Main Content RSS FeedFeature Article

Welcome to John’s website! »

Welcome to my website and thanks for reading my blogs! Already, I realize that blogging is ideal for . . .

Sharing thoughts and feelings. Expressing opinions. Making observations. Venting frustrations. Updating. Helping. Discussing. Teaching. Learning.

As my writing unfolds, I hope to accomplish all of the above. I promise the messages will come straight from my heart. Visit again soon for new posts, free downloads, and other items of interest. I encourage you to share this website with family and friends!

Main Content RSS FeedRecent Articles

Perceptions and Choices »

A short time ago, I was asked to speak at a memorial service hosted by Hospice of Dayton. As a staff chaplain for HOD, I’m honored to take my turn fulfilling assignments like this. Everyone in attendance had recently lost a loved one who had chosen Hospice of Dayton for end-of-life care. This post offers the message I shared with them.

*************************

As a teenager, David Hawkins experienced a life-changing event. The year was 1939 and young David had a paper route in rural Wisconsin. With a daily trip of seventeen miles, David used a bicycle to cover his route. Decades later, in his book The Eye of the I, he describes what happened:

“On a dark winter’s night, I was caught in a twenty-below-zero blizzard. My bicycle fell over on the ice and the fierce wind ripped the newspapers out of the handlebar basket, blowing them across a snowy field. There were tears of frustration and exhaustion, and my clothes were frozen stiff. To get out of the wind, I broke through the icy crest of a high snow bank, dug out a space, and crawled into it. Soon, the shivering stopped and there was a delicious warmth; and then a state of peace beyond all description. This was accompanied by a suffusion of light and a presence of infinite love which had no beginning and no end and was undifferentiated from my own essence. The physical body and surroundings faded as my awareness was fused with this all-present, illuminated state. The mind grew silent; all thought stopped. An infinite, divine presence was all that was or could be, beyond all time or description.”

“After that timelessness, there was suddenly an awareness of someone shaking my knee; then my father’s anxious face appeared. There was great reluctance to return to the physical body and all which that entailed; but because of my father’s love and anguish, divine spirit nurtured and reactivated my body. There was compassion for my father’s fear of death; although at the same time, for me, the concept of death seemed absurd.”

David Hawkins went on to graduate from medical school, eventually becoming a respected psychiatrist. In fact, his private practice became the largest in New York City. He managed a staff of more than fifty employees, and treated over two thousand patients a year. Dr. Hawkins provided care for those suffering from profound, debilitating mental illness. After several years, the human suffering he witnessed daily overwhelmed him. He literally felt the pain and anguish of his patients. Beginning to doubt God’s existence, he was in the midst of a crisis of body and mind, health and faith.

Dr. Hawkins took an extended leave of absence from his medical practice. During this time, he was gravely ill. While never fearing death, he nonetheless shouted, “If there is a God, I ask Him to help me now! I surrender to whatever God there might be.” A personal, spiritual journey followed. Like many philosophers and theologians before him, he asked: Why would a loving God allow human pain and suffering to exist? Why would a loving God not intervene?

After a period of reflection, Dr. Hawkins mused: Is it possible that one of the primary reasons we are in this world is to achieve spiritual growth? And if this is so, which experiences afford us the most potential for spiritual growth? Of course, few people welcome or embrace suffering. Yet, it is during difficult, stressful – and yes, even tragic – times, that we have the greatest opportunities to grow spiritually. And if this is so, then perhaps we should re-evaluate our perceptions and judgments about challenging situations and tragic events. Perhaps they should not be judged so harshly. In the end, Dr. Hawkins’ health and his faith in God were restored. Today, he is an acclaimed author who has written a series of spiritual books; and he is a master teacher who has travelled the world offering lectures and workshops on spiritual growth.

Dr. Hawkins teaches that a mature faith in God eventually leads to complete surrender to His will. Trust in God nurtures an underlying sense of well-being. And it’s liberating. Why? Because when we surrender to a higher power, there is no longer a need to micro-manage our lives or to worry about anything at all. There is no longer a burden to try to singlehandedly save the world. These daunting tasks are left to God.

