Another Day, Another View

There are many things worth living for, a few things worth dying for, and nothing worth killing for.

~ Tom Robbins

In the last several days I've been going through a process of simplification, purification, and a stripping down, if you will. Isn't it interesting, when reaching greater states of well-being, in essence, has nothing to do with adding anything.

We live in a culture where more is better. We live in a culture where the mention of "spreading the wealth around" is considered negative. I don't get it. If I am missing something than please, fill me in.

The wallpaper on my computer contains a picture of the earth from space. Often I look at it, pondering, how silly all this division and separation we are bombarded with on a daily basis is. We live on this one planet. We are one people. Yeah, I was born in America, but that label is only identified with the small part of myself.

Some may not understand where I am coming from...and I don't mind. I've made friends with just about every type of person. Even right-winged conservatives from Texas. Doesn't matter to me.

What troubles me is the small, but powerful, subset that does everything it can to exaggerate the separateness in the world...feeding on the us versus them mentality.

In the end, however, the negativity has a way of imploding on itself. There is really no need to fight it. Because, behind the scenes lives a Truth that is all powerful and self-sustaining. Gandhi new it. Mandela did too. It only takes patience and trust, while in the mist of everything, staying steadfast to the power that lies within.

Jesus said, "the meek shall inherit the earth." Which can be interpreted as the humble. I mean, those who yell and scream rhetoric may take the stage for a time, but really, it's becoming laughable to what ends people will go through to lie, and stand on a foundation without an ounce of integrity.

True power has nothing to do with force. It has everything to do with yielding. Maybe a challenging concept to understand, I myself don't fully grasp the meaning, but the places where I've let go, to my amazement, what filled the space unleashed something bigger and more magical than I can even offer to explain. The miracle is the fact that we all share it.

We waste our time looking for the perfect lover, instead of creating the perfect love.

~ Tom Robbins

In Taiwan, family is a big deal. Togetherness is the hallmark. In the U.S., personal space is a bit beyond arms length. Here, I've learned, personal space is just about shoulder to shoulder. People like to be close to one another. Right away you become part of the family. Right away there is acceptance. People are sincerely humble. It's been quite fascinating. It's softened me.

I always get the question about marriage, naturally. They ask me if I desire to get married? Do I want to have children? And I really don't have a solid answer.

Simply put, I haven't had a relationship that merited marriage. Long ago, in my past, I felt it was something that I wanted because it was what was supposed to happen next in life. But, now I just don't know.

I don't want a relationship where we feed on each other's weaknesses...filling each other's gaps. I desire a partnership where both people are intent on filling there own cup...living their passions...and then, come together in the bliss of there 'own' happiness and fulfillment.

I would rather be with someone that desires to stand by me because the truly want to be there....not because they are locked into a marriage...or because they just don't want to be alone.

I will always believe in love. This is true.

At any rate, it's an interesting time in my life. Let's just say I'm open. Open to whatever. I'm not saying yes. I'm not saying no.

View Point

When they tell you to grow up, they mean stop growing.

~ Tom Robbins

Over the past year, I've of done a fair amount of travel, and remarkably, I've been both fascinated and amazed at the level of interest the world has for the upcoming U.S presidential election. The world is watching.

It's pretty clear that I support Obama. I don't support any one political party, but I do support his vision. I support what he stands for. I support what he represents. The consensus is pretty clear, throughout the rest of the world...its Obama all the way.

What is even more interesting is this. For the most part, people like Americans. The world looks to the U.S. for its innovation, ingenuity, and inspiration. In no way have I talked with someone from a foreign land that wants to see this country fail. Even those I have spoken to from the middle east...(gasp). Yes, many have asked, sincerely, with utmost concern...what is up with your president?...we don't get it?...please, I'd like to understand. Many times, I'm left speechless, because I don't get it either. I've never been a big fan of George W. Bush's policies, but when it comes to the topic of our president, there isn't much I can say, except that I hope we can some day have a more positive standing in the world.

It has been a fortunate pleasure to dialogue with people from all over, gathering a host of varying perspectives on life, love, spirituality, family and human folly. And I have to say, traveling and connecting with people from other countries and cultures has been one of the best things I have ever done and have experienced.

I've learned through our captivating and colorful differences...that have a way of making life so refreshing and complete... that we are alike, in more ways than one. We are more alike than many media portals would like to portray. We are more alike than we have been lead to believe. And I am filled with gratitude to have experienced the oneness we all share. I feel lucky to have been taught this at a young age from my parents. It set the stage. However, it is one thing to have a mental concept of it, and it is another to actually go out and live it, breathe it, taste it.

I've always been a person that desired the direct experience.

There are differences too. Beautiful, thought provoking differences, that when willing, have unlocked a part of myself. Every culuture, has taught me something. Every place has opened my mind where I didn't even realize were closed and or intolerant.

