tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19173710844944238662024-03-04T21:07:23.557-08:00Unity Temple on the PlazaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-1029764875334508612014-12-10T14:10:00.002-08:002014-12-10T14:10:42.297-08:00How is it possible to love those who hate you?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-ZCWfYAq5aapJiDzhjFex0fFSIGkVMYT-72D9WRfJYCi0W3Vs45MgcuSt6AmUU0VThG60-AQfJle_chqTetOoZw2FdHewObbkFWOY4J7vupvSvIkxjk3JP2mvqsZ_Ko9DcFdjwo9ve4/s1600/Duke's%2BStaff%2BPhoto%2Bfor%2BDirectory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-ZCWfYAq5aapJiDzhjFex0fFSIGkVMYT-72D9WRfJYCi0W3Vs45MgcuSt6AmUU0VThG60-AQfJle_chqTetOoZw2FdHewObbkFWOY4J7vupvSvIkxjk3JP2mvqsZ_Ko9DcFdjwo9ve4/s1600/Duke's+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" /></a>The first question that presents itself is, "What is
Love?" The word is peppered about so frequently that it is applied to passing
fancies as well as life-long commitments. In our western culture it generally
means strong affection or personal affection. The original Hebrew meaning of
love is "to give." Giving kindness, giving compassion, giving your
best wishes and giving forgiveness could all be considered "love."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If somebody hates you, there is a reason for it. Normally
hate comes about when one person has hurt another person in such a deep way
that an emotional wound persists long after the deed has occurred.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If this is your case, take responsibility for your misdeed,
communicate your sorrow to the other person and ask for their forgiveness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If they are not open to the mending of your relationship,
give it some time and then approach it again in the same way. If they still
refuse you, kick the dust from your feet and move on with your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You have done your work and you can move along comfortably.
If the other person continues to hate you, so what? The hate they feel and keep
alive is merely the rancid remains of past misfortunes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your objective is to refrain from hating them back. To love them in the truest sense of the word,
is to give them understanding, compassion and wish for their best.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-59618754952659295672014-09-24T13:37:00.002-07:002014-09-24T13:37:43.261-07:00What does it mean to have hope?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBN49mBBX2yupIKSAJcmDENlfHzmLhYwlrxNuY3C55nxB2gfNbQRL2SIrzNhg9nvhT_j5FighIb39lqwJXZIvsEwM3BDxc1kPrsDG4AXGhOS5mnFqndWf_GPYNmBvre8MOkwG68jwumw/s1600/Duke's%2BStaff%2BPhoto%2Bfor%2BDirectory%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBN49mBBX2yupIKSAJcmDENlfHzmLhYwlrxNuY3C55nxB2gfNbQRL2SIrzNhg9nvhT_j5FighIb39lqwJXZIvsEwM3BDxc1kPrsDG4AXGhOS5mnFqndWf_GPYNmBvre8MOkwG68jwumw/s1600/Duke's+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+(2).jpg" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">Hope is nothing more or nothing less than a thought that is infused with an optimistic emotion. Hope exists in our mind, it is a power within us. It never dwindles, it never dries up; it is never out of reach. It only appears to be absent when we choose to think thoughts of an opposite nature. The thoughts we think may be hopeful or hopeless. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">When we commit to beliefs that we can do something; that we can make it through a difficult time; that we can realize our hearts desire we experience hope. When we commit to thoughts that are of a despairing nature we experience hopelessness and expect the worst to happen.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">So the question arises, who determines the thoughts we think? Each of us is the ultimate authority of the thoughts we think and the feelings we have. When we take full responsibility for our outlook on life and the frame of mind we are in, we draw on our inner power to direct our thoughts. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The thoughts you are thinking this very moment are creating your present emotional reality and at the same time putting in place the stepping stones that will lead to your future emotional reality. Think about it for a moment, your thoughts are your reality. Good, bad, happy, sad, hopeful, hopeless.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The choice is yours.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-82671647913125078422014-08-14T12:25:00.000-07:002014-08-14T12:25:02.928-07:00What does it mean to be spiritual without following a particular faith?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<strong style="background-color: white;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke's%2BStaff%2BPhoto%2Bfor%2BDirectory%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke's+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+(2).jpg" /></a></div>
</strong></div>
<div style="color: #285685; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<div align="left" style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">Religion came into being to establish a moral conscience amongst the people. Over the years it has served that purpose well, but along the way it made three wrong turns which alienated many people.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The first was "playing" God and pompously asserting only the "church goers" would go to heaven, and all others were doomed to eternal hell. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The second was being swept away in clouds of arrogance where the religious leaders came to believe they knew it all. Based on the knowledge of the day, they cast their doctrines and creeds in stone, many of which we now know to be gross misperceptions.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The third was alleviating the spiritual experience. People were so inundated with rules, regulations, demands and punishments that the experience of being connected to God and finding the sacred in everyday life was smothered out.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Spirituality has evolved out of religion bringing with it the ancient wisdom that can be considered absolute. It is an inner process of self discovery and direction. It restores autonomy in regards to one's relationship with God and encourages the individual to experience his/her higher power directly and freely without the confines of dogma.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Rather than worshiping a spiritual master, spirituality engages one in learning how to live like a spiritual master. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">"Rise up from your knees at the base of the monument and walk confidently in the way of the messenger." (anonymous)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Duke</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-73127655351775082962014-07-04T08:12:00.001-07:002014-07-04T08:12:32.081-07:00How can believing in God change one's life?