Encouragement—offering encouraging words—is important. Nichiren Daishonin states, "The voice does the Buddha's work" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 708). Sincere words of encouragement have the power to give people hope and courage to go on living.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 19/12
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
What should SGI members devoted to?
We SGI members devote ourselves to serving the Law, serving humanity. Ours is not an egocentric life. That is why we are busier than others and perhaps don't have as much opportunity for relaxation with our families. Nevertheless, we continue to devote ourselves to others. Ours is the most noble way of life. We must make sure our children can understand and respect our beliefs, our way of life and our dedication. We must make conscious efforts to verbalize and communicate our thoughts and feelings to them. Finding the wisdom for this task is an expression of our faith.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 18/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 18/12
Monday, December 5, 2011
Our life-condition continues beyond death, into eternity.
We are all human beings; in that regard, we are all the same. The only real difference lies in people's life-conditions. Our life-condition continues beyond death, into eternity. Therefore, as the Daishonin says, "Faith alone is what really matters."
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 17/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 17/12
Are there heart-to-heart bonds?
Outward appearance is not important—what counts is what is inside our hearts. Are there heart-to-heart bonds? Some families may always be together physically but are estranged at heart. Some families can only get together for brief periods but manage to enjoy concentrated and lively heart-to-heart communication when they do meet. Families that share bonds of closeness based on day-to-day efforts are ones in which the members feel comfortable and at ease with each other, no matter where they are or what they're doing.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 16/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 16/12
Sunday, December 4, 2011
My Old Bible
Spiritual Story by Larry McNeely
Did you ever have something that meant so much to you; something that was a part of your everyday life; something that you didn't think you could let go of?
That "something" for me was my King James Version, Ryrie Study Bible. The time was May, 2003; and this Bible had been my "familiar friend" since August, 1987. I am certain of the dates because I wrote them down... in my Bible. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a sin to write in your Bible. If it was a sin, I would be the "chief" of sinners.
My Bible looked like a road map that had every tiny town, village, hamlet, and back road listed on it. I thought all this was normal until somebody would make a comment such as: "How in the world do you read that?"; or "Are you crazy - writing all over your Bible like that?" You'd have thought I'd committed the unpardonable sin!
I guess you could call me a "serial dater", because every date of every day of every year (for a lot of years) was written down multiple times, by verses that meant a lot to me. Precious promises of God; other favorite verses; notes about marriage, divorce, births, deaths, personal struggles and triumphs were all written down on the flyleaves of my "familiar friend."
I think there were a few tear stains on some pages of my old Bible. Some of the pages were torn and were starting to fall out; the cover was coming apart, but I fixed that with duct tape. I got a lot of grief from my kids about the duct tape.
I also wrote, in my old Bible some personal symbols that meant different things to me. I wrote !!! with a circle around it; that is pretty self-explanatory. Oh, but my favorite was a triangle with a small dot in the center. This symbolized The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit surrounding me. God gave me this, and it is very special to me. These symbols that God allowed me to write beside His holy scripture enhanced the importance of those words to me. I also used different colored "highlighters" for extra emphasis on some scriptures.
It finally got to the point that I knew it was time to let my old friend go.
I don't mind telling you that "retiring" my old Bible was a very hard thing to do. I went to the Christian bookstore; looked at several different Bibles; but walked out with a King James Version, Ryrie Study Bible - the same as my "old friend" - minus the dates, symbols, highlights, and other things, of course. It is now March 31, 2008; and my "new friend" has a strong resemblance to my "old friend."
I remember watching a news show several years ago about the "Lost Boys of Sudan." The show was about a group of mostly teenage boys that had been forced to leave their homes because of war. They had walked over 1000 miles; with only the clothes on their back, and what small amount they could carry. I think they had reached some sort of refugee camp.
A reporter was talking to one of the young men. That young man was holding a Bible, and the reporter asked why he had carried that Bible with him for over 1000 miles. The young man, grinning from ear to ear, said
"Because, it is my life!"
I know what that young man meant...
Did you ever have something that meant so much to you; something that was a part of your everyday life; something that you didn't think you could let go of?
That "something" for me was my King James Version, Ryrie Study Bible. The time was May, 2003; and this Bible had been my "familiar friend" since August, 1987. I am certain of the dates because I wrote them down... in my Bible. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a sin to write in your Bible. If it was a sin, I would be the "chief" of sinners.
My Bible looked like a road map that had every tiny town, village, hamlet, and back road listed on it. I thought all this was normal until somebody would make a comment such as: "How in the world do you read that?"; or "Are you crazy - writing all over your Bible like that?" You'd have thought I'd committed the unpardonable sin!
I guess you could call me a "serial dater", because every date of every day of every year (for a lot of years) was written down multiple times, by verses that meant a lot to me. Precious promises of God; other favorite verses; notes about marriage, divorce, births, deaths, personal struggles and triumphs were all written down on the flyleaves of my "familiar friend."
I think there were a few tear stains on some pages of my old Bible. Some of the pages were torn and were starting to fall out; the cover was coming apart, but I fixed that with duct tape. I got a lot of grief from my kids about the duct tape.
I also wrote, in my old Bible some personal symbols that meant different things to me. I wrote !!! with a circle around it; that is pretty self-explanatory. Oh, but my favorite was a triangle with a small dot in the center. This symbolized The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit surrounding me. God gave me this, and it is very special to me. These symbols that God allowed me to write beside His holy scripture enhanced the importance of those words to me. I also used different colored "highlighters" for extra emphasis on some scriptures.
It finally got to the point that I knew it was time to let my old friend go.
I don't mind telling you that "retiring" my old Bible was a very hard thing to do. I went to the Christian bookstore; looked at several different Bibles; but walked out with a King James Version, Ryrie Study Bible - the same as my "old friend" - minus the dates, symbols, highlights, and other things, of course. It is now March 31, 2008; and my "new friend" has a strong resemblance to my "old friend."
I remember watching a news show several years ago about the "Lost Boys of Sudan." The show was about a group of mostly teenage boys that had been forced to leave their homes because of war. They had walked over 1000 miles; with only the clothes on their back, and what small amount they could carry. I think they had reached some sort of refugee camp.
A reporter was talking to one of the young men. That young man was holding a Bible, and the reporter asked why he had carried that Bible with him for over 1000 miles. The young man, grinning from ear to ear, said
"Because, it is my life!"
I know what that young man meant...
Taking care of your children.
The good fortune that accrues to parents who apply themselves diligently to SGI activities will protect their children without fail. Based on this conviction, you must still make positive efforts to open and sustain dialogue with your children, not allowing yourselves to neglect them, claiming that you're too busy or it can't be helped, or telling yourselves that somehow things will be taken care of. Unless you exert yourselves in this way, you are irresponsible parents who lack compassion.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 15/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 15/12
How to become wise, so that we can live wisely?
Faith manifests itself as wisdom. The purpose of our faith is to become wise, so that we can live wisely. The desire to save others becomes merely an abstract goal if those who practice faith cannot communicate with their own children nor build strong and happy families.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 14/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 14/12
Saturday, December 3, 2011
What is the purpose of organization of faith?
The organization of faith is not something that holds you back or restricts you. Rather, it is a springboard that enables you to develop yourself to the utmost and to lead the most dynamic existence. It is the most precious place for carrying out our Buddhist practice.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 13/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 13/12
What matters is that the children maintain their connection to the Gohonzon and the SGI for their entire lives.
Sometimes your children may not be able to do gongyo, but there is no reason for parents to become overly concerned or agitated about this. There are times when chanting only three daimoku is sufficient. To continue practicing [even though gongyo may not be consistent] is far more important. What matters is that the children maintain their connection to the Gohonzon and the SGI for their entire lives.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 12/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 12/12
My Birthday Gift
My Birthday Gift
Spiritual Story by Leslie Moon Blackburn
Today is my birthday. Little did I know that God had bigger plans for me than I had for myself. The gift I received today was magical and I was blessed. I chose to listen and then obeyed the still small voice from with in. We truly are God's Angels.
Today is my birthday and what a great day I am going to have. I scheduled a vacation day today so I could spend the whole day doing things for myself. I have been thinking of this day for months, in fact I have been planning this day for months and it has finally arrived and its time to celebrate my birth.
As I awoke this morning, I lay in bed listening to the birds outside my window singing a birthday song just for me. I sat up and rested my head against the headboard of my bed, enjoying the magic of the morning. As I lay there breathing in the gift of life my mind drifted off to the activities that I had planned for myself. First thing I had planned was to get up and get my kids off to school, once that task was accomplished, I was going to make myself a fresh cup of coffee and then run me a hot bath with lots of bubbles, candles and incense and slip into the healing waters to release the stress of everyday life. I have been working so much over time at my job that it seems like I spend more time at work than I do in my own home.
