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These are answers that IamDyan has provided in Spirituality
| Question/Answer | | pj333 asked on 07/24/05 - time out ! hello everyone.
i am posting this on each expert site, so whomever reads it will understand .
i am going to be declining old questions that have been hanging way to long .
the next 6 weeks i am moving ,selling my house ,finishing building another one [where we have difficuties and have to finish it ourselves .]
changing jobs ,and dealing with my mothers failing health .
recently i have gotten some very negative comments ,and frankly i dont need that right now .
i will still check into the site but i am not doing any readings [which people do not realise is very very time consuming and i am not, nor have i ever claimed to be a sylvia browne ].
For the next three months .
i will still do dream interpetations and hopefully be able to spend more time after our move .
anyway i"ll still be around but can not spend hours helping others at this time ,like i usually enjoy doing .
sorry if this offends anyone .
peggy:}
IamDyan answered on 07/29/05:Hi Peggy,
It's been a while since we've spoke ... I've spent less time here of late because of all that's going on around home too. I wish you all the best with your new projects and will keep your mother's health in my prayers.
I hope you have lots of luck and good feelings coming your way, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | powderpuff asked on 07/28/05 - Weighing heavily on my mind. My good friend committed suicide. She was one of the first people I met when I moved to TX back in 1978. We became good friends right away. We socialized together, worked together as nurses, and our husbands worked for the same company too. We had children and raised them together. We helped each other out through thick and thin. We shared each others triumphs and disappointments. We laughed together and we cried together.
I'll never forget the day she confessed to me that she was pregnant, and ambivalent about it. I too was pregnant and ambivalent, this time with my fourth child and had not yet told anyone but my husband. What a relief to confess that I was in the same condition. A relief for her too, to be able to share her experience with such a good friend.
Anyway, now I grieve. It took me a couple days to tell my two youngest kids about Karen's suicide. First I told my daughter, who is the same age as Karen's daughter, Kelsy. My daughter and Karen's daughter grew up very close, like sisters. When I told my daughter, she of course was horrified and deeply saddened. Her first words were: omg, Poor Kelsy, what is Kelsy going to do? Then I told my son. He had already heard the news, and was deeply saddened, and he said: I wonder what Kelsy is going to do? I have not told my older son about it yet. I don't think he will wonder what about Kelsy. He knows. His own dad committed suicide when he was still a very young child.
Kelsy will be 20 next month. She will go through adult life without a mother. She still has her dad, I told my kids. She will be okay, she's still got Bryan.
This tragic death has ripped this family apart. Anger and blame is out of control. Karen's mother found her unconscious with a suicide note taped to her body explaining that she had taken an insulin overdose, then she took the note and threw it away, and did not tell anyone for over 24 hours. I know Karen's mother very well and can imagine her guilt and devastation.
I have many thoughts and concerns about the effects of this tragedy.
:( IamDyan answered on 07/29/05:I am so very sorry for the loss all of you are and will be feeling for quite some time. How good it is, though, that your families, with so many similarities, have each other to lean on ... hopefully, that is some bit of comfort.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 07/08/05 - London Bombings---Pray for a Guiding Light A guiding light…Yes, and I offer this wisdom…for you have seen for a long time the great disorder in the world caused by these crimes and, from the confines of Jerusalem, a horrible tale has gone forth and very frequently has been brought to our ears, namely, that a race derived from the kingdom of the Persians, an accursed race, a race utterly alienated from God has sworn to remove us from the face of the Earth. Let the deeds of your ancestors move you and incite your minds to great achievements; the glory and greatness of the Christian World who have destroyed the kingdoms of the pagans, and have extended in those lands the territory of the holy church. If in olden times the Maccabees attained to the highest praise of piety because they fought for Justice, it is also justly granted you, and Christian soldiers, to defend the liberty of your country by armed endeavor. And you ought, furthermore, to consider, if by your work and, God working through you, it should occur that the Mother of churches should flourish anew to the worship of Christianity, whether, perchance, He may not wish other regions of the East to be restored to the faith against the approaching time of the Antichrist. IamDyan answered on 07/11/05:Hi DC, Hope all is well with you. It was odd ... that the day of the bombings, I told my mother (after having spoken to some colleagues in London) that the UK felt they had their 9/11. And then, my mom said, "Well, it was not the same level of devestation."
And yet I said ... no it is just the same. We are robbing a large majority of the population from a peace of mind, and in doing so, turning a large many to faith, and a few to faithlessness. Same result.
Life goes on .... same lessons.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 06/22/05 - Baby Baby on the way. Found out on Fathers day. I ask for all your prayers of a healthy baby and mother. Thank you in advance! Joe IamDyan answered on 06/22/05:WOW! How wonderful!!!
Joe, you, your wife, and all the family are in my prayers.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 06/14/05 - Not a question. Just wanted to let you know...... I am madly, wildly and crazily in love. Who would ever imagine a 60 year young woman so far gone in love she feels like a teenager again?
I left my second husband in 1997 and have not had the slightest interest in dating, or in being around men at all since then - until this last March when I met theman and my knees turned to butter. I also lost my appetite which was good because it led to my losing 10 pounds that I'd been wanting gone.
I got onto a daily exercise regime, started eating properly, and got my body back in tone, then had my hair and face done up.
Life is good. I'm SO happy. AND I thank all of you who responded to my call for help in my posting "Detach from the outcome....." Your prayers and positive energy brought me this far..... I finally was able to detach from the outcome and look what's happened.
Love you all!
Purplewings IamDyan answered on 06/21/05:Hi Loral,
Let me add my late congratulations here! So very, very great news :) Life is just really good, isn't it?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 04/07/05 - A cute Joke! Subject: Fw: Baptist Dog
-Thought this was cute enough to pass along -----
Ever mindful of the congregation, the Baptist preacher and his wife
decided to get a new dog, and knew that the dog also had to be a Baptist.
They visited kennel after kennel and explained their needs. Finally,
they found a kennel whose owner assured them he had just the dog they
wanted. The owner brought the dog to meet the pastor and his wife.
"Fetch the Bible," he commanded. The dog bounded to the bookshelf,
scrutinized the books, located the Bible, and brought it to the owner.
"Now find Psalm 23," he commanded.
The dog dropped the Bible to the floor, and showing marvelous dexterity
with his paws, leafed through and finding the correct passage, pointed
to it with his paw. The pastor and his wife were very impressed and
purchased the dog.
That evening, a group of church members came to visit. The pastor and
his&nbs p;wife began to show off the dog, having him locate several Bible verses.
The visitors were very impressed.
One man asked, "Can he do regular dog tricks, too?"
"I haven't tried yet," the pastor replied. He pointed his finger at the dog.
"HEEL!" the pastor commanded.
The dog immediately jumped on a chair, placed one paw on the pastors
forehead and began to howl.
The pastor looked at his wife in shock and said, "Good Lord! "He's Pentecostal!" IamDyan answered on 04/08/05::) We just recently were back home for a visit .... wish we had the joke to share then :)
Hope all is well with you, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | bal317 asked on 03/19/05 - Requesting Prayer's Dear Expert's: I would like to request Prayer's for those innocent Children and People who we are hearing about in our News lately, who's lives were horidly taken away.
The little girl who was kidnapped from her Grandparents and Father's trailer by the molestor that lived unknowingly across the street from them, and they just caught the man.
Another little girl who's Grandma, said a Social Worker came and took her Grand-daughter for some type of an appointment and both Worker and Child was never seen again. Now they feel Grandma actully killed the Child, and she's in jail.
In our local news a man who just admitted he now at age of 50, has been having sexual intercourse with a 15yr old girl now and this had been going on with the same child for the last 5 yrs. So he has been molesting her since she was 10.
I am sure all of you have been seeing the worst of the worst going on in your areas.
If we all could please Pray and hold them with their loved ones in thought, that they are at rest and if they were fortunate to of survived that they know God has not forgotten them.
Thank you so much.
Blessings,
bal317 IamDyan answered on 03/24/05:They are in my prayers, Bal. God bless them!!! | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 03/17/05 - Happy St Patrick's Day
"This is the day when legend has it that St. Patrick was granted three wishes by an angel of the Lord, in order to bring happiness and hope to the Irish.
"First, that on this day the weather should always be fair and allow the faithful to attend Mass. Second, that on every Thursday and Saturday twelve Irish souls should be freed from the pains of Hell. And, third, that no outlander should ever rule over Ireland.
"Though I have not received the latest weather report I did speak to the Irish Ambassador and he said the weather was fair and that everyone attended church, although there was a little Irish mist. And I have reason to believe the twelve Irishmen have been regularly released from the nether regions as promised. Judge Nealon just told me he thinks that several of them are here tonight.
"We need have no concerns over the third promise, in Ireland they are celebrating this day in freedom and liberty. But you and I know that life was not always this good for the Irish, either back in the old country or here in America. There was for example that black day in February 1847 when it was announced in the House Of Commons that fifteen thousand people a day were dying of starvation in Ireland. And you may recall that Queen Victoria was so moved by this pitiful news that she contributed five pounds for the Society for Irish Relief. So the Irish left Ireland.
"Many of them came here to the United States. They left behind hearts and fields and a nation yearning to be free. It is no wonder that James Joyce described the Atlantic as a bowl of bitter tears and a earlier poet wrote, 'They are going, going, going and we cannot bid them stay.' This country offered great advantages, even then. But no one familiar with the story of the Irish here would underrate the difficulties they faced after landing in the United States.
"As the first of the racial minorities, our forefathers were subject to every discrimination found wherever discrimination is known. But many of the Irish were gifted with boundless confidence that served them so well. One was a pugilist from my native Boston. John L. Sullivan won the heavyweight championship of the world not too many years after the flood tide of Irish emigration to this country and in 1887 he toured the British Isles in triumph. Some idea of Irish progress can be gathered from his cordial greeting to the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII. John L. said, 'I'm proud to meet you. If you ever come to Boston be sure to look me up. I'll see that you are treated right.' And referring to the Prince he later added with Irish generosity. 'Anyone can see he is a gentleman. He is the kind of man you could introduce to your family.'
"Irish progress here has continued. It was some time ago the late Fred Allen defined the 'lace curtain Irish' as those who have fruit in their house when no one's sick." But it was less than nine months ago when President Kennedy in touring Ireland, used to ask the crowds he talked with how many had cousins in America. The usual response was for nearly every hand in the crowd to be raised. It was with great delight that he was able to reply; 'I've seen them all, and they are doing well.' And, so it is my great delight to be with you here tonight as we take a few moments to share the rich heritage of the Irish.
"It's worth noting, I think that all the wealth of our legacy stems from a small island in the far Atlantic with a population one quarter the size of the state of Pennsylvania. The Irish have survived persecution in their own land and discrimination in ours. They have emerged from the shadow of subjugation into the sunlight of personal liberty and national independence of nations across the globe. Irish soldiers are en route tonight to help preserve the peace in Cyprus.
"Indeed, Ireland’s chief export has been neither potatoes nor linen, but exiles and immigrants who have fought with sword and pen for freedom around the earth. We need but recall the heroic deeds of the "Wild Geese" the officers and soldiers forced to flee their native Ireland after the battle of the Boyne. Fighting for the French, they broke the ranks of the English at Fontenoy. Fighting for the Spanish, they turned the tide of battle against the Germans at Melaazo.
"And, other Irishmen in other years, going into battle with the Union Army - a green sprig in their hats - bore the brunt of the hopeless assaults of the Confederate heights at Fredericksburg. Twelve hundred soldier of the Irish Brigade went into action the bitterly cold December day in 1862. Only 280 survived, as President Kennedy noted last summer when he presented the Brigade's battle-torn flag to the Irish people. 'Never were men so brave,' General Robert E. Lee said of the Irish Brigade; War batter dogs are we/Gnawing a naked bone/Fighters in every land and clime/For every cause but our own.
"Today the Irish enjoy their freedom at a time when millions of people live in deprivation and despair under totalitarian dictatorships stretching from the Wall in Berlin to the troubled borders of South Vietnam. The free Irishmen marching everywhere today to the tune of 'O'Donnell Abu' and 'The Wearing of the Green' are a dramatic contrast to the clattering of hobnail boots on darkened streets, the sound that marks the enslaved nations.
"So, the first point I'd like to make arises from the traditional Irish concern for freedom - everywhere. I know of few in our land-and I hope none in this room - who would ignore threats to peace and freedom in far off places. We realize as John Boyle O'Reily once wrote, that 'The world is large, when it wear leagues to loving hearts divide; but the world is small when your enemy is loose on the other side.'
"No problem weighs heavier on the conscience of free men than the fate of millions in iron captivity. But what is taking place on the other side of the Iron Curtain should not be the only matter of concern to us who are committed to freedom. I would hope that none here would ignore the current struggle of some of our fellow citizens right here in the United States for their measure of freedom. In considering this it may be helpful for us to recall some to the conditions that existed in Ireland from 1691 until well into the nineteenth century against which our forefathers fought.
"We might remember for instance that in Ireland of 1691 no Irish Catholic could vote, serve on a jury or enter a university, become a lawyer work for the government or marry a Protestant. And our pride in the progress of the Irish is chilled by the tragic irony that is has not been progress for everyone. We know that is has not been progress for humanity. I know it because so much work of the Department of Justice today is devoted to securing these or comparable rights for all Americans in the United States in 1964. There are Americans who - as the Irish did - still face discrimination in employment-sometimes open, sometimes hidden. There are cities in America today that are torn with strife over whether a Negro should be allowed to drive a garbage truck, and their walls of silent conspiracy that block the progress of others because of race or creed without regard to ability. It is toward concern for these issues and vigorous participation on the side of freedom that our Irish heritage must impel us.
"If we are true to our heritage we cannot stand aside. There are two other areas of concern which I feel are of paramount importance and to which the Irish tradition speaks in ringing tones. One is the status of freedom in colonies and second our relationship to the underdeveloped nations of the world. The greatest enemy of freedom today of course is Communism, a tyranny that holds it s captives in a vice like subjugation on a global scale. For nearly twenty years we and our Allies have striven to halt the Communist advance. But one of the weaknesses in our common front has been the restraint on freedom sponsored by our Allies and accepted by ourselves. The conduct of our foreign affairs should be consistently based on our recognition of every man’s right to be economically and politically free. This is the American tradition. We were after all the victors in our own war for independence. We promulgated the Monroe Doctrine and the open door policy with their clear warnings to the colonial powers of Europe. We gave self-determination to our own dependencies and for more than a century we opposed colonial exploitation elsewhere. But throughout all this we were still living largely in splendid isolation, removed from a direct control of world destiny.
"This was changed by World War II. The frontiers of our national security became the frontiers of the world. We had found ourselves obliged to deal with the harsh facts of existence on a global basis. For the sake of our own security we found our destiny to be closely linked with that of nations that maintained large colonial empires which they felt their ultimate security depended. In some of the underdeveloped countries we have found our destiny linked with ruling powers or classes which hold the vast majority of their people in economic or military subjugation.
"It is easy for us to believe that the imperialism of the West was infinitely more preferable to the tyranny of Communism. But the sullen hostility of the African and Asian colonial nations has shown us that not all hold the same view. The bloody struggles for liberty from the sands of Algeria to the steaming jungles of Indonesia and Vietnam prove that others would make the same sacrifices to throw off the yoke of imperialism today that the Irish did more than a half century ago. And we have a longer way to go in helping the people of some other nations to free themselves from economic domination. This is a part of our National policy not only because it is humane but also because it is essential. Our future may depend on how well this understood throughout the world and how well it is understood that we still champion the quality of freedom everywhere that Americans enjoy at home.
"I like to think, as President Kennedy did, that the emerald thread runs into the cloth you weave today, that these polices in which he believe so strongly and which President Johnson is advancing, are the current flowering of the Irish tradition. They are directed toward freedom for all Americans here and for all peoples throughout the world. And I like to think that these policies will survive and continue as the cause of Irish freedom survived the death of "The Liberator," Owen Roe O'Neill. As you will recall, O'Neill was one of the great figures of Irish history. It was of the period after his death when the entire Irish nation was overwhelmed with grief that the following lines were written: 'Sagest in the council was he/Kindest in the Hall/Sure we never won a battle-Twas Owen won them all/Soft as a woman's was your voice, O’Neill/Bright was your eye/Oh! Why did you leave us, Owen? Why did you die? /Your troubles are all over/You're at rest with God on high/But we're slaves and we're orphans Owen! -Why did you die? /We're sheep without a shepherd/When the snow shuts out the sky/Oh! Why did you leave us, Owen? Why did you die? /
"So, on this St. Patrick's evening let me urge you one final time to recall the heritage of the Irish. Let us hold our hands to those who struggle for freedom today at home and abroad as Ireland struggled for a thousand years. Let us not leave them to be sheep without a shepherd when the snow shuts out the sky. Let us show them that we have not forgotten the constancy and the faith and the hope of the Irish.”
Robert F. Kennedy
.................................................
In 1964, Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy delivered one of the better talks on the meaning of St. Patrick's Day to the Irish in America, and the chance to live in freedom . His words have a particular significance this St. Patrick’s Day, as thousands upon thousands in distant lands strive to live in the freedom that we enjoy here and often take for granted.
IamDyan answered on 03/17/05:I heard today from some colleagues from Ireland, that US folks out of work now immigrate to Ireland because of the favorable working conditions, cost of living, and rate of pay.
Having not been to Ireland yet, but hoping to visit soon, I am glad there is someplace with even greater promise than the US :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/13/05 - For the ladies. In the hospital the relatives gathered in the waiting room, where their family member lay gravely ill. Finally, the doctor came in looking tired and somber. "I'm afraid I'm the bearer of bad news," he said as he surveyed the worried faces. "The only hope left for your loved one at this time is a brain transplant. It's an experimental procedure, semi-risky and you will have to pay for the brain yourselves."
The family members sat silent as they absorbed the news. After a great length of time, someone asked, "Well, how much does a brain cost?"
The doctor quickly responded, "$5,000 for a male brain, and $200 for a female brain." The moment turned awkward. Men in the room tried not to smile, avoiding eye contact with the women, but some actually smirked.
A man, unable to control his curiosity, blurted out the question everyone wanted to ask, "Why is the male brain so much more?"
The doctor smiled at the childish innocence and to the entire group said, "It's just standard pricing procedure. We have to mark down the price of the female brains, because they've actually been used."
IamDyan answered on 03/13/05:tee hee!! | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 03/12/05 - Question #3 Second Quiz If you had to live your life over, what career or job would you choose to have? and why?
IamDyan answered on 03/12/05:Easy question ... I'd be an anthropologist. I would travel to ancient ruins and uncover their many secrets. The idea of finding something that actually explains someone's life and times seems intriguing. I truly believe we eitherlearn from history or are doomed to repeat it.
I have no idea why I only had this interest recently .... and I have to say that it really doesn't mesh with my current profession of providing software consulting to big business. But if (or when) I have it to do over again ... that's my choice.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/09/05 - A Department of Peace. Can it help? Marianne Williamson
We're in the Spin Cycle of God's Washing Machine
For generations, we had looked to the traditional doctor as the be-all and end-all of medical treatment--but a few decades ago, the holistic model emerged into mainstream consciousness and we realized that in order to heal the body, to really effect any kind of a cure, we need to address emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues as well. We are now at a point where the most prestigious academic institutions in the United States have verified that people who’ve been diagnosed with a life-challenging illness, and who attend spiritual support groups, live on average twice as long after diagnosis. Studies prove the efficacy of prayer in its ability to help heal the body; people who are prayed for get out of intensive care units faster. Women who are attended by doulas during labor have fewer complications with birth. We want to hear what the traditional doctor has to say; we want to hear what the surgeon has to say. But we also want to hear from the therapist, the nutritionist, from the energy doctor, etc.
A parallel revolution should now take place in our political thinking.Our politicians are like traditional
doctors; they wait until the disease occurs and then they try to manage or suppress the symptoms. You can’t blame a traditional doctor for giving a traditional perspective; that’s his or her training. You can’t blame a surgeon for giving a surgeon’s perspective; you can’t blame a military person for giving you a military perspective -- and those perspectives are extremely valuable. But you want to have a broad array of options for solving the problem.
In politics, we are having a conversation that can be likened to a conversation about healing the body, circa 1950. Even terrorism is an example. You could liken Hitler, the Nazis, and the Japanese Imperial Army to an operable tumor; they could be and they were surgically removed. Terrorism on the other hand is like a cancer that has already metastasized throughout the body, but we are pretending we can just go in there and surgically remove it. And with some cancers, touching it makes it worse.
Who would be part of the Department of Peace?
The legislation as it has been offered by Congressman Dennis Kucinich calls for a peace academy as a complement to the military academy. At the military academy, we teach and learn the most advanced ways to wage war. At the peace academy, we would learn the most advanced ways to wage peace. Iraq is a tragic example of American effectiveness at waging war, i.e. destroying what we didn’t want in the first days of the war, but our inability in the days and months following to wage peace.
I appreciate all your thoughts on this.
PW
IamDyan answered on 03/10/05:Hi PW,
This is an interesting chain of thought. I have to think that it is truly already at work in that our military is not just waging war, in Iraq ... it is building and supplying schools, getting people to work, protecting the citizenry, restoring utilities and infrastructure.
But yet, those efforts are rarely heralded or advertised.
So, I would say the Department of Peace should include some of our best marketing executives. Those same folks who make a kid from the ghetto feel the need to spend $250 for a pair of sneakers. In addition, it should include some of the terrorist groups highest motivators. Those same folks who can make a 19 year old kid think there's glory in blowing himself up in a crowded market.
I think those folks would go a long way to getting the word out. Enough that, with our own individual efforts combined, it might make a difference.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 03/03/05 - Laughter If laughter is the best medicine, what is the disease? IamDyan answered on 03/03/05:Anything that does not make us laugh, or, at the very least, smile :)
OK, from day to day, this might vary, I grant you. So, I think laughter is the best medicine for life --- which is terminal, I have heard.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | gss30 asked on 03/02/05 - The last open post here I know some people here will find it marvelous, but I want to say that I'll NEVER return to a question board here again.
To the people who hurt me and made me cry and AT FIRST made me feel even worse when I wrote for HELP, I'd like to say that I got very good feedback from many experts who will CONTINUE to be my friends.
I learned English only studying in my country, because despite of being well born here in Brazil my parents couldn't afford me to live abroad.Now I'm 32 and I have my job, I can go in the future. I was never arrogant to say my English is perfect and even so, some people continued trying to tease me.
Just to tell to some of these people who are experts in Emotional wellbeing, Spirituality, and even EDUCATION, because Education is not only a matter of writing, but it is a way of coping with people, I'm young, I have my life ahead, please, try to write something in a language which is not yours, and you've never gone to this country, and feel the stones thrown by the native ones. Is that EDUCATION, EMOTIONAL HELP? I know you will repeat the old BAD,POOR answers:"Her English is outrageous, atrocious, whatever", and not to think there's a PERSON behind the computer who wrote here to SHARE, because this place was to be a place of help.I got great answers here from very gentle people who made me to go out from my house, with a smile and self confidence, being grateful for God for being alive,feeling better about myself, not people who wanted to hurt. THe world hurt us enough, if there is a place for help, let's permmit it.
Please don't do it with others, I NEVER did it to anyone.I KNOW my English isn't horrible because I CAN communicate and language is communication.You are reading me and understanding every word, aren't you? So if I'm 32 and I have my life ahead I have a lot to improve from it.
I'LL NEVER ASK ON A BOARD HERE. People can tell you what you can do to improve, it's different from being critical, harsh, without knowing the person, what she passed through.
THANK YOU for the help I got, and to the further and certain future bad answers from the offenders: YOU WILL BE IGNORED AND NOT READ.
Para aqueles que me ajudaram, eu só queria dizer que amo cada um de vocês.
IT MEANS: TO THE ONES WHO HELPED ME, I'D JUST LIKE TO SAY I LOVE EACH ONE OF YOU.
YEAH, I STUDIED A LOT, AND I STILL STUDY, BECAUSE STUDENTS HATE ARROGANT TEACHERS, WHO SEEMS TO HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS. THEY LIKE TO SEE US AS PEOPLE.
AND IF SOME PEOPLE HERE WHO ANSWERED ME BACK ARE AN EXAMPLE OF GOOD WRITING, GEE...
Try to learn a language only studying, that's another advice.It won't be easy, and maybe someday a native one will criticize you in a rude way...you'll remember me.
BYE MY REAL FRIENDS...we'll keep in touch.
TO THE OTHERS: I'LL BE HAPPY.So happy you'd be amazed.
IamDyan answered on 03/03/05:Eu desejo-lhe todo o mais melhor!!
Hello Gss,
While I only speak two languages, I work with people around the world who speak many more, and I am always amazed that they can accomodate my English.
I do not believe we have met on this board, but I am sorry your experience here was so negative.
I wish you all the best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/28/05 - Question #2 Second Quiz The first question. In the study, more Americans chose money over physical love if thy had to chose between the two, going forward. :):):)
Second Question.
What are the five food items that you couldn't do without on an isolated island? (for example: spinach) IamDyan answered on 03/03/05:OK, hope I am not too late to join the fun:)
Five food items .... hmmmmm,
steak, shrimp, bread, butter, beer | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 02/27/05 - Coping with the daily problems Many people say I'm a good teacher. I know in all professions there are the pros and cons. I work a lot, and I can't diminish my hours because I need the money, but I 'm stressed in coping with so many different people and minds. At 32, I'm even starting thinking about taking another college to change my profession. I got a position, two jobs in different schools, I like teaching, but when I face (some) terrible students and my unbearable coordinator (I can't even hear his voice, it irritates me)I want to quit! How to recover my peace of mind and face these everyday problems in a better way, if I can't change them?
IamDyan answered on 02/27/05:Hi Anon,
You've received a lot of good advice so far. I don't want to repeat things, but here's something additional to consider ...
Try taking small breaks throughout the day. If your lunchtime accomodates it, get off the campus and out to lunch with friends where you can talk about something other than work. If your lunchtime, does not accomodate being off campus, then at least make sure during that time, you do not talk about work - read a book, if your co-workers will not cooperate :) I have found that in four hour increments, almost anything is possible.
For your terrible students, try involving their parents/other family members in the curriculum, if you haven't already. Sometime it's not possible, but often they can take a day a month to be in classroom as an assistant or mentor or classroom aide, and bring some stability to their child's behavior.
For your unbearable coordinator, is there another coworker who gets along with him? If so, ask them what their technique is. Chances are, they have one they will be willing to share.
And, dfinitely, get another position, before you leave this one. Your bargaining power will be much higher.
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| | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 02/20/05 - USA - Money! It seems to me that America, is mostly focused on money. Is this a true statement? What do you think? Thank you in advance!
Joe IamDyan answered on 02/24/05:Hi Joe,
I don't think it's America or Americans that are focused on money. I think it's America that's focused on a dream ... whatever that dream might be.
Thing is, in America, it's the original place of the dream. You can be anything. You can grow from being poor to be rich or the president.
I think it's the marketing firms that are focused on money. And believe me, the marketing firms are out there in other countries, too. Maybe we just have more TV's and billboards here in the US.
My grandparents (who grew up during The Depression) had a wonderful wisdom about this topic.
They said that money really only becomes important when you just don't have enough.
I truly believe that is accurate. But defining what is "enough" is probably really more the issue. For my grandparents, it meant being able to house, clothe, feed, and educate their family and keep them healthy.
That's a pretty good measure, even today, when there are lots of people in the US who are struggling week by week to accomplish this ... hoping that something unexpected does not happen, because there's just no money for the unexpected.
Then, there's the measure marketing firms would have you believe ... the $100 shoes; the $1000 electronic items; the $30K cars.
Anyway, just my thoughts...
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/20/05 - Another Quiz We all enjoy quizzed on the Spirituality Board as we get to know our cyber pals better. Another ten week quiz? OK.
1. If you had to choose between physical love and money, what would you chose?? Please state you country of origin. IamDyan answered on 02/20/05:This is tough ... Not sure if this is saying I would never have another hug if I choose money; and if I choose physical love, that I would not have enough money to get by ... or could I grow my own food?
Hmmmmm....maybe I am reading more into this than necessary :)
I choose love. Without a hug and a kiss when I need it, money doesn't mean much.
All the Best, Dyan
(You know where I live :) | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/16/05 - Fun Quiz? Which cartoon character are you?
Everyone has a personality of a cartoon character. Have you ever asked yourself what cartoon character do you most resemble?
A group of investigators got together and analyzed the personalities of well-known and modern cartoon characters. The information that was gathered was made into this test.
Answer all the questions with what describes you best, and I will post the results after we're done.
1) Which one of the following describes the perfect date?
a) Candlelight dinner (4 pts.)
b) Fun/Theme park (2 pts.)
c) Painting in the park (5 pts.)
d) Rock concert (1 pt.)
e) Going to the movies (3 pts.)
2) What is your favorite type of music?
a) Rock 'n Roll (2 pts.)
b) Alternative (1 pt.)
c) Soft Rock (4 pts.)
d) Country (5 pts.)
e) Pop (3 pts.)
3) What type of movies do you prefer?
a) Comedy (2 pts.)
b) Horror (1 pt.)
c) Musical (3 pts.)
d) Romance (4pts.)
e) Documentary (5 pts.)
4) Which one of these occupations would you choose if you only could choose one of these?
a) Waiter (4 pts.)
b) Professional Sports Player (5 pts.)
c) Teacher (3pts.)
d) Police (2 pts.)
e) Cashier (1 pt.)
5) What do you do with your spare time?
a) Exercise (5 pts.)
b) Read (4 pts.)
c) Watch television (2 pts.)
d) Listen to music (1 pt.)
e) Sleep (3 pts.)
6) Which one of the following colors do you like best?
a) Yellow (1 pt.)
b) White (5 pts.)
c) Sky Blue (3 pts.)
d) Dark Blue (2 pts.)
e) Red (4 pts.)
7) What do you prefer to eat right now?
a) Snow (3 pts.)
b) Pizza (2 pts)
c) Sushi (1 pt.)
d) Pasta (4 pts.)
e) Salad (5 pts.)
8) What is your favorite holiday?
a) Halloween (1 pt.)
b) Christmas (3 pts.)
c) New Year (2 pts.)
d) Valentine's Day (4 pts)
e) Thanksgiving (5 pts.)
9) If you could go to one of these places, which one would it be?
a) Paris (4 pts.)
b) Spain (5 pts.)
c) Las Vegas (1 pt.)
d) Hawaii (4 pts.)
e) Hollywood (3 pts.)
10) With which of the following would you prefer to spend time with?
a) Someone smart (5 pts.)
b) Someone attractive (2 pts.)
c) Someone who likes to party (1 pt.)
d) Someone who always has fun (3 pts.)
e) Someone very sentimental (4 pts.)
Now add up your points and find out the answer you have been waiting for!
IamDyan answered on 02/17/05:OK, Hope I am not too late to join the fun:)
Here goes ....
1) Which one of the following describes the perfect date?
a) Candlelight dinner (4 pts.)
2) What is your favorite type of music?
b) Alternative (1 pt.)
3) What type of movies do you prefer?
a) Comedy (2 pts.)
4) Which one of these occupations would you choose if you only could choose one of these?
c) Teacher (3pts.)
5) What do you do with your spare time?
b) Read (4 pts.)
6) Which one of the following colors do you like best?
e) Red (4 pts.)
7) What do you prefer to eat right now?
c) Sushi (1 pt.)
8) What is your favorite holiday?
e) Thanksgiving (5 pts.)
9) If you could go to one of these places, which one would it be?
d) Hawaii (4 pts.)
10) With which of the following would you prefer to spend time with?
d) Someone who always has fun (3 pts.)
Now add up your points and find out the answer you have been waiting for!
OK .... who am I?? | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 02/05/05 - Getting Old I'm sick of getting old! Sick of it!!!!! I can put up with a lot of life's unpleasantness, but this is ridiculous!! I hate it!
As if losing one's looks isn't enough, or being condescended to by young people, or a hundred other unpleasant things, NOW, my teeth hurt!! My teeth!!! Over the years I spent thousands of dollars to keep my teeth in good health, and now, they hurt!! They just ache from old age!!!!
Every day it's one thing or another.
Thanks for your time. IamDyan answered on 02/06/05:Hi Anon,
I am sorry about your toothaches. I think I would almost rather have my fingernails yanked out with pliers than have a toothache. Of course, I have never had my fingernails yanked out, so I could be wrong. But when I have a toothache, that sure seems like a viable alternative. You might try some Aleve and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Getting older has its advantages, as does being younger. You will find good things every day if you look for them. Can't spend your whole life when you are younger wishing you were older ... and when you are older wishing your were younger. A sure way to wish away your whole life.
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/28/05 - example for practicing spirituality Can anyone give an example for practicing spirituality--- without believing in the metaphysical existence of supernatural forces? IamDyan answered on 01/29/05:Hi DC,
I believe it is very difficult to balance the two ... but, here goes.
Since believing is a factual occurrence, often influenced by, but ultimately independent of logical reasoning or facts, believing in something which you know does not exist is not in itself a contradiction.
Of course, this is the kind of thing that would normally be a largely pointless exercise in thinking and feeling. For 99% of the time, it is important that our beliefs match our knowledge.
I happen to believe that this is a rare occurrence where the exception is warranted.
I have no idea what makes me think so ... only that I believe that where there is so much belief in a world of many cultures, seemingly unconnected throughout the ages, who still somehow have amazingly similar beliefs (the ten commandements, the golden rule, a love of nature, self-preservation, the need for community, the love of family, protection of the elders and the young)throughout all of recorded time, there is something that must suspend one's disbelief, if even for a short time.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 01/28/05 - Iraqis vote Sunday This Sunday shall determine many things for the future of our world. I don't know if you all take in how very important this is, let me share my views on this to see if I can tingle some or re-inforce others that feel and think the same.
No matter what side of the spectrum you are in when it comes to this war. Whether is was unfounded, we were lied to, it was over oil. Or, it had to be done, we had every reason to go in. On either side of this war the ultimate outcome will show on Sunday.
Whether or not you support this war the result on Sunday will show if over a 1000 of our good men and women died for a cause that is meaningful and ready to take on spreading democracy and freedom. We hear day in and day out how people live with out freedom. How much they wish for it and it is so... very well shown in the number of people that will die to get to America. America has proven that freedom = power. Freedom offers so very much that it is priceless. I wonder and hopefully will have this answer on Sunday from the Iraqi people if they have any clue at all on this. If they truly have the smallest of concept of this God given right.
I have already started my spiritual giving of prayers to these people in hopes that life will give them a hand in this. People will die, there will be bombs, threats, a very scarry time for them and my heart is there for them. This is their chance. Maybe their only chance for a democracy and a rule of the people. America will stand by them however we can not do it for them. We will hold their hands however they have to lead now. Please, Iraqi's give us free meaning behind those that have died for you.
Honestly if I do not see a major out pouring of voting on Sunday I will have to go on the course of getting the troops out. I see no other choice. If they will not (there is no can not) in this chance of democracy then I see no further reason for trying to help them accomplish something that has the must of their leadership in it. The ball has been in their court for months now and we are seeing little by little a difference. With that many good men and women killed standing by and for them for this shot at having a true ruling of the people. Any Iraqi with dreams and hopes for a democracy has their day to speak out, be HEARD BY THE WORLD!
THE WORLD IS WATCHING, YOU HAVE OUR ATTENTION, NOW MAKE IT MEAN SOMETHING AND SOMETHING GREAT!
Best to ya'll
tta IamDyan answered on 01/28/05:tta,
I would like to see many voting from all areas of the diverse population, and it is in my prayers as well.
It seems this is just a first step in comprising an assembly that can construct the structure of the government. But that said, I would hope that all of the population will feel confident that they are equally respresented by the folks that are voted in.
It is up to the Iraqi population to stand up at this point. And, while there is strength in numbers, it is often difficult to stand up when you have been conditioned to bullying all your life. Ever try to talk a battered wife into leaving her husband? I have ... not easy. Often takes many, many discussions.
Time will tell.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 01/24/05 - Terry Sciavo The Florida courts refused to uphold the law that provided for continued feeding of the brain damaged woman.
Isn't it better to let the woman die after all these years being hooked up to a feeding tube? IamDyan answered on 01/25/05:Just my personal opinion having watched this case, but the decision seems to have torn apart a lot of family ties.
Her parents want to keep her alive by any means necessary, and I can understand that in a way since losing a child is nothing any parent ever expects.
But her husband, wants to let things take their course naturally beliving that is her wishes.
I believe this is a wonderful example why we should all commit our wishes to a living will. Personally, I do not believe I would want to have my body merely exist for years on end.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/13/05 - what do you think of when you hear the word 'butterfly? I Chuang-tzu, dreamt I was a butterfly, fluttering hither and thither, to all intents and purposes a butterfly---.Now I do not know whether I was then a man dreaming I was a butterfly, or whether I am now butterfly dreaming I am a man.
Please give me your meaning of this?
IamDyan answered on 01/14/05:Hi DC,
This is a puzzle presented byt the author, but need not be.
For, once one is presented with the opportunity to live so deeply and completely in another's shoes, what does it matter whether we are the butterfly or we are the man?
What matters more is that as we continue life, our decisions and actions are influenced by both points of view.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 01/06/05 - Mantra I have a couple of mantras that I repeat when I seek peace and harmony. Does anyone else have a mantra or mantras here? How efficient do you find this spiritual practice? IamDyan answered on 01/07/05:For myself, I daily recite the prayer of Saint Francis ....
Make me a channel of your peace:
Where there is hatred, let me bring your love;
Where there is injury, your healing power,
And where there's doubt, true faith in you.
Make me a channel of your peace:
Where there's despair in life let me bring hope;Where there is darkness, - only light,
And where there's sadness, ever joy.
Oh Master, grant that I may never seek
So much to be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love with all my soul.
Make me a channel of your peace.
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
In giving to all that we receive,
And in dying that we're born to eternal life.
All the Best, Dyan
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| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 12/31/04 - Dark Nights of the Soul This is the title of a new book, I just read a blurb about it. it's by Thomas Moore. From the blurb::
"Every human life is made up of the light and the dark...How you think about this rhythm of moods makes all the difference. Are you going to hide out in self-delusion...or are you going to open your heart to a mystery that is as natural as the sun and the moon, day and night, and summer and winter?"
Has anyone read anything by Mr. Moore? If so, what is your opinion about his writings? IamDyan answered on 01/01/05:Happy New Year Chou!
I haven't read Thomas Moore, but based on the info here, I would say he speaks a lot of truth.
We can complain and be miserable about a rainy day; become more thankful for the sunny days we have; believe that it is helping farmers somewhere nearby; or go splashing through the puddles like a child.
How we choose to react to the rainy day doesn't change the day ... it only changes us.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 12/31/04 - Why do I call him a magician? Why is that people who believe in some higher power are thought to be mislead, ignorant and more or less insane by un-believers?
Do you believe that God merely wound up the clockworks and then let the universe run by itself or---that God is constantly active in the physical world?
From http://www.southerncrossreview.org/10/cruse.html
I tend to lean towards what ISAAC NEWTON thought.
“John Maynard Keynes, after studying many of these works, called Newton not the first man of science, but rather the last of the magicians, and commented as follows:
Why do I call him a magician? because he took the whole universe and all that is in it as a riddle, as a secret which could be read by applying pure thought to certain evidence, certain mystic clues which God had laid about the world to allow a sort of philosopher's treasure hunt to the esoteric brotherhood. He believed that these were to be found partly in the evidence of the heavens and in the constitution of elements ...but also partly in certain papers and traditions handed down by the brethren in an unbroken chain back to the original cryptic revelation in Babylonia. He regarded the universe as a cryptogram set by the Almighty ... By pure thought, by concentration of mind, the riddle he believed, would be revealed to the initiate.”
IamDyan answered on 12/31/04:Hi DC,
I would think you could spend a lifetime just pondering how nature replenishes and renews itself. Surely, all that is not random.
It something both religions and the secular world have spent ages trying to define and explain. And yet, with each explanation, there is someone ready to refute their claim.
And yet, a small child knows that if they have a cut on their finger, it will heal. The small child has no need to define or explain ... just trusts and accepts graciously.
Sometimes, it seems a shame we grow up.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 12/31/04 - 2005:
"In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want." - Irish toast, compliments of Beliefnet!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!
HANK
IamDyan answered on 12/31/04:Happy New Year Hank and to you all!
May the roof above us never fall in.
And may the friends gathered below it never fall out.
May the saddest day of your future be no worse than the happiest day of your past.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 12/30/04 - Is there a special class of people that enjoy special favor; privileged by God?
Is there a special class of people that enjoy special favor; privileged by God?
It appears there is a class of people who lay claim to Christian privilege; that is, a right or benefit enjoyed by a person beyond the advantage of most. So the privileged belong to a class that enjoys special favor.
What must I do to gain special privilege.
IamDyan answered on 12/30/04:Hi DC,
Afraid I can't help you much there.
Myself, I just try not to hang out too closely to them, and then my own aura doesn't seem that dim in comparison :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 12/22/04 - Organized Religion Vs Religion A topic to be discussed and the differences. My eyes vs others. My opinion, okay, LOL!
Religion to me, whether it be Catholic, Methodist, Muslim, Jewsih, Budist, ect ect. The books are never wrong, the interpretor can be. The one that speaks, and you hope it is of the book, says it like it is to them then fine, good. However I went to church school. I went to a school that was telling me things should be secret from my parents, sins that is. Never the touching thing just that there were things in my soul I can keep to myself. Even going to church now it seems that we can hide behind closed doors. That we do not have to tell someone we are mad, sad, even hate them at times. That is not what any of the books say. Heck half of them have had affairs on their husbands or wives or have openly spoke about the thought of them. Then they go and, um repent! That is an easy out I must say.
Read them all. They all say live free, be yourself, and confront your problems. Be one with the world, love your neighbor, defend your land. Ask more of yourself than another, give to others and ask for only what you need. Believe in something greater than yourself and do fear it. Trust your will and soul, fear that gut feeling however never not trust it. Live and believe. Sit back and watch for a while instead of someone telling you "the facts of life". Sorry to say but my facts have always come from belief and trust in myself and my life.
I trust organized religion to a certain point however I know that it has become too political and bias. I want to celebrate Christmas every year till I die. I want to celebrate any holiday. I want no ruins of special times for my family just because some organized religions decided to wreck my religion in the eyes of the nearest politician. AKA Catholic/Christ = child molestors.
Yes that is what your local secularists believe. Then again, organized religion, I still wonder if it is not much more than a cult. AGAIN my opinon, a strong one, by an opinion.
I just really want to know why is it ones can not find the time to figure, believe, hope beyond someone telling them something? I trust one person in my life 100% and that is me. I trust my beliefs, my hopes, my decisions. All from a very good foundation of beliefs and life.
Religion!
I am ready for the wrath.
tta
IamDyan answered on 12/28/04:tta-
It sounds like you already know what to do. In my opinion, organized religion provides a structure to gain the knowledge you state you already have. Organized religion creates an awareness .... and without it, I imagine many raised without 'church school' as you put it, would grow to be agnostic, and never take the journey.
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Kali_yuga asked on 12/20/04 - Language Is there another name for thesaurus??? :o)
I read this question from a magazine that was celebrating comedians. It DID make me think though!! LOL!
The dark age,
Kaliyuga IamDyan answered on 12/21/04:Just to chime in here .....
Nope, think there's no such word!!
Kinda like rhyming 'orange.'
:) Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Kali_yuga asked on 12/20/04 - Same O, same O :o) Just wanted to say hello. I've missed you and a few other ex-AskMes. Hope things are going well for you.
My immune system is bottoming out and I feel like hell. [sigh], guess it is my karma. :o)
Namaste,
Marky :o) IamDyan answered on 12/21/04:Marky,
Nice to hear from you. Hang in there! Best wishes for a happy holiday.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 12/19/04 - How do we know what our spiritual gifts are? I have heard “spiritual Gifts” used in describing attributes of some people.
Take a spiritual gifts inventory; what do you think they are?
IamDyan answered on 12/19/04:Hi DC,
Hope this note find you and your family well.
This is an interesting question. Spiritual gifts can be mystical or common day experiences.
I believe my gifts include my religious faith, my appreciation of nature, my intuition, and my ability to put myself in someone else's shoes.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/15/04 - Do you understand intuition? What do you think of it? "You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you'll discover will be wonderful. What you'll discover
is yourself."
-- Alan Alda
All comments welcome.
IamDyan answered on 12/16/04:Hi Loral,
I don't know where intuition comes from, and not sure that I need or care to know. I would imagine it is something that is somehow passed on through our genes as a mechanism for survial, and also honed throughout life shaped by our previous experiences.
But I can tell you that I surely do place a high value on my intuition. It often speaks to me(loudly)about someone I meet or a decision I have to make. And, unlike Alan Alda, I feel entirely comfortable with my intuition .... it is a comfortable advisor in the city or the wilderness, and respected just the same in either place.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | MissRebecca asked on 12/14/04 - A Paradoxical Poem for Christmas: Mary's Song
Blue homespun and the bend of my breast
keep warm this small hot naked star
fallen to my arms. (Rest …
you who have had so far to come.)
Now nearness satisfies
the body of God sweetly. Quiet he lies
whose vigor hurled a universe. He sleeps
whose eyelids have not closed before.
His breath (so slight it seems
no breath at all) once ruffled the dark deeps
to sprout a world. Charmed by doves' voices,
the whisper of straw, he dreams,
hearing no music from his other spheres.
Breath, mouth, ears, eyes
he is curtailed who overflowed all skies,
all years. Older than eternity, now he
is new. Now native to earth as I am, nailed
to my poor planet, caught
that I might be free, blind in my womb
to know my darkness ended,
brought to this birth for me to be new-born,
and for him to see me mended
I must see him torn.
Luci Shaw IamDyan answered on 12/14/04:Thanks for sharing this poem.
I had never seen in before.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 12/10/04 - Healthy hea relationships friendships I would like your opinions on what the definition of a friend is? I wonder what I should also expect of a friend?
Book recommendation on what a healthy relationship/friendship looks like are appreciated
Seems like all the people I meet for friends expect too much out of me but do not want to give anything back. I have to drive my vehicle and they never give me any money for gas and expect me to provide free meals to them and do not want to help to clean up or anything.
I do have a new male friend who seems to be manipulating me into spending money on him.
I am on social security and these people know I do not have much money. IamDyan answered on 12/10/04:Hi Anonymous,
This is a great question, but not an easy one to answer by a question board post.
Friends come in all shapes and sizes. What you expect from one, you may not expect from another. I have a friend I love to go shopping with, but would never ask for financial advice, for example.
All friend relationships are usually reciprocal, but of course, as with anything in the English language, there are exceptions.
I would say that the first and foremost quality of a friend is someone you feel comfortable with. If you don't feel comfortable with them about something, and you don't feel comfortable bringing up a conversation to explain your discomfort, then they are not quite a friend .... yet. That might be their fault, that might be yours.
If you believe they are taking advantage of you and your income, and you don't feel comfortable letting them know how you feel, then they are not a friend.
Let's say (hypothetically) that you and I were friends, and I felt that you were asking me to prepare meals. At the end of the meal, I should feel comfortable saying to you ... "Hey, why don't you clean up the dishes and I'll get the cards out so we can play a game." And at the end of the night you might say you had a great time and we would do it next time at your house. If this is not a comofrtable conversation for you, handling whatever the responses might be, then this sin't a friendship.
Friendship is always give and take. Lots of variables, I know. But friendship is never 50-50%. Actually, it should feel like 100-100% If it doesn't, then not a friend, in my personal opinion.
I would reccomend reading Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I think it will help you in feeling confident enough to judge whether someone is a true friend.
Hope this helps.
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 12/06/04 - New Age Movement Secularist society. Let's see, forget about the past and make our own past?
As I stated before, I do not practice any religion however I believe in the power of religion. Not all bad not all good. Religion is no different than Peter Pan and his lessons, no different than Cinderella and her nasty step sisters. You listen and understand what they are trying to give to you in life.
There may be some hard headed Christians out there to spit on my evalution however it was "The Passion" by Mel that gave me insight to life beyond me. My Mother is a nut case over it now however she is seeing life in a new picture.
The "New Age" people have answers for nothing that is answerable. How we were created, how life became, how I am sitting here writing (Am I).
Believe and trust in yourself and your feelings. If you question then you are not there yet. I have no doubt there is a God, and there was a savior, and there will be a day we will all will say "I wished I had believed more".
You figure that one out!
TTA IamDyan answered on 12/08/04:Hi TTA,
I feel like organized religion and the new age movement do not contradict each other at all. They are all helping to find the same answers to why we are here on Earth, what we can do to better ourselves and those around us, and how we can advance to a better life.
And, how wonderful that there are so many avenues open to people to explore spirituality and God. Because if one of them does not speak true to you, your journey need not be without counsel - there are many more to consider - many more that might offer support and information along the way.
I am glad that The Passion spoke to you.
Today is the anniversary of John Lennon's death, and I think I would be remiss if I didn't post this here. It was playing on the radio tonight, and it gave me chills ....
Imagine
Imagine there's no heaven,
It's easy if you try,
No hell below us,
Above us only sky,
Imagine all the people
living for today...
Imagine there's no countries,
It isnt hard to do,
Nothing to kill or die for,
No religion too,
Imagine all the people
living life in peace...
Imagine no possesions,
I wonder if you can,
No need for greed or hunger,
A brotherhood of man,
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...
You may say Im a dreamer,
but Im not the only one,
I hope some day you'll join us,
And the world will live as one.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 12/06/04 - Kids say the darndest things A kid myself, at 30 just last week! I had the best of the best of birthday gifts. Ones that could never be replaced and never forgotten.
My parents flew in from Seattle, hey that is ALL I wanted for my birthday, and Christmas, and any other gift giving day. It was wonderful and what made it even better was my niece and the time we spent with her. She is in my state therefore my parents, her grandpa and grandma don't get to see her as they wish to. My parents going through a rough time right now with my father (bread winner 100%) with out a job and just in all, as they do not tell all, things are not good in their lives. Tough times!
Anyway my niece seemed like the savior for the short time they were here. I believe she sparked hope, health, and much love that is sometimes there but kinda hidden when you loose that free spirit of a child and become an adult.
"The birthday dinner". We were celebrating my aunts as well as mine. From the beginning the question at hand, "What is the plan for Kira"? (My niece 5 years old). I know it is not just my family, I have seen/heard of this before. Wanting adult time to talk adult stuff and finding a sitter for the kidlets. We all know kids take center stage and sometimes you just want that time to talk one on one with adults and "not be bothered or sidetracked". Be honest, it is the truth sometimes. Kira made the night. She made it so special, unforgettable, intersting, and most of all VERY LOVING! An angel as always, in my eyes, she was calm, respectful, TOTALLY ON HER BEST BEHAVIOR! My God, I was never that good! She even showed us her baby tooth that is loose and ready to come out and knows of the coin she might get for it.
So, we were at a Japanese restaurant where they cook right in front of you. Always doing the flame thing with the cooking and Kira was totally into it, except she was worried the stove was on fire. Grandpa teasing her, "Do not call 911". Kira standing on the chair waiting for the flames again, the chef concentrating on the cooking part, and sure enough he pulled a fast one on her with what ever it is they put on the hot top to spark a major flame. I was watching Kira to see her expression, knowing it was coming, and she put her little hands right down by her choochie, kind of squated, and said VERY loud, "I almost peed my pants".
The tables around us just started laughing uncontrolably.
The next day we took her to see Santa. In the car and Grandpa's secret to her heart is the M&M's. Not so much the candy, it is their thing. He teases, she shares, she counts, does the colors, ect ect. Just the Grampa/baby girl thing. Dad is in love with her, not a sicko love, that real special mush, toast, your done as a man love. In better words, he releases his own holding back of emotion and fun with her. He becomes a child himself!
So in the car, Kira and Grampa in the back seat eating M&M's together. Dad brings up the "adult" issue (for a five year old) of "Are you brushing your teeth"? She says honestly "NO". Pops says "If you don't brush your teeth they will fall out". True right! She comes back with "But they already are"!
Hello, she just showed us her loose baby tooth that is falling out! Then Mom/Grandma got on the case of "explaining" to her that her first tooth coming out is natural.
She counts to 16 then goes right to 21. She made my week, my time with my parents as far and few they are. She is SPECIAL!
Do you have that special one in your life. One that really brings on memories that can not be replaced. That good, God only knows why, feeling of how lucky you are to have experianced such a wonderful person?
I have been touched in many ways with gifts of love and wonder sometimes how to give it back. I am spoiled! To the point I need to give it back some how.
Any suggestions?
TTA
IamDyan answered on 12/08/04:Hi TTA,
Very nice time - glad you shared. Love the "peed my pants" comment.
We live close to most of my family, so we have lots of fun get togethers. Now the kids are getting older, and starting to have kids of their own.
But a recent time we had was when my husband's new co-workers and their families all came for a cook out. Five boys between the ages of 5-9 arrived pretty sure they were going to be bored. They were very polite, but a little restless and a little shy. They reviewed all our games and movies, yep still bored.
We all played a game of football - OK fun, but now bored. The adults were exhausted, and ready to eat, but the boys were still wired up. But then, a few disposable camera somehow managed to get their attention, snapping pictures all night of each other together of us adults, of the dogs. Who knew that would be a great toy? I got multiple prints made for each of the boys and sent them by mail, rather than send them through their dads at work .... they had never received mail before - LOL!! I was like a hero.
As far as giving back, the best thing I can say is, enjoy it, share it, and always look for opportunities to increase your family circle. Have some good friends? ...then invite them as frequently as you can to share your family events. Pretty soon, your parents and family will have even more extended grandkids to spoil and Kira will have people close to her age she will look forward to seeing at family events :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | weswhyte asked on 12/02/04 - New Age The New Age Movement is often being refered to in our discussions. What are the actual foundational beliefs of New Age? Are they similiar to that of Christianity? IamDyan answered on 12/02/04:Hello weswhyte -
New age is very difficult to define because there is no overall cohesiveness, and new beliefs are always developing.
However, Even given the diversity and transitory nature of the New Age Movement, there are still a number of major tenets generally held in common by most groups within this movement.
First is the belief in monism. New Agers believe that "all is one." Everything and everyone is interrelated and interdependent. Ultimately there is no real difference between humans, animals, rocks, or even God. Any differences between these entities are merely apparent, not real.
Second is the belief in pantheism. Since New Agers already believe that "all is one," the next logical assumption would be that "all is god." All of creation partakes of the divine essence. All of life (and even non-life) has a spark of divinity within.
The third major tenet of the New Age follows as a logical conclusion from the other two. If "all is one" and "all is god," then we should conclude that "we are gods." We are, according to New Agers, ignorant of our divinity. We are "gods in disguise." The goal, therefore, of the New Age Movement is to discover our own divinity.
Fourth, we discover our own divinity by experiencing a change in consciousness. The human race suffers from a collective form of metaphysical amnesia. We have forgotten that our true identity is divine and thus must undergo a change of consciousness to achieve our true human potential (hence the name, the Human Potential Movement).
A fifth tenet is reincarnation. Most New Agers believe in some form of reincarnation. In its classic form, the cycles of birth, death, and reincarnation are necessary to work off our bad "karma" and to reach perfection. The doctrine of karma says that one's present condition is determined by one's actions in a past life.
The Western version of reincarnation held by many New Agers places much less emphasis on bad karma and postulates an upward spiral towards perfection through reincarnation. This view has been espoused by such people as Shirley MacLaine, Sylvester Stallone, George Patton, and Henry Ford.
A final major tenet is moral relativism. New Agers think in terms of gray, rather than black or white. Denying the law of non- contradiction, New Agers will often believe that two conflicting statements can both be true. They will therefore teach that "all religions are true" and "there are many paths to God."
Hope this helps, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/30/04 - "Do not the most moving moments of our lives find us all without words?" - Marcel One afternoon a lawyer was riding in his limousine when he saw two men along the roadside eating grass. Disturbed, he ordered his driver to stop and he got out to investigate.
He asked one man, "Why are you eating grass?"
"We don't have any money for food," the poor man replied.
"We have to eat grass."
"Well, then, you can come with me to my house and I'll feed you" the lawyer said. "But sir. I have a wife and two children with me. They are over there, under that tree"
"Bring them along," the lawyer replied.
Turning to the other poor man he stated, "You come with us also."
The second man, in a pitiful voice then said, "But sir, I also have a wife and SIX children with me!" "Bring them all, as well," the lawyer answered.
They all entered the car, which was no easy! task, even for a car as largeas the limousine was.
Once underway, one of the poor fellows turned to the lawyer and said, "Sir, you are too kind. Thank you for taking all of us with you."
The lawyer replied, "Glad to do it. You'll really love my place; the grass is almost a foot high."
___________________________________________________________________
'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.' Matthew 25.40
IamDyan answered on 12/01/04:Hey maybe the lawyer was just kidding !!
I must imagine that the lawyer's sense of humor and point of reference was very different from the folks he had just invited into his car.
Perhaps lightening the mood and looking for some common ground (humor) to begin a conversation before they had an elegant dinner. And, as I often do, I usually fill awkward silences with a bit of humor.
Perhaps, after a wonderfully filling dinner, he helped the men find jobs, and standing as a reference helped them find a place to stay and get their children registered in local schools. Who knows, could even be holidays later, they all gathered together, the children calling the lawyer Uncle Mike.
Interestingly enough, we have no idea what ultimately happened ... only a fifteen line glimpse into a brief conversation, but it was compelling and it was easy to rush to judgment on what those fifteen lines said, and it prays upon standard negative misconceptions about lawyers.
Frankly, I believe it is good to think the best of everyone. While this will open you up to disappointment on occassion, most people live up to high expectations.
Just another point of view, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 11/28/04 - Hello all! It's been a while, not all that long. Just thought to write being I had a really intense thought that came across a couple of hours ago.
Driving in my car, listening to Christmas music, and really soaking up how lucky I am to have loved in so..... very many different ways. It is not just having been loved but have love others. Kind of one of those reality emotions going on and it was quite wonderful.
I thought of how lucky I was to have loved and been loved by a Grandmother. Sure I did not have that with a Grandfather however if my Grandmother's husband had lived past his mid thirties, I bet he would have loved me as I to this day love him. Odd loving a dead person you never knew right, hey he help to give me my father and aunt who I love and am loved by. As well my husband's father whom had half in his birth and his uncle whom pretty much raised him into a wonderful man.
Kinda wonderful how love can be with out ever really ever been.
Then there is FAMILY! The truest of gifts however the truest of trials. How unspoken words hurt just as much as spoken. How thoughts that are spoken hurt deeply with out any intentions of hurt, malice, even purpose. I remember saying one time, watching "Little House on the Pairie" how I wished Mr. Ingles was my Pa. My father right there and it hurt him. I did not say it with any disdain towards my father however I realize how it could and would be seen as just that. Such is a trial in family relations however hugs and kisses do repair a foolish comment made at the wrong time, place, even thought I suppose. Love is the strongest with this though. We learn, understand, and give more due to unforseen circumstances in our lives.
Pets, let me see, from a kid brought up on cats and kittens, dogs and birds,ferrets, even the zoos have pets of their own. A true respect and love for animals. Having two dogs and kitty now I feel I understand them and they understand me. A love that can and will never be spoken in words however in pets and kisses it is shown. How they know when you are not feeling good and how you know when they are not feeling good. The reaction to such times is incredible and wonderful. The natural instinct of nuturing and loving one another.
Last but far from least is the love of nature and others. How blessed we are to be so unshelled in our lives to have the ablility to notice everything in this world. Some worlds are smaller than others, some are our own backyards, and others are Africa, Asia, or the simple state line. Our ablility to explore is unreal to even me. As where a deer may only see two hillsides in a life time maybe never having that hope to travel 500 miles to another state. I suppose they stay home as where that is where we always end up.
If I were to die tomorrow, in the next second, minute, hour, what a wonderful life I have had. I have that passion for life and believe you me, this is no death letter. Just a writing of feeling true inspiration of how lucky I am, as I am sure all of you are, to have loved in so.. many different ways. My one wish is to give and have the love of my child. Whether it be of my womb or adopted. It is the one love I have yet to experiance in life. I am sure it is the strongest of all however I also bet it puts everything in perspective.
I wish you all love, joy, happiness, and a downer or two to keep you on your feet!
TTA IamDyan answered on 11/29/04:Hi TTA,
To love and be loved .... I truly believe that is our primary purpose here on Earth. It is surely the single act that is able to run the gamut of emotions we are able to experience.
Think of the love that we give and receive from our friends and families.
Then, of the love, we recieve which is unconditional .... from our parents, our pets, our life mate.
Then, finally, of the love we give which is never returned. Perhaps someone who is unable to love, or someone we are too far from to effect. Perhaps someone we never met.
None of them is exactly the same, and yet, they all seem to evoke an unsinkable feeling .... one we cannot help turning over and over again in our mind - reliving it again and again.
Your post has a big smile on my face! So glad your holiday season is starting out with such a positive reflection .... appreciating the past, and looking joyously to the future.
Wishing you all the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 11/26/04 - Sorry but we really need some advice here!!!!
About two years ago we purchased in good faith this "crystal ball". The lady owns a crystal ball shop and also sells other items like ancient rocks and stones and many Native American items. I also purchased a fossilized sharks tooth and lots of crystals. The crystal ball we purchased is part leaded and sits on this nice light box. At first the crystal ball seemed to work ok but now I think it is losing some of the aura. We are not getting as many vibrations as we use to get.
Which crystal ball works the best and is there something wrong with the one we now have?
Is the lead in this ‘glass crystal ball’ somehow causing it to not work?
Did we get swindled by this lady?
What can we do to get the one we have working again?
Vanessa is at her wits end because she has people that are asking for readings and things and she is just sorta ad libing and making things up for them as she goes--but so far most are believing the stuff she says so we are ok--but she must get the ball working soon or we will be in trouble---ok please help-What should we do?”
IamDyan answered on 11/26/04:I believe (somehow) you were swindled.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/22/04 - Gratitude for Thanksgiving Day, and more.... I'm blessed to have health, a great job, most of my family close by, and friends scattered around the world. I'm happy too, on a lesser plane, to have gotten new carpeting throughout my home last week & am never lonely because of my two entertaining pets...Maltese dog Ted and calm grey cat Sam, who wrestle each other, kiss, and sit toe to toe in companionship.
It wasn't always this way. I ended a 25 year marriage 7 years ago scared half to death to go completely on my own - but I became a student of living and the teachers really did appear for me.
All four of my sons had severe addictions and it has been hellish not knowing if they would make it through - but this year all four are involved in programs of recovery.
Life can toss us around like rags if we don't work at our own spiritual growth.
I need to be aware that as good as my life is now - it still isn't so for millions of others here and around the world. There are things I can do to help - and those things make me feel more connected & worthy. Dyan posted a link here some months ago called Books for Soldiers and I have been lucky enough to make a few friends and send a few packages and letters to those so far from home.
If I stay in the positive state of gratitude I can't forget and start bemoaning all that I don't have & then likely will lose it all.(It's happened before)
I hope you will share your experiences.
What are you most grateful for?
Happy Thanksgiving! A great day to eat and renew self.
PW
IamDyan answered on 11/22/04:You know, I make it a point each night as I am drifting off to sleep to think of three things each day I am thankful for. A lot of days, it might take longer than others to come up with the list, depending on how the day went, but I don't think there has ever been a day that I can't come up with at least three. (Hmmmm....maybe I should 'up' the number on the list to make it more challenging :)
I have a lot to be greatful for this year. The standards are my family and my friends, of course. Although our family is not really any bigger since last year, over the last year or so, I have made three new good friends .... you know, the kind of people you can say anything to, and now worry about how it comes out. I truly believe that is a gift directly from Heaven. Good friends, no matter how often we are able to see them, are a blessing.
This year, also, my husband of over 20 years stopped me from making a big mistake and ending our marriage .... and we've been closer the last six months than we have for years. I think that's the biggest Thank You I have for this year, but there are many others.
My daughter graduated college this year, and is teaching grade school like she always dreamed she would. I have a job I love, working with a lot of great people, and have the opportunity to learn something new almost every day.
I've had a lot of health challenges the past few months, but have come through them, and aside from taking a blood pressure pill every day now, seem to be in as good health as I have been in 20 years. I'm eating and exercising better, and I've lost 15 pounds.
Like you, Loral, I've met many folks through Books for Soldiers. They all continue to amaze me with their uplifting and positive attitudes, and their appreciation for what seems like 'just a letter.' As of last month, it's been a year since I began sponsoring a few children in other countries, and I am thankful that I have had, and continue to have, the priviledge to watch them grow up into the wonderful people I know they will be.
Let's see .... on a lesser plane, I've found a new hairdresser who makes me beautiful :) I have a mother hosting Thanksgiving who is an excellent cook. And we have a new kitten who never seems to stop purring .... what a soothing, comforting sound :)
Happy Thanksgiving, Loral!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 11/20/04 - Eminem (Music) There are some people who want certain music banned. That believe that certain music can cause people to act violently and to do more. Just like television. So do you believe that certain music can cause people to act violently? People blame the artist, or the show or the singer or the actor. Can we really blame them? Or should people take responsibility for their own actions!
Here is some info on myself. I am Catholic, Christian. I also enjoy all kinds of music. One of the musicians i enjoy to listen to sometimes is Eminem. Now does that mean i am going to be violent or show my anger or act any differently? I personally do not think so. Everybody has free will and we make our own decisions. People like blaming other things in order to justify their own actions which is not right in my opinion. We all should take our own blame for our own actions. Do you agree? IamDyan answered on 11/20/04:Taking responsibility for your own actions should be a given. No one can make you act a certain way, but you, youself.
There will always be people who think this or that should be banned .... Why? I have no clue. Perhaps they are afraid of themselves? | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 11/20/04 - Abortion Doctor actually even mentioning that if there is anything wrong with a baby that there is always the option to abort.
What do you think about this?
IamDyan answered on 11/20/04:I think that most people have made up their mind about whether abortion is right or wrong, and the doctor is just fulfilling his his/her health obligation by making the statement.
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 11/20/04 - Discerning from Good and Bad Spirits! How are your instincts? Does it take time to learn how to read people? Good or bad. Sometimes it maybe to later to figure people out. Each situation that we face even though we may learn too late. Is it better to learn then not to learn at all? IamDyan answered on 11/20/04:From watching people's eyes and their body language, I think it's usually fairly easy to develop a first impression. This doea not mean that a first impression cannot be wrong, but 90% of the time, I find mine are accurate.
That said, I think it's the 10% of the time that I am wrong, is when I learn the most.
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/16/04 - To My Old Friends from the days at Askme Spirituality Board. I got very bad news from my new physician. I'm very down and out; I expected this, but that doesn't make the reality any easier. I want to say thanks for your companionship for these four years, you all are my best friends. Regards, Choux IamDyan answered on 11/16/04:Hi Chou!
I've missed hearing from you lately, and had hoped that it was just some new man that had captured your interest :) So, darnit, you better tell me this new physician is cute, at least :)
Getting bad news about your health is never easy, but there are options always. Make sure you keep your (always level) head about you and ask.
Send me an email when you get a chance and remember there's always an open door.
Lots of Love! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 11/11/04 - "Recessional " in honor of Vereran's Day
"God of our fathers, known of old,
Lord of our far-flung battle-line,
Beneath whose awful Hand we hold
Dominion over paam and pine-
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget - lest we forget.
The tumult and the shouting dies;
The Captain and the Kings depart:
Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice,
An humble and a contrite heart.
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget - lest we forget!
Far-called, our navies melt away;
On dune and headland sinks the fire:
Lo, all our pomp of yesterday
Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!
Judge of the Nations, spare us yet,
Lest we forget - lest we forget.
If, drunk with sight of power, we loose
Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe,
Such boastings as the Gentiles use,
Or lesser breeds without the Law -
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget - lest we forget.
For heathen heart that puts her trust
In seeking tube and iron shard,
All valiant dust that builds on dust,
And guarding, calls not Thee to guard,
For frantic boast and foolish word -
They mercy on They people, Lord!
Rudyard Kipling, 1897
IamDyan answered on 11/11/04:Thanks Tom, for the reminder of Veteran's Day. Too often, sadly it seems, the most active participation of this holiday is department store sales.
All the Best, Dyan
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there; I did not die in vain as
long as my sacrifice is not forgotten.
(Author Unknown)
| | Question/Answer | | sapphire630 asked on 10/20/04 - Trusting doctors Why do so many people put so much trust in doctors, more so the pills they give them? Everyday on the news you hear about the side effects of pills like celebrex. They ban Viox. Psychotheraphy drugs are given like Russian roulette til they find what works best for the individual. In the meantime Prozac or Paxil could lead them to more serious mental health issues or even suicide. Doctors, themselves,have even told me all this! Why with all the problems are so many so unwilling to learn about herbal supplements that can even be taken as preventive measures, as well as healing. Is it because it is more convenient just to take the doctors prescription or that they are just so into being programmed to follow the tradition? Why don't people want to at least check into alternatives that may well cure them or even save their life? Isn't it worth studying everything and make up ones own mind? Even if they decide to try both together? I know too many people that live with seriously bad cases of health problems that are too stubborn to listen to anything other than what their doctor has to say. I hear doctors all too often admit they really don't know and a lot of what they do is hit or miss. I am not saying ignore the doctor but to look into every aspect of what could help with healing rather than just mask conditions with chemicals. I have learned a lot about alternative supplements through the years and I feel healthier than I did in my 20's and 30's. I think it helps me feel more spirituality well off, in a sense, because I am not going through the day with my miserable aches and pains to keep me down. Why do so many just want to stay blind to things that can help them?
IamDyan answered on 10/21/04:Hi sapphire,
Sounds like, if this is the advice you are given, perhaps you should change your doctor. Frankly, my doctor always recommends a change in diet, exercise patterns, or lifestyle changes whenever there is something negative encountered through a test.
If after trying that without success, we explore medications as a possible method.
And, taking medications is not a bad thing usually, if all else is failing.
Frankly, as an informed person, I would still rather take medications prescribed by my doctor (whom I have been dealing with for over 10 years) than taking herbs I have researched from the internet, or a recommended by a healthfood clerk.
Sorry, just my opinion, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 10/18/04 - Is God in Our Genes?
A provocative study asks whether religion is a product of evolution. Inside a quest for the roots of faith
By JEFFERY KLUGER
Nowhere has that idea received a more intriguing going-over than in the recently published book The God Gene: How Faith Is Hardwired into Our Genes (Doubleday; 256 pages), by molecular biologist Dean Hamer. Chief of gene structure at the National Cancer Institute, Hamer not only claims that human spirituality is an adaptive trait, but he also says he has located one of the genes responsible, a gene that just happens to also code for production of the neurotransmitters that regulate our moods.
Our most profound feelings of spirituality, according to a literal reading of Hamer's work, may be due to little more than an occasional shot of intoxicating brain chemicals governed by our dna. "I'm a believer that every thought we think and every feeling we feel is the result of activity in the brain," Hamer says. "I think we follow the basic law of nature, which is that we're a bunch of chemical reactions running around in a bag."
Even among people who regard spiritual life as wishful hocus-pocus, there is a growing sense that humans may not be able to survive without it. It's hard enough getting by in a fang-and-claw world in which killing, thieving and cheating pay such rich dividends. It's harder still when there's no moral cop walking the beat to blow the whistle when things get out of control. Best to have a deity on hand to rein in our worst impulses, bring out our best and, not incidentally, give us a sense that there's someone awake in the cosmic house when the lights go out at night and we find ourselves wondering just why we're here in the first place. If a God or even several gods can do all that, fine. And if we sometimes misuse the idea of our gods—and millenniums of holy wars prove that we do—the benefits of being a spiritual species will surely outweigh the bloodshed.
Far from being an evolutionary luxury then, the need for God may be a crucial trait stamped deeper and deeper into our genome with every passing generation. Humans who developed a spiritual sense thrived and bequeathed that trait to their offspring. Those who didn't risked dying out in chaos and killing. The evolutionary equation is a simple but powerful one.
http://www.time.com/time/subscriber/covers/1101041025/story.html?promoid=AOL
What do you think?
IamDyan answered on 10/18/04:Hi PW,
This may not be a far fetched theory at all, when I think about it.
God made us, including our genes, as well as our hearts, our bodies, minds, and souls. Why is it not likely that in addition to creating our souls and our conscience, He has also set a gene that will inspire us to seek Him?
Does the fact that science might define it as "an occasional shot of intoxicating brain chemicals governed by our dna" make it less of a spiritual experience? After all, I am still is awe sometimes at how perfectly the body functions and regenerates itself.
The fact that someone can explain something in scientific terms, does not make it less spiritual. In fact, I think it makes it even more wonderous ... that after approximately 6,000+ years of study, theories like this are just now coming to be verbalized.
Anyway, just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 10/15/04 - "Naughty Things for Nice People,"
My last question was not a joke, but rather a prelude to what appears to be a serious problem for Ministers as well as unbelievers. The following is from a review of an article that drew considerable attention: “The War Within”— an anonoums article I will add.
“Driving through Wisconsin on vacation, a Leadership staff member passed a huge sign in the middle of the bucolic countryside. "Naughty Things for Nice People," it proclaimed, and as if to prove it, a gigantic cuddly bear peered out from beside the words "Adult Novelties."
"What's that mean, Dad?" came the question from the 10-year-old boy in the back of the station wagon. "Yeah," piped up the siblings, "what's that all about, Dad?"
Such questions abound these days, as media penetrate our homes and station wagons with not just sleazy sex but carefully packaged titillations. One report has it that a recent convention of youth pastors prompted the most rentals of adult movies in the hotel's history. More than 80 percent of all customers signing up for cable TV opt for the erotic films. The availability — the near-ubiquity — of so much sexual enticement, the constant barrage of innuendoes, and the nonstop polemic for indulgence inevitably attracts.”
Thousands of letters were recieved a nd the author of the article commented: “The most moving letters, however, came from people who have not been cured. "Please, tell me how to solve my problem!" they wrote. "You said that God 'came through' for you, but he has not come through for me. What can I do?"
So I ask you— “What can a person do?”
Psychologists use the term "cognitive dissonance" to describe the battle inside a person who believes one way and acts another. For example, a woman will normally feel intense cognitive dissonance if she secretly carries on an affair with another man while pretending to be happily married to her husband. Even if her husband suspects nothing, her own mind will constantly remind her that she is living with contradictions. Because the mind cannot sustain too much cognitive dissonance, it will seek ways to resolve the contradictions. Perhaps the wife will unconsciously let slip certain clues about her affair, or maybe she will accidentally call her husband by her lover's name. In such unexpected ways the mind will attempt to bring together her two lives.
IamDyan answered on 10/17/04:Hi Bill,
We can speak honestly to our children, and explain, rather than avoid, the topics of sexuality, intimacy, and (*gasp*) even, marketing.
And, it seems, that there is no age when it is too young to begin these discussions. And, when direct questions are asked, such as the one the writer encountered driving through Wisconsin, look at it as a wonderful opportunity to share your moral views with a "captive audience" in the car.
