What's Love Got To Do With It?

I wrote the following article in October of 2012 and recently came across it again... I am posting it again as a reminder to myself and perhaps it will stir some energies in others as well... jh

“What’s Love Got To Do With It?”

“A life without love is a waste. ‘Should I look for spiritual love, or material, or physical love?’… Don’t ask yourself this question…  Discrimination leads to discrimination. Love doesn’t need any name, category or definition. Love is a world itself. Either you are in, at the center …or you are out, yearning.”  ~ Shams Tabrizi

How is it that sometimes we touch Love’s center or perhaps better said we feel the oneness of Love’s center in all things… and at other times we are off-center, in a space of yearning, which can lead to “looking for Love in all the wrong places”… looking to others to provide love to us?

Love that expects something in return is most likely a need and desire within our psyche that is not really love. The inner child always wants to be loved. A part of us always wants to be loved. But what is that desire? Could it be a longing or homesick feeling for the true self and Love Center that is our connection with Source, with God, with Primary Life Energy?

We can experience Love in a spiritual or transcendent sense which lifts us to a place of self acceptance… to a sense of ‘okayness’ within. This energy of Love may come through any number of ways. There are few words to describe this expansion of heart energy. And how do so many become seemingly detached from this primary life energy source? I suspect in some ways it is domesticated out of us in the process and demands of surviving in our environments.

As newborns we show up and are emotionally open and vulnerable to the actions and energies of those to whom we are dependent for survival. The quality of Love a newborn receives from others is dependent on the degree to which the caregivers are centered in Love or lost in their own pain-bodies from their own past experience. So, we can see how it is quite complex from our first breath. And from day one our personality is affected through our environment and mixes with the predispositions we bring with us through genetics and whatever other factors may be involved. Certainly from a spiritual perspective we can suggest that there may be some pre-birth contracts, purposes, or plans that we bring with us when we enter this 3^rd dimension in physical form.

What if, before birth, we also were one with the Love Center of Life’s Source, whatever we may call that or however we may wish to imagine it. It must be quite a shock to show up in the chaos that often surrounds the birth experience after being in the Universal Love Center, even before womb-time. I realize this is all speculation, even though some declare it as more than that.

Now, let us suppose we flash forward several decades or so and we find ourselves in various types of relationships. We connect naturally through family, through work, through interests, through school, through social events, and by happenstance, or as some would say, synchronicity.

So there are many different types of relationships. When we look at the relationships between people who wish to be partners we also find different reasons and rhythms of attraction and connection. At one level, two people may connect for a physical relationship, simply to enjoy the pleasures of our human body. Some people may also connect at a certain stage in life to form and generate a family within the social norms and expectations and through their own want or need to do so.

From a psycho-spiritual perspective, partners may be attracted to one another for different reasons;

·       Attracted through physical appearances;

·       Attracted due to similar interests, values, ideas;

·       Attracted by personality type, sometimes similar, sometime opposite;

·       Attracted to another’s aura or energy;

·       Attracted through chemistry… sensual and sexual energies;

·       Attracted to material life situation, successes, finances, accomplishments, possessions;

·       Attracted to a shared sense of purpose, vision, mission, calling;

What we often do not understand or realize is that we are often attracted to our own projections onto another person according to what we wish for, and in some cases, to what we lack in our own lives. The openness of hope for love with another often blossoms, with or without the projections, into infatuation and acceptance of each other. In many cases, this feeling of Love with another is due to how we feel when we are with them and may easily be combined with shared energies if the two people are sexually engaged. The energy transfer in open sex can often provide a shared desire that feels like a tear when two are physically separated to different locations.

The experience of falling in love and feeling love for another is perhaps the closest we come to heaven on earth, so to speak. To put it another way, the ecstasy of intimacy may mirror the spiritual connection in the present moment of an oneness with Life’s Source and Love Center… or spiritual oneness. Truly the feelings of love in the moment may have a quality of ‘eternity’…’forever’… and timelessness… again, mirroring spiritual Love.

And as most humans know, the projections of partnering and accepting can and usually do change. We discover our imperfect humanness and that our partner was not all that we projected them to be. Our fantasies are broken by real life. Some of the reasons for partnering may have somehow disappeared. The one who was so loved, becomes the one who becomes the object to ‘blame’ for our newly discovered unhappiness… or we fault ourselves for making a mistake… or for not seeing more clearly from the start.

Of course each person has their own version… our own story… and if we tell if long enough, we begin to believe it.

What I say and write is only my opinion. So now that I made that disclaimer, I will continue as if I actually know what I’m talking about. If it is useful for you… good. If you find it does not connect for you, that’s good too. Simply let it go.