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">God is Spirit. Spirit is life. The Will of God is for that which sustains and empowers life. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The Kingdom of God is the ever present expression of love, peace and harmony, which is the fulfillment of God's will in the spiritual realm.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">God Spirit is the very life force of every living thing, providing that which is needed to realize its highest possible expression. </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">In the Mind of God, the perfect idea for every living thing exists in the invisible realm of its spiritual essence and is like a blueprint for that which it has potential to manifest in the physical realm.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The spiritual blueprint for an acorn is the oak tree; the spiritual blueprint for a caterpillar is the butterfly; the spiritual blueprint of a seed is the fully blossomed flower; the spiritual blueprint of you and me is a totally peaceful, unconditional loving, beneficial presence to the earth.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When we are unaware of our spiritual potential, we move away from it and engage in prejudices, discrimination, hate and conflict. We justify inequalities and violate the God-given rights of others making of our lives and our world a living hell.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When we are aware of our spiritual potential, we move towards it and engage in compassion, equality, love, peace and harmony, making of our lives a heaven on earth.</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">In the 11th Chapter of <em>Genesis</em> it reads, "The people of the earth are one, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. Nothing they propose to do will be impossible for them."</span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When the people of the earth commit to that which has been proposed, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." We will have fulfilled God's purpose for our being here. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-91219658738854654072014-06-04T11:32:00.001-07:002014-06-04T11:32:13.168-07:00How can believing in God change one's life?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">God is Spirit. Spirit is life. The Will of God is for that which sustains and empowers life. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The Kingdom of God is the ever present expression of love, peace and harmony, which is the fulfillment of God's will in the spiritual realm.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">God Spirit is the very life force of every living thing, providing that which is needed to realize its highest possible expression. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">In the Mind of God, the perfect idea for every living thing exists in the invisible realm of its spiritual essence and is like a blueprint for that which it has potential to manifest in the physical realm.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The spiritual blueprint for an acorn is the oak tree; the spiritual blueprint for a caterpillar is the butterfly; the spiritual blueprint of a seed is the fully blossomed flower; the spiritual blueprint of you and me is a totally peaceful, unconditional loving, beneficial presence to the earth.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When we are unaware of our spiritual potential, we move away from it and engage in prejudices, discrimination, hate and conflict. We justify inequalities and violate the God-given rights of others making of our lives and our world a living hell.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When we are aware of our spiritual potential, we move towards it and engage in compassion, equality, love, peace and harmony, making of our lives a heaven on earth.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">In the 11th Chapter of Genesis it reads, "The people of the earth are one, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. Nothing they propose to do will be impossible for them."</span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">When the people of the earth commit to that which has been proposed, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." We will have fulfilled God's purpose for our being here.</span><span style="background-color: #cbcbcb; font-size: 8pt;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-86594233717582111802014-05-07T08:26:00.004-07:002014-05-07T08:26:48.943-07:00What are the most commonly asked spiritual questions?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><strong style="font-size: 10pt;">WHAT IS GOD? </strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">God is the One Power and One Presence in the Universe. We are all interrelated. God is within each and every one of us.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: -webkit-center;">
<div style="font-size: 10pt;">
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><strong>WHAT CAUSED US TO BE? </strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">This universe was created using two important laws, the Law of Potential and the Law of Attraction. There exists in the universe the potential for life, and we have been created out of this great potential. The Law of Attraction enabled us to coming into being and enables us to create our world.</span></span></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><strong>WHY AM I HERE? </strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As a human being, we each have within us the potential to create a life which is uniquely ours to live. This is our gift to ourselves and to the world. At any point in our life, we can evaluate what is working and what isn't. At any point in our life, we have everything we need to reinvent ourselves, as Jesus said, to be born again. We can reinvent ourselves as individuals and reinvent ourselves as a species. We are not bound by what we have been in the past. We can bring fresh awareness to every situation and see it and ourselves in a fresh, new light of potential manifesting Good.</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-46334463702839187782013-06-27T14:49:00.003-07:002013-06-27T14:49:50.672-07:00Here's a question I often receive...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div _mce_style="font-size: 12pt; color: #000000;" style="font-size: 12pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a><strong>What am I expected to donate to Unity Temple?</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="color: #000000;">
<div _mce_style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left" style="font-size: 10pt;">
<div>
I am often asked this question and my answer is, <strong>I don't know.</strong> You are the only one who can decide how much to contribute and it should be based on two things.<br /><br /><strong>The first thing</strong>
is that the giving has to feel good. If contributions are made out of
obligation, pressure or responsibility, they can often be given
begrudgingly. Whatever you choose to give, please make sure you feel
