Foundations is the first class that the Centers for Spiritual Living recommend for understanding Science of Mind. I took the class years ago from Reverend Donald Graves, but I’m auditing it again, with Christine, while she takes it for the first time. Our assignment this week is to write a letter to ourselves describing where we will be at the end of the course. We are to write a letter to ourself, seal it in an envelope, address and stamp it, then bring it to our meeting on Monday. Here is my letter:
Dear Mike,
You have come a long way in knowing your true relationship to God, or to the Divine. You have grown tremendously, yet, a focus on these beliefs over the next 10 weeks will create a laser focus on who I am. That laser focus will help me to take more charge of my life and consciously create the future that I desire. As I read the material and do my homework each week it will give me a renewed focus and that renewed focus will result in more direct results as I ask myself empowering questions.
By the end of the course, instead of waiting for something outside of me to tell me my purpose, I will simply decide on my purpose and be pleasantly surprised at how the universe conspires to make it happen. Here’s the thought that comes to mind:
THE POWER TO SUCCEED
Until one is committed, there is hesitancy,
the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness.
Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation)
there is one elementary truth the ignorance of
which kills countless ideas and splendid plans:
That the moment one definitely commits oneself,
then providence moves too.
All sorts of wonderful things occur to help one,
that would never otherwise have occurred.
A whole stream of events issues from the decision,
raising in one's favor all manners of unforseen
incidents and meetings and material assistance
which no one could have dreamed would come their way.
Whatever you do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.
Begin it now.
--Goethe
Providence has been waiting for me to commit; look out world; here I come.
Mike
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Memories of Mark
Today I deleted Dr. Mark Welch from my address book!
Here are the thoughts I had when I prepared for my talk at his memorial and wake:
First meeting; his endless energy and business
Trips to YOU events in Washington
We both wore out in Oregon; pulled off the highway and pulled over beside train tracks; beautiful night sky with stars; scary train passing
Turned up the wrong highway and got deep in Washington; had to turn around
Stopped outside of Yakima with leaking oil; delayed for a couple of hours; missed a nasty wreck
Dropped a transmission in Boise; Sky and others pushed the van; got to my parents’ house in shifts; got nice van and made rest of trip
Drove separately; he missed the turn with Jim and a couple others; missed LeRoy’s concert, but helped a stranded lady to safety
Tickets; I was pulled over 3 times without a ticket; he volunteered to get pulled over in Oregon and got a ticket
Food fight at Perkins in Pocatello
Was a good flirt and dancer at the events; tried hard to get me out on the floor with the kids
Was committed to helping the kids have events at home as well as in Washington
His driving; slow down, speed up, in lanes, out of lanes
HOURS OF DISCUSSIONS OF LIFE, VALUES AND HOW WE COULD BETTER SERVE THE KIDS
Haley; no one was more important to Mark than Haley; he went through agony every time they moved. He even left Utah to find work in Hawaii just so that he could be close to her. I’ve never heard more hopeful and agonized sharing than when he talked about his Haley and his hopes for her.
Mark’s spontaneity
YOU was meeting in a kitchen at a middle school and Mark decided one day that we wanted to have an experience of trust. He noticed that there was a counter top so he had us all stand on it and do trust falls!
Jim wanted to go to the IYOU event in Missouri and even though they hadn’t done paperwork Mark decided to take Jim. They got in Mark’s car and started driving. Mark assumed that they wouldn’t be turned away (forgiveness vs permission) and he was right. On the way they had at least two interesting experiences:
Jim, our good looking Marine, was gothic at the time. He was wearing a long, black leather coat. to add excitement to their day they stopped at Columbine for lunch!
Somewhere along the way tension arose with the two of them stuck with each other for the whole trip; one of them got out of the car and was walking down the highway!
He showed up at YOU one day with CDs for us. He had just compiled some of his writings in a CD called Jesus in Blue Jeans
A couple of years ago, Mark showed up in town, out of nowhere. He had been working for the feds in Texas. He got in to his car and started driving and next thing he knew he was in Salt Lake. He actually stayed in his car for a while, but came to Youth of Unity his first Sunday back.
He ended up becoming a dean at Stevens Henager College and was able to get John Daughters a job there, helping young kids (does this sound like a theme) to prepare for life. I didn’t have the credentials to teach, but he got me some cameo presentations and tried to help me make connections, too.
Next thing I knew, he had shifted to online learning and was doing Internet Radio and other avant guard activities to help young people gain knowledge
Our last meeting was at Religious Science; he had told me he had some promotion ideas for me; he told me about his Internet Radio program and wanted to teach me how to do it. He talked about the world needing my message and he could help me build a fan base.
DR. MARK; I LOVE YOU MAN AND MISS YOU. MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!
Here are the thoughts I had when I prepared for my talk at his memorial and wake:
First meeting; his endless energy and business
Trips to YOU events in Washington
We both wore out in Oregon; pulled off the highway and pulled over beside train tracks; beautiful night sky with stars; scary train passing
Turned up the wrong highway and got deep in Washington; had to turn around
Stopped outside of Yakima with leaking oil; delayed for a couple of hours; missed a nasty wreck
Dropped a transmission in Boise; Sky and others pushed the van; got to my parents’ house in shifts; got nice van and made rest of trip
Drove separately; he missed the turn with Jim and a couple others; missed LeRoy’s concert, but helped a stranded lady to safety
Tickets; I was pulled over 3 times without a ticket; he volunteered to get pulled over in Oregon and got a ticket
Food fight at Perkins in Pocatello
Was a good flirt and dancer at the events; tried hard to get me out on the floor with the kids
Was committed to helping the kids have events at home as well as in Washington
His driving; slow down, speed up, in lanes, out of lanes
HOURS OF DISCUSSIONS OF LIFE, VALUES AND HOW WE COULD BETTER SERVE THE KIDS
Haley; no one was more important to Mark than Haley; he went through agony every time they moved. He even left Utah to find work in Hawaii just so that he could be close to her. I’ve never heard more hopeful and agonized sharing than when he talked about his Haley and his hopes for her.
Mark’s spontaneity
YOU was meeting in a kitchen at a middle school and Mark decided one day that we wanted to have an experience of trust. He noticed that there was a counter top so he had us all stand on it and do trust falls!
Jim wanted to go to the IYOU event in Missouri and even though they hadn’t done paperwork Mark decided to take Jim. They got in Mark’s car and started driving. Mark assumed that they wouldn’t be turned away (forgiveness vs permission) and he was right. On the way they had at least two interesting experiences:
Jim, our good looking Marine, was gothic at the time. He was wearing a long, black leather coat. to add excitement to their day they stopped at Columbine for lunch!
Somewhere along the way tension arose with the two of them stuck with each other for the whole trip; one of them got out of the car and was walking down the highway!
He showed up at YOU one day with CDs for us. He had just compiled some of his writings in a CD called Jesus in Blue Jeans
A couple of years ago, Mark showed up in town, out of nowhere. He had been working for the feds in Texas. He got in to his car and started driving and next thing he knew he was in Salt Lake. He actually stayed in his car for a while, but came to Youth of Unity his first Sunday back.
He ended up becoming a dean at Stevens Henager College and was able to get John Daughters a job there, helping young kids (does this sound like a theme) to prepare for life. I didn’t have the credentials to teach, but he got me some cameo presentations and tried to help me make connections, too.
Next thing I knew, he had shifted to online learning and was doing Internet Radio and other avant guard activities to help young people gain knowledge
Our last meeting was at Religious Science; he had told me he had some promotion ideas for me; he told me about his Internet Radio program and wanted to teach me how to do it. He talked about the world needing my message and he could help me build a fan base.
DR. MARK; I LOVE YOU MAN AND MISS YOU. MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Emotional/Intellectual/Personal Development
I spend time every morning re-visiting my dream and making plans toward it’s continued manifestation. It feels satisfying to see my life unfolding according to my dreams. People talk about how ‘lucky’ I am, and I smile and continue to dream and ACT.
I am sought after, first locally, then nationally and internationally, for my ability to help others see themselves as God sees them. As I continue to see myself as God sees me it is natural to see others in the same light. It feels good to live this way. People see a difference in me and enjoy being around me. I am known in many circles, but especially in the LGBT community.
I am sensitive to others feelings. I speak my truth and speak it quickly. My sensitivity to others allows them to hear it with the love and concern that I have for them.
I start my pilot training and progress toward a pilot’s license, while saving money toward my part of a plane.
I am sought after, first locally, then nationally and internationally, for my ability to help others see themselves as God sees them. As I continue to see myself as God sees me it is natural to see others in the same light. It feels good to live this way. People see a difference in me and enjoy being around me. I am known in many circles, but especially in the LGBT community.
I am sensitive to others feelings. I speak my truth and speak it quickly. My sensitivity to others allows them to hear it with the love and concern that I have for them.
I start my pilot training and progress toward a pilot’s license, while saving money toward my part of a plane.
Saturday, August 07, 2010
My Business/Professional Vision
Playbook by Choice and The Say Yes Foundation are thriving companies where people are introduced to and invited to remember who they are and take conscious action to live their lives according to that knowledge. As the founder and CEO of both organizations, I present powerful concepts in regular monthly workshops. The 15-50 people in attendance experience breakthroughs and are motivated to take action in their lives.
I grow the business by networking with other presenters. We market each other and share in the increased success of both businesses. I also market on a regular basis online. I mentor with Andrew Lock to create an online/web TV presence that introduces me and the companies to an international market. Laura helps me with my personal social networking skills. I interview and introduce a new person every month in my shows. I also introduce a new concept from my trainings in each show.
I am sought out by others to be introduced to their audiences. I am comfortable speaking in any environment and am always appropriate as I trust my inner knowing. I am particularly sought out by the LGBT community, and youth organizations. I help young people to know who they are and feel empowered in their life, right now.
I enjoy receiving pay for my services and money flows easily to me. People experience the value of my workshops and solicit me to present to their companies and organizations. I return a portion of what I receive by offering pro bono or discounted presentations to organizations that serve the underprivileged, especially youth.
Besides being sought for Unity and Religious Science presentations. I am sought to present at mainstream organization like Pride Center, Rotary, Chambers of Commerce, etc.
I present from my heart with authenticity. Emotions are displayed appropriately.
My second book, When Love Heals is ready to be published in February. My new agent repackages the first book and the second book and creates a marketing campaign to create awareness. I am the authority on love. I also speak on sexual addiction and abuse, but always with the focus of moving people toward true love.
I work with Angie and Greg to create awareness for the Transformation Center The synergy between us really accelerates the growth of both businesses. Christine is an important part of this and the four of us experience personal transformation and become instruments to facilitate the transformation of hundreds of lives.
I am financially free with $20,000 in the bank by August 1, 2011. I earn $100,000 in 2011 and Christine is able to quit working for the county.
I grow the business by networking with other presenters. We market each other and share in the increased success of both businesses. I also market on a regular basis online. I mentor with Andrew Lock to create an online/web TV presence that introduces me and the companies to an international market. Laura helps me with my personal social networking skills. I interview and introduce a new person every month in my shows. I also introduce a new concept from my trainings in each show.
I am sought out by others to be introduced to their audiences. I am comfortable speaking in any environment and am always appropriate as I trust my inner knowing. I am particularly sought out by the LGBT community, and youth organizations. I help young people to know who they are and feel empowered in their life, right now.
I enjoy receiving pay for my services and money flows easily to me. People experience the value of my workshops and solicit me to present to their companies and organizations. I return a portion of what I receive by offering pro bono or discounted presentations to organizations that serve the underprivileged, especially youth.
Besides being sought for Unity and Religious Science presentations. I am sought to present at mainstream organization like Pride Center, Rotary, Chambers of Commerce, etc.
I present from my heart with authenticity. Emotions are displayed appropriately.
My second book, When Love Heals is ready to be published in February. My new agent repackages the first book and the second book and creates a marketing campaign to create awareness. I am the authority on love. I also speak on sexual addiction and abuse, but always with the focus of moving people toward true love.
I work with Angie and Greg to create awareness for the Transformation Center The synergy between us really accelerates the growth of both businesses. Christine is an important part of this and the four of us experience personal transformation and become instruments to facilitate the transformation of hundreds of lives.
I am financially free with $20,000 in the bank by August 1, 2011. I earn $100,000 in 2011 and Christine is able to quit working for the county.
My Relationship Vision
My relationship with myself is incredible. I am authentic and aware and live with consistency in thought and deed. Because of this personal relationship all my other relationships are positive and meaningful. I enjoy other people and realize the value that they bring in to my life. I see us connected and wish them well, just as I wish wellness upon me.
My wife, Christine, and I enjoy spending time together. We read and study separately, as well as together, and enjoyed discussing and sharing our discoveries and rememberings. I look for opportunities to bless her, to compliment her, to praise her, and she responds with satisfaction. I am honest with her and trust that she hears from her heart. I take great pleasure in learning from her and sharing my experiences with her. Our relationship is very much a win-win relationship. She brings as much to the relationship as I do. We both commit 100% to the partnership. We are incredible parents and are enjoying the empty nest period of our relationship, now. We always have things to talk about and look forward to sharing our thoughts with each other. We treat each other with mutual respect and truly want to hear and understand our partner.
I really enjoy being a father and take it serious. I gain tremendous satisfaction out of watching my daughters make their own choices. I learn from them when they make choices different from what I would have chosen. Often that choice is the wiser choice and I expand my knowledge by learning not just the what, but the why of their choice.
