There's No Place Like Home

Can you feel it? There is a push or perhaps a pull. An energy that is tugging at your soul. Sitting on the fence is no longer an option. Ascend or descend! Change is at hand. The secret is being revealed to us like Dorothy’s 'aha moment' in the Wizard of Oz--“There’s no place like home.”

Home? Where?

Home is a state of Being that brings Peace, Fulfillment and Joy. The amazing power to get there is not behind the curtain, or in other people’s perception of truth, or the doom and gloom of the outer world’s illusion. It’s lying dormant within us, waiting to be awoken. Those, of course, who resist the resounding internal wake-up call will simply roll over and miss the illuminating fireworks. Lost in a dream-like reality of witches, flying monkeys and fear, they will not find their way home to peace--at least not in this lifetime.

What I have discovered, on my yellow brick road to self-realization, is that the only one I can truly count on to get me home is Me. I am blessed with many who may point me in the right direction, but in the end, it is up to Me to get me there. In the beginning, the journey seemed far and ominous. Now, it’s mostly a pleasant ride, like taking a Sunday drive with no specific place to go. There are a multitude of terrains and conditions: hills, valleys, rain storms, sleet and ice, sharp turns, gentle breezes, sunny skies and bumps, many bumps. However, all of it feels good...because I know I am on my way.

Here I am. Another fork in the road with decisions to make. This time the choice doesn’t feel so difficult. In fact, it seems more like a spontaneous shift in the right direction. Like following the wind on a sailboat, I am swiftly making a turn downstream. The wake behind me and the horizon ahead. The voice inside saying, “Tacking,” and I follow obediently. Usually I resist this voice or drown it out with distraction and drama. Now I am listening to its gentle whisper calling me Home.

What is this inner voice? God? Source? The Universe? Life Force?

“All of that,” I could hear Abraham(-Hicks) answer emphatically. It is the Primal Spirit, the Power within, your Higher Self, your Soul. In all spiritual teachings throughout history there is an Ethereal Force that creates life. The Creator is not separate from us; we are One with it. The physical world is a Co-creative process. In ancient Sanskrit, this corporeal energy is referred to as Kundalini. A subtle power source sitting at the bottom of our spine awaiting activation of its restorative purpose. What I have learned is: no one can ignite its healing fire but me.

The embodiment of Kundalini-Life Force was evident within every word written by JJ Semple in his book Deciphering the Golden Flower One Secret at a Time. I was drawn in by this power to read it, and soon discovered the power was reading me. You cannot turn away from truth once you have awareness of it. Even if you try to dodge it or slip back into old, complacent ways, it’s still there. The call of your destiny will only haunt you if you don’t comply.

This was my realization about the Kundalini-Life Force; it is who I am so I cannot deny it. The Light within has been giving me cues all my life. Mostly I ignored it, for the past decade I have paid it heed, seeking personal development. For me, Semple’s story reflected an imbalance in me wanting to return to balance--NOW, not later! And so, I believe a new script to my life is about to be played out and the scene involves engaging in the Golden Flower Meditation.

In consulting the I-Ching, an ancient Chinese oracle known also as Book of Changes, I discover--as Semple had--its precise wisdom and guidance. With a toss of the coins, my journey begins with six in the first line, indicating a movement in the foundation of my life is apparent. The subsequent tossing of the coins builds five fixed solid lines, creating a Hexagram* that sheds light as to where I am heading--straight to Heaven!

While that sounds well and good, the changing break in the bottom line blatantly implies that this will not be a direct path and discipline and focus will be required. I must face whatever needs to be altered in me with unwavering faith for a positive outcome. The shadows of the ego will resist, but with deliberate fortitude, and management of the awakened Kundalini within me, I can surely rise above the wind to return home--to joyfully be Me.

Today the air is still outside mirroring my directive to be still inside. I am the eternally grateful student and the Golden Flower Meditation acts as an intermediary teacher, preparing me for the arrival of my ultimate Master and my ultimate transformation.