It seems that most people have some type of spiritual awakening along the path, even if it is not labeled as a “spiritual awakening.” Many have visited guides, teachers, counselors, ministers, gurus, and others. We have the opportunity to learn at every moment. Most of our striving, trying, and doing are within the context of our social and cultural milieu along with our unique personal development and experience. What remains in the shadow of our unconscious can easily and often does have the tendency to control or at least impact our thinking, feelings, and actions.

The more aware we become… and there is always more to become aware of… the less likely we are to get lost in unconscious attractions, attachments, and behavior. On the other hand, each time we do get lost in the next adventure, it is also ‘grist for the mill’ of learning as we walk along our journey’s path.

It seems to follow that as we open to and experience ‘Source Love’ more directly in our own present experience, the more we can offer love to others in a way that is not looking for something in return. When we are disappointed or feel hurt in a relationship, it is a clear signal that we were expecting something different and were expecting something in return for giving Love…. Another teachable moment… Ideally, it seems that the more two people are actually experienced in Source Love, the more likely they will be able to openly be in and co-create a relationship… Source Love is always here. If we feel something else toward another person, we know we are dealing with some issue within.

Now, to be very, very clear…I hope… this does not mean in any way that we stay in a relationship or abusive situation just because there is love there for the other person. To appreciate that same Source Love first coming to us, we will honor and respect ourselves and move away from that energy that is reactive and abusive because of the shadow aspect of the other… and we must be reminded of the shadow in our own psyche that may have attracted the other… two unconsciously dancing shadows.

As humans and Being, we are complex and have many different energy patterns we carry. Most agree that if we had no imperfections, we would probably be elsewhere! This is to remind myself and others to be gentle on ourselves… to be as aware as possible… to trust our deeper intuition… and to continue to live with loving kindness as our guide.

Sometimes, I receive emails from friends, acquaintances, and others who read something I have said in my blog… and they say how much it hurts to want a relationship so much and yet they feel a bit powerless to actually make it happen… Or they have recently separated from who they thought was “the one”… Or others simply wonder if relationship is actually possible. In all these scenarios it depends a lot on not only how we define relationship, but what we are looking to ‘gain’ by being in a relationship.

I do not know if there is “one” person out there, a soul mate for each person. I suspect it is a bit more complex than that. On the other hand, we are all soul mates of the One Life that is ALL Life… Personally, I sense that the traditional paradigm of a fixed relationship, cemented in time and or space, is something that has been shifting for perhaps 30-40 years. That is part of many of our experiences and yet we may still be clinging to an idea that there is one person ‘out there’ that is perfect for us. It may be so. And I do not live by that ‘concept’ any longer which, for me, seems more of an expansion of my own openness rather than a resignation or loss of hope. It is freeing.

I contend that we must be somewhat together ourselves…FIRST… to the point of not ‘needing’ a relationship to fulfill some internal need for love and acceptance from the outside. When we feel good about ourselves, then we are better able to be present for others without expecting or wanting something in return.

If we truly bring the Source Love that runs to and through us to each moment and each encounter, without expectations or sets of rules about what a relationship should be, we perhaps can be in relationships that are truly timeless.

So the question remains: “How do we consistently connect with Love at the ‘Primary Source’ level?” Many of us know the words or theory or teachings… and yet find ourselves feeling a bit disconnected at times.

This subject has been addressed by most spiritual teachers every-where and every-when. Each of us has to find that wakefulness to the present moment beyond the shadows and blaring noises of both the unconscious energies of the psyche and the constant traffic of our egoic mind... Here are a few thoughts and avenues to consider:

·       Perhaps for some it takes a mindful inquiry into our experiences, feelings, and reactions as we go through the day.

·       Some find it useful to practice some form of meditation or contemplation.

·       Using our cognitive and creative abilities to grow positive thoughts to replace useless negative self-talk can provide a shift in attitude and feelings since thoughts and feelings are intricately entwined.

·       Asking for help from your deepest Source of Love within, from the divine, from your guides and angels… whatever you wish to call the unseen wise ones … can bring intervention and synchronicities.

·       Asking to talk with someone you trust who has the skills and wisdom to help you through some of the learning transitions… perhaps as a guide, counselor, or coach.

·       Explore and discover a way to let go of unwanted emotional states and restore a sense of centeredness;

·       Dreams can provide new information regarding unconscious dynamics and patterns and even connect us to direct messages from the realms of Wisdom and Love

·       Visualization and guided meditation or imagery works for many.

o   Guided Meditation by Drunvalo Melchizedek http://tinyurl.com/8skme6j

·       Spending time in nature can connect us to the wonderful natural sense of Life’s Oneness, power, and presence. Watching nature can teach us how to ‘be.’

·       There are many specific spiritual schools and religious groups designed to take you through their teachings…which may be helpful for some.

·       Many have experienced an opening through creativity, art, books, and stories of others.

There are always an infinite number of possibilities and an infinite number of possible outcomes based on the decisions and circumstances of our journey.

