Soft Morning

waking slowly on a foggy day
hazlenut gorgonzola scone
a delicious beginning with tea

"The natural world is the larger sacred community to which we belong." Thomas Berry

May we be grateful for the food we receive

Potential

“Each difficult moment has the potential to open my eyes and open my heart” - Myla Kabat-Zinn

who are we who will we become
touchstones hope love compassion
continue expanding the possibilities

“We are all gifted. That is our inheritance.” - Ethel Waters

May we enjoy the quantum quandaries of life

Compassion - A Timeless Force

reminiscing of soft fluffy beds
warm sun drenched stones
ocean vistas of my childhood


"We urgently need to make compassion a clear, luminous and dynamic force in our polarized world. Rooted in a principled determination to transcend selfishness, compassion can break down political, dogmatic, ideological and religious boundaries." 7th line of the Charter For Compassion

"A human being is a part of the whole called by us universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feeling as something separated from the rest, 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

May we have compassion for what was, what is and what will be

Hidden Treasure

kindness hidden within small spaces
freeing love through varied actions
knowing we step forward together

"We therefore call upon all men and women ~ to restore compassion to the centre of morality and religion ~ to return to the ancient principle that any interpretation of scripture that breeds violence, hatred or disdain is illegitimate ~ to ensure that youth are given accurate and respectful information about other traditions, religions and cultures ~ to encourage a positive appreciation of cultural and religious diversity ~ to cultivate an informed empathy with the suffering of all human beings—even those regarded as enemies." 6th line of the Charter For Compassion

I worked Thanksgiving Day as I do most years. To use my friend Jan's word, I felt smug being able to offer the gift of a day off to someone else to be with their family. However, there are hidden gifts to working any holiday. With Thanksgiving, most years it has been I have had the pleasure of sitting down to my delicious home cooked meals without having to cook at all.

My favorite thing about working the holidays is how kind, grateful, and appreciate people are when they find someone who can holiday them on a holiday. I always receive many spoken blessings and well wishes. This unsolicited kindness lifts my spirits. I am grateful to be of service.

May we progress towards more and more kindness - it just plain feels good whether it be in the giving or the receiving.

over 23,000 have affirmed the Charter

"Ohenton Kariwahtekwen" - Iroquois Thanksgiving Address

gratitude without measure
abundance beyond counting
thanksgiving a blessed event

Though related only by intention, Thanksgiving Day seems the perfect time to post the "Ohenton Kariwahtekwen" (as translated the website for the Mohawk Nation)

Thanksgiving Address

Greetings to the Natural World

The People

Today we have gathered and we see that the cycles of life continue. We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people.

Now our minds are one.

The Earth Mother

We are all thankful to our Mother, the Earth, for she gives us all that we need for life. She supports our feet as we walk about upon her. It gives us joy that she continues to care for us as she has from the beginning of time. To our mother, we send greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

The Waters

We give thanks to all the waters of the world for quenching our thirst and providing us with strength. Water is life. We know its power in many forms-waterfalls and rain, mists and streams, rivers and oceans. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the spirit of Water.

Now our minds are one.

The Fish

We turn our minds to the all the Fish life in the water. They were instructed to cleanse and purify the water. They also give themselves to us as food. We are grateful that we can still find pure water. So, we turn now to the Fish and send our greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

The Plants

Now we turn toward the vast fields of Plant life. As far as the eye can see, the Plants grow, working many wonders. They sustain many life forms. With our minds gathered together, we give thanks and look forward to seeing Plant life for many generations to come.

Now our minds are one.

The Food Plants

With one mind, we turn to honor and thank all the Food Plants we harvest from the garden. Since the beginning of time, the grains, vegetables, beans and berries have helped the people survive. Many other living things draw strength from them too. We gather all the Plant Foods together as one and send them a greeting of thanks.

Now our minds are one.

The Medicine Herbs

Now we turn to all the Medicine herbs of the world. From the beginning they were instructed to take away sickness. They are always waiting and ready to heal us. We are happy there are still among us those special few who remember how to use these plants for healing. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the Medicines and to the keepers of the Medicines.

Now our minds are one.

The Animals

We gather our minds together to send greetings and thanks to all the Animal life in the world. They have many things to teach us as people. We are honored by them when they give up their lives so we may use their bodies as food for our people. We see them near our homes and in the deep forests. We are glad they are still here and we hope that it will always be so.

Now our minds are one

The Trees

We now turn our thoughts to the Trees. The Earth has many families of Trees who have their own instructions and uses. Some provide us with shelter and shade, others with fruit, beauty and other useful things. Many people of the world use a Tree as a symbol of peace and strength. With one mind, we greet and thank the Tree life.

