Infinite Peace!
Last Tuesday (June 19) we welcomed back to the Inner Work Circle our resident Hindu and VP/co-founder, Shakun V., who just returned from her trip from Belgium to attend the Global Council Meeting of the United Religions Initiative (URI). With fresh energy and inspiration from meeting again co-members of the big global URI family, she shared a bit about her experience there during the kamustahan.
The session proceeded with a sharing from each one around the circle on the two guide questions:
1. “What is your own concept/image/symbol which you can use to describe God?”
2. “How have you become out of this concept of God?” or “How do you relate to this concept of God?”
From the questions themselves you would know how the discussions came about, and a very interesting and enlightening session it indeed became.
We heard varied sharing from everyone and each gave his/her own unique insights which contributed to the richness of the diversity of perspectives that describe only one reality. Some of these may be familiar to you or resonate with you, some may seem absurd or far-fetched. But at TIWC we never judge a sharing, an opinion, or an understanding or belief:
God is…
… a mirror
… a cellphone
… the sun
… the yin-yang
… giver of free will
… loving mother
… maintainer of balance
… the equilibrium
… the relationship
… the experience of love as one relates with other human beings
… unconditional love
… divine source
… energy
… holy spirit
… the super soul
… the superconsciousness
… the primordial spirit
… the divine father & divine mother
… our ancestors
… oneness
… the is and is not, the both is and is not, and the neither is nor is not
… irrelevant in the quest to end all human suffering (according to the Buddhist teaching)
What about you? Care to share your own concept or experience of God?
Becoming out of God (June 12, 2007)
Kapayapaan sa lahat!
Maligayang Araw ng Kasarinlan sa Kanoypihan!
Sinubukan naming magsalita sa ating pambansang wika sa simula ng aming bahaginan noong nakaraang Martes (ika-12 ng Hunyo) upang gunitain ang espesyal na araw na ito.
But when our non-Filipino speaking friends arrived we had to shift to our usual English which everybody would understand more fully.
There were 15 of us at the recent Tuesday Inner Work Circle and we were glad to see new faces as well as some familiar faces making a come back.
The suggested theme was: “What have we become out of our experience/s of God?” This was an off-shoot topic which rose up from discussions after the session last week which was about “God-concepts”.
The task of facilitating the discussion last night was delegated to one of the participants who was the one who thought of the theme. Our brother from Eckankar was the first to share--reading a chapter from a book on conversations between a master and a student talking about “grasping God”. Then he shared some instances in his life which he considers as experiences of God.
What is interesting about his sharing is that these experiences were not of the beaming-ray-of-light-and-booming-voice-from-above kind of experience of God, but a simple yet recognizably divine experience nonetheless. One of these was how he got to quit smoking after hearing the “voice of God” through the lyrics of a song overheard while eating a midnight goto snack.
Another powerful sharing was not about any one particular experience in life but about the whole series of life experiences that brought her to a journey of faith from the darkness of doubt and fear to that of the liberation of the human spirit.
Indeed, as it was pointed out before in one of the TIWC sharing: What matters is not what happened to you—it is what happens in you.
And because this topic is so interesting and participants have much to share with so little time, we are extending the discussions on this topic to give chance for others to share.
So Next Tuesday (June 19) we will be continuing with reflections and sharing on:
“What have we become out of our experience/s of the Divine”.
See you then!
Om Shanti!
O.
Maligayang Araw ng Kasarinlan sa Kanoypihan!
Sinubukan naming magsalita sa ating pambansang wika sa simula ng aming bahaginan noong nakaraang Martes (ika-12 ng Hunyo) upang gunitain ang espesyal na araw na ito.
But when our non-Filipino speaking friends arrived we had to shift to our usual English which everybody would understand more fully.
There were 15 of us at the recent Tuesday Inner Work Circle and we were glad to see new faces as well as some familiar faces making a come back.
The suggested theme was: “What have we become out of our experience/s of God?” This was an off-shoot topic which rose up from discussions after the session last week which was about “God-concepts”.
The task of facilitating the discussion last night was delegated to one of the participants who was the one who thought of the theme. Our brother from Eckankar was the first to share--reading a chapter from a book on conversations between a master and a student talking about “grasping God”. Then he shared some instances in his life which he considers as experiences of God.
What is interesting about his sharing is that these experiences were not of the beaming-ray-of-light-and-booming-voice-from-above kind of experience of God, but a simple yet recognizably divine experience nonetheless. One of these was how he got to quit smoking after hearing the “voice of God” through the lyrics of a song overheard while eating a midnight goto snack.
Another powerful sharing was not about any one particular experience in life but about the whole series of life experiences that brought her to a journey of faith from the darkness of doubt and fear to that of the liberation of the human spirit.
Indeed, as it was pointed out before in one of the TIWC sharing: What matters is not what happened to you—it is what happens in you.
And because this topic is so interesting and participants have much to share with so little time, we are extending the discussions on this topic to give chance for others to share.
So Next Tuesday (June 19) we will be continuing with reflections and sharing on:
“What have we become out of our experience/s of the Divine”.
See you then!
Om Shanti!
O.
God Concepts (An ex-atheist’s sharing - June 05, 2007)
Infinite Peace!
Last June 5, we welcomed back to the Tuesday Inner Work Circle Marites who returned from her trip to “Middle Earth” (New Zealand!) with inspiring stories and insights from her experience during the Waitangi Asia-Pacific Interfaith Dialogue conference.
After Marites shared her experiences, we then heard from our assigned speaker—our resident ex-atheist—who talked about his personal journey as an atheist for 21 years grappling with “God Concepts.”
Mentioned were some insights about the story of the tower of Babel from the Bible and how the plurality of languages and diversification came about and along with it the different references and names of God as well as the varied religions. The theme on form and essence came into play as another reference to the Bible was mentioned-- the Pentecost-- where the Holy Spirit worked as the spirit/essence that unified the “form” as people talked in different languages but understood each other.
From this topic shared from the perspective of one who lost–and–found God, the discussions went through various dimensions and levels—“in depth, width, and height”—as we heard other sharings from the perspective of the different faiths.
From “form and essence” to “oneness and diversity” or “unification and differentiation,” the interplay, cycle, or “dance” between these opposite poles was reflected on. From the mitotic division of one cell into many parts, up to how these small parts end up forming a bigger whole that is one complete organism—the process works up to the infinite levels and systems. From one to many and then back to one.
One God, one source, one essence… Many concepts, many names, many qualities… Then we continuously seek to realize the unity in diversity, oneness in plurality, and transcend the boundaries of forms towards one spirit.
Last June 5, we welcomed back to the Tuesday Inner Work Circle Marites who returned from her trip to “Middle Earth” (New Zealand!) with inspiring stories and insights from her experience during the Waitangi Asia-Pacific Interfaith Dialogue conference.
After Marites shared her experiences, we then heard from our assigned speaker—our resident ex-atheist—who talked about his personal journey as an atheist for 21 years grappling with “God Concepts.”
Mentioned were some insights about the story of the tower of Babel from the Bible and how the plurality of languages and diversification came about and along with it the different references and names of God as well as the varied religions. The theme on form and essence came into play as another reference to the Bible was mentioned-- the Pentecost-- where the Holy Spirit worked as the spirit/essence that unified the “form” as people talked in different languages but understood each other.
From this topic shared from the perspective of one who lost–and–found God, the discussions went through various dimensions and levels—“in depth, width, and height”—as we heard other sharings from the perspective of the different faiths.
From “form and essence” to “oneness and diversity” or “unification and differentiation,” the interplay, cycle, or “dance” between these opposite poles was reflected on. From the mitotic division of one cell into many parts, up to how these small parts end up forming a bigger whole that is one complete organism—the process works up to the infinite levels and systems. From one to many and then back to one.
One God, one source, one essence… Many concepts, many names, many qualities… Then we continuously seek to realize the unity in diversity, oneness in plurality, and transcend the boundaries of forms towards one spirit.