As long as we are looking to receive love from others and from a romantic relationship without the Love being present within that brings peace and acceptance, we will find disappointment. Relationships if they are to be satisfying, will take striving… that’s work… just as the path of being a spiritual warrior or warrioress takes work.

Learning the art of Present Moment living will help being present now and means learning to actually let go of yesterday’s emotional disappointments, hurts, pain, regrets, perceived failures, etc…. In addition it means letting go of any anxious and fear-based thoughts of tomorrow that our egoic mind wishes to conjure up to cast its spell and keep us away from this Present Moment of Now! The art of letting go of the past and future is liberating since we are no longer being controlled in the present moment. Letting go often involves forgiveness… forgiving ourselves and forgiving others…

Its work and it’s worth it. And it’s also simple… we just need to choose to do it.

So, what’s Love got to do with it?

Everything!

Plug consciously in to the One Love and we can channel and give that Love to the world around us and to the people in our lives. May Love be our soulmate…and maybe someone will show up who also is mated to Love!

Warm wishes, John

 

PS.... [8-3-14] Yes, we can love ourselves and all of life  without judgment or expectations from a centered space of spiritual or unconditional love and acceptance. As this become filtered through our personality, ego, and preferences, we also need to make choices and act with a decisive energy of kindness and respect for others, our self, and all of Life... and the beat goes on... You are invited to comment here and or write to John@sunhutch.com ... no solicitations please.

“What’s Love Got To Do With It?”

October 22, 2012

“What’s Love Got To Do With It?”

by John Hutchinson

“A life without love is a waste. ‘Should I look for spiritual love, or material, or physical love?’… Don’t ask yourself this question…  Discrimination leads to discrimination. Love doesn’t need any name, category or definition. Love is a world itself. Either you are in, at the center …or you are out, yearning.”  ~ Shams Tabrizi

How is it that sometimes we touch Love’s center, or perhaps better said, we feel the oneness of Love’s center in all things… and at other times we are off-center, in a space of yearning, which can lead to “looking for Love in all the wrong places”… looking to others to provide love to us?

Love that expects something in return is most likely a need and desire within our psyche that is not really love. The inner child always wants to be loved. A part of us always wants to be loved. But what is that desire? Could it be a longing or homesick feeling for the true self and Love Center that is our connection with Source, with God, with Primary Life Energy?

We can experience Love in a spiritual or transcendent sense which lifts us to a place of self acceptance… to a sense of ‘okayness’ within. This energy of Love may come through any number of different ways. There are few words to describe this expansion of heart energy. And how do so many become seemingly detached from this primary life energy source? I suspect in some ways it is domesticated out of us in the process and demands of surviving in our environments.

As newborns we show up and are emotionally open and vulnerable to the actions and energies of those to whom we are dependent for survival. The quality of Love a newborn receives from others is dependent on the degree to which the caregivers are centered in Love or lost in their own pain-bodies from their own past experience. So, we can see how it is complex from our first breath. And from day one our personality is affected through our environment and mixes with the predispositions we bring with us through genetics and whatever other factors may be involved. Certainly from a spiritual perspective we can suggest that there may be some pre-birth contracts, purposes, or plans that we bring with us when we enter this 3rd dimension in physical form.

What if, before birth, we also were one with the Love Center of Life’s Source, whatever we may call that or however we may wish to imagine it. It must be quite a shock to show up in the chaos that often surrounds the birth experience after being in the Universal Love Center, even before womb-time. I realize this is all speculation, even though some declare it as more than that.

Now, let us suppose we flash forward several decades or so and we find ourselves in various types of relationships. We connect naturally through family, through work, through interests, through school, through social events, and by happenstance, or as some would say, synchronicity.

So there are many different types of relationships. When we look at the relationships between people who wish to be partners we also find different reasons and rhythms of attraction and connection. At one level, two people may connect for a physical relationship, simply to enjoy the pleasures of our human body. Some people may also connect at a certain stage in life to form and generate a family within the social norms and expectations and through their own want or need to do so.

From a psycho-spiritual perspective, partners may be attracted to one another for different reasons:

• Attracted through physical appearances;
• Attracted due to similar interests, values, ideas;
• Attracted by personality type, sometimes similar, sometime opposite;
• Attracted to another’s aura or energy;
• Attracted through chemistry… sensual and sexual energies;
• Attracted to material life situation, successes, finances, accomplishments, possessions;
• Attracted to a shared sense of purpose, vision, mission, calling;

What we often do not understand or realize is that we are often attracted to our own projections onto another person according to what we wish for, and in some cases, to what we lack in our own lives. The openness of hope for love with another often blossoms, with or without the projections, into infatuation and acceptance of each other. In many cases, this feeling of Love with another is due to how we feel when we are with them and may easily be combined with shared energies if the two people are sexually engaged. The energy transfer in open sex can often provide a shared desire that feels like a tear when two are physically separated to different locations.