Still, even for those who surrender, there are important choices to make. Chief among them is the willingness to adjust our perception of the human experience. The book A Course in Miracles proposes that a miracle is nothing more than a ‘shift in perception.’ For example, what we first perceive as harmful, might ultimately prove helpful. Take those who are struggling with addictions. Perhaps they need to hit ‘rock bottom’ before coming to their senses. Maybe only pain and suffering can serve as the catalyst which causes an addict to choose a better path – a new life that, in time, might be filled with meaning, purpose, and joy. For these people, pain and suffering serve a ‘greater good.’

Our perception influences all of life’s vast and varied experiences. It is important, therefore, to understand that perception is a matter of choice. Truly, it is a blessing to have a choice in how individual experiences and the world at large are perceived. As a result, we can choose to see peace, rather than conflict; love, rather than fear; abundance, rather than lack; and we can choose to see a divine plan, not random chaos.

Sam is eighty-two and has lived alone in a spacious home since his wife, Doris, died three years ago. Though he still misses Doris, Sam has been comfortable. He has enjoyed living independently, in a familiar place, with plenty of room and privacy. But his health has slowly declined. He has struggled with grooming, preparing meals, and other daily tasks. Recently, Sam fell. Unable to get up, he crawled to a phone and dialed 911 for help. After this incident, Sam’s adult children encouraged him to move into an assisted living community, where he would have aid when it was needed. Sam agreed to move.

A few weeks later, his son, Thomas, drove Sam to his new home. In a voice tinged with anxiety, Thomas explained, “Dad, you’re going to notice some changes. The room is small, and you’ll be sharing it with a roommate.” Sam replied, “I like my new room and my roommate. I’m very happy.” Looking puzzled, Thomas exclaimed, “But Dad, you haven’t seen your room or met your roommate yet!” Sam answered, “That has nothing to do with it. Happiness is something I can decide in advance. It doesn’t depend on the size of my room or the personality of my roommate, it depends on how I choose to see them. I’ve already decided in my mind that I like them, and I’m happy.”

Indeed, spiritual teachers suggest that happiness has little to do with what ‘happens.’ We can find temporary excitement in what we do, we can find fleeting pleasure in things we own, and we can find comfort and support from close relationships. Yet, none of these leads to lasting happiness; for happiness does not originate from an external source. It is a state of mind. Happiness is an empowering choice that each of us, like Sam, can make. In a similar way, we can choose to be kind and compassionate to those we meet as each day unfolds. We can choose to forgive others and ourselves. We can cling to anger, fear, jealousy, and guilt; or we can release them. And in terms of our identity, we can choose to be a victim or a victor.

When a loved one dies, we miss their presence. Sometimes, our sorrow is overwhelming. We come to realize that our lives will never be the same. We try to cope one minute, one hour, one day at a time. Grieving is normal; and though there are shared commonalities, each person’s grieving experience is unique. Sometimes, grief leads to anger, fear, guilt, anxiety, or depression. This, too, is normal. Thankfully, help is available to those struggling with bereavement issues. Hospice of Dayton has reading materials that provide practical coping suggestions. For many people, individual or group counseling is an effective option; and Hospice of Dayton offers this service as well.

In closing, I ask that you reflect on the following: When someone you love dies, there is an emptiness – a void – in your heart. Yet, there is choice to make. That emptiness – that void – is destined to be filled. Will you allow anger and fear to invade your heart? Or, will you choose to fill your heart with love and forgiveness? This afternoon, we honor the lives of loved ones who are dearly missed. We pay tribute to them. At the same time, we recognize our need for healing. Let this be a moment we choose to love and forgive. Let today be a time for healing.

Wisdom . . . »

Timeless wisdom – it’s still a beautiful thing!

We can reflect on wisdom’s truth and grace while welcoming the New Year.

To understand everything is to forgive everything.

Gautama Buddha

There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth: not going all the way, and not starting.

Gautama Buddha

Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of that single candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.

