Cathy Ginter, Spiritual Healer

The Wayshower

2012-01-21T12:23:00.000-05:00

During deep sleep, the snow comes ever so silently. Onemight not even know it is happening until the light of day shifts the landscapefrom the dark sheen of night to a pure glistening white. Unlike rain, whichpellets the window panes and the rooftops, announcing itself in no uncertainterms, snow is like the recluse, the hermit in the mountains.

Likewise, there is a discernible fork on the spiritualpath. Once the liberated one opens her eyes to truth, she reaches a choicepoint, a living crossroads so to speak. While one person may tend to be likesnow and take the quiet, solitary route, another could be more inclined tosound a trumpet to offer a comprehensive account of what is possible via theway to freedom and the awakening experience.

Certainly, one branch of the road is neither better norworthier than any other. However, the more vocal approach will most likelycreate controversy and sometimes great conflict as there can be vast resistancein a world so heavily invested in a form-based reality. Although no one canguide another to the end of Self-realization, both the silent one and the outspokenone disclose an invaluable and clear course forward for others to follow.

Regardless, whether one is to be like snow or to be likerain, the Wayshower must be committed to truth and freedom absolutelywhole-Heartedly.

A Message from Heaven

2011-12-19T12:54:00.000-05:00

Beloved Earth Children ~

As this Solstice season approaches, we extend thisinvitation so that you might rediscover your most essential nature. . .

Stand near a tree in the forest and learn the way ofbeing still and rooted in silence. Bend like colorful wildflowers, splayedacross the spring meadow, and bow to the wind. Shimmer with a crystal in thepalm of your hand and allow its energy to heal your body, mind and spirit. Danceto the river's current, flowing downstream, and experience the full meaning ofsurrender.

Shine as the stars, high in the heavens, and be inspiredto realize your infinite potential. Leap with the whales in the sea so your soulsong might be carried by the waves. Soar like a falcon, circling the open sky,and see yourself, spreading your light into wings of freedom. Stretch your bodywith a cat to practice yoga. Serve others like a dog, ever loyal, trustworthyand true.

Heed the wisdom prayers of the Grandmothers and theelders of the gathering tribes and recognize that there is one Life and one Sourcethat moves through all form. Have the faith of a gardener and cultivatepatience, compassion and kindness. Breathe with the rhythm of the drum, andyour heart will beat stronger. Play like a baby with innocence, joy and laughter.

Remember that you are the promise of your generation. Eachday, the seeds of your actions cause the ripples of your humanity to travel beyondtime and space. Therefore, do your best to be a living demonstration of thebeauty of devotion, the power of courage and the triumph of perseverance. Aboveall, never forget that we offer you our unconditional love always.

Blessings from the Universe, All is Well, Be in Peace

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Please feel free to pass this message forward.

A Self Portrait

2011-12-11T18:56:00.001-05:00

"Who Am I?"

This question posed by Sri Ramana Maharshi invites us toinquire into the very nature of our existence. The inquiry itself leads us pastthe wide spectrum of all the names that we are given at birth along with all ofthose labels, expectations and opinions that others seem to tag upon us atevery juncture. Further investigation reveals that we are the best of friendsthe moment we please someone and then, denigrated by a judgmental look ofdisapproval the instant we say, "No" or otherwise happen to take a differentstandpoint.

It is such a blessed chance of luck when we realize thatno concept can possibly capture the essence of who we really are. Suddenly, weare able to turn inward and ground ourselves in the source of our own trueSelf. No longer is there an attempt to live up to someone else's portrayal ofwhat they want us to be. Never again does anyone have to be wrong. Imaginethat: we can all be right. Moreover, we can see one another in the light ofsuch innocence!

And when all of the molds and mirrors are broken and lefton the barren, red earth like cracked clay pottery, discarded from years ofoveruse, we can actually celebrate this wearing away of our persona. Indeed,the secret of secrets is that we have never been a mere perception or a word handedto us in childhood. What a relief it is to experience that we are the entireuniverse and all the spaciousness that lies hidden beyond.

Artwork by Cathy Ginter

A Soft Flicker of Hope

2011-11-29T08:26:00.004-05:00

Every child has known God, not the God of names, not the God of don'ts, but the God who knows only four words and keeps repeating them, saying: "Come dance with Me, come dance." ~ Hafiz

Many teachers on the spiritual circuit speak quite a bit about the stories we create and how they are not real. While it is useful to acknowledge that our fear is a story, we still need to do the work of healing our wounded child in a sincere and authentic manner. It is like meeting a young child, standing alone and lost along the side of the highway. Would you stop and tell her that she is not lost and then, continue on your way? The compassionate response is to gently smile, take the child by the hand and offer to help her find her way home.

Similarly, all of us are seeking the way home. This home is a place of great fun and spontaneity in which every instant is alive with excitement and wonder. While the return to our innate joy might be our intent, many of us search far and wide for the key that opens the gateway to our own healing. Another, and perhaps simpler, approach is to go within and begin to watch whatever happens to be arising in the present moment. Those trigger points in our relationships are particularly valuable, and in effect, they have the potential to become our most precious gifts. Personally, I like taking the position in which everything is welcome. For example, if I am feeling sad, then I embrace the sadness.

This practice of whole-hearted acceptance does not mean that we have the right to act out our unhappiness with violence. Neither are we justified in blaming another person for what we are feeling. In actuality, until we are willing to take full responsibility for our own emotions, we remain stuck with our wounds and our victim mentality. Gratefully, I am seeing that surrender is one of the most effective tools in the healing process. Of course, it is not necessary to either like or to avoid any self-indulgent behavior. The important thing is to realize that there is a soft flicker of hope behind the eyes of every wounded child. With encouragement and patience, this soft flicker of hope can glow ever brighter until it blossoms into a beacon for the Light of Love.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Like a Reed

2011-11-08T13:32:00.001-05:00

Let nothing be inside of you. Be empty: give your lips to the lips of the reed. When like a reed you fill with His breath, then you’ll taste sweetness. ~ Rumi

On November 11, 2011, each of us has a rare opportunity to receive a powerful influx of energy from the Universe. Moreover, this highly-charged vibration of Grace light contains a more refined frequency of wisdom than has ever previously been channeled into human form. In order to completely absorb this light energy, we must be empty.