Angie is an incredible young lady who has followed parallel path to mine. I am honored to support her in her ventures and to learn from her. I love how she supports me and encourages the best out of me. She was very deliberate in her choice of spouse and make an excellent choice. I love and support she and Greg as they move forward together.
Cyndi taught me that there are other ways to get a college degree. She continues to teach me as she supports her family by working in the nurse pool. I’ve always liked Dave. I am close to both of them and am able to learn from Dave, as well as mentor where he desires. Their children are a huge joy to me. I love spending time with PJ. He is so free and able to be himself. He teaches me much. Kennady still knows who she is. I love hugging her and just watching her playful spirit.
Melissa is an incredible blessing in my life. She was the first of my daughters to get involved in Youth of Unity. She got me involved in church when I had gone away. I throughly enjoy being with her and her friends. She showed great taste when she married Cory. I learn much as I watch them make choices and live their life as a loving couple. Cory is a blessing in our life. Together they are great parents. Kenzie is a care free young momma’s girl. I love being with her and learning from her.
Julie and I were extremely close when she was a teenager. That relationship is strengthened again as I show her how much I support her, and her choice of Douglas as a husband. I see them working together and showing that love can overcome many obstacles. Her decision to let love rule her heart is paying great dividends in their marriage. I enjoy spending time with them, especially now that they live closer.
Amanda and I had great time in YOU. She is an incredible leader and is very well liked by her peers. I’ve watched her learn about relationship and create one with Happy that I admire. I look for opportunities to be close to her as she moves to Arizona for grad school. I help and support Amanda in every way that I can. I am open to a closer relationship with Happy as well. I proactively create opportunities to interact.
Jessi is the last one (little shit) and I love her. I trust that she knows where to get her answers and I support her. Paul is a significant part of her life and they value each other. I am glad that Paul is in her life and enjoy a close relationship with him and her. Jessi and I share some common pain and we share the joy of overcoming.
I am a good friend. I actively listen and support people wherever they are. I do many things for others without sacrificing my own peace of mind. I understand that being my best and truest self is the most important thing I can do in supporting anyone else. The next most important thing I can do is support them in being their best self.
My wife, Christine, and I enjoy spending time together. We read and study separately, as well as together, and enjoyed discussing and sharing our discoveries and rememberings. I look for opportunities to bless her, to compliment her, to praise her, and she responds with satisfaction. I am honest with her and trust that she hears from her heart. I take great pleasure in learning from her and sharing my experiences with her. Our relationship is very much a win-win relationship. She brings as much to the relationship as I do. We both commit 100% to the partnership. We are incredible parents and are enjoying the empty nest period of our relationship, now. We always have things to talk about and look forward to sharing our thoughts with each other. We treat each other with mutual respect and truly want to hear and understand our partner.
I really enjoy being a father and take it serious. I gain tremendous satisfaction out of watching my daughters make their own choices. I learn from them when they make choices different from what I would have chosen. Often that choice is the wiser choice and I expand my knowledge by learning not just the what, but the why of their choice.
Angie is an incredible young lady who has followed parallel path to mine. I am honored to support her in her ventures and to learn from her. I love how she supports me and encourages the best out of me. She was very deliberate in her choice of spouse and make an excellent choice. I love and support she and Greg as they move forward together.
Cyndi taught me that there are other ways to get a college degree. She continues to teach me as she supports her family by working in the nurse pool. I’ve always liked Dave. I am close to both of them and am able to learn from Dave, as well as mentor where he desires. Their children are a huge joy to me. I love spending time with PJ. He is so free and able to be himself. He teaches me much. Kennady still knows who she is. I love hugging her and just watching her playful spirit.
Melissa is an incredible blessing in my life. She was the first of my daughters to get involved in Youth of Unity. She got me involved in church when I had gone away. I throughly enjoy being with her and her friends. She showed great taste when she married Cory. I learn much as I watch them make choices and live their life as a loving couple. Cory is a blessing in our life. Together they are great parents. Kenzie is a care free young momma’s girl. I love being with her and learning from her.
Julie and I were extremely close when she was a teenager. That relationship is strengthened again as I show her how much I support her, and her choice of Douglas as a husband. I see them working together and showing that love can overcome many obstacles. Her decision to let love rule her heart is paying great dividends in their marriage. I enjoy spending time with them, especially now that they live closer.
Amanda and I had great time in YOU. She is an incredible leader and is very well liked by her peers. I’ve watched her learn about relationship and create one with Happy that I admire. I look for opportunities to be close to her as she moves to Arizona for grad school. I help and support Amanda in every way that I can. I am open to a closer relationship with Happy as well. I proactively create opportunities to interact.
Jessi is the last one (little shit) and I love her. I trust that she knows where to get her answers and I support her. Paul is a significant part of her life and they value each other. I am glad that Paul is in her life and enjoy a close relationship with him and her. Jessi and I share some common pain and we share the joy of overcoming.
I am a good friend. I actively listen and support people wherever they are. I do many things for others without sacrificing my own peace of mind. I understand that being my best and truest self is the most important thing I can do in supporting anyone else. The next most important thing I can do is support them in being their best self.
My Physical Vision
I am a lean, kind, lovin machine. I eat food that nourishes my body. I enjoy eating and burning calories. I enjoy working my body everyday and knowing that it responds to my every need. I am attractive and an example to others. I dress successfully in comfortable clothes that show off my prowess. I enjoy the attention that comes from other people.
I eat regular meals. I start each meal with conscious gratitude for what I am eating. I take my time eating and enjoy the flavor, texture and taste of everything that I put in my mouth. When I shop for food I make nutritious choices and pick food that is both pleasing and nutritious. I enjoy creating meals with vegetables and lean protein. I use lots of spice and creativity so that I enjoy what I prepare. I enjoy healthy snacks between meals so that I keep my body stoked and ready to respond to anything. My snacks consist of raw, whole foods such as nuts and raw vegetables. I drink fresh water throughout the day and enjoy the refreshment it offers. I drink at least 1 gallon of water a day and celebrate the release of toxins that it provides. As the toxins are released from my body, I also release excess weight that is no longer needed. The excess weight drops off effortlessly and I enjoy the new body image.
By March of 2011 I weigh 230 lbs and have a 36“ waist. I enjoy getting up and being active throughout the day. I can sit when it is important, but I prefer to be active and moving. I climb the perch and am able to navigate onto the top and jump for the ring. The satisfaction is incredible. I now have the breakthrough experiences physically that I have been experiencing spiritually for decades. It feel sooooooo empowering to be in balance! I love that my physical body is in as good a shape as it was on my mission.
I enjoy regular exercise. When I come home at night I invite my daughter and wife to join me on a walk in the neighborhood. With or without them, I enjoy walking at least 3 times a week, and feeling my body respond to me. As I pick up the pace my hearts works harder and provides the nutrition that my cells need. As the blood courses through my body I feel invigorated and enlivened. By the time I return home I have worked up a good sweat and am ready for a productive night. By March of 2011 I have located a men’s over 50 Softball team and have signed on. I play at least once a week and enjoy the physical activity and the comrade with other men.
I focus on my eyes and heal the damaged nerve on the third muscle of my left eye. As I continue to send it light and love, I am able to see clearly. I even enhance the ability of my eyes to see close up and at night. I have the eyes of a 20 year old, with acuteness and accuracy.
I enjoy my health and value the body that is a gift to me. I treasure and take care of both and they respond incredibly to me!
I eat regular meals. I start each meal with conscious gratitude for what I am eating. I take my time eating and enjoy the flavor, texture and taste of everything that I put in my mouth. When I shop for food I make nutritious choices and pick food that is both pleasing and nutritious. I enjoy creating meals with vegetables and lean protein. I use lots of spice and creativity so that I enjoy what I prepare. I enjoy healthy snacks between meals so that I keep my body stoked and ready to respond to anything. My snacks consist of raw, whole foods such as nuts and raw vegetables. I drink fresh water throughout the day and enjoy the refreshment it offers. I drink at least 1 gallon of water a day and celebrate the release of toxins that it provides. As the toxins are released from my body, I also release excess weight that is no longer needed. The excess weight drops off effortlessly and I enjoy the new body image.
By March of 2011 I weigh 230 lbs and have a 36“ waist. I enjoy getting up and being active throughout the day. I can sit when it is important, but I prefer to be active and moving. I climb the perch and am able to navigate onto the top and jump for the ring. The satisfaction is incredible. I now have the breakthrough experiences physically that I have been experiencing spiritually for decades. It feel sooooooo empowering to be in balance! I love that my physical body is in as good a shape as it was on my mission.
I enjoy regular exercise. When I come home at night I invite my daughter and wife to join me on a walk in the neighborhood. With or without them, I enjoy walking at least 3 times a week, and feeling my body respond to me. As I pick up the pace my hearts works harder and provides the nutrition that my cells need. As the blood courses through my body I feel invigorated and enlivened. By the time I return home I have worked up a good sweat and am ready for a productive night. By March of 2011 I have located a men’s over 50 Softball team and have signed on. I play at least once a week and enjoy the physical activity and the comrade with other men.
I focus on my eyes and heal the damaged nerve on the third muscle of my left eye. As I continue to send it light and love, I am able to see clearly. I even enhance the ability of my eyes to see close up and at night. I have the eyes of a 20 year old, with acuteness and accuracy.
I enjoy my health and value the body that is a gift to me. I treasure and take care of both and they respond incredibly to me!
My Spiritual Vision
I am a beacon of light in an ever increasingly friendly world of love and support. I also recognize other beacons of light and enjoy being around them and feeling the warmth and direction that comes from them. I enjoy interacting with everyone that comes in to my space and expect to expand and learn from each person and each situation. I speak my truth quickly, knowing that it is simply my truth. I know that the light and direction within is divine and is implicitly trustworthy. My words and my actions are always in harmony with each other. I do what brings me joy in each moment, knowing that life is about joy and love. I love myself and others, and actively forgive and see the best in all of us. Namaste is a way of being for me and I actively act from, and seek out that spot in each of us, from which we know who we are.
I speak my truth as it occurs. I speak with love and compassion (both for myself and others), knowing that the consequences will be perfect. I speak directly to those that are involved and listen intently to them. I feel the great satisfaction of knowing the integrity of my communication and my true thoughts. Other people admire me for speaking my mind, even when it doesn’t agree with their feelings. People enjoy being around me and know that whatever I say to them I will also say behind their back. People trust me implicitly.
I constantly find ways to support myself, my wife, and my daughters in living more closely to our vision of who we are. I support each of us in our own vision of who we are. I acknowledge the power of individual direction and ask question rather than giving answers. I know that each of us have our own answers within and the greatest support I can be is to ask empowering questions and assist them in finding their answers. My personal answers come quickly and effortlessly as I love and accept myself, and listen inside.
I fine tune my intuition. I trust my intuition. I act, speak, and play on my intuition and inner direction. I know that in the future I will see the wisdom of the taken action. It feels good to be at peace with myself and know that no matter what anyone else thinks, I am in integrity and am authentically who I know myself to be. WOW!
I enjoy my morning and evening routines and experience great peace and satisfaction from them. I take time in the morning for me. I spend at least 5 minutes in one of my joyfully forms of meditation. I feel centered and ready to face whatever opportunities will come my way today. At night, before going to bed I look in to my caring blue eyes and express gratitude and satisfaction with the day. It feels good to be ending the day honoring myself, others and all that has gone on.
I write in my journal at least twice a week and share most of those posts in my blog. I know that all of what I write will be of benefit to someone. All of my writings help me to think clearer and tap in to that universal truth. My willingness to be vulnerable and express my feelings serves others as well. Many people have had similar experiences and benefit from me speaking them. They also value the solutions I find. I become a beacon of hope for others. I like that I am able to help others. That being said, I’m also clear that my job is to help them ‘remember who they are’ and help them find their own answers. I derive incredible joy from seeing others find their answers, whether they look like my answers or not.
I am enough. I am grateful for all in my life. I forgive myself for erroneous thinking and playing small. I embrace who I am and play 100%. I am a unique part of the universe. I accept my gift and freely share it with the world. I love and accept myself as I see myself right now. I love and accept others as I see them right now. I AM LOVE!
I speak my truth as it occurs. I speak with love and compassion (both for myself and others), knowing that the consequences will be perfect. I speak directly to those that are involved and listen intently to them. I feel the great satisfaction of knowing the integrity of my communication and my true thoughts. Other people admire me for speaking my mind, even when it doesn’t agree with their feelings. People enjoy being around me and know that whatever I say to them I will also say behind their back. People trust me implicitly.
I constantly find ways to support myself, my wife, and my daughters in living more closely to our vision of who we are. I support each of us in our own vision of who we are. I acknowledge the power of individual direction and ask question rather than giving answers. I know that each of us have our own answers within and the greatest support I can be is to ask empowering questions and assist them in finding their answers. My personal answers come quickly and effortlessly as I love and accept myself, and listen inside.
I fine tune my intuition. I trust my intuition. I act, speak, and play on my intuition and inner direction. I know that in the future I will see the wisdom of the taken action. It feels good to be at peace with myself and know that no matter what anyone else thinks, I am in integrity and am authentically who I know myself to be. WOW!
I enjoy my morning and evening routines and experience great peace and satisfaction from them. I take time in the morning for me. I spend at least 5 minutes in one of my joyfully forms of meditation. I feel centered and ready to face whatever opportunities will come my way today. At night, before going to bed I look in to my caring blue eyes and express gratitude and satisfaction with the day. It feels good to be ending the day honoring myself, others and all that has gone on.