I finally got my children off to school, put on a fresh pot of coffee to start my day, I prepared my bubble bath, put on some soothing music, poured me a cup of coffee, disrobed and slowly lowered myself into the healing waters to soak. As I lay there enjoying my quiet time, the day's events were running through my mind of how I planned on spending my birthday. The first thing on my agenda was to go get my hair, colored, cut and styled. Next I planned on taking myself to lunch to a fancy seafood restaurant uptown. Then I was going to hit the malls and buy me some shoes, perfume and jewelry and finally end my afternoon with a sappy love story at the movie theaters before having to go pick up my children from school.
As I was listening to my meditating music and enjoying my rich brewed cup of coffee, I heard a voice. At first I thought I imagined this voice, I thought maybe all the stress I had experienced all week from work was taking its toll on my mind. I tried to ignore this voice by turning up the music a little louder to drown it out, but sometime strange happened when I tried to turn up the music, the volume switch was not working and in fact the music I was hearing was not the music I put in to listen too. The music that filled my space sounded like angels singing. I stopped and listened to the sweet harmony of the invisible heavenly choir, when I heard the voice again. As I listened to this voice a feeling of peace and love filled my soul, tears welled up in my eyes and even though I was submerged in a hot tub of water, chills swept throughout my entire body. This voice was almost like a whisper, as though someone was trying to talk, but you could only hear the words from within the mind.
The voice said to me; "Happy Birthday, my child, this is how you will celebrate your birthday for today". "First you will go give the gift of life, you will donate your blood. Next you will go purchase three flowers. Two yellow carnations and one red rose. Next you will go find someone to give those flowers to."
After I listened to what the voice said to me, I busted out laughing. I said; "I'm not going to spend my birthday doing that, what are you, crazy?" This is my special day and I already have plans. Once again in a very sweet gentle tone, the voice gave me the same instructions as before and then said to me, "You are a very special spirit, you are loved dearly and you will do what you know is right".
I laid there in my bathtub contemplating the words that were just spoken to me and listening to the heavenly choir of angels as the music faded into the ethers and my meditating music returned. What just happened? I asked myself. Was that for real? Did I imagine that conversation in my mind?
I got out of the tub and got myself ready for my birthday plans for the day. I left my house and was heading towards the hair salon when I came up to a red light. I stopped and instantly I heard that voice again, only this time it was not gentle and was not soft spoken, it was like I was being screamed at. The voice said to me in a very demanding tone, "Put your car in reverse and back up 50 feet away from the light" My first thought was, that's ridiculous, why would I want to do that?
Once again the voice demanded me to back my car away from the red light, so I obeyed the voice and put my car in reverse, first checking to make sure there were no cars behind me and as soon as I was 50 feet away from the red light, this truck came whipping around the corner at a very high speed and over corrected himself which forced his vehicle into the space where my car had been previously parked. As I sat in my car and witness what had just taken place, a quiver surged through my body as I realize that my life had just been protected from a dangerous situation. I sat there until the light changed to green then I slowly and cautiously drove though the intersection as my mind raced and my body shook.
The voice once again told me how I was going to spend my birthday and like a spoiled child I protested loudly and as I was having my mini temper tantrum my cell phone rang and it was the hair salon telling me that they needed to cancel my appointment. After I hung up the phone, I said in a very irritating voice, "Fine, you win thanks for ruining my birthday plans". As I drove I tried to calm myself and change my attitude so that I would not ruin my own birthday. I drove east towards the blood bank and thought maybe if I hurried and did all the things that voice had told me to do for my birthday then I could still continue with my previous plans and still do what I wanted to do. You know how spoiled children are, always wanting their own way.
I pulled into the blood bank and went inside and filled out the paperwork to have my blood drawn. As I was waiting to be called back a phone call came into the center and the nurse on the phone asked if anybody in the center was O negative blood type. I told her that I was. She then asked me if I would be willing to drive to the children's medical center and give blood up there because there was new born baby that needed a blood transfusion and his life depended on it. I looked at her and remembered the voice telling me how I was going to spend my birthday and tears were running down my face as I told her, I would be honored to go up to the medical center and give the gift of life.
I was soon sitting at the children's medical center waiting for my blood to be drawn and it was then that I realized I had forgotten to tell the blood bank a very important piece of information regarding my blood type. I have given blood before and years ago when they tested my blood they found a very helpful RhD-antibody in my blood that helps with HDN. (Hemolytic disease of the newborn). As I sat in the chair watching the plastic bag being filled with my gift of life, my mind suddenly began to replay my magical morning and it was then that I realized that God works in mysterious ways.
After I left the blood bank, I had decided to go find the flowers that the voice had told me to buy. I walked into a grocery store and headed towards the floral department and as I walked into that section, directly on the shelf in a crystal vase, were two yellow carnations and one red rose. I picked up the gift, paid for it and walked to my car, wondering who I was suppose to give them to. As I sat in my car looking at the beautiful flowers, that spoiled child came out to play once again. She threw a fit and told me, "It's your birthday, I can't believe that you are going to give your flowers to someone else." I sat there listening to that inner chatter and decided that she was right, it is my birthday and I am going to keep the flowers for myself, it was then that I looked to the north of were I was parked and noticed a rest home for the elderly and knew that someone in that place needed flowers.
I drove across the street and parked my car in the parking lot of the rest home. I got out with the flowers and walked into the office of the care center and asked the director if there was anyone who could use a visitor and who would love to have some flowers to brighten up there day? This director looked at me with tear filled eyes and said to me. "You're an answer to our prayers" She proceeded to tell me that there was a little lady by the name of Vivian who never has anyone come to visit with her and she could use a visitor.
I walked down the hall with the director and was introduced to a very special little angel by the name of Vivian. The director left me standing there in the door way of this womens room. I felt a bit uncomfortable because this little lady had never met me and when I told her I wanted to visit with her and give her flowers to brighten up her day, she growled at me in a very angry voice. She said to me; " Why would you want to visit with a crabby old lady who you have never met, I don't even know you, so get out of my room."
I stood there for a minute and almost left. Then I said to myself, Ok God. This is your idea, you take it from here. You better soften this womens heart or I'm out of here.
As soon as I thought those words, the little lady said to me, "What kind of flowers did you bring me"? I told her that I had carnations and roses and when I told her that ,she broke down and started to sob uncontrollably. When I seen her reaction, I went over to her and sat on her bed and held her in my arms as she wept. She cried for a long time as I handed her tissue after tissue to catch her tears. Then she looked at me and said my dear husband used to buy me those flowers, two yellow carnations and one red rose and today would have been our 70th wedding anniversary. God does answer prayers.
It was then that I realized, I was an answer to many peoples prayers today. God gave me a message of how I was to spend my birthday and I listenend to his words and by doing so, I gave a gift to many people, including one to myself. The gift I received was the most important gift of all, it was the gift of sharing the love that is inside me, with others instead of keeping it all to myself.
When God speaks, listen to that still small voice, follow the instructions given from within and by doings so we ourselves are blessed more than we could ever imagine. God's Angels on earth are really people who listen to the messages received and share that message with humanity.
Some words of advise: no matter how silly it all seems, even if it doesn't make sence to you at the time when you receive your message, trust in your higher power and see the blessing unfold right before your eyes.
Spiritual Story by Leslie Moon Blackburn
Today is my birthday. Little did I know that God had bigger plans for me than I had for myself. The gift I received today was magical and I was blessed. I chose to listen and then obeyed the still small voice from with in. We truly are God's Angels.
Today is my birthday and what a great day I am going to have. I scheduled a vacation day today so I could spend the whole day doing things for myself. I have been thinking of this day for months, in fact I have been planning this day for months and it has finally arrived and its time to celebrate my birth.
As I awoke this morning, I lay in bed listening to the birds outside my window singing a birthday song just for me. I sat up and rested my head against the headboard of my bed, enjoying the magic of the morning. As I lay there breathing in the gift of life my mind drifted off to the activities that I had planned for myself. First thing I had planned was to get up and get my kids off to school, once that task was accomplished, I was going to make myself a fresh cup of coffee and then run me a hot bath with lots of bubbles, candles and incense and slip into the healing waters to release the stress of everyday life. I have been working so much over time at my job that it seems like I spend more time at work than I do in my own home.
I finally got my children off to school, put on a fresh pot of coffee to start my day, I prepared my bubble bath, put on some soothing music, poured me a cup of coffee, disrobed and slowly lowered myself into the healing waters to soak. As I lay there enjoying my quiet time, the day's events were running through my mind of how I planned on spending my birthday. The first thing on my agenda was to go get my hair, colored, cut and styled. Next I planned on taking myself to lunch to a fancy seafood restaurant uptown. Then I was going to hit the malls and buy me some shoes, perfume and jewelry and finally end my afternoon with a sappy love story at the movie theaters before having to go pick up my children from school.
