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Meditation
Articles for Kids
Meditation
Articles for Teens
Collection Seven – 251 to 300
Articles about meditation, including prayers for special occasions
251.
A Heavenly Garden in Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Deep
within myself is a garden, and the way leading to it
is deep meditation. The trail winds upward and circles a knoll, and as I travel
inward the sky lightens from deep to soft blue. The air around me is clear,
rarified. Looking out and around 360 degrees is as if being on a mountain top
with endless views in all directions. But there is no horizon, and I see in all
directions at once, without actually having to turn around.
The atmosphere is warm and very light. I don't feel my physical body, I'm not limited by a body. My awareness extends
infinitely. When I wish a thought to stretch to the ends of the world it is
there instantly.
It is in this garden within that I feel boundless joy and love. I feel
connected to all, one with all. And without the limits of a physical casing I
stretch myself over the abyss to encompass all in myself. I radiate joy. And
here I remain for a space of time till physical feeling and consciousness of my
body return me to everyday life.
Traveling to your meditation garden within
To reach and experience your radiant self, sit in a
quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Cover your shoulders with a shawl
if your surroundings are cool, as your physical body can either cool down or
heat up during meditation. Do your usual opening prayers, any special requests,
and begin even breathing. Then settle into the still portion of your
meditation, where you are listening to your incoming and outgoing breaths, or
listening to the Holy Spirit vibration within.
Allow yourself to slip further into this deeper place. Follow your own path and
enjoy all that you see and feel along the way. If you must have a thought, make
it love for everyone, or those dear to you. Then stretch the elastic chord of
your lovingness outward, further and further until the band breaks, releasing
you into your expansive and unlimited garden within.
Remain in your radiance for a time. Then slowly come back to your physical
awareness, bringing with you a feeling of connection and peace of mind, that lets you know that you are a vibrant part of the
whole. One of the parts and part of the One.
252.
Meditation on Virtues
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Find
a quiet place to sit in meditation. Light a candle at your personal altar if
you wish. Keep a meditation journal next to you to record insights from your
quiet time. Then later review your thoughts and apply what is useful at the
moment.
When sitting, either on a cushion, or on a straight-back
chair, hold your spine erect. Fold your hands in your lap or place them,
palms facing up or down on your thighs. Close your eyes.
Begin to breathe in an even pattern, such as one count to inhale, and one count
to exhale, though you don't need to count out loud. Just stick to this rhythm
throughout your meditation. After a minute, keeping up the regular breathing,
pick a virtue to contemplate upon, such as being charitable. Ask yourself how
you can incorporate this into your daily life, perhaps working or donating to a
food bank, serving meals at a homeless shelter, or giving unused items to a
charity.
Taking time to reflect on one or more virtues is a productive way to spend part
of your meditation, before listening quietly and being still.
Charity is one of many virtues to develop; all virtues first develop you into a
better person before benefitting others. They are a means to feel our
interconnection within the world.
Now spend some minutes in the silent portion of meditation. If any insights
come to you, write them in your meditation journal at the close of your
meditation.
Finish your meditation by inhaling and exhaling deeply. Open your eyes. Stretch
out and go on with your day, all the better for contemplating a virtue.
253.
Flowing on the River of Peace Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Begin
by selecting a quiet place to meditate. It could be indoors in your bedroom of
a walk in closet or other private area where you will not be disturbed. If you
are using an enclosed room do not burn candles. I like my attic space under the
open skylight. If you are outdoors, a garden bench works well. Try to position
it so you have privacy from the neighbors.
If sitting on a cushion bend your legs in. If sitting on a bench or chair,
plant the soles of your feet on the floor or ground for balance. Either way,
fold your hands in your lap or place them palms down
or palms up on your thighs. Keep your back erect, close your eyes.
Say a prayer or positive affirmation. If you have a request, now is the time to
make it. The silence of meditation will be for listening for information that
may surface up in your consciousness.
Breathe in deeply and slowly release your breath. Then begin even, regular
cycles of breathing, such as one count to inhale, and one count to exhale. Keep
up this pattern throughout the rest of your meditation, without actually saying
the counts.
Even and regular breathing is like a river of peace that washes through you and
carries you along on its gently ripples, flowing
gently and supporting all your efforts. For this meditation pay attention to
the swelling breath on the inhalation and observe it ripple from you as you
breathe out.
Continue to watch the rippling effect of the tide of breath and align your
thoughts with peace, by taking peace in on the inhalation, and releasing peace
to the world on the exhalation.
Finish your peace meditation with thoughts of gratefulness for what you have,
and wishes of peace for others. Take a deep
inhalation, slowly exhale, open your eyes, stretch out, and go forth
peacefully.
254.
Children Can Meditate
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
If your children show an interest, let them set up a quiet place in
their room for meditation. If you go to a holy place regularly with your
children, they will soon start to feel the special peace that comes from being
quiet and reverent. Show by your actions that you feel respectful in holy
places and they will follow your lead.
If your children are old enough to stay still in a meditation pose, let them
sit with you for a minute. Read them a short uplifting story at the beginning
of your co-meditation and ask them to close their eyes and think about the
story, while you are both quiet.
That is enough technique for your children under 3 or 4. Be sure their
clothing is not restrictive so they can easily sit cross-legged.
When they reach kindergarten you can demonstrate how to breathe in and out
evenly, so they can use this breathing during their quiet period. Mention that
this even breathing can help them settle down when they feel stressed or upset.
And no one can see them using this way to calm down so they need not feel
embarrassed.
Getting into meditation takes time and practice and childhood is a good time to
begin under your direction.
255.
Interfaith Meditation Outline
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The
goal of meditation is communing with our dear Creator and Sustainer, no matter
what name or language is used. Spirit is spirit and not limited to a particular
form. Spirit flows through all atoms, enlivening everything: people, places,
things. Meditation is a universal experience for all.
This is a general meditation format for going deeper within the framework of
your faith tradition. Adapt as you feel comfortable.
Meditation Outline
1. Choose a place to sit where you will be undisturbed. This could be at
home, in a house of worship, outdoors in a garden or park or the beach.
2. Fold your hands in your lap, or place your palms facing down or up on your
thighs.
3. Close your eyes.
4. Take a deep inhalation and exhalation to begin. Then relax your breathing
into a regular pattern, such as one count to inhale, and one count to exhale.
Keep up this rhythmic pattern throughout your meditation without actually
saying the counts verbally or mentally.
5. Say an opening prayer in your thoughts, something uplifting and inspiring to
put you in a positive frame of mind.
6. Make your individual prayer request at this time, or request peace for all.
7. Slip into the period of quiet reflection on a specific topic you have in
mind, or for world peace. After your meditation session write
out new ideas that come to mind in a journal for later review.
8. To go deeper into the quiet, listen to the sound of your regular rhythmic
breathing, drawing your attention back to it if your mind wanders. Sustain this
period of meditation as long as possible and enjoy the deep peace it offers.
This is the experience to take back into everyday living. And the more often
you meditate and develop this peace, the more this state of being will become an automatic guide when problems or situations
arise.
9. Close your meditation with another deep inhalation and exhalation. Open your
eyes. Write any insights in your journal. Go forward with your day, fortified
and strengthened from your spiritual source within.
256.
Meditation On a Holy Life
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
A
holy life is abundant with harmony in action and interaction. This does not
mean there are no trials, rather each situation is resolved from the
perspective of what is for the highest outcome of oneself and all concerned. It
is taking the high road even though there may be a few boulders to climb along
the way. It is keeping the goal of bliss in mind, which can be lived in the
here and now when harmony prevails.
A holy life is full of goodness and a chief attitude is kindness. With a kind
attitude, kind thoughts and kind actions follow. Like begets
like. When each moment is walked in the footprint of kindness the trail
becomes one that others can follow to achieve a high and harmonious life for
themselves.
Meditation
Sit up straight in a quiet place where you will not be interrupted. Some ideas
are your bedroom or walk-in closet, a garden, or a stretch of beach. Fold your
hands in your lap or place them palms up or palms down
on your thighs. Close your eyes.
Make your petition and say a prayer for personal and world peace. Praying lifts
your thoughts and spirit and is part of emulating a holy life.
Begin your meditation breathing, which is one count to inhale, and one count to
exhale. Continue this pattern throughout the meditation without actually saying
the counts. Just keep up the rhythm. Breath is a link between body, mind and
emotion. To raise your vibration regulate your
breathing till you feel calm and can sit still.
Pay attention to your breaths, follow their course in and out, like waves at
the shore approaching and receding. If your mind strays, gently bring it back
to the rhythmic breathing pattern.
To finish your meditation mentally think an appreciation for something good in
your life, such as a loved one or dear pet.
Take a deep inhalation, then slowly exhale. Open your
eyes. Stretch out and go on with your day in a holy way. It feels good.
257.
Setting the Tone for Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Settling
into a formal meditation is a process of going from worldly action to quiet
stillness. The physical process may include first bathing, dressing in clean
loose clothing, and choosing a private place to sit.
There is also a mental process of going from thinking about situations and
problems, to calming into a receptive state to receive grace in the form of
feelings of harmony, and answers to questions.
Setting the tone for meditation is part of the mental process, following the
outer physical steps of sitting still. The better we can let the world drift
into the past for our meditation time, the more benefits we receive from
meditation.
To begin the mental preparation it is helpful to have uplifting literature at
your side. This can be kept under your altar or nearby on a table or in a
drawer. Keep a bookmark in your reading to quickly go to an uplifting passage.
Read. Then feel the effects of the passage in your mind and in a relaxation of
your body.
By choosing an uplifting verse you set the tone for your meditation to lift you
into your highest state of consciousness. And that is what you want from
meditation, to be in your higher state, because in the open expansion bliss is
perceived and various solutions come to your inner sight.
