This is my last day of working until October 5th. Tomorrow Michael and I are flying to Sedona, AZ. to spend a week at our time share in this amazingly beautiful part of the country.
The following week, we fly to Santa Fe, NM.
The plan: No time constraints, appointments, nor getting up at the crack of dawn.
Plenty of: Relaxation, adventure, good food, exercise, beauty, balance, connection, and togetherness.
* The Goal: Feeling balanced and rejuvenated upon our return-allowing me to be a more effective and passionate psychotherapist, fitness trainer, hypnotherapist, instructor, and human being.
See you all in October! Happy Autumn to all!
Thank you to my friends and colleagues Victor Goldman, LCSW, and Scott Burzon, LCSW who will be covering my practice in my absence.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The NIghtly NEWS
Mike and I were watching the news the other night when it became incredibly apparent to me that this late evening ritual of watching the nightly news was just not healthy for me.
The constant barrage of information about rape, murder, drugs and crime, gossip, illness, death, tragedies, and all this mixed together with the delivery by affected newscasters with their unauthentic personalities is just too much.
The world can be a very frightening place and certainly terrible things occur each day. However, if one watches the nightly news each day, one can come away believing that that's ALL there is in our world. Not so! The world is also filled with beauty beyond compare. There are heart-warming stories of people exhibiting kindness and compassion to others. Why is it that these stories never seem to make it onto the nightly news? What does this tell us about ourselves?
So, we are not watching this crap anymore. This is the last thing I need to deal with after working with patients in physical and emotional pain all day. I need more balance. I do not need to be going off to sleep with all of this pathology and negativity in my subconscious mind.
Life is beautiful. This is what I will be more mindful of. Life is painful enough at times. Why add to it?
In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "We become what we think about all day."
The constant barrage of information about rape, murder, drugs and crime, gossip, illness, death, tragedies, and all this mixed together with the delivery by affected newscasters with their unauthentic personalities is just too much.
How might this ritual be affecting me? How may it be affecting all of us?
Yes, the world has horrendous things occur in it each day. Yes, there are stories that I may not know about that people will be talking about...SO WHAT? If something is really important I will become aware of it by reading a newspaper or checking news on the Internet. Sports and the weather can be found on their own cable stations.The world can be a very frightening place and certainly terrible things occur each day. However, if one watches the nightly news each day, one can come away believing that that's ALL there is in our world. Not so! The world is also filled with beauty beyond compare. There are heart-warming stories of people exhibiting kindness and compassion to others. Why is it that these stories never seem to make it onto the nightly news? What does this tell us about ourselves?
So, we are not watching this crap anymore. This is the last thing I need to deal with after working with patients in physical and emotional pain all day. I need more balance. I do not need to be going off to sleep with all of this pathology and negativity in my subconscious mind.
Life is beautiful. This is what I will be more mindful of. Life is painful enough at times. Why add to it?
In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "We become what we think about all day."
Deep Love
DEEP LOVE Words and Music by Michelle Dumas
Sky is calling to the steeple
As it echoes out my name
I can hear You in the air I breathe
Spanning the years that have come and gone
You roll like the ocean underneath the sun
Weaving my soul to the Holy One
Weaving on and on with...
Love, it searches everything
It searches everyone
Your love, it reaches all that I am
And I am overcome by Your Deep, deep love
Deep, deep love
Candles are burning
And I pray that You'll be near me as I kneel
I can see You in the air I breathe
Sky is calling to the steeple
As it echoes out my name
I can hear You in the air I breathe
Spanning the years that have come and gone
You roll like the ocean underneath the sun
Weaving my soul to the Holy One
Weaving on and on with...
Love, it searches everything
It searches everyone
Your love, it reaches all that I am
And I am overcome by Your Deep, deep love
Deep, deep love
Candles are burning
And I pray that You'll be near me as I kneel
I can see You in the air I breathe
Nirvana and Enlightenment #109
The door to liberation is wide open.
You can not see that it is wide open because you believe that you know how you are supposed to feel and act when you come upon it.
Why?
Because those who possess the title of "Enlightened" have lied to you.
Does an enlightened person claim they are enlightened?
If they do, they are not.
Since they are not,
how can they tell you what enlightenment is?
Zen is.
You are.
Stop believing.
Start experiencing.
You can not see that it is wide open because you believe that you know how you are supposed to feel and act when you come upon it.
Why?
Because those who possess the title of "Enlightened" have lied to you.
Does an enlightened person claim they are enlightened?
If they do, they are not.
Since they are not,
how can they tell you what enlightenment is?
Zen is.
You are.
Stop believing.
Start experiencing.
Dietary Fat and Cognition
If you are wondering why you cannot seem to get it together mentally as of late, the problem could lie within your diet. If you are eating a lot of fat in meats, pre-packaged foods and dairy products high in fat, you can be crowding out the DHA in your brain, thus impairing your cognitive abilities.
You need to have a certain amount of fat in your diet. This is necessary for survival and to keep your body in good health. But there are good fats and bad fats when it comes to foods. You should be sure to concentrate on eating the good fats, which will actually help your brain rather than bad fats, which will hinder it. The main culprits of fat that crowd out the DHA in your brain include foods that are high in trans fats or saturated fats. These fats are often found in red meat, some dairy products and packaged foods.
Fast foods are also high in dangerous fats as are fried foods and processed foods. A diet high in fast food, for example, will not only clog your arteries and damage your physical health, but it can also cause cognitive impairment. There is something that you can do about this menace, however. You do not have to sit idly by as the fat goes to your head, and it’s never too late to make a difference in your brain health.
You can start to eliminate bad fats from your diet as well as supply your body with foods and supplements that are known to improve cognitive abilities. One type of supplement that you can use to help improve cognitive abilities is Omega-3s. Omega-3 supplements are also often marketed under fish oil supplements. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish as well as in walnuts, beans, flaxseed and olive oil and have been proven to help improve your memory. In fact, recent studies performed in the United Kingdom concluded that students who took Omega-3 supplements prior to exams scored better than those who took a placebo.
Simple substitutions of fat can also help make you smarter. Many times, the fats that you eat are from the way you prepare your foods. Instead of cooking in oil, butter, or other saturated fats, you can switch to olive oil (which, again, contains Omega-3s). Substituting good fats for the bad will not only help your memory, but can also lower your cholesterol. Often, knowing the right foods to eat and cook with will be able to help you eliminate the fats that can cause your brain to feel sluggish and impair your memory.
While red meat is a form of protein and your body needs protein to survive, you can get it in other ways. Fish sources such as salmon or tuna, for example, are also high in protein and should be substituted for red meats. In fact, eating fish three times a week is recommended for those who want to have better memories as well as better health. Other excellent protein sources include almonds, lentils, quinoa, tempeh, and organic Greek yogurt. By limiting your intake of red meat you should start to see an improvement in cognitive function.
Eliminate packaged foods from your diet as they are often high in saturated and trans fat. Begin to eat real foods and include fruits and vegetables in your diet that are fresh, not out of cans. Foods such as broccoli, for example, are also known to improve memory function. Do not let fat go to your head. Start eating a healthy diet of fish, vegetables, whole grains and real foods in order to improve your mental health. And don’t forget the supplements! Get your Omega-3s and B vitamins for improved cognitive abilities.
You need to have a certain amount of fat in your diet. This is necessary for survival and to keep your body in good health. But there are good fats and bad fats when it comes to foods. You should be sure to concentrate on eating the good fats, which will actually help your brain rather than bad fats, which will hinder it. The main culprits of fat that crowd out the DHA in your brain include foods that are high in trans fats or saturated fats. These fats are often found in red meat, some dairy products and packaged foods.