In the next few days, it would be helpful to check in with your breathing often. In order to allow your breath to really cleanse the auric field, be sure to relax your neck and shoulder area. Also, it would be beneficial to drink lots of fresh water and to eat a light diet, filled with vibrant and colorful fruits and vegetables. Above all, observe the emotional body and watch for any residual signs of anger or other negative thought patterns.

By gently guiding our attention into a more receptive space, we will prepare our entire auric field to align with the full power of 11.11.11. In this manner, we become co-creators and willing participants in the new Earth force flow. Like a reed, our hearts will fill with greater acceptance, respect and love for one another and for all of humanity.

I invite each of you to join me in this celebration of our divinity as we taste the sweetness of His breath ~ Cathy Ginter

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Movement

2011-10-14T11:31:00.001-04:00

AUM pervades everything, equally, like space. Within It, there are no distinctions such as high and low. The formless Unmanifest manifests as form; how else could the Imperishable show forth Its Light? ~ Song of the Avadhut

On a recent holiday to Niagara Falls, I experienced such a brilliant reflection. In fact, truth revealed itself quite suddenly and unexpectedly as is so often the case with most spiritual insights. While our rising star touched the morning air, I saw the breath of fluidity, flowing across the earth in complete synchronicity. I watched a leaf, floating on the slightest current of wind. I observed each drop of water, surging over the falls, meeting the massive foam where light and spray created a double rainbow prism. I became every step, hiking across the trails around the river's bend. I was the seagull, perched patiently on a broken tree limb, waiting for a fish to come by.

Even as I continued to view this vast and complex panorama unfold, I soon noticed Love's radiance in the face of a child, laughing as she played with a stick on the edge of the water's path. I found Love painted in the richness of the land, burgeoning with the first trace of autumn colors. I knew Love as the sun, shimmering across the water and meeting the mist in a tremendous rush. And as I became very still, I was this Love, coursing through my very bones, lifting my spirits ever higher.

This gentle falling of leaves; this power of water, spilling over rocks; and this simplicity of formlessness, moving within me, sang the song of a new day and a new way of living and being in the world. For then, I saw my devotion to Love to be the greatest treasure of all. And as I witnessed my own eyes, soaking in the purest sapphire blue sky, every form simultaneously became a vessel for this most authentic certainty: I am the movement of this one Life.

Original photograph by Cathy Ginter

An Equinox Peace Sharing

2011-09-23T15:04:00.004-04:00

It is through this journey into silence that we meet our inner purpose. From here, our outer purpose flows quite naturally. ~ Cathy Ginter

Often when we first begin to awaken, we become aware of past, unconscious behavior that we perceive has caused harm to another or to self. This realization can trigger feelings of guilt or shame. Keep in mind that this mind-set is once again the ego, pulling us back into a never-ending cycle of more unconscious behavior. However if we can bring forgiveness into the present moment, a space will arise in which the mistakes of the past can be healed once and for all.

To practice forgiveness in the present moment, visualize a stream of pure white light radiating from your heart center. Now, see that white light extend outward until it surrounds each person involved.

Also remember that true forgiveness is a gift of Love, given freely and without expectation. When forgiveness is offered unconditionally, there is no separation between the giver and the receiver... and the offering itself becomes unlimited in its potential... Like a stone tossed into the stream of Life, it ripples on forever... into the Infinite Eternal. I see forgiveness, as well as Love, as the breath of Consciousness.

If we can be in complete acceptance and without judgment, we have also moved beyond the need for forgiveness... at that point, healing has already taken place.

Finally, always keep close at heart that we are here to move beyond the emotions and the counter-productive antics of the ego aka the unobserved mind; to connect with a deep inner stillness that exists within each of us as our true state of Being; to rediscover a lasting peace, love and compassion that naturally flows outward into the world around us; and to be enJOY... so that the touch of Grace might dance through us!

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Angel Dance

2011-09-08T10:02:00.003-04:00

Angels dance only with You, Beloved and only before You, do I bow in adoration. You may accept me or not, but I will be at your feet forever. ~ Rumi

We find ourselves in the midst of a magical and mystical Universe. Simply gazing at the expanse of the night sky and watching the beauty of a star spinning across space is awe-inspiring. And yet, we too often overlook the certainty that we are a part of this grand matrix of light. Instead, we focus on the faults that we carelessly present to one another. In so doing, we diminish not the love of God, but our own connection to that love.

And still, the angels look upon us with such compassion! How can we not feel their presence, enfolding us in the gentle caress of love's sweet breath? In the face of this unconditional love, what is fear but the forgetfulness of our Source... what is shyness but closed eyes that merely need to open... and what is jealousy but turning our backs on our own gifts. Regardless, the invitation to join in the everlasting peace and still harmony of the symphony is always right here for each of us has our dance of devotion to reflect the angels' joy.

Can we sing the lost song of the caged bird? Can we finally remember our name?

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Sunflower Wisdom

2011-08-25T18:32:00.000-04:00

The beauty of sunflowers is that they follow the light of the sun as each of us is guided to follow the light of God. ~ Cathy Ginter

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Tapestry

2011-08-01T13:32:00.000-04:00

This place where you are right now, God circled on a map for you. ~ Hafiz

How do we know that this is our place? Even if we completely lack faith in God, we know this simply because here is where we are. We might think it is hidden under the leaf on the morning glory vine that winds its way through and around the garden gate. Or we might go seeking past our own backyard for the treasure that is always given from within. Must we continue the search, or are all of our antics merely a game we play to catch God's attention?