 

The experience of falling in love and feeling love for another is perhaps the closest we come to heaven on earth, so to speak. To put it another way, the ecstasy of intimacy may mirror the spiritual connection in the present moment of an oneness with Life’s Source and Love Center… or spiritual oneness. Truly the feelings of love in the moment may have a quality of ‘eternity’…’forever’… and timelessness… again, mirroring spiritual Love.

 

And as most humans know, the projections of partnering and accepting can and usually do change. We discover our imperfect humanness and that our partner was not all that we projected them to be. Our fantasies are broken by real life. Some of the reasons for partnering may have somehow disappeared. The one who was so loved, becomes the one who becomes the object to ‘blame’ for our newly discovered unhappiness… or we fault ourselves for making a mistake… or for not seeing more clearly from the start.

 

Of course each person has their own version… our own story… and if we tell if long enough, we begin to believe it.

 

What I say and write is only my opinion. So now that I made that disclaimer, I will continue as if I actually know what I’m talking about. If it is useful for you… good. If you find it does not connect for you, that’s good too. Simply let it go.

 

It seems that most people have some type of spiritual awakening along the path, even if it is not labeled as a “spiritual awakening.” Many have visited guides, teachers, counselors, ministers, gurus, and others. We have the opportunity to learn at every moment. Most of our striving, trying, and doing are within the context of our social and cultural milieu along with our unique personal development and experience. What remains in the shadow of our unconscious can easily and often does have the tendency to control or at least impact our thinking, feelings, and actions.

 

The more aware we become… and there is always more to become aware of… the less likely we are to get lost in unconscious attractions, attachments, and behavior. On the other hand, each time we do get lost in the next adventure, it is also ‘grist for the mill’ of learning as we walk along our journey’s path.

 

It seems to follow that as we open to and experience ‘Source Love’ more directly in our own present experience, the more we can offer love to others in a way that is not looking for something in return. When we are disappointed or feel hurt in a relationship, it is a clear signal that we were expecting something different and were expecting something in return for giving Love…. Another teachable moment… Ideally, it seems that the more two people are actually experienced in Source Love, the more likely they will be able to openly be in and co-create a relationship… Source Love is always here. If we feel something else toward another person, we know we are dealing with some issue within.

 

Now, to be very, very clear…I hope… this does not mean in any way that we stay in a relationship or abusive situation just because there is love there for the other person. To appreciate that same Source Love first coming to us, we will honor and respect ourselves and move away from that energy that is reactive and abusive because of the shadow aspect of the other… and we must be reminded of the shadow in our own psyche that may have attracted the other… two unconsciously dancing shadows.

 

As humans and Being, we are complex and have many different energy patterns we carry. Most agree that if we had no imperfections, we would probably be elsewhere! This is to remind myself and others to be gentle on ourselves… to be as aware as possible… to trust our deeper intuition… and to continue to live with loving kindness as our guide.

 

Sometimes, I receive emails from friends, acquaintances, and others who read something I have said in my blog… and they say how much it hurts to want a relationship so much and yet they feel a bit powerless to actually make it happen… Or they have recently separated from who they thought was “the one”… Or others simply wonder if relationship is actually possible. In all these scenarios it depends a lot on not only how we define relationship, but what we are looking to ‘gain’ by being in a relationship.

 

I do not know if there is “one” person out there, a soul mate for each person. I suspect it is a bit more complex than that. On the other hand, we are all soul mates of the One Life that is ALL Life… Personally, I sense that the traditional paradigm of a fixed relationship, cemented in time and or space, is something that has been shifting for perhaps 30-40 years. That is part of many of our experiences and yet we may still be clinging to an idea that there is one person ‘out there’ that is perfect for us. It may be so. And I do not live by that ‘concept’ any longer which, for me, seems more of an expansion of my own openness rather than a resignation or loss of hope. It is freeing.

 

I contend that we must be somewhat together ourselves…FIRST… to the point of not ‘needing’ a relationship to fulfill some internal need for love and acceptance from the outside. When we feel good about ourselves, then we are better able to be present for others without expecting or wanting something in return.

 

If we truly bring the Source Love that runs to and through us to each moment and each encounter, without expectations or sets of rules about what a relationship should be, we perhaps can be in relationships that are truly timeless.

 

So the question remains: “How do we consistently connect with Love at the ‘Primary Source’ level?” Many of us know the words or theory or teachings… and yet find ourselves feeling a bit disconnected at times.

