The Way of Trust

All of us bring attitudes to the situations of our life. Some situations we may label as good; some we may label as bad; some perhaps a mixture of both. Whatever the case, it’s unavoidable that we will bring our habitual thoughts and feelings with us. However, for the sake of manifesting the best of life, let’s share a perspective that may help us greatly.

We dream of the way we’d like life to be. We want this, that, or the other thing. We want a relationship to be just so; our career to happen this way but not that; travel to unfold according to our expectations; and solutions to arrive on our schedule. Alas, this is often not the case. Life surprises us, shocks us, knocks us, confuses us, and downright rebels against our most valiant efforts. However…

What if we adjusted ourselves–and our beliefs–to life; rather than expecting life to adjust to us. Would there be a benefit? Could we actually find ourselves flowing with the tide of life, rather than against it? The undeniable and unequivocal answer is yes! Could we arrive at a state of Being–deep within ourselves–in which we accept every moment as it is? And could we adopt the belief that life is always working in our favour, even if at first glance it appears otherwise?

Think: As life is always changing, is it safe to say that we never truly arrive? Is not every moment merely a stepping stone to the next? Can a supposed arrival ever truly be static? And with this knowledge, may we conclude that the outcome we have desired–which has not yet appeared–doesn’t have to be labelled as disappointment? Could the fulfillment of our desire still be on its way? Or could that which didn’t occur, still turn out to be for the best? And could we, thus, learn invaluable lessons?

To live in this manner is to live by the way of trust. We may believe that whatever happens in life–the loss of a recent relationship; the end of a business venture; an unexpected displacement from the workplace–is in our best interest. From our limited and small perspective, we so often assume that we know best. The truth, however, is that life’s detours often yield the best results…and the greatest joy!

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

P.S. Please share this article if you enjoyed it. If you’d like to view my latest book (This Taste of Flesh and Bones–released September 8, 2020), press here. May it help you in your spiritual journey. 🙏🙏

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

To Think Deliberately

Eckhart Tolle is well known as one of the most influential spiritual teachers of our time. In the last several years, he has risen to prominence not only for his books–which include The Power of Now and A New Earth–but also for his television appearances and spiritual seminars. Although he has much to offer us on the discovery trail to our deeper nature, he is also skilled at teaching us the art of deliberate thinking. It’s for this reason that I include him in this article.

Regarding the subject of deliberate thinking, many individuals may question whether such is, indeed, possible. Undoubtedly that’s because most people have neither attempted nor practiced it. For these people, thoughts just occur as they may, most often randomly and repetitively. Consequently, their lives are a reflection of thought processes that lack intention.

Some experts believe that we cannot possibly know what our next thoughts will be; that we are not, in fact, capable of producing them. This may or may not be true; but through deliberate effort, we can at least attune ourselves to the nature of thoughts we receive. In one presentation, Eckhart likened the process to the following:

Imagine that we are sitting on a park bench. We have no particular agenda in mind except to enjoy time in nature. A few minutes pass but then a dog runs into our field of vision. It sniffs the ground in one location; paws the earth at a second; stops to urinate at a third. The dog goes on and on. In this example, the dog–of course–is analogous to our thinking process. Must we follow that dog–and focus on it exclusively–merely because it entered our field of vision? If our answer is yes, we are training ourselves to be the subject–not master–of every other dog (thought) that enters our mind. Negative and ugly dogs undoubtedly lead to more thoughts of a similar nature, connected as though by an invisible leash. Fortunately, however, the same is true of positive thoughts.

What does this mean in practical terms? That we may choose not to follow painful thoughts related to our ex spouse, business deals that went wrong, or financial worries that would keep us awake at night. That we may choose not to focus on relationship thoughts–be they platonic, romantic, or familial–that would cause us stress, worry, or concern. We are not being negligent when we choose not to do so; we are nurturing a better state of mind and preserving our sanity. And we may remind ourselves just who gives importance, relevance, and meaning to all of our thoughts and experiences. Do they come labelled as Win, Lose or Place apart from our own thoughts toward them? Of course, not! We are the scepter holders of opinion.