It simply feels good to garner greater acceptance, and deeper understanding. Why walk through life blind?

So, in the end, no matter which way the election turns out, I myself will continue to do the work as best I can.

I remember the Doaist telling me that it can be easy to fall into the trap of making my yoga practice all about vanity. Good point. I'm stepping into a new area within were there has to be more...and there is.

When it becomes more about life than the form. When it becomes more about abudance than lack. When it becomes more about the dance than the dancer. When it becomes more about connection than being right.

1 Giant Leap

1 Giant Leap

We Are The Ones

One Voice

Free Hugs

Peace Music Video

Top 20 Things Oprah Knows for Sure

1. What you put out comes back all the time, no matter what. (This is my creed.)

2. You define your own life. Don't let other people write your script.

3. Whatever someone did to you in the past has no power over the present. Only you give it power.

4. When people show you who they are, believe them the first time. (A lesson from Maya Angelou.)

5. Worrying is wasted time. Use the same energy for doing something about whatever worries you.

6. What you believe has more power than what you dream or wish or hope for. You become what you believe.

7. If the only prayer you ever say is thank you, that will be enough. (From the German theologian and humanist Meister Eckhart.)

8. The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give.

9. Failure is a signpost to turn you in another direction.

10. If you make a choice that goes against what everyone else thinks, the world will not fall apart.

11. Trust your instincts. Intuition doesn't lie.

12. Love yourself and then learn to extend that love to others in every encounter.

13. Let passion drive your profession.

14. Find a way to get paid for doing what you love. Then every paycheck will be a bonus.

15. Love doesn't hurt. It feels really good.

16. Every day brings a chance to start over.

17. Being a mother is the hardest job on earth. Women everywhere must declare it so.

18. Doubt means don't. Don't move. Don't answer. Don't rush forward.

19. When you don't know what to do, get still. The answer will come.

20. "Trouble don't last always." (A line from a Negro spiritual, which calls to mind another favorite: This, too, shall pass.)

Oprah Winfrey

Practice

Love is the ultimate outlaw. It just won't adhere to any rules. The most any of us can do is to sign on as its accomplice. Instead of vowing to honor and obey, maybe we should swear to aid and abet. That would mean that security is out of the question. The words "make" and "stay" become inappropriate. My love for you has no strings attached. I love you for free.

~ Tom Robbins

I haven't spoke on the topic of yoga practice lately. Sincerely, I feel due to work with a teacher. This has been the longest stint for me. Les Brown says...you can't see the picture when you are in the frame. It's always a positive experience to have another set of eyes guide one along. But, the spaces between working extensively with a teacher are enriching. The interlude gives me a chance to absorb and grow into the expansion. I have definitely felt that calling after my 4 month stay in Mysore, India last year. I was blessed with many insights physically and internally...and to then put it all into practice and experience it on my own is a priceless undertaking. I took the time to closely look at things. A marinating of sorts.

By cultivating a fairly strong self-practice it has given me the freedom and discipline to roll out my mat just about anywhere, and everywhere...and believe me...I have!! Some places haven't been the most conducive...others were just right. I guess that is where the true practice of yoga begins...no matter where...no matter what the external environment entails...it gives us the opportunity to dig deep and find the serenity that lies within.

Yes. I'm on the quest of tapping into the teacher within. But also, surrounding oneself in a community is important. Standing in the presence of someone who exemplifies IT...you feel it...you know it...they know it...they see you...they see the potential that you aren't even aware of or know you have. It is nice to get that push. To be inspired. Learning to surrender. Stepping outside of thinking I know.

I see the benefit. Both are important. Establishing a self-practice that you can take with you anywhere is empowering. Directing oneself from the inside out. Because inevitably, we must walk through it alone. In the end, it is up to us to trust that we can. But also, asking for help and knowing that it is needed...there is an act of strength in that as well. For we are all truly connected, and having the assistance to walk forward is a beautiful thing.

The physical intensity of my practice may have wavered a bit. But, the intensity of my devotion...the desire to connect to the Higher aspect has grown. The Essence...call it God...call it whatever you like is the main player in this whole game.

How many of us can honestly say we have fallen to our knees and been willing to give it all up?...all of it...just to get a taste of what it would be like...to enter in...and cease...to cease what it is that you thought you ever knew about this life? Then, my friend, let me just say...that is where living really begins to take on a whole new shape...

Aloneness vs. Lonliness

Our similarities bring us common ground; Our differences allow us to be fascinated by each other."

~ Tom Robbins

Solitude. The word for my existence the last several days. New environment. New students. New apartment. New places to eat.

Same 7-eleven on every corner...oddly. Same practice. Same routine.

The loneliness I've felt in the past year has moved on to alone-ness. In loneliness there is lack. In alone-ness there is fulfillment. In loneliness there is sadness. In alone-ness there is contentment. In loneliness there is apathy. In alone-ness there's aliveness.