 

This subject has been addressed by most spiritual teachers every-where and every-when. Each of us has to find that wakefulness to the present moment beyond the shadows and blaring noises of both the unconscious energies of the psyche and the constant traffic of our egoic mind... Here are a few thoughts and avenues to consider:

• Perhaps for some it takes a mindful inquiry into our experiences, feelings, and reactions as we go through the day.
  .
• Some find it useful to practice some form of meditation or contemplation.
  .
• Using our cognitive and creative abilities to grow positive thoughts to replace useless negative self-talk can provide a shift in attitude and feelings since thoughts and feelings are intricately entwined.
  .
• Asking for help from your deepest Source of Love within, from the divine, from your guides and angels… whatever you wish to call the unseen wise ones … can bring intervention and synchronicities.
  .
• Asking to talk with someone you trust who has the skills and wisdom to help you through some of the learning transitions… perhaps as a guide, counselor, or coach.
  .
• Explore and discover a way to let go of unwanted emotional states and restore a sense of centeredness.
  .
• Dreams can provide new information regarding unconscious dynamics and patterns and even connect us to direct messages from the realms of Wisdom and Love.
  .
• Visualization and guided meditation or imagery works for many.
• Guided Meditation by Drunvalo Melchizedek - http://tinyurl.com/8skme6j
  .
• Spending time in nature can connect us to the wonderful natural sense of Life’s Oneness, power, and presence. Watching nature can teach us how to ‘be.’
  .
• There are many specific spiritual schools and religious groups designed to take you through their teachings…which may be helpful for some.
  .
• Many have experienced an opening through creativity, art, books, and stories of others.

There are always an infinite number of possibilities and an infinite number of possible outcomes based on the decisions and circumstances of our journey.

As long as we are looking to receive love from others and from a romantic relationship without the Love being present within that brings peace and acceptance, we will find disappointment. Relationships if they are to be satisfying, will take striving… that’s work… just as the path of being a spiritual warrior or warrioress takes work.

Learning the art of Present Moment living will help being present now and means learning to actually let go of yesterday’s emotional disappointments, hurts, pain, regrets, perceived failures, etc…. In addition it means letting go of any anxious and fear-based thoughts of tomorrow that our egoic mind wishes to conjure up to cast its spell and keep us away from this Present Moment of Now! The art of letting go of the past and future is liberating since we are no longer being controlled in the present moment. Letting go often involves forgiveness… forgiving ourselves and forgiving others…

Its work and it’s worth it. And it’s also simple… we just need to choose to do it.

So, what’s Love got to do with it?

Everything!

Let us consciously plug into the One Love so we may channel and give that Love to the world around us and to the people in our lives. May Love be our soulmate…and maybe someone will show up who also is mated to Love!

Love or Ego-attachment??

 
"If in your relationships you experience both 'love' and the opposite of love - attack, emotional violence, and so on - then it is likely that you are cofusing ego attachment and addictive clinging with love. You cannot love your partner one moment and attack him or her the next. True love has no opposite. If your 'love' has an opposite, then it is not love but a strong ego-need for a more complex and deeper sense of self, a need that the other person temporarily meets. It is the ego's substitute for salvation, and for a short time it almost does feel like salvation....

"That is why, after the initial euphoria has passed, there is so much unhappiness, so much pain and unhappiness. They do not cause pain and unhappiness. They bring out the pain and unhappiness that is already in you... Every addiction does that. Every addiction reaches a point where it does not work for you anymore, and then you feel the pain more intentensely that ever...

"This is one reason why most people are always trying to escape the present moment and are seeking some kind of salvation in the future..."

Eckhart Tolle, Practicing the Power of Now pp. 88-9

More info online at: www.eckharttolletv.com/sunhutch

Relationships in 2012 & Beyond

"Love is a state of being.

Your love is not outside your body;

it is deep within you.

You can never lose it,

and it cannot leave you.

It is not dependent on some other body,

some external form."

 

~ Eckhart Tolle, in Practicing the Power of Now, p.72

 

 

Many people are in a relationship with a partner. Others are open to a new relationship. We are all in relationships of one form or another with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, etc.

 

The words of Eckhart Tolle ring true and we must tap into the inner Source and resource of Love if we are to have a sense of inner peace and acceptance. Whatever you may call this inner Source of Loving Life Energy, it seems to be the key to what is labeled "self-esteem"..."self-worth"... "self-love"... which in my opinion is really an acceptance of the Love of "God"..."Goddess"... "Source" to ourselves. It involves coming to a realization that Life is One and we are all much more than individuals; we are a part of the unity of all that is.

 

The core of Love at the innermost part of our being is Being itself. It is from this centered space that we can be most in relationship without the neediness or codependency that can take us into the land of the lost... or at least feeling lost.

 

Centered in the love within our soul can be compared with coming home to a true sense of integrity within which provides a foundation or reference to respond with loving kindness, rather than reacting from some egoic concept, expectation, want, or other form of attachment.

 

Of course, we are all human 'beings' and are in a universal learning laboratory of sorts. Therefore many interactions within relating with others will provide lessons. It seems to work out best when all the people involved are at least open to learning and growing; an openness to possibilities.

