The World is filled with questions....millions of questions, some of which can be answered, some which cannot, and some questions don't deserve an answer, they are simply asked not for direct knowledge to be gained, but merely to be pondered upon. A multitude of Religions exist on this planet as a way of answering certain questions: where do we come from, what is our purpose and where are we going form the basis of every religion known to Mankind. Faith is the key to selecting which religion you follow to receive the answers to the questions asked.
Most of us would assume that religion would generate the most questions asked by us, as humans, and I dare say thats probably a fair assumption. In turn, those questions asked of this topic form another aspect which is integral to what makes us differant from anything else on this planet, animal or vegetable. The sheer fact we ask questions and ponder the possible answers makes us differant. Animals, for example, generally operate on instinct, a parameter of that specific animals existance which dictates much of the day to day living/activities of that animals life.
Plants are the same: within the boundaries of "what they are", plant instinct controls what happens to a plant. For example, the Sun shines, rain falls and the plant grows. It hasn't made a conscious decision to grow, or not to grow, under those circumstances, it merely does what it knows it should:grow.
(The concept of plants having a spirit and conscious thought is for the reader to decide or dismiss, I sharn't enter that particular discussion)
Physicists, for example, study that which is around us (to simplify what they do), and work within the parameters set down by the particular discipline they are studying. Certainly more knowledge is being gained on a daily basis by these scientists, but as they learn more, they also set into place a knowledge base of "constants" which form the foundation of their movement forward on discovering more attributes of the world around us. Mathematicians are the same, dealing with "constants" and "variables" within the framework which forms the world of equations. But even though constants are found and set in place, to find a constant, you have to initially ask a question.
"The one thing I do know, is that I know nothing at all".....interesting little thought, isn't it...:)
As humans, with the intellect we posses, we are always asking questions, whether we realise it or not, and certainly some asking more questions than others. However, are we really as smart as we think we are, as we stumble along in life trying to deal with greatest quandery that exists in an individuals life...ourselves and the people around us.
Many of the old Asian religions and Faiths not only consider Celestial questions, ie, Who is God, etc, but they also recognise and deal with the questions which are raised by us regarding ourselves: our emotions and subsequent actions, our interactions with others as well as "What can my body and mind do".
After all the individuals who've made various studies on various subjects, I find it personally amazing that we seem to know so little about ourselves and others. We may know what our individual body can or cannot do, to a certain extent, and we may think we know "ourselves", but do we really know what makes us, and others, tick. Sadly, I don't think we do.
Our "driving forces" and personal "disciplines" seem to be one of the hardest "constants" to establish, by that I mean that those disciplines of right and wrong, how to treat others with love, respect and consideration, are such a huge variable between individuals, that we need to recognise and nurture those constants within ourselves first, and having once done that, we can be the true individual within each of us.
Your personal disciplines are one of the main characteristics which make us individuals, a
"variation" on every other person whom exists at this point in time, those who have gone before and those whom will come after. These personal disciplines will guide you through your life..and your death, and will be the basis of what you leave behind.
If you say you love someone, and they are your friend, mean it, do not faulter, and allow that to be a "constant".
Respect of others, sensitivity and consideration, these are the "constants" we, as humans, seem to struggle with the most, and yet they are the "constants which will bring the greatest peace in our lives".
There will be times in your life when you need to stand with a friend, when they need you. Be a "constant" for them, do it with love......and have peace within yourself.
Friday 29 April 2011
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Look on the inside...thats where the beauty is!!!
When I was a young man, late teens, early twenties, my brother had a saying, "Beauty is only skin deep, but ugly is all the way through". Over the years that saying has stayed with me, as it encapsulates so many of the attitudes humans have towards others, both physically as well as emotionally. This saying is also not gender specific, it swings both ways, so to speak.
My Grandfather, who was/is a massive influence in my life, also had a saying, and used to tell me often,"Never marry a beautiful woman, because you'll always live in fear".
Even though I love both my Grandfather and brother dearly, I honestly don't think they knew what the hell they were talking about on this issue, the issue of internal and external beauty.
When it comes to intimacy, all of us, both male and female, have things we look for in a partner. Notice I used the "intimacy", not specific to "physical intimacy", as intimacy incorporates all of our deeper interactions with another person, such as talking, sharing of thoughts, listening as well as the touching and caressing of our partner to please them.
These "things" we look for have a purpose, to arouse us on some level, to begin an interaction with another person. For woman it may be the "tradesman look", "the wealthy businessman" or the "rugby boy" type of male, just to describe a few types of male appearances. For males it may be the "slutty" look, the "secretary", or the "homely" look which appeals to them, again picking only a few types of female appearances. Whatever the external appearance, there is a "beauty" attached to the person being looked upon. The physical appearance, not the style of person only, is another factor which is part of this basic stage of arousal. The way they have their hair, the structure of their face, the shape of their body, their smell, all of these are also components of the first "second glance" scenario.
Even though this external beauty/appearance is somewhat integral to our initial point of interest in another person, is it the ultimate, most important aspect to seeing the "real" person?
Over the years, I have met individuals whom have been considered "beautiful", both male and female, but in truth, they have had the darkest hearts you could imagine. Like the finest crystal, they looked gorgeous, flawless and untouchable on the outside, and hollow with no substance on the inside.