Fast foods are also high in dangerous fats as are fried foods and processed foods. A diet high in fast food, for example, will not only clog your arteries and damage your physical health, but it can also cause cognitive impairment. There is something that you can do about this menace, however. You do not have to sit idly by as the fat goes to your head, and it’s never too late to make a difference in your brain health.
You can start to eliminate bad fats from your diet as well as supply your body with foods and supplements that are known to improve cognitive abilities. One type of supplement that you can use to help improve cognitive abilities is Omega-3s. Omega-3 supplements are also often marketed under fish oil supplements. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish as well as in walnuts, beans, flaxseed and olive oil and have been proven to help improve your memory. In fact, recent studies performed in the United Kingdom concluded that students who took Omega-3 supplements prior to exams scored better than those who took a placebo.
Simple substitutions of fat can also help make you smarter. Many times, the fats that you eat are from the way you prepare your foods. Instead of cooking in oil, butter, or other saturated fats, you can switch to olive oil (which, again, contains Omega-3s). Substituting good fats for the bad will not only help your memory, but can also lower your cholesterol. Often, knowing the right foods to eat and cook with will be able to help you eliminate the fats that can cause your brain to feel sluggish and impair your memory.
While red meat is a form of protein and your body needs protein to survive, you can get it in other ways. Fish sources such as salmon or tuna, for example, are also high in protein and should be substituted for red meats. In fact, eating fish three times a week is recommended for those who want to have better memories as well as better health. Other excellent protein sources include almonds, lentils, quinoa, tempeh, and organic Greek yogurt. By limiting your intake of red meat you should start to see an improvement in cognitive function.
Eliminate packaged foods from your diet as they are often high in saturated and trans fat. Begin to eat real foods and include fruits and vegetables in your diet that are fresh, not out of cans. Foods such as broccoli, for example, are also known to improve memory function. Do not let fat go to your head. Start eating a healthy diet of fish, vegetables, whole grains and real foods in order to improve your mental health. And don’t forget the supplements! Get your Omega-3s and B vitamins for improved cognitive abilities.
Conversations With God
"If the whole world followed you, would you be pleased with where you took it?"
Neale Donald Walsch, Author
Conversations With God
Neale Donald Walsch, Author
Conversations With God
The Art of Peace #57
Seeing me before him,
The enemy attacks,
But, by that time,
I am already standing
Safely behind him.
When attacked, unify the upper, middle, and lower parts of your body.
Enter, turn, and blend with your opponent, front and back, right and left.
Your spirit is your true shield.
The enemy attacks,
But, by that time,
I am already standing
Safely behind him.
When attacked, unify the upper, middle, and lower parts of your body.
Enter, turn, and blend with your opponent, front and back, right and left.
Your spirit is your true shield.
Strength Training For Women
Strength Training
Just because you're female doesn't mean you should shy away from using weights or engaging in other types of resistance workouts. You don't even need to be a body builder! In fact, you don't even have to use weights to perform strength-training exercises!
Strength-training exercises are essential to muscle growth, improving strength and tone, and developing muscle endurance. For best results, these types of exercises should be performed at least twice per week. It is a good idea to consult a certified personal trainer to learn the proper techniques for these exercises. If done improperly, muscle strain or injury could result.
Examples of strength-training exercises include push-ups, pull-ups, bicep curls, and bench presses. Even carrying a full laundry basket around the house counts as a strength-training exercise!
Call me to set up a fitness evaluation and/or strength training sessions at 880-2531.
Sessions can be purchased in increments of 30, 45, or 60 minutes.
Just because you're female doesn't mean you should shy away from using weights or engaging in other types of resistance workouts. You don't even need to be a body builder! In fact, you don't even have to use weights to perform strength-training exercises!
Strength-training exercises are essential to muscle growth, improving strength and tone, and developing muscle endurance. For best results, these types of exercises should be performed at least twice per week. It is a good idea to consult a certified personal trainer to learn the proper techniques for these exercises. If done improperly, muscle strain or injury could result.
Examples of strength-training exercises include push-ups, pull-ups, bicep curls, and bench presses. Even carrying a full laundry basket around the house counts as a strength-training exercise!
Call me to set up a fitness evaluation and/or strength training sessions at 880-2531.
Sessions can be purchased in increments of 30, 45, or 60 minutes.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Flexibility!
Flexibility Exercises
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, "an effective fitness program is more than aerobic training and strength building. To really reap the benefits of exercise, you need to add flexibility training to the mix."
To maintain a youthful, limber body that moves with fluidity and ease, flexibility exercises (stretching) should be performed several times each week. Too often, however, stretching exercises are disregarded and viewed as unimportant.
Improving your flexibility not only helps you to move around easier, it leads to better posture and reduces muscle tension and strain. Stretching the body before and after each workout can lower the risk of muscle injury.
Prior to stretching, prepare the muscles by doing a quick warm-up. As you perform flexibility exercises, be sure not to bounce or force a stretch to the point of pain. Breathe deeply into the stretch and relax, holding each stretch for at least 10 seconds.
Yoga and Pilates exercises are examples of great ways to stretch and improve flexibility.
Make an appointment at The Mind-Body Fitness Studio or contact me at 880-2531 for additional information.
DR. CREW
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, "an effective fitness program is more than aerobic training and strength building. To really reap the benefits of exercise, you need to add flexibility training to the mix."
To maintain a youthful, limber body that moves with fluidity and ease, flexibility exercises (stretching) should be performed several times each week. Too often, however, stretching exercises are disregarded and viewed as unimportant.
Improving your flexibility not only helps you to move around easier, it leads to better posture and reduces muscle tension and strain. Stretching the body before and after each workout can lower the risk of muscle injury.
Prior to stretching, prepare the muscles by doing a quick warm-up. As you perform flexibility exercises, be sure not to bounce or force a stretch to the point of pain. Breathe deeply into the stretch and relax, holding each stretch for at least 10 seconds.
Yoga and Pilates exercises are examples of great ways to stretch and improve flexibility.
Make an appointment at The Mind-Body Fitness Studio or contact me at 880-2531 for additional information.
DR. CREW
Ocean Wide
OCEAN WIDE Words and Music by The Afters
Look outside
It's already light and the stars ran away with the night
Things we've said, words that we'll try forget,
It's so hard to admit I know we've made mistakes
I see through all the tears but that's what got us here
[Chorus:]
If love is an ocean wide
We'll swim in the tears we cry
They'll see us through to the other side
We're gonna make it
When love is a raging sea
You can hold on to me
We'll find a way tonight
Love is an ocean wide
I'll stay right here
It's where I'll always belong
Tied with your arms
Days like this, I wish the sun wouldn't set
I don't want to forget
What made us feel this way
You see through all my fears
And that's what got us here
[Chorus]
Love is an ocean wide enough to forget
Even when we think we can't
Look outside
It's already light and the stars ran away with the night
Things we've said, words that we'll try forget,
It's so hard to admit I know we've made mistakes
I see through all the tears but that's what got us here
[Chorus:]
If love is an ocean wide
We'll swim in the tears we cry
They'll see us through to the other side
We're gonna make it
When love is a raging sea
You can hold on to me
We'll find a way tonight
Love is an ocean wide
I'll stay right here
It's where I'll always belong
Tied with your arms
Days like this, I wish the sun wouldn't set
I don't want to forget
What made us feel this way
You see through all my fears
And that's what got us here
[Chorus]
Love is an ocean wide enough to forget
Even when we think we can't
Nirvana and Enlightenment #108
If you promise to meditate at the same time every day,
for a specific length of time,
with the hopes of obtaining enlightenment,
you will never encounter illumination.