Gautama Buddha

An eye for an eye only makes the whole world blind.

Mohandas Gandhi

Each person must find peace from within. And peace, to be real, must be unaffected by outside circumstances.

Mohandas Gandhi

We must be the change we want to see in the world.

Mohandas Gandhi

Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a persistent one.

Albert Einstein

I want to know God’s thoughts; all others are just details.

Albert Einstein

This is my simple religion: There is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.

Dalai Lama

In this life, we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.

Mother Teresa

We are not earthly beings living a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings living an earthly experience.

Native American Wisdom

A mystic trusts God completely. There is confidence in divine order and an underlying sense that all is well.

Jon Mundy

Ultimately, nothing happens that is not meant to happen. Nothing happens that is not part of the greater whole and its purpose.

Eckhart Tolle

Guilt enters a void that should already be filled with forgiveness.

John A. Love

There is grace behind suffering. At the moment suffering is accepted, there is an opening for divinity to emerge.

Joseph Cardinal Bernardin

Holy are you – eternal, free, and whole.

At peace forever in the heart of God, where is this world and where is sorrow now?

A Course in Miracles

May your New Year be blessed with peace and abundance!

John

A Seasonal Prayer for Healing »

3942230_blog

For my final blog of 2009, I’ve decided to share the brief opening remarks and prayer I offered for Hospice of Dayton’s holiday memorial tribute and tree lighting ceremony. Feel God’s light, love, and peace during this traditional time of worship and celebration.

John

********************************************************************************

From a secular perspective, the holiday season can be stressful: shopping, baking, decorating, making travel plans to visit loved ones, or preparing our homes for loved ones who are visiting. There is much to do, and little time.

But from a spiritual perspective, the holidays may be viewed differently. We can seek peace, not chaos. We can give thanks for our blessings. We can worship God through the rituals and traditions of our chosen faith. And we can reflect on the opportunities we’ve received to grow spiritually. Let us do so now in prayer.

Heavenly Father: When someone we love dies, it leaves an emptiness – a void – in our hearts. We feel genuine pain and sorrow. We grieve, and that is normal; for our lives will never be the same as before. Yet, there is a choice to make. That emptiness in our hearts must be filled. We can allow anger and fear to invade us. Or, we can choose to ask God to fill our hearts with love and forgiveness.

This evening, we honor the lives of those who are dearly missed. We pay tribute to them. And at the same time, we recognize our need for healing. During this holiday season – for those who feel pain and emptiness – God, we ask that their hearts be filled with love and forgiveness. We ask for healing to begin. We thank you and praise you, and we accept your divine grace. Amen.

God wishes us to live joyously! Make time in your busy schedule to celebrate the human experience. In a few moments, the lights on our Christmas tree will shine brightly. These lights shall symbolize a beacon of hope. May your spirit shine brightly as well. May you feel God’s presence, and experience his peace.

Wisdom . . . »

4871499_blogIt’s a beautiful thing!

In fact, we can be grateful for wisdom while celebrating the Thanksgiving season.

For those in love . . .

Let us always remember that in each other, we have the most beautiful woman, the most beautiful man, the strongest one, and the sacred one in whose arms we are repaired.

Marianne Williamson


For those promoting peace . . .

Where two have joined for healing, God is there.

A Course in Miracles


For those who lead by example . . .

Teach only love, for that is what you are.

A Course in Miracles


For those with expectations . . .

Most people say, “I will believe it when I see it.” But the wise say, “I will see it when I believe it.”

Native American Wisdom


For those who are controlling . . .

I will step back and let God lead the way.

A Course in Miracles


For those holding grudges . . .

Forgiveness is the key to happiness.

A Course in Miracles


For that which is complicated . . .

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.

Albert Einstein


For those in a hurry . . .

Take this very instant, now, and think of it as all there is of time.

A Course in Miracles


For those who are loud . . .

Let me be still and listen to the truth.

A Course in Miracles


For those afraid to commit . . .

I will not be afraid of love today.