There is a game thats played by groups of friends, male and female, which is one of the saddest games I could imagine. If the "victim" finds out they have been part of the game, it's a horrendous scenario for them, however, I think it even sadder for those that actually play it. It's a "social" game, played at either a pub, nightclub or any function where alot of people are gathered in a social envirement.
At the beginning of the evening, everyone playing the game puts in an amount of money to be won by the winner at the end of the night. The aim of the game, to pickup and have sex with the ugliest person that can be found at the designated venue. To prove yourself the winner, you either have to allow others in the group to watch, without the victim knowing, or film it for viewing later. This game is played by the darkest, saddest and ugliest people you would ever hope to meet.
As individuals, what is it we really want in a partner, best friend, husband or wife? What is it that makes us truelly beautiful, in the eyes of others, as well as to ourselves?
Physical size of a person does not mean they are ugly, whether they be large or small/thin, their hearts and minds are what makes someone truely beautiful, in my opinion. The way they consider you and your emotions and principals, the way they please you and in turn show you how to please them. The ease of laughter which comes from within them, not in sarcasm, but pure joy. The fact they put others first, with no love of the "me, me,me" syndrome that so many people seem to have in this day and age.
Being "hollow" does have an advantage and benefit though: if you allow yourself to open up, you can easily be filled with very precious, beautiful contents.
Next time you meet someone, look for their true beauty, it won't be hard to miss.....if it's there to begin with.
My Grandfather, who was/is a massive influence in my life, also had a saying, and used to tell me often,"Never marry a beautiful woman, because you'll always live in fear".
Even though I love both my Grandfather and brother dearly, I honestly don't think they knew what the hell they were talking about on this issue, the issue of internal and external beauty.
When it comes to intimacy, all of us, both male and female, have things we look for in a partner. Notice I used the "intimacy", not specific to "physical intimacy", as intimacy incorporates all of our deeper interactions with another person, such as talking, sharing of thoughts, listening as well as the touching and caressing of our partner to please them.
These "things" we look for have a purpose, to arouse us on some level, to begin an interaction with another person. For woman it may be the "tradesman look", "the wealthy businessman" or the "rugby boy" type of male, just to describe a few types of male appearances. For males it may be the "slutty" look, the "secretary", or the "homely" look which appeals to them, again picking only a few types of female appearances. Whatever the external appearance, there is a "beauty" attached to the person being looked upon. The physical appearance, not the style of person only, is another factor which is part of this basic stage of arousal. The way they have their hair, the structure of their face, the shape of their body, their smell, all of these are also components of the first "second glance" scenario.
Even though this external beauty/appearance is somewhat integral to our initial point of interest in another person, is it the ultimate, most important aspect to seeing the "real" person?
Over the years, I have met individuals whom have been considered "beautiful", both male and female, but in truth, they have had the darkest hearts you could imagine. Like the finest crystal, they looked gorgeous, flawless and untouchable on the outside, and hollow with no substance on the inside.
There is a game thats played by groups of friends, male and female, which is one of the saddest games I could imagine. If the "victim" finds out they have been part of the game, it's a horrendous scenario for them, however, I think it even sadder for those that actually play it. It's a "social" game, played at either a pub, nightclub or any function where alot of people are gathered in a social envirement.
At the beginning of the evening, everyone playing the game puts in an amount of money to be won by the winner at the end of the night. The aim of the game, to pickup and have sex with the ugliest person that can be found at the designated venue. To prove yourself the winner, you either have to allow others in the group to watch, without the victim knowing, or film it for viewing later. This game is played by the darkest, saddest and ugliest people you would ever hope to meet.
As individuals, what is it we really want in a partner, best friend, husband or wife? What is it that makes us truelly beautiful, in the eyes of others, as well as to ourselves?
Physical size of a person does not mean they are ugly, whether they be large or small/thin, their hearts and minds are what makes someone truely beautiful, in my opinion. The way they consider you and your emotions and principals, the way they please you and in turn show you how to please them. The ease of laughter which comes from within them, not in sarcasm, but pure joy. The fact they put others first, with no love of the "me, me,me" syndrome that so many people seem to have in this day and age.
Being "hollow" does have an advantage and benefit though: if you allow yourself to open up, you can easily be filled with very precious, beautiful contents.
Next time you meet someone, look for their true beauty, it won't be hard to miss.....if it's there to begin with.
Sunday 24 April 2011
First Anzac.
I attended my first ANZAC Parade this morning, a Dawn Service as well as the march and following service. There are various reasons why I haven't attended a service before, however this morning I had a very good reason to attend; my 14 year old son was marching and participating in his role as a AAFC...an Australian Air Force Cadet.
My Family, in past generations, are military families, to a certain extent. Army and Airforce, as well as some non-military merchant seamen thrown in for good measure( one of my "great" relatives was a Stoker on the Titanic, which is quite ironic, as he was not a very pleasant individual by all accounts )
In a sense, it was because my Family were military that I hadn't attended a march/service before, but thats a longer story within itself.
