell would be able to provide the stability that Staton so badly needed in her life.  The two, however, were able to turn their lives around, abandoning their respective addictions, and re-dedicating their lives to their religion.  The pair became pastors at an Atlanta Church and, to reflect her recent lifestyle change, Staton stopped singing "secular" music in 1982.
Having come full circle, Staton threw herself into gospel music and managed to rekindle the magic she'd created as a young gospel sensation.  "I've always liked to be real," Staton explained to Jet magazine in 1997.  "When I was singing the blues, I had the blues.  I was for real.  I was living it.  When I got saved, I changed my lyrics.  I grew up in the church and returned to my roots.”  In 1986, she began hosting a cable program called Say Yes! which focused on ministering to at-risk youth.  "What I'm trying to do is offer inspiration message music because we've let rap go too far with its message," Staton explained in The Atlanta Journal, "we need songs like 'respect yourself' out there, for the children."
In 1991, however, Staton was thrust back into the international spotlight as a remix of a bootleg recording she'd done five years earlier ("you got the love") found its way to the dance floor.  Interest in Candi’s  "secular" music was re-ignited by the single and a biography of her life entitled This is My Story was published in 1994.
In 1997, "You Got the Love" was remixed, again—this time by the source—and made its way to #1 on British dance and pop charts.  In response to the positive reception her club hits were garnering, Staton released her first non-gospel album in 17 years in 1999.  Entitled Outside In, the album —which billboard magazine proclaimed, "brightly shines the spotlight on one of club land’s most soulful singers"—is both radio and club friendly yet without breaking her commitment to herself to only record music with a positive message.  Former label, Warner Brothers, is reported to also have capitalized on Staton's recent boon, with the release of a compilation of many of her long out-of-print classic recordings.
Having suffered through trials and tribulations rivaled only, perhaps, by those of Tina Turner, and Etta James, Staton has recreated herself as often as needs be, each time successfully overcoming new challenges and winning legions of new fans.  With a voice that spans genres from soul to dance to gospel, Candi Staton is truly one of music's most lasting treasures.  She sums up her philosophy on life by saying, "I had a praying mother. She instilled strength in me. If you fall, get up, brush yourself off and keep moving.  Don't wallow.  You have to get up and sometimes go against the wind. You can't always go with the flow and succeed…you have to swim upstream."

With the year’s end in sight and the holidays fast approaching, stories like this – about real people -- keep me pushing on through disappointments and on pass what appear to be failures.  Because overcoming these "soul surviving" struggles does not a ‘Diva’ make.  That level of intense pressure creates Diamonds.  Greatness is recognized after victory discovers that she can rise up from under the pressure of defeat.  If we strive to be something more than a survivor – let not the goal of that striving be temperamental conceit.  But like Ms. Staton, living her soul's desire emiting a persistent light that refuses to be extinguished.

On Soul-Patrol.com, I found the title for Ms. Staton which bears more honor: Queen of Southern Soul. Candi, Blessings on your life and your work.  You are loved.

(Photo: Photographer Not known)

My Gift to You

2005-11-30T20:10:00.000-05:00

My Gift to You

"Born For This - Stephanie Mills (bonus track) - BeBe Winans"

A Note From Eve

2005-11-11T13:27:00.000-05:00

Eve Ensler that is.  Yes, she is back with a one-woman show that is a must-see for women:  The Good Body.  As I read the note from Eve (http://thegoodbody.com/note.htm), oh could I ever identify with some of the expressions she uses to relay just how wrapped up most of us women are about our appearance and why it was time for her to speak out for the rest of us.  Just to wet your appetite, here are just a few sentences from the entire note:

In the midst of a war on Iraq, in a time of torture camps and daily bombings, when civil liberties are disappearing as fast as the ozone layer, when one out of three women in the world will be beaten or raped in her lifetime, why write a play about my stomach?

Maybe because my stomach is one thing I feel I have control over, or maybe because I have hoped that my stomach is something I could get control over… When a group of ethnically diverse, economically disadvantaged women in the United States was recently asked about the one thing they would change in their lives if they could, the majority of these women said they would lose weight… Maybe because my stomach has become the repository for my sorrow, my childhood scars, my unfulfilled ambition, my unexpressed rage… Maybe because, as the world rapidly divides into fundamentalist camps, reductive sound bites, and polarizing platitudes, an exploration of my stomach and the life therein has the potential to shatter these dangerous constraints.

The Good Body began with me and my particular obsession with my “imperfect” stomach.  I have charted this self-hatred, recorded it, tried to follow it back to its source…

I have been to more than forty countries in the last six years.  I have seen the rampant and insidious poisoning:  skin-lightening creams sell as fast as toothpaste in Africa and Asia; the mothers of eight-year olds in America remove their daughters’ ribs so they will not have to worry about dieting; five-year olds in Manhattan do strict asanas so they won’t embarrass their parents in public by being chubby; girls vomit and starve themselves in China and Fiji and everywhere…

…I am going to take a deep breath and find a way to survive not being flat or perfect.  I am inviting you to join me, to stop trying to be anything, anyone other than who you are…I was inspired by Marion Woodman, a great Jungian analyst, who gave me confidence to trust what I know.  She has said that “instead of transcending ourselves, we must move into ourselves.”

Tell the image-makers and magazine sellers and the plastic surgeons that you are not afraid.  That what you fear the most is the death of imagination and originality and metaphor and passion.  Then be bold and LOVE YOUR BODY.  STOP FIXING IT.  It was never broken.

Read the entire note; buy the book, and see the play.  It is time to join the Proud, the Few, the Confident.  The information you need is located at http://thegoodbody.com/schedule.htm.

What Price Beauty?

