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 7 Sep 2002 @ 07:12
Got this in the email....had to share!
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Confessions of an American
Ex-patriot
It all began about a year ago. I had just finished
watching the morning news over a cup of coffee, and
nothing felt quite right. Having dutifully pecked the
cheek of my wife with a kiss, I stood beside my sporty
new car with mug in hand. The engine was purring away
before my drive to work, and my favorite bumper
sticker caught my eye. “Proud to be an American” it
read. I paused for a moment, reflecting upon this.
For some reason it just didn’t set well, like a lunch
eaten too fast. On the way to the office I was at a
loss to explain, in fact, why it began to seriously
irritate me. I see statements like these on countless
other cars every day, and I wondered how many people
think for themselves these days. Then the question
arose…What are we so proud of? As I asked myself this
question over and over again, I suddenly couldn’t
think of a single response. So why did I have this
proclamation on my bumper, if I didn’t know what it
meant? Why does everyone else seem to have one too,
(or a flag or sticker in the window and yard). Do they
know something I don‘t??
My day at work was pretty much the same as always,
except for one thing. I seemed to raise a few
eyebrows over lunch with my question, “Why are you
proud to be an American”? The immediate reactions
were about the same as mine. There was also obvious
irritation about being asked a question to which
everyone is expected to know the answer. Each person
I asked had no immediate response, and their confusion
reminded me of my own. But then to my relief the
answer that was provided one way or another, was
something to the effect of…”Well, we’re a free
country. We’re a democracy, and the people decide how
they want to believe, and you know, that’s a lot
better than any place else in the world, right?” But
my sense of relief at this answer did not last. I
kept the thought that came to mind secret, which was,
“Yeah, you’re free to believe whatever you want, so
long as it’s politically correct”. Recalling recent
events and the sorry shape the world is in right now,
such responses seemed very shallow. They sounded like
tape recordings being played on cue. It was a little
eerie how everybody answered in the same basic way,
using the same words I’d heard on television so many
times. It would be interesting to know if everyone
would talk differently if the television and
newspapers were taking a different stand. I suspect
they would be.
When I got home that evening, I made my wife nervous
by talking about how the last presidential election
was a farce. George W. Bush is president today, but
not by a vote of the people. I said, “Yes, don’t you
remember…nobody ever talks about this now, as though
it’s ancient history. But George W. was put in office
by the Supreme Court, while the recount of votes in
Florida was actually prevented. How can a court
decide who wins the presidency in a democracy? She
did not seem to appreciate my new fascination with
being politically incorrect, and offered no answers.
Afterwards, other questions arose in my mind. If
we’re a democracy, then why is it that the important
decisions of running this country and how our tax
dollars are spent, are rarely a matter of public
knowledge, let alone votes? Do we really live in a
free country or a police state? Are we really
promoting democracy around the world as the television
claims we are, or are we just installing puppets who
do our economic bidding? I thought of recent police
suppression of demonstrations in Seattle, Portland and
elsewhere. Images of pepper spray, riot gear, Nazi
insignias, and countless people in prison cells filled
my mind. I thought about how the Justice Department
locks people up indefinitely now, without charges,
even if they are American citizens. Bank accounts are
frozen and lives are destroyed, just because George
and company says they have “ties” to so and so. Our
words speak of “nation building” but our actions
speak more loudly of. nation destroying. I remembered
hearing how the CIA meddles in governments the world
over, staging armed rebellions and the like, yet
without a single vote from the people involved. How
does one establish a democracy by installing puppet
dictators who are on the CIA payroll? I thought about
the “Patriot Act” which makes wire taps, e-mail
interception and house searches without warrants
“legal“. So much for the Bill of Rights. I
considered how it’s becoming more and more accepted
that neighbors report each other to the government for
“suspicious behavior”. What is “suspicious” behavior
anyway, not wearing green on St. Patrick‘s Day?? How
will this new “Homeland Security” office be used
against our citizens? Perhaps it should be called “The
Office of Suspicious Behavior”. I thought about
college professors being fired and receiving death
threats, for teaching that we should critically
examine how our Bill of Rights and Constitution are
being trampled on by recent legislation. We’re told,
“we have to give up our liberties for the sake of our
protection”. How is giving up our sovereignty and
freedoms protecting us from anything, and why does one
have to come at the cost of the other?
The more I thought about such questions the more
uncertain I became about how “proud” I am to be an
American. I certainly want to be proud, don’t get me
wrong. I would like nothing better than to believe
that my government is just and honest, that it
represents the people who pay for its existence,
(taxpayers) and which is a force for good in the
modern world. Yet it’s pretty clear that our
government is no longer for the people, but for money
interests. Ours has become a government by and for
the corporations, and as such how can it be a
democracy? The general attitude today seems to be
that the people exist to serve and obey government,
rather than the other way around. Media exists to
condition a response rather than to just inform.
Isn’t a government that has this attitude a parasite?
I was raised in an upper middle class family, attended
a private school for “gifted students” and have an
excellent academic record. I hold Masters degrees in
business administration and psychology, having firmly
believed that such accreditation is essential for
“success” in this wonderful, modern world of
ever-increasing standards of living. I was employed
for many years in a significant middle management
position at an electronics firm based in Dallas Texas,
making in excess of $85,000 a year. My wife and I and
our two children, lived in a 5 bedroom, 3500 square
foot home, in an excellent neighborhood. Yet through
all these years I was never truly satisfied, and
didn’t know why. I didn’t know anyone else who was
satisfied either. After giving the whole thing some
thought, I’ve come to the conclusion that our society
is moving in the wrong direction. It glorifies greed
as the supreme goal in life, and egotism as the norm
for social interaction. I honestly can’t think of any
other reason at this point, why anyone would even
desire more than they need to live well.
But all that is changed now. The more I’ve learned in
fact, the more I realize the world isn‘t going to last
very much longer at this rate..
In the weeks following my initial “political
incorrectness”, I did some research on the internet,
and at the library. My mind was really opened by all
this information, but even more so by the implications
of what I was finding out. The following statistics
are fully verifiable;
As of August 2001, the national debt has risen to the
astronomical figure of over 6 trillion dollars.
That’s 6000 billion! I asked myself, “Good God! Where
has all this money been spent? If we’re supposedly
the richest nation in the world, with the highest
standards of living, then how can we possibly owe 6000
billion dollars?” If we’ve spent this much money,
then why is the quality of life for most people
continuing to decay? That sounds like monumental
mismanagement to me. This debt I’m told, increases by
an average of 1 billion, 111 million dollars a day!
As it is now, a child born tomorrow will be born into
debt to the amount of $21,438! Mind you, this figure
only reflects the national debt. If one were to
figure in state, county and city debts, the amount
owed by a newborn today is well over $100,000! And
the government has the nerve to criticize or penalize
corporations for their mismanagement of funds? Almost
as much money is spent on paying the interest to this
incredible sum, than is spent on the military! That’s
right, we all pay interest on this debt, in the form
of increased taxes and loss of social programs. I
read in the paper recently that budgets have been cut
so drastically, that grade schools can’t afford
construction paper, sufficient teachers to fill
positions, or even to fix their own computers. Social
welfare programs are evaporating like desert ponds in
summertime. The elderly can’t afford their pills,
consumer debt is at an all-time high, and thousands
get laid off every quarter. Meanwhile, corporate
scandals rage on, with a predictably higher level of
corruption than ever before to the tune of tens of
billions. Political campaigns and “political
contributions” run into the tens of millions of
dollars, while the local library can’t afford to buy
new encyclopedias. I wonder if it ever occurred to
most people that while we’re spending these
astronomical sums on the military and government,
we’re spending less on what matters in life. Why are
all the state budgets so strapped? Because the
government is no longer there for the people, that’s
why.
Proud to be an American? Yeah, proud like a armed
robber, leaving another bank with an armful.