I can hear the voice saying, “There’s no place like Home.”

In gratitude and joy,

Mags

AttitudeLift

P.S. The decision for me to explore the transformational aspects of Golden Flower Meditation by no means implies that it is the only way for healing, enlightenment or a life of joy. There are many paths that lead us to our intended purpose. My philosophy has always been to live life in moderation. Being in alignment with who you are is key. We all need to find our unique yin/yang in life. May you find your way home in peace and joy.

*I-Ching - Book of Changes
Request: Guidance regarding pursuing the Golden Flower Meditation

Hexagram 44 -- Kou - Coming to Meet
-------
------- above Ch'ien-The Creative, Heaven
-------
-------
------- below Sun-The Gentle, Wind
---x---
The Judgement: Coming to Meet. The maiden is powerful.One should not marry such a maiden.
The Image: Under heaven, wind -- The image of Coming to Meet. Thus does the prince act when disseminating his commands And proclaiming them to the four quarters of heaven.
Changing Lines: Changing yin at the bottom means--It must be checked with a brake of bronze. Perseverance brings good fortune. If one lets it take its course, one experiences misfortune.Even a lean pig has it in him to rage around.

The change at the bottom produces the outcome:

1. Ch'ien - The Creative
------
------ above Ch'ien The Creative, Heaven
------
------
------ below Ch'ien The Creative, Heaven
------
The Judgement: The Creative works sublime success,Furthering through perseverance.
The Image: The movement of heaven is full of power. Thus the superior man makes himself strong and untiring.

Your Higher Self #1

The big question of "Who Am I" can be simply answered as "YOU ARE DIVINE."

This Divine You or Higher Self or Non-Physical Self has great purpose. You are the bird choosing your direction, but you Higher Self, it is the wind beneath your wings. In general, all people have their own unique expression of the Divine Self. However, ultimately, we are One in light.

There are many important things the Higher Self wants you to know. When you tune in, all these loving messages can be received. For now, we are going to focus on them one at a time. In this way, you can develop not only a deeper understanding of the Divine You, you can also engage in a productive relationship with this infinitely intelligent Self.

Your Higher Self wants to:

#1: BRING YOU EVER CLOSER TO GOD

The Divine You had a goal when you came into this world and is always ready to accomplish it. Even though you are physical and have conscious thought, your Higher Self is continually prompting you to stay on the path of growth. That was the agreement.

You are an eternal Being, ever expanding. When our life experience brings Spiritual growth or maturity, your Higher Self is expanded. All That IS is expanded. In other words, our life experience offers wonderful opportunities to come closer to our Source; to God. That is always our Divine intent.

You know all the drama issues -- physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual -- you are experiencing, well they are designed to help you meet your life's contract. Drama, or contrast to who you are, creates a clear intention for you to move toward your goal. It teaches you about who you are, what you want in this life and lovingly directs you on that path.

And guess what?

You can always change the game plan you originally intented when you decided to come into this life. Free Will is just that FREE! A spiritual contract is merely like creating a marketing plan for your business. You layout guidelines and considerations, but you do leave room for change and flexibility. As you live and learn, new options for life experience and growth come into play. And your Higher Self is totally on your side, ready to help.

Think of your Higher Self as your own personal Life Coach, diligently guiding you to make the best choices for YOU - now and going forward.

Your Higher Self communicates through your feeling place, your intuition, your visions, your inner voice, your dreams, your inspirations.

Stop and listen.

In light,
Maggie Kalas
www.attitudelift.com

Who Are YOU?

Along my quest to know thyself, many teachers have come my way. By form of humans, animals, spirit guides, Angels, inspiration (my own), books, tapes, channelings, religious teachings, metaphysical sciences, quantum physics, nature, and infinite intelligence.

One key question: "Who Am I?", has often been anwswered with reference to as my "Higher Self."

So, what does that mean-- "Higher Self"?

Here is what I've got so far...

Your Higher Self is the most perfect form of "YOU" that exists in the universe.