More on Inner Peace (May 29, 2007)
Infinite Peace!
Sans our favorite facilitators (both Shakun & Marites were out of the country) our usual Inner Work Circle session took place at the Peacemakers’ Circle last May 29. We decided to continue with sharings and discussion on Inner Peace as most of those present were not able to share--and the rest were absent--last time.
After the usual body relaxation exercises and the meditation/silencing, the session proceeded with sharing from each of us around the circle. We shared about our own views of Inner Peace, what is its significance for us, and what inspirational teachings lead us to it or keep us at it.
Interestingly, one Christian shared that the concept of inner peace is unfamiliar to him. He said he always considered peace as something relational, something found while being in a relationship with others-- not found within just oneself. Perhaps he meant something like “What is peace if not shared with others?”
Indeed, how can one meditate peacefully in one’s own room when a lot of work needs to be done for peace and justice to prevail outside? This was another point raised.
The discussions then led to peace as likened to the breath. As in the breath, there is an inhale as well as an exhale. Just as there exists an outer world, there is also an inner world. There is a self which is not alone as there is the other. Two parts of the whole. two sides of the coin, two complimentary opposites. One is as important as the other. Both are interdependent to each other.
Inner peace is like inhaling and working on the self. Compassionate action is the exhaling and sharing of the peace you have cultivated within you to others and the world around. Someone called it the marriage of meditation and action. For action without meditation is a blind automatic conditioned reaction—that’s not too helpful. Meanwhile, meditation without action is an “unholy indifference.” Therefore, we should strive more for what could be termed as a “consciously compassionate response” which is a balance between inward & outward peace.
Sans our favorite facilitators (both Shakun & Marites were out of the country) our usual Inner Work Circle session took place at the Peacemakers’ Circle last May 29. We decided to continue with sharings and discussion on Inner Peace as most of those present were not able to share--and the rest were absent--last time.
After the usual body relaxation exercises and the meditation/silencing, the session proceeded with sharing from each of us around the circle. We shared about our own views of Inner Peace, what is its significance for us, and what inspirational teachings lead us to it or keep us at it.
Interestingly, one Christian shared that the concept of inner peace is unfamiliar to him. He said he always considered peace as something relational, something found while being in a relationship with others-- not found within just oneself. Perhaps he meant something like “What is peace if not shared with others?”
Indeed, how can one meditate peacefully in one’s own room when a lot of work needs to be done for peace and justice to prevail outside? This was another point raised.
The discussions then led to peace as likened to the breath. As in the breath, there is an inhale as well as an exhale. Just as there exists an outer world, there is also an inner world. There is a self which is not alone as there is the other. Two parts of the whole. two sides of the coin, two complimentary opposites. One is as important as the other. Both are interdependent to each other.
Inner peace is like inhaling and working on the self. Compassionate action is the exhaling and sharing of the peace you have cultivated within you to others and the world around. Someone called it the marriage of meditation and action. For action without meditation is a blind automatic conditioned reaction—that’s not too helpful. Meanwhile, meditation without action is an “unholy indifference.” Therefore, we should strive more for what could be termed as a “consciously compassionate response” which is a balance between inward & outward peace.
Inner Peace (May 22, 2007)
Shalom!
Another wonderful exchange of reflections & insights from people’s personal experiences and wisdom from their respective faiths was concluded last Tuesday (May 22) as the Inner Work Circle took up the topic: INNER PEACE.
“What teachings from your faith guide you to find/maintain inner peace amidst the conflict and suffering all around you?”
This was the question posed to the group at the beginning of the session and it gave way to a lively discussion on personal experiences within the backdrop of the teachings from different faiths.
To a Christian, the offering of oneself, “carrying the cross”, or self-sacrifice is the basic teaching. The point raised was that a Christian can never be at peace if s/he cannot reach out to help those who are not at peace. A Christian would even sacrifice his/her own peace for the sake of the other. Sometimes Christians seem to want to carry the burden or “cross” of the world on their shoulder—hence, to suffer with the world and forget about inner peace.
From another point of view—that of the Buddhist—the first and foremost concern is to establish peace within the self, most especially and more specifically, the mind. The Buddhist teaching emphasizes that the human mind and its habits is the root of unpeace. One of the 4 noble truths taught states that suffering is caused by desires and attachments of the mind. These are attachments to anything—from material possessions to persons, from emotions to sensations, from ideologies, ideals to ideas or mere thought forms. The battle is all in the mind. Hence, peace starts with the mastery of the mind, and for Buddhists, meditation is a practical method for this. Only then can we establish peace in the world outside of us.
The sharing from an Islamic point of view further enriched the conversations. For Muslims it seems that whether peace is being cultivated from within or around us, its source is only one—God or Allah. Muslims pray 5 times a day, and –as our brother pointed out—it is this constant tuning-in to the Divine Source of Peace that gives them inner peace. Furthermore, they find solace in the teachings from the Holy Qur’an as they seek to continuously realize the essence of their religion—Islam: “attaining peace through submission to the will of Allah.”
Indeed, these are different perspectives on one topic but they compliment each other and are as significant as the other in the path towards peace. As if important pieces of just one puzzle they all fit together.
One cannot give something that he/she doesn’t have… such as Peace. And one must not keep to himself/herself such peace he/she has found within, lest we become indifferent and disconnected to other living beings. In all of these, God-consciousness is a requirement-- knowing and being constantly aware that we can attune to the Ultimate Source of Peace anytime and anywhere. And that everything that happens in your life and in everybody else’s—be it peaceful or seemingly unpeaceful— is all part of the unfolding of the Divine Will.
Another wonderful exchange of reflections & insights from people’s personal experiences and wisdom from their respective faiths was concluded last Tuesday (May 22) as the Inner Work Circle took up the topic: INNER PEACE.
“What teachings from your faith guide you to find/maintain inner peace amidst the conflict and suffering all around you?”
This was the question posed to the group at the beginning of the session and it gave way to a lively discussion on personal experiences within the backdrop of the teachings from different faiths.
To a Christian, the offering of oneself, “carrying the cross”, or self-sacrifice is the basic teaching. The point raised was that a Christian can never be at peace if s/he cannot reach out to help those who are not at peace. A Christian would even sacrifice his/her own peace for the sake of the other. Sometimes Christians seem to want to carry the burden or “cross” of the world on their shoulder—hence, to suffer with the world and forget about inner peace.
From another point of view—that of the Buddhist—the first and foremost concern is to establish peace within the self, most especially and more specifically, the mind. The Buddhist teaching emphasizes that the human mind and its habits is the root of unpeace. One of the 4 noble truths taught states that suffering is caused by desires and attachments of the mind. These are attachments to anything—from material possessions to persons, from emotions to sensations, from ideologies, ideals to ideas or mere thought forms. The battle is all in the mind. Hence, peace starts with the mastery of the mind, and for Buddhists, meditation is a practical method for this. Only then can we establish peace in the world outside of us.
The sharing from an Islamic point of view further enriched the conversations. For Muslims it seems that whether peace is being cultivated from within or around us, its source is only one—God or Allah. Muslims pray 5 times a day, and –as our brother pointed out—it is this constant tuning-in to the Divine Source of Peace that gives them inner peace. Furthermore, they find solace in the teachings from the Holy Qur’an as they seek to continuously realize the essence of their religion—Islam: “attaining peace through submission to the will of Allah.”
Indeed, these are different perspectives on one topic but they compliment each other and are as significant as the other in the path towards peace. As if important pieces of just one puzzle they all fit together.
One cannot give something that he/she doesn’t have… such as Peace. And one must not keep to himself/herself such peace he/she has found within, lest we become indifferent and disconnected to other living beings. In all of these, God-consciousness is a requirement-- knowing and being constantly aware that we can attune to the Ultimate Source of Peace anytime and anywhere. And that everything that happens in your life and in everybody else’s—be it peaceful or seemingly unpeaceful— is all part of the unfolding of the Divine Will.