2005-11-02T00:56:00.000-05:00

In appreciation of promoting Nigeria as a choice tourist country, the First Lady, Chief (Mrs.) Stella Obasanjo was appointed Nigeria’s Tourism Ambassador by former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Ms Boma Bromillow Jack… The Tide on-line, Oct 1, 2005

In as much as we have life we should never take things for granted while we still exist. Death is a degree every living soul would earn. When death comes, there is no question of waiting to right the wrong you have done, or put finishing touches to the projects that you are working on. While still leaving we should strive to do the best for humanity.
–Dr. Femi Ajayi (columnist for NigeraWorld.com) 24 Oct 2005

This article started off being a litany of news reports about Mrs. Stella Obasanjo, First Lady of Nigeria.  But, as I compiled parts of stories I wanted to enter, the thought or idea of Beauty would not leave my mind.

I wonder did Mrs. Obasanjo know just how beautiful she was?  Or did she, like many of us, see her beauty only from the outside?  Whose definition or by what standard was she measuring herself?

Let me share with you a definition of beauty: the quality or aggregate of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit: loveliness; graceful, ornamental, or excellent quality; brilliant.

From the stories I’ve read, Mrs. Obasanjo fits this description.  But, possibly, it was something more than beauty that she was seeking.
ABUJA, Nigeria — Stella Obasanjo, the wife of Nigeria's president, died Sunday in Spain. She was 59.
Obasanjo, described as President Olusegun Obasanjo's "beloved wife," died after undergoing surgery, according to a brief statement signed by presidential spokeswoman Remi Oyo. No further details were given…  Twin Cities.com / Pioneer Press, Oct 24, 2005
There are fears that the First Lady, Mrs Stella Obasanjo, may have been a victim of medical malpractice as coroners investigating the possibility performed an autopsy yesterday on her body.
She died Sunday morning at Marbella Hospital in Malaga, Spain following complications arising from a cosmetic surgery she underwent to reduce fat from her body
In Stella's case coroners are investigating the possibility of medical malpractice, he said. She was admitted practically brain-dead early Sunday to a hospital in Marbella after being rushed there from Molding Clinic, where she had the cosmetic surgery, Garcia de Galvez said.
Molding Clinic, located in Puerto Banus, a posh district of Marbella in Spain's Costa del Sol resort area, issued a statement yesterday saying it has provided judicial authorities with all the information they have requested and that the "fundamental causes" of her death have not been determined. All Africa.com, Oct 24, 2005

It was not her brain that was being operated on; yet, it was the brain that is reported to have been dead on Sunday morning.

But, prior to Sunday morning, she was asleep to the beauty that already existed in her.      Was she ill?      No.      According to the reports, that was not the reason for her surgery.  It was cosmetic.  Well let us define cosmetic:  an adjective coming from the Greek word “kosmetikos” meaning  skilled in adornment, from kosmein meaning to arrange, adorn -- done or made for the sake of appearance: as correcting defects esp. of the face <~ surgery>; decorative, ornamental; not substantive: superficial <~ changes>.

I found the following to express where some of Mrs. Obasanjo’s beauty could be seen:
…when President Obasanjo regained his freedom and in 1998 joined politics to contest the 1999 presidential race. She traversed the length and breadth of the country with her husband canvassing for votes. She was at the Jos convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that produced Obasanjo as the party's presidential candidate in February 1999.
Speaking about her role during that convention, a founding member of the PDP in Plateau, Ambassador Yahaya Kwande, told a national newspaper in an interview that the First Lady was taller than her physical feature. "During the 1999 PDP convention, she worked throughout the night. She brought delegates to my house to feed. She maintained the dignity of her family by her unparalled humility," Kwande said. When Obasanjo was elected President and sworn-in, when the food they cooked together was ready, so to say, Stella was not one to be sent to the background. She hopped on to the office of First Lady perhaps to the discomfiture of the President who had told the nation that for him there was no such office.
The First Lady inaugurated the Child Care Trust Fund, her pet project, to take care of the less privileged. She visited orphanages and hospitals to donate gifts and render other support for those in need. She was also involved in other humanitarian and philantrophic gestures. In the discharge of her duties as First Lady and her work at the Villa, she used to refer to Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as her immediate boss... All Africa.com, Oct 28, 2005
In 1999, few months after her husband Chief Olusegun Obasanjo assumed office, as the civilian President of Nigeria, the first lady, Chief (Mrs.) Stella Obasanjo established the Child Care Trust (CCT) Foundation which sought to bring succor to the physically challenged children.
A mother herself, Mrs. Obasanjo worked very hard to ensure that joy, smiles and sunshine was brought into the life of these children she took off the streets...
During the commissioning, the first lady told the Hospital staff that, “when we launched the Child Care Trust in May 2000, we pledged to cater for the less privileged. The machine we are commissioning, is a product of our pledge.”Born in 1945, Stella Obasanjo loved life and her interest in the CCT was a manifestation of her desire to assist in the sustenance of life..
Called Mama by both staff, business associates and political allies, Mrs. Obasanjo received several awards which included The Achievement Award from Nigerians in the Diaspora, Woman of the Year from the women of the year organisation, while she also bagged chieftancy titles like Obongawan of Calabar and Yeye Oranmiyan of Ife…Nigeria Daily News, Oct 24, 2005

During the military dictatorship in Nigeria, 1995 to be precise, when General Obasanjo was jailed on trumped up charges of plotting to overthrow the government of the late General Sani Abacha, Stella showed courage by spearheading the struggle to release her husband. Despite threats to her life, she fought relentlessly to draw global attention to the injustice of her husband’s imprisonment. Wherever she went, she spoke out against the authoritarian rule of the then military regime, while calling for her husband’s release.
Stella became a noted figure in the international human rights community. On a number of occasions, she collected awards on behalf of her incarcerated husband, including the Frederich Ebert Foundation Award for Human Rights in Bonn, Germany, the Indira Gandhi Award and the Award for Peace given by Liberal International, Oxford, England. Her courage had not gone unrecognised at home. Stella was honoured with several chieftaincy titles, among which were the Yeye Oge of Oke-Ona Egba, Yeye ‘Luwa of Orile Owu, Yeye Tunluse of Owu-Isin in Kwara and Oga Nla Obirin Owu.
When she became Nigeria’s First Lady in 1999 following the election of her husband as president, Stella decided to establish a non-governmental organisation, Child Care Trust, to take care of the underprivileged, the motherless and physically and mentally retarded children, with a focus on girls. These groups of underprivileged children are usually neglected. According to her, they were often treated as if they were useless and seen as an affliction on their parents. Stalla interacted with so many of such children both nationally and internationally and was able to prove, as she had believed, that many of the children were intelligent and capable.
The former first lady was quoted as saying “Many of the underprivileged children if given the right care and love are capable of doing many positive things. They want to be appreciated. They do not see themselves as different from any other person.”  Wikipedia.org

She again rose in strong support of her husband and his mandate through prayer sessions to neutralise the prediction in 1999 that her husband would die before assuming office as Nigeria’s president.

The birthday that never was
Among the many things Stella couldn’t wait to come back to Nigeria for after she had finished her surgery in Spain was her 60th birthday which was due to hold next month in Abuja. In fact, her friends and relatives had almost concluded all the arrangements for the party before death pulled a fast one on them.
For those who believe that the first lady died after a liposuction (a cosmetic surgery in which localised areas of fat are removed from beneath the skin using a suction-pump device inserted through a small incision), she went under the knife to look ageless and more beautiful on her birthday. As a build-up to the party, Stella had concluded arrangement for a full-length interview with a Lagos-based celebrity magazine. She was also looking forward to the magazine publishing a special edition on her turning 60.

Although Stella was known to celebrate each of her birthdays in grand style, her 60th would have upped the ante in the social diary of the country. A manifest of all those involved in the planning of the event was not available as at press time but we learnt that it included big players in corporate Nigeria as well as some of her close friends. Members of her family too were said to be fully involved. So were the Child Care Trust and the Presidency.

Leading the pack of the powerful people involved in the planning was Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Limited, Eze Festus Odimegwu. His name was on the invitation card that had been received by a few people as at the time of her death. Odimegwu and other heavyweights like Aliko Dangote, Otunba Mike Adenuga, Femi Otedola, Jim Ovia, Cecilia Ibru, Ndi Okereke-Oyiuke and Tony Elumelu had attended a surprise party for President Olusegun Obasanjo at Dodan Barracks, Lagos on Saturday March 5, 2005 to mark his 68th birthday.

Stella would have turned 60 on November 14, but the major events for her birthday were to hold on November 12 and 16. The first day would have witnessed the command live performance of Obaseki, a play written by Don Pedro Obaseki. It was to star Richard Mofe Damijo with a number of other Nollywood stars. The 16th would have witnessed a church service, which would be followed by a reception.

Some of her service awards include the following:
Africa Achievement Award... Los Angeles, USA, 2000.
Global Safe Motherhood Award… White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood, 2001.
Honourary Fellowship of the West African college of Nursing... The West African College of Nursing Liberia, 2001.
International Recognition Award on Women and AIDS... The Rainbow/PUSH Coalition and Citizens Education Foundation, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A, 2000.
United Arab Emirates Foundation Prize for 2004... Executive Board of World Health Organisation/UAE Ministry of Health, 2004.  Independent Newspapers Limited, Oct 24, 2005

The tribute I personally found that says volumes about Her Excellency Stella is All Africa.com’s article “Stella, Our Stella” by Josephine Lohor, Oct 28, 2005.
Ms. Lohor opens her column with “A lot has been written and said about her before and after she died. But the best way to know more about the late First Lady, Mrs Stella Obasanjo, is through people she met and lives she touched.”

You cannot write about someone’s death without knowing something about their life.  I did not ever have the opportunity of meeting Mrs. Obasanjo, but it appears that she fought to live a beautiful life.  I hope that, at some moment, she did “get it” and realize through the warmth of her land and the eyes of her people, just how beauty-full it truly was.

(Photo: Stock - Photographer Not Known; notify blog owner with name when found. Thank you)

Introducing Intimacy's Best Books Register

2005-10-22T21:56:00.000-04:00

Because of my great love for books, today I create Intimacy's Best Books Register.

As you read the titles below with their brief introductions, consider these book titles the next time you need a unique and special gift.  Be sure to write back and let me know what you think of the selections!  InJoy!

Soul Sisters: Women in Scripture Speak to Women Today

This book receives Intimacy's Infinite Circle Award as one of the best books I have ever read.

Mr. Louis Glanzman, one of America's most acclaimed portrait painters, created twelve paintings of women who were near Jesus: Elizabeth, Mary, Mary Magdalene, Martha, Anna the Prophetess, the Widow's Mite, the Infirm Woman, the Daughter of Jairus, the Woman with Hemorrhage, the Penitent Woman, the Samaritan Woman, and the Adultress. The light in their eyes speaks volumes to anyone who has ever seen them.

Ms. Edwina Gateley, after seeing the portraits, was inspired not to just write about them but for them and other women she knew.  She travels the country and world sharing the portraits with women. It was at one such gathering that I met Edwina in 2002 and was touched by her passion and compassion.

Before we go to the remainder of the titles on the register, let me introduce you to the first Intimately Endearing Classic:

From Superman to Man

This masterpiece by J. A. Rogers was first published in 1917.  The following are some comments made by readers of Mr. Rogers' book:

This is historically the best book I've read since, "Sister outsider". In only 129 pages you will find the history of the world. Historians will truly enjoy this witty and humorous text. It reminds one of the teachings of Fanon.
When I first read this book I just couldn't believe it. The most searing, personal, rational explanation for and dissection of "unexplainable" racism ever. J. A. Rogers' deceptively simple work should be a must read for every American graduating from our school systems. Extraordinary...timeless. International, universal in scope and importance.
I had this book for five years before I finally picked it up to read and to my surprise, it was magnificent...an exciting verbal exchange between a politician whose knowledge regarding people is negligible and a porter whose knowledge of people is extensive. The two strike up a conversation first as servant to customer then ending as teacher informer to student learner. Its very passionate, engrossing and will keep your interest.

Now for the remainder of the list:

Selu: Seeking the Corn-Mother's Wisdom
This extraordinary work by Marilou Awiakta is rooted in the stories of the Cherokee Corn Mother, Selu, and of the teacher of hunters, Awi Usdi (Little Deer), these stories, essays, drawings, and poems revolve around the fundamental Indian concepts of respect and balance. Awiakta, who grew up in the postwar community of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, the product of Cherokee and Scotch-Irish Appalachian roots, tells how the stories of Selu and Awi Usdi can be applied in all areas of life, from political activism to interpersonal relations. Touching on issues like the Tellico Dam controversy (when the Cherokee's ancient capital was flooded), the reunion of the Eastern and Oklahoma Cherokee, science and technology, government, and diversity, this wide-ranging collection offers true insights into Native American philosophies and how to apply them to contemporary problems.

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom
The struggle to make sense of the modern world can seem overwhelming without some kind of guidance. In this simple yet deep-reaching book, author Don Miguel Ruiz presents a framework through which the reader can create a smoother path through life.  Rooted in traditional Toltec wisdom beliefs, four agreements in life are essential steps on the path to personal freedom. As beliefs are transformed through maintaining these agreements, shamanic teacher and healer don Miguel Ruiz asserts lives will "become filled with grace, peace, and unconditional love".

The Invitation
Visionary author and retreat leader Oriah Mountain Dreamer brings to life the wisdom of her beloved poem, "Invitation", which has touched hearts everywhere with its fresh and spirited call to live life more deeply, honestly, and well.

Pillow: Exploring the Heart of Eros
Poems, excerpts, quotes, and exercises for two to remind intimates how to be intimate.  This is a must have by author Lily Pond.

I Will Not Die an Unlived Life: Reclaiming Purpose and Passion
One of the most charismatic teachers and thinkers of today, Dawna Markova speaks from her heart. Twenty years ago, faced with a life-threatening illness, Dawna Markova began a journey of rediscovery. This book follows her path to finding deeper meaning in life.

The Best Gift Is Love: Meditations
This book with meditations from the heart of Mother Teresa of Calcutta will bring you closer to the spiritual vision of this courageous woman. In its pages you will encounter her passion for God, her way of life, her way of love.

The Little Book of Letting Go: A Revolutionary 30-Day Program to Cleanse Your Mind, Lift Your Spirit and Replenish Your Soul
The author of "Spiritual Notes to Myself" (Hugh Prather) offers a simple, three-step process for shedding prejudices, preconceptions, and prejudgments and facing each moment with openness and enthusiasm.

How Much Joy Can You Stand: A Creative Guide to Facing Your Fears and Making Your Dreams Come True
Suzanne Falter Barnes is the author of this little book of wisdom for how to get started when they can't get going and how to keep going when they get bogged down, "How Much Joy Can You Stand?" teach readers how to make the things they really want to happen.

Higher Taste: A Guide to Gourmet Vegetarian Cooking and a Karma-Free Diet
This book is just in time.  Gandhi made a comment during his life that bares reflection even today:  I do feel that spiritual progress does demand at some stage that we should cease to kill our fellow creatures for the satisfaction of our bodily wants.

The Mastery of Love: A Practical Guide to the Art of Relationship
Using teachings from the three Toltec Masteries (Awareness, Transformation, and Love) as a foundation, don Miguel brings to light the fallacies and misplaced expectations about love that permeate most relationships. He gracefully shares his wisdom through delightful and engaging stories that clarify each point and bring his message to life.

The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living
In this best-selling book, psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler interviews the Dalai Lama about the topic of happiness. How can we be happy? Why can't we stay happy? What causes unhappiness? In a series of thought-provoking conversations, Cutler coaxes some answers from his subject. The answers are simple, but the prescription is not easy.

Days Like This

2005-10-18T06:39:00.000-04:00

When my firstborn was 20, I wondered aloud where he was going with his life. We even discussed how there is a discrepency between the yearnings we have to become the best person that we can possibly be and the actual growth we have made toward that position at the moment of observation.

We concluded that in order to hasten the process of self-discovery and improvement, it is best to turn our attention to the way in which we function in our daily life -- our every interaction, conversation, public and private decision, belief, and private thoughts... Every action and decision has something to tell us about our own character and the principles by which we choose to act. We agreed that we have discovered the power of quiet reflection -- no matter how short the duration -- and its importance in adding peace to our lives.

Yesterday, as I listened to him tell a group of strangers "I'm grateful for my Mom," I was humbled by the tone and depth of sincerity with which he made the statement. Watching him develop and assisting in that development (as he allows and however I can) is becoming increasingly more exciting and we plan to have many more days like this.

In the Silence

2005-10-12T21:41:00.000-04:00

There has been much and mass death of late.

On a single day 10 October 2005, it was reported that 32,000 people died in two mass incidents.

The thought of all these souls brings to me only Silence

In the silence are our thoughts and our thoughts are prayers – and we are always praying.

Our thoughts are prayers – be careful what you say.

Seek a higher consciousness – a state of peacefulness and know
that God is there in the Silence – always there – in the Silence.

.

Hold On!

2005-10-01T14:11:00.000-04:00

This is a profound prayer that I intentionally took with me when I traveled to Kenya this spring.  While there, on two occasions, I had the opportunity to share it with others when using it as an opening to my presentation.

The word "profound" is sometimes overly used.  So, I want to remind you and me of what the word means.

Profound is an adjective and comes from the Latin 'profundus' which broken down equals pro- meaning before plus fundus meaning bottom.  So that in order for something to be "profound", it has to have depth characterized by intensity of feeling or quality; extending far below the surface.

When you join me in reading this prayer, you will know where we are – in the deep.

Hold On

Hold on to what is good
even if it’s a handful of earth.

Hold on to what you believe
even if it’s a tree that stands by itself.

Hold on to what you must do
even if it’s a long way from here.

Hold on to your life
even if it’s easier to let go.

Hold on to my hand
even if I’ve gone away from you.

(Hold On is a Pueblo Indian Prayer)

To Thine Own Self Be True

2005-09-29T04:09:00.000-04:00

To thine own self be true was the statement that had me off and searching for the “Self” this morning.

What are we up to when we are not true to our selves? Why would we be true to anyone else? Why are they more worthy of truth?

Wanting food for thought led me to search google using the phrase “to thine own self be true” and there I found Jade (Heather) Maze (Williams) -- #7 down on the first page (under Swami Krishnananda) – I thought what an awesome placement.

Going to her site, the first click took me to her (what I thought was poem) - later to find out - lyrics: To Thine Own Self be True (copyright 1996).

Scorpio that I am, I read all the way to the bottom of the page and found her website home page. I really like the “Jade ready to get down to business” picture. How else would you present when you are “...ready to lead the way down her musical path -- first stop, the blues, the root of her musical soul. Yes, she's singing it out to the whole world.

I went from there to the page especially created “for Newcomers” leading to her biography. There is a marvelous maturity in her work between her first release “beat of your soul” to most recent “My favorite color is blue.” Personally, I love the cuts “I Smell Trouble” and “Move On.”

The last sentence of her bio took me full circle to how I found her – “This musical diva's goal is to make the best music she possibly can and use it to inspire others to live life as fully and honestly as they can.”

Since I thought Jade had found a way to be true to herself, I thought I would send her an e-mail of congratulations. In less than five minutes, the mail was returned with that familiar: This is an automatically generated Delivery Status Notification. Delivery to the following recipients failed. Jade…

Well, I still have those questions to answer at the beginning of this entry. But, I suppose they can wait. I don’t intend to be true to anybody else but mySelf today. You know how it is … one day at a time.

Check out the sounds at Jades site anyway: http://www.jademaze.com

Maybe someone in Chicago will tell her we are listening.

BirthDay Alert!!!

2005-09-24T17:01:00.000-04:00

To all who celebrate their birthday on Saturday, September 24, this is my gift to you: Welcome one and all to the "State of Joy!"

This started as a surprise for Lady Lonelle J. and grew into a worldwide celebration. Lonelle, I hope you don't mind. The gift I have for you can be shared. It's better than cake!

In 1975, Og Mandino acquired a copyright and published a little blue book that contained a secret document entitled "The God Memorandum." I gift to you the reminder of the 4th great law of happiness and success...your power of choice!

The Memorandum states: This is your birthday. This is your new date of birth. Your first life, like unto a play of the theatre, was only a rehearsal. This time the curtain is up. This time the world watches and waits to applaud. This time you will not fail.

Light your candles. Share your cake. Pour your wine. You have been reborn.
Like a butterfly from its chrysalis you will fly...fly as high as you wish, and neither the wasps nor dragonflies nor mantids of mankind shall obstruct your mission or your search for the true riches of life.

Feel my hand upon thy head.

Attend to my wisdom.

Let me share with you, again, the secret you heard at your birth and forgot.

You are the greatest miracle.
YOU ARE THE GREATEST MIRACLE IN THE WORLD!

Celebrate good times! Happy BirthDay!

Oh My Goodness!

2005-09-20T00:53:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have met those who I would describe as wonder-full as well as those who are just full. I have a need to spread more love around the world because for years now -- long before me -- there have been those who have claimed that this too was the reason -- the purpose of their being. De lui y a besoin de tenir en arrière ceux qui se serviraient de l'intimidation. Étudiez-l'et vous verrez que l'intimidation imite l'intimité. Elle est jalouse de sa puissance.

With no further adieu, I share with you the following prayers and other good thoughts. In these days, we need to know that everywhere, someone is praying in the way that they know how -- praying for good to prevail over evil and peace to reign on the earth.

This is a prayer from Beliefnet.com (written by Mychal F. Judge, OFM )

Lord, take me where You want me to go;
Let me meet who You want me to meet;
Tell me what You want me to say, and
Keep me out of Your way.

Fr. Judge, was former chaplain to the New York City Fire Department. He was killed on September 11, 2001 in the World Trade Center disaster.

This is a Buddhist Prayer also found on Beliefnet.

May the buddhas and bodhisattvas smile upon us with compassion and continue to turn the wheel of Dharma. May all beings be free from suffering and its causes. May all beings have happiness and its causes. May we all quickly achieve liberation and samsara and may the Buddha always appear in the world as long as there is one being who is not yet free.

Some other good things to remember:

Whenever you fall, pick something up.
- Oswald Avery

There is no chance, no destiny, no fate, that can hinder or control the firm resolve of a determined soul.
- Ella Wheeler Wilcox

As we learn more about angels and their service, we will learn more about God. Our appetite for the spiritual life will increase and our longing for intimacy with our Creator will grow.
- Ann Spangler

Memories

2005-09-15T20:31:00.000-04:00

How grand and green and lush and beautiful...Kenya

This is the beginning of a series of photographs taken by me while experiencing the land and the people of Kenya, East Africa. InJoy! There will be a photo journal here soon. Come visit often.

Embrace

2005-09-13T01:04:00.000-04:00

The Encyclopaedia Britannica 2003 Ready Reference defines the word

embrace

vb em.braced ; em.brac.ing [ME, fr. MF embracer, fr. OF embracier, fr. en- + brace two arms--more at brace] vt (14c) 1a: to clasp in the arms: hug b: cherish, love 2: encircle, enclose 3 a: to take up esp. readily or gladly <~ a cause> b: to avail oneself of: welcome 4 a: to take in or include as a part, item, or element of a more inclusive whole b: to be equal or equivalent to ~vi: to participate in an embracesyn see adopt, include -- embrace.able adj -- em.brace.ment n -- em.brac.er n -- em.brac.ing.ly adv ²embrace n (1592) 1: a close encircling with the arms and pressure to the bosom esp. as a sign of affection: hug2: grip, encirclement 3: acceptance
© 2002 Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.

I invite you to come go with me as I attempt to discover the essence of the word "embrace." It will surely be a journey of unforgettable grace both for you and for me. Tell me about your experiences with embracing. Thank you for sharing.

What Shall We Do? about terror

2005-08-30T17:32:00.000-04:00

Terror is in the human heart. We must remove this terror from the heart. Destroying the human heart, both physically and psychologically, is what we should avoid. The root of terrorism should be identified so that it can be removed. The root of terrorism is misunderstanding, hatred and violence. This root cannot be located by the military. Bombs and missiles cannot reach it, let alone destroy it. Only with the practice of calming and looking deeply can our insight reveal and identify this root.

Only with the practice of deep listening and compassion can it be transformed and removed. Darkness cannot be dissipated with more darkness. More darkness will make darkness thicker. Only light can dissipate darkness. Violence and hatred cannot be removed with violence and hatred. Rather, this will make violence and hatred grow a thousand fold. Only understanding and compassion can dissolve violence and hatred.

"Strike against terror" is a misleading expression. What we are striking against is not the real cause or the root of terror. The object of our strike is still human life. We are sowing seeds of violence as we strike. Striking in this way we will only bring about more hatred and violence into the world. This is exactly what we do not want to do. Hatred and violence are in the hearts of human beings. A terrorist is a human being with hatred, violence and misunderstanding in his or her heart. Acting without understanding, acting out of hatred, violence and fear, we help sow more terror, bringing terror to the homes of others and bringing terror back to our own homes.

Whole societies are living constantly in fear with our nerves being attacked day and night. This is the greatest casualty we may suffer from as a result of our wrong thinking and action. Such a state of confusion, fear and anxiety is extremely dangerous. It can bring about another world war, this time extremely destructive. We must learn to speak out so that the voice of the Buddha can be heard in this dangerous and pivotal moment of history. Those of us who have the light should display the light and offer it so that the world will not sink into total darkness.

Everyone has the seed of awakening and insight within his or her heart. Let us help each other touch these seeds in ourselves so that everyone could have the courage to speak out. We must ensure that the way we live our daily lives (with or without mindful consumption, with or without discrimination, with or without participating in injustice, ...) does not create more terrorism in the world. We need a collective awakening to stop this course of self-destruction.
- Thich Nhat Hanh, Shanghai 19 October, 2001

Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow ~ Make Love

2005-08-30T00:27:00.000-04:00

Beloved,

I have been reading many books by Persian authors of late and am in that state of joy and love that is beyond even my own understanding.

I share with you this poem by Anatole France to carry you through your seasons.

Make love now,
by night and by day,
in winter and summer...

You are in the world for that
and the rest of life is nothing
but vanity,
illusion,
waste.

There is only one science,
Love
One riches,
Love.

To make Love
is
All the law and the prophets.

Thinking

2005-08-15T17:48:00.000-04:00

Thought for Today and Tomorrow:

"Ministry is not just for ministers:

In the new spirituality,
a minister is anyone who chooses to use our resources to tend to the wounded heart of the world.

Anything we do can be a ministry,
from menial labor to the highest professional endeavor.

It is our ministry if it is an activity we use to spread peace and forgiveness and love."
From the book Everyday Grace

Here is your Affirmation for today and tomorrow:

I Am as my Creator is
Seeing you
As you were created.
Sharing
Divine Love
With every person I encounter
Is my purpose and my joy.

An Invitation to Express Yourself

2005-08-14T21:10:00.000-04:00

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words.

Some images leave us speechless. One such is the picture of this 27 month old baby boy in Darfur Sudan, East Africa (photographer unknown).

However, we must find our voice and speak from our heart and soul for the pain and suffering that goes on in our world. The following is a list of words that can jumpstart your thoughts on the image pictured above.

Use any one, or more, or all of the words and I will publish your responses after review (if possible). Blessings to you, Ihoha.

Fearless
Endurance
Champion
Honor
Magic
History
Supernatural
Baby
Life
Naked
Innocence
Blessing
Love
One
Peace
Devotion
Gift
Royalty
Influence

15 Things You Probably Never Knew or Thought About

2005-08-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

1. At least 5 people in this world love you so much they would die for you.

2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.

3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.

4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.

5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.

6. You mean the world to someone.

7. If not for you, someone may not be living.

8. You are special and unique.

9. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

10. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.

11. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.

12. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you believe in yourself, probably, sooner or later, you will get it.

13. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

14. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know.

15. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.

A Minute: They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them.

Take the time ... to live and love.

(Note: These "15 Things..." were sent to me in an e-mail from someone in the distance. Author unknown.)

Smoke Signals

2005-08-13T22:10:00.000-04:00

Today is a good day for sharing a primary vehicle I use to take me into spaces and places where my body oftentimes can't go. Music is that vehicle. These are some of the models I've tested and recommend when you want your trip to be smooth and easy (but expect some surprises too along the way):

Seasons of the Soul - by Lisa Lynne
A Gift of Love - by Deepak & Friends
Medicine Music - by Bobby McFerrin
Pray - by Douglas Spotted Eagle
A Gift of Love II - by Deepak Chopra & Friends
Smooth & Romantic - by Ed Robinson
Coco de Mer - by Coco de Mer
Secret Story - by Pat Metheny
Guide Me God - by Ghostland
The Salvador Concert - by Mike Rowland.

This is your quiet time. EnJoy!

Dear Friend Launches Newsletter from Holland

2005-08-13T21:06:00.000-04:00

It isn't hard to change who you are.

The true art is staying yourself.... unconditionally!!!

Hello dear friends in America and other parts of the world.

Since 2004 Iwinkta has been sending regular newsletters to subscribers in Holland (the Netherlands). We have gotten many positive responses on them and would now take a leap and send them to all friends around the world. They are meant to give you a little support in the back for all ongoing processes and as a little reminder we are all connected and going throught the same things. Ofcourse Iwinkta also gives courses and workshops of which you will find more information on http://www.iwinkta.com.

First let us introduce ourselves. Iwinkta is a non-profit organisation who would like to help people find and live their full potential. For all of you that are not familiar with Iwinkta I will give a short explanation. Iwinkta is a word derived from the Sioux-indian and means an invitation to be a woman. We like to see it as an invitation to invite both mail and female aspects into your life. I would like to stress this goes for men and women equally! What we strive for is balance and power-thinking. We help people in seeing their true potential instead of all that you think needs changing. All you need to do is find and see your strength instead of focus on your weaknesses. In our courses and workshops we work much with learning to 'receive'. We have lost touch with the true essence of receiving. If we are able to receive energy, love and support then we can find our true potential.

Enjoy!

(Best wishes Iris)

Juliana, Queen of The Netherlands

2005-08-11T22:15:00.000-04:00

This post is dedicated to Iris and those who are Iris-like.

Her Majesty Queen Juliana gave this address at 1:00 p.m. on December 25, 1976 and from that address, the following words have stayed with me:

THE LIGHT shines in darkness. That is what you can really call it, darkness. And in that darkness many of us are having difficulties with -- light: we are too gloomy and too troubled to see it or to search for light-points.

...Everywhere we see lasting discord, even wars, little reconciliation, little progress, and too much failure; and in it all there is a frightening lack of respect for the life and well-being of each other, and for all life on earch -- in dozens of different forms -- and this is alarming.

But such is not surprising in a world inhabited by four billion egoists. Just think of it: four billion people, all inclined to think of themselves as the center of the world. Selfishness is, in the end, self-destructive; this really is obvious. But all four billion of us do have a splendid opportunity to exchange that selfishness for a realizaation that others are more important than we ourselves...

...We would not suffer so much from all that is dark and without hope of improvement, were we not meant to be what is sometimes called "children of light."

The Path of the Here and Now

2005-08-11T21:37:00.000-04:00

Strong currents of change are sweeping over man's world these days. The political sphere is a mass of confusion as governments great and small are being rocked by scandal or plagued by economic ills, and bloody revolutions rend the lives of millions.

The challenge of the title and this first sentence to this post is that it was published in the SUNRISE magazine, February 1977.

This fact is not all that comes to haunt us as the first paragraph continues on to ask still relevant questions: What force could be impelling mankind to give vent to the powerful creative and destructive energies so evident today? Are man's knowledge and power reaching the boiling-over point, beyond which lies a nightmare of social and moral chaos? Or are we entering an era of intense inner growth and advancement?

I have one more question I would like to add as we ponder our fate: Do you have the answers?

There is much more to this article, but I would like to close this post with the first two sentences of Mr. Dougherty's second paragraph as he writes: Whatever form the consequences may eventually take, each one of us will unavoidably help to shape them. For despite the countless inequities in the present distribution of material wealth and power, the true cause of today's turmoil lies, not in the outer life of mankind, but in the inner life of each individual.

I Am a Member of the Family of Light

2005-08-05T12:06:00.000-04:00

by H.R.H. Sophia Asaviour, copyright~1989

The future is not predestined.

I have stepped over the line called time. My decision was made before my birth. I am a Bringer of the New Dawn.

I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past does not exist, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

I did not come to participate in low living, colorless dreams, skimpy giving, or dwarfed goals.

I need no promotions, plaudits, or common recognition. I am honored, prosperous, and exalted. I live in love by grace, stand by faith’s experience, lift by prayer/power.

My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is peace, my road is narrow, my way is Light, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back, diluted, or delayed.

I do not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of any who work to maintain darkness, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I am a Member of the Family of Light.

I must go until Light is established on Earth, give as my Source is abundant, teach until all know, and work until evolution is complete. And when my work is finished, return to my Creator from whom I Am sent.

I am not ashamed of my Creator. I am a Member of the Family of Light.

Random Question

2005-08-02T18:56:00.000-04:00

The following was the random question I chose to answer in my personal profile:

When your science teacher smashed a frozen rose with a hammer, did you warm the petals to bring them back to life?