With practice, we may train ourselves to follow the thoughts we wish to entertain. Thus we become the master. There will also be times when we may choose not to think; to remain, instead, in the bliss of present awareness without engaging the thinking process. We may also liken thinking to our arms or legs: Just because we have them, must they always be in motion? No, they may be at rest…as may our thinking. If we have nothing good to think, we may choose not to engage negative thinking just to fill time. Such, in fact, will benefit us greatly.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Ride On

I’ve just returned from a 13, 000-kilometer motorcycle trip in which I visited the west coast of Canada and also a few of the States of America. I was away for thirty-three incredible days. It was a great trip, and I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to travel in a way that provides both excitement and joy.

My passion for motorcycling struck me when I was a teenager, and despite a period of over twenty years in which I didn’t ride, my passion returned several years ago. How glad I am that it did! Several friends I know also ride, but we have strikingly dissimilar belief systems when the subject of continued riding in future years comes up. Two people I know have even planned the exact age when they will quit riding–stating reasons such as, “Well, you know that your reflexes get slower as you age,” or “you have to be very sharp when you’re riding on two wheels.” I don’t deny that these statements are true; but both negate that safe riding can still be possible, in part due to benefits that we’ve acquired as we age. We’ll look at the subject from a Law of Attraction viewpoint:

The Law of Attraction basically states that what we think about, we bring about. When we apply this to the subject of safe motorcycling, it, thus, means that if we focus upon the day when we will quit–to be safe–we will actually manifest that as a consequence of our thinking. Our mind, when directed in such a manner, will offer ample evidence as proof of why this should be so. My approach is much different.

Yes, the day will undoubtedly come when I will stop riding, but until that day appears I’m going to focus all of my efforts on staying in the saddle. Why not? I’m going to tell myself that such is possible for as long as possible. The point? It’s definitely not solely about riding a motorcycle! It’s about indulging and enjoying all of our interests! Golfing, skiing, running? Travel, adventure, passion? Yes to all and many more of our interests! Isn’t it wiser to let life determine when the time is right to forgo an interest…and trade it in for yet another that can provide us great joy? The details will look after themselves. We need not plan for the day when we figuratively park our motorcycle for the last time or shelve our helmet. In fact doing so, only makes such occur that much sooner!

Why was my trip only 13,000 kilometers long? Simple: Because I started to entertain thoughts (which brought about corresponding actions) that it was time to turn eastward and return to life in Ontario. If I had continued to think about riding in other States–perhaps heading further south–it would have been much longer. This little example applies to so many of our other interests? Why are we not travelling anymore? Because we stopped entertaining the idea that we could or should? Why have we given up on driving, maintaining our own home, or hiking the surrounding parks? Quite often it’s because we stopped thinking that such was possible…long before any physical reason presented that actually inhibited our ability to do so.

In a book entitled In The Flow of Life, the author, Eric Butterworth, tells the account of a businessman named Joseph McDonald, who, despite being eighty years of age, was vibrant, energetic, and doing the same amount of work of employees many years younger. At lunch one day, a young employee politely asked Mr. McDonald his age. Without missing a beat, Joseph replied, “My son, my age is none of my business!” What he was so wisely saying was that his age need not ever be his focus. Must we–should we–squeeze ourselves into the stereotypical definitions of someone who is sixty, seventy, eighty and beyond? No! We can let age take care of itself. It will. In the meantime, isn’t it time to be planning our next trip?

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Calendar Days

One of my passions is sharing information about the Law of Attraction. The reason is simple: Because I so strongly believe in the truth of the teachings. Through my articles, published every five days, I hope to empower people to meet the challenges of life and achieve what they desire. Why? Because I believe that empowered people are happier and healthier; and, thus, positively contribute to the creation of a better world.