One thing we CANNOT do, is censor the media. Many have fought long and hard for the many freedoms we have, including freedom of speech, and I would hate to think that all those efforts would be in vain because someone driving through Wisconsin didn't know how to answer their kids ... or because a bunch of youth pastors bent on avoidance of the subject made bad choices when finally free to do so.
We live in a free enterprise society. If you don't like pornagraphy or sex toys, don't buy them. But don't feel it's your right to subject others to your decisions.
Just my thoughts on it anyway, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 10/14/04 - Does God approves of verbal pornography? "How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O prince's daughter! The curves of your hips are like jewels, the work of the hands of an artist. Your navel is like a round goblet which never lacks for mixed wine; your belly is like a heap of wheat fenced about with lilies. Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle."
"Your stature is like a palm tree, and your breasts are like its clusters. I said 'I will climb the palm tree, I will take hold of its fruit stalks.' Oh, may your breasts be like clusters of the vine, and the fragrance of your breath like apples, and your mouth like the best wine."
Song of Solomon 7:1-3,7-9
IamDyan answered on 10/14/04:Hi DC,
Personally, I would think that God approves of anyone admiring and appreciating His work .... whether it be a belly or the lillies about a field :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 10/11/04 - Life is interesting… ... and responds directly to our thoughts.
Bill and I bought a mobile home in a resident –owned community on the river in Florida a few years ago. Our idea for about a year now has been to refurbish and remodel to home with the intentions of selling it ultimately, but probably leasing it out for a while. Our intention was to upgrade to something larger and more secure. We have thought seriously about buying cheap - fixing up - making a profit.
Then the hurricanes came through. Our mobile home was deemed uninhabitable by FEMA and we moved into my sister-in-law’s rental home that just became available --RIGHT AFTER-- Hurricane Frances. The insurance adjuster totaled our home and we’re waiting for the $$ from the insurance company to put down on the rental home we’ve been occupying.
Now, we’ll have something safe to live in while we continue to refurbish/remodel the mobile home and sell it “as is”. Once that is done, we’ll only have about a $15,000 balance on the note that my sister-in-law is carrying for this site-built block home.
I can’t explain it, but I KNOW that the events of this past few months is just as if we’re in our roles in a play -- and the outcome? I know without a doubt that all is well.
Isn’t it interesting?
Blessings,
Bobbie
P.S. Good to see several of my old friends here. I'll check in from time to time. IamDyan answered on 10/12/04:Hi Bobbie,
Glad all is well, and unfolding in positive cicumstances :)
Things here have been similar - a few abrupt wake up calls, followed by some very bright, unexpected changes.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 10/09/04 - Opinions on the debates anyone?? So yes, I am one of those debate junkies that actually find it a duty and privilege to watch the debates. My brain was in termoil after the first debate being I do side more with Bush and his views and he really messed it up. The first debate made me question what this man is about and if he can really handle it. After last nights debate I am 100% decided.
I truly enjoy the courtesy they show eachother with acknowledging that so much is really differences of opinion and find it a true flip flop of Kerry when he then comments on how Bush is not being truthful to the public. Does that not mean that Kerry is as well not truthful however in different ways?? I thought it was just differences??
I am not happy with how the public has been left out of so..... very much explaining of what is going on with terrorism and Iraq with the current administration. As well I am not happy with the border situation.
With Kerry I just don't trust him, believe he really stands strong on any issue except for health care and stem cell research. I believe both love this country however have very opposing views on how to manage and care for the American people. Kerry really rubs me wrong on his views when it comes to taxes, even though I am middle class and he promised no tax raises but cuts, his performance in the Senate, his comments on the abortion issue (for it to be funded by tax payers) and rights of a parent being informed; bringing up such rare stituations of a child being raped by her father or a woman's health being at risk. I find such argument very small compared to the number of abortions that are pure lack of protection, the heat of the moment, or oops. I know of five girls that all had lack of protection or an oops, one girl three times an oops after three children. We need better PARENTAL education on how to talk to our children about sex, not our school educating our children about such life matters.
I just do not get what Kerry stands for. From the sounds of it he wants to hold hands with other countries to resolve the war in Iraq and on terrorism. Sorry I do not trust another country to fend for my own. Americans have not been liked, specially in Europe, for many years. Well before Bush was in office. So I don't see how Kerry could make others like Americans. We are the infidels not only to Radical Muslims but as well most Europeans, they only rely on our $$$$$$$.
Cheney and Edwards. Now that already had me pushed as far right as I can go. This Edward guy is a joke! I did not find him serious on any matter except for Kerry and his support for him. My God, he could not leave him out of the topic of discussion even when told those names are not to be spoken. He messed up twice. What happens if they were in office and Kerry died. I can not imagine him as President, he would be a lost puppy dog with out his master. Cheney on the other hand is a leader, strong in his demeanor even if not liked, and has issues he stands strong on with or with out common ground with the President. He is his own person and with that is a major asset to President Bush with speaking intelligently. Bush has never and will never be a good speaker.
I found Edwards demeanor to be rude and juvenile. One time when Cheney was speaking, I can not rememeber what on, but split screen I was watching Edwards as he was writing, he was in the middle of the page, stopped, and tore the page off in the middle of Cheney's talking time. HOLY rude! It's a spiral you idiot, flip the page over! Then another time Cheney speaking and I believe it was on the junk law suits these days and I was laughing so.... hard. Edwards picks up his coffee cup (wrist tilted down), looks at Cheney, tilts his head to his shoulder and gave him that look as girls do "What are you saying girlfriend". You know that prim and proper girl look, hey I am girl I know what it looks like! I WAS ROLLING, LAUGHING, COULD NOT HANDLE MYSELF!
What it came down for me is who has the true core conviction to do the job at hand. Who does not waiver however stands strong even in times of doubt or a mistake. Who is looking out for me the best (as Bill Oreilly would put it). My last waying was who would the terrorists or what would the terrorists like to see when it comes to this election. They love American's divided as we are, they would love to see Kerry take over the Presidency over the war in Iraq, and they would love to have a President in the office that will spend time "talking" over issues with other countries vs. immediate action.
This is a very serious election this year, one not to be taken lightly, one that every American should get as much info as possible on. I have done my duty and find it a priviledge to do so.
Bush and Cheney in 04!
What do you say and why?
tta IamDyan answered on 10/09/04:Hi tta!
I've been watching the debates as well, for the most part. At first I did not think I would, because I have already decided who I will vote for. But they have been interesting so far.
Kerry has impressed me more than I thought that he would; Edwards made me think less of him than I did before.
The VP debate was the most impressive, in my opinion, though. I actually (sometimes) think that maybe Cheyney should be running for President :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 10/09/04 - Not a creature was stirring.....why? Did everyone lose interest? IamDyan answered on 10/09/04:Hi PW!
Hope all is well with you :)
Things here have been busy
(ok, stirring, even) ... mostly with work. So much so, that having the time to shop at WalMart and the grocery store today seemed like a luxury ... now that's just sad :P
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 10/06/04 - Rodney RIP With my wife I don't get no respect. I made a toast on her birthday to 'the best woman a man ever had.' The waiter joined me.
Yeah, I know I'm ugly...I said to a bartender, 'Make me a zombie.' He said 'God beat me to it.'
When my old man wanted sex, my mother would show him a picture of me.
I met the surgeon general. He offered me a cigarette.
One time I went to a hotel. I asked the bellhop to handle my bag. He felt up my wife!
I'm a bad lover. Once I caught a peeping tom booing me.
My wife only has sex with me for a purpose. Last night she used me to time an egg.
I was making love to this girl and she started crying. I said, "Are you going to hate yourself in the morning?" She said, "No, I hate myself now."
I knew a girl so ugly, the last time I saw a mouth like hers it had a hook on the end of it.
When I was born the doctor took one look at my face, turned me over and said, "Look, twins!"
Rodney Dangerfield walks with the angels and the angels now laugh when they walk. Rest in peace.
IamDyan answered on 10/07/04:OH wait....I remember this one :)
Nothing ever goes right for me.
I go fishing, I catch nothing;
Go to an orgy, I catch everything.
I will miss him. In a recent interview, he said that he was undergoing this operation, and he told his doctor, if things didn't work out, it was ok, because he would never know.
Hoping that he finds he was wrong to not believe in an afterlife :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 09/30/04 - Please Pray! For My wife and her challenges in life with her decisions in career, and family. Her challenges with her very controlling family. My challenges in dealing with this crazyness. Please pray for me to have patience even though i know the control and interfering ways will always be there. Please pray for peace and understanding and for Gods will to be done in all situations. God bless!
JH
IamDyan answered on 10/01/04:Hi Joe,
You and your wife are in my prayers tonight.
I can remember the best advice I ever got about marriage and all that married life brings from my Uncle Jack on my wedding day. He said there's three things you need in a marriage: a sense of humor, a sense of humor, and a sense of humor :)
Then, he laughed and corrected himself. And said .... invite God into your marriage, and then ask Him for patience and a sense of humor.
Having been married over 20 years ourselves, I think Alan and I both agree that Uncle Jack was probably right the first time :) Having a sense of humor in all things reminds us not to take the things that make us tense so seriously. Laughing is good for the soul, and relaxes us. And there's something to be said for letting some things (that we can't control) just play themselves out, without needing our attention.
Buy yourselves a good comedy movie this weekend and plan a date night ... no interruptions allowed ... and laugh in each others' arms on the sofa.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | darkstar asked on 09/30/04 - iamdyan are you ok? i was just wondering where the survey questions went and if there are going to be any more. IamDyan answered on 10/01/04:Hi darkstar!
Yes, everything's ok here ... thanks for asking :) Things are a little busy at work now. But yes, there are a few more questions.
Posting one now!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 09/22/04 - Has Christendom Betrayed God and the Bible? The fundamental doctrines of Christendom are based on ancient myths—those of Greece, Egypt, Babylon, and others. Teachings such as the inherent immortality of the human soul, eternal torment in hellfire, purgatory, and the Trinity (three persons in one Godhead) are not found in the Bible. IamDyan answered on 09/22/04:Hi DC,
Not sure I agree. This is not the Christianity board, so I don't feel the need to quote chapter and verse (unless you want me to, and then I can look it up) but I suggest the reference to immortality and eternal torment can be found (at minimum) in Revelation. And the trinity reference can be found in Matthew and Luke.
As far as purgatory, I agree. Purely dogma/speculation. But, it does give some sinners a little hope, does it not?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 09/21/04 - In spiritual matters do ones habits form belief or do beleifs from habits?
Belief is a colorful hope or fear,
The beginning of folly,
The sage dwells in the fruit,
Not the flower,
He accepts substance,
And ignores abstraction.
Lao Tzu
What is the difference between belief and habit?
IamDyan answered on 09/21/04:Hi DC,
Haven't talked to you in a while.
Hope all is well.
Taking your question in the context of the quote, I would think that belief is the conscious thinking, reasoning, and decisions that form habits.
The difference is belief is cause, and habit is the effect.
But, in reality, some people form habits without beliefs. (For example: if I wake up early because my parents did; Or again, if I am racially biased because my friends are.)
And some people may even have beliefs without ever taking action, much less, form habits. (For example: I think it is important to save the environment, but I never take any steps to contribute.)
So, they can be totally separate from each other.
In a perfect world, belief is when you have reasoned and determined a thought to be worth action. And habit is when, once determined worthy of action, you have completed that action so many times that it is second nature, without thinking.
So as an example .... I am committed to a cleaner environment as a belief. I have determined that I will recycle all my cans and plastic as an action. And then, finally, I recycle, without thinking .... and when someone else throws a can into the trash, I GASP!
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 09/21/04 - What does exclusion entail? If I meet a stranger on the street and say hello as we pass, but do not invite him to my upcoming party, have I excluded him?
OR, as I would think, would I only be excluding someone that I normally socialize with by not inviting them?
If I said 'hello' to this stranger as we passed, haven't I then included him, as a child of God and a fellow earth dweller?
Can someone please go into more detail regarding the extent of exclusion/inclusion so I can understand my own response to Dyan? And know if I'm really saying no or yes to her question about practicing exclusion based on my spirituality. It seems if I choose my friends and mates by spiritual similiarities, those are who I will invite into my personal existence.
Surely I cannot be excluding all those that I do not become buddies with........? I'm confused.
PW
IamDyan answered on 09/21/04:Hi PW,
Hey I didn't write the survey - LOL :)
But your question is a good one.
I wonder if the question were switched to say do you include others based on spirituality, if the question would be any easier .... or if, the same question of context would come into play. (BTW, including others is not a future question :)
I guess when I first read the question, I just thought that, on any level, if I were making a list (yep, still a listmaker) would my spirituality be a deciding factor on ultimately who I included or excluded.
So, taking that a step further, I don't make a list (or a conscious decision, for that matter) on who I say hello to on the street. I mean, in the amount of time it takes to say hello on the street, it's very unlikely you even have enough information at hand to base a decision regarding spirituality on, right?
So, moving on from there, would we agree that we would need a list of people we actually know something about from a spirituality perspective, and then also, an event that required a conscious decision of inclusion or exclusion?
Perhaps you can agree that your question of whether an acquaintance becoming a buddy is such an event. And also, another event could be whether or not you invite someone you normally associate with to a party.
Anyway, just my thoughts on it.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | darkstar asked on 09/18/04 - Autumn equinox darkstar 09/18/04 Autumn equinox darkstar 09/18/04
The Autumn equinox is almost here and i was wondering if anyone has any special plans of celebration?
IamDyan answered on 09/19/04:Yes, we will be dancing naked in the fields celebrating the last of the corn harvest ....
Oh wait - did I type that out loud???
OK, just kidding :) Actually, we will probably sigh that the Summer trips to the beach are nearly over; we will thank God that all the garden work is through, and that the lawn probably only needs a few more cuttings.
Will begin to think about Christmas shopping and family visits for the holidays.
Hope you have a wonderful celebration, Darkstar. All the Best! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 09/18/04 - Where would you be? If answerway should close, what would you do with the time you spend here?
I'm asking you this and I'm asking myself also.
I look forward to coming here to see what's new and join in community with my online friends.
What other activity can you think of that might bring a similar connection and satisfaction?
Thanks.
PW IamDyan answered on 09/19/04:Hi PW,
I enjoy the interaction in a site like this, for the most part :) I think it all depends on the members, since for the most part, there's not a lot of Q&A from other than the regulars.
I think, if it happened today, I would spend more time at the Books for Soldiers site ... finding more soldiers overseas who need mail from home. My mom and dad were here yesterday .... and like, Alan and I, they almost cried at the letters we have gotten back.
Alan and Dad even talked at length (since they were both in the Navy) at how they still had letters from their time there. Yeah, they are pretty much disintegrated having been read and re-read, folded, and refolded.
I think that brings a similar connection and satisfaction :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 09/10/04 - Character of a person... does it matter? I find it of the up most importance when it comes to life decisions. This more has to do with elections for Presidency so no bashing, I am just in wonder and more in the middle/moderate arena.
I have yet to decide my vote being I need to see the two men in question debate and see what they say. I know W is not good with debates however have yet to really see Kerry in one.
What I am personally looking for in debate is how they handle themselves, body language, thought, not so much what comes out of the mouth but how the actual truth is to what comes out of the mouth. Tough situations, can you pause and think or blurt?
I find this a VERY important election with all that is going on in the world. Hey, a young buck-ess here only my 2 vote for a leader.
How deep do you look into a person before deciding to find them worthy? Of time, thoughts, even life for that matter.
If you had a chance to have lunch with anyone in the world, past or present, who would it be and why?
Mine is Bill O'Reilly because he makes me see two sides to every story and to this day makes me wonder what he's really about being I can not interact with him in conversation. Is he a leader or a follower? Is he an honest man in his words or one that can not look you in the eyes? Is he all I think he is or is his character on TV and radio just a farse?
Lets here it!
TTA IamDyan answered on 09/10/04:Hi TTA!
Lunch with anyone? I would say it would be Nostradamus. His writings are intriguing to me, and I often, in reading them, have questions on how he would believe they relate to current situations.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Chouxxx asked on 09/10/04 - "The Comfort Trap, or What if you Riding a Dead Horse?"
there is a new book out by the above title authored by Judith Sills, Phd. She invites the readers to step into a larger, more gratifying life.
She thinks we need to be comfortable to lead a full life, but not too comfortable. Maybe, a person doesn't go after a promotion at work, or doesn't leave an alcoholic spouse, or procrastinating about making a committment to another person(marriage) or too have children.
She points out common traps to making a fuller life such as "blaming yourself" which she calls a brilliant delaying tactic.
In the past, Have you Ever Ridden a Dead Horse?
IamDyan answered on 09/10/04:Hi Chou!
Sounds like this will be an interesting read :) But I like most of my reading to be an escape in a good fiction thriller or mystery, so I likely will never pick this up.
Hmmmm....have I ever ridden a dead horse? Interesting thought. I guess a lot depends on what you consider a dead horse, huh?
For example, there's a lot of extended family functions I usually ritually dread attending ... but yet, I go, because of the Catholic guilt thing. And I always enjoy myself, once I'm there.
And again, when I was a kid I wanted to be a writer or a teacher. And a computer consultant seems a long way off from that ... but, I enjoy what I work at.
So, I guess, I won't consider either of these dead horses, cause it doesn't seem to be effecting the fullness of my life.
There are things sometimes that seem to nag at me, but yet, my conscience seems conditioned enough to not let it go too far. If it bothers me, I act on it. And if I make a mistake, I'm not afraid to say I did, and change direction.
Jeeezzz, am I normal? Could be!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Chouxxx asked on 09/07/04 - Thought for the Day From Buddha's Book of Daily Meditation, "I do not perceive any single hindrance other than the hindrance of ignorance. Obstructed through ignorance, humankind wanders for a long time."
As we look all over the world today Sept 7th, we see the horrors committed in the name of "God".
We see the ignorance that the religion of Islam perpetuates, war and barbarity, oppression of women, indoctrination of male children rather than education, and so on.
We see the Christian Fundamentalists and how they hide in their Bibles and in ignorance so steep that they seek to teach myth in public schools as fact.
It is so clear to all who wish to see that religion is ignorance. Religion is divisive. Relligion tells many lies.
Can civilized people afford to support these religins without *serious* Reformation? Why can't we rise up and denounce religion in favor of Noble Ideals??? IamDyan answered on 09/07/04:Hi Chou,
Lots of good points. For sure, we all can pick and choose the things that are wrong with religion(s) and the things that are pure and ideal about noble ideals. Of course, all of the things we pick and choose, are somewhat subjective, aren't they?
But playing devil's advocate for just a moment, noble ideals are very "airy" not very concrete. And, as we raise children from a young age, they often require the concrete to begin on a path for understanding more complex ideas later on in life.
When I was two, I understood only that my hand would get slapped for touching the stove. Perhaps, by the time I am a bit older, I understand that it is because my parents don't want me to be hurt, rather than that they are curtailing my exploration.
Imagine trying to explain respect for others to a self-centered five year old. It's not incredibly easy without some concrete examples. But perhaps Sunday school teaches working together through activities; and perhaps the local girl scout troop arranges a trip for all the kids to spend a few hours at the local retirement home singing songs for the holidays. All these things could be arranged by the parents raising the children themselves ... however, with the fast paced life we all lead, probably unlikely.
So, are those examples the end all and be all? No, probably not, but if we waited until the age of 10 or 15 when philosophical principles could be considered by children, they would have no base of conscience to build upon. And, in my humble opinion, would be less likely to consider God or spirituality at all moving forward.
So, in my opinion, religion provides a framework to build on. It provides a community to work and move within. How we expand from there, is only limited by our own desire and willingness to grow.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/06/04 - ANONYMOUS USER!
If an Anonymous User or a new Expert asked you this question ...
Do you ever get tired of doing what's right?
(.... and don't ask me the meaning of 'what's right.')
... what would your answer be?
HANK
IamDyan answered on 09/07/04:Hi Again Hank,
Actually, my answer would be the same.
Although I have to say if it's an anonymous poster, I'm usually less likely to respond. Maybe it's because I just don't like typing the word 'anonymous,' not sure. It just seems to me that if someone takes the time to ask a question, darnit, they should pick a name to ask it under :)
OK, OK, maybe I'm weird :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/05/04 - TIRED?
Do you ever get tired of doing what's right?
* .... and don't ask me the meaning of 'what's right.'
HANK
IamDyan answered on 09/07/04:Hi Hank,
I think sometimes I get tired of considering what's right :) I often have a tendency to put myself into another's person's shoes and consider varied points of views. And once that is done, often 'what is right' can become very complex, can't it?
But, no, once determined 'what is right' the rest seems to be a labor of love :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 09/05/04 - 21st century warcrime scandal at hand! 21st century warcrime scandal at hand!
Ammunition factories are using depleted uranium in their products.
Anti-tank shells and alike have tips with depleted uranium,which make it possible and easier to burn thru
tank armour,but leaving behind extremely toxic dust,that lasts for a hundred years!
This toxic radio-active dust will be touched and inhaled by anyone getting near the area where it is used and far , far beyond.It causes deadly disease and genetical deformations by the victims as well as by their children,their children's children etc,etc.
All kinds of deformations do occur.
Like children with no eyes or no nose or other deformed body-parts or illnesses!
Its a crime against humanity and LIFE as such to produce these weapons!
Hundreds of deformed and sick children are being born in Iraq.
Hundreds of English and American soldiers are dying from this and having genetically deformed children,who will pass this thru to their next generations!
Its a crime against humanity and LIFE to use this kind of weapons!
Why isnt this being discussed thru the U.N.?!
Why isnt this scandalic issue part of the election campaigns?!
There is plenty of evidence around!
Its a crime against humanity and LIFE not to address this issue!
It should be posted on every available board on the internet!
People should know!
IamDyan answered on 09/07/04:Hi Gguru,
Seems like something people should know, but the only link I can find about it is contained in information attached to the movie Farenheit 911. And frankly, in my humble opinion, that movie, is filled with so many half truths it's very difficult for me to take anything attached to it very seriously.
Personally for me, I usually find myself having to assess the causes where I can become involved - usually because I am limited by resources and time. I try to focus on items where I believe I can make a difference. I am working on a few issues a bit more local, like chemical weapons that are being trucked into my area for final disposal ... ultimately trickling the final product into a river an hour away.
Yeah, there seems to always be no end of concerns we can get involved in ... some of them are horrible, aren't they? I suppose that is in part, due to our wanting to live in a faster, more convenient environment. Perhaps our human shortcomings add to our short sightedness.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Chouxxx asked on 08/24/04 - Spiritual Questing I would be interested in knowing about everyone's spiritual quests. About each person's, if they care to share, journey with regard to spiritual and religious matters. For example, perhaps you were raised a Presbytrian in the faith of your parents, and then, later in life, at some point, your made additional inquiries via books, religious lessons and conversions, via spiritual groups, via whatever!
How do you feel about you life's journey? What happiness, of so, has this life's quest brought you? IamDyan answered on 08/24/04:Hi Chou,
No so sure that my modest efforts truly qualify as spiritual quests, but here goes a bit of history :)
When I was growing up, I lived in a neighborhood of a lot of mixed faiths ... but lots of kids my age. Of course, we all played together. And since we were all from differing degrees of spiritual/religious families, I had the opportunity to learn about a lot of faiths and attend their services.
Without any conscious thought, this taught me to be tolerant and to freely evaluate different faiths, their customs, and spirituality teachings.
While so many faiths held an interest for me, I spent a lot of my elective classes in college learning more about them.
And, I think the one most interesting to me has been Native American beliefs. Honestly, I seem to be able to find the best of the best of all the spirituality from all religions and faiths within their beliefs and customs. Their teaching of the universe as a whole; their belief that everything and everyone returns to nourish future generations; and their respect and care for the environment, elders, and children are a few of the things, I love most.
I have researched many tribes, but the one I am closest to (from a geographical perspective) is the Nanticoke tribe. And yes, there are still true Nanticokes here. I am planning to participate in a cleansing ritual next month, and as I learn more about it, I am at the same time eager and wondering. After that, who knows .... maybe my spirit quest :)
As far as life's journey goes, so far, so good. I'm not done yet. But every day gets a little better!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/23/04 - Me and Einstein. What about you? Vantage Point
"A human being is part of the whole, called by us 'Universe,' a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest of us
- a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole [of] nature in its beauty."
-- Albert Einstein
Agree? Disagree? Understand?
Please add any comments you feel moved to.
IamDyan answered on 08/24/04:Hi PW,
Einstein sure could put things succinctly, couldn't he? Personally, I imagine this is something I could spend years in therapy or years atop a high mountain clad in a toga mulling over :)
In a way, if you are a Star Trek fan at all, you can wonder if this is how the Prime Directive originated :)
But, I think that it is certainly true that my thoughts, feelings, and actions, somehow have a lasting effect .... leave a fingerprint of what I've done with my life ... on the "Universe DNA pattern." And sometimes, that just leaves me in awe.
I've sponsored a couple kids overseas for years, and am now writing to a few soldiers overseas. I wonder what difference that will one day make in the world. You know, the ripple effect.
But, I think, it often is even easier than that.
Imagine counting the times we respond negatively to an intolerant comment ... whether it be racial, political, or personal.
Imagine the times we are in a public place without a trashcan and put our trash in our pockets.
Imagine the times we just watch the sunset and are still .... or listen to the waves ... or hug our loved ones ... or pray. How does that effect our spirit? Are we better able to communicate and foster relationships, after those calming moments?
It really does leave me in awe ... all those possible ripple effects. And, I'll guarantee, they, somehow last generations.
So that's just my limited thought on it :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Chouxxx asked on 08/22/04 - Death "It is ofteh thought that the Buddhist doctrine teaches us that suffering will disappear if one has meditated(prayed) long enough, or if one sees everythng differently. It is not that at all. Suffering isn't going to go away, the one who suffers is gong to go away."
Do you find this paragraph about death upsetting. Please no comments about afterlife! Thanks. IamDyan answered on 08/24/04:Chou,
Yes .. it upsets me. Because if everyone's mind set is such, that leaves everyone believing suffering is inevitable and there is no human (or other than human) effort that can make a difference.
While it may be true that some suffering is meant to strenghten us in some way - by giving us insight or understanding or testing us in some way; I think a lot of suffering isn't necessary, and can be helped.
Maybe, to put it even plainer, one person's suffering is another person's opportunity to help, understand, show compassion and love.
Just my thoughts on it anyway.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Chouxxx asked on 08/22/04 - A Buddhist Daily Teaching I really got a kick out of this simple Buddhist Daily teaching. "Sometimes the best we can do may be very good, sometimes it is only mediocre." -Ayya Khema
Another:: "Treat others with the mind of giving, and practice doing works that have no reward."-Master Baek
"Life responds when we risk."-Rodney Smith
"If one is lonely neither in a crowd or in the deep mountains, oneis an able person who knows how to enjoy absolute freedom."-Jae w. Kim
"Transforming appearances is easy;
keeping it to the end is hard." -Adept Godrakpa
"Do not wish for gratitude." -G Chekawa
"Whatever is not yours, abandon it. When you have abandoned it, that will lead to your welfare and happiness."-Buddha
Pick one or many if you wish and make personal comments as to your opinion of what it/they mean and do you think the idea(s) are worthwhile??
Happy new week!
IamDyan answered on 08/24/04:Hi Chou!
I like this one ....
"Whatever is not yours, abandon it. When you have abandoned it, that will lead to your welfare and happiness."-Buddha
It seems to me this principle is taught in a lot of places, including Stephen Covey showing the difference between the circle of influence and the circle of concern.
I find this to be excellent advice. If you can't do anything to effect it or change it, then forget about it. Your effort is best spent elsewhere ... for there is someone else out there who has power over it. And, if they are following the same advice, well then, they can change it. And some day, the effects will reach you.
Just my thoughts.
And Happy New Week to you TOO!
Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 08/19/04 - Forgiveness? Is it possible to forgive a person who showed so much hatred and evil and tried their best to cause as much problems as possible. What happens if it is hard to forgive such evil acts?
IamDyan answered on 08/19/04:Hi Joe,
Assuming you don't equate forgiving and forgetting, yes I find very it possible (though, not always easy) to forgive. Of course, this is just me.
I think sometimes it is helpful to put myself into their "shoes" so to speak .... try to determine the "why's" of their actions. It also helps (me anyway) if I am able to tell them how I feel about their actions. And, if that is not possible, to put my feelings down on paper.
As for what happens if its impossible to forgive ... I would have to say, its just that. I'm human, and I have my limits, as much as (sometimes) I don't like to admit it :)
Hope this helps, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 08/16/04 - Please Pray! My Grandmother is in the hospital with Bronchial anomonia, and emphazeema. Can you please Pray. Thank you!
Joe IamDyan answered on 08/16/04:Absolutely! Your grandmother, you, and the rest of your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 08/15/04 - Politics: Spirituality, and Religion or Christianity Do you believe that politics and voting is a duty we need to complete as individuals? Some people believe that Christanity or religion have nothing to do with politics. Some people believe that The laws of the land and moral issues of this world have nothing to do with politics. I think it has everything to do with voting and politics. I believe how we vote and who we vote for and etc... actually effects the laws and how we live our lives, what is moral and what is not. What do you think?
Love to hear all your opinions and thoughts and followups if needed. Everybody gets 5 stars. Everybodys opinion is important and i think its important that we all share it, learn what each other thinks and share our thoughts with others. No matter what we do or do not agree with.
Lets all get along.
Joe IamDyan answered on 08/15/04:Hi Joe,
I think it was a wise man that said ...
"Give unto Ceasar what is Ceasar's and unto God what is God's."
I frequently participate in local politics, vote all the time, and attend church. No conflicts here :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/15/04 - How can we learn enough to satisy ourselves? Or can't we? A man approached the Blessed One and wanted to have all his philosophical questions answered before he would practice.
In response, the Buddha said, “It is as if a man had been wounded by a poisoned arrow and when attended to by a physician were to say, ‘I will not allow you to remove this arrow until I have learned the caste, the age, the occupation, the birthplace, and the motivation of the person who wounded me.’ That man would die before having learned all this. In exactly the same way, anyone who should say, ‘I will not follow the teaching of the Blessed One until the Blessed One has explained all the multiform truths of the world’-that person would die before the Buddha had explained all this.”
-from the Majjhima Nikaya IamDyan answered on 08/15/04:Hi PW,
I have to admit I am much like the man listed here. I am always eager to know the qualifications of someone. And while that is not always a bad thing (like if they are building your home - or diagnosing your health) I sometimes wonder if we should treat the care of our soul and spirituality less cavalierly.
The answer might be in a lot of ways, that while I myself do not know how to build a home, I do instinctually know what my spirit needs ... and those speaking an untruth will throw up flags hard to ignore. While those offering peace, well, they are hard to ignore as well, since ourselves seem to gravitate toward them.
So maybe, we can never learn enough to satisfy ourselves, but we can learn enough to decide for ourselves whether to continue on a path .... mostly, by listening to our own conscience.
All the Best, Dyan
PS -
"Keep away from people
who try to belittle your ambitions.
Small people always do that, but
the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great."
Mark Twain
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 08/09/04 - I am a Mrs. tta! Please no congrats and no "so.. sorrys", just a prayer will do for me! We had the MOST beautiful day, the most stressful day, BUT the most beautiful day! My Grandmother was there, I could feel here as others could. It is truly amazing how such a day does change your life. Not in a bad sense in a honest sense. That you feel that obligation not just know it. That you feel that love and try your best to show it. That day was a day that we were like children again. Trying to be polite and saying hello to all we love and know. Taking time to find that friend and talk to them as long as you can. And most of all meeting up with that best friend you have and dancing the night away!
The cake was smooshed in the faces, both his and mine, the dances were of our dances and not of the normal kind, the friends were of different years however all the same, our life is now bonded by the same name. I am still in love with him, as I may have forgotten a time or two. He is in my blood, as good lovers do!
The only change in me is that I love him more. I AM HIS WOMAN AND HE IS MY MAN!
I love you all for all that you have helped me through. There were many rough times that you never really knew I was having. Not so much with the Man, just life in general. I only write because I miss you all!
Please stay with hope, love, and forgiveness. It is the only qualities we have as people vs the animals in life!
Mrs. tta IamDyan answered on 08/10/04:My prayer for you is this....
Two sets of listening ears,
Two understanding minds,
Two flexible egos,
a loving family, and circle of friends,
and a good sense of humor.
Where all of these things are,
love will always remain,
long after passion fades.
All the Best to you and Mr. tta!
Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/02/04 - Can you add your own script for happiness?
If you want happiness for an hour—take a nap.
If you want happiness for a day—go fishing.
If you want happiness for a month—get married.
If you want happiness for a year—inherit a fortune.
If you want happiness for a lifetime—help others.
- Chinese Proverb
Thanks.
IamDyan answered on 08/08/04:Hi PW,
A few other things that make me happy...
Jenn - all grown up, but still occasionally asking for advice and eagerly awaiting it.
My dogs - wagging tails and nuzzling always.
My cat - circling around my legs.
Pets always have trust in their eyes.
Friends, good friends, around the kitchen table....and never running out of conversation.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/08/04 - Please help me to understand this quote. People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in; their true beauty is revealed only if
there is a light from within.--Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
What do you think is meant by 'a light from within'?
Is *darkness a metaphor for sadness?
Thanks.
PW IamDyan answered on 08/08/04:Hi PW,
A wonderful quote ....
I love stained glass windows. I have hopes that one day I will put a few insets into the windows in our home here.
Imagine having stained glass windows in your home. Perhaps one in your kitchen, one in your bedroom, one in your livingroom.
Now imagine a stranger driving by your home
on a night with all your sons and family crowded in. The stained glass not only shines because of the lamps lit inside, but sparkles every time someone lifts a glass or stokes the fireplace, or a grandchild runs from room to room casting and displacing shadows while they discover Grandma's treasures.
Does darkness mean sadness? No, I think darkness means rather lack of movement, lack of growth.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 05/27/04 - Another way to look at things When it seems as if others are looking at you...
it's really you, looking at yourself.
IamDyan answered on 05/28/04:Hey keenu,
Or as a dear friend always says,
perception is everything.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 03/29/04 - Albert Camus (1913-1960) "You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life".
I came across this quote just now as I am going through my pile of "spiritual" writings that I have collected over the last several years on different boards.
Anyone have any opinions to share about this quote? IamDyan answered on 03/29/04:Hi Chou,
I guess I am thinking that the source of the quote is that everything is a web of all things combined in just living.
When we try to untangle the web, into just what has to do with "this" or "that" it just all kinda falls apart.
Happiness and life just is....
It is a product of all else,
the good and the bad.
Have a great week, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | LTgolf asked on 03/28/04 - Bye Just wanted to say bye to all the great people here. I have learned a lot and had great enjoyment from reading the posts and answers here.
But alas : enought is enought.
Leon
IamDyan answered on 03/29/04:Leon,
I will miss you ....
I will always enjoy keeping in touch :)
All the Best to you and your family! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | littlemissy asked on 03/26/04 - religion dear experts,
does religion help people come good or is spirituality (whatever that is) enough to be a good person? can i be a good person if i stop believing in religion?
thanks, littlemissy IamDyan answered on 03/26/04:Hi little missy,
Who defines a good person? That, in itself is a hard question to answer.
You are likely a good person if your conscience is strong enough to ask this question.
You seem worried, and yet, I am not sure why? Perhaps you want to share a bit more information.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 03/26/04 - "Spiritually grounded" Just to stir the pot a bit: Christians who marched off on the Crusades and killed Muslims were very devout believers in their religion. Muslims who engage in suicide bombings as part of an Islamic crusade are very devout believers in their religion. Would you describe these people (either or both groups) as being "spiritually grounded"? Would you care to comment further on the relationship (similarities or differences) between strong religious conviction and being spiritually grounded? IamDyan answered on 03/26/04:Hi Rich,
Can't imagine either group was grounded at all, much less spiritually grounded.
Brainwashed is more like it.
In all my reading, albiet short these days if there's anything new to add to age old principles, we should not hurt others.
It's funny, but take the fanatics out of it, and the rest of us get along just fine. I wonder why?
| | Question/Answer | | bal317 asked on 03/23/04 - Asking for Prayers Hello Fellow Experts: This has been a crazy weekend.
My only living Uncle age 90, has been called home.
He passed away, Friday in his bed with his very loving and devoted wife at his side.
This couple ment, and actually celebrated their union each and every day of their life together.
He was a devoted Christian, being his age and 7'tall, he until his last day of living would kneel along bedside to say his nightly prayer with his wife by his side doing the same.
You never saw Uncle George that he did not have a kind word to say to you, and many I mean many people had been touched by his life.
With tonite being visitation, he had 478 people paying tribute to this man. They stood in line like he was the President of the United States.
All said they never truely seen a man who they knew was not perfect, but actually lead a Christian life.
I and many other's including his children, never heard Uncle George to ever swear, yell or judge another person, he was an actual gentle giant of a man. He could talk to the street person to the President which he ment and stayed the night at the Whitehouse, and treat them all in kind.
Get this, up to his death, he and his wife every Saturday night, always had a candle lite diner, during their younger days it was after the kids were in bed, but they always pulled together and always respected each other and cherished all their friends.
I am asking for prayers that his wife can make it through tomorrow(his funeral) and that God gives her strenght to go on, in her loving way.
To watch over his children as they point out, there was absolutely nothing wrong in their family, it was fun and full of love.
I guess I also want others here to see, yes there was a couple that took to heart the true meaning of being united, sharing their love and showering each other as if they were young at heart and full of zest, and they both contribute this to having the love of God in their hearts, home and life.
Thank you all,
bal317 IamDyan answered on 03/23/04:Bal,
You and your family
are in my thoughts and prayers. | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 03/10/04 - Because I'm a man
Because I'm a man, when I lock my keys in the car I will fiddle with a wire long after hypothermia has set in.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, when the car isn't running very well, I will pop the hood and stare at the engine as if I know what I'm looking at. If another man shows up, one of us will say to the other, "I used to be able to fix these things, but now with all these computers and everything, I wouldn't, know where to start." We will then drink beer.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, when I catch a cold, I need someone to bring me soup and take care of me while I lie in bed and moan. You're a woman. You never get as sick as I do, so for you this isn't a problem.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, I can be relied upon to purchase basic groceries at the store, like milk or bread. I cannot be expected to find exotic items like "cumin" or "tofu." For all I know, these are the same thing. And never, under any circumstances, expect me to pick up anything for which "feminine hygiene product" is a euphemism.
(F.Y.I. guys cumin is a spice)
*****************************
Because I'm a man, when one of our appliances stops working, I will insist on taking it apart, despite evidence that this will just cost me twice as much, once the repair person gets here and has to put it back together.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, I must hold the television remote control in my hand while I watch TV. If the thing has been misplaced, I may miss a whole show looking for it (though one time I was able to survive by holding a calculator).
*****************************
Because I'm a man, there is no need to ask me what I'm thinking about. The answer is always either sex, cars, or football. I have to make up something else when you ask, so don't ask.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, I do not want to visit your mother, or have your mother come visit us, or talk to her when she calls, or think about her any more than I have to. Whatever you got her for Mother's Day is okay; I don't need to see it. And don't forget to pick up something for my mother, too.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, you don't have to ask me if I liked the movie. Chances are, if you're crying at the end of it, I didn't.
*****************************
Because I'm a man, I think what you're wearing is fine. I thought what you were wearing five minutes ago was fine, too. Either pair of shoes is fine. With the belt or without it, looks fine. Your hair is fine. You look fine. Can we just go now?
*****************************
Because I'm a man, and this is, after all, the year 2004, I will share equally in the housework. You just do the laundry, the cooking, the gardening, the cleaning, the vacuuming, and the dishes, and I'll do the rest.
*****************************
This has been a public service message for Women to better understand the Male .
IamDyan answered on 03/10/04:Happiness is puppy breath!
Ummmm.....ok.
Thanks for the psa, and maybe you'll enjoy this:
After a few weeks of Adam being by himself in the garden of Eden, he got lonely. So he went to God and asked for a companion. God said he would look into it and get back to him the next day.
So the next day God went to Adam and said 'Here Adam, I can make a beutifull woman that cooks, irons, cleans, never complains and is pretty much just what you want, but it'll cost you an arm and a leg, what do you think' Adam thought for a few seconds and then asked 'what can I get for a rib?'
PS-Texas was great! | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 03/09/04 - Bringing one to believe.... .... in something greater than what we know as a fact. I swear that there are so... many signs given to people in the world that should give belief to all. Then again, maybe only so few are so... lucky to experiance such oddities in life.
My Grandmother died just short of three years ago. She had been going through a terrible sickness for over a year that soon brought her to depression and soon her end to life. My Father asked me, why I don't know, but all the same asked me why she was holding on in her weeks of in and out of consiousness. Like I really know right? Not in thought but just blurting out, "She is waiting to say good-bye to everyone she loves". To this day I don't know why I said that, if there is even a reason, however in the day prior to her passing on, my Father and his sister in witness of the whole day. My Father asked me "How did you know", the next day. I said "Know what"? "That she was waiting to say goodbye to all she loves". He went on to explain that the whole day went on and on with the phone constantly ringing. Close family and friends stopping by to visit her, many being their first time visiting her. All really not knowing how close she was to passing on, but in this day it was like magic even though she did not speak, the words of love that came from these people must have been the release for her. She died that night having so.... very many people with her in their thoughts and hearts.
Driving that next morning, duley upset over her passing and feeling quite numb in general, I was at a stop light sobbing. All of a sudden feeling this warm touch on my right leg, as if someone had put their hand on my leg. It was almost shocking however so.. very peaceful.
Eight months later we are blessed with the news my cousins are going to have another baby. Some months later we find out this baby will be a girl and is due a week after my Grandmother's birthday, almost to the day. There was such hope and prayer that this blessed child would be born on this day however the chances of such seem like millions to one. Erin Elizabeth (Grandma's name) was on her way early that morning and born that day in the mid-afternoon. Just a flook in life? Possible, however it makes me believe in way more than that life is just filled with thousands if not millions of these "flooks".
Sure there are times when your mind plays games with you, emotions can play games with you, when it comes to reality. However When there is absolutelty no reason behind such experiances it makes me put it in the belief catagory in life. It truly allows one to grow as long as we do not feed on it!
Anyone else here have such experiances? Things that you can not explain, almost makes you wonder if they are real? IamDyan answered on 03/09/04:Hi tta,
How wonderful that your Grandmother had the opportunity to say goodbye to so many that she loved.
I had an experience very similar to yours over the year before my grandfather passed on. There were two distinct times when we thought we lost him, yet somehow he held on. As it turns out, during that time, he had the opportunity to meet up again with his son, who had been estranged for many, many years.
Finally, when Grandpop passed, it was peaceful in his sleep. And a few days later, Alan 'heard' him making comments over the evening news (as he loved to do) and I smelled his cologne as I drove in the car to work.
It was a good feeling, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/29/04 - Have any of you experienced this in a personal way?
Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them to become what they are capable of being.
- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
IamDyan answered on 03/01/04:Hi PW,
I am a firm believer in this philosophy. Let me preface my belief in this thought by adding that, I think it only works if the person experiencing this treatment, values that person's opinion of them enough, to want to make it be true.
Personally, I've been both on the giving and receiving end of this phenomena.
For example, when I was 22 and just entering the business world, I had a wonderful mentor. He shared so much of his wisdom about people and business, and spoke to me as if I was capable of handling any management issue.
When I had questions, he would listen patiently, ask me more questions, and soon I would often find myself figuring out the answer on my own. And he would never act surprised about that--
In fact, he always said, I am confident you already know the answers. At the time, I probably didn't know the answers, but his thinking that I did, made me aspire to think things through, ask the right questions, and weigh options carefully. And it was important to me that I live up to his expectations.
I've been in the business world for 20 years now, and I've had the opportunity to similarly mentor quite a few young people. Most of them have strived to, and were greatly successful, in living up to similar expectations.
I've also seen a similar growth in my daughter. During her school years, I held high expectations that she was the type of person with a kind, caring heart who would never develop a catty attitude (that so many kids seem to have) about some of the less popular kids in school. I always expressed that she knew everyone has something to offer, and so it's important to reach out and be friendly to the kids who seem to have no friends and to stick up for them. As it tuns out, she is a staunch supporter of the "underdog" and has a wide circle of friends.
These are just a few examples....I could probably write a book :)
Anyway, what do you think? Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 02/27/04 - Watching Rikki Lake in the Background One of the guests, a drag queen trying to reconcile with his reliious mother, made the statement to his mother sweeping his arm from head to toe, "This is who I really am".
I was thinking, is our outer appearance who we really are? Part of who we are? I don't think that what he appeared to be(a lavishly made up and swishing stipper) is who he really is.
Comments IamDyan answered on 02/28/04:Hi Chou,
I've known some really good looking people who were so full of themselves and shallow.
And then, I've known some people who were average looking, but so endearing in the way they cared for others and in their sense of humor and knowledge.
Interesting, true story. A guy I am working with is physically handicapped. He's very slight in stature, short, has one arm and one leg that is shorter than the other. When he showed up the first day of the project, even the civil, well-mannered adults we are all supposed to be, we held back from befriending him.
Over the last year, most of us have gotten to know him. He is a thoughtful, caring person, easy to make laugh. What an interesting life he has led....serving in the Israeli army for 10 years, studying in Germany, traveling the world. Two months ago, he took two weeks vacation from the project when his second daughter was born. And when he returned, we had many gifts for our friend wishing the new baby well.
So, I think that our outward appearance speaks very little about who we are really.
In fact, sometimes, I think our outward appearance is really just similar to a costume....it could be anything....but it's not who we are.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 02/27/04 - Proof is in the puddin' I hurts me to hear such! To hear the below innocent and factual comments of which I am sure of are from wonderful men! It disgusts me that as a woman I have become a LIABILITY rather than a TREASURE! Who did this to men? Who made it so we are more a liablity than something to be treasured. That we are no longer the Princesses we use to be but the Witch? You read and make a judgement.....
“****, it seems to me that young people have no regard for manners. I hate going into a store and have some clerk refer to me as "Buddy." My father would have tanned my hide if I had done that, and I would have jumped on any employee of mine that did it.
It seems that chivalry is going to die soon, unless the women start demanding different treatment. I was once accused of being sexist by holding open a door for a woman!”
“As for holding doors for women, helping them with their coats, and walking on the "right" side, I shall risk starting a firestorm of outrage. I understand that women want to be treated as equals. Equal is equal, and let's not get into some Orwellian logic about how sometimes they are not. Therefore, I will not hold a door for a woman or help her with her coat just because she is a woman. On the "right" side of the street matter (which I think originated back when it was customary to throw garbage out of windows), I won't do this either just because my companion is a woman. Besides, if I do any of these things for one of those "liberated" women, she may think that I'm being patronizing. I will, however, hold the door for any person who is next to me or right behind me – except for teenagers because they move too fast. And I will help any person with his or her coat if help seems to be needed. I respect the capabilities of women and their right to equality, and I think they are as capable as I am of opening doors and putting on a coat.”
There is no need to understand men, to get them, to make them our own. The need is to respect them, to listen to them when they do not talk, to actually think and not feel for once as a woman! My God, I did it today, no feeling, just thinking, and the man is HAPPY, he is beyond HAPPY, he is SUPRISED, THINKING HIMSELF, AND KNOWINGLY RELAXED! Whoa to a woman is flowers un-expected, whoa to a man is a woman not bit***** at him! A non-emotinal night! We can control, you women out there! It is just stupid thought that men just might not be as smart as us! If that does not work, then that we are not as smart as them. Then just let bigons be bigons. WE ALL WIN IF WE JUST RESPECT!
Men will not and do not give being women don't give. I am not talking about spreading of you know what but more of just listening to them. I sat there two nights ago in total amazement however honestly in "Just shut up" thought when my man was going on and on and on about fishing. He would just not stop, just on and on and on. Oh my God, show me the light, do I not do EXACTLY the same thing however THE OTHER 6 DAYS OF THE WEEK? A woman silenced the other night not just by him, overwhelment, but more of understanding that it WAS HIS TURN! HELLO! No interruptions, no, "Well I think". Plain and simple, he talks I listen.
Do you know how hard that is for a girl? LOL! How relieving, how honest, how just right. A wonderful experiance I will practice more often. To let a man think, feel, and just go on and on as if it were ANOTHER FEMALE! LOL AGAIN!
I want to hear it from you all! Let's hear it! How true is it that we woman DO NOT LISTEN, WE ARE TOO BUSY THINKING OF THE SUBJECT TO GO ON! For men, PLEASE TELL ME I AM RIGHT! Maybe not in your relationship, is so you are lucky, but the majority of what you see, how you feel and think!
Is the proof in the puddin' or am I looking for something to justify my passion?
IamDyan answered on 02/27/04:Must've missed the last question....
but here goes.
I'm married to a wonderful guy who holds the door, the chair, and helps me on with my coat. I work with lots of wonderful guys who always hold the door, open the car door, etc. I always say thank you.
But as person who happens to be a woman, I hold the door for the next person, no matter who they might be. I walk on the street side of the sidewalk when I am with someone elderly or a child .... not sure about the garbage thing.....but, I'm not gonna rethink that :)
I always listen when people talk....no matter who it is. My motto, you are unlikely to learn anything new from listening to yourself talk.
Being courteous to others should be a given. But as far as anyone being equal, or on a pedestal, (women or men) I think everyone has to earn that for themselves.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 02/25/04 - "The Bliss of Inner Fire" Lama T. Yeshe said, "When everything is clean-clear in your own mind, nobody can create obstacles for you.
Comments? IamDyan answered on 02/26/04:Hi Chou,
This is true in all ways. If you are intent in working through anything, anything is possible.
Obstacles suddenly become challenges. And challenges are meant to be risen to and conquered.
You find yourself involving others, sharing ideas. You help each other collectively to do more than a single person could ever do. Your enthusiasm spreads. If you believe and are positive, it is absolutely catchy.
Ask me about work this week....Ha Ha! We did what everyone said could never be done :)
Have a great weekend, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | stillwaiting asked on 02/26/04 - gratitude life is sacred and indeed each and every breath you take is a blessing...so slow down and breath deep because each and every breath you take is a gift...breath in slow and deep and then exhale slowly all the way and give thanks to...?...the creator of the universe...i am darlene,(stillwaiting) female human being from the beautiful planet earth out in the middle of the universe IamDyan answered on 02/26/04:Hi stillwaiting,
Life is indeed an adventure and an opportunity. Enjoy each minute.
I am not a big advocate of slowing down. I like to gulp my air, but you know, that's not bad, either.
Take it as it comes, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 02/26/04 - Love, Schmove ~ from Salon.com
When asked, "Do you think all any of us really want, deep down, is to be loved?" Garrison Keillor responded: 'No, we want to be rich, to be admired, to eat like a horse and be skinny as a snake. To have small children ask for our autographs, to be on terrific medications that make us calm and witty and sexy. To sing Irving Berlin and Gershwin and Porter at the Oak Room and be described in theTimes as 'luminous.' But in the absence of all that, it's enough to be loved." IamDyan answered on 02/26/04:OMG, CeeBee....That is GREAT!
In my humble opinion, whoever Garrison Keillor is, he is, above all honest :)
Still on a high myself from last weekend. No, not hounded by paparazzi, just hanging out with extended family I haven't seen for a few months.
New rule....Next time I see them, they must all clamor for my autograph!!!
Have a great weekend, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/23/04 - Indoctrination of Children Following is a question I find very difficult to answer, tell me your thoughts on the matter.
For any people here who have children: have you made any attempts (or do you plan) to indoctrinate your child into a certain political, moral, or epistemological ideology? If so, how have you gone about it? Do any of you find it moral or not and why? If you do not want to and have not tried to indoctrinate your child- how do you want it to acquire its ideology?
IamDyan answered on 02/23/04:Hi DC,
Been a while, hope you are doing well.
Since the primary definition of indoctrinate is "teach," I would say yes, I have taught my child to understand and respect my moral and political opinions, as well as my appreciation of nature and the conservation of its resources. I would say I have mostly taught by example and conversation.
Most of our conversations about the subjects have grown quite lengthy, since she has grown, and so hopefully, through our discussions, my reasoning is clear. But yet, she has been educated to think for herself as well.
As I do not have the same exact opinions as my parents, I imagine my daughter's opinions will grow to also not be exactly the same as mine. And, that's OK.
But I imagine, hers will not be exponentially different from mine....just as mine are not exponentially different from my parents'. At the heart of most things, are ideologies are the same, likely because of the values handed down in a family.
I think not only is this moral, it's a duty. If I do not teach my child to respect life, nature, and liberties, then who will? Should I allow TV to dictate? Or perhaps her teacher? Or her friends?
If I do not believe in abortion, or if I do not believe in deforestation, in the same way that I would express my right of free speech to let others know how I feel, I also have the obligation to share my opinions with my children. Should they decide at a later time to have other opinions, then I must respect that. But I believe not sharing our beliefs with our children is denying them a base to grow from.
There was a study completed a while back about children growing up with or without religion in the home. While the children who grew up with religion, did not always end up belonging to the same religion as their parents, they exponentially did embrace some belief in God over the kids who grew up with no religion, no base to chose from.
I would think the same could be said for any values. Don't share your values, and kids never consider values at all. If you share your values, kids spend some time searching out the values right for them.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/12/04 - Curious about some responses to my last post about love. Seagull commented: "Babies are not mean and spiteful, as they do not know what this is. However, take one, and just give it food and water, and no affection or love, and see what it develops into. It will not know love or kindness, and will show none, either. There is much difference between learned responses and involuntary muscles." Regards, Dan
RichTurner commented: "Just as we cannot solve a problem unless we first admit that a problem exists, we cannot combat loveless evil if we deny its existence. It's all well and good to say that everything will be fine if we all just love one another. "
HANK commented: "Any person who has accepted the false idea that he/she must love others unconditionally is morally forced to endure all kinds of evil within his/her personal world, his/her employment world or political world in the name of Christian love. This false teaching is endemic within the secular and Christian worlds."
Dyan commented:
"Let's further say a child born of rape turns out to be a loving individual. And to take the opposite course, why does someone like Hitler, seemingingly born in a loving way, appears to be evil incarnate."
I said: "We experience all the other emotions as we grow into adulthood, and often move away from who we really are due to anger, pain, loneliness, rejection, fear, and other causes.
Eventually we go through a spiritual process of unlearning all those things that have changed us from loving beings - and recreate ourselves, until we finally return to what we truly are."
I haven't denied the existence of lovelessness among human beings. I've only stated that it comes from ego and pain, and is not who/what we really are.
All of these responses that seem to disagree with me, have actually indicated the same thing that I have said - Will someone please point me in the right direction here?
I'm serious when I say I don't see the differences.
PW IamDyan answered on 02/12/04:Hi PW,
A couple comments....
First, everyone does not eventually go through a spiritual process of unlearning unloving ways. There are many who go to the grave, never experiencing a spiritual awakening. Did you hear Timothy McVeigh's last words?
Secondly, you state that we recreate ourselves and finally return to what we truly are. Who's not living in the moment here? Under what circumstances, is our current state, not who we truly are? And who determines that?
Just curious.....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/10/04 - All human beings are born of, and to love. It is my belief that we are born simply, as love in physical form. We experience all the other emotions as we grow into adulthood, and often move away from who we really are due to anger, pain, loneliness, rejection, fear, and other causes.
Eventually we go through a spiritual process of unlearning all those things that have changed us from loving beings - and recreate ourselves, until we finally return to what we truly are.
One doesn't need to stand up and shout of their love for others. Everyone has love for others. How could we not? How can 'love, itself' not love?
I love men, women and children. There are those I love much more than others, as individuals. I find it difficult to love someone who has brutalized or brought immense pain to another,as I find it difficult to love someone dishonest, spiteful or gossipy. Yet, even they must have someone who loves them.
As a woman, I love men with their strength, sexual prowess, and gentleness. As a woman, I love other women with the understanding of their emotional hurdles. I feel loyalty and compassion for my sisters.
As a woman, I love children, as a mother, teacher and protector of those who can't protect themselves.
I love animals and nature too. Though we may move away from our loving self, it is still within us waiting to come out.
Because we're human & busy we forget to show it at times, but it is there.
How can love not love?? IamDyan answered on 02/11/04:Hi PW,
Perhaps in the Creator's plan, it was meant for all to be born of love, but, I think that is not always true.
Perhaps I am playing devil's advocate here, but there are, indeed, cases where children are born as a result of rape, or perhaps even within a test tube. And would you say they are born of love?
Let's further say a child born of rape turns out to be a loving individual. And to take the opposite course, why does someone like Hitler, seemingingly born in a loving way, appears to be evil incarnate.
Frankly, I believe, we are all born with free will, and the capacity to love. We determine for themselves whether we will love, or be loveable.
It's really a conscious choice. Our life may shape our choices, but not determine them.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 02/04/04 - Hell Has Frozen Over!!! I am currently in need of advice and suggestions and help!
I sorta have a "boyfriend" relationship, and I never thought I would be in this position ever again in my entire life. I'm having anxiety attacks! I hope none of you were praying that I meet a man!!!! LOL
Anyway, yesterday when I(we) went shopping we held hands in the Dairy aisle. He called me last night and stopped over today for a visit and to bring me some detergent he found on sale. He goes out of his way to be friends with Nick, and is fixing things around my apartment.
Anyway, I'm anxious. I seem to recall from years ago what it felt like when a man was 'closing in' on me.:D
I need some sugestions, I'm an "old lady" now and have no confidence in my physical appearance, emotions, etc.
If all problems could only be like this!
Thanks, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/04/04:Hey Chou,
That's just great! Enjoy those anxiety attacks -- actually, I think they're probably butterflies :)
Just relax and be yourself. Obviously, that's what attracted him to you. I think you look great with the new haircut. And you might be surprised when you look in the mirror, that you're smiling more and your face has just a hint of blush in those "old lady" cheeks. All those things add up to a pretty lady.
Take things slow, don't be in a rush, or you might miss more of those hand holding fun times.
All the Best to you! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 02/02/04 - Why Can't We Just Be Ourselves? Yes, why can't adults just be themselves? (Assumng not engaging in dangerous behavior) Chou
IamDyan answered on 02/02/04:You mean we aren't???
I think, truly the only time I somewhat restrain the real me, is during work hours, in order to get along (and, somewhat to the chagrin of my boss, sometimes not then.)
At work, it's often give and take. I make allowances for others because I know the favors will be returned when I need them.
Other than that, not much diguising here.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | XCHOUX asked on 01/31/04 - Today's Meditation Last Day of January
Today's Buddhist Meditation 1-31-4"It is crucial to know when it is appropriate to withdraw our attention from things that disturb our mind. However, if the only way we know how to deal with certain objects is to avoid them, there will be a severe limit as to how far our spiritual practice can take us."
This meditation gave me alot to think about today. I think it is terrific. Without sharing my thoughts,
Anyone desire to make comments? IamDyan answered on 01/31/04:Hi Chou,
The most important thing, I think, is to know when we are just wallowing in negative thoughts, without effecting change.
For example: this week, I was working closely with someone I do not really like. The reasons are numerous, but suffice it to say, we just don't clique.
In order for us to effectively work well together, it was necessary for me to avoid thinking of the idiosyncrasies that drive me mad ... because there is nothing positive in concentrating on that. But at the same time, it was crucial to the project, that I focus on the needs he presented to me to make our integrated test successful, so I chose to push aside idiosyncrasies and concentrate instead on the knowledge he brings to the table to make our common goal a success.
Short and sweet --
Don't cut off your nose to spite your face!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/26/04 - IN HARM'S WAY!
If a person harms or kills a dog or cat, should that person be prosecuted in the same way as the person who harms or kills another person?
HANK
IamDyan answered on 01/26/04:You know, some animals I know, are better people than some people I know :) I am a huge animal lover, and when I hear about specific instances of animal abuse, I almost feel the offenders should be prosecuted more than if they harmed a person.
But, I know that's not entirely logical...more my heart talking. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 01/25/04 - Laughter Here's a serendipitous article from my just-received January 2004 Mensa Bulletin:
He Who Laughs ... Lasts
by Richard Lederer
An Apache myth tells us the Creator made man able to walk and talk, to see and hear -- to do everything. But the Creator wasn't satisfied. Finally he made man laugh, and when man laughed and laughed, the Creator said, "Now you are fit to live."
In Navajo culture, there is something called the First Laugh Ceremony. Tradition dictates that each Navajo baby is kept on a cradle board until he or she laughs for the first time. Then the tribe throws a celebration in honor of the child's first laugh, which is considered to be his or her birth as a social being.
We are not only Homo sapiens, the creature who thinks. We are Homo guffawus, the creature who laughs.
Did you know babies are born with certain natural instincts? Neurologists have discovered the reason babies cry right after they are born is that they instinctively understand the magnitude of the national debt they are going to be saddled with.
Just kidding. But I'm completely serious when I report the fact that 5-year-olds laugh naturally about 250 times a day. How sad it is that as we age, we almost inevitably gain girth and lose mirth. Many of us don't laugh 250 times a month!
"Man is the only animal who blushes -- or needs to," wrote Mark Twain. He could have added, "Man is the only animal that truly laughs -- or needs to." How solemn can God be if he endowed us with the gift of laughter?
We all need to laugh. Recent studies have shown that he or she who laughs, lasts. Norman Cousins, who used laughter to conquer a debilitating disease, writes, "Illness is not a laughing matter. Perhaps it ought to be. Laughter moves your internal organs around. It enhances respiration. It is an igniter of great expectation ... It has always seemed to me that hearty laughter is a good way to jog internally without having to go outdoors."
Laughter stimulates the circulation, tones the muscles, energizes the lungs and respiratory system, stimulates endorphins in the immune system, and provides superb aerobic exercise. In Make 'Em Laugh, Stanford University professor William Fry explains, "When laughter gets to the point where it is called 'convulsive,' almost every muscle in the body is involved."
Laughter is also an elixir for the mind. Tests administered before and after humor therapy reveal a reduction of stress and depression and a heightened sense of well-being and creativity. More and more, science is discovering it hurts only when we don't laugh. "Laughter is to life what shock absorbers are to automobiles. It won't take the potholes out of the road, but it sure makes the ride smoother," observes Barbara Johnson. "The most wasted of all days is one without laughter," adds the magician of poetry, e.e. cummings. According to Robert Porvine, author of Laughter, a Scientific Investigation, we laugh also to promote social bonding -- a trigger that appears to be genetically determined. His studies document that we actually laugh more frequently during the course of conversation at things that aren't funny to show agreement or approval, than we do to voice our amusement at something that tickles our funny bone.
"Humor is not a trick," writes author and A Prairie Home Companion host Garrison Keillor. "Humor is a presence in the world -- like grace -- and shines on everybody." The profound act of laughter is a special blessing to us who live in the long, dark shadow of that day terrorism shook our land. The late and beloved humorist Erma Bombeck, whose column "At Wit's End" was read by millions, speaks to us today: "Laughter rises out of tragedy when you need it the most, and rewards you for your courage." And the also late and beloved humorist Richard Armour observed, "Comedy, I think, is as high an art as tragedy. It is as important to make people laugh as to make people cry."
As bread is the staff of life, laughter is its nectar. Go forth and practice random acts of laughter. Ripples of laughter will wash the brightest pearls onto the shores of your life. Laughter makes life the merriest of go-rounds and will keep you from getting dizzy.
In a recent AARP interview, U.N Secretary General Kofi Annan was asked, "And what is the single greatest thing that sustains you?"
His answer: "A sense of humor. And I laugh at myself."
Employ Annan's wisdom. Be sure to laugh at yourself. Others are laughing at you, so why not you, too? IamDyan answered on 01/25/04:So true CeeBee...
I remember my Uncle Jack's wise words to Alan and I on our wedding day: "The single most important thing to keeping any marriage together is a good sense of humor."
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/20/04 - Is everyone hibernating? No new posts in days... When I stay inside and alone too often I begin to focus on negatives, such as old hurts and angers that I'd thought to be gone.
Invariably it comes back to anger at myself - for allowing poor treatment, or for putting myself into certain situations without seeing the whole picture.
Why do you think it's so easy to fall into negative thinking? Why does this anger revert to myself?
Why does being alone too much trigger all these feelings? Thanks for responding in all this brutal cold, sleeping-type weather. (Think Hawaii) IamDyan answered on 01/22/04:Hi PW,
Not hibernating, although the weather does seem to encourage it :) Work has kept me a bit busier than I would like and I've been catching up with some friends lately ... long phone calls and week-end get togethers. All in all, not much to complain about here.
Sounds like you need something nice, just for you, to change your focus....maybe a new book, a nice bubble bath, take a weekend trip to Las Vegas and bask in the sunshine, order some daffodils to be delivered in a couple months, and imagine how great your garden will look this Spring.
Lots of people get feeling sad in the Winter as the weather turns cold and the days are shorter. Just the trick for turning your thoughts around, might be brightening someone else's day. When you find yourself feeling negative, and you can't break out of it, don't sit alone and stew, reach out to someone else. Call an old friend; visit your neighbors; get started on your weekend crisis center idea.
Sending you a file by email ... thinking warm :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 01/20/04 - I Have Been Having Difficult and intense struggles recently. I would like to get some suggesions and comments from the board.
Background: in the first week or so of January, I lost my automobile and my homemaker. My homemaker was like a best friend. She had to take a job caring for an Alzheimer's victim that requires her to work 7 days a week so she can help her husband pay the mortgage on their new home.
Anyway, I am having a hard time controlling my panic of total helplessness and abandonment, the fear is horrible! I'm an anxious mess.
I have been making lists to try to calm my nerves (in anticipation that I will be able to check off the items when they are completed), believing that Divine Providence will make a way if only I remain calm. In calmer moments, I meditate and read Inspirational Messages which help, of course but in a while, I'm worrying uncontrollably. I feel like that I'm totally on the way out; that it is only a matter of time.
Any suggestions or advice?
Thanks, Chou IamDyan answered on 01/22/04:Hi Chou,
Hang in there! I think it's a good idea to see your doctor and see if there is some medication that can help temporarily.
It might help to consider and make a list of things that you do have power over in your life. I'm sure there are many...
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 01/14/04 - NICK IS IN THE DOGHOUSE ON HIS 10TH BIRTHDAY! I can't believe what happened last night.
I was lying on the couch late at night; NIck was snoozing on the top of the bookcase which is directly behind the sofa.
Suddenly, I hear the telltale *beginning kacks* I screamed "no" while simultaneousy sitting bolt upright! In half a second, a huge amount of kitty vomit spewed all over my pillow!! I NEVER!
OK I forgive him this one time, but his days on top of the bookcase are seriously numbered.
IT'S PARTY TIME. SEE THE FORUM OR JOIN IN ANSWERING THIS QUESTION OR GO WHEREVER YOU WANT.
DOOR OPENS AT 3:00 CHICAGO-LAND TIME. WE ARE SIX HOURS AFTER GREENWICH MERIDIAN TIME.
IamDyan answered on 01/14/04:Happy Birthday Nick!!!
Too Late brought an extra pile of kitty vomit ... What, you want her to give it to your Mom? OK, Here Chou...
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the feathery catnip toy we brought :) | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 01/08/04 - Changing others, possible? Bobbie replied a comment to an answer I had written stating something to a fact that we can not change others. Which of course I appreciate her reply.
That we must accept others for who they are and most of all accept ourselves which is the hardest part in life. I mean, who really likes picking out one's own faults vs seeing one as "normal" and everyone else messed up, LOL!
Anyway for anyone interested I would like to debate such saying "You can not change another". In my opinion and belief, changing others around you is very possible and solely depends on how you see "changing" another. Again this depends on what sees as a change however I find the smallest changes in people the most valuable. Sometimes these changes are only temporary however when in total good terms I believe in if temporary, there is still a remembrance of how it was and wishes to get it back.
I also believe that such changes are mearly due to the reaction to actions. Human contact in all. An example, a lady I work with. She was one to fear some six years ago when I had just start my job. This was not to do with her basic presence however with her job status she is the "fix-it" person when it comes to broken down computers. Forty five employees, forty some computers, and of course the server and all that goes with a computerized company. Just one of her! When one computer goes down it seems they all go down so of course she was getting the calls, moving about the building like a chicken with it's head chopped off, and I am sure her stress level was at a max. She would get snippy, very snippy, and unfortanetly was not good at controlling such. About four years ago the dreaded call had to be made. Normally I can fix my own computer issues however this was one issue that she had developed program wise. Of course I was not the only one that had this computer issue going on and if you don't call her, she does not fix it. I made the call, she was already snippy and said "I will get to you when I can, take a number". Most and I am sure many popped right down to the bosses office complaining of her attitude. Rightly so in a way however in her impatience of all the calls it was only right to be patient with her attitude. TWO WRONGS DO NOT MAKE A RIGHT! So I sat and figured out other work to do and soon she came just with that snippy-ness holding on. I planted my smile, one of understanding and patience, and thanked her once she was finished fixing. NEVER ONCE since then have I received such snippy-ness from her. To know I have still seen some with other co-workers however these co-workers gave it back plus some! I do believe I changed her that day and maybe not so much for everyone however not everyone decided to put some understanding and patience in the matter. The war paint came on other faces.
Of course there are fundimentals of each person that will never change however there is so..... very much you can change about a person just with the simple things of understanding, patience, and good old "do unto others and you wish done to you" attitude. Good deeds in life are repaid and even though we may not see them repaid, they do happen! Good deeds in life do change other lives and in fact do change people.
So with that I debate that it is very possible to change another. To concentrate on that is foolish, to naturally live by that motto is loving.
IamDyan answered on 01/08/04:Hi tta,
I have to agree with PurpleWings on this one.
In both cases you cite, people responded differently than expected, because your initial action was different.
I have to believe these people have always responded with gratitude and smiles to acts of kindness. You just presented an act of kindness, where they had not expected one. And they responded with their normal reaction to an act of kindness.
But, this does not mean that it's not an admirable thought and chain of events.
Always, we have within our power how we ourselves react to a situation. And by changing ourselves and our reactions, we can influence the ultimate outcome greatly.
But, I would say to you, that changing ourselves is a difficult task. Not impossible, just difficult. Think of a situation that makes you frustrated ~~ I mean, really frustrated. (If you can't think of one, you're a better woman than I am, because I can immediately think of several.)
Now, next time that situation occurs, DO NOT become frustrated. In fact smile, and do not allow any negative thoughts to cross your mind about the situation, and respond positively and with encouragement to the situation. And do that EVERYTIME it occurs.
Do you think you could do that?
If so, then you have changed yourself.
Now multiply that effort by 10,000,000 and maybe you have a chance in changing someone else in some small way.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | PLUTUS1947 asked on 01/08/04 - A WARM INVITE TO OUR NEW LOUNGE Hi Everyone,
Most of you may already be aware that Yahoo Group AWExperts strictly for Answerway Experts was closed down a few days ago. You may hopefully know too that a new Group has started 'AWELounge'
Mick (iqanda) started the first group and he also started this new one. The reins of the new Group have been passed to me and I would like to thank Mick for all the hard work he put into AWExperts and for starting AWELounge.
Although we have only been going a few days, we already have a healthy 18 members. A lot of theses are among the top Experts from this category and indeed the top Experts on Answerway overall.
May I please extend a warm invitation to come join us. You will definitely be valueable assets and most welcome there.
It is simmply a matter of clicking the link below and when at the AWELounge Homepage click the 'Join This Group' link. I will be sent a an Email informing me you wish to join and it is just a matter of my replying.
LOUNGE AROUND HERE & RELAX FOR A WHILE
So after all the hard work you put in at Answerway, come and relax at the 'Lounge'
See you soon.
John
(Plutus)
IamDyan answered on 01/08/04:Thanks for the invitation John
and the ease of joining :) | | Question/Answer | billgatesnextdoor asked on 01/08/04 - Altered states of consciousness
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I became interested in altered states of consciousness latAltered states of consciousness
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I became interested in altered states of consciousness lately. I had only 2 of them in my life. The first was when I fell in love - everything around me became perfect and I always felt that she and me and all the things around me are the same things, some kind of complete connection with the world, all areas of my life improved significantly. The second, when I was too nervious, anxious and depressed in one moment in my life and my mind could not take it anymore, and I kind of released all that tension and became very calm and it felt very good, complete serenity. Maybe it was Nirvana. But I got over those states of consciousness because life forced me to be more practical and active in everyfay things. I wonder whether you had such experiences and whether you can advise some excercises or meditatoins to have some interesting positive altered stages of consciousness? IamDyan answered on 01/08/04:Hi billgatesnextdoor,
Purplewings offers a great suggestion for winding down your day.
But I often find that although I enjoy meditation and introspection, it is important to not allow anxiety to build up to the point that you are even too easily distracted to enjoy the exercise.
So, I think it is important to ensure you are taking care of yourself throughout the day, everyday.
One thing I like to do during the day, is to express positive affirmations.
If I am feeling overwhelmed at work, I repeat in my mind often throughout the day thoughts like: "I can do anything." or "I can accomplish all these tasks."
If I am feeling anxious, I repeat over and over in my mind "I can handle whatever comes my way."
Also, I like to make sure that I schedule some time for myself once a month. A whole day, when I can relax and do just what I want. It is a way to reaffirm that my mental health and well-being are important to me. A lot of times, I spend the day out in nature ... I like the beach. Or maybe just reading a whole book for enjoyment from cover to cover.
And finally, whatever your day brings, it is important to spend some time away from your everyday tasks to just enjoy yourself. If you work, make sure to get out for lunch. If you attend school, be sure to make a hour or so away from from your studies everyday.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | XCHOUX asked on 01/06/04 - Nick will be Ten Year's Old January 14th Hi Dear Old Pals,
I am busy planning a HUGE PARTY for the 14th here on Answerway! It's been a long time since we had a blast! Everyone is welcome and everyone is REQUIRED TO bring one of their animal companions.
Mark the day on your cyber calendar.
I am so happy to finally be back with all my cyber pals. NICK, ok, Nick says he is bigger than all your cats and most of your dogs. Alpha males, what is one to do??
Love to all you beautiful souls!
Mary Sue (Chou)
IamDyan answered on 01/06/04:So glad to see you made it back....
Ooooooh, and a party too :)
I'm bringing all the pets.
Of course, Too Late still has a crush on Nick from the last party, and she has told the dogs they are not invited.
But the dogs are persistent, they want to see if Nick is really bigger than they are.
Lots of Love back to you! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | billgatesnextdoor asked on 01/03/04 - Buddhism and poverty Buddhism and poverty
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I decided to devote myself to buddhism and as one of the buddhism doctrines (to get rid of connections with material things) I tried to get rid of desire for material things. I always tried not to think how good to have a good car and house etc, I left my job of software developer, because I started it for money and didnt like it lot. I went to work as a ganitor, because buddhism says that humility is good. And at the end i became really depressed and feel miserable, instead of being enlightened. I waited hoping that this state is temporary and proceeds Nirvana, but I cannot wait any more. And it is not that I want material things, I still dont want them, but I dont want to live as a janitor all my life also. Humility, poverty and restraints supposed to be good, but I feel really miserably and so depressed that I even dont want to go the work tommorow, I am sick of working as a janitor for last 2 years. Am I doing something wrong? Isn't I supposed to be anlightened, because I didnt want to have anything material for last 2 years? IamDyan answered on 01/04/04:Hello billgatesnextdoor,
Although I am not Buddhist, I would imagine that becoming enlightened is not something that can be attained by following a map, or a specific set of instructions.