With little distraction, I've been pushed to step inside.

With a language I can hardly speak, I've had to learn to communicate differently, expressing myself with awareness, and observing what I'm feeling, versus winding it out through my mind and deciphering it into language. Rationalizing. Making excuses. I can't even come close to playing that game anymore, and when given the opportunity to really...REALLY...look at oneself it can be startling. Call it a big old wake up call. It can be beautiful, as well...to finally step inside...where as before, I would do everything else first, not to do so. Oh, how we run from ourselves...without even realizing it. On so many levels.

One day, I'll look at this opportunity as a good one. At some point, I'm sure it will culminate into something I can't even comprehend. The process of being in this moment right here, right now. I can learn. I can grow. Through experience.

Words of Wisdom by BKS Iyengar

Yoga is like music, the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and
the harmony of the soul, create the symphony of life.

Yoga is the golden key which unlocks the door
To peace, tranquility, and joy.

Activity and passivity
Must go together in asanas.

An intellectual mind that is unconnected to the heart
Is an uncultivated mind.

Asanas will help to transform an individual
By taking the person away from an
Awareness of just the body, toward the
Consciousness of the soul.

Health is firmness in body, stability in mind, and clarity in thinking.
It a mirror is clean, it reflects objects clearly…
…Health is the mirror of man.

The long and uninterrupted practice of asanas,
Done with awareness,
Will bring success.

For a yogi, the body is the laboratory for
Perpetual experiment and research.

The capital we are born with,
The human body,
Remains unutilized for most of us.

Yoga has to be done with the intellect of the head
As well as the intellect of the heart.

Yoga aims for complete awareness in whatever you do.

Regular practice of Yoga can help you face the turmoil of life with
Steadiness and stability.

All of us have a dormant spark of divinity in us which has to be
Fanned into flames by yoga.

When stability becomes a habit,
Maturity and clarity follow.

Our body is the bow and the asanas are the arrows to hit the target - the soul.

Yoga is a mirror to look at ourselves from within.

Do not stop trying just because perfection eludes you.

The philosophy of pain is to conquer it.

Pain comes to guide you. Pain is your guru.

Limited knowledge can only give limited experience.

Learning can be acquired but wisdom has to be earned.

Use each experience as a stepping stone.

All may be able to do Yoga, but
Only one in a million is fit to be called
A Yogi.

To bring the mind to a state of innocence
Without ignorance, is meditation.

Persistent practice alone is the key to Yoga.

Service for humanity is service to God, and the mean for that is Yoga.

Yoga is for all of us. To limit yoga to national or cultural boundaries is the denial of universal consciousness.

Freedom with true discipline
Is true freedom.

What I was is unimportant,
What I am now is important.

Yoga is a light which, once lit, will never dim.
The better you practice, the brighter the flame.

Just as a goldsmith purifies gold, so must the body constantly be purified and purged, so that the inner gold may shine through.

The body is your temple.
Keep it pure and clean,
For the soul to reside in.

The body is my temple and asanas are my prayers.

Asanas penetrate deep into each layer of the body and ultimately into consciousness itself.

Words cannot convey the value of Yoga - it has to be experienced.

A crooked body means a crooked mind.

Yoga is the union of the individual Self with the universal Self.

Without experiencing human love and happiness,
It is not possible to know divine love.

Before peace between the nations,
We have to find peace inside that small nation,
Which is our own being.

Your body is your child, look after it.

A good book is better than a bad teacher.

There is willpower beyond the intellect.

When there is strain, it is physical yoga.
When the brain is passive, it is spiritual yoga.

When the pose is correct, there is a lightness, a freedom.
When it is heavy, it is wrong.

To be dull is easy,
To be active requires tremendous work.

Singularity of purpose should be your aim.

My ending should be your beginning.

In Balance

Priviliged Lovers

The Privileged Lovers

The moon has become a dancer
at this festival of love.
This dance of light,
This sacred blessing,
This divine love,
beckons us
to a world beyond
only lovers can see
with their eyes of fiery passion.
They are chosen ones
Who have surrendered.
Once they were particles of light
now they are the radiant sun.
They have left behind the world of deceitful games.
They are the privileged lovers
who create a new world
with their eyes of fiery passion.

~ Rumi

This could very well be my favorite Rumi poem. So hard to choose. No need to choose. They are all so special. They all carry resonance...sparking something inside that is impossible to explain.

Yesterday I finished a four part workshop series in Chaiyi, consisting of Ashtanga Yoga Principles and Practice, Bandhas and Awakening the Core, Jumping back/Jumping through, and Backbending.

Most in the group were from the farther southern reaches of Taiwan, and they brought up the topic of me going down by Tainon and Kaoshsiung to teach for several months next year. So, we'll see what happens on that front.