The power of the Unspoken word (May 15, 2007))
Infinite Peace!
Last Tuesday (May 15) at the Inner Work Circle we had another full-house (even though it wasn’t a special Open Evening session)! Around 21 people from different faiths came as we resumed our usual open circle discussion after a few holiday breaks and two consecutive Open Evening sessions.
We continued with our sharing of reflections and insights on a particular topic, and the theme last session was on SPEECH. It was a timely theme as the Philippines has been currently overwhelmed by the election fever and prior to the election day (May 14- the day before) our ears have all been bombarded with speeches, promises, and soliloquies (believable or not) of candidates here and there.
Interestingly, the sharings eventually centered more on whispered wishes, silent prayers and the unspoken words—rather than the words spoken-out loud. One interesting insight shared was how a prayer—the softer it gets, until it becomes a whisper or even a silent unspoken one—becomes as meaningful (if not, more meaningful and powerful) as a prayer said out loud for everyone to hear. The question posed was: “For whom to hear is a prayer said out loud anyway, and for whom to hear is a prayer offered silently?”
Sometime ago the TIWC took up the theme on “the power of the spoken word”. This recent reflections now gave another perspective of the power of the unspoken word (or whispered prayers).
One other interesting insight shared was the significance of silence in DIALOGUE (especially in interfaith or intercultural dialogue). As it has been oftentimes emphasized at The Peacemakers’ Circle, the silence in between the words are as important (if not, more important) as the words spoken and exchanged during a dialogue. As some would say: “Silence speaks louder than words.” Also, the words can sometimes be the source of misunderstanding between people in dialogue who come from different culture and faiths. In this instance, silence becomes a more effective mode of communication and understanding as it is universal and it is through which "heart-listening" is cultivated.
Last Tuesday (May 15) at the Inner Work Circle we had another full-house (even though it wasn’t a special Open Evening session)! Around 21 people from different faiths came as we resumed our usual open circle discussion after a few holiday breaks and two consecutive Open Evening sessions.
We continued with our sharing of reflections and insights on a particular topic, and the theme last session was on SPEECH. It was a timely theme as the Philippines has been currently overwhelmed by the election fever and prior to the election day (May 14- the day before) our ears have all been bombarded with speeches, promises, and soliloquies (believable or not) of candidates here and there.
Interestingly, the sharings eventually centered more on whispered wishes, silent prayers and the unspoken words—rather than the words spoken-out loud. One interesting insight shared was how a prayer—the softer it gets, until it becomes a whisper or even a silent unspoken one—becomes as meaningful (if not, more meaningful and powerful) as a prayer said out loud for everyone to hear. The question posed was: “For whom to hear is a prayer said out loud anyway, and for whom to hear is a prayer offered silently?”
Sometime ago the TIWC took up the theme on “the power of the spoken word”. This recent reflections now gave another perspective of the power of the unspoken word (or whispered prayers).
One other interesting insight shared was the significance of silence in DIALOGUE (especially in interfaith or intercultural dialogue). As it has been oftentimes emphasized at The Peacemakers’ Circle, the silence in between the words are as important (if not, more important) as the words spoken and exchanged during a dialogue. As some would say: “Silence speaks louder than words.” Also, the words can sometimes be the source of misunderstanding between people in dialogue who come from different culture and faiths. In this instance, silence becomes a more effective mode of communication and understanding as it is universal and it is through which "heart-listening" is cultivated.
Celebrating the universal teachings of the Buddha (Open Evening - May 08, 2007)
Namo Amitabha!Last May 8 the Tuesday Inner Work Circle had another wonderful Open Evening experience at The Peacemakers’ Circle with a Buddhist speaker from the Universal Wisdom Foundation. Inc. (UWFI) Buddhist resource center.
Mr. Sam Salter came in on behalf of UWFI president and Peacemakers’ board member, Prof. Carlos Aureus, to share about the basic teachings of Buddhism and the celebration called Wesak/Vesak.
Mr. Sam said that May is Wesak month and every full moon of May is the Wesak Day. This one day marks the birth, enlightenment, and Parinirvana (complete liberation from the cycles of physical incarnation) of Guatama Buddha. This celebration is so significant for the Buddhists all over the world such that on March 2001--through the initiative of the UWFI—the President of the Philippines (GMA) signed a presidential proclamation declaring the full moon day in May every year as Wesak Day.
The sharing went on from the Wesak celebration to the basic tenets of Buddhism and the universality of its wisdom. As Mr. Sam pointed out, one need not become or call him/herself a Buddhist in order to follow the teachings of the Buddha which is meant for anyone and everyone regardless of race, gender, or belief system (one does not even have to believe in God!). According to him, the Buddha just simply wanted to teach everyone a way—which he has proven himself-- to end human suffering. Suffering which is a universal human experience (“There is no such thing as a Buddhist suffering that is different from a Christian suffering, a Muslim suffering or a Hindu suffering—all humans simply experience it”). Buddha and his prescribed way to end suffering is not only for Buddhists but for everyone—just as Christ’s teachings are not only for Christians nor Islamic wisdom only for Muslims.
Mr. Sam further elaborated that the cause of conflict is when one sees him/herself as different from the other or is attached to the physical self—when in fact, as Buddhism teaches, ALL are ONE.
Another insight which the speaker pointed out, and was so often highlighted throughout his sharing, is the significance of INNERWORK. He praised how the Peacemakers’ Circle has been promoting Inner Work, which is in essence also a Buddhist teaching.
Summing up, he shared that the greatest and unique contribution of Buddhism as one of the world’s main religion is its emphasis on the human MIND as the forerunner of all human experience. Buddha’s teachings are centered around how each person should master and cleanse the mind of defilements and ignorance so as to attain liberation from suffering.
Encounter with a Guru (Open Evening fieldtrip - Apr. 24, 2007)
Infinite Peace to all!The Tuesday Inner Work Circle last night did not have the usual session at The Peacemakers’ Circle but instead decided to take a “fieldtrip” to attend a special program: “An Evening of Wisdom, Music and Meditation” with the world-renowned guru and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. This was held at the Isla Ballroom of the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel.
It was a rare opportunity to hear live from a guru such as Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. As Mr. Jimmy Licauco (columnist and founder of the Inner Mind Institute) put it as he introduced him, Guruji (as he is usually addressed) has a long list of accomplishments in the field of spirituality, peacebuidling, interfaith dialogue, health and stress management, social work, and many more. He is famous for the Art of Living Foundation which is a large international volunteer-based organization accredited by the United Nations.
What is wonderful about the experience was that I felt like I was in a comedy bar instead of a guru’s lecture! We just kept laughing and smiling most of the time because of the guru’s great sense of humor. His straight-forward wisdom and childlike aura was a delightful reminder of the basic needs of humanity today—love, trust, belongingness to one another, and a sincere smile on each one’s face (400 times a day just like the babies!—according to his studies).
Preparing humanity for a great transition (Apr. 17, 2007)
Infinite Peace!Jam-packed! – The small space of The Peacemakers’ Circle miraculously accommodated 23 people last night (April 17) as Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC*) conducted this month’s Open Evening featuring the teachings of the Korean faith tradition, Jeung San Do (JSD).
Armed with his LCD projector, laptop notebook and powerpoint presentation, Mr. Lee Sang Kyu, leader of Jeung San Do-Manila and regular Inner Work participant, gave a comprehensive, rich and well-organized sharing about the principal teachings of JSD. What made it more interesting was how he included in the presentation short clips from some contemporary documentaries and relevant films, such as The Secret (on the laws of attraction & thought energy) and Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth (on global warming). This way he was able to relate the teachings of JSD with actual global experiences and modern scientific research.