really good about it.</div>
<br /><div>
<strong>The second thing</strong> is value. Giving to Unity
Temple is an exchange for receiving from Unity Temple. Your gift should
match the value of what you are receiving. Perhaps it is the good
feeling you have for being part of a spiritual movement that helps
countless numbers of people each week. It may be the spiritual
nourishment you receive through our programs, inspirational talks and
prayer. Or, it may be knowing that we are always here to support you and
your loved ones during difficult times. Your contribution represents
the value this ministry has in your life and your generosity to support
the good it does in this world.</div>
<br /><div>
Please know the amount you give to Unity Temple is your choice. We respect that and appreciate the part you play in making this</div>
<div>
a better world.<br /><br />We are in the process of implementing a recurring electronic giving method.<br /><br /><div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>DID YOU KNOW...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
Over 7,000 people come through the doors of Unity Temple each week. ❖
There are over 60 classes, programs and services each week
specifically designed to uplift people to higher levels of well being. </div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
Unity Temple has over a dozen outreach programs including: Feeding
the homeless, Tutoring at-risk students, Supporting cancer patients and
their families through Gilda's Club, and Providing a Back Pack program
for kids through Harvesters</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖ All of this is accomplished with only nine staff members and our dedicated volunteers.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖ <strong>Our goal is to have 250 people signed up for recurring electronic donations.</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>OUR CHANGING WORLD...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
Just as email is slowly replacing postal mail, credit cards are
replacing checks and people are rapidly transitioning to on-line bill
payments. Electronic giving for churches is the new, practical way of
contributing.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>ELECTRONIC GIVING MADE SIMPLE...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
We can easily assist you in setting up a recurring contribution plan
through: Automatic checking account withdrawal, Automatic credit or
debit card deduction, Donations can be made weekly or monthly.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>BENEFITS...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
Prevents financial shortages when attendance drops due to weather and
other factors. ❖ Reduces accounting expenses. ❖ Allows
greater ease of record availability.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
Creates an easier system for donors to give and track their
donations. ❖ Allows for more accurate budgeting and financial
management.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>SECURITY...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖
All transactions are in compliance with the Payment Card Industry
Data Security Standard. ❖ 128-bit secure browser connection is used to
protect data. ❖ Secure Sockets Layer to encrypt all information.
❖ All credit card and bank information is destroyed after entered
into secure browser. ❖ Insured up to $15,000, including the
additional coverage offered by your credit card companies and banks,
against credit card or check fraud. ❖ You can discontinue your
electronic giving whenever you choose.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<strong>SIGN-UP...</strong></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
To get started you can:</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖Go to the <a _mce_href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=GzueEYaDjwCGM2QXDEgnzbLEjb_NJc9Meem8OqnnSk6XrlJRR3U0Sqxe9ZarOLmVx99BwI57m7BhuhLGH0QQlN7fi0ZA4OuWyBr1LeHPziwPEqDXgDhPw7XNZ7wj2Xq6r7H_1LSIb4vaFzXkrxPz1G_Q4pLnkpktgP7AFmAGUy8=&ver=3." _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=GzueEYaDjwCGM2QXDEgnzbLEjb_NJc9Meem8OqnnSk6XrlJRR3U0Sqxe9ZarOLmVx99BwI57m7BhuhLGH0QQlN7fi0ZA4OuWyBr1LeHPziwPEqDXgDhPw7XNZ7wj2Xq6r7H_1LSIb4vaFzXkrxPz1G_Q4pLnkpktgP7AFmAGUy8=&ver=3." linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">Donation Page</a>
and create a profile or you can stop by the bookstore and pick up a
donation card, fill it out and drop it in the mail to the attention of
Kathy Sweany or drop it off at the bookstore. You may also email Kathy
at <a _mce_href="mailto:kathy@unitytemple.com" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="mailto:kathy@unitytemple.com" linktype="2" shape="rect" style="color: blue !important;" target="_blank">kathy@unitytemple.com</a> and she will get a card in the mail to you.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖ Call 816.994.8000 leave your name and number and Duke or Janet will return your call.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖ All of your information will be kept in strictest confidence.</div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
❖ <strong>Your participation in a recurring electronic giving program is greatly appreciated.</strong> </div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-46987192562026552222013-01-24T13:12:00.000-08:002013-01-24T13:12:31.318-08:00What should a sick person do to receive a miracle from God?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If God responded to fervent prayer for a miracle healing
this would indicate that God judged the one in need as worthy of healing. This
would also mean if one didn't receive a miracle healing God had judged that
person to be unworthy of such a grant. I
wouldn't want any person who is on their death bed to think that God didn't
find them worthy to save or even that God didn't care.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wouldn't that be a horrible feeling to go out of this world
with?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't believe that God intervenes in our lives, but I do
believe that God Spirit is in everyone of us and the more we awaken to that
power the more we are able to utilize it for physical, emotional and mental
healing. Not long ago it was considered
a miracle that our thoughts could have a healing effect on diseases of the
cellular level. Today that idea is commonplace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We know negative thoughts of anger, resentment, guilt, shame
and feelings of unworthiness weaken us. We
also know that thoughts of peace, faith and appreciation for "what
is" in the present moment, strengthens us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Above all else love is the greatest and most rewarding
emotional experience we can have on this earth. Whether one is ill or not,