Regarding the title of this article: It might be easy to assume that every five days–because I’ve committed to that schedule–I just sit at my computer, bang on a few keys, and press Send. That’s not the case. From the minute that I publish an article, I begin to consciously think of my next article: of new angles; of new and meaningful information to share with readers. This conscious effort then prompts the subconscious mind. Initial drafts based on intuitive ideas lead to editing. And more editing. I share this to make a point: To achieve our dreams and goals, we must make them a relaxed but persistent focus. To think of them once every five days–five weeks or five months–is not enough. They must occupy the foreground of our mind, not the background.

This point may be made clearer via a phrase from Thessalonians in the Bible: to pray unceasingly. Many individuals interpret this to mean that we are to get on our knees and beg to a deity. However, from my understanding, the phrase means to concentrate our thinking upon what we desire–not on what we don’t! That could be the house we desire; a new car; improved health and fitness; a different career; travel to a foreign country; a spouse, partner, new friend; or whatever else we deem important in our life.

How may we apply this? Through various means, but all of them basically involve immersing ourselves–in a relaxed way–in whatever we desire. And we are always to imagine our desire from the end result, as though already achieved. An example may help: If we desire a new car? Visit car dealerships and bring home brochures of models that catch our interest. Go for test drives. Speak with people who already own the type of automobile we desire. Attend an Auto Show and sit in various cars. Set a photo of the car we desire as the wallpaper on our computer. Visualize–if only for a few minutes each day–how it feels to sit behind the wheel. Whatever our desire, it will manifest more quickly through our relaxed but persistent focus.

With practice, we will discover methods that feel natural and right. Nothing should be forced; nothing made of life or death importance. A detached and expectant perspective works best, for creation functions with ease, without stress or worry. And here, a positive reminder: As long as we’re giving positive thought to our desire, it’s reality in our life is that much closer.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Awakening To The “Now”

There’s a paradox related to the Law of Attraction: From the beginning of our study, we’re told that we must govern our thinking; to choose our thoughts wisely; to concentrate on what we desire to experience, not on what we don’t! The importance of being the watchful guardian of our mind is stressed repeatedly. We’re taught that positive thoughts create positive outcomes; negative thoughts, negative. Intuitively, we realize this is true, for our instincts inform us nothing good can come from entertaining negative thoughts. So, what’s the paradox?

That thinking, the very tool we use to attract the good we seek, can become a hindrance. When used correctly, thinking is undoubtedly one of our greatest gifts. Used incorrectly, however, it can be more a curse than a blessing. Not only is it important to know how to direct our thinking, but also how to get out of it! Contrary to popular belief, we needn’t have endless thoughts and opinions about every aspect of life; nor in our best interests to do so. But how do we enter the transcendent beauty of the present moment?

By directing our attention out of the mind and into a dimension apart from thinking. Eckhart Tolle, a renowned spiritual teacher and author of The Power of Now and A New Earth, advises us to leave the mind’s incessant chatter by focusing our attention into the body. A deep breath may help us enter–then anchor in–the present moment; for the breath is a potent reminder of life that’s happening right now, moment to moment. To exist in a conceptualized realm is not to live. An overactive mind, subject to thoughts that hijack our attention, may render us incapable of truly enjoying the fruits of our labours. What sense in that?

With practice, we may regain our sense of innocence and wonder, as though reborn into the world as a child. We may surrender to life as it is. By doing so, we discover that the good we sought is naturally present, closer than we previously thought. Awakened, we realize that our experiences come vibrantly alive. The difference is not related to the activities themselves, but to the degree of presence we bring to them! That sense of aliveness has been shining there all along, obscured by conceptualization.

Life happens now. Plain. Simple. Real. True. The present moment is all there is. When we think about the past, we do that now. When we think about the future, we do that now. There’s definitely a time to visualize, to dream and mentally reach beyond our current circumstance. However, there’s also a time to enjoy–fully engaged in the aliveness of experience. As always, balance is key.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Rediscovering True Self

In my ebook entitled Hold That Thought, I reveal that through my study of the Law of Attraction I unintentionally deepened my spiritual quest. That journey, I’m happy to say, has helped me rediscover more about true self and continues to this day. Why do I share this? Because in reconnecting with true self we also realign with Source, which is the Power through which we may fulfill our dreams. Such is a win-win situation.