I write in my journal at least twice a week and share most of those posts in my blog. I know that all of what I write will be of benefit to someone. All of my writings help me to think clearer and tap in to that universal truth. My willingness to be vulnerable and express my feelings serves others as well. Many people have had similar experiences and benefit from me speaking them. They also value the solutions I find. I become a beacon of hope for others. I like that I am able to help others. That being said, I’m also clear that my job is to help them ‘remember who they are’ and help them find their own answers. I derive incredible joy from seeing others find their answers, whether they look like my answers or not.
I am enough. I am grateful for all in my life. I forgive myself for erroneous thinking and playing small. I embrace who I am and play 100%. I am a unique part of the universe. I accept my gift and freely share it with the world. I love and accept myself as I see myself right now. I love and accept others as I see them right now. I AM LOVE!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Hypocrisy; Alive and Well in Utah
Well, I’ve sat with this for several days, not wanting to be reactionary. I remain dumbfounded by the recent events in Salt Lake and the surveys around them.
We all know that the illegal alien issue is a serious one. Most of us also know that it is complex and multi-faceted; not black and white. Having said that, the main criticism seems to be that we have laws against people entering our country ILLEGALLY and taking jobs, receiving benefits, etc. Just to keep this simple, I won’t mention that employers hire them, we insist on low prices, those who get regular paychecks have deductions which stay with the govt when they don’t file taxes, etc. The primary issue is a frustration that we have laws that aren’t being enforced.
Now comes the news that some employees of Workforce Services have ILLEGALLY gathered information and provided a list (accuracy be damned) of illegal aliens to the press, govt agencies and others. This list includes names, addresses, social security numbers, etc. These state employees have contracts that forbid the compilation and disclosure of this information. We have state and federal laws in place that make what they did illegal. I saw the open hypocrisy of these lists immediately, and just assumed that the people who created the lists would be held accountable for their violations of the laws, and the Attorney General’s office is investigating with action to follow.
What blows my mind is a KUTV, Channel 2 survey asking how the people of Salt Lake feel about the list and the perpetrators of it. With thousands responding, over 56% feel that the perpetrators should not be punished!! Many people interviewed, including some politicians, call the perpetrators heros and patriots! How, on God’s green earth can they decry illegal aliens and then give sainthood to state workers who knowingly violated several state and federal laws. The hypocrisy blows me away!
I shouldn’t be surprised, given the recent behaviors in Utah (including lies and deceit from the state’s biggest institute). Still, I keep hoping that, even in Utah (no especially in Utah, where we know what it is like to be persecuted and hated without cause) that we will show a little more humanity. I guess I’ll have to wait a little while longer!
We all know that the illegal alien issue is a serious one. Most of us also know that it is complex and multi-faceted; not black and white. Having said that, the main criticism seems to be that we have laws against people entering our country ILLEGALLY and taking jobs, receiving benefits, etc. Just to keep this simple, I won’t mention that employers hire them, we insist on low prices, those who get regular paychecks have deductions which stay with the govt when they don’t file taxes, etc. The primary issue is a frustration that we have laws that aren’t being enforced.
Now comes the news that some employees of Workforce Services have ILLEGALLY gathered information and provided a list (accuracy be damned) of illegal aliens to the press, govt agencies and others. This list includes names, addresses, social security numbers, etc. These state employees have contracts that forbid the compilation and disclosure of this information. We have state and federal laws in place that make what they did illegal. I saw the open hypocrisy of these lists immediately, and just assumed that the people who created the lists would be held accountable for their violations of the laws, and the Attorney General’s office is investigating with action to follow.
What blows my mind is a KUTV, Channel 2 survey asking how the people of Salt Lake feel about the list and the perpetrators of it. With thousands responding, over 56% feel that the perpetrators should not be punished!! Many people interviewed, including some politicians, call the perpetrators heros and patriots! How, on God’s green earth can they decry illegal aliens and then give sainthood to state workers who knowingly violated several state and federal laws. The hypocrisy blows me away!
I shouldn’t be surprised, given the recent behaviors in Utah (including lies and deceit from the state’s biggest institute). Still, I keep hoping that, even in Utah (no especially in Utah, where we know what it is like to be persecuted and hated without cause) that we will show a little more humanity. I guess I’ll have to wait a little while longer!
Friday, July 09, 2010
My Affirmations for the next 30 Days
So, here is the deal that Christine, I, and 3 other individuals made with Tiffany. We all agreed to look ourselves in the eye every night for 30 days and repeat affirmations about our value and worth. In addition each of us have a couple of things to do during the day. For example, I will post something about my presentations and my beliefs everyday. In 30 days we are going to meet with Tiffany again at the Transformation Station and report in. Any that DID NOT make their commitment will write a check to Tiffany for $500! She could be $2,500.00 richer, but she hopes that no one will write her a check and I know at least one person that won’t!!
The night before we talked with Ann about how a Life Vision is so much more powerful than affirmations. Having said that I’m okay with this challenge for a couple of reasons.
First, I’m already getting more and more excited about creating my Life Vision at the workshop, so I see this as preparatory to that.
Second, as part of my move in to the New Age Community I discovered the difference between my ‘fake it until you make it’ affirmations of the 80s and my current belief about, and the form of my affirmations. In the 80s I knew what I wanted to be and was truly focused on ‘faking’ it. The goal was appearance regardless of internal belief. What has changed in my affirmations today is that I am not trying to ‘fake it.’ I’m simply aligning my affirmations with God’s view of me and acknowledging that I don’t always see me as I truly am. My affirmations today are a reflection of what I believe that God believes about me.
With that in mind, I sat down last night and asked my GURU what I should affirm for the next 30 days. The way I let my GURU talk is to pick up my pen with my left (non-dominant) hand and write. I find that the logical mind is blocked from judging and interfering.
I wrote some neat affirmations which I affirmed in the mirror several times last night. I didn’t post them last night because I wanted time to ‘be with them.’ I am now ready to declare to the world the truths that I believe about me and who I am at core:
I am enough
I am grateful for all in my life
I forgive myself for my erroneous thinking and for playing smaill
I claim all that I am, and play 100%
I am a unique gift to the planet
I own that and willingly share my gift
I love and accept myself, as I see myself right now
I love and accept others, as I see them right now.
I AM LOVE
The night before we talked with Ann about how a Life Vision is so much more powerful than affirmations. Having said that I’m okay with this challenge for a couple of reasons.
First, I’m already getting more and more excited about creating my Life Vision at the workshop, so I see this as preparatory to that.
Second, as part of my move in to the New Age Community I discovered the difference between my ‘fake it until you make it’ affirmations of the 80s and my current belief about, and the form of my affirmations. In the 80s I knew what I wanted to be and was truly focused on ‘faking’ it. The goal was appearance regardless of internal belief. What has changed in my affirmations today is that I am not trying to ‘fake it.’ I’m simply aligning my affirmations with God’s view of me and acknowledging that I don’t always see me as I truly am. My affirmations today are a reflection of what I believe that God believes about me.
With that in mind, I sat down last night and asked my GURU what I should affirm for the next 30 days. The way I let my GURU talk is to pick up my pen with my left (non-dominant) hand and write. I find that the logical mind is blocked from judging and interfering.
I wrote some neat affirmations which I affirmed in the mirror several times last night. I didn’t post them last night because I wanted time to ‘be with them.’ I am now ready to declare to the world the truths that I believe about me and who I am at core:
I am enough
I am grateful for all in my life
I forgive myself for my erroneous thinking and for playing smaill
I claim all that I am, and play 100%
I am a unique gift to the planet
I own that and willingly share my gift
I love and accept myself, as I see myself right now
I love and accept others, as I see them right now.
I AM LOVE
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Transformation Station; Day 2; Tiffany Walke Peterson
Wow!! Just got home from Tiffany’s presentation. Again, there weren’t a lot of us, but those of us that were there sure were rewarded. Tiffany’s presentation was called, “Success is an Inside Job!” Because of our numbers Tiffany was able to customize her presentation to us, individually and collectively! What a LASER focus she has! At one point or another, she looked at each of us and drilled in to the heart, dialoguing with us in a way that was specific to each of us, but applied to all of us.
She and Ann Webb are doing a 2 day seminar on August 6th and 7th. Tiffany will focus on facing and clearing the emotional stuff and other ‘apparent’ obstacles, then Ann will work with us on day 2 to create our Ideal Life Vision. What a 1-2 punch team! I can’t wait to be there with them.
Those of us that were there tonite committed to a kewl exercise in front of the mirror every nite for 30 days. On August 8th, we will all meet with Tiffany and report in. If we were to chose not to complete the ‘love assignment’ we will get to write Tiffany a check for $500! She could walk away $2,500 richer, however she hopes to leave with hugs instead, and I have no intention of giving her $500 when I can gain so much more than that.
I’m committing to play ‘big’ and give 100%, being true to my dreams. I realize that by living my dream I will have a positive affect on the world in which I live, and they, and I, deserve my contribution. I have experienced the joy of love, non-judgment and forgiveness. My life is a reflection of these values and I intend to share my knowing where ever and when ever the opportunity presents.
She and Ann Webb are doing a 2 day seminar on August 6th and 7th. Tiffany will focus on facing and clearing the emotional stuff and other ‘apparent’ obstacles, then Ann will work with us on day 2 to create our Ideal Life Vision. What a 1-2 punch team! I can’t wait to be there with them.
Those of us that were there tonite committed to a kewl exercise in front of the mirror every nite for 30 days. On August 8th, we will all meet with Tiffany and report in. If we were to chose not to complete the ‘love assignment’ we will get to write Tiffany a check for $500! She could walk away $2,500 richer, however she hopes to leave with hugs instead, and I have no intention of giving her $500 when I can gain so much more than that.
I’m committing to play ‘big’ and give 100%, being true to my dreams. I realize that by living my dream I will have a positive affect on the world in which I live, and they, and I, deserve my contribution. I have experienced the joy of love, non-judgment and forgiveness. My life is a reflection of these values and I intend to share my knowing where ever and when ever the opportunity presents.
Transformation Station; Day 1; Ann Webb
Angie & Greg have started their 30 day introduction of their new Transformation Station. Yesterday, Ann Webb, did the first presentation. She exposed us to her Ideal Life Vision Concept. Their were only a few of us there, but we all benefited greatly from the presentation. She shared a little bit of her own experience with us and then invited us to her next workshop so that she can support us in creating our own Ideal Life Vision. I’m excited about adding the most detailed, exciting, and incredible Life Vision I have ever had to my own process. Thank you Ann.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Upcoming Presentation
I’m speaking at Inner Light Center on February 21st during their morning service. I’ll present my ideas on the Living in the Cave vs Living in the Light. I will then invite them to my workshop, also at the Inner Light Center, on Thursday from 7 to 9:30 pm. Here is the flyer:
http://web.me.com/thebigwiz/Playbook_by_Choice/Seminars.html
I’d love to see you there.
http://web.me.com/thebigwiz/Playbook_by_Choice/Seminars.html
I’d love to see you there.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
My Positive Review for the last 90 days of Coaching
This is what I wrote about me now:
Each of us took our turn in the chair reading what we had written about ourselves and then listening to what others had to say about us. It was easy to find kewl things to say about everyone of my peers. It has been a life-changing experience for me to spend the last 90 days with Mat & Pam Gover, Robbie & Sylvia Rainaldi, Diana Gourley, and of course, my wife Christine. My life is forever changed, as are theirs, and we got to share that experience with each other. Of course, the main catalyst for our change was from our two coaches, Jamie Utley and Douglas Phillips, and our two coaches.
To Jamie and Douglas, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for encouraging me to dream again. To my peers in the class, I feel sooo honored to have been through that with you and to experience you, too, changing. To my support team; Dan, Wally Myrna, Mary Ellen, and Angie; I thank you for taking this journey with me and sharing your insites.
I AM IN HIGH DEMAND AS I PASSIONATELY PRESENT THE PLAYBOOK SERIES WITH AUTHENTICITY FROM MY HEART!!
- I’ve started writing again; AND it’s GOOD!!
- I’m paying bills and moving toward being a paid facilitator.
- I’ve re-connected with several old friends
- I SING!!
- I’m doing great presentations with authenticity from my heart.
- I’m asking for help.
- I’m being less self-reliant.
- I’m stepping up quicker and more often with less hesitation.
- I judge less and love and accept more.
- I trust myself.
- I listen inside more (GURU)
- I’m more committed to me and to life and to my dream.
- I’m living my dream!
- I believe in me and my ability to do.
- I’m doing what I’ve been teaching and supporting the youth in doing (living my dream).
- Good writing-Impressive
- You Shine/Radiate
- You support Christine
- You gave 100% at ROPES
- You are a giving person
- You are more serious-not joking to avoid feelings
- You connect with your heart even more
- You are even more willing to be vulnerable
- You are willing to ask for help
- You have a great story-an amazing book (When Love Hurts)
- You are more confidant and know what you want
- You were willing to go door to door selling water to meet our objective
- You are genuinely caring and concerned; a big Teddy Bear
- You trust your team more
- You are willing to let go of appearances
- You are committed to yourself and your goal
- You always got 100% on Momentums and weekly activity
- You sing more and are on pitch.
Each of us took our turn in the chair reading what we had written about ourselves and then listening to what others had to say about us. It was easy to find kewl things to say about everyone of my peers. It has been a life-changing experience for me to spend the last 90 days with Mat & Pam Gover, Robbie & Sylvia Rainaldi, Diana Gourley, and of course, my wife Christine. My life is forever changed, as are theirs, and we got to share that experience with each other. Of course, the main catalyst for our change was from our two coaches, Jamie Utley and Douglas Phillips, and our two coaches.