miracles happen when we bathe ourselves daily in thoughts of love.</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-57397687647382847702012-12-28T07:34:00.000-08:002012-12-28T07:35:12.351-08:00How can your faith help you know yourself?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">There is more to each of us than we realize. The greater part of our minds </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">have not been utilized; our potential to experience more peace, love, harmony and well being has not been discovered; our skill levels in any given area can be increased. </span><br />
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Most of us exercise our potential for successful living to the point where </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">life is tolerable. It isn't great or ideal. We have adapted to life's roller coaster of ups and downs. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">What if you had the potential to make the "up" times of life even higher & longer lasting and the "down" times of life shorter and not so long in duration?</span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Well, you can. You have that potential. The primary obstacles holding us back from growing and utilizing our higher </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">potential is fear. Fear of failure. Fear of what others will think when we do fail. Fear of discovering we don't have a higher potential. This is where faith comes in.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The willingness to step into the unknown, to explore new territory of being, to being okay not knowing how to get to the desired destination but willing to take the first step and have faith that as we do the next step will be shown to us. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<span style="background-color: white;">There is no physical evidence of your untapped higher potential. Faith is knowing it's there. </span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-32066535076061602752012-12-11T13:21:00.003-08:002012-12-11T13:21:52.707-08:00Can there ever be Peace on Earth?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Throughout the evolution of human thought, there have been four rules of conduct and all four rules are active today. </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
first is referred to as the Brass Rule, also known as the "brazen rule"
because it states "Do what is good for you and disregard the effect it
has on others." </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The second rule is the Iron Rule, which states "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. Do to others what they do to you." </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The third rule is known as </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">the Silver Rule, and it states "Don't do to others what you don't want done to yourself".</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
fourth rule is pro-active and provides, more than any of the others,
hope for a peaceful planet earth. It states, "Treat other people the
way you want to be treated regardless of how they treat you." </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When
the majority of human beings learn this, understand this and practice
this, we will be a species of compassion that will evolve beyond any
action outside this rule. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Peace is a state of mind, a way of thinking that resides in the mind of every person. </span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When
we as a species choose to dwell in this state and act from it, the earth
will burst forth from a battle field to a place of joy and peace.</span></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<br /></div>
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;" align="left">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I feel it is the responsibility of the people in the most powerful country in the world, to step up to the line and lead the way--let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. </span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-60130056651030478542012-08-02T11:28:00.003-07:002012-08-02T11:28:48.585-07:00How does one keep from losing hope?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+%25282%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
Hope is nothing more or nothing less than a thought that is infused with an optimistic emotion. Hope exists in our mind, it is a power within us. It never dwindles, it never dries up; it is never out of reach. It only appears to be absent when we choose to think thoughts of an opposite nature. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
The thoughts we think may be hopeful or hopeless. When we commit to beliefs that we can do something; that we can make it through a difficult time; that we can realize our hearts desire, we experience hope. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
When we commit to thoughts that are of a despairing nature, we experience hopelessness and expect the worst to happen. So the question arises, who determines the thoughts we think?</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
Each of us is the ultimate authority of the thoughts we think and the feelings we have. When we take full responsibility for our outlook on life and the frame of mind we are in, we draw on our inner power to direct our thoughts.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
The thoughts you are thinking this very moment are creating your present emotional reality and at the same time putting in place the stepping stones that will lead to your future emotional reality. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">
Think about it for a moment, your thoughts are your reality. Good, bad, happy, sad, hopeful, hopeless.....the choice is yours.</div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-28784104481258186372012-05-23T20:28:00.003-07:002012-05-23T20:28:46.824-07:00How do I know what is the true religion?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiis8yin8a8NNC6nDjiXQiW9bhPZFByGc6ewhAx_ludgiefFfKfdtZk6k0llI-rzbNKvV69P9e0lpS3LYWzL8CwtAkj1wFwzd_cUHzprQjrm9zEULJx4xm4jbbWjj0ZDrfcK9pYzpcRC44/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiis8yin8a8NNC6nDjiXQiW9bhPZFByGc6ewhAx_ludgiefFfKfdtZk6k0llI-rzbNKvV69P9e0lpS3LYWzL8CwtAkj1wFwzd_cUHzprQjrm9zEULJx4xm4jbbWjj0ZDrfcK9pYzpcRC44/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: 10pt;">There are two basic ways for you to know what is the true religion. </span></div>
<div align="left" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong>The first</strong> is to let another or others tell you. In most cases their response will be "my" religion is the only true religion". Support for their dogmatic assertion will come in the form of fear-based notions which purport that you are a sinner, you will never get to heaven, and the only way for you to be "saved" is by following the doctrines and creeds of their religion. The list of persuasions go on and on. The more a person, religion or pronouncement holds to the arrogant position of proclaiming they are "the only true one", the greater the proof is that they aren't.</span></div>