After reading the uplifting passage set your book aside, fold your hands in
your lap or place them palms up or palms down on your thighs. Close your eyes
and take a deep breath in and slowly release it. Then begin a sequence of even
and regular breaths, such a one count to inhale, and one count to exhale. Keep
up this pattern throughout your meditation without actually saying the counts.
Mentally follow your breathing and after a time you'll feel the calmness and upliftment arrive. Be still and enjoy. If answers to your
question come to mind write them in your meditation journal after your
meditation.
To conclude your meditation take a deep inhalation, slowly exhale, open your
eyes and stretch out, ready to go on with your day. Be thankful for this very
personal time with your higher self.
258.
Kindness Is a Basis for Happiness
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Contemplate
on how you feel when you are thinking and acting with kindness. Good. Right? Kindness is a basis to maintain feelings of
happiness. And the recipient of kind acts feels appreciated. Kindness completes
the circle that gives and receives, and increasingly radiates happiness.
Relationships are nurtured and sustained through giving and receiving kindness.
Think how much more willing we are to do a favor if we are asked in a kind way.
In our one to one relationships kindness forms a foundation for everyday
living.
Kindness is a virtue. The more we practice, the more often we remember
to keep and use a kind attitude. When we are feeling kind, positive words
escape our mouth. We don't have to worry that we will say the wrong or negative
thing. When we are kind helpful suggestions come to mind, and are communicated
in a way that others receive without offense.
Being kind is not a product of our ego proving a point. The ego does not
care how we make another feel. The ego says my way is the only way, the right
way, the way you must act to get my approval or attention. It is an attitude
that backfires, though, because even when the ego gains control there is no
happiness, rather there is a tightness in body and
mind that prevents letting go to relaxation, free-flow of energy, and
happiness.
Meditation and kindness
During the contemplative part of meditation, think
about ways you can practice kindness. Write out ideas in your journal after
meditating. Then, go back and reread your thoughts occasionally and note your
progress. You will be observing your journey into finding and enjoying
happiness through the practice of being kind.
Remember that kind words and actions result from kind thoughts. Contemplate
being kind in your meditation to develop a kind attitude.
Feeling kind
Feeling fine.
259. Paving Our Pathway Includes Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The
pathway we walk upon is paved as we go by the consciousness we show in
day-to-day living. Our goals determine the route to our destination.
If we have outer goals for fame and fortune beyond our justifiable needs, we
will encounter a rocky and treacherous road over steep hills and maybe some
granite mountains.
If our underlying goal, while pursuing a career, is to improve ourselves as
human beings, to enjoy true happiness, our path may look the same to the
physical eye, but will not be experienced by us in the same way. We will feel a
layer of cushioning, a deeper than visible understanding supporting us during
the climb over the rocks that have tumbled onto our road in life.
The layer of cushioning is our knowledge that what we are now traveling through
is but a temporary discomfort. Each of the rocks and boulders we encounter is a
present. They are presents because, going over them
develops the unseen qualities in us that nurture our outer lives, that nurture
us and all the people with whom we relate. These unseen qualities are patience,
fortitude, compassion, wisdom, and the peace experienced in deep meditation,
amongst others.
As we grow in consciousness, we almost seem to fly over the rocks of
difficulties strewn in our way. But, instead of seeing rocks as obstacles, we
view them as pavers. And, truly, a rock can be experienced as a paver by our
attitude of seeing it as necessary for personal growth.
Paving our pathway of life
Preparing a smoother way
By being good moment to moment.
Growing in consciousness daily
A lifetime experienced fully
Outer goals reached most easily
By travelling the road paved
With virtues of
Care, patience, fortitude, compassion
And the peace of deep meditation
Preparing a smoother way.
260.
Friendship Is Our Soul in Action
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Meditation
gives us time to reflect on how we can hold people precious in our heart.
Caring - the ability to hold precious - comes from our place of ever-present
happiness, the state of awareness that experiences joy and peace, regardless of
the up and down events in living.
It is beneficial to hold people and things precious because we learn how to
treat them well, with carefulness. Practicing carries over into all aspects of
living. The more people we hold precious, the more we stay in consciousness of
caring, becoming predominantly caring people.
Holding precious
Manifested caring
From our place of joyfulness and lovingness
The more we experience preciousness
The more we are living in tune with our eternal Self
Beyond limiting time, place, space.
Traveling to an unfamiliar destination along an unknown road is a transition.
Body, mind and emotions are tuned to a higher pitch during transitions, drawing
on our reserves. To do what is unfamiliar takes more concentrated energy than
repeating habitual actions.
We can draw in fresh energy to keep up with above normal need by increasing aerobic
activity and upgrading already available energy through deep relaxation and
meditation.
During major transitions, such as the death of a loved one, keeping some
familiar habits in our daily routine provides us with continuity and stability,
giving the untraveled road ahead an underlying stable base.
Traveling through transition occurs more easily by carrying along baggage of
familiar habits, activities.
A friend cares for us unconditionally.
Material possessions eventually wear out, even with perfect care. But, when we
treat our friends with preciousness our love for them and their love for us grows and expands.
In the consciousness of being and having a friend we operate outside the world
of cause and effect. A friend's love and care is with us when we are up or
down, poor or wealthy, sad or happy.
Friendship is our soul in action.
Showing friendship is beyond the laws of physics, not dependent on a certain
time, space or circumstance for its manifestation.
Beyond wealth
Beyond fame
Beyond anything else
Is the preciousness of friendship.
261.
Thankfulness Prayer and Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Thanksgiving brings our attention to what we should be grateful
for, including family, friends, sustenance. Here is a
prayer to set the tone before beginning your special celebration.
Lord, please fill us with your peace
Love and grace may we receive.
Give us strength to meet our needs
To share with all through thoughtful deeds.
You shine on all your golden light
Radiant is your perfect sight.
Thank you for the gift of life
May we reflect your holy light.
And live at peace both day and night.
Meditation at the end of the day
After you've had a busy celebration, take time to sit
quietly in a reflective meditation. Choose a quiet place where you will not be
disturbed. Fold your hands in your lap or rest them comfortably palms up or
palms down on your thighs. Close your eyes.
Begin even breathing, such as one count to inhale and one count to exhale. Keep
up this pattern at a comfortable rate throughout your meditation. Do not pause
between breaths.
Say a prayer of appreciation such as the one included just above, or one you
find especially uplifting.
In the silence watch and observe your inflow and outflow of breath. After you
are established in the quiet, reflect on the blessings in your life and how by
being peaceful you can extend goodness and kindness to others.
After a period, finish your meditation with a loving thought for at least one
person, and extend that love to the world.
Take a deep breath, slowly release it, open your eyes and stretch out. Give a
final thought to making it a habit to be thankful at the end of every day.
262.
Lift Me Up - A Christmas Prayer and
Meditation
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Lift me up dear Lord of all
Until I feel upon my face
Your warming light, your gentle care
Truth compassion peace and grace.
Lift me up this Christmas morn'
And all the days to come
Fill my heart with tenderness
That I might live "Your will be done."
Lift me up dear Lord of all
Until I feel upon my face
The blissful radiance of your love
Encircled in your arms always.
Christmas Meditation
Take some time to adorn your altar for the season, perhaps with evergreen
sprigs. Choose a red candle, light some sandalwood incense.
If sitting on a cushion on the floor bend your legs in; if sitting on a chair
plant the soles of your feet firmly on the floor to maintain your balance.
Either way, hold your back straight. Fold your hands
in your lap or place them palms up or palms down on
your thighs. Close your eyes.
Begin even and regular breathing, such as one count to inhale and one count to
exhale. Do not actually say the counts, but do keep up the rhythmic pattern
throughout your meditation. Breath is a tie between emotions, thinking, and the
physical body. Rhythmic breathing harmonizes all aspects.
Say an uplifting prayer to begin your meditation. This helps bring your
thoughts to your spiritual nature, helping you remember your spiritual mission
on earth, which is both for personal growth and world-wide service. Your dual
mission works as an intertwined unit, each aspect helping the other.
While continuing your even breathing, think about the meaning of Christmas. How
can Christ's mission on earth be continued through your life? His love is
universal and an example of how to love everyone, of any faith. After your
meditation, write out thoughts that come to you in your journal, for later
review and application.
Take some quiet time to listen to your regular breathing. Finish your
meditation with a deep inhalation and slow exhalation. Open your eyes and
stretch out.
In your heart, enjoy Christmas every day.
263.
Tune In to the Pervading Energy
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Positive attitudes and uplifting thoughts create harmony, beauty and
love in our life. Negative destructive thoughts create experiences of
loneliness, separation and fear that we will lose what we have.
The pervading energy, the pulse of Creator-Sustainer, is non-judgmental. We
know this by observing electrical energy: it is just present to be used for
good or bad as we choose. Whatever attitudes and thoughts we choose to give
energy and time to produce like results in actions, circumstances and
relationships.
Every atom in the universe is powered by intelligence, as the harmoniously
vibrating energy we call our Creator-Sustainer. The energy is intelligent
because every atom interrelates and cooperates forming
molecules, then the larger systems of minerals, plants, animals.
The experience of universal consciousness is essentially harmony; connection we
feel as lovingness. Our Creator's will for us in the long run is to come to
know and experience the perfection of harmony, resulting when we act for the
highest good of each circumstance at each moment.
As we attune our mind and subsequent actions with the natural intelligent
harmony, as we are all destined to do, we reap lovingness in our life.
Help attune your mind to greater love in the depths of meditation. It is worth
the time spent.
Thoughts
Our creations
Producing our choices.
Harmonious thinking
Lovingness in living.
264.