Regardless of how hard we try to look elsewhere, this moment is the gateway to our eternity. In seeing this, we realize that all of this running about betrays our spiritual heritage. Now, we can relax our hold on the spool and allow the threads to naturally fall into place on the loom. And if we are bold enough, we might dare to imagine this beautiful tapestry made in the perfect reflection of God's love for us even when we can barely see a single strand.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Hands of Grace

2011-07-01T08:21:00.001-04:00

You have not danced so badly, my dear, trying to holdhands with the Beautiful One. You have waltzed with great style, my sweet,crushed angel, to have ever neared God's heart at all. ~ Hafiz

There is something so simple and yet so extraordinaryabout hands, coming together. I find the manner in which fingers interlock andthe skin of one warms the other irresistible. Hands of lovers, sweetnesssharing; hands of children, joyfully swinging back and forth; hands of healers,radiating rays of light; hands of strangers, meeting in a welcoming hold areall quite exquisite, but I am especially fond of large hands for the firmstrength and secure confidence they offer.

Still, no hands are as powerful as God's hands. These arethe hands of love, encircling the world with the blessed sounds of celestialharps, playing on the wind in the middle of the dark of night, bringing apromise of hope when all else seems lost. Within the calm of such quietcomfort, we have the singular chance to leap from the edge of the highestmountaintop, freefalling in midair, knowing full well that we will be caught bythe ever waiting hands of Grace. How lucky are we, who recognize the infinitemajesty hidden in the jewel of absolute trust.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Forgive Again

2011-06-11T12:29:00.006-04:00

This beautiful and heart-felt devotional passage fromRumi reminds me of my forgiveness practice: "Come, come, whoever you arewanderer, worshipper, lover of leaving, it doesn’t matter. Ours is not acaravan of despair. Come, even if you have broken your vow a thousand times.Come, yet again, come, come."

So often, I am asked how we are to forgive what isseemingly unforgivable. I can only relate what works for me in trust that itmight guide you into a space of greater peace and wider acceptance as well. Ibegin with the understanding that all forgiveness arises from the same place;that is, we all want to heal. From this vantage point, I acknowledge that itcan be just as challenging to come to terms with the betrayal of a trust or acareless misunderstanding as it is to forgive cruelty and abuse of women andchildren.

Next, I suggest that we forgive and forgive again.

Still, the ultimate meeting with the most remarkabletruth is the recognition that we only need ever forgive ourselves for we arethe ones who have forgotten our innocence. And in the seeing of this singularrealization, everything is finally washed away like a perfect summer rainstorm.Personally, I love the darkening of the sky, the heavy downpour filled with thedeep drum of thunder and the brilliant flashes of lightning, the breakingthrough of the most magnificent sunlight as it streams through the clouds andat last, the appearance of a spectacular rainbow.

Likewise, in any conflict or struggle, there is arelaxing and a smiling that longs to happen, and happen yet again. So I say:yes, be willing to forgive and forgive again even if it takes a hundredthousand times, forgive again.

Original photograph by Cathy Ginter

The Grace of This Moment

2011-05-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Each moment contains a hundred messages from God: Toevery cry of "Oh Lord," He answers a hundred times, "I amhere." ~ Rumi

While the sun slips over the western woods, the eveningcolors turn the sky to the softest shades of heather. The slanting light leaveslong shadows across the back of my hand. I gently rotate the lens and play withblush and silhouette as they intermingle, come and go. When the hum of abumblebee soars into sight, I watch it dive deeply into a hanging heart to grabits last fill of nectar before the day is complete.

I am quite pleased when a mere whisper of the calmestbreeze lifts a flawless flower to my eye. In truth, I am merely a spectator tothis single instant in time in which the real treasure is the bliss ofcapturing this one shot. Smiling, I invite a fine line of luminosity to lingerbetween leaf and petal, halting the midair dance of movement. Holding mybreath, I frame a perfectly focused bead in the crosshairs, slowly press theshutter and catch the Grace of this moment.

Original Photograph by Cathy Ginter

In Clear Sight

2011-04-11T11:38:00.002-04:00

"The lamps are different, but the Light is the same.One matter, one energy, one Light, one Light-mind, endlessly emanating allthings." ~ Rumi

Each moment is extraordinarily beautiful when we simplyopen our eyes and see. As Rumi shares with such poetic grace, we are one,undivided and interconnected. Regardless of appearances, there is no separationbetween us and all that there is. In this timeless, spaceless state, there isno disconnect between being and becoming. Perhaps this understanding revealsthe true reason we feel such physical and emotional agitation when there is apersistent struggle going on in our minds.

Truly, we are blessed when we can pause and inquire: Canwe acknowledge that we create the gap of separation between ourselves and theworld? Can we recognize that when we become identified with the object of ourattention, we kindle patterns of resistance? Can we watch ourselves becometrapped in our own misperception as the illusion catches us? Do we realize thatwhen we no longer have the ability to distinguish it as a misperception, weclose our eyes to our true nature and drift into a state of forgetfulness?

All of these questions arise from Consciousness that iscognizant even during our slumber. This part of our psyche must either weep orlaugh at what we are missing in our bouts of blindness. Yet with eyes wideopen, in clear sight, we see ourselves with the majesty of a single drop oflight, floating on the surface of the sea, following the stream of the currentand merging into the one Light-mind. In an instant, the lamp is no longerimportant for it vanishes in the brilliance of the Love's light, shining forth.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

This Renewal

2011-03-19T14:20:00.001-04:00

"We have not come into this exquisite world to holdourselves hostage from love. Run, my dear, from anything that may notstrengthen your precious budding wings. We have not come here to take prisonersor to confine our wondrous spirits, but to experience ever and ever more deeplyour divine courage, freedom and Light!" ~ Hafiz

The arrival of spring and the first burst of warmerweather are often accompanied by a surge of joy. At the same time, we have theperfect opportunity to reevaluate our lives and to clear away all that is nolonger working for us. Sometimes this includes leaving a relationship with alover, a close friend or a family member that no longer serves our mostauthentic self. While this level of clearing is never easy, the fact remainsthat it is impossible to grow emotionally and spiritually until we release thatwhich no longer strengthens us.

Regardless of what we are told, not all relationships aremeant to be a lifelong commitment. Often people come into our lives to teach usimportant lessons, and once that lesson is learned and we have ripened from theexperience of knowing them, it is wise to express our gratitude and move on.Yet so often, our ambivalence becomes our greatest obstacle as it causes us toswing back and forth between grasping and releasing. And while our intent mightbe to not hurt anyone, we hurt everyone by our unwillingness to see the depthof our self-deception.