As I was listening to my meditating music and enjoying my rich brewed cup of coffee, I heard a voice. At first I thought I imagined this voice, I thought maybe all the stress I had experienced all week from work was taking its toll on my mind. I tried to ignore this voice by turning up the music a little louder to drown it out, but sometime strange happened when I tried to turn up the music, the volume switch was not working and in fact the music I was hearing was not the music I put in to listen too. The music that filled my space sounded like angels singing. I stopped and listened to the sweet harmony of the invisible heavenly choir, when I heard the voice again. As I listened to this voice a feeling of peace and love filled my soul, tears welled up in my eyes and even though I was submerged in a hot tub of water, chills swept throughout my entire body. This voice was almost like a whisper, as though someone was trying to talk, but you could only hear the words from within the mind.
The voice said to me; "Happy Birthday, my child, this is how you will celebrate your birthday for today". "First you will go give the gift of life, you will donate your blood. Next you will go purchase three flowers. Two yellow carnations and one red rose. Next you will go find someone to give those flowers to."
After I listened to what the voice said to me, I busted out laughing. I said; "I'm not going to spend my birthday doing that, what are you, crazy?" This is my special day and I already have plans. Once again in a very sweet gentle tone, the voice gave me the same instructions as before and then said to me, "You are a very special spirit, you are loved dearly and you will do what you know is right".
I laid there in my bathtub contemplating the words that were just spoken to me and listening to the heavenly choir of angels as the music faded into the ethers and my meditating music returned. What just happened? I asked myself. Was that for real? Did I imagine that conversation in my mind?
I got out of the tub and got myself ready for my birthday plans for the day. I left my house and was heading towards the hair salon when I came up to a red light. I stopped and instantly I heard that voice again, only this time it was not gentle and was not soft spoken, it was like I was being screamed at. The voice said to me in a very demanding tone, "Put your car in reverse and back up 50 feet away from the light" My first thought was, that's ridiculous, why would I want to do that?
Once again the voice demanded me to back my car away from the red light, so I obeyed the voice and put my car in reverse, first checking to make sure there were no cars behind me and as soon as I was 50 feet away from the red light, this truck came whipping around the corner at a very high speed and over corrected himself which forced his vehicle into the space where my car had been previously parked. As I sat in my car and witness what had just taken place, a quiver surged through my body as I realize that my life had just been protected from a dangerous situation. I sat there until the light changed to green then I slowly and cautiously drove though the intersection as my mind raced and my body shook.
The voice once again told me how I was going to spend my birthday and like a spoiled child I protested loudly and as I was having my mini temper tantrum my cell phone rang and it was the hair salon telling me that they needed to cancel my appointment. After I hung up the phone, I said in a very irritating voice, "Fine, you win thanks for ruining my birthday plans". As I drove I tried to calm myself and change my attitude so that I would not ruin my own birthday. I drove east towards the blood bank and thought maybe if I hurried and did all the things that voice had told me to do for my birthday then I could still continue with my previous plans and still do what I wanted to do. You know how spoiled children are, always wanting their own way.
I pulled into the blood bank and went inside and filled out the paperwork to have my blood drawn. As I was waiting to be called back a phone call came into the center and the nurse on the phone asked if anybody in the center was O negative blood type. I told her that I was. She then asked me if I would be willing to drive to the children's medical center and give blood up there because there was new born baby that needed a blood transfusion and his life depended on it. I looked at her and remembered the voice telling me how I was going to spend my birthday and tears were running down my face as I told her, I would be honored to go up to the medical center and give the gift of life.
I was soon sitting at the children's medical center waiting for my blood to be drawn and it was then that I realized I had forgotten to tell the blood bank a very important piece of information regarding my blood type. I have given blood before and years ago when they tested my blood they found a very helpful RhD-antibody in my blood that helps with HDN. (Hemolytic disease of the newborn). As I sat in the chair watching the plastic bag being filled with my gift of life, my mind suddenly began to replay my magical morning and it was then that I realized that God works in mysterious ways.
After I left the blood bank, I had decided to go find the flowers that the voice had told me to buy. I walked into a grocery store and headed towards the floral department and as I walked into that section, directly on the shelf in a crystal vase, were two yellow carnations and one red rose. I picked up the gift, paid for it and walked to my car, wondering who I was suppose to give them to. As I sat in my car looking at the beautiful flowers, that spoiled child came out to play once again. She threw a fit and told me, "It's your birthday, I can't believe that you are going to give your flowers to someone else." I sat there listening to that inner chatter and decided that she was right, it is my birthday and I am going to keep the flowers for myself, it was then that I looked to the north of were I was parked and noticed a rest home for the elderly and knew that someone in that place needed flowers.
I drove across the street and parked my car in the parking lot of the rest home. I got out with the flowers and walked into the office of the care center and asked the director if there was anyone who could use a visitor and who would love to have some flowers to brighten up there day? This director looked at me with tear filled eyes and said to me. "You're an answer to our prayers" She proceeded to tell me that there was a little lady by the name of Vivian who never has anyone come to visit with her and she could use a visitor.
I walked down the hall with the director and was introduced to a very special little angel by the name of Vivian. The director left me standing there in the door way of this womens room. I felt a bit uncomfortable because this little lady had never met me and when I told her I wanted to visit with her and give her flowers to brighten up her day, she growled at me in a very angry voice. She said to me; " Why would you want to visit with a crabby old lady who you have never met, I don't even know you, so get out of my room."
I stood there for a minute and almost left. Then I said to myself, Ok God. This is your idea, you take it from here. You better soften this womens heart or I'm out of here.
As soon as I thought those words, the little lady said to me, "What kind of flowers did you bring me"? I told her that I had carnations and roses and when I told her that ,she broke down and started to sob uncontrollably. When I seen her reaction, I went over to her and sat on her bed and held her in my arms as she wept. She cried for a long time as I handed her tissue after tissue to catch her tears. Then she looked at me and said my dear husband used to buy me those flowers, two yellow carnations and one red rose and today would have been our 70th wedding anniversary. God does answer prayers.
It was then that I realized, I was an answer to many peoples prayers today. God gave me a message of how I was to spend my birthday and I listenend to his words and by doing so, I gave a gift to many people, including one to myself. The gift I received was the most important gift of all, it was the gift of sharing the love that is inside me, with others instead of keeping it all to myself.
When God speaks, listen to that still small voice, follow the instructions given from within and by doings so we ourselves are blessed more than we could ever imagine. God's Angels on earth are really people who listen to the messages received and share that message with humanity.
Some words of advise: no matter how silly it all seems, even if it doesn't make sence to you at the time when you receive your message, trust in your higher power and see the blessing unfold right before your eyes.
Moccasin Balance
Spiritual Story by Bruce Bevens
Lame Elk, who had just passed his 14th year, had taken on the family responsibility of his father, Standing Elk. His father and mother had both been killed several months before in an attack on the village by a nomadic hostile tribe. He was fulfilling all his father's and mother's duties of providing food, shelter and nurturing for his younger brother and two younger sisters.
He was proud of himself, even though it was harder to do than he let on. A widowed aunt who lived with her children in the next tepee helped look after them some, but Lame Elk shouldered most of the parental duties for his siblings. That meant hunting for food, carrying the water from the stream, tending the fires and even the cooking. And that didn't even count the arrow and arrowhead making, tanning hides, repairing the tepee and tribal duties as well.
Lame Elk was determined to keep the family together and not have his siblings split up among the other families of the tribes. Besides, almost all the tepees had suffered their own losses due to the attack. There was much sadness and suffering in the village. Many of the elders had been killed or disabled and there were others his age having to do the same as he was doing. The normal ways of sharing and co-operation had also suffered as everyone was trying to hold their own because the chief had been slain a well. And even after all this time, there was still turmoil over who his successor would be. The tribe was in a grieving limbo without leadership.
Lame Elk, called Little Elk when he was younger, had earned his new name because he was granted permission to keep and wear his late father's moccasins. However the moccasins were too big and he walked with a very slight limping gait because of it. But the moccasins were his father's and his mother had just made them for him before they were slain. The beadwork was extraordinary and the deerskin was soft and supple. His aunt offered to refashion them so they fit better but Lame Elk refused. The name had started out as a friendly kidding by boyhood friends. He had tied leather strips around the moccasins to keep them from slipping so much but they just made them more uncomfortable. So the name stuck but he didn't mind too much. The name brought some levity into the dire circumstances that they were experiencing.