With so much to say in so short a time, Mr. Lee had to leave out some of the sharing for another day as the session drew to a close. The group (which composed of Muslims, Baha’i's, Christians, Shumeis, Hindu, and non-traditionals) had to proceed with Q&A while enjoying the refreshments courtesy of JSD members. People stayed on until past 9:00pm while enjoying the company and conversations with new-found friends and sharing insights on their new learnings from the Jeung San Do about cosmology, universal laws of change and cycles, the impending catastrophic transition and the coming new age of humanity’s spiritual maturation.
Easter reflections (Apr. 10, 2007)
Belated Easter greetings to our Christian brothers and sisters!
T’was our first TIWC* session for the month last Tuesday (April 10) and we thought of sharing reflections on the Easter season of the Christians.
We first heard from our Christian seminarian brother about the significance of religious practices during the Lent and Easter season. It was interesting to hear about his observations on the practices unique in the Philippines that are not found in his home country or anywhere else.
The others then shared about similar or corresponding practices and religious celebrations found in their respective faiths. This eventually led to sharing on practices of fasting and self-purification. Some shared about personal experiences and insights on individual-- as well as cosmic-- transitions, rebirth, and miracles.
T’was our first TIWC* session for the month last Tuesday (April 10) and we thought of sharing reflections on the Easter season of the Christians.
We first heard from our Christian seminarian brother about the significance of religious practices during the Lent and Easter season. It was interesting to hear about his observations on the practices unique in the Philippines that are not found in his home country or anywhere else.
The others then shared about similar or corresponding practices and religious celebrations found in their respective faiths. This eventually led to sharing on practices of fasting and self-purification. Some shared about personal experiences and insights on individual-- as well as cosmic-- transitions, rebirth, and miracles.
Sharing Malaysia, Indonesia, India (Mar. 03, 2007)
Selamat Pagi!
Whew! Long time no see! Last Tuesday (March 27th) was our first session as we resume the meetings at the Inner Work Circle after The Peacemakers’ Circle office closed up for a trip to Malaysia (to attend the URI SEAsia-Pacific Regional Meeting).
We were all glad to see each other once again after not having had sessions for a few weeks. We know we have a lot of stories to share with one another especially since we had gone to several places. This is why we decided that the evening will be a sharing of experiences from our respective travels.
Firstly, the Peacemakers’ Circle staff shared about their trip to Malaysia and we even showed some of our pictures taken during the trip. Our common insights about the trip was that Malaysia is truly a beautiful and its beauty lies in its being very multicultural, multiracial, and multifaith. We enjoyed so much the company and warmth of the people, as much as the sites and sounds (and smell and taste!) of the different places of worship we visited. It was equally meaningful to experience all these with the URI family.
The second main sharing for the evening came from a young friend who just got back from an exchange program in Jakarta, Indonesia. Carmen was accepted to volunteer for six months in a peacebuilding institute in Jakarta and she gladly shared about her experiences there and the programs of the organization. She shared that what struck her more about the experience are similarities in language and culture and parallelism in national history between Indonesia and the Philippines.
Before the session ran out of time we heard a sharing from another country—India. Another member just got back from a trip to India (wow, our innerworkers are quite a bunch of jetsetters, aren’t they?!) and she shared about the conference she attended and their experiences of mystical India. In one whole breath she was able to almost convince everyone to try to visit the country! She shared about the opposite aspects of India, the poverty and unhealth vis a vis the deep spirituality and wonderful art (architecture, crafts, jewelry, cloths, etc.).
Terima Kasih!
Orlan
Whew! Long time no see! Last Tuesday (March 27th) was our first session as we resume the meetings at the Inner Work Circle after The Peacemakers’ Circle office closed up for a trip to Malaysia (to attend the URI SEAsia-Pacific Regional Meeting).
We were all glad to see each other once again after not having had sessions for a few weeks. We know we have a lot of stories to share with one another especially since we had gone to several places. This is why we decided that the evening will be a sharing of experiences from our respective travels.
Firstly, the Peacemakers’ Circle staff shared about their trip to Malaysia and we even showed some of our pictures taken during the trip. Our common insights about the trip was that Malaysia is truly a beautiful and its beauty lies in its being very multicultural, multiracial, and multifaith. We enjoyed so much the company and warmth of the people, as much as the sites and sounds (and smell and taste!) of the different places of worship we visited. It was equally meaningful to experience all these with the URI family.
The second main sharing for the evening came from a young friend who just got back from an exchange program in Jakarta, Indonesia. Carmen was accepted to volunteer for six months in a peacebuilding institute in Jakarta and she gladly shared about her experiences there and the programs of the organization. She shared that what struck her more about the experience are similarities in language and culture and parallelism in national history between Indonesia and the Philippines.
Before the session ran out of time we heard a sharing from another country—India. Another member just got back from a trip to India (wow, our innerworkers are quite a bunch of jetsetters, aren’t they?!) and she shared about the conference she attended and their experiences of mystical India. In one whole breath she was able to almost convince everyone to try to visit the country! She shared about the opposite aspects of India, the poverty and unhealth vis a vis the deep spirituality and wonderful art (architecture, crafts, jewelry, cloths, etc.).
Terima Kasih!
Orlan
Spreading white Light (Open Evening with Byakko Shinko Kai - Feb. 27, 2007))
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My life blazed
With the desire
To serve as a thread
Joining Heaven and Earth.
While thinking only of God,
Even my joined hands
Vanished in prayer,
Leaving only the blue sky.
Where the vibrations of heaven and earth
United, and became
The roaring of the sea,
The sun rose.
-- Masahisa Goi, founder of Byakko Shinko Kai
Infinite Light to all!
Last night (Feb.27) was an Open Evening session at the Peacemakers’ Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC) featuring the spirituality of the BYAKKO SHINKO KAI or “white light spiritual organization.” We were privileged to have had with us to share one of their active members who came all the way from Japan, Ms. Tomoko Ukai.
Ms. Tomoko, I believe, is the most infectiously joyful person that I have ever met. I was amazed at her disposition and her genuine smile when I first saw her. When she entered the room it was obvious that she was so happy to meet everyone. She said that she could sense the peace and positive energies that flow throughout the place and that made her glad and privileged to visit and talk for the evening. Indeed, everyone that she shook hands and interacted with could not help but be infected with her smile and overflowing joy.
Ms. Tomoko was accompanied by Mr. Mario “Toots” Fungo, Peacemakers’ friend and founding member and satellite member of the Byakko Shinko Kai and World Peace Prayer Society (WPPS). Both of them are members of the two peace organizations which were founded by one person, Sensei Masahisa Goi.
It was interesting to hear once again some of the teachings from a particular spiritual tradition such as the Byakko Shinko Kai, especially hearing from one member who exudes and lives up to these teachings…
With the desire
To serve as a thread
Joining Heaven and Earth.
While thinking only of God,
Even my joined hands
Vanished in prayer,
Leaving only the blue sky.
Where the vibrations of heaven and earth
United, and became
The roaring of the sea,
The sun rose.
-- Masahisa Goi, founder of Byakko Shinko Kai
Infinite Light to all!
Last night (Feb.27) was an Open Evening session at the Peacemakers’ Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC) featuring the spirituality of the BYAKKO SHINKO KAI or “white light spiritual organization.” We were privileged to have had with us to share one of their active members who came all the way from Japan, Ms. Tomoko Ukai.
Ms. Tomoko, I believe, is the most infectiously joyful person that I have ever met. I was amazed at her disposition and her genuine smile when I first saw her. When she entered the room it was obvious that she was so happy to meet everyone. She said that she could sense the peace and positive energies that flow throughout the place and that made her glad and privileged to visit and talk for the evening. Indeed, everyone that she shook hands and interacted with could not help but be infected with her smile and overflowing joy.
Ms. Tomoko was accompanied by Mr. Mario “Toots” Fungo, Peacemakers’ friend and founding member and satellite member of the Byakko Shinko Kai and World Peace Prayer Society (WPPS). Both of them are members of the two peace organizations which were founded by one person, Sensei Masahisa Goi.