With the wisdom of this perspective, we come to realizethat love is an emptiness, an openness and a willingness to allow. It is alsohelpful to remember that moving on is not a final ending as the gifts of ourfriendship remain. So as each new blade of grass sprouts and greens the earth,may we go within and explore those aspects of our lives that no longer feed ourspirit. May we open to the longer raysof sunlight, streaming across our hearts and feel the fresh breezes, flowingthrough the open windows of our minds. And may each of us have the courage toallow this renewal to go deep and do its work until we truly become divinefreedom and light.

Original photograph by Cathy Ginter

A Blessed Realization

2011-03-11T09:25:00.006-05:00

"Knock at the door of reality, shake yourthought-wings, loosen your shoulders, and open." ~ Rumi

There are times when a consistent, long-term exposure toany spiritual teaching can feel overwhelming. Keep in mind that whether we arepracticing meditation, yoga or receiving intensive Reiki healing energy, we areliterally raising the vibration of our auric field to a higher frequency. In sodoing, we are opening our inner body to a new way of living and being in theworld. In the beginning, our practice is often accompanied by a period of joyand peace. However when that first wave of bliss recedes, it is possible to beleft with a feeling of uncertainty.

As many of us know, this lull can easily lead to a chaseto repeat the initial feeling of ecstasy. Many of us have caught the egoic mindasking, "What's next?" Yes, we all long to get to the place of trueinner peace that never wavers. However, it is important to acknowledge that wemight have to play catch up with the freshness of the awakening experience. Infact, it takes patience and confidence to allow our emotional and physicalbodies to integrate and merge more fully into the groove of the shift.

It is also perfectly normal for a burst of energy, risingthrough the chakras, to feel unsettling. We might even experience a period ofconfusion, anxiety or agitation, which all seems like a huge step backwards. Inactuality, it is indicative of an expansive movement in consciousness. Whenthis occurs, it is helpful to remember to relax our shoulders and breathedeeply, which will allow the energy to rise to our Heart chakra where it can betransformed to love. If we remain present and free of resistance, this verypowerful, creative energy will bring great insight.

It is such a blessed realization to understand that wecan move with the course of the current even when the river feels cold anduncomfortable. In accepting that it is all part of our journey, we can smile,go for the ride and trust that it is all unfolding in complete perfection.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Merely a Listener

2011-02-12T14:18:00.004-05:00

Sitting quietly, the wind is rushing through the woods. It softens almost to a whisper before picking up momentum. Now, the crescendo intensifies into a full roar. A moment later, it is calm, the clouds part, and the sun shines through. My eyes are closed in meditation, but I can sense the brightness as the light moves in patterns across my brow.

A bird flies nearby; its cry is a raucous complaint that pierces the silence like a knife to the belly. As I exhale, I gently remind myself to be completely still. Now, I am merely a listener as the sky sounds meld and become one with the resonance of my breathing. In an instant, everything arises from within as opposed to around or outside of me. All that is left is a singular fragment of an idea that an external world even exists. As the breath continues to flow, all semblance of "world" fades away until no thing remains.

There is a deep echo in the very core of my being. If I had to give it a name, I would simply call it music. But it is so much more than that. The sounds linger and become part of my soul like the pulsing of blood through the vessels of my heart. There is no semblance of separation between me and all that is. Rather, the wind is my breath as my spirit soars among the stalwart trees, barren of leaves, dormant beneath winter white.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

The Tall Trees: A Solstice Sharing

2010-12-19T09:47:00.001-05:00

"Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take nothing of what you have received ... only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and courage." ~ St. Francis of Assisi

Whether stately arising amidst the old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest, deeply rooted into the rushing waters of the Amazon, or gracefully leaning along the grassy slopes of the African savanna, the trees of the world invite us to rest beside the silence of their living presence. Trees are the standing beings. Strong and flexible, they grow steadfast in their own authenticity; still, they garner the power to weather the shifting ambiance of the seasons.

To more fully understand the splendor, flowing through the hush of the forest, we only need go within and become aware of our own heartbeat. As the rhythm of our inner pulse quiets the mind, we begin to see all of existence through our souls' eyes. As such, we look and listen with our entire being... and in so doing, we rediscover that we are interconnected with the grandeur of the living canopy, the richness of the soil, the small patch of clear blue sky overhead, and the golden light streaming through.

This discovery is the majesty of heaven in which everything we witness becomes sacred ground simply through our recognition of its holiness. With appreciation, we remember to count our many abundant blessings. Likewise, we acknowledge that whatever is happening, no matter how seemingly dark, is a gift. And so we live with the treasure of a full heart.

On this solstice morning, take a walk into the forest and learn from the tall trees. Whether you live in the North where the noble Red Oak rests dormant under a blanket of snow-covered beauty or Down Under where the summer breeze carries the spicy fragrance of the Eucalyptus in all its evergreen glory, the magnificent trees of the Earth convey the very truth of our being: we are the children of Grace. May we honor our spiritual heritage, stand firm and have courage, move with the flow of life, share our love freely, and offer patience and compassion always.

from the Heart ~ Cathy Ginter

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Just As We Are

2010-09-30T15:28:00.006-04:00

"What we are looking for is what is looking." ~ St. Francis of Assisi

I think it is important to carefully observe our disappointments, especially the ones we hold up against one another. Every disappointment begins with an unrealistic expectation. Wisdom would show us that the most apparent invitation is to see that the discontentment is arising to get us to look at the expectation and observe that even more deeply. We might ask, "What is at the very root of expecting someone to satisfy a lack we are experiencing in ourselves"?

Can we begin to see that what we are exploring is the root of all attack? In other words, I want you to do this... and you want to do that. Our "this and that" are different, and so begins the conflict. To complicate matters further, we can't always clearly see what it is we want. Our own ambivalence creates an even bigger conflict that continuously goes on in our own thought stream.