It is the “I AM” of who you are.
It is your infinite being; the reflection of your God self.
It is pure positive energy.
It is supreme intelligence.
It is your connection to Source.
It is always guiding you on your journey through life.
Its guidance manifests itself in your life in many subtle ways: as a still small voice, as vivid images and pictures, as flashes of insight and feelings, as intuition and knowingness.

As you awaken to it and follow its loving guidance, you expand; raising your vibration higher, which also elevates the resonance of the plant and the universe, ultimately giving glory to God, our creator.

Gulp! Can't say much more than that right now.

More to follow...

Mags

The Love Cycle of Parenting

Every parent comes to a fork in the road when they must let their child go down their own path as they must continue on theirs. It is a fearful time. Not only a fear of the unknown, I believe it is much more a fear of separation or loss.

In truth, life reveals that in branching out, no matter where life takes you, what remains parallel is the very thing that brought you all together in the first place--love.

And love always trumps fear!

Below is poem that I created as an edited version of a letter I wrote to my oldest daughter. I offer it here as a kind of dedication to parents and children alike--For all the strength it takes a parent to release their child into the world and for all the courage necessary for a child to fly on their own. May your unbreakable love bring peace and encouragement.

The Love Cycle of Parenting

by Maggie Kalas

You are my child.

With God’s help,

I have brought you into this world

and you are precious to me.

You are not my possession.
You are someone I do hold dear to my heart.

I love you.
It is not just three words

but a truth that cannot be broken.

You are like flower; delicate, exuding beauty,

yet an amazing strength lies unseen within.

You shine in the sun one day and then the next,

you must return to your roots for new growth.

Like magic, you emerge again; even more majestic.

I once planted the seed, but now,

I am only the observer; amazed and in awe.

I do not judge.

I rejoice when you are in full bloom

and mourn when you are wilted.

I sprinkle a little love with hope

and reach out to caress your drooping spirit.

If your thorns prick me, I may weep,

but I am forgiving; I know your thorns protect you.

When you are sad, I am sad

because I long for the joy of your light.

I love you; it is eternal and ever present.

Even in the cold of darkness, a warm light remains lit.

You are the light in me as I am the light in you.

We are one in this light.

No time or distance will ever separate our bond.

You are free to be you. And I believe in you.

My purpose at one time was to feed you,

nurture you, love you and protect you.

Now you are matured in your skin

and must live life in order to grow.

Loving you is all I can do now.

And, I do love you.

The rest is up to YOU!

A little secret…

everything you will ever need

is already within you.

Know thyself.

Consider it all joy,
Mags

Living a Life of Authenticity

For the past few years, every week or so, I have been going to a bible fellowship with several ladies in my community. It has become a place of comfort for me, as my fellow students and teacher are also my dear friends. We gather with great intentions to open our hearts to God, to seek out personal healing and to, perhaps, marvel in a moment of peace from our all too hectic lives.

Prayer may begin our gathering or end us as we depart; both are equally a blessing. Sometimes we chatter for an hour about life, our kids, our husbands…even political subjects, of which, we all do not agree. Nevertheless, our fellowship is always a treasured joy simply because we unite as one in friendship and Light.

Kathleen--who graciously opens her home, offers warming tea on cold days and a spectacular view of Northport’s harbor on warm days--is always prepared with a new tidbit of insight or higher Truth. Even if she did not formally prepare, she spontaneously follows the lead of Spirit by gracing us with her soft, passionate voice as loving words gently flow from her lips. We always leave feeling uplifted; changed from when we arrived. We come with open hearts and leave with them filled.

This year we decided to follow a teaching from a book called “The Life Model, Living from the Heart Jesus Gave You”. As we began reading, it occurred to me that it may be the most important lesson of the year; especially in these changing times.

The introduction reads, “The Life Model is not just a theory, it is a model...it does not just talk about growing, it gives you practical steps on how to mature...it does not just promote recovery, it identifies specific ways to heal traumas. And lastly, it does not offer casual reading, it challenges you to change and grow and be the person that God designed you to be.”