NIRVANA doesn't know what time it is.
for a specific length of time,
with the hopes of obtaining enlightenment,
you will never encounter illumination.
NIRVANA doesn't know what time it is.
The Spark
"He had burned everything there was to burn within him; he had scattered so many sparks to start so many things - and he wondered whether someone could give him now the spark he needed, now when he felt unable ever to rise again. He asked himself who had started him and kept him going. Then he raised his head. Slowly, with the greatest effort of his life, he made his body rise until he was able to sit upright with only one hand pressed to the desk and a trembling arm to support him. He never asked that question again".
Ayn Rand
Atlas Shrugged
Ayn Rand
Atlas Shrugged
The Art of Peace #56
In The Art of Peace we never attack.
An attack is proof that one is out of control.
Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress nor control an opponent unnaturally.
Let attackers come any way they choose to and then blend with them.
Never chase after opponents.
Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it.
An attack is proof that one is out of control.
Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress nor control an opponent unnaturally.
Let attackers come any way they choose to and then blend with them.
Never chase after opponents.
Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it.
The Wonders of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass has gained popularity in the past ten years with more juice and smoothie shops opening up. But do you actually know why wheatgrass is good for you? Do you know anything about wheatgrass other than you should take it because it is healthy?
What is Wheatgrass?
Wheatgrass is the grass of the wheat plant known as Triticum Aestivum. It is extracted into juice or dried for you to eat. These are a rich source of chlorophyll, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes, which are all beneficial to your body. Wheatgrass has an extensive range of health benefits ranging from giving supplemental nutrition to possessing curative properties.
Here are the major health benefits of taking wheatgrass:
Boosts your energy levels
Wheatgrass gets absorbed into your bloodstream immediately and gives a great boost to your energy levels. The vitality that you get from consuming wheat grass is remarkable. It makes you feel energized and refreshed all through the day.
Provides important nutrients for your body
It comprises a number of minerals and vitamins that are important for the maintenance of your body. It is a complete protein and contains around 30 enzymes. It is an excellent source of phosphorus, iron, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, cobalt, sulphur, and zinc-all of which your body needs.
Body building
It comprises high doses of enzymes and chlorophyll. There is 70% chlorophyll that makes it an important body builder for you. It helps to build blood in your body. It has been shown to build red blood cells after you ingest it. It is also known to normalize increased high blood pressure and also stimulate healthy growth of tissues and cells. All of which help your body to repair and build itself.
Cleansing your body
The detergent factors that are present in wheatgrass juice cleanses your lymph system. This helps to remove many toxins from your body. It helps to breakdown the mucous that has been formed due to diseases and allow it to drain away from your body. The chlorophyll that is present in wheatgrass will help to bring the toxins that have been stored away in your cells into the bloodstream.
Helps you with weight control
It comprises so many nutrients that you may not feel food cravings after taking the juice. Also, it is a quick source of energy and is assimilated in your blood within 20 minutes. This prevents fatigue when you are trying to lose weight.
Stops the growth of unfriendly bacteria
Wheatgrass prevents the setting up of a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria in your body. It does not work on the bacteria directly but hinders its development, which will help your body dispose of it.
Apart from these functions there are a number of other ways that wheatgrass helps your body. Research has shown that wheatgrass reduced the risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is also important in reducing anemia. It has been shown that the red cell count became normalized within a few days of administering chlorophyll. It is also effective in neutralizing odors due to nervousness, perspiration from physical exercise, menstrual odors, and many more, which you know can be handy.
The soothing effect of chlorophyll is extremely beneficial for the treatment of a number of skin diseases as well. Chlorophyll packs when inserted into sinuses creates a drying effect. It clears up the congestion and is known to give immediate relief. Regular consumption of wheatgrass is also important to fight off colds.
Now that you know all the benefits of wheatgrass, give it a second glance when you see it at your vitamin shop or when you stop in for a smoothie. The benefits on your body are straight forward, it helps to keep you feeling and looking good.
What is Wheatgrass?
Wheatgrass is the grass of the wheat plant known as Triticum Aestivum. It is extracted into juice or dried for you to eat. These are a rich source of chlorophyll, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes, which are all beneficial to your body. Wheatgrass has an extensive range of health benefits ranging from giving supplemental nutrition to possessing curative properties.
Here are the major health benefits of taking wheatgrass:
Boosts your energy levels
Wheatgrass gets absorbed into your bloodstream immediately and gives a great boost to your energy levels. The vitality that you get from consuming wheat grass is remarkable. It makes you feel energized and refreshed all through the day.
Provides important nutrients for your body
It comprises a number of minerals and vitamins that are important for the maintenance of your body. It is a complete protein and contains around 30 enzymes. It is an excellent source of phosphorus, iron, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, cobalt, sulphur, and zinc-all of which your body needs.
Body building
It comprises high doses of enzymes and chlorophyll. There is 70% chlorophyll that makes it an important body builder for you. It helps to build blood in your body. It has been shown to build red blood cells after you ingest it. It is also known to normalize increased high blood pressure and also stimulate healthy growth of tissues and cells. All of which help your body to repair and build itself.
Cleansing your body
The detergent factors that are present in wheatgrass juice cleanses your lymph system. This helps to remove many toxins from your body. It helps to breakdown the mucous that has been formed due to diseases and allow it to drain away from your body. The chlorophyll that is present in wheatgrass will help to bring the toxins that have been stored away in your cells into the bloodstream.
Helps you with weight control
It comprises so many nutrients that you may not feel food cravings after taking the juice. Also, it is a quick source of energy and is assimilated in your blood within 20 minutes. This prevents fatigue when you are trying to lose weight.
Stops the growth of unfriendly bacteria
Wheatgrass prevents the setting up of a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria in your body. It does not work on the bacteria directly but hinders its development, which will help your body dispose of it.
Apart from these functions there are a number of other ways that wheatgrass helps your body. Research has shown that wheatgrass reduced the risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is also important in reducing anemia. It has been shown that the red cell count became normalized within a few days of administering chlorophyll. It is also effective in neutralizing odors due to nervousness, perspiration from physical exercise, menstrual odors, and many more, which you know can be handy.
The soothing effect of chlorophyll is extremely beneficial for the treatment of a number of skin diseases as well. Chlorophyll packs when inserted into sinuses creates a drying effect. It clears up the congestion and is known to give immediate relief. Regular consumption of wheatgrass is also important to fight off colds.
Now that you know all the benefits of wheatgrass, give it a second glance when you see it at your vitamin shop or when you stop in for a smoothie. The benefits on your body are straight forward, it helps to keep you feeling and looking good.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
12 Life Lessons I Learned From My Cat
12 Life Lessons I Learned From My Cat
1. Pounce on opportunity. He who hesitates, misses catching the passing lizard.
2. Patience. Infinite patience...
3. Concentration. A cat studying an opportunity just beyond his grasp is the epitome of focused attention. He doesn't even blink as he tunes out all distractions. His body is completely still except for his wildly twitching tail releasing his nervous energy.
4. Nothing is worth disturbing your beauty sleep.
5. Catnap. Even a few moments of shut-eye is refreshing.
6. If you're happy, purr. Show your appreciation by letting people know that you like what they do.
7. Do cat stretches - and other yoga poses, and try Qi-gong. Especially as we age, gentle stretching is one of the best things we can do for our bodies.
8. Wrestle with your best friend. She/He likes it when you're playful.
9. Eat when you're hungry and not by the clock.
10. Ask for what you want. If you are loveable and patient, you will probably get it.
11. You can't have everything you want. If you put your claws where they don't belong, you're going to get yourself into trouble.
12. Revel in life's simple pleasures. A ball of string is magic. Catnip is heavenly.
1. Pounce on opportunity. He who hesitates, misses catching the passing lizard.
2. Patience. Infinite patience...
3. Concentration. A cat studying an opportunity just beyond his grasp is the epitome of focused attention. He doesn't even blink as he tunes out all distractions. His body is completely still except for his wildly twitching tail releasing his nervous energy.
4. Nothing is worth disturbing your beauty sleep.
5. Catnap. Even a few moments of shut-eye is refreshing.
6. If you're happy, purr. Show your appreciation by letting people know that you like what they do.
7. Do cat stretches - and other yoga poses, and try Qi-gong. Especially as we age, gentle stretching is one of the best things we can do for our bodies.
8. Wrestle with your best friend. She/He likes it when you're playful.
9. Eat when you're hungry and not by the clock.
10. Ask for what you want. If you are loveable and patient, you will probably get it.
11. You can't have everything you want. If you put your claws where they don't belong, you're going to get yourself into trouble.
12. Revel in life's simple pleasures. A ball of string is magic. Catnip is heavenly.
Advancing Confidently Towards Our Dreams
"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. He will put something behind. He will pass an invisible boundary. New, universal and more liberal laws will begin to establish themselves around and within him or, the old law will be expanded and interpreted in his favor in a more liberal sense, and he will live with the license of a higher order of beings."
Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau
Nirvana and Enlightenment #107
Everybody wants to go to Heaven.
But, nobody wants to die.
People want to be holy.
But, only if the world knows that they are holy.
So, they wear certain clothing or hold a specific title.
Holiness comes with a price, no NIRVANA.
Enlightenment also comes with a price, your ego.
As long as you prefer holiness over enlightenment,
NIRVANA can not be known.
How do you let go of the desire for holiness?
Step One:
Don't care if anyone knows you're enlightened.
But, nobody wants to die.
People want to be holy.
But, only if the world knows that they are holy.
So, they wear certain clothing or hold a specific title.
Holiness comes with a price, no NIRVANA.
Enlightenment also comes with a price, your ego.
As long as you prefer holiness over enlightenment,
NIRVANA can not be known.
How do you let go of the desire for holiness?
Step One:
Don't care if anyone knows you're enlightened.
The Art of Peace #55
There are two types of ki: ordinary ki and true ki.
Ordinary ki is coarse and heavy, and true ki is light and versatile.
In order to perform well, you have to liberate yourself from ordinary ki and permeate your organs with true ki.
That is the basis of powerful technique.
Ordinary ki is coarse and heavy, and true ki is light and versatile.
In order to perform well, you have to liberate yourself from ordinary ki and permeate your organs with true ki.
That is the basis of powerful technique.
The Benefits of Black Tea
There are powerful little chemical compounds in tea -- called polysaccharides -- that may do your blood sugar a bit of good. And one of the best ways to get them? Black tea. Researchers recently discovered that the polysaccharides in black tea may be tops over those in green or oolong teas.
Power in the Polysaccharides
People in Japan and China have long touted black tea’s blood sugar benefits. And now, researchers are taking a look at the components of black tea that may play a role. When researchers extracted the polysaccharides in black tea and examined their effects on a cellular level, something interesting happened.
The black tea polysaccharides exhibited blood sugar stabilizing properties -- even more so than the polysaccharides in both green and oolong teas. Researchers suspect there may be something unique about the chemical composition of black tea polysaccharides that boosts their blood sugar benefits.
Power in the Polysaccharides
People in Japan and China have long touted black tea’s blood sugar benefits. And now, researchers are taking a look at the components of black tea that may play a role. When researchers extracted the polysaccharides in black tea and examined their effects on a cellular level, something interesting happened.
The black tea polysaccharides exhibited blood sugar stabilizing properties -- even more so than the polysaccharides in both green and oolong teas. Researchers suspect there may be something unique about the chemical composition of black tea polysaccharides that boosts their blood sugar benefits.
Two Hands
TWO HANDS Words and Music by Jars of Clay
I’ve been living out of sanity
I’ve been splitting hairs and blurring lines
I am a house that is divided
In my heart and in my mind
I use one hand to pull You closer
The other to push You away
If I had two hands doing the same thing
Lifted high, lifted high
I have a broken disposition
I’m a liar who thirsts for the truth
And while I ache for faith to hold me
I need to feel the scars and see the proof
And if we just keep digging we can reach the foundation
Of our souls
And if we just keep cutting all the chains from our hearts
We’ll lose control
And it feels like giving in
It feels like starting over
It feels like waking up, and you know it’s coming
It feels like a brand new day
Open your eyes
I’ve been living out of sanity
I’ve been splitting hairs and blurring lines
I am a house that is divided
In my heart and in my mind
I use one hand to pull You closer
The other to push You away
If I had two hands doing the same thing
Lifted high, lifted high
I have a broken disposition
I’m a liar who thirsts for the truth
And while I ache for faith to hold me
I need to feel the scars and see the proof
And if we just keep digging we can reach the foundation
Of our souls
And if we just keep cutting all the chains from our hearts
We’ll lose control
And it feels like giving in
It feels like starting over
It feels like waking up, and you know it’s coming
It feels like a brand new day
Open your eyes
Monday, September 14, 2009
Metromint Water
As those of you who know me well realize, I have been trying to stay away from all artificial sugars. This has become somewhat problematic for me, as I am an avid water drinker. I drink so much water each day, especially on the days when I am doing my practice as I am speaking all day in the office.
I had been drinking water sweetened with Splenda and have now given up all artificial sweeteners. I then began drinking water "straight", but... I have found it not so tasty.
Michael and I were in Wild By Nature and I came across a product called Metromint. Metromint waters are not sweetened at all by ANY sweetener, artificial or otherwise. The natural spring water is flavored by fresh mint leaves! It is absolutely delicious!
Metromint waters can be found in the following natural mint flavors:
Peppermint
Spearmint
Orangemint (flavored with natural orange essence)
Chocolatemint
Cherrymint (flavored with natural cherry essence)
Lemonmint (flavored with natural lemon essence)
You will love the flavor and pureness of this wonderful product. I find the water brings me energy throughout the day as I see patients!
I had been drinking water sweetened with Splenda and have now given up all artificial sweeteners. I then began drinking water "straight", but... I have found it not so tasty.
Michael and I were in Wild By Nature and I came across a product called Metromint. Metromint waters are not sweetened at all by ANY sweetener, artificial or otherwise. The natural spring water is flavored by fresh mint leaves! It is absolutely delicious!
Metromint waters can be found in the following natural mint flavors:
Peppermint
Spearmint
Orangemint (flavored with natural orange essence)
Chocolatemint
Cherrymint (flavored with natural cherry essence)
Lemonmint (flavored with natural lemon essence)
You will love the flavor and pureness of this wonderful product. I find the water brings me energy throughout the day as I see patients!
B-12
A recent study from US Framingham indicated that one in every four adults in the US is deficient in Vitamin B12, which is known as the energy vitamin. Vitamin B12 can help with energy production, formation of blood, myelin formation and DNA synthesis. You can get vitamin B12 from animal sources, such as beef, lamb, snapper, venison, salmon, poultry, eggs and scallops.
A strict vegetarian diet or vegan diet can cause a vitamin B12 deficiency that can lead to blindness and brain abnormalities. In some areas of the world that are strict vegetarian cultures, such as India, 80 percent of the adults are vitamin B12 deficient.
The Health Connection
Vitamin B12 is very important for your health. It is used to promote a healthy nervous system function, proper digestion and fat metabolism as well as iron use, normal nerve growth development, a healthy immune system, cell formation, longevity, hormone production, well being, mental clarity, physical energy, female reproductive health, concentration and memory function.
Vitamin B12 allows the nerve endings to communicate with one another. If the level of Vitamin B12 in the blood is all depleted, it can lead to a host of medical problems, some of them life threatening. Needless to say, vitamin B12 provides the body with what it needs to remain healthy overall.
Some symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency are memory problems, fogginess when it comes to mental abilities, mood swings, apathetic feelings, muscle weakness, tingling in the extremities, fatigue and total lack of energy.
If you feel that you might be deficient when it comes to Vitamin B12, you should have your blood levels checked. If you are in fact deficient, you need to take the proper steps to be sure that you bring your levels up to the right amount of vitamin B12.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to dementia in elderly people. This is a reversible condition that can be improved by getting more vitamin B12 in the system. Alzheimer’s disease, however, differs from dementia in that it is not reversible and involves brain shrinkage. A study of seniors indicated that those who were vitamin B12 deficient suffered more from brain atrophy, or shrinkage of the brain.
Pernicious Anemia
Anyone who is vitamin B12 deficient can have a condition called pernicious anemia. This means that there is a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body. If left untreated, pernicious anemia can up your risk for heart attacks and strokes. It can even make changes to your digestive tract, increasing a risk for stomach cancer.
Insomnia and Sleep Problems
Because vitamin B12 plays an important role when it comes to melatonin production in the body, a lack of vitamin B12 can cause sleep problems. Lack of sleep in itself can lead to a whole other host of health conditions.
Neuropathy
Muscle weakness and headaches can also be part of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Migraine headaches, as well as Parkinson’s disease are both neurological conditions that can be caused by a lack of vitamin B12. In addition, a lack of vitamin B12 has been linked to certain psychiatric disorders. Another serious condition that can result from a lack of vitamin B12 is blindness. This is due to a deterioration of the optical nerves and is not reversible.
Heart Attacks and Strokes
Studies indicate that a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to heart attack and stroke. This is because the lack of vitamin B12 increases the homocysteine levels in the blood and ups your risk of suffering from a heart attack or a stroke.
Cancer
Because Vitamin B12 has such an important role when it comes to DNA synthesis, low levels can cause DNA damage. Cervical cancers and breast cancers are linked to low levels of vitamin B12.
Fertility, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding.
In addition to its implication in the aforementioned diseases and conditions, low levels of Vitamin B12 can also play a role in fertility, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women who do not have adequate levels of vitamin B12 in their blood increase their risk of having babies with birth defects. Spinal Bifida is a common defect that is caused by low levels of vitamin B12. Women who are planning a pregnancy should make sure that they have adequate levels of vitamin B12 in their bloodstream before conception as low levels of this vitamin are also linked to miscarriages and infertility. Additionally, if a woman has a diet that does not include enough vitamin B12 and is breast feeding, the baby can develop brain abnormalities based on lack of B12.
The Risk Factors
Vitamin B12 deficiencies do not just occur because of a lack of eating animal products. There are other reasons why someone can become vitamin B12 deficient. These include being over the age of 50, using antacids, using Metformin, use of medications to treat cancer, Parkinson’s and gout, birth control pills, antibiotics and anti-convulsants. Coffee drinkers also experience more of a reduction in their levels of Vitamin B12 as compared to those who do not drink coffee. Bacterial infections, and exposure to NO2 can also lower the levels of vitamin B 12 in the blood.
What You Can Do
Treatment for a deficiency in Vitamin B12 can include IV or shots of the vitamin, as well as a change in diet. Taking supplements of vitamin B12 is recommended for anyone who is a vegetarian or vegan, is over 50, takes antacids, takes prescription drugs and suffers from mental fogginess. Taking supplements can be an effective way to make sure that your body gets the amount of vitamin B12 it needs to function while allowing you to have a healthier life. So, don’t skimp on the B12!
A strict vegetarian diet or vegan diet can cause a vitamin B12 deficiency that can lead to blindness and brain abnormalities. In some areas of the world that are strict vegetarian cultures, such as India, 80 percent of the adults are vitamin B12 deficient.
The Health Connection
Vitamin B12 is very important for your health. It is used to promote a healthy nervous system function, proper digestion and fat metabolism as well as iron use, normal nerve growth development, a healthy immune system, cell formation, longevity, hormone production, well being, mental clarity, physical energy, female reproductive health, concentration and memory function.
Vitamin B12 allows the nerve endings to communicate with one another. If the level of Vitamin B12 in the blood is all depleted, it can lead to a host of medical problems, some of them life threatening. Needless to say, vitamin B12 provides the body with what it needs to remain healthy overall.
Some symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency are memory problems, fogginess when it comes to mental abilities, mood swings, apathetic feelings, muscle weakness, tingling in the extremities, fatigue and total lack of energy.
If you feel that you might be deficient when it comes to Vitamin B12, you should have your blood levels checked. If you are in fact deficient, you need to take the proper steps to be sure that you bring your levels up to the right amount of vitamin B12.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to dementia in elderly people. This is a reversible condition that can be improved by getting more vitamin B12 in the system. Alzheimer’s disease, however, differs from dementia in that it is not reversible and involves brain shrinkage. A study of seniors indicated that those who were vitamin B12 deficient suffered more from brain atrophy, or shrinkage of the brain.
Pernicious Anemia
Anyone who is vitamin B12 deficient can have a condition called pernicious anemia. This means that there is a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body. If left untreated, pernicious anemia can up your risk for heart attacks and strokes. It can even make changes to your digestive tract, increasing a risk for stomach cancer.
Insomnia and Sleep Problems
Because vitamin B12 plays an important role when it comes to melatonin production in the body, a lack of vitamin B12 can cause sleep problems. Lack of sleep in itself can lead to a whole other host of health conditions.
Neuropathy
Muscle weakness and headaches can also be part of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Migraine headaches, as well as Parkinson’s disease are both neurological conditions that can be caused by a lack of vitamin B12. In addition, a lack of vitamin B12 has been linked to certain psychiatric disorders. Another serious condition that can result from a lack of vitamin B12 is blindness. This is due to a deterioration of the optical nerves and is not reversible.
Heart Attacks and Strokes
Studies indicate that a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to heart attack and stroke. This is because the lack of vitamin B12 increases the homocysteine levels in the blood and ups your risk of suffering from a heart attack or a stroke.
Cancer
Because Vitamin B12 has such an important role when it comes to DNA synthesis, low levels can cause DNA damage. Cervical cancers and breast cancers are linked to low levels of vitamin B12.
Fertility, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding.
In addition to its implication in the aforementioned diseases and conditions, low levels of Vitamin B12 can also play a role in fertility, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women who do not have adequate levels of vitamin B12 in their blood increase their risk of having babies with birth defects. Spinal Bifida is a common defect that is caused by low levels of vitamin B12. Women who are planning a pregnancy should make sure that they have adequate levels of vitamin B12 in their bloodstream before conception as low levels of this vitamin are also linked to miscarriages and infertility. Additionally, if a woman has a diet that does not include enough vitamin B12 and is breast feeding, the baby can develop brain abnormalities based on lack of B12.
The Risk Factors
Vitamin B12 deficiencies do not just occur because of a lack of eating animal products. There are other reasons why someone can become vitamin B12 deficient. These include being over the age of 50, using antacids, using Metformin, use of medications to treat cancer, Parkinson’s and gout, birth control pills, antibiotics and anti-convulsants. Coffee drinkers also experience more of a reduction in their levels of Vitamin B12 as compared to those who do not drink coffee. Bacterial infections, and exposure to NO2 can also lower the levels of vitamin B 12 in the blood.
What You Can Do
Treatment for a deficiency in Vitamin B12 can include IV or shots of the vitamin, as well as a change in diet. Taking supplements of vitamin B12 is recommended for anyone who is a vegetarian or vegan, is over 50, takes antacids, takes prescription drugs and suffers from mental fogginess. Taking supplements can be an effective way to make sure that your body gets the amount of vitamin B12 it needs to function while allowing you to have a healthier life. So, don’t skimp on the B12!
Nirvana and Enlightenment #106
If you love Hell
it becomes Heaven.
Good and bad
are all your perspective, your point of view.
If good and bad, right and wrong are based in the individual,
it is only your individuality you must transcend to meet NIRVANA.
Become ONE.
it becomes Heaven.
Good and bad
are all your perspective, your point of view.
If good and bad, right and wrong are based in the individual,
it is only your individuality you must transcend to meet NIRVANA.
Become ONE.
Quiet Your Mind
"People occasionally come up to me and say, 'I want what you seem to have. Can you either give it to me or show me how to get it?' And I say to them, 'You have it already. You just can't feel it, because your mind is making too much noise. Quiet your mind, and it's yours."
Eckhart Tolle, from "The Power of Now"
Eckhart Tolle, from "The Power of Now"
The Heart of the Matter
THE HEART OF THE MATTER Words and Music by Don Henley
I got the call today, I didn't wanna hear
But I knew that it would come
An old, true friend of ours was talking on the phone
She said you'd found someone
And I thought of all the bad luck,
And the struggles we went through
And how I lost me and you lost you
What are these voices outside loves open door
Make us throw off our contentment
And beg for something more?
I'm learning to live without you now
But I miss you sometimes
The more I know, the less I understand
All the things I thought I knew, I'm learning again
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
These times are so uncertain
There's a yearning undefined
And people filled with rage
We all need a little tenderness
How can love survive in such a graceless age?
The trust and self-assurance that lead to happiness
They' re the very things - we kill I guess
Pride and competition
Cannot fill these empty arms
And the work I put between us
You know it doesn't keep me warm
I'm learning to live without you now
But I miss you, baby
And the more I know, the less I understand
All the things I thought I'd figured out
I have to learn again
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But everything changes
And my friends seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
There are people in your life who've come and gone
They let you down, you know they hurt your pride
You better put it all behind you baby; life goes on
You keep carrying that anger; it ll eat you up inside, baby
I've been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
Because the flesh will get weak
And the ashes will scatter
So I'm thinking about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
I got the call today, I didn't wanna hear
But I knew that it would come
An old, true friend of ours was talking on the phone
She said you'd found someone
And I thought of all the bad luck,
And the struggles we went through
And how I lost me and you lost you
What are these voices outside loves open door
Make us throw off our contentment
And beg for something more?
I'm learning to live without you now
But I miss you sometimes
The more I know, the less I understand
All the things I thought I knew, I'm learning again
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
These times are so uncertain
There's a yearning undefined
And people filled with rage
We all need a little tenderness
How can love survive in such a graceless age?
The trust and self-assurance that lead to happiness
They' re the very things - we kill I guess
Pride and competition
Cannot fill these empty arms
And the work I put between us
You know it doesn't keep me warm
I'm learning to live without you now
But I miss you, baby
And the more I know, the less I understand
All the things I thought I'd figured out
I have to learn again
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But everything changes
And my friends seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
There are people in your life who've come and gone
They let you down, you know they hurt your pride
You better put it all behind you baby; life goes on
You keep carrying that anger; it ll eat you up inside, baby
I've been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
But my will gets weak
And my thoughts seem to scatter
But I think its about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me
Ive been trying to get down
To the heart of the matter
Because the flesh will get weak
And the ashes will scatter
So I'm thinking about forgiveness
Forgiveness
Even if, even if you don't love me anymore
The Art of Peace #54
In our techniques we enter completely into, blend totally with, and control firmly an attack.
Strength resides where one's ki is concentrated and stable; confusion and maliciousness arise when ki stagnates.
Strength resides where one's ki is concentrated and stable; confusion and maliciousness arise when ki stagnates.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Dream and Believe
"To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe."
Anatole France, 1844-1924, French Novelist
Anatole France, 1844-1924, French Novelist
There is No Wrong Way
Love is saying "I feel differently," instead of "You're wrong.” - Anonymous
We all hate it when someone tells us we're wrong. Them's fightin' words. So we end up hating the person who said that we were wrong. There are two great reasons for never saying, "You're wrong," to someone you love...First, it opens the door to anger and hatred. Why do that to someone you love?
Secondly, virtually everything is a matter of perspective and opinion. Whether the subject is politics, religion, sex, the kids' homework, or anything else, there really isn't a "right" way, just the way you prefer.
We all hate it when someone tells us we're wrong. Them's fightin' words. So we end up hating the person who said that we were wrong. There are two great reasons for never saying, "You're wrong," to someone you love...First, it opens the door to anger and hatred. Why do that to someone you love?
Secondly, virtually everything is a matter of perspective and opinion. Whether the subject is politics, religion, sex, the kids' homework, or anything else, there really isn't a "right" way, just the way you prefer.
The Art of Peace #53
The Art of Peace is to fulfill that which is lacking.
One should be prepared to receive ninety-nine percent of an enemy's attack and stare death right in the face in order to illuminate the Path.
One should be prepared to receive ninety-nine percent of an enemy's attack and stare death right in the face in order to illuminate the Path.
Good Communication
Scale: So, half a pound…that’s a good start.
Mirror: Please…have you seen this guy?
Scale: I don’t see him as much as feel him…and he’s usually naked.
Mirror: I see him naked too… not...good...and half a pound down and he’s looking at me like he’s Brad Pitt.
Scale: But you have to be positive. Half a pound down is better than half a pound up.
Mirror: You have to stop messing with his head. Let’s be real..he craps half a pound.
Scale: You’re gross.
Mirror: But truthful…he’s lowered his expectations of himself.
Scale: He’s trying.
Mirror: I get that…but I remember when he used to look at me through a different set of eyes .
Scale: What are you talking about?
Mirror: This guy once had abs…and bicep cuts…and a jaw line.
Scale: Yes…I remember those days. It was much easier on me as well…
Mirror: So, don’t kiss his feet every time he drops half a pound.
Scale: Well, don’t beat him up every time he turns to you for approval.
Mirror: Tell him to give me something to approve…how about consistency?
Scale: He does go up and down on the weekends..
Mirror: Damn right…half a pound on a Friday and he’s celebrating with 3 vodka/rocks.
Scale: And then he’s up 3 pounds on Monday…
Mirror: And Brad Pitt is no more…
Scale: OK, OK…so maybe we can work together to get him those abs back.
Mirror: Fine. I’ll make sure he is really looking at himself truthfully…
Scale: And I will back you up with real data.
Mirror: We’ve got some work to do…you know that, right?
Scale: Yes…I know…but I think he can do it. He really wants to be better.
Mirror: I agree… Talk to you tomorrow?
Scale: Every day.
Mirror: Done.
Scale: Done.
This is an excerpt from my friend, Victor's son's blog. You can read more at www.thedaddybelly.blogspot.com
Mirror: Please…have you seen this guy?
Scale: I don’t see him as much as feel him…and he’s usually naked.
Mirror: I see him naked too… not...good...and half a pound down and he’s looking at me like he’s Brad Pitt.
Scale: But you have to be positive. Half a pound down is better than half a pound up.
Mirror: You have to stop messing with his head. Let’s be real..he craps half a pound.
Scale: You’re gross.
Mirror: But truthful…he’s lowered his expectations of himself.
Scale: He’s trying.
Mirror: I get that…but I remember when he used to look at me through a different set of eyes .
Scale: What are you talking about?
Mirror: This guy once had abs…and bicep cuts…and a jaw line.
Scale: Yes…I remember those days. It was much easier on me as well…
Mirror: So, don’t kiss his feet every time he drops half a pound.
Scale: Well, don’t beat him up every time he turns to you for approval.
Mirror: Tell him to give me something to approve…how about consistency?
Scale: He does go up and down on the weekends..
Mirror: Damn right…half a pound on a Friday and he’s celebrating with 3 vodka/rocks.
Scale: And then he’s up 3 pounds on Monday…
Mirror: And Brad Pitt is no more…
Scale: OK, OK…so maybe we can work together to get him those abs back.
Mirror: Fine. I’ll make sure he is really looking at himself truthfully…
Scale: And I will back you up with real data.
Mirror: We’ve got some work to do…you know that, right?
Scale: Yes…I know…but I think he can do it. He really wants to be better.
Mirror: I agree… Talk to you tomorrow?
Scale: Every day.
Mirror: Done.
Scale: Done.
This is an excerpt from my friend, Victor's son's blog. You can read more at www.thedaddybelly.blogspot.com
Friday, September 11, 2009
9/11
This is the 8th anniversary of the horrendous tragedy which completely changed the world as it was. I, like so many others, remember that day all too well.
My cousin, Christopher Pickford, perished (was murdered) that morning when the South Tower collapsed. He was a new FDNY member. His body was found finally on Christmas Eve, 2001. He was just 33 years old. May he rest in peace. His final moments on earth were spent attempting to rescue civilians from the burning towers.
It's a strange day, September 11th. There aren't any right or wrong ways to grieve and to heal. We all need to do what is best for us individually. In some ways, we were all traumatized that day in one way or another. Let's be gentle with each other, and with ourselves. Compassion heals all. Love conquers all. Hate can be defeated.
My cousin, Christopher Pickford, perished (was murdered) that morning when the South Tower collapsed. He was a new FDNY member. His body was found finally on Christmas Eve, 2001. He was just 33 years old. May he rest in peace. His final moments on earth were spent attempting to rescue civilians from the burning towers.
It's a strange day, September 11th. There aren't any right or wrong ways to grieve and to heal. We all need to do what is best for us individually. In some ways, we were all traumatized that day in one way or another. Let's be gentle with each other, and with ourselves. Compassion heals all. Love conquers all. Hate can be defeated.
Nirvana and Enlightenment #105
Yin and Yang define duality.
I am this,
You are that.
I am right,
You are wrong.
I am man,
You are woman.
I am white,
You are Black.
Duality causes life.
Duality causes Karma.
Duality does not cause enlightenment.
Step beyond duality.
See yourself as an interactive part of everything.
Let your mind merge with the Oneness.
And you will be free from Karma.
I am this,
You are that.
I am right,
You are wrong.
I am man,
You are woman.
I am white,
You are Black.
Duality causes life.
Duality causes Karma.
Duality does not cause enlightenment.
Step beyond duality.
See yourself as an interactive part of everything.
Let your mind merge with the Oneness.
And you will be free from Karma.
Forgive Yourself
FORGIVE YOURSELF Words and Music by Downhere
You keep laying down $100 bills
On the counter of your untamed guilt
And you’ll keep paying out from your empty purse
Until you feel you’ve satisfied your curse
No one here is throwing stones
But you have got to drop your own
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Anyone who bears a scar wants to forget it
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Nothing ever frees you more than just believing
That you’ve been forgiven, come out of the prison
Can you tell me how you spend every day
Looking in the mirror of your shame
And staring like a judge, you are ruling for yourself
You tied a stone around your neck
You’re drowning in a past regret
Don’t believe it’s okay to be like this
Don’t believe you deserve to live like this‘
Cause every part of you wants to know
Just one reason why you should let go
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Nothing ever frees you more than just believing
Come out of the prison
You’ve been delivered
You keep laying down $100 bills
On the counter of your untamed guilt
And you’ll keep paying out from your empty purse
Until you feel you’ve satisfied your curse
No one here is throwing stones
But you have got to drop your own
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Anyone who bears a scar wants to forget it
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Nothing ever frees you more than just believing
That you’ve been forgiven, come out of the prison
Can you tell me how you spend every day
Looking in the mirror of your shame
And staring like a judge, you are ruling for yourself
You tied a stone around your neck
You’re drowning in a past regret
Don’t believe it’s okay to be like this
Don’t believe you deserve to live like this‘
Cause every part of you wants to know
Just one reason why you should let go
Forgive yourself, forgive yourself
Nothing ever frees you more than just believing
Come out of the prison
You’ve been delivered
Inward Calm and Outer Strength
“Inward calm cannot be maintained unless physical strength is constantly and intelligently replenished.”
The Buddha
The Buddha
The Art of Peace #52
In extreme situations, the entire universe becomes our foe.
At such critical times, unity of mind and technique is essential--do not let your heart waver.
At the instant
A Warrior
Confronts a foe
All things
Come into focus
Even when called out
By a single foe
Remain on guard
For you are always surrounded
By a host of enemies
At such critical times, unity of mind and technique is essential--do not let your heart waver.
At the instant
A Warrior
Confronts a foe
All things
Come into focus
Even when called out
By a single foe
Remain on guard
For you are always surrounded
By a host of enemies
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Circle
"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and of the strong.
Because someday in life, you will have been all of these."
George Washington Carver
Because someday in life, you will have been all of these."
George Washington Carver
Derek
Derek Jeter is my favorite baseball player. Let me tell you why.
I have been watching him play shortstop for the New York Yankees for over 15 years now. He is the ultimate TEAM player. You will never hear him put himself nor his own accomplishments ahead of the team winning a game. Unlike several other members of the Yankees, he would prefer to win a game than to go 4 for 5 at bat.
He works diligently on all of his skills and attributes. As he has grown older, his range and speed may have dissipated, but he has learned to compensate by being smarter and more knowledgeable about his position on the field. He studies the game. Consistently and constantly. On each and every pitch, he is aware of what he will do if the ball is hit to him. He is always mentally in the game.
He will do anything to perform well and gives his all. Who can forget the amount of times he has sacrificed his own body to make the play?
He has never, to my knowledge, gotten thrown out of a game or argued on and on with an umpire.
He has never made one derogatory statement about a teammate nor an opposing player. He has never gotten into a disagreement with a reporter.
He is always seen cheering on his teamates, positively offering advice to younger players, and never getting down on himself.
Off the field, Jeter has remained unmarried, has dated many famous women, yet has never been the subject of scandal nor controversy. No one he has ever met on nor off the field has anything but kind words about him.
I sincerely intend to live my life in this way in my chosen profession as well as when I'm "off the field". What an example he is to children who watch him play and also to bigger children like myself.
D.J. is a class act. He was clearly raised correctly. His parents, one African-American and the other Caucasian, have instilled in Jeter the true values, self-respect, and eloquence that he embodies.
Jeter will break Lou Gehrig's most hits as a Yankee in the next game the Yanks play as he is currently tied with Gehrig. It could not have happened to a more professional, kind, classy, and talented man. Even after last night's hit where he tied Gehrig's hit record he stated in an interview immediately after the game that he didn't wish to upstage the Yankees effort as they were losing at the time of his hit. He also added that he felt positively about the opposing players on the Tampa Bay team as they were cheering him on as he got up to bat citing that he never wanted to be disrespectful of them.
What more can I say about him?
I have been watching him play shortstop for the New York Yankees for over 15 years now. He is the ultimate TEAM player. You will never hear him put himself nor his own accomplishments ahead of the team winning a game. Unlike several other members of the Yankees, he would prefer to win a game than to go 4 for 5 at bat.