I wonder what made you decide to practice Buddhism? Was it the journey to become enlightened ... or just the enlightenment itself?
Finding self-fulfillment and enlightenment is often something that just happens while we are busy persuing a meaningful life.
Perhaps you should take a step back and determine what life journey would bring you satisfaction and fulfillment.
All the Best, Dyan
"Happiness is like a butterfly,
the more you chase it,
the more it will elude you.
But if you turn your attention to other things,
it comes and softly sits on your shoulder".
~~By Nathanial Hawthorne.~~
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/30/03 - A time of renewal: Happy New Year! 2004 What changes do you hope to make in the NEW YEAR? Personally or politically............
What do you think 2004 might present to you personally, and the world as a entirety? IamDyan answered on 12/30/03:Hi PW,
Personally, I am back to regular exercising over the past month or so.....something I dropped sometime during the Summer during an insane amount of hours at work.
Not sure what 2004 will bring ... only sure that, with friends, family, and mentors, I will have the strength to meet whatever the challenges are.
I just recently learned of a couple good causes to participate in ... perhaps something to help yourself and the world as 2004 approaches.
Helping soldiers feel support from home~
http://www.adoptaplatoon.org/howsupport.html
The second is adopting an earthquake victim in Iran. I only have local information, there's no info the the web yet, but will forward to you when I have it.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 12/27/03 - So how do you think..... you did on presents this year? Not in the getting but in the giving department? I really think things are sparking up in my fiance's family department! To explain they have always been kinda distant type people. Not talking about distant with me but more with eachother. Family always seeming not so important when it comes to life, they have always focused on $$$. Things are generally changing and in all Christmas day showed a lot this year. My fiance is one to say "Just get them a gift certificate". Many times I agreed but this year I said "NO". Absolutely not! "We are going to take a whole day out of our lives and think about who they are, what they like, and get creative on what is a gift and what is just a present". Boy did we hit the nail on the head this year and I am feeling so... very good for having made my fiance do this. I did make him! Hey, women were put on this Earth for something and sometimes we do make a difference for the good of many! He he he..
So I have Mudder/Grandma (fiance's Grandma) at the dinner table telling us the terrible gifts she got from the other side of the family. She is not a terrible person however again, they think of $$$$ all the time. She said frogs and frogs and frogs, then a lap blanket. What is it with Grandmother and frogs?? I know that is what we all gave my Grandmother and she most likely said the same, with out other family involved if you know what I mean. But the frog thing, I think next year we will give my fiance's mother one just so she knows where she is going! LMAO!!
So the lap blanket, Mudder is complaining about it, prior to unwrapping our presents, and I am sweating bullets. I MADE her one. Throws are never just an old person deal, they are a comfy deal. But I did make her one and made sure and told her in advance she would either laugh or cry! I want to believe she was truly happy with it being I actually made it and did not buy it for her yet I do have my doubts. In all, I spent time and effort on it, spent heart in thinking of her and the pattern, and she did seem truly interested in how it was made being she makes quilts/art/ect. Simple project however some of the best in minds have a hard time figuring it out!
I made my soon to be brother in law cry! My total intentions was for meaning in brother hood and life in general with this one but thought my fiance would get more out of it. I was shoked. I enlarge one of two pictures of their father that passed away some 12+ years ago along side their uncle that passed about 6 years ago. With that a picture of my fiance and soon to be brother in law. Matching frames, to be put side by side of eachother. When my soon to be brother in law saw the first picture, that of his father and uncle, the tears started flowing. He had to excuse himself to the bathroom and thanked me up and down for something he had forgotten, something he missed. I was totally over taken by his response being he never seemed so... much in touch by the loss of his father or uncle. It is amazing how sometimes the simplest of gifts do mean so... very much to another. It only takes a heart, soul, and some thought.
So those were my top two special gifts that did show some worth in giving. Please share your stories for this Christmas 2003!
Hugs
tta IamDyan answered on 12/28/03:Hi tta,
Sounds like you had a wonderful Christmas.
The gifts that went over best here was an old picture of Grandpop in his prime working at the boat. I had received a negative from one of his friends earlier this year and had pictures made up and framed for all the family.
Since this is the first Christmas without Grandpop, it was almost like he was there.
Hope you have a great new year, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 12/26/03 - FOR ALL YOU PARENTS OUT THERE! I thought you might want to read this article:
ŝ Things to do Instead of Spanking"
by Kathryn Kvols
"Research confirms what many parents instinctively feel when they don’t like to spank their child, but they don’t know what else to do. The latest research from Dr. Murray Strauss at the Family Research Laboratory affirms that spanking teaches children to use acts of aggression and violence to solve their problems. It only teaches and perpetuates more violence, the very thing our society is so concerned about. This research further shows that children who have been spanked are more prone to low self-esteem, depression and accept lower paying jobs as adults. So, what do you do instead?
1. Get Calm
First, if you feel angry and out of control and you want to spank or slap your child, leave the situation if you can. Calm down and get quiet. In that quiet time you will often find an alternative or solution to the problem. Sometimes parents lose it because they are under a lot of stress. Dinner is boiling over, the kids are fighting, the phone is ringing and your child drops the can of peas and you lose it. If you can’t leave the situation, then mentally step back and count to ten.
2. Take Time for Yourself
Parents are more prone to use spanking when they haven’t had any time to themselves and they feel depleted and hurried. So, it is important for parents to take some time for themselves to exercise, read, take a walk or pray.
3. Be Kind but Firm
Another frustrating situation where parents tend to spank is when your child hasn’t listened to your repeated requests to behave. Finally, you spank to get your child to act appropriately. Another solution in these situations is to get down on your child’s level, make eye contact, touch him gently and tell him, in a short, kind but firm phrase, what it is you want him to do. For example, “I want you to play quietly.
4. Give Choices
Giving your child a choice is an effective alternative to spanking. If she is playing with her food at the table ask, Would you like to stop playing with your food or would you like to leave the table?” If the child continues to play with her food, you use kind but firm action by helping her down from the table. Then tell her that she can return to the table when she is ready to eat her food without playing in it.
5. Use Logical Consequences
Consequences that are logically related to the behavior help teach children responsibility. For example, your child breaks a neighbor’s window and you punish him by spanking him. What does he learn about the situation? He may learn to never do that again, but he also learns that he needs to hide his mistakes, blame it on someone else, lie, or simply not get caught. He may decide that he is bad or feel anger and revenge toward the parent who spanked him. When you spank a child, he may behave because he is afraid to get hit again. However, do you want your child to behave because he is afraid of you or because he respects you?
6.Compare that situation to a child who breaks a neighbor’s window and his parent says, “I see you’ve broken the window, what will you do to repair it?” using a kind but firm tone of voice. The child decides to mow the neighbor’s lawn and wash his car several times to repay the cost of breaking the window. What does the child learn in this situation? That mistakes are an inevitable part of life and it isn’t so important that he made the mistake but that he takes responsibilty to repair the mistake. The focus is taken off the mistake and put on taking responsibility for repairing it. The child feels no anger or revenge toward his parent. And most importantly the child’s self-esteem is not damaged.
7. Do Make Ups
When children break agreements, parents tend to want to punish them An alternative is to have your child do a make-up. A make-up is something that people do to put themselves back into integrity with the person they broke the agreement with. For example, several boys were at a sleep-over at Larry’s home. His father requested that they not leave the house after midnight. The boys broke their agreement. The father was angry and punished them by telling them they couldn’t have a sleep-over for two months. Larry and his friends became angry, sullen and uncooperative as a result of the punishment. The father realized what he had done. He apologized for punishing them and told them how betrayed he felt and discussed the importance of keeping their word. He then asked the boys for a make-up. They decided to cut the lumber that the father needed to have cut in their backyard. The boys became excited and enthusiastic about the project and later kept their word on future sleep-overs.
8. Withdraw from Conflict
Children who sass back at parents may provoke a parent to slap. In this situation, it is best if you withdraw from the situation immediately. Do not leave the room in anger or defeat. Calmly say, “I’ll be in the next room when you want to talk more respectfully.
9. Use kind but firm action
Instead of smacking an infant’s hand or bottom when she touches something she isn’t supposed to, kindly but firmly pick her up and take her to the next room. Offer her a toy or another item to distract her and say, “You can try again later.” You may have to take her out several times if she is persistent.
Inform Children Ahead of Time
A child’s temper tantrum can easily set a parent off. Children frequently throw tantrums when they feel uninformed or powerless in a situation. Instead of telling your child he has to leave his friend’s house at a moment’s notice, tell him that you will be leaving in five minutes. This allows the child to complete what he was in the process of doing.
Aggression is an obvious form of perpetuating violence in society. A more subtle form of this is spanking because it takes it’s toll on a child’s self-esteem, dampening his enthusiasm and causing him to be rebellious and uncooperative. Consider for a moment the vision of a family that knows how to win cooperation and creatively solve their problems without using force or violence. The alternatives are limitless and the results are calmer parents who feel more supported."
*********
Kathryn Kvols is the president of the International Network for Children and Families and the author of Redirecting Children’s Behavior.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
HANK
IamDyan answered on 12/26/03:Hi Hank,
Interesting alternative reading, but I am one who believes that a swat on the backside for bad behavior is also to be included in the parents' bag of persuasion.
As far a letting a child decide whether to play with their food or get down from the table and play with toys instead .... WOW, I had to grin :)
I think a child's self esteem is built in praising and encouraging what they do well, not in ignoring what they do badly.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/24/03 - I'd love to hear Christmas plans...... New year's too. Let's have a little fun on here.
I'm having two of my sons and one wife plus my ex-husband over for turkey dinner and gift exchange. We have the movie Pirates of the Carribean to watch and later I want to visit friends. Peace and quiet and love. IamDyan answered on 12/24/03:I am just finishing cleaning the house ... I think I could have gathered 1/2 pound of flour from the kitchen counter after all the baking this week.
We're going to Mass this evening, and then our neighbors are coming over. We will exchange presents, fuss over their grandkids, and drink some Christmas cheer. I promised Erica (neighbor's grand daughter) she could finish the tree decorating here by applying the tinsel.
Tomorrow, Mom and Pop will be here. We'll exchange presents and listen to Christmas carols til the ballgames start. Dinner is surf and turf this year followed by a birthday cake dessert for Pop and the day will likely be sprinkled with many toasts to Grandpop. Mom and Pop will stay over...then we will argue a bit on Friday morning about whether I make breakfast or we go out to eat.
Sunday we will go to visit my aunt and all my cousins and their families for Christmas ... more presents, ballgames, eating, toasts to Grandpop :)
New Year's will be our quiet time. Just Alan and I kicking back.
Hope you have a great time, Loral!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 12/20/03 - In honor of Mikki My friend Mikki passed on Sunday. Her husband,Tom, asked that I write a few words for him to incorporate into a book of tributes to their son, Max. I felt as though there is someone here who might benefit from what I wrote (especially those of us who might have a hard time during the holidays missing our loved ones), so I am copying it here. This is what I said.
My heart is with you, as are my thoughts and prayers. Our lives have been touched by this beautiful angel named Mikki and, as we open our awareness, we will continue to feel her presence touch our lives in many ways.
From my personal experience, the release of our bodies is not really an end. It’s just a change in how we feel our loved ones presence in our lives. It’s frustrating at times because we want to hear their voice – their laughter – feel their love. I’ve come to realize that my parents have been and will continue to be with me. I feel their presence mostly in my dreams when I’m sleeping. I actually woke up from a nap the other evening, asking, “Mom, can I get you anything?” Then I realized I had been sleeping and (embarrassed that I was) I asked my husband if I could get him anything. That’s how real it seemed that Mom was with me. I pray that you have many experiences like this that helps to grow through the grief I know you are experiencing now.
Your wife and mother was truly a gift to me. The first time I heard her voice, I knew that we had known each other on a soul level for a very long time. We met through Golden Moments: A Journey of the Self that I facilitated with the help of many people like Mikki. She assisted me on a few occasions in the AOL chat room when we had twice-weekly prayer-chats. I would start a guided visualization and, knowing that Mikki had this wonder-filled imagination, I invited her to assist me in our story-telling. One favorite experience was a journey we took in a carriage in the woods and we stopped to rest at a magic inn. I don’t recall all that Mikki had guided us to that night, but I can tell you that it was really magical with fairies and teddy bears coming alive through her beautiful mind.
I cherish my friendship with Mikki. I know that she has a great love for her family. I know her love for Max is infinite and unconditional. I know, Max, that you will do great things in your life. Your Mom told me so. :^) “He is quite the young man~” she would say to me. She was in awe of your intelligence and your caring nature.
My only regret is that I never got to be with Mikki in person these past few years. I know of her love of animals and I once remarked that she reminded me so much of Sleeping Beauty in a way when she would go on about the furry creatures in and around your home some time around 1997 (I think). She had and continues to have a great deal of love for you two. I know that you grieve for her physical presence. I know grief can very difficult sometimes. I also know that, through the process of the various stages of grief, there is a bittersweet knowledge that life continues. It’s just not the same as what we’re used to.
You are both in my thoughts and prayers. Please feel free to write if I can be of help to you.
Wishing you a safe, healthy, loving, and joyful holiday season.
Kindest regards,
Bobbie Moore IamDyan answered on 12/21/03:Hi Bobbie,
Sorry to hear of your loss. It has been a hard year for you.
Hope you have a blessed holiday season, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 12/14/03 - Two snowflakes just about match (Don't we live in an amazing world???)
from an article in today's Chicago Sun-Times:
A cloud physicist, Kenneth G. Libbrecht, at the California Institute of Technology, studies snowflakes in his own snowflake research lab (most advanced one in the world save for one on the Japanese island of Hakkaido).
It is estimated that 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 snowflakes fall on our planet each year. It is estimated that 11,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 tons of these snowflakes have fallen on our planet since snow started falling on our planet.
The initial crystals form around pieces of dust or other foreign material way up in the sky. They quickly sprout six arms, for reasons best known to them, and grow, grabbing molecules as they fall, in symmetrical designs, depending on temperature and wind and many other things. Each molecule is bounced around in its own way, which is why each one tends to form different patterns.
Libbrecht has managed to create in his laboratory snow chamber two hexagonal snow crystals, .0001 inch in diameter, that "look alike -- or pretty close, maybe."
The entire article can be read at http://www.suntimes.com/output/lifestyles/cst-nws-zay14.html IamDyan answered on 12/14/03:Kinda makes me think that God loves snowflakes almost as much as people.
None of us are just the same either :)
Hmmmm......looks like I'm going to have to reconsider how much I dislike snow.
Have a good holiday, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 12/14/03 - a larger wisdom is always operating Just some random thoughts I has today that I would like to share with old friends and new alike.
Non-attachment to outcome is the subject.
Action follows Being, as the Sufi saying goes. Thus "a positive future cannot emerge from the mind of anger and despair" (Dalai Lama).
As Gandhi said, "the victory is in the doing," not the results.
Hold a clear intention, and let go of the outcome–recognizing that a larger wisdom is always operating. Integrity is your protection.
IamDyan answered on 12/14/03:A hard lesson for a control freak like me.
Usually, in the everyday, I am much more attached to the outcome, rather than the doing.
It's not that the doing isn't meaningful. It isn't even that having a clear focused intention doesn't help. It's just for me that if, it doesn't work, well then, that means there's more work to be done.
These days it is having a holiday party fun for all and having a project complete successfully at work.
But I will try...
You are not the only one after me on this. We have a program at work I am participating in that revolves around this thought.
Hopelessly mired in the outcome, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/09/03 - How do you view the Soul? A Hindu Reading. No one can die. None can be degraded forever. Life is but a playground, however gross the play may be. However we may receive blows and however knocked about we may be, the Soul is there and is never injured. We are that Infinite.
-Vivekananda
All comments are welcome.
IamDyan answered on 12/10/03:Hi PW,
Reminds me (in a way) of my favorite Bible verse...
Matthew 10:28-31
And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
I do believe we are infinite.
At the very least, as a piece of those we love and leave behind and in lives we've touched while we lived. And at the very most, in everlasting life with the Creator.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 12/02/03 - Life How is life spiritually valued being dead? IamDyan answered on 12/03/03:Gguru,
Knowing you do not believe in God, I wonder of you believe in an afterlife....or any continuance of the spirit?
If not, then putting myself in your place, I am not sure how to answer.
But, for myself, believing in God and an afterlife, I believe that upon our death, there is time when our life will be reviewed and judged. We will be shown our good deeds and our sins.
At that time, I believe our life will be valued, even though we are dead.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 12/02/03 - Christmas Poem Here is a poem written by a friend of mine for your consideration and enjoyment.
The Experience of Love
The World moves on through Time and Space
Hurrying, never pausing to consider Life.
The World, which knows not the true peace
Nor its’ meaning, nor its’ Love, nor God.
The World, preoccupied with Man’s estate,
Builds edifices, fine monuments to nothing.
The World slashes mercilessly at the Land
With ruthless abandon for the need of Man.
Man cries out, hungry; abandoned; ill;
But the World chooses to ignore him.
We find it easier to erect bridges than
To build pathways of Love and Understanding.
Man is afraid to love. For, if Man did
Love, the Love would reveal the inmost self.
Man fears Love, and substitues the World
Shrouded in concrete and encompassed by tinsel.
Love is the candle hidden under a basket.
It seeks to express itself joyfully,
Radiantly, with driving compulsion, lest
In being long hidden it is snuffed out.
Love is a burning flame, unquenchable and
Unconquerable. Love realizes that to be,
It must be expressed. Like the candle
Love gives of itself and is content.
You, who fear the flame, the wonderful
Radiant flame of Love, cannot know its’
True beauty, its’ warmth, its’ comfort
Nor its’ pleasure unless you use it.
Unwrap the tinsel, World! Unshroud the
Love within you and let it seek self
Expression! Do this, nothing more,
And you will grow in the grace of God.
Copyright Duane L. Vincent All rights reserved.
Regards, Dan
IamDyan answered on 12/03/03:Hi Dan,
I like the poem....It has a lot to say.
But I wonder how the author can assimilate stanza 5 and 6. Can love be snuffed out, or is it unquenchable/unconquerable?
Just my feedback, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 12/03/03 - Boss and Birthday's I am sure I could/should maybe post this on the relationships board however I know you here are much more into the spiritual aspect in life and I appreciate that much more than a aka shrink's advice.
I know I might be beating myself up however I still am in wonder of this.
Just so you know more about me, I work for a franchise office with 40+ women, woman myself, however I am of the personality that work is work. I join in on lotto's, gift exchanges, ect but never one to get really personal with co-workers. IE birthdays, gossip, day in and day out trials of life. The big ones I am more than happy to help or lend an ear on but the nitty gritty just seems too much involved for me to consume myself with.
Story is:
My boss. Well most of the girls I work with 1 on 1. I guess I kinda feel on the out skirts of stuff being they all talk about EVERYTHING ALL THE TIME and I just work. Never jealous just in wonderment. My b-day was yesterday and I was pretty much spoiled by my family and my fiance. The good old flower thing plus purchasing some in work crafts from another. My work does this stupid b-day thing with sending out an email, card, and scratch off ticket. They are always late on mine however it does not matter as long as I have my loved ones, ya know. Anyway my Boss's b-day was like a month ago. All the girls I work with gave her presents, I just did not know let alone don't like doing that. She is my boss not my friend let alone casual friend. So once I started getting flowers it was figured out that it was my b-day. The boss girl sends me an email serious stating that "She was evil for not having known it was my birthday, she will bring my present tomorrow". I mean a VERY extreme email from a boss let alone a Christian woman. Today, day after, it seemed to me the attack was on. One of the girls came over and asked me if I could take some of the stuff home because her sinuses were going nuts, then the boss lady comes over and asks about the little balloon, thinking it would set off the alarms. I reassured all that it was going home with me. Note my boss called me spoiled everytime she went by my cubby due to gifts from MY FAMILY AND FIANCE!
Spiritually what is disturbing me is that there are so... many out there that choose to be blinded by the gifts verses the thought of such. That so.... many can be blinded by a bunch of flowers to see how lucky they are to never get a single one. My point being I spent my b-day alone, by myself. My parents are 5,000 miles away and my fiance was working. The only reason I had flowers, was because there were guilty hearts at work. As much as I wanted them there they too wanted to be.
It gives me GREAT pain that others could not see beyond the flowers!
So am I just being an emotional wreck being I was the day before or do you see meaning in my writing?
It just feels like the world is telling me I will never win, even in the simplest of things. I will never fold my cards, I have too good of a hand!
Hugs to all,
tta IamDyan answered on 12/03/03:Hi tta,
Hang in there Sweetie! I LOVE getting flowers WITH balloons at work on my birthday :) And I haven't seen anything set off an alarm yet.
It sounds like you have a bunch of jealous, catty co-workers...and, as hard as it is to do, I would try to just let their comments roll off your back.
Maybe you should bring a package of allergy medicine for your coworkers and offer to tether your ballon under your desk before you leave in the evening (so the alarm is not set off :) OK....that's just me -- I can be mean when someone sets me off.
Happy Birthday
and All the Best to you, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 12/02/03 - Death How is death spiritually valued being alive? IamDyan answered on 12/02/03:Perhaps most as a reminder
that tomorrow is promised to no one. | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 11/28/03 - Thanks killing How many Turkeys , do you think , have been subject to
Thanks Giving celebrations?
Cold turkey for the winner.
Cold Turkey to the loser. IamDyan answered on 11/28/03:Hi gguru,
I imagine to somewhat correctly answer this I would need to:
1-estimate the number of people in the US for each year since 1863 by using the census information as available.
2-Estimate the amount of turkey each person would eat.
3-Figure the average weight of turkeys
4-Then supply the answer.
Sounds too much like Math, and I'm off work for the week-end :)
Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/27/03 - Another Thanksgiving thought on the lighter side. Good Thanksgiving Day morning!
I am grateful to Datheaus and Vijay for giving us this forum to get to know each other, and communicate with others from around the world. My life has become richer because of all of you. Thanks so much!
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And this is going to be my weekend.
PW IamDyan answered on 11/28/03:Hi PW,
You have brought a lot to my life as well :)
But, how did you get my picture posted here? | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 11/27/03 - Happy Thanksgiving ! Happy Thanksgiving to all . Just a little reminder of what Lincoln intended the day to be .
By the President of the United States of America.
A Proclamation.
The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields
and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to
forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so
extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is
habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil
war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to
invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has
been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed
everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly
contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth
and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested
the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and
the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more
abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste
that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in
the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of
years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal
hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who,
while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has
seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully
acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore
invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and
those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of
November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth
in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to
Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for
our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who
have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which
we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to
heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine
purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States
to be affixed.
Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the
Eighty-eighth.
By the President: Abraham Lincoln
IamDyan answered on 11/28/03:Thanks for posting this, Tom.
I had this sometime ago and had misplaced it.
Hope you had a wonderful day! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 11/26/03 - Just an additional though to rich's Thanksgiving! As rich said, "traditionally a day of feasting, family get-togethers, and (yes) football games. As the commercial side of Christmas has become increasingly prominent, the original concept of Thanksgiving sometimes goes to the back burner. Talk around the table is likely to be more concerned with plans for the coming holidays than with a backward glance at all that we have to be thankful for."
Isn't it odd how we do relate Thanksgiving as a day of just "Thanks" and less of "Giving"? How we do spend this holiday with our loved ones however is this giving? I rattled my brain on wanting to do something really cool and different this year for this holiday. For it not to feel like just the beginning of the holiday season but the beginning of of the giving season. More of a sharing ones family with another as did the whole holiday came about. People from two different sides of the life chain sharing what they could offer making a wonderful day of being thankful.
Maybe I am wrong in this but there are just things in this day that I believe contradicts what the day is about. I believe we should be thankful in our richess what ever they may be and with that we give to another. Not in monetary means, just in giving time, affection, sharing joys and listening to anothers.
Any suggestions on what I can do to live out my beliefs this holiday? I was thinking of going to my local grocery store and letting one of the baggers off, me covering, he/she getting paid. I don't know if they would let me but I would sure try that. Most stores are open until 4pm.
Any great ideas that I can give tomorrow?
Thanks,
tta IamDyan answered on 11/26/03:Hi tta,
The nicest giving thought I can think of with such short notice to coordinate, is to visit a nursing home. Bring some magazines or other small items like cards or whatever along, if you can. The folks there just LOVE surprises, and it really doesn't matter what it is.
My grandfather spent a few weeks in a nursing home while in rehab. And it's amazing how many folks there had no visitors.
They just seemed to gravitate to us when we arrived. Asking us questions...smiling, and wanting attention and conversation. We often chatted with them, or helped them eat. Sometimes we moved their wheelchairs so they could look outside and comment on the lovely day.
Happy Thanksgiving! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 11/26/03 - Thanksgiving For those of us who live in the U.S., tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day – traditionally a day of feasting, family get-togethers, and (yes) football games. As the commercial side of Christmas has become increasingly prominent, the original concept of Thanksgiving sometimes goes to the back burner. Talk around the table is likely to be more concerned with plans for the coming holidays than with a backward glance at all that we have to be thankful for. Perhaps some of you would like to observe this occasion by posting here some of the things that you feel most thankful for this year. Among the items on the top of my list are my family and friends, but I need to add also that I'm very grateful that I have everything I need (and a lot that I don't), especially when I think of people who have barely enough to survive. For what are you most thankful? IamDyan answered on 11/26/03:Hi Rich,
As with every year, there's a lot to be thankful for here. So here goes, in no particular order....
I'm thankful both Alan and I have jobs to take a long weekend away from. I'm thankful we have a dependable car so we will not have to worry as we drive to the family get together tomorrow. I'm thankful for all our friends and family, some we'll see tomorrow. I'm thankful Dallas plays on Thanksgiving, and it's televised.
I'm thankful for the memories I have of my grandfather. I'm thankful that although my daughter is mad at me right now, I am teaching her not to be a spoiled brat.
I'm thankful for the wonderful harvest we had from the garden this year. I'm thankful for my neighbor who mowed down the garden when I didn't get a chance. I'm thankful for my neighbors who already have their Christmas lights blinking, so I can see them driving home each night.
I'm thankful I have more than enough. I'm thankful my parents taught me to share. I'm thankful I had teachers who taught me to think critically. I'm thankful for the mentors I've had in my career.
I'm thankful my aunt is officially "cancer-free" this month. I'm thankful my dad has been "cancer-free" for ten years. I'm thankful my mother-in-law went to the hospital to be treated for pneumonia.
I'm thankful for a good sense of humor which has probably helped me continue to be thankful for a long marriage. I'm thankful Alan has a sense of humor too.
I'm thankful for my dogs with their wagging tails and muddy paws, which makes me also thankful for my stainmaster carpeting.
I'm thankful that most of my Christmas shopping is already completed and I do not have to get anything but bread and milk on Friday.
I'm thankful for people who don't mind my rambling on....
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 11/18/03 - Is this theft? I am 60, unemployed for two years, can't find a job. My age goes against me.
I am living on borrowed money (credit cards). I borrow from one to pay off the others and for food, living expenses, etc. It's up to 50K+ in the hole.
At this point, even if I get a job (am now willing to work for min wage) there's no realistic possibility I can pay this money back in my lifetime.
If I do get a job, bankruptcy is an option. If I don't, homeless or worse - a decision I dread. I have a limited time to keep doing this - cards will max out.
Savings are long gone. No family, few friends.
Am I stealing this money as I keep "borrowing"? I have no other alternative. What would you do? What should I do?
Is this ethical? Sinful? Criminal?
I don't expect you to solve my problem. Maybe just a little advice. IamDyan answered on 11/19/03:Hello Anonymous,
I can only imagine how difficult this is for you, but I believe there are many in the same situation, and there are folks out there who make a career out of helping people over difficult financial situations.
I know that is often painful for someone who is used to living without assistance, but all of these folks are pros at knowing where money is available for people who have paid into a system that has helped others for many years.
You don't say if you own a house or have other assets. Frankly, remortgaging your home and paying off your credit cards would likely provide you with a a lower interest rate and lower monthly payments.
Check out this site, if you can...It offers some basic advice.
http://www.chamberybd.com/federal_government_debt_consolidation_loan.html
Also -- if you are considering taking a job, and CeeBee's offer for help, consider also finding out what programs you will qualify for to supplement your income.
I would contact unemployment office (for benefits, if they are still due you...and for job retraining and placement assistance in any case.)
I would contact social security and social/welfare services to see what plans you qualify for.
Also, consider contacting your local utilities to see what programs they offer for payment assistance you might qualify for.
And, also consider contacting local churches who might sponsor community outreach programs.
Please let me know if I can offer any additional information on how to make contact with any of these organizations.
Good Luck!
All the Best, Dyan
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| | Question/Answer | | SaturdaysWarrior asked on 11/17/03 - Risk taking Is there any kind of a formula that can be used when deciding whether or not to take a risk?
SaturdaysWarrior IamDyan answered on 11/17/03:Hi SatursdaysWarrior,
Usually for me, I make a list of all the possible consequences of my choice:
and line all the good ones of one side
and all the bad ones on the other side.
If the good consequences are greater (either in number, or in desire) AND I can live with any of the bad consequences should they occur, then I consider it a good risk, and am likely to jump in.
But that's just me....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 11/16/03 - Integrity Why is it,that many people cant take questions and problems for real?
Why is it,that many people feel the need to redefine the problems of someone who seeks help and who is clear about his/her state of living?
Why is it,that people feel the need to answer or help,even if they aren't able to answer a question as posed,without changing it?
Why is it so difficult to take people who seek help,seriously with integrity? IamDyan answered on 11/16/03:Hello Gguru,
Your questions are very general and so it is difficult to answer withput more words than allowed by answerway...but here goes.
Why is it,that many people cant take questions and problems for real?
For the same reason that some people CAN take questions and problems for real. Everyone is different. Also, your perception of reality and others may be different....so perhaps it is your perception that makes you believe others are not taking things for real.
Why is it,that many people feel the need to redefine the problems of someone who seeks help and who is clear about his/her state of living?
For me, I am usually attempting to clarify a very general question.
Why is it so difficult to take people who seek help,seriously with integrity?
Who said it was?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 11/15/03 - How can a person know the meaning and purpose of his life and their relationship with his career? I have been a christian for 30 years. For the first 10 years I was called by God to serve Him and minister amongst the the young adults. At that time I just began my career as university professor and I had brought many students to Christ. After that I came across a series of terrible events and injustice for the next 10 years. Then I started to hate God and stopped to go to the church fellowship. I didn't care that I am a Sunday church goer only. For the recent 10 years, I become even worse and stop going to church. God seems not exist in this world and Hed has no impact on me. I could live without Him for the past 20 years. However, I hate myself also because I keep on telling my students to do things (love God, read Bible, etc.) which I don't do and hate to do. I feel awful about myself because I am doing something inconsistent with my inner self for 20 years. At the present I have great doubts about my existence and I can't connect my life with my career. I am about fifty five years old now. I don't want to waste my time/life anymore.
Would you please tell me the connection between: 1. career/job 2. life purpose (the meaning of my existence in the world) 3. life mission (the direction/goals I should take in the future)? Also, please recommend some relevant articles for me to read so that I can find a way out. Thank you.
P.S. Your answers are very important to me because I have lost the meaning of my life and I don't want to live in this world. However, I hate those "model answers" from the church. They won't help me but just keep on hurting me deeper and deeper.
IamDyan answered on 11/16/03:Hello Anon,
You sound quite troubled, and you are in my thoughts and my prayers tonight, that you find the peace you are seeking.
For myself, I am a Christian for 40 years, and being involved in computers work-wise find little direct relationship between my career and my religion/spirituality, other than the relationships I have developed, like you have been lucky enough to find in the past.
However, I do find that I connect with my church in the activities we sponsor, especially the programs for kids and the migrant farm help locally.
It's hard, though, to tell someone else how to connect. Just like those "model answers" you say you receive from church, please don't let me add to that.
I would say that if you are someone who prays, pray for an answer to be shown to you. Then keep an open mind.
Also, look to the talents you have and determine how you can best use them to help your community. Often, in helping our community we develop a group of friends. And then friends enhance our lives, and then we find more opportunities. It becomes a ripple effect.
All the Best and good luck, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/14/03 - Have you taken off your mask yet? Why or why not? Wise Words
"The outer path we take is public knowledge, but the path with heart is an inner one. The two come together when who we are that is seen in the world coincides with who we deeply are. As we grow wiser, we become aware that the important forks in the road are usually not about choices that will show up on any public record;
they are decisions and struggles to do with choosing love or fear; anger or forgiveness; pride or humility. They are soul-shaping choices."
--Jean Shinoda Bolen
IamDyan answered on 11/14/03:Hi PW,
True enough, and yet, I think also we are shaped by the choices we make that show up on public record as well.
For example: If I choose to break the law, the consequences of my actions may limit my subsequent choices to choose love or fear.
And again, if I choose to persue a religious or cloistered life, the consequences of my actions might also shape my subsequent choices by being surrounded only by certain people.
Perhaps these are extreme cases. So consider again, that I might choose to move from a war torn area to a peaceful nation, and perhaps I choose again a higher education. Don't all these choices make it easier to chose forgiveness over anger, or love over war?
I guess I am not one that thinks the outer path and the inner path are often far off from each other, and that they rather compliment and influence each other.
Then again, just my thoughts.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 11/13/03 - Spirituality Test? A few days ago I was in a check-out line in a store. A new line opened up, and I jumped over there with two planting pots with 2 bottoms, one inside the other. The clerk scanned them and I slid my credit card, signed for them and left. After I got outside, I went to put the receipt in my file, and noticed that I had only been charged for one pot. I re-entered the store, and told the lady at the service desk what had happened. She looked at the receipt, and said "Who checked you out? Ah, it was Michelle. Gimme your card." She scanned the items, gave me a slip to sign, handed me the second and original receipts, and said "Here you are," turned away and answered the phone. I thought that I had found one reason that this chain is in bankruptcy.
Comments? IamDyan answered on 11/13/03:Hi Dan,
This reminds me of a really humorous essay I read many years back about how we express our greatest repentance not over sins, but rather over good deeds we regret performing.
Yes! This is exactly why some companies are in bankruptcy; why some waitresses can't make a good living on tips; and why millions signed up for the "Do not Call" telemarketing registry.
Having been in customer service or sales of some sort, for all of my career, there is no excuse for the way you were treated. Please allow me to recreate the experience for you.....
Dan: "Hello, I was undercharged at your register."
ServiceDesk: "I apologize for the inconvenience we caused by not checking you out properly. While we make every attempt to ensure our service is what you expect, we know there are times we fall short. Thank you for bringing this to my attention Mr. Seagull. If you don't mind waiting just a minute, let me write down the information on this planting pot so we can be sure that it's deducted from our inventory. That way we can make sure that we reorder correctly from our suppliers."
(She admires the pot and asks if you have a lot of houseplants. You answer that your wife likes houseplants and you are repotting all of them as a project.)
ServiceClerk: "I have all the information I need here, Mr. Seagull. Please accept this item at no charge for your inconvenience. And for being such a valued customer, let me bring you a bag of potting soil at no charge."
End result: You tell 25 people how satisfied you are with the way your problem was handled, and it costs the store about $5 for the free advertising/testimonial.
Devil's Advocate, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/09/03 - For what reason are you here on the Spirituality board? Some are here primarily to exchange ideas; some are here to give help, which would largely be in the form of ideas; and some are here to teach everyone else about themselves. There are probably more reasons, but I don't know them.
I was here before there actually was a Spirituality board because I'd hoped for interaction similar to what we had at Askme. I wanted to exchange views, hoping to learn, hoping to teach & help, and certainly hoping to make friends with people with like-interests.
I'm interested in everyone's reason and especially of those who mock every new idea and the person who presented it, why would anyone choose this board to do that?? IamDyan answered on 11/10/03:Hi PW,
Actually I came here because of you, as I remember. We met at some other board at Askme, and you suggested I check out the spirituality board there.
Although I don't consider myself an expert in Spirituality, there was always a lot of questions that made me think, my opinions were always respected, I learned quite a few new ideas, and the commraderie was good .... ahem, except for Khoral as I remember :)
So, I came here, believing the same folks who made me think about things I otherwise might not alone, would be here also. And it is some of the old crowd, and some great new additions as well.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 11/08/03 - Further Reflection... Part of my response to Rich's post was "I had written a number of times in the past elsewhere on the Net about our societal conditioning that other people have our answers. That, of course, is the farthest idea from the truth. Wayne Dyer had another phrase that I did like: 'If you are looking outside yourself for your answers, you are facing the wrong direction!'"
Is there a particular practice you do to center yourself to turn within and understand what your soul, or God, or angels say to you as guidance?
Do you have dreams? Do you understand the messages of your dreams?
(I ask the last question because I had a "dream" this morning when an old friend who transitioned a number of years ago apeared out of the blue. George said that he was happy to finally get through to me; that I am being showered in love and to keep myself clear so that I can have a better understanding what my lessons are. I awoke with a great sense of peace knowing that there are many spiritual beings assisting me right now - all I need to do is to keep myself open to understand the messages.)
If you feel comfortable, please let me know what messages have you learned recently. Maybe we can all learn together! ;^)
Blessings,
Bobbie
P.S. I put the word "dream" in quotes because I'm not really sure it was a dream. I was pretty cognizant of the conversation as it was happening and throughout today. IamDyan answered on 11/08/03:Hi Bobbie,
I like to go to the beach. The beaches here are incredibly empty and surrounded by wildlife preserves. There's something instantly calming to me in hearing the repetitive waves and ocean breezes while sinking my feet in the sand. I love watching the sandpipers scurrying at the wake and listening to the seagulls. The sky seems to stretch forever, and I think that I am viewing the same beach that was here hundreds of years ago. I visit the beach even in the Winter. There is nothing so serene as seeing the beach with the snow falling.
I do not dream frequently, but recently while driving to work, I suddenly "smelled" my Grandpop's cologne in the car. Perhaps that was a message that all is well with him.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 11/08/03 - An additional thought regarding Rich's post on what is Spirituality -- A thought just popped into my head (it tends to happen that way when I least expect it...)--doesn't spirituality have a lot more to do with "other" than with "self"?
Yes, yes, I know that one is supposed to feel good about himself before he can reach out to another, but I hereby counter that notion and posit that it works exactly in reverse. In the very act of reaching out to others, aren't I giving my "self" opportunities to build confidence, create personal worth and happiness (in myself as well as in the other), be useful, avoid playing the victim or martyr--thus, opportunities to become a more spiritual person?
And yes, it will take, as Rich has already mentioned, considerable effort and will be hard work. Oh, and don't forget...reaching out to others with random acts of kindness succeeds when it is anonymous.
I expect to pass through life but once. If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show, Or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, Let me do it now, as I shall not pass this way again. ~William Penn IamDyan answered on 11/08/03:Hi CeeBee,
I believe that when reaching out to others, it is then, that we feel the best about ourselves.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 11/08/03 - Love and Fear Actually, when a mother runs into the street to grab her child when seeing an approaching car, is it Love or Fear that motivates her actions?
Just wondering...
~~~~~~~~~~~~
I enjoyed reading the responses to PW's and Rich's posts. You'll find my response on Rich's and, when I get to it, PW's post.
The above came to me from CWG readings and I pose it to bring about discussion.
Love and blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 11/08/03:Hi Bobbie,
My first thought is that her response is a survival instinct. A mother instinctively wants to raise her child to understand and avoid what would harm him. To me, this is beyond love or fear.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 11/07/03 - Pop Psychology and Spirituality PW is "shocked" that I was unimpressed by the quote from A Course in Miracles. Well, I was. No, I am not familiar with the entire book, but the quoted passage struck me as oversimplification in its reduction of human experience to two emotions: love and fear. The popularity of this kind of simplistic stuff makes me think that many people buy books such as this because they hope to find some sort of easy route to the spiritual life. I believe that this is one reason why spirituality is not well understood by most people. They think it is either the same as religion (which it is not), that it is some "airy-fairy" thing, or that it is something they can "get" by reading how-to books.
I believe that spirituality is acquired through considerable effort and contemplation (though not by "analysis," which can be deadly), by experience and by an openness of mind to experiences so intangible that we haven't words for them – not by reading platitudinous generalizations and oversimplifications. Given the addiction of our populace to sound bites and easy answers to complex situations, I fully expect to see Spirituality for Dummies on the best-seller list any day now.
What do you folks think? Can one find true spirituality in slogans and books that generalize about the human condition, or is there more to it than that? Am I unique in believing that the spiritual journey, though immensely rewarding, is hard work and that the rewards are proportionate to the amount of effort put into trying to live a spiritual life? Am I alone in being skeptical of those authors who presume to have pat answers for questions that no human being has ever completely answered? IamDyan answered on 11/08/03:Hi Rich,
I agree with you on this one. It's difficult to believe a single author can somehow summarize what spirituality is, and commit it to approximately 300 pages.
I consider myself quite a novice when it comes to spirituality. But I am often most moved when out in nature (the beach or the mountains) and in working with children. That is when I find myself most in awe that I am such a small piece of this world that somehow just seems to move forward, almost flawlessly, and continues to offer daily opportunities which seem directed only to me, to contribute my efforts and make a difference.
Spirituality is so individual to each person ... based on their experiences. And just for that very reason, that's likely why spirituality is not well understood by most people.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 11/05/03 - Long in loving.... Tonight my mind has come to rest with a resolution that is from many, many, many years ago. Not just my mind, my heart and spirit as well.
My Aunt, on Father's side, divorced the only Uncle I have ever really felt as an Uncle. Granted he was this for only 8 years of my life however always a man that I respected and found intriguing in my life. He was never a lovey dovy man however a man with a soft touch about him. A gentle man with almost a question mark over his head. Almost like at 8 I felt he knew as little as I however he knew all but just let us wonder about life. He never spoke with harsh words, he was always giving, and always understanding. A great man figure in young minds!
When my Aunt divorced him I did not understand. There was no reason for it then and honestly even now there was no reason for it. The explaination was that she was not happy, he was always busy, neglectful, just never there. The fact was that of greed, selfishness, and in all honesty sin by my Aunt that I just found out tonight. An Aunt that cheated many times, the first cheating having killed her marriage to my Uncle, there was just no forgiveness and the deal was broken. I never could blame my Uncle for the divorce being I felt in heart and soul that he did not do such. I was right in that for the years I carried that, my Father just told me tonight, 20 years later, of the facts. My Aunt destroyed the marriage! My Uncle just tried to hold on for 10 years and then she gave up!
The converstation was brought up in a round about way, kind of like you never intend to talk about such but it just happened to get there. I have always had a great spot in my heart for this Uncle that I felt at 8 I had to divorce. I no longer saw him, I no longer could see the question mark or the gentle man that I once saw every holiday/birthday/special occasion. Even just as a neice I felt the pain of a couple in divorce. My Aunt remarried to a man that I found fun at first but never the Uncle that I remember. The man that had a peacefulness about him.
I have seen this Uncle of mine only once in some 20 years and this was at his son's, my cousins, wedding. He remarried, has step-children, grand-children, has grown old, but still has the distiguished look of the question mark but now wears a grin. The man, my Uncle, is happy, successful, and still is as gentle as the day I can remember meeting him.
I questioned what was correct in wanting to invite him to my wedding next year. I questioned if it was proper being he is not in fact my Uncle anymore, but in truth he will always be that. Sometimes the truths of the heart and soul can prove fact wrong in life. He has not been my "Uncle" for 20 years, however he is the only Uncle that I can consider such. I give the respect of calling my Aunt's husband Uncle however there is no heart involved there. Not the kind that I have for the man that I respect and trust even though it was 20 years ago.
My Father tonight told me the facts, the facts of what I knew as truth but could not prove such. The truth was then and know that my Uncle was and is a good Uncle. He looked out for us, always a gentle hand, and my Aunt screwed up. Not just her life, her kids life, and even all connected family just by taking away reality to her dream needs.
I hope in spirit my Uncle will join me on my day of wedding another. I really hope he will take my invitation as that of love and that of longing love from the only Uncle I know and respect. Please pray for me and him that once again I can see his question mark, his grin, at an old age, and just that look of thought that he knows I know the facts as well as always felt in heart and soul the truth! I never wanted to divorce him!
Think about it! Pray for me, I really need this one gift!
tta
IamDyan answered on 11/05/03:Hi tta,
I hope that your Uncle and the rest of your family will accept and understand.
A wedding day should be all about the bride and groom and who they want there to witness their union. Sometimes in the midst of all the preparations, we forget that.
I guess I have been extremely lucky in my life that there has been little disruption in my family by divorce, so I will not pretend to know all that goes along with it.
I know that recently, at my grandfather's funeral, my uncle's previous wife came to pay her respects because of how good my grandfather had been to her when she was married to my uncle. She said she felt a bit awkward about coming at first, but felt it was the right thing to do. The family, including my uncle, were glad to have her and her support there. It was the first time I had seen her in many years and, although a sad occasion, it was nice to see her and we exchanged numbers to keep in touch.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/03/03 - Another worthy view on Love versus Fear. What is not love is always fear.
We don’t always interpret fear quickly. That’s because it wears many faces. Violent rage seldom looks like fear to us. Neither does a bully’s humiliation of a school chum. Tearful pleading may be recognized as fear, but only because it doesn’t threaten us. Is every act that is not love fear? We may have to remind ourselves often that it is. Daily we’ll observe many instances of fear. The action called for from us is compassion. In the expression of it, we’ll reap its benefit. In the same way that fear fosters more fear if not met with love, compassion also multiplies. Being a surveyor of the latter helps to heal all who enter our realm today. Perhaps we think we can always recognize love, but is that true? Let’s expand our horizons. Love may be silence. It may be laughter or tears. It may be unexpected agreement from an adversary. Love will never be hostile, but it may be subtle.
Everything else that we feel can fall under these two headings. This is according to the famous A Course in Miracles.
Comments please...?
IamDyan answered on 11/03/03:Hi PW,
As always, interesting thoughts.
And, in thinking about it, I just can't seem to reduce the large range of emotions I've been blessed by to only two.
While anger and outrage are not necessarily always positive emotions, they are useful in many ocassions: crime, unjust wars, abuse. In fact, these are the kinds of feelings that can spur me into action, but my reactions to these things are not love and are not fear.
Also, the accomplishment over learning something new, solving a problem, accomplishing a difficult task are all more likened to pride than able to be compartmentalized into love or fear.
Then again, feelings of appreciation for a warm Summer-like weekend in November including a last chance to walk on the beach with the sun shining down and sand between my toes....would that be love or fear?
I believe in miracles. And one of those miracles in the full breadth of emotions the Creator has bestowed upon us. We are much more complex than these thoughts give us credit for....in my humble opinion.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 10/25/03 - "words to live by"? Hello all, I just stopped in to “air my Spiritual Room” as Bobbie recently talked about, and found it refreshing to see what has been going on lately.
How often have you heard a quotation and made the comment that they were "words to live by"? A single motivational inspirational quote can change our outlook and ultimately alter our lives for the better. It can become our creed, and symbolize our purpose in life in a few well-chosen words.
Does anyone have any to share?
IamDyan answered on 10/25/03:Hey DC,
Good to see you and hope you are well.
Things here are good. Here's a few thoughts I have always held dear. Hope they are inspiring for you.
All the Best, Dyan
About the only thing that comes to us without effort is old age.
Dreaming of the person you want to be is wasting the person you already are.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Take risks: if you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise.
Blessed is the man who, having nothing to say, abstains from giving us worthy evidence of the fact.
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 10/21/03 - Learning from not living with.... Something I totally overlooked, not the first! PW said in basics that you (I) have learned the most from having lived with them (my family).
In faith as well as knowledge I have learned the most of my family in NOT having lived with them. This has been the most difficult part to face being I came to realize how disfunctional our family is. That it is never about the time that so and so happened or that this happened, but that all happened with a pretty painting of a normal family.
The hardest part is accepting that your family is not the Brady Bunch or you are not Mary Poppins. I grew up watching "Little House on the Prarie" and hurt my Father so much when I said I thought "Pa" was the Dad I always dreamed about for a Father. I imagined myself as Laura!
The learning from not living with my parents has been the reality check in life. I understand now that as I played the angel part, they are just getting who I am. That three years ago I constantly felt I had issues however I did not really have any, I did, but not that of having to call them and really need them.
It was depression at that time. It is a day by day thing getting over your parents as it is a day by day getting over your children.
The most spiritual feeling and thought I have learned having been weened from my parents is that they are always there for you however you are always there for them. In my childhood I would notice if either had a bad day by their actions, now I hear it in their voice and can say "What's up". To express just a bad day as adults, one to another, is so wonderful. Always the care of parent to child but still that understand of minds that finally mix!
My parents did the best they could, they went beyond that and made sure I still strive. But I have to admit my best years of learning were with out them, it was the direction that they gave to me in my younger years that popped up and bit me in the butt.
tta
IamDyan answered on 10/21/03:Hi tta,
One of the funniest lessons I remember learning about living without my family was as a teen.
I was quite self centered then ... I suppose my husband would tell you that I still am sometimes :)
Anyway, I was somewhat upset that my mother expected me to pay room and board, once I got a part time job in high school. It was $30/week, probably about 1/3 of what I made then.
I made the "mistake" of asking her if she was putting the money away for me in a bank account. She said, "No...I'm using it to pay bills. And anytime you think you can go someplace else and get your rent and utilities paid, three meals a day, your car insurance bill paid for, and all your laundry washed and folded for $30 a week, let me know. Cause I'm packing too and coming with you."
Of course, she was right. But I never did realize how right she was, until I moved out on my own.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 10/19/03 - Four Rooms There is an Indian proverb or axiom that says that everyone is a house with four rooms, a physical, a mental, an emotional, and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time but, unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person.
— Rumer Godden in A House with Four Rooms
To Practice This Thought: Assess the condition of your four rooms. Which one looks like you visit it regularly? Which needs airing out?
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The Basic Practice
A spiritual journey is usually considered to be a movement toward community and Spirit but an essential loop of our route must pass through the realm of self. We have to find out who we are before we can make commitments to others. We have to care for our own souls in order to have the energy and strength to care for our families, our neighbors, and the earth.
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From: http://www.spiritualityhealth.com/cgi/dropdown.cgi?url=%2Fnewsh%2Fitems%2Fblank%2Fitem_199.html&x=20&y=14
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Read more about why the spiritual practice of nurturing may be for you...
http://www.spiritualityhealth.com/newsh/items/blank/item_289.html
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An additional note from Bobbie:
When I participated in the Warrior Spirit program (http://www.warriorspirit.org/) in Seattle in 2001, I first came to understand the four rooms and the importance of maintaining balance by attending to our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of being. When we don't, we're off balance and feel used by others, etc.
By the way, Jeff and Laurie Alexander have an excellent programs. The Leap of Faith program is the one I attended. It has been pivotal to my spiritual understandings and healing of self on many levels and from several aspects. I highly recommend the programs where people from all walks of life, religious affiliations, backgrounds, ages and physical abilities, have come from all over the world to attend. It has also been taught to the corporate world and the airline industry I had been told.
If personal healthy boundaries is an issue for you, I strongly invite you to consider signing up for this magnificent "Leap of Faith" program.
I hope that this post and the links provided have been of interest to you as they have for me.
Blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 10/19/03:Thanks Bobbie....Good stuff.
For me, with work taking up so much of my week, I have a tendency to be mostly mental. (Hmmmm.....that didn't sound just like I intended :)
I do work on a balance though. It's critical. I learned something similar many years ago with the 7 Habits by Stephen Covey.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 10/17/03 - Family difficulties Hi spiritual partners,
I'm in a quandry the best way to deal with my son who is in his twenties.
Because I love him, when his life goes poorly, I feel his pain and get downhearted and sometimes physically ill. I understand that I can't make him do the things (I think) would make his life happier.
Still, he asks me for my ideas and I don't just make something up, but check it out before I offer my anything, and still he ignores my suggestions and brings more troubles unto himself.
Now, I'm feeling sick he ignored a court date that he had asked for over 9 months ago, to get his child support payments lowered. (It takes forever to get a court date for this) He's too afraid of the courts to face them, so he didn't go. In the meantime, he can't pay what's being asked and it continues to accumulate for him. He's been out of work for months over this past year and has had no income at all, so I'm afraid they'll put him in jail for non-payment.
should I ask him not to talk to me about his personal life? Should I refuse to give an opinion? Should I avoid him altogether? He's married and old enough to make his own decisions but he just doesn't consider the consequences & things usually end up in chaos.
When the chaos hits, I'm the one who gets the phone call for help.
I like a peaceful life, without chaos of any kind, and I feel stressed out whenever he brings his problems to me, because I know he won't abide by my ideas for resolution.
What's going on with me and with him - if you can see something that I'm missing..and what should I do? Thanks for your time. IamDyan answered on 10/17/03:Hi PW,
I can understand your anxiety over the situation. There's, of course many ways to react, and I am sure you have tried them all, because you love your son, and you seem to always exhaust all possibilities :)
Have you tried distancing yourself from these individual situations as if your son were a friend?
I am curious....if a friend of yours were in the same situation and asked for advice, would you feel ownership .... or *sick* over their decision?
Would you be distressed if your friend did not accept your advice? Or would you stress out over the result if they did not?
Would your friend call you for help? And if they did, how would you react?
It is, of course a difficult paradigm to create. But your son is an adult and, although we all wish forever to protect our children, sometimes allowing them to face consequences are the only lessons truly learned.
I am hoping for the best for both of you, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 10/12/03 - What do you think about this? "On the ABC evening news, it was reported tonight that, because of the dangers from Hurricane Isabel approaching Washington DC, the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment. They refused. "No way, Sir!"
Soaked to the skin, marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a service person. The tomb has been patrolled continuously, 24/7, since 1930.
Addition to this e: I saw an interview on Fox News Channel with the Commander of the soldiers who guard the Tomb of the unknown. He took the shift when Isabel was unleashing her fury, cause he did not want to ask any of his men to do this - he felt it was his highest honor to be on duty during that time."
This was in an Email sent to me by a friend. IamDyan answered on 10/12/03:Hi Dan,
Having been to this cemetery and many others .... Gettysberg and the site of the Arizona, most recently, I can tell you that those presiding there do take their duty most seriously and with honor.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/07/03 - MESSAGE TO CHOU!
The Cubs start their series with the Marlins tonight at 7:20 p.m. C.D.T. on Fox. (10/7/03) I'll take the Cubs in six games. (It's a best of seven series!) GO CUBS ... all the way! Yankees vs Cubs in the World Series! (I'm for the Red Sox!)
Hope you are well and happy, golfer. CeeBee will probably see this post and contact you if you are no longer in touch with us! Take care! Hope to 'see' your smiling face soon posting and answering!
HANK
IamDyan answered on 10/07/03:Chou's last letter mentioned that you, like her, were probably in your glory watching the Cubbies advance!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 10/06/03 - NEXT? Recent developments in our church bring this question for you all to mind: When is next Sunday? Please give me a date. Thanks, Dan IamDyan answered on 10/06/03:Hi Dan,
Next Sunday is Oct 12.
That is, indeed, the next Sunday coming.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 10/04/03 - Dyan's email signature is quite thought-provoking.. "And what if you were told: One more hour?"
--Elias Canetti (1905-1994)
I'm trying to figure out what I would do and was wondering - how do you think you would you spend that hour?
Thanks. IamDyan answered on 10/04/03:PW,
If I only had one hour, like Hank, I would want to convey to all I am leaving behind what they have meant to me.
Having lost Grandpop this year, I know how important to have something to remember is, to those left behind.
An hour seems so short to try to reach everyone I love who are more than an hour away.
I struggled about how I would do it, but a long letter is just the perfect choice.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 10/03/03 - Cat and dog?
I have a cat and a dog and we all get on great together.
The cat, called Clothspeg :) sits on my lap sometimes and is a great comfort to me when I’m in the dumps.
The thing is, when the cats on my lap my dog, Jupiter, sits on the floor in front of us and will not let anyone near us.
What’s going on in Jupiters mind.
Do they know when I'm feeling sad.
Bobie
IamDyan answered on 10/03/03:Hi Bobie,
I have three dogs (Knight, Ginger, and Jack) and a cat (Too Late.)
They do understand when I am feeling down, and like to cuddle up or try to convince me to play. Their eyes are just so expressive.
Sometimes I think they think...."Gosh, if she would just play with this toy with me for 15 minutes, everything would be better :)"
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 10/03/03 - Message from Chou -- I posted this on the Forum, and decided to post it here (not sure you all read stuff over there). I know the Spirituality board is one of Chou's favorites. She is planning to use a computer at the public library near her (and where I work), so you will probably *see* her again before too long.
"This afternoon [Thursday, 10/02/03] I received a note from Chou; my cat, Thomas Jefferson, received one from Nick. Chou and Nick are doing very well but miss you all terribly. Someone gave Nick a plastic ball with bells and feathers. Chou said, "He hasn't moved this fast in years!" And those of you who know Chou a little better can imagine what she has been watching on tv lately. Her last line was, 'GO, CUBS!!'" IamDyan answered on 10/03/03:CeeBee,
So glad to hear all is well. Just as you said, a letter arrived here from her today. She certainly is in good spirits and things seem to be going well, getting better day by day.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | _JacquelineA asked on 09/30/03 - Beyonce & Jay-Z What do you think of this couple?
I think it's bizzare..Beyonce is a beuatiful intelligent woman who comes from a church going Christian family and Jay-Z is a former convict who raps about pimping, using women and who knows what else. When I found out they were a couple I couldn't believe! Plus he's 33 and she's 22..She said that she still hasn't taken him home to her parents yet and I couldn't imagine her parents accepting this. I just don't understand why people do the dumbest things to themselves..I couldn't even imagine this working out!
IamDyan answered on 10/02/03:Hi Jacqueline,
I do not know who either of these people are....but then, I am hopeless when it comes to keeping up with rap celebrities.
Who knows what she sees in him? Maybe he is not even the same person when they are alone that he portrays in his rap songs. Hard to say.
But, from my own experience, there were many who didn't understand what my husband and I saw in each other when we first got together. Neither of us really cared what anyone else thought, and during the past 20 years we've been together supporting and complimenting each other, they've all come around.
What attracts people to each other can't really be measured logically. I think we all seek what we need.
I guess time will tell with Beyonce & Jay-Z.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | bal317 asked on 10/01/03 - Applaud for the Jehovah Witness On our local TV channel here in Iowa, I was so Pleased to see a much needed advertisement. Hopefully, it is in many States. It shows a young teen girl, communicating with someone very friendly on the Internet, whom she ment. This person appears to be very friendly, and getting information from her, about a coming-up concert, and finding out if she is going and where she will be setting. It shows her, so excited that someone on the Internet is being friendly to her, and she thinks she has a friend of her own age group-to her seeming very non threatening.
Well, as the commercial is closing, you see this young girl smiling, and the person on the other end that is suppose to be the friend, is really, a older, grubby male, with a booze bottle by his computer, a dirty room and post a notes on the computer-possibly to keep up the misguidence with many, including her. Then it shows, what should be done by the young girls Father working with her on the Computer for a better positive note, and seeing what she is really up to for protection of his child.
But the message as spoken was, don't let your kid's have access to the misguidence of the Internet, they don't know who is on the other end. See what your child or children are doing on the Internet. Help them protect themselves.
Brought to you by: The Jehovah Witness.
I think this is Wonderful, and hopefully many will see this and take notice how they too must be very careful.
So, my friends, even tho we have many difference of opinions about our religious beliefs, we surely have very good intentions for all of us as a society.
I want to Thank all of those who are members of the Jehovah Witness religion, for helping in a huge way, by reaching out to many, and might be helping my own Grandchildren and friends.
Thank you, Let's be kinder to each other, we're only here for such a small time,
Blessings,
bal317 IamDyan answered on 10/02/03:Hi bal317,
Hope you are doing well.
Commercials like this, as well as all the laws that allow fast communication of kidnapping and public notification of pedophiles relocating into a neighborhood are all to be applauded. Even AOL has a taskforce trying to ferret out offenders on line.
Just last night as I was driving home, an emergency broadcast came across the radio describing information regarding a child taken from daycare...and included descriptions of both the child and suspect, as well as the car description and license plate. I hope all ended well, but, unfortunately, there is no emergency broadcast when events are brought to closure.
These days with so many information and communication outlets, and parents not always at home directly supervising, warnings and processes like this are so needed and appreciated. And, I would think, it matters not who has the time, energy, and ability to contribute. ALL contributions are welcome!!!
Thanks for the note.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 10/01/03 - Why Are Things The Way They Are? During my junior year in high school, Mr. Reynolds, my English teacher, handed each student a list of thoughts or statements written by other students, then gave us a creative writing assignment based on one of those thoughts. At 17, I was beginning to wonder about many things, so I chose the statement, "I wonder why things are the way they are?"
That night, I wrote down, in the form of a story, all the questions that puzzled me about life. I realized that many of them were hard to answer, and perhaps others could not be answered at all. When I turned in my paper, I was afraid I might fail the assignment because I had not answered the question, "I wonder why things are the way they are?" I had no answers. I had only written questions.
The next day Mr. Reynolds called me to the front of the
class and asked me to read my story for the other students. He handed me my paper and sat down in the back of the room. The class became quiet as I began to read my story:
Mommie, Daddy........ Why?
Mommie, why are the roses red?
Mommie, why is the grass green and the sky blue?
Why does a spider have a web and not a house?
Daddy, why can't I play in your toolbox?
Teacher, why do I have to read?
Mother, why can't I wear lipstick to the dance?
Daddy, why can't I stay out until 12:00? The other kids are.
Mother, why do you hate me?
Daddy, why don't the boys like me?
Why do I have to be so skinny?
Why do I have braces and wear glasses?
Why do I have to be 16?
Mom, why do I have to graduate?
Dad, why do I have to grow up?
Mom, Dad, why do I have to leave?
Mom, why don't you write more often?
Dad, why do I miss my old friends?
Dad, why do you love me so much?
Dad, why do you spoil me?
Your little girl is growing up.
Mom, why don't you visit?
Mom, why is it hard to make new friends?
Dad, why do I miss being at home?
Dad, why does my heart skip a beat when he looks in my eyes?
Mom, why do my legs tremble when I hear his voice?
Mother, why is being "in love" the greatest feeling in the world?
Daddy, why don't you like to be called "Gramps?"
Mother, why do my baby's tiny fingers cling so tightly to mine?
Mother, why do they have to grow up?
Daddy, why do they have to leave?
Why do I have to be called "Grannie"?
Mommie, Daddy, why did you have to leave me? I need you.
Why did my youth slip past me?
Why does my face show every smile that I have ever given to a friend or a stranger?
Why does my hair glisten a shiny silver?
Why do my hands quiver when I bend to pick a flower?
Why, God, are the roses red?
At the conclusion of my story, my eyes locked with Mr. Reynold's eyes, and I saw a tear slowly sliding down his cheek. It was then I realized that life is not always based on the answers we receive, but also on the questions we ask.
--Author Unknown
===================
Never stop questioning.
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 10/02/03:Questioning, I think, keeps us young and wondering why things can't be different.
Thanks for the message.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 10/01/03 - We all change. Everything changes. Knowing that, why do people insist on saying such things as: "Once a cheater always a cheater." or "Once a thief always a thief." "Once a liar always a liar." Isn't that being very judgemental and defeating? After all, we don't know what happened in a persons life to make them the way they are.
Is there something so different about these particular tendencies that those who have them cannot be expected to change?
Or are we simply suckers if we try to trust them and give them a chance to change?
Are there other tendencies that have been proven that can't/won't be changed so we can all be on our guards?
I keep getting a picture of the actor who played Roc(can't remember the name of the weekly program right now) and several other good shows, who had previously served 11 years in prison for murder.....he was given a chance and made good.
How do we know who will succeed and who will hang onto their old behaviors?
IamDyan answered on 10/02/03:Hi PW,
I think a lot of this is a way to limit our exposure to the negative in this world...much the same as I have a tendency to avoid people with negative attitudes.
By avoiding those who have let me down more than once, I am able to avoid lowering my expectations of others to think that they will let me down as a rule.
I am not one who says once a cheater, always a cheater....but yet, I DO often find myself saying fool me once, shame on you, fool my twice, shame on me.
So, although I am willing to allow someone a second chance, they rarely get a third from me....directly, anyway. But I AM willing to watch someone ELSE give them a third chance and observe results. If they prove true then, then I might open myself once again.
Does that make me a bad person? Maybe.
But, hey! never said I was perfect. On the other hand, if I let someone down more than once, I expect the same response from them that I would give.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 09/27/03 - The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19 directs the disciples to go into all the world and to proclaim the Gospel. It was written before the Christian Church had actually split from the Jewish synagogue. Christians were at that time, in Matthew's context, "revisionist Jews" who believed that they had found God present in Jesus and who yearned to incorporate this Jesus into the ongoing Jewish tradition. Matthew also wanted his Jewish nation to fulfill its vocation, given to Abraham, to be a blessing to all the nations of the world. So he opens his Gospel by placing a star into the sky to announce Jesus' birth. A star did not just shine on the land of the Jews but was seen by all the people on this planet, that is by those the Jews called, rather pejoratively, 'the Gentiles.' That star drew these Gentiles, in the persons of the Magi, to the place where Matthew said Jesus was born. Matthew then proceeds to tell the whole story of Jesus, climaxing with the narratives of his crucifixion and resurrection. The Risen Christ is then made to say but one thing to the disciples, which was what we now call the Great Commission. It was as if Jesus through Matthew was saying, now that you know me you have the responsibility to move beyond the boundaries of your tribal identity and your tribal religion and to tell of God's love for all the people of the world. That is the context of the Great Commission. It had nothing to do with imposing rites of baptism or forcing people to believe certain doctrines, dogmas or creeds. To proclaim the Gospel is to live out the infinite love of God. That takes many forms. Violating the culture and values of another people so that they become adherents of your version of a religious system that Jesus never knew is not one of them.
-- John Shelby Spong
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I found this an interesting read in my mailbox.
Comments?
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 09/28/03:Hi Bobbie,
The book of Matthew is a wonderful read in its entirety, because of the feelings and thoughts. The book of Luke, also interesting, and much more imagery.
I like this except, but here is my favorite of Matthew's:
Matthew 13:24-30
The Parable of the Weeds
24Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28" 'An enemy did this,' he replied.
"The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 09/24/03 - Survey for PW Have you ever received a clear message from God in any form that you knew was from God? A simple "Yes" or "No" will suffice, unless you wish to expound. Thanks, Dan IamDyan answered on 09/27/03:Hi WV,
Only once for sure. I was 15 and had a horrible accident, kind of a live or die situation.
Other than that, depends on whether you consider that inner voice giving advice you feel compelled to follow counts.
Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 09/27/03 - Love In spirit and reality I find it to be or not to be. It is or is not. There are not "possibilities" in having such.
Am I wrong, well what is your opinion on this?
On the relationships board I was corrected in the sense of a possibility however love to me is like have a belief or not. You do or you do not believe in something. Love is not a fact, it is a state of being. One has all that goes with having love, all that makes it up. In MY OPINION if you do not just know then you do not have it.
I know there are times in peoples lives when you question such, you wonder, however there is always something that just tells you, "too bad you love that person even if you can not stand them". Beyond a partner, beyond family, just someone in your life that has gone by and you went through all the "hate" dealing and just know you do love them.
I find no possibilty in love, you do or you don't. It is there or it is just like a dream where they are soon forgotten.
My opinion, you can not "possibly" love someone, it is possible to eventually love someone with all the factors there! It is impossible to love someone that does not include all the factors of love! My ie, physical, spiritual, emotional, day in and day out experiances one on one. As French might say, yet real that "You need to see the shit first before you can decide whether or not is worth while spreading it on a field". Redneck 101!
What do you think? I thought it was kinda funny but true!
Hugs
tta
IamDyan answered on 09/27/03:Hi tta,
When it comes to relationships, it's a mixed bag.
I truly believe there is a need for chemistry with your love interest/husband/wife/girlfriend/boyfriend. And I do believe it either is or it isn't, and it's pretty apparent immediately whether it's there or it's not.
For example, my husband and I have very little in common...in fact, we are quite opposites, but yet from the first day I met him, the spark was there.
But then, there's friends that aren't love interests. Sometimes your first encounter might not be positive. But if you are in a situation....like this board or maybe work, and you have repeated encounters with the person, you see another side of them. And you come to understand them better. And, with an open mind on your end, your opinion changes, and a friendship grows.
Then, again, there's those people that you never really develop a deep relationship with. Perhaps mutual respect is a better word substituted for love. For example, maybe I'll never understand those who burn the flag, because I respect it so much. But through reading on my own, or participating in forums like this, I come to see other opinions, broaden my horizons. And, while I might never change my personal opinion, I no longr find them offensive, now understanding the background they base their opinions upon.
Round and round....did I answer the question, tta?
It will be interesting to read other opinions.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 09/20/03 - Everything happens for a reason. God brings men into deep waters not to drown them, but to cleanse them.
- Aughey
********************************
Do we all need cleansing, or are there those who don't abuse their free will and remain strongly God-directed throughout their lives? If so, are their challenges less severe than for those of us who have strayed greatly. Your opinion is appreciated & examples would be helpful too. IamDyan answered on 09/24/03:Hi PW,
Nice thought...
Personally, I think we all need challenges in our lives. They usually teach us something, make us stronger, and, I suppose usually do 'cleanse' us in some way.
There's another thought I often like to keep in mind..."God does not give large burdens without providing equally large shoulders to bear them."
For example: Listen to those who have lost everything they own in a disaster, but managed to escape with their lives and their family. Usually, they are greatful. And perhaps they have learned a lesson that we all should -- that even though wordly possessions are valued, we can indeed live without them. And perhaps this challenge has cleansed them of putting too much value in those things.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | queenofwands asked on 09/19/03 - REQUEST FOR PRAYERS FOR WHITE ELEPHANT A few hours from now, it will be September 20 where I am.
On this day, Mario Heredia, known to users and experts of this Spirituality board as White Elephant, would have turned 26.
I promised to place an overseas call to greet him and bid him good luck on his first dive. One item on his birthday wish list was to go scuba diving with Veronica, the woman he loves more than anyone in this world.
We were also looking forward to a double date when I go back to New York City, hopefully next year. The two of them planned to take me and the one I love, who also happens to be a New Yorker, around the most exciting parts of the Big Apple.
But it was not meant to be. Three weeks ago, August 30 to be exact, Mario was killed in Brooklyn.
So, this Saturday, instead of chatting with him on his birthday, I am offering a mass in his honor at 6PM, Manila time, here in the Church of the Holy Sacrifice at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.
Veronica is offering a mass for him in NYC.
But I do not wish to grieve for his death. I intend to celebrate his life. On this day of his birth, I yearn to remember the great things about him and share with you, who had been part of his answerway family, what he has loved. For he has loved much and he has loved well.
My brother Mario first came to me with his dreams. He descended from a long line of psychics. People always went to him for help, not just for tarot readings, astrology and spiritual matters, though not too many must have understood him.
He was not a conventional man. Conformity, he threw out of the window, happily going about in Gothic clothing, all in black, wearing chains and wielding a black staff. He favored black, the color of one of his favorite saints. The chains, symbolizing the binding of one’s soul, was his attempt to be one with them.
But above everything, he was a good man. For all the darkness in his life, he gave light to others the best way he can. He always put the needs of his fellows before his own. Wherever he went, people followed him nonstop, seeking his aid. Most often, he ended up with no time for rest.
Users who posted questions to him on this site remember him for being kind and considerate. I’m sure his students remember him with fondness as well. Mario took pride in being a good teacher. Heaven knows how many lost, lonely and troubled youth he coaxed back on the right path in the high school where he worked for half a decade.
My brother detested violence, though he had to live with it and die of it. He forgave the wrongs done unto him, great and small, by folks closest to his heart and by strangers.
Growing up, he suffered from the prejudices of those who cannot place his true ethnicity, to say the least. Yet Mario so loved his city that never sleeps. He was born in the room of the Brooklyn apartment where he lived all his life. The whole neighborhood turned up to witness his coming into the light.
In his heart, the tenderness for all that God created remained unsullied. What little pleasures he had included strolling under the trees near his home, walking in the rain, listening to water flowing, remembering the streams in the woods of his boyhood, relaxing on the beach with Veronica, watching the sun rise wherever daybreak catches him...
He was a warrior, all right. He had to be, albeit a just and gentle one. He studied Gung-Fu as soon as he could walk. A 90-year Chinese woman, who made a bet with her friends that she could teach “the clumsy American to fight”, mentored him on the self-defense style which became his favorite. It was called White Elephant.
Mario regarded martial arts and sports as spiritual calling. Had he lived longer, he would have been rock-climbing, sky-diving (though he feared Veronica will worry to death when he goes for his first jump) and scuba diving all over the continent. He longed to explore the mountains and the forests, to experience firsthand what riveted him in the nature shows on TV. He used to lament there was so much he wanted to do and so little time to do it.
Still…at home, this spiritual martial artist and gentle warrior is a gourmand. He loved good food. He tried out all sorts of cuisines. And he loved to cook - for Veronica, in particular.
She was the one woman who was always in his thoughts, the one he could trust completely, whose strength awed him, whose talents never ceased to excite him. He marveled how he can talk to her for hours and hours on end, never tiring.
He told me he fell in love with her on sight. And it caught him by surprise. He was not usually impressed by physical beauty. But he remembered the way his heart skipped a beat the first time he saw her. He was shocked that she was so beautiful. He looked forward to working every morning because he would be fetching her from her home.
Writing, my brother also loved, though he struggled hard to summon the words when he was happy. Before he passed away, he was at work on his book. It was, in his words, full of odds and ends he picked up throughout his life - everything from magic to cooking, from politics to poetry.
His ultimate dream project was to design his own deck. It was to be a tarot of his years on this earth, using photos of himself and his friends. It sounded fun. He was looking forward to donning costumes, working with lots of props and scenes. He planned to add more cards to the major arcana and put in a whole new suit, as well. He even asked me to be part of his deck.
I was greatly honored that he asked. He believed that in another life we must have been brother and sister. Veronica and I agreed with him on that.
In soul, Mario is and will always be a brother to me.
On this day, in my heart, I greet my beloved brother a happy birthday.
And I implore you, who read this, to say a prayer for his repose, whatever your faith maybe. Mario has always conversed with God in his own language and fervently believed in the power of prayers.
I also ask for prayers for my dearest sister, Veronica, that she be comforted for her loss of him and their son, Phoenix Lien, who passed away five months ago.
Thanks and blessings to all of you.
IamDyan answered on 09/24/03:I hope it helps in some way that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. It sounds as if Mario had a wonderful life and touched many lives.