The closest I ever came to joining up was being an Army Cadet at school, but as it would turn out, in later life I became part of a civilian based security unit working with similar units from various countries in the early 1990's. I have seen things which I would not wish on anyone, but I dare not compare it to the soldiers of the past or present, it merely gives me an appreciation of the greater sorrows they have seen and experienced, and the respect that goes with those thoughts.
Never having seen active service, as our soldiers have done, I would never presume to know how servicemen/women and ex-service men and women feel about there experiences, however I would say I could totally empathise with the images which must constantly be with them, and the subsequent emotions associated with those images.
From this mornings activities, there are two scenes which standout for me, very differant on the outside, but very much the same on the inside.
I got my motorcycle licence before I got my car licence, and have always had bikes in my life. When I was 40 I joined the Ulysses Club, as a present to myself..lol. This morning, the Vietnam Vets arrived at the Dawn Services, the rumble of the bikes making the ground and air vibrate, deep within everyone who was present. I was too young to go to Vietnam, missed out by four years, however I have worked and been associated with alot of Vets, so seeing these men and woman arrive was amazing. The guys I've known over the years would speak very little about their "tours", occassionally letting small stories out as we spoke, instances of fear and horror, images and emotions they keep inside as they are not only too hard to describe, but also in the knowledge that many would not understand. I talked often with a friend of mine, a man from an English Father/Chinese Mother who was born and raised in Shanghai, and was used by the Americans as a linguist during much of the Vietnam conflict. The scenes he came across, like many, many of the Vets, was soul destroying, and made him question much of his life's teachings. Resolution was not part of Ron's life, just "placement" of what happened, within his heart, was the best he could do. As the Vets on their bikes parked up and gathered together, I looked at them, asking, "What have you seen, what have you been through, for your country" (Forgive me if this sounds cliche, it honestly is not meant to be). These men, and the woman with them just quietly gathered together and sat, and at the end of the service they stood and without any pomp or ceremony, rode away as a group. The bonds between these Vets was obvious, the emotion was clear, as many had tears streaming down their faces as they shook hands with oneanother, few words spoken nor needed, as no words could come close to what they were obviously remembering and sharing, silently, with each in that group. The most noticeable aspect was the older Veterans from skirmishes prior to Vietnam...why....because they all looked at the Vets andd tears were running down there faces also, a bond across years, regardless of politics and governmental blunders and decisions.
The second, very touching, scenario was an older Veteran who stood and placed a Wreath on behalf of the soldiers who fought in Tobruk. This gentleman was in his 80's, tall, and in his younger years would of been a very impressive figure. When his name was called, he quietly stood, and with the aid of a cane, walked with stiff legs to the Shrine, gently placed the Wreath, and as he slowly stood up, placed his hand on his Heart and stood for a short time in silence. After a time, he simply nodded to the Wreath, slowly turned and made his way back to his seat. Why did this ex-serviceman effect me so, I truely don't know, but I remember thinking that he has seen much in this world, I wonder what he has told anyone about his thoughts, and whether anyone has actually asked him what is in his Heart and what he'd like to share.
I have friends who are currently serving, or have just finished their time in the service. One young man has just finished his third tour of Afghanistan, and he's not even 24. Another man, a person whom I hold very dear, with total respect, still serves. He speaks more with his eyes than his words, even if he doesn't realise it...:).
During both services this morning, I looked around me at the people present, and then looked at my young son in his Dress Uniform, and I admit, easily, I was filled with pride at the personal discipline he displayed. He is one of the most gentlest people I know, and would never hurt anyone or anything intentionally, but the pride was still there, as he stood in his uniform, alongside other Cadets as well as Soldiers from the past. The thought of him going into active service overseas, when he's old enough, filled me with dread, but those feelings are natural as his Dad. The greater emotion was "That is my son, he is growing up and making his own pathway". My chin quivered, and a tear rolled down my face.
After the service, he came up to me and put his arms around me and said "I'm tired, old man"(he calls me that very lovingly), and when I told him I was proud of him and that I loved him, he stood back, and placing a hand on my shoulder he said "I love you too, Dad".
Why am I so open about these type of moments and write about them: because too often we hide moments like these, we don't allow them to happen, and we don't tell our children or the ones we love how much we love them, and appreciate them for who they are. In turn, for me, including this moment between my son and I is also part of ANZAC Day and similar moments in life......do we show the respect and appreciation to the ones who deserve it, or do we just let things go by without acknowledging the sacrifices made by others for us.....do we say the things which need to be said, or do we hide behind barriers created within our own minds, for whatever reasons.
Just my thoughts:
My Family, in past generations, are military families, to a certain extent. Army and Airforce, as well as some non-military merchant seamen thrown in for good measure( one of my "great" relatives was a Stoker on the Titanic, which is quite ironic, as he was not a very pleasant individual by all accounts )
In a sense, it was because my Family were military that I hadn't attended a march/service before, but thats a longer story within itself.
The closest I ever came to joining up was being an Army Cadet at school, but as it would turn out, in later life I became part of a civilian based security unit working with similar units from various countries in the early 1990's. I have seen things which I would not wish on anyone, but I dare not compare it to the soldiers of the past or present, it merely gives me an appreciation of the greater sorrows they have seen and experienced, and the respect that goes with those thoughts.