However, at the present, I'm in Taichung doing my best to spur on the practice of Ashtanga Yoga in a fast paced city. Ashtanga Yoga is still young here. Besides Taipei, it's unknown to many. Which makes the process fun. It's Mr. Wang's vision to spread the word of Mysore style practice to as many people as he can. He has such passion for it. Let's just say he has more passion for it in his pinky finger than I have in my whole body...haha...and, anyone who knows me, and knows me well...knows I have a strong passion for it as well.

With that being said...I'm gonna go practice.

The Dream That Must Be Interpreted

This place is a dream.

Only a sleeper considers it real.

Then death comes like dawn,

and you wake up laughing

at what you thought was your grief.

But there's a difference with this dream.

Everything cruel and unconscious

done in the illusion of the present world,

all that does not fade away at the death-waking.

It stays,

and it must be interpreted.

All the mean laughing,

all the quick, sexual wanting,

those torn coats of Joseph,

they change into powerful wolves

that you must face.

The retaliation that sometimes comes now,

the swift, payback hit,

is just a boy's game

to what the other will be.

You know about circumcision here.

It's full castration there!

And this groggy time we live,

this is what it's like:

A man goes to sleep in the town

where he has always lived, and he dreams he's living

in another town.

In the dream, he doesn't remember

the town he's sleeping in his bed in. He believes

the reality of the dream town.

The world is that kind of sleep.

The dust of many crumbled cities

settles over us like a forgetful doze,

but we are older than those cities.

We began as a mineral. We emerged into plant life

and into the animal state, and then into being human,

and always we have forgotten our former states,

except in early spring when we slightly recall

being green again.

That's how a young person turns

toward a teacher. That's how a baby leans

toward the breast, without knowing the secret

of its desire, yet turning instinctively.

Humankind is being led along an evolving course,

through this migration of intelligences,

and though we seem to be sleeping,

there is an inner wakefulness

that directs the dream,

and that will eventually startle us back

to the truth of who we are.

~ Rumi

Who Says Words With My Mouth?

All day I think about it, then at night I say it.

Where did I come from, and what am I supposed to be doing?

I have no idea.

My soul is from elsewhere, I'm sure of that,

and I intend to end up there.

This drunkenness began in some other tavern.

When I get back around to that place,

I'll be completely sober. Meanwhile,

I'm like a bird from another continent, sitting in this aviary.

The day is coming when I fly off,

but who is it now in my ear who hears my voice?

Who says words with my mouth?

Who looks out with my eyes? What is the soul?

I cannot stop asking.

If I could taste one sip of an answer,

I could break out of this prison for drunks.

I didn't come here of my own accord, and I can't leave that way.

Whoever brought me here will have to take me home.

This poetry, I never know what I'm going to say.

I don't plan it.

When I'm outside the saying of it,

I get very quiet and rarely speak at all.

~ Rumi

Yes We Can

How nice to be inspired by, Yes it's possible, Oneness, Equality, Unity and Hope for greater change...vs. division, separation, more war, fear and terror.

Doah! Back on Coffee

Well...a while back I declared that I quit coffee. Hahahahahaha. What a joke! It's true...what you resist, persists.

Ever since landing in Taiwan, I've had coffee given to me as a gift...on numerous occasions. Unbelievable. Students, friends, and acquaintances have taken me to a multitude of various coffee shops...I can't even count. I was even treated to a tour of an organic coffee plantation.

I met a young man who owns a coffee shop with the biggest passion for the brew I've ever met, as well. He smiles from ear to ear, talking expressively about cup's of joe...all the while whipping up his creations of lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas...like a painter paints on canvas. Each cup a work of art. Coffee guy...as me and a friend secretly call him, is sight to behold. He literally puts Starbucks to shame...making a cup, twice as good, at a quarter of the price. He blushed when I told him that.

I don't know how to explain it...java has been put before me everywhere I turn....how can I say NO?

I'm so weak!!!

So, when I start to feel over caffeinated, once again...in a future post...surely, you will hear of my next attempt at quitting.

Sigh. The woes of coffee.

But, maybe I've missed the point?! There is something I love about coffee...can't really put my finger on it...

Anyhow, I must share a post, from a fellow blogger I follow...a lovely commentary..on the blessed brew, coffee...Faces, lives.

12 Symptoms of your Awakening Divinity

I read this and thought it was interesting. In any case, I don't really have an opinion on it either way, except to say that it comes pretty darn close to PMS.

By Geoffrey Hoppe and Tobias

1. Body aches and pains, especially in the neck, shoulder and back. This is the result of intense changes at your Spiritual DNA level as the "Divine seed" awakens within. This shall pass.