Before we discover more about true self, however, let’s examine some of the common definitions of the false self–which most people errantly believe to be their true identity. Think: If asked who we are, do we not first offer our name? After a little contemplation, however, we realize that names are only labels–letters so arranged to form words that refer to people. Asked for a truer definition, we next often reach for titles: doctor, nurse, carpenter, plumber, lawyer, and librarian. Again we realize these terms can’t possibly be who we are; for they are also merely words describing what we do, not who we are. Next we may claim that age, cultural roles, physical description, and nationality are who we are. However, we soon conclude that these terms are as useless as the others. Who, then, are we?

We are spirit (Consciousness) and we may awaken to this truth here and now. Why do we need to know? Because when we know who we are, we also recognize the Source (God) of our Being. We may also think of God as Love; for Source’s nature is to love unconditionally. Forever and ever we may rest in that love. We call and Source answers. If we don’t hear, it’s only that we’re not listening correctly. If this sounds mysterious, or perhaps ludicrous, the use of an analogy may help us more clearly understand.

Think: If we desire to dig a hole, might we have use of a shovel? Yes? And if we went to our garden and prepared to dig, could we actually excavate earth with the word shovel? Would we not be standing empty handed? Could the word actually help us dig the hole? Of course, not! We realize that shovel is merely a word that represents the real item. Would not the same truth apply to us? Do we now understand that the aforementioned terms cannot possibly be our real self? Perplexed at a crossroad of understanding, we may ask how to discover–and know–our true self. The answer: by becoming still. When we quiet the mind (which will naturally rebel), we create a space through which the silent witness may reveal itself. There–in the gap between two thoughts–is our true self. In spiritual circles this self is often described by two words: I AM. This is who we are, the ever-present “I” in which all thoughts, sensations, and sense perceptions arise.

The benefits of reawakening to our true self are many: Work that may have previously seemed liked drudgery will be performed with ease. Anxiety about life will dramatically lessen; for through the recognition of our connection to Source we’ll realize we have nothing to fear. Likewise, the habit of complaining will diminish; and be replaced by a sense of deep and lasting peace. Regarding goals, we’ll be guided by Divine Intelligence; receive inspiration frequently; have faith that our efforts are not in vain. An example may help:

When I first began writing this blog, I literally had no ideas for the articles which have since been published. I knew only that I was passionate about the Law of Attraction, that I desired to share this knowledge to help others, and that I possessed a talent for writing. Nowhere did I have a list of articles. The ideas that inspired me came after I placed my request to receive them. All that remained was for me to apply myself–to jot down titles and ideas as they arrived, turn on my computer, and write the words. Editing, too, was done for me–through me. The good news? That the same creative process holds true for all of our desires–every time.

Rediscovering True Self is not about religion. It’s about realizing our essential nature, which brings us home to the Source of our Being. Through Source, we may receive inspiration, move forward positively, and create more effectively. Life will also feel lighter, for the burden of ego can be unbearable. Worth considering? If so, we may quiet our mind and enter the stillness from which all inspiration flows. As we dig a little deeper, the surprising truth of our nature will be revealed.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & Note to Publishers“

The Power of Patience

There are countless books on the Law of Attraction that repeat the same formula: Ask, Believe, and Receive. We know that to ask is to know what we desire. We know that to believe is to have faith that our desires can be fulfilled. We know that to receive we must act in ways that are congruent with our desires. All of this we know. What we may not realize, however, is the power of patience. Although it may seem counter-intuitive–or even ludicrous–to link power and patience in the same sentence, the title of this article holds great truth. Think of this for a few minutes, if you will.

In our fast-paced culture–that routinely demands instant gratification–we’ve grown accustomed to wanting results fast! We want our food fast; a product fast; our travel fast. Advantages have come with this mentality, but we’ve also experienced disadvantages from expecting everything to occur today, if not yesterday. This becomes even more obvious when we examine our attitude regarding the achievement of our goals.