A few months prior to his parents' deaths he had been called by a vision to apprentice to the tribe's Shaman, Red Eagle, to learn the Medicine Ways of the Many Trails. However, his new responsibilities had now put constraints on his spiritual evolvement, but he vowed to continue with his lessons. It was his calling by the Creator.
Red Eagle had become not only a teacher to Lame Elk but also a fatherly figure as well.
The soft spoken but firm shaman was as important, if not more so, to Lame Elk as the lessons that he was teaching him.
Red Eagle knew of Lame Elk's quandary and so he wisely worked around his new role as head of the family. He arranged the lessons on days when there was plenty of food and hunting was not required or at night when the moon was just right. After all, his commitment to his shamanic journey would be never-ending.
The Medicine Ways of the Many Trails was very important to Lame Elk, but he was trying so hard to be father, mother and brother as well as shaman apprentice that it was more and more difficult for him to recoup his energy each day. There was an underlying sadness, resentment and sometimes anger to his demeanor that he masked.
However, today, Lame Elk was excited. He and Red Eagle were going to take a new trail called The Trail of Balance. He knew that it would be an arduous trek as it was up into the mountains on a hidden, winding and treacherous path that few had traveled before. The trip would take two days or more, but he had brought home enough meat to share with other families who in turn would take care of his family while he was gone.
Lame Elk's father had taught him well in the art of the hunt. Red Eagle had taught him to ask the animals for permission to hunt them for food during his nightly meditations. He always thanked the animals for their sacrifice. Thus, he was a very successful hunter even though there were times that the moccasins caused him to lose a good shot due to his shuffling or from a sudden pain from a stone or stick that had made its way into one of them.
In the early morning, as they started up the trail, the sun was bright and there were a few wispy clouds that seemed to be painted on the sky by the Creator. The canvas was occasionally enhanced by the silhouette of a soaring eagle or hawk overhead. The air was, both, cool and warm, at the same time.
The trail was as Lame Elk had imagined. It was steep and, in many spots, too narrow for them to walk alongside one another. Sometimes the edge of one side of the trail disappeared into a silent abyss. It was cluttered with rocks and fallen limbs that proved its disuse. Thorny vines pulled at their leather garments as they walked. Sometimes the sounds of a faint, hidden rattling broke the momentary silence of the trail. But to Lame Eagle it provided an adventure of an undaunted daring and, at the same time, a catharsis for his spirit. The occasional growl of a distant bear or the scream of a lonely puma made it even more exhilarating, surging his hunter instincts.
As they walked side by side on the wider part of the trail, Red Eagle showed him the plants that made good medicine and what they were used for and how to prepare them. He was very detailed in his telling so that Lame Elk would remember the lessons.
They continued on their walk while Red Eagle talked to the plants, trees, rocks and animals along the way. He was teaching Lame Elk how to read the energy signatures of each. He was also teaching him to be spiritually balanced with all things around him. He wanted Lame Elk to respect that all things are alive with spirit and to know, that by listening beyond his ears, he could hear them communicating with him.
"We are connected in spirit to all things in this universe and all things are connected to us and we are all connected to the Creator as One," Red Eagle told Lame Elk. "We are all a part of the Creator's Web of Life that stretches beyond the stars," he continued. "Before you go on your Vision Quest, I will take you on a mutual vision to the Top of the World where you can see its vastness."
However as they walked, he noticed that Lame Elk was limping more than usual. He said nothing, as it was up to his apprentice to speak of it first.
As they traveled upward toward the summit and talked about all the things that Lame Elk had learned this first day, Red Eagle noticed that his limp was becoming even more pronounced than before. He still said nothing. Instead, he pointed to a line of ants on the ground. He drew Lame Elk's attention to how they shared the work and seemed to go about their duties as of one mind, carrying the heavier crumbs together.
"One of the major lessons on the Trail of Balance", said Red Eagle, "is that one has to be balanced at all times with Nature, Mother Earth and especially within oneself. Balance is imperative in all that you do in this lifetime as a warrior, as a hunter and as a shaman. As long as you are balanced, you can achieve wonders, even against many odds," Red Elk told him. "Balance is also necessary in your personal and family life as well as in your spiritual aspect."
Lame Elk hung on every word that Red Eagle spoke even though, at times, he seemed somewhat distracted to his teacher.
After they reached the summit, they made a campfire and got ready to settle in for the night while the lessons continued.
As they sat quietly in front of the fire dining on smoked deer jerky, Lame Elk began rubbing his feet through his moccasins and wincing as he did. Finally, Lame Elk broke the silence. "My feet are really hurting. The pain runs all the way up to my head."
"Why don't you take off your moccasins?" asked Red Eagle.
Lame Elk reluctantly complied. A dozen or more small stones fell out of each moccasin as he took he took them off.
"Why didn't you say anything? Why didn't you get rid of the stones earlier?" queried Red Eagle in a puzzled tone.
"I felt that I had to do what was expected of me and not complain on this special trail that we are on," answered Lame Elk. "Besides, my moccasins are so big that even if I dumped out the stones I would have just gotten more. At least this way, no more could get in them. I thought that I was getting use to them, but I guess I wasn't."
Red Eagle chuckled out loud but not so loudly as to offend the young student.
"Why have you not let your aunt remake the moccasins for you so that they fit", asked Red Eagle.
"I don't want to offend my mother by altering what she had made for my father and I don't want to dishonor my father by changing what was his," answered Lame Elk. "Besides, I will grow into them."
Red Eagle looked at the young brave with compassion but maintained his teacher composure.
"Lame Elk, since your parents' deaths you have sacrificed much for your family just as do the animals that make their own sacrifices so your hunt will be successful. You sacrifice your own poise by wearing moccasins that gather even more burdens for you to carry on your walk. Before you grow into them, they will have been worn away by the stones and uneven wear."
"What can I do?" asked Lame Elk with frustration.
"You are not on this journey alone, my young apprentice. As with the other families in the village you must make changes. You and the others in the village must adapt to the losses that you have suffered," answered Red Eagle. "You must look for new ways of balance."
"First of all, now that you have rid your moccasins of the stones, do as I suggest. Take the stones and throw them as far as you can. Release their hold on you. They are no more in your life. Then take your moccasins over to the stream and soak them thoroughly."
"But that will ruin them. They will crack and become hard. My mother took great pains in making them soft and comfortable," replied Lame Elk with deep concern.
"If you do as I suggest, they will be as soft as before. After you have soaked them put them back on your feet and let them dry by our fire. Then as they are just about dry and shrinking to your feet, rub this oil all over them and let them finish drying. The oils will also keep them from cracking when they get wet in the future." Red Eagle said.
To Lame Elk's amazement, after the moccasins had completely dried, they fit his feet perfectly and because of the oils they were just as soft as before. They were just as his mother had made them except they were smaller. At first, he walked. Then he ran around the campsite, making high pitched whooping calls. He no longer had any limp at all. Lame Elk felt reborn.
"Maybe we should change your name to Running Elk now," laughed Red Eagle.
"No I will keep my name. It has helped lead me to this truth" Lame Elk stated with pride.
"And what truth is that?" asked Red Eagle.
"That there are other ways to do things without changing the essence of what is already.
You showed me how to fix my moccasins without altering what my mother had made as they would have been had my aunt reworked them to fit me."
"And how does that relate to balance?" asked Red Eagle.
"Now that I am able to walk more freely I can do things without having to think about my moccasins. So now I can concentrate my attention on more important things. And I won't be collecting any more stones. I won't feel so fettered and frustrated," gleefully shouted Lame Elk.
"How can you make similar changes in your family life? How can you become more balanced and lighten some more of your load?" Red Eagle questioned.
"My brother and sisters are getting older, so I can teach them how to do some of the chores that I have been doing by myself. They can help fetch the water, keep the campfire going, collect the wood, pick berries, and tan hides. I will even teach my sisters to cook. And I can share that with the other young men of the tribe who are doing the same thing. We can work together to share the work just like the ants. Without the chief, we have all seemed lost in our ways," replied Lame Elk with a more controlled voice.
"Sounds like you are beginning to understand. But, Lame Elk, I would let your aunt teach your sisters how to cook. I have tasted your cooking," laughed Red Eagle.
And how will all of this help in balance?" questioned Red Eagle.
"I will be able to devote more time to my lessons, meditations, tribal duties and honing my hunting skills," answered Lame Elk. "I will be happier without feeling so resentful and stronger with less fatigue."
"You are beginning to learn your lessons," remarked Red Eagle. "But we have many lessons in balance yet to go. These lessons have just touched on the ways of balance in the various aspects of who you are. You must keep your body strong, your mind sharp and alert, your emotions fluid and your spirit soaring."
"Tomorrow we will make our way back down the other side of the trail and I will teach you more about balance, Red Eagle said with his eyes twinkling. We have a long, narrow rock bridge over a deep, deep crevasse to cross."