2. Feeling of deep inner sadness for no apparent reason. You are releasing your past (this lifetime and others) and this causes the feeling of sadness. This is similar to the experience of moving from a house where you lived in for many, many years into a new house. As much as you want to move into the new house, there is a sadness of leaving behind the memories, energy and experiences of the old house. This too shall pass.

3. Crying for no apparent reason. Similar to #2 above. It's good and healthy to let the tears flow. It helps to release the old energy within. This too shall pass.

4. Sudden change in job or career. A very common symptom. As you change, things around you will change as well. Don't worry about finding the "perfect" job or career right now. This too shall pass. You're in transition and you may make several job changes before you settle into one that fits your passion.

5. Withdrawal from family relationships. You are connected to your biological family via old karma. When you get off the karmic cycle, the bonds of the old relationships are released. It will appear as though you are drifting away from your family and friends. This too shall pass. After a period of time, you may develop a new relationship with them if it is appropriate. However, the relationship will be based in a new energy without the karmic attachments.

6. Unusual sleep patterns. It's likely that you'll awaken many nights between 2:00 – 4:00 AM. There's a lot of work going on within you, and it often causes you to wake up for a "breather." Not to worry. If you can't go back to sleep, get up and do something rather than lay in bed and worry about humanly things. This too shall pass.

7. Intense dreams. These might include war and battle dreams, chase dreams or monster dreams. You are literally releasing the old energy within, and these energies of the past are often symbolized as wars, running to escape and boogiemen. This too shall pass.

8. Physical disorientation. At times you'll feel very ungrounded. You'll be "spatially challenged" with the feeling like you can't put two feet on the ground, or that you're walking between two worlds. As your consciousness transitions into the new energy, you body sometimes lags behind. Spend more time in nature to help ground the new energy within. This too shall pass.

9. Increased "self talk." You'll find yourself talking to your Self more often. You'll suddenly realize you've been chattering away with yourself for the past 30 minutes. There is a new level of communication taking place within your being, and you're experiencing the tip of the iceberg with the self talk. The conversations will increase, and they will become more fluid, more coherent and more insightful. You're not going crazy, you're just Shaumbra (Lightworkers) moving into the new energy.

10. Feelings of loneliness, even when in the company of others. You may feel alone and removed from others. You may feel the desire to "flee" groups and crowds. As Shaumbra (Lightworkers), you are walking a sacred and lonely path. As much as the feelings of loneliness cause you anxiety, it is difficult to relate to others at this time. The feelings of loneliness are also associated with the fact that your Guides have departed. They have been with you on all of your journeys in all of your lifetimes. It was time for them to back away so you could fill your space with your own divinity. This too shall pass. The void within will be filled with the love and energy of your own True Divinity.

11. Loss of passion. You may feel totally disimpassioned, with little or no desire to do anything. That's OK, and it's just part of the process. Take this time to "do no-thing." Don't fight yourself on this, because this too shall pass. It's similar to rebooting a computer. You need to shut down for a brief period of time in order to load the sophisticated new software, or in this case, the Divine-Self energy.

12. A deep longing to go Home. This is perhaps the most difficult and challenging of any of the conditions. You may experience a deep and overwhelming desire to leave the planet and return to Home. This is not a "suicidal" feeling. It is not based in anger or frustration. You don't want to make a big deal of it or cause drama for yourself or other. There is a quiet part of you that wants to go Home. The root cause for this is quite simple. You have completed your karmic cycles. You have completed your contract for this lifetime. You are ready to begin a new lifetime while still in this physical body. During this transition process, you have an inner remembrances of what it is like to be on the other side. Are you ready to enlist for another tour of duty here on Earth? Are you ready to take on the challenges of moving into the New Energy? Yes, indeed you could go Home right now. But you've come this far, and after many, many lifetimes it would be a shame to leave before the end of the movie. Besides, Spirit needs you here to help others transition into this new energy. They will need a human guide, just like you, who has taken the journey from the old energy into the new. The path you're walking right now provides the experiences to enable you to become a Teacher of the New Divine Human. As lonely and dark as your journey can be at times, remember that you are never alone.

The Self We Share

Thirst is angry with water. Hunger bitter

with bread.The cave wants nothing to do

with the sun. This is dumb, the self-

defeating way we've been. A gold mine is

calling us into its temple. Instead, we

bend and keep picking up rocks from the

ground. Every thing has a shine like gold,

but we should turn to the source! The

origin is what we truly are. I add a little

vinegar to the honey I give. The bite of

scolding makes ecstasy more familiar. But

look, fish, you're already in the ocean:

just swimming there makes you friends with

glory. What are these grudges about? You

are Benjamin. Joseph has put a gold cup

in your grain sack and accused you of being

a thief. Now he draws you aside and says,

"You are my brother. I am a prayer. You're

the amen." We move in eternal regions, yet

worry about property here. This is the

prayer of each: You are the source of my

life. You separate essence from mud. You

honor my soul. You bring rivers from the

mountain springs. You brighten my eyes. The

wine you offer takes me out of myself into

the self we share. Doing that is religion.