There’s been a lot of talk about attacking Iraq for
months, and yet another war is not far away. Why is
it we always seem to be in a state of war? The
“debate” rages on, not so much as to why we should
attack, or what right we have playing policeman, (or
God Almighty) to the rest of the world. We seem to
assume that the whole world is ours to do with as we
wish, while punishing those who dare to manage their
own affairs. We hear congressmen screaming for blood,
and a president who consults “legal advisors” as to
whether or not he can go to war without the approval
of congress. Of course, there is a high public
approval rating for all this, if the news is to be
believed. You know, it’s really fascinating to watch
such events with an attitude of detachment. If for
instance you had just arrived on this planet and knew
absolutely nothing about “the war on terror”, how
would you perceive the American attitude? Try that
mental exercise and see where it leads.
In any case, we’re told by the media that it is our
dire need to immediately attack Iraq in a
“pre-emptive strike”, before they attack us or anyone
else. Because Iraq possesses, or might possess,
“weapons of mass destruction” we should do away with
Saddam Hussein. Hmmm. I guess that means it’s OK for
us to attack them, since we are morally perfect in
every way. It’s our self-assigned role on this planet
to define right and wrong, after all. So while it
would be “evil” (i.e. George Bush‘s “axis of evil”)
for them to attack and kill us, it is “good” for us to
attack and kill them. When ’they” kill it’s called
“terrorism”…when we kill it’s called “establishing
democracy”. Continuing on this line of reasoning then,
it’s called “murder” if anybody else kills, but if we
do it, it’s called, “preventing murder”. Confused? I
should hope so. If this makes sense to you I suggest
you look up the word “hypocrisy“ in the dictionary..
Imagine if our legal system adopted this same
reasoning. Picture the police driving around shooting
and killing anyone on the street who, “looks like they
might commit a crime“ or who, “appears to have an
interest in buying a gun” thereby preventing murder,
rape and other atrocities.. “Justice” could then be
dispensed at the humble price of a bullet, rather than
messy court proceedings and the silly presentation of
evidence. If we have such a foreign policy, devoid of
all due process, UN approval or international court
proceedings, then why not adopt such a policy at home?
That seems to be where we’re headed. Everyone is
assumed to be guilty until proven innocent, assuming
that is, you are even allowed to see a lawyer behind
closed doors, after the police beat you when they’re
sure no one has a camera aimed in their direction.
Also, if by merely possessing or hoping to possess,
“weapons of mass destruction” a country deserves to be
bombed and occupied, then almost all the countries of
the world will have to be leveled flat. What about
Russia, Canada, China, France or Great Britain? Hey,
for that matter, what about US? Nobody has more of
these weapons than we do, and nobody has sold more of
them to other countries than we have. Oh, that’s
right, we can do that because we’re “God’s chosen”.
Isn’t this the official line? Well, what other excuse
can one offer?
We spend about 300 billion dollars a year on the
military budget, not counting the cost of wars and
preparations for war. This is far more than any
country, anywhere, in the history of this planet.
That’s enough to completely transform the environment
and world poverty, in one stroke. It’s not hard to
see where our priorities are.
Proud to be an American? Am I proud about the bombing
of Afghanistan or Iraq for weeks on end, and at the
cost of a billion dollars a day? No, mass murder is
not something I cherish, nor is it a hobby of mine.
I’m not convinced that the Afghan people had anything
to do with the events of 9-11. Nor am I convinced
that Iraq deserves to be singled out for execution, as
a “bad guy” with a black hat, amidst a sea of pearly
white morality the world over. And what’s this about
“IF” we go to war with Iraq? Don’t our warplanes bomb
Iraqi targets on a regular basis, even as we speak?
Right now there is an “Earth Summit” being held in
Africa by the United Nations, attended by most of the
countries of the world, with the notable exception of
the president of the United States. This is no
surprise, since as a country, we’ve also pulled out of
the Kyoto Protocol regarding greenhouse emissions, and
several other environmental treaties. I guess “green”
isn’t good for business. Bush and company have
reduced clean air and water standards, increased
logging and mining, given big businesses billions in
government subsidies, (free handouts) calling that an
“economic stimulus package”, while the Environmental
Protection Agency receives less than one percent of
the national budget. Again, it’s all a matter of
greed, not concern for future generations.
Did you know that out of the 6 billion people in the
world, over one billion don’t have clean water to
drink, and two billion don’t have access to adequate
sanitation? Four billion don’t have running water.
Two billion don‘t have electricity. 1.6 billion people
are poorer now than they were 15 years ago. Did you
know that one billion people live on about a dollar a
day, while we consider $20,000 a year underpaid? I
didn’t.
Americans comprise 5% of the world’s population, and
yet consume 30% of its resources. Does this make us
moral and good?
A child born in the US will use 5-20 times the amount
of energy of their counterparts in the developing
world, by the time they live to be 75. The 20% of the
world’s population which has the “highest standards of
living”, consumes 85% of the aluminum and chemicals of
the world, 80% of the paper, iron and steel, 75% of
the timber and energy, 60% of the meat, fertilizer and
cement, half the world’s fish and grain, and 40% of
the fresh water. At the same time they will generate
96% of the radioactive wastes, and 90% of the ozone
depleting chlorofluorocarbons. (source; Presidents’
Council on Sustainable Development). Millions of
third world children die of disease and malnutrition
every year, and our concern is how to make the next
car payment on that luxury sedan. Meanwhile the World
Bank and International Monetary fund, (in which the US
plays a central role) squeezes the poor even further
with “austerity measures”, so they can keep making
their national interest payments.
It’s not hard to realize how the lack of the majority,
is directly proportional to the relative greed of a
privileged few. How many acres of forest, tons of
coal and metals, megawatts of electricity and square
feet of sweat shop labor, did it take to build that
fancy house of mine in Texas? Or that fancy new car?
How much pollution was created to make and sustain
these things? I didn’t NEED a NEW car to get from
one place to another, and we didn’t NEED a modern
mansion to live happily. But then I guess “happy”
isn’t the point any more is it? The very thought
makes me nauseous in the realization that I
contributed to all that, for the sake of ego. And all
this is what is called “success” and “getting ahead”.
It sounds more like failure and falling behind to me,
when it’s considered in the light of spiritual values.
Calling this consumerist way of life, a “higher
standard of living” sounds nice, but another name for
it is endless selfishness. The more money people have
in this culture the more they want, (and the bigger
house and more expensive car that goes along with it).
They complain about not having enough, no matter how
much they have. But that’s not because they don’t have
enough, it’s because they waste what they have. The
more they have, the more they waste. And I confess
that I too believed THE GREAT LIE that “more is
better”. I believed that a person who owns expensive
things is a better person, someone to be admired. But
now I realize this is only a very shallow concept.
Only a misguided and selfish person spends their whole
existence accumulating more than they need, at the
expense of lives and the children of tomorrow. Only a
base egotist thinks that they must live to impress,
while hiding their real face underneath a façade of
“things“. My training in this culture made me a
glutton, an egotist and a fool. I admit this to the
world now. What a relief it is to be honest! My
humanity as a soul, and as caring person, has opened
my eyes to a more sane lifestyle.
Proud to be an American? Proud to value egotism and
image, over practicality and reality? The US spends 6
billion dollars annually on education, and 8 billion
for cosmetics! Any television ad should prove this
point to you. People buy things not for their
practicality but for their image….in other words, they
aim to show off, which reminds me of small children
trying to show “who’s got the best toy” in the
sandbox. That’s pretty sad. If this is all life is
about, then no wonder people are committing suicide in
increasing numbers. Never again for me. The American
Dream has become a nightmare for the world and for
ourselves.
And whatever happened to just being truly happy and
fulfilled, by living an uncomplicated life? Americans
are, for the most part, an unhappy lot. They don’t
look healthy, they thrive on soap operas and romance
novels, laugh nervously, smoke cigarettes, eat junk
food, talk non-stop trivia and need to take pills just
to experience some sexual appetite. In fact, we’re
becoming more unhappy by the minute, if one is to
understand what statistics and simple observation are
revealing. We’re taking more Prozac, Zantril,
vallium, alcohol and a million other antidepressants
than ever before, because of what they’re calling
“chronic stress syndrome” or “chronic depression“.
