Chapter Twelve: A More Peaceful World
Igniting the Flame
When I was younger, I never really thought about what I would do with myself later in life. However, there was a glimpse of writing and painting into retirement, remaining unsure of what that meant. I thought I would ‘help’ people one day but never really understood what that meant. Thirty years later, finding myself in the service industry, helping people find a reason for living while helping them through a battle of great magnitude.
During my awakening (there is no awakening as we are already awake, it is merely a remembering of sorts), I realized we are all in the service industry whether we truly understand it. We all can serve. Whether sanitation work, healthcare, legal, fast-food, whatever…we are all in some service to humanity. Even those who live on the streets…they too are in the service industry. If we are not of service, then we are creating disservice, but in reality, giving a choice to another to be of service…in the end, it is all served with a choice as to how we attain this reality; whether directly or indirectly, we are all in the service industry, giving and receiving within the Canvas of Life. How can a homeless person who lives on the street be of service? Indirectly they are allowing others a choice to lend a hand or an attentive ear.
Through our understanding of service, a flame ignites within our soul, aspiring to serve every person we meet. Through random or specific encounters, we have a choice to make or break another person’s day. We can see them all as prospective customers or ignore them…merely a choice or opportunity. Through not only our actions but the words we speak can make or break another’s day. Our words have so much power, with effects we may not fully understand.
Either raise someone or kick them to the curb; it is merely a choice. Whichever path we choose, there are consequences to be had.~Ani Po
On an individual level, we have the same innate ability to make or break our days…with merely our thoughts. If we have thoughts of despair or invincibility, it will define our reality. Change our thoughts to that of good and nothing…I mean, no thing…we get in our way or pave a new reality into existence.
How do we do this? How do we come to know this place of invincibility? For me, it was finding the divine within. Not just a person we pray to, but a personal friend and confidant who will always be there for me. Whether up or down, afraid or fearless, assuredly Spirit is always there, searching the whole World for answers and confidence, only to travel inward for the answers. Never alone with answers always flowing…we are home.
I had a wonderful experience with two wonderful Dish Network installers earlier today. They not only called, asking permission to come earlier than our scheduled appointment, but they shared wonderful Words. The conversation that had the most meaning was the Mayweather fight, which took place last week. One of the gentlemen pointed out how Mayweather was not only a champion in the ring but in life. As the awarding of his title, Mayweather gave thanks to Creator. As many athletes do, he looked to the heavens, pointing and giving praise.
While this is noble, it was not the notable conversation that stuck with me throughout the day. When we discussed Mayweathers’ praise to Creator on a successful win, we asked, “do we ever see the loser of a bout or any sporting event, for that matter, give the same praise we see during the victories? Wow! was all we thought about, as we both realized that as an individual who chooses to praise Creation, it is in our victories that gives meaning, but the faithful servant gives praise during a win or defeat. Do we wait for moments of glory to give thanks, or do we humbly give thanks for the simple steps throughout our lives? The lessons and many bumps and turns along the way?
Just as in life, we often praise for our blessings…but do we remember to give praise when we are down? Still thinking about this, as I give thanks for the encounter of my days, I realize that even I do not give enough credit or praise to the Creator of this great Canvas of Life. Whether it is an encounter with a cable installer, a street person, or a professional, we can Praise Creator at every given encounter. As we greet another human being, we have the choice to greet them as individuals or come to know them as Creation sees us…one of the family.
Through the eyes of flesh, we see an individual as labels; through the eyes of Spirit, we see them as Creation sees us…a shining star. ~Ani Po
In this moment of exchange or brief encounter, we ignite a fire within…a fire that not only lights an eternal flame but feeds souls for all eternity…giving us everything we need in life. In this moment of exchange, we see others as ourselves, even greater than self, and we see them as God sees us…a spark of the divine. Every encounter gives a gift, whether direct or indirect, and the exchange is made…changing our lives forever.
Stepping into the Canvas Igniting the Flame, we see not only the good and perceived bad but also All as Good. Seeing All as Good, we return to Innocence of a Child, seeing everything as a miracle, amazed at the many blessings continuing to multiply within our days. With every step, a miracle is born, with every step, our words become Creation, and with every step…we see All as Good.
Spiritual Exercise: A More Peaceful World
1. How can I change the World?
At the beginning of this book, the beginning of Creation, with a mere thought, begins. As we think about changing our reality, we call upon dormant forces to aid us in finding the answers to our dilemmas. What appears dark and helpless may change with a single spark of hope. As we think, therefore, Creation begins; with every thought a new direction…a spark waiting to set the World on fire. Do we trust the flame within? Do we believe in following our leads?
To change the World does not need a World changing event, but a simple thought with simple actions…that is the World changing event; big or small, whether for or against, we are changing the World.
So how can we do this? What ideas can set the World on fire? Think small greatly or think big…what one thing do you want to do for the World? Now imagine you had all funds necessary to do it, and nothing was standing in your way…what would it be? Please do it now.
2. How can I get others to see what I See?
Truthfully we cannot get others to see how we see things. How do we know that what we see as blue is blue to the next person? We can only trust they see the same color as us, but what if they have been conditioned to the labeling of things and are told an object is blue when they see something in the range of green or orange? How do we know? We don’t, and we can’t possibly expect anyone to see the reality as we see it to be. We can try to change their perception, painting a picture for their self-interpretation, but their willingness to change or ability to see in expanding ways is another discussion.