Never having seen active service, as our soldiers have done, I would never presume to know how servicemen/women and ex-service men and women feel about there experiences, however I would say I could totally empathise with the images which must constantly be with them, and the subsequent emotions associated with those images.
From this mornings activities, there are two scenes which standout for me, very differant on the outside, but very much the same on the inside.
I got my motorcycle licence before I got my car licence, and have always had bikes in my life. When I was 40 I joined the Ulysses Club, as a present to myself..lol. This morning, the Vietnam Vets arrived at the Dawn Services, the rumble of the bikes making the ground and air vibrate, deep within everyone who was present. I was too young to go to Vietnam, missed out by four years, however I have worked and been associated with alot of Vets, so seeing these men and woman arrive was amazing. The guys I've known over the years would speak very little about their "tours", occassionally letting small stories out as we spoke, instances of fear and horror, images and emotions they keep inside as they are not only too hard to describe, but also in the knowledge that many would not understand. I talked often with a friend of mine, a man from an English Father/Chinese Mother who was born and raised in Shanghai, and was used by the Americans as a linguist during much of the Vietnam conflict. The scenes he came across, like many, many of the Vets, was soul destroying, and made him question much of his life's teachings. Resolution was not part of Ron's life, just "placement" of what happened, within his heart, was the best he could do. As the Vets on their bikes parked up and gathered together, I looked at them, asking, "What have you seen, what have you been through, for your country" (Forgive me if this sounds cliche, it honestly is not meant to be). These men, and the woman with them just quietly gathered together and sat, and at the end of the service they stood and without any pomp or ceremony, rode away as a group. The bonds between these Vets was obvious, the emotion was clear, as many had tears streaming down their faces as they shook hands with oneanother, few words spoken nor needed, as no words could come close to what they were obviously remembering and sharing, silently, with each in that group. The most noticeable aspect was the older Veterans from skirmishes prior to Vietnam...why....because they all looked at the Vets andd tears were running down there faces also, a bond across years, regardless of politics and governmental blunders and decisions.
The second, very touching, scenario was an older Veteran who stood and placed a Wreath on behalf of the soldiers who fought in Tobruk. This gentleman was in his 80's, tall, and in his younger years would of been a very impressive figure. When his name was called, he quietly stood, and with the aid of a cane, walked with stiff legs to the Shrine, gently placed the Wreath, and as he slowly stood up, placed his hand on his Heart and stood for a short time in silence. After a time, he simply nodded to the Wreath, slowly turned and made his way back to his seat. Why did this ex-serviceman effect me so, I truely don't know, but I remember thinking that he has seen much in this world, I wonder what he has told anyone about his thoughts, and whether anyone has actually asked him what is in his Heart and what he'd like to share.
I have friends who are currently serving, or have just finished their time in the service. One young man has just finished his third tour of Afghanistan, and he's not even 24. Another man, a person whom I hold very dear, with total respect, still serves. He speaks more with his eyes than his words, even if he doesn't realise it...:).
During both services this morning, I looked around me at the people present, and then looked at my young son in his Dress Uniform, and I admit, easily, I was filled with pride at the personal discipline he displayed. He is one of the most gentlest people I know, and would never hurt anyone or anything intentionally, but the pride was still there, as he stood in his uniform, alongside other Cadets as well as Soldiers from the past. The thought of him going into active service overseas, when he's old enough, filled me with dread, but those feelings are natural as his Dad. The greater emotion was "That is my son, he is growing up and making his own pathway". My chin quivered, and a tear rolled down my face.
After the service, he came up to me and put his arms around me and said "I'm tired, old man"(he calls me that very lovingly), and when I told him I was proud of him and that I loved him, he stood back, and placing a hand on my shoulder he said "I love you too, Dad".
Why am I so open about these type of moments and write about them: because too often we hide moments like these, we don't allow them to happen, and we don't tell our children or the ones we love how much we love them, and appreciate them for who they are. In turn, for me, including this moment between my son and I is also part of ANZAC Day and similar moments in life......do we show the respect and appreciation to the ones who deserve it, or do we just let things go by without acknowledging the sacrifices made by others for us.....do we say the things which need to be said, or do we hide behind barriers created within our own minds, for whatever reasons.
Just my thoughts:
Friday 22 April 2011
A question.
Here's a question, something to ponder, delve into or totally disregard. Regardless of your individual Faith or Secular beliefs, it is still an interesting question.
What, in both the Temporal(physical) world and Spiritual world, is neither good nor evil?
Many religions which exist in this current day and age, as well as many Acedemics, including Mathematicians, Physicists, and Psychologists, agree, and are aware of, the need for "balance" in our everyday life. It exists all around us, in a vast variety of forms, from the words we speak to one another, our actions towards one another, all the way through to the way the very molecules of every living thing interact with one another to form whatever shape they were intended to have. Even our very pschycies have a balance, which can be thrown into turmoil and set "off" balance by situations which occur during our lives.
The ancient peoples of the world seemed to be more aware of the "Balance of Life", from the Aboriginals of Australia, the Ancient Myans, the American Lamanites, all the way through to the Ancient/Modern Pagans, they all included the knowledge and understanding of a necessary balance within their teachings. The Asian Religions, of China, Japan, Tibet, etc, everyone of them teaches "Balance of all things", in order to achieve serenity in our lives.