It was interesting to hear once again some of the teachings from a particular spiritual tradition such as the Byakko Shinko Kai, especially hearing from one member who exudes and lives up to these teachings…
Care to lend an ear? (Feb. 02, 2007)
Dear Everyone,
Hear ye! Hear ye!
If you were given the choice whether to go blind or to be deaf, which would you prefer? Would you rather see without hearing or hear without seeing?
This was one of the questions posed at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb.20 as we reflected on the sense of Hearing.
The most prominent point raised was the significance of sound as one of the two important elements of the universe-- together with light. Light and sound are two major forms of energy. Both manifest as waves but are perceived separately by two different human senses. This leads us to reflect on the relationship of the two. We have discussed about the sense of sight last week and this time we pondered on the sense of hearing.
The Hindu faith tradition believes that sound was first produced during the creation of the universe and this sound was “OM”. This is why central to the religious practice of the Hindus is the chanting of “OM” which is then referred to as the sound of God or a mantra that connects us to the source of creation. This also makes sense why scientists now refer to the creation of the universe as “The Big Bang.”
Indeed, even from the Bible it is interesting to note how the sound was given importance. “In the beginning was darkness” (the absence of light), then God said “Let there be light!” and then there was light. Notice that although it seemed that light was created first, God used sound or words in order to command the creation. Also found in the Bible was the statement: “In the beginning was the word, and the word was made flesh.”
A Muslim brother agrees to this point as he shared quotes from the Qur’an about how “sound is as old as creation” and how it has for the longest time been divine medium. He pointed out that mankind never has been allowed to see God, but prophets, sages and masters have always heard instructions and messages from God. Someone said “inner locution” was how the Catholics call it.
When we are born the first thing we do after inhaling the first breath is to cry, to make a sound. Only after days later can the baby open its eyes. Come to think of it, months even before he/she is born the baby can already hear and can be affected by the sound or music that the pregnant mother hears! (This has been scientifically studied—although it has already been mentioned in the ancient Vedic scriptures.)
I’ve heard somewhere that when a person dies, the last sense that fades away is the hearing. I guess this is also why in some, if not most, traditions relatives still talk, sing or chant to their beloveds who just died (knowing that the person would still hear them).
It’s always interesting to gain rich insights after discussing about simple things that we take for granted such as seeing and hearing. We’ve established through the discussions that although there exists the physical perception (image or sound), there is also what can be considered as “inner sense” (inner vision or inner hearing). Personally I have fondly gained the insight that for these “inner” perceptions we no longer use the physical sensory organs but a different set of “inner” sensory organs. Call it “spiritual organs” or non-physical organs.
It would seem that just as we see with the physical eyes, we “spiritually see” with the non-physical mind-- hence, the words “insight”, “hindsight,” or “foresight.” Even the concept of the “third eye” gives reference to the mind and its extrasensory powers.
On the other hand, to hear with the physical ears corresponds to “spiritually hearing” with the non-physical heart (not to be confused with the physical organ that pumps blood throughout our arteries). This gives reference to such concepts as “heart listening” or even the concept of listening itself as opposed to hearing. When we really listen to a person we not only hear him/her with out ears but we also use our heart to “hear the person’s feelings.”
At Inner Work we are often told to “listen not only to the words but also to the silence of the other.” I do believe that pertains not only to just “lending an ear” but to “opening a heart” as well.
How about we HEAR from you?
Hear ye! Hear ye!
If you were given the choice whether to go blind or to be deaf, which would you prefer? Would you rather see without hearing or hear without seeing?
This was one of the questions posed at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb.20 as we reflected on the sense of Hearing.
The most prominent point raised was the significance of sound as one of the two important elements of the universe-- together with light. Light and sound are two major forms of energy. Both manifest as waves but are perceived separately by two different human senses. This leads us to reflect on the relationship of the two. We have discussed about the sense of sight last week and this time we pondered on the sense of hearing.
The Hindu faith tradition believes that sound was first produced during the creation of the universe and this sound was “OM”. This is why central to the religious practice of the Hindus is the chanting of “OM” which is then referred to as the sound of God or a mantra that connects us to the source of creation. This also makes sense why scientists now refer to the creation of the universe as “The Big Bang.”
Indeed, even from the Bible it is interesting to note how the sound was given importance. “In the beginning was darkness” (the absence of light), then God said “Let there be light!” and then there was light. Notice that although it seemed that light was created first, God used sound or words in order to command the creation. Also found in the Bible was the statement: “In the beginning was the word, and the word was made flesh.”
A Muslim brother agrees to this point as he shared quotes from the Qur’an about how “sound is as old as creation” and how it has for the longest time been divine medium. He pointed out that mankind never has been allowed to see God, but prophets, sages and masters have always heard instructions and messages from God. Someone said “inner locution” was how the Catholics call it.
When we are born the first thing we do after inhaling the first breath is to cry, to make a sound. Only after days later can the baby open its eyes. Come to think of it, months even before he/she is born the baby can already hear and can be affected by the sound or music that the pregnant mother hears! (This has been scientifically studied—although it has already been mentioned in the ancient Vedic scriptures.)
I’ve heard somewhere that when a person dies, the last sense that fades away is the hearing. I guess this is also why in some, if not most, traditions relatives still talk, sing or chant to their beloveds who just died (knowing that the person would still hear them).
It’s always interesting to gain rich insights after discussing about simple things that we take for granted such as seeing and hearing. We’ve established through the discussions that although there exists the physical perception (image or sound), there is also what can be considered as “inner sense” (inner vision or inner hearing). Personally I have fondly gained the insight that for these “inner” perceptions we no longer use the physical sensory organs but a different set of “inner” sensory organs. Call it “spiritual organs” or non-physical organs.
It would seem that just as we see with the physical eyes, we “spiritually see” with the non-physical mind-- hence, the words “insight”, “hindsight,” or “foresight.” Even the concept of the “third eye” gives reference to the mind and its extrasensory powers.
On the other hand, to hear with the physical ears corresponds to “spiritually hearing” with the non-physical heart (not to be confused with the physical organ that pumps blood throughout our arteries). This gives reference to such concepts as “heart listening” or even the concept of listening itself as opposed to hearing. When we really listen to a person we not only hear him/her with out ears but we also use our heart to “hear the person’s feelings.”
At Inner Work we are often told to “listen not only to the words but also to the silence of the other.” I do believe that pertains not only to just “lending an ear” but to “opening a heart” as well.
How about we HEAR from you?
Making Sense: Seeing (Feb. 13, 2007)
Our eyes.
They blink together.
They move together.
They cry together.
They see things together.
They sleep together…
Though they never see each other.
That’s FRIENDSHIP!
(a Valentine text message)
Peace to all!
How do I use my eyes? What do I see? What images, colors, figures caught my sight?
These were some of the questions we reflected on and shared about as we tried to make sense of our sense of sight (we’re still on The Physical Self as the theme) at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb. 13.
It was a full house once again with an interfaith, intercultural and international group of participants from different faiths (Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Shumei, Jeung San Do, etc.), and nations (Indian, Japanese, Korean, African, Bangladesh, Italian and local), and age groups (young-adult to young-golden).
We heard inspiring insights and provocative reflections on a simple topic—such as “seeing”—which turned out to be deep and wide-ranged.
Out of my own insight, I guess the most overused yet simply comprehensive expression that could relate the sense of sight with faith is: “To see is to believe.” (Or is it?).
I usually hear this sentence when a lawyer would reiterate the significance of hard evidences when defending a case in court, or when a scientist would emphasize how empirical data is the basis of scientific study or research. Empirical evidences are those which are actually observable or are experienced by the physical senses. Note that in observation (be it in a laboratory or in social research) the main sense being used is the sight.
Indeed, we humans as physical beings existing in the physical world always need to verify the truth with our senses. But would this also apply if we talk about spiritual truth?