Meditate to Find Why We Are Here
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
A tree grows from a seed planted in fertile soil, its systems
developing into maturity. The underlying roots, sunk deep, and hidden in stable
earth, support exposed parts. From this example, we see that underlying
structures, though hidden from view, support outer forms.
Why are we here, anyway? Perhaps to become conscious of our
inherent roots, nourishing us from the ground of changelessness.
Meditation gives us time to really seek the origin of our deepest roots.
Meditate daily, deeply.
Could we have our visible outer form without a strong underlying reality? Each
of us is planted in a womb, maturing in the process of growing outwardly,
before using much energy looking inwardly for the source supporting our visible
form.
Like the tree, our roots are hidden from our physical eyes and senses. But, by
following our inner guidance with a loving heart, we travel the labyrinth till
meeting with and experiencing our Source. Then we feel the completeness of
knowing ourselves, and understand we are here to become aware that we are one
of the parts and part of the wholeness of uncreated and created reality.
Growing daily outwardly, then diving into the crystal
pool of consciousness. Coming up clear and refreshed in the
knowledge of wholeness in outer, inner, and Universal Self.
Why the Right Choice Might Feel Difficult
It takes more energy to climb a hill than to descend it, but the view as we
climb becomes increasingly expansive.
We usually have several choices in resolving a situation. Making the effort to
do what we feel is right reaps positive results. When we slide along in the
groove of least resistance life becomes monotonous, boring.
What seems difficult, but right, leads to unbroken peacefulness, satisfaction.
Following our conscience expands our consciousness of being linked within the
larger reality; it is positive use of energy with its like result.
Making right, but seemingly difficult decisions, aligns us with the constantly
flowing universal energy, felt as body heat - fueling us amply to carry out
what is right.
Right, but difficult
Aligns with harmony
Energizing from the Universal Source.
Just love all.
Happiness is the Source of all
Therefore
Loving all is being
With unlimited happiness.
265.
Peace Is First an Attitude
Article by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Peace is first an attitude, forming into practice to spread near
and far on the winds of right and just actions.
Peace is of our own substance. We find it deep within when we are quiet and
still in meditation. This stillness benefits us first and then seeps into
others' lives by our example and state of being.
With an attitude of acting peaceably and peacefully we make space for calm
thought, planning, and balanced outcomes.
Fifteen thoughts on peace:
1. Nurture peace in yourself, with family, and then the larger world.
2. A peaceful beginning has the best chance of leading to a peaceful process
and outcome.
3. Make peace your closest companion.
4. Peace leads to productivity.
5. Personal peace, when multiplied, leads to planetary peace.
6. Make peace part of your life plan.
7. Peace first, to set the scene for everything else.
8. Peace carries us through difficulties, making space for a resolve.
9. Peace is at the end of your deep dive into meditation where it is still.
10. Cover yourself and others with the blanket of peace.
11. We can't expect peace from others unless we're first at peace.
12. Peace is a present we give to our self, first.
13. Be positive and peaceful in daily life.
14. Peace is worth the effort because it feels good.
15. Peace and harmony are common bonds that improve life for everyone.
Begin and end your day with thoughts of peace, aroused by your meditation
practice. After sitting in meditation, say a few affirmations to yourself about
becoming peaceful, promoting peace. End your silence with a firm resolve to
carry peace into your daily life, for your benefit and that of all who cross
your path.
May peace reside within your heart of hearts, and blossom through your
harmonious actions.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
To learn more about humanity's process, which begins within and
manifests in action, we can study and analyze the events down through the ages.
What we personally do not learn through this process, we repeat, till we grow
beyond that which mankind as a whole has experienced.
Paying attention and learning minimizes the need for repetition.
We repeat till we consistently remember that which we need for our knowledge
and growth; our personal history becoming part of world history.
On this planet civilizations have risen and fallen repeatedly; repetitiously.
In our personal life, we rise by applying energy in a positive way to our
interests, and we fall if our actions are not in harmony within the natural
universal orderliness and guidelines of sharing, caring, surrendering
to the highest good in all circumstances.
History repeats repetitiously until actions are instilled with natural
orderliness, infused with lovingness.
We feel the need for completeness when we are out of balance
within our mental/emotional/physical self.
Meditation brings us back to our center and allows us to expand outwardly with
peace and love. We can institute self-motivated positive activity when we feel
we need something or someone to make us feel happy.
Positive action taps into our natural source of energy, aligning our mind with
our underlying harmony, our state untouched by neediness.
Physical, emotional, mental, conditions three, balanced productively, happily
through positive acts brought into harmony.
Getting up and out when feeling down, or lying down, draws
fresh energy into our body, lifting our spirit.
Freshly energized, our attitudes and perceptions clarify, sharpen. The grit of indecision and staleness falls away, just as a whirling
strainer throws off chaff, preserving the nutritious kernel.
It takes initiative to get going. When feeling low, if we will take a moment to
think back about how good we have felt during and after exercising, we will
have the incentive to et ourselves out and energized,
relieving our down attitude and mood.
When lying low
Sit up
Get up and move.
267.
Caring and Loving Express Our Divinity
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Seeing that everything is an aspect of ourselves, our thoughts,
and their subsequent actions, we naturally begin to care about the good of all.
Acting for our own and others' highest good is the best way to show we care.
Caring removes borders of self-centeredness. Deep meditation gives us the space
to expand our heart in caring and loving feelings. It is a worthwhile practice
for every day.
It is from feeling that we are interrelated, intermeshed within creation, that we naturally act for the highest good.
Eventually, we feel so comfortable interacting with others that we realize that
no one is really a stranger, rather, all are aspects
of our universal Self.
Stretching ourselves far and wide
Embracing creation in our love.
Traumatic events, sudden changes in our reality are part of life.
We react emotionally, mentally, physically to trauma.
What changes is changed; there is no reversing. We use our free will to resist
change or we adapt gracefully.
During trauma it is okay to allow ourselves to feel and express naturally.
Knowing there will be a level plateau ahead for recuperation allows us to
express fully as befits the situation, and then go on.
Experiencing fully learning and growing, experiencing some more learning and
growing into the full blossoming of our humanity.
The sincere desire to know ourselves - our Source - leads to experiencing our
underlying harmony, which imbues our subsequent thoughts and actions. We begin
having easy relationships in all aspects of living.
Beautiful uplifting music is made up of the harmonious blending of separate
notes. We are each like notes of music, acting in phrases, and when conscious
of our grace and balance, forming melodies and symphonies with others and all
around us.
Outer actions are reflections of our state of consciousness. Happiness emanates
from underlying harmony.
268.
One-Line Hints for Happiness
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Deep meditation is the portal to discovering and uncovering
obstacles standing between your limited ego, and the happiness of your radiant
nature.
Some insights:
ACCEPTANCE - Being gracious when the outcome is different than expected
AFFIRMATION - Making firm.
APPRECIATION - Feeling thankful; saying thank you.
ATTITUDE - Attitude influences our thought, words, actions.
BLAME - Blame delays constructive action.
BODY - Aligned with harmony and love, boundaries unlimited.
CARING - When we help out, we feel useful and good.
CHOICE - Choices result in like for like outcomes.
CLARITY - As we think clearly, the clearer our thinking becomes.
COMPASSION - Listening carefully, then acting in a way
that is helpful.
CONGRUENCY - Acting as we say we sill and accurately describing our actions.
CONSCIENCE - Our inner guidance system.
CONSCIOUSNESS - Awareness that grows by Self-awareness.
DEVOTION - Doing what we say we will do, with a good attitude.
DISCERNMENT - Determining what resolve is for the best.
DUTY - Doing what is required.
EMPATHY - Feeling another's pain and acting as we would for our self.
ENERGY - The force that flows through us.
FAITH - Knowing that right effort brings good results.
FRIENDSHIP - To have friendship, be friendly.
INTEGRITY - Living in our highest awareness of truth.
INTUITION - Inside information brought out.
KINDNESS - Acting kind, we feel fine.
LOVE - Felt by loving.
LOVING - Truly loving means giving from our heart.
LOYALTY - Keeping a commitment when circumstances change.
MEDITATION - The medication healing ignorance of our joyful nature.
ONENESS - Ever on of the parts, part of the One.
PATIENCE - We maintain our peace by practicing patience.
PRAYER - Communication back and forth with our Source.
RELATIONSHIPS - Enjoy possessions, love relationships.
SELF-KNOWLEDGE - Allows truthful, harmonious living.
SENSITIVITY - Listening and relating carefully.
SERENITY - A calm interior, even with a busy exterior.
SHARING - Giving our best where there is need.
TIME - We make time for what we really want to do.
TOLERANCE - Tolerating differences enriches life experiences.
WILLPOWER - Concentrating, while taking the time and energy to achieve a goal.
WISDOM - Applied discrimination.
WORLD PEACE - Personal peace multiplied.
269.
Practical Spirituality Is Pure Love
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The most practical way to act is that which uses our time and
energy optimally. And caring love, the choice for love in action does this most
easily and gracefully.
We get the job done, the family and ourselves nurtured, with attitudes and
actions born of love, and lived with love.
Here are some hints to prepare our mind for the idea that it is by making the
choice for love that we will be energized:
1. Keep or adopt the best intention for the situation.
2. Look at the varying points of view presenting, then review these, and see if
even more ideas come to mind.
3. Contact your Inner Source directly in meditation, through a conversation
with the Self within, just as if talking with a dear confidant.
4. While meditating, listen to response from within after the inner
conversation, which may come as soft words of advice in the quietude of our
mind via positive self-talk.
5. Tune in with the Inner Vibration of your mantra to recover peace of mind.
6. Remove barriers that would keep you from loving fully, unconditionally, such
as the concept of separateness, and that only energy for limited love is
available.