~ Rumi

A Ramble

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

~ Romans 12:2, The Bible, KJV

I came across this quote from an acquaintance of mine. I read it, not knowing where it came from, and really connected to the words. When mentioned it was from the Bible, I was pleasantly surprised. Not sure why exactly. I've never been called to read, or study the Bible...for I wasn't raised in a Christian household. But, the interesting part is, from a young age, I was always fascinated with Jesus. I mean, its a mystery ...for I can't really explain the reason for my fascination. All I can say, it was the resounding, selfless action of unconditional, all-encompassing, all-pervading, never-ending...force and source of Love...He exemplified, lived, breathed, walked, and permeated unto those around him, struck a chord deep inside...I'd ask myself...why can't we all love like that? And, why is it so very challenging at times? What gets in the way?

And...I intend no offense...but I truly feel much of Jesus's original teachings have been modified into something so far off that it's just sad. There is no need for me to label myself as anything to appreciate everything he walked and stood on this Earth for.

I don't have all the answers. But, these are questions I've continuously asked myself. Better to ask the questions, than to think I know the answers, because often the universe...call it God...or some Higher Energy...reveals in due time.

The ever running theme lately has been the simplicity of the message. However, what a challenge it is to put into practice!!! That's the paradox. Simple, yet tough. Easy, yet difficult. But then again, it's our egos that make everything so hard, and downtrodden. When in reality, if we rise up and trust, instead of falling unto fear...if we make that leap...weeeeee...the net always appears...magically...somehow...why is that?

We, many times, have the tendency to look at the bottom before we even jump...we conjure up, in our minds, everything that will go wrong first, before we even start. I truly feel God, the Universe...whatever you want to call it...wants us to participate.

Enjoy the ride...feel the wind in your hair...let your heart skip a beat...let your spine tingle...dance, dance, dance!

I came across a quote from Caroline Myss recently that hit home, during an interview. She said...

God doesn't descend to fear
You rise up to fearlessness
God will meet you there...

I was speechless when I heard this. YES! This makes absolute sense.

I guess we don't have to look to fear as the enemy. Everything in life has purpose...and teaches. It will always be present...some days more than others. We just need to learn how to dance with it...while taking the lead, not allowing it to take over.

Now...this is where life really begins to vibrate.

I've got goose bumps!

"Truth is Truth no matter what tradition" ~ Caroline Myss

Hmmm...Interesting point by Bill Maher...

Stump Speech

Damn! This is funny...couldn't resist. Just couldn't.

Currently Reading

Right now I'm in the middle of The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova. A great Halloween read. A bit spooky, and dark...it delves into the history and legend of Dracula.

I usually don't go for dark, arcane books, but for whatever reason, it peaked my interest while browsing in a bookstore...and, of course, with it being so close to Halloween it seemed like a natural fit. Some of the backdrop is beautifully set in Eastern Europe...where a portion my family history stems from. I wanted to give it a shot. A well written novel.

And, thanks to the book, Istanbul, Turkey is going down on my list of places I must travel to at some point.

New Places, New Faces

Shadow and Light Source Both

How does a part of the world leave the world?

How does wetness leave water? Dont' try to

put out fire by throwing on more fire! Don't

wash a wound with blood. No matter how fast

you run, your shadow keeps up. Sometimes it's

in front! Only full overhead sun diminishes

your shadow. But that shadow has been serving

you. What hurts you, blesses you. Darkness is

your candle. Your boundaries are your quest.

I could explain this, but it will break the

glass cover on your heart, and there's no

fixing that. You must have shadow and light

source both. Listen, and lay your head under

the tree of awe. When from that tree feathers

and wings sprout on you, be quieter than

a dove. Don't even open your mouth for even a coo.

~ Rumi

I'm in Taichung! Pronounced...Tai-Joan...haha...best way to explain it. Taiching is located on the western coast of Taiwan...just about smack in the middle of the island. The 3rd largest city in the country. With close to 2 million people, it hosts an abundance of financial, cultural, and educational centers. I look forward to learning more about the place.

I've gotten used to being in different places.

Honestly, I feel a bit unsettled, though...it's always an adjustment... always takes time. Just as I was getting into a rhythm, its time to move on to another place...to another experience.

I feel as if my lifestyle is setting the stage for something to come.

However, I continue to practice being in the moment. It's all pretty simple.

My room is a mess...everything is disheveled. Time to organize. You know...do those little things that brings comfort, when in a new place...a new space...a new energy.