Our children are on Riddlin for the same reason, and
20 years ago that would have been unheard of. We’re a
nervous and suspicious people, never missing a chance
to dial 911 at the slightest provocation. We’ve got
more people in prison per capita than any other
country in the world, and we’re the most “medicated”.
It’s politically correct to call all this a “chemical
imbalance” but the fact of the matter is, our
lifestyle and materialistic values are KILLING us.
Our young people are suicidally depressed. Grade
school children carry knives and guns to school. Do
you suppose there’s something wrong with society,
rather than with these kids? You bet.
We fully expect to surgically remove this stressed
organ and that diseased tissue, and maybe our lives
will be extended, (though not improved) another five
years. And you know what? We count on being diseased
and incapacitated after 30 years of hard labor in the
9-5, (or is that 8 to 6?) routine. That’s why it’s
common to believe that we each need a million +
dollars saved up, to survive our self abuse in the
nearest rest home. We’ve become wage slaves who never
question what it’s all for. What is all this
“success” for anyway? So that somebody, somewhere,
some day might somehow admire you as a great person,
when deep down you know it’s all just a façade? We
supposedly work for all these material “conveniences”,
yet there is nothing convenient about living 30+ years
according to a job description. We’re destroying our
minds, bodies and planet to accomplish nothing more
than an extended hospital stay. I’ve noticed that
some people I’ve discussed these matters with call
such statements “negative”. But is the truth
“negative” or is it simply true? Is an ostrich safe
just because it sticks it’s head in the sand?
We all sit in front of television sets like zombies.
Televisions have become our closest companions,
instead of other people. And people will watch
anything, as an “escape”. If we’re so “successful”
then why is it that all we want to do is escape? Our
mental lives are like those of soap opera characters
concerned only with game show trivia. Our
intellectual standards have sunk to a point where no
one even asks “Why”? any more, and no one questions
anything. The words “truth”, “logic” “honesty” and
“reality” aren’t even in our vocabulary. No one dares
speak them because of the responsibility they might
imply.. Everyone has “their own truth” as though truth
is whatever you want to make up. We don’t really talk
to each other any more. It’s only polite smiles and
small talk, as though there isn’t anything more
important to talk about. We care more about our petty
emotional distress and what product to buy next, than
we do for the planet, which is being destroyed as we
speak. We care more for what goes into the engines of
our cars then our own bodies, while spending more time
taking care of the lawn rather than working out.
Don’t you see? Image has become far more important to
us than substance. Our lives are like a fancy box
with exquisite wrapping paper and bows, but with
nothing inside.
Wars are spoken of so casually that you’d think
killing another ten thousand or so had no more
relevance than a change in the weather. Perhaps less.
Every 20 minutes the world population goes up 3500
people, one species of plant or animal is destroyed
forever, and the average American gets fatter. We’ve
become the Feared, rather than the Just and the
Trusted. And does anybody really care? No. I’ve
noticed that such topics are considered impolite.
People react to such subjects like they would the
plague. We’ve become the tyranny and war mongering
imperialist which the writers of our Constitution
sought to change. The Revolutionary War was fought
over such issues, but the people have forgotten what
freedom really is. They’ve traded their responsibility
and freedom for a false sense of “security”. To quote
a famous dictator;
“Beware the leader who bangs the drum of war,
In order to whip the citizenry into a patriotic
fervor,
for patriotism is indeed a double edged sword.
It both emboldens the blood, just as it narrows the
mind.
And when the drums of war have reached a fever pitch
And the blood boils with hate
And the mind has closed, the leader will have no need
of seizing
the rights of the citizenry. Rather, the citizenry,
infused with fear and blinded by patriotism,
will offer up all of their rights unto the leader, and
gladly so.
How do I know? For this is what I have done.
And I am Caesar.
Julius Caesar
Nobody really wants to change how they live, even
though they don’t enjoy life. Why is this? Because
we’re all secretly terrified at what we’ve become, and
feel powerless to do anything about it. But in
reality that’s no excuse. The world situation isn’t
going to magically improve itself without intelligent
realism. Obviously it’s time for a fundamental change
of how we view life. Consumerism, militarism and
materialism just don’t work. Yet I don’t personally
know of even one person who will admit that there’s a
problem, let alone actually change for the better.
I realized that in our culture, when someone asks
“what do you do for a living?” they don’t mean how
spiritually you live, how socially conscious you are
or how you have contributed to the real progress of
the human condition. What they mean is, “What job do
you have and how much do you make?”. It all boils
down to dollars. They ask this so that they can
determine how worthy or unworthy you are to be in
their company. If you want to understand ANYTHING
about our domestic or foreign policies, just ask
“Where’s the money?” That will tell you everything
you need to know about when, what, how, where and why,
anything occurs as it does. Young people are
encouraged to go to college, but I notice that the
motive for this is not personal enlightenment, the
improvement of the human condition or the
understanding of life. It is for one simple purpose,
and that is to gain more “earning power” as a
showpiece on your resume’. It’s interesting how we’ve
reduced all the knowledge, spirituality and Universal
Truth to the lowest common denominator…dollars earned
per annum, as though God himself is nothing more than
The Cosmic Banker, and Reality is summarized perfectly
in the pages of tax returns.
Materialism and consumerism are eating us alive, just
as we are “consuming” the whole planet. Why shouldn’t
consumers, after all, not consume each other as well?
In the end, that’s exactly what’s going to happen.
Already the countries of the world are fighting over
what little is left, while people starve by the
millions the world over.
Proud to be an American? I’m not a consumer, worms
are. I believe that this is a very demeaning thing to
call oneself, and to call others. And I no longer
worship the dollar as God. So I guess that excludes
me from the club. I know, I know, it’s “unpatriotic”
to talk that way, which means of course, that the
truth itself has become unpatriotic. I guess the
universe will just have to change to suit our whims,
ay?
I’ve become disillusioned with “the American Dream”
and all that it supposedly stands for. Although I
care about the people, I care less and less for
governments bent on conquering the world to get their
oil, and anything else that isn’t tied down. I’m no
supporter of unprovoked war, or war for profit. But
disillusionment is good…the word means; “no more
illusions”. I don’t believe in raping the earth for
dollars. I no longer blind myself to the impact of
lifestyle on the world situation.. I no longer
believe that just because everybody else is doing it,
that this makes it OK. It’s not.
After realizing all this over a period of months, a
bought a packet of razor blades from the hardware
store, and scraped off my “Proud to be an American”
bumper sticker in disgust. I’m not proud of any of
these things, and frankly, it would be an
embarrassment to be identified as an American if I
were traveling abroad. I quit my corporate job
because I didn’t want to be a wage slave any more, for
people who don’t care about anything but money. And
yes, they’re being investigated by the SEC also, while
my former co-workers and I lose our 401K pensions. I
broke up with my wife who still, “plays the corporate
game”, having realized that she loved my money more
than she loved me, something that is taken as
commonplace these days. When I visit my children, I
try to explain to them why mommy is so stressed out,
and never has any time for them, (and never did). I
tell them that there’s a better way to live beyond
“happy pills“, that’s natural, simple and inexpensive.
I live and travel in an RV converted van now,
spending not even a hundredth as much as I once did to
live well.. In this way I’ve gone from “living to
work” to “working to live”. The apparent irony of
this is that I’ve never been happier, healthier or
wiser. I only wish I’d realized all this sooner.
I refuse to pay any more taxes for endless wars, and
trillions in national debt, while scoundrels sit in
places of government power. Give unto Caesar what is
Caesar’s? NO way. Death and destruction is what is
Caesar’s, not my money or my children’s lives..
I’m taking responsibility for the truth now, rather
than trying to live the absurd fantasy of the American
dream. It’s like waking up from a nightmare you‘ve
been trying to outrun. It feels really good. I
dearly hope the reader of this message will do the
same.