To Jamie and Douglas, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for encouraging me to dream again. To my peers in the class, I feel sooo honored to have been through that with you and to experience you, too, changing. To my support team; Dan, Wally Myrna, Mary Ellen, and Angie; I thank you for taking this journey with me and sharing your insites.
I AM IN HIGH DEMAND AS I PASSIONATELY PRESENT THE PLAYBOOK SERIES WITH AUTHENTICITY FROM MY HEART!!
Week 12 Mind the GAP
This is the final week of coaching! Our celebration and graduation are scheduled for next Tuesday from 6-9. This week we talked about not focusing on the GAP between our ideal self and how we currently see ourselves. In Europe they have signs that say, “Mind the Gap” posted in subways, reminding people to beware of the open space between the rail car and the platform that you stand on, waiting to enter the train. When we focus on the perceived gap between how we see ourselves now and our ideal us, it can lead to a lot of shoulds, guilt, comparisons and other things that take our focus off of where we are going. My momentums this week on based on staying out of the gap and helping others, as well as ourselves, to see the end game, including looking back at all that has been accomplished.
My affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
My affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
- Post my ‘out of GAP’ affirmations.
- Post the feedback that I received from my peers in the coaching class.
- Share my experience/accomplishments with at least 2 new someones this week.
- Look for opportunities to help others see who they really are.
- Follow up within two days on each response I get and accept that they value what I am offering.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 11- The Eleventh Hour; or the Red Phone
Here are my Affirmation and Momentums for this week:
Affirmation: I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
I thought about my super power and came up with Jonathon Livingston Seagull. I love the way he went about exploring and seeking his truth regardless of what his ‘peeps’ were doing and regardless of what they thought. He wanted their friendship, but exploring and finding his truth was even more important. He talked about eating to live, not living to eat.
The story of him out over the ocean practicing his dives drives me! He was practicing flying fast like a falcon and making progress, but had a hard time controlling his wings in their tucked state. He worked at it and had some success, then on his final dive he lost control and plummeted into the water causing some damage. He decided to give up because what he was doing wasn’t natural and who was he to think he could do what the others weren’t doing. He started to fly back to his tribe, using the laborious wing flap that was his ‘nature’ agreeing to just be one of the flock. Early in to his flight it dawned on him that he was flying at night, and Seagulls don’t fly at night!
Jonathon looked at that and that inner light came through and he re-affirmed that there was more to his life than the flock recognized. He flew back up in to the sky and started diving again, and had his greatest success to that point, as he was able to hold his wings and scoop through the air like no Seagull before him!
My Super Hero combines those traits of Jonathon with my desire to remain a kid and have fun with this whole process. I am Boundless Truth Living DUDE! The boundless refers to the lack of a box to live in, or my willingness to step outside the box when I run up against one. Truth Living refers to that Jonathon-like ability to seek and live my truth, no matter what. I still don’t espouse many universal truths and don’t impose my truths on others, but I’ll be damned if anyone or anything is going to impose their truth on me, either! Finally, the DUDE part is to remind me to enjoy the ride and remain childlike, curious, willing to explore, to not know, to discover! I am Boundless Truth Living Dude and I will continue to rock my world!
When asked what I wanted to achieve in these last few weeks, I wrote, “To be what I teach. To have my own personal Playbook by Choice. Lastly, to have my materials finished and presentable, all twelve modules.”
What I found interesting is that, although I really want to do the workshops, and will, I’m recognizing that me living these truths is even more important and a cornerstone to a successful workshop career. I know that I will teach far more by who I am that by what I say, and truthfully, I want to be what I am presenting. Having recognized this, I also recognize that the next step is to market myself and the series, so my Red Phone activity for this week is to contact all of the Unity and Religious Science Centers here in the Northwest and using my Super Hero shamelessly promote myself and provide them with the opportunity to experience Mike Gifford and his message of empowerment.
I shared this momentum with Christine and we set up a reward, from her to me, that is so awesome only a fool would let fear or doubt stand in the way. Lets see how much of a fool I am NOT! Let’s see if I can fly like a Falcon even though I am in a Seagull suit. Here’s to a great and powerful week, no matter what happens around me!
Affirmation: I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
- Red Phone-I am contacting all the Unity and Religious Science Centers in the Northwest this week, first by eMail, then a follow-up phone call, to introduce myself and offer to present an intro to the Playbook Series.
- Reconnect with all of my support people at a deeper level, going over my goal and accepting their support and help.
- Find a collaborator for web and design.
- Commit to ‘being’ what I teach at an even higher level. Add at least 5 new plays to my personal Playbook by Choice.
- Be willing to stay in the struggle to experience the balance between me ‘making’ this happen vs trusting the universe and ‘allowing’ it to happen. Listen and write what I re-discover.
I thought about my super power and came up with Jonathon Livingston Seagull. I love the way he went about exploring and seeking his truth regardless of what his ‘peeps’ were doing and regardless of what they thought. He wanted their friendship, but exploring and finding his truth was even more important. He talked about eating to live, not living to eat.
The story of him out over the ocean practicing his dives drives me! He was practicing flying fast like a falcon and making progress, but had a hard time controlling his wings in their tucked state. He worked at it and had some success, then on his final dive he lost control and plummeted into the water causing some damage. He decided to give up because what he was doing wasn’t natural and who was he to think he could do what the others weren’t doing. He started to fly back to his tribe, using the laborious wing flap that was his ‘nature’ agreeing to just be one of the flock. Early in to his flight it dawned on him that he was flying at night, and Seagulls don’t fly at night!
Jonathon looked at that and that inner light came through and he re-affirmed that there was more to his life than the flock recognized. He flew back up in to the sky and started diving again, and had his greatest success to that point, as he was able to hold his wings and scoop through the air like no Seagull before him!
My Super Hero combines those traits of Jonathon with my desire to remain a kid and have fun with this whole process. I am Boundless Truth Living DUDE! The boundless refers to the lack of a box to live in, or my willingness to step outside the box when I run up against one. Truth Living refers to that Jonathon-like ability to seek and live my truth, no matter what. I still don’t espouse many universal truths and don’t impose my truths on others, but I’ll be damned if anyone or anything is going to impose their truth on me, either! Finally, the DUDE part is to remind me to enjoy the ride and remain childlike, curious, willing to explore, to not know, to discover! I am Boundless Truth Living Dude and I will continue to rock my world!
When asked what I wanted to achieve in these last few weeks, I wrote, “To be what I teach. To have my own personal Playbook by Choice. Lastly, to have my materials finished and presentable, all twelve modules.”
What I found interesting is that, although I really want to do the workshops, and will, I’m recognizing that me living these truths is even more important and a cornerstone to a successful workshop career. I know that I will teach far more by who I am that by what I say, and truthfully, I want to be what I am presenting. Having recognized this, I also recognize that the next step is to market myself and the series, so my Red Phone activity for this week is to contact all of the Unity and Religious Science Centers here in the Northwest and using my Super Hero shamelessly promote myself and provide them with the opportunity to experience Mike Gifford and his message of empowerment.
I shared this momentum with Christine and we set up a reward, from her to me, that is so awesome only a fool would let fear or doubt stand in the way. Lets see how much of a fool I am NOT! Let’s see if I can fly like a Falcon even though I am in a Seagull suit. Here’s to a great and powerful week, no matter what happens around me!
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Another Example of the Universe Blessing me through Others
My dear friend and Pit Crew Member, Wally Vlasik, has been talking with me every week after our Tuesday meeting. He always has incredible insights for me, as do my other Pit Crew Members. A couple of weeks ago he talked about a lady who had had an NDE (Near Death Experience) and had written a book, Backwards.
This week I received a DVD of a series of interviews with Nancy Danison, describing her NDE experience and explaining her life view and beliefs. As I watched the interview and listened to her words, I was blown away by how common our beliefs seemed to be!
Many of the concepts that are in my Playbook Series could have been taken straight from her talks. It confirmed for me that there is a universal source and that when we tap in to it the results seem to be the same.
I was so impressed with her and her desire to spread the message that I sent off an eMail to her and asked if she had any interest in collaborating and/or combining effort. I haven’t heard anything back yet, but am confident that we both have something of value to share with humankind. Wow, it doesn’t surprise me to hear me talking like that about her, but 4 months ago it would have been totally out of character for me to affirm my own value like this. I like how I am playing these days!
This week I received a DVD of a series of interviews with Nancy Danison, describing her NDE experience and explaining her life view and beliefs. As I watched the interview and listened to her words, I was blown away by how common our beliefs seemed to be!
Many of the concepts that are in my Playbook Series could have been taken straight from her talks. It confirmed for me that there is a universal source and that when we tap in to it the results seem to be the same.
I was so impressed with her and her desire to spread the message that I sent off an eMail to her and asked if she had any interest in collaborating and/or combining effort. I haven’t heard anything back yet, but am confident that we both have something of value to share with humankind. Wow, it doesn’t surprise me to hear me talking like that about her, but 4 months ago it would have been totally out of character for me to affirm my own value like this. I like how I am playing these days!
Week 10 RE-Create
One of my favorite authors, Neal Donald Walsh says:
“The deepest secret is that life is not a process of discovery, but a process of creation. You are not discovering yourself, but creating yourself anew. Seek, therefore, not to find out who you are, seek to determine who you want to be.”
“Every decision you make - every decision - is not a decision about what to do. It's a decision about Who You Are. When you see this, when you understand it, everything changes. You begin to see life in a new way. All events, occurrences, and situations turn into opportunities to do what you came here to do."
In my opinion, this is a big part of this week’s session. Add to the above, the playfulness of children and you have our adventure at Re-Creating. Our momentums for this week our about remembering who we are and who we want to be, and being childlike and having fun doing things like we used to do as a kid.
I’m going to list my affirmation and momentums here and then I’m going to share a very personal example of both that I got to experience this week with some of my Samoan friends.
Affirmation:
I am in High demand, as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with Authenticity from my Heart.
Momentums:
I lived in Samoa from early 1966 to mid 1969. My dad taught at the Mormon school there and I got to attend school with Samoans and be a kid (11-14). I came home from school every day and got to decide, ”Do I want to go swimming in fresh water or salt water, or do I want to go play in the plantations of elephant grass and climb the trees.“ Did I mention that we had the best Mango tree on the island in our back yard? Oh, and that I could cut Sugar Cane, or pull a Cocoa Pod as we walked along and enjoy incredible food too?
As cool as that was, I also was surrounded by Samoans that showed me unconditional love, respect and admiration. While some of my American friends who lived in the village with us would sometimes tease or make fun of me, the Samoan kids never did. We always had fun together and they supported a healthy belief in who I was.
During this same time I was going through some internal struggles that were building the foundation for the addiction that was to come. Yet when I finally faced my addiction and came forward with the truth about me, it was my experience with my Samoan peers that gave me the courage to try to do recovery. In case it doesn’t show, I have a very special place in my heart for Samoans and Samoa!
Anyway, I’m attempting to paint a picture of a people who don’t put a lot of stock in the clothes you wear, the money you have, or any other external ‘things.’ Instead, they look for your heart and judge by your willingness to be true to it. The also tend to do a very good job of living in the now. We had a hurricane while we were there and it devastated much land and many of there homes. I remember driving from our home to Apia shortly after the hurricane and seeing grown adult men out ‘playing’ in the several feet of water on their property. I was somewhat surprised that they didn’t seem depressed or upset, until someone explained to me that the water would soon recede, so they wanted to enjoy it while it was there!
All of this leads to my experience of last Wednesday and Friday nights. Many of these Samoan friends were in town in conjunction with the LDS Conference so they had a reunion at Sundance. Christine and I joined them on Wednesday night. We ate a great meal, which was a combination of an American Thanksgiving Dinner and a Samoan Luau. The Thanksgiving meal was okay, but the Samoan food was even better for me.
After the meal, they went through a series of questions, about people married the most years, most kids, etc, etc. There was lots of competition, as they were giving away prizes, but there was absolutely no meanness and tons of laughter. One contest was to see if any of us had a bigger gut than Hans, the host. In a normal American setting, I would have shrunk and hoped that no one noticed me. Instead, I went out in the middle of the room with my friend Vaitu’u and promptly won a wind breaker! There was laughter and support, but no shame or judgment for my size. I even forgot to judge myself while I was up there with my friends!
At the end of the drawings they took the last several gifts and walked around the group making sure that every one had something! No one was to go home empty-handed. The first Samoan potluck that Christine went to with me was at my friend Selena’s house. Christine brought a casserole dish. As we were leaving Christine noticed that they were scooping our food out of the dish. She was a little surprised until she noticed that they were placing some of all the other food in her casserole dish, and then she was really surprised. Again, they wanted to make sure that everyone got some of everything!
After the drawings, we had a group prayer and they started a Siva (dance). Everyone got up and danced. I’m generally very nervous about dancing because I just know that when I step on the floor everyone is going to stop dancing and look at and laugh at me! That thought has never entered the mind of any Samoan! They are born to dance and sing and just assume that everyone is. As a result most of them have great voices and great rhythm! Everyone, including Christine and I, got up and danced. It didn’t even matter if you had a partner. If you were there, you were dancing!
After a couple of minutes dancing someone pulled out a camera and instead of running away from it everyone ran to it. They were laughing and totally present. These were adults my age (in their fifties), but no one told them that. They laughed and had joy and jumped in and out of pictures with abandon.
As Christine and I left the reunion, I turned to her and said, ”For our American friends to have that kind of fun and be that in the now, they would have to be drunk!“ These Samoan friends of mine had had nothing stronger than water and a little Coco Samoa to drink. They don’t need to loosen up. They take life serious, but they don’t take themselves too serious. They live in the now and are incredibly childlike.