We have become clear about what we desire in life–the new home; our own business; better health; increased wealth; a wonderful relationship. And with our desire in mind, we begin taking steps toward its achievement. Initially, we may be making great strides. We witness progress on a regular basis. If we’ve started a business, we may have opened a shop and attracted our first customers. If we’ve committed to being an artist, we may have improved our skill and learned how to market our art. However, a time may come when our results stall or take a downturn. It’s at this point of deliberate creation that we need to practice the power of patience. What may we do?

Realize, first, that this time is not wasted. Although trite, the old saying that Rome wasn’t built in a day still holds truth. Our business or work of art will not be completed in a day, either. To expect so is unwise, and may lead to negative thinking that works against us. However, if we maintain the view that we’re gaining every day–even if the results aren’t obvious–we’ll be given the fortitude to achieve our goal. Step by step is the way of our journey toward greatness.

Through an attitude of patience, we become a conduit to inspiration, which–if acted upon–will elevate us to the next level of accomplishment. Solutions arrive because we remain calm and expect them. If we permit impatience to dominate our spirit, however, the channel to inspired thought actually constricts. We may consequently feel distanced from the Universal Intelligence we seek. Fortunately, if we live from a point of wisdom, we realize what’s to be gained by nurturing a positive and patient attitude. Without this, we may be sabotaging the achievement of our desires.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Be “That” Friend

The study and deliberate application of the Law of Attraction can take us a long way–from that first faint vision of our heart’s desire to its achievement in the here and now. What was once only imagined–an intangible dream–can be made real through faith and action. A definite method exists; one practiced by wise men and women for countless years. Through this process, we may not only achieve our goals but also awaken to our essential nature.

However, anyone who has reached for a goal will likely tell us this: Along the path of achievement, there will be many unexpected twists and turns. There will be hills to climb and valleys to forge; there will be days that seem darker than the night; there will be times when our doubt is strong and our faith is weak; when we wonder why am I doing this? and why did I even start? It’s at times such as these–when the world seems braced against us, and our dreams beyond our reach–that we may consider ourselves very rich, indeed, if we can call on that friend.

Who is that friend? A soul that wishes us only good health, happiness, and fortune; an individual who wishes to take nothing, but eagerly offers what is most important–meaningful encouragement, honest opinion, and good wishes; a person who goes that extra mile in friendship, kindness, and generosity. Most of us realize the importance of having a mentor in our chosen field–someone who has bravely led the way and achieved what we desire to achieve. However, to have a friend who believes in us and our dreams is equally invaluable. What, though, if we don’t have such a friend?

All is not lost. We may still do something of great importance: We may be that person for someone else! We may give–first–what we wish to receive. We may be an honest and patient friend for an acquaintance, colleague, or so-called stranger. What goals do they desire? And how may we help them achieve them? What trials are they going through? And how–right now–may we help them surmount them? As ye sow, so shall ye reap. We may be that friend. Is it not in everyone’s best interest to be so?

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Say What?

As students of the Law of Attraction, we’ve most likely heard it before. And the news is, we’re going to hear it again! What’s that? I’m going to repeat what Louise Hay, famous teacher, author, and founder of Hay House Publishing has stated: It’s as if the Universe is hearing everything you think, feel, and say. What’s the importance of this information, and how may we put it to good use?

Let’s consider what we already understand about the Law of Attraction: We know–at least conceptually–that the Universe reflects (like a mirror) our habitual thoughts. Depending on our state of mind, this will seem either good or bad; for this places the responsibility for our life directly with us. We also understand that Source neither punishes nor rewards. In fact, Source (God, Divine Intelligence, The Great Architect) functions impartially. We understand our higher self (not the ego), possesses free will through the thoughts we think and the choices we make.

While this may seem difficult to believe, it’s actually good news, at least if we apply the knowledge wisely. By aligning ourselves with Source, we may rise above our current circumstances and actualize more of our desires. Better health, increased wealth, greater success, and more fulfilling relationships may be ours! Action, too, is required, but we will be guided. Our task–now and forever–is to aware of what we are saying to the Universe.