Yours truly,
A caring American More >
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 2 Mar 2002 @ 10:12
This says it all, but it only the beginning of what
truly can be done. Start by going within and going
without......as I have said before, don't say you are
for peace, and/or against the war, if you are still
paying taxes to a gov't that only represents Murder,
corruption, greed and power. Listen to the essence
you truly are, stop listening to TV, the lying media
and your "consumer' neighbor. Read on.............
**************************
R-E-S-I-S-T-A-N-C-E.......
Going Within by Going Without
Withdraw your support, Shun the Monopoly
Games.....
Resort to alternatives, or create
alternatives...
Get out of the Stock Market and stop
generating Profits for wealthy
parasites...
Buy nothing that is "New" and "Improved";
buy only 'previously owned'
items...
Avoid 'brand' name products and big 'chain'
stores, support smaller
businesses...
Stop relying heavily on credit cards, make
purchases with cash...
Remove most of your money from The Bank and
exchange for gold coins...
Learn to live Without the 'things'
and 'stuff' you really don't need...
Use Less, consume Less, simplify your life
wherever possible [Voluntary
Simplicity]
Start Thinking:
Whenever you make a purchase or use a
service, you pay a TAX to the GuvMen -
so - how many times a day do you financially
support the big hands that
cheat you?
Whenever you consume electricity or drive a
motorized vehicle, you enrich
the already vastly rich executives and
corrupt politicians who aid and abet
MegaCorp Global Piracy.
You CAN walk to many places, ride a bike,
use public transportation, use
electricity-free appliances and lighting
fixtures (check out this fine
company: http://www.lehmans.com]
YOU must be the CHANGE you wish to see in
this world. It STARTS with yOU,
not them.
Stand UP as a Resistance Fighter, a proud
American Maverick who can't be
corralled and herded into the cattle-cars of
apathy and irresponsibility.
Go Within and go Without the things you
don't need or want in this life - or
else you will remain part of the problem, a
Collaborator and Capitulator to
the Global Powers Elite.
You ARE the people - start something NOW,
start leading NOW - by being the
Kat that others can Kopy. Make it an "IN"
thing to be "OUT" of the status
quo CRAPOLA.
In Resonance with Resistance,
Paxdora
(This message 'channeled' via Universal
Common Sense and cannot be
copywrighted. Feelfree to disseminate and
relay to your heart's content...)" More >
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 24 Feb 2002 @ 09:38
Lessons of the Soul
PART 1
Where shall we look for meaning in this life? Of what purpose is existence, and what part does the human spirit have to play in an unlimited universe? We ask these timeless questions because finding their answer would satisfy one of our deepest thirsts…to know and understand. The modern world advocates we look outside of ourselves to crystallize truth. A majority of science and religious activity devotes itself to phenomena and rituals, yet the most profound answers to lifes’ questions are not found in searching out the cosmos. We need not view the electron microscope or the latest pill as the spiritual panacea they are touted to be. That kind of wisdom can only be found within, because in knowing our own selves we find the clarity to know the phenomenal world with accuracy.
In the quest for a deep realization of Truth we must turn within. Within the limitless pool of consciousness in the self, we find lasting meaning and satisfaction in life. From the perceived inner meaning that is inherent to every human being, our path to personal and collective success is made clear. Inquiring within is to delve into the microcosm of the entire universe. It has been said that more important than answers found, are the relevance of questions asked. The right answers to the wrong questions in life are practically useless. In asking about the reality of the self however, the answers that are forthcoming give us the personal power to really progress and evolve. In the modern world at present, we find that the question commonly asked is “Who are you?” What this question really means to ask is, “How do you compare with other people and society’s images of ‘success’?” (by virtue of what you do in the physical world). By asking, “Who are you?” we are inquiring as to job title, social status, and the degree to which one is recognized by people of “noteworthy credentials”. Such questions do not discover the deeper meanings of life. What we find in asking “WHO?” are the relative distinctions of a passing social phase, one that is arguably still a part of an immature human civilization. Social status is of no real spiritual bearing. More relevant than asking “Who?” is to ask “What?” What is a human being? Profound insights result from that question. The answer to “Who?” is always different and divisive, but the answer to “What” in the human context, always refers to that which is universal and powerful in all persons.
In asking, “What am I?” the answers which begin to arise take on a far greater scope, for they are not dependent upon any one time in historical perspective or culture. What we are in fact, has been called a number of things such as, “spirit”, “consciousness” and “soul”. What we are goes well beyond just the physical domain, into the realms of spiritual reality. These have deeper implications than is generally imagined. If such implications were generally recognized by society, almost everything which we do and identify with, would be radically changed for the better. Wars would end, cultural differences would be viewed as irrelevant, while religions and governments would erode away, to be replaced by the universality of self as consciousness, the all-pervading.
The “Who” of the human being does not truly matter, for job titles and resumes reflect only the outer appearance, not the inner reality. The “What” of the human being is that we are all conscious entities, who are visiting this material plane for a short while only. We are but souls in bodies. This genuine understanding of what it is to be human evokes an appreciation for living from deep within. To realize the self as soul, is to embrace the reality of a Cosmos with purpose and direction. The belief that we are confined to the material world alone, only to fade into oblivion upon physical death, is itself a chain that binds the mind. Such a view is indeed easy to hold, yet it offers little in return but an empty poverty of daily living. This is so primarily because it is untrue. Human existence is multidimensional. Our influence as centers of consciousness, spans realms which are primarily ignored by the average person at present, due to cultural conditioning. Never the less, such realms or planes of existence are a reality, and so is mutli-dimensional human influence.
It is commonly accepted that varying frequencies and informational content, can exist in the same space at the same time. Radio and television technology acknowledge the reality of differing “bands” (which are themselves composed of individual frequencies). These exist side by side in the area which surrounds your body right now. Also occupying your immediate area, are the frequencies of light, sound, cosmic background radiation and an unlimited number of other spectrums of existence. In the modern world of technology, such facts are easy for us to accept. Yet the same is true of various dimensional and spiritual existences, which most of us do not yet perceive. These too are composed of spectrums of frequencies, of varying vibratory rates.
Even our own emotions are but individual frequencies of the same life energy within. One moment that energy may be resonating with fear, the next with love, but in both cases, the energy upon which they are built is the same. All of the named emotions can be accurately viewed as vibratory rates or frequencies, which form the spectrum of our felt experience in life. This fact is analogous to how the universe itself is built into spectrums of existence, and not just on this material plane, but in innumerable other planes of existence as well. Existence is filled with spectrums of frequencies which compose bands, or groupings of frequencies. The colors of the rainbow for instance, make up the array of visible light. The same is true of the bands of invisible light and inaudible sound. Our audible spectrum of hearing is another such array of vibratory rates, formed by the scale of tones that compose all music. All of these known spectrums or bands, give us perfect analogies for understanding the planes of existence. “Occult” texts throughout the ages provide references to the various dimensions in a variety of names, the “ethereal”, “upper astral”, “lower astral”, “Buddhic”, “mental” and a host of others. Advanced mathematics has shown that other dimensions exist as well. Yet our own experience of life can demonstrate this fact beyond a doubt.
Our bodies exist on this material dimension as a collection of atoms and molecules, which have been referred to by many occult-spiritual texts as “dense” in nature, as compared to “more subtle” realms of existence. At the same time we have a “psychic existence” in which energies are exchanged from body to body, and mind to mind. The aura and chakras of the human “subtle bodies” convey our feelings to others. These are readily perceived in their own bodies, and vice versa. Thoughts are transmitted from person to person on a common basis, via many of the same principles we find in radio and television technology. The human body-mind is in fact a multi-band transceiver of information, via all of the chakras. Furthermore, not only do we possess physical and energetic bodies simultaneously, we also have what is known as a “causal body” or soul, that is the true foundation for our other “vehicles”. The causal body or soul is therefore our true identity. It is also the one to which we return, with the entirety of our focus, upon physical death. Our true identity as souls exists without the need for bodies. The soul finds its’ reality by virtue of the so-called “subtle” dimensions of existence. Our real “home” is therefore not just the physical plane.