Peace and Comfort, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Control asked on 09/19/03 - How can I heal the world? How can I live a more spiritual life? What practices can give me closer contact with my spiritual core? How can I make a difference in the world? How can I heal the world? IamDyan answered on 09/19/03:Hi Control,
I guess we all have our own internal monitor that measures what is more spiritual than our current practices.
For me, I like to attend PowWow's twice a year --- I am Native American.
I also find much uplifting in walking on the beach or thru the wilderness, especially when no others are there.
But all those things are just to bring me closer to my spirit.
As far as making a difference in the world, I would say it depends on what means a lot to you and being a part of making it happen. For me, I am a mentor to a couple inter city grade school kids. We work twice per week on reading lessons and spend some time talking about homelife. These teo kids have improved their reading skills over the last two years, which has improved their other subjects as well. They both want to be system analysts like me now. Will they be successful system analysts? I don't know, but I do know their grades have improved, they are good kids, and just needed someone to expect more of them.
Healing the world, see above....one soul at a time.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | bal317 asked on 09/18/03 - Can the stages of dying be associated with birth? All of a sudden it seems to me, I am at a stage in my life(due to my age)the adults that were my, I guess I will call them, mentors of life, such as close family friends, family members, specially ministers, you know the ones we grew up as children around, and caught up too them as adults. Are dying, and I am because of respect, always going to their hospital death beds, and I get this queer feeling, specially when they look at me all hooked up to many machines, and they speak to me, so warmly, so appreciative of knowing God, and not being able to get up out of that bed, but accepting this dying stage at their fullest dignity and pride not being afraid. I thought of this just tonite as I stood by the Bishop's death bed. Those of you that have ever been in this situation, think about it and tell me, be it a man or woman that is dying and lying flat on the bed, like trapped because their strength or condition won't allow them to move, does this moment remind any of you that dying is like what a woman goes through when she is giving birth, on that bed gotta go through it, can't run from it and the baby is born. So, is it crazy of me to think, that the dying stage is like our bodies going through a birth into death and eternal peace to be returned to our maker. So as I drove home, and thought about this I felt more at peace. Because I then associated the stage of dying like a pregnant woman waiting in the final stages of giving birth, one goes away to be born to God and the other goes away from the mother to enter our earthly world.
Does any of what I said make sense to any of you? Or am I just being completely wrong and searching for something to ease the maybe doubt that I did not know I had about death and us really having a space with God?
Thanks for trying to understand what I have written. IamDyan answered on 09/18/03:Hi bal317,
This year has been tough for me, too. I lost my grandfather in April, and two other mentors in June and September. In two of the three cases it did seem that they accepted what was inevitable. And they did accept it much more gracefully than anyone else in the room. They seemed to care more for what happened to those of us left than themselves....another motherly instinct.
For my grandfather, I believe he did not think it was coming that night he passed. He was actually improving and we hoped for more years, but he passed in his sleep peacefully. He had been preparing though and we had talked about it for years when he would finally go to rest and be reunited with his wife.
I guess their peaceful acceptance is a comfort to me. I have faith in God and an afterlife, and their serenity in their last moments confirms good thoughts and reaffirms faith.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 09/17/03 - Telekinesis Again, PW stirred this up. If you could actually make telekinesis work for you, what would you do with it, SPECIFICALLY? (Use the definition of telekinesis as the direct action of the mind on matter or other minds, not just moving things around.)
Have fun or be serious or BOTH if you dare! IamDyan answered on 09/18/03:Interesting...
You know, this could probably be a question to ask contestants in the next Miss America pageant :) "Miss Nebraska, if you could make telekinesis work for you...."
I think I would make other drivers sharing my commute pull over to the shoulder so I could pass. No, even better, I would be able to blink and just be at work, and then blink again and be home -- no commute.
I would make the frogs in the basement stairwell leap on their own up to the bushes.
Brownies would magically whip themselves up each night.
My home would be on the beach and hurricanes would never venture anywhere near.
My dogs would let themselves out and close the door behind them.
Flies and moths would fly away from the house when the front door opened.
Groceries and dry cleaning would deliver themselves each week.
People I come in contact with at work would be more honest...no hidden agendas or motives.
Maybe I am too modest in my goals. But let's try these out first while I perfect my telekinesis skills, then I'll move on to more noble goals :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 09/15/03 - History Since PW wants me to stir up things, here is a question for you. What is the most thought-provoking question that you have run across? Why was it the most?
Have fun with this.
Dan IamDyan answered on 09/16/03:Oh gosh .... tons of things!
Why is the sky blue?
Why do dogs greet you like you have been gone for days when it has just been 5 mins?
How do you know when to get married?
Why do frogs get stuck in the basement stairway and need help getting out, so I am late for work?
OK, can you tell I was babysitting toddlers this week-end? Alright, I can't kid you, the last one was mine :)
Lemme think....MOST thought provoking, huh?
What is most important in your life?
This question always makes me stop and think, before I can answer. And, interestingly enough, the answer is not always the same.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 09/13/03 - Dark Crow has asked if there is any real truth. DAILY BUDDHIST WISDOM
"But what makes these 'experts' preach their own opinion and call it truth?" asked the inquirer. "Is it an inheritance of humankind to do this, or is it merely something they gain satisfaction from?"
"Apart from consciousness," answered the Buddha, "no absolute truths exist. False reasoning declares one view to be true and another view wrong. It is delight in their dearly held opinions that makes them assert that anyone who disagrees is bound to come to a bad end. But no true seeker becomes embroiled in all this. Pass by peacefully and go a stainless way, free from theories, lusts, and dogmas."
-Majjhima Nikaya
From "Buddha Speaks," edited by Anne Bancroft, 2000
Opinions please.
IamDyan answered on 09/13/03:Hi PW,
I think there are some who preach their own opinion because they love to hear themselves speak.
There are others who preach their own opinion because they truly care about others and hope, by preaching, someone will avoid the mistakes they have made.
I will avoid a discussion of absolute truths here....that is better left to philsophy teachers and their students. And, although I greatly enjoyed those discussions in college, frankly, I no longer have the luxury of removing myself from all stimuli and experiences to be uneffected by past. And so I will continue to tell my daughter "absolute truths" like...
stay in school
stealing is wrong
virtue is its own reward
diet and exercise will keep you healthy
drive defensively
respect your elders
come to the aid of the helpless
love and you will be loved in return
What I will say, is that most intelligent individuals should be able to separate the preaching they hear from those who are just speaking to hear themselves talk and those who are truly sending a caring message.
Those same intelligent people should be able to interpret if the guidance offered applies to their particular situation, and to make their own informed decision.
While I enjoy reading opinions of many, I believe it is up to each of us to determine for ourselves what is meaningful.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 09/12/03 - so how's the war on terror going ? Yesterday it was fitting and proper that we reflect on the lives sacrificed by the murders on 9/11 . It is also appropriate that we reflect on the progress of our war on terror that was declared on us in the early 1980s ,and we finally began to respond to after we received a sledge hammer blow on 9/11/2001.
Like any endeavor undertaken of this magnitude and duration ,mistakes have been made (show me a war where this is not true),that need to be acknowledged ,but in general ,in a very short time ,the effort has been suprisingly successful. This is what Amir Taheri points out in his article below.
In the name of the victims of 9/11 ,and the hundreds of others whose lives were taken before by the forces of radical Islam ,let's vow to not only never forget ,but to recommit ourselves to the task ahead .
Civil Wars
The world now.
By Amir Taheri
As expected, the Qatari satellite television al-Jazeera, Osama bin Laden's favorite, has broadcast what is supposed to be a new videotape showing the al Qaeda leader and his number-two, the Egyptian Ayman al-Zawahiri, taking a stroll in a hilly area.
Islamist circles in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States have been abuzz with rumours regarding the coming videotape for weeks. A middleman from Birmingham in the English Midlands launched an advance-sales campaign for the tape last March. He began by asking $250,000, but ended up cutting the price to $25,000, a sure sign that OBL's stocks are not as high as on the first anniversary of the September 11 attacks against the United States.
OBL is the only one of the seven top leaders of the al Qaeda not to be fully accounted for. The organization's number-two, the Egyptian Ayman al-Zawahiri, is almost certainly hiding in Iran. The organization's number three, and military commander, Muhammad Atef was killed in Afghanistan during the war that ended the Taliban rule. Three other leaders, the Palestinian Abu Zubaydah, the Yemeni Ramzi Bin Al-Shibha, and the Kuwaiti Khalid Shaikh Muhammad, were picked up between March 2002 and March 2003. Yussuf al-Ayyeri, the terror network's theoretician, was killed in a gun battle in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, in June.
Until last September, al Qaeda and its sympathizers or paid agents in the West kept announcing the names of their "martyrs" as part of a propaganda campaign designed to show that the war against "The Crusaders" had not ended. But with the number of those killed or captured running into thousands, the practice was halted. The remnants of the group realized that terrorism works when you can kill lots of people, and frightening many more, without losing many of your own. (It was this that gave the 9/11 attacks against New York and Washington such a dramatic impact.)
Last year at this time, some al Qaeda sympathizers were able to gather at a rented hall in central London to hear some of OBL's old tapes and compare notes on their doomed movement. This year, however, there will be no such gathering. Some of the al Qaeda stragglers are either in prison or have fled Britain. A walk up on Edgware Road, London's "Arab street," reveals the end of almost two decades of al Qaeda-style terrorist presence in the British capital, once known as Londonistan.
The terrorists have suffered similar setbacks in other Western countries. Gone are the days when the Islamist terrorists could hold a convention in Dallas, Texas. A string of shops owned and used as cover by the terror groups in Paris's second arrondissement, now lie empty.
In Hamburg, Germany, the scores of militants who acted as recruiting officers and fixers for various Islamist terror groups have vanished.
In military and police terms the war on terror has gone much better than anyone would have expected.
Of the dozens of bases the terrorists had in Afghanistan and Pakistan, only two or three may still be operational in the Mohand area, one of the seven mountain enclaves in Pakistan. The last place in the Muslim world where the terrorists could gather, as late as December 2002, is the dusty town of Rabat, a thieves' bazaar located in the so-called "Devil's Triangle" where the borders of Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan meet. The liberation of Iraq has shattered the structures of two-dozen terror organizations, of which at least one was directly linked to al Qaeda.
Some money is still flowing into the coffers of the radical organizations which, in turn, finance the half-dozen terror groups still capable of launching sporadic attacks. But even there, what money now flows into terror is but a trickle, compared to the flood before September 11, 2001.
In the meantime, predictions that several Muslim countries would fall into the hands of the terrorists have proved unfounded.
Pakistan, regarded to be the "ripest for fall" is emerging from almost two decades of uncertainty and gaining a remarkable measure of self confidence.
Saudi Arabia, far from inaugurating a new regime headed by terrorists, is beginning to fight them in earnest, for the first time.
Algeria, another candidate for "fall," is arguably more stable now than two years ago. Indonesia, which was presented as the next target of the terrorists, is consolidating its new-won democracy.
Last but not least, there is Iraq, where the most brutal regime Islam had seen in more than a century collapsed like a pack of cards largely because the Iraqi people welcomed their liberation.
More importantly, the past two years have witnessed an unprecedented debate in the Muslim world. One weekly magazine recently ran a series based on a central question: Who are we?
For the first time, mainstream media in the Muslim world allow difficult questions to be raised, including whether Islam should remain on the sidelines of the modern world and sulk, throw bombs at it, or take part in its development and improvement.
In almost every Muslim country what amounts to a civil war of ideas is taking shape. Modernists have realized that they could not dismiss Islam as a "feudal relic" but should seek to understand it in modern terms and redefine some of its practices to reflect the existential realities of their societies. The alienation of the modernizing elite from the largely illiterate and poor base of most Muslim societies created a vacuum that a small stratum of fanatics was able to fill with a message of hatred, violence, and terror. At the same time many Muslim regimes exploited Islam as a means of isolating and silencing their reformist critics. Those regimes have begun to realize that the monster that they trained to eat their foes could also eat them.
No one could deny the fact that the party of terror in the Muslim world has failed to attract any significant level of popular support. The liberation of Afghanistan and Iraq was largely approved by the silent majority of Muslims. The loudest protests against it came from within the Western societies, including the United States.
This civil war of ideas in Islam represents the most difficult, and ultimately the deciding phase in the war against terrorism. Unless this war is won by people who wish to lead Islam out of its ghetto and into the mainstream of contemporary human life, no number of military, police, and propaganda victories against terror will produce the safer world that we all want.
But a similar civil war is raging in the West.
On one side there is a neo-imperialist movement that urges the Western democracies to leave the Muslim world alone to stew in its own juice of poverty, despotism, and violence. The idea is that Muslims will never accept democracy and the rule of law and that the best the West can do is to ignore them in the name of cultural "alterity" (otherness) and political correctness. On the other side there is a neo-nationalist movement that believes the only way to deal with terror is to teach Muslims a lesson they shall not forget. This neo-nationalist movement ignores the need for a broad alliance with Muslim reformists and democrats in a joint effort to curb and ultimately defeat terror. It forgets the fact that the principal victims of terrorism are Muslims themselves. (Saddam caused the deaths of over a million Iraqis, Iranians, Kuwaitis and other Muslims. The Taliban massacred tens of thousands of Afghans.)
Two years after September 11, 2001 tragedy it is clear that the Muslim world has rejected the deadly message now associated with the name of Osama bin Laden, though he was but a small cog in a diabolical machine constructed over more than a century. Instead of understanding that vital fact and expanding people-to-people relations, some Western democracies have erected new barriers to keep out "the Muslim hordes."
At the same time, some Muslim governments, anxious to preserve their despotic hold on power, have seized the opportunity for distancing their societies from the West and keep out dangerous ideas such as democracy and human rights.
The al-Jazeera tape may or not may not be a clever fake. What is certain, however, is that the tape's voiceover, attributed partly to al-Zawahiri and partly to bin Laden himself, contains nothing but the usual diatribe against the United States. It is easy to make fresh threats against the U.S., harder to carry them out. By promising action and not delivering, whoever pretends to be bin Laden is bound to lose what little measure of credibility he may have among radical Islamists.
The latest al-Jazeera tape notwithstanding, the best information available shows that Osama bin Laden died on December 5, 2001 in Afghanistan and buried the same day in an unmarked grave. At the time OBL's death was confirmed by the United Mujahedin Organization (UMO), the principal radical group that once supported him. In the past two years several members of bin Laden's extended family, always speaking on condition of anonymity, have confirmed his death.
But even if OBL is alive, the fact remains that Binladenism committed suicide on September 11, 2001. Dreaming of another 9/11 does not amount to a credible political strategy. And there are no signs that sporadic terror attacks in various Muslim countries in the past two years would change the inevitable course of the war on global terrorism. Binladenism has no future in the Muslim world. But this does not mean that the Muslim world is ready to emerge from almost two century of confusion and crisis that led parts of it into the historic impasse of terrorism.
Amir Taheri is an Iranian author of ten books on the Middle East and Islam. He's reachable through www.benadorassociates.com.
IamDyan answered on 09/13/03:Interesting article.
I too believe that most terrorist groups are becoming isolated pockets of fanatics. That makes them no less dangerous, but it does make large scale attacks less likely.
Perhaps the biggest deterrent to fanatics gaining strength would be for Muslims around the world to see Iraq successfully gain their freedom and become self sufficient.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 09/11/03 - Heroes of 9/11 Only 12 survivors were pulled from the rubble of the World Trade Center after the towers fell on Sept. 11, despite intense rescue efforts. Two of the last to be located and saved were Port Authority police officers. They were not discovered by a heroic firefighter, or a rescue worker, or a cop. They were discovered by Dave Karnes.
Karnes hadn't been near the World Trade Center. He wasn't even in New York when the planes hit the towers. He was in Wilton, Conn., working in his job as a senior accountant with Deloitte Touche. When the second plane hit, Karnes told his colleagues, "We're at war." He had spent 23 years in the Marine Corps infantry and felt it was his duty to help. Karnes told his boss he might not see him for a while.
Then he went to get a haircut.
The small barbershop in Stamford, Conn., near his home, was deserted. "Give me a good Marine Corps squared-off haircut," he told the barber. When it was done, he drove home to put on his uniform. Karnes always kept two sets of Marine fatigues hanging in his closet, pressed and starched. "It's kind of weird to do, but it comes in handy," he says. Next Karnes stopped by the storage facility where he kept his equipment—he'd need rappelling gear, ropes, canteens of water, his Marine Corps K-Bar knife, and a flashlight, at least. Then he drove to church. He asked the pastor and parishioners to say a prayer that God would lead him to survivors. Finally, Karnes lowered the convertible top on his Porsche. This would make it easier for the authorities to look in and see a Marine, he reasoned. If they could see who he was, he'd be able to zip past checkpoints and more easily gain access to the site. Driving the Porsche at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour, he reached Manhattan—after stopping at McDonald's for a hamburger—in the late afternoon.
His plan worked. With the top off, the cops could see his pressed fatigues, his neatly cropped hair, and his gear up front. They waved him past the barricades. He arrived at the site—"the pile"—at about 5:30. Building 7 of the World Trade Center, a 47-story office structure adjacent to the fallen twin towers, had just dramatically collapsed. Rescue workers had been ordered off the pile—it was too unsafe to let them continue. Flames were bursting from a number of buildings, and the whole site was considered unstable. Standing on the edge of the burning pile, Karnes spotted … another Marine dressed in camouflage. His name was Sgt. Thomas. Karnes never learned his first name, and he's never come forward in the time since.
Together Karnes and Thomas walked around the pile looking for a point of entry farther from the burning buildings. They also wanted to move away from officials trying to keep rescue workers off the pile. Thick, black smoke blanketed the site. The two Marines couldn't see where to enter. But then "the smoke just opened up." The sun was setting and through the opening Karnes, for the first time, saw clearly the massive destruction. "I just said 'Oh, my God, it's totally gone.' " With the sudden parting of the smoke, Karnes and Thomas entered the pile. "We just disappeared into the smoke—and we ran."
They climbed over the tangled steel and began looking into voids. They saw no one else searching the pile—the rescue workers having obeyed the order to leave the area. "United States Marines," Karnes began shouting. "If you can hear us, yell or tap!"
Over and over, Karnes shouted the words. Then he would pause and listen. Debris was shifting and parts of the building were collapsing further. Fires burned all around. "I just had a sense, an overwhelming sense come over me that we were walking on hallowed ground, that tens of thousands of people could be trapped and dead beneath us," he said.
After about an hour of searching and yelling, Karnes stopped.
"Be quiet," he told Thomas, "I think I can hear something."
He yelled again. "We can hear you. Yell louder." He heard a faint muffled sound in the distance.
"Keep yelling. We can hear you." Karnes and Thomas zeroed in on the sound.
"We're over here," they heard.
Two Port Authority police officers, Will Jimeno and Sgt. John McLoughlin, were buried in the center of the World Trade Center ruins, 20 feet below the surface. They could be heard but not seen. By jumping into a larger opening, Karnes could hear Jimeno better. But he still couldn't see him. Karnes sent Thomas to look for help. Then he used his cell phone to call his wife, Rosemary, in Stamford and his sister Joy in Pittsburgh. (He thought they could work the phones and get through to New York police headquarters.)
"Don't leave us," Officer Jimeno pleaded. He later said he feared Karnes' voice would trail away, as had that of another potential rescuer hours earlier. It was now about 7 p.m. and Jimeno and McLoughlin had been trapped for roughly nine hours. Karnes stayed with them, talking to them until help arrived, in the form of Chuck Sereika, a former paramedic with an expired license who put pulled his old uniform out of his closet and came to the site. Ten minutes later, Scott Strauss and Paddy McGee, officers with the elite Emergency Service Unit of the NYPD, also arrived.
Strauss and Sereika spent three hours digging Jimeno out of the debris, which constantly threatened to collapse. At one point, all they had with which to dig out Jimeno were a pair of handcuffs. Karnes stood by, helping pass tools to Strauss, offering his Marine K-Bar knife when it looked as if they might have to amputate Jimeno's leg to free him. (After Jimeno was finally pulled out, another team of cops worked for six more hours to free McLoughlin, who was buried deeper in the pile.)
Karnes left the site that night when Jimeno was rescued and went with him to the hospital. While doctors treated the injured cop, Karnes grabbed a few hours sleep on an empty bed in the hospital psychiatric ward. While he slept, the hospital cleaned and pressed his uniform.
Today, on the anniversary of the attack and the rescue, officers Jimeno and Strauss were part of the formal "Top Cop" ceremony at the New York City Center Theater.
IamDyan answered on 09/12/03:Great tribute!
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 09/11/03 - September 11-Let's honor the lives lost on this day. Today has been declared a day of world prayer.
Let's never forget those who died so tragically and unexpectedly by a horrifying act of terrorism. With that, let's also remember all those who pitched in and helped the wounded and lost, and brought New York and our country back to a place of peace and hope.
May the world soon reach a higher state of spiritual awareness as a result of these losses and recoveries, so all will not have been in vain.
God bless all! IamDyan answered on 09/12/03:Thanks for the good thoughts, PW.
Might I also add that we remember and pray for those who continue to fight for the freedoms we enjoy in the world today. In my humble opinion, without them, there is a greater chance that yet another terrible tragedy, like 9/11 befalls us.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 09/08/03 - Something Special for You http://www.oneangel.net/Cards/sweet/ss/ss.html
Have a wonder-filled week!
Love and blessings,
Bobbie
P.S. Looks like it's been pretty inactive here. I've missed being in touch, but not much time. Just know I've been thinking of you. IamDyan answered on 09/08/03:Hi Bobbie, hope things are well with you.
Here's a thought back at ya'
Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.
--John Quincy Adams
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 09/06/03 - God's Glorious Design God has a great and glorious design that we cannot comprehend but to which we all contribute. We have been entrusted with unique, divine talents and must hold ourselves accountable to develop them so that everyone may enjoy abundance. As we read in Jeremiah: "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you, give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11
If I have been entrusted with all that I need to live my life to enjoy abundance, I guess it would be my duty to be accountable for my actions. Still, it seems as though most people don't understand what it means to be accountable and blame others for their own shortcomings. What do you think? IamDyan answered on 09/06/03:Hi Anon,
The meaning conveyed in this passage is repeated over and over in the bible. My favorite wording, I think, is the Parable of the Talents. (Matthew 25) This parable also speaks of being accountable ... to whom much is given, much is expected.
As far as being accountable for myself and family, I do the best I can, and hope that it is enough. As far as judging others, I try not to do that, since it's difficult to understand their circumstances or motivation.
However, when it comes to people who make the Darwin awards....well, it's hard not to think that God must be shaking his head and wondering.
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
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| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/01/03 - FREE-SPIRITS?
Are most people responsible enough to be free-spirits? Can people afford to possess free-will if their decisions are not based on Spirituality?
I ask these questions because the position of individuals within a Society may differ, a significant fact because differences in status are attended by inequalities in opportunities, privileges and duties, which greatly affect individual welfare and happiness. Like all complex social phenomena, status is affected by many factors, such as age, sex and intelligence!
IamDyan answered on 09/01/03:Hi Hank,
I don't really know anyone who calls themselves a "free spirit," including me. Not even sure what the term really means. Maybe I am too old or too young to relate.
Free will, however, is something we all possess.
Free will does not mean decisions without consequences. It means that you are free to make any decision that comes your way and that hopefully, you take into account the priviledges, duties, and opportunities that come along with those decisions. I would like to think most people know that. Sadly, I am sure, there are some who do not.
But I don't think you need to be spiritual to understand your free will and decisions have consequences.
I would think that a two year old toddler raised by atheists, who has touched a hot stove once, understands that he will be burned if he touches it again. Just as I believe a dog, when scolded, avoids future negative behavior.
Finally, status is, indeed, a complex social phenomena. Each of us will rate status in our own way, based on our experiences. For some, status is money, possessions; for others, it is knowledge, old age, happiness, responsibility.
I find myself to be quite happy and balanced where I am. I am eternally average, and I like it that way. I look out for my own, while I look out for others. I respect my elders, while I love inspiring and teaching children. I enjoy what money brings, but not money itself. I like learning something new, as much as I enjoy hearing stories from the elders.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | ttalady asked on 08/29/03 - Stoning in Nigeria/Abortions in America Am I the only one that can see the true connections to total opposites of the world? In Nigeria it is considered part of a religion, an extreme side of a religion, in America it is considered legal, an extreme side of legal. In both cases the victim has no say no rights. In both cases life is at the hands of all but one. In almost all cases one is not truly guilty, specially in abortion cases. Women are the victims in both cases, as where with one that receives an abortion has a life time of regret and much to repent.
Pro choice happens at the act of sex, rape is a different issue. That was the choice one must live with the consiquences!
There is no way to excuse stoning being it is not of my world and it is not of life. There is no way to excuse abortions for it is not of my world but unfortanetly has been a major downfall in my life. I stood by while another did.
If we are to judge wrong should we not as well be judged? Don't get me wrong but for these five women, how many babies in America are denied a long life in that time? Again I find it all wrong, however it is wrong to stone a woman and child however we do the same here, just not publicly. Worse even, with abortions we give the women the right to make as many mistakes as they wish then try and justify mistakes with denying a long life to another? Beyond if the fetus is a "living thing" the fetus is capable of such. As a seed, as anything in life can grow and does live.
So share your point of view on this! As an American I am sick to think that I could stop a stoning in Nigeria however live with the hundreds of lives that are lost everyday right at home in America with abortions.
I am pro life in every sense. It is not fair to deny one of the chance of that!
IamDyan answered on 08/30/03:Hi ttalady,
I too am pro-life.
It is terrible the number of lives lost each year, because of "choice."
It is sickening reading about abortion rates, and newspaper stories about women who give birth and discard the newborns in trashbins, toilets, etc.
While, at the same time, adoption in America is not even possible anymore for thousands of loving, childless couples. I have watched friends adopt children from Guatemala, Russia, and China at an unbelievable price.
If you want to try to change things, check out the suggestions at this site
http://www.prolifecommittee.org/
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 08/29/03 - Stoning in Nigeria Wednesday, Amina Lawal, a 32-year-old Nigerian single mother, sat in an Islamic sharia court in Katsina state in northern Nigeria and nursed her two-year-old daughter, Wasila. Wasila had been born over nine months after Amina was divorced and, in Nigeria's Islamic courts, this is taken to be proof that Amina committed adultery.
If her appeal of this conviction is denied, she will be buried up to her chest, and the surrounding throng will throw stones at her until she is dead. The stones used must not be so small that they will inflict no damage, nor so large that they will kill her too quickly. She must die slowly and painfully in front of the crowd.
Of course, in any adultery case, there must also be a man involved, and Amina testified that she had not willingly committed adultery but had been raped. However, to convict a man of rape, Nigeria's sharia courts usually require that there be four male Muslim witnesses. Though the courts are not yet clear on this, it may be that up to eight male non-Muslim witnesses, or 16 female non-Muslim witnesses, would also suffice for the conviction of a male Muslim. However, since adulterers and rapists do not usually perform in front of crowds, the man has been acquitted, and Amina and her daughter stand alone.
She is one of five women who have been so charged, though none has yet been executed. Thanks to the international attention their cases attracted, other luckless women have had their sentences deferred, or dismissed on technical grounds. In Amina's case, the appeals court has deferred judgment until September 25.
Yet, terrible as is Amina's plight, her situation is but a symptom of a larger problem afflicting Nigeria and other African nations. Nigeria ; along with Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa , is subject to major campaigns by radical Islamists to spread their ideology. The country is, as was repeatedly emphasized by Osama bin Laden, an explicit target for Islamic extremists, often funded by the Saudis. When extreme sharia was introduced in Nigeria in 1999, Saudi, Pakistani, and Palestinian representatives gathered to express their support.
When radical Islam gains a foothold, stonings, amputations, and religious executions follow. But the effects are even wider. In such regimes, questioning the government is effectively equated with questioning God. Since extremists maintain that their laws and rulers are authorized directly by God without any human mediation, any political opposition is, by definition, blasphemy, and thus punishable by death.
The victory of radical Islam, even when it is won peacefully, necessarily leads to the defeat of democracy, of any republican virtues, and of any human rights.
IamDyan answered on 08/29/03:Hello Tomder,
I found this link with additional information and, what appears to be, ways to voice your opinion and help.
http://www.mertonai.org/amina/
Very sad situation, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 08/28/03 - Frightened? OK, gals and guys, Roseofgold got us started on the question of fear. My question is how many of you are afraid, what are you actually afraid of, and why?
Please do not include spiders, mice, rats, snakes, and comet collisions or catastrophes. Just what is frightening in the day to day routines of life. If you are afraid, what would ease your fears? IamDyan answered on 08/29/03:Hi Dan,
Let's see...
Merrium Webster defines afraid in these three ways:
1. filled with fear or apprehension (afraid of machines) (afraid for his job)
2 : filled with concern or regret over an unwanted situation (I'm afraid I won't be able to go)
3 : having a dislike for something (the spider factor)
You have already ruled out the third. So let me focus on the others.
For the 1st definition -- I can't think of a darn thing. I am not a worrier or an obsessor. I am usually too busy. Day by day, whatever comes, somehow there's strength to deal with it.
The only thing that came remotely close, was the documentary I just recently watched on Discovery Channel talking about tsunamis and found that the next geological expectation will hit the East Coast, and I remembered you telling me something about that.
And, I was almost ready to be afraid, until the program showed that even with the collapse of half an island into the sea and the momentum of the wave all the way from Africa, it will only come in 12 miles inland. So, now I am thinking we will eventually have beachfront property. The eternal optimist!
For the 2nd definition -- Sure, there are things that come up.
Things like, whether the weather will spoil plans; work will bring unexpected challenges that alter my hours; my daughter will not graduate college in May and I will be paying another year's tuition.
But, even though the dictionary defines this as "afraid," I have a hard time believing it. I would rather call it uncertainty. Those things that are just noise until they become urgent. And, again, day by day, whatever comes, somehow there's strength or ingenuity to deal with it.
So after the long, drawn out rambling here, just signing off as fearless I think.
All the Best, Dyan
PS-What about you?
| | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 08/25/03 - Memories Hi
What happens to our memories in a hundred and fifty years time then?
That's to anyone
Miss Bobie IamDyan answered on 08/25/03:Hi Miss Bobie,
If we have taken care to preserve our memories by writing them down or sharing them with others, then they do live on in this world.
I have often read the Diary of Anne Frank, which was a compilation of a young girl's ordinary thoughts during extraordinary times and situations. I think her memories will likely never die.
Myself, I do not believe in reincarnation personally. And so, I think we take our memories with us when we go.
Hopefully, once in the afterlife, I would like to believe enough of our memories follow us so that we recognize our friends and family. But then, I suppose that is just wishful thinking on my part. There are a few good friends and family I hope to have the priveledge of meeting again.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 08/18/03 - What are You Hi G!
What you think happens when we die ?
Bobie IamDyan answered on 08/22/03:Hi Bobie,
The only thing I know for sure is that, if you have led a decent life and touched a lot of other lives, then people grieve for a time that you are no longer in their lives.
But their lives do go on.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 08/17/03 - Where God is not??? Did God create Evil?
At a certain college, there was a professor with a reputation for being tough on Christians. At the first class every semester, he asked if anyone was a Christian and proceeded to degrade them and to mock their statement of faith. One semester, he asked the question and a young man raised his hand when asked if anyone was a Christian.
The professor asked, "Did God make everything, young man?"
He replied, "Yes sir He did!"
The professor responded, "If God made everything, then He made evil."
The student didn't have a response and the professor was happy to have once again proved the Christian faith to be a myth.
Then another man raised his hand and asked, "May I ask you something, sir?"
"Yes, you may," responded the professor.
The young man stood up and said "Sir, is there such thing as cold?"
"Of course there is, what kind of question is that? Haven't you ever been cold?"
The young man replied, "Actually, sir, cold doesn't exist. What we consider to be cold, is really an absence of heat. Absolute zero is when there is absolutely no heat, but cold does not really exist. We have only created that term to describe how we feel when heat is not
there."
The young man continued, "Sir, is there such a thing as dark?"
Once again, the professor responded "Of course there is."
And once again, the student replied "Actually, sir, darkness does not exist. Darkness is really only the absence of light. Darkness is only a term man developed to describe what happens when there is no light present."
Finally, the young man asked, "Sir, is there such thing as evil?"
The professor responded, "Of course, we have rapes, and murders and violence everywhere in the world, those things are evil."
The student replied, "Actually, sir, evil does not exist. Evil is simply the absence of God. Evil is a term man developed to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. It isn't like truth, or love, which exist as virtues like heat or light. Evil is simply the state where God is not present, like cold without heat or darkness without light.
The professor had nothing to say...
~~~~~~~
Do you have anything to say? IamDyan answered on 08/17/03:Hi Bobbie,
After keenu and rose, I don't have much new to add, so thought I would share these additional words of wisdom from another college professor. All the Best, Dyan
Words of Wisdom
A philosophy professor stood before his class with some items on the table in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with rocks, about 2" in diameter. He then asked the students If the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled
into the open areas between the rocks. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.
The professor picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of
course, the sand filled up everything else. He then asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous "Yes."
The professor then produced two cans of beer from under the table and proceeded to pour their entire contents into the jar -effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students
laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The rocks are the important things - your family, your partner, your health, your children - things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter - like your job, your, house, your car. The sand is everything else. The small stuff." "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued "there is no room for the pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for your life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out dancing. There will always be time to go to work, clean the house, give a dinner party and fix the disposal. Take care of the rocks first -the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the beer
represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of beers."
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/17/03 - Just some fun thoughts to ponder. What would you do? TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Explorers believe they have found the sunken remains of an 1860s steamer that could yield the richest cargo ever recovered from a shipwreck: thousands of gold coins worth as much as $180 million.
The S.S. Republic was carrying 59 passengers and 20,000 $20 gold coins from New York to New Orleans when it sank in a hurricane off Savannah, Ga., on Oct. 25, 1865, according to newspaper accounts and other historical records.
All the passengers boarded life boats and got off alive, but the coins - intended to help pay for reconstruction of the South after the Civil War - went to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean with the Republic. An expert has estimated they would be worth $120 million to $180 million today.
*********************************
NOW for one of my questions at hand: Think real hard about what could be achieved with all that money. Don't answer just on the basis of ethics or spirituality please. (We all know what the answer would be using those two bases.)
If this exploration company belonged to you, and your crew found this amount of money, truthfully, would you turn it all in and accept a pittance of a fee for your efforts? OR - would you put aside one small bag of coins so you could slip an extra coin to each of the crew & possibly keep one for yourself? Considering each small coin has such great value AND the hiring government doesn't know exactly how much is there.
Think about all the charities that you could assist, or individual families - or increase the standard of living and joy in your own household.
Second question: What would you like to do if your personal ethics allowed?
IamDyan answered on 08/17/03:Hi PW,
IF this were my exploration company, I would have written a better contract. And I would be receiving a base rate and 10% percent of what was found.
So, now that ethics are put aside, what would I do with the money?
If we are talking millions here, I think, invested wisely, 5 million would cover me and all my close family forever.
And then, I would set up a foundation that would allow childless, qualified couples adopt children from foreign countries for a nominal fee, instead of the normal $25-50K it normally takes.
If only I knew how to dive!
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 08/12/03 - Let's play Jeopardy !
Answer: the first 10 letters of the California Alphabet;
Question: What are R, W, Q, O, J, M, V, H, B ,S?
At least it is for the purpose of the Re:call charade that will cost the taxpayers of California conservatively $66 million . "To assist the counties, I intend to urge the Legislature to underwrite the added costs of this election," said Secretary of State Kevin Shelley (maybe the funds would be better spent on literacy?) This new alphabet means that David Laughing Horse Robinson, chairman of the Kawaiisu Indian tribe, goes first, not Jeff Rainforth(the chairman of the Reform Party of California who got all of 2,800 votes in last year's congressional race), because O comes before A in the state's newfangled alphabet.
There are now over 200 names to go on this ballot (the precise # will not be known until late Wed. when Shelley certifies the eligible names ) . It gets even better than that !To further the cause of fairness,and to avoid giving any one candidate a lasting edge, their names will be rotated one position for each Assembly district, of which there are 80.So that means that each district will have it’s own unique ballot to further confuse the electorate . County elections officials fear more difficulties processing such a large ballot, including doing more work by hand, but Shelley urged precision over speed. "I urge them to do it accurately," he said.
So my prediction is that another high profile election will be decided in the U.S. Supreme Court .So much for participatory democracy !!! btw , I have yet to here what Gray Davis did to deserve this recall . Can anyone illuminate ? What crime did he commit ?
IamDyan answered on 08/13/03:Hi Tomder,
Here is the reasoning which initially spurred the recall into action:
Under Gray Davis, California went from a surplus to a record $34.8 Billion deficit - more than the deficits of all other states combined.
Last October, Gray Davis told Californians he would not raise taxes. Now he is trying to raise taxes by over $8 Billion.
In covering up deficits and cooking the books in Enron-type accounting, Gray Davis has brought the state to bankruptcy.
Davis Hid The Facts From Voters Last November
Because California voters were deceived by Davis last November, they did not have a chance to learn how bad things were. Davis understated the deficit, understated state spending, and misled the public about the state of the California economy.
You can also find lots of info regarding recall laws in general and requirements and aritile archives at this site.
http://www.igs.berkeley.edu/library/htRecall2003.html#Topic4
Hope this helps, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/12/03 - If you've ever wondered what Chou & Nick looked like.... See the new posting on the experts forum. It's pretty neat. (I'm hoping Dathaeus won't remove it.) IamDyan answered on 08/12/03:Of course, I recognize both Chou and Nick from all the parties.
Thanks for letting me finally see Nick without the hat he usually wears for party occasions :) | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 08/11/03 - The Dove on my car. Since I'm at work & not too busy today, I just happened to glance out the window to see a large, beautiful dove sitting atop the drivers side of my car.
From then on, I've checked every half hour or so and it continues to sit there undisturbed, and peaceful as a (well, you get it)just as if it were his special spot.
I've heard for years that birds (especially crows and doves) are the best messengers of the spiritual realm.
I feel as if something good is about to happen and this may be a sign sent from God, the angels or someone from the other side. Actually, I'm a pretty straight-up down-to-earth person, but this has gotten me feeling joyful.
Does anyone here have an opinion on that subject?
I'm really curious.
thanks
IamDyan answered on 08/12/03:Hi PW,
It is believed that birds are indeed often spirit guides and messengers. Here are some of the beliefs I have been taught:
Blackbird - omens, mysticism, promise
Bluebird - confidence, transformation, happiness
Blue Jay - survival, control, resourcefulness, imbalance in ones life
Canary - healing, happiness, inner awakening, warning of danger or impending perils
Cardinal - courtship, opportunities
Chickadee - Mystery, social, truth, fearless, honest perceptions
Cowbird - Resolving old issues, grounding
Crane - Past life experiences, secrecy, creative resources
Crow - solitude, creation, alertness, spiritual strength
Cuckoo - Dealing with fate, new beginnings
Doves - Female sexuality, peace, spiritual messengers, connection with Mother Earth, prophecy
Duck - Emotional state, water energy, communal, feminine energies, astral plane
Eagle - spiritual, weather control, creation, sense of balance, illumination of spirit, in-depth perception, awareness, healing, opportunities, spiritual growth
Falcon - Astral travel, healing of the spirit
Finch - Potential opportunites, activities
Flicker - nurturing, spiritual growth, personal insight, inner growth
Goldfinch - Link to spiritual realm, understanding the value of change, nature spirits, visualization, awakening of spiritual beings
Goose - fertility, spiritual quest, fidelity, imprinting life lessons, community, awakening of the imagination
Gull - Ecology, cleanliness, spiritual messenger, communication
Hawk - Visionary power, illumination, healing, life force, experience, psychic energies
Heron - Wisdom, dignity, individualism, exploration, balance, stability
Hummingbird - Healing, relationships, love, joy, accomplishments, relaxation
Kestrel - Aura of mystery, agility, speed, attentive, patience
Kingfisher - Peace, prosperity, indifference, new experiences, teaching of offspring, abundance, new life
Martin - Peace, communal, positive change, good luck
Meadowlark - Noble acts, clarity, positive spiritual quest, soul searching, cheerfulness
Mockingbird - Courage, opportunities, learning through experience, attitude, realization of inner talents
Although we have lots of doves here, the last real interaction was several months ago when we found a dove on the front lawn that had been hit by a car (Did I already tell you this story???)
Anyway, it was walking around following us as we walked the yard. And let us walk right up to it, never flying away.
We finally picked it up to discover it had injuries, having likely been hit by a car.
We brought it in the house. Cleaned up the wound with peroxide, and covered up the wound with bacitracin ointment and a gauze pad. Then we kept it in a big box in the basement with water and birdseed, covered with a net.
Its mate stayed in our yard night and day, on the fence, on the power lines, but somewhere always close.
Every day, we checked and dressed the wound and every few days, we would take the bird outside to see if it could fly.
After about a week and a half, we were starting to figure we had a new pet. But then one day we came home, and the dove was flying around the basement, having figured out how to dislodge the net.
So we caught the bird and released it out in the field out back. It landed several feet away. Then its mate and about six other doves landed next to it.
After a few moments, they all flew away together.
It was a wonderful sight.
Not sure what to make of it spiritually, other than maybe I have some good karma coming my way sometime soon :)
Good things to you!
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 08/11/03 - I'll be back. Hi.
I hope you don't mind if I join this board.
I will try my best to use my wits and to be kind and thoughtful.
I'm truthful not as smart as the rest of you, Although I do wish Dark Crow would hurry to California and run for Governor!
Is it me or has the World around us went crazy? IamDyan answered on 08/12/03:Hi Joy,
Nice to see you! Honestly, I thought you already were a member here, but certainly a quiet one :)
Looking forward to seeing you here.
Hope all is well with you and the family.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 08/10/03 - Spiritual Materialism Materialism has been defined as a desire for wealth and material possessions with little interest in ethical or spiritual matters
But then isn’t there Spiritual Materialism, things like Spiritual pride?
IamDyan answered on 08/10/03:Sure there is, DC.
Otherwise, it is unlikely many of us would be here on a spirituality board answering questions rated with stars....lol!
And, who of us would not want to receive a reward in front of an applausing audience as most ethical in our area of work, neighborhood, or circle of friends.
We all desire to be recognized and appreciated. The form of our reward might be a smile, or a friend who moves their life forward in a positive way. It need not be a matter of stars or an applausing audience.
But I believe we all want to know for sure that we have made a difference.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 08/10/03 - About my Soul Hi
A quick question,
is my soul with me while I sleep.
Thanks
IamDyan answered on 08/10/03:Hi Bobie,
Although I am sure that none of us know this answer for sure, my belief is that, yes, it is with you always.
Your soul, is in fact, the essence of you. And wherever you are, there your soul is also.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 08/08/03 - I've Been Trying to Resist BUT I CAN'T!!!
What a country America! We have the son of a Nazi, a naturalized citizen since 1983 running for governor of California. Heavy German accent!! Then, a Greek accented woman what's her name Huffington running also among a bunch of joke candidates including a pornographer and a very short child TV actor.
File it under only in America. What a country. Throw the bums out of office if they don't produce.
Comments? IamDyan answered on 08/09/03:Hi Chou,
Yes, quite an odd mix.
Makes me think even I could've run for governor of California.
Hmmmmm, think I could get sixty names on a petition?
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 08/07/03 - What are your thoughts on defining inner self
I’m looking for some definitions on the "inner self" from everyone. I think the "inner self" is the part of a person which is different from the "personality" in the sense that it is present from birth to death and is not subject to change based on personal strategies and environment. I describe it as being the aspect of the person that is "invariable."
What are your thoughts on defining inner self
IamDyan answered on 08/08/03:Hi DC,
I like PW's response and mine would be a little different.
I think of the inner self as our conscience, not really our soul or spirit, but rather a gift from the Creator to be our guide through life.
I think of it as a part of us that is principle centered, rarely changing -- and yet changing somtimes in times of great lessons learned, often driving our personality, sometimes afraid, sometimes questioning, often challenging.
Interesting question. Look forward to reading other responses.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 08/04/03 - spiritual larceny, etc. "An eccentric philosophy professor gave a one question final exam after a semester dealing with a broad array of topics. The class was already seated and ready to go when the professor picked up his chair, plopped it on his desk and wrote on the board: "Using everything we have learned this semester, prove that this chair does not exist."
Fingers flew, erasers erased, notebooks were filled in furious fashion. Some students wrote over 30 pages in one hour attempting to refute the existence of the chair. One member of the class however, was up and finished in less than a minute.
Weeks later when the grades were posted, the rest of the group wondered how he could have gotten an A when he had barely written anything at all. His answer consisted of two words: 'What chair?' "
Author Unknown
~~~~
This story is indicative of our attempts to describe and/or explain the spiritual teachings we learn through this experience called life. How does one describe heat, or light, or sounds? More so, how does one describe the intuitive nudges we all experience? This is why I believe everyone has spiritual understandings from an individual point of reference and to attempt to change others is a “spiritual larceny”, if you will.
Quite possibly, our purpose for being "here" (in this life and on this Board) is to recognize the differences and similarities and understand that we perceive from our individual base of knowledge and awareness. Everything is translucent and fluid. There's not much black and white from this perception.
Just food for thought…
Comments?
Blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 08/04/03:Hi Bobbie,
A great quote goes something like this...."When you realize how difficult it is to change yourself, you begin to understand what little chance you have in changing someone else."
Recognizing differences is not all that difficult. I think children are able to quickly grasp differences in people. They are usually also quite vocal about what they observe.
Respecting the differences amongst all of us maybe a bit more of a challenge. We often teach children to be politically correct, and that vocalizing differences about others is not respectful. We 'learn' to ignore differences, rather than speak of them.
Overall, though, I believe that our purpose here on Earth is to have made a difference.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 08/04/03 - Releasing There is much power gained by releasing the need to control.
There is much freedom gained by releasing the need to possess.
There is much strength gained by releasing the need to carry everyone else.
There are those of us who need hope.
There are those of us give hope.
It is by being strong and free and powerful in our own lives that we can best help others.
Stand and be true IamDyan answered on 08/04/03:Hi keenu,
A lot of truth there...some of the greatest help I have received throughout my life, were not specific deeds, but rather, having positive role models.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 08/04/03 - litle helpers Hi Experts
Is it just me, or do others think about this?
Sometimes I feel like a Goddess!!
I have a mind and a body, but also know that almost everything inside this body has a mind and a life of its own.
Things in there are running around helping me all the time, keeping me safe from the nasties.
I could elaborate
But it sounds so silly
Bobie
IamDyan answered on 08/04/03:Hi Bobie,
I am guessing you are referring the the body's amzaing ability to heal itself and to keep itself going.
Sometimes it is quite amazing when you realize that you breathe constantly and your heart keeps beating with no conscious effort.
Also, how cuts and burns heal, nails and hair grow, cells replenish themselves.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | purplewings asked on 07/31/03 - At the feast of ego everyone leaves hungry.
Bentley's House of Coffee and Tea, Tucson, AZ I have begun to include that in my diet. All I do is say to myself, "you look really good when your face is red from all this working out."
If you don't mind sharing, what do you do to stay fit mentally, spiritually and physically? IamDyan answered on 08/01/03:Hi PW,
My routine is never really too routine when it comes to anything. It seems to change frequently depending on the weather, the season, and how busy work and home keeps me.
But lately, here's what I've been doing.
Mentally...
I haven't needed much more lately than work.
Since we are in the design and build phase of a huge software project, there's more than enough mental exercises figuring out how to make everything come together.
Although I am hoping to find a language class I can pick up come Winter semester.
Spiritually...
Church on Sundays and daily prayers.
Pow Wows a few times a year.
Quiet time at the beach and meditation whenever I can.
And a thought for the day posted at my desk that I try to update each week. This week's is -- "There would be no one to frighten you if you refused to be afraid.
The people at work look forward to seeing what my quote is each week. Somehow I have taken on the role of unofficial morale booster for the team. And that is another way I keep up a good attitude, since others are depending on me.
Physically...
I don't diet--it's pointless. As soon as I even hear the word 'diet,' I get hungry, so I exercise instead.
Since, its Summer, I have the veggie garden to hoe, weed, and till.
Started a new aerobics program twice a week at home on video.
On the weekends, if the weather's nice, I either walk the beach or around the block. Either one is about 5 miles and the scenery is great and a chance to relax.
Anyway, check with me come October....probably a totally different set of stuff :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 07/30/03 - I guess I did have a supernatural experience this afternoon! LOL Check this out. My previous homemaker wasn't exactly showing up, so I got a new homemaker this afternoon, a beautiful Polish woman in her thirties. I was dressed in my khakis and shirt, my hair and make-up done.
We discussed what she wanted me to do, and then, out of the blue she asked me how old I was. I told her sixty. She seemed stunned and asked me again. (We have language difficulties). She went 6...0???
I said yes. She said she thought I was thirty! Then, she went on about why didn't I have any wrinkles. I just said that my father didn't have any wrinkles when he died at 72.
Yet, she was skeptical.
Anyway, what a lift!! (Of course, I don't have any wrinkles, in part, because I'm fat!)
I look like I'm thirty...I look like I'm thirty....I look like I'm thirty.....
I look younger than all of you...nay nay
Cordially, Chou IamDyan answered on 07/31/03:Hello Chou,
Of course,
you immediately doubled her salary, right??? :D
Does this mean you can't adopt me now??? Do moms have to be older than daughters???
Have a great week you young woman! Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 07/29/03 - Semiotic Language It has been said that Spiritual entities do not have vocal cords and thus sign or symbolic language is required. Is there anyone here who has studied Semiotic Language, that is like sign or symbolic language; it is the interpretation of the occurrence of what happens, concerning the elements of any given circumstance or event.
American Indians for instance practiced it as well as many others in history. Have any of you experienced a situation in which you can say you received some sign or symbol that you felt was like an omen of a for telling of some event or occurrence that came true or led you to some knowledge that was of benefit, or even not to your benefit?
"El Cuervo oscuro"
IamDyan answered on 07/30/03:Hi DC,
I have never studied or heard of the concept, Semiotic Language, but there have been a few cases I have observed when something other than spoken language has communicated.
The morning Grandpop passed on, I was lying in bed and "smelled" him right there. It's hard to explain what it smelled like, but you know how when you hug someone tight and you breathe in, each person just kind of has a smell. It turns out he did pass on that morning in the rehab facility.
The week after Alan's dad passed on, he awoke from a dream to see an outline of his dad in the livingroom. Although his dad didn't actually speak any words, he told him that he was ok, and that Alan needed to take care of his mom. The image dissolved like smoke after a few minutes.
I am not sure if these are the types of communication you are speaking of, but I believe they are real communication. And it's possible for all of us to experience them.
Just my thoughts....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | madima asked on 07/29/03 - An Appeal to Prayer Warriors May I humbly request all of you who are reading this to pray for Sharlene Ramsey (Harmony Hill) and her loved ones? Suffice it to say that two members of her family, Jay and Beth, are in a very difficult period in their lives right now. I feel they will benefit most from your appeal for divine guidance – and divine intervention by the Merciful Lord.
I am aware that not all of you here have shared Sharlene’s viewpoint and beliefs. She may have hurt some and clashed with others, but I am sure she has never acted with malice. At this time, perhaps we all should set aside our differences.
As for me, Sharlene is the sister I never had. We met three years ago at AskMe.com. Although we have never seen each other face to face up to now, we have been communicating regularly, sometimes daily, sometimes weekly, all throughout that period. She has given me the kind of love and support that I could never expect even of my flesh-and-blood kin. She has been good to me and to my parents.
Sharlene is one of the bravest women I have ever known, giving of herself despite her endless trials. She lost her firstborn son on the day of her birthday, almost two years ago and just recently, her father. But she is always compassionate with the wounded and those in need, even though she is deeply wounded herself. I know her true story full well, although it is not for me to tell it here.
I’m making this appeal to all of you who are reading this because I personally know the power of prayer. Prayers have always worked miracles. Two are needed right now.
Thanks and may God be with you all.
IamDyan answered on 07/30/03:Hi Madima,
Thanks so much for your post.
Sharlene and I have never had a clashing, she has always been a sweet and loving person.
She and her family will be in my thoughts and prayers in the coming weeks.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobie asked on 07/27/03 - Grub Hi Experts
What’s the real meaning of the phrase ‘food for thought’ and where did it come from.
Well, is there any decent grub that helps when your thinking!!
Thanks
Miss Bobie
IamDyan answered on 07/28/03:Hi Bobie,
Not sure where the phrase came from....
But for me, I find when I am deep in thought about something, chocolate helps.
Then again, I think chocolate helps almost everything :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | mitz54 asked on 07/27/03 - Safe or not Hello all,
There is an org.named writeaprisoner.com that asks you to write a prisoner.They place ads and you can choose who you care to write to.
My boyfriend thinks this is a dangerous enterprise.Many of these people are incarcerated for life with no one from the outside ever touching their lives.
Am I being too much of an innocent to want to make someones day a little bit brighter?
Do you think it is dangerous? I guess you would have to go to the site to make an appropriate,informed decision.Here is the url if you would be so kind.Thanks so much.
Michele
http://www.writeaprisoner.com/ IamDyan answered on 07/27/03:Hi Michele,
If your goal is to make someone's day a bit brighter, then why not consider volunteering at an old age home or an orphange?
In both cases, they are likely to be just as ornery and just as much in need of love and a kind word. But, they are in these places by no wrong deed of their own.
Since the bible asks that we show love to the sick, the widowed, the orphaned, and those in prison. If I could choose only a few places to spend me time, I think I would pick the old folks and the kids first.
With the old folks, there is likely a wealth of knowledge waiting to be shared. With the kids, who knows what future lives you can help influence.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 07/26/03 - The Law of Unintended Consequences Bobbie Moore, through her posting of the Jung et al psychology test, has, perhaps, opened Pandora's Box. By taking this test, we can (supposedly) see how we really are, at least to psychologists. For example, I was categorized as a "Mastermind" and compared to John Kennedy, Thomas Jefferson, Woodrow Wilson, and Colin Powell, among others. It would seem to me, that there is an inherent danger in telling me this. Of course, the danger is to the readers of my simplistic prose. Who know what effects this could have on some brains. What about the others on the board? Who are they being compared to? Will this end civilization as we know it? Can we handle the responsibility? Oh, Bobbie! What you have opened! Can the Spirituality Board survive? Will you be able to forgive yourself for this? Would some brownies help? Can you stop laughing? IamDyan answered on 07/26/03:I can see where this is cause for concern....And YES, brownies always help :)
For myself, ENTJ, I am labeled a field marshall, and compared to Franklin D. Roosevelt, General Norman Schwarzkopf, Harrison Ford, Margaret Thatcher, and Jim Carrey.
If you think you're worried, imagine me!!
Laughing and eating brownies, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/26/03 - The ideal of a spiritual person. It is critical to serve others, to contribute actively to others' well-being. I often tell practitioners that they should adopt the following principle: regarding one's own personal needs, there should be as little involvement or obligation as possible. But regarding service to others, there should be as many possible involvements and obligations as possible. This should be the ideal of a spiritual person.
-His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Any comments? Agreements, disagreements..?
IamDyan answered on 07/26/03:Hi PW,
Interesting quote...
I believe our spirituality is an ingrained part of ourselves. And so, I am apt to believe that what improves ourselves, almost always makes us more spiritual.
I believe our lives are enriched in many ways when we are helping others. After doing something selfless, there is almost a tangible feeling of joy, a good feeling that seems to just expand inside. Hard to explain, but you can probably relate.
Sometimes I feel the same sense of accomplishment when doing something good for myself as well....like exercising, or meditating, or completing a task I have been putting off, or attending a class. And those, for me anyway, are usually growth and good for my spirit.
This also makes me wonder how cloistered monks and nuns fit into this picture. How, in living a life of solitude dedicated to service, but yet not presented with opportunities to meet many others, do they rank on the spirituality scale?
I think perhaps this is a principle that should be contemplated often, and applied as often as is feasible. But yet, I would not consider it a yardstick measurement or ultimate equation for achieving spirituality.
Just my thoughts on it....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 07/24/03 - Jung Typology Test Take this test to learn more about yourself and share with us if you feel comfortable: Jung Typology Test <--CLICK HERE
It's fun!
Blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 07/25/03:Hi Bobbie,
I am ENJT....quite the opposite of you, I suppose.
I have taken this test before, always with the same results, interestingly, because I am told we sometimes shift subtly throughout our life.
This is accurate in that I often am often the one chosen to lead in situations, but almost never volunteer...and am never afraid to speak my mind. This could also be a reason why I finally chose consulting as a profession.
Here are my stats:
Of the four aspects of strategic analysis and definition, it is marshalling or situational organizing role that reaches the highest development in Fieldmarshals.
As this kind of role is practiced some contingency organizing is necessary, so that the second suit of the Fieldmarshal's intellect is devising contingency plans.
Structural and functional engineering, though practiced in some degree in the course of organizational operations, tend to be not nearly as well developed and are soon outstripped by the rapidly growing skills in organizing. But it must be said that any kind of strategic exercize tends to bring added strength to engineering as well as organizing skills.
As the organizing capabilities the Fieldmarshal increase so does their desire to let others know about whatever has come of their organizational efforts. So they tend to take up a directive role in their social exchanges. On the other hand they have less and less desire, if they ever had any, to inform others.
Hardly more than two percent of the total population, the Fieldmarshals are bound to lead others, and from an early age they can be observed taking command of groups. In some cases, Fieldmarshals simply find themselves in charge of groups, and are mystified as to how this happened. But the reason is that Fieldmarshals have a strong natural urge to give structure and direction wherever they are -- to harness people in the field and to direct them to achieve distant goals. They resemble Supervisors in their tendency to establish plans for a task, enterprise, or organization, but Fieldmarshals search more for policy and goals than for regulations and procedures.
They cannot not build organizations, and cannot not push to implement their goals.
When in charge of an organization, whether in the military, business, education, or government, Fieldmarshals more than any other type desire (and generally have the ability) to visualize where the organization is going, and they seem able to communicate that vision to others. Their organizational and coordinating skills tends to be highly developed, which means that they are likely to be good at systematizing, ordering priorities, generalizing, summarizing, at marshalling evidence, and at demonstrating their ideas. Their ability to organize, however, may be more highly developed than their ability to analyze, and the Fieldmarshal leader may need to turn to an Inventor or Architect to provide this kind of input.
Fieldmarshals will usually rise to positions of responsibility and enjoy being executives. They are tireless in their devotion to their jobs and can easily block out other areas of life for the sake of their work. Superb administrators in any field -- medicine, law, business, education, government, the military -- Fieldmarshals organize their units into smooth-functioning systems, planning in advance, keeping both short-term and long-range objectives well in mind. For the Fieldmarshals, there must always be a goal-directed reason for doing anything, and people's feelings usually are not sufficient reason. They prefer decisions to be based on impersonal data, want to work from well thought-out plans, like to use engineered operations -- and they expect others to follow suit. They are ever intent on reducing bureaucratic red tape, task redundancy, and aimless confusion in the workplace, and they are willing to dismiss employees who cannot get with the program and increase their efficiency. Although Fieldmarshals are tolerant of established procedures, they can and will abandon any procedure when it can be shown to be ineffective in accomplishing its goal. Fieldmarshals root out and reject ineffectiveness and inefficiency, and are impatient with repetition of error.
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 07/24/03 - Memory Treasury
I'm thinking about developing a business where I interview people who want a keepsake for their families. I guess, in a sense, I would be a ghost writer for their autobiography. I am also using interview questions to initiate responses as to their character and personality. Here's a list of some of the questions I've come up with so far:
1. If you were to be granted one wish, what would it be?
2. If you could inherit a vacation home (that you could not sell) anywhere in the world in which you could spend one month each year, where would it be?
3. If you could change one thing about your childhood, what would it be?
4. If you could have stopped aging at any point in your life up to the present, how old would you want to remain?
5. If a movie were going to be made of your life, what actor/actress would you want to play you?
6. If you could go back to a time in your life, knowing what you know now, to relive an experience, what would that be? (What would you change?)
7. If you could repeat any single time of your life without changing a thing, what would that be? (What was your favorite experience?)
8. If you could have chosen your own first name, other than your current one, what would it be?
I thought I would pose some of the questions here just for fun. As long as I am asking you to respond, I guess it would be a good idea for me to do so, also:
1. My one wish would be for a healthy husband, so that we will spend many more years together.
2. I would probably choose St. Thomas. We went there as one of our stops on our cruise and I would love to spend a month each year - probably in January-February before hurricane season starts. ;^)
3. The only thing I would change was a babysitting incident that had a great impact on interpersonal relationships throughout my life. But, then again, I wouldn't be the same person I am today, so scratch that thought.
4. If I could have stopped aging at any point I probably would like to be about 30-35 again. Those were fun years.
5. If a movie were going to be made of my life, I would want Ms. Streep to play me? She's a really fine actress.
6. I would change the events in my early teens, including Mom's and Dad's health issues.
7. I would repeat my reunion with Bill in 2001 and our wedding in 2002 over and over.
8. If could have chosen my own first name it would be Sara. No particular reason other than I like the soundof that name and the spelling just as it is here.
So, in addition to the questions above, could you give me an idea of what you would call a business where I would interview a person, transcribe the interview in a keepsake on fine parchment (type) paper in a book with an audio and video tape recording for their family's enjoyment?
I appreciate your input.
Blesings,
Bobbie
P.S. I was thinking of calling it "Moore's Memory Treasury"
IamDyan answered on 07/25/03:Hi Bobbie,
Sounds like an interesting idea...
An idea for the business name...
How about: Time Machine Keepsakes
And finally, my answers....Please feel free to preserve them in a lovely scrapbook and send them along to me :)
All the Best, Dyan
1. If you were to be granted one wish, what would it be?
To always have friends and family around me.
2. If you could inherit a vacation home (that you could not sell) anywhere in the world in which you could spend one month each year, where would it be?
Maui, Hawaii
3. If you could change one thing about your childhood, what would it be?
The age I experienced it. It was a wonderful chilhood, but my appreciation of it is greatly enhanced looking back.
4. If you could have stopped aging at any point in your life up to the present, how old would you want to remain?
29. Old enough to know enough, and young enough to still believe.
5. If a movie were going to be made of your life, what actor/actress would you want to play you?
Julia Roberts. And she would smile a lot, with that hug smile.
6. If you could go back to a time in your life, knowing what you know now, to relive an experience, what would that be? (What would you change?)
In my personal life, I have made great choices. My only thoughts here are of work, I would have negotiated better for salary, having more confidence on my ability and their marketable value early on.
7. If you could repeat any single time of your life without changing a thing, what would that be? (What was your favorite experience?)
The Summer times with my dad watching the local semi pro softball teams. We walked 3 miles to the field. He piggybacked me most of the way and we talked and talked. We always got water-ice and soft pretzels. He taught me the rules of the game.
8. If you could have chosen your own first name, other than your current one, what would it be?
Michelle. I chose it as my confirmation name.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/24/03 - I'm posting here so I can share it with my friends. I am still laughing but in somewhat disbelief at what just happened.
I have a little grey & white, very gentle cat named Sammy and a little white Maltese dog, named Ted.
Sammy was with me two years when I brought Ted home to live - Ted was only about 7 weeks old and very tiny.
Well, the cat took over the puppy and begin watching over him. He bathed him every day, and when the pup got big enough they started getting into fantastic wrestling matches. Sammy will never open his claws, no matter how rough Ted gets on him - and he really does get too rough at times. I think Sammy thinks he's Ted's mom or something. (He's neutered)
We were all working in my flower garden when a man walked by in front with two huge dogs on leashes. Ted, making sure I was right there in case he needed help, started running out at the two dogs while the man struggled to hold them back. He did it several times & I kept calling him back. Just as the man got a good grip on the two dogs and started walking again, the cat ran out and right up to the two dogs, who started barking in shock. The struggling man looked at me and said "Your cat too...?" And before I could get out to grab Sam, he had stood up on his hind legs and slapped the dog, never backing off...the big dogs who hadn't done a thing wrong, except bark at Teddy.
I think that man will walk on the other side of the street the next time he's out with his two dogs.
I guess the only spiritual part of this story is the way the cat was so willing to go up to two huge dogs like that - just to show Ted he was still taking care of him.
(I can't see any other reason) He's never done that before. He's a very shy cat who never even fights with other cats, let alone dogs.
I just thought some of you might get a kick out of imagining my cat standing on his hind legs and slapping the dog like that.(no claws out by the way) It would have been perfect on a camcorder.
Anyone else have a funny story to share? Or anything at all?
PW IamDyan answered on 07/24/03:Hi PW,
Pretty great ... I love the story.
Here's one for you....
Quite a few years ago, one of my cats had a litter of kittens and settled them all in the floor of our closet. (We tried to move them several times, but she kept moving them back as it seemed the only place she felt they were safe from our dogs.)
Well, one day, Mother Cat took a stroll outside. Our doberman, King, unable to resist all the mewing noises got into the closet. He sniffed and cocked his head a million times trying to figure out what was going on.
But finally, he got into the closet and carefully laid down amongst the kittens and began bathing them and letting them cuddle and "nurse." He would carefully stroke and position each of his babies and nosed them whenever they mewed to be sure they were ok.
When Mother Cat came back and tried to enter the closet, he growled while eyeing "his babies" protectively.
The stuggle between Mother Cat and King went on until the kittens were old enough to be adopted. King frequently carried the kittens to other spots in the house to hide them from the intrusive Mother Cat, and she was always trying to find her missing babies and return them to the closet.
Lots of laughs those couple months....And the kittens seemed to thrive with all the extra attention.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 07/23/03 - THE GATES OF HELL OPENED and welcomed Uday and Qusay Hussein yesterday. Two barbarians down, more to go. IamDyan answered on 07/24/03:Chou,
When I heard the news and saw the reactions from Iraq, the only thing I could think of was how awful it must be to have lived a life where soooo many would delight and celebrate your death.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/20/03 - Spiritual Growth. My life is pretty routine, although busy enough at this time. I have my prayer schedule, my work at home and at the office, doctor appointments, gardening, pet activities, internet interaction, and group breakfasts on the weekends. This is a great life for me, but I want to continue to grow spiritually and I'm not sure what else I could or should be doing to make it so.
What can you suggest that I add to the above schedule that would make me a more spiritually advanced person?
Thanks for all replies.
Loral IamDyan answered on 07/20/03:Hi Loral,
You are certainly busy enough :) And there's lots of opportunities for spiritual growth already there.
Here's just a few suggestions in case you can work them at all into your schedule...
These are just suggestions that have worked for me.....so I am sharing here, maybe they will work out well for you too!
Enroll in a continuing ed class. If there's one that gives a synopsis of the various religions of man, that's a great one, but any will do. There are likely to be kids there...kids are great for challenging our beliefs and classes are great for keeping us thinking.
Volunteer at a local nursing home. Nursing homes are always looking for volunteers. There are so many folks there eager for visitors. Many have thousands of stories to share....and most are very spiritual, as they are coming to the end of their life here.
Invite all your neighbors over for a BBQ/picnic. A lot of times, busy with work and our own lives, neighbors don't have a chance to get to know each other. It is interesting.... When we first moved to our neighborhood and had so many stop here and offer help, we hosted a dinner party for all the neighbors. Many didn't know each other, but they had all stopped here to greet us and welcome us to the neighborhood. Now, although we don't all get together too often, we all know each other's names and the neighborhood is very friendly.
Anyway, just some thoughts....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/18/03 - Where did you get your God belief? I've been checking out the religion boards lately and am perplexed at the animosity going on there.
Why do you think people are so angry when someone doesn't share their view of God?
Since none of us knows for sure what will happen after we die, what's the harm of hearing different ideas about it? Where do we get our own views on the subject in the first place, except from each other?
My question is why are people so adamant about their own view of God being the only 'right' one and why are they so angry when different ideas are brought up? Where did you get your beliefs?
How can we preach the love of Jesus Christ in one sentence and call someone an *unmentionable* in the next sentence? It's so contradictory.
Thanks for your replies.
PW IamDyan answered on 07/18/03:Hi PW,
I have always been interested in learning about other religious beliefs. And so, I checked out the boards there, too. But after a few visits, it did seem somewhat argumentative.
In my humble opinion, it's usually human nature to most strongly and argumentatively defend beliefs we are unsure of. Mainly because, if we are confident in our beliefs, we feel sure they will stand up to any argument or alternate point of view.
Maybe, since like you say religion is really difficult to "prove," it is such a hot button for some when they are challenged.
Just a thought....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 07/14/03 - For all you lexiophiles
1. A bicycle can't stand alone because it is two-tired.
2. What's the definition of a will? It's a dead giveaway.
3. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
4. A backward poet writes inverse.
5. In democracy it's your vote that counts; In feudalism it's your count that votes.
6. She had a boyfriend with a wooden leg, but she broke it off.
7. A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.
8. If you don't pay your exorcist you get repossessed.
9. With her marriage she got a new name and a dress.
10. Show me a piano falling down a mineshaft and I'll show you A-flat minor.
11. When a clock is hungry it goes back four seconds.
12. The man who fell into an upholstery machine is fully recovered.
13. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blown apart.
14.. You feel stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.
16. Every calendar's days are numbered.
17. A lot of money is tainted. 'Taint yours and 'taint mine.
18. A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat.
19. He had a photographic memory which was never developed.
20. A plateau is a high form of flattery.
21. The short fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.
22. Those who get too big for their britches will be exposed in the end.
23. Those who jump off a Paris bridge are in Seine.
24. When an actress saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
25. Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.
26. Acupuncture is a jab well done.
27. Marathon runners with bad footwear suffer the agony of defeat.
IamDyan answered on 07/15/03:Hmmm...I love #11.
Thanks for the fun, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 07/09/03 - another thought for today : "Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible;and suddenly you are doing the impossible."
Saint Francis of Assisi
IamDyan answered on 07/10/03:Hi Tom,
Good thought...
Sometimes it is only because others say something's impossible, we get discouraged and give up trying.
In most cases, anything that can be defined, can be done -- one step at a time. I guess you can tell I am goal oriented and a list maker :)
I like this one too --
What you are afraid to do is a clear indicator of the next thing you need to do.
Have a good week, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 07/08/03 - we are all eternal beings and in-separable from the world All the world says,
"I am important;
I am separate from all the world.
I am important because I am separate,
Were I the same, I could never be important."
I believe we are all eternal beings and in-separable from the world and that if we can only understand that simple truth life would be much more peaceful; the root cause of struggle is in the attempt to separate ourselves.
What is your thought about this?
IamDyan answered on 07/09/03:Hi DC,
In my opinion, it is not being separate from the world that inspires struggle.
It is, rather, the need to showcase our individuality, to show to others how we contribute to the whole individually ... and our need to have our contribution acknowledged by others.
This does not mean we do not wish to contribute or separate ourselves, only that we desperately need positive feedback and acknowledgement.
Perhaps a post like this should encourage all of us to acknowledge others' contributions.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | bluevision asked on 07/08/03 - Fear of death-Good or bad? This is a spin-off from purplewings' question. I can't figure out why Ramana Maharshi tried so hard to free himself from the fear of death. Was it really necessary? Although we have the fear of death, we don't really think about death often, do we? I can't remember when was the last time I thought about death.
Having the fear of something may not be bad. For instance, if we have the fear of poverty, we would try to live within our means, & be thrifty.
So in your opinion, is having the fear of death good or bad for us? IamDyan answered on 07/09/03:Hi bluevision,
I believe the fear of death brings a sense of urgency to living, in a way.
I am a firm believer in the saying that if it weren't for the last minute, nothing would get done :)
For me, it is the innate knowing that my lifetime is finite, that urges me to make more of each day.
And so, no, in my opinion, the knowledge is not a bad thing. Constant fear of it, maybe.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 07/08/03 - Does to be in-separable mean not unique?
Does to be in-separable mean not unique?
My words are easy to understand
And my actions are easy to perform
Yet no other can understand or perform them.
My words have meaning; my actions have reason;
Yet these cannot be known and I cannot be known.
We are each unique, and therefore valuable;
Though the sage wears coarse clothes, his heart is jade.
Tao Te Ching
IamDyan answered on 07/09/03:Hi DC,
This week I was in awe, avidly watching the progress of the two Iranian conjoined twins. If ever there was a case where I would doubt uniqueness of individuals, this might have been it.
And yet, though their daily actions were performed in unison, they had such individual dreams and goals.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 07/09/03 - Thoughts We create our own reality.
Our thoughts emerge
They float and intertwine,
Merge and ebb and flow.
Our emotions swirl and thrash
As the wind blows and howls.
Hope pours down as the rain
Replenishes and cleanses.
Our love shines brightly
Carried along by the rays of the sun,
Bringing warmth to our souls.
Our melancholy hangs over us
Glowing gently in the moonbeams.
The beauty of our souls
Is heard in the music of birdsong
And found in the beauty of nature.
Our strength comes crashing in
On the mighty waves of the ocean.
Our stability is grounded in the earth,
Our flexibility in the strong gentle
Sway of the bamboo.
We create our own reality.
(PS...no corrections allowed, Chou! LOL) IamDyan answered on 07/09/03:Reality is always there
It is in the sunrise
or morning traffic.
Which holds your
attention longest
depends on you. | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 07/08/03 - Environment We have always been taught that we are a product of our environment...I believe that it is to the contrary:
our environment is a product of us.
Awaiting your valued opinions, thoughts and comments! IamDyan answered on 07/09/03:Hi Keenu,
Interestingly enough, I was never taught this. But, that said, I see both my mom and dad's traits and personality in myself. From my dad, the perspective to always try to view things from another's point of view. From my mom, coming straight to the point and saving money. And I also see a few mentors' mannerisms I've adopted along the way, that I seem to exhibit frequently.
On the other hand, I see that I have had the ability to exert influence on those around me. At work these days we are all under stress. Yet my positive attitude keeps people laughing and the morale high. At home this weekend, a bunch of us neighbors planted a vegetable garden. Everyone had pretty much given up because it was so late in the year, and the constant rain has prevented us from planting. But I said, Hey! We can have corn in September, or no corm at all this year ... and we all opted for corn in Sept.
So, like Leon, I find myself right on the fence. Maybe there are others who have had a very bad environment and rose about it ... or a very good environment and sunk well below, who might be better yardsticks to measure this one by.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 07/06/03 - Peace Pilgrim Have you heard of this woman? Here's what she says are her suggested steps towards achieving peace in one's life:
FOUR PREPARATIONS
1. Assume right attitude toward life
Stop being an escapist or a surface-liver as these attitudes can only cause inharmony in your life. Face life squarely and get down below the froth on its surface to discover its verities and realities. Solve the problems that life sets before you, and you will find that solving them contributes to your inner growth. Helping to solve collective problems contributes also to your growth, and these problems should never be avoided.
2. Live good beliefs.
The laws governing human conduct apply as rigidly as the law of gravity. Obedience to these laws pushes us toward harmony; disobedience pushes us toward inharmony. Since many of these laws are already common belief, you can begin by putting into practice all the good things you believe. No life can be in harmony unless belief and practice are in harmony.