<div align="left" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong>The second</strong> way for you to know what is the true religion is to personalize it and do research to discover what the true religion is "for you". Read the statement of beliefs; acquaint yourself with the history; determine whether the theology inspires you, empowers you and resonates with your deepest beliefs. Your spiritual path should be one that you are impassioned by, not one that imprisons you. It should be one that continually moves you to higher levels of joy, love, peace of mind and harmony. Seek and you will find the spiritual source that is best for you. The one that truly supports your greatest happiness and highest good.</span></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-674964897482015442012-04-29T15:14:00.002-07:002012-04-29T15:14:19.832-07:00How can your faith help you to know yourself?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s1600/Duke's+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioJUbZAg4hJs84tNBUszLzaPuTFk_b5yCiX956ypClqbqaLEYGNDKwLekwh1EJLjfUJUmo5dLrEOhFOut5mznigLkaCTCSUBzKQy2G2OC6PCA1eWmEGdRnVbJMJ0e0kwpNt-6nLw_sDc/s200/Duke's+Staff+Photo+for+Directory+(2).jpg" width="150" /></a>There is more to each of us than we realize. The greater part of our minds have not been utilized; our potential to experience more peace, love, harmony and well being has not been discovered; our skill levels in any given area can be increased.<br />
<br />
Most of us exercise our potential for successful living to the point where life is tolerable. It isn't great or ideal. We have adapted to life's roller coaster of ups and downs. What if you had the potential to make the "up" times of life even higher and longer lasting and the "down" times of life shorter and not so long in duration. Well, you can.<br />
<br />
You have that potential. The primary obstacles holding us back from growing and utilizing our higher potential is fear. Fear of failure, fear of what others will think when we do fail, fear of discovering we don't have a higher potential. This is where faith comes in: the willingness to step into the unknown, to explore new territory of being, to being okay not knowing how to get to the desired destination but willing to take the first step and have faith that as we do the next step will be shown to us. <br />
<br />
There is no physical evidence of your untapped higher potential. Faith is knowing it's there.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-77868993317136951132012-03-05T12:15:00.000-08:002012-04-29T15:15:03.634-07:00Do religions hold their followers to high enough standards?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Historically, religions have failed miserably at attempting to hold people to standards that were unrealistic, unreasonable and which the leaders themselves couldn't live up to.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Jesus was crucified because he called the religious leaders of the day on their hypocrisy. In the Book of Matthew 23:327 Jesus states to the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law: "You hypocrites! You are like white washed tombs which look fine on the outside but are full of decaying bones on the inside. In the same way on the outside you appear good to everybody, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and sins."</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The same point could easily be made today. There are priests, rabbis and ministers in all religions who put forth dogmatic assertions and impositions that they themselves don't follow then shellac others with guilt, shame and threats of doom in the after life </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">for not living up to their religious laws. Many of these "man-made" religious laws are of </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">no significance when it comes to one's goodness and moral character, but rather are simply veiled attempts to maintain a sense of power over people and keep them in </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">subservient positions.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Religion's purpose is to present a loving, peaceful, harmonious way to live, not harshly judge others and spew out potential penalties if they don't agree with another's actions.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">There are literally thousands of religious laws, rules and regulations on the books but if one </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">treats others the way he/she wants to be treated a good life is being lived.</span></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-89635306982994508912012-03-01T07:54:00.003-08:002012-03-02T16:19:53.831-08:00How does one keeping from losing Hope?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TClshibiDjA/SKuBHscHSmI/AAAAAAAAAAk/2d4PQ00vuFY/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TClshibiDjA/SKuBHscHSmI/AAAAAAAAAAk/2d4PQ00vuFY/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">Hope is nothing more or nothing less than a thought that is infused with </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">an optimistic emotion. Hope exists in our mind, it is a power within us. It </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;">never dwindles, it never dries up; it is never out of reach. It only appears to be absent when we choose to think thoughts of an opposite nature. </span></div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The thoughts we think may be hopeful or hopeless. When we commit to beliefs that we can do something; that we can make it through a difficult time; that we can realize our hearts desire we experience hope. When we commit to thoughts that are of a despairing nature we experience hopelessness and expect the worst to happen. </span></div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">So the question</span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">arises, who determines the thoughts we think? Each of us is the ultimate authority </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">of the thoughts we think and the feelings we have. When we take full responsibility for our outlook on life and the frame of mind we are in, we draw on our inner power to direct our thoughts.</span></div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 13px; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The thoughts you are thinking this very moment are creating your present emotional reality and at the same time putting in place the stepping stones that will lead to your </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">future emotional reality. Think about it for a moment, your thoughts are your reality. Good, bad, happy, sad, hopeful, hopeless...the choice is yours.</span></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-35277736104981656712012-01-19T14:33:00.000-08:002012-01-19T14:33:40.293-08:00If we get what God wants us to have, why ask?