Aligning with Grace

"We do not see the world as it is,  we see it as we are." This sacred insight, or something similar to it, has been attributed to several sources, including the Talmud. I cannot verify its origins offhand without delving into some research. But it's source is not pertinent - the essence and reality of its message, is. Earlier this week, I reflected on a recent conversation I had had, during my walk. It was evident that my friend and I saw a series of events quite differently. I asked my Guides on the Other Side to help enlighten me. How was it possible that I could be so wrong? In the quiet stillness of an early morning, the answer came, gently, but clearly... "We do not see the world as it is, we see it as we are." Yes. True. I knew that. But there must be more to it all... Then the Thoughts and Words continued... "We see through different glasses..." How so? "Think of your eyesight and how it has changed over the years. ...

This time of year is often referred to as the High Holy Days by my Jewish sisters and brothers. Though I am not Jewish, I love many of the traditions and rituals of this season, especially those dealing with atonement, reconciliation, and forgiveness. It reminds me of the Sacrament of Reconciliation which I grew up with in my own tradition. Recently, I was reminded in a reading, that the Talmud calls for the expression and offering of no less than 100 blessings a day! So many traditional Jewish prayers are in fact blessings of one sort or another. To offer 100 prayers in a day may seem daunting. But if we considered blessing everything that we laid our eyes on during the course of our day, it might become easier than we thought possible... Bless every person you come across in a day. Take it one step further, and bless every sentient creature and being. Bless the bees for their function and how they contribute to the pollination of our food. Ble...

The sun rises and unveils a brilliant blue and cloudless sky... The crisp coolness of an early June morning takes my breath away,,, Two cardinals sit on my deck bistro chairs facing each other and I imagine they are chatting happily... It is as if all is well with the world, but I know that it is not... And yet, all is impregnated with the Presence of the Divine... I KNOW it - as all mystics know and feel this in their bones. Thus, I have never - and could never question or doubt what I feel is more real in my life than most things... I walk and pray and pray and walk - open to the insights and messages I receive from my guides on the Other Side of the Veil... They come every time - because I invoke their presence and ask for their guidance. In the words of Yogananda I beseech them to: "Lead me from ignorance to wisdom, From restlessness to peace, And from desire to contentment." I reflect on the state of the world, the divisiveness, the hatred and v...