7. Practice giving with a full heart by showing kindness in daily interactions.
8. Practice pure caring love. It is our nature. Pure love is our Source.
Pure love is pure energy and it is an endless flow, coming from a bottomless
pit within to be used without in our acts of caring and kindness.
Remember that we always seem to have enough energy for the things we want to
do. When we feel lethargic and a friend suggest an activity we enjoy, don't we
then almost spring up and into action. It is our positive attitudes that
energize. And pure love gives us access to the most energy. It fills us to the
gills and overflows as joy. Practical spirituality is practicing love.
270.
Meditation Fortifies Commitments
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Meditation is a tool to stay with the plan we've decided is best for
us. Meditation fortifies commitments by centering and keeping them clear in our
mind. When our thoughts are calm and centered it is easier to keep steady with
commitments.
In making a commitment we center our energy upon a specific and follow through.
Through commitment we develop willpower, perseverance, and the courage to face
difficulties.
Qualities developed in a commitment carry over into other aspects of daily
living. It is not so important what the exact commitment is. What is beneficial
is the strength we develop being true to something or someone.
For example, while students, we choose our career goal, then make the
commitment to spend the time and energy needed to reach the goal. We use our
mind to devise a plan, then systematically follow it
to graduation.
We decide to use a big allotment of energy to reach our goal, energy that could
be used in more leisurely pursuits. We do this because we feel the goal is
worthwhile for our future financial support and career satisfaction. We commit
our energy till the goal is attained.
Relationships are similar. We water and fertilize the flower of our
relationship every day to keep it growing and flourishing. As we feel the
happiness we derive in the daily process of living, the commitment becomes 'full
feeling.'
We each have a basic desire to be happy, to feel a sense of harmony within
ourselves extending to others and nature. We make a big commitment by just
living. We say that feeling peaceful and happy inside are worth any expenditure
of energy.
Sometimes we aren't consciously aware that happiness is our underlying goal,
but if we look back we see that everything we have done was done because we
wanted to feel happy.
The state of feeling content or happy is really the goal of any outward commitment.
It's not a specific activity, job, or relationship that satisfies us.
What we really want is to feel happy. Therefore we commit ourselves to those
activities we feel will make us happy. The way to reach this goal is to use
our energy in activities and pursuits that do not disturb our personal place of
ease that we find renewed in daily meditation.
271.
Meditation Develops Spirituality
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Spiritual awareness is not found in the achievement of an outer
goal, such as earning money, or prestige in a career. Spiritual realization is
felt as harmony; our physical body relaxed and free of dis-ease; our mind calm,
balanced, centered, without want of an outer achievement.
To reach this state of mind, meditate with full love and appreciation for life
and our dear loved ones.
Spiritual awareness and the joy it imparts are not separate aspects of daily
living; they make an appearance every moment that we live for the highest
resolve of the situation at that moment. Spiritual realization dawns each time
we act toward those in our daily life with care, comfort, kindness.
We live in the world, body, mind, emotion, powered and nurtured from the
'Spirit of Unconditional Love' that is beyond the temporal. And when we live
each new moment here on earth with unconditional love, acting for the good of
each moment's event, we align ourselves with our own Soul, our own permanent
Self of Love that transcends time, place, space, condition.
Perhaps this is the state of being expressed in the Holy Bible in the Book of
Revelation. The sequence of gates to forge through being an analogy of the
chakras represented in our bodily spine, symbols of our upward path to full
spiritual awareness of the permanent Self of who we really are.
We live in the world, but our Source and permanent reality transcend the few
years we live on this planet. Are we not here to grow in awareness that it is
in the radiance we feel while loving unconditionally that we are experiencing
our everlasting and permanent Self?
Today it is possible to experience wholeness, holiness, even while living in
this temporal world by making each act a caring one; enjoying the ensuing
harmony felt in body and mind, in action, and in meditation.
Emotions of caring love open us wide
To the experience of universal love, transcendent love
Joy.
272.
Redirect Stressful Energy with Instant
Meditation
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Directing our energy for the highest good serves us best,
eliminates stress. Stress is scattered energy. Taking the undirected energy of
stress and applying it useful relieves stressful feelings.
At the first sign of distress we can take a moment to begin an instant
meditation practice: breathe in deeply and then let go while relaxing on the
out-breath. Controlled breathing cuts the edge off agitation. Next, change
activity and surroundings. Focusing the mind on another activity redirects
stressful energy. Choosing to live for the highest good directs our energy in a
positive manner.
We easily make time for the people we want to be with and the things we want to
do. It is harder to arouse energy for what we are procrastinating about, or do
not really want to do.
We feel a burst of energy to get the job done by adopting a positive attitude
toward what we put off doing by saying, "The quicker I get it done, the
sooner I'll be through."
It is the attitude in our mind about people or things that focuses the
necessary energy in our body to fulfill our desires.
Energy is flowing through us all the time from the permanent source of our
Creator-Sustainer. By our attitudes and will we are choosing how much current
to draw from the inexhaustible supply. When we really want a certain result, we
make the time and space to create that reality.
By our free will we make space in our time to fulfill desires.
We might think it is the opposite, that by consuming we are gaining and by
loving we are giving ourselves away.
It is what we do after we consume that matters.
If we use our consumption to fortify ourselves solely, we are reinforcing the
false idea that we are separate from that which is outside our own body.
When we use our personal gains as tools of sharing by including others in our
circle of caring, we are effectively using our consumption to expand our
capacity of loving.
273.
Use Meditation to Heal Personal Relationships
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
To begin, find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. I
have a spot in my attic that is private and peaceful. If you are using an altar
arrange the items you’ll need, such as fresh flowers, and uplifting objects,
those that hold positive memories.
Sit upright on the floor on a cushion or folded blanket and bend your legs in;
if sitting on a chair plant the soles of your feet firmly on the floor to
maintain your balance and sit up straight. Either way, clasp your hands in your
lap or place them palms up or palms down on your
thighs.
Close your eyes and slowly inhale and exhale. Then begin a series of even
regular breathing, such as one count to breathe in and one count to breathe
out. You needn’t actually say the counts, just keep up
this rhythm throughout your meditation.
Say a prayer or an appreciation with the intention that this opportunity will
effect deep healing. After observing your regular breathing for a minute turn
your thoughts to the relationship you wish to heal.
Visualize
With your eyes still closed, visualize the sun rising
just over the horizon in all the beautiful colors leading to the full light of
the golden sun.
Immerse yourself in the sun's warmth, feel its rays penetrating your physical
body, then allow the sun’s radiation to light up all the cells of your mental
and emotional body. Enjoy this feeling of release from walls separating you
from another.
While feeling warm, comfortable and open visualize a person with whom you are
having mental conflict. Allow your warmth to spread to and through this person
without spiritual reserve. Hold this relationship in this healing glow for a
minute or more.
Keep in mind that on the spiritual level we are one family and though mental
and emotional issues may seem insurmountable in daily life, you can always
reinforce your eternal spiritual connection by sitting in this healing
meditation.
To conclude your meditation take a deep breath in and
slowly release it. Open your eyes, stretch out, enjoy the expansive feeling of
peace and harmony, and carry it into your day.
274.
Catching Moments for Reflection
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The flow of thoughts through our mind is never-ending. We have
freewill to dwell on thoughts as they arrive, or let go of them by replacing
with thoughts of our choice such as positive affirmations, prayers, or other
uplifting thoughts. So, if using an affirmation to replace a negative thought
pattern, by all means do it.
If we integrate insight gained during a few minutes of reflection before taking
action, don't we can get the job done more efficiently? This applies to
wherever we are at the time: work, school, play, traveling or anywhere.
For example, if you are concentrating on adding a column of figures you will
probably be focused on that. Our mind dwells on what we are concentrated on in
the moment. If you need to concentrate on a worldly matter, concentrate on it
fully at that moment. We need to regulate our time so that we meet worldly
obligations, while simultaneously maintaining peace of mind.
If you know you will have a chance to reflect for several set periods during
the day, you might then be able to concentrate on your workplace or school
obligations of the moment more easily, knowing that later you can reflect on a
troublesome issue.
Some ways to reflect and meditate during the day include: Be kind and
caring with each person, whether on the phone, email, or in person
, which is meditation in action. Prioritize tasks for the month, week,
and day, making a very broad outline with lots of between time
for the unexpected. Lie down in a deep relaxation meditation during part of the
lunch hour. Stand and stretch every couple of hours during the day. Take a one
minute mental break occasionally, by eating a piece of fruit or some nuts,
while thinking about the taste of the food, and not the project / problem at
hand, for your health and as a distraction, both.
These hints give you an idea of the different ways you can take time to reflect
during the day, giving yourself just the break you may need from the problem at
hand to find a best solution to issues. Reflection need not take hours; a few
minutes of quiet can give new and useful ideas time to surface to your
conscious mind.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Caring kind actions are reflections of our Creator-Sustainer. A
caring loving attitude stokes the 'heart' of our soul's generator providing an
energetic feeling in our body.
We can channel loving energy into all our actions each day, like spicing our
food just right, so that we will enjoy it more. When we want to do something we
feel energetic. When we don't want to act we feel dull and lethargic.
Meditation opens us to the infinitely large storehouse of vibrant energy, that we can use in daily living and loving. By
recharging in meditation we are assured of keeping contact with that infinite
source when especially needed.
Since a caring outlook brings up a vibrant energy for our use we feel lighter
in body and mind, less weighted down in our daily duties. We go through the
same actions, but at the end we are not tired in the way we would be if we felt
we were acting out of obligation.
We think putting an extra measure of care into a job will drain us. Not so.
Holding a positive attitude keeps us on track with our underlying natural
harmony. Every cell in our body lives in harmony with its neighbor cell for the
good of the whole body.