At first, the task of knowing what’s going on in our mind may seem daunting; however, with practice this becomes much easier. We learn to pay attention, not only to the repetitive and aimless thoughts, but also to our feelings. If we’re not feeling good, we may conclude that we’ve been thinking negative or fearful thoughts. As we become more aware, we also evolve in our speech patterns. We realize that words–like the thoughts behind them–are creative in nature, and manifest according to their literal meaning. Through watching our words, we unearth hidden (subconscious) beliefs. On occasion, we may catch our self utter a statement that clearly implies poverty, lack, or a belief that we’re undeserving of the very best life has to offer.

The point to realize is that our thoughts, feelings, and words, are saying something. Not only to us, but to The Universe. All three imply, tell, inform, and attract! Our task is to pay attention. We may align with positive thoughts at any moment–the choice is ours. It’s all good. We’re up to the task–we really are. And when we change within, we’re going to experience change without.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

The Wrongness of David’s Life

Before David has even raised his head off of the pillow, the torture begins again: This is wrong, and that is wrong. He tosses himself into a sitting position on the side of the bed, and a minute later something else appears wrong. His life isn’t the way it should be–he knows it! His mind tells him so. He goes to the washroom, and as he prepares for work more negative thoughts enter his mind. His life is full of wrongness. It’s just the way David’s life is…or so he thinks.

What David doesn’t realize is that life has nothing against him. In fact, it’s on his side. The evidence is all about him, if he’d only stop, pay attention, and see clearly. His heart beats, circulating blood, without any effort on his part. His lungs expand and contract beautifully, without any prompting from him. His digestion, too, especially when he’s not stewing about the sad state of the world, functions perfectly. All occurs with neither his consent nor participation. Still, however, David thinks that his life is wrong. His mind incessantly informs him of the seemingly-so fact.

How David would love to have a better life. He’s read many of the self improvement books. If he does this, he will be happy. If he rearranges his life that way, he will be happier still. Such-And-Such expert advises to do this; So-And-So psychologist concurs. For years, David has been studying personal transformation–how to become one of those blessed people who just fall into good luck. He desperately hopes that another night course, another book, or another counsellor may offer relief.

Here’s the truth: There’s nothing wrong with David’s life beyond his mind’s compulsive habit of labeling it wrong! If his life were left alone, free of the continuous negative rattling of his mind, there would only be isness. His job, his divorce, his finances, and his state of health are not wrong. All are only isness–empty except for the meaning that he, himself, gives them. Only in David’s mind does such become a problem. The joy he seeks is so very close. If only he knew.

David has no clue that his suffering is self imposed. Life isn’t doing it to him; his ego (the conceptual self) is the cause. David has lost touch with the awareness (so natural in children) that exists prior to mind. For David to heal, a break from the compulsive chatter of his mind must occur. The problem is he thinks that thinking can offer a solution–when, in fact, it is the I-Thought that actually is the problem! As a wise person once said, it’s like trying to remove blood with a bloody rag.

The solution? Stillness, first of body and then of mind. If David can catch a glimpse of life beyond the realm of thinking, the clear and luminous essence of his true self will have a chance to shine through and be recognized. As advised in spiritual teachings, he would also be wise to pose this question: Who am I? Such can stop the mind in its tracks and lead to great revelation. Do we–as in David’s case–desire a healthier, happier life? Do we yearn to break free from the destructive side of thinking? Do we desire to reconnect with our true self, and create from a state of innate peace and joy? If so, now is the perfect opportunity to still our mind and ask the question. The answer may surprise.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”

Think2wice

CONSCIOUSNESS, SPIRITUALITY, & LAW OF ATTRACTION

Tag: Consciousness, Spirituality, & Law of Attraction

The Way of Trust

To Think Deliberately

Ride On

Calendar Days

Awakening To The “Now”

Rediscovering True Self

The Power of Patience

Be “That” Friend

Say What?

The Wrongness of David’s Life

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