Now comes the juicy part... for it is the fear of meeting that conflict within ourselves that drives us to look elsewhere. And of course, everyone else is out there playing out their own hopes and fears. It's a crazy dance, but there it is! Still, it's okay to stop and be silent for a moment. Right now, let's all take a deep breath. We can even relax our shoulders while we are at it.

With any luck, the silence takes hold and shows us that all we want is to be loved and accepted just as we are... no better... no worse... just as we are.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

In Service

2010-06-11T06:16:00.003-04:00

"Don't pretend to be a candle, be a moth, so you maytaste the savor of Life and know the power hidden in service." ~ Rumi

We have this deep-rooted tendency to fall into themindset that we exist to be in service to the world of form. This approachfeeds ours habitual need to fix what was never broken. Because our form-basedreality is merely a reflection of our own thoughts and emotions, it is quitedelusional to think that we know what is best for one another. Moreover, ourinterference so often aggravates the situation and perpetuates furthersuffering among those we claim to love the most. As such, this propensity tofix makes us the great pretenders and merely serves to distract us from ourtrue life purpose.

In focusing our attention on our spiritual connectionwith the Universe, we can truly be the humble servant. No longer needing to fixone another, we begin to see that we are simply here to love and support eachanother. And as we set aside our need to control the world of form, we open tofully and quite naturally unfold our wings. With nothing left to defend, weallow the candle's flame to extinguish all traces of egocentricity, torediscover the freedom that we are and ever have been.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

The Path of the Peacemaker

2010-05-26T00:23:00.002-04:00

How brave is the brother who defends our freedom with hislife?

With an undying will, he defies our consciousness toevolve,

By throwing all our traditions of complacency intodisorder,

So there may arise a remarkable vision to strengthen ourresolve.

How blessed is the sister who serves humanity with herlove?

She reminds us that we are spiritual beings on earthlysoil;

Her patient hands heal the orphans, alone in theirsuffering,

While her compassionate heart lifts the slaves of povertyand toil.

So tonight, beneath the stars, breathe in the wind andrejoice

For tomorrow's dawn honors our resurgence with the colorsof praise;

In the morning, we will begin the journey filled withoptimism and

Branded with the belief that we are made from goodness'gaze.

Each footstep will be a pledge of principle, a pact oftruthfulness;

To be candid, first with ourselves and always with eachother,

Therein lies the key, for it means we can begin, here andnow,

To rely upon the word and trust in the intentions of oneanother.

The pathway to peace may be uncomfortable, long andarduous;

During times of trouble, we may grow weary and lose ourway,

But we are spun from the blood and bones of a sacredhope;

This is our lasting legacy, for we are the peacemakers ofour day.

Photoart by Cathy Ginter

Love

2010-05-08T17:08:00.004-04:00

"Through love thorns become roses." ~ Rumi

Love is revealed in our willingness to meet one another with an open heart. Many of us already recognize this truth and understand that love is made perceptible through sharing. Still, regardless of whether or not we are fully aware of love's potential, healing happens. Much like a river following its course to the sea; love is our very nature.

Without question, we honor love's fullest expression by embracing everything, including our darkest thoughts and deepest fears. In acknowledging this wisdom, our body becomes a sacred vessel through which love emerges and breathes life into our physical reality. And while all paths open from within the ground of love, all paths also return to love's door through the breath of love. Truly, we are love offering love to itself.

The invitation is to be kind and compassionate even when we cannot see eye to eye with one another. When we understand that there is unity in our diversity, we will celebrate, respect and honor the full range of our humanity. For while the crow cannot sing the eagle's song, each voice offers an essential chord in love's most perfect harmony.

Journey into Silence

2010-05-04T18:31:00.003-04:00

Oh the music of silence! I love the eternal quiet of the sun, shining on the fields in the afternoon here at Safe Harbor. The rays of light move like a hand, waving ever so softly over the earth. Like a healer, it rests its warmth along my brow.

Then a cloud rolls by, and I feel coolness... then warmth once again. This wondrous light continues its play. Now like dancing notes, it moves through the tree tops and rushes in the leaves. I hear the voice of the Holy Spirit, calling me Home. It breathes my name, and in that moment, I know that I am not alone for I feel the comforting presence of God's unconditional love and acceptance.

This journey into silence is the perfect reflection of the simplicity of my Being. I need nothing... I want nothing... I know nothing... All that I AM is the quiet of this light, playing in gentle, soulful awareness of All that there is and All that there ever could be. Truly, "I am one Self, united with my Creator." (ACIM W - 166)

Karma

2010-04-28T14:21:00.008-04:00

"We are the heirs of our own actions." ~ The Buddha

In Sanskrit, karma means action. We create karma through thoughts, words, actions that we execute ourselves, as well as actions others do via our instruction. Moreover, it is through our karma that we perpetuate samsara, the cycle of cause and effect; past and future; and birth, death and rebirth.

In essence, the laws of karma are not meant to punish. Rather, they are simply the manner in which all things are set right and returned to balance. Most frequently, we generate negative karma though our desires and longings. We also create negative karma because of ignorance. Often, we simply do not know any better. Even with our best intentions, negative karma can be set into motion when others are harmed by our actions.

As long as we see ourselves as the victim of old, accumulated karma, samsara continues. On the other hand, through right and thoughtful action, we can mitigate the effects of past karma. First and foremost, we must be willing to take responsibility for our habitual swinging between pleasure and suffering. From this vantage point, we begin to see that we construct heaven and hell in our own lives. Moreover, we understand that we are the ones with the capacity to respond to any life situation through either acceptance or resistance. With this realization, the wheel of karma begins to wind down its relentless motion and eventually becomes still.

Finally, Nirvana is the complete and total liberation from karma. In the absolute sense, we are not separate from our actions. When the doer recognizes that he is inseparable from his actions, he also becomes aware that the actor and action arise and subside simultaneously. Therefore, in a state of total self-awareness, right action takes place quite naturally much like a stream, flowing easily downstream. As Tagore reminds us so perfectly, "Nirvana is not the blowing out of the candle. It is the extinguishing of the flame because day is come."