A Course in Miracles


For those who are judgmental . . .

Today I look upon all things and judge them not, but give a miracle of love instead.

A Course in Miracles


For those who worry . . .

The peace of God is my one goal.

A Course in Miracles


For those who are depressed . . .

Light and joy and peace abide in me.

A Course in Miracles


For those who fear God . . .

God’s will for me is perfect happiness.

A Course in Miracles


For those afraid . . .

There is no time, no place, no state where God is absent. There is nothing to be feared.

A Course in Miracles


For those seeking guidance . . .

The Holy Spirit’s voice is as loud as my willingness to listen.

A Course in Miracles


For those seeking comfort . . .

And God Himself shall wipe away all tears.

A Course in Miracles


For those lacking self esteem . . .

I am entitled to receive miracles.

A Course in Miracles


For those who are selfish . . .

I am expected to perform miracles.

A Course in Miracles


For those who are sad . . .

Deep within me is everything that is perfect, ready to radiate through me and out into the world.

A Course in Miracles


For those who heal . . .

I am here only to be truly helpful. I am here to represent Him who sent me. I do not have to worry about what to say or what to do because He who sent me will direct me. I am content to be wherever He wishes knowing He goes there with me. I will be healed as I let Him teach me to heal.

A Course in Miracles


For those seeking a new way to view the world . . .

I could see peace instead of this.

A Course in Miracles

Should we trust our unhappy thoughts? »

blogphotoMother and business woman Byron Katie became clinically depressed in her mid-thirties. Leading up to this time, she suffered from an eating disorder and an array of other serious health problems. As a result, Ms. Katie became suicidal. She also refused to leave her bedroom for nearly two years.

One morning in February of 1986 — while in a halfway house for women with eating disorders — Ms. Katy experienced a life-changing realization. She called it “waking up to reality” and described it using these words: “I discovered that when I believed my thoughts, I suffered. But when I didn’t believe them, I didn’t suffer. And this is true for every human being. Freedom is as simple as that. I found that suffering is optional. I discovered a joy within me that has never disappeared, not for a single moment.”

It was an epiphany which ultimately led to a spiritual awakening. Ms. Katie went on to name her method of self-inquiry “The Work.” It’s based on four questions and a simple process called a “turnaround.”

First, identify your original, limiting thought. Then ask the following four questions:

  1. Is it true?
  2. Can you absolutely know that it’s true?
  3. How do you react and/or what happens when you believe this thought?
  4. Who would you be without this thought?

Finally, state the opposite of your limiting thought. This process can be utilized alone or with another person. When alone, use a pencil and paper to write each question, response, and turnaround. In the company of another person, verbalize each question, response, and turnaround.

Here’s an example. Suppose your limiting thought – the one which causes anxiety or unhappiness – is: “My mother never loved me.” Is it true? (I think so.) Can I absolutely know that it’s true? (Probably not.) What happens when I believe this thought? (I feel rejected and angry.) Who would I be without this thought? (A happier, more peaceful person.) The “turnaround” is: “My mother always loved me.” Next, reflect on evidence which supports the more positive “turnaround” thought. Perhaps you will find that the opposite of your original, limiting thought is actually closer to reality.

In the “turnaround” process, the limiting thought can also be restated to apply to one’s self. Thus, “My mother never loved me” may turn into “I never loved my mother” or become “I never loved myself”. Ms. Katie summarizes “The Work” as: Judge your neighbor, write it down. Ask four questions, turn it around. Her method results in the “undoing” of thoughts, which is often more helpful than adding new ones.

Unhappy thoughts are typically driven by the ego. With this in mind, should they be trusted? Until the next time, enjoy autumn’s vibrant colors and energizing coolness. Glory be to the Father!

John

Why do people behave badly? »

The entire range of human emotions stems from one of two sources: love or fear. Love is divinely inspired. On the other hand, fear is love’s counterpoint and is found where divine inspiration is obscured. In a fundamental sense, all human behavior is either an expression of love or a crying out for love. There are no exceptions. johnblogWhile the ego urges us to behave in ways which cry out for love, the Holy Spirit directs us to extend love. Sometimes human behavior is so despicable and horrific, we are left in shock: torture, rape, ethnic cleansing, beheadings, and mass murder. The ego cites these extreme examples as proof that there is no God, for a loving Creator would intervene and not allow these tragedies to occur.