A Perspective

"I only wish she had been asked: “Governor Palin, if paying taxes is not considered patriotic in your neighborhood, who is going to pay for the body armor that will protect your son in Iraq? Who is going to pay for the bailout you endorsed? If it isn’t from tax revenues, there are only two ways to pay for those big projects — printing more money or borrowing more money. Do you think borrowing money from China is more patriotic than raising it in taxes from Americans?” That is not putting America first. That is selling America first."

~ Thomas Friedman

Dear Eckhart, finding a Spiritual Partner

Dear Eckhart,

My name is Julie and I am 37 years old. Just like most people I also have my own sad story, but I am pleased to say that thanks to many years of therapy, self help, meditation and recently your teachings, I identify with it less and less and rather appreciate the now and my life more and more.

In fact, I feel quite satisfied in general and I really don’t long for anything anymore… that is, except for one thing…

I am single and have been for about 6 years. I really really want to find love, a spiritual partner, and have a family. So when I ask the question ‘Is there anything wrong with this moment’, usually I answer ‘no’ and appreciate the present moment and feel the wonderful feelings that come with it. However, sometimes I feel lonely. I can usually dissolve that feeling by observing it. So the feeling does go away but it still doesn’t solve the problem that I ‘AM’ alone.

Isn’t it normal to want a partner and children, especially for a woman? Is it my ego clinging to an identity formed by society or is my need for maternity visceral and relevant?

And either way, what should I do as I really feel like this is something important that I am missing in my life and it is sometimes quite painful for me. Therefore I can accept it to a certain degree but I still long for it.

Warm regards,
Julie

Dear Juli,

At some point, life became divided into male and female, the basic polarity. On the level of our physical form, each one of us embodies this polarity. We are either male or female, which means we are only one half of the whole (I also speak about this in the Power of Now). There is a pull in every human being towards wholeness, which in essence is spiritual, i.e. the return to oneness. On the level of form this expresses itself as a longing for completion through merging with the opposite energy polarity. On the most basic level, it manifests as sexual desire, then as the emotional need to be with a man or a woman, then as love between a man and a woman. (Even in gay couples the basic polarity still operates on an energetic level).

Ultimately, of course, a sense of wholeness and deep fulfillment cannot be found on the level of form, but only through accessing the spiritual dimension of consciousness itself. It is also true that the female body is conditioned through evolution to perpetuate life, to give birth and nurture. So your desire to have a partner and children is indeed, as you put it, visceral. This in itself is not of the ego, although it can become part of it, if it is incorporated into the egoic mind’s judgements and story-making (I need a man/woman to make me happy etc.). It is at this point that male/female relationships become beset with “problems”. Even love easily becomes corrupted in this way by the mind.

So, must you remain unfulfilled unless you find a partner, have a family and children No. (As you must have observed, there is unhappiness in many relationships and marriages).

Since the spiritual dimension has already come into your life, you are beginning to realize that the essence of your being, which is formless, is not really affected even though you may feel some sense of lack on the level of form. For some people, it is precisely the experience of some strong sense of lack that drives them deeper into their essential selves – the I Am without attributes, beingness itself. Of course, you remain open for a relationship or marriage to come into your life, of course you would be happy to have children and indeed this may still happen. But your inner peace and your sense of who you are do not depend on it.

Generally speaking, whenever you experience the lack of something on the level of form that is conventionally considered important for one’s happiness (lack of relationships, of money, lack of freedom, of health, of social identity etc.), use this, while it lasts, as an opportunity to go more deeply within to find the Being that you are prior to all identifications. At the same time, you do what you can on the outer level to remedy this lack. You are much more likely to succeed without if you have already succeeded within. In any case, there is a sense of inner freedom from what happens or doesn’t happen.

Blessings on your journey.
Eckhart.

Morning Glory

The Taste of Morning

Time's knife slides from the sheath,

as fish from where it swims.

Being closer and closer is the desire

of the body. Don't wish for union!

There's a closeness beyond that. Why

would God want a second God? Fall in

love in such a way that it frees you

from any connecting. Love is the soul's

light, the taste of morning, no me, no

we, no claim of being. These words

are the smoke the fire gives off as it

absolves its defects, as eyes in silence,

tears, face. Love cannot be said.

~ Rumi

Yes. I'm officially a morning person. No doubt about it.

Getting to bed early for practice has been the priority. But also, I need to fit in a bit of fun too. The practice can't be my life. It should help to live life more fully.

The opportunity lies right before me in every moment. That is why I've come to love the morning. I've come to love the stillness present at this time. I feel closer to my essential nature. I feel closer to my being...and it is easier to connect.

Never in my wildest dreams, before all this, would I have welcomed a pre-pre-dawn wake up call. But, on the few days I don't, I feel as if something is amiss.

David Swenson's Practice Manual in Chinese!

Would I Give It Up ?

Would you give it up?