3. Find your place in the Life Pattern.
You have a part in the scheme of things. What that part is you can know only from within yourself. You can seek it in receptive silence. You can begin to live in accordance with it by doing all the good things you are motivated toward and giving these things priority in your life over all the superficial things that customarily occupy human lives.
4. Simplify life to bring inner and outer well-being into harmony.
Unnecessary possessions are unnecessary burdens. Many lives are cluttered not only with unnecessary possessions but also with meaningless activities. Cluttered lives are out-of-harmony lives and require simplification. Wants and needs can become the same in a human life and, when this is accomplished, there will be a sense of harmony between inner and outer well-being. Such harmony is needful not only in the individual life but in the collective life too.
FOUR PURIFICATIONS
1. Purification of the bodily temple.
Are you free from all bad habits? In your diet do you stress the vital foods - the fruits, whole grains, vegetables and nuts? Do you get to bed early and get enough sleep? Do you get plenty of fresh air, sunshine, exercise, and contact with nature? If you can answer "Yes" to all of these questions, you have gone a long way toward purification of the bodily temple.
2. Purification of the thoughts.
It is not enough to do right things and say right things. You must also think right things. Positive thoughts can be powerful influences for good. Negative thoughts can make you physically ill. Be sure there is no unpeaceful situation between yourself and any other human being, for only when you have ceased to harbor unkind thoughts can you attain inner harmony.
3. Purification of the desires.
Since you are here to get yourself into harmony with the laws that govern human conduct and with your part in the scheme of things, your desires should be focused in this direction.
4. Purification of motives.
Obviously your motive should never be greed or self-seeking, or the wish for self-glorification, you shouldn't even have the selfish motive of attaining inner peace for yourself. To be of service to your fellow humans must be your motive before your life can come into harmony.
FOUR RELINQUISHMENTS
1. Relinquishment of self-will.
You have, or it's as though you have, two selves: the lower self that usually governs you selfishly, and the higher self which stands ready to use you gloriously. You must subordinate the lower self by refraining from doing the not-good things you are motivated toward, not suppressing them but transforming them so that the higher self can take over your life.
2. Relinquishment of the feeling of separateness.
All of us, all over the world, are cells in the body of humanity. You are not separate from your fellow humans, and you cannot find harmony for yourself alone. You can only find harmony when you realize the oneness of all and work for the good of all.
3. Relinquishment of attachments.
Only when you have relinquished all attachments can you be really free. Material things are here for use, and anything you cannot relinquish when it has outlived its usefulness possesses you. You can only live in harmony with your fellow humans if you have no feeling that you possess them, and therefore do not try to run their lives.
4. Relinquishment of all negative feelings.
Work on relinquishing negative feelings. If you live in the present moment, which is really the only moment you have to live, you will be less apt to worry. If you realize that those who do mean things are psychologically ill, your feelings of anger will turn to feelings of pity. If you recognize that all of your inner hurts are caused by your own wrong actions or your own wrong reactions or your own wrong inaction, then you will stop hurting yourself.
~~~~~~~~~
I first heard of her in the early 80s and it is a delight to see that someone has taken the time to put together a website for her. Check it out!
http://www.peacepilgrim.com
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 07/06/03:Hi Bobbie,
Hope all is well with you and all the family.
Interesting thoughts, common sense, but nice to see them all put together. I have bookmarked the site.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | hmghaly asked on 07/06/03 - A Picture of Peace There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried.
The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them. One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror, for peaceful towering mountains were all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.
The other picture had mountains too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell and in which lightening played.
Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all. But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest... perfect peace. Which picture
do you think won the prize? The King chose the second picture. Do you know why? "Because," explained the King, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace." - Source Unknown
Comments??
IamDyan answered on 07/06/03:Thanks for sharing this story hmghaly.
I had not heard it before.
Almost anyone can be peaceful when things are going well.
There are a couple people I very much admire who always seem to be peaceful and unrushed regardless of what is going on around them. They maintain a sense of urgency, but yet, somehow do so, while remaining calm and bringing that calmness and peacefulness to those around them. It is not a wonder that people seem to gravitate toward both of them.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/06/03 - the emergence of thought is the root of all mischief... A Hindu quote - If a man considers that he is born, he cannot avoid the fear of death. Let him find out if he has been born or if the Self has any birth. He will discover that the Self always exists, that the body that is born resolves itself into thought and that the emergence of thought is the root of all mischief. Find from where thoughts emerge. Then you will be able to abide in the ever-present inmost Self and be free from the idea of birth or the fear of death.
-Ramana Maharshi
Where do thoughts emerge? and how can we keep them from doing so? All reasonable comments are welcome.
IamDyan answered on 07/06/03:Hi PW,
I think thoughts emerge from many places, the mind, instinct, soul, brain, and even the self.
Even though thoughts may at times cause mischief, they also bring great discoveries and joy.
Even without a body, I believe that souls have thoughts. Perhaps it is our departed family and friends looking out for us. Perhaps it is the hosts in the heavens just contemplating the goodness of God.
So, in my opinion, it is not the thoughts, themselves, that bring mischief, but rather which thoughts we cater to, how much time we choose to devote to them, and how we choose to apply them in our lives.
I believe it is possible that Ramana Maharshi is happy that someone had thoughts on how to harvest the food he eats and the clothes he wears. Perhaps he is even greatful that someone had thoughts that led to building houses and harnessing electricity. Maybe he himself even ponders thoughts.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | neo_the_one asked on 07/05/03 - How can I become a better person? How can I become a better person?
---
Hi. I decided to become a better person. And not only morally, but in all aspects of life. After a lot of thinking and asking questions, I realized that growth and improvement is our sense of life so to speak. Not money, or respect of others, no power etc, just constant improvement of ourselves, of our abilities, trying to become our best. The difficult part is because it is against our nature. We need efore to do this. So I decided to make my motto for the near future "to become a little better person every day". I decided to make some kind of excercises for this. I can divide improvement on several categories:
Moral gowth - the most important for me I hink, it is needed to become a better person, kinder, nicer, less egoistic, more compassionate, more ethical and respectable to others, because you can be happier with yourself and people around you would be happy. Excercises: to read a web page on ethics today, to read 1 page more every other day. If I feel tired or dont have time, stop increasing amount of reading. When there is no info on the net, read books. Substitute ethics reading with a bible, buddhism readings, other philosophies to broaden your mind. This way I will be able to control myself, because I know what should I do. Ask yourself if I live according to those principles, how can I be better. I could volunteer. I could ask how can I benefit society.
Health growth - to eat more and more healthy food, to increase both physical and mental health by reading books on this, meditating, excercising.
Educational growth - ask yourself what type of education I need. Read 1 page of a book or webpage today on the topic I am interested in, increase pages other days.
Professional growth - ask yourself every week or so, how can I improve my professional life, maybe I should take some certificates, change job for more challenging one, read some books on career improvement, consult with career conculors.
Financial growth - the least important, but still important. Ask yourself if I manage my finances right, maybe I can save more, earn more, invest better etc.
I am a beginner at this, so I ask you to evaluate my plan and let me know what you think about it. I chose these types of growths, because they are connected. If you dont pay attention to one of them, you become degrade on other plins slowly. Do you agree with me? Comments? What would you add, delete? IamDyan answered on 07/05/03:Hello Neo,
You are as much a beginner at this as anyone else. I truly believe it is a decision I make each day to improve myself. And some days are better than others.
It sounds as if you have chosen balanced goals. And, by following your plan, you are going to improve yourself, and also, those who are lucky enough to come in contact with you every day.
Don't get down on yourself if you miss a day here or there in your reading. And remember that it's OK to change your plan as the days go by .... other opportunities will present themselves.
Above all, try to surround yourself with positive people. And limit your contact with constant complainers and negative people.
If you haven't already, you may want to read Stephen Covey's books œ Habits of Highly Effective People" and "First Things First."
Both are planning books that seem to be aligned with what you are undertaking, and they offer a common sense approach to improving ourselves while keeping a balance in our lives.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 07/04/03 - A JULY 4TH MESSAGE!
The story line of my own method of propriety refers to praise and appreciation by respecting the personal opinions and conduct of my friends at ANSWERWAY while comparing their deeds and aspirations to accomplishment. Some visions melt like snowflakes. Others become extremely sensible about these imaginations by drifting
beyond the undertow of off-beat comportment. If acclaim and commentary are worthy of merit, they will be donated willingly by all those who do not have a shadowbox conscious and who deal in certainty.
"You can't appreciate home till you've left it, money till it's spent, your wife till she's joined a woman's club, nor OLD GLORY till you see it hanging on a broomstick on the shanty of a consul in a foreign town." -- O. Henry
Enjoy the fireworks, guys! Happy 4th!
HANK
IamDyan answered on 07/04/03:Hi Hank,
.....Or you don't appreciate the sunshine until it rains for 13 weekends in a row :)
Best wishes to you and Carol for a wonderful 4th.
The flags are flying here ... and the fireworks should soon be up in the sky. A lovely weekend is forecasted.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 07/04/03 - Happy Independence Day! Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.(1841-1935): "It is now the moment when by common consent we pause to become conscious of our national life and to rejoice in it, to recall what our country has done for each of us, and to ask ourselves what we can do for our country in return."
Comments? IamDyan answered on 07/04/03:Hi Dan,
Always, we should be looking to pay back to our country in any way we can.
Knowing you enjoy irony, thought I would post this one here for you :) OK, ok, so I'm a consultant.
All the Best, Dyan
The Court of King George III
London, England
July 10, 1776
Mr. Thomas Jefferson
c/o The Continental Congress
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Dear Mr. Jefferson:
We have read your "Declaration of Independence" with great interest. Certainly, it represents a considerable undertaking, and many of your statements do merit serious consideration. Unfortunately, the Declaration as a whole fails to meet recently adopted specifications for proposals to the Crown, so we must return the document to you for further refinement.
The questions which follow might assist you in your process of revision:
In your opening paragraph you use the phrase "the Laws of Nature and Nature's God. "What are these laws? In what way are they the criteriaon which you base your central arguments? Please document with citations from the recent literature.
In the same paragraph you refer to the "opinions of mankind." Whose polling data are you using? Without specific evidence, it seems to us the "opinions of mankind" are a matter of opinion.
You hold certain truths to be "self-evident." Could you please elaborate. If they are as evident as you claim then it should not be difficult for you to locate the appropriate supporting statistics.
"Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" seem to be the goals of your proposal. These are not measurable goals. If you were to say that "among these is the ability to sustain an average life expectancy in six of the 13 colonies of at last 55 years, and to enable newspapers in the colonies to print news without outside interference, and to raise the average income of the colonists by 10 percent in the next 10 years," these could be measurable goals. Please clarify.
You state that "Whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new Government...." Have you weighed this assertion against all the alternatives? What are the trade-off considerations?
Your description of the existing situation is quite extensive. Such a long list of grievances should precede the statement of
goals, not follow it. Your problem statement needs improvement.
Your strategy for achieving your goal is not developed at all. You state that the colonies "ought to be Free and Independent States," and that they are "Absolved from All Allegiance to the British Crown. "Who or what must change to achieve this objective? In what way must they change? What specific steps will you take to overcome the resistance? How long will it take? We have found that a little foresight in these areas helps to prevent careless errors later on. How cost-effective are your strategies?
Who among the list of signatories will be responsible for implementing your strategy? Who conceived it? Who provided the theoretical research? Who will constitute the advisory committee? Please submit an organization chart and vitas of the principal investigators.
You must include an evaluation design. We have been requiring this since Queen Anne's War.
What impact will your problem have? Your failure to include any assessment of this inspires little confidence in the long-range prospects of your undertaking.
Please submit a PERT diagram, an activity chart, itemized budget, and manpower utilization matrix.
We hope that these comments prove useful in revising your "Declaration of Independence. "We welcome the submission of your revised proposal. Our due date for unsolicited proposals is July 31, 1776. Ten copies with original signatures will be required.
Sincerely,
Management Analyst to the British Crown
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 07/04/03 - IS IT AXIOMATIC?
If a person is independent, that person is not subject to the authority of another. If one gains independence, that person has sufficient income for his/her needs. To syllogize, a free person is not told what to do by anyone because that person has $$$ which that person uses to survive as he/she wishes. To conclude, it's axiomatic. OR IS IT?
IamDyan answered on 07/04/03:Hi Hank,
I don't think the premise is true, so therefore, I can't follow along with the rest of it.
One can be independent, given their current set of circumstances. And yet, those circumstances can change at any time (fate, old age, change in monetary status, God's will.)
So, this person would still be subject to the "authority" if you will, of their circumstances.
Just my thoughts on it....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | bluevision asked on 07/03/03 - 4 basic planes of thoughts Hi, all
Everyone is spiritual to some extent because it is one of the four basic planes of thoughts. The others are physical, mental & emotional planes.
The question is, on which of these planes of thoughts a person functions the most.
Those who function mostly on the spiritual plane would be intuitive, have inner awareness & the ability to comprehend the unseen.
Great politicians like Hitler & Bush function mainly on the mental plane as they must have strong reasoning powers, mental concentration, determination & the ability to push thing through. They would have become spiritual leaders if their thoughts function mostly on the spiritual plane.
Similarly, great artists would function mostly on the emotional plane which deals with imagination, affection, inspiration & creative thoughts; & great sportsmen on the physical plane which deals with basic animal instincts.
Analyse yourself & see on which plane your thoughts function the most.
Hopefully, this will bring to an end the series of questions on "Is so-&-so spiritual?" :)
IamDyan answered on 07/03/03:Hi Bluevision,
This seems to be true. Although we all have some of each plane, there is one that seems to be most dominant.
For me, I am mostly mental. (Wow....that doesn't sound too good, does it?) Maybe better to say I do have a very analytical mind.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/01/03 - Easing God Out. More EGO. The ego and the Self dwell as intimate friends in the same body, like two golden birds perched in the same tree. The ego eats the sweet and sour fruits of the tree, while the Self looks on detached. For as long as you identify with the ego, you will feel joy and sorrow. But if you know you are the Self, the Lord of Life, you will be free from suffering; the supreme source of light; the supreme source of love. You will transcend duality and live in a state of Oneness.
-Mundaka Upanishad
*************************************
I find the ego so interesting and really enjoy comments from others in regards to how they deal with problems of the ego. Everywhere I turn I seem to witness the ego holding people back from being who they really are-or could be. I don't think they realize what they are doing.
The self or spirit tempers the ego and allows us to enjoy all of life, if we can only recognize the things of eventual destruction come from the ego.
Can you think of a single thing you've done because of ego that has brought you great pain or great happiness?
Not this week or even this year. Usually ego is the greatest in our younger years..teens, twenties, thirties...
All comments are welcome. IamDyan answered on 07/02/03:Hi PW,
My ego sometimes ties my triumphs to my work and personal successes or failures. And so, usually it is with great effort that I remind myself I am not ONLY these things. Of course, it is easier to teach myself this lesson when things go badly. When things go well, it is easy enough to believe it is all due to my efforts :)
But yet, I have to say I do enjoy the spectrum of feelings -- joy and sorrow.
Something I've done just because of ego...
Went back to school....there was no reason or logical payback....just a sense of accomplishment.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 07/01/03 - Mahatma Ghandi 1869-1948 My view:
You cant deny anyone's spirituality.
At the other hand its fairly impossible to determine if someone,other than yourself,is spiritual.You can be aware of your spirit and its works,but how do we know you are.
One might say:the less action the more (room for)spirituality.
Yelling ministers,therapists,showhosts is little spirituality.
A spirit is quiet by definition.It can only do its works by the grace of silence.
Spirituality is irreconcilable with materialism or violence.
Therefore,for me, if anyone to be mentioned as being spiritual, it would be Mahatma Ghandi.
Love!
Gguru IamDyan answered on 07/02/03:Hi gguru,
In my humble opinion, being spiritual is very natural for all of us. We all possess a spirit, and so all have a spiritual side.
How that spirit measures up in actions, deeds, or words to others' spirits is probably inconsequential in the scheme of things.
We are all here to increase the spiritual gifts we have received. Some of us may have been granted a wealth of spirit and so much is expected. Yet some of us may have been granted only a small measure of spirit, and we should not be compared to others here, but only compared to the progress we ourselves have made.
Interesting parable....
Matthew 25:14-30
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 07/01/03 - I'm Trying to Remember the Famous... Chinese(I think)story that Blanchejoe posted on the old Askme Spirituality Board. It contained important wisdom that we all must remember. Can anyone help me with the story? It starts out as a tale about a Chinese man who is working his fields, and his son breaks his leg. HOw terrible his neighbors say. Then, a war breaks out and his son cannot go to war because he has a broken leg. , How wonderful his neighbors say. But, no says the Chinese man....And on it goes.
Can anyone remember this story? IamDyan answered on 07/02/03:Hi Chou,
This is actually a children's book called The Lost Horse. You may be able to check it out from your local bibrary or purchase it on line.
Here are a few versions on the web....
Version 1:
This farmer had only one horse, and one day the horse ran away. The neighbors came to condole over his terrible loss. The farmer said, "What makes you think it is so terrible?"
A month later, the horse came home--this time bringing with her two beautiful wild horses. The neighbors became excited at the farmer's good fortune. Such lovely strong horses! The farmer said, "What makes you think this is good fortune?"
The farmer's son was thrown from one of the wild horses and broke his leg. All the neighbors were very distressed. Such bad luck! The farmer said, "What makes you think it is bad?"
A war came, and every able-bodied man was conscripted and sent into battle. Only the farmer's son, because he had a broken leg, remained. The neighbors congratulated the farmer. "What makes you think this is good?" said the farmer.
As told by Executive editor, Elise Hancock, in the Johns Hopkins Magazine, November 1993, page 2, in section entitled Editor's Note.
Version 2:
A man named Sei Weng owned a beautiful mare which was praised far and wide. One day this beautiful horse disappeared. The people of his village offered sympathy to Sei Weng for his great misfortune. Sei Weng said simply, "That's the way it is."
A few days later the lost mare returned, followed by a beautiful wild stallion. The village congratulated Sei Weng for his good fortune. He said, "That's the way it is."
Some time later, Sei Weng's only son, while riding the stallion, fell off and broke his leg. The village people once again expressed their sympathy at Sei Weng's misfortune. Sei Weng again said, "That's the way it is."
Soon thereafter, war broke out and all the young men of the village except Sei Weng's lame son were drafted and were killed in battle. The village people were amazed as Sei Weng's good luck. His son was the only young man left alive in the village. But Sei Weng kept his same attitude: despite all the turmoil, gains and losses, he gave the same reply, "That's the way it is."
As told by Chin-Ning Chu, in "The Asian Mind Game: unlocking the hidden agenda of the Asian business culture -- a westerner's survival manual," New York:Macmillan Publishing Company, page 182.
Version 3:
A man who lived on the northern frontier of China was skilled in interpreting events. One day, for no reason, his horse ran away to the nomads across the border. Everyone tried to console him, but his father said, "What makes you so sure this isn't a blessing?" Some months later his horse returned, bringing a splendid nomad stallion. Everyone congratulated him, but his father said, "What makes you so sure this isn't a disaster?" Their household was richer by a fine horse, which his son loved to ride. One day he fell and broke his hip. Everyone tried to console him, but his father said, "What makes you so sure this isn't a blessing?"
A year later the nomads came in force across the border, and every able-bodied man took his bow and went into battle. The Chinese frontiersmen lost nine of every ten men. Only because the son was lame did the father and son survive to take care of each other. Truly, blessing turns to disaster, and disaster to blessing: the changes have no end, nor can the mystery be fathomed.
The Lost Horse,
Chinese Folktale.
Hope this helps, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/28/03 - What is More Spiritual... than being your authentic self?
I challenge you. {I guess I may need our old nemesis, Nogo, here to be the only person on my side with this question)!
IamDyan answered on 06/29/03:Nothing.
Everything we are is for a reason.
We all contribute to the whole.
Everyone learns and gains something from exactly who we are at this moment.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 06/27/03 - A LITTLE HUMOR!
What did the plow say to the tractor?
Answer: Get closer, John Deere (Dear)!
* Carol just ask me that question!
HANK
IamDyan answered on 06/27/03:There was a man who entered a local paper's pun contest. He sent in ten different puns, in the hope that at least one of the puns would win. Unfortunately, no pun in ten did.
Hope you and Carol enjoy the weekend :)
Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 06/26/03 - "idiots and bigots is a definition, not name calling" This is the reply by an expert when another expert complained of being called these things.
"idiots and bigots is a definition, not name calling"
People with some knowledge are leaving this site because of a name-calling drivel battle on some religion boards and the expert forum started by a person who would say the above quote, and believe it. Something is wrong with this situation.
Do you think idiot and bigot is merely a definition? Would you be offended if you were called this?
IamDyan answered on 06/27/03:If I were personally concerned that I might be an idiot or bigot, maybe.
But, otherwise, I would just chalk it up to another opinion. | Anonymous rated this answer
|
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 06/26/03 - Is Creationism a Science or Religion? Christianity is in opposition to evolutionism, and affirms total commitment to a literal creationist reading of the Bible. Because of this, certain states passed laws banning the teaching of evolutionism. More recently, literalists have argued that the Bible can be given full scientific backing, and they have therefore argued that Creation science may properly be taught in state-supported schools in the United States without violation of the constitutional separation of church and state.
Religion claims all that exists serves the desire of a creator, does creationism or evolutionism? Perhaps the answer can be found in those questions.
IamDyan answered on 06/27/03:Hi DC,
No one I know was there when God created the world. And I am not privy to God's calendar.
So, in my opinion, it is totally possible that God used evolution as a method to create. And neither theory necessarily contradicts the other.
I think there is no reason both cannot be taught in schools. After all, we should be creating thinkers in our schools.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
PS-I don't believe lightning and electricity contradict each other either :) | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee asked on 06/26/03 - Soooooo, in light of Dark Crow's question about covetousness.... there is a very definite difference between covetousness and jealousy. What is it? IamDyan answered on 06/27/03:Hi CeeBee,
Being jealous seems to be defined as being envious to the point of hostility toward someone else who possesses something we desire.
Coveting seems to encompasses jealously but takes a step further in hosility, actually involving some culpability or reason for blame ... such as, perhaps taking action in your thoughts or deeds to take what someone else posesses that we desire.
Just my thoughts on it....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 06/25/03 - All covetousness is spiritual There is no such thing as MATERIAL covetousness. All covetousness is spiritual
What is your thoughts on this? IamDyan answered on 06/25/03:Hi DC,
Interesting discussion point.
Frankly, I don't see coveting as singularly material or spiritual.
I think we result to coveting possessions and traits others possess and we desire, when we believe we cannot achieve them ourselves, given our own timelines, talents and resources.
So, in my humble opinion, coveting is rather the manifestation of that gap in combination with with the shortcomings of ego, uncertainty, and envy that go along with being human.
I may covet your Lambourgini or your patience. My thoughts in either case our not necessarily material or spiritual. Just rather a reflection of my opinion that I desire to possess what you have but do not believe I have the means to gain them myself.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 06/23/03 - THE TRIPLE-FILTER TEST THE TRIPLE-FILTER TEST
--Author Unknown
In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day, an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?"
"Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything, I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple-filter Test."
"Triple-filter test?"
"That's right," Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say. That's why I call it the triple-filter test. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure what you are about to tell me is true?"
"No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and..."
"All right," said Socrates. "So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?"
"No, on the contrary..."
"So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test, though, because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?"
"No, not really."
"Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"
This is why Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem.
~~~~~~~~~
Interesting way of looking at a situation like this. This is what it is to live in integrity with ourselves and the people with whom we communicate. Comments?
Blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 06/24/03:Hi Bobbie,
Valuable point of view...even if it is not from Socrates. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | prl182 asked on 06/22/03 - BOUNDLESS LOVE My thought to ponder for today. GOD HAS A BOUNDLESS CAPACITY FOR LOVE, AND WE ARE CREATED IN HIS IMAGE. What is your thought to ponder for today? IamDyan answered on 06/22/03:Hi prl182,
Here's my thought for the day....
"Listen and hear not only what you thought you wanted to hear. Listen and hear what you have to learn." --Ralph S. Marston, Jr.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 06/22/03 - The blues Needing a little cheering up today;
but I know that I'll get by,
with a little help from my friends. IamDyan answered on 06/22/03:Hi Patty,
For me....
a nice hot bubble bath and a novel to read always cheer me up.
Have a good week, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/20/03 - What about Life? Life continues to create itself and fall away, and sufering returns, and delight arrives, if even for a moment---agony, peace, rapture. Sandy Boucher
Comments.... IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:To every thing, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones
A time to gather stones together
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace
A time to refrain from embracing
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time to love, a time to hate
A time for peace, I swear it's not too late
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/20/03 - More on Suffering It is often thought that the Buddha's doctrine teaches us that suffering will disappear if one has meditated long enough, or if one sees everything differently. It is not that at all. Suffering isn't going to go away, the one who suffers is going to go away. Ayya Khema IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:...Or possibly, the suffering may take on new meaning and value.
Any of us who are parents, consider it a priviledge to sacrifice for our children. Most of us who are children, consider it a priviledge to sacrifice for our parents.
Any of us who are saints (not me!) consider it a priviledge to sacrifice all for others.
Just a thought, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 06/20/03 - communicating the profoundest of all truths Joshu [Chao-chou, Chinese, a famous Zen master] was asked..., "One light divides itself into hundreds of thousands of lights; may I ask where this one light originates?" This question... is one of the deepest and most baffling problem of philosophy. But the old master did not waste much time in answering the question, nor did he resort to any wordy discussion. He simply threw off one of his shoes without a remark.
By throwing off his shoe he is communicating the profoundest of all truths.
What, do you think was the notion behind Joshu's queer reply?
IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:Hi DC,
I think the master was trying to refocus his questioner. He desired that his question determine for himself, that the answer to the question has no meaning.
For example, if happiness and riches are eventually spread throughout the Earth, so that every human is joyful and content and there is peace in this world.....would it matter how it started?
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/20/03 - What is the Truth about People? Everything is as it is. It has no name other than the name we give it. It is we who call it something, we give it a value. We say this thing is good or it's bad, but in itself, the thing is only as it is. It's not absolute, it's just as it is.
People are just as they are.
Thought-out comments..... IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:Hi Chou,
Since everyone/everything serves a purpose in this life, indeed, they are not good or bad...only serving their purpose or learning the lessons chosen given a set of circumstances.
This thought is likely very true in a world that contains people with no past experiences, perceptions, or prejudice.
I am reminded of the biblical notion that Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus was simply a vehicle of God. And, not having been anywhere near present at that time, in retrospect, it's easier to see that might have been true.
However, I believe it's very difficult for me to continue to remind myself that Hitler was not bad, rather just was. Or that 9/11 was not a tragedy, but rather just was.
I think if we who are present at the time, are not struck by a sense of injustice or wrongness, there will be no attempts to better this world.
Let's leave introspection and the non-value ideals to history. Hopefully, our actions on what we considered good and bad, and how we reacted, are a positive comment on our current society.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 06/19/03 - Stopping Aging Process If you could have stopped aging at any point in your life up to the present, how old would you want to remain? Why?
(From "The Big Book of If. . . [Questions for the Game of Life and Love]")
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:25...
I was young and naive enough to believe everything is possible and old enough to know I didn't know everything.
I also didn't have to exercise constantly to keep a bathing suit figure :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 06/19/03 - "If..." If you could change one thing in the world righth now, what would you alter? Why?
(From "The Big Book of If. . . [Questions for the Game of Life and Love]")
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:Hi Bobbie,
I would change the incredibly red-tape ridden and costly process of adopting children from other countries who are wasting away in government run homes, long ago abandoned by the parents.
There are too many childless couples who would love to adopt and care for children, who are inhibited by the two month commitment in a foreign country and $25K to attempt the process.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | PLUTUS1947 asked on 06/19/03 - Corresponding with people on Death Row Hello fellow Experts.
I hope you do not mind my placing this question in this category but I have got to know most of you well and will value your opinion.
I am seriously considering corresponding with an inmate on Death Row USA.
I believe there are over 100 in Texas alone.
Not ever having done this before I would be interested in hearing your opinions on this especially from anyone already doing this or indeed any inmates who may come to this site.
ICARUS
IamDyan answered on 06/20/03:Hi John,
Interesting thought. I, myself, have never been inspired to do so. I suppose if I were it might be because I was interested in learning more about human nature in a particular situation or doing research.
However, if I were interested in providing comfort to someone, I would likely consider visiting or corresponding with someone in an aged home. Someone who likely receives less visitors and deserves better than those you might find in prisons. And also has better stories to share.
When my Grandpop was in a home for a few weeks, completing a rehab program, there were dozens of seniors there, who never had a visitor. When we visited Grandpop, they gravitated over to share some human contact .... and had some great conversation.
So, just another suggestion for reaching out and sharing your spirituality ... both giving and receiving.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 06/17/03 - Last post (at least for a while) Hello, everyone.
I need to take some time off Answerway for a while for personal reasons. I feel that I've made a lot of wonderful friends since I've been here, so if you ever get the urge to say hello or to ask a question that I might be able to help you with, you can still reach me through my personal e-mail (posted in the Expert Lounge) or on Yahoo Messenger or through my website (e-mail: feedback@introductiontoislam.info).
Regards,
Abir IamDyan answered on 06/18/03:Hi Abir,
I hope all is well with you and the family. Hopefully, your physical condition cause by working on the computer is not getting more serious.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. And if you want to send me a note from time to time, please do!
Take good care! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 06/16/03 - WEEK BY WEEK!
Who named the days of the week? Start with Sunday!
IamDyan answered on 06/17/03:Hi Hank,
Some interesting theories out there on this.
Here's a couple I found to be most interesting, stating that the origin of the days likely were based likely on the seven planets know to ancients at the time, or a combination of the planets and mythical gods.
http://webexhibits.org/calendars/week.html
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~stephan/Astronomy/7day.html
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 06/14/03 - A thought for today
St. Anselm, said, "For I do not seek to understand in order to believe but I believe in order to understand", did he have it right?
IamDyan answered on 06/14/03:Hi DC,
For St. Anselm, this may indeed have been true. Much of his writings centered around discovering the nature of God. Since the full nature of God was beyond St. Anselm's comprehension, he knew it was necessary to believe first in God, who would, in turn, enlighten him with understanding.
I believe his quote, in context, to be true. But when taken out of context, I think it depends on what you are trying to understand.
Surely, in trying to grasp concepts of this world: work, school studies, relationships, chemical reactions, the stock market, etc., it is much more practical to understand first.
However, when it comes to things like religion, feelings, joy, love, painting, music....Well then, belief is much more important. And the how, what, when, where, why rarely matters.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 06/13/03 - gluttony and sloth ,and public policy Your weight is now a public issue. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control has declared, "In the United States, obesity has risen at an epidemic rate the past twenty years." Obesity is allegedly responsible for more than 300,000 deaths a year in the United States. Depending on your source, either three out of five or two out of three American adults are overweight. Poor diets are said to cause one out of every three cases of cancer, and U.S.Surgeon General Richard Carmona has estimated the U.S. economy loses $117 billion annually because people aren't eating right (add to that ;Type II diabetes, which is associated with being overweight, costs $132 billion a year alone). Dr. Frank Hu of Harvard, argues that "Public health measures are urgently needed to curb the obesity epidemic." Dr. Glenn Gaesser, a professor of exercise physiology at the University of Virginia, says that the real killers are gluttony and sloth. The health problem is not fat, it's lack of exercise. Gaesser says that people can obtain most health benefits from exercising rather than losing fat. It's easier to stick with an exercise program than a diet.
What, if anything, should the federal government do about it? Michael Jacobson, executive director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest(CSPI) says ; "We live in a culture that supports sloth and gluttony. If the government is not willing to help them, who will?" Yale professor Kelly Brownell,seriously suggests that a tax be placed on fatty foods in order to raise their prices and provide revenue to offset the obesity related costs to society. CSPI also wants legislation that requires restaurants to put nutritional labels on their meals. Maine has already passed such a law.
The ‘sue me ‘lawyers have also”weighed “ in .Seeing the opportunities , John Banzhaf, head of Action on Smoking and Health, is focusing on fat. He says that there are two major reasons why obesity is increasing: "lack of physical activity and the growing proportion of fast food restaurants with super-size portions." ."I don't think we can sue people to get more exercise and I don't think the government can order them to exercise. But we can sue fast food restaurants to provide clear and conspicuous disclosure" of nutrition information. He has already tried suing fast food restaurants on behalf of a couple of obese kids in New York. The Restaurant Association's responds that Banzhaf might just as well "sue couch manufacturers or go after remote-control manufacturers." [I beleive there is also talk of targetting video game manufacturers due to adolescent obesity].
What is the solution then ? It cannot be seriously called an epidemic if it is not commutable ,and you can put as many labels as you want on food packaging ;it will make no difference .Most people know that ice cream is fattening ,but it doesn’t prevent them from eating some. Instead of lawsuits, fat taxes, and endless lists of nutrition information, University of Chicago law professor Richard Epstein jokingly suggests that we allow employers, schools, insurers and so forth to "viciously discriminate against any person who is obese." He would impose the costs for being overweight on individuals, giving them stronger incentives to slim down.(obesity as an example is to some degree a factor when underwriters calculate health insurance costs). Since most employers want a healthy workforce, it would give them an incentive to help employees control their weight, perhaps by doing things like restricting what's served in the company cafeteria, or offering exercise facilities. Beyond that Richard Carmona, is not favorable to imposing a fat tax or require labeling in restaurants. And he doesn't blame fast food for bulking up Americans. "Americans eat out an average of four times per week,""That means that there are 17 meals at home per week where they are making bad choices. And even with the meals eaten out, it's still our own decision." What does he recommend? "Every American needs to eat healthy food in healthy portions and get some exercise every day." I'd say that's about as much government meddling as we need on this issue.
IamDyan answered on 06/13/03:Hi Tom,
Interesting stuff....
Frankly, doesn't the government have something else to spend their money on?
I can see trends though. Working longer hours, usually in a seated position, eating meals in the car as we commute from and to work and from and to the kids' activities. The activity we used to get in caring for our homes, is now hired out to housecleaners, lawn care specialists, dog caretakers, childcare, etc.
The exercise we do get, is at an extra cost....joining the gym, and we make excuses why we can never get there.
Frankly, it's up to each person to ensure the life/work balance all corporations profess to endorse is taken to heart. If the government hires someone to monitor my menu and exercise levels, I might have to consider moving :)
Now, if it would just stop raining, I could get some exercise out in the garden. Hmmmm....who can I sue over the rain?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 06/13/03 - Happy Friday the thirteenth! (;)- hahahahaheehee (:(- Have you ever had unusually bad or frightening things happen to you on friday the 13th? Will you tell about it please?
Do you have triskaidekaphopia?
Have you ever had unusually wonderful things occur for you on friday the 13th? Will you tell something about it please?
Do you have triskaidekamania?
Why is friday the thirteenth any different than other days? ......or isn't it? IamDyan answered on 06/13/03:Happy Friday the 13th to you too!
Most Friday the 13th's here pass just as uneventfully or eventfully as any other day.
One bright thing ... Grandpop was born on a Friday the 13th in October, 1913.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/12/03 - That Elusive Sensation, Happiness.. Happiness is a feeling that comes from inside us and our gift to the world. Not something that is granted to us from anything outside us.
Do you agree or disagree? IamDyan answered on 06/13/03:Hi Chou,
I am in the majority here...
I believe we are truly as happy as we make up our minds to be.
Happiness has little to do with material possessions. I know some pretty miserable rich people, and I know some joyous underpriviledged folks.
Happiness, in my opinion, is tied in with attitude and expectations.
I know most will gravitate to happy people. Who wants to hang out with someone miserable? And, it is indeed a gift to have a circle (however small) of happy people to surround you. They are truly a gift. They are able to lift your spirits when you are thinking negatively. They are able to offer positive input to your point of view. they improve your attitude, and, hopefully, inspire you to do the same for someone else.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/12/03 - A Spiritual Offering Disciple to Master:
"You tell us stories, but you never reveal their meaning to us."
The Master:
"How would you like it if someone offered you fruit and chewed it up before giving it to you?"
No one can find the meaning for you. NOt even the master.
Comments... IamDyan answered on 06/13/03:Hi Chou,
A very good story reveals its meanings immediately. And, interestingly enough, it's not always the same lesson we all take away.
Perhaps if the disciple does not understand the meaning, instead of demanding a meaning, he should wait for the next story, because the one he just heard was not a lesson he had to learn.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/12/03 - It all Comes Down to this and this only:
"One can apprediate and celebrate each monent--there's nothing more sacred. There's nothing more vast or absolute. In fact, there's nothing more."
Pema Chodron
Do you agree?
IamDyan answered on 06/12/03:Chou,
I agree with "One can appreciate and celebrate each moment--there's nothing more sacred. There's nothing more vast."
As someone who continuously has to remind myself not to focus on tomorrow, this is a difficult task indeed, sometimes. But it has enabled me, with the help of all of you, to enjoy the moments of joy that are present every day....and are fleeting.
Thanks to everyone at askme over the past couple years, I learned to appreciate the time I spent with Grandpop....not focusing on the 'hurry up' aspect of my nature.
But I have to say that I disagree with the fact that the statement goes on to say "There's nothing more." For, although tomorrows are not promised, indeed I can and should plan for them. For God helps him who helps themselves.
Where would any of us be if we celebrated today, spending every last cent to our names, with no thoughts to how our mortgage or rent would be paid? Or how our children's college tuition would be generated?
Or how we could balance our life and our work to make sure that we meet both goals of worry free vacations?
Or how would we grow spiritually if we were content to just be the person we are today, and learn nothing new?
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 06/12/03 - "Changing your fundamental pattern] is very different from practicing affirmations, which has been a popular thing todo in some circles. Affirmations are like screaming that you're okay in order to overcome this whisper that you're not. That's a big contrast to actualy uncovering the whisper, realizing that it's passing memory, and moving closer to all those fears and all those edgy feelings that maybe you're not okay. Well, no big deal. None of us is okay and all of us are fine. It's not just one way. We are walking, talking paradoxes."
Ane Pema Chodron, female Buddhist Master
Comments welcome...
IamDyan answered on 06/12/03:Hi Chou,
Practicing affirmations has never been a priority of mine. Maybe it is because, after years of raising a teenager I have just become immune to the cries that I am not fair sometimes :)
If something inside of me(or even someone other than me) is screaming that things are not ok, then affirmations are not truly the answer.
Rather, in my humble opinion, the priority should be to establish a series of logical steps to evaluate the behavior or trait that is not in line; make a determination whether the inner/outer voice is in line with your beliefs; and then bring one or both into alignment with each other.
Of course this makes the assumptions that you love yourself as you are and will be; you trust your own instincts; and you are agreeable to others disagreeing with you.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 06/06/03 - Celebration of Life for Betty J. Gonder I'm sharing this with you to give you a beautiful description of my Mom who transitioned yesterday. As I share, I am taking this time to thank everyone in my address book for your thoughtfulness and your prayers these past four months. Our family has been bouyed by the loving energy extended to us from around the world.
With gratitude, love and blessings,
Bobbie Moore
Celebration of Life for Betty J. Gonder, Mother and Grandmother
(written by Nancy & Gerry Wojcik)
Mrs. Betty Jane Gonder formerly of Williamsville, beloved Mother and Grandmother, died Thursday, (June 5, 2003) after a short illness. She was 78.
Betty Jane Schmidt was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and graduated from high school there. She played the violin in the All City Orchestra and performed a solo, Mendelssohn's "Meditation" at her graduation. She continued her studies at the University of Iowa where she earned her Registered Nursing Degree and worked at the University's Hospital. She said recently while a patient in the Emergency Room, "I don't know anything about nursing now, but I do know I can hold a patient's hand and tell them I love them."
Mrs. Gonder was a true woman of patience and grace; one of her last requests was to send some thank-you notes. She taught her children by example the blessings of a close-knit family and well-loved friends. She adored her husband, her children and grandchildren. One of her favorite sayings was, "I love you a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck." She enjoyed a plethora of interests; traveling, playing cards, working crosswords, needlework, golfing, gardening, entertaining, sending care packages and listening to music. She created an atmosphere of welcome when in her home and made even non-family visitors feel at home and part of the family. A family friend recalls, "She implanted those same feelings of generosity and loving-kindness to everyone. She was inspirational, exhibiting strength, grace, dignity and humor." Her nephew says, "Betty has given us her example of what love is, what love can do, and how love can endure." She worked not for recognition but to be a faithful witness of God's love. She had a quick concern and understanding for others and enjoyed devoting time as a den mother, physical therapy assistant volunteer, church deacon at 2nd United Presbyterian Church in Williamsville, a woman's circle leader and a Meals-on-Wheels volunteer.
Mrs. Gonder was united in marriage to Dr. Maurice J. Gonder of Iowa in 1946. They were happily married for 53-1/2 years. After traveling with the Army for 14 years, they moved to Buffalo, NY in 1960. In 1983 they moved to Port Jefferson, Belle Terre, Long Island where Dr. Gonder was Founding Urology Chairman at SUNY Stony Brook Medical School.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Gonder, parents and 2 brothers, Erwin and Clifford Schmidt.
She is survived by two sons, John of Centennial, CO and Richard of Sterling, VA; four daughters, Roberta Moore of Palm Bay, FL, Carol Frost of Bakersfield, CA, Nancy Wojcik of Williamsville, NY and Debra Stewart of Parker, CO; and 13 grandchildren; as well as many "adopted" children.
Mrs. Gonder's Celebration of Life service will be at First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson, New York. Internment will take place in Rippey, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes that donations be made in Betty's honor to:
The First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson
c/o Rev. Molly Blythe Teichert
Main and South Streets, PO Box 397,
Port Jefferson, NY 11777 IamDyan answered on 06/06/03:Bobbie,
What a wonderful life your mother lived....How many lives she touched....and how lucky you are to have had such a mom!
I have tears welling up just now, as I think of how difficult it is to sum up someone's life in a few paragraphs, as I had to do recently also with Grandpop.
God bless you and comfort you during this trying time. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | purplewings asked on 06/05/03 - An interesting comment to ponder.
Why must I ever awaken?"That which moves about in joy in the dreaming state is the Self, fearless and deathless. That is Brahman, the supreme."
-Chandogya Upanishad - Hinduism
How do you feel about this comment? Do you believe that is the 'real' you? Does the dream state mean when you are asleep or can it be daydreaming? or can you be just in a state of mindless joy? IamDyan answered on 06/06/03:Hi PW,
First my dreams are not always necessarily fearless and deathless. I think my dreams are usually a coping mechanism....a way of working things out in my mind, before they come to pass.
As far as joy, I find it to be much more present in my waking moments, and maybe sometimes in daydreams. And that is only a part of who I am at this moment.
But I truly believe I am much more than pure joy.
It is my choice every day, in every situation, to be joyous or not, regardless of circumstances. And so if, on occasion, I choose to be angry or disgusted or fearful, I still think that is a real part of me.
Why would the Creator have allowed us such a spectrum of feelings, if Joy is the only important one to consider?
If everyone were joyous all the time, ignoring all other feelings, I wonder what motivation there would be to solve real problems in this world? It is usually feelings of anger, injustice, compassion that spur real lasting change.
And I think our purpose here is, when life is done, to have made a difference.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 06/04/03 - A survey of a different sort. Please go to the URL shown below, and read through this, and let me know your reactions. Thanks. I will not rate this until about June 12 as I am going to inspect the Atlantic Ocean. You can just copy and paste the URL.
Regards, Dan
http://www.palletmastersworkshop.com/warrior.html
IamDyan answered on 06/05/03:Hi Dan,
Good site.
My reactions are many.
But I think that this is the one that is strongest....
A soldier trained will always carry that training. But a soldier tested, carries more than the training, s/he carries the understanding that the training implies....they carry the duty, they carry the hurt, they carry the promises, and the understanding that goes along with it.
Not having been in the military myself, but having known my husband who has, I believe friends in battle can probably only be equated to the friends we carry with us from high school and our teen-age years.
Maybe as teens, we see ourselves as warriors also, combatting, what? At the time, it seems like everything, doesn't it? Combatting unfair authority, anyone trying to stand between us and the growth we believe we are destined for, and all things that seem unfair. And, during those years, every situation seems life and death as well.
During those relationships, it is not the person's beliefs or their backgrounds that matter. It is not whether they were like us. It is the person they are, the times they were there for us, the promises we made....and keep.
And that is why we migrate to our class reunions, the VFW, the naval reunions. That is why we reminisce with a smile of those times.
Just my thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 06/03/03 - Is peace just a word? "You tell me to stand still, but I am not walking," he shouted, "whereas you who are walking say you are still. How is it that you are standing still but I am not?"
The Buddha turned round. "My legs move but my mind is still," he said. "Your legs are still but your mind moves all the time in a fire of anger, hatred, and feverish desire. Therefore, I am still but you are not."
-Majjhima Nikaya
What do you do to find peace with your worries and fears? IamDyan answered on 06/04/03:Hi PW,
I am a hopeless organizer and list maker.
So for me, this is the best method (adopted from Stephen Covey)
I categorize all my fears and worries into these four quadrants:
1-Within my circle of influence and within my circle of concern
2-Within my circle of influence but outside my circle of concern
3-Within my circle of concern but outside my circle of influence
4-Outside my circle of concern and outside my circle of influence.
The key here is:
Read "Circle of Concern" as something that effects me and my life.
Read "Circle of Influence" as something that is within my power to effectively change.
Anyway, once categorizing my fears and worries, I begin working on them in the order as they are listed above.
I find that by working on things that are within my power to change takes up most of my time. It keeps me proactive, and leaves little room for much else, like unproductive worrying. Plus, successes in your life always have positive ripples.
Also, by continuting to be proactive and make changes, eventually what is within my Circle of Influence, eventually expands.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 06/01/03 - "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God."
"Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God."
A fine Sunday thought
IamDyan answered on 06/01/03:Hi DC,
A fine Sunday thought for sure....
Here's another one back at you :)
He that would live in peace and at ease
must not speak all he knows or all he sees.
--Benjamin Franklin
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | PLUTUS1947 asked on 05/29/03 - MAROONED Hi All
Since 1942 BBC Radio have been broadcasting a program called Desert Island Discs. Celebrities are asked to choose 10 favourite records they would like if they were marooned on a desert island. (With a phonograph to play them on of course).
Together with these records they are given the complete works of Shakespeare and a copy of the Bible, Koran etc, (depending on their religion).
Finally they are allowed to take any one luxury item with them. Anything they wish.
My fun question is:
WHAT LUXURY ITEM WOULD YOU TAKE AND WHY?
To start the ball rolling, I would take the original La Giaconda (Mona Lisa).
The reason for this is that I doubt anyone would miss me that much and may not bother to send out a search party but the Mona Lisa would certainly be missed and they would do everything they could to find it. That way when they find the Mona Lisa, they find me too.
Over to you.
Have fun
ICARUS
IamDyan answered on 05/31/03:Hi Icarus,
Interesting question....
In keeping with the rules that I need to be alone with no means of escape, AND given the fact that you have already taken the Mona Lisa, I think I will take a fablulous garden tub/whirlpool/spa and a lifetime supply of exotic bathsalts.
After an enjoyable day fishing on the surf in the sun for my meals, I hope to sink into a nice bubble bath to relax and read a bit of Shakespeare as the sun sets over the ocean before I turn into my hammock to sleep beneath the stars.
All the Best, Dyan
PS - I hope the desserted island has electric :) | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 05/30/03 - What will you do? What if: (please allow yourself to sink into being the person being described below)
You awake once again feeling very ill, in physical pain, depressed and weak both physically and emotionally. You have felt this way for months on end and just keep getting weaker and more hopeless.
Your mortgage or rent is months late and you have been given notice of eviction, and you have no food at all in the house or money to buy any. You haven't eaten in days.
Your 15 year old car doesn't start half the time and when it did get you someplace, it broke down before you could get back home.
Your mother is in a nursing home with alzeimers and no memory of you at all. Your father is dead. Your brothers and sisters live in different states and don't keep in touch.
Your spouse had walked out permanently saying you were a waste of time and energy.
Your children, not living with you, run wild, getting into bad trouble and blaming you for all of it. They never came to visit and rarely call, and then call only when they want a favor.
You can't get any kind of job because of your long illness but if you felt better you still aren't trained for anything anyway, and if anything became available, you couldn't take it because of unreliable transportation.
The money the government programs give you doesn't pay your very basic needs. Medicine needed is not available to you and the pain is constant and relentless. The doctors you're allowed to see, don't care and don't offer any hope.
Your weakness & pain is pulling you; saying 'give in and follow that bright light'...
It was peaceful and painless...and easy.
You heard the voice saying "this is beautiful, no worries, no sickness, no fear, no loneliness, no struggles, no hatred, no judgements, no anger, ..and you'll get to see all the people you've loved and who have loved you in the past, who have left their bodies. They're waiting for you here."
Would you close your eyes and look toward the light?
Would you struggle to get up and try to find a reason to live?
Would you call out for help?
What do you think you would do?
IamDyan answered on 05/31/03:Hi Loral,
There is an old saying that seems to apply here...."Certain misery is less intimidating than unknown joy."
This has always been an interesting quote of Carl Jung in my opinion. It seems to be the reason why people don't leave abusive relationships; don't leave dead-end jobs; and likely, don't give up life.
Personally, I love life and can't imagine giving it up of my own will. But then, I think I would have sought the help of my church and social services long before I got the eviction notice and had run out of food....so maybe, hopefully, I will never find myself in exactly this desperate situation.
Interesting question! I enjoyed reading everyone else's responses.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 05/28/03 - Earth picture NASA released a pitcure today showing Earth taken from Mars. The picture is of North America. However, it is a little blurry. My question is, who moved?
(If you are old enough, you will understand this question.)
Have fun with it.
Regards, Dan IamDyan answered on 05/29/03:Hi Dan,
Not sure I am old enough, but HEY! it has been raining and cloudy here in North America for approximately two months. I mean, besides just the clouds, mist, and fog....Imagine what the huge lawn growth is doing to distort the shot.
Maybe they should retake the photo sometime when the rain stops....I think, right now, that's projected for approximately December, when the snow is scheduled to start :)
Preparing for another rainy weekend, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/26/03 - WILL FOR PEACE!
On this Memorial Day, I offer you this quote from Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882-1945) made in a speech at Chicago on October 5, 1937:
"The epidenic of world lawlessness is spreading. When an epidemic of physical disease starts to spread, the community approves and joins in a quarantine of the patients in order to protect the health of the community against the spread of the disease.
"... The will for peace on the part of peace-loving nations must express itself to the end that nations that may be tempted to violate their agreements and the rights of others will desist from such a course. There must be positive endeavors to preserve peace."
And what might these positive endeavors be ... NOW?
HANK
IamDyan answered on 05/26/03:Hi Hank,
I think most peave lving countries begin with economic sanctions, followed by peace talks, and then in unresolvable cases war.
I had received this by email....and thought it was an interesting story....Perhaps you might relate in some way. All the Best, Dyan
A LESSON TO MY SON
by A PROUD AMERICAN Irma S. Chambers
The other day, my nine year old son wanted to know why we were at war.
My husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and I were in the Army during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend our country again today. I knew that my husband would give him a good explanation.
My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in our front living room window. He told him:
"Son, stand there and tell me what you see?"
"I see trees and cars and our neighbors houses." he replied.
"OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush."
Our son giggled and said "OK."
"Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country." my husband said.
"OK Dad, I'm pretending."
"Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and see that man come out of his house with his wife and he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and afraid of their father. You see all of this son....what do you do?"
"Dad?"
"What do you do son?!"
"I call the police, Dad."
"OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations and they take your call, listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?!"
"Dad, but the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to whine.
"They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband says.
"But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims.
"I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children."
"Daddy...he kills them?"
"Yes son, he does. What do you do?"
"Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him." Our son says.
"Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him." My husband says.
"But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!"
"WHAT DO YOU DO SON?"
Our son starts to cry.
"OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?"
"What Daddy?"
"He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?!!!"
"Daddy..."
"WHAT DO YOU DO?!!!"
Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I close the blinds, Daddy."
My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him... Why?"
"Because Daddy...the police are supposed to help...people who need it...and they won't help....You always say that neighbors are supposed to HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself...Daddy.....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds....so I can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening."
I start to cry.
My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husbands questions and he tells him...."Son"
"Yes, Daddy."
"Open the blinds because that man....he's at your front door..."WHAT DO YOU? !!!!"
My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up this tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says: "I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!"
I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs my son to his chest and hugs him tight, and cries..."It's too late to fight him, he's too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before......it's too late." my husband whispers.
THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good men stand by and let evil happen is the greatest EVIL of all. Our President is doing what is right. We, as a free nation, must understand that this war is a war of humanity. WE must remove this evil man from power so that we can continue to live in a free world where we are not afraid to look out our window and see crimes on humanity.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 05/25/03 - What makes you believe in a particular religion? Do you cling to your parents beliefs? Do you consider the differences in other religions? Do you stay with your religion because it brings some people material & social rewards? or because people you respect believe it?
If you aren't involved in religion, what has turned you from it? What do you do instead to find peace and joy in life?
Thanks for your reply in advance.
IamDyan answered on 05/25/03:Hi Loral,
I was raised Catholic and still am.
During my childhood, I was lucky enough to have friends of many different religions, and my parents always encouraged attending their services.
And so, I have attended services and learned about other faiths like Juddaism, Methodist, Lutheran, Epsicopalian, Mennonite, Southern Baptist, Freewill Baptist, Buddhism, Islam, and the spiritual rites and beliefs of the Nanticoke Indians.
There are many differences in each of these religions, and yet I think what is most to be celebrated, is their sameness....The belief in a benevolent God, the possibility of advancing the human race, and the belief in an afterlife.
Personally, I find Catholicism the most appealing religion out of all I have encountered because of my belief in Transubstantiation and the way we celebrate the Last Supper and Easter at each and every celebration.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 05/25/03 - Spiritual but not religious. Spirituality exists wherever we struggle with the issue of how our lives fit into the greater cosmic scheme of things. This is true even when our questions never give way to specific answers or give rise to specific practices such as prayer or meditation.
We encounter spiritual issues every time we wonder where the universe comes from, why we are here, or what happens when we die.
We also become spiritual when we become moved by values such as beauty, love, or creativity that seem to reveal a meaning or power beyond our visible world. An idea or practice is "spiritual" when it reveals our personal desire to establish a felt-relationship with the deepest meanings or powers governing life.
How does this explanation fit into your own spiritual belief system?
I copied this explanation from beliefnet.com
People often comment that spirituality has no basis, or that we must be religious to be spiritual. IamDyan answered on 05/25/03:Hi Loral,
My definition of spirituality is close to what you have found at Beliefnet.
Spirituality, in my opinion, includes religions, and also expands beyond it.
There are times, at the beach, watching a purple and gold sunset...hearing the waves craching...and the seagulls calling, that I wonder how many others are experiencing this same magical moment at that same time that I am.
And again, at pow wow's twice a year, as a large group of people who barely know each other are so moved by the music and the stories shared, to simply begin dancing a Friendship Dance with each other.
And yet again, in church this morning, as the sermon spoke of remembering our loved ones who have been lost to this life with happiness and joy.
Just some thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 05/24/03 - Something to think about... Five Jewish men influenced the history of Western civilization.
Moses said the law is everything.
Jesus said love is everything.
Marx said capital is everything.
Freud said sex is everything.
Einstein said everything is relative.
IamDyan answered on 05/24/03:And a thought from Oscar Wilde...
The old believe everything,
the middle-aged suspect everything,
the young know everything.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 05/24/03 - Prayers, Please Mom is in the process of releasing her body. The ICU doctor said that her body is beginning to break down. He said that he could put a chest tube in to relieve the pressure in her chest from the fluids, but that would only be for a 3-day period. Mom said, "No thank you. I am ready to join my husband."
Thanks so much for your prayers.
Love,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 05/24/03:Bobbie,
Your mom, you, and your family
are in my thoughts and prayers.
A Prayer for you...
Grieve not...
Nor speak of me with tears...
but laugh and talk of me
as though I were still beside you.
I love you so.
It was Heaven here with you.
Blessings and Peace, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 05/22/03 - My personal place for serenity Neither a question nor necessarily a comment on spirituality, I would just like to share with my colleagues on this board the place where I have had the most intense spiritual experiences. It is much on my mind these days as we're heading there in a little more than two weeks. See my blog at http://www.richturner.net and, for a more extensive view, go to http://www.grammarmudge.cityslide.com/page/page/522667.htm. IamDyan answered on 05/23/03:Rich,
I have never been to Maine....WOW!
Some awesome scenery....and bet there are some great places to just fish, relax, and think!
Hope you have a great time! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/22/03 - dream of heaven Ask yourself whether the dream of heaven and greatness
should be waiting for us in our graves or whether it
should be ours here and now and on this earth IamDyan answered on 05/23/03:Hi DC,
Interesting thought to ponder...
I sometimes think that it is just wonderful enough that the dream of heaven and greatness is indeed waiting for us, no matter when it does arrive.
My personal thoughts lean toward life on Earth being a journey toward Heaven. I suppose it is another interesting thought as to how we preceive the journey. It's all a matter of personal perspective, in my mind. Can the journey be separated from the ultimate arrival?
For example, there have been many times, when going on vacation, we spend 20-25 hours in the car reaching our destination. Would you consider the time spent on the journey as still being on vacation? Or does the vacation only begin once we have reached the destination?
Just a thought.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 05/17/03 - Feedback Now I would like some feedback on just how close (or way off) I was with your dream interpretations. (I'm not used to the format on the "asking end"!)
Thank you all so much for participating!
Stand and be true,
Patty IamDyan answered on 05/22/03:Hi Patty,
I have to say that I am not accustomed to my dreams being interpreted....You're the 'expert' here :)
But I think your interpretation was astute. I look back to recently when I have had this dream and think that it is usually when I have a lot on my mind and a decision with consequences to be made....often spiritual, sometimes regarding relationships....but then, relationships are often of a spiritual nature.
So, I would say, you were very close!
Thanks for all the effort and research :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 05/21/03 - Spirituality in Action-One View "..When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to disolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.-We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.---"
It is interesting for me to read documents again that I first read in grade school.
I noted that the writters spoke of "Laws of Nature" and "Nature's God".
Also, that the Governments derive their JUST powers from the CONSENT of the governed.
Just thought you might like a trip down memory lane, and also a reminder of what the Noble Ideals were in the late 1700's.
Do we have any Noble Ideals in the 2000's?
IamDyan answered on 05/22/03:Hi Chou,
Boy! They sure had great speech writers and press secretaries back then, huh?
Sure we have noble ideals today. Perhaps the words are not phrased in 18th century English, but the sentiments and goals are similar, I believe.
And perhaps some day in the distant future, these speeches will be also admired by people just like us :)
All the Best, Dyan
President Regan's Farewell Address:
From the President's Farewell Address:
And that's about all I have to say tonight, except for one thing. The past few days when I've been at that window upstairs, I've thought a bit of the `shining city upon a hill.' The phrase comes from John Winthrop, who wrote it to describe the America he imagined. What he imagined was important because he was an early Pilgrim, an early freedom man. He journeyed here on what today we'd call a little wooden boat; and like the other Pilgrims, he was looking for a home that would be free. I've spoken of the shining city all my political life, but I don't know if I ever quite communicated what I saw when I said it. But in my mind it was a tall, proud city built on rocks stronger than oceans, windswept, God-blessed, and teeming with people of all kinds living in harmony and peace; a city with free ports that hummed with commerce and creativity. And if there had to be city walls, the walls had doors and the doors were open to anyone with the will and the heart to get here. That's how I saw it, and see it still.
Geo W. Bush, Excerpt Coast Guard Commencement Address May, 2003
The advance of freedom is more than an interest we pursue. It is a calling we follow. Our country was created in the name and cause of freedom. And if the self-evident truths of our founding are true for us, they are true for all. As a people dedicated to civil rights, we are driven to defend the human rights of others. We are the nation that liberated continents and concentration camps. We are the nation of the Marshall Plan, the Berlin Airlift and the Peace Corps. We are the nation that ended the oppression of Afghan women, and we are the nation that closed the torture chambers of Iraq.
America's national ambition is the spread of free markets, free trade, and free societies. These goals are not achieved at the expense of other nations, they are achieved for the benefit of all nations. America seeks to expand, not the borders of our country, but the realm of liberty.
Pope Paul II, 31st Conference of Food and Ag
The first pages of the Bible describe the luxuriant abundance of the created world and say that God has given to the human person everything he needs to lead a life worthy of a creature made in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gn 1,26). Thus it should not be possible to find millions of people in the world who are undernourished or starving. The earth can provide for what they need, so the cause of this lack of food must be sought elsewhere. In the Book of Genesis, God entrusts creation to human hands (cf. Gn 1,26; 28) and we must look in this direction if we want to understand the current disorders. An equitable management of the goods of creation has been lacking, with an obvious inequality in sharing resources. In this perspective, your conference desires to be a sign of hope for the world, to show that there are some who are determined to practise responsible and creative management, aiming to guarantee "food security' to every member of the human family. Their determination is based on the recognition of the fact that every human being enjoys the inviolable right to a proper diet, and that it is consequently the duty of all men and women, especially those in responsible positions, to ensure that this right is respected. We should not only apply this principle to individuals but also to nations.
When people can no longer satisfy their basic needs because of war, poverty, bad government or mismanagement, or even on account of natural disasters, others have the moral duty to intervene to help them. | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 05/18/03 - My son's wedding day today! Good morning everyone,
It's not even 7 a.m. yet but there's so much ahead for this day that the butterflies are going wild in my tummy & my head is beginning to ache.
Please send your positive energy & a little prayer my way to help me deal with the mish-mash of families and friends that will be with blending on this very special day & to guide my son and his new bride, and my other son who is the Best Man and nervous.
I appreciate all your support. I want it to be a wonderful day for my son and his new bride.
Many blessings to all
Loral IamDyan answered on 05/20/03:Loral,
I missed it! I hope you all had a beautiful day -- one that was special to all that attended.
I wish for your son and his bride much patience and humor....for I truly believe these are two gifts that keep a marriage strong.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 05/19/03 - Abraham Lincoln's Words November 19, 1863, at Gettysburg. The last words can provide inspiration in our world, don't you think?
"....It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion---that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this nation, under God, shall hae a new birth of freedom--and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Comments? IamDyan answered on 05/20/03:Hi Chou,
History and Lincoln aside, just reading the words, there is great inspiration in this passage.
And the message is universal, I think.
For I believe all of us would hope that any task or ideal that we have held dear and worked and struggled for during our lives, will be carried on by others once we are gone from this Earth. That they will take on this work with the same devotion and love that we brought to it; that we will somehow be immortalized and remembered for making a difference here, and that our efforts do not die when we do.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/15/03 - WHAT'S DOWN THERE?
How far is DOWN? This is a spiritual question because we're still in God's domain.
IamDyan answered on 05/16/03:Down is always lower than where you are at any given moment. Down will always exceed any expectations you have set for it.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/15/03 - WHAT'S UP THERE?
How far is up? This is a spiritual question because it concerns God's domain.
IamDyan answered on 05/16/03:Up is always higher than where you are at any given moment. Up will always exceed any expectations you have set for it.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 05/15/03 - Dreams Here is an idea I came up with. I haven't figured out a survey yet...LOL...but I think this might be fun.
I would like all of you to pick three things that stand out from a recent dream(s) you have had. I will then try to tell you what they signify.
Or you can pick a number from 1 to 66 and I will try to tell you what you have been dreaming about.
Anybody interested? IamDyan answered on 05/15/03:Hi Patty,
This sounds like fun :)
Don't worry about finding a survey...I'm looking over a few that seem interesting...LOL! But will probably take me a week or so to post since this week is pretty busy here.
Here's a recurring dream I have had off and on for years...even since I was a teen. I have not had this dream for a few months, but likely, since I am talking it up, it will happen again this week. Who knows how dreams work :)
I am laying on a beach on a blanket, and I have fallen asleep in the warm sun. The dream begins as I slowly wake up and look to the left and right of me, remembering the beach was quite crowded when I had fallen asleep - filled with kids playing near yelling parents, and an ice cream man walking and selling, but yet seeing it is totally deserted as I awake, and it is utterly hushed and quiet.
In fact, it seems it is the quiet that awakens me.
Then I look behind me to see that all of that all of the crowd previously on the beach is is about a mile away crowded on the boardwalk and pointing toward me.
Finally, I look straight ahead and see a large tidal wave ready to crash upon me. I wake when it hits, usually I am in a cold sweat when I wake up.
Anyway, I'm interested in yours (in fact everyone's) opinion on this one. It is odd I know....especially since it is repetitive.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/12/03 - A GIFT OF LOVE! My wife, Carol, received this verse in a Mother's Day card from one of her daughters and she would like to share it with all of you MOTHERS out there in Answerway land:
"It can't be bought, it can't be sold,
It can't be measured in silver or gold ...
It's a special prayer that God above
Will fill your heart with peace and love --
The love of God which is divine,
That is beyond what words can define ...
So may you know the blessing of
God's all-fulfilling grace and love."
--- Helen Steiner Rice ... who has brought hope, comfort and inspiration to countless millions throughout the world.
This pretty much says it all, doesn't it?
CAROL
IamDyan answered on 05/12/03:That's a beautiful verse...
a wish for any time of the year :)
All the Best to you and Carol, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | LTgolf asked on 05/11/03 - Happy Mothers Day Not a question, just wanted to wish all you wonderful ladies a Happy Mothers Day.
Flowers and Hugs for all
Leon
IamDyan answered on 05/12/03:Leon,
Thank you so much....the flowers are beautiful!
Is this the first Mother's Day without your wife? If so, I hope it was not too difficult for you and the family and you all had an enjoyable day.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 05/10/03 - My answers to the mini-survey Hello, everyone.
I hope you enjoyed the mini-survey. I gave my answers almost ten years ago but I think they are still applicable today. Here they are:
1. Red: burning, passionate, intense, forceful, an attention-grabbing color that stands out. There's no such thing as pale red.
2. Dog: loyal, friendly, intelligent, quick learner, kind, comforting, has a unique ability to sense and share one's feelings and uplift one's spirits, particularly in times of sorrow and stress.
3. River: Strong. Has a definite destination and goal that it reaches regardless of any obstacles in its way. It either bypasses the obstacle or goes straight over it. If you let go, its warm waters will surround you and the current will lift you up and carry you with it through beautiful landscapes that would have been very difficult for you to reach alone.
The color represents the inner YOU - how you see yourself.
The animal represents the outer YOU - how you think other people see you.
The body of water represents the person you love. It could be a real person or an imaginary ideal partner. When I was given these questions, I had not yet met my husband but when I did meet him, I could see the characteristics that I described above in him. The rest is history.
I don't know how applicable or truthful each of you will find the results but I hope you enjoyed it.
Regards,
Abir IamDyan answered on 05/11/03:Hi Abir,
I liked this one a lot...very insightful actually.
Like you, I see myself as red that can never be muted or paled. I can also imagine others seeing me as full of opposites...like I describe the wolf. And, last but not least, my husband Alan, is a lot like I described the ocean....usually very peaceful and rythmic, with occasional bursts that surprise and delight.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 05/09/03 - Population Control Hello, all.
Just something that caught my attention:
In a recent answer, wvseagull said
"Unless things change, Africa will probably be deserted in the next 30-40 years, unless something really positive happens with AIDS. About 600 MILLION people are going to die from this. Events are not batteries, in that there is no positive and negative end."
To which keenu responded by saying
"Even tho I disagree...events are just like batteries, with a positive and negative end.
Two ends of the same thing! And even tho aids appears to be a BAD thing...remember that we NEED population control."
How do you see this? Any comments?
Regards,
Abir IamDyan answered on 05/09/03:Hi Abir,
I see this as two people with differing points of view.
In my opinion, there is NOT a positive side to every event; but yet, I do personally believe that for every event that occurs, God has a purpose, and perhaps that is a variation of the same thing.
I believe all life comes from God. And it is not my place to say whether or where there is too much life on this planet.
Just my take on it anyway....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 05/09/03 - Mini-survey Hello.
Since Dyan's surveys have generated so much interest and enthousiasm, I thought you might enjoy this one. You may or may not have come across it before. It's more like a psychological test than a survey and there are only 3 questions. A friend of mine gave this one to me almost 10 years ago but I remember it because the results were very true (at least for me) and I actually learned a couple of things about myself that I wasn't consciously aware of. Here it is:
1. Pick a color and describe it.
2. Pick an animal and describe it.
3. Pick a body of water and describe it.
The important thing is to really think about each of these and visualize them before you answer. No one-word descriptions, please. What characteristics/attributes/impressions does each of these things bring to your mind?
I'll post the meaning behind the questions and my own answers in a couple of days.
Have a great day.
Abir IamDyan answered on 05/09/03:Hi Abir,
Sounds like fun....here goes :)
1. Pick a color and describe it.
The color red is bright and bold. It is confident and makes no apologies for itself, refusing to be muted in any way. It is the color of candied apples at the state fair, the color of my favorite suit, the color of cardinals eating birdseed by my bedroom window.
2. Pick an animal and describe it.
The wolf is a dog not tamed; a sleek and quick animal filled with opposites. It is at once fiercely independent and social, enjoying the company of friends and family. It is strong in defending its territory, and yet gentle in cuddling and playing with its pups. Its howl has deep expression, sometimes lonely, sometimes inviting.
3. Pick a body of water and describe it.
The Pacific Ocean, a motherly creator, bringing forth islands from the depths of itself. Sunbeams raining down upon it, it is the color of a sky blue crayola crayon. Rhythmic waves seemingly a gentle lullaby interrupted every now and then with a burst of white water that brings surprise and delight. Fine sand to dig your toes in.
OK....that's it for me. Have a great day, Abir! All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 05/08/03 - What causes us to be so quick to judge? Why don't we wait to see a positive picture in a situation rather than immediately leap to a negative conclusion? Or better yet, why don't we immediately see a positive picture even in a negative message? There is nearly always something positive in every situation, but it's rarely our first thought. Are we doomseekers? IamDyan answered on 05/09/03:Hi PW,
You've already received such a great list of reasons why are tendencies lean toward the negative. And also how we can move to prevent this.
Not wanting to just duplicate what has already been said, I would like to add these few thoughts.
I believe that humans have a deep seeded survival instinct that has been passed on through the generations. For that reason, I believe previously experienced negatives are retained so as to avoid previous mistakes that we may perceive as life threatening.
I also believe that our successes in life are very individualized, while failures tend to be more universal and easily shared. Unfortunately, for that reason, failures are more easily discussed.
And, finally, remember your cowboy post from a week or so back? Many items meant to be positive messages are worded in the negative. Thou Shalt not kill. The brain has a hard time computer the word "NOT" in this sentence; but the word kill is an action verb and easily computed by the brain.
So, I do not believe we are doomseekers, but rather survivalists. I also believe that, if we learn to depend on our intellect and spirit, we can overcome these items. For myself, it is always a conscious effort, but one that is worth it :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/06/03 - STRATEGIES AND CONTROL!
Strategies can be used to gain control of almost any situation. Being in control means nothing more than possessing the ability to compete. Many of us play mind games, browe beat, bully, tyrannize and torment to gain control of what we're after. Slaves were imported to the colonies at an annual rate of 2,500 which began in 1716. This exploitation helped our population jump to 13 million in 1750 and to 24 million by 1800 if the colonists considered the slaves to be people. Hundreds of English settlers were killed by some Yamassee Indians about 1715 in South Carolina. Even Blackbeard the pirate was knocked off in 1718. Since tyranny can include a cruel exercise of power, perhaps a contradiction is in order. Some people with half-baked brains also ache for control!
Any nominations?
HANK
IamDyan answered on 05/07/03:How about Fidel Castro and the ACLU? | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 05/06/03 - Success and Spirituality Once I read that English is the only language that has a word for success. I think about it and what a burden to carry around all one's life. Are you a success? By what criteria? HOw do I measure up?
Really, in America an English speaking culture, success is measured by how much money a man has, the quality of his job, the quality of his posessions. A woman by the quality of man she marries, etc.
What are better ways to view ourselves?
IamDyan answered on 05/06/03:Hi Chou,
An interesting question...
Of course, it's important to be able to live comfortably...not to have to worry where your next meal is coming from, and whether you have a place to sleep tonight. But I think once the basic survival needs are met, we are free to explore more important ways to measure success.
I think a few ways I like to measure my success are these:
Are my parents pleased with the person I've become? Is God pleased? Is my husband pleased? Is my daughter pleased? Are there people happy to be called my friend?
Is someone better off (happier, more knowledgable, etc.) because I was in contact with them today?
Have I learned something new today?
Am I taking steps to set new goals and achieve them? And am I making progress?
Just some thoughts....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 05/05/03 - Generalities Given that we seem to have quite a few of them, what do you make of this statement: "All generalizations are folse"? IamDyan answered on 05/06/03:Hi Rich,
Generalizations are often based on prejudices and precious few real experiences. Of course, this is just generally speaking.
Yet generalizations are often a place to start when we have no information on an opinion presented and need a place to begin our thinking and the formulation of an educated opinion.
I am much more apt to lend credence to a generalization when it comes from a source I put stock in.
For example, if your opinion, as a teacher, told me that all students copy their homework from the internet, I might lend a 60% accuracy factor to your opinion.....over, say, someone not in the teaching profession, where I might consider the accuracy factor somewhere around 25%.
But I would feel additional research would be needed, before I agreed, in general that this was true.
And then, even after having agreed it was true, I would have to keep an open mind, that there ARE students out there who DO NOT copy their homework from the internet....and make those individual assessments.
Rambling on.....Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/05/03 - MATURITY!
"Most people fail in life because they major in minor things." -- Anthony Robbins
Interpretation?
IamDyan answered on 05/06/03:Hi Hank,
Failing in life is somewhat based upon what goals we have set for ourselves to begin with.
For some, goals are humble, but if we excel in the achievement of humble goals, I do not believe it was a failed life.....I only believe it was exactly what we set out to do.
There are many daily obstacles that often take our sight from the real goals we have set for ourselves in life: work pressures, social pressures, monetary pressures.
I am reminded of a biblical story about Mary and Martha. When Jesus visited their home, it was Mary who chose to sit with Jesus and hear his words and teachings, while Martha complained that there was housework to be done. I have often brought this story to mind when I was tempted to blow off a day visiting friends and family because my house wasn't "just so." Because it is family that truly matters to me.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 05/05/03 - Prayers and Good Thoughts Needed Thank you guys for being my cyber-pal and understanding my "eccentric" personality! I would like your good thoughts as I face a most difficult time in my life. I am going to be evaluated by a social worker to determine how much assistance I need from a disabled person's home assistant and then, placement by the end of the year in a nursing home if I can't be stabilized. My mental condition has been deteriorating, and I have trouble taking care of my physical problems, cooking and housework. Also, I am having trouble managing my personal affairs, and trouble walking. A nursing home that my sister-in-law mentioned(her sister is a resident)sounds ideal for me....computers are allowed in the rooms.