 

When we look outside ourselves for something to fill a void within our soul, we will most likely find disappointment around one of the corners. Now it is true that there are experiences that can only result in satisfaction as we are in relationship with others. The natural human needs for social contact, as well as sensual, sexual, touchy-feelly contact... the touch or hug as well as the companionship and sharing of life experiences... they are all the wonderful interactions we share with others. We also partner for other purposes of specific cooperative missions, raising a family, business opportunities, just plan fun, and many more. 

 

LOVE is an inside-out job! Love is something we can feel within and share. When I truly am in touch with that energy of Source love, then there is a sense of respect for all of Life; and a love for all that comes into my sphere of consciousness. Others who may not be in touch with that "Source-Love" in the moment may have wants and expectations and desires that may be different than my own sense of direction, wants, and needs. It is here that something happens that we often label as "conflict." And it is in this moment of difference that the learning moment arises. Unless we choose to avoid  it...deny it... withdraw to some other place or activity... blame the other so we can maintain our own 'pure sense of being right'... all forms of avoidance.

 

There is much that can be learned in the whole area of "conflict resolution." Because I needed to learn how to deal with conflict and differences, I studied it, practiced it, and became a teacher for peer mediation as well as doing mediations in various settings. Without going into it in depth, there is a necessary shift that needs to occur to find out what we have in common, beyond the differences. And also an acceptance that differences are not wrong, they are just differences. There are ways to communicate with love that are not just venting, blaming, attacking, or controlling through the silent treatment...

 

We all have our concepts and world views and various ideas about this, that, and everything else. And beyond and beneath all the mental chatter with which we become so easily identified, there is the stillness and the center of Being...of Life... of Love...

 

If we could only do one thing each day, it seems vital that we visit our "Home" within... visit the Source and Energy of Life... which to me, is the 'Sacred Spirit' and Breath of Life within All that is....

 

The quickest way for me is simply to be present now... with my breath, the sensations within, the Life Energy streaming through the body at all times.... and as we turn our attention to these other areas the streaming of thoughts may subside to a level that we can be with what is... If other things, like feelings or body tensions, come to the fore, we can notice them and breath into them...accepting all that arises gently letting them come and letting them go... just as our breathing is a sort of death and rebirth with every cycle.... so to is Life... ever new and renewed in this Present Moment...

 

Much Love,

 

John

 

 

 

.

 



Soul-mating - Relationships - Sourcing [Relationshipping Series - Part IV]

Relationshipping Series - Part IV

Soul-mating - Relationships - Sourcing

I have now spent 65 years in this lifetime on Planet Earth...

In the past I have written how the best avenue to a relationship is to first mate with our own soul and find the Beloved Source Of Love and Being within.

I have observed that many people through the years, including myself, have a primary wish and desire to find that soul-mate that somehow will turn the world into magically glorious forever moments of unconditional love.

We all know that relationships happen between two human beings. As much as we may share a belief that there is some kind of connection to Life's Source, most of us live our lives with the realization that not many of us have arrived at anywhere close to pure enlightenment or unconditional love. We tend to live in our worlds of expectations, anticipation, hopes, fears, fantasies, wants, and desires. We have lived in tribes that have had traditions about relationships and what they are to be... what is good for the stability of a society or cultural group. Various governments and religions have special ceremonies that attempt to capture the spirit of love in an institutional arrangement and commitment to vows sworn before the gods and the group.

Social norms and traditions of the tribe are fine...A reminder to myself, and to any readers who may wish to take it in, is to look deeply at what we want and expect from a relationship with another person... to look at the expectations and hopes and whatever else pops up. It seems that the actual paradigm of relationships may be changing... at least for those of us past the 'creating a family together' years.

Soul-mate is a loaded term on which we can project many meanings. It seems that every person can be our soul-mate for some specific reason. Every person with whom we come in contact touches our soul in some way or another ... and we find that we can respond and/or react, which has the potential to bring more responses and reactions and perhaps greater awareness. Relationships of all kinds are the potential catalysts for change... opportunities to learn and to grow.

I do believe we could learn from every person we meet. But who has the time?

I believe that looking for a soul-mate may be misplacing priorities ... and I can't say this is true for you or for anyone else. It seems that we must make that soul connection within first... learning to accept the Love that exists within and let it come to our consciousness and every aspect of our soul... as we do this we find a certain healing, contentment, joy, and peace. And from this space of Love we can love others not from our own needs or because we want something from the other person... we simple allow love to flow through us. Now this can be a bit confusing for anyone who has only seen caring and love from the perspective of a personality wanting something or needing something from the outside. We all have probably observed and been in situations where someone has mistaken our 'Spiritual Compassion' and caring as personal expressions of love that are then projected into a form of personal relationship.