But remember that human beings have free will—the power of choice. God never forces us to love one another, or to love Him for that matter. Accordingly, there are those who choose to spurn God. By figuratively turning their backs to His light, their bodies create shadows; and in their self-created darkness, these disturbed people choose to live. They dwell in a barren place that appears to be beyond God’s reach. Deep inside these people, a divine Soul still exists. But love’s voice is so faint, it is presently unheard.

Why do people act insanely? There are two primary causes, and the first is fear. When filled with fear—and the allied emotions of anger, jealousy, and retribution—people are literally in their “wrong” state of mind. In other words, they listen exclusively to the ego’s voice, and their actions typically “cry out” for love. Perhaps you might say, “Okay John, that makes sense. But what’s the second reason why people behave badly?” In my two previous blogs, I presented spiritual lessons taught by David R. Hawkins, MD, PhD. Dr. Hawkins believes that all human behavior, both good and bad, is linked to a person’s level of consciousness.

Consciousness can be defined as the awareness and perception of one’s inner Self. According to Dr. Hawkins, every human being on the planet functions at a certain level of consciousness. In higher levels of consciousness, people are keenly aware of their primary identity: their immortal, divine Soul. In lower levels of consciousness, people perceive themselves only as vulnerable, mortal bodies. One’s body is destined to die and decay, while one’s Soul is invulnerable and eternal. Thus, the awareness and perception of one’s inner Self forms the foundation of human consciousness. Furthermore, Dr. Hawkins states that those trained in the practice of kinesiology can accurately calibrate each specific level of consciousness. In lower levels, people are focused on fear, lack, anger, jealousy, and revenge. Those who commit insane attacks are delusional sociopaths, and within the wide range of human consciousness, they are functioning at or near the bottom. In higher levels, people extend love unconditionally. Those who routinely extend love and forgiveness are in their “right” mind, and are following Spirit’s guidance. Most people function at a level ranging between the extreme highs and lows, and their behavior confirms this. That is to say, most of us are not serial killers. Sometimes we extend love to others; but just as often, we experience the emotions of fear and anger. And while we may not physically assault someone who cuts us off in traffic, there is a fair chance we might retaliate with an unkind gesture or a dirty look.

Although insane acts should not be condoned, they can at least be explained. Dr. Hawkins is quick to point out that the combined level of consciousness for the world’s population is currently trending upward—and at a rate faster than ever before! This is welcome news which offers genuine hope for our future. When human behavior is understood in terms of its association with one’s consciousness, it becomes clear that everyone is doing the best they can! Dr. Hawkins explains that the purpose served by our life lessons is to raise our level of consciousness. As spiritual growth is achieved, we choose to extend love and forgiveness. As love and forgiveness are extended, we experience greater inner peace and happiness.

Certainly, bad behavior provides opportunities for us to forgive; and mistakes—especially horrific ones—create a diverse environment for learning life’s lessons. Now you might ask, “What do you mean by mistakes? Insane acts like murder are not mistakes, they are mortal sins!” Yet in an absolute, eternal sense, there is only love. Sin is limited to our earthly realm, and is a human thought construct that does not exist in God’s Kingdom. The Holy Spirit views sin as a “crying out” for love. Sin is a mistake to be corrected, rather than an evil to be punished. The Holy Spirit helps you learn from mistakes. When one is made, Spirit advises that you first change your mind, then change your behavior. In this way, mistakes are corrected. On the other hand, the ego urges everyone to endlessly repeat their mistakes. Humorists have defined insanity as making the same error over and over, while each time expecting a different result. In this case, humor mirrors truth.

In my next post, I will share some spiritual growth lessons taught by Byron Katie. Until then . . .