I truly believe that one of the gifts God gave me to help through the rough years and through my addiction was three and a half years living among some of the most God-like people I have ever met. I have spent much of my adult life emulating what I have learned from them. I am truly grateful for the lessons that I’ve learned from my Samoan brothers and sisters. I will be using those lessons this week as I commit to Re-Create and Recreate. Things to my experience with Samoans there is hope that Michael Gifford will succeed this week!
“The deepest secret is that life is not a process of discovery, but a process of creation. You are not discovering yourself, but creating yourself anew. Seek, therefore, not to find out who you are, seek to determine who you want to be.”
“Every decision you make - every decision - is not a decision about what to do. It's a decision about Who You Are. When you see this, when you understand it, everything changes. You begin to see life in a new way. All events, occurrences, and situations turn into opportunities to do what you came here to do."
In my opinion, this is a big part of this week’s session. Add to the above, the playfulness of children and you have our adventure at Re-Creating. Our momentums for this week our about remembering who we are and who we want to be, and being childlike and having fun doing things like we used to do as a kid.
I’m going to list my affirmation and momentums here and then I’m going to share a very personal example of both that I got to experience this week with some of my Samoan friends.
Affirmation:
I am in High demand, as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with Authenticity from my Heart.
Momentums:
- Go walking by myself on Wednesday, Friday and Monday, next week. I will walk at least an hour and will enjoy pushing while listening to my iPod and smelling the roses.
- Christine and I have declared this Sunday to be Me day. From midnight Sunday morning until midnight Monday morning we will leave our phones home and spend time together and separately feeding our souls.
- During the feeding our souls day we will be staying at one of the Marriott properties and I will take Christine to dinner and she will pick a movie for us to attend (maybe even at full price, although that is pushing a little) and we will share popcorn.
- I will make a serious dent in my Success Book and be prepared to share it with the group on Tuesday so that they know what an incredible family I have and what an incredible life I have had.
- I will create my Passion Board, with pictures representing my purpose in life, my ideal results and my passion. I will also have it ready to share at our next meeting.
I lived in Samoa from early 1966 to mid 1969. My dad taught at the Mormon school there and I got to attend school with Samoans and be a kid (11-14). I came home from school every day and got to decide, ”Do I want to go swimming in fresh water or salt water, or do I want to go play in the plantations of elephant grass and climb the trees.“ Did I mention that we had the best Mango tree on the island in our back yard? Oh, and that I could cut Sugar Cane, or pull a Cocoa Pod as we walked along and enjoy incredible food too?
As cool as that was, I also was surrounded by Samoans that showed me unconditional love, respect and admiration. While some of my American friends who lived in the village with us would sometimes tease or make fun of me, the Samoan kids never did. We always had fun together and they supported a healthy belief in who I was.
During this same time I was going through some internal struggles that were building the foundation for the addiction that was to come. Yet when I finally faced my addiction and came forward with the truth about me, it was my experience with my Samoan peers that gave me the courage to try to do recovery. In case it doesn’t show, I have a very special place in my heart for Samoans and Samoa!
Anyway, I’m attempting to paint a picture of a people who don’t put a lot of stock in the clothes you wear, the money you have, or any other external ‘things.’ Instead, they look for your heart and judge by your willingness to be true to it. The also tend to do a very good job of living in the now. We had a hurricane while we were there and it devastated much land and many of there homes. I remember driving from our home to Apia shortly after the hurricane and seeing grown adult men out ‘playing’ in the several feet of water on their property. I was somewhat surprised that they didn’t seem depressed or upset, until someone explained to me that the water would soon recede, so they wanted to enjoy it while it was there!
All of this leads to my experience of last Wednesday and Friday nights. Many of these Samoan friends were in town in conjunction with the LDS Conference so they had a reunion at Sundance. Christine and I joined them on Wednesday night. We ate a great meal, which was a combination of an American Thanksgiving Dinner and a Samoan Luau. The Thanksgiving meal was okay, but the Samoan food was even better for me.
After the meal, they went through a series of questions, about people married the most years, most kids, etc, etc. There was lots of competition, as they were giving away prizes, but there was absolutely no meanness and tons of laughter. One contest was to see if any of us had a bigger gut than Hans, the host. In a normal American setting, I would have shrunk and hoped that no one noticed me. Instead, I went out in the middle of the room with my friend Vaitu’u and promptly won a wind breaker! There was laughter and support, but no shame or judgment for my size. I even forgot to judge myself while I was up there with my friends!
At the end of the drawings they took the last several gifts and walked around the group making sure that every one had something! No one was to go home empty-handed. The first Samoan potluck that Christine went to with me was at my friend Selena’s house. Christine brought a casserole dish. As we were leaving Christine noticed that they were scooping our food out of the dish. She was a little surprised until she noticed that they were placing some of all the other food in her casserole dish, and then she was really surprised. Again, they wanted to make sure that everyone got some of everything!
After the drawings, we had a group prayer and they started a Siva (dance). Everyone got up and danced. I’m generally very nervous about dancing because I just know that when I step on the floor everyone is going to stop dancing and look at and laugh at me! That thought has never entered the mind of any Samoan! They are born to dance and sing and just assume that everyone is. As a result most of them have great voices and great rhythm! Everyone, including Christine and I, got up and danced. It didn’t even matter if you had a partner. If you were there, you were dancing!
After a couple of minutes dancing someone pulled out a camera and instead of running away from it everyone ran to it. They were laughing and totally present. These were adults my age (in their fifties), but no one told them that. They laughed and had joy and jumped in and out of pictures with abandon.
As Christine and I left the reunion, I turned to her and said, ”For our American friends to have that kind of fun and be that in the now, they would have to be drunk!“ These Samoan friends of mine had had nothing stronger than water and a little Coco Samoa to drink. They don’t need to loosen up. They take life serious, but they don’t take themselves too serious. They live in the now and are incredibly childlike.
I truly believe that one of the gifts God gave me to help through the rough years and through my addiction was three and a half years living among some of the most God-like people I have ever met. I have spent much of my adult life emulating what I have learned from them. I am truly grateful for the lessons that I’ve learned from my Samoan brothers and sisters. I will be using those lessons this week as I commit to Re-Create and Recreate. Things to my experience with Samoans there is hope that Michael Gifford will succeed this week!
How Peace and War fits with My Playbook Series
So, in my Playbook Series we talk about beliefs that are acquired from life and may not be conscious choice. Our premise is that it may serve us to challenge those beliefs and try on alternative beliefs. I also give several examples in the first (What We Know Can Hurt Us) Workshop. I lead the group down a certain path and ask them to seek an answer that lies outside the ‘box’ or path down which we have gone. Invariably, it is difficult for most people to step out of a path we start down together.
For example, Myrna gave me this one:
Do you understand Roman Numerals?
How do you create the number 10?
Answer: X
How can I add a single line and make it the number 9?
Answer: IX
Now, can you to add one more line and turn the number 9 in to the number 6.
This becomes extremely difficult for most of us because I have us going down two paths that don’t contain the answer. The first one is that we are thinking Roman Numerals. The second is that the line they added to 10 to make it a 9 was a straight line (I).
It takes someone really willing to step outside of the group think to come up with the right answer. The line that we add to 9 to create 6 is:
‘S’ ---------> SIX!
Hopefully, you understand the concept of Confirmation Bias (we only allow in to our senses those things that confirm our current beliefs). So, we played a game, which I won’t share with it, but to say that it started with this same mindset of thinking we knew what was said and acting upon it. We had a period of time to make a series of decisions in the two groups that we were put in to and achieve an ultimate goal.
Most of us made assumptions about being ‘us and them’ and acted accordingly. We started out the game trying to win at others expense. We all got in to auto pilot and did competition very well. There was also some victim stuff, some blaming and justification, etc.
Part way through the game Christine led her group to re-evaluate the direction they were going and have a Pow Wow with our group. It had never dawned on the rest of us to talk like that. We had the rules re-read to us and became clearing aware that we were not optimizing our efforts; that the rules never divided us in to an us and them for creating points.
After talking, we decided to trust each other and agree to work co-operative through the rest of the game. It was neat, and a sign of the quality of our coaching class that when we recognized where we had gone versus where we could have gone, we simply forgot the past, committed to the future and finished out the game with the maximum number of points that we could have earned from there out.
We were all sad and disappointed at our reactions and choices in the first part, but celebrated the second half when we recognized where we were and chose another path. Having said that, it was still a little shocking, to most of us, how quickly we went to war based on what we believed we were to do. There was even a little resistance to the suggestion that how we played the game was how we played life, but it quickly melted and we were able to apply the lesson to our lives and take away some pretty incredible insights.
Especially, given what I have been teaching, I was surprised at how quickly I went down the road I was led down, but was also proud of how quickly I recognized the path and sought another (the solution that I teach for confirmation bias). Neat way to play at an incredibly important message and get it in to my soul.
For example, Myrna gave me this one:
Do you understand Roman Numerals?
How do you create the number 10?
Answer: X
How can I add a single line and make it the number 9?
Answer: IX
Now, can you to add one more line and turn the number 9 in to the number 6.
This becomes extremely difficult for most of us because I have us going down two paths that don’t contain the answer. The first one is that we are thinking Roman Numerals. The second is that the line they added to 10 to make it a 9 was a straight line (I).
It takes someone really willing to step outside of the group think to come up with the right answer. The line that we add to 9 to create 6 is:
‘S’ ---------> SIX!
Hopefully, you understand the concept of Confirmation Bias (we only allow in to our senses those things that confirm our current beliefs). So, we played a game, which I won’t share with it, but to say that it started with this same mindset of thinking we knew what was said and acting upon it. We had a period of time to make a series of decisions in the two groups that we were put in to and achieve an ultimate goal.
Most of us made assumptions about being ‘us and them’ and acted accordingly. We started out the game trying to win at others expense. We all got in to auto pilot and did competition very well. There was also some victim stuff, some blaming and justification, etc.
Part way through the game Christine led her group to re-evaluate the direction they were going and have a Pow Wow with our group. It had never dawned on the rest of us to talk like that. We had the rules re-read to us and became clearing aware that we were not optimizing our efforts; that the rules never divided us in to an us and them for creating points.
After talking, we decided to trust each other and agree to work co-operative through the rest of the game. It was neat, and a sign of the quality of our coaching class that when we recognized where we had gone versus where we could have gone, we simply forgot the past, committed to the future and finished out the game with the maximum number of points that we could have earned from there out.
We were all sad and disappointed at our reactions and choices in the first part, but celebrated the second half when we recognized where we were and chose another path. Having said that, it was still a little shocking, to most of us, how quickly we went to war based on what we believed we were to do. There was even a little resistance to the suggestion that how we played the game was how we played life, but it quickly melted and we were able to apply the lesson to our lives and take away some pretty incredible insights.
Especially, given what I have been teaching, I was surprised at how quickly I went down the road I was led down, but was also proud of how quickly I recognized the path and sought another (the solution that I teach for confirmation bias). Neat way to play at an incredibly important message and get it in to my soul.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Week 9 Peace and War or Relationships
Affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
1 When I feel the threat of war communicate my honest feelings and be vulnerable instead of putting up walls or attacking back.
2 Stay in Peace internally regardless of what is going on around me.
3 Identify something I like about 2 new people every day.
4 Find 3 people that I play war with and find a way to serve them.
5 Create at least one new win/win relationship that will help me move toward my 90 day goal.
I will write more about Peace and War, but let me just say this was another incredible session and will be an incredible week as I identify myself playing war and make a commitment to change it.
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
1 When I feel the threat of war communicate my honest feelings and be vulnerable instead of putting up walls or attacking back.
2 Stay in Peace internally regardless of what is going on around me.
3 Identify something I like about 2 new people every day.
4 Find 3 people that I play war with and find a way to serve them.
5 Create at least one new win/win relationship that will help me move toward my 90 day goal.
I will write more about Peace and War, but let me just say this was another incredible session and will be an incredible week as I identify myself playing war and make a commitment to change it.
Friday, September 25, 2009
My Gospital
I woke up this morning at about 3 and had this great thought. It was so compelling to me that I wanted to come write it here and declare it to the world.
BTW, Have I told you all recently how incredible I am, and fabulous my workshop series is? I am and they are!
The word Gospital came to my mind. Initially I thought that was kind of weird and tried to dismiss it, to no avail. As I contemplated the word it was obvious that it was a contraction of Gospel and Hospital. As I considered my own path, I realized that much of the source of my pain was church and family, that with the best of intents, constantly told me that I was wrong! Most of my woundedness came from trying to be true to myself, to the inner light, yet finding myself constantly at odds with the ‘shoulds’ in my life.
For example, that faith promoting story that my mom and I told about my thumb sucking. When I was about 3 I still sucked my thumb. My mom tried pepper, a sock around the hand and all kinds of other stuff to help me not to suck my thumb at night. The first thing that comes to my mind today as a father is that I must have really wanted to suck my thumb awfully bad!
My mom came to me with her belief system and asked me how I could overcome my thumb sucking. My first thought was, “why do I want to overcome something that brings me such pleasure,” but even at that tender young age I figured out that that wasn’t the correct response. She talked to me about how I could pray to God every night and ask for His help in overcoming. The story is told of how she would sit at my bed and night and watch the struggle of the thumb. It would start toward my mouth and I would catch it and resist. Eventually, over the next couple of weeks, I overcame! My mother and I have told that story many times over the years as a faith promoting story of how God can help anyone overcome.