It is easier to drive a car on the highway, which is smooth and made for cars,
than to drive across a field. Staying in harmony by being good, doing good with caring feelings is the 'highway of harmony' in
life. Discord, negativity, self-centeredness, sidetrack
our car off the smooth highway into a rough road, a bumpy field, maybe a ditch.
Why put ourselves on the rough road when the highway is right under us,
underlying every thought that comes to our mind? Zoom along, feeling great, by
meditating often; staying on the highway of harmony in thoughts and actions.
Love is care
Care to love
Loving care feels good.
276. Connecting Creator and Creation
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
To create an enjoyable dinner we decide what will taste good, buy supplies,
prepare and eat. In order for the dinner to be ready, we use our creative mind
to visualize the finished product. Then, using our logical mind we plan how to
get the vision into solid form. And final we physically eat our created vision.
On the universal scale we are seeing a vision that has been brought into
physical for a large sumptuous dinner of stellar objects, plants, animals,
ourselves. All aspects interrelating through exchanges of
energy to complement and sustain their physical existence. All parts
harmoniously compounded one up the other in shapes and roles, parts of the
whole, and as individuals, completeness in each of the parts.
We are curious about the nature of the Universal Creator that has brought into
the physical realm harmonious, rhythmical, cyclical, growing,
diversifies, and intelligent forms of existence. Meditation helps us see into
the depth that is beyond thinking mind.
As noted above in the experience of dining, we first had a vision, then took the necessary steps to be able to physically eat.
Following this logic, we see that our precisely planned and harmoniously
functioning physical universe came about from a well thought out and
implemented plan.
The Creator used methods we have yet to wholly understand, as our minds are
part of what was created. But, we can come to experience our existence as an
essential interlocking part of the harmony of the large universal home by
living the way that easily functions within the natural rhythms and cycles of
everyday life. We do this by caring, sharing, loving
all forms of creation.
The more consciously in tune we become with the basic principles of creation,
which comes down to living our part harmoniously, the closer we come to
experiencing our Creator.
An analogy: The vision of our dinner while still in our mind is closer and more
a part of us, than the physical manifestation of the food sitting on a plate.
When we act in harmony within the creation we are closely aligning to the
visionary mind of our Creator. And, as vision is as a root and closer to the
Self than the ensuing physical manifestation, we are our very closest to
experiencing our Creator when we live harmoniously.
Experience Creator - Sustainer
By meditating deeply
Sinking into harmony.
277. Caring
Lets Our Inner Glow Shine
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Giving yourself up to life, reaching out, drawing in exactly what
is in front of you at that moment, allows the inner light to glow outwardly. In
the fusion with inner light, caring love, individual self-centeredness becomes
a conscious part of more.
We feel better, joyful and fulfilled, when our self-boundaries blend into the
weaving of our environment and other's lives. As threads woven into a tapestry
we form a beautiful picture, rich in color and detail, which we do not enjoy
while lying apart as separate threads.
Fear of not being accepted keeps us from reaching out to include all in our
embrace. But the reaching out and merging nullifies the fear which cannot
co-exist with union, unity.
Union, merging, harmony: reality.
A baby shows courage in reaching to take that first step, and upon success,
expresses glee and joy; tottering onward till falling, surrendering into
waiting arms, fulfilled; a cooperative effort of adult encouragement and
personal courage. Let's give up the idea and attitude that we are totally
independent. We are interdependent. And caring about others and our world
shines our inner light.
Courageously reach out and fall into the waiting arms of lie. It feels joyful
to move and experience our light of love glowing ever more brightly.
Meditate deeply to develop an attitude of caring and joy, found at the very
source of your being.
Reach, surrender
Enjoy being enjoined.
Caring lets our inner glow shine.
278. Traditional
Values Are Important
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
When the foundation of our character is strong and stable we naturally
act in ways reinforcing peace, ease, happiness. Block upon block of positive
action for our own and others' highest good creates a large castle of a
beautiful life, with spacious lawns to play upon, and sweet smelling gardens to
lounge in for rejuvenation.
Traditional values are time tested, allowing easeful, peaceful, happy living
within their guidelines. Perhaps the most basic and universally accepted being
to treat others as we wish to be treated.
Traditional values are the strong floor we walk upon in every activity. They
support our positive attitudes and actions. Underlying, they support but
do not interfere with our choices. We still use freewill every way, but when we
are tired or not sure what to do, we can sit down and rest on a strong value
knowing that we are safe while deciding how to proceed.
This is the time for a deep meditation, a quiet time to be silent, reflecting
on the pros and cons of the situation.
Nurture traditional values, keep them in mind as a
safety net while walking the tightrope of life's adventures.
For a refresher course on the content of traditional values consult any Holy
Scripture. They provide a basis till we learn to listen to and follow the inner
guidance of our conscience consistently.
Traditional values underlying are a basis for growth in the world. Let us
blossom as beautiful flowers by growing roots of strong values.
Roots sunk in tried and true values
Allow harmoniously flowing movement
In the world.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The guidance of God comes to us as the voice of our conscience.
When we mentally ask for a resolve to a situation, the answer comes up in our mind
via our conscience, letting us know what action is for the highest good. The
choice is ours to follow or ignore.
How do we recognize God's voice, our conscience?
Recognizing the voice of conscience is developed by holding a caring attitude,
and acting for the highest good repeatedly. Meditation develops our ability to
find answers from within. Sit still, close your eyes, think of love for a dear
one or pet, then enjoy the deep peace that follows. In
this peaceful and balanced state of mind, ask for the answers you seek. We know
we are following our conscience by these signs: Our body feels relaxed with our
decision. Our mind is content and peaceful. No one is negatively affected.
While we are in process of learning how to follow our conscience, we can rely
on the dictates and moral guidelines laid out by religions and society. These
outer rules guide us safely while we use a caring attitude and develop the
strength of character to follow our conscience consistently.
The basic golden rule to treat others as we wish to be treated is easy to
remember and reliable guidance while we are not yet steady in and following our
personal conscience.
As our conscience is our personal link with God, it is worth the effort,
through deep meditation, to develop this intimate relationship that will always
serve our highest experience of peace and happiness.
In acting for the highest good of which we are aware, we nourish our
self-esteem. We continually feel more in control of our life knowing there is a
best way to resolve any situation. As our self-assurance and self-esteem
increase, we feel a growing sense of fulfillment and joy in living.
Joy in living is the goal
Of each Awakening human soul
Attained by consistently flowing with
The voice of God
Our conscience.
280.
Diving Within Through Meditation
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
The process of diving within to our depths of joy, then bringing harmony
out into daily living with gratitude is a built-in plan to discover and use, so
that our experience of living will be the best it can be.
And as we use the inner aspects of ourselves in our daily life, we inspire
others to dive into the depth of their own pool of consciousness within, as
they want to be happy and live harmonious lives, too.
As each of us grows in consciousness of our unseen roots, bring the inner
harmony into the outer focus, we will all become aware and able to use harmony
for the good of all people on our planet, and everything in our universe.
The unseen consciousness is ever with us and supporting us, and with gratitude
for the love we feel and share in our lives, able to enjoy the fullness, the
richness of the unseen.
Meditation and Alice and the rabbit hole
Meditation is the doorway to walk through to find our vast expanse of self,
hidden from the outer view of daily living. By regularly sitting in meditation
we go deeper and deeper into the infinite recesses of ourselves. Think of Alice
and the rabbit hole. She fell down and down the inside of the tree of her mind,
and as she did she passed many sights along the way.
When coming to rest at the bottom of the tree roots it was not bare, but
instead, by persistence she was able to find the way to unlock the door to
escape into the garden of light, like a paradise. It is like that for us to in
the depths of meditation: a vast light open experience.
It is worth it to fall deeply into your inner world, experiencing the deepest
open expanse of yourself.
281.
Developing Easy Communication in Relationships
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Communicating is not a skill one learns in a course. Instead, the capacity
to communicate easily is built into us by our Creator, activated when we are in
a caring mode of being. When we have a loving attitude as the motivation for
communicating, the correct words are spoken.
The attitude of caring is the key to enter the world of easy communication, it
is our choice to flip the switch to caring.
Meditation is a useful practice to develop our depth of caring. It is in this
deep communion with spirit that we realize our oneness with all, and in this
state more easily feel care for all. More meditation practice equals more
opportunity for depth in caring.
Ease of body
Ease of mind
Easy words
Easy communication.
We keep ourselves from communicating effectively in our relationships until we
choose giving, caring, sharing feelings. When we are in a caring mood we are
relaxed, feeling the natural harmony of mind and body.
The mind and body function as partners together, by the attitude of the moment.
From this easeful space and place, our personal harmonious self-environment,
our thoughts easily form words of clear communication.
Caring attitudes
Create harmony in body, mind
Make communication fine.
Keep clear and positive attitudes and thoughts, so that self-talk and talk with
others will flow out fine.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Our growth in consciousness of what is unseen by our eyes and
bodily senses is a natural evolutionary process that we grow into through our experiences
in living. Through our emotions and thought process we see that some parts of
life are very real and used by us, even though we can't see them with our eyes.
We learn by our reflections that all in this world that we see and perceive
with our senses has a hidden underlying structure.
A house with its roof, walls, and floors is an example of the unseen supporting
the seen. If we knock a hole in the wall we see much more than by just looking
at the flat outer surface, such as studs, insulation, plumbing lines, and
electric lines. What is visible and useful on the outside of the wall is
supported behind the scenes by more than our eye leads us to believe.
Importance of meditation
A way to discover the unseen consciousness behind the
outer covering of ourselves and everything, is by going within our mind in the
stillness of self-analysis, reflection, and meditation. As we use our mind to
dissect our inner workings, and experience the bliss brought on through our
time in meditation, we see the inside view of the universe that is working to
support the outside objects visible to our sight.