I had a student ask me this on my last day teaching in Chiayi. She kindly invited me to breakfast, and went on to tell me that she has often times thought she might give up her practice. Yes. This is coming from the one student who seems to practice, everyday, with all her heart and soul...an inspiration to watch. She is an example of someone who IS equanimity...with the perfect balance of ease and effort with everything she does...and she does it with a pleasant smile on her face...no striving...or accomplishing...she simply enters into each posture like she is coming home.

I'm a bit surprised by this...but then I'm not. It is always the one who would give it all up tomorrow if need be and be alright with herself and the world. For there is no need to identify with it...she lives it.

Do you need to ask why I'm humbled to teach here? Didn't think so.

Well, we had a lovely conversation. Even with the limited English spoken. There was a connection made. Student became Teacher...Teacher became Student...and back and forth.

It is inspiring to speak our Truths...its an uplifting conversation where in the mist of everything that goes on in life a common bond is made. Even in her humbleness, and the questions she asks, I release any airs of knowing. I was honest about my follies...and attachments to the practice and the new place I've had to come.

It is funny how I kind of stumbled upon teaching yoga. People asked me if I would. I was ready to give it up, until I was asked to come here. It is one of those things where things are just meant to be...so I do. When surrendering to it, the blessings flow...the world opens, as my heart does. An amazing turn of events.

So I left this wise student, who would give it all up...with a hug and a smile. Knowing, in my heart, she is living it.

Gender Card

Billions & Billions

A good dose of John Stewart is always helpful. :)

Be the Change...

If I'm supposed to be the change I want to see in the world...thank you Gandhi for this reminder...I've got alot of work to do. Hahaha. I'm not joking. For some odd reason, I feel a sense of urgency with this. Why wait? Wait for what? The second coming? Don't think so...

We are the second coming. Right now. Today. Now. In this instant.

Yes. It is much easier to take the focus off oneself, and get caught up with what's wrong with the world. So where have we gotten it right? I'm ready to take a look and learn. From the inside, and the outside.

Its interesting, the more I travel around the world, I find that people, for the most part, are really nice...kind...and generous...Imagine that! You don't say!!?

Naturally, we don't get that illustrated in the nightly news. Why is that?

I've become a bit sentimental. Yesterday I said farewell to the students I have closely followed, and guided, while teaching here at Balance Yoga. Tomorrow I head to Taichung. There were tears, and words of thanks. With the translation, I tried to express to them, the best I could, that it was my utmost privilege and honor to be able to work with them. The kindness, and sincerity that has been extended toward me is unexplainable and touches my heart in a way that feels as if it might burst. There is no other way to say it. They have become my family...they have weaved a beautiful pattern into the fabric of my life that I will cherish forever. I leave here changed, from the core of being.

On days when I was tired, sad...or even feeling a bit out of touch...many, genuinely looked me in the eye and wanted to be there for me in the most present and honest way. There is something in the culture here where people don't want you to ever feel alone, or unloved. It's an attitude of... if we aren't gonna make it together than why bother? It is truly touching...and it has opened up a whole new side of me that laid dormant within my soul.

Many students had a way about them where they would unquestionably...without a doubt...with all the trust they had, listen and follow all of my instructions, and guidance...and all I can say is it humbled me in a way where I feel as if I'm walking away learning more from them, than they have learned from me.

What an honor. I bow to them, with a world of thanks resting on my shoulders. I will be back.

With all the love I have. Thank you.

Waterfalls & Rumi

The minute I heard my first love story,

I started looking for you, not knowing

how blind that was.

Lovers don't finally meet somewhere,

they're in each other all along.

~ Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks

Love is from the infinite, and will remain until eternity.

The seeker of love escapes the chains of birth and death.

Tomorrow, when resurrection comes,

The heart that is not in love will fail the test.

~ Rumi, translated by Sharam Shiva

With the Beloved's water of life, no illness remains

In the Beloved's rose garden of union, no thorn remains.

They say there is a window from one heart to another

How can there be a window where no wall remains?

~ Rumi, translated by Shaham Shiva

Let the lover be disgraceful, crazy,

absentminded. Someone sober

will worry about things going badly.

Let the lover be.

~ Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks

When your chest is free of your limiting ego,

Then you will see the ageless Beloved.

You can not see yourself without a mirror;

Look at the Beloved, He is the brightest mirror.

~ Rumi, translated by Shamham Shiva

When the sweet glance of my true love caught my eyes,

Like alchemy, it transformed my copper-like soul.

I searched for Him with a thousand hands,

He stretched out His arms and clutched my feet.

~ Rumi, translated by Shamham Shiva

The Freshness

When it's cold and raining,

you are more beautiful.

And the snow brings me

even closer to your lips.

The inner secret, that which was never born,

you are that freshness, and I am with you now.

I can't explain the goings,

or the comings. You enter suddenly,

and I am nowhere again.

Inside the majesty.

~ Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks