Contentment Consciousness

KITE FlyingYou will find truth more quickly through delight than gravity.
Let out a little more string on your kite.
Alan Cohen
(April Science of Mind Magazine)

How many times have you asked God, “What am I to do today?  What is my purpose?  How can I serve better, do more, contribute higher etc.?”  I know I am always asking how to serve and do more.  When I read a passage from the Science of Mind magazine Daily Guides, I resonated with the April 25th, 2016 “Energy of Fun.”  written by Rev. Jane Beach.  She wrote,
” If you spend the day blissed-out with your nose in a good book your pet curled up beside you, you contribute peace, joy and serenity to the universe. Remember, you don’t have to be doing something “constructive” to contribute – the vibration of your contented energy is a blessing. Giving yourself permission to just BE is a gift you give to the world.”
Does that ring a bell,  & create an Aha moment for you?
We can do just as much to raise the consciousness of the world by being contented, quiet, slowed down and doing something fun, and easy.  That is a powerful energy to emanate.  Our pets, our mechanical gadgets, the day’s flow and even the weather will respond to it. Whenever you have that feeling of needing to do more, STOP and just BE. Take time to play, find joy, read, dance, sing  and do whatever makes you happy.  The world will  appreciate  your contribution of contented energy!
Blessings and Bliss

We Are Never Alone

Walk never alone

Dear Friends,
I love the early morning fragrance of mother earth, hearing the birds singing and seeing the beautiful trees swaying in the breeze.  Today I decided to walk the beautiful path on the golf course near my house.  It seemed early enough before the workers groomed the grass and golfers were out.   I was in  a bit of bliss when I noticed not too far ahead of me, a coyote.  I stopped and watched.  He was looking around and watched as well.   One coyote is usually not a threat to a human, just small animals. When two coyotes are spotted one needs to be cautious. When a pack is roaming, best to stay clear.
Not knowing how many were ahead I said a silent, “OK God, now what shall I do?”
My eyes were immediately directed to the ground where in front of me was a walking stick, just the right size for me.
I then heard a thunderous noise, looked up and saw the coyote  take off faster than a speeding bullet.  The noise was a worker starting up his truck to cut and groom the grass on the golf course.  I began walking and saying a sweet thank you  to God.  I then noticed several more walkers and a jogger.  How did that happen?  I was solely alone and then completely in company.
I have always had the feeling I was fully and completely cared for, even during the rough times in life.  Even today on my simple walk, I was divinely guided and protected.
I NEVER WALK ALONE. God is always with me.  I know that so completely for myself, I know this Truth for YOU too!
Before I called, God Answered!  Before I even asked, “OK God, now what do I do,” the walking stick was waiting for me, the worker was already in place near by ready to start his tractor, and the walkers and joggers were coming up to be in my view exactly when I needed to see them!

I love God, my Companion and Caretaker Always!
Remember YOU are always cared for day in and day out!
ALWAYS!
***

 

God Knows A Way

GOD has a WAY

April 12, 2016
Dear Friends,
How many times have you said, “I knew that was going to happen!”?  Sometimes you just  knew when something good was going to happen and  something “not so good.”  When you knew something was amiss, or off ,or not good, what did you do? Did you continue to worry and fret about it, or did you change the energy?  What do I mean by changing the energy?  PRAY!  In the world of energy everything is fluid, nothing fixed. I have had many experiences where if I hadn’t prayed for the Highest and Best outcome, I may not be here today.
A simple example  just happened to me recently which continued to confirm my “knowing” we can influence an outcome.
Steve and I were  in charge of a very important meeting last week where we were expecting 26 people.  We were meeting in a new location at one of the churches in the San Diego area.  We planned to be there at 12:30pm to set up meeting tables, food tables, chairs and a PowerPoint presentation for a 1pm meeting.  The person who was to open the door to let us in said he could not be there right at 12:30, and would get there as soon as he could.
The night before I just KNEW he was going to be late, and people would arrive and the doors would be locked right up until 1pm.  This anxious feeling lasted all evening and by the time I went to bed I decided to PRAY.  My prayer was not that this gentleman would be on time, my prayer was to SURRENDER TO GOD’S Outcome of the whole situation. There was nothing I could do physically  to ensure his arriving early, so the  meeting would begin on time.
The next morning during my prayer/mediation time, the THOUGHT came to me, “Get there at 12:30.”
I told Steve and we made sure we got to the church by 12:30.  One car was in the driveway. We came up to the church and the doors were locked.  I knocked and two lovely young ladies answered the door. We told them who we were and what we were doing there. They had no idea we were coming and were not informed about our meeting.  However they were so sweet and gracious, and they helped us begin to set up.  Shortly another man showed up and helped us.  Other people started coming in. ( A bit unheard of in CA when most people arrive late) Tables, chairs, tablecloths, power point and everything was easily done. The man who was to unlock the doors, came in at 12:55,  saw the activity of people and was quite surprised. Needless to say the meeting was extremely energetic and successful!
“God always has a way,
where to human sight there is no way!”
I believe these lovely 2 young women were God’s blessings to us and the answer to my prayer of surrender.
When in doubt, when anxious, when in trouble,  when you know there is nothing you can do, SURRENDER to God and the way and the answer will be made clear and visible.

God is So Good!

Goodness of God

April 5, 2016

Dear Friends,
I was sitting by my labyrinth one morning contemplating GOD and viewing  the beautiful GAIA, earth upon which we all live,  “G” words began to flow into my  thoughts.
Goodness of God
Grace of God
Greatness of God
Gratitude for God
Glory of God
Graciousness of God
Generosity of God
I realized how GOOD  my life is.
I realized how the GRACE of God manifests everyday in my life with wonderful people, divine opportunities and purpose.
I realized God is always GREAT and  GLORIOUS regardless of appearances.
I realized how GRATEFUL I am for God’s GRACIOUSNESS  & GENEROSITY in my life.
How many ideas can you think of today that describe GOD? It is a wonderful way to meditate. Reflecting on God’s Goodness as a spiritual practice will help you feel at peace with your life, and the world. Answers to questions, and challenges will become clear and/or dissolve. The day will flow in Divine Order and Timing.   For God is all there is, in front of us, behind us, to our left, to our right, above us, below us, surrounding us and in us and in all forms of life. God is beyond our finite knowledge and yet we see God in the eyes of a baby, a sunset, a flower.  God is the stars, the sun, the moon, the universe and universes and all dimensions. I am and you are made up of the very essence of God’s Goodness.
Wherever we go, God is there with us on our journey.
GOD is So Good!
Peace and Blessings Always
***

 

March 29, 2016

Dear Friends,
There are times when you need to put your FAITH in ACTION.  Last week Revs. Drs. Abigail and Steve joined in the annual foot washing  on Holy Thursday at the San Diego Civic Center.   We, along with many leaders from many faith traditions came to support the women janitors who clean the buildings in San Diego. We listened to their stories and gently washed their feet.  It was a humbling and beautiful experience.
Please read what Christi Bohan of Pax Christi Catholic Non-violent Peacemakers wrote;
“On Holy Thursday this past week, we participated in the march and foot washing of our San Diego janitors to support an increase wage, and to stop the sexual harassment, exploitation, and rape of female janitors. It was a very powerful and emotional march as one of the janitors carrying a huge wooden cross led us on a walk in downtown San Diego during the lunch time hour as us, the walkers, sang “Here we are Lord” and “Amazing Grace.” The police cleared one side of the road as onlookers stopped to see what was going on as we sang and held signs to support our janitors. We walked a few blocks to the Civic Center Plaza where we heard personal stories of the janitors plight. Various religious leaders shared their thoughts and gave their blessings. Bishop McElroy and two other Bishops from other faiths also were present and talked about their solidarity with the janitors. A major Muslim leader, Imam Taha Hassane, got huge applause when he shared “I want to be caught doing social justice” referring to one of the comments from one of the presidential candidates insinuating Muslims don’t do their part in promoting social justice. Bishop McElroy made a point to acknowledge the tragedy in Belgium to this Muslim leader. One of the signs we held at the march said, “All religions want justice.” To wrap up the talks, the religious leaders and others who wanted to could wash the feet of the janitors and those that wanted their feet wash. It was a great way to see in action what Jesus did for us and how he wants us to serve each other.”
Here are a few photos.

FootwashingSteve and SydelleAbigail and CarmenFor more photos, go to “INTERFAITH”

Faith in Action

Dear Friends,
There are times when you need to put your FAITH in ACTION.  Last week Revs. Drs. Abigail and Steve joined in the annual foot washing  on Holy Thursday at the San Diego Civic Center.   We, along with many leaders from many faith traditions came to support the women janitors who clean the buildings in San Diego. We listened to their stories and gently washed their feet.  It was a humbling and beautiful experience.
Please read what Christi Bohan of Pax Christi Catholic Non-violent Peacemakers wrote;
“On Holy Thursday this past week, we participated in the march and foot washing of our San Diego janitors to support an increase wage, and to stop the sexual harassment, exploitation, and rape of female janitors. It was a very powerful and emotional march as one of the janitors carrying a huge wooden cross led us on a walk in downtown San Diego during the lunch time hour as us, the walkers, sang “Here we are Lord” and “Amazing Grace.” The police cleared one side of the road as onlookers stopped to see what was going on as we sang and held signs to support our janitors. We walked a few blocks to the Civic Center Plaza where we heard personal stories of the janitors plight. Various religious leaders shared their thoughts and gave their blessings. Bishop McElroy and two other Bishops from other faiths also were present and talked about their solidarity with the janitors. A major Muslim leader, Imam Taha Hassane, got huge applause when he shared “I want to be caught doing social justice” referring to one of the comments from one of the presidential candidates insinuating Muslims don’t do their part in promoting social justice. Bishop McElroy made a point to acknowledge the tragedy in Belgium to this Muslim leader. One of the signs we held at the march said, “All religions want justice.” To wrap up the talks, the religious leaders and others who wanted to could wash the feet of the janitors and those that wanted their feet wash. It was a great way to see in action what Jesus did for us and how he wants us to serve each other.”
Here are a few photos.

 

Abigail and CarmenSteve and SydelleFootwashing

Foot Washing on Holy Thursday

Washing the Feet of San Diego Women Janitors on Holy Thursday

Christi Bohan, of Pax Christi Catholic Non-violent Peacemakers said, “Hi, peacemakers!  On Holy Thursday this week, we participated in the march and foot washing of our San Diego janitors to support an increase wage, and to stop the sexual harassment,  exploitation, and rape of female janitors.  It was a very powerful  and emotional march as one of the janitors carrying a huge wooden cross led us on a walk in downtown San Diego during the lunch time hour as us, the walkers,  sang “Here we are Lord” and “Amazing Grace.”  The police cleared one side of the road as onlookers stopped to see what was going on as we sang and held signs to support our  janitors.  We walked a few blocks to the Civic Center Plaza where we heard personal stories of the janitors plight.  Various religious leaders shared their thoughts and gave their blessings.  Bishop McElroy and two other Bishops from other faiths also were present and talked about their solidarity with the janitors.  A  major Muslim leader, Imam Taha Hassane, got huge applause when he shared “I want to be caught doing social justice” referring to one of the comments from one of the presidential candidates insinuating Muslims don’t do their part in promoting social justice.  Bishop McElroy made a point to acknowledge the tragedy in Belgium to this Muslim leader.  One of the signs we held at the march said, “All religions want justice.”  To wrap up the talks, the religious leaders and others who wanted to could wash the feet of the janitors and those that wanted their feet wash. It was a great way to see in action what Jesus did for us and how he wants us to serve each other.

The WAY is Clear

March 22,  2016 WORLD WATER DAY
Water is precious. Use it wisely and conservatively.
Every drop counts.

water

Dear Friends,
On my walk today I was encased by thick fog. I love to look at the hills and valleys and greenery beyond. Today I could not see what I know is there.  The fog reminded me of when I am experiencing unanswered prayer, or very little  clarity on a decision to make, a problem to solve or challenge to overcome. I realize these “experiences” are just the fog in my mind when I have not risen higher in Consciousness to see above and beyond. The Answers are there. When I ask, “Where are you God?” I hear,                   “I AM HERE.”
I know the SUN is always shinning and the fog is temporary.  So I also know God is Always with me, in me, as me, guiding me regardless of my ego fog murking up the Truth of my Being.
As I walked a little farther up a hill, I began to see more of the hills and valleys and the fog began to lift.  When we rise in Consciousness, doesn’t the fog dissipate in mind and a new idea, new answer,  a NEW THOUGHT emerge?  Yes, of course it does.
Whatever you are going through today, it is just a bit of a fog in mind covering up the Truth of God. You are the Beloved Child of God to which All Things have been given.  Surrender your thoughts, will and ideas (fog)and open up to the Divine Will, the Divine Highest and Best (sun shinning) in your life.

Fog sun deer
The Way will be made Clear!
***

Promote Loving Kindness

Love on hand of child
Dear Friends,
I am not inclined to voice political opinions in an interfaith newsletter, however I would like to share some thoughts with you. The Presidential campaign has blown consciousness wide open.  We see what happens when candidates promote fear rather than compassion, promote slander rather than issues, and seek power rather than what is best for our beautiful and still great country.
Which candidate speaks with authenticity, with a heart, with intelligence, with collaboration in mind when working with leaders of all governments?
Let us pray for the Divine Outcome in this election.
Watching endless arguments between candidates does not help our consciousness.  Sending love and light and blessings to ALL candidates is an energy worth giving.
On a subconscious level they will receive it.
We at the All Faith Center promote friendship, education, consciousness insight and joyful collaboration among All faiths, creeds, races, cultures, genders and more.  Diversity is a blessing and the heart of God. Every thing created by our Creator is unique and not meant to be the same, or alike. Every snowflake is different, every blade of grass is special and that also goes for people too. Let us CELEBRATE our similarities and our differences. It makes us who we are.  Let us be an example to others and implement the Golden Rule and love God, love others as ourselves in our lives today and everyday.

Elisha Group

Let us stand together and promote loving kindness as the Elisha Group.

Flow of God Seeks YOU!

RUMI quote 2

Dear Friends,
I love the quote above.  It was shared by Georgette at the Tai Chi Labyrinth Walk we had a couple weeks ago.  The Master Rumi understood the process of Divine Life.   All is meant to bless us and flow to us as we open our hearts and minds to greater good and higher consciousness.
What is it you are wanting in your life? 
Why is this “Want” not happening?
As we come to a place of peace, where we listen intently with our hearts, our God Voice gives us all the information we need.  Sometimes this information comes as intuition saying, what you want will not serve you for your highest and best potential.
Can you surrender to GOD’s Highest & Best in your life? 
Can you really let go and let God. 
When we completely surrender and say,”Thy Will Be Done,” it is only then the blessings pour forth into your life greater than you can imagine.  No longer are you pushing or struggling for yourself or others you love. Universal LIFE, Divine LOVE, Omnipresent GOD is always FOR YOU, not against you. Release your will and allow the Divine Outcome SEEK YOU! You will be joyfully surprised and you will have greater understanding why your will did not manifest.
At our next Labyrinth Walk we will be exploring these ideas.   Save the date: Saturday March 19, 2-4pm.
***

 

NEW THOUGHT DAY on MARCH 6th

Hello March

Dear Friends,
Spring is almost here and so is NEW THOUGHT DAY!   As you all know we are New Thought Ministers doing Interfaith Work. Our love and faith tradition is New Thought (Religious Science and Unity).
Dr. Steve is the creator of the NEW THOUGHT DAY which is celebrated the first Sunday of March.  We will be in Hawaii for this celebration and Steve will present at the Unity Church in Maui.
We are so excited to be there, not only for NTD, but because we were married there 14 years ago! Two wonderful celebrations!  NTD is happening all over the world.  We just received an email from a minister in Melbourne, Australia and how excited he is to celebrate the day. We know ANTN ( Affiliated New Thought Network) and CSL(Centers for Spiritual Living) congregations will also be celebrating our founders and the beginnings and expansion of our faith tradition.
Go to our website and view the excellent NTD Power Point for your own information and understanding of who we are and what we believe.

Ernest Holmes 1