As we come to know and understand, first hand, through meditation, especially,
just what is behind the outer forms, we can then make use of the unseen aspects
of ourselves. Through meditation we perceive that which is supporting us in an
energy that is so vibrant, that when we consciously perceive its presence our
physical body heats up, perhaps perspires, and our mind is filled with joy.
From this inner experience of the energy supporting our mind and bodily systems
we take back contentment and competence into daily living. We come to feel
gratitude.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
We have freewill to choose our reaction to an action. Remaining
relaxed allows us to calmly confront an issue or person with whom we may
disagree, or feel threatens our values. Everyone and everything around us is
truly an outside influence, but just an influence.
We perceive an encounter with fear if we feel we will be influenced to give up
our position or attitudes, or coerced into doing what feels uncomfortable to
us. That need not happen.
Courage preserves our ideas and integrity. It is our birthright to live our
own life. As an adult, we have the right to make our own decisions, lead life
as we choose.
Confront a conflict by first being aware of what your body feels like when you
are enjoying an activity. You can almost feel the warmth circulating
throughout, and you feel in control, master of your actions. Note this
carefully now, remembering it for later. Practice feeling this way several
times by bringing a happy thought to mind while in a safe setting.
The next time a potential conflict threatens, remember what your body felt like
during your practice session, and go into that relaxed space, feeling whole and
complete, safe in the house of your body and mind. No one can enter your house
without your permission. If you feel uncomfortable with another's influence,
keep it outside your body and mind. Do not accept it for yourself.
Bravely, while feeling safe inside our body, we most easily confront those
issues holding us back from freely expressing ourselves in the world. We
develop a growing sense of who we are on the grander expanded scale by spending
time in regular meditation.
Meditation is our gateway to the large cathedral of ourselves that is
our true and everlasting home, in the here and now, as well as forever more.
Take time to develop a regular practice to fortify your self-assurance for
future needs.
When we learn to be courageous
Remaining strong in our convictions
Knowing no one can influence us
If we do not wish to be
We expand
Most fully experiencing
Our humanness with humanity.
284.
Thoughts Can Create a Physical
Reaction
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
It may or may not be a surprise to experience a thought causing physical
feelings in your body.
And it works both ways: a physical experience can bring on mental thoughts, and
thoughts can be acted out on the physical plane. The bottom line is that we are
living in a multi-aspect body that includes physical, mental, emotional, spiritual while on earth.
What happens after leaving the physical dimension behind is for each of us to
find out at that time. Perhaps we will still be experiencing the ability to
think and feel, and enjoy uplifting awareness in the worlds beyond.
Meditation
Meditation deepens our connections to our whole range
of aspects. For example, we are controlling the body by sitting still, and
directing the mind to exclusively think on a mantra or the breath. By feeling appreciation
for what we have or the love we give, we feel more joyous emotionally. And when
all these aspects are working together we are uplifted beyond individual
consciousness into awareness of our interconnection with others as an extended
family of humanity.
When we realize that we are a necessary interwoven part of the whole creation,
thoughts come to mind on how we can physically bring about improvement for the
greater good for people beyond ourselves.
In summary, we each have a multi-aspect self with physical, mental, emotional,
spiritual components. By positive intention, we create for the greater good of
ourselves and others. Meditation brings up feelings of interconnection within
humanity. Using all our aspects in unity we create for the betterment of
ourselves and humanity; we help our world evolve into all it can be.
285. Relationships Develop Our Humanity
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
While living on earth, relationships of body, mind, and emotion
develop our full humanity. Human relationships prepare us for heavenly
experiences born and lived in spirit, with unlimited consciousness, stretching
to infinity.
Having a close relationship on earth gives us an opportunity to consider
differing points of view in how to act, along with doing the same for a
partner. Partners can help each other see possibilities we might not recognize
on our own. By their closeness, partners give us the opportunity to take
responsibility for more than our self.
Even if we don't commit to one person, we still grow when interrelating with
others on a daily basis. The whole world is our family, just a larger version
of our little family group from childhood. We each play a role in life that
involves both getting and giving. And we fulfill our needs through
interrelations.
Even if one considers themselves a hermit, basic needs come from somewhere,
from someone. Learning how to interrelate in a kind manner helps us grow into
our full humanity. No matter what our role or status in life, we need to grow
beyond groveling in order to wake up to uplifting aspects of spiritual
awareness.
Meditation
Meditation gives us a chance to reflect on how to use
our energy and resources to best care for our needs and the needs of those we
find ourselves with each day, whether in family or society. The quiet and peace
of meditation nurtures the best aspects of our multi-dimensional being. We come
to realize we are more than body, mind, emotion. We
expand, are uplifted into the spiritual state where right action flows through
us easily and we know how to act for the best of each situation.
Meditate freely
Open your inner doorway
To all aspects of life
While still on earth.
286.
Creating from Clarity and Peace
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Inspiring outer symbols come forth naturally when we create from a
space of clarity and peace. This is also a natural process for solving everyday
problems in the workplace, and in relationships with family and friends.
When we produce a concise and informative report at work, or write a lesson
plan that really works, or even make a list that organizes our shopping trip,
we are instilling clarity in practical living.
What turns out as informative and clear on the daily practical level, has its roots in harmony within. To develop harmony
and clarity in our outer creations requires peacefulness and stillness in our
mind.
Some aids in conjoining inner and outer harmony:
1. Take time for viewing uplifting symbols and allow their effects to quiet us
for the moment.
2. Reflect on the possibilities that come to mind for solving problems or
creating that needed report, lesson plan, or shopping list.
3. Maintain a clean and organized living and workspace.
4. Keep personal body and space clean.
5. Adopt positive attitudes, and when faced with conflict relax into the peace
of the moment, so the best solution can most easily surface to our waking mind,
and then act on it.
6. Moderation. Take adequate time to eat nutritious foods regularly, avoid
harmful substances. Take time to exercise, even if this is just walking part of
the way to work, school, or shopping.
7. Meditate. Allow enough time to rest, including a period in meditation
or reflection, even if when lying down upon first awakening.
8. Put kindness into action all through the day, both with self and others,
taking care of our needs is being kind to our self.
9. Be kind to our environment of home and the great outdoors by recycling
whenever possible, and use the minimum of new natural resources.
10. Be non-judgmental, so you will not be judged.
11. Be appreciative to others for their kindness, and
to our Divine Source for putting inspirations in our mind and hearts that allow
us to love fully and unconditionally.
Outer symbols, inner sights
Creations without
From the Creative Source within
Giving expansion and richness
To our daily pattern of living
Allowing the purpose of living to shine forth
Knowledge of our link to Divinity
Knowledge of our self in Self.
287. Change and the Natural Universe
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Seasons come and go, each with their special flavors, qualities,
and attributes. Spring is a new beginning growing into summer, and then the
fruitfulness of autumn, before the dormancy or winter. And
then, the brightness of spring once again.
The seasonal shifts are but an outward example of the changes we live with each
day, day-to-day, year-to-year.
Change is a quality of the natural universe. But what supports all the changes
is the unchanging quality of harmony; unconditional love.
Love supports and uplifts
Remains constant in outer change.
Love as harmony allows all life to blend
Into unity serving the higher good.
Love energizes, providing incentive to do what is best
For those we care about
Growing into concern, action
For the good of all and our planet.
Love is food that nurtures and we are its blossoms
Beautifully shining forth
With love in the world when nourished well
From the well-spring of our eternal fount
Of natural, giving, outpouring love.
From the inner-most of our being love comes forth
Forming the ever-changing outer show.
Love is the constant amidst change.
Meditate deeply, regularly, to increase your capacity to love unconditionally.
Meditation is the nourishment for growing the garden of your being, boundaries
extending to include the whole universal mind.
288.
Issues With Contradiction
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Contradiction is a combination of contra meaning going another way,
and diction as in speaking.
Contradiction on the individual level is when what we say doesn't match how we
act. We come closer to our holistic self when we accurately report on our
actions, and act on what we say. An example is espousing that overeating is bad
for health and then over-indulging regularly.
In a debate opposing points of view are welcome. But in normal conversation it
is uncomfortable when used to supersede another's opinion to a third person or
group. It is then being used as a way of asserting ego, an effort to make the
words of the one contradicting seem better.
In family situations
In family situations it is charitable to keep quiet at
the time, and later discuss differences privately. Verbal self-control is an
antidote for verbal contradiction. Why subterfuge another to gain a moment's
importance if it means someone loses face?
The spiritual solution is to keep kindness and a broad perspective in mind when
conversing, even if you feel your facts are more accurate.
Meditation's role
The conscious expansion that develops from meditation
helps us gain mastery over discrepancies between our words and actions.
Meditation opens our inner and outer doorways so we can see that we are all
related leaves on the tree of creation, nurtured from the shared roots of the
universe.
Meditation relaxes us in our interactions in the world by opening us to the
warm, harmonious feelings of connection with each other. Meditation gives us
peace of mind and strength to act for the highest benefit of our self, others,
and everything.
Meditation helps us become whole in body, emotion, mind, spirit, thus closing
the gap between contradictions that may tempt us to see ourselves as less than
part of a universal family.
Meditation is part of practical spirituality
Practical because it is useful in daily interaction
With people and everything in the world
We are reborn of the highest spirit
When choosing to act with kindness
The self is not a contradiction of the Self.
289.
Living in Our Loving Nature
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
We are our most human self when we 'Self Love'; when we love
fully, completely, unconditionally under all circumstances in any circumstance.
In an uncomfortable situation, by turning our thoughts to caring love we change
our role in the moment, we change the scene of the moment. It is in loving
unconditionally that we align with the ever-flowing constant Source of all
energy.