The Purification of Our Spiritual Awareness

2010-04-13T16:47:00.000-04:00

Clear water flows forth,
From sky to ground, it runs free
To meet the great sea.

One of my earliest childhood memories is collecting rocks. I remember digging in the backyard with my small garden shovel and finding tiny pieces of quartz. I would carefully wash their surface in a bucket of water, rub away the dirt and sediment, and dry them until they glowed. My favorite pieces were ivory white with a soft amber cast. They were my lucky stones, and I used to fill my pockets with them and carry them around. In my hands they felt smooth and round, polished by eons of time.

When I was a little older, I used to explore along a small creek. One bank was grassy and lined with trees, but the other side was a sheer wall of rock. It was a treasure spot for fossils. Mostly I found imprints of shells, but occasionally I found the remnants of a fern or an insect. When I held these simple pieces in my palm, they felt warm and alive. Hidden deep within each of their molecules contained the story of where they had been and what they had seen.

In my first science class in elementary school, we had a lesson on the classification of the universe. We were each given a list of words, which we had to label as living or nonliving. And there on my paper was the word, rock. I quickly and confidently categorized it as a living thing. After all, I had witnessed with my own eyes the bright green and gold energy fields shimmering from the surface of all the rocks I had held in my earliest years. When my teacher marked this answer wrong, I was astonished. I faced down the odd stares of my classmates and vigorously argued my case, but to no avail. Rocks are nonliving. It is an indisputable fact - end of discussion.

We live amidst a cacophony of explanations and expectations from our parents and teachers, who want us to think and act according to the mores of our society as a whole. We seek their approval and hold tightly to the values of the status quo. We chase their dreams only to find ourselves feeling empty and alone at the end of the day. We forget that each of us has an inner voice, which is not afraid to say yes, go for it, be happy, discover your own way. In reality our goals should motivate us and eventually lead to our personal happiness. So the question remains. How do we filter out all the noise from external pressures and remain true to our inner voice?

We have a great spring on our property. Unlike the fast, muddy run-off that is unfit to drink, this water collects from rainwater along the hillside of our farm, runs along the contoured slope, and over time permeates through layers and layers of shale. The earth works like a massive filtering system. As the rainwater fills the minute air pockets, it reaches outward into the soil particles and slowly over time, percolates downward deep into the earth. Here it accumulates in a naturally shaped basin of rock and heavy clay. Once full, the spring overflows and meanders to a small, forested creek. Here giant, thirsty sugar maples grow along the muddy banks. Some of the water evaporates and is carried away by clouds. The surplus continues on its journey and eventually joins the sea.

The Tarot Card Reading works just like a spring. From the subtle currents of energy, which are emitted from each card, a message is formed. Embodying the four elements of Tarot, fire (wands) instructs us to create with unbridled passion; earth (pentacles) reveals the passageway to the manifestation of our destiny; air (swords) helps us to cut through the superfluous tangle of peripheral pressure and craft our own path; and finally, water (cups) guides us as we seek to embrace the realization of love and happiness. If you listen to the reading with an open mind, the words are like a stream that fills your heart. Each droplet removes impurities from your consciousness and brings clarity of vision. By incorporating the message of the Tarot reading into your daily life, your absolute presence becomes like pure spring water rushing upward, overflowing with goodness and well being, reaching outward and becoming a source of sustenance for all.

Devotion

2010-04-06T11:04:00.003-04:00

Standing before the spirit of the rock, the carver takes his place. The master caretaker of his craft, he selects a line to trace. To shape a block of marble, crystalline, cream and gray, his solid chisel charts the contoured lines with grace. Any slip or mishap might cause the rock to break. So, he travels well beyond the worn path he planned and enters deep within his soul where he calls forth, "Courage." Now, an extraordinary vision flows forth and rushes through his humble hands.

The precious stone itself compels the carver offer all to this molten limestone, tumbled and cooled, by the rivers of time. His hammer beats in a steady pulse; his gaze remains ever calm for the silent mystery is waiting, devoid of reason, end or rhyme. The ebb and flow of sunlight pours through an open door, and as he chisels, tiny chips of stone begin to vanish from view. His self-expression is his sole intention, nothing more… and if that lacks perfection, it is your sight that is askew.

His tools move like a journey into a cloud-like, rosy mist, descending on the room like a sweet kiss from afar. In truth, the carver knows that the earth angels are all around him. They are the assistants in this manifestation of magic, awakening through art. Too soon, the brilliant hues of sunset blaze a wonder he observes until the stars beguile the long shadows of the eve. Still later, the moon sparkles along finely, polished curves until it all rests on the horizon and shifts the final light to leave.

At last, the new morning trades one bright day for another. The carver stands and stretches his body, cold and tired. Now, he waits for you to behold his creation, this holy, blessed mother. Her head nods, as her palms rise, to welcome the inspired. She evokes an ancient memory of a heaven, eternally aglow. The purity of her essence implies the longest sigh… and for your absolute devotion, a revelation is bestowed. In her all-embracing heart abides the most glorious love on high.

Chanting OM

2010-03-02T13:40:00.002-05:00

"Whosoever knows OM, the Self, becomes the Self." ~ The Mandukya Upanishads

As a musician and sound healer, I have experienced firsthand the healing power of sound. Vibration has the capacity to open our chakras (energy centers) and raise our consciousness to a higher state of being. The sacred syllable OM is universal, indivisible, infinite, eternal and ever mysterious.

Chanting OM is a wonderful enlightenment practice. As prana (the breath) enters the body vessel; it carries the entire universe into our heart center. Exhaling and chanting OM stirs the dreamer from the sleep state to the awakened state. As you continue to chant OM, imagine a vibration flowing simultaneously inward and outward in continuous waves of energy, pulsating in every direction, speaking to each and every heart, and uniting our consciousness like a small stream meeting the ocean. This is sacred breathing.

Two other simple, yet lovely chants are: OM, shanti shanti shanti and Hari OM. In Sanskrit, shanti means peace and tranquility. Actualized in this moment, there is only this blessed stillness, aligning body, mind and spirit. Hari is the Supreme; thus, we meet our Beloved, the supreme soul in union with God Supreme. In recognition, we surrender to our true nature in oneness with all.

