It is necessary for the teacher of God to realize, not that he should not judge, but that he cannot. In giving up judgment, he is merely giving up what he did not have. He gives up an illusion; or better, he has an illusion of giving up.” – A Course in Miracles – Manual for Teachers, page 27.2.1-3 Lately, it seems that words of wisdom about judgment abound – so it’s obviously more time for me to learn and move forward on this issue in my life. This time around, the lesson actually feels gentler… I cannot judge anything or anyone because I can never know all the details of a situation or a person’s life. Just trying to imagine – let alone know – all facts past, present, and yes, even future, is impossible as a human being, not to mention exhausting! It is a great burden. Now why would I want to give myself such a task as well as subject a situation or person to such an impossible way of my trying to make a decision? I’d only be doing it if I were insane, which when I’m in my ego, that is my mind’s state. … Continue reading →

I so love being in the shower. It’s not just that I’m a water person (a Cancerian), but I find it to be such a peaceful place. Shower time is prayer and meditation time for me! Singing in general is a form of prayer for me. Even when I was an atheist, I felt something special inside me when I sang. When I came to believe, I realized what that feeling had been: connection with Spirit. So, I’m usually singing in the shower, maybe even chanting. It might be only within my head, or in an outward alto voice, fortissimo. Sometimes I get into contemplation mode. Other times, I pray for others. It really is a great time to connect with Spirit. And, when I don’t have to rush off but can luxuriate in slow mode – well, it’s pure heaven. Warm water soothing my body, warm thoughts and feelings soothing my soul. God is everywhere, blessing me in often simple ways…

Spirit and humor…hmmm – how do they fit together? Well, that was the topic of last night’s Gilbert Spirituality Meetup, and it was a particular fun evening. The facilitator for the evening, Elaine, said that she felt laughter was a quick and sure way for her to connect with Spirit. After attending this meetup, I get that. During discussion, joy and humor were linked together, spiritually as well as physiologically. It was pointed out that humor could be used to offend others, and then surely Spirit is not in the midst of it. People shared stories of humor and we talked about some movies that were considered funny by some – and not, by others. However, we all seemed to agree that British humor was in a league by itself. This was a more experiential meetup than usual. We each agreed to keep a smile on our face for 60 whole seconds and then shared on what that felt like. Some of us couldn’t seem to get our muscles out of a smile after the time was up 🙂 And, we actually went around the circle and told some jokes culled from the Internet. In discussion, story telling, and reading … Continue reading →

A poem by Virginia Ellis – Please teach me, Lord …I want to knowExactly how to pray.I need some wordsWhich ones are right?Please tell me what to say. I’ve bowed my headI have knelt down,But … should I be upright?I’ve closed my eyes,I’ve raised my hands,Or … should I fold them tight? Do I stand up?Should I sit down?Dear Lord … what do you like?Are lights turned on Or are they off?Maybe … candle light? Wear my glasses?Take them off?Be at my desk or table?Should I whisper?Speak out loud?Do I quote the Bible? What do you thinkAbout the time?Do You prefer the dawn?Should I pray fast,Or keep it slow?Better short … or long? I’m new at thisWhat are the rules?I want to do it right.How do I knowYou’ll even hearThat I am in Your sight? And while I sat there quietly, waiting for some sign, I heard a gentle voice say: “Oh, dearest child of mine …Do you think I really care about the time of day,Or whether you are standing up,Or kneeling when you pray?” “I don’t care about your posture,Or about the place you choose;Just open up your soul to me,I have no other rules.Tell me what is … Continue reading →

These are exciting times, full of great, transformative change, personally and globally. And, I find myself in limbo (Rog too). I don’t know what business work to pursue, projects to engage in, or relationships to put my energy into. So my recent days have largely consisted of doing some eBay work, researching, reading, relaxing, and, of course, spiritual practice. Let’s not forget coffee and meaningful conversation times with Rog too! Believe it or not, I feel at peace. I may not be sure of what the next step is, but I am sure that if I keep my focus and connection on God, guidance will follow. God knows and shows me the way to and through everything in my life. God will lead me, I will follow – I’m up for the dance!