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22lyCWoctjY/SwXKT2g6X5I/AAAAAAAAAGg/E8vc6j23IP8/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22lyCWoctjY/SwXKT2g6X5I/AAAAAAAAAGg/E8vc6j23IP8/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I believe God wants us to have peace of mind, the strongest desire we have; God wants </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">us to be in harmony, our most natural state; and God wants us to be in a continual cycle </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">of giving and receiving love, the greatest experience we can have on this earth. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">God wants us to have these things because that is what God is. Not an old man with long white beard sitting on a throne somewhere in the far reaches of the universe eager to punish us if we do wrong. God is Life. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The three primary characteristics that assure the continuation of Life on Earth are peace, harmony and love and every person born into this world has the unlimited potential to express these three attributes.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">We have free will to choose how we want to live our lives but at times we make the wrong choices. In a fit of anger we choose conflict instead of peace. Prejudices, discrimination and harsh judgments lead us into disharmony with others. And there are times when we choose not to love. We "have" what God wants us to have. Peace, harmony and love are the very essence of our being, we never have to ask for them.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> But we don't always get what God wants us to have because we choose otherwise.</span></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-16681653327833310002011-12-22T08:26:00.000-08:002011-12-22T08:26:57.695-08:00Is it important to believe in the existence of heaven?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22lyCWoctjY/SwXKT2g6X5I/AAAAAAAAAGg/E8vc6j23IP8/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22lyCWoctjY/SwXKT2g6X5I/AAAAAAAAAGg/E8vc6j23IP8/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We can perceive "Heaven" in two ways. As a destination of peace, harmony and love available to us when we leave this earthly plane. We can also perceive heaven as a state of existence on this earthly plane that is characterized as one of peace harmony and love. Heaven is a state of mind, whether on earth or in the hereafter that comes about as a result of our thoughts. When we align our thoughts with the thinking of the great spiritual masters we automatically receive the benefits of a heavenly state.</span><strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />
</strong></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 14px; margin-top: 0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The universal principle of cause and effect states the nature of any cause is found in its effect. If love is the cause of your thoughts, words and actions, love is going to be the effect. The same holds true for hate, resentment and conflict, which create an uncomfortable condition in our lives often referred to as hell. Each of us individually creates the emotional state of our existence.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times-New-Roman; font-size: 14px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We have the free-will to chose the thoughts, words and actions we express. By choosing to express peace, harmony and love we create situations in our lives that are of "heaven". You are responsible for the conditions of your life. So, the next time you are feeling greatly disturbed, hateful, in conflict or out of harmony ask yourself, "What IN hell, am I doing." </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-65819469379116298532011-10-13T12:15:00.001-07:002011-10-13T12:15:51.378-07:00Can we worry God too much with our little problems?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEeYfsPu6_Y/SpbxYM5ioPI/AAAAAAAAAFU/xpOW27u0F7E/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEeYfsPu6_Y/SpbxYM5ioPI/AAAAAAAAAFU/xpOW27u0F7E/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I don't believe God worries but rather I see God as a worry eliminator. Just as the mighty force of water from a fire hose can extinguish the greatest flame, the mighty faith within each of us can extinguish every doubt, worry, fear or anxiety when we turn it over to our higher power and trust in the divine order of life.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #d4dde6;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div></strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">There are two kinds of problems in this world.The ones we can do something about and the ones we can't do anything about.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If we are powerless to change the situations or circumstances of a problem, challenge, setback or loss we have no other choice but to adapt to it.This often calls on us to change our thoughts, feelings, attitudes and perceptions about what has taken place or what might happen in the future.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span>In our prayers</span> <span>rather than beseeching God to "take this cup of suffering from me", we can use affirmative prayers such as: <i>I now let go of any thoughts that hamper my peace of mind and affirm that I have everything I need to move through this difficult time and establish a sense of serenity in my life. </i></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If we can do something about a problem or challenge we face, then we need to draw on our resources and initiate action. Pronto!</span> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-13809672496353207762011-08-04T12:09:00.001-07:002011-08-04T12:10:10.852-07:00Should religion attempt to control people's behavior?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku4r4Hj6Uf8/SP5Iekzwx3I/AAAAAAAAACQ/iSTXzfGM6PQ/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku4r4Hj6Uf8/SP5Iekzwx3I/AAAAAAAAACQ/iSTXzfGM6PQ/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The various levels of government in this country provide us with 150,000 new laws and 2,000,000 new regulations (each year) all of which attempt to control the behavior of the people of the United States of America. </span><strong></strong><br />