There is also great benefit from silently chanting OM. Thus in stillness or in chaos, OM is forever with us.

Surrender to Serenity

2010-02-01T09:49:00.001-05:00

"You are pure. Nothing touches you. What is there to renounce? Let it all go, the body and the mind. Let yourself dissolve." ~ The Heart of Awareness

All resistance is fragmenting by its very nature. We separate ourselves from what is happening in a futile attempt to stop it from happening. Our egoic conditioning convinces us that the effort to control our world is productive behavior when in actually, the pursuant argument that cycles around and around in our minds is exactly what prevents us from living life to the fullest. It would be funny, like watching an old Laurel and Harvey film, if the consequences weren't so dire.

Once we surrender our resistance and fully embrace this moment, the point of awareness shifts away from the perception that something is happening to us. And in a flash of Grace, we suddenly become aware that we are here to honor the form our life is experiencing. This body, this time, this event becomes a unifying field of consciousness, in which we realize our Oneness with everything that is taking place.

So, no matter what arises, we can stop, take a deep breath and remind ourselves that the invitation is to be in complete alignment with the serenity that is always right here... fully knowing that we are that serenity.

Breath of Awakening

2010-01-13T13:01:00.001-05:00

"As threads come out of the spider, as little sparks come out of the fire, so all the senses, all the worlds, all the gods, yea, all beings, issue forth from the Self. His secret name is Truth of the Truth." ~ The Upanishads

Awakening can be tricky business. "How?" is a frequent question I hear, as though we can "How?" our way to enlightenment. This common delay tactic is used by the ego to preserve its very survival.

Certainly, we can play the part of the spiritual seeker, but as long as we spend this moment trying to 'get' liberated, we are only satisfying the ego's love of the search. Be aware that the ego swings back and forth from suspiciousness to viciousness - that is its range. Moreover, the ego thrives on suffering... like running in place and getting nowhere fast.

Once we stop asking "How?" right here and now, and breathe the breath of awakening, we discover that this moment is richly sacred in and of itself. From the spaciousness of infinite silence, the formless Self arises. This is the secret revealed... the Truth of the Truth.

Wonderwork

2009-12-31T10:58:00.005-05:00

Tonight we find ourselves as sojourners,
Sweeping across the galaxy.
Each of us has inscribed a cardinal alliance
To make Earth our home.

The journey pivots on our freedom to choose
In an unbounded Universe.
Emerging from the emptiness of space,
The message arrives heaven blown.

May we turn to our adversaries in peace
And rise above our discontent.
For if we allow love to capture our souls
And make the shadows bright,
We give ourselves to be absorbed,
To merge with every race and creed,
To sing the darkness a name,
The manifestation of our reverent might.

With this endeavor,
We ignite the candle of our own illumination,
So that we may open our minds
And meet one another on life's crossway.
The lodestar shines clear,
Guiding our hearts with celestial splendor
To fathom the oneness of spirit
As the miracle of each and every day.

Vision

2009-12-04T17:45:00.006-05:00

I had a very powerful vision during my meditation this afternoon. Ramana Maharshi was standing before me. He moved his hand across my brow, leaving a white line on my forehead that was 4" across and almost 2" wide (I have seen similar markings in photographs). As he was doing this, I saw a bright white light and experienced absolute serenity and joy that continues still. . . Does anyone know what this white mark on the forehead signifies? If so, please contact me - thank you ♥

Postscript:

"The white mark is the sign of Lord Shiva - this is what he placed upon your brow. Most auspicious indeed! You are truly blest with this darshan dream from our Great Master." -Alan Jacobs, President Ramana Maharshi Foundation United Kingdom

"As far as I know the mark on the brow is ashes that signify that the ego shall be absolved. All three aspects; the gunas the trimurti shall become as ashes. You are really asking to be swallowed by the divine when you are putting ashes on your forehead. That is how I understand it and your description is very alive! I can see Bhagavan rubbing the ashes on your head when reading this. This is BLESSING. A Sattvic mind can only experience such a beautiful thing." -Marco Mazzella

Dear Alan and Marco ♥ I am so grateful that you are here, sharing your wisdom with all of us. Love blessings from the Heart ~ Cathy

An Open Letter to My Beloved Spiritual Family

2009-11-19T12:19:00.003-05:00

As many of you are well aware, the earth is currently experiencing a major planetary shift both environmentally as well as spiritually. Change is a natural and essential purification process - one that is healthy and vibrant, bringing new life and energy to all of us. And while this particular cycle has the potential to transform our consciousness to a higher vibratory frequency, change often causes unhappiness when met with fear, resistance and/or a lack of trust.

Emotional turmoil on our planet is not a given as we have been conditioned to believe. It is triggered by our incessant need to judge one another despite the fact we do not have the ability to envision the entire picture. The 'idea' is that if we can solve one piece of the puzzle, we will ultimately understand our entire world. This limited and fragmented perspective has perpetuated suffering around the globe throughout human history.

The time has come to part with this ineffective mindset and to simply agree that we truly do not know. While this stance is never easy, it is quite helpful in reaching a peaceful resolution to both internal and external conflict. The challenge is to call a truce as we end the war going on in our own minds. The opportunity is to wipe the slate clean as we learn to embrace the changes that are occurring within the multi-faceted circles of our friendship and family relationships.

The gift is to recognize the wealth of experience that we offer one another. The invitation is to grow and evolve spiritually as we soften what is rigid in our own hearts. The possibility is to emanate a loving kindness that is naturally filled with wisdom, tolerance, forgiveness and compassion. How blessed we are to live in this time of planetary transformation! May we all become a beacon of hope, sustenance and inspiration to all of our spiritual brothers and sisters.

The Relationship Dynamic

2009-11-04T08:16:00.000-05:00

One of the larger questions that we encounter when we embark on the spiritual journey is: how do we best connect with friends and family members who might not so easily support our apparent transformation? Once we find ourselves at a place where we are truly willing to leave our baggage behind, we experience such freedom and joy. Yet instead of the love and support that we would eagerly receive from our loved ones, we are sometimes met with fear and apprehension.