He works diligently on all of his skills and attributes. As he has grown older, his range and speed may have dissipated, but he has learned to compensate by being smarter and more knowledgeable about his position on the field. He studies the game. Consistently and constantly. On each and every pitch, he is aware of what he will do if the ball is hit to him. He is always mentally in the game.
He will do anything to perform well and gives his all. Who can forget the amount of times he has sacrificed his own body to make the play?
He has never, to my knowledge, gotten thrown out of a game or argued on and on with an umpire.
He has never made one derogatory statement about a teammate nor an opposing player. He has never gotten into a disagreement with a reporter.
He is always seen cheering on his teamates, positively offering advice to younger players, and never getting down on himself.
Off the field, Jeter has remained unmarried, has dated many famous women, yet has never been the subject of scandal nor controversy. No one he has ever met on nor off the field has anything but kind words about him.
I sincerely intend to live my life in this way in my chosen profession as well as when I'm "off the field". What an example he is to children who watch him play and also to bigger children like myself.
D.J. is a class act. He was clearly raised correctly. His parents, one African-American and the other Caucasian, have instilled in Jeter the true values, self-respect, and eloquence that he embodies.
Jeter will break Lou Gehrig's most hits as a Yankee in the next game the Yanks play as he is currently tied with Gehrig. It could not have happened to a more professional, kind, classy, and talented man. Even after last night's hit where he tied Gehrig's hit record he stated in an interview immediately after the game that he didn't wish to upstage the Yankees effort as they were losing at the time of his hit. He also added that he felt positively about the opposing players on the Tampa Bay team as they were cheering him on as he got up to bat citing that he never wanted to be disrespectful of them.
What more can I say about him?
Simply A Conduit
"You cannot teach a man anything.
You can only help him discover it within himself."
- Galileo
You can only help him discover it within himself."
- Galileo
Nirvana and Enlightenment #104
Yin and Yang.
If you have to think about whether or not you are in balance,
you certainly are out of balance.
Balance is the state of Oneness.
An understanding of your integral interrelationship
with the cosmic whole.
What sets a person out of balance?
Not understanding that balance is the natural order of things.
This causes striving for realignment.
Striving, in all cases, sets in motion the causation factors
for all human suffering.
Be.
And You Are.
Try.
And You Are Not.
If you have to think about whether or not you are in balance,
you certainly are out of balance.
Balance is the state of Oneness.
An understanding of your integral interrelationship
with the cosmic whole.
What sets a person out of balance?
Not understanding that balance is the natural order of things.
This causes striving for realignment.
Striving, in all cases, sets in motion the causation factors
for all human suffering.
Be.
And You Are.
Try.
And You Are Not.
The Power of Protein
It's very important to balance ALL meals and snacks with carb-rich and protein-rich foods together. A meal with carbohydrates alone is problematic because glucose levels shoot up and then crash down. This can leave you feeling tired, hungry, and weak, and gives your body an easy opportunity to convert that meal to fat.
When protein is included, however, you will not only stay full longer, but glucose levels will stay more consistent, your metabolism will work more efficiently, and you will feel energized for a longer period of time between meals. Carbs are digested in about two hours, but proteins take longer to digest. So,when the two are eaten together, protein slows down the digestion of the carbohydrates, and energy from carbs are released more slowly. In addition, eating carbohydrates with protein means the carbohydrates will be used as energy, sparing the protein for use in building and repairing muscle tissues, which is their primary function.
So, for maximum fat loss, make sure that you include a complete protein source at each snack and meal.
When protein is included, however, you will not only stay full longer, but glucose levels will stay more consistent, your metabolism will work more efficiently, and you will feel energized for a longer period of time between meals. Carbs are digested in about two hours, but proteins take longer to digest. So,when the two are eaten together, protein slows down the digestion of the carbohydrates, and energy from carbs are released more slowly. In addition, eating carbohydrates with protein means the carbohydrates will be used as energy, sparing the protein for use in building and repairing muscle tissues, which is their primary function.
So, for maximum fat loss, make sure that you include a complete protein source at each snack and meal.
The Art of Peace #51
Be grateful for hardship, setbacks, and difficult people.
Dealing with such obstacles is an essential part of training in The Art of Peace.
Failure is the key to success.
Each mistake teaches us something very valuable.
Dealing with such obstacles is an essential part of training in The Art of Peace.
Failure is the key to success.
Each mistake teaches us something very valuable.
I AM A ROCK - S. and G.
I AM A ROCK Lyrics by Paul Simon, Performed by Simon and Garfunkel
A winters day
In a deep and dark December
I am alone
Gazing from my window
To the streets below
On a freshly fallen silent shroud of snow
I am a rock, I am an island
I've built walls,
A fortress deep and mighty
That none may penetrate
I have no need of friendship
Friendship causes pain
It's laughter and it's loving I disdain
I am a rock, I am an island
Don't talk of love
But I've heard the words before
It's sleeping in my memory
I wont disturb the slumber
Of feelings that have died
If I never loved I never would have cried
I am a rock, I am an island
I have my books
And my poetry to protect me
I am shielded in my armor
Hiding in my room
Safe within my womb.
I touch no one and no one touches me
I am a rock, I am an island
And a rock feels no pain
And an island never cries
A winters day
In a deep and dark December
I am alone
Gazing from my window
To the streets below
On a freshly fallen silent shroud of snow
I am a rock, I am an island
I've built walls,
A fortress deep and mighty
That none may penetrate
I have no need of friendship
Friendship causes pain
It's laughter and it's loving I disdain
I am a rock, I am an island
Don't talk of love
But I've heard the words before
It's sleeping in my memory
I wont disturb the slumber
Of feelings that have died
If I never loved I never would have cried
I am a rock, I am an island
I have my books
And my poetry to protect me
I am shielded in my armor
Hiding in my room
Safe within my womb.
I touch no one and no one touches me
I am a rock, I am an island
And a rock feels no pain
And an island never cries
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Begin NOW
"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back-- Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth that ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.
All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now."
Goethe
All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now."
Goethe
Facts About Friends(Quakers) #33
Are the “Quakers” different from the “Friends”?
No – “Quakers” is just a nickname for Friends. The Friends movement began in mid-17th century England. The name “Friends” comes from Jesus' statement, “I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:15)
Early Friends also called themselves “The Children of Light,” and “Publishers of Truth.” Others nicknamed the Friends, “Quakers,” because they “quaked” (or trembled) in the power of God. They later adopted the name, “The Religious Society of Friends,” and more recently, “the Friends Church.”
No – “Quakers” is just a nickname for Friends. The Friends movement began in mid-17th century England. The name “Friends” comes from Jesus' statement, “I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:15)
Early Friends also called themselves “The Children of Light,” and “Publishers of Truth.” Others nicknamed the Friends, “Quakers,” because they “quaked” (or trembled) in the power of God. They later adopted the name, “The Religious Society of Friends,” and more recently, “the Friends Church.”
Nirvana and Enlightenment #103
The world around you may be:
confrontational,
competitive,
desirous,
even violent,
but it is your choice if you enter into this folly.
Sit in the presence of the unenlightened,
let them fight their battles.
Do not become involved,
and they will turn to you for peace.
When they do,
say nothing, do nothing,
for with nothing given, nothing need be returned.
They will learn from your silence and simply become like you--quiet.
Then, the world will again be allowed to follow its own course of perfection.
confrontational,
competitive,
desirous,
even violent,
but it is your choice if you enter into this folly.
Sit in the presence of the unenlightened,
let them fight their battles.
Do not become involved,
and they will turn to you for peace.
When they do,
say nothing, do nothing,
for with nothing given, nothing need be returned.
They will learn from your silence and simply become like you--quiet.
Then, the world will again be allowed to follow its own course of perfection.
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