And, in loving alignment, realignment of that moment a surge of warmth sweeps
away debris of negative thinking that is clouding, hiding equitable resolve.
Love conquers all. Loving energy is a rushing river unstoppable by man. Love
overpowers brambles of negative thinking.
Love is of God, love is God, manifesting in harmony, vibrancy as we align, join
the river of love's flow by being good, doing good, aligning for the most
useful good of each moment.
Meditate deeply
Love is deepened to our core and burst open in deep meditation. Little by
little the flood gates are rammed with our growing
love, and we rush through into the open spaces beyond our waking and planning
mind, our rigid mind.
We erase the barriers we thought were there between us and heaven. Yes, we erase
those imaginary barriers of the physical and mental world into oblivion.
Flow on in my life River of Love
Flow on in my life
Carrying me along your swift current
Washing away debris, energizing me
Clearing my thoughts
That I may clearly see
My Loving Nature.
290.
Closing in on the Reality of Healing
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
As we close in on reality, we see that the Healer and healed are one:
that our thoughts of love for others heal us during the very process of caring.
This self-healing by the Self of All happens when we are energized by joy. Joy
felt in meditation. Joy felt in loving unconditionally. Joy felt in each
moment of personal radiance.
Healing is usually an ongoing process over what we experience as a time line.
And with each of us the time line is longer or shorter according to what we
pack into each moment, according to the degree of love in attitude, thought,
and action.
When we love all with the same unconditional love we feel for ourselves we are
healing.
It is only when burrs of judgement or self-centeredness are stuck to our
personality that we are not fully healed. Pick off the burrs and our innate
Healer shines, pours forth through every pore of our being, impediments
dissolving away.
Healing occurs when we love with full vibrancy, purging away remaining traces
to experiencing Oneness with the Healer – oneness with our
Creator-Sustainer-Healer.
Letting Go to the Healing Process
When riding down the road, the straighter the route, the quicker we reach our
destination. It is the same in the healing process.
When we set distractions in front of us that keep us from moving directly to
our goal, it will take longer to be healed.
The choice for the direct route, or the circuitous
route to healing is ours.
Healing will occur as a part of our evolution, anyway. The benefit of taking a
direct route rather than setup delay tactics in front of us,
is that we get to be in natural joy sooner.
We can always put excuses in our pathway to healing, but if we are going to go
for the gold anyway, why not let go of barriers and distractions right now?
Remember that essentially we are pure joy at our core.
Letting go to begin and stay with the healing process is a decision of setting
aside non-productive choices we are making now, or have made in the past –
replacing the non-productive with productive and conducive habits to regaining,
maintaining health.
Letting go to the process of healing
Ongoing every moment of every day
Till basking in our innate joy
The joy of our birthright and destiny as humans.
Healing is regaining wholeness
Holiness lies in our wholeness.
291.
Maintaining Harmony and Reducing Stress
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
I use and recommend these practices to maintain harmony and
relieve stress:
A brisk ten minute walk while swinging arms: when right foot steps forward, the
left arm swings forward.
Breathe evenly when stressed: 2 counts to breathe in and 2 counts to breathe
out, with no breath retention.
Hold positive attitudes, the choice is ours at any time. To make the transition
from bad to good mood make a change of location such as stepping outdoors in
good weather or looking far out a window when it is inclement.
Practice esoteric virtues including kindness, caring, and charity. This list
can go on and on. Being virtuous takes us out of a self-centered view into a broader
view. When we are acting for the common good we are more relaxed than when
striving for selfish returns.
Pray (a combination of supplication, meditation, appreciation, application). Each aspect of prayer works together to get the best result.
Sit in meditation pose, mentally make your petition. Quietly listen for
the answer to come through from the spiritual aspect of your being, being
deepest mind. Give a mental appreciation for the answer you receive. Put the
new direction into action.
Engage in productive work. It takes the mind off the stress of the moment.
Substitute better for bad habits. For some it is easier to make gradual changes
for the better while visualizing the long range goal. When I wanted to give up
sweets for my health I started replacing my nighttime pastry with toast, and
then settled on a small serving of mixed nuts. Make change a process for the
better.
Live for the best resolve of each moment. This is a great stress reliever,
because you no longer have to have things go your one-sided way. Being open to
several options allows the best resolve to come about.
292.
Cumulative Effects of Meditation
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
When we practice an instrument regularly over a long time we
eventually are able to make beautiful music. The same happens when we meditate
daily. We plunge deeply into our radiant core and draw out eternal radiant
blessings for use in daily life.
Meditation becomes our most important source of nourishment and nurturement.
What we sow in the effort and attitude put into meditation pays in what we reap
in harmony and peace of mind in an ongoing way. It's not that we only feel
happy while meditating, but the results linger into the time following
meditation. The time and activities that follow our meditation benefit with
inner harmony brought out and made useful.
The benefits of meditation accumulate day by day, until we are transformed from
feeling in free-fall with problems to the state where we find in our new
growing calmness the answers we need in practical living come up to our
conscious mind.
Meditation in the most practical technique I know of that can make living in
the world of chaos and change manageable on a daily basis. It allows clarity of
thinking the space and time to provide viable answers in living.
Meditation has an effect on our emotions, too. In our deepest states of bliss
we feel love for all, connected to all. This feeling gradually stretches into
our waking life and manifests through kindness with people and care for
material things we live with such as the welfare of our planet.
Meditation takes us out of doldrums of thinking that life is going nowhere
special, to the realm of feeling radiant no matter what our surroundings and
circumstances.
We learn through practice that self-centered living only provides momentary
gratification. Introduce periods of meditation and we discover that the
harmonious long-term effects allow us to float above the brine and receive
light of love on this higher plane of sight and insight. When we contemplate
our life from higher insight we see options that were invisible when we were
living in the tight ball of self-centeredness.
It is so worthwhile developing a deep state of meditative awareness. The
effects accumulate to give daily life greater meaning, greater depth. In this
expansive state we find the bliss and joy we have been searching for
intuitively.
293.
Basic Consciousness and Meditation
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Basic consciousness is our state of awareness at any given moment.
Consciousness is scientific because we grow in awareness using the natural principle
of cause and effect: Our loving actions are the cause, and the effect is our
ever increasing awareness of being interconnected with the rest of creation.
In order to come to our full state of consciousness we go through a scientific
process of evolution. An analogy can be seen by the various states of a human
life, from babyhood to the accumulated wisdom of old age.
In general, the individual progression can be seen awakening, and gradually
integrated into the whole of living over time.
Meditation to grow in consciousness
Sit upright in a quiet place where you will not be interrupted. Cover your
shoulders with a shawl or blanket if you have a tendency to cool down when
sitting still. Fold your hands in your lap. Close your eyes.
Begin with a slow inhalation and exhalation. Then start even, regular
breathing, such as one count to breathe in, one count to breathe out, and
continue this rhythmic pattern throughout your meditation. Do not hold your
breath at any time.
While continuing the even breathing pattern turn your thoughts to achieving
harmony in your relationships. Reflect that harmony in relationships spreads
into harmony in other aspects of living, like a beautiful pool of water
spreading out from its source.
Harmony in relationships is developed when stepping aside from ego - my way is
the only way - to listening attentively to all points of view and then deciding
a course of action.
Notice how you are feeling more harmonious just reflecting on this idea. This
is the feeling to carry out of meditation into your waking world.
Finish your meditation with another slow inhalation and exhalation. Open your
eyes and stretch out. Go forward with your day in a peaceful and harmonious
way.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
By being content with who we are at this
moment, but also being open to improving, we enjoy each moment to the fullest.
Being content with what we have lets us enjoy happiness without stressing over
attaining some elusive thing in the future.
Right while reading this, take a deep breath in and let it out. This is the
present. And whatever situations are humming around us, and in our mind, need
not intrude upon our underlying base of contentment with who we are and what we
have materially. For underlying our relationships in the world is the
relationship with ourselves, remaining the 100%
primary companion for our entire lives. When we accept ourselves as we are, as
basically good with eternal souls linked to our Source-Resource, we then see
that nothing of the world that changes can possibly change our changeless self
in Self.
In order to seep into consciousness of fullness, contentment in the moment, we
can spend some moments of the day in prayer, meditation, reflection,
appreciation, then set out to live kind and productive
lives in attitude and action. Every day, taking refuge in our inner refuge, our
inner Source-Resource, fortifies daily living with strength and courage to be
the best we can be in each arriving moment.
Contentment lies not in achieving a certain relationship, or wealth beyond
daily sustenance. Contentment is our own attitude of appreciation for what we
are, and what we have at this very moment.
For example, if we walk into a store and see something we want but cannot
afford, we create a stress in ourselves. And stress multiplies. We have first
created a new desire and think we will not be happy unless we have that object.
Then we have the stress of thinking how we will pay for the object. And the
stress does not end there. Suppose we do buy this objet and cart it home and it
gets broken, causing us to feel anger over own or another's clumsiness. Stress
compounding. And as we fill our house and our lives with an abundance of
objects, we need to take out more personal property insurance, further adding
to our expenses and stress.
And do we really feel happy after an acquisition and all that follows? Maybe for a short while. Till we again see an ad for
something we feel we must have to give us that temporary high. And we probably
will repeat this process for many years, while never enjoying the contentment
we thought would come with each acquisition.
In summary, contentment hold the content of all
happiness, because we get to enjoy the prize right in this very moment: joy,
happiness, fullness each and every moment of our lives. Acquiring objects, or
relationships as objects, gives us a temporary rush followed by stress over
whether we will be able to keep our trophy. Learning to enjoy the content of
each moment comes through the practice of relaxation into the present moment,
aided by time spent in the stillness of meditation In
the time of stillness our body begins to enjoy an infusion of joy, an
energization, that we can then take into our active moments of living.