I remember a passage in the Bible where Jesus said: “Blessed are those who believed without seeing.” He was talking to a disciple who didn’t believe Christ’s resurrection unless he’d “seen the risen Lord himself with his eyes and touched his fingers through his master’s wounds.” Jesus was praising the faith of those who did not doubt him and believed in the truth of the miracle even without empirical verification.
But does faith really have to be blind? After all, we still are “in this world although not of this world” (as Marites often puts it). Especially in this modern world full of deceit and false hopes, people turn to science or simply rely on their physical senses to verify what is true and believable.
One participant at the Inner Work Circle shared his experience of having been an atheist for 21 years and then “seeing the light” again through another faith. It shows how one could go through so much for so long looking for proof of the existence of God. And who could blame him?
Even God for so long has understood this human reasoning so much that numerous incarnations, prophets, masters, avatars, gurus, buddhas and what not have walked the earth or have manifested or “have been sent” (or however it is called)—just to give a glimpse of the Almighty, and Infinite Divine Power.
Our Muslim brother shared how the Qur’an is also known as the Book of Signs, the proof of the One God. I’d say: so goes for all the other holy scriptures. These are all the Words of God in different languages brought forth by the different sages and prophets. And just as God speaks in the language each individual will be able to understand, God also appears in the image, figure, form or manifestation that each can see and recognize.
We do need to see in order to believe. But we need to use different eyes. The physical eyes cannot see God because all that is spiritual and non-material is invisible and intangible.
True people of faith are not blind. They see God but not in visions or apparitions, not in their temples or altars, not in their spiritual masters, prophets and deities. True people of faith see God in the eyes of their neighbors, their children and family, in their co-workers, in the tindera in the corner, the beggar in the street, the prisoner in jail, even in the politicians or the rich fat capitalist businessmen. They see God even in the eyes of the most sinful of sinners and the cruelest of all enemies. Some even see God in the wisp of the wind, in the birds singing, in the eyes of a puppy, in a smooth rock in the clear river, in each blade of grass.
See what I mean?
They blink together.
They move together.
They cry together.
They see things together.
They sleep together…
Though they never see each other.
That’s FRIENDSHIP!
(a Valentine text message)
Peace to all!
How do I use my eyes? What do I see? What images, colors, figures caught my sight?
These were some of the questions we reflected on and shared about as we tried to make sense of our sense of sight (we’re still on The Physical Self as the theme) at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb. 13.
It was a full house once again with an interfaith, intercultural and international group of participants from different faiths (Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Shumei, Jeung San Do, etc.), and nations (Indian, Japanese, Korean, African, Bangladesh, Italian and local), and age groups (young-adult to young-golden).
We heard inspiring insights and provocative reflections on a simple topic—such as “seeing”—which turned out to be deep and wide-ranged.
Out of my own insight, I guess the most overused yet simply comprehensive expression that could relate the sense of sight with faith is: “To see is to believe.” (Or is it?).
I usually hear this sentence when a lawyer would reiterate the significance of hard evidences when defending a case in court, or when a scientist would emphasize how empirical data is the basis of scientific study or research. Empirical evidences are those which are actually observable or are experienced by the physical senses. Note that in observation (be it in a laboratory or in social research) the main sense being used is the sight.
Indeed, we humans as physical beings existing in the physical world always need to verify the truth with our senses. But would this also apply if we talk about spiritual truth?
I remember a passage in the Bible where Jesus said: “Blessed are those who believed without seeing.” He was talking to a disciple who didn’t believe Christ’s resurrection unless he’d “seen the risen Lord himself with his eyes and touched his fingers through his master’s wounds.” Jesus was praising the faith of those who did not doubt him and believed in the truth of the miracle even without empirical verification.
But does faith really have to be blind? After all, we still are “in this world although not of this world” (as Marites often puts it). Especially in this modern world full of deceit and false hopes, people turn to science or simply rely on their physical senses to verify what is true and believable.
One participant at the Inner Work Circle shared his experience of having been an atheist for 21 years and then “seeing the light” again through another faith. It shows how one could go through so much for so long looking for proof of the existence of God. And who could blame him?
Even God for so long has understood this human reasoning so much that numerous incarnations, prophets, masters, avatars, gurus, buddhas and what not have walked the earth or have manifested or “have been sent” (or however it is called)—just to give a glimpse of the Almighty, and Infinite Divine Power.
Our Muslim brother shared how the Qur’an is also known as the Book of Signs, the proof of the One God. I’d say: so goes for all the other holy scriptures. These are all the Words of God in different languages brought forth by the different sages and prophets. And just as God speaks in the language each individual will be able to understand, God also appears in the image, figure, form or manifestation that each can see and recognize.
We do need to see in order to believe. But we need to use different eyes. The physical eyes cannot see God because all that is spiritual and non-material is invisible and intangible.
True people of faith are not blind. They see God but not in visions or apparitions, not in their temples or altars, not in their spiritual masters, prophets and deities. True people of faith see God in the eyes of their neighbors, their children and family, in their co-workers, in the tindera in the corner, the beggar in the street, the prisoner in jail, even in the politicians or the rich fat capitalist businessmen. They see God even in the eyes of the most sinful of sinners and the cruelest of all enemies. Some even see God in the wisp of the wind, in the birds singing, in the eyes of a puppy, in a smooth rock in the clear river, in each blade of grass.
See what I mean?
My Physical Self (Feb. 06, 2007)
“Here in this body are the sacred rivers: here are the sun & the moon as well as all the pilgrimage places… I have not encountered another temple as blissful as my own body.” -- Sahara (Mystic)
Peace to everyBODY!
What do I like most about my body? What don’t I like? And Why?
These were the questions we reflected and shared about as we tackled the theme My Physical Self at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb. 6.
Although the questions may at first sound like it came from a slum book it actually pertains to a significant aspect of self-awareness and a fundamental topic in Inner Work. Awareness, first of all, begins with the physical body—the most tangible and empirical aspect of the self that posses our most useful God-given senses.
We always say that peace begins within us… but where to begin? A yoga teacher once said, “The first step towards inner peace is making peace with your body.” It’s as simple as that. But, as shared by some of the innerworkers last Tuesday, this is one aspect of the self we most often forget about or take for granted.
We’ve read over and over the same thing from the different scriptures: “The body is the sheath of the soul.”(Talmud, Sanhedrin 108a -- Judaism). But it’s kind of difficult to always remember, and we are only reminded when we get sick, when the karma kicks in.
A part of the teachings say that this physical shell we occupy is a temporary one and it is not who we truly are. Still, the other part of the teachings say that it is a very important tool and since it is considered “the temple of the holy spirit” it is indeed right to take care of it always, revere it, and not abuse it. “Use your body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God.” (Romans 6:13b -- Christianity)
One participant shared how she is currently “having a love affair with her body.” A certain ailment or body imbalance has recently been teaching her lessons in slowing-down—as opposed to working fast. She’s a self-confessed workaholic. Now she is learning how to take life easier and slower, and how she can still accomplish many things even by not working too hard, too much.
One striking point she made during the sharing is being able to distinguish between loving your body vs. being attached to it. These pertain to the two teachings mentioned earlier: the sacredness of the body and its impermanence.
Our Muslim brother also shared from their teachings how we shall all meet God during the judgement day and Allah will not care about how we appear but how we lived according to the Divine will. He further said that the only part of us that God will examine is the heart, because its purity of intentions and deeds are what we are to be judged on in the end.
Indeed the body is not the essence of our being, but it is essential nonetheless. We cannot accomplish what we are meant to do while incarnated in this vehicle if the vehicle itself is not well-maintained or well-respected. On the other hand, we have to be careful not to be obsessed with our body for it is just a temporary sheath.
Namaste!
-Orlan
Peace to everyBODY!
What do I like most about my body? What don’t I like? And Why?
These were the questions we reflected and shared about as we tackled the theme My Physical Self at the Tuesday Inner Work Circle last Feb. 6.