And who are we designed to be? Simply stated, “We are to be whole.”

Over the next few months, we will be taking our time reading each chapter. Not just to digest its words of wisdom, but more importantly, to deliberately apply this wisdom to our daily lives. For me, as a student who is also a teacher, I will joyfully share its profound message with those who are willing to open their hearts and live a life of authenticity.

In light, always,

Mags

The Prayer of Jabez...Divine or Evil?

The Prayer of Jabez…divine wisdom or evil manipulation?

Well, it seems that there is a mixed view out there of whether this book is good or laced with poison. Based on several negative reviews I found on the Internet (within hundreds of positive ones), the same sinking and fearful comments came through: they were suspicious of the author’s motives and the authenticity of the information.

Apparently, this book, and the author’s ministry, have expanded greatly since the book came out in 2000. The author attributes these blessings from his life’s devotion to God and praying the Prayer of Jabez. The critics balk that this book focuses only on “The Prayer of Jabez” and that the author declares it a key to not only praying but receiving God's Blessings. They protest to his implication that by reading his book and praying this prayer daily, you will receive the blessings of God...like Jabez. And, that although he quotes from the Bible, it is taken out of context and that he does not emphasize actually reading the Bible.

Okay, let me back track a minute. This book came to me recently from a dear friend who, as a motivational speaker on the many ways to be happy, is known for his excellent discernment. His book came to him by a colleague who greatly admires his work. I am confident to guess that the book came to her by someone who thought highly of her. It seems to be a book that comes to you or you want to give based on good intentions. Just by that nature, this book seems to hold a kind of spiritual energy that spreads by the momentum of joy... and not cynicism.

My perspective: Like my speaker friend, I do a lot of personal development and spiritual reading, including the Bible. Many of the books I read are metaphysical and speak of unseen things and the power of the universe and God’s love. Many people, like me, seek God outside of the box, looking for the miracles in the living moments of life and through those who are inspired. And, from the success of the Secret, a bestselling book and movie this year about the Universal Law of Attraction, people are really interested in understanding the nature of God and the workings of Spirit in everyday life. This would explain why these types of books are selling like crazy.

Back to Jabez; this life-changing book is tiny in size and has only 90 pages. Its main purpose is to examine a prayer that randomly appears in the Bible, of which jumped out to someone as a viable clue from God on how to pray and receive Blessings. He felt that God brought this to him; revealing not that the prayer itself was the only way to Blessings, but that it was in the essence of the prayer that gave it its power: Blessings come when you willing put yourself into God's hands.

The Prayer of Jabez
And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying,
“Oh, that You would bless me indeed,
And enlarge my territory,
And that You would keep me from evil,
That I may not cause pain!”
So God granted him what he requested.
1 Chronicles 4:10(NKJV)

The prayer in a nutshell:

“God,
Bless me,
Increase me,
Use me,
Protect me,
Direct me.”

This sounds like the basis of a simple, yet effective prayer. Its easy; just fill in the blanks.

For a nation that is in conflict about God, I would say that it is a Blessing in itself for this little book to sell millions of copies. Even that millions of people show an interest in praying. It tells me that we do want to know God and are ready to receive His Blessings. Personally, I don’t see the poison in using this simple prayer as a guideline to open a humble dialogue with God. It is not selfish, but self loving. Its Power is in one thing: God’s Grace

Here's a thought: if the author pushed his readers to read the Bible, perhaps people would have shyed away from this important message about prayer. On the other hand, for those who read this book and incorporate this simple prayer in their daily life, they just might find themselves gravitating to the Bible.

With an open mind and a pure heart, I share this book with you. It is my hope that God blesses you, increases your territory, works miracles through you, protects you from harm and guides you to His kingdom of peace and unending joy.

One catch, you have to ask God first!

In light,
Mags

MagsJOY

P.S. I also recommend reading the Bible; it is a very good book!