My Reply:

Back in those days, when nuns wore habits, I would have been shocked to see my science teacher smash anything with a hammer.

Oh, I wasn't supposed to go that far back! Okay, let's see, college.... well, Sr. MaryAnn was a quiet, tiny something and loved everything in existence. This was why she became a scientist, because she saw the awesome uniqueness in all things. But, the question had to do with my response to a hammer wielding (mad scientist) doesn't it?

After I regained my composure, I think first, I would look at the effects that the cold had on the petals and possibly how the petal reacted to the blow and pressure -- gently observing every facet of the petal I selected. If it is true that everything in life has its own peculiar attributes, that petal would be different (in some way, no matter how infantesimally small the difference may be) from any other petal in the world.

Everything in life is a gift, it's just that everyone in life does not seem to know that they too are gifts.

Circles:The Space of Making

2005-08-01T14:08:00.000-04:00

It is the last Tuesday of the month and I arrive a little late as usual. I drive 45 minutes to join my sisters in The Circle. We each bring a dish and once we're all here, we feast as we catch up on the events that have transpired in our lives since our last meeting. Our hostess has already lit candles around the room and the fragrance of Oxygen incense fills the space. Eventually, we all move to the couch or a comfortable chair and select two sheets of paper on which each of us will write a burning question to which we have been seeking an answer from Spirit and it has not yet been forthcoming. On the other sheet, we will each write a positive statement and each paper will be folded and put into its designated basket. Then as though a bell rings, we all quiet down and listen to some music that is a favorite of the hostess for this particular meeting. As we listen, our focus shifts from the outside world to our small community of Wise Women and we join hands as the hostess begins an opening prayer.

This is the preparation and beginning of the gathering phenomonen now known as circles. We are just one of thousands (if not millions) of groups of women who meet to share, bless, listen to and heal one another on a monthly basis. Some circles meet more or less often. Some circles begin their meeting by performing a movement prayer to the four directions.

The faces of the women in the circle testify to the varing ages within The Circle. As we close our eyes, we turn into the energy in the room. I feel safe, nutured, wrapped in a soft cocoon, highly favored and blessed.

Circles are support groups and can become a powerful and integral part of the lives of each member. Most women, if they are dedicated, are capable of starting a circle and learning to lead it.

While in East Africa, I formed two groups one The Wisdom Circle of Kibera and the other The Pretty Ladies Circle of Vihiga. And like any mother who gives birth, I am responsible for the life support of the circles until they mature to support and nuture themselves.

The Power of Place

2005-08-01T05:01:00.000-04:00

Earlier this year, I picked up a book at the Library (yes, those are still in existence) entitled The Power of Place: Sacred Ground in Natural and Human Environments by James A Swan. The book was about nature as teacher and healer (that is - when we listen). He and his wife Roberta offer tours and symposia on the topic. I'd like to hear from anyone who has taken one of their tours or knows about a landscape architect they mention in the book by the name of Lawrence Halprin. Mr. Swan is said to be an associate professor of anthropology at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Again, how appropriate to add the subject of space to our theme on Intimacy. The space where you live, work, play, pray can fill you with peace, joy and happiness or it can drain every ounce of energy and peace from you and leave you wanting to run away.

You know, lately I have been hearing many friends say, Well, I wouldn't call my house a home. And considering that I just returned from East Africa, most of my friends there don't call their residences in the city home either - that's just their house where they do all the necessaries. They feel that their home is in the village from which they came and where (for many of them) their family (meaning parents and some siblings) still reside. Family is still in the village maintaining home.

An Awesome Thought

2005-08-01T04:49:00.000-04:00

Live in Peace
and
Peace will Live in You!

Fear

2005-07-30T21:39:00.000-04:00

What a strange word to find in a Blog about Intimacy. But, there it is - in your face - FEAR. For what ever reason, the word has been presented to me a number of times in the past two weeks.

Just returning from overseas where fear seems to be running rampant, I am reminded of a quote from the set of books entitled A Course in Miracles: "Fear is always a sign of strain, arising whenever what you want conflicts with what you do." Here we are faced with the admonition: "To thine own Self be true." But, whenever the emotion of fear shows up, there is also the possibility of the virtue of courage following. And courage is needed when we are faced with a war with self. Now that is intimate!

There is a poem by Roxanne Ivey which espouses a philosophy of merit. It was published in Unity Magazine , October 2000 and is written in the voice of a loving inner presence (what some call God) and it went something like this:

Beloved Child, Believe in Me,
I Am the One Reality.
Fear merely feigns to know the way,
And blackest night forgets the day,
But Faith recalls the rising sun and wakes to find all good is done.
The phantom fear does not exist
But in your mind how you resist
And fight this foe whom You create,
Imagining some future fate.
But if you look through loving eyes
Beyond the shadows where fear lies,
You'll picture peace, then understand
I'm walking with you hand in hand.

Later in the same magazine, one of my favorite authors, James Dillet Freeman, writes: God is speaking. Are you listening?

Sometimes God speaks to us when we don't even know it is God. I think God has many ways of speaking to us and not only in words that we hear with our ears. I think God speaks to our hearts and minds, and sometimes God's message has nothing to do with words. God is love and intelligence and life. More than anything we say God is, or even imagine God is, God is the one universal Presence and Power and is seeking to express Truth and beauty and good through all of us and for all of us.

That thought should take care of almost anything.

On a Clear Day

2005-07-30T20:46:00.000-04:00

Embrace me
like the cool waters
of Lake Michigan.

Beginnings

2005-07-30T20:10:00.000-04:00

Beginnings are as intimate as one can get. You are alone. There is no one there to encourage or congole you. It is quiet. It is pure. It is the essence of being. It is the now moment. It is the beginning. Welcome to my world.