Although the questions may at first sound like it came from a slum book it actually pertains to a significant aspect of self-awareness and a fundamental topic in Inner Work. Awareness, first of all, begins with the physical body—the most tangible and empirical aspect of the self that posses our most useful God-given senses.
We always say that peace begins within us… but where to begin? A yoga teacher once said, “The first step towards inner peace is making peace with your body.” It’s as simple as that. But, as shared by some of the innerworkers last Tuesday, this is one aspect of the self we most often forget about or take for granted.
We’ve read over and over the same thing from the different scriptures: “The body is the sheath of the soul.”(Talmud, Sanhedrin 108a -- Judaism). But it’s kind of difficult to always remember, and we are only reminded when we get sick, when the karma kicks in.
A part of the teachings say that this physical shell we occupy is a temporary one and it is not who we truly are. Still, the other part of the teachings say that it is a very important tool and since it is considered “the temple of the holy spirit” it is indeed right to take care of it always, revere it, and not abuse it. “Use your body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God.” (Romans 6:13b -- Christianity)
One participant shared how she is currently “having a love affair with her body.” A certain ailment or body imbalance has recently been teaching her lessons in slowing-down—as opposed to working fast. She’s a self-confessed workaholic. Now she is learning how to take life easier and slower, and how she can still accomplish many things even by not working too hard, too much.
One striking point she made during the sharing is being able to distinguish between loving your body vs. being attached to it. These pertain to the two teachings mentioned earlier: the sacredness of the body and its impermanence.
Our Muslim brother also shared from their teachings how we shall all meet God during the judgement day and Allah will not care about how we appear but how we lived according to the Divine will. He further said that the only part of us that God will examine is the heart, because its purity of intentions and deeds are what we are to be judged on in the end.
Indeed the body is not the essence of our being, but it is essential nonetheless. We cannot accomplish what we are meant to do while incarnated in this vehicle if the vehicle itself is not well-maintained or well-respected. On the other hand, we have to be careful not to be obsessed with our body for it is just a temporary sheath.
Namaste!
-Orlan
Temple visit Hare Krishna (Jan. 30, 2007)
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Hare Krishna!I greet you with the holy name of God from the Hindu spiritual group popularly known by the same name. But this religious organization we visited last Tuesday (Jan.30) has its official name, ISKCON, which stands for International Society for Krishna Consciousness.
I am sure I would be speaking for the group when I say that it was such a wonderful and enlightening Open Evening for the Tuesday Inner Work Circle TIWC as we experienced first-hand and on-site the sight, sound, smell, feel, and (mostly especially!) the taste of Hare Krishna faith.
The Sri Radha Madhava Center (as this particular Hare Krishna temple is named) is found in a residential village in Makati. From the outside we were able to recognize it easily because of its unique bamboo-pleated fence and religious murals. As we entered the hall we were welcomed by the warm smiles of the ISKCON devotees who had white markings on their forehead and clad in colorful traditional clothes. Most of the men had their heads shaved (save for a tuff). The most attractive scene that caught our attention is the colorful and well-decorated altar upon which two prominent deities stood: a flute-playing Krishna (made of black marble), and the beautiful Radha (made of white marble). It was a stunning tableau of the male divinity form complimented by the sacred feminine form, as in “yin and yang”.
In the Hindu faith tradition, Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. He is portrayed with a darkblue complexion. His female energy manifestation is Radha who is portrayed with glowing white complexion.
Aside from being visually delighted, the group was also enthralled with the lively sound of drums, bells and harmonium accompanying the chorus chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra. We joyfully joined the chanting and clapping, even the dancing.
After a formal welcoming and a basic orientation by their chairman, Mr. Mahendra Das (who, by the way, is one of the founding members of The Peacemakers’ Circle), a lively and almost endless exchange of questions and answers took place during the open forum. The group almost never ran out of questions!
The evening was capped off with a sumptuous feast of delicious blessed (“prasad”) vegetarian food accompanied by conversations with their members. One of the striking sharing I heard from them was how they call all the men “prabhu” meaning “master,” while all the women (except the wife) they call “mata” or “mother”. All of them have “Das” as last name—which means “servant.” Isn’t that beautiful expression of humility, respect for women and service for others?
We got to know a lot about the Hare Krishna faith and I cannot share all we learned. You’ll have to join us the next time we visit them! I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as we did.
One can tell if people had a great time by their length of stay… It was almost 10:00pm when we realized how late it was!
We hope to hear from others who may have reflections/comments/thoughts to share about the experience or about what you read. At the TIWC we learned that sharing our insights enriches both ourselves and those who may benefit from hearing/reading them. We look forward to your sharing.
Next Tuesday (Feb. 6), we will be resuming our session at the Peacemakers’ office with reflections and sharing on the first module of the InnerWork Self-Reflection Guide which is about “Who Am I?”. Our first set of questions will be reflecting on our physical self.
Once again, our heartfelt thanks goes to Prabhu Mahendra and the staff and members of ISKCON Manila and the Sri Radha Madhava Center!
Hare Krishna!
Orlan
Fears & Concerns in Life (Jan. 23, 2007)
Where am I now? What is my foremost concern at this point in life? What are my fears?
These were the guide questions we asked ourselves as we gathered last Tuesday (Jan.23) at the Inner Work Circle.
Pondering on the questions one participant shared about when he started asking the big questions about “the purpose of existence”. He came to realize that:
“The purpose of the universe is beauty.” He explained that from plants to animals, human and up to the planets-- each one exists and undergoes through the cycles (birth-maturity-harvest-rest/death-rebirth) with only one purpose—to continuously evolve towards perfect beauty, perfect harmony, perfect balance, perfect oneness. His foremost concern now is the cultivation of this consciousness of one-mind.
Another participant summed up the questions into one: “Where is my soul?” He said he (or his soul) is now in the middle of the journey towards discovering his life purpose.
Indeed, the unfolding of one’s divine purpose could be slow and full of uncertainty. As one participant pointed out, we need to learn patience, humility and acceptance.
Uncertainty is what brings out our fears. One participant shared her fear: What if I succeed in my chosen path only to realize that after having gone through so much, I am not happy after all? (Have you asked yourself the same question? Have you the same fear?)
One other common theme that came out from the sharing was that the fears and unhappiness that we face are all products of the mind. And the mind is not what should rule us because it is merely just a tool that we use to understand the world. We—that is, our true self—are not our minds. The mind is just a part of us. If there is one aspect of ourselves that we should allow to rule when we are seeking for purpose, it is our hearts—wherein dwells the divine.
As for our fears of being unhappy, I’d say we should just stop thinking too much. After all, it is just the unsettling mind that is asking the questions. The heart would never ask nor doubt your happiness. The heart does not analyze nor categorize/discriminate between darkness or light, pain or pleasure, happy or sad, success or failure. It just experiences these without prejudice. (You know, I wouldn’t be surprised if your mind doesn’t make any sense of this!) J
We would like to hear from you in this egroup about your own reflections on this topic. Or you may want to comment and give your insights on the sharing mentioned. We look forward to your sharing.
Next Tuesday (Jan. 30), we will not be having a session at the Peacemakers’ office. Instead, we will be on a temple-visit fieldtrip, an out-house Open Evening at the Sri RAdha Madhava Center of the ISKCON (International society for Krishna Consciousness) or Hare Krishna spiritual group. Limited slots only. Please call ASAP 920-7622 or text 0918-7822805 (Orlan) if you wish to join!
See you then!
Namaste,
Orlan
These were the guide questions we asked ourselves as we gathered last Tuesday (Jan.23) at the Inner Work Circle.
Pondering on the questions one participant shared about when he started asking the big questions about “the purpose of existence”. He came to realize that:
“The purpose of the universe is beauty.” He explained that from plants to animals, human and up to the planets-- each one exists and undergoes through the cycles (birth-maturity-harvest-rest/death-rebirth) with only one purpose—to continuously evolve towards perfect beauty, perfect harmony, perfect balance, perfect oneness. His foremost concern now is the cultivation of this consciousness of one-mind.