Being content holds the content of all happiness
Time spent in meditation
Deeply relaxing us mentally and bodily
Into our state and stage of wholeness and joy in the moment
Flowing from and into the eternal moment.
295.
Meditation Aligns Us with Harmonious Rhythms
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
We observe the harmonious patterns of the natural universe as
flowing, mixing, moving. But, as with the swirling of
oil and water, all retain their individual characteristics on the smallest
level.
Aligning our personal rhythms with harmony, by following our conscience keeps
our inner peace intact. Cooperative interpersonal rhythms swirl into universal
harmony, developing universal consciousness.
The harmonious rhythms of music, pleasing to the ear, inspire us to dance, to
move. And within every atom of every musical note, microscopic atoms dance
around each other in continuous patterns, gracefully using space, place, and
time as their dimensions of expression, just as we can in all of our daily
interactions and activities.
Meditation smooths our rough edges
Time spent in meditation smooths our rough edges and instills a fine rhythm of
harmony in our mind, promoting beautiful actions in our life. Taking time for
meditation might be the greatest gift you'll ever give yourself while on this
planet. It improves our life while here and spreads in goodness to others.
Refine and define yourself in a graceful rhythm of harmony in living.
Every day is a new beginning, a chance to disarm the day's stress into a
beautiful outcome by adapting and acting on the highest good. Immerse yourself
in the state of joy.
Graceful rhythms
Harmonious movements,
Expressions of sharing in time place, space.
Graceful rhythms
Reaching beyond time, place, space
In Beingness
As Lovingness.
296. The Way
of Wayward Spirits
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Who is really a wayward spirit? We are each finding our way along
the twisting road of life, sometimes straying into the bushes or falling into a
ditch. It is the determination and effort we make to get moving in a positive direction,
once again, that builds character.
Strength of character carries us through difficult moments in the smoothest
possible way, therefore, it is to our advantage to
persevere.
Even personalities we may judge negatively against our own standards as wayward
are really struggling to find happiness. We all want happiness and many times
we think we must struggle to find it.
The experience of being happy transpires when we let go of struggle and sink
into the easy flow of harmony; the cogs on the wheel of events fitting together
smoothly because each action is being done with the highest cooperation for the
best resolve.
Some practical ways to achieve harmony, happiness:
1. Meditate regularly.
2. Introspect on the day's events to decide where improvements can be made for
next time.
3. Adopt a positive attitude which leads to positive thoughts and their
subsequent harmonious actions.
4. Extend care to others by sharing and caring.
5. Replace judgments with understanding; impatience with patience; separation
with loving acceptance.
A wayward spirit is going to make the roadway smoother, eventually, through
trial and error.
We stretch into our most harmonious potential by attitudes, thoughts, actions
for the highest good of each presenting moment, and all moments to come.
Today's right actions become today's and tomorrow's
harmonious, happy outcome.
The way of wayward spirits
Realigning in harmony, happiness
When struggles in self-centeredness
Relax into attitudes, actions of self-giving.
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
Honesty is a quality that allows us to look in the mirror and see
the reflection of how we really are. In honesty we see clearly and can make
course adjustments. If we live each day in accordance with our conscience, our
reflection in the mirror and how others see us will be well balanced.
Thoughts are forms of energy and produce their exact genetic offspring. Good
thoughts produce good; selfish actions lead to
repeated dissatisfactions.
Just as swimming in cloudy water puts us at risk of facing hurtful obstacles, a
cloudy thought process keeps us from viewing and resolving situations clearly.
Congruency between our words, feelings, and actions, keeping our intentions for
the highest good, breeds happiness in living.
Honest to good feelings with an attitude for the best resolve reap honest to good thought and actions.
Benefits of meditation
In order to clear up your view through the looking glass spend time in regular,
deep meditation. Meditation pushes aside the falling dust that keeps us from
being perfectly honest in relationships. Meditation opens the doorway to create
space for the deeper relationship of friendship.
Let the blessings of meditation clear the debris hiding your radiant soul from
the sight of others. Shine with your eternal brilliance and enjoy deep and
honest friendships over the long-term.
298. Every
Meditation Is a New Beginning
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
When we awaken each day we have the opportunity and choice to live
in a way that we can enjoy, that will bring joy into our life, by acting for
the highest good of each situation that day. We then assure ourselves peace of
mind and an energized body.
The circumstances we are in from day to day may be repetitive and similar, but
our own attitude and actions make the day painful or joyful for us. By our
attitudes and actions we are in charge of the outcome of each situation. When
we are given lemons, we have the opportunity to make lemonade by 'sweetening'
the outcome.
We do that by taking one little nugget of truth out of an uncomfortable
situation, and then using it as a stepping stone for improving the day's
unresolved or inharmonious conflicts. By doing our part to be positive and
constructive by doing our best, we enjoy the rhythm of our native natural peace
and ease.
Conflict about what to do arises when we want to go with an idea that we had
our mind set on before we consider all the options.
Looking ahead to the results of a planned action helps us evaluate the best
course to follow. If a decision needs to be made quickly, following our
conscience keeps our body relaxed and our mind peaceful and free of stress.
Meditation gives us a fresh start. We make the choice to begin our session from
stress and transform it in bliss by relaxing into our deepest recesses of
harmony. And after coming back to daily life we have the memory of positive
experience to hold on to for as long as we can. More meditation equals longer
periods of bliss outside meditation.
The best solution is not always the easiest way. We must have courage, summon
up our energy by willpower, and make affirmations to do what is best in each
situation so that we can maintain peace of mind every day. It helps to remember
that we will be living with the results of our decisions.
Every day is a new beginning
A chance to disarm the day's stress
Into a beautiful outcome
By adapting and acting on the highest good
Allowing us to enjoy our time every day
To be in a state of joy every day.
299.
Meditation Helps in Considering Marriage
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
During an ongoing relationship a point in time comes when another
level must be entered for the relationship to grow into permanence.
Unconditional acceptance, unconditional love, is the binding ingredient
allowing us to successfully cross into a durable marriage.
The partners must feel that they will bear with each other in future
situations, no matter what the other is going through. The decision to commit
comes at the point in time when we become detached enough to observe how the
other is on a regular basis.
From this observation point, we need to ask ourselves if we could maintain our
own peacefulness and caring under these circumstances in a daily living
situation. It is important to face this analysis, so that the relationship can,
if seen to be unconditionally acceptable, be allowed to expand to the level of
life mates.
Use meditation to help make a relationship decision
Deep meditation gives us the space to fall into our eternal heart and
contemplate living with another person on all levels. In the beginning of a
meditation session, the supplication stage, ask your infinite Self whether your
situation is right for you in the long term. Then quietly wait for the insight
to arise in your conscious mind, guiding you in making the best choice.
If both partners cannot accept each other unconditionally, it is time to
back off into a less involved relationship.
Living together
Would this be the time to plunge ahead into a live-in
situation in hopes of working through obstacles?
Pain and discomfort result when obstacles are compounded by living together.
The relationship becomes a head-to-head situation, because the two minds are
trying to work out issues that are inherently part of each person's point of
view.
Whereas, unconditional acceptance from both, for each other,
is the harmony of hearts cooperating for the highest common good.
Relationship communion is union; the marriage union being sustained by
unconditional acceptance, unconditional love.
300. Standing Back While Looking On
Article
by Susan Helene Kramer – Shuchi
First, remember that we will be living with the results of our
actions. When there is plenty of time to consider, write down all the options
that come to mind. Make a pro and con list, then
choose the course to follow.
By looking at a problem as just an object, we create a little distance, which
gives us the perspective of seeing that the problem is an issue to be resolved,
and that we are involved with it, but it is not part of our permanent being.
Issues come and go. We remain the constant amidst change.
Sometimes we are so set in our mind on a certain track, that we cannot
disconnect ourselves and follow the better plan. By surrendering our attachment
to our set ideas, our thinking expands and becomes open to considering other
options.
An ice cube is hard, frozen, but as it sits in water it melts and blends into
the whole glass of water. As we allow our hardened perspective to loosen, we
blend and harmonize with the options that are most easeful and peaceful with
the whole of our life, and our daily life in the world.
Use your reflective time in meditation to mull over the options you have
come up with, helping to plan how to carry out difficult decisions.
Equitable resolve
Result of clear thinking
In tune with the highest good.
Graceful rhythms
Harmonious movements
Expressions of sharing in time, place, space.
Reaching beyond time, place, space
When aligned with the highest resolve.
More
Meditation Articles:
Beginning Steps in Meditation —
1. to 40. http://www.susankramer.com/meditationarticles3.html
Meditation Tempers Ups and Downs — 41. to 80. http://www.susankramer.com/meditationarticles3a.html
Contemplation and Meditation — 81. to 120. http://www.susankramer.com/meditationarticles3b.html
Benefits of Daily Meditation — 121. to 160. http://www.susankramer.com/meditationarticles3c.html
Meditation and Our Deepest Roots — 161. to 200. http://www.susankramer.com/meditationarticles3d.html
Meditate to Find Answers —
201. to 250.
http://www.susankramer.com/meditateanswers.html
A Heavenly Garden in Meditation —
251. to 300. http://www.susankramer.com/heavenlygarden.html
Love Is a Constant −
301. to 316. http://www.susankramer.com/loveconstant.html
All content
on this site is copyright Susan Helene Kramer
and may not be used in any manner without express written permission.
Email: susan@susankramer.com
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A meditation and yoga
practitioner since 1976, Susan, Shuchi, writes on
practical spirituality, meditation, yoga, family and social issues, and dance.
Her instructional books are listed at her web site – http://www.susankramer.com/books.html
page created January 28, 2016