It is from this essential essence of soul, that the Saints, Buddhas, Krishnas and Christs of all time, have drawn inspiration and guidance. Through this conduit to the Divine, God can be perceived and made visible to the inner eye. The eye of inner perception, (consciousness itself) sees the realities of life, with far greater accuracy than the outer two. Through clear inner perception we See the way home to the true self, and to the presence of God. Through introspection, we may consciously recall the greater purposes of this current incarnation, as souls who have taken physical life for a given period, and with evolutionary growth in mind.
From soul and its pure consciousness do we journey upon the physical plane, as adventurers into new territory. This we do for the sake of experience and the gaining of greater wisdom. Just as the child ventures forth with curious attentiveness to the events of life, so too does the soul assume a physical vehicle for itself on the material plane. The river of life seems shallow to those who deny the purpose of the soul, and who see only material purposes in living. They submerge one toe in this river and proclaim it known, and even uninteresting. From the purely materialistic point of view, life does become uninteresting. This is because such a view is divorced from the deeper reality of existence. That reality is primarily spiritual in nature. Those who know the true self and its aims however, dive into the river of life and its meaning with relish. They do this because they realize the supposed “safety” of the known is a trap to be avoided. “Safety” becomes attachment, and attachment is not safe at all for the spiritual being. The greatest hazard of living one may ever encounter, is their own unwillingness to change, detach from old ways, or to understand. Today we find much attachment to material possessions and institutions, as a symptom of spiritual misunderstanding. To gain deep wisdom, materialism must fall to the knowledge and goals of spiritual purpose. It is here that society in general is in the greatest need of change, because change is the prerequisite for real progress. Evolution implies transformation. Thus, change is the essential reality for this spiritual journey of life. Through it we gain the wisdom which the soul seeks out. To acquire wisdom and greater consciousness is to carry out the aims of our true selves, as spirits in bodies.
Human personalities often believe themselves to be the ultimate pilot of the river of life. A personality after all, is really only a collection of memories and beliefs, which form the “Who” of social status. But we are much more than a simple “Who”, just as the carpenter is more than the things they build. The potential of the creator can never be measured by the things created. This is why human potential can never be measured by the learned patterns of personality and culture. Those people that embrace only a materialistic, social-status view of life, believe only in what they can see, as in “Seeing is believing”, through the physical senses. This view neglects the essential reality that the direct, intuitive perceptiveness of consciousness, is a far superior mode to memorized, conditioned procedures for living. The materialistic frame of mind also sees only effects and not causes. Even more importantly, it sees only those effects which it is trained to see according to vocation, specialization, social training and “higher” education. The materialist sees leaves blowing around in the air, but hesitates to acknowledge the wind itself, so to speak. We study disease and pollution as separate cases involving separate solutions, without ever stopping to think that the cause of these problems are originally man-made, through a materialistic life view. The same is true of the modern mind itself. We become immersed in our thoughts, but fail to see the consciousness, (soul) behind them.
The perception of reality has much more to do with the willingness to absorb what is Seen, than it does the ability to perceive. Knowledge is thus not the essence of wisdom. Going beyond the phrase “seeing is believing”, it would be even more accurate to say “believing is seeing” in the modern world. As long as we believe that the universe is simply a collection of molecules that interact without ultimate direction or spiritual purpose, we will “see” only material remedies for the problems of the world. In materialism our minds will be limited to temporary physical achievements, rather than eternal and spiritual ones.
Conclusively, the truest and only lasting remedy for the world crisis is to completely change how we have been taught to view life. Stated more fundamentally, this means we need a change of consciousness. Each of us is fully capable of changing our own consciousness for the better. This requires an inner focus however, rather than a purely external one, in the realization that the answers we need are found within. Meditation is a premium tool for such a critically necessary self-transformation.
In meditation we gain the ability to transcend the past, to find that we are more than memories or beliefs. This is true also, even of a computer. A computer is more than a given set of stored information. It is also more than specific programs which determine how to act upon that information. Similarly, our personal identity is not limited to our learned behavior and beliefs, any more than a computer can be defined by any one program it happens to be running. We are more than our memories, just as a computer is more than its currently loaded files. As we learn to live beyond memory and traditional thinking, we regain our inherent mode of direct perception and intuitiveness. We learn in essence, “to transcend our life program” (personality) and achieve beyond the confines of learned, cultural behavior. To do this effectively, we must identify ourselves with soul.
To navigate the river of life, we need the direct and natural perception that is the property of the soul within. This perceptiveness is also known simply as clarity. Clarity is the premium navigational guide for right living. Through the clarity of soul do we begin at the headwaters of birth, and return to the ocean of consciousness at death. Yet our essence, (consciousness) is preserved throughout each life. The universe is an intelligent structure, and it preserves those things of most value to it. It stores information at all levels, and applies that knowledge with greater and greater wisdom through new forms. The knowledge stored and applied by each soul, simply reflects this universal principle. Regardless of occupation or social position, it is to this source of inner wisdom we inevitably return, when a given physical life is ended. All that remains of the worldly upon death are the spiritual gains made in personal consciousness, of which the soul is composed. Thus, in Spirit all of humanity is ultimately equal, and of the same ultimate cause. Our joint purpose and heritage is evolutionary, spiritual progression.
The true self is literally made of consciousness. All else including the mind and body, are but the tools that this consciousness uses to carry out its evolutionary purposes. This means the body and personality-mind, are but temporary abodes of less than ultimate importance. “Of what is this true self or consciousness composed?”, you may ask. What are we really, at the most basic level of Self? How may this essence be described? All of these questions may be answered through deep meditation. Only through your own direct perception will you realize the full truth of what is about to be said. Never the less it is useful to speak of such things, even when they are not immediately validated;
The true self as consciousness, or by another name “soul”, is composed of three primary elements. These three may be referred to as Intent, Awareness and Energy. The realization of the self as consciousness, becomes an implicit realization of soul. Self-realization then, is an experiential understanding of the components of consciousness of which we are made. These are the real basis for everything we do. The soul is composed of none other than universal Energy, held in place and patterned by Awareness, which is then given direction and purpose by Intent.
Through deep self-reflection we come to realize that; the terms “soul”, “consciousness” and “true self” are synonymous.
A simple exercise in self-realization is as follows. Place a pen or other object in front of you on a table. Before reading any further past this line, look at the pen for a moment, and then follow this instruction; “Intend to pick up the pen”. Those of you who simply reached out and picked it up, followed this seemingly simple demonstration flawlessly. This was an exercise in Intent, and therefore consciousness. What in fact, did you learn about intent? The answer should be; Intent involves action. Also, all action is preceded by intent.
To truly intend something is to act upon it, as demonstrated by changes made. In this case the changes made included a movement of the arm, and a lifting of the pen. To explain the significance of this, is to say that your consciousness took action. Your inner Intent directed your awareness to first focus on the pen, and then the hand that lifted it. Energy was employed to make this happen. Interestingly, this is also the process of CREATION and CHANGE in all parts of the universe. Intent directs awareness, which then coordinates energy, in all things and at all times. Just contemplate the simplicity and deeper implications of this for a moment. Everything we do in life is based first upon intent, which is then focused by awareness, and made manifest through energy. Everything. This includes the drive to work, the blink of an eye, observing a sunset, talking with the neighbors and reading these words.
The quality of our lives is proportional to the quality of the intent we hold within.
In expanding our consciousness, (intent, awareness and energy) through meditation, the mind and body are refined. They are made more efficient and capable. Yet, this is not the only advantage gained through such practice. Greater rapport of the body/mind with the soul is also gained, which is itself pure consciousness, in essence.
Note that the following are five ways of saying exactly the same thing;
“Let that which looks rest within itself”
“Have awareness of awareness”
“May the soul contemplate its own nature”
“A/A=C, whereas, “A” is awareness and “C” is clarity”
“Meditate”
Please contemplate these five for a moment.
