Tim Francis inquires: Something that I struggle with at this time is really asking questions that aren’t substantially leading. For example, asking a question like “What are the disadvantages of living in have-do-be?” implies that there are disadvantages to “have-do-be.” Read more
URGENCY & CONTENTMENT
“… experiencing healthy urgency does not mean being dissatisfied with the present – that urgency and contentment aren’t exclusive of each other; contentment doesn’t necessarily breed complacency or laziness, rather if it’s coupled with urgency it can be a fertile and healthy birthing ground for continuous expansion of whatever kind…”
David B. Wolf
TO RECEIVE APPRECIATION
I think that when we are in spiritually-connected consciousness we receive all genuine appreciation in the spirit of ‘It’s not about me. Rather, they are perceiving some qualities of the divine that I am fortunate to be reflecting.’ So, in such a state of mind we don’t become proud or arrogant when we receive appreciation, and neither do we deny or block the flow of giving, appreciation and affection. We receive it in a mood of celebrating our divine nature and quality.
WHAT IS AN AGREEMENT?
“How do agreements come in to being? or what is an agreement?” My understanding about this is that we each determine this for ourselves. Having said that, I also want to express that my understanding is that the principles that we present in the Satvatove seminars, regarding agreements, are valid regardless of time, circumstance and subjective definition. That is, for example, the principle is that when we keep our agreements we create in our lives trust, confidence, safety, warmth, gratitude, etc., and when we violate our agreements we create mistrust, hurt, decline in self-respect, confusion, etc.
EXPECTATIONS
To grow we want to challenge ourselves, to play a big game with our lives. This entails expecting a lot of ourselves. These expectations, transformed into practical and grounded commitments, drive us forward to satisfying accomplishments and internal development. I guess the downside of expectations is if we become emotionally attached to them.
FAITH
We’re not able to avoid faith. It’s only a matter of determining where I place my faith, and our actions reveal where we do genuinely put our faith (or trust). If I check the weather report, this action indicates that I have some faith that I will acquire meaningful knowledge there. Turning the key in the ignition indicates faith that there’s not a bomb in the car (I don’t know for certain that there’s not a bomb in the vehicle). Eating particular types of food, going to my job at 8 am, calling a potential client or customer, all reveal faith that such activities will produce health, or fulfillment, or happiness at some level. So the question, it seems to me, is not whether to have faith, but rather where is the most reasonable, intelligent place, or places, to put my faith.
Giving & Receiving
Sometimes we specifically make a distinction between receiving and taking. In taking we drain energy. We can even appear to be giving, and doing it in a way that drains energy. If we are truly open to receive what someone else has to give, then this receiving is a way of giving, because it enriches relationship, energizes all involved. If we are closed down to such receiving, then we stifle the energy of the relationship. It is important that we continually receive. That is a part of personal growth.
Self-Judgment
. . .if our inspiration for change comes from a place of self-acceptance, we’re more likely to succeed at and enjoy the process, compared with when our motivation is driven by harsh self-judgment. I’m not saying that you’re reaction necessarily indicates harsh self-judgment.
Rising Up Early?
My experience with myself and many others is that rising early is a fairly common challenge- a battle with the senses, the physical urge to want to sleep, that many, if not most, encounter. Just like the senses want to eat more than required, or watch mindless tv, or so many other things that, without conscious restraint, will distract us from meaningful life purpose.