Lame Elk, who had just passed his 14th year, had taken on the family responsibility of his father, Standing Elk. His father and mother had both been killed several months before in an attack on the village by a nomadic hostile tribe. He was fulfilling all his father's and mother's duties of providing food, shelter and nurturing for his younger brother and two younger sisters.
He was proud of himself, even though it was harder to do than he let on. A widowed aunt who lived with her children in the next tepee helped look after them some, but Lame Elk shouldered most of the parental duties for his siblings. That meant hunting for food, carrying the water from the stream, tending the fires and even the cooking. And that didn't even count the arrow and arrowhead making, tanning hides, repairing the tepee and tribal duties as well.
Lame Elk was determined to keep the family together and not have his siblings split up among the other families of the tribes. Besides, almost all the tepees had suffered their own losses due to the attack. There was much sadness and suffering in the village. Many of the elders had been killed or disabled and there were others his age having to do the same as he was doing. The normal ways of sharing and co-operation had also suffered as everyone was trying to hold their own because the chief had been slain a well. And even after all this time, there was still turmoil over who his successor would be. The tribe was in a grieving limbo without leadership.
Lame Elk, called Little Elk when he was younger, had earned his new name because he was granted permission to keep and wear his late father's moccasins. However the moccasins were too big and he walked with a very slight limping gait because of it. But the moccasins were his father's and his mother had just made them for him before they were slain. The beadwork was extraordinary and the deerskin was soft and supple. His aunt offered to refashion them so they fit better but Lame Elk refused. The name had started out as a friendly kidding by boyhood friends. He had tied leather strips around the moccasins to keep them from slipping so much but they just made them more uncomfortable. So the name stuck but he didn't mind too much. The name brought some levity into the dire circumstances that they were experiencing.
A few months prior to his parents' deaths he had been called by a vision to apprentice to the tribe's Shaman, Red Eagle, to learn the Medicine Ways of the Many Trails. However, his new responsibilities had now put constraints on his spiritual evolvement, but he vowed to continue with his lessons. It was his calling by the Creator.
Red Eagle had become not only a teacher to Lame Elk but also a fatherly figure as well.
The soft spoken but firm shaman was as important, if not more so, to Lame Elk as the lessons that he was teaching him.
Red Eagle knew of Lame Elk's quandary and so he wisely worked around his new role as head of the family. He arranged the lessons on days when there was plenty of food and hunting was not required or at night when the moon was just right. After all, his commitment to his shamanic journey would be never-ending.
The Medicine Ways of the Many Trails was very important to Lame Elk, but he was trying so hard to be father, mother and brother as well as shaman apprentice that it was more and more difficult for him to recoup his energy each day. There was an underlying sadness, resentment and sometimes anger to his demeanor that he masked.
However, today, Lame Elk was excited. He and Red Eagle were going to take a new trail called The Trail of Balance. He knew that it would be an arduous trek as it was up into the mountains on a hidden, winding and treacherous path that few had traveled before. The trip would take two days or more, but he had brought home enough meat to share with other families who in turn would take care of his family while he was gone.
Lame Elk's father had taught him well in the art of the hunt. Red Eagle had taught him to ask the animals for permission to hunt them for food during his nightly meditations. He always thanked the animals for their sacrifice. Thus, he was a very successful hunter even though there were times that the moccasins caused him to lose a good shot due to his shuffling or from a sudden pain from a stone or stick that had made its way into one of them.
In the early morning, as they started up the trail, the sun was bright and there were a few wispy clouds that seemed to be painted on the sky by the Creator. The canvas was occasionally enhanced by the silhouette of a soaring eagle or hawk overhead. The air was, both, cool and warm, at the same time.
The trail was as Lame Elk had imagined. It was steep and, in many spots, too narrow for them to walk alongside one another. Sometimes the edge of one side of the trail disappeared into a silent abyss. It was cluttered with rocks and fallen limbs that proved its disuse. Thorny vines pulled at their leather garments as they walked. Sometimes the sounds of a faint, hidden rattling broke the momentary silence of the trail. But to Lame Eagle it provided an adventure of an undaunted daring and, at the same time, a catharsis for his spirit. The occasional growl of a distant bear or the scream of a lonely puma made it even more exhilarating, surging his hunter instincts.
As they walked side by side on the wider part of the trail, Red Eagle showed him the plants that made good medicine and what they were used for and how to prepare them. He was very detailed in his telling so that Lame Elk would remember the lessons.
They continued on their walk while Red Eagle talked to the plants, trees, rocks and animals along the way. He was teaching Lame Elk how to read the energy signatures of each. He was also teaching him to be spiritually balanced with all things around him. He wanted Lame Elk to respect that all things are alive with spirit and to know, that by listening beyond his ears, he could hear them communicating with him.
"We are connected in spirit to all things in this universe and all things are connected to us and we are all connected to the Creator as One," Red Eagle told Lame Elk. "We are all a part of the Creator's Web of Life that stretches beyond the stars," he continued. "Before you go on your Vision Quest, I will take you on a mutual vision to the Top of the World where you can see its vastness."
However as they walked, he noticed that Lame Elk was limping more than usual. He said nothing, as it was up to his apprentice to speak of it first.
As they traveled upward toward the summit and talked about all the things that Lame Elk had learned this first day, Red Eagle noticed that his limp was becoming even more pronounced than before. He still said nothing. Instead, he pointed to a line of ants on the ground. He drew Lame Elk's attention to how they shared the work and seemed to go about their duties as of one mind, carrying the heavier crumbs together.
"One of the major lessons on the Trail of Balance", said Red Eagle, "is that one has to be balanced at all times with Nature, Mother Earth and especially within oneself. Balance is imperative in all that you do in this lifetime as a warrior, as a hunter and as a shaman. As long as you are balanced, you can achieve wonders, even against many odds," Red Elk told him. "Balance is also necessary in your personal and family life as well as in your spiritual aspect."
Lame Elk hung on every word that Red Eagle spoke even though, at times, he seemed somewhat distracted to his teacher.
After they reached the summit, they made a campfire and got ready to settle in for the night while the lessons continued.
As they sat quietly in front of the fire dining on smoked deer jerky, Lame Elk began rubbing his feet through his moccasins and wincing as he did. Finally, Lame Elk broke the silence. "My feet are really hurting. The pain runs all the way up to my head."
"Why don't you take off your moccasins?" asked Red Eagle.
Lame Elk reluctantly complied. A dozen or more small stones fell out of each moccasin as he took he took them off.
"Why didn't you say anything? Why didn't you get rid of the stones earlier?" queried Red Eagle in a puzzled tone.
"I felt that I had to do what was expected of me and not complain on this special trail that we are on," answered Lame Elk. "Besides, my moccasins are so big that even if I dumped out the stones I would have just gotten more. At least this way, no more could get in them. I thought that I was getting use to them, but I guess I wasn't."
Red Eagle chuckled out loud but not so loudly as to offend the young student.
"Why have you not let your aunt remake the moccasins for you so that they fit", asked Red Eagle.
"I don't want to offend my mother by altering what she had made for my father and I don't want to dishonor my father by changing what was his," answered Lame Elk. "Besides, I will grow into them."
Red Eagle looked at the young brave with compassion but maintained his teacher composure.
"Lame Elk, since your parents' deaths you have sacrificed much for your family just as do the animals that make their own sacrifices so your hunt will be successful. You sacrifice your own poise by wearing moccasins that gather even more burdens for you to carry on your walk. Before you grow into them, they will have been worn away by the stones and uneven wear."
"What can I do?" asked Lame Elk with frustration.
"You are not on this journey alone, my young apprentice. As with the other families in the village you must make changes. You and the others in the village must adapt to the losses that you have suffered," answered Red Eagle. "You must look for new ways of balance."
"First of all, now that you have rid your moccasins of the stones, do as I suggest. Take the stones and throw them as far as you can. Release their hold on you. They are no more in your life. Then take your moccasins over to the stream and soak them thoroughly."
"But that will ruin them. They will crack and become hard. My mother took great pains in making them soft and comfortable," replied Lame Elk with deep concern.
"If you do as I suggest, they will be as soft as before. After you have soaked them put them back on your feet and let them dry by our fire. Then as they are just about dry and shrinking to your feet, rub this oil all over them and let them finish drying. The oils will also keep them from cracking when they get wet in the future." Red Eagle said.
To Lame Elk's amazement, after the moccasins had completely dried, they fit his feet perfectly and because of the oils they were just as soft as before. They were just as his mother had made them except they were smaller. At first, he walked. Then he ran around the campsite, making high pitched whooping calls. He no longer had any limp at all. Lame Elk felt reborn.