Now our minds are one.

The Birds

We put our minds together as one and thank all the Birds who move and fly about over our heads. The Creator gave them beautiful songs. Each day they remind us to enjoy and appreciate life. The Eagle was chosen to be their leader. To all the Birds-from the smallest to the largest-we send our joyful greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

The Four Winds

We are all thankful to the powers we know as the Four Winds. We hear their voices in the moving air as they refresh us and purify the air we breathe. They help us to bring the change of seasons. From the four directions they come, bringing us messages and giving us strength. With one mind, we send our greetings and thanks to the Four Winds.

Now our minds are one.

The Thunderers

Now we turn to the west where our grandfathers, the Thunder Beings, live. With lightning and thundering voices, they bring with them the water that renews life. We are thankful that they keep those evil things made by Okwiseres underground. We bring our minds together as one to send greetings and thanks to our Grandfathers, the Thunderers.

Now our minds are one.

The Sun

We now send greetings and thanks to our eldest Brother, the Sun. Each day without fail he travels the sky from east to west, bringing the light of a new day. He is the source of all the fires of life. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Brother, the Sun.

Now our minds are one.

Grandmother Moon

We put our minds together to give thanks to our oldest Grandmother, the Moon, who lights the night-time sky. She is the leader of woman all over the world, and she governs the movement of the ocean tides. By her changing face we measure time, and it is the Moon who watches over the arrival of children here on Earth. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Grandmother, the Moon.

Now our minds are one.

The Stars

We give thanks to the Stars who are spread across the sky like jewelry. We see them in the night, helping the Moon to light the darkness and bringing dew to the gardens and growing things. When we travel at night, they guide us home. With our minds gathered together as one, we send greetings and thanks to the Stars.

Now our minds are one.

The Enlightened Teachers

We gather our minds to greet and thank the enlightened Teachers who have come to help throughout the ages. When we forget how to live in harmony, they remind us of the way we were instructed to live as people. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to these caring teachers.

Now our minds are one.

The Creator

Now we turn our thoughts to the creator, or Great Spirit, and send greetings and thanks for all the gifts of Creation. Everything we need to live a good life is here on this Mother Earth. For all the love that is still around us, we gather our minds together as one and send our choicest words of greetings and thanks to the Creator.

Now our minds are one.

Closing Words

We have now arrived at the place where we end our words. Of all the things we have named, it was not our intention to leave anything out. If something was forgotten, we leave it to each individual to send such greetings and thanks in their own way.

Now our minds are one.

Today's six word story: The people showed gratitude for everything.

May you enjoy everything and "everyone" you encounter today

Remembering Love

love is multi-colored and speckled
it isn't one flavor or fixed in time
look as it ebbs flows and covers all

May you recognize love in all it's colours

Listening Well

listening is an act of heart
hearing stories is a healing act
may you share your life

"It is the province of knowledge to speak And it is the privilege of wisdom to listen." - Oliver Wendell Holmes

If you listen to NPR(National Public Radio), you have probably heard of StoryCorps - "Our mission is to honor and celebrate one another’s lives through listening." I love the whole idea, and love their byline - Help StoryCorps create a nation of listeners. I do wish I asked more questions of my family and gleaned more family history.
Most of us have played some version of the game telephone when we were young. A word or sentence is whispered round the circle and, usually, comes back mangled and a faint shadow or untelligible from the original words. As kids, it's comical.
Now as an adult the lack of communication can be astounding at times. It seems that it is hard for us to slow down and listen with focus. Just the simple act of answering phone, "This is Lynn" is met with response like, Hello, Susan, Hello, Ren, Hello, Randy, Hello, Lance. It is mystifying sometimes. Then I think of my own self-involvement, and the mind  (ok, and my mouth) chatter on while listening quietly would be the inappropriate and kind thing to do.

November, 27, 2009 is the National Day of Listening sponsored by StoryCorps. From their site:

Make a yearly tradition of listening to and preserving a loved one’s story. The stories you collect will become treasured keepsakes that grow more valuable with each passing generation.

"The opposite of talking is not listening. The opposite of talking is waiting". - Fran Lebowitz

May you stop to listen, and may you be heard

Hoping

aligning the global stars
fulfilling simple dreams
hoping for all humanity

"We acknowledge that we have failed to live compassionately and that some have even increased the sum of human misery in the name of religion." 5th lineof the Charter For Compassion

May we live compassionately

New six story: Small changes lead to better world.

Over 20,000 people have affirmed the Charter

What About Kindness

"What this world needs is a new kind of army - the army of the kind."  - Cleveland Amory

kindness smiles upon me
divine fire manifests compassion
calling forth love and grace

"To act or speak violently out of spite, chauvinism, or self-interest, to impoverish, exploit or deny basic rights to anybody, and to incite hatred by denigrating others—even our enemies—is a denial of our common humanity." - 4th line of the Charter For Compassion

I was pleased to note the names of designer Kenneth Cole and Sir Richard Branson (Founder of Virgin Group) among the over 19,000 supporters that have confirmed the Charter For Compassion.

Even the smallest acts of kindness enrich the world. It matters greatly to recipient of each small act of kindness and compassion.

Yesterday during the Lakshmi puja, one of the things Sri Amarananda Bhairavan asked to commit to was performing at least one small act of compassion towards one animal within the next year.

It seems like such a small request. Yet, such a beautiful acknowledgement of the importance of compassion and we each have the ability and the time to contribute on some level.

May we contribute to kindness

Pujas - A Time of Worship, Light & Devotion

ceremonial harmonies of light
sounds evoke and invoke
focus remains on the heart

 I was blessed to be able to attend a Ganapati Puja last night and a Lakshmi Puja. Both pujas were led by vedic priest and author Sri Amarananda Bhairavan.
Both experiences were beautiful and inspiring. I am still absorbing all the wonderful energies. I found Sri Bhairavan to be embodiment of kindness, compassion, and wisdom.

I was impressed by his assistant, Harsha, who was equally humble, open, kind, and compassionate. I was very touched when she gave me a wonderful, unexpected gift at the end of the second puja.

From his website, Deep Soul Healing:

Sri Amarananda Bhairavan, affectionately known as Nandu, is an internationally renowned Vedic Priest and Master Healer. During his joyous childhood amongst an extended family on the west coast of India, Amarananda trained in Oti vidya, a tantra unique to Odiyyathis or tribal medicine women of Kerala. Initiated at the age of nine by his aunt, Amarananda Bhairavan remains a direct descendant of this eight thousand year old tradition of goddess worship. His mystical education and initiations in the ancient Oti vidya tantric practices are the subject of his two visionary books: Kali’s Odiyya: A Shaman’s True Story of Initiation and Medicine of Light: A Shaman’s Journey through Mystic Space-Time.

The definition below is from the Smithsonian Institution:

Puja: Expressions of Hindu Devotion   

Puja is the act of showing reverence to a god, a spirit, or another aspect of the divine through invocations, prayers, songs, and rituals. An essential part of puja for the Hindu devotee is making a spiritual connection with the divine. Most often that contact is facilitated through an object: an element of nature, a sculpture, a vessel, a painting, or a print.

During puja an image or other symbol of the god serves as a means of gaining access to the divine. This icon is not the deity itself; rather, it is believed to be filled with the deity's cosmic energy. It is a focal point for honoring and communicating with the god. For the devout Hindu, the icon's artistic merit is important, but is secondary to its spiritual content. The objects are created as receptacles for spiritual energy that allow the devotee to experience direct communication with his or her gods.

Bless all those who reach out to touch another's heart

Stopping To Rest

"Derive happiness in oneself from a good day's work, from illuminating the fog that surrounds us." Henry Matisse

activity sweeping swirling
times of frenzy and confusion
tired warm resting melted

A six day work week is a bit more action than I'd like on a regular basis. Though there have been some very satisying moments. This week and next at six days of work then I should be able to shift into my "regular" longer five day work week. The company is slowly making it self known. We are on the edge of getting in "new" computers. Sadly, it is hard for me to imagine a smooth, calm, uneventful event. If that happens I will be ever so pleased.

May you find time to rest.

Golden Rule Resolution & Charter For Compassion

ideas circling around connecting
circle of groups, minds and hearts
who knows what the child will become

"It is also necessary in both public and private life to refrain consistently and empathically from inflicting pain." 4th line of the Charter for Compassion (beginning of 2nd paragraph)

The Golden Rule Resolution and quotes below are entirely from the site of, one of the partners of the Charter For Compassion, Golden Rule Radical:

"If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find, in each person’s life, suffering and sorrow enough to disarm all our hostility." – Henry Wadsworth

The Golden Rule Resolution


The Text:

It is essential that we find a way to live together in peace; in mutual respect of one another; to live and believe as we freely choose.

Creating a tolerant, pluralistic society is a critical step for harmonious human growth.

In order to preserve the world and its resources, we must find a way to create a sustainable, prosperous economy, even as we protect the environment and the ecology of the world we live in.

There is such a way; a pluralistic solution with a universal starting point exists. It is often called the Golden Rule or the Ethic of Reciprocity.

The principle of treating each other and the world with mutual respect and dignity is the foundation of all moral codes, religious or secular.

Applying this universal principle can provide an enabling mechanism for the dialogue and development essential to resolving the challenges we face globally, nationally, and locally.

Therefore, we call on the religious, political, and economic leaders of the world to draft and adopt resolutions for the implementation of the principle embodied in the Golden Rule; such resolutions to inform and guide the formation of political, social, economic and environmental policies within their spheres of influence.

"When it comes right down to it … You may call God love, you may call God goodness. But the best name for God is compassion". - Meister Eckhart

May we be thoughtful

over 18,000 people have affirmed the Charter For Compassion

Ancient Heart

"Compassion impels us to work tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of our fellow creatures, to dethrone ourselves from the centre of our world and put another there, and to honour the inviolable sanctity of every single human being, treating everybody, without exception, with absolute justice, equity and respect." 2nd line from Charter for Compassion

into the heart of the grove they went
an ancient seed was planted and water
now the seedling begins to grow

Over 17,000 people have affirmed the Charter now. I understand that placques with the Charter for Compassion are being made and will be hung in different spots around
the world. I saw I posted I liked giving the synopsis of the Charter on the blog called moneymagic (thanks, to blogger Piers Young):

The Charter does NOT assume:
* all religions are the same
* compassion is the only thing that matters in religion
* religious people have a monopoly on compassion
The Charter DOES affirm that:
* compassion is celebrated in all major religious, spiritual and ethical traditions
* the Golden Rule is our prime duty and cannot be limited to our own political, religious or ethnic group
* therefore, in our divided world, compassion can build common ground

May we nuture goodness where we find it

Compassion The Seventh Sense

ancient ones standing forth
majestic winds encompass trees
there is continuity to this dance

"The principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated ourselves." - 1st line of the Charter for Compassion

I was excited last evening to see added to the list of names affirming the Charter for Compassion is author Isabel Allende, and actor Forest Whitaker. I was equally excited in the beginning to see Paul Simon, Peter Gabriel, Quincy Jones, Melissa Etheridge, Goldie Hawn and Megan Ryan all supporting the charter along the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Deepak Chopra.

The question comes to mind how much weight I put on the opinions of celebrities, and why. Some of it is the excitement of being joined in such a noble cause with famous people. My logical mind says they have big voices that carry far, will be heard, and can influence larger groups of people.

Then, I think of my grandmother, Nana. Why has my mind wandered her?? Yes, I think she would have signed the Charter whereas my parents would likely have declined to be involved.

Nana moved from Chicago, Illinois right to Hollywood not far from Hollywood & Vine, and the Farmer's Market when my mother was young. Nana worked as a housekeeper for Steve Allen. My mother waited on movies stars along with regular customers. Jack LaLanne, the health food/exercise guru, came to our house. I thought it was so cool to see someone who was on the TV right in my own living room. Nana used to give me movie magazines along with the infamous Enquirer. So I suppose my childhood was colored with a backdrop of celebrities, movie mags, and celebrity gossip. And, I grew up when television was still new and it was still fashionable to see movies at the drive-in.

So many variants in forming and appraising opinions, even my own. And in the end, I am just as excited to be in the company of Golden Hawn, et al. as I was before.
It's just an exciting world.

May you think about living the "Golden Rule". I'm trying to . . .

This morning I'm showing over 15,000 people affirming and supporting the charter

New six word story: They claim compassion as a path.

Turtling

"A well-known scientist (some say it was Bertrand Russell) once gave a public lecture on astronomy. He described how the earth orbits around the sun and how the sun, in turn, orbits around the center of a vast collection of stars called our galaxy. At the end of the lecture a little old lady at the back of the room got up and said: 'What you have told us is rubbish. The world is really a flat plate supported on the back of a giant tortoise.' The scientist gave a superior smile before replying, 'What is the turtle standing on?' 'You're very clever, young man, very clever,' said the little old lady. 'But it's turtles all the way down." - Stephen William Hawking (found on website Turtle Site)

walrus, snail, turtle
a manageable pace
luxuriously slow

A couple of bumps in the road, longer work week, a little hail, a minor tussle with the wind and a letter, a couple more decisions than I feel making . . . here I go thinking about basking on a warm rock in the sun.

May you enjoy some time to bask or nest

PS over 13,000 people have now affirmed the Charter for Compassion

Kseniya Simonova Tells a War Story with Sand

Kseniya Simonova (born 1985) is a sand animator from Ukraine. She started drawing with sand after her business collapsed because of the credit crunch. She had been drawing for less than a year when she entered Ukraine's Got Talent. Kseniya became the 2009 Winner of Ukraine's Got Talent after constructing an animation that portrayed life during USSR's Great Patriotic War against the Third Reich in World War II. (Source: Wikipedia)

This is a very cool video. Amazing to watch the art she creates with sand



flying hands brillant sweeps
history played out in granules
brillaint vision remembering past

May we be amazed

Celebrate Interfaith Mitzvah Day Tomorrow or Everyday

 Found in the event listing on Compassionate Action Network site:

On Sunday 15th November - Mitzvah Day - thousands of people will take time out of their busy schedules to make a difference in someone else's life.

You, too, can celebrate your faith through action this Mitzvah Day.

Begun as a celebration of social action in the US Jewish community, Mitzvah Day has since grown into an international multi-faith day of action.

"It challenges people of all faiths to ask themselves how their faith leads them to make a difference in a practical way," says Tony Blair. "Making someone smile, helping improve the environment and providing concrete assistance to the poor. This for me is what faith is about: meaningful, tangible, collective action."

This Mitzvah Day, you could donate your clothes to a local charity shop, help clean up a local park, or organise your co-workers to spend your lunch hour volunteering for a good cause.

It doesn't matter how you help, just as long as you're prepared to give a little bit of yourself to make a difference for someone else.

good thoughts good works unfolding
simple tasks building community
encouraging heartwarming inspiration

May we be helpful

Compassionate Action Network & Charter For Compassion

I was excited to be present for the unveiling of the Charter For Compassion in Seattle last night. It turned out that we were one of 125 sites around the world to participate in the unveiling. Who doesn't like to feel special. When I went on line to affirm the Charter yesterday afternoon there were just over 3,000 people who had affirmed it, checking now there's over 7,800, now it's over 8,000 I feel the rippling effects of the stone cast in the pond.

community aligned with common purpose
remembering the ancients truths of humanity
we see a more peaceful & compassionate world

The charter was read aloud by and we watched the video of the charter being spoken. We were encouraged to listen with our hearts, listen deeply, listen to the silences as well as the words. We were given an opportunity to discuss it, and state what we wished for in the world. The focus of the gathering was not only the unveiling of the charter, but to encourage a focus of compassionate action for the next 50 days.

A woman said she and her daughters text each other everyday. One of the things they include is an act of compassionate they witnessed that day. I love that.

A gentleman, I think his name was Larry, told my favorite story:

There was a boy walking along the shore, picking up starfishes, and throwing them back into the ocean. A gentleman asked what he was doing. When he told him he was helping the starfishes, the gentleman pointed out that there were hundreds of starfishes on the shore so it really wouldn't make a difference. The boy bent over picked up the next starfish, tossed it in the ocean and replied, "It made a difference to that one."

Another sponsor of the event was the Compassionate Listening Project. A woman from this organization lead us in a two person exercise where we listened (deeply and compassionately) to one person speak for 4 minutes without saying anything verbally. Then the other person listened to us. It was a moving experience. I thought about how lucky I am in my life to have people who listen to me. It is sacred.

A third sponsor, Seattle Center for Peace, gave us the gift of a white wrist band to wear the next 50 days. I presume it's a reminder to focus on compassion. I put mine on immediately and hope to wear all 50 days. By synchronicity alone, I managed to tie the knot at a perfect length to allow me to remove it (for bathing probably) and put it back on. Awesome, free bracelet, yeah.

The event was able to be held in a large comfortable room with hot tea thanks to the sponsorship of St. Patrick's Catholic Church on Broadway in Seattle.

The "organization" that I learned about the local event from is CAN(Compassionate Action Network) one of the sponsoring members of this event. Here's info about them from their website:

About the Compassionate Action Network

In 2008, the City of Seattle welcomed His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and other luminaries to an event called Seeds of Compassion. The purpose of the five-day gathering was to nurture kindness and compassion in children and all those who touch their lives. One outcome of the event is the Compassionate Action Network (CAN) that makes it easier for you to make a difference!

What is the Compassionate Action Network?
CAN is a network of self-organizing groups who share a common vision for a compassionate world.

Vision
To Awaken Compassion in Our Children, Ourselves, and Our World.

Mission
To build a global network for self-organizing groups to connect, collaborate, and take action to awaken compassion in our children, ourselves, and our world.

Bless everyone who organized,  and attended the event for The Unveiling of The Charter For Compassion for enriching my life and that of our global family. Namaste.

Community

"Tell me what company thou keepst, and I'll tell thee what thou art."
- Miguel de Cervantes (1547 - 1616) Spanish novelist.  (found on friendship.com.au)

More on the solitary side by nature, I must admit to enjoying some wonderful and interesting people time this week.

Wednesday was my monthly Book Club. It was again heartwarming and comforting to be surrounded by this group of women. We enjoyed some time catching up on each other's lives and discussing this month's book Water For elephants, and a bit more on last month's book The Shack. It was a nice interchange of ideas which is always nourishing. I was wanting to imbibe as with my new work schedule I won't be a Book Club for a while so I'll have to share vicariously.

sipping tea with books & ideas

stopping to listen to new views
comfortable camaraderie enfolds

Charter For Compassion Unveiled

"Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal." Martin Luther King Jr.

new charter today new teacher next week
old comections shifting and rekindling
flux is the temporary baseline of my life

I am excited about the unveiling of the Charter For Compassion today. I am getting ready to attend a public reading tonight with Compassionate Action Network. I loved adding my name to the list of those affirming the Charter. Here's a small portion of the names of those affirming it so far on the front page of the Charter For Compassion website:

Some of the Affirmers

His Holiness the Dalai Lama
H.M. Queen Noor of Jordan
Chair, King Hussein Foundation
Paul Simon
Musician
Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Mpilo Tutu
Sir Ken Robinson
Author
Deepak Chopra
Author
Sheikh Ali Gomaa
Grand Mufti of Egypt
Professor Candido Mendes
Spiritual Director, Arsha Vijan Mandiram
Goldie Hawn
Actor
Dr. Abdul Sattar Edhi
Founder, Edhi Foundation


It is exciting to be in such esteemed company adding such positive to the steps toward a more compassionate world. I couldn't manage to add the widget yet that would allow anyone to affirm the Charter from my blog, but you can affirm at the Charter for compassion site. Now the rest will be striving to uphold these principles and practice kindness and compassionate until it is the deepest part of who I am.

The spoken version is here on the video, and the written version below it.



From Charter For Compassion site:

A call to bring the world together…

The principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated ourselves. Compassion impels us to work tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of our fellow creatures, to dethrone ourselves from the centre of our world and put another there, and to honour the inviolable sanctity of every single human being, treating everybody, without exception, with absolute justice, equity and respect.
It is also necessary in both public and private life to refrain consistently and empathically from inflicting pain. To act or speak violently out of spite, chauvinism, or self-interest, to impoverish, exploit or deny basic rights to anybody, and to incite hatred by denigrating others—even our enemies—is a denial of our common humanity. We acknowledge that we have failed to live compassionately and that some have even increased the sum of human misery in the name of religion.
We therefore call upon all men and women ~ to restore compassion to the centre of morality and religion ~ to return to the ancient principle that any interpretation of scripture that breeds violence, hatred or disdain is illegitimate ~ to ensure that youth are given accurate and respectful information about other traditions, religions and cultures ~ to encourage a positive appreciation of cultural and religious diversity ~ to cultivate an informed empathy with the suffering of all human beings—even those regarded as enemies.
We urgently need to make compassion a clear, luminous and dynamic force in our polarized world. Rooted in a principled determination to transcend selfishness, compassion can break down political, dogmatic, ideological and religious boundaries. Born of our deep interdependence, compassion is essential to human relationships and to a fulfilled humanity. It is the path to enlightenment, and indispensible to the creation of a just economy and a peaceful global community.

Remembrance Day

"In war, there are no unwounded soldiers." - José Narosky (quotegarden.com)

Common British, Canadian, South African, and ANZAC traditions include two minutes of silence at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month (11:00 am, 11 November), as that marks the time (in the United Kingdom) when armistice became effective.

When this video started, I wondered what was going, what kind of tribute is this. By the time the piece ended my heart was more touched than by the traditional
pieces I'd seen.



where are they now all those is stood fast
some answering a call some honorbound
some are resting in the ground some in memory

May we remember those who stand forth in service

2009 Parliament of the World's Religions

"We are not this body. We have no name at all. We think we belong to this country. I think of this entire world as a small home. America is one room, Japan is one room, India is one room. We are just in a small home." Sri Karunamayi

so it is time to touch hearts globally
compassion unfolding reaching forward
interweaving a network of loving souls

From the website (karunamayi.org) of one of my beloved teachers, Sri Karunamayi:

Amma to Grace the Parliament of the World's Religions December 7-8, 2009

Amma Sri Karunamayi will grace the Parliament of World Religions in Melbourne, Australia this year as a featured speaker.

Her divine program will begin with a beautiful Observance and Meditation on the morning of December 7, 2009. This heart-warming discourse will bring inspiring tools to people from all faiths, so that individuals may discover the intrinsic oneness of all. Through such discoveries, says our beloved Amma, peace may ultimately be realized across the world and in our very hearts.

On December 8, 2009, Amma will address the entire Parliament alongside other eminent religious leaders. Her sure to be historic speech will highlight the power of women to promote global well-being, and the advancement of healthier, more peaceful societies.

Australian Aboriginal Invitation to the 2009 Parliament of the World's Religions



May we share our small home with grace and understanding

Happy Belated Birthday, Kathleen

Happy Belated Birthday, Kathleen

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
- Anais Nin

Kathleen, thank you for the worlds you have opened up to me, and shared with me. I may this be a year of many blessings, increasingly radiant health, happiness, and prosperity. May this be a joyful year for you body, mind and soul. May you be bathed in peace and serenity and know you are loved.

faerie folk and twinkling friends dance
surrounding you in celebratory praise
grateful that you came to earth to play

"Every person is a new door to a different world." - from movie "Six Degrees of Seperation"

The Soul Mantra

Campaign for Love & Forgiveness - Fetzer.Org

If you haven't seen it yet, I recommend a visit to another website involved in the process of global healing and compassion. Fetzer Institute.org. The following quotes are from their site:

"We engage with people and projects around the world to help bring the power of love, forgiveness, and compassion to the center of individual and community life."

"The Campaign for Love & Forgiveness is a commnity engagement initiative that encourages people to bring love and forgiveness into the heart of individual and
community life."

Within the area on The Campaign for Love & Forgiveness. They offer such things to assist people as: rituals for forgiveness; a place to start conversations and share stories about love & forgiveness; and ideas such as starting a garden of love & forgiveness..

Here is an inspirational video I enjoyed called Forgiveness

Two More Charter For Compassion Events - Seattle Area

"Leaving arguing to those who wish to discuss the size and shape of the walls that close them in." - Kent Nerburn

gentle hands firm support
willing compassionate heart
slight shift major consequences

Here are two more events for the unveiling of the Charter for Compassion happening in Seattle area from their website:

November 12, 2009
Seattle, Washington
United States
Estimated Attendance:
101-250
Seattle Center For Peace

Join us in Seattle Peace Park to celebrate the emergence of the Charter for Compassion and take a pledge for compassion. We welcome all those choosing to create more Compassion, Peace, Nonviolence and Social Justice in our world now. Drop by for 10 minutes anytime between 1pm and 4:44pm.

Conversations for Compassion-Conversaciones para Compasion

An evening of meaningful conversation over the Charter of Compassion.  Space limited to 25 people, RSVP needed by November 10. Call 253-318-7258

Event Details

November 12, 2009 6:00 pm to November 12, 2009 8:30 pm

6707 57th Avenue E
Puyallup, Washington 98371
United States

Capacity: 1-50
free

"Remember, strength based in force is a strength people fear. Strength based in love is a strength people crave." - Kent Nerburn

May we learn to show compassion

The Unveiling of the Charter for Compassion -- Seattle Area

On February 28, 2008 Karen Armstrong won the TED Prize and made a wish: for help creating, launching and propagating a Charter for Compassion. Since that day, thousands of people have contributed to the process so that on November 12, 2009 the Charter will be unveiled to the world.

On Thursday, November 12 the Charter for Compassion will be launched Please join with us in Seattle at St. Patrick Church at 7 PM.

The Unveiling of the Charter for Compassion -- Seattle Area     Time: November 12, 2009 from 7pm to 8:30pm
Location: St. Patrick's Church
Organized By: Reverend Cheen 253.568.7473, thecompassionnetwork@gmail.com

Event Description:
Join our greater Seattle community in the global launch of the Charter for Compassion!

WHEN: November 12, Thursday, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: St. Patrick’s Church

WHAT: A reading of the Charter of Compassion and a reception will mark the beginning of a 50 day celebration of deep listening that informs compassionate action.

Join the Compassionate Action Network, Northwest Interfaith Community Outreach, the Compassionate Listening Project and the Seattle Center for Peace for the unveiling of the Charter for Compassion in person and on-line. Virtual participation instructions are available at www.compassionateactionnetwork.com.

For more information about this event and other Pacific Northwest Charter events, please contact Reverend Cheen at 253.568.7473 or email thecompassionnetwork@gmail.com.

For more information on Charter for Compassion visit their site at charterforcompassion.org.

Enjoying The Moon

lights flicker around satin ringed moon
clouds illuminated with translucent rays
the rest of the sky is dark, clear and cool

“May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night and a smooth road all the way to your door.” Irish Blessing

International Council of !3 Indigenous Grandmothers

December 3-6, 2009
Seventh Council Gathering - Sedona, Arizona

This Gathering, hosted by Hopi/Havasupai/Tewa Grandmother Mona Polacca.

Events in the Phoenix and Sedona Area - November, and December

There are several events and fundraisers scheduled before the Sedona Gathering. The Grandmothers themselves are putting on workshops in Phoenix on Sunday, November 29, and in Sedona on Monday, December 7, right after the Gathering.

To learn more, please see their website: www.grandmotherscouncil.com

Transitions

new information shuffling in piling up
conversation awash with queries
all tuckered out down to my toes

Shifting World

shattered one illusion of permanence
shifting allegiances shielded perspectives
thoughts truths muddied by past stories

"Turbulence is life force. It is opportunity. Let's love turbulence and use it for change." - Ramsey Clark

My workplace is and will be in a state of flux for awhile. One of my co-workers said she was having trouble seeing God right now. She wasn't sure where he was. "and God can see over the fence, and I can't". I thought this was a wonderful way of telling us how uncomfortable the feeling of uncertainty can be.

Contrary to what I imagined, it appears that I will be shifting from my reduced part-time hours back to full-time at least for the short term. Definite a mixed blessing. Truly it is a gift from my supervisor, and I will be very grateful for additional income. I am already missing the luxury of three days.

"Nothing in the world is permanent, and we're foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we're still more foolish not to take delight in it while we have it. If change is of the essence of existence one would have thought it only sensible to make it the premise of our philosophy." - W. Somerset Maugham

Back to: May we enjoy each moment

WHALE DREAMERS

I received the following recommendation from my friend Kathleen regarding the movie whaledreamers:

"It is a DVD done by John Lennon's son, Julian. They follow a group of native Australians who's tribe has whale callers. They have a get together from many tribes who send a representative to Australia and call the whales. The DVD is a documentary. Very good."

Sweeping Change

"It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear . . . . It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to." - Marilyn Ferguson

from the east like a great storm they came
washing away old structures leaving bridges
surveying the terrain they paused to think

It has been a bit tumultuous the last few days. I had my normal days off. When I returned to work on Saturday, I noticed some of our conferences were rearranged. I had an unsettled feelings about this.

As I entered my work area, I was greeted by a co-worker who said something like. "We're all o.k., everything is fine, no one died, this is our new dress code (pointing to the jeans she was wearing), now take a deep breathe." She, then, preceded to tell me our company had been sold. The acquisition was completed and we were already working for the new out of state company. I've already been to New Employee Orientation today. Stunningly quick.

As is normal with any decent acquisition, the people sent were warm, friendly, open, and excited to tell us about our new company. The new company looks good on paper, and probably is a decent company. However, their headquarters are in small town(around 6,000-7,000) in the mid-west on property they own. It is difficult to see how it would be a good business decision remain in Seattle, WA area when salaries and the cost of doing business is so much higher. We'll shall see. It is emotionally fatiguing environment with heightened levels of anticipation, anxiety, and strangers all swirling around.

So far, the language of business seems the same except for a small card we received on voicemail. We haven't asked them yet, but do you think "parking" and "unparking" a call has to do with hold . . .

"It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power." - Alan Cohen

I heard a radio contest the other day for six word short stories so here's mine:
Jack brought the Ozarks to Seattle.

May we be flexible

Germany, Heart of Europe

This for my German ancestors. This video not only has great pictures, but beautiful music with sweet lilting voices.

Honoring More Ancestors - November 2

"May your walls know joy, may every room hold laughter, and every window open to great possibility" -Mary Anne Radmacher

This video is to honor my French ancestors, and my Lithuanian mother who played the accordion

Mother Earth - Joanne Shenandoah - Iroquois Language

For my ancestors of this land. Beautiful Mother of Nations song about Mother Earth from Joanne Shenandoah's Peace and Power CD.

Dia de los Muertos

Because I could not stop for Death --
He kindly stopped for me --
The Carriage held but just Ourselves --
And Immortality.

Emily Dickinson

May you rest peacefully

Beautiful Lithuania - Honoring Those Who Came Before Me

Ancestors Day - Day of the Dead, Mexico

"Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you…" . T. A. Barron

ancestral voices echo in songs of love
spirits dance alive in every heart
the history in my bones makes who I am

This video about the Day of the Dead interestingly is a British Airways Ad



Thank you mother, father, grandmothers, grandfathers, all the ancient ones that came before us, stone people, plants, animals, all sparks of life. We are grateful for the life you gave us, and what you helped us to become. May we remember the sacred lineage of which we are a part.