Peace,

John

Can spiritual truth be verified? »

David R. Hawkins, MD, PhD grew his psychiatric treatment center into one of the largest in New York City. But after experiencing his second profound spiritual epiphany, Dr. Hawkins opted to retire from a long, celebrated career as a clinical psychiatrist. He purposefully went into a period of seclusion and reflection which lasted several years. During this time, he meditated and prayed daily. He also explored the field of kinesiology, which he often calls “muscle testing.”

According to Dr. Hawkins, kinesiology can be used to verify the truthfulness of any statement that is presented in a simple, declarative sentence. The specific techniques used in muscle testing, as well as its limitations, are thoroughly detailed in his books and demonstrated in his videos. Dr. Hawkins is adamant in his belief that the human mind is totally incapable of distinguishing truth from falsehood. Thus kinesiology, when properly used, is a gift that can provide helpful guidance in one’s spiritual journey.

In our quest for truth, the ego often urges us to take meaningless, time consuming detours. By determining the truthfulness of our spiritual beliefs, our journey can progress more swiftly and smoothly. As one Master Teacher points out, delay does not matter in eternity, but it is tragic in time!

Through kinesiology, Dr. Hawkins has personally verified that the following declarations are true:

  • God is infinite beyond time and space, without beginning or end.
  • God is omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient.
  • God is the source of consciousness, awareness, and knowingness.
  • God is the sole source of the energy of life.
  • God is the source of creation and evolution, which are one and the same.
  • God is the source and presence of peace, love, stillness, and beauty.
  • God transcends all universes, yet is the sole source of all that exists.
  • God is the ultimate context of which the universe and all existence is the content.
  • God is not within the province of the intellect or the provable.
  • God is the source and essence of enlightenment.
  • The human experience of the presence of God is the same in all ages, all cultures, and all localities.
  • The essence of God does not include human frailties such as favoritism, duality, judgmentalism, wrath, righteous anger, resentment, vanity, revenge, jealousy, vulnerability, retaliation, or the desire to control.
  • The variability of the depictions of Divinity reflects the variability of human perception and projections of the ego.
  • That which is devoid of content is the equivalent of Innocence.
  • Truth is verifiable only by identity with it and not by knowing about it.
  • When the obstacles of human thoughts and emotions—and the ego structures from which they stem—are transcended, the Self as God Immanent shines forth of its own accord, just as the sun shines forth when the clouds are removed.

These truths certainly provide the spiritual seeker much food for thought. In my next posting, I’ll share more insightful lessons taught by Dr. Hawkins. Until then, allow your divine Light to shine forth on all whom you meet. And as they find peace, so too will you!

John

Insights for Spiritual Seekers »

My next few blog posts will focus on lessons taught by David R. Hawkins, MD, PhD. Simply titled  “I”  Dr. Hawkins’ most dropwaterinsightful book to date provides a unique perspective on metaphysics, truth, and reality. For many years, Master Teachers have stated that life’s purpose is to awaken spiritually. The human experience is primarily a journey of spiritual growth, regardless if one chooses to accept this truth or not. So the following pertinent question arises: What are the most valuable qualities for a spiritual seeker? According to Dr. Hawkins, we should start our journey with security and confidence, and we should be prepared to completely surrender to the truth about God. Dr. Hawkins emphasizes that surrender paves the way to enormous spiritual advancement.

Take a moment to reflect on these statements written by Dr. Hawkins . . .