"Maybe we should change your name to Running Elk now," laughed Red Eagle.
"No I will keep my name. It has helped lead me to this truth" Lame Elk stated with pride.
"And what truth is that?" asked Red Eagle.
"That there are other ways to do things without changing the essence of what is already.
You showed me how to fix my moccasins without altering what my mother had made as they would have been had my aunt reworked them to fit me."
"And how does that relate to balance?" asked Red Eagle.
"Now that I am able to walk more freely I can do things without having to think about my moccasins. So now I can concentrate my attention on more important things. And I won't be collecting any more stones. I won't feel so fettered and frustrated," gleefully shouted Lame Elk.
"How can you make similar changes in your family life? How can you become more balanced and lighten some more of your load?" Red Eagle questioned.
"My brother and sisters are getting older, so I can teach them how to do some of the chores that I have been doing by myself. They can help fetch the water, keep the campfire going, collect the wood, pick berries, and tan hides. I will even teach my sisters to cook. And I can share that with the other young men of the tribe who are doing the same thing. We can work together to share the work just like the ants. Without the chief, we have all seemed lost in our ways," replied Lame Elk with a more controlled voice.
"Sounds like you are beginning to understand. But, Lame Elk, I would let your aunt teach your sisters how to cook. I have tasted your cooking," laughed Red Eagle.
And how will all of this help in balance?" questioned Red Eagle.
"I will be able to devote more time to my lessons, meditations, tribal duties and honing my hunting skills," answered Lame Elk. "I will be happier without feeling so resentful and stronger with less fatigue."
"You are beginning to learn your lessons," remarked Red Eagle. "But we have many lessons in balance yet to go. These lessons have just touched on the ways of balance in the various aspects of who you are. You must keep your body strong, your mind sharp and alert, your emotions fluid and your spirit soaring."
"Tomorrow we will make our way back down the other side of the trail and I will teach you more about balance, Red Eagle said with his eyes twinkling. We have a long, narrow rock bridge over a deep, deep crevasse to cross."
Friday, December 2, 2011
Become individuals who are strong physically, intellectually and spiritually
President Toda used to say, "Become individuals who are strong physically, intellectually and spiritually." To be strong in all three areas is the ideal. Many people may be strong in one or two of these areas, but only when all three are combined can we enjoy a well-balanced life, a life of resounding victory. Those who cultivate such all-around strength are never defeated.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 11/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 11/12
The power of faith gives us the strength to weather and survive any storm.
We must put down firm roots; we must be strong. Inner strength is a prerequisite for happiness, a prerequisite for upholding justice and one's beliefs. One of the Buddha's titles is "He Who Can Forbear." To courageously endure, persevere and overcome all difficulties—the Buddha is the ultimate embodiment of the virtue of forbearance. The power of faith gives us the strength to weather and survive any storm. Perseverance is the essence of a Buddha.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 10/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 10/12
Message From the Beyond
Message From the Beyond
Spiritual Story by Corinne Edwards
She had been a great beauty in her time. After a failed marriage and the disintegration of her relationship with her only son, she had several relationships with very wealthy men. She was a gorgeous "trophy" girlfriend. They took her to exclusive restaurants - and all over the world, staying in the finest hotels, sailing on the most luxurious ships and bought her jewels, clothes � gave her money and anything else she wanted.
When I met Lee she was far beyond her prime. She reminded me of a tiny, old silent screen star - long bleached blonde hair, wearing heavy eye makeup and inappropriate clothing which ranged from glitzy outfits to cowboy attire with lots of fringe.
She was a fascinating character with many stories to tell so she was fun to be around. Sometimes, when she reminisced, she talked about one of her favorite places - the Capri Palace Hotel at the top of Anacapri Mountain with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. But she had seen and done it all.
She latched on to me as a prospective drinking buddy. Decided I was a perfect candidate. I lived nearby and was single. But I could not go beyond one or two drinks at the Pump Room, which was a geriatric singles bar on Friday nights. I was a big disappointment to her when I left early.
One morning, she called to ask me how she happened to have 50 balloons in her apartment when she woke up. I didn't know since I had left at 9 PM. There were no balloons around at that time. Since she knew every bartender in Chicago, I suggested she make a few calls to solve the after 9 PM mystery. She hung up on me. Later, she told me she still liked me but I wasn't much of a sport. I plead guilty to the charge.
Lee always had a scheme of how she would make millions with a new idea. She was smart but not a good business person. She always lost money when they failed. She never looked back. Just went on to the next. Then, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her doctors offered many options from surgery to chemotherapy to radiation.
She refused them all � instead, she decided to live the way she always did. She bought expensive new clothes and booked a three week luxury cruise to the Orient. She gave herself an extravagant 70th birthday lunch in an exclusive restaurant. It was over $100. a person. Of course, we all had to pay the bill. But, that was Lee.
She was well for about a year until the cancer took over. She was dying and had no resistance to it happening. Although she had regrets about the lack of communication with her son and his children, she felt she had not missed a thing in her life. She had been everywhere, done everything. There was nothing else to do. A few days before she died, she called me and asked me to come to see her.
When I arrived, she was in full makeup and dressed in a beautiful silk nightgown. Her mind was very clear. She came right to the point. She said, "I have always thought when you died, you just went into the ethers of the Universe and were no more. I want to know what you think."
I told her I thought that our identity lived on in spirit. In thought. And that there was a life that was lived on the other side. We talked about the Robin Williams movie, What Dreams May Come, where we could create anything we wanted with our thoughts. She liked that idea. She said, "I want to live in a beautiful hotel, have all the money I want and order anything I need from room service!" Then, she added, "And if that movie is true, I'll make a deal with you. I'll get back to you somehow and let you know."
A year later, I went to the ceremony in the cemetery to dedicate her stone. I had heard nothing from her. Afterwards, there was a lunch. Her son had come with his children. We were all sitting around during dessert telling "Lee stories." There were so many wonderful and outrageous ones! Her little eight year old grandson was sitting across from me at the table. He had seldom seen his grandmother.
All of a sudden, he piped up. "I had a dream about my grandmother last night." We stopped to let him talk. He continued, "I dreamed she was very happy. She was living in a beautiful hotel that was very high on a mountain. You could see all around from that hotel."
People like Lee leave a big hole in our energy system when they depart this world. They are not ordinary and take up a lot of space that needs to be replaced. I miss her. So does everyone else who knew this extraordinary and flamboyant character.
She never got a Ph.D. but she used her gifts to get along in life. Beauty, charm, intelligence and a lack of fear to take chances. Some may regard these as shallow, but who are we to judge someone who did the best they could with what they had? I am happy she is in Capri. She loved it there.
Thanks for getting back to us, Lee. You kept your promise.
Spiritual Story by Corinne Edwards
She had been a great beauty in her time. After a failed marriage and the disintegration of her relationship with her only son, she had several relationships with very wealthy men. She was a gorgeous "trophy" girlfriend. They took her to exclusive restaurants - and all over the world, staying in the finest hotels, sailing on the most luxurious ships and bought her jewels, clothes � gave her money and anything else she wanted.
When I met Lee she was far beyond her prime. She reminded me of a tiny, old silent screen star - long bleached blonde hair, wearing heavy eye makeup and inappropriate clothing which ranged from glitzy outfits to cowboy attire with lots of fringe.
She was a fascinating character with many stories to tell so she was fun to be around. Sometimes, when she reminisced, she talked about one of her favorite places - the Capri Palace Hotel at the top of Anacapri Mountain with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. But she had seen and done it all.
She latched on to me as a prospective drinking buddy. Decided I was a perfect candidate. I lived nearby and was single. But I could not go beyond one or two drinks at the Pump Room, which was a geriatric singles bar on Friday nights. I was a big disappointment to her when I left early.
One morning, she called to ask me how she happened to have 50 balloons in her apartment when she woke up. I didn't know since I had left at 9 PM. There were no balloons around at that time. Since she knew every bartender in Chicago, I suggested she make a few calls to solve the after 9 PM mystery. She hung up on me. Later, she told me she still liked me but I wasn't much of a sport. I plead guilty to the charge.
Lee always had a scheme of how she would make millions with a new idea. She was smart but not a good business person. She always lost money when they failed. She never looked back. Just went on to the next. Then, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her doctors offered many options from surgery to chemotherapy to radiation.
She refused them all � instead, she decided to live the way she always did. She bought expensive new clothes and booked a three week luxury cruise to the Orient. She gave herself an extravagant 70th birthday lunch in an exclusive restaurant. It was over $100. a person. Of course, we all had to pay the bill. But, that was Lee.
She was well for about a year until the cancer took over. She was dying and had no resistance to it happening. Although she had regrets about the lack of communication with her son and his children, she felt she had not missed a thing in her life. She had been everywhere, done everything. There was nothing else to do. A few days before she died, she called me and asked me to come to see her.