In a way, I'm sick about coming to this end, yet really hope I can have some fun times ahead.
Regards, Chou
IamDyan answered on 05/06/03:Hi Chou,
Keep an open mind, ask lots of questions, and always do what feels right in your heart.....you have a good heart, and it's not likely to lead you in the wrong direction. Although most social workers are kind hearted....there are some who have a huge caseload and in a hurry to place people without ensuring there is a perfect match.
Make sure whatever the situation you choose, allows Nick (a lot of them will allow pets.) Make sure that it also has lots of windows that open up and offer a grand view to nature. Make sure your living area is large enough to accomodate your precious books, and the other momentos you hold dear. Make sure it is also close enough for it to be convenient for your family to visit, even during the week.
See who offers services like a beauty salon and transportation to doctor's appointments, or whatever else might be important to you. Also, ask them what sort of programs you could be set up for and what medicare will pay for...like physical therapy, to help keep you walking. Interview the physical therapist and ask them what program they recommend.
One thing I would suggest....in any resident care you are considering, visit there a couple times. Don't let them know you are coming. Just walk in as if you are visiting. Go both on a weekday and during the weekend. Sit down in the common area. And get an idea of how things go at mealtimes, the kind of interaction you will have with other residents, and with the caregivers. Take a peek into some of the resident rooms and see how well things are cared for. Ask for references as well....and call them.
I have seen a lot of good places around here when we looked for the right rehab for Grandpop....and I saw a few bad ones too.
The area Grandpop was in was wonderful....lots of room for his personal items, great therapy, they brought dogs in every day to visit all the residents, they had a wonderful menu, they had engaging activities.
I am sure that you have quite a lot more years to come. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 05/02/03 - Are You Too Serious? Just a simple question. Our lives are so short all things considered, why be TOO serious? Specially all of us that are over 50. Can you experience the incredible lightness of being? Coments...... IamDyan answered on 05/02/03:Hi Chou,
Count me in the 'too serious' category most of the time.
I have a tendency to take on a lot of responsibility...at work, at home, with family, socially. And it seems that there is always more to be done. I am an avid schedule and list maker. Sad to say, I am a geek when it comes to making lists and checking off completed items.
The good news...I am able to schedule 'incredible lightness of being' time on the week-ends! Tee Hee :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/02/03 - More ramblings (smile)
When beauty is abstracted
Then ugliness has been implied;
When good is abstracted
Then evil has been implied.
I was wondering if to experience paradise, or heaven, might be like that of the experience in Zen------that is, an experience without abstraction.
IamDyan answered on 05/02/03:Hi DC,
Perhaps I shouldn't answer here since I am not familiar with the study of Zen, but yet I find myself typing these words anyway :)
I imagine that heaven/paradise is a place where, stripped of our prejudices and pre-conceived ideas, we are freely able to see the purpose, goodness, and beauty in all creation.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/01/03 - In paradise or in heaven
I have found the idea of silence as used by adherents of Zen often difficult to fathom, in meaning, and would like to make a comparative analogy to heaven or paradise; tell me what you think.
In paradise or in heaven (I speak here only through report and not direct experience), discursive speech is unnecessary because everyone is already in the place he or she would desire to be. Therefore there is no reason to say anything to anyone; because again the only reason to say something to someone else is to advance both of you in the direction you desire. But in heaven, everyone is at the place of optimal desire. Heaven's inhabitants express themselves as a chorus all of whose members sing the same song, and sound a note that is repetitive, ritual and ceremonial -- in short a long endless amen or hallelujah. It is only in Heaven that speech is free and spontaneous, because it doesn't mean anything; it doesn't have to mean anything.
IamDyan answered on 05/02/03:Hi DC,
I think I can relate to what you are saying in some way.
I know I have a few very close friends where sometimes communication is just not necessary. We are content to have spent time being quiet, whether it be doing something we love, or nothing at all. And when that time is ended, there is still the feeling that we communicated.
Hubby and I can spend an evening sitting close, not saying but a few words, and still communicate.
Perhaps it is true that we had no reason to communicate with words to bring us to the same 'place.'
I am not sure this is a glimpse of Heaven, or not. But those times are comforting and wonderous.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/01/03 - STRATEGY!
"How doth the little crocodile
improve his shining tail,
and pour the waters of the Nile
on every golden scale?
"How cheerfully he seems to grin,
how neatly spreads his claws,
and welcomes little fishes in
with gently smiling jaws!"
- Lewis Carroll's "Alice's
Adventures In Wonderland"
Any big fish in your neighborhood?
HANK
IamDyan answered on 05/02/03:Hi Hank,
We have a few big fish like that nearby....but they seem to carefully avoid getting too close. I have crocodile hunter training :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Gguru asked on 04/30/03 - Spiritual?Here?This Board?! Being very disappointed about the quality of the reactions to my one and only very presentation of a illustrative meant to be quote,My question would be:
Where do you think our Spirit(s) wander,live,ARE:
Outside us;
Inside us;
Outside AND inside us.
And especially for some of the highest ranked amongst us:Do you believe in spirit(s)?(And why not?!)
If you believe in spirit(s),do you think that Spirit is totally independent from your Self or is one able to influence the spirit in a positive way?
Pleaase doont aanswer iif yyouvvent deeveloped aany ththoughts aabout ththis uuntil yyesterday.
Love!
Gguru IamDyan answered on 05/01/03:Hi Gguru,
In my own personal opinion, I believe my spirit lives both within and outside myself.
My spirit lives within to keep my body nourished, and to guide my mind and actions.
My spirit lives outside my body, to allow me to learn, express compassion, and understand others' point of reference. It is also what may cause me to make decisions that seem contrary to logic. Such things, as taking an alternate route home from work, only to find that I have avoided a tragic accident.
I believe there are spirits, separate from a physical self, that are around us. They are often here to guide us, strengthen us, teach a lesson, or bring a message.
I do not believe my spirit is independent from myself -- I believe it is an integral part of who I am. I do not feel the need to influence my spirit. Actually, I believe my spirit is a gift from God reminding me from where I came and that I will once again return to Him.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/29/03 - Landscapes of Wonder "Suppose, for eample, that a worried miser carries everywhere with him a bag of money, nervoisly guarding it, refusing to open it and spend any of it, and then someone cones and persuades him to open the bag to the light of day, revealing that it now holds nothing but chewed paper and a dead rat. No further debate is necessary-he sees and he lets go. Meditation works in a similar way, exposing out deepest beliefs to light and naturally causing us to let go of the false ones".
B. Nyanasobhand.
I find this quote interesting. Comments or not.. IamDyan answered on 04/30/03:If you love something, set it free.
If it comes back, it's yours.
If it does not come back,
it never was. | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/29/03 - Mindfulness in Plain English Today, this is the meditation from B.N. Gunaratana from the book "Daily Wisdom", a compilation of daily meditations from many Buddhist sources.
"There is no pleasure without some degree of pain.
There is no pain without some degree of pleasure."
I think of the letdown after a pleasurable holiday event--knowing that high spirits cannot be maintained. The pleasure of excelling at sports or scholarship, knowing that honors only temporarily elevate our pleasure.
Comments or not?
IamDyan answered on 04/30/03:Hi Chou,
Perhaps, even another way of looking at it is, things worth having, always involve some effort. While the effort, may not bring us much pleasure, the goal is the reward.
Just a thought, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 04/29/03 - Cowboys know the rules. :D) Just for fun... USA Today in its 3/10/03 edition had a large article on two Cowboy Churches in Texas. They printed the Cowboy's Ten Commandments posted on the wall at Cross Trails Church in Fairlie, Texas. It was too good not
to pass along to you.
Think if we all used these instead of the one with all the "shalt nots" in it, we could probably understand and live up to them a lot better!
(1) Just one God.
(2) Honor yer Ma & Pa.
(3) No telling tales or gossipin'.
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meeting.
(5) Put nothin' before God.
(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.
(7) No killin'.
(8) Watch yer mouth.
(9) Don't take what ain't yers.
(10)Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff
Guess cowboys just kinda tell it like it is!!!! Y'all have a good Day.
What do you think of this way of getting the message across?
IamDyan answered on 04/30/03:Hey PW,
Good message!
In fact, I think I like things when they're phrased positively, rather than negatively.
It is said that it is very difficult for the mind to focus on a negative thought as a goal. For example, focusing on bearing "not bearing false witness" the mind tends to focus on the words "bearing false witness" and has a hard time computing the word "not."
So, watch yer mouth, seems like an easier subliminal goal.
Sorry....this was just supposed to be fun :D
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/27/03 - Memories, like the corners of my mind..." What was the most memorable year of your life? I don't necessarily mean a calendar year. It can be any 12 consecutive months. I also don't necessarily mean a pleasant year or a successful year, unless that's what it was. I mean any 12-month period that you recall as being important to you for any reason. What is so memorable to you about that year?
~~~~~~~~~~
My response:
This is an easy one! My most memorable year was 2001. On March 11, I was completing Reiki I & II with a couple I had met who had just gotten married on 01/01/01. I had settled into being single for about 8 years, so I was really surprised to hear myself exclaim to them, "I want that!" when we talked about how in love they are. Eric said, "Then you shall have it! You just opened the door. Keep your awareness open. You are in for a BIG surprise in a very short time."
I made my weekly phone call to my mother later that Sunday, so on Monday morning when I felt a nudge to call Mom again, I said to myself, "Well, we already said everything we needed to talk about. Why would I want to call her now?" I followed the nudge and called Mom. She said, "Well, this is really something! I just got a message on my voice mail for you from someone a long time ago. Do you remember Bill?" I said "Yes, I most certainly do!" She asked, "Do you want his phone number?" I said, "Of course!"
I called Bill on March 12. On April 15 he flew me from Colorado to spend a week with him here in Florida. On Memorial Day Weekend, Bill flew out to Colorado, we rented a car and he moved me with all my 'worldly possessions' to live with him. We got married on 02/02/02 at 2:02 p.m. in Las Vegas!
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:I would say it was the year I was 15.
I had a life-threatening accident where I almost lost my arm and my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer.
I learned a lot that year....
About hope, strength, faith, prayer, friends and family. | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/27/03 - Judgment "Something" happens within our hearts when we begin to live our lives without judging ourselves or others, when we let go of blame and guilt, and when we love ourselves and the people around us unconditionally.
This "something" is often a sense of spiritual fulfillment and a memory of being joined with all that is alive and with that which created us. For many people this "something" is the memory of God.
~~ Gerald Jampolsky, M.D., Teach Only Love: The Twelve Principles of Attitudinal Healing
~~~~~~~~
What judgment have you had that you are ready to release today?
~~~~~~~~
My response:
I've judged my sisters and brothers as being incapable of expressing compassion towards me and, as a consequence, I have been ready to live my life withouth them after Mom transitions.
Now I recognize that these people (two brothers and three sisters) are in my life for a purpose: to show me how to define my relationship with them by instructing them how to communicate with me.
There is a lot of love in our family. We've been dysfunctional in our communication. I opened the door with my youngest sister on my last trip to NY when I spoke to her about how I had been hurt by her and I am feeling a communion with her. I feel more at ease with the rest of them too.
I think that when I keep in mind the third facet of any relationship as God (or God energy)like Bill and I defined at our wedding ceremony and what we use in our relationship, then we will be successful as family.
Thanks for reading my journaling. This is a pretty important step in my path.
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Bobbie,
I have learned that we all forgive at different times and different levels.
Grandpop's illness and then passing brought some family around that the rest of us haven't seen in years.
For myself, because Grandpop forgave them for past neglect and arguments, I was able to as well. For others, it is not so easy. Yet that does not make either of us right or wrong.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/27/03 - Who do you want to thank? [Years after we had met, a woman approached me in a public place.] A vague memory of [her] came to mind. She had shared some personal challenges. It was a rather brief meeting of only about fifteen to twenty minutes.
"I just wanted to thank you."
"For what?"
"For the success I am today." She went on to tell me that she was presently a successful industrial psychologist with a major corporation.
I was flabbergasted! "What did I do?"
She looked deep into my eyes, her face solemn, as though reliving that past interaction. Her words penetrated my soul: "You were real with me."
As I sat speechless, she turned and disappeared into the crowd like an angel who had just completed a mission.
~ Susan (Tooley) Bickly
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My response:
Is there someone in your life that knowingly (or unknowingly) became a mentor for you that you would like to thank? What did he/she do? How did they affect your life?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have a number of people that I would like to thank, but one that stands out for me today is Rich. He and I became teachers/mentors for each other when I facilitated Golden Moments for about four years. With Rich, I came to understand how it felt to have my angels in my life and to trust my intuition. I learned to trust my writing. I learned to let go of the linear thinking and to trust the creative part of my being. Through my friendship with Rich I learned that Yusef, my guardian angel, is always with me and that we do much of my spiritual learning while we are sleeping when our egos are at rest. With Yusef, I've learned where my judgments have held me back in the past and, I learn that even the labels I give to people and things are judgments that separate me from experiencing my good.
It's been a beautiful path filled with many teachers.
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Hi Bobbie,
I've had so many mentors along the way and most of them are still in my life and I've been able to thank, although, maybe never enough.
One that comes to mind upon reading your question was my very first boss....his name was Joe.
He believed in my potential when I was still young and without experience and gave me increasing responsibilities.
He spent time teaching me that business isn't always the same as what we learn in textbooks. And he taught me the life and work balance is critical, making sure I never stayed later than he did, as he headed home to his wife and two kids.
He taught me that perception is reality to most people. And the importance of putting yourself in someone else's shoes....seeing things from their point of view.
I was sorry when I left the company he owned to relocate. And I thanked him for all his positive influence.
Years later, I heard he had many problems, including the unexpected death of his wife, and I was never able to contact him other than by letter, which was never answered. And so, sometimes I wish that I could just pop in and let him know all the great things I still remember about him and hope that he is doing well.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/26/03 - Tomorrow is Saturday Imagine that you have no obligations or constraints of any kind other than the natural ones we all have (for example, 24 hours in a day, needing to travel to someplace different rather than just suddenly appearing there, and can't spend more than you have). All prior plans are cancelled. Partners, children, and friends will do something of their own unless you want them to be part of your activities. Young children will be taken care of. Pets will be taken care of. If you normally work on Saturdays, you've been given a paid day off.
Okay, now that you've cleared your life, what would you really like to do tomorrow, Saturday? You can do anything that's realistic. What would you most like to do? What would feed your heart and soul the most?
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:I would go to the beach.
The sun would be shining and the day would be warm.
Hubby Alan, Daughter Jenn and boyfriend Frank would be there.
We would have fishing poles and bait.
The fish would be biting strong, and there would be a perpetual incoming tide.
There would be seagulls and waves lapping for music.
The sand would be warm under my toes.
There would be fresh shark on the grill, which someone else other than me would be cooking and serving :)
There would be a glorious purple, pink, and orange sunset as I walked down the beach gathering tiny, colorful conch shells in the sand.
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/26/03 - What would you say? Imagine that the President of the U.S. (whoever that may be) or the leader of your country, if you aren't an American, comes to you and asks, "What's the most important thing you'd like me to do as President (or Prime Minister or whatever)?" What would you tell him or her?
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Hi Bobbie,
I would say to make our country less dependent on a global economy. Mind you, I am not saying restrict trade necessarily, but make it so that should it become our choice, we are capable of feeding, clothing, and providing all the necessities to our citizens within our own borders.
This may sound like a bizarre idea, when everyone is stressing more global economy, not less. But I see so many good paying jobs being moved off shore. I see so much of our food imported. So much of our clothing imported. And I wonder sometimes....
Just a thought, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/26/03 - What do you do to focus on the NOW? "Tomorrow is not promised, nor is today. So I choose to celebrate every day I'm alive by being present in it. Living in the moment means letting go of the past and not waiting for the future. It means living your life consciously, aware that each moment you breathe is a gift. Living in the moment brings you a sense of reverence for all of life's blessings."
~~ Oprah Winfrey
~~~~~~~~~~~
Is there a particular practice that you use to bring your focus out of the problems of the past or the uncertainty of the future to the present moment?
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Hi Bobbie,
For myself, it is a bit of meditation each day. I find that I rarely think of past problems, usually only good memories.
If I ever need to ever kick myself out of the "What if" of the past, I like to read one of my favorite poems....
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
--Robert Frost
And if I spend to much time worrying about the future, I have Stephen Covey's 7 Habits Book regarding the Circle of Concern vs. the Circle of Influence which is a great reminder...
http://www.breakoutofthebox.com/circle.htm
Also....I like to bring this thought to mind....It was one of Grandpop's favorites.
"Worriers spend a lot of time shoveling smoke."
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 04/26/03 - Finding values In the interests of guiding this board back to matters of spirituality (and away from current events, which, it seems to me, should be on the Breaking News board or elsewhere), I'd like to ask about the problem of guiding young people toward spiritual values. I think it's a given that, in our society at least, people are judged more by what they have than by what they do. Success equates with wealth. Although we condemn the extremes of avarice and blatant dishonesty, our ethics seem to decree that the end (i.e., successful achievement of material wealth) justifies the means. In education, this value system manifests itself in the emphasis upon a test score rather than on the value of learning. Even if the test score isn't acquired by cheating, it is what matters; learning is incidental and dispensable. How do we get young people to value learning and not just the score? How do we help young people to uphold values that offer no obvious tangible rewards in a society that, in practice, measures people by their net monetary worth? (And, please, don't get religion involved in this because there is ample evidence that many people have no trouble worshipping both God and Mammon.) IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Hi Rich,
I don't believe there are any simple answers to this question. The truth is, this problem didn't develop overnight, and so it can't be expected to be solved overnight either.
As with the solution to all complex problems, it begins with small pockets of concerned and mindful people doing their best in their own corners of the world to make a difference, leading by example.
Some things to think about....
Value, respect, and honor of the elderly. There are too many grandparents in nursing homes without family visitors. What are we teaching our kids about how to respect us when we reach old age?
Helping kids with their homework at night. Explaining how you make use of algebra now in daily life. Why it's important to understand what happens if a train leaves Chicago at 50 MPH and another train leaves from Baltimore.....etc, etc.
It's too bad that one income families these days are usually only because there's only one parent in the household. Learn to live on one income so a parent is there to make a home for the kids. And has un-harried time to teach values, share experiences, and listen.
Parents who can live in the moment...Not always planning for next week, or next month. But enjoying and learning and living.
Parents who go back to school to continue their education. Parents who attend PTA, chaparone field trips and school dances.
Schools can stop promoting kids from grade to grade when they aren't doing the work. How are kids graduating high school in the inner city, when they can only read and write at a 3rd grade level?
There are many things I learned in school. I was lucky to have many great teachers over the years who were intolerant of cheating and made learning fun. Some of them I am still in contact with today. But the most valuable things I learned at home.
Like the one time I cut school for the day and my principal called Mom to see how I was feeling. She genuinely was worried. Mom said, "I don't know how she's feeling right now. But I guarantee she'll be there to tell you about it tomorrow." Mom tracked me down at my friend's house and made me drive to school (holding me by the ear) to apologize to the principal for causing her worry. Principals and Principles like that are hard to forget :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/26/03 - What is your favorite book? What book do you read again and again? Why? If there isn't one, why not?
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/27/03:Hi Bobbie,
There's a few books that I have read twice....but over and over, not many.
I would say the Bible, and "Still Life with Woodpecker" by Tom Robbins.
Although they are not to be compared in any way to each other, both seem to offer new insights each time I read them.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 04/25/03 - What is a bigot What is a bigot and is it a good thing or bad thing to be a bigot?
Thanks in advance,
Harmonyhill IamDyan answered on 04/26/03:Hi HH,
Merriam Webster defines a bigot a person obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices.
Now if you remove the words obstinately and intolerantly from the definition, maybe it's not a bad thing. Because I think we are all see things through the tint of our opinions and prejudices, and that's just normal.
Yet, the words obstinately and intolerantly, is what makes the difference between a normal person and a bigot. To me that means, that even when presented with facts that would sway their opinion, they would remain unmoved.
Just some thoughts...
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/24/03 - Thanks for your prayers for Mom It's been 16 weeks since Mom first showed signs of being seriously ill. From the second week in February till about the first week in March Mom was in ICU in a hospital in NYC. She's been in a regular hospital room since then and tomorrow Mom will be transferred by ambulance to a rehabilitation center closer to her home.
Throughout all the challenges, this woman has (and continues)to show a spiritual strength we hope we all could do from her fine example. Keep in mind that Mom has had a tracheostomy and has not been trained how to speak through the hole in her throat. She communicates pretty well by mouthing out words. We don't always understand her and have learned that charades is probably not our game . She has come a long way from FULL assist to her breathing to partial when she is not physically strong enough to breathe on her own.
Recognize that three weeks ago, her physician who has been overseeing her care gave up on her (he only saw her twice and relied on his interns' judgment in his analysis for his decision) and requested that the family come together while he "pulled the plug", so to speak.
My sisters and brothers had several heated meetings with this doctor and demanded that he see her in person before making a judgment call like he was doing. He followed through and found a patient who is very aware of what is going on with her body and around her room. She is cognizant of conversations regarding her care and has even self-diagnosed a urinary tract infection, a bacterial infection, elevation and dropping in her while cell count, changes in her medications.
Actually, through Mom's insistance, my family demanded that she have another CATscan because Mom said that something was wrong. They dragged their feet, but finally did the scan and, subsequently drained TWO liters of fluid from her lungs! (she has been treated for congestive heart failure for years!)
Tomorrow, Mom is being released from this hospital to a rehab center closer to her home. We have been told that this rehab center does not refer to the people in their care as patients. Instead, they call them residents "because this is their home for as long as they are here." They are brought out of their rooms daily to interact with other residents and staff and PT and OT and Respiratory Therapy attends to them on a scheduled basis with the ultimate goal to see that Mom goes home.
My hat goes off to this woman. She is remarkable and I hold her in the highest esteem. Namaste' Mom! I love you sooooooo much!
Thank you all for your prayers. This is an interesting part of our family's journey together. There have been many spiritual "ahas" throughout.
Namaste'
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 04/25/03:Bobbie,
So glad that things are looking better. Your mom is a strong woman. She and your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 04/18/03 - Different beliefs. Easter & The Resurrection. Why do some find it so easy to believe that Jesus Christ walked the earth, died and came back, yet scoff and laugh at the suggestion that we all may come back eventually?
Working for a church allows me to see how greatly affected many people are by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Year after year in the Orthodox church, parishioners come to service at midnight so the entire resurrection can be re-enacted. With all parishioners carrying candles, they go outside with the Priest and 6 men carry the Epitaphio (decorated tomb of Jesus)around the entire building while prayers are repeated, in preparation of the resurrection. Several of the parishioners are crying through this process as it's so fraught with expectation, faith, hope, and unbrindled joy. These same people who don't go home until around 2 a.m. come back to service again at 10 a.m. This is true belief. Sometimes I wish I had that.
I seem to find it easier to believe we all may have a time to return, if we choose to do it. I don't say this couldn't be true and I honor Jesus with my gratitude and love, but I sometimes get annoyed at those who are so quick to decry my beliefs which aren't so rare either. There are other religions with completely different beliefs but based on the same principles, good people whom I feel have an equal chance to get to 'heaven.' It would seem easy to follow in the footsteps of family and society without question & many do, but it doesn't all ring true for me.
Do you think people truly believe? Do they act-as-if in hopes they will sometime believe? Do they just accept without question? What makes a loyal Christian? Or for that matter what makes a person loyal to any formal religion?
What are your reasons for believing? Disbelieving? How did you get your faith?
I'm thanking you in advance because I'd really like to know. Thanks. IamDyan answered on 04/19/03:Hi Loral,
I am never one to trivialize anyone's beliefs. And, since there are so many who believe in re-incarnation, I suppose it is entirely possible and feasible.
But re-incarnation is not something I hold as a belief personally.
I think the main reasons are because the faith I was raised in, does not hold this as a tenent. And, the Bible, does not make references to it, as it does to the rising and return of Christ.
Secondarily, I would like to think that after I am through the challenges of this life, Heaven, rather than another set of challenges will be my reward.
But, who knows? I may be off-base here. And maybe, I'll be back here again to re-learn the lessons of patience and living in the moment, I didn't pick up on this time around. If so, I hope I get the same loving family and friends.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 04/15/03 - What is it about “belief” "If you think you can or if you think you can't, you're right."
Belief - "They can because they think they can"-Virgil.
What is it about “belief” that makes it so powerful, such a force of energy?
We each, truly create the private world, in which we live; and it is through this thing we describe as “belief”.
IamDyan answered on 04/16/03:Hi DC,
Just as if we believe we can, we will....
If we believe we can't, we will not.
There are so many quotes citing this intangible truth throughout the ages, and so many examples I have seen in real life, that, although I see no feasible scientific fact to support this, I do BELIEVE it to be true.
I think, in part, it is due to a couple things.
First, our enthusiasm (or lack of it) is passed onto others we come in contact with. If it is a group effort, and the leaders or a vocal majority express positiveness about succeeding, this seems to work its way into everyone else's outlook.
Second, our positive (or negative) outlook causes us to focus on the likely future tasks that will present themselves to meet our goals. If we set our sights on the positive, we focus efforts on accomplishing our goals and tackle obstacles as they present themselves. If we set our sights on the negative, we focus on all possible obstacles that may come up and feel frustration and do little to move forward, feeling all is hopeless.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 04/14/03 - A tribute to Dan - add your own please Oh Dandy Dan
You're quite a handy man.
You know so much, and are so wise.
You've got the touch,with no disguise.
Oh Dandy Dan.
I never had a chance.
But Dan
We could still do the dance
Oh Man
The world spins when I read your name.
My life will never be the same.
Teach me more about the birds
outside your window
Teach me more about the world.
Make me laugh, cause it feels-
so good
Oh Dandy Dandy Dan
If only you would.
Come on to my house Dan,
I'll leave you the key.
I won't be home til late,
and I can hardly wait
to taste the brownies I know you
will bake for me.
Oh Dan my gull by the sea.
my heart is pounding for ye.
Your strength is a force
pulls me off my course.
Like a whirling, gusty, squall
Dandy Dan, hold my hand,
don't let me fall.
IamDyan answered on 04/15/03:He'd travel for miles
to help friends with snow.
He has lots of knowledge
'bout things I don't know.
A whiz in the kitchen,
and wildlife's friend.
His comfort, support,
and advice has no end.
Resourceful, quick-witted,
and helpful is Dan.
Not much he can't do,
but those things, Barbara can.
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| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 04/12/03 - "There is no need for religious 'revelation', - the created universe is sufficient proof Scientists say there is absolutely no physical proof that a creator God exists - although his magnificent creations exist all about us. (Nor is there any credible proof that the universe started with a big bang, or the universe is expanding for that matter.) Some scientists say there is no need for a omnipotent Creator - that the universe has always existed - without a beginning. I prefer, Lord Herbert of Cherbury's, the first Deist (1583 - 1648) philosophy. He said, "There is no need for religious 'revelation', - the created universe is sufficient proof of God's existence and that all men could arrive at a knowledge of God by the exercise of their natural reason (imagination)".
Life on the planet has been slowly evolving for over 3 billion years - but it is only about 40 thousand years ago that mankind finally evolved a brain capable of comprehending the nature of the universe. Some remarkable evidence of this “transformation of the Homo Sapiens species” is painted on the walls of caves in France and the beautiful tools and artifacts that can be dated to around this time. Human Imagination is the tool God used to reveal some of his glorious nature to life on this tiny planet in the vast cosmos. Christians believe the Holy Spirit guided the writers of the Bible through 'inspiration' - a form of human imagination.
Through human imagination coupled with an insatiable curiosity we are beginning to understand the true nature of the omnipotent Creator of the Universe and his works. Human Imagination has given mankind the power to have greater control over its own destiny. Who knows how far this control can go in the future. Ever since the onset of Human Imagination, when humans became creative - throughout its history - mankind has used this imaginative power to explain all the mysterious phenomena that it continually encountered and thoroughly puzzled it.
Before mankind became imaginative - humans did not have the capability to wonder or be curious about the mysteries that surrounded them. The human brain had not yet evolved the necessary cells and pathways to be capable of absract imagination. The Neandertals were extremely intelligent beings but were not capable of Human Imagination.
So say’s Donald Hamilton, but as always, I ask the experts, what say you?
IamDyan answered on 04/12/03:Hi DC,
I have to agree with what is written here.
Perhaps, it is because I have stopped feeling the need to justify everything I believe to someone else's satisfaction that slants my view. Maybe that means I have evolved, but maybe it just means I am getting old and set in my ways. (Boy! Either way, I wouldn't be good on the debate team anymore, huh?)
Not only do I see an infinite development in individual human beings, there is also many interesting phenomena is how they learn from each other and grow from each other, beyond what should be exponential. Since you and I together sharing ideas, brings more even than what you and I could do separately.
And that makes me know that things beyond what I have control of is coming together to meet some common purpose, that I am not yet aware of. And this, in my humble opinion, cannot be an accident, or some random occurrence of science.
Just some thoughts, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 04/11/03 - What the Coalition has uncovered so far about Iraq WMD program: 1. Weapons-grade plutonium. At the Al Tuwaitha nuclear complex, which Mohammed El Baradei's International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors declared free of unsecured nuclear materials late last year, an embedded journalist for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported on Thursday that Marine battalions had detected weapons-grade plutonium. Al Tuwaitha was an Iraqi government-controlled facility run by Saddam's Atomic Energy Commission. A maze of belowground hallways leading to labs and storage facilities underscored the lengths to which Saddam's scientists had gone in order to hide their clandestine activities. And not one or two buildings, but fourteen buildings had abnormally high radiation levels, according to the US 1st Marine Division's nuclear and intelligence experts unearthing the secrets. If it is confirmed that weapons-grade plutonium exists at Tuwaitha, those who gave Saddam either the reactor technology and chemicals to reprocess spent uranium or transferred weapons-grade plutonium directly to Iraq will have a lot to answer for.
2. Biological weapons. Fox News' embedded reporter, Rick Leventhal, downloaded incredible video of what may be the first of Saddam's bioweapons labs on wheels. He reported that in a U-Haul-sized truck disguised as a radar facility for mobile surface-to-air missiles, a false panel revealed electronic pulleys, winches, storage bins, and refrigerators which could easily be used to store biological-weapons stashes (refrigeration being the key identifier because you certainly don't need refrigerators to freeze the rocket launcher). Tests will determine definitively whether there are any biological residues or not. But when a truck is found at a construction site hidden amid other trucks and construction equipment, and then tries to high tail it out of camp before it gets found out and then shot out by alert U.S. Marines, it is a sure sign that someone powerful wanted to hide this truck, and maybe its sisters, at all cost.
3. Chemical warheads. The 1st Marine Division with the 101st Airborne reports the seizure of 20 medium-range rockets armed with sarin and mustard gas that were ready to fire — not stored away, not unassembled, but ready to fire. And the amounts of chemicals found in the warheads of the BM-21 missiles left no doubt about their intended use — to kill masses of Coalition troops. These were not trace amounts.
4. Al Qaeda links. In the north, Coalition troops found paperwork early in the campaign after bombing the Sargat camp that indisputably tied the terrorists of Ansar al-Islam, a terrorist outfit funded in part by Saddam's Mukhabarat intelligence directorate and in part by Iran's SAVAK intelligence services, to al Qaeda. Sargat was operated by Abu Musab al Zarqawi, a known close associate of Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan, and was residence to over 700 terrorists, about a fourth of whom trained in bin Laden's Afghani terror camps. Zarqawi and his henchmen are now believed to be hiding in Ansar camps just on the Iranian side of the border.
5. Terror toxins. The paper trail may only be the tip of the iceberg. Mobile-lab tests conducted on boots and running shoes found in the bombed Sargat camp showed meaningful traces of Ricin and botulinum toxins. Similar trace amounts of chemical agents allegedly found in soil samples were used to justify the Clinton administration's August 1998 decision to launch cruise missile attacks on Sudan's al-Shifa pharmaceutical plant. Traces of Ricin, it might be recalled, were found in terrorist hideouts in London and Paris, and then later in Barcelona and Milan, where Algerian terrorists tied to al Qaeda and answering to Zarqawi were readying retaliation strikes against Europe's civilian populations. Ingesting miniscule amounts of Ricin, which induces respiratory failure, can kill within 72 hours. There is no known cure.
6. Salman Pak. Media outlets and U.S. officials who once had responsibility for America's national security have long ridiculed claims that Saddam had any ties to the hijackers of September 11, or that his secular identity could ever commingle with radical Islamists like bin Laden. The paperwork and presence of recipe books to mix Ricin and other toxic nerve agents, as well as traces of the agents themselves, at the Sargat camp in northern Iraq lay to rest the Saddam-bin Laden commingling issue. So did the capture of Sudanese, Egyptian, Yemeni, Syrian, and other Arabs with ties to al Qaeda fighting along Saddam's Fedayeen kamikaze forces. But the hijackers were another matter — until this weekend, when Coalition forces destroyed the Salman Pak terror camp on Sunday morning. They found an airplane shell at the Salman Pak terror camps, just like former CIA Director James Woolsey and ex-Clinton aide Laurie Mylroie had postulated repeatedly since the mid-1990s there was. Interviews conducted by PBS's Frontline in June 2002 of Sabah Khodada, a captain in the Iraqi army, indicate that he personally witnessed men of Arab descent, mainly Yemeni, with long beards training in the hull of the 707 aircraft, and on trains and buses in the same fields specifically for hijacking missions using knives and other common utensils.
IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:Tom,
As always, you are more concise and detailed than CNN :)
Of course, there will always be those (likely film stars and country music singers) who might dispute that the U-Haul could have been for tailgating parties, and the rest of the stuff planted.
Frankly, I'm glad all this has been found while it was still idle.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 04/10/03 - Throwing a horse for imprinting Today when I was out at the farm, Carolyn told me I should come out to the barn before I leave to see the new baby horse that was born just after midnight last night. It is so cute! Anyway, she said she was going to throw it for imprinting soon, that it is best to do it within the first 24 hours.
I understand what imprinting is and why it is important for early imprinting, but what is throwing a horse for imprinting?
I looked for a board to post this on, like a farm board or a farm animal board but couldn't find one.
thanks,
HH IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:Hi HH,
Maybe your best bet is to ask Carolyn. I think her word "throwing" is likely a colloquialism.
Anyway, here's a list of sites where you can probably post your question to some experts in the area....
http://www.thejudgeschoice.com/sale_horses.htm
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/09/03 - Cut Free From the Illusions That Bind Us Some quotes:
"Corawds die many times before their deaths;
The valiant never taste of death but once." Julius C.
"real
eyes
don't
conceptual
lies"--Bernard Gunther
"..that is, when a man is capable of being in uncertainites, mysteries, doubts, without any irritable reaching after fact and reason." negative capability, John Keats
"Jazz in its purest form is just the mind connecting with itself.: Hoagy Carmichael
"Whever surrenderety his purpose to allah while doing good; he verily hath grasped the firm handhold. Unto Allah belongeth the sequel of all things." The Koran
"There is never a reason not to relax." Kedar Harris
"The thief left it there
There in the window frame--
The shining moon."
"It eill not be said, "Look here it is," or "Look, there it is." Rather, the father's kingdom is spread out upon the earth and people do not see it." Gospel of Thomas
"All men know the utility of useful things. Few men know the utility of futility." Chuang-Tzu
"You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your tale and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait. Do ot even wait, be quite still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choce, it will roll in ecstacy at your feet."
WOW-EEEEEEE (Kafka!)
Just for enjoyment! Comments welcome.
IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:Hi Chou,
Here's my favorite for today....
All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word:
freedom; justice; honor; duty; mercy; hope.
- Sir Winston Churchill | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/09/03 - Lewis Carroll--"Alice in Wonderland" "All right! said the [Cheshire] Cat, and this time it vanished quite slowly beginning with the end of the tail, and ending with the grin, which remained some time after the rest of it had gone."
Comments? IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:And this is an interesting obscure lesson lesson in the guise of a children's story...
After you say alright, your tail better get moving in gear way before you mouth :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/09/03 - Enlightenment is the Ego's Ultimate Disappointment -Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche.
That is because ego--the grasping, epecting aspect of mind--makes enlighenment the ultimate appointment. There's nothing unsatisfactiory about enlightemnent; it's ego that doesn't measure up, just as a six-year-old might be disappointed in his first opera. The good news is that this disappointment is the final stripping away of our ability to get caught up in appointments. This opera makes the kid grow up.
Then we stop spending our lives making appointments for some Godot or other to appear and fix what's not broken. After untold fruitless days of waiting for Godot (who, like free beer, is always coming tomorrow), Vladmir the tramp declares;
'We have kept our appointment and that's an end to that.
We are not saints, but we have kept our appointment.
How many people can boast as much?'
His companion Estragon replies, "Billions."
But you're free. In any instant, this instant you can make it billions minus one." Dean Sluyter
Comments? IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:Chou,
This makes me wonder how our ego was formed in the first place....
If as a six year old, we attend an opera and walk away with more appreciation of the opera than we had before the attendance.....who says our success be measured against someone who has been a leading opera critic for years?
Why do we consistently measure ourselves with the wrong ruler? Perhaps there is an interim measure we need to keep in mind. Have we grown?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/09/03 - DANCING NOWHERE "Gandhi said that no matter what we do, it will be completely unimportant, but it is vitally important that we do it. Absolutely, nothing matters; relatively, everything matters. The trick is to live both of those truths deeply, all the time. Life may be a dance that goes nowhere. but is doesn't need to go anywhere--here it is. And if we can dance impeccably, without missing a step, yet with joyful abandon, it's a good dance." Dean Sluyter
What do you think? IamDyan answered on 04/11/03:Hi Chou,
I believe both truths can be lived in tandem.
Try in everything as if it is vital.
When you succeed, your belief that it is vital should be strengthened, and you should continue.
When you fail, having done your best, realize that it is unimportant, and that something/someone/somewhere else has already compensated. And your efforts, although important, the desired results are no longer completely important. If they become important again, another opportunity will be presented to you.
Opportunities meant to succeed are never presented without the neccessary resources.
Just my thoughts...Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 04/06/03 - ready for a spring storm? I'm sorry for all you who live in southern Michigan. I just heard that tonight and tomorrow you may be in for up to 10 inches of snow! The mean weather man says we may get 3 to 6 but if we are lucky it will all be sleet and rain (we are right in the line where it may be rain or snow, but those north of us won't be so lucky). I want to put my winter clothes away!
10 inches of snow on Sunday night, then near 70 degrees by Wednesday! Why? Maybe I heard the whole thing wrong? Maybe I just dreamed it? IamDyan answered on 04/06/03:Hi HH,
Hang in there....I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it is just rain. They are calling for a bit of snow north of us as well. This year, I have just taken a wait and see approach....it can't be wrose than the 2 feet we got :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/05/03 - My 3-Part Answer 1. Father
The most important lesson from Dad: I learned how important it is for me to express my love for others and to make sure they hear it. Dad found it difficult to express his feelings until the end of his life. In our last conversation, he said, "You know, Bobbie, I'm not going to survive this." I responded, "Well, I think I know that Dad. You know, there is only one thing I ever wanted throughout my life and that was to hear you say "I love you". You and I have worked hard on our relationship and I DO feel loved by you." He closed by saying, "I do love you with all my heart."
It was valuable because I learned that it is important for the loved ones in my life to feel and hear that they are loved by me.
2. Mother
The most important lesson from Mom: Ah, the lessons are many and the greatest is what we are currently learning from Mom. Her spiritual strength and her ability to bounce back from it are awesome! The doctors gave up hope on her earlier this week, suggesting that her children get together for Mom to make the decision to be taken off life support. Here is a snippet of what my sister sent in an email yesterday about Mom the day after my sister and brother had the conversation with the doctor outside her room:
Mom had a great day yesterday. She stood up for the first time (since 2/12) with physical therapy. This morning she said to me (mouthing the words)"Yesterday was Wednesday April 2nd, it was a good day for me". I said "it sure was mom and today is going to be even better". Last night she initiated wanting to do her PT exercises with me and when we were done she continued to do them all again by herself that was at midnight. She also asked me to sit her up on the side of the bed which I did with the help of the aide and then she said she wanted to walk over to the chair. I told her that was great, but that she would have to wait for PT to train her for that. I didnt want to take the risk of doing it and having her fall and break a hip. What motivation she is showing.
It is valuable to me because I know that whenever I need to feel strengthened, all I need to do is turn within. Meditation and prayer is so very important.
3. Learned Friend/Acquaintance: An old minister friend, Dr. Lester Bashara, who transitioned several years ago. I expressed how angry I was at someone close to me and asked (with the innocence of a child*), "Is it okay to be angry?" He said, "Of course, Bobbie dear, but dont stay in your anger. You need to work through it and, if necessary, milk it for all its worth. Then release it and let it go."
It was valuable to me because one of the misconceptions I held onto was that "good girls dont get angry" and I had a lot of anger built up inside for many years. I am learning to express myself in the moment and release it. (I put that in the present tense because this life-long learned behavior seems to be the most difficult to work through and so it is ongoing).
*I have since participated in and staffed the Inner Child Journey weekend workshop (1993-1997) which is a retreat that is sponsored by my old church. Through many experiential exercises, I exorcized many of the misunderstandings that I held onto. It had been a wonderful experience.
IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Bobbie,
Great news about your Mom! Sounds like she's showing off a bit (reciting the date for you) and that's a GREAT sign! Grandpop does that too...
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/04/03 - Valuable Lessons (3-Part Question) Whats the most valuable thing you ever learned from your father?
What makes it so valuable to you?
Whats something valuable that you learned from your mother? What
makes it so valuable to you?
Whats something valuable that you learned from someone you've known
personally other than your parents? What makes it so valuable to you?
Blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Hi Bobbie,
Great questions!
From my dad...
Evaluate an argument before you start it.
This has always had a great effect on my life avoiding conflicts that are really not worth having...learn to just shake off ignorant offhand comments, consider the source, etc.
From my mom...
Family's important.
All through my childhood, we spent time with family....even those several hours away. Every other week-end at grandparents...5-6 times a year for cousins, aunts and uncles. There was no question about whether we got together at holidays. I am still visiting with a family now of over 100, and although we don't get together as much as we would like, it's incredible the amount of people who would do anything for me...and me for them.
From my husband...
Patience. I'm still learning this lesson :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 04/04/03 - Suppressing the ego To the question asked about what advice we would give if we met our younger selves, part of my answer was that I would tell myself to focus less on my own ego. Someone suggested that I might ask a question about what people do to keep their egos in check. So here it is: What do you do to keep from focusing on yourself too much? I don't mean what you do to deflate your ego but rather what steps you take to keep your perspective broader and your mind more open. It's good to be introspective, but what do you do to remain aware that the world doesn't revolve around you? (It doesn't, you know.) IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:What do you mean the world doesn't revolve around me????
OK....just kidding :)
My workplace is very diversified, so that helps a lot. We have people from many countries and religions and are always sharing thoughts.
Here's some things I like to keep in mind.
When I am disagreeing with someone on an issue, I always first try to quantify what the differences in our opinion are.
If it means only a slight change in anything effecting either of us, I let it go;
if it means a moderate change in anything that effects us, I try to put myself in their position/see things from their perspective;
if it means large change in anything effecting either of us, I discuss/debate it.
Some other things I like to do to keep a even keel perspective:
visit nursing homes
volunteer at politician's offices
church community
watch BBC
Good question!
Just some thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 04/04/03 - "DARE TO BE USELESS" I was thumbing through my very favorite book of all time on Spirituality "The Zen Commandments" by Dean Sluyter.
One of the chapter headings was the above statement in the title of my question.
Did those words send a chill up the spine of all you Americans? lol The first time I read the book, those words really caught my attention.
What is your reaction to these words? IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Hi Chou,
I think perhaps when I read the above statement, it makes me clarify what is truly "useless."
I learned growing up that quiet time for yourself, just doing something you enjoy is important, NOT useless.
I also have learned that holding grudges is useless; pointing fingers without having a better solution to propose is useless; trying to change others is useless.
So, I am hopeful that if I were to read this book, it would be in agreement with my thoughts. Otherwise, I would lose the book :)
All the Best, Dyan
PS-Hope you don't get any snow! | | Question/Answer | | keenu asked on 04/03/03 - Souvenirs of My Heart
Whispers of love
as gentle as a breeze
caress my heart.
Memories of the softness of my babies' skin
and the light of love in their eyes
fill me with longing.
Other memories may fade away
but these will always stay,
the souvenirs of my heart.
IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Hi keenu....
Beautiful verse!
Another whisper of love...
....the picture of Dad's smile as we danced at my wedding to "Daddy's Little Girl."
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | mitz54 asked on 04/03/03 - Just touching base Hello all my old friends,
I hope all is well with everyone here.I have just now gotton a home,a nice little townhouse.We have been homeless for two months and I appreciate all the prayers and thoughts that helped us through this difficult time.I hope to be more active again on line and I will now be able to start answering me email.
Thanks again for all the blessings.
Much love...Michele IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Hi Michele,
I am SO glad to hear that things are looking up for you and the kids! Hopefully, these past two months haven't been all bad, although I know it would be a big adjustment for us to move in with family, even on a temporary situation.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/03/03 - What would you say? This question is partly inspired by the Bruce Willis movie "The Kid" when Bruce (the adult) witnessed his younger self and communicated with him.
Imagine that you, the adult you currently are, could go back and talk to you, your child self at whatever age you choose. What would the adult you say to your child self?
Blessings,
Bobbie
P.S. I would talk to my 10-year-old self and remind her that this would be an adventurous life filled with much joy and many sorrows, but, in the scope of it all, it is all about healing misperceptions and experiencing the many facets of what it is to be God-expressed. IamDyan answered on 04/05/03:Hi Bobbie,
I would tell my young teen self ...
Never Settle for what you consider second best.
Take advantage of your education.
Don't be in such a hurry. You will be an adult before you know it.
Spend more time with your family.
Don't let arguments with your friends destroy a friendship.
No matter what happens, there are ALWAYS options....you need only stop and think clearly through it.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/02/03 - What do you know for sure? This question is one that was frequently asked in celebrity interviews by Gene Siskel, the late film critic. It is a powerful question to live in, not just to find a one-time answer for.
Just for this moment in time, how would you answer the above question?
The thing I know for sure is that nothing, that is no thing, remains the same. As someone said, "the only constant is change."
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/02/03:I am loved! | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/01/03 - What would you do? If there were absolutely no barriers
If you knew you couldn't fail
If money were no object
If you were certain that none of the things you fear would happen...
What would you do? [Not what would you accomplish; what actions would you take?]
Name as many as you'd like (at least 3 please).
Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 04/02/03:Hi Bobbie,
I like to think that I always have no barriers, so for me, there are actions everyday, and they change as I check them off.
My most urgent goal these days is for my Grandfather to regain health and get back home....
And the actions are:
To make sure someone from the family is there for his daily meals to be sure he eats.
To contact the nurse, therapist and social worker everyday to check on progress and remind them of our short schedule.
To interview caregivers for when he gets home.
Check with me next week....Hopefully, these are checked off and I've moved on to something different.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 04/01/03 - Love Thy Enemy... The key question is, "How can we keep our loving centers in the midst of chaos, confusion, and even insanity?" How do we work passionately for peace, for example, without hating our "enemy"? ... I may not respect or support someone's actions; I may oppose and in some instances even put my life on the line to stop him or her, yet I will not (if I can help it) allow my opposition to anyone's behavior interfere with my relationship to his or her soul.
I always try to remember that there is pain, suffering, and confusion within each of us. I have no doubt that if I knew other people's entire stories, regardless of their positions on certain aspects of life, I would have compassion and understanding for their predicaments and their choices.
Author: John Robbins
----------------
Comments? IamDyan answered on 04/02/03:Hello Bobbie,
In my personal opinion, I think this is why philosophers, spiritual leaders, and dreamers are very infrequently heads of state. In fact, they are usually a separate party meant to express alternate points of view for consideration.
I imagine it might make my head hurt if I had to put myself into everyone's position throughout the world before making any decision.
But to answer your question....
For myself, separating the action from the person is feasible at times for me. I find it is often in understanding their motivation that makes this easier. I have learned this in raising a child. There have been acts that have made me angry and/or humiliated, but never ashamed of my daughter.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/31/03 - immediate experience of the Heart In the context of the history of thought, Sufism can be seen to have functioned at times as a positive and healthy reaction to the overly rational activity of the philosophers and theologians.
For the Sufis, the road to spiritual knowledge - to Certainty - could never be confined to the process of rational or purely intellectual activity, it required the direct, immediate experience of the Heart. Truth, they believe, can be sought and found only with one's entire being; nor were they satisfied merely to know this Truth. They insisted on a total identification with it.
The material world we represent with words, a rock is a rock, because we have given it that name. Had we called a rock by a different name, say fruit, then that is what it would be. I say this just to point out what we call reality, is reality because we call it reality.
I wonder what it might be like to only experience life in a non-reprehensive way, that is, with-out thinking consciously about what surrounds us, but just experience it.
Isn’t the world we live in alive. Picture us in the Universe, we are these little objects clinging to the surface of one of many planets which is moving in two directions simultaneously. But aren’t we surrounded by other living objects. We communicate with each other, but isn’t there also communication between us and other life as well? I believe there is, and the more we can do away with the representation given by words, the more we are able to commune with Nature.
Any Comments?
IamDyan answered on 03/31/03:Hello DC,
The world we live in is indeed alive.
Especially, during Spring there are daily reminders...flowers and trees budding; notice how when you drive there are always two birds flying across the road at a time, rather than one; the grass is green, not brown.
I think to experience life in a non-reprehensive way (to use your terminolgy) one has to only spend a bit of quiet time in Nature, especially during Spring.
For me, I can often do this in the quiet morning, watching the sun rise with the mist ever so lightly lifting, while the birds feed and busily gather for their nests, and my neighbors are just beginning to stir.
As much as I enjoy communing with Nature, I believe also there are lessons in communing with others. As there are recent times for me...like recently a group of people praying for my Grandfather halfway across the world at one time...and then seeing a sudden spark in his appetite and a gleam in his eye and his looking suddenly ten years younger....This was not a coincidence, I am sure.
Happy Spring DC!
Look around you, and enjoy :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/29/03 - Do you know anything about numerology? For the past three nights I have waken, briefly [just long enough to look at the clock], to see that it was 3:33 a.m. For a number of months, I had waken 3-4 times in the night... Recently, it's only that one time and it's precisely the same time... 3:33 a.m.
Other than knowing that º" is a number that would symbolize the triune, I am not sure and would appreciate your input.
With Bill's health and my mother's health and all the challenges of sibling communication, I HAVE been out of sorts and I feel that I am being prompted into spiritual lessons with my angel friends.
Thanks in advance for your input.
Love and Blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 03/29/03:Hello Bobbie,
I am not a numerology expert, in any way. I have always believed 3 to be a "lucky" number for some reason.
But anyway, here's what this site has to say.
www.decoz.com/ numerology_tutor_seeing-repeating-numbers.htm
33, 33.6, 33/33, etc.
The number 33, in the context of repeating numbers, represents generosity, the act of giving. You have something to give, but you are holding on. The thing you have to offer is not material. It is knowledge, faith, wisdom, love, or one of the many other qualities of the heart and mind. Look around you. Look inside. What is it that you have to offer. Because something is asking you to surrender to the act of giving. And your happiness depends on it.
Perhaps with all that is going on right now, this is somewaht meaningful and true. You will have to jusdge for yourself. But I think the exploration is worthwhile.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 03/29/03 - Can you Chose your favorite Bible or Koran verse? Will you share it?
IamDyan answered on 03/29/03:Hi Chou,
This has always been my favorite :)
Matthew 10:24-33
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore, you are of more value than many sparrows.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/29/03 - Does marriage prevent personal growth? The Prophet, Spiritualist, Philosopher and poet Kahlil Gibran gives this interview on his beliefs of marriage. What do you think he's saying and how do you feel about it?
When Almitra spoke again and said, "And what of Marriage, master?"
And he answered saying:
You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore.
You shall be together when white wings of death scatter your days.
Aye, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God.
But let there be spaces in your togetherness,
And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.
Love one another but make not a bond of love:
Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.
Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup.
Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf.
Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone,
Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.
Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping.
For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.
And stand together, yet not too near together:
For the pillars of the temple stand apart,
And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.
IamDyan answered on 03/29/03:Hi PW,
I can remember my parents and my Uncle Jack giving us similar advice the weeks before Alan and I were married. The words were not filled with the same imagery, but yet the underlying message was the same.
If you do not allow yourselves to grow individually, you eventually have nothing new, nothing that sparks interest and excitement, to return to the relationship.
If you do not allow yourself the opportunity to follow your dreams and interests, when perhaps your spouse does not have the same interests, you grow resentful, and the relationship is what suffers.
Perhaps after 20+ years, we may be doing something right.
Alan likes Nascar. Personally, I would rather have my fingernails pulled out than attend a race, but I do go occasionally. He's nice enough to understand I'd rather not go too often. I do enjoy watching his excitement and listening to his animated explanations to me, but usually I prefer to just enjoy how excited and animated he is after going with his friends.
Alan feels the same way about attending the symphony. And he listens for hours when I get home explaining how the visiting conductor was able to bring out the soul of the music.
Marriage should be a free sharing, a free giving. Marriage should not be stifling, it should be a growth experience, but a growing together.
Perhaps the oak tree and the cypress cannot grow in each other's shadow, but if each is allowed enough sun, they still prefer to grow tall together.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/26/03 - How about everyone adding a favorite prayer? I really like this one. I didn't write it but it's what I feel.
Dear God,
I am grateful for simple things:
good friends,
a pleasant meal,
the softness of a kitten,
warm spring days,
a loving hug,
and the sweet song of birds in the tree outside my window.
In all I say and do today,
let me live the simple truth of Your love for all people.
Thank You!
Amen.
(The Prayer for Today is copyright (c) 2003 by Richard L. Beattie.) IamDyan answered on 03/28/03:Hi Loral,
Here's another prayer I just came across that does help in my ever-ongoing quest for patience....Thought I'd share it, Dyan
Heavenly Father,
Help us remember that the idiot who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with her children.
Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester.
Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum, begging for money in the ame spot every day (who really ought to get a job!) is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares.
Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress is savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together.
Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. It is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us judge not lest we be judged, and quick to forgive, show patience, empathy and love.
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/28/03 - HOW TO STAY YOUNG HOW TO STAY YOUNG
(George Carlin)
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. " An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take,
but by the moments that take our breath away.
If you don't send this to at least 8 people.... who cares? IamDyan answered on 03/28/03:Hi Bobbie,
Great reminders....
and a bit of sarcasm included!!
I especially like #9 :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/26/03 - How about everyone adding a favorite prayer? I really like this one. I didn't write it but it's what I feel.
Dear God,
I am grateful for simple things:
good friends,
a pleasant meal,
the softness of a kitten,
warm spring days,
a loving hug,
and the sweet song of birds in the tree outside my window.
In all I say and do today,
let me live the simple truth of Your love for all people.
Thank You!
Amen.
(The Prayer for Today is copyright (c) 2003 by Richard L. Beattie.) IamDyan answered on 03/27/03:Hi PW,
This is one of my favorite prayers when I'm not just speaking what's on my mind.
I think it speaks of humbleness and yet at the same time confidence that prayers are heard and answered. It reminds me of the all the miracles performed and attributed to Mary based on those who only asked with all their hearts. All the Best, Dyan
Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known
that any one who fled to thy protection,
implored thy help or sought thy intercession,
was left unaided.
Inspired with this confidence,
I fly unto thee,
O Virgin of virgins my Mother;
to thee do I come,
before thee I stand,
sinful and sorrowful;
O Mother of they Word Incarnate,
despise not my petitions,
but in thy clemency hear and answer me.
Amen.
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/25/03 - Humanitarian Efforts I sent the following to the ministers in the online mailing list I have belonged to for years. I thought some of you might be interested in it, too:
Wanting to participate in contributions towards a better life in Iraq, I researched organizations that provide humanitarian efforts to assist the Iraqi people. As I might have expected, this went into hours of viewing web pages. I narrowed my search to the composite of organizations below my signature block. Other than the brief capsule I have provided below, I know little about each organization or their needs. The reader will need to assess these organizations for him/herself.
Sincerely,
Bobbie Moore* [see bio below]
Action Against Hunger: http://www.aah-usa.org/
Action Against Hunger Prepares for Potential Humanitarian Crisis In the Middle East
As an internationally recognized leader in the fight against malnutrition, Action Against Hunger responds in most emergency situations by establishing therapeutic feeding centers and ensuring access to vital water supplies. We respond when and where there is need -- whether through our on-the-ground emergency relief programs, or via our efforts to address the longer-term determinants of food and water security.
Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA International): http://www.adra.org/
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has a matching grant opportunity with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for Child Survival programs.
ADRA’s successful track record in establishing and implementing child survival programs, and the demonstrated, committed support of private donors enables the agency to apply and qualify for matching grant funds.
Air Serv International: http://www.airserv.org/
AIR SERV SET FOR IRAQ HUMANITARIAN FLIGHTS
Jordan and Kuwait Bases Established; Flights from Turkey Being Negotiated
Warrenton, Va -- Air Serv International is now poised to fly into Iraq from Jordan and Kuwait to provide aviation, logistical, and communications support to the humanitarian community.
Air Serv, a member of the InterAction Iraq Working Group, has made a commitment to provide these services to non-governmental organizations (NGO), if a humanitarian response is required following military conflict in the region.
American Friends Service Committee: http://www.afsc.org/
Clean drinking water is a major concern in any disaster area and Iraq already faces a grave situation.
The scarcity of water in desert areas and pollution in urban water supplies make dehydration and water-born diseases as dangerous as falling bombs.
AFSC is drilling emergency wells and setting up water treatment equipment and portable water tanks in key areas.
American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee: http://www.jdc.org/
JDC is collecting funds to assist victims of the Iraqi conflict, many of whom will be forced to flee their homes to neighboring countries. Up to two million people are expected to be dislocated. JDC will carry out an immediate emergency response, after which we anticipate joining with our partners in a longer-term reconstruction effort. To donate now...
American Jewish World Service: http://www.ajws.org/
American Jewish World Service is collecting funds to assist in humanitarian relief efforts for civilians affected by the armed conflict in Iraq. AJWS will be partnering with other international relief organizations in a non-profit effort to provide this emergency relief.
American Red Cross: www.redcross.org/
Humanitarian Operation Underway in Conflict Zone
The American Red Cross is working with its partners in the Red Cross Movement to bring emergency relief to thousands of displaced residents in Iraq and refugees in bordering countries.
American Refugee Committee: www.archq.org/
Minneapolis, March 17, 2003 -- As the possibility of a war in Iraq increases, the American Refugee Committee (ARC) is preparing its humanitarian response. As one of the world's most experienced organizations in caring for refugees, ARC is extremely concerned about Iraq's innocent war victims.
AmeriCares Foundation: www.americares.org/
An AmeriCares relief team arrived in Turkey on Saturday to assess the developing humanitarian situation in the region. The team will meet with AmeriCares partners, the Turkish Ministry of Health (MOH), The Red Crescent (TRC) and the International Blue Crescent (IBC) to determine medical and general relief supply needs.
An AmeriCares air shipment of medical equipment, medicines, nutritionals, antibiotics, electrolytes, clothing and water carriers has already arrived in Istanbul for distribution by TRC. An additional shipment of blankets and a New Emergency Health Kit arrives today from AmeriCares' Amsterdam warehouse for TRC. A New Emergency Health Kit (NEHK) contains enough pharmaceuticals and medical equipment to support the health care needs of 10,000 people for a three month period.
Brother's Brother Foundation: http://www.brothersbrother.org/
BBF, a 46-year old Pittsburgh based international charity, has provided more than 70,000 tons of medical supplies, textbooks, food, seeds, and other humanitarian supplies to people around the world in over 110 countries using a combination of gifts from the general public, corporations and the US government. In 2002 BBF provided over $160,000,000 of relief help to those in need in Argentina, El Salvador, The Philippines, Nicaragua, Poland, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Cuba, and the United States.
CARE: http://www.care.org/
ATLANTA (March 19, 2003) - With the onset of intense military action in Iraq, CARE is deeply concerned about the potential for civilian casualties and a looming public health disaster due to possible damage to water and sanitation systems. CARE is the only major international non-governmental organization that has worked continuously in the center and south of Iraq since 1991 and will use its expertise in the country to fulfill critical needs of the Iraqi people for water, food and health care.
The United Nations has estimated that more than 3 million women and children will be in immediate need of food. If infrastructure -- especially electricity -- is targeted, the country's already decrepit water and sanitation facilities will fail. This collapse, combined with the poor health of millions of Iraq's children, could result in the outbreak of diseases in epidemic proportions. The average Iraqi child under 5 years old suffers 14 episodes of diarrhea a year. Diarrhea and malnutrition contribute to 70 percent of child deaths.
Catholic Relief Services: www.catholicrelief.org/
CRS is prepared to help Iraqi refugees and displaced persons as the need arises. The agency has been working with local partners in Iraq, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan for months to prepare assistance in the event of war.
Christian Reformed World Relief Committee: www.crwrc.org/
CRWRC has made connections to truck food, hygiene items, and other emergency aid into Iraq with Christian organizations like the Mennonite Central Committee, Food for the Hungry International, World Concern, and Dorcas Aid. Efforts like these require the cooperation of surrounding countries such as Cyprus, Kuwait, Jordan, and Amman, some of which act as staging areas to prepare for the consequences of war.
Church World Service: www.churchworldservice.org/
Church World Service and its ecumenical and other NGO partners on the scene in the Middle East continue to prepare for the projected humanitarian response needs being incurred in Iraq. As of this morning (U.S. Eastern Standard Time, 3/21), the CWS Emergency Response Team in the U.S. and in Amman, Jordan, reports: As part of the coalition All Our Children fundraising campaign, one shipment of hygiene supplies for hospitals gained entrance into Iraq. Other shipments are waiting just outside Iraq for permission to enter the country.
Counterpart International: www.counterpart.org/
Counterpart's long history of working to develop civil society and promote self-sufficiency in local communities has strongly influenced our humanitarian relief efforts. Counterpart bridges the gap between emergency help and long-term development by delivering material assistance and implementing projects focused on helping communities help themselves long after the foreign aid departs.
Direct Relief International: www.directrelief.org/
Direct Relief International is preparing to respond to humanitarian medical needs in Iraq. On Friday, March 21, 2003, Direct Relief provided 120 pounds of medical materials that were requested for use in the Ru Washeid refugee camp in Jordan. The camp currently houses 400 Iraqi nationals who have crossed the border. The materials will be hand delivered to the camp by private medical professionals traveling to Jordan on behalf of Relief International, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization. The materials, valued at over $13,000, are those recommended by the World Health Organization for use in emergencies, and include a range of basic antibiotics, analgesic, and first-aid items.
Food for the Hungry: www.fhi.net/
FHI has already helped nearly 700 refugees who are fleeing hostilities in Iraq.
FHI has sent cash and personnel to a Jordanian "transit camp" for refugees who lived and worked in Iraq, but who are not citizens of either Iraq or Jordan. These people are called third-country nationals (TCNs).
International Catholic Migration Committee: www.icmc.net/docs/en
The International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) works with refugees, internally displaced people and forced migrants, and gives priority to the most vulnerable and marginalized among these groups. ICMC responds to immediate needs and, at the same time, works for more durable solutions. These include: return to and re-integration in home countries; local integration in places to which uprooted people have fled; resettlement in a third country.
International Medical Corps: http://www.imc-la.com/about.html
International Medical Corps is a global humanitarian nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering through health care training and relief and development programs. Established in 1984 by volunteer United States doctors and nurses, IMC is a private, voluntary, nonpolitical, nonsectarian organization. Its mission is to improve the quality of life through health interventions and related activities that build local capacity in areas worldwide where few organizations dare to serve. By offering training and health care to local populations and medical assistance to people at highest risk, and with the flexibility to respond rapidly to emergency situations, IMC rehabilitates devastated health care systems and helps bring them back to self-reliance.
International Orthodox Christian Charities: www.iocc.org/
Baltimore (IOCC) — With diplomatic efforts to peacefully disarm Iraq coming to an end, staff members of International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) are being dispatched to the Middle East to coordinate an Orthodox Christian response to assist the victims of a war in Iraq.
IOCC, the official humanitarian aid agency of Orthodox Christians, is planning a three-pronged response to the current crisis: distribution of "survival packs" to migrant workers fleeing Iraq; provision of medical assistance to ill or disabled refugees in Jordan; and distribution of humanitarian relief supplies within Iraq with IOCC's local church partners.
International Rescue Committee: www.theIRC.org
Five emergency response teams are poised to begin relief efforts for displaced populations in Iraq and bordering countries. Each team includes a coordinator and specialists in water and sanitation, primary health care, logistics and child protection.
Initial emergency interventions will focus on lifesaving activities-supplying potable water, constructing latrines, providing basic health care, distributing emergency supplies and caring for vulnerable children. UNICEF has designated the IRC as a lead agency in assistance for separated and traumatized children in Iraq.
The IRC's emergency response is being mobilized out of its regional hub in Amman, Jordan. Staff in Turkey, Kuwait and Iran are also coordinating emergency interventions, determining access routes and procuring and positioning supplies.
Life For Relief & Development: www.lifeusa.org/
Since its inception, Life has offered global services and assistance to hundreds of thousands of needy individuals. We endow millions of dollars worth of much needed medicines, food, computers, schools and training annually to those in areas deprived of a socio-economic infrastructure. We generate and sustain that infrastructure. Moreover, our charity builds and maintains water treatment plants so that pure and nourishing waters can be supplied while providing a sanitary environment necessary for healthy human existence. Life is also involved in refurbishing and renovating many schools and rehabilitation centers all around the world.
Lutheran World Relief: www.lwr.org/
Baltimore, March 21, 2003 -- Lutheran World Relief's Iraq aid, underway for months, is ready to help people who flee their homes, is already helping sick children and is strengthening aid management.
Iraqi church aid workers are on the job and report that life "is still going on" and that people have not moved to shelters yet. But 52 local church shelters and supply depots are now ready in four Iraqi cities. The refuges - offering a place to sleep, water and food - are located in neighborhood churches and also in some local mosques.
Mercy Corps: www.mercycorps.org/
Mercy Corps staff in and around Iraq are closely monitoring humanitarian conditions in the region and are positioning relief supplies in anticipation of growing humanitarian needs.
Staff in the region report that security conditions in many parts of Iraq remain unstable and too dangerous for humanitarian workers to operate.
"We'll bring in emergency aid, namely food, water, shelter items and medicine," said Mercy Corps Information Officer Cassandra Nelson in Kuwait. "We're basically waiting for the environment to secure."
Northwest Medical Teams: www.nwmedicalteams.org/
Bas Vanderzalm, president of Northwest Medical Teams, will meet with U.S. Secretary Of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and other senior defense officials this week at The Pentagon. Vanderzalm is among a select group of relief agency executives invited to meet with Secretary Rumsfeld in a special conference that focuses on delivery and distribution of medical care, food, clean water and shelter for homeless people in Iraq. Access and transportation issues for humanitarian aid work in Iraq will also be discussed.
Operation USA: www.opusa.org/
Operation USA is coordinating an emergency medical supply airlift to restock Iraqi hospitals. In partnership with other international relief agencies, Operation USA has medical supplies ready to be airlifted to Iraq. These supplies can be viewed at the Operation USA warehouse in Wilmington, CA by calling 1-323-658-8876, contacting Naomi Wyles.
The airlift is intended to fly supplies to Baghdad but will use Amman, Jordan as a backup in the event the Baghdad Airport is not functional. Supplies would then be trucked to Baghdad and other points inside Iraq for distribution by partner relief agencies as soon as they regain access to the country.
Oxfam America www.oxfam.org/
Over the past three months, Oxfam has made preparations for potential refugees, ensuring that essential services and supplies are ready for people fleeing conflict. One of the greatest killers of people thrown into chaos and flight is the lack of clean water and sanitation. Children, expecting mothers, and old people are especially vulnerable to diarrhea and water-borne diseases.
In addition to field staff positioned in countries bordering Iraq, a regional team is based in Jordan which will be able to travel to areas within the region where humanitarian needs are greatest. Specialist staff
who are able to travel to Iraq at short notice are on stand-by.
Oxfam has sent enough water equipment, including water storage tanks, pumps, pipes and latrine slabs, for 10,000 people in a camp in Jordan. It is also helping UNICEF build another camp for 10,000 in Syria. Additional water and sanitation equipment are ready to be flown out and, if necessary, work will be scaled up to respond to the needs of 20,000 people in both Syria and Jordan.
Relief International: http://www.ri.org/
As the situation in Iraq continues to escalate in severity, Relief International has already begun to dedicate resources to the region in order to provide emergency support.
Plans are currently underway to send teams to the Jordanian-Iraqi border to help establish a refugee camp expected to hold 10,000 to 20,000 displaced Iraqis. Relief International members will be providing emergency medical care, as well as planning logistics for water, sanitation, and the movement and distribution of supplies.
In addition, Relief International has prepared its own staff as well as the staff of other relief organizations for the possibility of unconventional weapons warfare. Mark Stinson, a volunteer emergency medical doctor with Relief International hosted a training session in Amman, Jordan at the beginning of March.
Save the Children: www.savethechildren.org/
Save the Children joins all Americans and those around the world in hoping for the safety of all those involved in this conflict. As a leading humanitarian agency, we are grateful to the hundreds of our staff members in the Middle East who will continue to work to protect and sustain the well-being of the many children directly affected by these events, as well as the thousands of Save the Children staff and volunteers who work each and every day to bring lasting, positive change to children in need both in the United States and around the world.
Stop Hunger Now: www.stophungernow.com/
Established in 1998, Stop Hunger Now is a charitable, non-profit international relief organization that coordinates the distribution of food and other life-saving aid to crisis areas across the globe. Since its inception, Stop Hunger Now has provided more than $18 million worth of aid to people in over 45 countries worldwide. Working with its network of organizations, Stop Hunger Now is becoming an international leader in humanitarian relief.
USA for UNHCR: www.usaforunhcr.org/
UNHCR has an initial planning figure of 600,000 possible Iraqi refugees, but donor support so far has been insufficient to meet these needs.
In late 2002, UNHCR began shifting spare relief supplies from the Balkans and Afghanistan for possible use in the Iraq region. Using donors’ contributions and funds borrowed from other UN accounts, the agency began purchasing relief items for its stockpiles in the Iraq region and fielding additional staff to assist regional states.
To help Iraq’s neighbours cope with the arrival of new Iraqi refugees, the UN refugee agency has signed a landmark agreement with the International Federation of the Red Cross/Red Crescent. UNHCR's national offices throughout the region are also working closely with the national Red Crescent societies and non-governmental organisations to help them better meet the needs of any Iraqis fleeing the war.
US Fund for UNICEF: http://www.unicefusa.org/
Just before the start of the current conflict in Iraq, the United Nations evacuated its international staff from the country — but UNICEF is still working there with its remaining staff of about 160 Iraqi nationals. UNICEF and its partners inside Iraq will continue their programs for children as long as security permits. They are also receiving support from UNICEF offices set up elsewhere in the region.
To be prepared for war, UNICEF has been pre-positioning relief supplies in Iraq and surrounding countries. These supplies include emergency health kits, vaccines, nutritional supplements, educational supplies, water storage units, water purification tablets, hygiene items, blankets, and shelter material.
World Relief: www.wr.org/
BALTIMORE, March 19, 2003- There are an estimated 60,000 third country nationals (TCNs)—most of whom are Egyptian—and a smaller number of Iraqi refugees expected to enter Jordan in the event of an American-led offensive in Iraq.
To deal with this looming crisis, World Relief has facilitated a partnership with several other faith-based relief and development agencies to mobilize and equip Jordanian churches to deliver aid to suffering TCNs and refugees.
For nearly 60 years, World Relief has worked with local churches to create sustainable solutions that help the desperately poor. Operating in more than 20 countries and 26 cities in the U.S., World Relief’s programs include disaster relief, refugee assistance, AIDS ministries, urban ministries, community health, agricultural development, and community banking.
World Vision: www.wvi.org/
World Vision International is a Christian relief and development organisation working for the well being of all people, especially children. Through emergency relief, education, health care, economic development and promotion of justice, World Vision helps communities help themselves.
Established in 1950 to care for orphans in Asia, World Vision has grown to embrace the larger issues of community development and advocacy for the poor in its mission to help children and their families build sustainable futures.
Working on six continents, World Vision is one of the largest Christian relief and development organisations in the world.
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[Bobbie Moore is a freelance Internet Research Specialist and Administrative Assistant. She has more than 25 years experience with administrative clerical support including, but not limited to desktop publishing, and proposal/report/presentation preparation. For four years, Bobbie managed an Internet venture that encompassed web page design, email communication, and facilitation of chat room discussions to 500+ people from all 50 United States and Germany, Ukraine, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
IamDyan answered on 03/26/03:Hi Bobbie,
Thanks so much for the info and all the time and effort you put into gathering it.
I am glad to see two of the listings here are organizations we contribute to as a family yearly.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/25/03 - Mass prayer energy for healing. Prayer works. It's been shown repeatedly that when a large number of people gather to pray at the same time, the molecules in the air actually change. Perhaps if we all try to do this at the same time, we can bring about a positive result in our war crisis.
It's been suggested that we all put aside whatever we're doing at 9 p.m. eastern time, each night and pray for our Military people, and for a quick ending to this misery, with positive and lasting results for the good of all concerned.
I'm going to do it and I hope you'll all join me.
Blessings,
Loral IamDyan answered on 03/26/03:Hi Loral,
That's a great idea!
I know I have seen many results that group prayer has brought about. The most amazing one to me was as a teen, in a serious accident, my church prayed each week over the healing of my arm. The doctors were shocked first that the re-attachement surgery was successful, and then later that I regained full use of my hand.
I continue to be amazed by Grandpop's health improvement with prayers from all here in tandem with our church community.
Let us pray that our military men and women feel God's strength and comfort and the loving thoughts of those they are protecting.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/24/03 - Teaching and Learning You cannot teach a man anything;
you can only help him find it
within himself.
~Galileo Galilei~
---------------------------------------------
I think this quote pretty much indicates the difference between Religion and Spirituality. Uncovering our sense of our spiritual nature is much like growing through things like grief. It's an intensely private and personal matter. What's your perception on this?
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 03/25/03:Hi Bobbie,
I think this shows is a frank comment on the fact that no one is willing or will learn a lesson until they are prepared to use it in their life.
This is God's lesson on the industry term "Just In Time."
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/24/03 - Do you keep a journal? This is interesting:
In earlier generations it was common to keep a diary or personal journal. Today few people do it, and very few recognize the value and astonishing power of keeping a journal. If you can read and write, you have access to the most amazing source of personal power and magic! Try it for 30 days and watch it dramatically alter your life! Clients periodically tell me they couldn't possibly find the time. I ask them to try it for 30 days. Then clients often tell me they couldn't possibly live without the power of their journals. The following are my top ten reasons to keep a journal.