With all love and respect to my mother, that story has come to have a whole different meaning to me today. Today I see that 3 year old Mikie as a confidant young man who trusted himself. Every once in a while, especially in his sleep, he enjoyed the comfort of his thumb in his mouth. In all sincerity, his mother came, and due to societal norms, let Mikie know that what he was doing wasn’t okay. The additional, unintended message was ‘you are not okay, and you cannot trust your inner directions.’ Not only that, but ‘you can use God as a sledge hammer (in more polite circles a ‘Refiners Fire’) to beat the bad out of you.’
As I have worked through the choice processes there is a point where we go back to our earliest memory that led to the erroneous feeling that we are working on. My thumbsucking experience is the most common experience that I go back to, regardless of the negative belief!
When I first discovered sex and it felt so good, I remembered my thumbsucking! When I first fell in love with a young lady I remembered my thumbsucking! When I dreamed my dreams of greatness and had those inner promptings I remembered my thumbsucking. When I tried to talk and express my inner self I remembered my thumbsucking, and I stuttered, as I tried to force the words out!
Lest I be misunderstood here, I get that thumbsucking, per se, has no significance and I’m not ready to start a national movement to encourage thumbsucking. However, the meaning and interpretation I gave it are significant, and my entire purpose in life is to overcome that message!
The message I got was that thumbsucking was not okay and because I wanted to suck mine, by extension, I was not okay, and I definitely could not trust my thoughts. My mission today is to convey to those in my workshops and anyone with whom I have contact that not one of us is broken; not one of us can get better answers for our life than those that come from within; not one of us is not loveable and valuable, as we are!
Just for giggles here is my contrast. My youngest granddaughter, Kennady, loves to suck her thumb. I love babysitting her. The greatest pleasure I get is laying down and putting her on my chest, holding her as she goes to sleep. As she gets sleepy, you can tell because one of her thumbs sneaks up to her little mouth and she puts it in. Shortly after that she goes to sleep. Her body goes limp and she trusts herself and her grandpa enough to just melt in to me! I wouldn’t have her any other way!
Well, I’ve told quite a story to get to the point of Gospital. Simply put, one of my favorite missions in life is to help heal perceived wounds, especially those initiated in church, or in the name of God! No matter where I go or what I present, I will always think of my facility as a Gospital for those who mistaken feel that they are sick.
BTW, Have I told you all recently how incredible I am, and fabulous my workshop series is? I am and they are!
The word Gospital came to my mind. Initially I thought that was kind of weird and tried to dismiss it, to no avail. As I contemplated the word it was obvious that it was a contraction of Gospel and Hospital. As I considered my own path, I realized that much of the source of my pain was church and family, that with the best of intents, constantly told me that I was wrong! Most of my woundedness came from trying to be true to myself, to the inner light, yet finding myself constantly at odds with the ‘shoulds’ in my life.
For example, that faith promoting story that my mom and I told about my thumb sucking. When I was about 3 I still sucked my thumb. My mom tried pepper, a sock around the hand and all kinds of other stuff to help me not to suck my thumb at night. The first thing that comes to my mind today as a father is that I must have really wanted to suck my thumb awfully bad!
My mom came to me with her belief system and asked me how I could overcome my thumb sucking. My first thought was, “why do I want to overcome something that brings me such pleasure,” but even at that tender young age I figured out that that wasn’t the correct response. She talked to me about how I could pray to God every night and ask for His help in overcoming. The story is told of how she would sit at my bed and night and watch the struggle of the thumb. It would start toward my mouth and I would catch it and resist. Eventually, over the next couple of weeks, I overcame! My mother and I have told that story many times over the years as a faith promoting story of how God can help anyone overcome.
With all love and respect to my mother, that story has come to have a whole different meaning to me today. Today I see that 3 year old Mikie as a confidant young man who trusted himself. Every once in a while, especially in his sleep, he enjoyed the comfort of his thumb in his mouth. In all sincerity, his mother came, and due to societal norms, let Mikie know that what he was doing wasn’t okay. The additional, unintended message was ‘you are not okay, and you cannot trust your inner directions.’ Not only that, but ‘you can use God as a sledge hammer (in more polite circles a ‘Refiners Fire’) to beat the bad out of you.’
As I have worked through the choice processes there is a point where we go back to our earliest memory that led to the erroneous feeling that we are working on. My thumbsucking experience is the most common experience that I go back to, regardless of the negative belief!
When I first discovered sex and it felt so good, I remembered my thumbsucking! When I first fell in love with a young lady I remembered my thumbsucking! When I dreamed my dreams of greatness and had those inner promptings I remembered my thumbsucking. When I tried to talk and express my inner self I remembered my thumbsucking, and I stuttered, as I tried to force the words out!
Lest I be misunderstood here, I get that thumbsucking, per se, has no significance and I’m not ready to start a national movement to encourage thumbsucking. However, the meaning and interpretation I gave it are significant, and my entire purpose in life is to overcome that message!
The message I got was that thumbsucking was not okay and because I wanted to suck mine, by extension, I was not okay, and I definitely could not trust my thoughts. My mission today is to convey to those in my workshops and anyone with whom I have contact that not one of us is broken; not one of us can get better answers for our life than those that come from within; not one of us is not loveable and valuable, as we are!
Just for giggles here is my contrast. My youngest granddaughter, Kennady, loves to suck her thumb. I love babysitting her. The greatest pleasure I get is laying down and putting her on my chest, holding her as she goes to sleep. As she gets sleepy, you can tell because one of her thumbs sneaks up to her little mouth and she puts it in. Shortly after that she goes to sleep. Her body goes limp and she trusts herself and her grandpa enough to just melt in to me! I wouldn’t have her any other way!
Well, I’ve told quite a story to get to the point of Gospital. Simply put, one of my favorite missions in life is to help heal perceived wounds, especially those initiated in church, or in the name of God! No matter where I go or what I present, I will always think of my facility as a Gospital for those who mistaken feel that they are sick.
Better to honestly feel sad that to pretend to feel glad!
So, this Tuesday at the coaching class I had an interesting experience.We started working on a Choice Process while playing with Clay Dough! The idea was that the tactile play would be somewhat distracting, allowing the mind to feel and better process the Choice Process, without all the logical disconnects.
While I’m writing my way through the process, I’m creating a masterpiece in the clay. I choose a piece of purple clay to play with. I was kind of flattening it out and working it rather mindlessly when someone opened a tube that had all these bright color intertwined. Jamie even commented on how kewl it looked. I waited seconds and no one took it so I did and started rubbing it in on top of my purple clay.
My choice process was on my need to look good in front of other people. At this point I was beginning to remember times when this had been important to me. For the most part, the looking good was generally an over-compensation for looking bad (in my own mind) or feeling judged by someone else.
These feelings led to a sadness that was reflected by spreading the clay out like a low profile fried egg. It was beautiful with all the colors on top, but they (others) couldn’t see the insides to know how it felt on the inside. To make it more reflective of the inside, I started putting holes in it and making it look less stable.
As we worked through the process we got to the point of listing the negative consequences. At that point I picked it up and from the edges brought it together to look like a cocoon. Because the bottom was solid purple, as I brought it around all the beautiful color was inside and all anyone could see was the monotone purple cocoon. As we continued with negative consequences, I took pipe cleaners and wrapped them around it, to secure it in it’s present cocoon shape. I even left one at the top going out like a stem, so that you could pick it up without ever having to touch it!
Now it was time to release our creation, as it was also time to release the old beliefs into the vacuum making room for new beliefs. To do this we all went out side to a pre-dug pit and were invited to throw, dump, hurl our creations in to the hole, as our affirmation of leaving it behind. Most everyone really seemed to enjoy it, but I started feeling genuinely sad. Even though it now looked ugly, I knew what was on the inside. I didn’t want to let go of that beautiful ‘coat of many colors.’ I wanted to somehow get in and rescue the beauty that was inside. Well, being the generally compliant person that I am, I waited until last and then, somewhat reluctantly, dropped it in to the pit.
Next, Jamie poured gas in the pit, and in a trail away from it so that someone could strike a match and torch the whole thing. The fire was warming and fun to watch, yet I still didn’t derive great pleasure from torching the past. When the fire eventually went out, we started taking the shovel and covering up the pit with the demolished ‘pasts’ in it. Again, everyone seemed to have satisfaction in it. I waited until last and put a shovel full of dirt over it, then dug at the dirt, breaking up dirt clods and compacting the soil a little.
I went back in the building still lamenting, and shared that with the group. Then as we moved to our new belief in the Choice Process, Jamie brought out new ‘virgin’ clay.He suggested that we each take a container and create our new belief. As I sat their contemplating, all of a sudden, I got a smile on my face. I took about a third of my glob of clay and then turned to the group and asked if anyone wanted to exchange some of their color for some of mine (out of character for me to go out of the lines and even more so to seek compliance from my partners). When I didn’t get an immediate response, I turned to Brody and asked if he would share a little piece of his white clay (again, in my old world of values I never would have put myself out to ask for what I wanted; especially when I had already asked a general question and gotten no response). Brody was happy to share some clay with me. Then Christine offered some of hers! Before I knew it, I had 5 or 6 different colors and was weaving them together into a new ‘Coat of Many Colors!’
Instead of creating a flat fried egg, I started rolling the ‘new me’ in a circle. It became this beautiful ball with swirls of color throughout. As I continued to roll it the ball became extraordinarily smooth. My sadness at loosing something that I knew was beautiful, but that I had covered up, was being replaced by great joy at this new something that I was creating (in part due to my memory of the past, but without strings to the past). That ball and it’s greatness consumed me and I was finally ready to let go of the old and embrace what I had created. I brought the ball home as a reminder of who I am!
In summary, a really important lesson I have learned is the importance of feeling what I am truly feeling, no matter how ugly it might appear, and no matter how much feeling there is of ‘you shouldn’t feel this.’ By truly feeling the sadness, and admitting it, I put myself in a position of being able to move on to the next feeling and having it be genuine, too. Had I pretended that all was well and that I was glad to be throwing away the initial clay creation that would have blocked my true feeling and I would have gone on pretending to feel great (what was my original belief in this process; something about needing to look good to others). By feeling what I truly felt (sadness) I was able to feel a new, genuine, feeling of joy, as I realized that I could create my new image and I could use my acquired knowledge in creating this something that even exceeded what I had hidden. Throughout the rest of the night, as we talked, I continued to handle my new creation and my mood continued to shift from sadness and moodiness to great joy and satisfaction.
I would much rather feel true sadness with the opportunity to shift it, that to ever put on a face and pretend a feeling, that precludes me from outwardly expressing what is really inside!
While I’m writing my way through the process, I’m creating a masterpiece in the clay. I choose a piece of purple clay to play with. I was kind of flattening it out and working it rather mindlessly when someone opened a tube that had all these bright color intertwined. Jamie even commented on how kewl it looked. I waited seconds and no one took it so I did and started rubbing it in on top of my purple clay.
My choice process was on my need to look good in front of other people. At this point I was beginning to remember times when this had been important to me. For the most part, the looking good was generally an over-compensation for looking bad (in my own mind) or feeling judged by someone else.
These feelings led to a sadness that was reflected by spreading the clay out like a low profile fried egg. It was beautiful with all the colors on top, but they (others) couldn’t see the insides to know how it felt on the inside. To make it more reflective of the inside, I started putting holes in it and making it look less stable.
As we worked through the process we got to the point of listing the negative consequences. At that point I picked it up and from the edges brought it together to look like a cocoon. Because the bottom was solid purple, as I brought it around all the beautiful color was inside and all anyone could see was the monotone purple cocoon. As we continued with negative consequences, I took pipe cleaners and wrapped them around it, to secure it in it’s present cocoon shape. I even left one at the top going out like a stem, so that you could pick it up without ever having to touch it!
Now it was time to release our creation, as it was also time to release the old beliefs into the vacuum making room for new beliefs. To do this we all went out side to a pre-dug pit and were invited to throw, dump, hurl our creations in to the hole, as our affirmation of leaving it behind. Most everyone really seemed to enjoy it, but I started feeling genuinely sad. Even though it now looked ugly, I knew what was on the inside. I didn’t want to let go of that beautiful ‘coat of many colors.’ I wanted to somehow get in and rescue the beauty that was inside. Well, being the generally compliant person that I am, I waited until last and then, somewhat reluctantly, dropped it in to the pit.
Next, Jamie poured gas in the pit, and in a trail away from it so that someone could strike a match and torch the whole thing. The fire was warming and fun to watch, yet I still didn’t derive great pleasure from torching the past. When the fire eventually went out, we started taking the shovel and covering up the pit with the demolished ‘pasts’ in it. Again, everyone seemed to have satisfaction in it. I waited until last and put a shovel full of dirt over it, then dug at the dirt, breaking up dirt clods and compacting the soil a little.
I went back in the building still lamenting, and shared that with the group. Then as we moved to our new belief in the Choice Process, Jamie brought out new ‘virgin’ clay.He suggested that we each take a container and create our new belief. As I sat their contemplating, all of a sudden, I got a smile on my face. I took about a third of my glob of clay and then turned to the group and asked if anyone wanted to exchange some of their color for some of mine (out of character for me to go out of the lines and even more so to seek compliance from my partners). When I didn’t get an immediate response, I turned to Brody and asked if he would share a little piece of his white clay (again, in my old world of values I never would have put myself out to ask for what I wanted; especially when I had already asked a general question and gotten no response). Brody was happy to share some clay with me. Then Christine offered some of hers! Before I knew it, I had 5 or 6 different colors and was weaving them together into a new ‘Coat of Many Colors!’