If we cannot change others, then what are we to do? Nothing. Yes, you read that correctly…absolutely nothing. We were conditioned to tell others to think in a certain manner, and if they didn’t, they would truly pay for their actions. Those days are over! We are to encourage others to find their place in the World, beginning with self-actualization and purpose in the World. What is our purpose? There is no purpose other than ‘to be.’ Thanks to my son for that wisdom as I asked what to do in life. At age six, he answered, “Just Live and be happy.” So simple!
But what about the others? How can we change them? We can’t. We can change ourselves, leaving an open invitation to follow our ways. Chances are they will adopt bits and pieces along the way from those influencing them within the Canvas of Life. In collaboration with others, sharing insight and how we see things, the choice remains with them to see things from a different point of view.
Years back, while at a talking circle, a friend slipped me an envelope. It had my name on it, and no words were exchanged. I received the envelope without understanding, which I would open at the appropriate time.
Inside the envelope was a description of an organization that brought sacred teachings to All People through sacred fire. Along with the description of the organization, there was a piece of charcoal or, more specifically, a piece of the Sacred Fire. In all of us, a Sacred Fire is waiting to be shared and witnessed; what we do with this remains a self-reflection.
Left to choose, I received this gift with more questions. Questions of whether to learn more about the organization, what to do with this invitation of intention and what the next steps may look like. No words were spoken, but a gentle invitation into the soul was given. As I received this gift, I offered this to the reader. Look deep within. What burns hot with fire?
Just for today, be present. Witness the choices you and others make, remaining open to whatever transpires. Practicing non-attachment to outcomes, just being an observer as to what may or may not be.
3. Follow Me
Ask me where I am going, and I may reply I have no idea. Ask me what to do next. I will respond with “follow your heart.” Still uncertain, I will more than likely ask you to follow me.
In my younger days, I may have told you what you needed to do to get where you were going. Knowing what I know today, I leave you with a gentle invitation into self.
Firstly, humans are not receptive to being told what to do. Instead, it has to be their own choice or felt as such. How often does someone say to you, “You should do this or that?” How does it make you feel? Usually, we get turned off by the suggestions as it is not our reality. Is it Ego consciousness protecting us from the truth, or is it merely not in our reality of thought? Remember the idea of seeing blue, but another seeing orange or green? We have different realities and ways of seeing things as they seem to fit into our lives. An open invite to another, seeking a different outlook on any situation, has more potential for changing their personal views on a situation.
Secondly, as we stated above…their reality is their reality, skewed by personal blinders of their own. We see things one way, and they may see it another.
The best option to help another is to help yourself. Yes, that is correct, and there is nothing selfish about this. In helping ourselves and learning to master ourselves, we come to a place of knowing. Knowing we are here on time and on purpose, we no longer need to be told what to do or think…we believe in our thoughts and actions whilst being open to changing thoughts of new realities for our days. In coming to a place of self-mastery, others will witness the master among them…assuredly, someone will take notice and want to follow in the footsteps left within the Canvas of Life.
Just for today, do not tell anyone what to do….instead, invite them to seek answers within themselves. If they press you for guidance, try and open a dialogue for discovery. Meaning…engage in conversation and allow the answers just to come forward.
Ask me where I am going, and I may reply I have no idea. Ask me what to do next. I will respond with “follow your heart.” Still uncertain, I will more than likely ask you to follow me.
Closing: Defining Syncrosensational
A day does not pass when we’re reminded of pain and suffering in the World. The dilemma? Do we dwell in it or create a new way of life? The choice is ours and ours alone. We mustn’t wait for a guru or someone else to figure it out but walk the path alone. The guru or teacher may be a catalyst to what we already know, but our ambition for meaning gets us to our destination.
When negativity is all around us, we must learn techniques of guarding ourselves against other persons’ negativity. Apply filters to our ears until all that remains is the positivity that filters into the brain. If their energy is too strong, then politely excuse yourself until composure is regained. Some filters may include happy, positive thoughts or sending silent blessings to the perpetrator…Doing so, drawing upon a higher power.
Apply a guarded tongue…for our words shall amplify our actions or surroundings. Similarly, our words can strengthen a negative person…creating more negativity. With a guarded tongue, we can assure only positivity into our lives, as our words become actions.
The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
Whatever you speak can bring life or death into your life. ~Proverbs18:21
Check the emotions at the door.
Just as in one of the steps of the Eightfold path (http://steppingintothecanvas.com/a-modern-warriors-eightfold-path /), life is much easier when we master our emotions. When we check our emotions at the door, we clear-headedly cipher through our dilemmas. When our emotions are in check, we can master our actions.
If our thoughts become actions, then by thinking negative thoughts, we shall end up acting out our negative thoughts. Basic Law of Attraction: negative thoughts yield negative actions; positive thoughts nurture positive actions. Choose wisely. Focus not on the shortcomings but on the intent of our outcome. Wherever intention flows, our energy flows.
Living a syncrosensational life is about redefining oneself and our path. Does this path lead to destruction, or does it lead to paradise? We all know the answers to these questions, but so few are willing to take necessary actions out of fear of being different. We are all different, but we are the same. Forget about what others think and master thyself, releasing fear now. We are the captain of our ship, the captain of our team, the Master of Synchronicity.
Stepping into the Canvas as a Master Painter, we have painted our entire life: with paintings pleasing to the eye, while some not so much. We have mastered the strokes our entire life regardless of flaws or flawlessness. It is time to clean the slate, starting with a fresh Canvas, Painting the Life we always dreamed of. Have a Syncrosensational Day!