The essence of Being can supply unconditional love to us as we return to this present moment and find our awareness in the space of pure Essence and Being. The spiritual teachers through the years have done their best to help point others to the Light of the Present Moment. Most of us are still working on finding our way home to our true center and to our central Essence.

From the place of acceptance and presence there can come a peace that proclaims serenely that "all is well." We find the Ocean of Love that holds all things together... the cohesive Spirit of Being.

Now we become one with the ocean of being and all of a sudden discover we also have a vehicle that walks on the ground of the physical world. And this gift of our human body has certain desires. We are made in different forms that complement one another. And so we have the gift of the human experience.

It seems only fitting in my fantasy that two people who have come to a deep connection in mating with their own souls and who do not need someone to provide a sense of fulfillment, might enjoy sharing the moments of unconditional love... in the freedom of co-creating what that relationship might look like. There is wisdom in being free and flexible and realizing there in no real security in the physical world as much as some people try to find that security. It may come for a day or 20 years, and then it will change. Transitions are a natural part of a Universe that is in constant motion...

So, relationship, as life, must have a certain flexibility and freedom... with participants who are open to the changes that life brings if the relationship is to continue to grow... it does not mean we do not become attached to others, but as in physical death, there are also the mini-deaths that occur in life and in relationships... It does not mean we avoid relationships... it means we know that real life provides continuing opportunities for growth at various levels. We can enjoy the oneness of Life in the present moment and the joys and sorrows of togetherness with another person...

Some have resigned themselves to the way it is and settle for deadness within relationships.  And many have left relationships to find that soul-mate that will assure Love forever and permanent security. I hope we each find our soul mate in pleasure, purpose, and partnering in this world and that when we do we are ready for the ride of our lives, for I can imagine there will be many lessons we have yet to learn.

We all project the best when we meet someone to whom we are attracted. And depending on the amount of time we spend together and the amount of time we invest in really getting to know another person, the time will vary as to when exactly those ideal projections will fall away and we see one another from a new perspective. The question is, what do we do then?

If you have spent time on self-discovery and self-growth in both the personality and spiritual dimensions, you know it can be tough work and bring great joy as well. I look forward to the day when I can spend some time with another being and the spiritual and personal growth we do together has the same depth and joy as the path has provided so far, in addition to the joy of just being, playing, and doing together...

So, relationships always involve differences. Soul-mating always begins within. Source-love is one of the keys to true happiness and peace. As we allow the Love that is infinite to flow through us to others we can walk in paths filled with more harmony and freedom.

"But," you might say, "how do I go about the process of mating with my essence, with my Spiritual center?"

I suggest you begin accepting exactly where you are right now in your life. I always begin by asking that deepest and highest aspect within for some help... You might call this "Universe," "Great Spirit," "God," "Higher Self," "Life Energy," "Source," or your choice! Simply ask the Mystery... out loud and say it 3 times for emphasis...

We start where we are ... and become increasingly aware of the present moment. Be aware when you slip into thoughts focused on the past and thought focused on the future... then return your awareness to the present moment...

It is often helpful to work with a teacher, guide, or mentor of sorts in this process. Someone you trust. But always honor your own rhythm and inner integrity... Be the person you would like to meet. Develop the qualities that you look for in a potential partner. Continue to seek your own centeredness and spiritual Essence within... Breathe in this moment of awareness the Life that is Now... Find acceptance and peace here in the present moment...

And enjoy the Life that is now...

With Blessings and Love on your journey, John

Connecting to Source-Love [Relationshipping Series - Part III]

"Connecting to Source-Love"
[Relationshipping - Part III]

It is my sense and also my experience that the primary key to any and all positive and enduring "Relationshipping" is how consciously aware and connected to "Source" we are at any particular moment. Most spiritual teachings will offer a mode or method of connection and in reality we are connected at all times or we would not be reading this...or breathing for that matter. The question is not so much if we are connected, but perhaps how consciously aware we are of this connection? ... And how is this connection most useful in our daily relationships and actions?

A long time ago... some 'now' before this 'now'... before this day... I had a powerful dream in which I was asked the question by a messenger of Melchizedek, "Whose Life is it anyway?"

It is now apparent in my experience that there is only One Life... and the fact is that Life itself is a miracle... Life is living itself through this being and form called "John"... or 'Jane'... or 'Suzy' or whatever name we have been given... and we are all "miracles of participation" in the great Singular Miracle and Mystery called "Life." I recall reading an article and when Eleanor Roosevelt was asked if she 'believed' in reincarnation, she answered, "Reincarnation is no more improbable than the fact that life exists at all." [jh paraphrase]...  Life itself is an improbable mystery and miracle... and we are witnesses and participants in the miracle! We are mostly so immersed in the soup of daily living; we take Life for granted... We forget to be Grateful at times for Life and for Source-Love that holds it all together...

 What is "Source" and how are we connected?