  • Your own existence is proof of God’s love and will for you.
  • Do not question your worthiness.
  • Do not compare yourself to others in terms of holiness or goodness.
  • God is not confined by human notions and limitations.
  • God should not be feared. God is peace and love and nothing else.
  • God is not a parent or a judge.
  • Just by starting your quest for spiritual growth, the most important goal has already been achieved.
  • Spiritual growth is a way of life, not an accomplishment.
  • Intentions and motives are important.
  • Know that every step forward benefits everyone, not just you.
  • There is no timetable or prescribed route to God. And though each journey is unique, there are many common elements to the terrain covered. Specifically, our work is to surmount and transcend human failings and the inherent flaws of the ego.
  • Earnest prayer and meditation facilitate spiritual progress.
  • The strength of the ego is formidable. Because the ego cannot transcend itself, God’s help is needed.
  • God’s help is always available.
  • God’s grace is bestowed to all. You are not alone in your journey.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hold onto your hat. Let the trip begin by extending love and forgiveness to everyone you meet. All it takes is a friendly smile and a cheerful greeting. When possible, add a gentle touch and sincere thanks. Try to be truly helpful. It’s a ride you dare not miss. Please stay tuned, as I’ll be offering more lessons from Dr. Hawkins very soon.

John

Only the strong surrender! »

Surrender is a word which seriously alarms the ego. By definition, surrender suggests that you must “give up” or “lose” something. Accordingly, you must be “less” than you once were. From this perspective, only the weak would wish to surrender. But what if you were surrendering only guilt or fear? Surely the ego would not oppose this kind of “loss.” Yet subconsciously, the ego clings to even the most painful and undesirable parts of the human experience.

One of the best ways to overcome the ego’s faults is to connect with the power of prayer. Through prayer, we may establish an ongoing dialogue with God. We can praise Him and thank Him for our blessings. And each day we can pray for His guidance. In many ways, life is like a road trip. At first, it’s fun to be in the driver’s seat. We want to be in control, just like when we’re behind the wheel of a new car. But after minutes turn to hours and hours stretch to days, the excitement wanes. We become fatigued. Finally, we welcome the opportunity to rest in the passenger seat while a trusted friend does the driving.

Why not allow God the chance to drive? Why not allow Him to navigate life’s treacherous twists and turns? You might find it liberating! Take a test drive. For the next thirty days, start each morning with this summons to God . . .

Heavenly Father, I choose to step into Your divine light and experience Your wholeness. I trust You completely and know that I am safe in Your arms. I ask that You relieve me of the worldly burdens I offer.

I surrender my fear and accept Your love.

I surrender my guilt and accept Your healing.

I surrender my pain and accept Your joy.

I surrender my worry and accept Your peace.

I surrender my lack and accept Your abundance.

I surrender my self-reliance and accept Your grace.

I surrender my illusions and accept Your truth.

I know that Your will and my will are one. Thank You for Your constant presence — for always watching over me. Amen.

Surrender requires great resolve, and it is attempted only be those who are strong in faith. But those who choose this difficult path are indeed led to peace and happiness. Until my next posting, please remember to praise God and let Him do the driving!

John

John’s Spring Planting Tips »

daffsSpring is the season of renewal and hope. We plant seeds in our gardens and flower beds, and we nurture them in anticipation of beauty and sustenance. Just as some seeds allow us to grow flowers and vegetables, there are other seeds that produce the fruits of inner peace and happiness. Here are some spiritual gardening tips to ponder during this planting season:

  • God’s eyes see you as whole, perfect, and complete.
  • God wishes you to live joyously.
  • God’s love and forgiveness are unconditional.
  • Spirit is divine, immortal, and invulnerable.
  • Spirit is your true identity, not the body.
  • If you choose to listen, the Holy Spirit shall unfailingly guide you.
  • Extend love and forgiveness to yourself and others.
  • Pray and meditate daily.
  • Avoid judgment.
  • Let go of guilt.
  • Heaven is your divine inheritance.
  • Think of this very moment as the only time there ever is.
  • If God were to speak to you right now, He would say, “Have faith!”
  • Faith ultimately leads to surrender.
  • Surrender leads to spiritual growth.
  • Your will and God’s will are one.
  • Maintain your sense of humor and don’t take things personally.
  • Life provides just the right lessons at just the right time.
  • Nothing happens that does not benefit the greater good.
  • God’s presence is constant. There is no time or place where He is not.

If properly tended, these twenty seeds will blossom into greater peace and happiness. Indeed, these seeds are timeless and guaranteed to flourish in all climates and conditions. May you be blessed with a bountiful harvest!

Yours in love and peace,

John