When I arrived, she was in full makeup and dressed in a beautiful silk nightgown. Her mind was very clear. She came right to the point. She said, "I have always thought when you died, you just went into the ethers of the Universe and were no more. I want to know what you think."
I told her I thought that our identity lived on in spirit. In thought. And that there was a life that was lived on the other side. We talked about the Robin Williams movie, What Dreams May Come, where we could create anything we wanted with our thoughts. She liked that idea. She said, "I want to live in a beautiful hotel, have all the money I want and order anything I need from room service!" Then, she added, "And if that movie is true, I'll make a deal with you. I'll get back to you somehow and let you know."
A year later, I went to the ceremony in the cemetery to dedicate her stone. I had heard nothing from her. Afterwards, there was a lunch. Her son had come with his children. We were all sitting around during dessert telling "Lee stories." There were so many wonderful and outrageous ones! Her little eight year old grandson was sitting across from me at the table. He had seldom seen his grandmother.
All of a sudden, he piped up. "I had a dream about my grandmother last night." We stopped to let him talk. He continued, "I dreamed she was very happy. She was living in a beautiful hotel that was very high on a mountain. You could see all around from that hotel."
People like Lee leave a big hole in our energy system when they depart this world. They are not ordinary and take up a lot of space that needs to be replaced. I miss her. So does everyone else who knew this extraordinary and flamboyant character.
She never got a Ph.D. but she used her gifts to get along in life. Beauty, charm, intelligence and a lack of fear to take chances. Some may regard these as shallow, but who are we to judge someone who did the best they could with what they had? I am happy she is in Capri. She loved it there.
Thanks for getting back to us, Lee. You kept your promise.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
What does faith mean in Buddhism?
Faith means infinite hope, and infinite hope resides in the SGI. As long as your faith is sincere, infinite glory, boundless good fortune and endless victory will unfold before you. You will never find yourselves at a dead end.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 9/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 9/12
Love In Action
Spiritual Story by Ma Prem Pushpa
Once upon a time there lived a man in England. Matisse was his name. Creation was his greatest passion. Art, music, poetry — each realm was a way for him to express a light-blue energy of universe coming through him to awaken higher levels of consciousness in people. Yoga was his foundation; he went there as deep as he only could and the mystical experiences it provided were integral part of his life.Yoga practice helped Matisse to keep channels in his dark-skinned body clean so he could pour abundance of God into his works.
In his thirties he was rather famous throughout Great Britain. He displayed his works at many exhibitions and people were enchanted by his creativity. He connected 3 spheres into one whole: each picture he created was followed by his music and poems. His greatest desire was to awaken people to feel God deep within themselves. "Let divine seed grow, let your individuality blossom" was his motto. He was realizing God as a transcendental eternal energy which saturated universe. Each second he felt it in the air that surrounded him, he saw it in children�s eyes, in the leaves of the trees that were murmuring prayers on the wind and even in the concrete jungles of his native city. He saw God in everything and God was an inner stillness of the Power.
Matisse�s life was going on in creativity and work. But then one day while sitting in meditation deep at night being parched with thirst of enlightenment he heard a whisper coming from within: "Go to St.Petersburg to continue your realization � there�s a lesson you should study on the lands of Russia." And so he went. His good British friend Frank met him at the airport. He had been living in Petersburg for about 6 years by this time and still was fascinated by it.
"You are just in time, my dear friend," he said with his eyes shimmering with gladness, "an exhibition of Tibetan art is opening tomorrow. Moreover real Tibetan monks will sing their special prayers there and will build sacred mandala. It's just what you need, isn't it?"
"I guess..."
"To my deep regret I can't invite you to live at my place as Rita, my wife, has very strong negative feelings against dark-skinned people. I can't find a way to make her change her mind. But I've found you a good flat to rent."
Matisse was shocked. His mind was so far away from these prejudices that it was a significant blow for him to realize that people are still steeped in such ideas.
"Frank, this is ridiculous. There's a divine seed in each of us, we are all united as spirits, we just should be brave enough to go deeper to perceive it."
"Well, Mat, it's a matter of time, flaming desire, and hard work. Be aware that there are a lot of people here who think in this way. Prejudices are very strong."
"These people need help to realize who they really are."
"They just need love, Matisse."
The next day, the friends went to the exhibition. The space was full of clean white energy that was circulating around and providing positive changes to all guests and members. Matisse felt clear pearling alive spirit sparkling with joy inside. And then he saw her eyes. They showed him deepness, consciousness, beauty, but above all the eternal wisdom of a real Woman. In that moment, a new kind of energy awakened within each of them.
No borders, no limits. All masks and disguises faded away revealing ecstatic dance of two pure spirits. Love came as a revelation that became a turning point in their lives. Matisse realized what his creative works were missing and why he always was unsatisfied. Warmness of the heart, yellow light sparkling with gold, love energy that is what he'll fulfill his creations with. Together they will make a space full of light and understanding and will help people to transform themselves into real individuals who are fragrant with freedom.
And so they married. Matisse settled down in St. Petersburg inspired with his new plans. The conception of his mission was to unite people of different nations, religions and customs, to help people to realize that their unique specific traditions and their brightly expressed features deserve to be respected and treated accordingly. "It doesn't make a difference what color of skin do you have–your individual work, your spiritual growth, your aims–these are the most important things you should think of. Follow the way of love as God is love and it's real," Matisse thought to himself.
Matisse and his fabulous wife Ariadna organized a society called "The space of love and light." They made presentations of Matisse's creations, invited remarkable people from all over the world to make speaches within the conception of their society. Ariadna led yoga and meditation classes and organized trips to the holy places of the world guided by professionals.
As time passed by, the gorgeous unordinary couple became famous. People were astonished by paintings Matisse did and by divine music he composed. His works touched their hearts, brought joy and gladness into their lives. He shared the beauty of real love with all Russian people.
Matisse will remain a remarkable figure in the history of art, music and literature as his appearance highlights the beginning of the new age in Russia–a time of arising consciousness among people, time of inner blossom and developing. Matisse celebrated the forthcoming century of real love that washes away all borders; he inspired Russian people to follow the way of the heart.
Once upon a time there lived a man in England. Matisse was his name. Creation was his greatest passion. Art, music, poetry — each realm was a way for him to express a light-blue energy of universe coming through him to awaken higher levels of consciousness in people. Yoga was his foundation; he went there as deep as he only could and the mystical experiences it provided were integral part of his life.Yoga practice helped Matisse to keep channels in his dark-skinned body clean so he could pour abundance of God into his works.
In his thirties he was rather famous throughout Great Britain. He displayed his works at many exhibitions and people were enchanted by his creativity. He connected 3 spheres into one whole: each picture he created was followed by his music and poems. His greatest desire was to awaken people to feel God deep within themselves. "Let divine seed grow, let your individuality blossom" was his motto. He was realizing God as a transcendental eternal energy which saturated universe. Each second he felt it in the air that surrounded him, he saw it in children�s eyes, in the leaves of the trees that were murmuring prayers on the wind and even in the concrete jungles of his native city. He saw God in everything and God was an inner stillness of the Power.
Matisse�s life was going on in creativity and work. But then one day while sitting in meditation deep at night being parched with thirst of enlightenment he heard a whisper coming from within: "Go to St.Petersburg to continue your realization � there�s a lesson you should study on the lands of Russia." And so he went. His good British friend Frank met him at the airport. He had been living in Petersburg for about 6 years by this time and still was fascinated by it.
"You are just in time, my dear friend," he said with his eyes shimmering with gladness, "an exhibition of Tibetan art is opening tomorrow. Moreover real Tibetan monks will sing their special prayers there and will build sacred mandala. It's just what you need, isn't it?"
"I guess..."
"To my deep regret I can't invite you to live at my place as Rita, my wife, has very strong negative feelings against dark-skinned people. I can't find a way to make her change her mind. But I've found you a good flat to rent."
Matisse was shocked. His mind was so far away from these prejudices that it was a significant blow for him to realize that people are still steeped in such ideas.
"Frank, this is ridiculous. There's a divine seed in each of us, we are all united as spirits, we just should be brave enough to go deeper to perceive it."
"Well, Mat, it's a matter of time, flaming desire, and hard work. Be aware that there are a lot of people here who think in this way. Prejudices are very strong."
"These people need help to realize who they really are."
"They just need love, Matisse."
The next day, the friends went to the exhibition. The space was full of clean white energy that was circulating around and providing positive changes to all guests and members. Matisse felt clear pearling alive spirit sparkling with joy inside. And then he saw her eyes. They showed him deepness, consciousness, beauty, but above all the eternal wisdom of a real Woman. In that moment, a new kind of energy awakened within each of them.