1. A journal will clarify your goals.
As you write a few thoughts each day, your ideas about what is important, what is worthy of your life and your time will become much clearer. You'll automatically discover what you really want in life.
2. A journal will simplify your life.
Spending as little as 10 minutes with pen and paper describing your values, noting your achievements and giving thanks for the joys of life, will make you less tolerant of life's distractions. Things become much simpler when you write them down.
3. A journal will strengthen your relationships.
It will give you time and the words to express your feelings, it will help you understand and be patient with your loved one's peccadilloes, and it will teach you to love more powerfully.
4. A journal will make you more attractive.
Socrates said, "Know thyself." Keeping a journal will help you know yourself and express yourself more clearly, and that is amazingly attractive!
5. A journal will empower you.
Thinking with pen and paper forces you to eliminate fuzzy or confusing images and "laser" in on precisely the right word, the most powerful image to express yourself. Keeping a journal will make you a better communicator, and that can make you rich!
6. A journal will eliminate temptation.
Some ideas sound great in our imagination, but when written on paper they just aren't the same! It's easy to blurt out "I hate my job!", but writing about what it means to quit, change careers and start over will quickly result in one of two things: The temptation will go away, or you'll start generating actual plans to make your life better. Either way, you win!
7. A journal affirms the reality of your life.
Writing about life adds meaning and power. Journal your child's first steps or first tooth, starting school, her first date and high school graduation adds substance to these things. A friend of mine just became a grandfather for the first time and gave his son, the proud father, a fat 3-ring binder of notes he'd written as he'd watched his baby boy grow 25 years ago. Together they cried and laughed at the reality that life is a sacred, wonderful thing.
8. A journal helps you be quiet.
Journaling has been called a form of meditation. It has a similar power to quiet the mind and focus your thoughts. It even has the power to turn off the TV! It can heal anxiety, change your breathing and make you smile. What more could you ask?
9. A journal helps you speak out.
Many of my articles, letters to the local paper, and letters to friends began as notes in my journal. A journal helps ideas become words, and it provides a nursery for words to grow into sentences and paragraphs, until finally they need a stage on which to express themselves. Sometimes that "stage" is a candle-lit dinner, other times it's a protest sign or a letter to an old friend. Whatever form it takes, many of those messages would never have been born without the safety of a journal in which to grow.
10. Finally, a journal just feels good!
Using quality paper and a fountain pen or other a beautiful instrument with just the right "heft" and feel is a wonderfully sensuous, delightful experience. It will cheer you up, reduce your stress, make you smile and add to your life. Who knows, it may even improve your sex life or make you more patient with the kids! (Well, it could!)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Submitter
This piece was originally submitted by Philip E. Humbert, PhD, who writes a popular FREE weekly newsletter called TIP's, with several thousand readers. To subscribe and get your own free copy (and check out lots of other free stuff, including a motivational screensaver), visit his website at: http://www.philiphumbert.com, Dr Humbert is a Psychologist, author, speaker and Professional Coach, who can be reached at Coach@philiphumbert.com
~~~~~~~~~
In light of what Dyan posted earlier about keeping promises to ourselves, I found this item about keeping a journal. I have often started one and have never been consistent with it. Do you keep a journal? Do you have suggestions on how I might be consistent with this? This inquiring mind really wants to know! :)
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 03/25/03:Hi Bobbie,
I do have a journal and I find I record in it most frequently when I am struggling to work through something. That something could be a personal, work, or family struggle. And I always make it a habit before I begin recording to read back over my previous entries. Oddly enough, they are often inspiring and helpful.
Keeping a journal has never been a daily routing per-se, and that is OK with me. I think my journaling meets my needs at present.
I am a list person though. I have a book for work and a book for home. Each includes goals and action items and I check them off, and take great pride in doing so.
If you are interested in keeping a journal and interested in a method to get you structured, you might try Sarah Ban Breathnach's Simple Abundance. This book offers daily inspirations and reflections especially geared toward a woman's point of view.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 03/22/03 - Love Can Build A Bridge I'd gladly walk across the desert
with no shoes upon my feet
To share with you the last bite
of bread I had to eat
I would swim out to save you
In your sea of broken dreams
When all your hopes are sinking
Let me show you what love means
Chorus:
Love can build a bridge
Between your heart and mine
Love can build a bridge
Don't you think it's time (2x)
I would whisper love so loudly
Every heart would understand
That love and only love
Can join the tribes of man
I would give my heart's desires
So that you might see
The first step is to realize
That it all begins with you and me
Chorus
When we stand together
It's our finest hour
We can do anything, anything
If we keep believing in the power
Love can build a bridge
Between your heart and mine
Love can build a bridge
Don't you think it's time
Don't you think it's time.
~~~~~
Artist : Judds, The
Song : Love Can Build A Bridge
~~~~~~~~
It's been a rough several weeks and Bill and I are in about the 5th day of recuperating from a cold virus we got while traveling on the road. When coming back from NYC (and our visit with my mother in ICU at Sloan Kettering) to our Florida home I was sleeping in the car and this song, which is one of my absolute favorites, repeated in my mind as a mantra. Along with the song and the heartfelt emotions the words bring to me, came an idea that I would much rather be an instrument of humanitarian changes rather than demonstrate against this war. There is - has been - and will continue to be a need for food, clothing, housing, and so much more as this country rebuilds. I would love to be an instrument of God's love and peace.
Among the ideas that came to mind was the wonderful network we all have through our cyber network. I thought we could get a committee together to get permission to use the title and words to the above song as a premise for a positive change and put the Judds in touch with people like Marianne Williamson and James Twyman and Oprah Winfrey (among others) and develop a huge humanitarian effort as good (AND GREATER THAN) the American Red Cross.
I have my notes out in our car and we just got home. After a few days rest, I would love to have an email exchange with individuals who are interested in seeing what we, as a global society, can do for our "family" in the Middle East. Please forward this message to anyone you think might be interested in participating and/or exchanging ideas to get this thing "on the road".
I may not have agreed to this idea of war initially, but I DO support the intentions which have been conveyed by our administration to free these oppressed people from this regime and I support our troups that are overseas.
Love and Blessings,
Bobbie Moore
P.S. If you are interested in pursuing this, please contact me privately. I'll give you my email address and we can dialogue through emails. IamDyan answered on 03/23/03:Hi Bobbie,
So glad you are back from the trip and recovering from the flu. You, your family, and Mom are in my prayers.
I think your idea is an admirable one. I would be willing to help (as I can, with all that is going on here.) Please let me know.
You may also want to consider visiting this site for more info in supporting our troops.
This site has information on how to send emails of support to our troops as well as contributing to "home-made goodie packages" from home.
www.uso.org
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 03/23/03 - Anybody can become angry - Anybody can become angry - that is easy; but to be angry with the right person, and to the right degree, and at the right time, and for the right purpose, and in the right way - that is not within everybody's power and is not easy.
---Aristotle
What do some here think of this quote?
IamDyan answered on 03/23/03:Hi Joy,
Hope you are doing well and have those rose bushes all trimmed up so they are ready to sprout up now that Spring is here :)
I like this quote. To me it speaks of a few times when I have avoided addressing a situation that made me angry....only to later really pounce with avengance on a trivial thing, which shouldn't have upset me at all.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Anonymous asked on 03/22/03 - Ill, need prayers I am quite ill today from depression and diabetes,etc. I had a visit from my ex-husband that really upset my delicate stability. I am going to need some time and diversion to enable me to continue on. IamDyan answered on 03/23/03:Hang in there!
You are in my thoughts and prayers :)
I will look for some fun diversions to lift your spirits!!
All the Best, Dyan | Anonymous rated this answer
|
| | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 03/20/03 - Please pray with me Peace be unto you.
I have posted a prayer on the Religion board that I would like to share with you. I tried to post it here too but the new duplicate question eliminator that Vijay has implemented prevented me from doing that.
Please take the time to view it and respond by clicking on this link.
Regards,
Abir IamDyan answered on 03/20/03:Hi Abir,
A wonderful prayer!
I share many of these thoughts as well.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 03/18/03 - we all say a prayer
we all say a prayerWell less than 24 hours to go. I would like to propose we all say a prayer
Young Warriors;
Should fate find you on the battlefield,
May your cause be a just one.
May your courage not falter.
May you show mercy to your enemies.
May your efforts bring the blessings of peace.
May you be triumphant and earn victory.
May your sacrifice be always appreciated.
May you endure the conflict unharmed.
Should you be harmed,
May your wounds heal.
Should you perish in the struggle,
May God embrace you and find a
Place for you in his Kingdom.
by Scott A.Tackett Sr.
IamDyan answered on 03/19/03:Thank you DC!
Wonderful words, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 03/18/03 - Dear Spirituality Pals with Cats Hi,
Cats are very "spiritual" animals; however, I am having a problem with Nick, my cat companion. For the past two nights he has been trying to push my water glass off onto the floor, running track over me in the dead of night, going behind the books on my bookshelves and pushing them off from behind, well, generally not letting me get any rest at all!! I believe this is just the final step in his adjustment to our new home. *fingers crossed* Anyway, I'm having trouble staying awake at the computer much less keeping my fake nice personality going on no sleep! LOL Can I ask for some prayers for Nick? IamDyan answered on 03/19/03:Hi Chou,
Prayers for Nick it is! In fact, Too Late has been saying lots of prayers for him already.
Too Late says that pushing books off the shelves is a good sign that he is getting used to feeling on control :) And we all know who is control around our houses, don't we?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/13/03 - forgiveness can you willingly give to others Bent on destroying everything and anything related to you, someone destroys your home and possessions, and viciously slaughters and murders all of your loved ones. Do you offer him your forgiveness or deny it?
How much forgiveness can you willingly give to others based upon what they’ve done or regardless of what they’ve done? Limitless or Limited?
Forgiveness: Do you think it’s important or not important? Why?
IamDyan answered on 03/15/03:Hi DC,
Nice to see you :)
I've missed seeing you here.
Hope all is well with you.
This is an interesting question and I imagine it is hard to say definitively what I would do unless I was faced with the situation.
I am quite sure I would not pro-actively seek this person out to make my forgiveness known to them.
I know for me, I am the type of person who does not hold onto anger. I am more the type to explode/cry/yell at first....let it out...and then move on. Moving on, would not necessarily mean forgetting what happened though. But I do realize that people can change.
So in this case you've cited here, I would be angry first. I would begin to rebuild my life while taking every precaution to not allow this person access to do the same awful things to me again. However, if over time, this person made many changes in themselves that demonstrated trust, I would reconsider my opinion of them.
I have seen many people who hold onto grudges and anger for years. And they are typically very unhappy people, with little hope.
Just my thoughts....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 03/11/03 - The future *"Newsflash!
Jerusalem press.
The Future.
Anti-war demonstrators are protesting as the Prince of Peace gathers an army at Armageddon for an impending bloody war. Pundits think the war is all God’s idea.
Critics are decrying His 3,000-year rush to war and refusal to allow the United Nations more time to inspect Lucifer’s army. Inspectors have found no evidence of any foul play on Satan’s part.
Surprisingly, the Prince of Peace in a press release said that the World War II vets by his side had done far more for world peace than the peaceniks, and together they would show them how it’s done." *my local newspaper
******
Since it seems we are headed for war, has it become difficult to think of a future? I just can't seem to come up with any strong motivation to make long term plans in my life.
How many nuclear powers are there in the world today? How many biological and chemical weapons exist? If all the big bad evil bad guys go to war against each other and all these weapons of mass desturction are unleashed, what is the point of making any kinds of plans for a future on a personal individual level?
What will really be left over after all the fighting stops?
Thanks,
HH IamDyan answered on 03/12/03:Hi HH,
For myself, I am still planning my future.
I find I never spend much time concentrating on things that are out of my control. I can only make a difference by focusing on what is within my control.
I only watch enough news to make sure I am am to date, but rarely focus on all the 'doom and gloom' that's out there.
What will be left if there is a nuclear war in the near future? Just my thoughts on it...But I imagine, since the 1000 year reign foretold in the Bible seems not to have occurred yet, there will be something left.
I am not sure if you read the Bible at all, but it may lift your spirits to read the Book of Revelation. There are many promises there.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 03/09/03 - Stealing bread. There is an age-old philosophy question regarding stealing bread. It is wrong to steal, it is wrong to starve, so is it alright to steal bread when you are starving? In some states you can steal $200 worth of stuff and it is regarded as "petty larceny," a misdemeanor, a crime hardly worth bothering about for the police. However, this is still stealing, is it not?
In a previous question I brought forth what a judge said about people with strong moral character, in that their views should not be forced on the rest of the people. In other words, those with WEAK or NO morals are not bound by what people of strong moral character think or do. Well, people of strong moral character write laws, and get them voted them in. That is how our Constitution came to be. I know that there is a difference between stealing a loaf of bread and a million dollars as far as impact is concerned, but why do we have to allow people of weak or no morals to tell us that it is ok for them to steal, or do whatever wrong that they want to do? Are we going to be a nation of people with weak or no morals? That is what the judge will allow us to become.
Comments? (And PLEASE leave religion out of this, as it is muddled enough. Thanks, Dan)
IamDyan answered on 03/09/03:Dan,
An interesting question....
Frankly, I do believe there should be a different process for handling those that have stolen a loaf of bread vs. $1M. Perhaps my viewpoint is practical, in that the courts do not have the manpower or time to prioritize and hear all cases equally.
Personally, I think that if someone else sees no other way to avoid starvation, they will do what needs to be done. There are lots of options available, other than stealing, and most take advantage of the avenues open to them.
Perhaps, in this hypothetical case, if I wanted to see my tax dollars increase and be spent one way or the other, I would think that the larger question to address might be....why are there so many people starving that they would result to stealing?
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 03/08/03 - Patriotism. Is it important? We Americans are assailed from without, and also from within. Here is a quote from Judge Stephen Reinhardt, a federal judge in Washington State:
"Those with strong moral or religious convictions...are not free to force their views, their religious convictions, or their philosophies on all of the members of the democratic society."
What do you think of this statement? That is the question for the board.
Background on this may be seen at the URL shown below:
www.wepledge.com/purpose.asp
I highly reccommend reading this before or after answering this question, so please do.
Thanks, Dan IamDyan answered on 03/08/03:Hi Dan,
I am very disturbed by this and am already working with local representatives here against this initiative, and others like it.
The sad thing is, is that if moral, spiritual, and religious people are not moved to get involved, we will find our country run by people who base all their decisions on whether it will offend someone, anyone, rather than whether it is the correct decision.
I was young when Madeline O'Hare effectively banned prayer in schools and many did not get involved because, frankly, at the time, they thought she would never be successful.
But most people today should be able to see the way initiatives such as this one are leading our country down the wrong path. It seems that the law (along with help from the ACLU) are effectively trying to ensure that anyone who has thoughts concerning God or morality are effectively prevented from speaking freely and forced to water down their ideals in order to be successful in reaching their audience.
Whatever happened to people's freedom to choose not to listen? There are all sorts of opinions I find horrendous that reach me daily by media, but I can choose to listen or read them at will, or not to support it.
Frankly, in my opinion, if someone speaks of God, and it offends you, get up, walk away, move to another country more to your liking....but to allow you to be able to censor what someone else is able to say??? I don't think that's the right answer for our country.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/07/03 - In this prose by Rumi, what is he referring to? "There is a force within that gives you life--
Seek that.
In your body there lies a priceless jewel-
Seek that.
Oh, wandering Sufi,
if you are in search of the greatest treasure,
don't look outside,
Look within, and seek That."
--Jalaluddin Rumi
And how do we find it? IamDyan answered on 03/07/03:Hi PW,
I believe it is our spirit or soul that Rumi is referring to. I think there are many people who spend so much time searching for answers from friends, family, etc, when if they listened to that inner voice we all have, they would not only find the answers, but also 'know' the answers were correct.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/06/03 - FAILURE!
"Most people fail in life because they major in minor things." -- Anthony Robbins
* According to Webster, failure means "to reject as deficient." Let's go with that!
IamDyan answered on 03/07/03:Good quote Hank!
Always focusing on details without seeing how they are effecting the big picture is a common reason for failure in a lot of things.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 03/06/03 - Is there really an end to winter? Sorry, but this weather is driving me crazy! I've gone ahead with planting a couple trays of seeds anyway.
I can't take it anymore. If we have ONE more snow storm, I'm going to go kick the weather man in the shin and beat on him with my fists.
Thanks to him, we are having one of the worst winters on record, it ranks up there in the top 6 or 7 and even one more storm will put it up in the top 5. Before it is over, unless someone does something, it could rank as the worst winter on record! We've already had nearly sixty (60) inches of snow and nearly sixty ((60) (or more by now)) days of below freezing temps.
What happened to global warming?
This is the second day in a row now I'm stuck at home because of snow storms! The robins have come back, but where is the better weather? I put up a new bird house and nesting material out there for the poor things yesterday.
So now I'm feeding the squirrels, raccoons and now, until the weather man falls in line, I will be feeding and housing the birds too! They've all run out of food, food that is above the snow line anyway......
I can't promise that I will be a good girl if the weather dosen't get better real soon.
HH IamDyan answered on 03/07/03:HH,
I can relate. We had sleet today after two days of rain. God is testing our patience here in the form of basement flooding while our arms are still trembling from shoveling 25 inches of snow.
Warm cyber Carribean breezes your way...
Umbrella drinks served while you sit on a sunny beach...
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | tomder55 asked on 03/05/03 - Health News that you'll like
Health News that you'll enjoyChocolate is a veggie.
It's good for you. Prevention magazine's latest issue confirms that chocolate(especially Dark Chocolate [Dove Bars were found with the highest concentrations ]) is full of flavonoids which thin the blood, un-sticking the platelets, thereby helping you avoid a stroke or heart attack.It also contains very high amounts of antioxidants, those compounds that retard aging and protect against cancer and other diseases . Remember ;moderation is the key to weight control .
IamDyan answered on 03/06/03:Great News!
First alchohol in moderation and now chocolate.....This explains why Grandpop is 90 and not on any medication :) | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 03/05/03 - GEORGE CARLIN STRIKES AGAIN
Ever wonder about those people who spend $2.00
apiece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try
spelling Evian backwards: NAIVE
Isn't making a smoking section in a restaurant like
making a peeing section in a swimming pool?
OK...so if the Jacksonville Jaguars are known as
the "Jags" and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are
known as the "Bucs," what does that make the
Tennessee Titans?
If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhea...does
that mean one enjoys it?
There are three religious truths:
1. Jews do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah.
2. Protestants do not recognize the Pope as the
leader of the Christian faith.
3. Baptists do not recognize each other in the
liquor store or at Hooter's.
If people from Poland are called Poles, why
aren't people from Holland called Holes?
Why do we say something is out of whack?
What's a whack?
Do infants enjoy infancy as much as adults enjoy
adultery?
If a pig loses its voice, is it disgruntled?
If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?
When someone asks you, "A penny for your
thoughts," and you put your two cents in. . . what
happens to the other penny?
Why is the man who invests all your money
called a broker?
Why do croutons come in airtight packages?
Aren't they just stale bread to begin with?
When cheese gets its picture taken, what does
it say?
Why is a person who plays the piano called a
pianist, but a person who drives a race car not
called a racist?
Why are a wise-man and a wise-guy opposites?
Why do overlook and oversee mean opposite
things?
Why isn't the number 11 pronounced "onety one"?
"I am" is reportedly the shortest sentence in the
English language. Could it be that "I do" is the
longest sentence?
If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen defrocked,
doesn't it follow that electricians can be delighted,
musicians denoted, cowboys deranged, models
deposed, tree surgeons debarked, and dry
cleaners depressed?
If Fed Ex and UPS were to merge, would they
call it Fed UP?
Do Lipton Tea employees take coffee breaks?
What hair color do they put on the driver's licenses
of bald men?
I was thinking about how people seem to read
the Bible a whole lot more as they get older; then it
dawned on me...they're cramming for their final exam.
Why do they put pictures of criminals up in the
Post Office? What are we supposed to do, write to
them? Why don't they just put their pictures on the
postage stamps so the mailmen can look for them
while they deliver the mail?
If it's true that we are here to help others, then
what exactly are the others here for?
You never really learn to swear until you learn
to drive.
No one ever says, "It's only a game" when their
team is winning.
Ever wonder what the speed of lightning would
be if it didn't zigzag?
Last night I played a blank tape at full blast. The
mime next door went nuts.
If a cow laughed, would milk come out of her nose?
Whatever happened to Preparations A through G?
IamDyan answered on 03/06/03:Tom,
These are GREAT! Here's a few more from the master....
Frisbeetarianism is the belief that when you die, your soul goes up on the roof and gets stuck.
I'm not concerned about all hell breaking loose, but that a PART of hell will break loose... it'll be much harder to detect.
Well, if crime fighters fight crime and fire fighters fight fire, what do freedom fighters fight? They never mention that part to us, do they?
LOL, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/04/03 - ALLEGATION! An allegation, in legal terms, is an assertion, claim, declaration or STATEMENT of a party to an ACTION. Is this act SPIRITUAL in terms of subjective thinking? IamDyan answered on 03/05/03:Hello Hank,
Merrium Webster defines allegation as a positive assertion; specifically : a statement by a party to a legal action of what the party undertakes to prove.
Now if we agree to leave out the phrase "a legal action" and continue with the though process, I believe there could be cases where spirituality may be pertinent.
As in all subjective thinking, it is our past experiences that make up our preconcieved ideas.
Our past experiences are made up of family, friends, church, and past situations.
The act of making an allegation seems more to be stating a hypothesis, which one then intends to prove through a series of facts.
Of course, the facts are then presented to others, who also are subjective thinkers, who are then left to make their own judgment as to whether we have indeed proven our point.
Is this spiritual? I guess I would have to say that it depends on the subject of the allegation and the line of facts one chooses to support their hypothesis. I would say it also depends on how open one is to the facts, once discovered.
As an example from the Bible, the apostles sought to prove the allegation that Jesus rose from the dead on Easter. I think I would consider their process and communications spiritual indeed.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 03/03/03 - Say a Prayer for Nick Hi Everyone,
I started moving this morning at 10:00 and now, am finished for the day...it is 6:00 pm. Nick was last to be moved, and he's very upset. I need prayer for my cat companion; he is so upset and pacing around. He should be OK in a couple of days. Tomorrow, he can help me put stuff away!
Cable Guy just left; my phone finally got hooked-up; we have a dusting of beautiful snow, and all is well in god's great creation.
I love my new place!
Chou IamDyan answered on 03/04/03:Chou,
So glad you are finally getting settled in the new place. Remember that you had much more time to get used to the idea....Nick thought you were just kidding these past few weeks :) He'll be all settled soon.
Too Late sends much empathy and kitty kisses. She moved a few years back, and although she loves the new place, your post brought back yucky memories for her.
All the Best to you and Nick, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/28/03 - VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!
Fellow Experts:
For those of you who haven't visited the Expert Forum as yet, please do. Scroll down to ANONYMOUS USERS and start reading. Then place your vote! The issue is self-explanatory! Thanks.
HEINRICH (and others)
IamDyan answered on 02/28/03:Hank,
I am trying to remain open minded about this issue. And as you know, my past experiences are likely to weight heavily on my opinions.
I was on AskMe for two years, and the spirituality board was plagued by anonymous user(s)who were simply ignorant, and disrupted all that would have indicated it was a board about spirituality. In fact at AskMe, I was a member of a Humor Board that was better behaved than the spirituality board was. And we had many of the same experts we have here today.
Comparing the differences between AskMe and here....there are two:
1-No anon posters allowed here
2-Active monitoring
Now, I am sure that active monitoring is not possible on all the boards all the time without Vijay possible going without sleep 24/7 and I don't wish that on anyone :)
And so, I have to question whether allowing anon posting is in our best interest.
While I am eager to see questions from
outsiders, in addition to those from fellow experts, I am not sure that allowing anomynity will increase that traffic. Can you provide a reasonable argument that it will???
All the Best, Dyan
So, my past experience
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/28/03 - HARMONIOUS ADJUSTMENT!
Objective thought allows you freedom from subjectivity. It can be a culprit that disregards personal feelings, prejudice and opinion. Objectivity deals with the external awareness of the conscious mind that makes you aware of your convictions toward objects and influences. This REALITY is external to the mind. Your knowledge of objects decide your morality towards these objects. Most are inanimate but this REALITY also includes all things that live -- as in people. But this study in human nature is secondary to the tangible things that are not alive, e.g. SUBJECTIVE thought. It's simply a matter of priority while dealing with what's necessary and what isn't to survive in some manner. If your mind can deal sanely with both subjective thought and objectivity spontaneously, you're secretly familiar with HARMONIOUS ADJUSTMENT. Aren't worthy free-spirits independent disciples of MORALITY who don't need a leader to remind them of the sovereignty expressed in PERFECTION? Doesn't THEORY associate itself with a plan or scheme existing in the mind only? Isn't PERFECTIONISM a postulate if our minds are capable and willing to abide by Christian fundamentals, remembering what may be deemed PERFECT by some may not be deemed PERFECT by others?
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 02/28/03:While I believe it is possible to temporarily place ourselves in another's point of view, (walk a mile in their shoes, so to speak) I believe it's next to impossible to remove our subjectivism from any subject, and especially one we hold dear.
It is my experiences, my family and friends, my opinions, my knowledge that contributes to subjective thought, and indeed, does shape me, my views, and my outlook.
So even though I may hope to view a thought objectively, I believe it will always be me viewing it. And my view, will never be the same as someone else's-- because no one else will have had the same experiences I have had.
I don't consider that a bad thing really. That's what makes life so interesting. How boring if everyone else had the same opinions that I do.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | abirl asked on 02/28/03 - This community of experts Hello, fellow experts.
I am new here and I would really like to get to know each of you better. I just posted this on the expert forum:
In the short time I have been at AnswerWay, I feel that I have become part of a real community. I have "met" some really wonderful people here, all of them intelligent, friendly and interesting. I think this forum can also be a good place for us to get to know each other better. Everyone here is a volunteer, contributing time and effort without receiving any tangible compensation in return. Would you be willing to share a little bit about: what motivates you to answer questions here? How did you get started answering questions (whether you started at AskMe or here)? What do you like most about AnswerWay? About answering questions online in general? Has it enriched your life or contributed to your personal growth in some way? How?
Please post your answer on the expert forum too.
Regards,
Abir IamDyan answered on 02/28/03:Hello and Welcome Abir!
I am glad you are enjoying the site.
Like you, I have met many wonderful people here.
I started visiting AskMe a few years ago. I came across the site while researching the answer to a question. After receiving some wonderful responses to my question, an expert there suggested that I join as an expert also.
Once becoming an expert, I had the opportunity to "meet" so many new people. In addition, the Q&A and discussions have given me the opportunity to experience many viewpoints on issues as well as learn about concepts new to me.
As far as Answerway, I believe what brings me back to the site most are the experts here.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/27/03 - Buddhist Daily Wisdom 2-26-03 Here is the daily meditation for today: "Attachment is the mind stuck to an object." Lama Zopa Rimpoche
I was thinking about this meditation. I think that we can become attached to our opinions, too. Or perhaps, to our emotions. To our detriment because we fail to grow to a higher level or consciousness.
I would be interested in your opinions about this quote and if possible, similar ideas from your special beliefs.
Chou IamDyan answered on 02/28/03:Hello Chou,
Good quote. I think our continuing evaluation of our attachments helps us to prioritize what's important in our lives and allows us to focus on what's truly important.
Our continuing evaluation may confirm that our 'attachment' is valid, yet it leaves room for us to accept new ideas and new opinions; while, at the same time, allows us the opportunity to discard opinions, priorities, and ideas that may no longer fit in with the current knowledge we have at hand.
You have learned much about this recently, I think....just in moving, and realizing the amount of things that you are able to let go of in your life, that truly frees you to concentrate your efforts elsewhere while simoultaneouly enriching someone else's live.
Here's a few thoughts from the Bible which might be considered similar:
My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding: That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge. Proverbs 5:1-2
Ecclesiastes 10:12 - Words from the mouth of a wise man are gracious, while the lips of a fool consume him.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/27/03 - Isolation. Do you think a person can live completely alone thoughout their adult lifetime, without any interaction with other people, and stay sane, and healthy and happy? Has anyone done it that you know of? IamDyan answered on 02/28/03:Hi PW,
Short Answer....No.
Everyone here makes some great points.
The only 'person' I know of was Tom Hanks in Castaway, and that was not a great movie, dialogue wise :)
I think we are all social creatures. In my humble opinion, the fact that all of us are different, with varying strengths and weaknesses, is more than a signal to me.
Through interaction, we are meant to share our strengths with others in order for them to learn from and build upon. We are meant to learn from others, to improve our weaknesses. All in all, this should improve our chances for survival.
Now, the term survival is relative. For some it means simply existing. But for most, it means surviving with a pre-determined quality of life, which means continuing to be not only a physical being, but also nurturing our social and spiritual sides. This likely includes relating to others effectively, having a network of friends and support, and feeling love.
Can we do this alone? Not likely.
Even within a monestary, monks have interaction, even if it is not spoken.
You can look at statistics of survival rates in nursing homes. Those that have frequent family visits and are involved in social activities survive at a MUCH higher rate.
Do we all like an occasional week-end retreat alone? Sure. It's an incredible opportunity to take a break from the overwhelming stimuli we are all faced with every day....but longer than that???? I doubt it.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 02/24/03 - Prayers for Mom Mom continues to go through challenging times while dealing with this lung cancer. She's asleep now and on a respirator which is good because her breathing was labored when they decided to admit her at Sloan Kettering on Thursday.
They are treating it differently than what my Dad experienced. Apparently, there are different types of chemo and she's supposed to go through it for three successive days and then off for three weeks and back on for three days, etc.
Mom is stable. She had lost a lot of weight with this cold that she had combined with the cancer. She's in ICU and will be there for about another week. She is still sedated which is probably the best way to take chemo. They hydrated her earlier, gave her some anti-nausea medication and started the chemo about an hour ago. She seems very comfortable. She's in good care, that's for sure. This lung specialist is supposed to be the best in the NYC area.
Bill and I will be traveling up there. We're not sure when or by what mode of travel. We were thinking about driving, but it might be safer to fly and rent a car when we get there. We'll see.
Thanks so much to everyone of the list for your prayers. There is a power in prayer and we really appreciate it.
Love and blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 02/26/03:Bobbie,
Your mom, you and Bill, and all the family are in my thoughts and prayers. Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 02/23/03 - weather revisited It happened. Yep my fear came true. All this positive thinking crap is just fantasy. When it started raining yesterday and didn't stop, even though we were flooding, I thought 'GOOD' at least we aren't getting all that snow they predicted. I knew sooner or later the weather man had to be wrong.
Well, I woke up this moring buried under 8 inches of snow AND I'm now stranded at my son's house with a few peices of bread, a few slices of bologna, and there are 2 or 3 beers in the frig. along with some other stuff that I can't identify. In the cupboard there is dog food, and a bag of Toastitos. There are some really old looking potatoes on top of the frig. and a box with a few club crakers left in it.
I am going to go out and see if I can remember approximately where it was in the yard I saw the shovel yesterday. If I can find it, I am going to start shoveling the driveway in hopes that IF and when the street gets plowed, I will be able to leave.
Damn! I knew he shouldn't have taken the squirrel alive!!
Oh forget it! I'm going back to bed. Maybe I'll try shoveling later. I didn't bring my snow pants or boots with me. I left my gloves in the car, and the car, well, it just looks like a snow hill at this point.
Harmonyhill IamDyan answered on 02/23/03:Hi Sharlene,
Sorry to hear! Things here are pretty bad too, but no snow.
Other than all that is going on with Grandpop, we have rain, and the mounds of snow are melting pretty quick. The basement has about an inch of water and the sump pump in working overtime. We can only get out one door right now....Thank God we have lots of doors, because most are flooded...But we have to walk through the basement to get to the one viable door.
Luckily, we have seen this before...and the hot water heater, freezer, and washer and dryer are somewhat elevated from the floor, so the water, though a nuisance, shouldn't cause a lot of real damage.
Hang in there Girl! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/20/03 - Cleanliness is next to Godliness. That's what my mother used to say back in the 'olden days'. I didn't pay much attention to her old sayings then. They seemed trite. Now I've seen many of them come to light, and to my eyes this is one of them.
Do you think this is true?
Why? ..or why not?
How does it relate to your personal life?
Do you have any 'old sayings' that have come to light?
IamDyan answered on 02/20/03:Hi PW,
I think it means you're so darn busy keeping things clean, that you don't have time to get into trouble :)
Here's my quote most in mind lately...Being frustrated sometimes with the best way to help some of my family these days....
Love takes up where knowledge leaves off.
St. Thomas Aquinas
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 02/19/03 - Have fun with this one. Occupation desired. While listening to the movie "The Music Man" I was struck by the sudden urge to become a player-piano piano player. Have you had such urges to change occupations on a whimsicality? Did you do it? IamDyan answered on 02/20/03:Hi Dan,
I worked for a manufacturer in Supply Chain Management for about 15 years and always enjoyed it. In fact, my regular varied position, was often broken up with many special projects.
But while working on a particular project a few years back, I was watching the consultants redesigning business processes and designing software to streamline activities.
It all looked incredibly interesting. And I thought..."Hey, I could do that."
So, a shortly after that project ended, I quit my job and joined a consultant firm.
It has been great....interesting work, always learning, something new all the time.
Now it wasn't completely whimisical, I guess. The timing was right at home....but it felt incredibly good to just go for what I wanted!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 02/19/03 - I miss Marky, Has anyone heard from him! I miss him so much I want to cry, I have been thinking of him all day! Please anyone please let me know. Perhaps we could start forwarding letters I think I'll start tonight with my friend Sharlene and others!
Love all of you. Joy. IamDyan answered on 02/20/03:Joy,
I haven't hear from him in a while, and don't have a current email address for him.
I hope all is well, and being the optimist that I am, sure that he is just busy with other things in his life right now :)
Let me know if you hear anything! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/18/03 - "De-Materializing" Today, the first big load of my moving process took place. I felt so good, and here is why. I go to a laundromat owned by a very industrious HIspanic couple who I have known for a number of years. My brother and sister-in-law trade there too. Anyway, I remembered from a conversation a long time ago that they were active in helping new arrivals to America through their church, in the city(Chicago), I think.
Well, anyway, I called them and they were eager to take my stuff that my brother didn't want. So, I watched gladly as my old size 12 clothes, my sewing machine, a 70's stereo, two end tables, etc went swiftly out the door. They are coming back tomorrow for more stuff that they want for others.
God, I can't do much anymore, but I sure felt like a part of the real positive world again!! I'm saying a prayer for all hard-working first generation Americans in this time of economic hardship, and for others who have lost their income due to the 9/11 aftermath and other reasons.
More stuff going out this week!
Cordially, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/18/03:Chou,
I know this move is taking place in stages....Just make sure you don't wear yourself out and make sure Nick doesn't get lost in the process!
It does feel good when someone finds treasures in what we are almost ready to throw away. And you bring up a good point....there's lots of charities and good people out there that want and need items we no longer have use for.
I used to have a list....I will have to dig that up :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/18/03 - PURSUING A MISSION -- SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT INFLUENCE
When we consider INFLUENCE, we're talking or writing about power - what one says or does that affects our personality. It stems from authority, social position, birth, wealth and the media. It can control your life!
The true character of our future in terms of poverty, peril and all apprehension can't be overlooked when our thoughts turn toward faith, security and survival. Since health, people, taxes, nature and dollar bills determine most outcomes, duty and obligation are only dimensions we use to measure our failures at a particular time. This is why each day becomes a challenge:
"Serenely full, the epicure
would say, Fate cannot harm me,
I have dined today." - Sydney Smith
Circumstances can change a person's thoughts about dependability and instability momentarily. Since rarity compliments the unusual, any idea that pertains to veracity and accuracy can play tag with subjugation. The winner, then, compliments commonness and conformity when a new condition presents itself. If one or more contradictions confront a third party, it would be a rarity or even a miracle if all of these wise men would shed tears at the same time:
"Man's capacity for justice
makes democracy possible, but man's
inclination to injustice makes
democracy necessary." - Reinhold Niebur
The story line of my own method of propriety refers to praise and appreciation by respecting the personal opinions and conduct of all juniority while comparing their deeds and aspirations to accomplishment. Some visions melt like snowflakes. Others become extremely sensible about these imaginations by drifting beyond the undertow of off-beat comportment. If acclaim and commentary are worthy of merit, they will be donated willingly by the community and perhaps 'the four hundred.'
"You can't appreciate home till you've
left it, money till it's spent, your wife till she's joined a woman's club, nor old Glory till you see it hanging on a broomstick on the shanty of a consul in a foreign town." - O. Henry
* From my "NEVER A TOADSTOOL" manuscript - Copyright 2003.
Your thoughts, if any!
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 02/18/03:Hank,
Certainly the ability to influence situations and other's opinions is powerful.
And although social position, wealth, and authority give one a leg up to be able to showcase their opinion and gather an audience...there will always be those, confident in themselves and their message, who gain a place on the stage to present.
In any case, once one has gained an audience, the ability to influence, subtly shifts hands. Once a stage has been set and an audience assemled, it is, once again, an even playing field for all presenters.
It is now up to the presenter and the message they convey...how powerfully can they convey the message...how well can they read the audience and move them from there to here...and most importantly of all, how well do they pare down the message so that the audience has but one choice -- To Act!
A biblical reference would lead one to believe that although Jesus rose from a poor background, with very little social status, he was able to move millions. And, indeed, his message, some two thousand years later, is still assembling audiences and moving people.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/18/03 - Dyan's Quote for the Day today brings up another thought. What are some illusions you have seen through in your life? This is such an important topic for spiritual people. Let me start: One illlusion I have been under the illusion that if I only had more money, I would be happier. But, that is just not true. It is an illusion.
IamDyan answered on 02/18/03:Chou,
One illusion I was under for several years is that a church was the only way to find God.... That church was there to give me the roadmap to God.
Of course, God can be found through church. But certainly that is not the only way, or even the best way, necessarily. I think everyone has the answer inside to find God.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/17/03 - Weather Revisited 2-17-03 Just watching the Weather Channel and CNN and the snow has really piled-up in the eastern USA!
Fun pictures of city cars snowed in, Mayor Blumberg declaring a snow evergency for NYC, plows trying to clear main arteries, winds blowing snow everywhere, a guy from the southern reach of the storm trying to dig out his car wearing Bermuda shorts and athletic shoes....Hahahahahahahahaha......I's not Chicago-land for the first time in history........Hahahahahahahahah....*cough*......Heeheehee.....Guess I'll put on my jeans and Nikes...sweatshirt and jacket and walk to my car and drive away...Hahahahahahahaha....first time in history. Seriously, Take good care, Love, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/17/03:Things here are pretty bad.
I may have to work from home in my PJ's tomorrow too :)
The only traffic I've seen come down our street are snow mobiles.
Enjoy Mid-Westerners!!!
Glad we are giving you a break :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/16/03 - We're all crazy. Thank heavens, we're all crazy at different times. IamDyan answered on 02/17/03:You're right!
And just to be absolutely sure,
I think we should set up a schedule.
I reserve the right to be crazy
on Thursdays from 9-5 when I am
trying to meet work deadlines
for the week.
Otherwise, I am here to help
with sanity :)
PW-Are you in charge of
co-ordinating the sanity
schedule? | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/16/03 - A REALISTIC APPROACH TO SELF-PRESERVATION:
"I will not permit myself to become emotionally involved in matters that should not be my concern. I will not interfere with the working out of another's difficulties, however dear and close we may be to each other. Detachment is essential to any healthy relationship between people. Each of us is a free individual, with neither one in control of the other. Although all men have a common destiny, each individual also has to work out his personal salvation for himself. We can help one anoher find out the meaning of life. But in the last analysis, each is responsible for finding himself." -- Thomas Merton
Do you agree wholly or in part?
IamDyan answered on 02/16/03:You can lead a horse to water,
but you can't make him drink.
I agree with almost all of it. But motherly instincts sometimes kick in when it comes to becoming emotionally involved :)
I believe all of us are at a different level in finding our own meaning for life. And also that the most meaningful part of finding ourselves, is the ability to see that we got there on our own. Life really is the journey, not the destination.
Just a thought for a snowy day, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | hmghaly asked on 02/16/03 - Why would anyone hate America? Hi All,
My name is not "anyone" so don't worry :) My point is that so many people in the world hate America, why is that? Envy? Envy for what? Richness/standard of living, then wht wouldn't people hate countries like Switzerland and Sweden? Power? What is the meaning of power? I guess Russia (USSR) formerly, has(d) an arsenal as large as that of America and china is in the way. I can't think of any other reason for envy, but I don't think it is a reason for hate.
You may know what is the reason for this hate if you ask any of the millions of people who went to marches and strikes the past few days. I can simply say it is because of American foriegn policy, and its obcession with the power it possesses and not paying any respect to the world. I think these are better reasons, aren't they?
Hussein IamDyan answered on 02/16/03:Hussein,
The many demonstrations did not lead me to believe the world (or any part of the world) hates America. I wonder what gave you that perception? I believe the demonstrations were against war, not America.
Why, indeed, would anyone hate America?
It is a mystery to me.
| | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 02/16/03 - Hallmark Card. Sufficient payment? Hallmark Inc., (When you care enough to send the very best.) commissioned Maya Angezov to do a line of greeting cards for them. I saw several of these today, and one of them said: "There is no pay so sweet as the accomplishment of a job well-done. Maya Angezov" Just suppose that Hallmark in a state of corporate rascalness instead of sending her a check for her work, sent her a card, THIS CARD, with a message inside
"Thank you for a job well-done." What do you suppose Maya Angezov's position would be, and what would a jury say? (Isnt this better than the JJ thing?) Have fun with this one, PLEASE! IamDyan answered on 02/16/03:Hi Dan,
If you can get beyond the irony of the representative they chose, I suppose there are times when a card like this could be appropriate.
From an elderly neighbor, having cleaned the snow from their walkway, while you were out cleaning your own.
or
From a co-worker or direct report, offering their congratulations on a promotion or successful completion of a project.
But, I do think the idea of paying her with the card, would be amusing and perhaps even just :)
Hope you're enjoying your day, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/15/03 - CLARIFICATION !!!! I say that Jesse Jackson was NEVER a US Senator. What, have I had a mild stroke or something. Clarification and proof needed! Thanks, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/16/03:Jesse Jackson was never a senator or a congressman. Here is a site listing all that he is known for. Look at the list here. Even including that he married his college sweetheart. Don't you think if he ever help office at all, it would be in a big banner at the top of this page? Do you see one political office he was EVER voted into listed here???? The answer is no.
http://www.rainbowpush.org/founder/
Everything Jesse Jackson has ever been in charge of has been self appointed.
Hope this helps clarify, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/15/03 - Of Interest to my Spirituality Pals Just a moment to advise you that Dr. Phil will appear on "The David Letterman Show"(CBS) on Monday, Feb 17th at 10:30 Central Time. This is not to miss! Letterman has been teasing him every day since Dr Phil's show started. He takes Dr. Phil's statements out of context and then criticizes him. Dr PHil said on a recent show of his that he was going to New York and open a can of kick ass on Letterman(all in good fun). Chou IamDyan answered on 02/15/03:Sounds funny.
I will have to tevo it, since I can't stay up that late on week nights :) | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 02/15/03 - Jessie Jackson: Spokesman for USA? News story:
Prominent American peace campaigner Jesse Jackson was in London to address the throng, which some expect could top one million people. Police have said more than 500,000 people could attend the march.
''Bush and Blair must listen to people around the world as they speak. Mr. Blair suggested that Saddam was just buying time. Well, time is cheaper and better than war,'' Jackson told British television.
Does Jessie Jackson, US Senator, have the right to go on speaking tours in foreign nations and speak against what his country's elected leader says? Is is proper? How do you feel? IamDyan answered on 02/15/03:Personally, I think Jesse Jackson is an idiot. OK, wait, maybe that's a bit strong....No, that's my opinion and I'm sticking to it.
He was a valued member of Martin Luther King, Jr's entourage. But since the death of Martin Luther King, Jr., he has made speeches and supported issues that must even have King turning in his grave.
Now, I believe he has every right as an American citizen to speak as he chooses. But, for the life of me, I can't understand how or why he commands the audiences that he does.
To me, he is self serving, enjoys stirring up contraversy for contraversy's sake, and adequately represents no position or group of people. To me, his only agenda is Jesse Jackson. He only seeks opportunities that put him in the limelight.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/14/03 - BARRIERS OF INLUENCE and TARGETS OF PURPOSE Many of your have heard, "Don't you realize what you've done and who you've hurt (by doing some negative act)?" This question is usually asked for just one reason: A MOTIVE made him act without feeling towards an OBJECT, goal or personality. The person did NOT have a PURPOSE in mind. He might have had a hidden or secondary need to conquer while doing what he did. This, of course, defines ULTERIOR MOTIVE! It's this connection that will concern us.
Before offereing you my TOP method of awareness, I must mention BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE. These are obstacles which have the direct or indirect power to persuade or get in the way of your PURPOSE or MOTIVE. They tend to define themselves in terms of what a person deems necessary to make him feel good or bad. It depends, of course, on what these obstacles are in the way of -- isolation or perfection in terms of accomplishment or submission. If you have a MOTIVE in mind, positive BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE will be your opposition. The opposite holds true if PURPOSE is present. Just remember this: How or if you meet a challenge will help you construct your total and very complete personality. You become the end result of this construction!
My TOP method of AWARENESS:
For a CONSCIOUS Target = PURPOSE:
TARGET = What you're trying to accomplish; goal.
DESIGN = Your plan of attack.
PURPOSE = Why you want to hit the TARGET.
OUTCOME = Positive or moral excellence of your plan.
BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE = Negative or inferior obstacles you confront while atempting to hit your TARGET.
For an UNCONSCIOUS Target = (Ulterior) MOTIVE:
TARGET = What you're trying to accomplish; goal.
DESIGN = Your plan of attack.
MOTIVE = Why you want to hit the TARGET.
CONSEQUENCE = Negavtive result of your plan.
BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE = Positive or affirmative obstacles you confront while attempting to hit your TARGET.
In short, think before doing! Put your thoughts on paper if need be. I'm offering you my TOP METHOD OF AWARENESS to help you make decisions. Everyone needs to know what makes him/her tick and what makes that person do what he/she does. This is a very simple FORMULA to abide by! In some quarters, this activity is termed taking inventory of oneself. Since your are the total result of your actions, I hope you try this method before you try to catch a star. It might prevent you from snatching a Sunbeam instead!
* Copyright 2003 by Yours Truly from my book manuscript, "Never a Toadstool."
HEINRICH IamDyan answered on 02/14/03:Hank,
Very good framework for decision making. Thanks so much for sharing it :)
These steps make it easy to focus clearly on what we want to accomplish.
Another thought you may want to consider (of course, you probably already have) is that while we may set a target, we may find that
our ultimate target cannot be accomplished in one step....and so this could be an iterative process.
And, if that is the case, we need to clearly establish our interim goals and focus on them.
All the Best, Dyan
PS - Why "Never a Toadstool??? | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 02/14/03 - Hello Everyone! Hello Everyone
I miss you all! I'm going to be cutting back on my work hours and will try to participate more here. I've been really busy since my daughter got home......GLAD she's going to be 18 in July! Anyway, I'm looking forward to being back here :). Happy Valentines Day and Happy belated Birthday to Chou!!!
Love to all,
Sharlene
IamDyan answered on 02/14/03:Hi Sharlene,
Great to see you! Hope all is well :) | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/11/03 - Postponing the Forum Party scheduled for Feb 13 due to today's events in the status of the world situation. Will post at a later date when the party is rescheduled. Regards, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/12/03:I'm celebrating anyway!
A VERY Happy Birthday Chou!!!
We have been advised to go about our normal daily activities, and darnit, celebrating your birthday is on my list :)
Here's some birthday thoughts for you....
I'm not interested in age. People who tell me their age are silly. You're as old as you feel. --Henri Frederic Amiel
The first sign of maturity is the discovery that the volume knob also turns to the left.
--Jerry M. Wright
Grow old with me! The best is yet to be.
--Robert Browning
To me - old age is always ten years older than I am. --John Burroughs
To be seventy years old is like climbing the Alps. You reach a snow-crowned summit, and see behind you the deep valley stretching miles and miles away, and before you other summits higher and whiter, which you may have strength to climb, or may not. Then you sit down and meditate and wonder which it will be. --Lillian Smith
Have a great day Mary! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 02/11/03 - Prayers for my Mom Mom has been diagnosed with lung cancer. She spent 5 hours at Sloan Kettering yesterday when there was confirmation of a tumor. Treatment options will be known later today.
Some of you might know that my father died of lung cancer 7/15/01. So, this brings up many emotions and flashbacks to the grueling experiences he had undergone.
I appreciate your prayers.
Love,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 02/12/03:Bobbie,
You and your family are in my thoughts and my prayers.
Cancer is so difficult, but new treatments and therapies are being tried every day, so there is lots of hope.
Try to be strong.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/10/03 - Feeling our feelings... I've had times when I held back tears with some great effort because I was so sad or hurt that I was afraid I might not be able to stop once I'd started.
I've talked to myself,danced, and sung made up silly tunes just to keep myself from falling into a depression because I was afraid I might not come back out of it.
I've even had times when I laughed heartily to a point where I wasn't quite certain I would be able to stop.
I've frightened myself over the years by being over-reactive a number of times. Yelling louder than I would have wished to, getting angrier than I wanted to...
I'm older now and have better control and tend to take things more lightly but still the fear of overdoing catches me at times.
Have you ever felt this type of fear over your emotions and if so, what have you done to change it? IamDyan answered on 02/11/03:PW-
I don't think there has ever been a time when I held back my emotions: the laughing, the crying, the anger, all of it.
What's important, I think, is to remember the purpose for all of our emotions.
When angry, get it out. Holding it inside makes my throat burn. Yelling to the wide open field and sky helps....or sometimes just writing down my hurtful thoughts and then watching them burn in the fireplace. Their burning is a wonderful way to shed the feeling.
When sad, tears and sobs can be wonderfully comforting. Again, don't hold it inside, it needs to get out for you to move on. If you fear, you may not stop, keep something near to make you laugh. I think your puppy's antics might do well.
The laughter, never be afraid of that. I don't know anyone that doesn't want to be in the company of someone full of laughter.
As for depression, never been there myself. But truly, if it concerns you, consider talking to your physician. I think depression is a real physical ailment. There are several people I know on a very low dosage of Paxcil, which has made a world of difference. In fact, Alan took Paxcil during the most stressful times during our deli ownership and it worked wonders.
Hope this helps.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/10/03 - Where is our long-time friend Dark Crow? It seems he's just disappeared and I miss his daily imput here. Does anyone know if he's alright, or why he isn't here any longer. Thanks. IamDyan answered on 02/11/03:I miss DC here.
Hopefully, he will soon return from vacation :) | | Question/Answer | | mitz54 asked on 02/10/03 - Please pray for us Hi everyone,
I am sorry I have not been here but I need your prayers right now.I have limited internet access but basicially I will give you the gist.I lost everything.I am homeless.The house next to me burned down and they had to raze my building as a consequence.I was not allowed to get much out but we are all O.k.I have no insurance and I am getting no help.Please keep us in your prayers.Michele Jarred and Michael.God Bless you for keeping us in your thoughts.
All Gods love to you.
Michele
your prayers have alwys been real before and I am asking again. IamDyan answered on 02/11/03:Michele,
You, Jarred, and Michael are in my prayers.
Thank God that, as horrible as this is, you are all safe.
It sounds as if everyone has offered some excellent resources for you to contact....I urge you to follow up on every one.
You might also consider contacting the Elks Lodge and Moose Lodge in your area. We are members here, and a large part of our budget goes to help families in situations like yours.
Don't lose hope Michele. There are lots of people out there who want to help.
Hugs and Warm Wishes, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/08/03 - If you were stranded on a desert island and could take anyone from history or anyone from the present, who would you take to the island and why? IamDyan answered on 02/09/03:OK, if hubby and I have our own hut, and now I can populate the rest of the island....here goes....
Chou and Nick (and obviously the Chicago Bears!)
Loral, Ashley (and JFK, Elvis, and her girltalk buddy)
Hank and Carol
Dan and friends
My neighbors (That makes 20 more.)
My mom and dad and Grandpop
Alan's mom, my nephew and his wife
And Daniel Day Lewis, just to mix things up a bit.
Top it off with Mother Teresa, Albert Einstein, and Benjamin Franklin.
Sounds like fun! | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/08/03 - Laughter and Mirth and Spirituality Is there some thought or situation or whatever that never fails to make you laugh or smile? Do you see a connection between laughing and being in contact with god? IamDyan answered on 02/09/03:We have many bird feeders and nests around our home. Many have been strategically placed so that we can observe from all the windows of the house, without being noticed.
Everyday, brings opporunities to smile observing the birds' antics.
Yesterday, we laughed as we watched a few creative birds feeding in the snow. They were leaping up at some soybean plants leftover in the farmer's field....cracking open the pods and feeding from the seeds as they fell to the snow.
Sure, I think there is a connection between laughter and God. I imagine God smiles and laughs when we do, and it's His desire for us to be happy.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | shiva_06830 asked on 02/09/03 - "What If?......" Consider this........
......... What if instead of money, what you became the recipient of was unlimited "Energy" or "Life Force",.... and it manifested within you in a perfectly 'balanced' and 'harmonious' form that resulted in a Profound inner Peace?
......... Now sit back and imagine what you would do with such unlimited Creative, Joyful and Harmonious Energy. The energy would be so constantly available to you that you would most likely only need to sleep an hour or so each day.
...... (Did you know that money is merely a metaphorical expression of Energy? Life Force is an absolutely infinate 'Source' that is always available to anyone who is willing to 'Open' to recieve it....... And,... when you are Open to recieve it, you are also able to manifest whatever you may desire in your life, including money. ...........
IamDyan answered on 02/09/03:Shiva,
First, I can imagine shedding all unnecessary concerns about work, home, family, relationships. The added energy, no longer bogged down with anxiety, would allow clear focus and stop me from second guessing the right way to handle situations both in the present and the past.
Free from that, I would have the time and freedom to not only accomplish what "needs" to be done, but finally also accomplish the "wants" on my 'to do' list, like personal goals in creative writing.
Second, I imagine my circle of friends would expand as people tend to gravitate toward energetic, postive people. And as my circle of friends grows, my ability to influence people and situations would also expand.
I imagine this would allow me to become more active and influential in changing the environment and legislature concerning it, a topic I hold dear.
But I also imagine, in increasing my exposure to other people, I would become aware of many new issues and topics, that perhaps I have been blind to before, that would move me to action and involvement. And, because of the energy in myself and its rubbing off on others around me, we would all begin to feel empowered -- and believe that our efforts can make the difference. And in believing that, they do begin to make a difference.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/08/03 - If you were stranded on a desert island and could take anyone from history or anyone from the present, who would you take to the island and why? IamDyan answered on 02/08/03:Pretty easy choice if there's only one I can consider. It would have to be my husband, Alan.
He's the only person who makes me feel complete; who can make something out of nothing; fix anything no matter what the circumstances. He knows something about everything, so good conversation. He loves sandy beaches, just like me.
And we're closing the door to the hut he made, so you can't find out any more :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/08/03 - Materialism A quote from "Dematerializing" by Jane Hammerslough. "The promise of possessions to fulfill a tangle of needs, wants, and desires is seductive, fast and easy. But it also takes up space, not just in our closets, but in our lives. It takes up time. It takes up energy. And...it may not be enough."
Can you relate to this quote? Do you have any comments.... IamDyan answered on 02/08/03:A fulfilled life calls for balance in all things. Sometimes it seems like walking a 3 inch balance beam to achieve that :)
What is the fragile line between having enough and having too much varies for all of us.
Certainly living in an area of the country with mutiple seasons, requires different sets of clothes, which I have to alternate from the closet to the attic. Now if I had more closets (increase material) my effort would be reduced as I would not have to pack away these items each Sping :)
On the other hand, every material possession requires some amount of maintenance. Less possessions, less maintenance. And so, more time to spend on other things.....personal growth, learning, relationships.
I know you are trending down in your material posessions and am waiting to hear if that has helped. If so, I am planning a big yardsale this Spring :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/08/03 - A "What if..?" fantasy - just for fun. What if you suddenly majorly hit the lottery, slot machines,races, or became heir to a great fortune? Say, you're close to middle age (in either direction)and pretty set in your lifestyle already.
Now, sit back and imagine what you will do with all that money. Feels good doesn't it?
Do you quit your job? Move to another state or country? Buy a better home and car? Do you invest? Give some to all your family members? Do you bank it? Or do you give to a few charities...or invest it in something humanitarian?
What do you think you'd do with it, and why? IamDyan answered on 02/08/03:I'd probably just die on the spot of shock and never get to enjoy it :)
OK, but after they revived me.....
I would likely stay where I'm working, since I really love my job. But Alan would probably quit so we could make sure that Grandpop was well taken care of during the day.
We would probably stay where we live, since we have the best neighbors all around us, but we would buy a huge house right on the beach downstate, with lots of extra bedrooms so all the family and neighbors can visit on week-ends and in the Summer.
Some would be shared with family members, some would be invested. And my favorite environmental charities and our church would receive their share.
And finally, I think we would like to adopt two children from either Asia or Guatemala. I see so many sad cases, and would love to bring them all home, but money and red-tape prevents that right now. Wouldn't it be amazing, to change two chidren's lives for the better with a loving home and a secure future?
Thanks for the fantasy! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/08/03 - Are you 'gifted' in any particular area? Surely we've all been given something special to do or acquire in this life.
"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves.
We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained." Madame Curie
What is your gift? How did you determine that was your gift? At what age did this gift become noticeable? Where and how do you use it?
Thanks for a reply. IamDyan answered on 02/08/03:Hi PW,
Not sure I would consider myself gifted in the sense that the term is typically used.
But Madame Curie is right that we must all search for our talents and develop them, because that is how we all contribute here in society.
A couple areas where I find I excel are in the ability to search and find logic in semmingly unlogical situations; and the ability to see situations from other's points of view, putting myself in the other's person's shoes.
The logic is best put to use at work in developing programs to improve and automate business processes, but it does come into play in other cases. Putting myself in the other person's place comes in handy almost all the time, avoiding arguments, mediating discussions, developing compromises.
Personally, I think these are the strongest talents God has given me. Maybe others will make themselves known, but for now I work with what I have :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/06/03 - Some Zen Thoughts for My Pal I picked-out some quote thatare Zen in attitude, but not necessarily from an Eastern source. Enjoy and please comments from anyone so moved...
Neem Karoli Baba....."It is better to see God in everything than to try and figure it out."
Yiddish Proverb..."With one tookhes(behind)you can't dance at two weddings."
Bob Dhlan..."If you don't underestimate me, I won't underestimate you."
Matthew 7:1-2.... not judge so that you may not be judged. Fr with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will e the measure you get."
Miles Davis...."I always listen for what I can leave out."
Homer Simpson...."Boy, everyone is stupid exzcept me!" HaHa that is my delusion to overcome!
HH Dilg Khyentse Rinpche...."Be fully attentive to what yuo are doing, withoug ever taking subject, bject, or action as having any true existance."
Shakespeare.....Tomorrow tomorrow tomorrow creeps in this petty pace from day to day to the last syllable of recorded time....
Seng-Ts'an...."Do not seek Truth, but merely cease to cherish opinion."
Look forward to your reactions to these quotes....
IamDyan answered on 02/07/03:Chou,
These are great!
The quote from Matthew is something I try to remind myself of daily :) At least by doing that, I don't say the Homer Simpson quote. Well, I don't say it out loud, anyway :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/05/03 - nature Is the concept of Evolution in the natural world in accordance with the concept of a spiritual realm? IamDyan answered on 02/06/03:In my own personal belief, I see no disaccord. Most readily accept that man wondered for a time about what lightening meant, before harnessing electrity. Many believe in reincarnation into ever increasing plains of understanding.
And so the evolution of man's spirit, as important as it is to learn the lessons, should be less a journey?
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 02/05/03 - Insults at anothers' beliefs? Where's the spirituality? There are many different religious and spiritual views held by people throughout the world. If these views are not harmful, don't express violence and hatred and are entirely plausible, whether you believe them or not, who has the right to put someone else down because of their beliefs?
Perhaps my wording is wrong. Because of free speech, we all have that right, but why would someone calling themselves an expert on Spirituality ever call anothers' views all wrong? Does anyone here know without a doubt what happens to us after we die? Does anyone here know who/what/where God is, without a doubt? or what our purpose here is?
I can't believe that anyone can be so arrogant as to suggest boldly that only they know.
I listen to and read about different beliefs regularly without calling names or feeling superior. I learn a lot by listening to other people, through books and gut feelings. This board is for sharing and learning. If not, I don't belong here either.
I fail to see any spirituality in downgrading another human being.
If you don't mind sharing, tell me why are any of you
are on this board when there are so many other boards a person can choose to join instead?
IamDyan answered on 02/06/03:PW-
I would never suggest someone'e belief system was wrong, but I will always reserve my personal right to disagree.
I think the interesting point of your question is that our belief system IS ourselves. I still believe a belief system is chosen, and that an attack on our belief system should not necessarily be seen as a personal attack, but rather and opportunity to re-examine why we think as we do. Perception is reality.
Our re-examining could lead in many directions: Changing our position; reaffirming our position; Sending us in the direction of further research.
None of these choices should diminish our own value of self.
A devil's advocate should be always welcome.
I may have missed the point....I have not kept up here the last two days....but never miss an opportunity for what it might present.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/03/03 - Invitation for February 13 Mark your calendar. I am giving myself a 60th Birthday Party on the Spirituality Forum beginning at 1 CST. This birthday is a real milestone for me. Without modern medicine, I would have died in my 20's. (OK, lower the cheers!)
Those that love me, those that hate me, those who are neutral......all are welcome to contribute. No matter what you have to say about anything! Let down your hair and enjoy the champagne and h'ors d'oeurves.
I am planning party games, jokes, and fun activities for all the adults here. Party favors and cake and ice cream for those who are not dieting.
Put on your party hats at the door!
That is a week from Thursday; don't exhaust yourself from Lincoln's birthday party events, please. Save something for the 13th.
Fun on the 13th!
Love to all, Chou IamDyan answered on 02/04/03:A Very happy birthday Chou!!!!
I can't make it during the day on Thursday, but I will be posting something just for you on Wednesday night. I will wear my party hat when I post :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/01/03 - Endeavor Tragedy How soon life can end! I saw the picture of the eager astronauts on CNN, ready for their flight into space, all decked out in their space suits. A woman born in India, an Israeli astronaut, an African American man who had been is space before, a woman tech kind of person, two confident white men one in charge, and a white man techie.
They were all beautiful and full of life and curiosity and adventure.
I offer private prayers today for these wonderful people and their relatives and for the spirit they represent. IamDyan answered on 02/02/03:Hi Choux,
I thought this was fitting....
"Should my end come while I am in flight,
Whether brightest day or darkest night;
Spare me your pity and shrug off the pain,
Secure in the knowledge that I'd do it again;
For each of us is created to die,
And within me I know,
I was born to fly."
-- Gary Claud Stokor,
From "Impressions of a Pilot"
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/02/03 - Cats and "Spirituality" I'm not sure if this is the correct catagory for my post, but why not?
Last night, the most surprising thing happened. I was trying to sleep, and Nick came over and sat on the arm of the sofa and roused my with a few taps on my head. I know now that this means that his bowl of cat chow is empty, and the master must be served. I just pushed him off; I didn't want to be bothered. But, soon, again the taps on the noggin'. Another push to the floor!
About 10 seconds later, on my computer table, I hear my telephone crashing to the floor.
I think he did a little "kitty reasoning", and sent me a message via telephone that he wanted food!
Anyone have any examples of animals doing interesting things?
IamDyan answered on 02/02/03:My dog Knight has figured out how to let himself (and the other dogs) in and out of the sliding glass door and into the yard when they need to "go."
He can push the door open from the inside or outside and waits til the other dogs get to the other side before he closes it.
Next month, we are going to try to train him to lock the door after everyone is in :) | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 02/01/03 - Endeavor Tragedy How soon life can end! I saw the picture of the eager astronauts on CNN, ready for their flight into space, all decked out in their space suits. A woman born in India, an Israeli astronaut, an African American man who had been is space before, a woman tech kind of person, two confident white men one in charge, and a white man techie.
They were all beautiful and full of life and curiosity and adventure.
I offer private prayers today for these wonderful people and their relatives and for the spirit they represent. IamDyan answered on 02/01/03:Very sad..We have been watching since early this morning hoping for some news that, somehow, they managed to escape alive.
My prayers are added to yours. | | Question/Answer | purplewings asked on 01/29/03 - In all things of nature there is something
of the marvelous. --AristotleDo you agree and if so, what things of nature do you find to be the most marvelous? If you don't find anything special in nature, what do you find to be marvelous in your daily life? Thanks. IamDyan answered on 01/31/03:PW,
There's not much in nature that doesn't inspire awe.
How do cuts heal?
How do birds know to migrate south?
Have you ever seen thunder strike the ground?
How are trees able to re-seed themselves, and how do they gain one ring in their trunk for every year's growth?
How do I breathe without conscious effort?
How does my dog know when I am sad?
Have you ever seen snow fall on the beach?
Have you ever watched a tornado form?
How can my body remain at a constant temperature regardless of the environmental temperature variation?
How do dead cells know to form hair on your head and fingernails on your hands?
Where do the colors in the sunset come from and why do they last for just a moment?
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/28/03 - “Escape from Reality”
The reality of this life, we all have in common, is oppressive, sinister and a woe to all feeling creatures that roam the earth.
Picture the anguish of the prey of a wolf as it suffers its last moments before it’s grateful death.
How about the suffering of a human as disease feeds off the living body cells in the last stages of stomach cancer, or the pain suffered by a starving infant when the body is feeding off off itself in a bloated stomach. This is the true nature of reality.
Fortunately, some of us are able to escape from this reality from time to time. So tell me, what are some of the ways you escape from this reality?
IamDyan answered on 01/29/03:Hi DC,
These are a few of my favorite things....
Walks on the beach,
petting my dogs,
bird watching,
reading and music,
writing and drawing,
and, visiting here
(of course, that was before this post :)
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/29/03 - GOOD NEWS!
Carol had her catscan yesterday and received a good report. Her tumors are status quo.
Here's a F. Y. I. for you:
Carol has lung cancer ... as some of you know. She had her last treatment 15 months ago. One of her oncologists told her yesterday that if a cancer patient can go two years without a cancer growing or spreading, you have a very good chance of becoming cancer free. Some 90% of cancers reoccur in two years. So, Carol should be home free in nine months if she stays status quo!
Thanks for your prayers, guys.
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 01/29/03:Thank God! And thanks so much for letting me know. I have been thinking so much of both of you, this week in particular, praying for positive results :)
All the Best! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/26/03 - How to Access the New Spirituality Discussion Groups Go to Home; Page Down to where Spirituality appears as a sub-catagory; click on Spirituality. On this page you will notice that there is a place to click that says Spirituality Discussion Group. Let Spirituality minded people know of this wonderful way to communicate if you are so moved! IamDyan answered on 01/27/03:It is a nice feature. But it seems a duplicate effort of the board. I wonder what Answerway had in mind....what would be dicussed in the discussion group vs. the board.
Hey WAIT! It's probably a place to have our virtual parties, without disturbing the rest of the board :)
Glad to see you back here.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/25/03 - I'm having a moral dilemma regarding right & wrong. Since we're slow today with the new server, I'd like to ask you all how you view the 'tough love' approach in dealing with family members.
One of my sons has been in trouble off and on for the last 18 years. Nothing huge or violent, but repetitive-worrisome and costly. This man, in his thirites, is a wonderful kind- hearted person who has endured an extreme amount of trauma in his personal life. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. (in fact has done so more than once) He's very sensitive and easily hurt. The problem is that he has little self confidence in his own decisions or abilities and can be led in a disturbing direction by others. People have always raved about his good looks so he thinks that's all that matters about him.
I've been told to put him out of my life, and stop helping him out of his difficulties. Have even tried doing that a few times but when the trouble strikes I find it impossible to just abandon him, as I'm all he has. He didn't hear from his own father from age 5 until in his twenties.
Tough love makes sense in some ways but in other ways it seems very hurtful to someone who is already in emotional pain. Whenever I do take some action along those lines, I don't sleep well and feel generally sick at heart. I feel that I'm failing those I love most and don't like myself.
It seems to go against my very spirit to deny help & comfort when someone needs it. Especially my own child.
What do you think?
IamDyan answered on 01/25/03:Dear Loral,
This is not easy, as you and I both know.
I have only once had to do this with my own daugther. The good news is, having done it once, as hard as it was, I have not yet had to do it again.
At the time, I remember I did not sleep very well myself and felt always anxious. My husband and I argued almost always about how to handle the situation.
Although, she was angry at me for a time, there were some definite positive outcomes. She learned that there are consequences for her actions; She learned that she herself made the decisions that influenced these consequences - no one else; She learned this world promises no safety net....we make our own way; she moved into the realm of responsible adulthood; and, our relationship has developed into an adult to adult interaction, rather than a dependent relationship.
Looking back, the only thing that made it easier for me, was envisioning the final outcome I hoped for her. And, there were some members of my church that had been through similar circumstances successfully always ready with advice.
I wonder sometimes if birds feel so anxious and guilty when forcing their young to leave the nest and moving on themselves.
Let me know if you want to talk more. Whatever you decide, I always have an open ear for you. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/22/03 - We're all going to go sooner or later, so upon physical death....? Are you concerned with what will happen to your body as far as disposal?
Do you believe cremation is acceptable? If not, why not?
How would burial be better or worse than cremation?
Does it really matter at all what happens to your empty body?
Do you think you need a body to take you to God?
The church where I work will not do a funeral for a person who is to be cremated. I understand their reason and just thought I'd see if anyone else is on the same track. Thanks IamDyan answered on 01/23/03:Quite a bit to think through, huh?
And, honestly, I've not thought much about it before now....so here goes.
Are you concerned with what will happen to your body as far as disposal?
Not really, but knowing that visiting family graves has been comforting and instilled a sense of duty and introspection in me, perhaps it is best that the tradition continue.
Do you believe cremation is acceptable? If not, why not?
My religion does not. This is not something I necessarily have an opinion on one way or another. But upon cremation, like your church, my church would not have a funeral service. I suppose, that should their be any surviving family members when I die, they may want a service to aid in closure with community.
Does it really matter at all what happens to your empty body?
Matter to who? It seems to matter more to my church and those left behind.
Do you think you need a body to take you to God? No.
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/22/03 - Good Bye! I'm moving literally in a few weeks and am busy with the planning. Nick is sensing change, and he hates that, consequestly, he spends some time grousing around and giving pitiful cat sounds. I am really looking forward to the change as it marks the final chapter in my life; I wonder what it will bring? Also, I am moving intellectually. No more hassseling others. I am looking forward to getting settled, spending time outside my apartment, and making a few new friends in the future and having a peaceful and happy retirement!! Enjoy LIfe..... IamDyan answered on 01/23/03:Chou,
I vote NO....
you're not allowed to retire from here :)
Who will throw the virtual parties?
Who will make me laugh?
Who will fill your shoes as devil's advocate?
Moving can be an exciting and scary experience all at one: in the opportunities for introspection and change; making new friends; new experiences and learning and growing.
Give Nick many pets and kitty kisses. And treats to yourself too.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/21/03 - what! Certainty -certainty was spawned by hope... and is nurtured by faith.
This is a quote of myself, in case anyone gives a hoot.
What do you think the author had in mind? IamDyan answered on 01/22/03:To Dan's thoughts....at some point in time, all thoughts and theories were uncertain.
Any scientific theories proved to date, began with someone who hoped enough their theory was correct and was nurtured by faith that that theory would be eventually proved correct....otherwise, why the effort.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/21/03 - Last One!
Please appraise Society if everyone NEVER answered ALL questions they were asked!
IamDyan answered on 01/22/03:Again the questioners would adapt....
Questions like "Can you give me some assistance here?" would become "I will expect your assistance unless you answer."
As a side note...this site would become pretty boring :) All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/21/03 - Another Mindboggler!
Please appraise our Society if EVERYONE said YES to ALL questions they are asked.
IamDyan answered on 01/22/03:Again, things would be in the hands of the questioner to adapt. Questions like "Would you mind giving me a hand?" Would become "How about helping me out here?"
The human race is more adaptable than many give credit. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/21/03 - Appraising Society
Please appraise our Society if EVERYONE would answer NO to ALL questions they are asked!
IamDyan answered on 01/22/03:Being the eternal optimist, I imagine that if somehow everyone one day began ansering "No" to every question asked, people would adapt.
Questions like "Can you give me some help here?" Would soon always be phrased "Would you mind giving me a hand?"
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 01/19/03 - Anger--Forgiveness Quotes I was researching a quote Dan provided and, although I didn't find the author of his quote, I found many other related to the issue of my previous post. I hope you enjoy these as much as I did:
Blessings,
Bobbie
*~*~*~*~*
Always remember others may hate you but those who hate you don't win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.
---Richard M. Nixon
*~*~*~*~*
Anger, if not restrained, is frequently more hurtful to us than the injury that provokes it.
--Seneca
*~*~*~*~*
Never say anything to hurt anyone. Moreover . . . refrain from double talk, from shrewd and canny remarks that are designed to advance our interests at someone's disadvantage. We are to turn our back upon
evil, and in every way possible, do good, help people and bring blessings into their lives.
---Norman Vincent Peale
*~*~*~*~*
I have a right to my anger, and I don't want anybody telling me I shouldn't be, that it's not nice to be, and that something's wrong with me because I get angry.
---Maxine Waters
*~*~*~*~*
The two best times to keep your mouth shut
are when you're swimming and when you're angry.
---Unknown
*~*~*~*~*
"I can forgive, but I cannot forget" is only another way of saying, "I will not forgive." Forgiveness ought to be like a canceled note-torn in two and burned up so that it never can be shown against one.
---Henry Ward Beecher
*~*~*~*~*
Many people are afraid to forgive because they feel they must remember the wrong or they will not learn from it. The opposite is true. Through forgiveness, the wrong is released from its emotional
stranglehold on us so that we can learn from it. Through the power and intelligence of the heart, the release of forgiveness brings expanded intelligence to work with the situation more effectively.
---The Intelligent Heart, David McArthur & Bruce McArthur
*~*~*~*~*
Since nothing we intend is ever faultless, and nothing we attempt ever without error, and nothing we achieve without some measure of finitude and fallibility we call humanness, we are saved by forgiveness.
---David Augsnurger
*~*~*~*~*
Anybody can become angry - that is easy; but to be angry with the right person, and to the right degree, and at the right time, and for the right purpose, and in the right way - that is not within everybody's power and is not easy.
---Aristotle
*~*~*~*~*
Sincere forgiveness isn't colored with expectations that the other person apologize or change. Don't worry whether or not they finally understand you. Love them and release them. Life feeds back truth to people in its own way and time.