<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><strong><span _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"></span></strong></div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">Why would anybody want to engage in a religion that tried to control them even more. It appears to me that throughout history, religion has been woefully mistaken in its primary purpose. Religion is not meant to impose rules and regulations on people but rather propose higher insights that lead to a more successful life. Religion is not meant to overpower the individual's will but rather empower an individual to take control of his/her life and express a higher potential. </div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">Lastly, religion is not meant to issue ultimatums, bordering on threats, of what will happen to someone in the afterlife if they don't subscribe to and abide by church doctrine in this life. </div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div _mce_style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; color: black; text-align: left; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0px; font-size: 10pt;" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">None of those things move us closer to God. We are not sinners; we are not unworthy in the eyes of God; we don't need to be put down but rather we need to be lifted up. Religions that attempt to control our lives put us in a cage with crumbs to eat. Let us out, and we will soar to new heights where we will find a new life and and a new connection with God that has been unimagined.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-34791217893035567932011-07-11T11:24:00.000-07:002011-07-11T11:24:33.446-07:00What question should I ask in seeking a spiritual home?<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK25" style="margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;" tabindex="0"><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 8pt; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 10px; text-align: center;"><div align="left" style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WzmW6j95N8/SJyd4Hesi8I/AAAAAAAAAAU/W6M6gK3_Ggg/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WzmW6j95N8/SJyd4Hesi8I/AAAAAAAAAAU/W6M6gK3_Ggg/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div align="left" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;"></span></div><table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" id="content_LETTER.BLOCK25" style="display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;" tabindex="0"><tbody style="display: inline !important;">
<tr style="display: inline !important;"><td align="center" colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="color: black; display: inline !important; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 8pt; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 10px; text-align: center;"><div align="left" style="display: inline !important; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"><div style="display: inline !important; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Imagine for a moment you came face to face with God and posed the question of what you should look for in choosing a spiritual home.<span> </span>God might say: All people come forth from one source, all people are one in spirit.</div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Therefore look for a spiritual home that honors the diversity of the earth and holds all beings equal whether it is between woman and man; Christian, Muslim or Jew;<span> </span>homosexual and heterosexual;<span> </span>black or white, Asian, Hispanic or Native American.<span> </span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span> </span></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Just as God has no prejudices or discriminations towards any person, an institution which is intended to bring people closer to God, should have none either.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Secondly, God might say:<span> </span>choose a spiritual home that empowers you not overpowers you. One that supports you in living the life your heart desires and not one that<span> </span>depreciates your individual value by insisting you are a sinner, unworthy in the eyes of God and then shellacking you with guilt and shame.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Lastly, God might say find a spiritual home that instills within you a strong sense of peace and harmony and encourages the congregation to join together collectively to increase the peace and harmony in the world.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You have a strong mind and a wise inner source of direction. You will know when you are in the right place. </div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-49936331168754427692011-05-16T18:59:00.000-07:002011-05-16T19:00:52.335-07:00Is there life after death?<div align="left" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold;">I understand that religion involves faith, but is there any sort of proof that there is life beyond this physical existence when we die?</span></div><div align="left" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"> </div><div align="left" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"><div align="left" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoz5RsKD36E/TdHWwT-TlxI/AAAAAAAAALE/gIcfkRYf0OE/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoz5RsKD36E/TdHWwT-TlxI/AAAAAAAAALE/gIcfkRYf0OE/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a>Fundamental religions believe when we die, a day of judgement determines our destination of heavenly bliss or hellish torture. Eastern religions believe when we die a decision can be made to reincarnate in another earthly existence. Psychics believe they receive messages from those who have departed implying there is life after death. All of the above rely on faith to feel secure in the belief. As of late, a bridge is being built between science and spirituality. </div><div align="left" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"> </div><div align="left" style="font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Quantum physicists have concluded that the universe is made up of an everywhere present energy. For example, sub-atomic particles, the very building blocks of our existence, are pure, invisible energy. The spiritualist refers to this as the spirit of God which is the essence of our being. The quantum physicist has concluded that this energy does not dissipate or cease to be. The spiritualist sees this energy (spirit) as the soul which takes on the body to exist on the physical plane of being and then moves beyond it when the body is laid down. The advancement of science and the evolution of spiritual thought has brought us to the point where we can declare with certainty that God spirit (by any other name is still God Spirit) is within us providing for us what is needed to maintain our eternal individuality and experience our oneness with God..</span></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-31946238292484568842011-03-31T09:06:00.000-07:002011-03-31T09:06:19.132-07:00Is it important to believe in the existence of heaven?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WzmW6j95N8/SJyd4Hesi8I/AAAAAAAAAAU/W6M6gK3_Ggg/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WzmW6j95N8/SJyd4Hesi8I/AAAAAAAAAAU/W6M6gK3_Ggg/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div _mce_style="text-align: center; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span _mce_style="font-size: 10pt;" style="font-size: 10pt;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">We can perceive "Heaven" in two ways. As a destination of peace, harmony and love available to us when we leave this earthly plane.</span></div><div><div _mce_style="text-align: left;" align="left" style="text-align: left;"><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">We can also perceive heaven as a state of existence on this earthly plane that is characterized as one of peace harmony and love. Heaven is a state of mind, whether on earth or in the hereafter that comes about as a result of our thoughts. When we align our thoughts with the thinking of the great spiritual masters we automatically receive the benefits of a heavenly state.