Individuals may not create an atmosphere of balance within their own lives, allowing turmoil to "reign supreme", so to speak, but that doesn't negate the existance of balance, and how it is relevant and necessary to every aspect of our existance. Balance of Self, the interaction between Heart and Mind, is the beginning of balancing an individuals life....easily said, but very hard to achieve.
The answer to the original question: The Angel of Death.
Just my thoughts...:)
What, in both the Temporal(physical) world and Spiritual world, is neither good nor evil?
Many religions which exist in this current day and age, as well as many Acedemics, including Mathematicians, Physicists, and Psychologists, agree, and are aware of, the need for "balance" in our everyday life. It exists all around us, in a vast variety of forms, from the words we speak to one another, our actions towards one another, all the way through to the way the very molecules of every living thing interact with one another to form whatever shape they were intended to have. Even our very pschycies have a balance, which can be thrown into turmoil and set "off" balance by situations which occur during our lives.
The ancient peoples of the world seemed to be more aware of the "Balance of Life", from the Aboriginals of Australia, the Ancient Myans, the American Lamanites, all the way through to the Ancient/Modern Pagans, they all included the knowledge and understanding of a necessary balance within their teachings. The Asian Religions, of China, Japan, Tibet, etc, everyone of them teaches "Balance of all things", in order to achieve serenity in our lives.
Individuals may not create an atmosphere of balance within their own lives, allowing turmoil to "reign supreme", so to speak, but that doesn't negate the existance of balance, and how it is relevant and necessary to every aspect of our existance. Balance of Self, the interaction between Heart and Mind, is the beginning of balancing an individuals life....easily said, but very hard to achieve.
The answer to the original question: The Angel of Death.
Just my thoughts...:)
Thursday 21 April 2011
The Singing Bowl.
Some of you would know what a "Singing Bowl" is, and it's very gentle purpose and intent.
A Singing Bowl can be of various sizes, from 6 to 18 inches wide. It is made from precious metals, all hand beaten to form the specific shape of the bowl. To make the Bowl sing, you hold it in the flat of your palm, and gently strike the top rounded curve of the Bowl with a wooden striker. As the sound resonates around the inside of the Bowl, the holder places the wooden striker on the side of the Bowl and moves the striker around the rim to generate a stronger sound. Each Bowl has it's own "voice", with no two sounding the same, even if they have been forged to have the same pitch: it's a very individualistic sound.
My Bowl is only small, about 6inches across the top, with a total width of about 8inches and approx 4inches deep. It was made from beating and folding 26 precious metals, including gold and silver, and it's voice ranges from a soft hum when gently played, to a much louder, deeper and determined voice when slightly more pressure is placed on the striker and the side of the Bowl. The interesting aspect is, my Bowl doesn't like singing loudly, it's lower, softer voice has a much greater intensity to it, a far greater effect on those who hear it. Even when the Bowl is at rest, the sight of it will envoke a meditative state of mind, a gentleness and calmness of spirit and thought. The more the Bowl is played and sung, and the more the player lets the Bowls voice inside their Heart, the player will reach a point where even thinking about the Bowl will let the Mind see/hear and the Heart feel the effect of the Bowls voice, creating an atmosphere calm in troublesome moments during ones day.
Singing Bowls are mainly used for meditation, and their concept and creation is based in Tibet, with the Buddhist Monks who live and practice a very gentle lifestyle, of dedication to Faith, sincerity of Heart and Mind and Fulfillment of Spirit. (The phrases I've used are my own thoughts as best to describe the lifestyle of the Tibetan Monks, they are not meant as a definative description of Buddhism or it's practitioners)
It also seems that Singing Bowls, the true Bowls, not massed produced copies made for the "New Age" marketplace, are very choosey as to who they let play them. I know that sounds ridiculous, however I really do beleive it to be true. People have come to my home, and without asking have picked up the Bowl and tried to play it, with no sound coming from the Bowl even though the striking and holding technique were perfect. The people whom this has happened to were not like me, had a differant spirit and values, a differant way of life and considerations. Not saying mine is/was better than they, just differant. By the same token, others have asked if they could hold the Bowl, which they've gently done, and having asked if they could try and make it sing, have been able to make the Bowl come to life.
Emotions, being able to recognise and act on them, have been a major part of my life since I was young. Money has never been a motivator for me, but the smile, gentle word or gesture from another person has meant more, and always will. The softness of that which goes on around us, every second of every day, carries far greater import than glory or fame or the almighty dollar. Too often we get caught up in the "peripheral bullshit of life", and forget the the core of what life is and the effect of our actions on others.
The Singing Bowl and it's attributes remind me of what I think/feel life should be like, and a worthy way of living it.
With disrespect, the Bowl can be picked up by the wrong person and no matter how hard they "want" to play it, the Bowl will never show it's true self or allow you to hear it's individual voice. However, if it is shown respect, care and love, it will gladly share it's voice with the right people/person.
Our interactions with others are exactly the same, whether it's with a partner, friend or collegue, if treated negatively, without love, care and respect we will never experience the "truity" of that individual, nor they experience your true self.
However, if we open our hearts to individuals, with honesty, respect and love, we can show, as well as experience, everything others, as well as the World, has to offer.
Just my thoughts.
A Singing Bowl can be of various sizes, from 6 to 18 inches wide. It is made from precious metals, all hand beaten to form the specific shape of the bowl. To make the Bowl sing, you hold it in the flat of your palm, and gently strike the top rounded curve of the Bowl with a wooden striker. As the sound resonates around the inside of the Bowl, the holder places the wooden striker on the side of the Bowl and moves the striker around the rim to generate a stronger sound. Each Bowl has it's own "voice", with no two sounding the same, even if they have been forged to have the same pitch: it's a very individualistic sound.
My Bowl is only small, about 6inches across the top, with a total width of about 8inches and approx 4inches deep. It was made from beating and folding 26 precious metals, including gold and silver, and it's voice ranges from a soft hum when gently played, to a much louder, deeper and determined voice when slightly more pressure is placed on the striker and the side of the Bowl. The interesting aspect is, my Bowl doesn't like singing loudly, it's lower, softer voice has a much greater intensity to it, a far greater effect on those who hear it. Even when the Bowl is at rest, the sight of it will envoke a meditative state of mind, a gentleness and calmness of spirit and thought. The more the Bowl is played and sung, and the more the player lets the Bowls voice inside their Heart, the player will reach a point where even thinking about the Bowl will let the Mind see/hear and the Heart feel the effect of the Bowls voice, creating an atmosphere calm in troublesome moments during ones day.
Singing Bowls are mainly used for meditation, and their concept and creation is based in Tibet, with the Buddhist Monks who live and practice a very gentle lifestyle, of dedication to Faith, sincerity of Heart and Mind and Fulfillment of Spirit. (The phrases I've used are my own thoughts as best to describe the lifestyle of the Tibetan Monks, they are not meant as a definative description of Buddhism or it's practitioners)
It also seems that Singing Bowls, the true Bowls, not massed produced copies made for the "New Age" marketplace, are very choosey as to who they let play them. I know that sounds ridiculous, however I really do beleive it to be true. People have come to my home, and without asking have picked up the Bowl and tried to play it, with no sound coming from the Bowl even though the striking and holding technique were perfect. The people whom this has happened to were not like me, had a differant spirit and values, a differant way of life and considerations. Not saying mine is/was better than they, just differant. By the same token, others have asked if they could hold the Bowl, which they've gently done, and having asked if they could try and make it sing, have been able to make the Bowl come to life.
Emotions, being able to recognise and act on them, have been a major part of my life since I was young. Money has never been a motivator for me, but the smile, gentle word or gesture from another person has meant more, and always will. The softness of that which goes on around us, every second of every day, carries far greater import than glory or fame or the almighty dollar. Too often we get caught up in the "peripheral bullshit of life", and forget the the core of what life is and the effect of our actions on others.
The Singing Bowl and it's attributes remind me of what I think/feel life should be like, and a worthy way of living it.
With disrespect, the Bowl can be picked up by the wrong person and no matter how hard they "want" to play it, the Bowl will never show it's true self or allow you to hear it's individual voice. However, if it is shown respect, care and love, it will gladly share it's voice with the right people/person.
Our interactions with others are exactly the same, whether it's with a partner, friend or collegue, if treated negatively, without love, care and respect we will never experience the "truity" of that individual, nor they experience your true self.
However, if we open our hearts to individuals, with honesty, respect and love, we can show, as well as experience, everything others, as well as the World, has to offer.
Just my thoughts.
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Magic?...or just the human condition??
My GrandFather was born in 1898, in England, and as a young man became a "boy" on the floor of a very large printing house, Camelot Printing, and over the space of 40 years he became a Director of the House. Tall, hardworking and a very careful thinker, it was my Grandad who planted most of the seeds within me to help me live my life as best I can.
One of the greatest gifts my Grandad gave to me was to instill the concept of Chivalry, from the romance of the Knights of the Round Table, to the way the concept can be lived in this day and age.
Why do I call it a gift, because it gave me a path to follow, a way of thinking and it taught me how to appreciate the kindness of others.
One of the greatest misconceptions regarding Chivalry is that it is degrading to women, when in actual fact it is the exact opposite; it acknowledges the specific attributes of Womanhood, recognising that the roles of woman and men are equal in society, that one is not above the other, but allowing the physical strength attributed to the male to be tempered by the more subtler strength of the female. The phrase "The weaker sex/fairer sex" was used alot in the 1700/1800's, but this was never generated within or based upon the Code of Chivalry, it was propogated by a group of narcissistic males who had a great many issues and wanted to control society for many reasons. In my opinion only, it was because of this attitude of male society towards woman that the Womans Movement was born, as a reaction to this ethos of conduct, and no other aspect of society at that time. Again, in my opinion only, I feel that the pendulum has swung too far in some cases, and that any gentleness, kindness or consideration shown towards some woman is seen as a weakness on side of the male, and an act of degredation towards the female recipient. For example, I have stood and offered my seat to a Lady on the train, only to be abused and told I was a chauvenistic pig, or to open a door to allow a Lady to go first, with the reply to the act being "I can do it myself, arsehole".
Quite often, you'll hear the expressin/statement "We don't live in the dark ages" in referance to the way we think in modern society, when in actual fact maybe we do live in the dark ages, because we have become so defensive and defined in our actions and the way we think that it has clouded our ability to care, to show compassion, love, respect and kindness towards not only each other, but it particular the opposite sex.
Intimacy is often confused with only being achieved within the realm of sexual acts, when it really encompasses many interactions with our partners. The way we talk to each other, the respect shown, consideration given to the others thoughts, not just the next session of sexual play, wherever/whenever it occurs.
Intimacy is born from the true core of Chivalry, and it can be related and shown within friendships as well as "life partnerships" or marriages. A partner bringing home a bunch of flowers to his/her partner at the end of their working day is not a chauvenistic act, it is merely saying "I thought of you during my day, and I wanted to do something for you".
Many theorists of humanity have portrayed humans in the negative, ie, we will instinctively look the darker side of lifes situations, but I don't think thats true. Personally, I think that many of us are longing to look at the brighter side of life, to use a cliche...:), to feel the magic of that which is around us: the gentle stroke of anothers fingers on our arms, the smile as we walk past a total stranger, to feel rain or the mornings first breath of wind on our skin, to feel the love of one to another.
The Magic of Life and Love is there for anyone who looks, and is prepared to open the doors of their heart which are sealed....we only have to look!
One of the greatest gifts my Grandad gave to me was to instill the concept of Chivalry, from the romance of the Knights of the Round Table, to the way the concept can be lived in this day and age.
Why do I call it a gift, because it gave me a path to follow, a way of thinking and it taught me how to appreciate the kindness of others.
One of the greatest misconceptions regarding Chivalry is that it is degrading to women, when in actual fact it is the exact opposite; it acknowledges the specific attributes of Womanhood, recognising that the roles of woman and men are equal in society, that one is not above the other, but allowing the physical strength attributed to the male to be tempered by the more subtler strength of the female. The phrase "The weaker sex/fairer sex" was used alot in the 1700/1800's, but this was never generated within or based upon the Code of Chivalry, it was propogated by a group of narcissistic males who had a great many issues and wanted to control society for many reasons. In my opinion only, it was because of this attitude of male society towards woman that the Womans Movement was born, as a reaction to this ethos of conduct, and no other aspect of society at that time. Again, in my opinion only, I feel that the pendulum has swung too far in some cases, and that any gentleness, kindness or consideration shown towards some woman is seen as a weakness on side of the male, and an act of degredation towards the female recipient. For example, I have stood and offered my seat to a Lady on the train, only to be abused and told I was a chauvenistic pig, or to open a door to allow a Lady to go first, with the reply to the act being "I can do it myself, arsehole".
Quite often, you'll hear the expressin/statement "We don't live in the dark ages" in referance to the way we think in modern society, when in actual fact maybe we do live in the dark ages, because we have become so defensive and defined in our actions and the way we think that it has clouded our ability to care, to show compassion, love, respect and kindness towards not only each other, but it particular the opposite sex.
Intimacy is often confused with only being achieved within the realm of sexual acts, when it really encompasses many interactions with our partners. The way we talk to each other, the respect shown, consideration given to the others thoughts, not just the next session of sexual play, wherever/whenever it occurs.
Intimacy is born from the true core of Chivalry, and it can be related and shown within friendships as well as "life partnerships" or marriages. A partner bringing home a bunch of flowers to his/her partner at the end of their working day is not a chauvenistic act, it is merely saying "I thought of you during my day, and I wanted to do something for you".
Many theorists of humanity have portrayed humans in the negative, ie, we will instinctively look the darker side of lifes situations, but I don't think thats true. Personally, I think that many of us are longing to look at the brighter side of life, to use a cliche...:), to feel the magic of that which is around us: the gentle stroke of anothers fingers on our arms, the smile as we walk past a total stranger, to feel rain or the mornings first breath of wind on our skin, to feel the love of one to another.
The Magic of Life and Love is there for anyone who looks, and is prepared to open the doors of their heart which are sealed....we only have to look!
Monday 18 April 2011
Which one are you!?!
I watched an interesting story on one of the early morning shows yesterday, regarding "Happiness". Apparently authorities, whomever they may be, have found the "Worlds happiest person", a Buddhist Monk of French decent, in his 60's. They, the authorities, never clarified their "boundaries or discerning qualities" which made them choose this man over any other person on this planet, however it did bring out the "Wellness scientists" so they could give a physical reasoning for his happiness and subsequent title. According to the studies undertaken, humans are born with one of two genes, ie, a "cup half full or cup half empty" gene, which dictates at least 50% of a persons personality. 40% of our personality is based on our Family life, etc, and 10% is based on life experiences which effects our heads and hearts.
Being an extremist, in particular a Gravity Rider since the mid '90's, scientists came up with a similar theory as to why we did the things we did, ie, racing Streeluges, G-Bikes or Skateboards at high speed down hills. In their opinion, all extremists, those who pushed the conventional limits of "getting our jollies", had a gene missing, a particular physical aspect to our minds which removed our fear factor. In turn, we needed to have this extra adreneline rush to react and live normally in society. It made for light reading and a good giggle amoungst every "extremeist" I knew.
So what is happiness? When I typed those few words, I looked at them and my first thought was, "You idiot.....lololol....people reading this will think you're whacked, everyone knows what happiness is". But in reality, do we really know what happiness is, do we really know our own minds, hearts, emotions enough to understand what makes us, as individuals, happy. And if we do know ourselves well enough to answer the question quietly to ourselves, are we open enough and prepared to admit to others that which brings happiness and joy to our own sphere of existance. I would hazard a guess that most people would say "No, I'm not prepared to tell others", which is almost the antipathy of happiness and it's true meaning.
Growing up in the '60's, you were taught to cloister your emotions, do what was socially acceptable and be responsible, basically a continuance of the values taught during the 40's and 50's. The '60's and '70's changed many perceptions, with the advent of drug experimentation, the sexual revolution and Vietnam. But even during this period of "emotional freedom", people spoke the words of emotional growth, but in reality it was token only, to be socially accepted. The majority of people growing up or experiencing this 20 to 30 years of change made the "movements", but inside they hid deep within themselves, still to frightened to be honest with themselves and/or others.
**Useless bit of trivia for the day: In the 1800's/early 1900's, many women suffered from Meloncholy, and would go the there local Physician for treatment. Meloncholy was basically depression and lack of attention from their Husbands. The treatment given....the Physician would caress the patient sexually until they orgasmed. Vibrators and Dildo's were developed by some Doctors so their female patients could "treat" themselves, to bring happiness back into their own lives. True!**
Within all of us, is a small boy or girl, regardless of how old we are. The child who still loves to play in the dirt, run around yelling in the playground, and occassionally throws little tantrums. The child who feels emotional pain, who cries if hurt physically or emotionally, who wants and needs to be held and told that they are not alone as they fall asleep in anothers arms surrounded and protected by that person. Regardless of how "hard/tough" we are, recognition of the inner child is paramount to learning about oneself, and in turn finding what it is within us that makes us happy.
Go meet the child within, you never know, you may like them....:) And if you think some of their attributes need to change, then help them to change, and then you can take the first step on the path to your own, personal happiness.
Just my thoughts....:)
Being an extremist, in particular a Gravity Rider since the mid '90's, scientists came up with a similar theory as to why we did the things we did, ie, racing Streeluges, G-Bikes or Skateboards at high speed down hills. In their opinion, all extremists, those who pushed the conventional limits of "getting our jollies", had a gene missing, a particular physical aspect to our minds which removed our fear factor. In turn, we needed to have this extra adreneline rush to react and live normally in society. It made for light reading and a good giggle amoungst every "extremeist" I knew.
So what is happiness? When I typed those few words, I looked at them and my first thought was, "You idiot.....lololol....people reading this will think you're whacked, everyone knows what happiness is". But in reality, do we really know what happiness is, do we really know our own minds, hearts, emotions enough to understand what makes us, as individuals, happy. And if we do know ourselves well enough to answer the question quietly to ourselves, are we open enough and prepared to admit to others that which brings happiness and joy to our own sphere of existance. I would hazard a guess that most people would say "No, I'm not prepared to tell others", which is almost the antipathy of happiness and it's true meaning.
Growing up in the '60's, you were taught to cloister your emotions, do what was socially acceptable and be responsible, basically a continuance of the values taught during the 40's and 50's. The '60's and '70's changed many perceptions, with the advent of drug experimentation, the sexual revolution and Vietnam. But even during this period of "emotional freedom", people spoke the words of emotional growth, but in reality it was token only, to be socially accepted. The majority of people growing up or experiencing this 20 to 30 years of change made the "movements", but inside they hid deep within themselves, still to frightened to be honest with themselves and/or others.
**Useless bit of trivia for the day: In the 1800's/early 1900's, many women suffered from Meloncholy, and would go the there local Physician for treatment. Meloncholy was basically depression and lack of attention from their Husbands. The treatment given....the Physician would caress the patient sexually until they orgasmed. Vibrators and Dildo's were developed by some Doctors so their female patients could "treat" themselves, to bring happiness back into their own lives. True!**
Within all of us, is a small boy or girl, regardless of how old we are. The child who still loves to play in the dirt, run around yelling in the playground, and occassionally throws little tantrums. The child who feels emotional pain, who cries if hurt physically or emotionally, who wants and needs to be held and told that they are not alone as they fall asleep in anothers arms surrounded and protected by that person. Regardless of how "hard/tough" we are, recognition of the inner child is paramount to learning about oneself, and in turn finding what it is within us that makes us happy.
Go meet the child within, you never know, you may like them....:) And if you think some of their attributes need to change, then help them to change, and then you can take the first step on the path to your own, personal happiness.
Just my thoughts....:)
Sunday 17 April 2011
My first blog...:)
Blogging...wow...talk about teaching an old dog new tricks. This concept was introduced to me by a very dear friend, a way of putting thoughts, concepts etc, out for others to read. Being very slow and with limited knowledge of computers and the internet, forgive me if this is basic.....(just had my first lesson on how to do it...lolololol)
Those of you who do read my blogs, please make comments if you wish, regardless of what you think or feel about my thoughts, I would love to hear them.
Cheers,
Sakamoto
Those of you who do read my blogs, please make comments if you wish, regardless of what you think or feel about my thoughts, I would love to hear them.
Cheers,
Sakamoto
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