Instead of creating a flat fried egg, I started rolling the ‘new me’ in a circle. It became this beautiful ball with swirls of color throughout. As I continued to roll it the ball became extraordinarily smooth. My sadness at loosing something that I knew was beautiful, but that I had covered up, was being replaced by great joy at this new something that I was creating (in part due to my memory of the past, but without strings to the past). That ball and it’s greatness consumed me and I was finally ready to let go of the old and embrace what I had created. I brought the ball home as a reminder of who I am!
In summary, a really important lesson I have learned is the importance of feeling what I am truly feeling, no matter how ugly it might appear, and no matter how much feeling there is of ‘you shouldn’t feel this.’ By truly feeling the sadness, and admitting it, I put myself in a position of being able to move on to the next feeling and having it be genuine, too. Had I pretended that all was well and that I was glad to be throwing away the initial clay creation that would have blocked my true feeling and I would have gone on pretending to feel great (what was my original belief in this process; something about needing to look good to others). By feeling what I truly felt (sadness) I was able to feel a new, genuine, feeling of joy, as I realized that I could create my new image and I could use my acquired knowledge in creating this something that even exceeded what I had hidden. Throughout the rest of the night, as we talked, I continued to handle my new creation and my mood continued to shift from sadness and moodiness to great joy and satisfaction.
I would much rather feel true sadness with the opportunity to shift it, that to ever put on a face and pretend a feeling, that precludes me from outwardly expressing what is really inside!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Week 8 Tactile Choice
My affirmation and momentums for the week are:
Affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
Affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.
Momentums:
- Time travel again with Passion
- Declare that “I trust my inner wisdom and I am OK”
- I will have a Guru Talk at least twice this week
- I will add content to at least 4 modules
- I will continue Shamelessly Promoting myself and the workshops
Monday, September 21, 2009
What We Know Can Hurt Us Presentation at Law of Attraction Club
I did my presentation Sunday at the Law of Attraction Club. Frankly, I NAILED, the part of my affirmation that says, “Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from my heart.”
We started with a little of my 12 step history and then introduced the concept of Confirmation Bias. We did the 6 Blind Men and the Elephant story and everyone took turns reading it. Then we went through the pictures and mind gyms.
I finished the didactic portion of the presentation with my series of numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) and their task to find my rule for incrementing the series, through asking questions and/or offering an idea of the next number. We worked with that for a while and then Bill (the owner of Lotus Store) actually figured out my rule, “The next number must be larger than the previous one.”
This was all cool, but the really kewl part was ahead and it wasn’t even in my notes! We discussed that the solution to Confirmation Bias is the Scientific Method, wherein we create a Hypothesis and then test it. Frankly, the true testing comes when you try to disprove it! I pointed out that is your hypothesis is “Women are smarter than men” and all the testing you do is with women who agree you’ll probably never get any opposition, which could be okay, but it doesn’t really test the hypothesis.
I gave a funny political analysis and we all laughed at the absurdity of people only listening to the news that will tell them what they already believe and being in absolute denial of anything that doesn’t agree, labeling that ‘other’ news as bias.
Finally, I told them that I was going to get more serious and share the relevance of this on a personal level. I then talked about growing up with mixed messages. A couple really strong messages were that I couldn’t trust myself because ‘natural man is an enemy to God’ and that I definitely couldn’t sing. Those two things were ‘absolute truths’ in my world.
Along came the Outlook Power of Choice Weekend and I got the chance to test those ‘hypothesis’ by disproving them. I shared that I have spent years supporting my YOU teenagers and telling them that they can achieve anything. I shared about Taza coming to me and wondering if she should run for International Office. I told her that I believed in her. At IYOU where she ran and was elected to that office she came to me and told me that I, and me belief in her were a big reason she choose to run. I was touched by my power, but wasn’t willing to apply it to my own life!
During that entire time that I supported them and truly wanted the best for them, I believed that I had something to share and that that was my life purpose (but, remember, I can’t trust myself). I came home and kept doing IT. In January I lost my IT job and had thoughts that it was time to step out of the shadows, BUT… I continued to apply for IT jobs! Although I was able to apply for lots of jobs, thanks to the internet, 7 months later I still had nothing when I was at Power of Choice.
There were several things I did that weekend to test the hypothesis that I can’t be trusted and that I can’t sing, but the real crazy one was to accept the invitation by Jamie to get up and sing my theme song, “I gotta be me!” It was crazy. I knew that I couldn’t sing and that I couldn’t trust myself, but I got up anyway. The Monkey Mind was loud. So loud I couldn’t hear anything else; but I stood in the space and all the sudden the voices quit and the words came and I sang.
As I shared this with them, I knew I was about to sing and the voices came back saying, “You were lucky once, but don’t think you disproved the beliefs.” I shared with the group that those voices were in my head and they quit a lot sooner, and Mikie SANG, and he sang even better than last time, and he knew that the hypothesis were wrong, and eveyone there got it, not through my words, but through my actions.
LIFE IS GOOD; AND I FEEL BLESSED TO BE LIVING IT AS WELL AS TELLING IT.
We started with a little of my 12 step history and then introduced the concept of Confirmation Bias. We did the 6 Blind Men and the Elephant story and everyone took turns reading it. Then we went through the pictures and mind gyms.
I finished the didactic portion of the presentation with my series of numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) and their task to find my rule for incrementing the series, through asking questions and/or offering an idea of the next number. We worked with that for a while and then Bill (the owner of Lotus Store) actually figured out my rule, “The next number must be larger than the previous one.”
This was all cool, but the really kewl part was ahead and it wasn’t even in my notes! We discussed that the solution to Confirmation Bias is the Scientific Method, wherein we create a Hypothesis and then test it. Frankly, the true testing comes when you try to disprove it! I pointed out that is your hypothesis is “Women are smarter than men” and all the testing you do is with women who agree you’ll probably never get any opposition, which could be okay, but it doesn’t really test the hypothesis.
I gave a funny political analysis and we all laughed at the absurdity of people only listening to the news that will tell them what they already believe and being in absolute denial of anything that doesn’t agree, labeling that ‘other’ news as bias.
Finally, I told them that I was going to get more serious and share the relevance of this on a personal level. I then talked about growing up with mixed messages. A couple really strong messages were that I couldn’t trust myself because ‘natural man is an enemy to God’ and that I definitely couldn’t sing. Those two things were ‘absolute truths’ in my world.
Along came the Outlook Power of Choice Weekend and I got the chance to test those ‘hypothesis’ by disproving them. I shared that I have spent years supporting my YOU teenagers and telling them that they can achieve anything. I shared about Taza coming to me and wondering if she should run for International Office. I told her that I believed in her. At IYOU where she ran and was elected to that office she came to me and told me that I, and me belief in her were a big reason she choose to run. I was touched by my power, but wasn’t willing to apply it to my own life!
During that entire time that I supported them and truly wanted the best for them, I believed that I had something to share and that that was my life purpose (but, remember, I can’t trust myself). I came home and kept doing IT. In January I lost my IT job and had thoughts that it was time to step out of the shadows, BUT… I continued to apply for IT jobs! Although I was able to apply for lots of jobs, thanks to the internet, 7 months later I still had nothing when I was at Power of Choice.
There were several things I did that weekend to test the hypothesis that I can’t be trusted and that I can’t sing, but the real crazy one was to accept the invitation by Jamie to get up and sing my theme song, “I gotta be me!” It was crazy. I knew that I couldn’t sing and that I couldn’t trust myself, but I got up anyway. The Monkey Mind was loud. So loud I couldn’t hear anything else; but I stood in the space and all the sudden the voices quit and the words came and I sang.
As I shared this with them, I knew I was about to sing and the voices came back saying, “You were lucky once, but don’t think you disproved the beliefs.” I shared with the group that those voices were in my head and they quit a lot sooner, and Mikie SANG, and he sang even better than last time, and he knew that the hypothesis were wrong, and eveyone there got it, not through my words, but through my actions.
LIFE IS GOOD; AND I FEEL BLESSED TO BE LIVING IT AS WELL AS TELLING IT.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
I am a Wizard of Oz
I’ve been watching a series of workshops from Lou Tice of The Pacific Institute. Yesterday I watched the final installment and it really re-enforced my EOGs from last night. He combines 3 pieces to create the ultimate loving machine (my words). He suggests using:
A One Time Affirmation is a statement of fact that has a high likelihood of becoming fact. I now pronounce you man and wife is such a statement. After that statement most young adults ACT like they are married.
The story, The Wizard of Oz kind of puts these two together with it’s own additional spin. When Dorothy is lost Glenda suggests she travel to the land of Oz and ask the Great Wizard to see if he can help her return to Kansas.
Along the path she runs into a brainless Scarecrow, a heartless Tin Man, and a cowardly Lion. When they reach the Wizard and ask for his help he looks at each one and continually confirms that they already had in them that which they were seeking.
However, he uses the 3 steps above to help them see that they possess that which they are seeking.
For the Scarecrow the Wizard said that his head was full of stuffin, but all that he needed was a diploma. By the power vested in the Wizard he conferred upon the Scarecrow a diploma and told him that he was smart. Based on that one-time affirmation, through a rite of passage, the Scarecrow went out and acted differently. It was in him all along, but it took an outside person affirming it before the Scarecrow chose to believe it and act accordingly.
For the Tin Man the Wizard said that all he lacked was a Clock so that he could hear it beat. Through the power vested in the Wizard he presented the Tin Man with a clock and pronounced that he had a heart. Again, an outside person simply confirmed what was already there present and the Tin Man went out acting like he had a heart. A one time affirmation, through a rite of passage caused the Tin Man to act differently.
For the Lion, the Wizard said that all he lacked was a Medal. He then bestowed upon the Lion in his Rite of Passage a Medal and with the power vested in the Wizard affirmed that he was courageous, and the Lion went out and acted courageous, He needed an outside person to affirm his abilities even though they had been in him all the time.
Lou points out that many of us meet up with the Wicked Witch, instead of the Wizard of Oz. We may spend a lifetime being told how un-capable we are by those in authority over us. Over time we can begin to believe those messages and act just like they say, just as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and the Lion believed the positive pronouncement of the Wizard.
My goal is to be a true Wizard of Oz and to take every opportunity through Rite of Passage and One Time Affirmation to see the good in everyone and everything. I intend to offer a Rite of Passage and One Time Affirmation at every presentation that I do and in every opportunity I have to interact with another human being!
Another theme song for me now is:
I’m off to be the Wizard the wonderful Wizard of Oz
Because, because, because, because
Because of the wonderful things I does!
Another part of the movie that Lou didn’t mention is how Dorothy finally got what she wanted. This is especially relevant to me and is the ultimate rite of passage and one time affirmation. The Wizard offered to take Dorothy home in his hot air ballon, but through a series of snafus the Wizard left without her. Dorothy was glad that she had been able to help her friends, but was in some degree of despair because it appeared that her own dream was not to be fulfilled. That outside source that she had counted on was gone and she had no other hope; or did she.
In my version of the Wizard of Oz, Glenda is actually that light or flame that I talk about in each of us. Hindu myth called it the divine, placed deep inside of man where they were likely to never find it. Anyway, Dorothy listened to Glenda one more time and Glenda told her, “The power has been in you all along. Just close your eyes, click your heals and repeat, ‘There is no place like home, there is no place like home.’”
When Dorothy closed her eyes and remembered Who She Truly Was and Where Home Was, she returned home. The power was within her all along.
I feel that I’ve had the good fortune to be touched by several Wizards of Oz along my path and they helped me believe what already was, so that I’ve learned to act like who I truly am, not who I from time to time think I am. As wonderful as these experiences were, the ultimate adventure was when I quit looking outside of me and got my answers from within; when I truly came to believer, “There is no place like home,” and then went to that place!
I will continue being a Wizard whenever the chance is there, but even more important I will continue to invite others to become their own Wizard!
- A Rite of Passage or Graduation Ceremony
- A One Time Affirmation
- The Wizard of Oz
A One Time Affirmation is a statement of fact that has a high likelihood of becoming fact. I now pronounce you man and wife is such a statement. After that statement most young adults ACT like they are married.
The story, The Wizard of Oz kind of puts these two together with it’s own additional spin. When Dorothy is lost Glenda suggests she travel to the land of Oz and ask the Great Wizard to see if he can help her return to Kansas.
Along the path she runs into a brainless Scarecrow, a heartless Tin Man, and a cowardly Lion. When they reach the Wizard and ask for his help he looks at each one and continually confirms that they already had in them that which they were seeking.
However, he uses the 3 steps above to help them see that they possess that which they are seeking.
For the Scarecrow the Wizard said that his head was full of stuffin, but all that he needed was a diploma. By the power vested in the Wizard he conferred upon the Scarecrow a diploma and told him that he was smart. Based on that one-time affirmation, through a rite of passage, the Scarecrow went out and acted differently. It was in him all along, but it took an outside person affirming it before the Scarecrow chose to believe it and act accordingly.
For the Tin Man the Wizard said that all he lacked was a Clock so that he could hear it beat. Through the power vested in the Wizard he presented the Tin Man with a clock and pronounced that he had a heart. Again, an outside person simply confirmed what was already there present and the Tin Man went out acting like he had a heart. A one time affirmation, through a rite of passage caused the Tin Man to act differently.
For the Lion, the Wizard said that all he lacked was a Medal. He then bestowed upon the Lion in his Rite of Passage a Medal and with the power vested in the Wizard affirmed that he was courageous, and the Lion went out and acted courageous, He needed an outside person to affirm his abilities even though they had been in him all the time.