No borders, no limits. All masks and disguises faded away revealing ecstatic dance of two pure spirits. Love came as a revelation that became a turning point in their lives. Matisse realized what his creative works were missing and why he always was unsatisfied. Warmness of the heart, yellow light sparkling with gold, love energy that is what he'll fulfill his creations with. Together they will make a space full of light and understanding and will help people to transform themselves into real individuals who are fragrant with freedom.
And so they married. Matisse settled down in St. Petersburg inspired with his new plans. The conception of his mission was to unite people of different nations, religions and customs, to help people to realize that their unique specific traditions and their brightly expressed features deserve to be respected and treated accordingly. "It doesn't make a difference what color of skin do you have–your individual work, your spiritual growth, your aims–these are the most important things you should think of. Follow the way of love as God is love and it's real," Matisse thought to himself.
Matisse and his fabulous wife Ariadna organized a society called "The space of love and light." They made presentations of Matisse's creations, invited remarkable people from all over the world to make speaches within the conception of their society. Ariadna led yoga and meditation classes and organized trips to the holy places of the world guided by professionals.
As time passed by, the gorgeous unordinary couple became famous. People were astonished by paintings Matisse did and by divine music he composed. His works touched their hearts, brought joy and gladness into their lives. He shared the beauty of real love with all Russian people.
Matisse will remain a remarkable figure in the history of art, music and literature as his appearance highlights the beginning of the new age in Russia–a time of arising consciousness among people, time of inner blossom and developing. Matisse celebrated the forthcoming century of real love that washes away all borders; he inspired Russian people to follow the way of the heart.
What is joy?
Joy is not simply your personal, egoistic happiness. Nor is it making others happy at the expense of your own happiness. You and others delighting together, you and others becoming happy together—this is the Mystic Law and the wondrous thing about our realm of kosen-rufu. The Daishonin states, "Joy means that both oneself and others have wisdom and compassion" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 761).
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 8/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 8/12
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Friendship changes people.
It is our hearts that change others' hearts. Friendship changes people. Travelers who pull their capes over their shoulders and brace themselves determinedly against the cold wind naturally relax and change their outlook and actions when warmed by the sun.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 7/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 7/12
Why should we undergo an inner reformation?
Where can we find the royal road to reformation and change? Emerson declared: "Not he is great who can alter matter, but he who can alter my state of mind." He strongly urged us to undergo an inner reformation. I want you to be assured that the challenge to which we set ourselves day after day—that of our human revolution—is the royal road to bringing about a reformation in our families, local regions and societies. An inner revolution is the most fundamental and at the same time the ultimate revolution for engendering change in all things.
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 6/12
For Today and Tomorrow
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda 6/12
Long Division
Spiritual Story by Leon A. Walker
I frequently found myself alone but I never recall being bored. The simplest things formed the basis for imaginative games or fantastic adventures that took place in my mind. The physical pain would very quickly be blotted out by distractions of my making. So would any thoughts of further sadness or hurt. I could not or would not focus on it. It was quite literally like a light switch. Imprisoned in my room I felt safest.
Therein were no expectations or curious eyes. Interestingly, the condition of my room was sometimes a question mark but this was true of my total existence. My most recent transgression and its magnitude would generate various responses. When would I eat again? Would the bed, furniture and my toys be removed this time? I was cold. Where were my clothes?
My fourth grade teacher saw the scars on my arms and face. I saw her tears come. I don�t remember much about her from the first time around but she rescued me for a time. I became her helper. My desk was next to hers facing the class. She was kind and attentive and I responded, as this was a very new experience. I loved her and I thrived and received perfect grades for the first time. A visit to a Psychiatrist, placement in enrichment classes and suddenly the next year, I was back on track with my peers. I don�t recall that being of any importance to me at the time. I never attended fifth grade.
They loved each other but they were very young. I still wonder how the rapid arrival of my siblings and I impacted their condition. There was incredible rage, destruction, and violent exchanges. We observed and we understood; infidelity, money, job demands and family expectations� as best children could understand such things. It was an emotionally desperate existence. The only certainty was continued uncertainty. I never knew what tomorrow held and the most basic essentials could not be relied upon. I remember being afraid. I would often retreat to my room and select the light switch.
They loved us all as best they new how but they were frequently cruel. There was no time for nurturing and limited time for parenting. There was meaningful family time but very little. They talked to us and demanded of us. Educated people, they lectured us and required us to have discussions, but more importantly, to intellectually challenge traditional thinking. They assured us we could accomplish anything and gave us compelling historic examples. They were horrible examples. We all loved them.
Despite their example, much of their advice and guidance proved accurate and reliable. Yes, there was a price to pay for my experiences as a child. Concepts such as love, relationships, happiness, family and God evaded me for years. Decades passed before such concepts ascended my list of priorities. Thought, perspective and proportion became intensely meaningful. My life had been a collection of extreme highs and devastating lows yet, at the end of the day� I was ok. I realized and accepted that I did not need to carry anything around anymore or to compartmentalize. Not from my childhood or any other difficult period of my life. Eventually I knew: �It�s ok to be ok.�
Having skipped fifth grade, I was never taught long division. No, I did not end up professionally crippled as a fifth grade teacher might have threatened (had I known one). I figured it out for the most part. Divide the dividend by the divisor and determine the quotient and the remainder (if any). I never became highly skilled at the long process.
My youth was but a single factor in a very complex life of numerous total parts. Although initially unprepared and unschooled, I now work more carefully through my long division problem of life. There is no chalkboard or three ringed practice binder. There are no erasers.
I do not always come up with the correct solutions as I continue to learn the process. I have however, learned to frequently check my work and to consider the results. I am also very mindful of what remains.
I have again taken my seat� next to the Teacher.
I frequently found myself alone but I never recall being bored. The simplest things formed the basis for imaginative games or fantastic adventures that took place in my mind. The physical pain would very quickly be blotted out by distractions of my making. So would any thoughts of further sadness or hurt. I could not or would not focus on it. It was quite literally like a light switch. Imprisoned in my room I felt safest.
Therein were no expectations or curious eyes. Interestingly, the condition of my room was sometimes a question mark but this was true of my total existence. My most recent transgression and its magnitude would generate various responses. When would I eat again? Would the bed, furniture and my toys be removed this time? I was cold. Where were my clothes?
My fourth grade teacher saw the scars on my arms and face. I saw her tears come. I don�t remember much about her from the first time around but she rescued me for a time. I became her helper. My desk was next to hers facing the class. She was kind and attentive and I responded, as this was a very new experience. I loved her and I thrived and received perfect grades for the first time. A visit to a Psychiatrist, placement in enrichment classes and suddenly the next year, I was back on track with my peers. I don�t recall that being of any importance to me at the time. I never attended fifth grade.
They loved each other but they were very young. I still wonder how the rapid arrival of my siblings and I impacted their condition. There was incredible rage, destruction, and violent exchanges. We observed and we understood; infidelity, money, job demands and family expectations� as best children could understand such things. It was an emotionally desperate existence. The only certainty was continued uncertainty. I never knew what tomorrow held and the most basic essentials could not be relied upon. I remember being afraid. I would often retreat to my room and select the light switch.
They loved us all as best they new how but they were frequently cruel. There was no time for nurturing and limited time for parenting. There was meaningful family time but very little. They talked to us and demanded of us. Educated people, they lectured us and required us to have discussions, but more importantly, to intellectually challenge traditional thinking. They assured us we could accomplish anything and gave us compelling historic examples. They were horrible examples. We all loved them.
Despite their example, much of their advice and guidance proved accurate and reliable. Yes, there was a price to pay for my experiences as a child. Concepts such as love, relationships, happiness, family and God evaded me for years. Decades passed before such concepts ascended my list of priorities. Thought, perspective and proportion became intensely meaningful. My life had been a collection of extreme highs and devastating lows yet, at the end of the day� I was ok. I realized and accepted that I did not need to carry anything around anymore or to compartmentalize. Not from my childhood or any other difficult period of my life. Eventually I knew: �It�s ok to be ok.�
Having skipped fifth grade, I was never taught long division. No, I did not end up professionally crippled as a fifth grade teacher might have threatened (had I known one). I figured it out for the most part. Divide the dividend by the divisor and determine the quotient and the remainder (if any). I never became highly skilled at the long process.
My youth was but a single factor in a very complex life of numerous total parts. Although initially unprepared and unschooled, I now work more carefully through my long division problem of life. There is no chalkboard or three ringed practice binder. There are no erasers.
I do not always come up with the correct solutions as I continue to learn the process. I have however, learned to frequently check my work and to consider the results. I am also very mindful of what remains.
I have again taken my seat� next to the Teacher.
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