Another participant summed up the questions into one: “Where is my soul?” He said he (or his soul) is now in the middle of the journey towards discovering his life purpose.
Indeed, the unfolding of one’s divine purpose could be slow and full of uncertainty. As one participant pointed out, we need to learn patience, humility and acceptance.
Uncertainty is what brings out our fears. One participant shared her fear: What if I succeed in my chosen path only to realize that after having gone through so much, I am not happy after all? (Have you asked yourself the same question? Have you the same fear?)
One other common theme that came out from the sharing was that the fears and unhappiness that we face are all products of the mind. And the mind is not what should rule us because it is merely just a tool that we use to understand the world. We—that is, our true self—are not our minds. The mind is just a part of us. If there is one aspect of ourselves that we should allow to rule when we are seeking for purpose, it is our hearts—wherein dwells the divine.
As for our fears of being unhappy, I’d say we should just stop thinking too much. After all, it is just the unsettling mind that is asking the questions. The heart would never ask nor doubt your happiness. The heart does not analyze nor categorize/discriminate between darkness or light, pain or pleasure, happy or sad, success or failure. It just experiences these without prejudice. (You know, I wouldn’t be surprised if your mind doesn’t make any sense of this!) J
We would like to hear from you in this egroup about your own reflections on this topic. Or you may want to comment and give your insights on the sharing mentioned. We look forward to your sharing.
Next Tuesday (Jan. 30), we will not be having a session at the Peacemakers’ office. Instead, we will be on a temple-visit fieldtrip, an out-house Open Evening at the Sri RAdha Madhava Center of the ISKCON (International society for Krishna Consciousness) or Hare Krishna spiritual group. Limited slots only. Please call ASAP 920-7622 or text 0918-7822805 (Orlan) if you wish to join!
See you then!
Namaste,
Orlan
Introducing new Inner Work Self-Reflection (Jan. 16, 2007)
Blessings be!
Last Tuesday (Jan.16) we had our Orientation to the new Inner Work Self-Reflection Guide Program for 2007.
It was a full house! A significant turn up of 16 people form different faith traditions gathered for the Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC). We were glad to see old-timers making a come-back, as well as new participants who have expressed interest and commitment to the new program.
The new format of the TIWC consists of a year-long self-reflection program wherein participants are provided with weekly guide questions for self-reflection on the over-all theme: Knowing the Self (“Who Am I?”). Each month the guide questions for the week are given and each Tuesday the participants will be sharing their experiences and insights on the particular question of the week which they have reflected on throughout the week.
We hope everyone could participate in this program which has been proven to be effective in developing self-awareness and self-reflection (these questions are taken from the Inner Work Book 1 which has been tried and tested during the first quarter of 2005.)
For next Tuesday (Jan. 23), we will be sharing on the following preliminary guide questions we hope everyone could reflect on throughout this week:
1) Why would I want to engage in Inner Work?
2) How do I feel about my life right now? Where am I at this point in my life’s journey?
3) How much do I want to help myself?
4) Can I commit myself to being the change that I wish to be in my life?
5) Am I ready to engage in Inner Work?
See you then!
Namaste,
Orlan
“Just as aerobics, jogging, or any form of physical exercise help build physical muscles and promote physical fitness, inner work helps build muscles – soul muscles—for soul fitness. Through constant practice of Inner Work we grow towards self-awareness and towards being able to live life more fully, free from the shackles of fear, resentment, anger and hatred that keep us from relating with others in this world with love, patience, and compassion.” --- M.G.A.
Last Tuesday (Jan.16) we had our Orientation to the new Inner Work Self-Reflection Guide Program for 2007.
It was a full house! A significant turn up of 16 people form different faith traditions gathered for the Tuesday Inner Work Circle (TIWC). We were glad to see old-timers making a come-back, as well as new participants who have expressed interest and commitment to the new program.
The new format of the TIWC consists of a year-long self-reflection program wherein participants are provided with weekly guide questions for self-reflection on the over-all theme: Knowing the Self (“Who Am I?”). Each month the guide questions for the week are given and each Tuesday the participants will be sharing their experiences and insights on the particular question of the week which they have reflected on throughout the week.
We hope everyone could participate in this program which has been proven to be effective in developing self-awareness and self-reflection (these questions are taken from the Inner Work Book 1 which has been tried and tested during the first quarter of 2005.)
For next Tuesday (Jan. 23), we will be sharing on the following preliminary guide questions we hope everyone could reflect on throughout this week:
1) Why would I want to engage in Inner Work?
2) How do I feel about my life right now? Where am I at this point in my life’s journey?
3) How much do I want to help myself?
4) Can I commit myself to being the change that I wish to be in my life?
5) Am I ready to engage in Inner Work?
See you then!
Namaste,
Orlan
“Just as aerobics, jogging, or any form of physical exercise help build physical muscles and promote physical fitness, inner work helps build muscles – soul muscles—for soul fitness. Through constant practice of Inner Work we grow towards self-awareness and towards being able to live life more fully, free from the shackles of fear, resentment, anger and hatred that keep us from relating with others in this world with love, patience, and compassion.” --- M.G.A.
Renewals & New Beginnings (Jan. 09, 2007)
Blessings be!
Last Tuesday (Jan.9) we had our very first session at the Inner work Circle for the year 2007. The theme of our reflections was Reflections, Renewals and New Beginnings.
We reflected first on what we learned from our experiences during the past year—what were the challenges and difficulties we faced. Then we shared our wishes, aspirations and resolutions for the coming year.
For some the year that passed brought the lessons of “letting go”, that is: loosening up on taking control of the situation, doing the best and letting God do the rest. We were all reminded once again that “to everything there is a season”, there is a time for “inhaling” (gathering/taking-in, receiving, nurturing the self, being) and a time for “exhaling” (releasing, giving, caring for others, doing). How about you? In which state are you in right now?
Some other lessons learned were that of humility and realization of personal limitations. Some learned about patience and about opening up oneself to another. For some, they feel the need slow down for the coming year. Others are resolving to spark up the momentum, or to renew a self-cultivating practice, to start again what has dwindled down.
So… do any of these reflections sound familiar to you? Do you resonate with any of them? Perhaps you can also reflect for a minute about the main lesson that the past year gave you and what you intend to do in the coming months of the year of the fire pig?
All in all the first TIWC was a refreshing good start for the year. Everyone shared the general feeling of being energized by the process of self-reflection and sharing of thoughts and feelings to others in a circle where one is listened to without judgment or criticism but with compassion and acceptance of who you are-- whoever you are.
Last Tuesday (Jan.9) we had our very first session at the Inner work Circle for the year 2007. The theme of our reflections was Reflections, Renewals and New Beginnings.
We reflected first on what we learned from our experiences during the past year—what were the challenges and difficulties we faced. Then we shared our wishes, aspirations and resolutions for the coming year.
For some the year that passed brought the lessons of “letting go”, that is: loosening up on taking control of the situation, doing the best and letting God do the rest. We were all reminded once again that “to everything there is a season”, there is a time for “inhaling” (gathering/taking-in, receiving, nurturing the self, being) and a time for “exhaling” (releasing, giving, caring for others, doing). How about you? In which state are you in right now?
Some other lessons learned were that of humility and realization of personal limitations. Some learned about patience and about opening up oneself to another. For some, they feel the need slow down for the coming year. Others are resolving to spark up the momentum, or to renew a self-cultivating practice, to start again what has dwindled down.
So… do any of these reflections sound familiar to you? Do you resonate with any of them? Perhaps you can also reflect for a minute about the main lesson that the past year gave you and what you intend to do in the coming months of the year of the fire pig?
All in all the first TIWC was a refreshing good start for the year. Everyone shared the general feeling of being energized by the process of self-reflection and sharing of thoughts and feelings to others in a circle where one is listened to without judgment or criticism but with compassion and acceptance of who you are-- whoever you are.
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