"Source" is referring to that nameless Mystery of Oneness... Source of Life Energy... of Sacred Spirit... Great Spirit... Some call the Mystery "God"... I prefer the term "Source" since the term "God" has too many concepts and institutional doctrines attached to the term.

If we are to truly find a center of stability, harmony, and integrity for individual growth and action, and likewise in Relationshipping, we must also connect in awareness and daily living to the "miracle of participation" with Source energy... It seems preferable that partners equally share this awareness and practical open connection to Source Energy... of Spirit... of the Essence of unconditioned Love... a conscious practical and daily involvement with our true Essence...

When we feel love for another being, even if through the needs and desires of personality dynamics, we also sense the timelessness of Source energy...  Love feels like "forever" due to its timeless quality. In actuality, and almost as a default due to the miracle of our participation, you and I are at One with Source... we are One with Unconditioned Love... we are the divine mystery... even though we are so often lost in varying aspects of personality dynamics, the tasks of the day, and the drama of the moment.

Entering the sacred space of Source there will be varying energies felt or sensed. It seems the essence of Source is Oneness... an all-inclusive cohesion of Love... in the stillness of Love we embrace its Peace... in the flow of Love's energy, we feel the current of Joy... in the knowing that Love relates, we find true wisdom...

The Source and re-Sourcing of Love is the most important aspect, in my opinion, that leads to right action, satisfying living, and evolving relating. While we are all all-ways connected and connecting to "Source," the question remains how do we re-Source our conscious awareness to the positive energies of Source-Love?

You may already have your favorite "method" through meditation, contemplation, visualization, prayer, dance, singing, music, art, etc...

Before looking at methods, it is important that we state our intention. This can be done directly by addressing Source with a prayer or affirmation such as:

"My intention is to connect as fully as possible to Source-Love and Life Energy. I ask that I may be assisted in any way possible to allow Source-Love to flow to and through this vehicle called [state name] for the highest good of all."

Here are several brief imagery exercises that may help you consciously be reconnecting with who you are, followed by a video from YouTube that will lead you through a guided imagery to consciously bring the frequency of love and light into our body...

Imagery 1:

1. Find a quiet place to sit with your feet flat on the floor, perhaps with soft instrumental music playing;
2. Breathe and relax your body, emotions and mind for a few minutes, releasing any tension or stress you sense;
3. Imagine you have climbed to the top of a mountain on a bright and beautiful day;
4. Allow the gentle breezes and warmth of the sun to flow to and through your entire body and to every cell;
5. Imagine a special sunbeam coming through the top of your head, cleansing and energizing every cell from you head to your feet... and imagine the sunbeam continues into the earth and goes the whole way to the center of the earth...
6. At the center of the earth there is also a ball of fiery transforming energy that purifies all  negative or toxic waste that has been washed from your being;
7. Now see this beam of light continue and as it exits the fireball of energy it is actually coming right out of the sun again and back down through the top of your head.
8. Repeat this imagery of transforming energy for as long as you choose;
9. Now, with the fullness of the energy from Source filling your every cell, see your life this day and imagine taking this Source-Love energy into the situations that await you.
10. Repeat this exercise, modified in any way that seems right for you, each day to consciously connect to Source-Love...

Imagery 2:

1. Find a quiet place to sit with your feet flat on the floor, perhaps with soft instrumental music playing;
2. Breathe and relax your body, emotions and mind for a few minutes, releasing any tension or stress you sense;
3. Imagine you are comfortable seated with a blank screen in front of you;
4. Ask your deepest and highest aspects of your unconscious mind to show you an image of "Unconditional Love" from Life's Source.
5. Allow an image to come and use the first image that emerges. The conscious mind often likes to censor or judge the image... simply go with the image that appears;
6. Allow the image to become 3 dimensional on the stage in front of you... notice the qualities and feel the energy from this image of unconditional love...
7. Become the image...simply imagine you are now one with the image... and a solar spotlight shines upon you and the image as one... the light helps to intensify the merging energetic qualities of unconditional Love... I'm not sure what has change or if the image has changed since you merged with it, but you can no look out on anyone and any situation in your life from this energy of Unconditional Love and notice how they or it may have changed in your observation...
8. Return your awareness to room you are in and to the present moment bringing with you all the qualities and energies you wish to retain...
9. Note: when a spontaneous image is called for, it is often in the presence of a guide who is available to assist in the process. If for any reason you try this and get to a point where you are not sure what to do or have questions, please feel free to contact me and we can discuss it or go back to the image...

Video: If you google "connecting to Source" you will get hundreds of millions of responses in less than a second. There are many who are trying to help us in this process. The following is a video from YouTube which allows you to simply follow along without having to read or even watch... with credit to Caroline Cory:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=M4bo3yKO1IA

Blessings and Love on your journey's Path,

John