We find that the purpose of the true self, or soul, holds the same purpose of consciousness everywhere in the universe. The evolution of inner qualities, paralleled by outer forms, is the expression of that universal purpose. Through greater realization of the self as soul, we find that there is purpose, wisdom and intelligence, underlying daily existence. By the same token, these qualities underlie our very being. Upon realizing these things, it is then that the real potentials of life begin to be revealed to the conscious mind. The revelation of spirit as the guiding factor in living, is itself both a surprise and a familiar relief, to the troubled ego. Even more belief-shattering is the fact that not only are we guided by spirit, we are spirit in the truest, most fundamental sense. Thus we are not emotion, memory, thought, self-image, job title or nationality. This material body is worn for a lifetime only, and is likewise not of the true self. It is a garment convenient for material existence. The ego which inhabits the mind is also only a temporary resident, in the trinity of body, mind and soul. We need not lament the loss of the physical garment or ego, (mental software). But we may opt to cultivate and strengthen both mind and body for the sake of spiritual progress. This better enables our soul to fully manifest its purposes while in physical existence. Mind and body are but the vehicles or tools of the soul in the ultimate sense. This fact is made a practical reality for the self realized person, becoming a major intellectual and spiritual advantage. It is an advantage because we are no longer limited to time, place, culture or personal history, as we realize ourselves to be souls of cosmic purpose.
The focus and Intent of soul is to evolve, to learn, and become ever more capable. As we evolve and become more adept in our understanding of purposeful living, our consciousness expands. We learn to use higher and higher levels of spiritual intent. Our awareness is refined and carefully focused upon truth itself, as the energy within grows and multiplies. The expansion of consciousness is the primary foundation for unlimited self-transformation.
As souls we take these Earthly forms to carry out evolutionary goals. As meditators we realize that the evolution of consciousness is the purpose behind life, and even matter and Energy themselves, in all places and times. Just as consciousness, [or that which is called the Will, (Intent) of God] moves through these physical bodies we wear, so too does it move throughout all of the cosmos, ever defining and shaping existence. This is done for the sake of creating ever more capable and self-realizing forms. This “Divine Intent” if you will, is the very motive or cause, for biological evolution. The Intent found in the universe is the basis for intelligence in nature, and the advancement of all universal forms. Consciousness thus defines the ultimate organization of matter. In the same way, the true self ultimately defines the life of the ego. This it does even when the ego mistakenly takes over the role of decision-making in life. To spiritually advance, it is useful to remember that life decisions are better left to the spiritual intent of the soul, which is itself a larger part of a Cosmic Whole.
"We are One" is more than just a platitude; it is a fact within the communality of all souls made of a common essence…consciousness.
Intent, Awareness and Energy are common to all consciousness, everywhere in the universe. They manifest themselves according to Cosmic design. This design is commonly called "natural law" by science, and similarly "The Hand, (or Will) of God" by Christianity. By another name it is the "manifestation of consciousness in nature", which serves as both the foundation for human action, and all other living things. Our birthright is indeed That Which Moves and perceives, (Intent and Awareness). This essence catalyzes and patterns the prevailing Energies of the cosmos, into both the recognizable, and as yet unrecognizable. It also patterns our own lives, each second of the day.
The named and unnamed mechanisms of cosmic order, brought into existence by "blind" natural forces, (according to traditional scientific views) may be better referred to as, “the actions of the Intent At Large”. The meditator eventually confirms the fact of the intelligent guidance of the personality, by the soul. They also confirm by the same token, that there is an underlying intelligence in nature, that accounts for its own self-modification and adaptation. Through soulic influence the meditator eventually perceives the sentience of the universe in general, which is of the same essence as that which is within. This realization accounts for the traditional Vedic exclamation; “I am That”. Purely random cosmic order, made possible only by mathematical probability, is a fiction created by minds which prefer conveniently linear models of existence.
The universal macrocosm is governed by the same essence of Energy, Awareness and Intent, as is the human microcosm. This primary natural fact of human existence, can be validated by the spiritual seeker regardless of the prevailing culture or time. The consciousness within, or the "Inherent Buddha Nature", or "Christ Consciousness" underlying the superficial layer of personality, is none other than the soul. Just as the terms "God" and "Consciousness" are synonymous at the level of the macrocosm, so too are "soul" and "consciousness" at the level of the human being. Our attunement to the true self is of primary importance in the practices of meditation and contemplation, as well as physical and mental purification. This Self is the one which possesses wisdom and connection to Wisdom. When we transcend all cultures, all times and inhibiting conceptual barriers, it is then that the seeker of Truth is rewarded with none other than a complete return to soul, or "That which Moves and Creates” in all things. We are then returned to a clear picture as to our purpose in life, and in fact, all life itself.
Matthew Webb visionquest@eoni.com
The World Mind Society [link]
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23 Feb 2002 @ 10:00
An invitation for everyone......
Dear friends of spiritual progress,
This is a reminder for the upcoming Global Group Mind Meditation for this Sunday, February 24th at 3PM Pacific Time, (Seattle/Portland/Los Angeles).
The Global Group Mind Meditations are now in progress, for the benefit of all beings on Earth. They represent a growing effort by people around the world, to focus their prayers and meditations together, for the mutual expansion of consciousness.
Our intentions are focused to uplift the world. Through this simultaneous focus we are aligning our awareness together on a psychic basis. As we focus together, our psychic effects expand and elevate. Through this alignment we expand our mutual, group mind spiritual power. At the same time our Intent is also to uplift the World Mind, or collective consciousness of humanity, and to heal the Earth, (Gaia/Earth Mind) of stresses and imbalances. Cast forth your love and clarity and intend their manifestation!
The Earth Mind needs a booster now more than ever. I recommend we raise our planet, just as we raise each other and the peoples of the world. To do this it is useful to intend "the best benefit for all", (optimal consciousness expansion). Intend this with perseverance for the sake of the Raising, and not with an attachment to specific results.
All of this is explained in detail, in the Perpetual Raising series of articles. Please take some time to read this 5-part article if you haven’t already. [See below] Feel free to pass it on to others.
Our spiritual effort is founded upon the Group Mind Principle, and other principles of Natural Law. The Group Mind Principle states that,
"the resulting force generated from the combining of like minds, is geometrically greater than the sum of its parts".
Through the Group Mind Principle we are resonantly combining our love, clarity and a passion for spiritual progress in all ways, to manifest itself planet-wide. We are in effect, intending into place ever higher states of consciousness…for ourselves, each other, the Earth and all of humanity. In an intentionally formed group mind such as this, the psychic and spiritual effects created can be quite potent.
The Global Group Mind Meditations are being coordinated by the World Mind Society at [link] Inquiries regarding this Transmission of group Intent may be directed to Matthew Webb visionquest@eoni.com
Participants are asked to choose which one of seven specific focuses they want to employ, for the sake of group and world benefit. These seven focuses comprise ideal focuses for the expansion of consciousness, including love, clarity, expansion, higher energy, connection to God, etc., and are all described in detail, by the five-part article known as The Perpetual Raising. The Perpetual Raising series can be found in the Library of the World Mind Society at [link]
We can collectively bring forth a new world. Let us manifest together the higher qualities of natural and spiritual living. You are all invited to participate!
The Global Group Mind Meditations are held every second and fourth Sunday, of each month. The next GGM Meditation will be held at 3PM Pacific time, on Sunday, March 10th.
I’ll feel you there at 3PM sharp! Thank you all for your participation.
Love and Clarity,
Matthew Webb More >
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17 Feb 2002 @ 17:39
I submit for you another article, this one written by Matthew Webb, and can be found in the World Mind Society Library. I need say no more, the article is clear and says it all.