Lou points out that many of us meet up with the Wicked Witch, instead of the Wizard of Oz. We may spend a lifetime being told how un-capable we are by those in authority over us. Over time we can begin to believe those messages and act just like they say, just as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and the Lion believed the positive pronouncement of the Wizard.
My goal is to be a true Wizard of Oz and to take every opportunity through Rite of Passage and One Time Affirmation to see the good in everyone and everything. I intend to offer a Rite of Passage and One Time Affirmation at every presentation that I do and in every opportunity I have to interact with another human being!
Another theme song for me now is:
I’m off to be the Wizard the wonderful Wizard of Oz
Because, because, because, because
Because of the wonderful things I does!
Another part of the movie that Lou didn’t mention is how Dorothy finally got what she wanted. This is especially relevant to me and is the ultimate rite of passage and one time affirmation. The Wizard offered to take Dorothy home in his hot air ballon, but through a series of snafus the Wizard left without her. Dorothy was glad that she had been able to help her friends, but was in some degree of despair because it appeared that her own dream was not to be fulfilled. That outside source that she had counted on was gone and she had no other hope; or did she.
In my version of the Wizard of Oz, Glenda is actually that light or flame that I talk about in each of us. Hindu myth called it the divine, placed deep inside of man where they were likely to never find it. Anyway, Dorothy listened to Glenda one more time and Glenda told her, “The power has been in you all along. Just close your eyes, click your heals and repeat, ‘There is no place like home, there is no place like home.’”
When Dorothy closed her eyes and remembered Who She Truly Was and Where Home Was, she returned home. The power was within her all along.
I feel that I’ve had the good fortune to be touched by several Wizards of Oz along my path and they helped me believe what already was, so that I’ve learned to act like who I truly am, not who I from time to time think I am. As wonderful as these experiences were, the ultimate adventure was when I quit looking outside of me and got my answers from within; when I truly came to believer, “There is no place like home,” and then went to that place!
I will continue being a Wizard whenever the chance is there, but even more important I will continue to invite others to become their own Wizard!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Week 7 Extra Ordinary Genius
Affirmation:
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from the heart.
Momentums:
They described effective delegation as having 5 steps:
My ultimate goal is to continue seeing myself ever more as the universe does and to invite and support others to see themselves, likewise, as God sees them!
My two most fulfilling EOGs are
I am in High demand as I Passionately present the Playbook Series with authenticity from the heart.
Momentums:
- Prepare the first page of a Choice Process to take to next week’s class. Initially I’m thinking that it is on my need to look good to others.
- Delegate 3 of my 3 or 4 level tasks to someone who can do them better than me and enjoys doing them better.
- Strengthen my bond to my various teams (Buddies, Pit Crew, Spouse, Children, etc)
- Build my team of facility co-ordinators
- Create the specs for the website and workbook
- Be a mentor at this weekend’s Power of Choice
- Extra Ordinary Genius
- Good but not passionate
- Tolerable but not enjoyable
- Hate doing
They described effective delegation as having 5 steps:
- Find the right person
- A well-defined set of tasks with a specific outcome
- A specific time frame
- Boundaries within which they can act
- Touch Points for follow-up and feedback
- Website
- Workbook/Presentation Materials
- Advertising Material
My ultimate goal is to continue seeing myself ever more as the universe does and to invite and support others to see themselves, likewise, as God sees them!
My two most fulfilling EOGs are
- to create content and write authentically from my heart
- to communicate with other people authentically from my heart
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Another Example of Source Providing
Yesterday I received an eMail from Myrna. She had attached a half page flyer and a poster for our first workshop. I had just assumed that it would be up to me to create the collateral material (I’m still getting used to the idea that I don’t have to do everything alone or by my own muscle).
The flyer and poster were INCREDIBLE! She created an image of a cave that was super and her word-smithing is to be envied! I am very blessed to have people in my life who share my passion and help me to expand it by bringing their own unique views to it.
Thank you Myrna!
To see the poster go to http://web.me.com/thebigwiz/Playbook_by_Choice/Seminars.html
The flyer and poster were INCREDIBLE! She created an image of a cave that was super and her word-smithing is to be envied! I am very blessed to have people in my life who share my passion and help me to expand it by bringing their own unique views to it.
Thank you Myrna!
To see the poster go to http://web.me.com/thebigwiz/Playbook_by_Choice/Seminars.html
My first poem, The Committee of Fools and the Shadow
The Committee of Fools and the Shadow
by Michael W. Gifford
dedicated to Anne & Doug
and to my own Shadow
“Do this, do that, just listen to us,”
They cry from within.
“We know everything, and anything,
If we don’t you don’t need it.”
Thus the Committee of Fools has kept
me away from me all my life.
“No more you knaves…shut your mouths
I will not listen, give me silence.”
Out of the silence comes a still small voice,
“I’m here, I care, I’m you too!”
“But why have I never heard you, who are you?”
“They tried to drown me, so did you.”
“I love you…I know you had to survive,
but now you want more than that,
and so do I-I can help…please let me show you,
the other side, the embondaged you.”
I am your shadow…I am your power,
Unlike Hyde, I’m a beautiful bloke.
I just need air, and light, and hope,
Let us grow together once more.”
“You’re naked, you’re bleeding, your eyes how they wince.”
“I was left to die, but I won’t quit.”
“Let me nurse you and help you, how could I have left you?”
“You had no choice, but together we go…
Upward, onward, away from the past.”
“You’re beautiful, all clothed at last.”
“So are you as you wipe my tears.
I love you, as I knew I someday would.”
Together we go, my Shadow and I
Together in peace and harmony.
But what of the Committee of Fools?
Peace and Silence are not their game
While the Shadow and I go on our way,
The Committee of Fools continue to chatter.
But not with us, and no longer
Will they separate me from me.
by Michael W. Gifford
dedicated to Anne & Doug
and to my own Shadow
“Do this, do that, just listen to us,”
They cry from within.
“We know everything, and anything,
If we don’t you don’t need it.”
Thus the Committee of Fools has kept
me away from me all my life.
“No more you knaves…shut your mouths
I will not listen, give me silence.”
Out of the silence comes a still small voice,
“I’m here, I care, I’m you too!”
“But why have I never heard you, who are you?”
“They tried to drown me, so did you.”
“I love you…I know you had to survive,
but now you want more than that,
and so do I-I can help…please let me show you,
the other side, the embondaged you.”
I am your shadow…I am your power,
Unlike Hyde, I’m a beautiful bloke.
I just need air, and light, and hope,
Let us grow together once more.”
“You’re naked, you’re bleeding, your eyes how they wince.”
“I was left to die, but I won’t quit.”
“Let me nurse you and help you, how could I have left you?”
“You had no choice, but together we go…
Upward, onward, away from the past.”
“You’re beautiful, all clothed at last.”
“So are you as you wipe my tears.
I love you, as I knew I someday would.”
Together we go, my Shadow and I
Together in peace and harmony.
But what of the Committee of Fools?
Peace and Silence are not their game
While the Shadow and I go on our way,
The Committee of Fools continue to chatter.
But not with us, and no longer
Will they separate me from me.
My Passion for Life & My Mission with the Workshops
Alice Miller is one of my great teachers. John Bradshaw who talks about family systems and adult child issues quotes her extensively, so I looked her up and read Drama of the Gifted Child at a very vulnerable and important time in my life. Reading that book and then attending my first Community Building Workshop (CBW) with M Scott Peck is what precipitated my first poem, The Committee of Fools!
Alice talks about a system she calls Poisonous Pedagogy identified by a couple of primary beliefs. One is that the wife and children are chattel of the husband. The other is that children are born in sin and need to be disciplined and ‘made good.’ Many readers may react to that and say that that sounds awful but isn’t the state that they live in. For most of us, I would beg to differ. The religion I grew up in says it doesn’t believe in ‘Original Sin’ yet it is full of scripture to the effect that the ‘natural man is an enemy to God’ and their actions certainly testify to a belief that we are not okay without adult intervention to help us ‘grow up’ in the way of the Lord! My reading of Alice’s writings in this regard let to my belief in and publishing of my Healthy vs Poisonous Pedagogy Model in the back of our book, and the basis for much of the Playbook Series.
Anyway, in Alice Miller’s book, Banished Knowledge, she states as eloquently as I’ve heard it, my belief about good and evil and the state of the human condition. She writes:
It is not true that evil, destructiveness, and perversion inevitably form part of the human existence, no matter how often this is maintained. Bit it is true that we are daily producing more evil and, with it, an ocean of suffering for millions that is absolutely avoidable. When one day the ignorance arising from childhood repression is eliminated and humanity awakened, an end can be put to the production of evil.
In our Coaching Class on Tuesday, the biggest obstacle to us expressing our passion was a sense of judgment and proper behavior. There were comments like, ‘that’s so immature,’ or ‘I’m an adult.’ Jamie had us continually focus on being childlike and the more successful we were at being childlike the more we were able to feel passionate. As a society, we educate and discipline the power of God (being childlike) right out of individuals, making them ‘good’ adults.
My passion is to remember who I really am and to invite others to look inside and remember who they are too. I am a curious, innocent, bright eyed individual who loves to experiment and try new things; who doesn’t care how it looks to others. I love the journey and won’t be deterred or dampened by shoulds and oughts. That is what I believe is the natural state that is not only a friend of God, but God’s ultimate joy and desire for each of us. That is what I invite others to share?
I believe that having the courage to look inside for the internal flame planted by a higher source and then trusting that light to be The Light and living according to it, IS the way of Life! With all the pain and all the instructions that I was not okay, there was still a flame inside of me, and as I have turned to it and trusted it I have had increasingly more joy and satisfaction in my life!
Alice talks about a system she calls Poisonous Pedagogy identified by a couple of primary beliefs. One is that the wife and children are chattel of the husband. The other is that children are born in sin and need to be disciplined and ‘made good.’ Many readers may react to that and say that that sounds awful but isn’t the state that they live in. For most of us, I would beg to differ. The religion I grew up in says it doesn’t believe in ‘Original Sin’ yet it is full of scripture to the effect that the ‘natural man is an enemy to God’ and their actions certainly testify to a belief that we are not okay without adult intervention to help us ‘grow up’ in the way of the Lord! My reading of Alice’s writings in this regard let to my belief in and publishing of my Healthy vs Poisonous Pedagogy Model in the back of our book, and the basis for much of the Playbook Series.
Anyway, in Alice Miller’s book, Banished Knowledge, she states as eloquently as I’ve heard it, my belief about good and evil and the state of the human condition. She writes:
It is not true that evil, destructiveness, and perversion inevitably form part of the human existence, no matter how often this is maintained. Bit it is true that we are daily producing more evil and, with it, an ocean of suffering for millions that is absolutely avoidable. When one day the ignorance arising from childhood repression is eliminated and humanity awakened, an end can be put to the production of evil.
In our Coaching Class on Tuesday, the biggest obstacle to us expressing our passion was a sense of judgment and proper behavior. There were comments like, ‘that’s so immature,’ or ‘I’m an adult.’ Jamie had us continually focus on being childlike and the more successful we were at being childlike the more we were able to feel passionate. As a society, we educate and discipline the power of God (being childlike) right out of individuals, making them ‘good’ adults.
My passion is to remember who I really am and to invite others to look inside and remember who they are too. I am a curious, innocent, bright eyed individual who loves to experiment and try new things; who doesn’t care how it looks to others. I love the journey and won’t be deterred or dampened by shoulds and oughts. That is what I believe is the natural state that is not only a friend of God, but God’s ultimate joy and desire for each of us. That is what I invite others to share?
I believe that having the courage to look inside for the internal flame planted by a higher source and then trusting that light to be The Light and living according to it, IS the way of Life! With all the pain and all the instructions that I was not okay, there was still a flame inside of me, and as I have turned to it and trusted it I have had increasingly more joy and satisfaction in my life!
Source vs Force
I got this quote on a list that I am on. I normally just read the quotes and go on, but this one caught my attention and explained exactly what I am playing with:
The Law of Detachment accelerates the whole process of evolution. When you understand this law, you don’t feel compelled to force solutions. When you force solutions on problems, you only create new problems. But when you put your attention on uncertainty, and you witness the uncertainty while you expectantly wait for the solution to emerge out of the chaos and the confusion, then what emerges is something very fabulous and exciting.
This state of alertness – your preparedness in the present, in the field of uncertainty – meets with your goal and your intention and allows you to seize the opportunity. What’s the opportunity? It’s contained within every problem that you have in your life. Every single problem that you have in your life is the seed of an opportunity for some greater benefit. Once you have the perception, you open up to a whole range of possibilities – and this keeps the mystery, the wonder, the excitement, the adventure alive.
Deepak Chopra
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Thank you Deepak for once again explaining something simple, but foreign to who I have pretended to be.
The Law of Detachment accelerates the whole process of evolution. When you understand this law, you don’t feel compelled to force solutions. When you force solutions on problems, you only create new problems. But when you put your attention on uncertainty, and you witness the uncertainty while you expectantly wait for the solution to emerge out of the chaos and the confusion, then what emerges is something very fabulous and exciting.
This state of alertness – your preparedness in the present, in the field of uncertainty – meets with your goal and your intention and allows you to seize the opportunity. What’s the opportunity? It’s contained within every problem that you have in your life. Every single problem that you have in your life is the seed of an opportunity for some greater benefit. Once you have the perception, you open up to a whole range of possibilities – and this keeps the mystery, the wonder, the excitement, the adventure alive.
Deepak Chopra
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Thank you Deepak for once again explaining something simple, but foreign to who I have pretended to be.
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