</div><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"> </div><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">The universal principle of cause and effect states the nature of any cause is found in its effect. If love is the cause of your thoughts, words and actions, love is going to be the effect. The same holds true for hate, resentment and conflict, which create an uncomfortable condition in our lives often referred to as hell. Each of us individually creates the emotional state of our existence. </div><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div _mce_style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">We have the free-will to chose the thoughts, words and actions we express. By choosing to express peace, harmony and love we create situations in our lives that are of "heaven". You are responsible for the conditions of your life. So, the next time you are feeling greatly disturbed, hateful, in conflict or out of harmony ask yourself, "What IN hell, am I doing." </div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-68883502641416368352011-03-10T10:57:00.000-08:002011-03-10T10:57:39.618-08:00The Power of God and Prayer<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pZFBkLK1b_E/TXke_IYU-RI/AAAAAAAAAKg/EWk7PoXFggE/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pZFBkLK1b_E/TXke_IYU-RI/AAAAAAAAAKg/EWk7PoXFggE/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a>God is Spirit. Spirit is the very essence of your being.<span> I</span>t is your life energy. It permeates every atom of your body and mind.<span> </span>The spirit within you provides to you a deep inner wisdom,<span> </span>emotional strength,<span> </span>unlimited love,<span> </span>the power to imagine what it is you want in your life,<span> </span>the creative ability to manifest it and a higher level of spiritual consciousness.<span> </span>When we pray, we calm ourselves,<span> </span>open up to this higher level of consciousness and communicate directly with God.<span> </span>In this quiet place we are given<span> </span>the answers to our problems and the way to move beyond our challenges.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The most effective form of prayer is affirmative prayer.<span> </span>With petitionary prayer we “ask” God for something.<span> </span>With affirmative prayer we thank God for already providing us with what we need such as, “Thank you God for the wisdom you have given me. I now wait patiently for the answer I seek.”<span> </span>or<span> </span>“Thank you God for the inner strength you have given me. I affirm that strength and know I will make it through this difficult time.”<span> </span>When we pray in this manner there is indeed a psychological benefit--tension and stress<span> </span>can<span> </span>be relieved--but more important than that,<span> </span>we free ourselves from thinking we are separate from God and helpless over our state of affairs.<span> </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-5036182736503300042011-02-17T14:16:00.000-08:002011-02-17T14:17:24.990-08:00To Be Reborn<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iPe-7C-8LqM/TV2eQG_vhPI/AAAAAAAAAKc/0Cerw-oVdwI/s1600/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iPe-7C-8LqM/TV2eQG_vhPI/AAAAAAAAAKc/0Cerw-oVdwI/s200/Duke%2527s+Staff+Photo+for+Directory.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana;">In the book of Matthew, Jesus says, “Surely I tell you, no one can enter the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Kingdom</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Heaven</st1:placename></st1:place> unless that person is born again.” What did he mean by that? Certainly, he didn’t literally mean a physical rebirth, but to be reborn into a higher consciousness. He was talking about moving to a new way of thinking and perceiving the world around us, a way of seeing ourselves and the world beyond fear, conflict and other negative thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">As you read these words, make them your own:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I am a student of life, and each day is a divine journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I am not stuck in difficult challenges or defeated by trying problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I am able to overcome any obstacle with the limitless wisdom and peace that is innately within me.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Today, I am born anew and move beyond attitudes of the past that have held me back from my higher good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1917371084494423866.post-10400519110346758412011-01-12T15:24:00.001-08:002011-01-12T15:25:04.584-08:00How do I lead a meaningful life?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_HLA4gFf5yBU/TS44TP8OcZI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/_11_g0v8nYw/s1600/Duke%2527s%2BStaff%2BPhoto%2Bfor%2BDirectory.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_HLA4gFf5yBU/TS44TP8OcZI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/_11_g0v8nYw/s200/Duke%2527s%2BStaff%2BPhoto%2Bfor%2BDirectory.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561444493196947858" /></a><br /><p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;">As the minister at Unity Temple on the Plaza, I have on several occasions sat on the bedside of a person who is very close to dying. The most difficult transitions are when the dying person is looking back on his/her life in a regretful way. They regret things they did; they regret things they didn't do; and they regret not fully living their lives to their heart's desire.<br /></span></p> <p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;">Each of us has the freedom to live our lives the way we choose as long as we don't violate the God given rights of another person to do the same. The first point of a meaningful life is to reach the end without regrets.<br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></p> <p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;">The second point of a meaningful life is to live in a way in which your presence is beneficial to the earth and its inhabitants. It is a very comforting thought to know that somehow, some way you make a positive difference. Your life counts for something good. You matter.<br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></p> <p style="text-align: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva; font-size: 10pt;">The third point of a meaningful life is to continually grow in knowledge, wisdom and conscious awareness. Each of us has a vast, unlimited mental, emotional and spiritual potential and nothing can bring the satisfaction, meaning and fulfillment that comes from the self becoming more than it has ever been before. <strong>"Learn as if you'll live forever; live as if you'll die tomorrow!"</strong></span></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06052568625354576565noreply@blogger.com1