Love with clarity to all,
Sandi
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The Age of Empowerment
At this moment many different meditational and prayer-centered organizations around the world, are using group focus to bring about global change. Some meditate for peace, and others pray for the intercession of Divine forces. This is being done to place humanity once again on an evolutionary course. Some groups meditate upon creating a coherence of mind, others upon peacefulness and wisdom among our race. Still others use a silence of mind to calm the modern chaos and conflict. Regardless of the methods of various practices, or the credentials of their spiritual leaders, the essential point to realize here is that humanity is awakening out of a 3000-5000 year slumber. This collective sleep came upon us as we left natural ways and laws. It has cast a shadow upon all the products of civilization. Only now is there a significant dawning of the new Age of Empowerment, which actually reflects the most ancient of all cosmic knowledge at its foundation.
What is being realized is that there is a higher order in the universe, than that imposed by martial regulation. There exists a higher law than the edicts of courts, judges, popes or presidents. This law is higher because it is the very source for human existence, as well as all of life and existence itself. The highest law of all is structured by natural and spiritual design. The greatest means for success in life is therefore through natural and spiritual principles. Natural laws and spiritual principles are in essence one in the same thing. They are both ways of referring to the Cosmic Order we must all recognize, or suffer the consequences of wrong Intent, (extinction). There are a great many among us today, who are realizing that what we need is a unity of spiritual Intent. Our collective effort and focused group determination, is exactly what is required at this moment in history. Very soon, the days of individual and competitive effort will end, one way or another. In the future they will be remembered as obsolete and even primitive. True social progress will in the near future, be defined as progressive and mutual spirituality. Our unity of spiritual focus will render the sweetest fruits that humanity has ever known, in the form of compassionate relations, dynamic community living, and the sharing of resources. In greater enlightenment, people will directly perceive the Brotherhood and Sisterhood of all humanity, in all places upon the globe. All of this will take place through one singular means in the elevation of consciousness, at a grass-roots level of society. Groups around the world dedicated to the expansion of consciousness, act as sparks igniting the spiritual fire of global illumination.
Natural and spiritual laws tell us that the purpose of life is growth, change and constant evolution. Humanity is still very much in the midst of this evolutionary process. We are growing and becoming more than we ever were, (or at least this is the human potential, and most fundamental need). Our brain capacity and conscious potentials are such, that we have the option to choose the path of our own destiny. But this capacity for free will comes with a price. It is ours to choose, yet we must choose wisely or suffer mass destruction forged by our own hands. There is a broad range of possibilities open to us, but only within the parameters of natural law. Outside of these parameters we may not stray for long, because the Universe has its own organized purpose. We may not defy this purpose indefinitely. This means that free will is not the whole equation of human mental capacity. We must be more than merely intelligent, we must also be wise. Wisdom is none other than the application of truth in ones’ life. The greater this application becomes, the greater is the resulting wisdom. Wisdom tends to be the bi-product of natural living, since nature operates directly upon Truth. In our free will, the acquisition of natural wisdom is necessary. We may then make the choices which sustain all life, and not just the benefit of a few.
When we follow the natural design, the choices we make are evolutionary. This means that our decisions result in the inner and outer growth of the human being. We are becoming conscious members of Cosmic citizenship. When this happens we become more than just the citizens of nations, or members of a given culture, religion or ideology. By adopting natural and spiritual laws as our guiding system of living, it is then that the whole universe becomes the place of human creation and contribution.
Through the group mind principle of nature, we can take part in the formation of a new world. Our collective intent is the basis for how our society functions. When we spiritually change this intent at a personal level, we become Masters. When we change intent on a collective level, our species will gain what may be called “world enlightenment”. In this world the very concept of human limitation and self destruction will be shattered. Today’s miracles will become tomorrows’ every-day occurrences, by remaining true to what our own souls already know. In following the ways of nature, and consciously participating in the process of evolution, (rather than seeking to avoid it) the natural wisdom of the human spirit will finally come into full bloom.
The purpose of global meditations, prayers, and spiritual practices, is to improve both personal and world conditions. The outer condition of international relations, directly reflects the inner world of the consciousness we hold. Fundamentally, we all work toward the creation of a new world, where complete empowerment of the people is the norm, rather than alienation, pain and fear. As we engage a spiritual focus together, we change our individual and collective consciousness, to higher and higher levels. Greater love, clarity, awareness and Cosmic Purpose then make themselves apparent. What will this new world look like, when a great shift in world consciousness occurs? At present we are in the midst of a period of transition and relative chaos. Turmoil is occurring at all levels of global affairs. We have within our power as conscious beings, (and at this very moment) the ability to transform chaos into a higher level of spiritual order. The new era thus created, might well be called The Age of Empowerment. Let us explore how this Age will look, and rally around its crystallization in cooperative effort. With this crystallized vision of global empowerment in place, all that is then needed is its cooperative implementation. This can be accomplished by those of progressive intention.
By focusing upon the expansion of consciousness, (that we are) we facilitate the purposes of our own souls, the evolutionary process in Nature, and Divine Will in the ascension of humanity. As each of us expands our essential being, and raises our level of spiritual intention, we will cross a series of consciousness-thresholds around the globe. These collective thresholds, (of change) are in essence, no different than the changes an individual goes through, as they expand personal consciousness. Some refer to such a major shift of global consciousness through such terms as “omega point” or “critical mass”. A critical mass-shift of consciousness, is comparable to the flash-point of fire, as something flammable suddenly bursts into flame, or when water comes to a boil. In all of these cases a threshold is crossed, after which many experiential changes are made evident. The difference between boiling water, and water which is calm is obvious, as is the difference between the flash-point of fire and mere smoldering. The same is true of various thresholds of consciousness, at the individual, group and global levels. The many groups and individuals who are now arising in spiritual unity across the globe, are the smoldering of our collective will to ascend. We need only to align this collective will cooperatively, to make world enlightenment a spiritual fire that is felt as a daily reality. Ultimately, we all seek a major threshold, (of change) in world consciousness. The crossing of this threshold will be made evident to all persons on this planet simultaneously. Just as a roomful of people can come to simultaneous joy and realization together, (this is especially evident in group meditations or prayer/drumming circles) so too can all of humanity wherever they are on the globe.
So what happens after the shift of global consciousness? What will the world look like in terms of social relations and international policy? After such a shift, there will be obvious changes in the degree of manifest love, clarity, energy and connection to nature, among the peoples of the world. In a more enlightened state of world consciousness, the following social trends will be become increasingly evident;
1) National boundaries will dissolve, as they will be seen as unimportant and artificial. People will identify instead with what is universal. They will witness the commonality of consciousness inside themselves and all others. In other words, they will identify with the consciousness or God within, as a first hand experience. The peoples of the world will do this rather than identifying with those learned distinctions of nationality, which are by comparison small, false and self limiting. We are not the members of nations, we are members of the family of God. We are not of states or territories, we are a part of Nature and the natural design. Our true heritage is that of consciousness the universal, not the artificially imposed ideology of “national pride”, which has nothing to do with the natural reality.
2) Cultural boundaries will dissolve, as they will be seen as unimportant and artificial. We are not members of cultures, because any one culture is truly less than human souls in bodies. What is a culture other than a set of beliefs, made by men in accord with the limitations of time and place? We are far greater than any one set of beliefs or lifestyles. We are Divine beings of vast potential, of sophisticated genetic background, spanning eons of time. We are the stuff of stars, and the product of the Cosmic principles of Creation itself. Humans are the very creators of all cultures, and are therefore more than any one set of ideals or beliefs. The human being is reflective of that which is universal, just as is all of nature. Upon realizing this our common root as conscious beings, will become the unified ground for world peace and true fulfillment.
