Saturday, July 4, 2009

Cultivating Ourselves as "Thrivers"

As I sit before my computer prepping my Sunday talk for tomorrow on this gorgeous 4th of July, I came across some writing I saved from a meditation I did just before 1999 became 2000. I was considering the best ways to thrive in the new millennium, when I began to ask questions of the Universe and simply write down what came. I may have been reading Don Miguel Ruiz' book The Four Agreements at the time, as some of the suggestions seem to have come from there. The writing seems timely for me today, so in that spirit I offer it to you.

What is the practical value of loving others?
We are them. What we do to them we do to ourselves.

What is the practical value of loving ourselves?
It reveals to us who we really are and allows us to enter our full expression and enjoyment.

Why don't we just do it?
We just can't believe it. Our self-concept tells us we couldn't possibly be the Source expressed.

What would get us to believe it? What would get us to realize it?
We have to begin on Faith. We have to act as if, then we will discover the truth that was there all along.

What will motivate us to do this?
Dissatisfaction. The recognition that there must be a better way; a better life. Also, there are clues to let us know who we are.

How do we act as if?
We begin by envisioning ourselves as we would be when we have become that manifestation. Then we act according to our future self – our future wisdom. If we were that self now, how would we handle today's challenges? How would we motivate ourselves to do the things we thought would work? We do those things now.

What are the clues you spoke about?
Have you ever once in your life helped another person? Has anyone considered you a blessing to them, even for a moment?

Has anyone even once in your life helped you? Have you ever considered another person a blessing for you, even for a moment?

In these moments our true nature peeks out and shows through. In the moments we are feeling separated from others we just lost track of ourselves and our truth for a time. Even if we forget to gently remind ourselves, it will come back.

What are the ultimate secrets to thriving (in the new Millennium)?
1. Do not let anyone or anything make you afraid. Fear is a belief in separation. It is a mistake that makes you miserable and is completely unnecessary. Always turn over your problems to God, then do your best. That is enough.

2. Choose to be responsible for your own happiness. Cherish yourself and be kind and loving toward yourself. Dare to try new things and make discoveries. Ask questions rather than making assumptions.

3. Cherish other people. Be patient and gentle with their flaws and blindness. This will help teach them to do the same. Take nothing personally. Each person has his own personal work to do. Sometimes you will be in the path of it, that is all.

4. Cherish your life right now, just as it is. Bless the earth and all your personal blessings. Do this (throughout the new year) as often as you can remember to do it. Begin right now.

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