On the flip side, the effort to maintain the status quo in our relationships is like a feather, attempting to hold back a tidal wave. It is only a matter of time before we tire of all the energy, required to maintain a false façade. What is even truer is the awareness that any desire or expectation on our part completely clouds our vision and traps us yet again in a space in between mirrors of illusion. Herein, every thought is deceptive.

As we evolve spiritually, the relationship dynamic that we generate with others is certainly going to be different. The real opportunity in all of our relationships is to be consistent in our willingness to tell the truth. However, this integrity requires that we are first ever willing to be completely honest with ourselves. Keep in mind that the great deceiver arises from the recesses of our own psyche. The choice of whether or not to indulge in another round of compulsive thinking becomes our 'choice moment.' Thus, it remains our responsibility to remember exactly where the first thought will lead and then to choose, 'not!'

If we can allow this important transformation to occur without touching it with a thread of our previous, conditioned belief system, then a miracle begins to take place, and the weariness itself becomes such a gift. At the moment of our complete surrender, we have an opportunity to allow the tidal wave to carry us into the depths of the sea where we can drown in It, once and for all. What remains is calm and compassion.

A Universal Message

2009-10-31T16:48:00.000-04:00

We surround ourselves with walls built from the blocks of our anger, fear, ignorance and insecurity. Our intention is to protect ourselves. In reality, these carefully constructed walls become the obstacles that hold us back and prevent us from growing, being purposeful and reaching our true potential.

The word, potential, is rooted in the Latin word, posse, and literally means to have power. To be purposeful means to focus our energy with consciousness. If we are to be purposeful and reach our potential as a society, then we must first realize the true power of our intentions.

We are the artists and musicians, the poets and parents, the healers and writers of history. Each of us receives precious gifts from the Universe. They are our birthright. They are the talents and opportunities that come to us seemingly out of nowhere. We show our respect for life by developing our abilities and becoming the best of our highest thoughts.

Considering the ramifications of current world events, now is the time to take a moment in silent pause and ask ourselves, "What do we really want this world to look like?" Then each of us must accept our personal responsibility by taking a leap of faith and making a real effort to tear down the antiquated barriers that stand before us and between us.

By understanding the essence of our spiritual connection to all of humanity, we can create positive change. Each of us is made up of energy. At every moment in time, the totality of all our energy becomes the universe. Through our thoughts, words and actions, we have the power to decide what kind of world we want to live in. Make no mistake about it; we can take our image of a perfect planet and make that dream a reality.

In other words, if enough of us really want justice, peace and love to be the governing force of our civilization, then each of us must create justice, peace and love by being just, peaceful and loving each and every moment of our lives.

One Blessing

2009-10-07T23:55:00.000-04:00

May we surrender to the splendor of the dawn. May we see the wonder of red on rock and the majesty of a drop of dew on a pine needle. May we witness the lone eagle, soaring over the canyon walls, carrying our prayers from the darkness of the night into the opportunity of the morning light.

May we build a bridge across all the boundaries of our intolerance. May we recognize our pride for the delusion that it truly is. May we always speak with candor, even when our honesty is met with suspicion and fear. May we open our minds with the expanse of a desert sky and acknowledge that we are one family.

May we heed the call that comes as a wisp of wind in our hair or as thunder, crashing through our bones, urging us to wake up and reaffirm our commitment, to trust in the power of forgiveness, the one salve which can heal every wound and show us that the dream was never really so.

May we welcome the fox that comes to our door and challenges us to be wiser and more deliberate in our response. May we no longer allow vague imaginings and thoughtless wanderings defile our name. May we respect and honor each human being with the reverence due a creation of our One Creator.

May we willingly reach out our hearts and our hands in an embrace so wide that we encompass every living thing. May we sing a song of life so bright that our voices rise and resound across the Universe, proclaiming: "We know who we are, and we have one wish, that is peace on Earth."

The offer, the gift, the one blessing is sweet, eternal and infinite Love...

Beyond Heart and Mind

2009-09-29T18:29:00.000-04:00

The Heart is happy and at peace.

The mind laments, "How can you be so cheerful while I am so miserable? Look at the world. There is conflict and poverty everywhere I turn."

The Heart replies, "Yes, I see that you are seeking perfection, but every search is a circle drawing you deeper into your own heart."

"Then why does it hurt so much to be a witness to all of this suffering?" worries the mind.

"The sun is shining, and it is a beautiful day." Now, the Heart is unfolding itself in an open invitation. "See what you are missing."

"I do want peace, but something is always going wrong," complains the mind.

"The peace that you are seeking cannot be attained. It simply exists as your true nature... your very essence."

Still, the mind moans on and on. All the while, the Heart responds with kindness and compassion... wisdom, patience and grace until the mind can think of nothing else to grumble about.

At last, the mind stops... and there is silence...

All that remains is the sound of the sun, shining.

When All Reflections Fall Away

2009-09-25T15:39:00.008-04:00

"The truth is that you are always united with the Lord. But you must know this. Nothing further is there to know." ~ The Upanishads

What happens once we stop seeking lasting peace and happiness?

When we finally own up to the futility of the search, we begin to acknowledge that hope in a future Self-realization is actually the postponement of recognizing what is already right here. Consequently, everything we do in avoidance of the present moment is a distraction, entwining us further in the dream state.

However real this illusion, this betrayal or this suffering seems to be; ultimately, we will shake ourselves awake. Rising from the depths of this wild and raging stream of inner turmoil, we forget everything we were ever told about ourselves and begin to remember the truth of who we really are.

Once all the doors and windows blow wide open, divine light pours right through.

In this moment of awakening, we discover a love that is precious and beautiful to behold. No longer a mere belief, an egoic grasping for pleasure or a moral dilemma that we have to ponder over, love simply is. And when all reflections fall away, we know this love as the perfect expression of divine Grace.

Instantly, we begin seeing this same light in the faces of each of our brothers and sisters. And effortlessly, we become part of the natural flow of love, extending outward, without limit, into the hearts of all of humanity.