---Sara Paddison, The Hidden Power of the Heart
*~*~*~*~*
Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned.
--Buddha
*~*~*~*~*
To carry a grudge is like being stung to death by one bee.
--William H. Walton
*~*~*~*~*
To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was YOU.
---Unknown
*~*~*~*~*
I imagine that one of the reasons people cling to their hates so stubbornly is because they sense, once the hate is gone, they will be forced to deal with pain.
---James Baldwin
*~*~*~*~*
Revenge is sweet, but forgiveness is sweeter.
Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.
Forgiving's a choice you make--a gift you give to somebody even if they don't deserve it. It costs nothing, but it makes you feel rich for giving it away.
---Lurlene McDaniel
*~*~*~*~*
Not forgiving and holding a resentment is like having a wound which you check everyday to see if it is healing. Everyday you open it up to look and sure enough it is not any better. To heal from a wound you must stop checking on it everyday. To heal from hurt you must stop reliving it everyday.
Remember, forgiveness frees you. It recaptures the energy that you were giving away in sadness, anger, and revenge. Forgiveness also empowers you. It puts you back in charge of you.
The forgiveness choice is, " Do you want to be bitter or better." Keep holding on to the pain and you will be bitter. Make the better choice. Learn to let go. Learn to be a forgiving person.
Daniel H. Johnston
IamDyan answered on 01/19/03:Hi Bobbie,
These are GREAT! And here's a few more :)
All the Best, Dyan
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.
--Mahatma Gandhi
Forgiveness is not an emotion, it's a decision.
--Randall Worley
If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness, and fears.
--Glenn Clark
Forgiveness is me giving up my right to hurt you for hurting me.
--Anonymous | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/19/03 - Spirit, Soul, Conscience. How do you define each of these? Or, are they actually the same thing? IamDyan answered on 01/19/03:Hi PW,
Interesting question. I imagine you'll have as many different points of view as answers. And here's my thoughts for what they're worth :)
My spirit is what holds the relationship between myself and the rest of the world and nature.
My soul is what holds the relationship between myself and God.
My conscience is what holds the two balance, reminding me when I ignore either my soul or my spirit.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 01/18/03 - Growing through Woundedness In my humble opinion, part of the challenges and difficulties we see projected into our consciousness about verbal/physical abuse (in whatever form it takes-- be it child/spousal abuse or a full-blown war), stems from our mis-understanding or ill-conceived ideas from early childhood trauma that has gone unhealed. (Please keep in mind that I am identifying all kinds of abuse into one category and, because I have done this, I anticipate a varied response).
If we are unhealed from an early abuse, how (and what) do we do to break our cycle of acting and reacting from this pain?
INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW: I ask this, not for myself, but because I was priviledged to witness a situation and perceive these thoughts as a result. I saw one person verbally abuse another and the "victim" of the verbal abuse had no response. I have spent periods of time over the past three days processing my perceptions and trying to achieve balance on this train of thought.
Comments?
Love and blessings,
Bobbie
IamDyan answered on 01/18/03:Hi Bobbie,
I think an effective way to growing in areas where we are weak, is to surround ourselves with friends, acquaintances, or co-workers who are strong in this area.
By observing their responses in real life to the situations we fear, we learn, digest, and grow.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/17/03 - I'm getting mad as hell!!!!!! Should race be a factor in college admissions, employment or the awarding of contracts?
Jesse Jackson declared yesterday that Wall Street was built on an "African burial ground" and derived its prosperity "on the backs of African people," reports CNSNews.com.
At a panel discussion marking the sixth annual Rainbow/Push Coalition's Wall Street Project fund-raiser in New York City, Jackson condemned the financial district for its role in the transportation of African slaves through its historical links to the shipping industry.
"Wall Street is built on the backs of African people. It is an African burial ground down here. Wall Street was built on the shipping industry," Jackson said.
Jackson used the opportunity of the fund-raiser to press for slave reparations and affirmative action.
CNSNews.com reports Jackson also claimed that the influx of immigrants to America during the late 19th century stemmed from government handouts.
"People didn't come here looking for religious freedom; people came here looking for 100 free acres, the right to kill an Indian and free labor," he said.
IamDyan answered on 01/18/03:DC,
First of all, Jesse Jackson should not be considered the represntative speaker for all minorities. Even minorities these days are embarrassed by his speeches.
I think when it comes to college admissions, employment, and contracts, it should be the best choice. Perhaps there should be a pecentage (if all other things are equal) that should be rewarded to minorities. And mind you, minority staus is always changing. I think white males are actually a minorty if you look it up these days.
Affirmative action and slave reparations are outdated in my opinion. Being Native American, we're entitled to government benefits we are too proud to collect. The benefits seems ridiculous....you wronged my great, great, great grandfather twice removed....and the government should pay me? We made it on our own, like everyone else.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/17/03 - Good Memories are such a pleasure...It's been 20 years since I divorced my husband, and on this cold Midwestern day, I was thinking about one of his qualities. R-- was alway seeking adventure. Like this, on our honeymoon, we ended up in Wisconsin in January after a big and ongoing snow storm. While heading to our lodgings, he drove of onto a farm road, got lost, and then, drove into a snow drift! God, I was so upset out on a remote road, no lights, freezing...It took him about half an hour or so to get out of the drift, figure out where we were and head off to the Winter Resort.
He wasn't really afraid of anything much, and we always got into great adventures.
Human beings are so strong and resiliant; in need of challenges and larks, stumulation, both mental and physical....
I have to say that I never missed being married to him for one day since the divorce! lol
Anyway, do you like a good physical challenge; having adventures for adventure's sake?
Comments or not....... IamDyan answered on 01/18/03:Love challenges!
Work these days is always a mental challenge. There's nothing like going into a company, learning their processes, and suggesting new improvements. The challenge is in making them work. Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/17/03 - Luxuriate in your Pleasures where you can. Today, you ask? Well, I just did my income tax, and I don't pay ANYTHING for the first time since 1960(or so)!!!!!!!!!! Nick is so happy that I am happy today that he put on his fake fur and boots with the matching beret and danced around the living room and out the front door! (It's cold here in Chicagoland)...
Why are you happy today?
Comments or not.... IamDyan answered on 01/18/03:Hi Chou,
Congrats on being tax free!
Today I am happy that I had absolutely nothing pressing....the day was mine to spend as I wanted. Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/17/03 - Religion What religion were you raised in when you were a child, and what were the main reasons that you rejected that religion?
Comments or not...... IamDyan answered on 01/18/03:Hi Chou,
I was raised a Catholic growing up. Attended Catholic schools through college.
I had the benefit of attending other churches with friends and their families growing up, but I am still a Catholic.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Bobbie_Moore asked on 01/17/03 - Well, here you are! ;-) I've missed you all sooooo much! It's so nice to see the group together. I am not sure what happened, but I am happy to have found you again!
Love and blessings,
Bobbie IamDyan answered on 01/17/03:Hi Bobbie,
Great to hear from you! Hope all is good with you and yours and the New Year is treating you well. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/17/03 - Whooooooo Whoooooooooo - that FULL(Luney)MOON again. People swear strange things occur during the full moon. Ive heard friends talk about mirrors breaking, and tripping over air. A good male friend told me his teeth sharpen so much during the full moon that it cuts into the inside of his mouth, also his neck tingles the entire night.
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Does anything unusual happen to you during the full moon. Or as some call it - The Lune/lunatic moon. IamDyan answered on 01/17/03:Yes, I find myself dancing naked in the middle of a moonlit forest for no apparent reason....(Did I say that out loud?)
Actually, one thing I do find is that the full moon effects my sleep patterns. I tend to sleep less and more soundly. | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 01/16/03 - So Sad Hi friends, I'm back for now. Last night my neighbor's little tiny toy poddle was killed. I gave her this dog about 2 months ago because she lives alone and always was telling me how much she wished for a dog companion like I have. But she wanted a little tiny dog so that is what I gave her.
Last night the dog slipped outside while she had opened her door and she did not notice for some time that he was gone. His name was Snowball and he was all white -very cute and sweet dog.....
Anyway, my daughter and I along with a couple other neighbors put on a major search. There were some tiny foot prints in the snow leading to the woods so I offered to go in and search there for the dog, nobody else ever goes in there and I know my way around (it is my private paradise in there). I looked all over in there, calling out to him, looking into those scary holes thinking he may have fallen into one of them. He was no where in there.
When I came out of the woods, I walked out to the road and found the poor thing smashed in the road, with heavy traffic! I brought my daughter out to help me gather the remains, but then I had to tell my neighbor the terrible news.
She is devestated. Any suggestions on how to help her get over it?
Thanks IamDyan answered on 01/17/03:Hi HH,
Glad to see you here, but so sorry to hear the awful news about your neighbor's dog!
It must have been awful for both your neighbor, as well as you and your daughter finding him and trying to gather his remains. Very sad!
I am sure that she feels this was her fault....assure her that this has happened to other people too. She may also feel a bit dependent since she could not search for the puppy herself. Perhaps your assurances that she is not a burden, but a friend also may help.
Since your neighbor, originally wanted Sonwball for company, take some time to visit with her. Maybe you and your daughter can take turns visiting for lunch, a cup of tea, a game of cards, etc. at different times during the day. Or even invite her for dinner out at your place.
Take some time to talk about her memories of Snowball. The joys Snowball brought her, and maybe also some of their daily routines. And ask her opinion over whether she would like another pet, and if so, what kind of pet she would like, but broach the subject gently. We all take a different amount of time to grieve over our pets' deaths.
Perhaps in talking to her, you may find her companionship needs may be better met another way. (Ideas: meals on wheels visits; a parakeet; a weekly trip with friends to a senior center or the mall; or, if another dog, after she has had a chance to fence in an area to avoid further chances of a puppy running out in the road....or perhaps even an older dog from a local shelter better trained.)
God Bless you and your efforts! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 01/16/03 - Dictionary Am I the only one that needs to use a dictionary to read all the questions and answers on this board, or do some or all of you use one also? (This is a BIG change of topics on another snowy day, going from whatshisname to politics and hierarchy in the RCC.) IamDyan answered on 01/17/03:Hi Dan,
You are soooo not alone!
In fact, I often type a word or phrase I'm not familiar with into the search engine at www.google.com. Sometimes, I get so much info there, I even get distracted with learning about it, that I don't come back and actually reply to the question.
In someways counter-productive here :)
It's starting to snow here in DE. As usual, wih weather predictions, we may get 9 inches or nothing.
Have a great week-end! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/16/03 - Just plain God. I'm curious as to why so many people need to know who God is, where God came from and what God looks like. The books, the debates, and the wars that come from that need to believe in a specific path and to be the 'right' believers.
To me, God just is. A source outside myself who can right my wrongs and heal my pain while guiding me to my spirit of goodness.
I don't see God in any form nor do I feel the need to.
Why do you? IamDyan answered on 01/16/03:PW-
I can only speak for myself. I guess I am a pretty tactile person.
My mind craves for all things logical....and things that are not defined, well, my mind just begs to define. I don't apologize for that, because, Hey! that's how God made me right? And it sounds like there must be others out there just like me.
As far as being a "right" believer....Nope, that's not me. What might be "right" for me may not be "right" for others. I've researched many different religions and still do, and appreciate various points of view. But, for me the Catholic community and its beliefs best supports me in my path to become closer to God.
And I do see God as a benevolent parent.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/12/03 - Not motivated for much. There are times when I absolutely can't make myself get up and function normally. Usually on weekends since I work during the week. At those times it's a great effort even just doing the things I enjoy with friends.
Do you have a secret to help motivate those of us who can give in to sloth so easily? IamDyan answered on 01/12/03:I know what you mean...
I am in the same boat -- Lots to do, and no one (with motivation to do it.
My motto -- "It will eventually get done."
With deadlines a bit more static and defined at work though, mind you, I'm not guaranteeing WHEN it will get done.
(What do you mean, they don't pick up Christmas trees in July????) | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/12/03 - Not motivated for much. There are times when I absolutely can't make myself get up and function normally. Usually on weekends since I work during the week. At those times it's a great effort even just doing the things I enjoy with friends.
Do you have a secret to help motivate those of us who can give in to sloth so easily? IamDyan answered on 01/12/03:OMG! Add sloth to my list of bad qualities!!! And I thought I was having a pretty good day up til now :)
But here's some thoughts from a fellow sloth...
First, if you don't feel like doing something that's supposed to be "fun," then don't worry about it. Could be it's just not your idea of fun anymore.
Mostly everyone goes through some sort of "hibernation simulation" this time of year. Hang in there, with the days beginning to get longer, soon your motivation will come back.
If you absolutely want to become more motivated and back into more activities, here's something to consider. I find if I make a commitment with multiple people, I am more likely to follow through. For example, this time of year, with the holidays behind us, I find that I usually am just a homebody til Spring gets here. But, if I make a date with a few friends to go somewhere, rather than just one friend, it seems it is less effort to just go than to cancel with multiple people. Aaaah, the sloth factor kicking in again...I see it now :)
Have a great week Loral! Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | sealight asked on 01/11/03 - love Hello, my name is mary M. born 3/10/55. I would like to know if you see any love entering into my life, thank you. IamDyan answered on 01/11/03:Hello Mary M.,
I think that love enters our lives most easily when we love others and ourselves. Be good to yourself and reach out to your friends and family. Love is sure to follow soon thereafter.
All the Best, Dyan
PS-You may want to post your question on the psychic board. I think it will receive more expert attention there :) | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/11/03 - Okay Dark Crow, you've done it to yourself! Never, ever make fun of magick. The consequences are sometimes horrific.
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Call me if you want a reverse spell. IamDyan answered on 01/11/03:Yes! Messing with magic even skews the message board. Maybe you should just post the reverse spell here, PW :)
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/11/03 - Or the Fool Or perhaps I am the Fool!
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IamDyan answered on 01/11/03:No, don't think so :) | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/11/03 - now you know the truth For those that did not know my real identity, now you do. (smile)
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IamDyan answered on 01/11/03:I always guessed that this was you.
I think it was your ability to always produce a smile and a provoking thought :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | wvseagull asked on 01/10/03 - Well Read? Looking at my answers to questions, some of you may wonder what all is Dan up to. Sometimes I wonder myself, but not for long as there are too many things that are interesting. One of these is some statistics.
Since my arrival here at Answerway.com I have answered 71 questions in 17 categories. The interesting thing is that they have been read 3686 times! What an audience. It must be that the experts have so little to do in other fields that they surf all categories looking for something to read, possibly? (Users would ask more questions, I hope.) My question is what do you think of your and my stats. Are they similar? Should I do anything differently? Opinions? Thanks. Dan IamDyan answered on 01/10/03:Hey Dan!!
You're quite a celebrity :)
Congrats!
Sad to say that having answered 90 questions, they have only been read 580 times....LOL! I guess I can live with that.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 01/10/03 - I need Prayers Please... Please help our friend Sharlene. Please send all prayers or healing her way! I know how life can be cruel but she is beautiful inside and out and some things in life are not fair. Only asking for five minutes of your time, to just send warm Blessings from God- Jehovah- Jesus- Saints- and Angels- or meditation on healing whoever you know. Please.
And to you many warm wish's. Joy. IamDyan answered on 01/10/03:Hi Joy,
Nice to see you here :)
Of course I will send many thoughts, prayers, and healing wishes Sharlene's way.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/10/03 - [in America];
WE are all pluralists now [in America]; everyone favors "tolerance" and "diversity." We regard these qualities as central to the American creed and central to the "democratic values" the export of which has been the avowed aim of every U.S. President since Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
For 200 years Americans have been congratulating themselves on their happy ability to live together. But have we really?
Although in 1790 only about 60 percent of the white U.S. population was of English origin, America was culturally quite homogeneous; most of the non-English people had lost much of their cultural distinctiveness to the unsparing dominance of the English language, customs, and institutions, and had lost much of their original genetic character to English numerical superiority. The American "nationality" was not a blending of all the peoples that populated the United States, or even an amalgam of the white Europeans inhabiting the country. An "American" was a modified Englishman. To become an American was to subject oneself to a hegemony so powerful that many Americans ignored or denied existing diversities. John Jay, for instance, was oblivious of the approximately 40 percent of his fellow white citizens who were of non-English origin when he wrote in the second Federalist paper,
Providence has been pleased to give this one connected country to one united people; a people descended from the same ancestors, speaking the same language, professing the same religion . . . similar in their manners and customs. . . .
A hundred and twenty-nine years later, in 1916, after wave upon wave of immigrants had inundated the United States, the liberal critic Randolph Bourne, in calling for a cosmopolitan, heterogeneous American culture, described an America that would have been quite familiar to Jay. Bourne bewailed a "melting pot" under one aegis: "English snobberies, English religion, English literary styles, English literary reverences and canons, English ethics, English superiorities." An elite composed of Americans of Anglo-Saxon descent--which, Bourne acknowledged, included himself--was "guilty of just what every dominant race is guilty of in every European country: the imposition of its own culture upon the minority peoples." A popular guide for immigrant Jews at the time put it another way: to become American, it advised, "forget your past, your customs, and your ideals."
Thus, long before the United States' founding, and until probably the 1960s, the "unity" of the American people derived not from their warm welcoming of and accommodation to nationalist, ethnic, and linguistic differences but from the ability and willingness of an Anglo elite to stamp its image on other peoples coming to this country. That elite's religious and political principles, its customs and social relations, its standards of taste and morality, were for 300 years America's, and in basic ways they still are, despite our celebration of "diversity."
"Americanization" was a process of coercive conformity according to which the United States was a melting pot, not a tapestry. American society wasn't viewed as the product of a little of Russia, a little of Italy, and a little of Poland all mixed together. Instead the various nationalities were made into Americans as ore is refined into gold. Americanization purified them, eliminating the dross.
Anglo elitism [ as some like to call it]is what made this country the greatest Nation in the world. I just want to say I am proud to call myself an Anglo elite and question where the pious invocations of our multi-ethnic, multiracial heritage of tolerance is going to take America?
Comment if you like
IamDyan answered on 01/10/03:If the Native Americans have gotten over this and even learned to work within the system, then who is anyone else to demand diversity?
Just my opinion, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/08/03 - Do whatever it takes to survive...?
"Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:19-20
From the Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1946, 1952, 1971
What does this passage suggest to you? IamDyan answered on 01/09/03:Hi PW,
A very good passage full of hope and promise.
These two short sentences are full of messages to me.
First, God has authority over the evil in this world.
Second, God thinks so much of mankind, that He has shared this authority. This is as much a statement as encouragement.
Third, you have nothing to fear from evil in this life. Which reminds us to speak, act, and live without fear. We should not alter the purpose our conscience drives us to achieve each day because of the fear of the evil, repercussions, embarrassment, etc. in this world.
Fourth, we will be called home to Heaven eventually. This is a promise stated over and over in the Scriptures.
And finally, do not take pride in this authority God has given us in itself.
Do not use this authority for personal gain or to drive personal goals and achivements...
Rather, use this authority only to enable you to continue to live the life you were meant to live....to learn the lessons here you were meant to learn....without fear of evil's repercussions in this life.
There is an example in Scripture where Jesus was tempted by the devil after having been in the dessert for 40 days. He was asked to throw himself from a cliff so that the angels could be seen saving him from the devil's tempting....of course, he denied to use God's intervention as a mere demonstration without purpose.
Just my thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/07/03 - knowledge? Do you meditate? What, in your opinion, is the greatest benefit one can achieve from meditation? Does it enlighten you to any special knowledge? IamDyan answered on 01/08/03:Hi DC and Happy New Year,
I do meditate. You might remember that all of the gang at Askme helped me get started with lots of great advice.
It is difficult for me to devote more than 10-15 minutes a day. But the rewards for even that short time are great.
I find myself more able to concentrate throughout the day and, believe it or not, it reduces stress levels throughout the day.
Those side benefits likely do offer me insight into some special knowledge, indirectly, I guess. Like, I am more likely to put myself into another person's point of view before speaking....or think before acting....or enjoy viewing scenery during a delay in traffic that may have otherwise made me angry.
Ah well, tiny steps, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/07/03 - JEALOUSY
Are there any defenses against jealousy ... except ignoring the culprit?
IamDyan answered on 01/08/03:Hi Hank,
I think the best defense is to surround yourself with positive people.
Since it is pointless to ask your wife to choose between you and her daughter...and it is less than productive for you to point out the behavior, since you are the object of it, you are best to involve a third party.
Perhaps in future gatherings, you might invite other family members, or a close friend or romantic interest of the daughter.
Once they observe a negative or jealous behavior, being a friend, they are likely to comment on it privately to her at a later time.
The third party observation of this behavior may be enough to wake her up.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/03/03 - What do you think about this? A Florida county Salvation Army director has rejected a donation of $100,000 because it was won on IWon.com site. The cash was refused on the basis that so many people are in trouble with their own gambling.
I'm curious as to whether this makes sense or not. The Salvation Army has been known to accept lottery winnings & that's gambling too. In fact, all money donated is from unexplained sources. (Noone has ever questioned where I get my money.)
The part that is disturbing to me is that they serve so many people and really do need the money to help effectively. They have shelters which are generally packed as well as clothing and food stores. In the meantime, they are begging money because they didn't do well over the holidays and don't have enough to keep it all going.
Isn't it more important to serve the people as is their function or is the stance against gambling worth their losses? Just curious.. IamDyan answered on 01/03/03:PW, I think this was a bizarre thing to do.
I think Dan had some very insightful points here....one mainly being that the Salvation Army is not an organization with education or assistance for gamblers....so why the resistance? This isn't gamblers anonymous refusing the money...
In fact, in this economy, so many charities are trying to figure out how they will raise funds this year, with government, corporate, and personal donations all down. I just read an article about Easter Seals today. They are trying to double their budget in Delaware over the next three years, so they can accomodate the amount of seniors who will need assisted living. They are struggling...and bet they would have welcomed the iwon money.
It seems to be, not only would the money have been valuable, but the publicity could have been used to showcase and spotlight the good work they do and solicit additional donations....without having to pay for advertising.
Just my thoughts on it....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 01/03/03 - Dear Spirituality Pals I am coming unglued! The stress of moving, selling or donating my stuff I've had since the ླྀ's and the prospect of trying to qualify for Medicaid which will pay for my Medicare deduction in my Social Security...well, I'm panicky and having chest pains. Plus, I'm taking out my frustration on Hussein because I'm unglued! I thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers if you so desire! Love, Chou IamDyan answered on 01/03/03:Hey Chou,
Deeeeeep breaths!
Why not ask a local church or charitable organization to come and help you organize and donate the items? They can then keep and auction off or use the items you are willing to get rid of.
As far as dealing with the government, I can only wish you well in finding one of the few kind hearted souls that know what they are doing...who can sit down with you and help.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Keep me updated. All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Twohawk asked on 01/02/03 - Hello and Thank you. Thank you for your responses. Nice to be here. And i get good feelings about the energy from the caring spirits that give their time and wisdom to those who seek it. AHO...Twohawk IamDyan answered on 01/03/03:Hello TwoHawk,
It is a pleasure to see you here again tonight as well.
We were all hoping we would see new faces here. A new friend in the circle here is a good omen. AHO....Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 01/02/03 - Logic? On a frigid and snowy winter day Nasreddin Hodja was having a chat with some of his friends in the local coffee house. Hodja said that cold weather did not bother him, and in fact, he could stay, if necessary, all night without any heat.
- We'll take you up on that, Hodja. they said. If you stand all night in the village square without warming yourself by any external means, each of us will treat you to a sumptuous meal. But if you fail to do so, you will treat us all to dinner.
- All right it's a bet, Hoja said.
That very night, Hodja stood in the village square till morning despite the bitter cold. In the morning, he ran triumphantly to his friends and told them that they should be ready fo fulfill their promise.
- But as a matter of fact you lost the bet, Hodja, said one of them. At about midnight, just before I went to sleep, I saw a candle burning a window about three hundred yards away from where you were standing. That certainly means that you warmed yourself by it.
- That's ridiculous, Hodja argued. How can a candle behind a window warm a person three hundred yards away?
All his protestations were to no avail, and it was decided that Hodja had lost the bet. Nasreddin Hoja accepted the verdict and invited all of them to a dinner that night at his home.
They all arrived on time, lauging and joking, anticipating the delicious meal Hodja was going to serve them. But dinner was not ready. Hodja told them that it would be ready in a short time, and left the room to prepare the meal. A long time passed, and still no dinner was served.
Finally, getting impatient and very hungry, they went into the kitchen to see if there was any food cooking at all. What they saw, they could not believe. Hodja was standing by a huge cauldron, suspended from the ceiling. There was a lighted candle under the cauldron.
- Be paitent my friends, Hodja told them. Dinner will be ready soon. You see it is cooking.
- Are you out of your mind, Hodja? they shouted. How could you with such a tiny flame boil such a large pot?
- Your ignorance of such matters amuses me, Hodja said. If the flame of a candle behind a window three hundred yards away can warm a person, surely the same flame will boil this pot which is only three inches away.
Now I ask you, is this logic.
IamDyan answered on 01/03/03:DC,
It seems that Hodja had the last laugh.
In a way, I can understand that a candle glowing in the darkness does indeed produce a kind of warmth no matter how far you are from it.
A couple years ago around Christmas, I was working the night shift for a period of time. Each night I headed to work through back roads for about a 45 minute ride to work. Since I had to arrive at work between 6-8 on any given night, it was often that I would pass homes with Christmas lights.
They did keep me warm and often an acre or so separated us.
Not so sure that food can be warmed in the same way our souls can.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Twohawk asked on 01/01/03 - Total faith in your walk?? Do you have total faith in your walk and do you always listen and follow that which Spirits give to you??? And may all have a very good day this First Day of January 2003....AHO...Twohawk IamDyan answered on 01/02/03:Hello TwoHawk,
Thank you for your kind wishes and all the best to you and yours.
Total faith is still something I struggle to define and follow. With help, each day it becomes easier. And I guess I have convienced myself that it is a journey, and so my daily struggles are not a failure, but, rather, a moving forward on the path.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 01/01/03 - Another prayer requested. Harmonyhill has been away from the board for quite awhile, which is unusual. Her last post was quite odd.
I received an email today asking for prayers for her. It seems she's badly underweight and not doing very well. I'm not sure what the problem is but I'm pretty sure that a prayer from us will help reduce it.
She's such a nice lady with so many personal troubles that my heart hurts for her.
I ask for new strength and peace for her in this New Year. I also ask that for each of us here. We all have to deal with life and it's so much easier to do together.
God bless, IamDyan answered on 01/02/03:Thanks Loral,
Sharlene is in my thoughts and prayers!
I will send her an ecard tonight....Amybe it will bring some cheer :)
Thanks for being such a great friend, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 12/31/02 - TO MY FRIENDS!
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all of you! Please say some prayers for Carol. She has her next catscan Jan. 28th. It will have been four months since her last one on that date! She looks and feels great presently. I just pray that her two tumors haven't grown! THANKS!
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 12/31/02:Thanks for the good wishes for the New Year...All the best to you and yours.
I will keep Carol in my thoughts and prayers for the coming month.
Please let me know how things go, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/31/02 - I love you guys. No, I'm not drinking.
I was just remembering how we built our friendships over at askme and carried them over to wetellyou and here. It's not that we always agree with each other and some of us have even gotten (temporarily)mad at each other but we still like being together and that's like a real community.
I would really love to add some new people and get some new perspectives on life and all that goes with it, and beyond. Any ideas how we can encourage that?
I've learned from each of you and hope the rhetoric will continue for a long time.
Anyway, thanks for hanging in here and Happy New Year to each of you! IamDyan answered on 12/31/02:PW,
Thanks for the New Years wishes.
I still remember that you are the one who invited me to the askme spirituality board. At the time, I thought...Me? An Expert?
But, I have also enjoyed spending time with everyone there and here.
I have a couple people I will invite here....Chris (that we know through a mutual email mistake that one time) and a couple others. Perhaps if we all have 1-2 people we can share with, we will all benefit, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 12/27/02 - Dec. 26, 2002 According to the New York Post, a homeless man was dragged out of St. Patrick's Cathedral by police officers yesterday during the Christmas Mass. However, he wasn't arrested. Instead, he was committed to Bellevue Hospital for psychiatric evaluation. What made them think he was crazy?
He claimed to be the son of God.
Ah, if only those same cops had been around 2,000 years ago . . .
IamDyan answered on 12/28/02:DC,
Like this kind of humor....something that makes you laugh for a few minutes, but think on it for a few hours.
Brings up some interesting thoughts, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 12/24/02 - Shhhh It's Christmas Eve Chou is in the kitchen wrestling with a turkey, so here I am, Nick, to give you the skivvy. What a day yesterday! Chou put down some Cosmic Catnip. Well, I went nuts! Rolling over and pretending the floor was a lady kitty...WOW. Then I threw up big time.
Later, I got more catnip. I noticed that she kept it in a drawer under the coffee table. I commandeered the table and kicked off her books and camera which fell on the flash button and make a little spark of light. If Chou tried to reach out for her drawer, I bit her! HAHAHAHA...It's mine, fool!....HAHAHAThen she took a picture of me and I wwatted the camera and it fell and flashed again...what fun! Then I got tired and lay on the floor on an afghan. But, I kept an eye on her. She moved the Cosmic Catnit to the kitchen and put it into the toaster over and covered it. HAHAHA I saw it. In the middle of the night, I tried to get into the toaster oven but she had it barracaded by a bag of garbage. So, I pushed it off the counter and rlfled through it..HAHAHA..It's morning now and I have to rest because I expect to getsome more of this stuff tomight!!!!!!!!!!! Merry Christmas Eve to all Cyber Pets...............HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA IamDyan answered on 12/24/02:Nick!
It's so good to hear about the catnip....Hopefully there's some in my stocking! Gotta love this time of year ;)
The dogs here got rawhide candy canes, which has kept them busy so I can bat around my new mouse.
Grandmom and Grandpop are coming tomorrow and they always bring treats.
Merry Christmas, Too Late | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 12/22/02 - Delay in ISP Change They are going to send me an installation CD in a week. I want to say that I am overwhelmed with concern over changes in my life. Change is very hard for me because of various reasons. I made a mean remark to Sharlene for which I apologized today. I feel like I can't deal with a single 'straw' unless it is positive until further notice when everything shakes out. OK, there, Happy Holidays!!!!! IamDyan answered on 12/23/02:Chou,
Change is never easy, is it?
Hang in there!
Here's a couple thoughts for you...
positive straws, if you will :) Dyan
“About the only thing that comes to us without effort is old age.”
--Gloria Pitzer
Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.
-- Carl Gustav Jung
When you are through changing, you are through. -- Bruce Barton
They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.
--Confucious
We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance.
--Harrison Ford
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 12/22/02 - naked woman "naked woman".--- Well it’s been a grand morning, I just finished my latest painting and am very satisfied indeed. I had never done a naked woman before and was reluctant, however I wanted to symbolize the blurring of the line between truth and fiction. Truth here is a naked woman, who we see submerged in water waist deep. The Title is ``Truth is at the bottom of the well''. I got the idea from Cocteau who uses his own devices to blur the line between truth and fiction in Orphée. It’s a fairly large painting [30 inches wide by 48 high] and my first of human “realism” so it took considerable time to complete, especially since I only paint when I feel like it and not in order to finish something. Well I must say, I am very happy with it. Happy Holidays all. IamDyan answered on 12/23/02:Congrats DC!
It has been ages since I have stood in front of a canvas, but your excitement just may inspire me to go buy some new brushes :)
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 12/22/02 - Changing ISP If I disappear for awhile, that is the reason! Happy Christman All, Chou IamDyan answered on 12/23/02:Good luck with the new provider!
Hope you are not off-line long. Shouldn't be, since most can start and end on a certain date.
Juno and Netzero offer free access and email...inc ase you are interested. Not unlimited access, though, but check it out.
Honestly, I almost think you could be on the internet for free quite a bit, if you are willing to change providers frequently....they all send out CD's that are free for 90 days or 500+ hours :)
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/20/02 - So, how's your week been so far??? Hi. Is this the fifth day of Christmas or is that after Christmas? I've always wondered.
I'm having my busiest day since Easter week here at the Orthodox Greek Church I work for.
So far I've set Father up with 15 Nursing Home Visits and three House Blessings for the past two days. I've scheduled a wedding, Baby Blessing and three Baptisms. I've shown the Church to our new Iconographer and his crew so they can get started right after the holidays and to a Detroit Photographer who wants to publish it in the newspaper. It's pretty unique.
There have been 15 requests for aid so far today and we sponsor a Christmas Children's program.
I finally finished this week's bulletin and it's beautiful.
Our Orthodox Calendar didn't come in as promised so I'll have to work tomorrow to do the mailing I've held up all week waiting for that calendar. I'll take a day off later to make up for my Saturday though. Our offering envelope company just let me know they'll be late with their product too.
I had two Greek women in the back of my office all morning chatting in loud voices. I mean so loud that I had to shush them so I could answer my phone...which has rung about every three minutes up to now. It's almost 3 p.m. and I'm taking my first break. It's catching up with me. My head hurts.
On the homefront: my eldest son who lives with me temporarily, stayed out almost all night without calling so I'm sleep deprived. My youngest son, who's always broke and borrowing just called to tell me he walked out of his job because his boss embarrassed him in front of people.
My third son went back to the streets about a month ago after a failed relationship and a year of sobriety.
My second eldest is spending his Christmas in an Austin, Texas jail for DWI.
My ex-husband is on a 10 day bender and is calling every twenty minutes to see how I'm doing and to complain about his life.
I don't know whether to laugh or cry so I'm doing both and that's not always a pretty picture when they intermesh.
On the A-Plus side, I have a desk full of wrapped gifts brought to me by both vendors and parishioners, and A funeral director we deal a lot with just brought a package of exotic coffees, white zinfandel wine and a variety of nuts for both Father and I.
I think I'm very blessed and my life is wonderful. My sons are all alive and bright lights for me in spite of.. My ex is getting to see what he was so careless about and perhaps make some changes for his higher good, or not.
I have a nice job, a nice home and car, good friends (here and on the internet with you)and a beautiful cat and dog.
So I can only say, "this is life and I'll take it-headache and all."
Merry Christmas to all.
Love too,
Loral
IamDyan answered on 12/21/02:Hi Loral,
Hang in there....some days are better than others.
You will be in my thoughts, hopes, and prayers. Dyan
PS-The twelve days of Christmas is the time between Christmas and the Epiphany. | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/20/02 - So, how's your week been so far??? Hi. Is this the fifth day of Christmas or is that after Christmas? I've always wondered.
I'm having my busiest day since Easter week here at the Orthodox Greek Church I work for.
So far I've set Father up with 15 Nursing Home Visits and three House Blessings for the past two days. I've scheduled a wedding, Baby Blessing and three Baptisms. I've shown the Church to our new Iconographer and his crew so they can get started right after the holidays and to a Detroit Photographer who wants to publish it in the newspaper. It's pretty unique.
There have been 15 requests for aid so far today and we sponsor a Christmas Children's program.
I finally finished this week's bulletin and it's beautiful.
Our Orthodox Calendar didn't come in as promised so I'll have to work tomorrow to do the mailing I've held up all week waiting for that calendar. I'll take a day off later to make up for my Saturday though. Our offering envelope company just let me know they'll be late with their product too.
I had two Greek women in the back of my office all morning chatting in loud voices. I mean so loud that I had to shush them so I could answer my phone...which has rung about every three minutes up to now. It's almost 3 p.m. and I'm taking my first break. It's catching up with me. My head hurts.
On the homefront: my eldest son who lives with me temporarily, stayed out almost all night without calling so I'm sleep deprived. My youngest son, who's always broke and borrowing just called to tell me he walked out of his job because his boss embarrassed him in front of people.
My third son went back to the streets about a month ago after a failed relationship and a year of sobriety.
My second eldest is spending his Christmas in an Austin, Texas jail for DWI.
My ex-husband is on a 10 day bender and is calling every twenty minutes to see how I'm doing and to complain about his life.
I don't know whether to laugh or cry so I'm doing both and that's not always a pretty picture when they intermesh.
On the A-Plus side, I have a desk full of wrapped gifts brought to me by both vendors and parishioners, and A funeral director we deal a lot with just brought a package of exotic coffees, white zinfandel wine and a variety of nuts for both Father and I.
I think I'm very blessed and my life is wonderful. My sons are all alive and bright lights for me in spite of.. My ex is getting to see what he was so careless about and perhaps make some changes for his higher good, or not.
I have a nice job, a nice home and car, good friends (here and on the internet with you)and a beautiful cat and dog.
So I can only say, "this is life and I'll take it-headache and all."
Merry Christmas to all.
Love too,
Loral
IamDyan answered on 12/21/02:Hi Loral,
Hang in there....some days are better than others.
You will be in my thoughts, hopes, and prayers. Dyan
PS-The twelve days of Christmas is the time between Christmas and the Epiphany. | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 12/14/02 - Phish Anybody ever hear of Phish? I don't appreciate the way they do business. IamDyan answered on 12/13/02:Hi HH,
Like their music, but have never tried to go to one of their concerts. Looks like you might be able to order tickets through one of these sites as well....Don't guess they will be better than ticketmaster, but you never know :)
www.phish.com/
www.phish.net/
Good Luck! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 12/13/02 - Buddhist Wisdom Be loving, be kind
And follow the ways of goodness.
Committed, and longing for the goal,
Always keep going with courage.
To dally and delay will not help you.
But to be ardent is sure and safe.
When you see it, cultivate the path,
So you will touch and make your own
The Deathless Way.
-Psalms of the Early Buddhists IamDyan answered on 12/13/02:HH,
That's wonderful...Thanks! | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/11/02 - Christmas Is this really a joyous time or is it a sad and lonely time of unmet expectations?
Most of my friends and family become stressed beginning a few weeks before the Christmas holiday. To me, it's pretty much just another day to live through and often a sad one. In my heart I feel certain God would not want us to set aside one special day but to do good works every day. Do you think part of the problem of depression and fear is because we aren't being truly spiritual? The competition involved in spending is more ridiculous each season, and yet we continue to play the Santa game? We aren't really being true to ourselves when we put so much effort into the gifting and celebrating and do little or nothing for the suffering strangers out there. Can we change this holiday to reflect the love of Christ without denying our children? Just looking for ideas and opinions. Thanks. IamDyan answered on 12/13/02:Christmas is really fun for us. Our family, neighbors, and friends get together a lot thu-out the Spring and Summer. Honestly, as the weather gets colder, we almost look at nthe Christmas holiday as a reminder that get-togethers are overdue.
At our house, we get out the porcelain nativity scene first and figure out where to put it...it's different every year. We always choose wherever is our most viewed site -- last year it was the bedroom; this year it is the livingroom.
Then we decide where to put the Christmas tree. Last year it was the livingroom -- this year, the kitchen. We choose the tree as a family. Alan does the lights first....then the next night we all break out the ornaments for the tree. Our ornaments have been collected over the years (the oldest one's from Grandpop's childhood, some from Jenn's grade-school years, the newest one -- a Hawaiian Santa that will forever remind us of our trip this year)
The gift shopping is always to find the gift that someone mentioned sometime this year and has almost forgotten they asked for. Surprise if the keyword for us -- other than Grandpop -- who always needs new soft comfy socks and PJs and chocolates.
We have three Christmas parties here....one Christmas Eve with the neighbors...this year at our house; one Christmas Day with family...this year at our house; one with extended family, the week after Christmas....always at my Aunts.
We all bring a covered dish to my aunt's -- there's about 30 of us -- we play games, like "Ain't that a Shame" and catch up with all -- some we haven't seen since Thanksgiving, Summer fun, or even Easter.
Didn't answer the question, did I? Sorry for rambling!
Merry Christmas, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 12/12/02 - planning a life As soon as I get my daughter off to college, I want to move and start a new life. She's got her mind made up about where she wants to go and as far as I'm (was) concerned, I would have prefered her to go to college near where I live. But I'm also tired of being available to my kids (and my sister's kids) who insist on doing life their own way so, is it wrong to just move away?
I only came to this area of the country to help my sister which turned into a long nightmare anyway, now that my daughter is getting ready for college, it will soon be okay for me to leave the scene won't it? IamDyan answered on 12/13/02:Sure, it's OK...if that's what you want.
Kids soon grow up and live their own lives...
and coming home from college is meant to be a happy experience, so as long as you're happy, wherever you are, coming home will be a happy experience for your daughter.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/08/02 - More about welfare: I personally know of several people who are hard core drug addicts and continue drawing state aid. Their rents are paid, their clothing allowance is allotted, transportation is available, and they get food money as well. They dont get extras but they can live in a comfortable place and not fear being laid off or losing their income some other way as workers do.
These people have plenty of time to kill so they need more drugs to fill in all those hours. That is when they start doing the 'midnite shopping sprees'. They cruise the neighborhoods looking for grills that were left out, lawnmowers,lawn furniture, flags, or any other item they can lift to later sell and have pocket money.
They go to the department stores and leave with extras they didn't pay for. They go to doctors with bad reputations who will verify their needs for treatments and medication of which the state will pay for/then this disreputable doctor will split the funds with them.
They steal batteries out of parked cars, and tires, hubcaps or whatever can be done quickly. There is quite an underworld of these midnite shoppers who need drug money. Recently in Detroit, someone went into a home and removed all the brand new windows the owners had just had installed before going on vacation. Another case of someone trespassing and taking all the copper that was installed in their plumbing.
Whenever any of them are caught in illegal activity, they are cautioned, and sent to still another short term rehabilitation center which when completed they resume their former lifestyle....at state/taxpayers expense.
Its very easy to get plenty of state aid if you will just admit you are an addict or even a severe alcoholic.
Anyone can become an addict if they continue to feed that habit.
The addict can become a useful non-using part of society too, if they make the choice between using drugs, going to jail, or living in the streets.
Why would they try to kick an ugly habit when all their living expenses are paid and they are without desire to rise above? It's hard work to fight out of such a habit. I think in these cases the state enables the addict to destroy themselves, and their families too. If they made them stay in long term (9 months or more)rehab centers while doing some kind of work to help pay their way. Crafts, gardening, cleaning etc, or teach some job skills that they can put into practice upon release, it would give them self esteem and structure, plus a stronger connection to their own spirit.
That is my biggest objection to welfare. Any comments are welcome. IamDyan answered on 12/08/02:PW,
Not sure if this is federal or state aid or a combination of both....but, yes, I have seen it abused.
Things here are also buried by our prosecuting attorney's office. Many times, cases are pled down, so that there is no time, only probation. Many times, even someone already on probation, caught again, is given probation....Can you believe THAT???
I have a good friend who is a parole officer, so I have seen this work up close....very sad. My opinion is that there is a loop-hole for almost anyone willing to look for it.
If only some of the hard work looking for a loop-hole was directed toward honest work.
This is not to say that there aren't honest people receiving assistance that deserve it. But if the ones abusing it, were stopped, there would be more assistance for those who are just above the level...who really need it, and are denied.
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 12/08/02 - VALUES!
The authors of "Great Traditions in Ethics" interpret one aspect of subjectivism that's atributed to American philosopher John Dewey. It relates, "The social implications of experimentalism in ethics are developed through a subtle criticism of subjectivism and egoism in ethical theories." Dewey includes in his criticism theories which are not ordinarily classified as subjective, e.g. philosophical realism, in which values are regarded as independent of human experience. However, Dewey makes the charge of subjectivism because, on such a view, moral improvement is made to depend solely upon changes within individuals; the social context of human activity and its definitive role in modifying values are neglected.
Values have absolutely nothing in common with human experience. They should be taught, understood and practiced at an early age. As a result, the process will create remarkable people who will damn the misfits in society who are now damning us without reservation. Plato believed the creative personality was forced into living in "a society in which his fellows are ordinary human beings" and that "the task (of the creative personality) is to make his fellows into his followers." But aren't worthy free-spirits independent disciples of MORALITY who don't need a leader because they abide by the sovereignty of a foundation that includes moral perfection? I LEAD MYSELF -- ONLY FOOLS FEEL INFERIOR!
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 12/08/02:Hi Hank,
All of this works very well, assuming we have values and morals.
Some of us are lucky enough to have parents or mentors to instill these from an early age. A few seem, no matter life's circumstances, to have been born with an innate moral code.
However, social/peer pressure and/or punishment is still valuable in society in a few cases that remain.
For example, I am not likely to praise someone who improves his or her moral standing by improving from armed robbery to just robbery -- even though, that would be considered improvement from a subjective point of view.
Just my thoughts on it, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 12/04/02 - I wonder how? How did that man get my email address anyway? I do try to help third world people, and I will be trying to help move a family here but how did that man get my address and I wonder how he knows my interests? IamDyan answered on 12/05/02:HH-
email addresses get sold all the time. I get emails that seem personalized to me as well....don't take it to heart. Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 12/04/02 - Fun Day Today, I got all gussied up in my fav jeans and jacket and boots and went to the parking lot and brushed three inches of snow off my car. Hey, then, it started!
So, I drove through the puddles and onto the highway and went to Walgreens. I tested some cheap cologne and decided on a couple. God, the stench on my hands! Checked out the decorations which were so lively and fun. Got some tortoise tone hair combs, and headed to the check-out. The head cashier was calling on a loud speaker for another clerk to help out up front, well, no one came; the hard worker always gets stuck with the bulk of the work.
Got into my car, and headed out on the highway. Hmmm, to the left was a sports car in a ditch! A cop was walking gingerly up to the car like he expected Bonnie and Clyde. I chuckled to myself.
Up the building stairs and opening the door. Ahh, home. Nick was ther looking at me like he never saw me before. (He always does this) A few words and he is spinning around my legs.
This is the most complicated I like life to be...just plain fun, no headaches!!!
HOw do you like your life to be???
Comments or not.... IamDyan answered on 12/04/02:Let's see....
Today, I woke up and then realized I had set my alarm early to fool myself....I like fooling myself like that :) At least, now while I'm working.
Then, I made coffee, got in the shower, woke everyone else up while I was getting ready for work....and got kisses.
I got to work early, because there was no traffic. I was brilliant in all my meetings -- LOL :)
And everyone greeted me at the door when I arrived home, cats and dogs at my feet, husband with kisses.
My life is as uncomplicated as it can be at this time. I love my job, I love my pets, I love my family, and I very rarely do things only because I feel obligated to.
The only thing I would consider changing is finding a job where the commute was less. But I balance that against job satisfaction.
Just my thoughts on it.....But your day sounds wonderful! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Kaliyuga asked on 12/04/02 - You Can Run But You Cannot Hide Guess who???? :o)
And yes, DC, vegetarians may eat animal crackers!! [grin]
The dark age,
Kaliyuga IamDyan answered on 12/04/02:Well, hello....
It's been a long time!
Welcome and hope all is well with you, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 12/01/02 - SORRY!
Is this site working correctly? After I 'hit' Submit, I got a Warning sign. I tried two more times and received the same Warning sign. This is WHY my question graces your Board three times! Strange. Anyway, SORRY!
HEINRICH
IamDyan answered on 12/02/02:Hi Hank,
I've had the same error happen to me once or twice, but it always seems to post.
But just to be sure, and so I don't have to retype, when I get the error message, I hit the "Back" browser button, highlight my text and hold down the Ctrl button while hitting the letter C on the keyboard.
Then I go to the question board to see if it has posted. If for any reason it has not, I can just go to "ask a question" and Hold down the Ctrl button while hitting the letter V, and my question will paste in the space without having to retype it.
Anyway, such an interesting question....why not post it three times :) All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 12/01/02 - Good News from Marky FYI, I received this message from Marky in an e-mail, for any who are interested:
"I'm so excited; I found an apartment that I can afford and...I really like it (it's a four-plex)!!! I will probably be moved in by the 6th or 7th of December although I have the key already, have paid in full to move in......"
He has taken a turn for the better, and seems to be doing well and is happy. IamDyan answered on 12/01/02:Thanks for the news...
Glad to hear he is doing well, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 12/01/02 - Happy Hanukkah! "Why does the mystic celebrate Hanukkah? Because the oil that the Jews were burning in their lamps was not enough to guarantee their survival,yet the oil continued to burn despite the laws of the physical universe.
The Jew is reminded on Hanukkah that the God of our fathers is eternally there for us, aware of our suffering and committed to its end. He is the flame that casts out all darkness. For it is the light of God, not the light of the world, that nourishes and sustains us. To know this and remember it is to keep our living covenant with Him." ---Everyday Grace
Affirmation:
I rely on God alone.
Not enough oil to light the way....or....not enough bread to feed the crowd. What other examples of physically 'not enough' and yet it is - can you think of?
IamDyan answered on 12/01/02:How about Jesus first recorded miracle....
Not enough wine at the wedding in Cana? | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/30/02 - From Jewish Mystical Writings "We avoid studying the true nature of the divine and as a result, the concept of God has dimmed. The innermost point of the awaremess of God has become so faint that the essence of God is conceived only as a stern power from whom you cannot escape, to whom you must subjugate yourself. If you submit to the service of God on this empty basis, you gradually lose your radiance by constricting your consciousness. The divine splendor is plucked from your soul." I found this statement brilliant. Comments or not... IamDyan answered on 12/01/02:I think this is true of many things.
Doing and appreciating things with true love and abandon, we find ourselves happy.
Doing and appreciating things only because of some sense of thrust upon responsibility, we find a chore. | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/29/02 - Sharlene Where is Sharlene? IamDyan answered on 11/30/02:I'm not sure....She seems to have removed herself as an expert here. I don't have her home email and don't wetellyou bookmarked any longer....is she still at wetellyou?
I hope all is well with her, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/29/02 - LET'S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS!
Throughout history, people have turned to religion for answers to ultimate questions of life and death, SPIRITUALITY and meaning. Religious explanations are for the most part impossible to test for accuracy; they are a matter of faith. But other nonscientific systems of belief are testable in principle, although their followers often ignore the basic rules of evidence. One such rule is that you have to make predictions in advance of, not after, the FACT. For example, you don
IamDyan answered on 11/30/02:Hi Hank,
Sure people turn to religion and spirituality for answers where science falls short. Not everything is explainable or testable, as you have stated.
I think an admirable example of prediction is Nostradamus. While he was not clear or perfect in all his quatrains, one has to admire his predictions about Hitler and Kennedy, thousands of years in the future.
Hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving! All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/28/02 - THANK GOD thank god for dogs, huh? IamDyan answered on 11/30/02:Love all my dogs!
Here's some dog poetry for you :)
Dog Haiku
I love my master
Thus I perfume myself with
This long-rotten squirrel.
I lie belly-up
In the sunshine, happier than
You ever will be.
Today I sniffed
Many dog butts--I celebrate
kissing your face.
I sound the alarm!
Paperboy--come to kill us all--
Look! Look! Look! Look! Look!
I sound the alarm!
Garbage man--come to kill us all--
Look! Look! Look! Look! Look!
I lift my leg and
Whiz on each bush. Hello, Spot-
Sniff this and weep.
How do I love thee?
The ways are numberless as
My hairs on the rug.
My human is home!
I am so ecstatic I have
Made a puddle.
Sleeping here, my chin
On your foot--no greater bliss--well,
Maybe catching rats.
Look in my eyes and
Deny it. No human could
Love you as much I do.
I am your best friend,
Now, always, and especially
When you are eating.
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/28/02 - Thanksgiving Just a couple of things I am wondering about. Is Thanksgiving a Secular or Religious holiday? And, who do we give thanks to, God or the Indians?? IamDyan answered on 11/28/02:Hi DC,
It's a secular holiday...stemming from some government treaty here in the US, I thought it was Abe Lincoln, but Chou questioned my resources here, so I won't re-post it to avoid giving you bad info.
But celebrating the harvest had a long history in many cultures. And a holiday reminding us to give thanks, I guess has become necessary, since we just don't all seem to find the time to do it every day, like we should.
Since Alan and I have Native America blood, it is a holiday we do not particularly enjoy....as the commercialism and the history speaks about the beginnings of how the Europeans changed the ways of respecting land as unownable and living as a tribe.
In the truest sense of the spirit, Happy Thanksgiving to you!
Remember all the people who mean something to you.
Be thankful for God meeting all your needs daily.
Be gracious to your God and the worship He expects.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/26/02 - Opinion regarding remarriage needed. After a long term marriage one mate passes away. Is there a proper time to lapse before a remarriage? As far as society, I don't care but I'm thinking in terms of how long it might take a person who truly loved their mate to want to date or remarry? Is this a moral question? IamDyan answered on 11/27/02:Hi PW,
I think it's up to each individual....mourning is a personal process. I don't think it's really moral. I think each relationship and person is different, and to try to set a standard is wrong.
My friend, after a three year long marriage, who lost her husband in a car accident, was dating in less than a year. She said she loved being married to her husband and remarrying was a tribute to their relationship. My grandfather has never been interested in dating or remarrying.....He's 90 now, but my grandmom passed away 25 years ago. He says he'll never find anyone even close to her.
I would not want to stand in the way of anyone's personal happiness...I mean, Who am I?
Personally, I don't think I would consider dating again if I lost Alan, before a year had passed. Mainly, so I could have the opportunity to live through all the holidays we shared together by myself and reflect. And after that year, I'm not sure what I would do. I really think it's a personal decision.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/25/02 - Influence We humans are influenced by the people we meet throughout our lives...for good or for bad. Who had the most positive influence on your life, and who, negative.
As you grow older, do you find the line blurring and even reversing between your ideas of "good" and "bad" for you? Do you even think about positive and negative any more, or do you see things as just being? Is there any real communication between human beings after all? Isn't that a "good" thing? Shouldn't we just be devoted to the special people in our lives instead of to "god"? Namaste IamDyan answered on 11/26/02:Hi MaryChou,
So many people have influenced me positively in my life. If I had to choose just one, I would say my dad. He was the one who taught me balance...demonstrating the gentle and tricky line between lying and white lies; in making decisions between social responsibility and religious beliefs; and many other gray areas.
I can't think of anyone who influenced me negatively. There are a few I thought did at the time, but, looking back, it seems they taught me some of the hardest learned lessons.
I think God showed his face in each of these people who have toughed my life, and I am greatful. So I remain devoted to all the people in my life and to God who put them in my path.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/26/02 - Oh, dang What the heck is with the extra punctuation?? IamDyan answered on 11/26/02:OH WOW...Look!
There are now spaces and stuff without use of
this
and this~~~~~~~
OK, Ill lay off the punctuation! | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/26/02 - Oh, dang What the heck is with the extra punctuation?? IamDyan answered on 11/26/02:Just trying to break up the words a bit...
I hate it when everything is all scrunched up together.
I'll try to behave :) Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/24/02 - Togetherness and humor is very spiritual! The pre-Thanksgiving party was excellent and I sure thank Dyan for coming up with it and hosting, and all the other members here who participated. Being who we really are...in fun or seriousness...that's the best. But to be able to behave like kooks, and still be appreciated & appreciate each other is just a gift. I'm so glad to share this community with you all! Blessings, Loral IamDyan answered on 11/25/02:I had a great time.....Such a great group of friends here! But felt a bit queasy first thing this morning....not sure if it was Bill's punch or Sharlene's jello shots. :) Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/24/02 - GREAT PARTY I guess everyone has gone home. Time to get ready to bed. I don't remember much about the party because of the quick Martinis right at the beginning, so, let me just issue blanket apology for any bad behavior on my part.
*Nick get me an alka-seltzer*
Nick, next time we have to remember to pace ourselves so we remember what happens.
Thanks to all Spirituality Board pals: wings, crow, HH, Dyan, Hank............. IamDyan answered on 11/24/02:Hey Chou,
Good seeing you! HH is the designated driver...be safe. see you tomorrow....Lots of Love, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/23/02 - I want to go ask them I have a strong urge to going down to the corner store and asking the owners what it is they are doing? And why have they bought up every corner store in the area? I want to ask them flat out if they are here in peace or for some covert reason.
They aren't the same as the previous corner market owners who looked and acted like real people. These new corner market owners area wide wear a lot of gold and diamonds and speak to one another on cell phones in an Arabic language. IamDyan answered on 11/23/02:HH,
I would go and simply ask. Likely there is a simple explanation that will put your mind at ease.
At best, you may make a new friend. At worst, you may have some information to pass along to the new Homeland Security office.
Either way, you can satisfy your curiousity and put it behind you. Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/23/02 - Egomaniacs with an inferiority complex. I think most of us yearn to be better than others. Better looking, smarter, richer, braver or some other glowing difference, especially in our youth.
When I was 7 years old I decided one thing I could do that would set me apart was to learn my ABC's backwards. To this day NOONE has ever asked me to say them that way.
As a young teenager I planned to write a book and began with poetry and short stories. As soon as I had a few published, I didn't want to do more. (not good enough)
I wanted to play music and as soon as I got the basics, my interest waned. (not good enough)
At the same time, I've looked into the mirror and thanked God that I looked as good as I did & had some intellect and abilities to carry me through life easier.
I am a contradiction of myself. I compare myself unfavorably to those who've accomplished more and too favorably to those who've not accomplished much.
I'm settling into my own now but I see this confusion in my sons and my granddaughter.
My question is Why are we not satisfied to be equal with each other as individuals with different level of achievements? Why do we feed this ego too much and then try to starve it?
What drives us to be competitive? Why do we judge ourselves so harshly?
IamDyan answered on 11/23/02:Hey PW,
Good question! I think it must be something leftover in our genes from the caveman times, when survival of the fittest was just like it sounded.
I remember when I was young, my dad driving me to be my best in sports. Not better than someone else, mind you....just the best I could be. But I couldn't help but compare myself to others.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
But then, time passes, and we learn that competing with the best we did yesterday, not the best someone else did yesterday, is what is really important.
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Maybe it's part of God's plan (hidden secretly somewhere in our makeup) to keep us at our best!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/23/02 - Just wondering about opinions on this news report. KADUNA, Nigeria (Nov. 22) - Fighting raged on Friday in the Nigerian city of Kaduna, where more than 100 people have died in three days of riots stoked by Muslim fury over the country's staging of next month's Miss World contest.
The Nigerian Red Cross gave a figure of at least 105 killed by Friday morning, and witnesses spoke of more killings by civilians and security forces since then.
The streets of the northern city were littered with charred vehicles and burnt tyres. Hundreds of residents were seen fleeing their smouldering houses carrying their belongings.
A Reuters reporter saw 13 corpses in the streets, which eyewitnesses said were fresh from Friday's fighting. They said more bodies had been thrown down wells by attackers.
"Two of my sons were killed at home today. They were taken away from my house by police and soldiers. They were killed and their bodies burnt," said Bello Mijinyawa, a Muslim resident.
Eyewitnesses said fighting spread from mainly Muslim districts to Christian-dominated areas on Friday, despite a 24-hour curfew. The violence over the past three days has involved the majority religious group in each respective area attacking the minority one, they said.
More than 500 have been wounded in the street riots.
The violence, sparked by a newspaper article suggesting the Prophet Mohammad would probably have married one of the Miss World beauty queens, resembled massive sectarian bloodletting in the region two years ago that killed thousands.
The bloody mayhem then stemmed from non-Muslim opposition to plans to introduce Islamic sharia law in Kaduna state in the predominantly Muslim north, but this time Muslim fury has been touched off by the Miss World pageant set for December 7.
There's more but this gives enough of the idea of what's going on.
How does this type behavior fall into the 'peaceful' Muslims? Is this majority or only a few looking for trouble?
Thanks.
IamDyan answered on 11/23/02:PW-
Isn't it amazing that a single free thought brought on this sort of violence?
I am glad that I live in a place where I can express my thoughts without fear.....and add that to one more thing I can be thankful for this Thanksgiving season.
As always, I think it is a vocal few, and not the silent majority at work here......
Another thing in the news was a class action suit regarding people suing McDonalds over their kids (who ate 5 combo meals a day) gaining weight that effected their health.....That puts it in perspective for me :)
Again the vocal few at work.....
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/21/02 - Spiritual or Physical? A difference or same? The main reason for the invisible God for incarnating himself physically in the midst of human beings was to lead them who can love only physically to the healthy love of his physical appearance, and then little by little to spiritual love.
Saint Bernard IamDyan answered on 11/22/02:PW-
OK, you're five years old and you want to ride a bike..... you have seen someone ride a bike.......so you know it can be done and it looks fun!
Then once you have seen someone ride the bike......you have a real presence (like your parent) running along side you, showing you how to remain upright......you finally see that you can do it.
Finally, you are doing it.....and than you see no one's even holding on.
I think spiritual love is a lot like this.....
At any age, if just shown a picture of the bike and a mathematical equation that remaining upright was feasible was presented......would you have ever gotten on that bike....and rode????
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/21/02 - "but not a dead one." The Emperor asked Master Gudo, "What happens to a man of enlightenment after death?"
"How should I know?" replied Gudo.
"Because you are a master," answered the Emperor.
"Yes sir," said Gudo, "but not a dead one."
==========================
This is my reactions to this story:
=========
Knowledgeable people are not afraid to say "I don't know" regarding things that they _cannot_ know. Observe all that you can. Do not invent what you cannot know.
===================
When one answers a question with another question that person is avoiding answering the question. Maybe the Zen master knows the answer and doesn't want to share it with the Emperor.
============
What is yours?
IamDyan answered on 11/22/02:DC,
To know that one knows, what one knows===========================================
And that one does not know what one does not know==================================
This is true knowledge=============
Confucius================ | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/21/02 - YOU ... MAYBE!
"I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less vaalue on his own opinion of himself than on the opinion of others." - Marcus Aurelius
Is too much self-love evil? Why should YOU care what people think of YOU?
Please interpret and comment!
IamDyan answered on 11/22/02:Hi Hank,
I think that since we are social by nature, there is some innate sense in all of us that seeks approval, some affirmation that we are worthwhile.
In some cases, where are beliefs are very strong, our need for others' affirmation is low.
However, in cases where our beliefs are shaky and unsure, we strongly seek out others' approval.
Personally, I find that I care little for what others think of me as far as my religious, spiritual, and personal beliefs. However, I seem to seek feedback from others in my professional career.
That could also be because I feel more in control of my personal growth, and I depend on others (as well as myself) to move ahead in my career.
Just my thoughts on it....
What's your opinion? Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/20/02 - More advice please Thank you for your help. I found out today the real reason my daughter wants to come home so badly. She currently does not know I know, but she will know shortly. At the moment, she is in with a therapist and is being confronted with the truth.
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It is still difficult for me to tell for sure what shape she is in mentally, since I am not there in person, it does make it harder to see things clearly. And of course, I miss her so badly when she is not with me, I would love for her to be with me anytime.
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I need to be careful not to make any decisions based on my missing her. (*though, at the moment, I'd like to strangle her)
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Her grades are fine, though she did get a C, her lowest grade so far, but that was government, and she is a teen who is doing teen things.....
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She did something stupid and then I'm not completely sure what the plan was but, she wanted to be home before her father and I found out about it.
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It is nothing really life threatening or anything like that; she let a younger girl drive her car and they had an encounter with another car, a brand new pick-up truck. It was only a minor ding so they talked the man out of calling the police and then didn't tell anyone about it.
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I don't know yet what they were thinking because I haven't talked to my daughter yet since I found out. What I am concerned about is the extreme lack of judgement, and wonder how big this problem might have got before I found out? And if this is just a stupid teen stunt or a warning sign for something worse to come. IamDyan answered on 11/20/02:Hi HH,
Likely just a teen-age stunt, had my share of those.....What her thought process was, can't tell you.....Often as a teen we are not too forward thinking anout consequences!
But one thing to remember, you and her dad should present a united front to her....She shouldn't be allowed to play one of you against another.....
That does sometimes lead to other problems.
Hang in there! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/19/02 - A ZEN STORY Three freinds were walking down a country road. They see a man standing on top of a nearby hill. The frist freind says, "He must be looking for his straying cattle!"
The second says, "No, I think he is looking for a lost traveling companion".
The third man says, "Maybe he is standin there to enjoy this pleasant breeze."
Unable to agree, the climb the hill to ask the man what he is doing on top of the hill. Looking for cattle, to find a friend, or enjoying the breeze.
No, he replies, "I'm just standing on top of the hill."
Comments or not>>> IamDyan answered on 11/20/02:Sometimes things are just what they are....no additional reason or or rationale needed.
I LOVE it! Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/19/02 - The wrong thing When you do the right thing and the wrong thing happens, how do you got over it? I can't get over it. I give up. IamDyan answered on 11/20/02:HH,
A couple things I like to keep in mind that keep me sane....
I am NOT, I repeat NOT, perfect! I will make mistakes...Just accept it!
I do not have ESP powers. I make decisions based on the best information I have at the time. I know that the moment of absolute certainty over any decision will never arrive. And, I must accept that and move on. There will be more decisions to make tomorrow.
If I worry about what mistakes I made yesterday, I will not have enough energy and will power to make tomorrow's decisions.
In the scheme of things in this life, the decisions I make will likely not be written in history books for children to study as a case of "What Not To Do" in years to come.
My parents made mistakes in raising me, and I am a capable person. Their mistakes have led to humorous stories we can now laugh together over. My daughter and I will soon laugh over mistakes I have made. It is a cycle and method for us to become closer through humor and humaness.
Stop beating yourself up, HH!
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/19/02 - HELP ME Please help me!
My daugther is having a crisis and is demanding to come home! (I send her away to school).
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If she stays in school until the semeseter ends, she will have more than enough credits to gradutate high school plus have 3 credits toward a college degree.
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She claims she can't stick it out. I told her there are only btwn 20 and 30 days of school left in this semester and she is still rather insistant.
I need help to be firm. I'm so worn out. Any extra backup? IamDyan answered on 11/19/02:HH-
I don't know what all the history is around why your daughter went away to school, or why she is unhappy where she is.
Perhaps, if she is coming home over the Thanksgiving holiday, you two can put your heads together to come up with a plan to make the rest of the semester tolerable for her.
After all, if she switches school now, she will likely waste a lot of class credits. Maybe by looking at the alternatives between the two options, she will better see on her own, that sticking it our for 4 weeks is the better choice.
I will keep you both in my prayers that things work out for the best. Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/19/02 - For questions about this site structure: On the left of the screen there is a welcome box with favorites, statistics etc. At the very top it says 'VISIT OUR NEW FORUM'
Click on it and it takes you to a discussion board where the persons who are operating this site will listen to your problem and let you & other experts determine what needs to be done to correct it, then they do that.
I also sent them an email this morning because I couldn't get on the site at my workplace. It was answered immediately.
I've made a couple of suggestions and they've responded quickly and kindly. One was because there was no way to rate at the beginning. They fixed that.
If you have a problem, please take it there so it can be fixed. They don't know if we don't tell them.
I think this site has great potential if we just stick with it for now.
The wetellyou site is okay but half the time I still find myself in a strange language or inundated with requests for me to answer the same question. Maybe it's a personal thing but I like it here.
I hope everyone else will stick with it too. It's so nice to be with my old group.
IamDyan answered on 11/19/02:PW,
Actually, I have never had a problem with this site, other than not being able to rate responses at the beginning.
Since that has been corrected, I always seem to be able to see all responses to any question...also the rating and any comments posted in response. And I never get pop-up ads.
I like this site quite a bit better than wetell you, mainly because I could never seem to get English as my default language. So, I guess I will hang in here with you and Chou :) Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/18/02 - this site I can't find response's beyond 1 answer to a question, is there no way to see them? If so this site sucks IamDyan answered on 11/19/02:All that is really odd. I seem to be able to see all responses to the questions and all their ratings and comments. Also, I don't get any pop-ups when visiting here.
I wonder what is different about the way our computers are set up? Dyan | | Question/Answer | | Choux asked on 11/16/02 - Overwhelmed Right now, I'm overwhelmed with computer stuff and other stuff! I feel comfortable on this site; this is going to be my "home" Board. All my best pals are here. I'll do my best on the other Boards over time. I get too many e-mails! I have spam guard, but wetellyou sends too many messages; most us just crap except for personal e-mails from friends which I answer. I am in hunker down mode to get through the holidays intact!Goiing to simplify everything even more!! LOts of Love, Chou IamDyan answered on 11/16/02:Chou,
Check this out...
http://www.llangley.com/yoga/wisdom/rightnow%5b2%5d.htm
Simply, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 11/16/02 - We ignore our spiritual unity Inscribed on the hilt of the Muhammad''s sword: 'Forgive him who wrongs you; join him who cuts you off; do good to him who does evil to you, and speak the truth although it be against yourself.'
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If we acknowledge incarnate evil in the world, it is not to feel superior or self-righteous, not to apportion blame, but to accept responsibility for what we have all created. Humanity is one soul, one family, whether we admit it yet or not. Pitiless self-righteousness is perhaps the greatest evil of all, for it is the soil that breeds terror.
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And yet who can deny the beauty, generosity, and love that human beings are capable of. Who can deny the heart warming contacts that we can meet on the streets, in the fields, and in the homes of any people of this earth? Yet something has gone wrong. On the collective level we lead lives of fear and denial. We ignore our spiritual unity and we blame “the other’’.
IamDyan answered on 11/16/02:Hi Dark Crow,
It does seem that blaming others is rampant. I am not sure what happened to taking responsibility for one's own actions and self.
And, I think, as a result of that, participation in charities that benefit those who truly need it, have gone down.
The circle really seems to be degrading.
I love the inscription you have posted here. Could be a creed for everyday living!
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/16/02 - Controlling is dangerous to all. I've heard that the ultimate act of control is murder.
It's also likely that we often kill ourselves from trying to control someone else.
How do you think that believing in God can teach us to halt our controlling natures. IamDyan answered on 11/16/02:PW,
God can teach us to halt our controlling natures just by example. If anyone deserved to control things, I would think it would be God. Yet notice how God has given us free will and observe God's patience with this world.
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/15/02 - FACTOR #4:
Would moral and ethical obstacles stop you from being a winner? IamDyan answered on 11/15/02:I let a personal code of ethics based on the ten commandments guide me. I have only once found myself in a situation where I was on the losing end because of my morals. But frankly, I do not think that made me less a winner.
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/15/02 - FACTOR #3:
Are you driven to succeed? IamDyan answered on 11/15/02:Yep! Sometimes I even drive others there :) | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/15/02 - FACTOR #2:
Are you sensitive to the feelings of others? IamDyan answered on 11/15/02:I think I try to see a situation from all sides. And so, putting myself into someone else's "shoes" so to speak, makes me sensitive to other's feelings. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 11/15/02 - FACTOR #1!
Do you feel uneasy when you confront an embarrassing situation? IamDyan answered on 11/15/02:Hi Heinrich,
No, not usually. But then, I don't find too many situations embarrassing. OK, so maybe I have a pretty direct personality :)
What would you consider an embarrassing situation? Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/15/02 - 25 experts in Spirituality on this board? Why is noone answering or asking? How can the board get going in a positive direction if everyone sits back waiting for something special.......to happen? Join in please. IamDyan answered on 11/15/02:Hey PW,
I guess I am just no one posting a few questions and answering some here and there. (Tee Hee)
Anyway, hopefully, this board will begin to liven up soon. I am reading a new book, so maybe I will have some thoughts for consideration this week-end.
All the Best, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | Harmonyhill asked on 11/10/02 - Marky Hello all,
I've just heard news from Marky.
He is in the proceess of trying to move, he has had much misfortune with housing these last few months and has asked me to share this information with all of you:
**Dear Sharlene,
Can't figure it out. Can you send a message to them for me and give them the info I gave you and also my new E-mail address? Soon my E-mail address will be:
Kaliyuga918@lycos.com
Much love,
Marky :o)*** IamDyan answered on 11/13/02:Thanks so much HH,
Glad to hear that Marky is hanging in there despite all the difficulties. Please send him my best wishes, Dyan
| | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 11/10/02 - Meditating I am hopeful that most of you will sign on and stay' there are so many of you that I miss. Well, all of you.
I was also wondering if someone knew of a good Web-Site for Meditating something all of us need now and than, and could learn from?
IamDyan answered on 11/13/02:Joy,
Out of everything I've ever studied, here's the best reflection I've ever seen....
http://www.llangley.com/yoga/wisdom/rightnow%5b2%5d.htm | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/12/02 - Emotions and Spirituality. I know there is a huge connection between these things.
Fear and anger are two great contributors to pushing us away from God.
For instance when my 24 year marriage fell apart I was filled with hurt which later turned to anger at the way it all came about. Much of it was focused on my mother-in-law. It took me quite awhile to reach a stage of acceptance and peace.
How do you free yourself of those grinding resentments so you can live without anger and in peace?
IamDyan answered on 11/13/02:Hi PW,
For me, I am a really logical person, it is somewhat easy for me to separate people's actions from them themselves. And I rarely, although sometimes, take things personal.
I guess, it's using the put yourself in their shows technique, and brainstorming reasons why they may have acted that way. (Ex: They don't know any better; they were manipulated themselves, etc.)
Interesting enough, someone sent me this link, which is also some good food for thought....
http://www.llangley.com/yoga/wisdom/rightnow%5b2%5d.htm
All the Best, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | whitefawn asked on 11/10/02 - WAR? and my boys. My Son Jame's who use to be Romulus known by some on askme.com recieved his register for the draft he just turned 18. my older Son Vincent 24 already recieved his Draft.
My boys know nothing about killing I taught them to love, my Jim can't even fight, this is why
Friends and relatives on my husbands side say, I should be proud, why not? it's not their children or boys. I have no family left on my side.
As a mother I'm very afraid! Why are there so many young boys being called for this War, I use to completely leave this out of mind, until my husband gave me the news that he was hiding from me today.
Thank you. Joy. IamDyan answered on 11/10/02:Hi Joy,
I wasn't even aware there was a draft still in existence. Most of the boys draft age that I know (including my daughter's boyfriend) are already in the reserves and know they may be called up in a moment's notice and are ready to serve.
Frankly, I would be proud to serve myself, but likely they will never take me because of my attitude...LOL!
Hang in there! God will protect us as we ask. Dyan | | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 11/10/02 - This site is having problems this morning Maybe it is just my pc. but I cannot read any of the answers ,even the one the one I just sbmitted to Crow
Hopefully this problem will correct itself .Otherwise...on the road again. IamDyan answered on 11/10/02:Hey Tom,
Much as I hate to say it, I think this may be a case of operator error :) I can view answers and ratings and even the raters responses. Hope things clear up on your end soon!
Regards, Dyan | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 11/10/02 - Are our pets more spiritual than we? My dog and cat are always loving and loyal in a way that few people seem to be. Even pets that aren't treated well by their owners remain loyal and loving. Is it possible that our pets are actually of a higher spiritual plane than we are, even though we've always believed ourselves to be above them?
They could survive on their own before we brought them inside and started 'training' them our way. Now we've made ourselves their masters because they need us.
Who says they don't think and communicate. My dog and cat seem to have great secrets from me while they lay nose to nose as if they're having a conversation? Many things they do together seem to be preplanned privately.
Just wondering about all this..? IamDyan answered on 11/10/02:Loral,
I think you may be onto something here :) My dogs and cat have taught me a lot about forgiveness, patience, and true joy. They never miss an opportunity to sooth a ruffled spirit or to romp and play in a beautiful day.
All the Best, Dyan |
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