3) Religious boundaries will dissolve, as they will be seen as unimportant, and artificial. The universal truth which underlies all religions surpasses the limitations of any one ideology. As we expand our consciousness, we realize that it is the Truth which any religion attempts to convey which is important, not specific rituals, practices or traditions. No one given place of worship is necessarily more holy than any other…it is the entire Earth and the human being itself which is Holy. We carry this holiness within, and to assign it arbitrarily to one piece of land or temple, is to create distinctions which do not truly exist. It is to Truth alone which we will apply ourselves, regardless of religious orientation. Using Truth as the primary guide in life, a person achieves what is known as “Mastery” of self, as a soul in a body. We are all souls in bodies, as the product of Divinity/Natural Intelligence. All human beings are composed of consciousness at a fundamental level. For this reason our goals are truly universal and unified. We are therefore much more than any one approach…as it is said, “all paths lead to God”. In greater self realization, we See that the paths which lead to God are not God Itself. A path is not representative of the God we seek to know and commune with. Regardless of the technique of meditation or prayer, is it not the same Universal Consciousness, (God) which is the subject of our spiritual focus? Upon realizing this, religious disputes and wars will become a thing of forgotten history. Jihads and holy conflicts will be made obsolete, because in our expanded consciousness, the people of the world will recognize that the holiest focus of all is found in the reverence of life, and its universal, spiritual purpose.
4) Political boundaries will dissolve, as they will be seen as unimportant and artificial. Political orientations are, (ideally) only specific approaches to the establishment of the general welfare. It is not any one party or platform which is most important, it is our general welfare in daily living which matters to the people of the world. As our global consciousness shifts, we will no longer seek the special-interest benefit of a given political party alone. We will instead seek the welfare of all people as cosmic equals, in the formation of a more perfect social union.
After the shifts of world consciousness occur, a different consensual social order will make itself apparent…
1) Competitiveness for the sake of selfish benefit, will be replaced by the realization that we have much more to gain through cooperation and harmony.
2) Love will replace fear as the standard assumption in social encounters. There is no true reason for interactions to be otherwise. It will be realized that what we create together, literally determines the fate of our collective destiny. Higher consciousness will demonstrate in no uncertain terms, that love is not an abstract theory of sentimental value only. It is in fact a practical and spiritual state of being, that affords very real advantages, for all who focus upon it together.
3) Clarity will replace confusion as the standard norm for modern thought. It will be understood that truth is a universal constant, one that is integral to God, Truth and Nature alike. It is also an inherent part of our human reality, by the same token. In realizing this, clarity will take the place of confusion as the standard content for all sources of public information, (media). We will gain increasing insight into what is real in Truth, and what is only the illusion(s) of our own making. In clarity for instance, we will go beyond the belief that materialism is the best standard for living. The public focus will then shift to that which is universal, and away from the false assumptions of the marketplace, and money-as-happiness. In clarity mutual intent will become apparent, and there will be no place for deceptiveness, since inner motives will be instantly recognized, (both within and without).
4) We will increasingly find that feelings of mutual strength replace those of competitiveness and discord. In the new Age of Empowerment, we will understand that there is far more to gain by strengthening each other, than through cut-throat destructiveness and selfish interest alone. Cooperative living in a variety of forms will spontaneously arise, in the form of communities, communal households, shared resources and mutual undertakings. Cooperation will be carried forward by individuals who See that the collective good, also profoundly contributes to their own personal good.
5) Efficient and natural living will take the place of “consumerism”. Nature will become the standard for social order, and natural laws the template for a truly satisfying standard of living. Sustainable and natural methods of agriculture, self governance, social relations, education, medicine and all other areas of collective effort, will be made self-sufficient. Governmental “authority” will be de-centralized, and replaced with the autonomy and self capability of the people. Grass roots practical action and self motivation, will replace the need for “experts” (who supposedly know more about ourselves and our own welfare, than we do).
THE VISION
Increasingly, there are those who are appearing from the ranks of the old-world order, with a fresh vision of life. Individuals are spontaneously arising, (as well as those inspired by organized means) with revolutionary, yet ancient knowledge. These individuals are acting as the Guides for higher consciousness, within the currently materialistic world society. They are creating a world movement based upon an embrace of universal spirituality, instead of specific governments, philosophies or religions. This world movement will progressively recognize the deeper qualities of life and Truth for their own inherent value.
The true identity of human beings as conscious souls in bodies, rather than as citizens of countries, will become the standard “political” position. The progressively inclined will increasingly crave and align with natural ways, and find this to be a very real source for spiritual regeneration. In so doing many will gain what will be regarded as various mental and spiritual powers, including expanded perceptions, psychic manifestations, enhanced intelligence and wisdom. These important qualities will enable them to guide the new progressive trend of humanity, into an enlightened age. This new Age of Empowerment will be marked by a knowing of God in Nature, and a respect for right living as demonstrated by spiritual, scientific and natural principles. All of these areas will be viewed as one in the same study. Scientific investigation will be based on nature and Natural Law, and thus be more fully understood through the wise focus of spirituality. Scientific principles will be the means to the spiritual for many, having been motivated by the Cosmic impulse to understand. Spirituality will in turn be more fully understood and embodied, through enlightened science. The Age of Empowerment will find progressive fruition through naturally applied scientific tools and concepts, along-side spiritual progressiveness.
The progressive elements of humanity will increasingly find ways of living which maintain inner strength. To some degree, this group will wait for the time when their voice and way of living may be more clearly heard, at which point they will openly advocate progressive measures for the further evolution of humanity. [That time is now] Many will band together, especially in natural areas, forming communities of like mind. Some of these exist successfully at present, even in large cities. Spiritual practices of all kinds for the improvement of the body, mind and spirit will flourish among them. The widespread use of herbs, natural foods, and alternative technologies will sustain those who naturally oriented. Those who observe natural laws have the support of Earth consciousness in general.
Then, there will occur a phenomena of consciousness that is often not easily attained by any planet, or any other life supporting body. Human consciousness will reach a planetary threshold, whereby the constituent minds of the world will collectively and simultaneously shift. This is a process that resembles the flash point of fire suddenly crossed. This flash point is usually catalyzed by one or more among an intelligent race, typically at various points around a world, whose personal consciousness reaches an elevated stage. When this happens High Intent is radiated outward as a powerful and progressive force of a very high vibration. Such spiritual Intent is the result of dedicated Spiritual focus. It comes about through an alignment with the Will of God/Nature, and the subsequent channeling of Divine Intent into the environment, for the benefit of all. The spiritual spark thus created by advanced souls, ignites the realization of a great many more, elevating their consciousness resonantly.
Evolutionary emanations travel outward from spiritual groups and Masters, like the waves caused when stones are thrown into a pond. This “pond” is the World Mind, also known as “the collective unconscious” of global, human society. To make a global “flash-point shift” more probable, there must exist a minimum number of truly spiritual persons who have attained significant self realization. This self realization allows them to be receptive to the emanations of consciousness-pioneering groups and individuals. Because of their receptivity, (and also because of the very compelling nature of the high vibration/Intent sent forth) the people first affected will then embody this Intent themselves. Many people will feel compelled to spontaneously enter states of love, clarity and realization, though many may not realize why this is so. This will amplify and expand the original impulse sent by the minority who Understand. Larger and larger portions of the population will resonate with, and radiate, high vibrations and Intent, (love and spiritual motivation). The flash point phenomena will continue to expand over the entire population of the world, in ever widening circles of influence. In a very short time the World Mind will be transformed and elevated, in its level of consciousness, after a certain critical mass or percentage of the population, is converted to high(er) Intentions. The raising of world consciousness may therefore be catalyzed, by those who understand the principles of natural law which can accomplish such an act.
A shift in the Planetary Mind of this type, will be strongly felt by every living being. It will similarly elevate all planetary matter, in the form of psychically emanated love and clarity. A flash point phenomena such as this, will also result in off-world effects. These will extend themselves outward into space like a radiating light. The Earth will become a literal spiritual source, a psychic sun of high vibration and Intent, shining brightly on subtle realms. Such a planetary event would be a primary culmination of Earth consciousness, (and human consciousness) in Self Realization. This is the ultimate aim of all group minds in the universe, in Unity. It is the primary fulfillment for human existence, and for the whole process of evolution. May our intentions be joined together, to cooperatively bring greater world enlightenment into fruition…
The World Mind Society [link] More >
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