Every Hour as a Miracle

TO ME, EVERY HOUR OF
THE LIGHT AND DARK
IS A MIRACLE,
EVERY CUBIC INCH OF
SPACE IS A MIRACLE.

~Walt Whitman

Of Note: To an observer, miracles describe all of Life. And Walt Whitman was an observant man who brought over from the other side a descriptive mind in order that we might see more clearly. This line comes from his short poem "Miracles." If a person wanted to get a sense of a poet in contact with the divine, recommended reading must include his epic tale "Songs of Myself." Here's a hint, the "myself" describes the journey of his soul through the world of men and with that in mind is quite a moving piece. It's reassuring to know that there are men and women among us who are in the know and leading us every step of the way.

Today's Weather Report: Since the last blog report, more snow has fallen. We have been inundated which was better than the alternative--frigid cold. But, the cold will descend on us tonight just in time for the new year. Don't know about you, but we will be in bed early. It's been quite a week with the funeral of Jim's Mom on Tuesday in Racine. Many blessings to all in 2010--it is shaping up to be quite a year.

Heavenly Blessings on Christmas!

The unthankful heart discovers no mercies...
but let the thankful heart sweep through the day
and, as the magnet finds iron, so it will find,
in any hour, some heavenly blessing!

~Henry Ward Beecher

Of Note: And what's more, a heart lit up with gratitude and love will then emanate the blessings so magnetized. Picture how the world would change if we actually saw the Christ light emanating from each of our hearts. We would then Know. But, even pretending we saw this light in each of our brothers and sisters could change the world overnight. On Christ-mas Day, let's take a minute and give this a try. Just for a minute. Tomorrow we can try two minutes. In sixty days we'd have a whole hour. In 1440 days we would have 24 hours covered. Bet we would not need more than that to see the Christ Light in everyone.

Today's Weather Report: The blizzard which started the night before last has yet to subside. Bet we have the 2 feet that was predicted. Apparently, we have 14 fresh inches since yesterday--and there was already 9 or so yesterday. More is expected. Amazingly, it was raining a little while ago but that was only momentary. Rain. Go figure. One neighbor described it as shoveling wet cement. Misty, our new puppy, is a great co-pilot in the snowplow. When things get too rough, she just puts her head under Jim's elbow. Merry Christmas to all!

Our Blossoming Souls

LET US BE GRATEFUL TO
PEOPLE WHO MAKE US HAPPY;
THEY ARE THE CHARMING GARDENERS
WHO MAKE OUR SOULS BLOSSOM.

~Marcel Proust

Of Note: It is the accepted wisdom that we are placed on this earth to attain a state of happiness. While happiness is not bad as emotions go, it is not a state that will induce the needed growth required by the soul in physical manifestation. We might actually be more grateful to those who make us unhappy, for these people can be the catalyst for change. That thought might be hard to accept--but reflection on it in the coming year might prove enlightening.

Today's Weather Report: The big news today is the blizzard that is currently blanketing the Midwest on Christmas Eve. We have at least 9 inches of snow with much more to come in the next 24 to 36 hours. Could be that we get the two feet mentioned on the weather reports. The East coast was inundated last weekend with two feet of snow, so guess it is our turn now. Misty, our new huge German Shepherd puppy, is a long-coat and is right at home burying herself in the fluffy stuff. Jim's Mom died peacefully last Saturday so we are mourning her passing while at the same time celebrating her life. At 90 years old, she lived a long, fruitful life and was line-dancing just a little over a year ago. We went to see her last week and am glad she waited for us to say our goodbyes.

Your Name Echoes Through the Universe

Eternal spirit --
Earth-Maker, Pain-Bearer, Life-Giver;
Source of all that is and that shall be;
Father and Mother of all.

Loving God, in whom is heaven.
the hallowing of Your name echoes
through the universe!

~The New Zealand Prayer Book

Of Note: Have you ever asked why God needs us at all? Why He just doesn't do it without us--certainly Someone who is omniscient, omnipresent and omnipotent doesn't need a mere human. Or does He? The answer is yes, He does. Ageless wisdom teaches that God is not conscious as we understand the term and comes to KNOW through us as He evolves. The breadth and depth of this "knowing" is beyond our imagination but the synthesis of all our experience is Humanity's contribution to God and ultimately the universe. Our responsibility is enormous, but Humanity slowly but surely appears to be awakening to its destiny as a Light-bearer. Ever onward and upward--both for Humanity and for God.

Today's Weather Report: Jim reports that the temperature is in the 20's though I haven't been out today myself to check it out. He had a nice fire going in the fireplace when I awoke this morning for which I was grateful on this chilly day. The guys are still hunting but still not shooting anything. It would appear that the local wolf pack of 13 has taken their share of the deer leaving none for the stalking humans.

Keep It Simple

SIMPLE PLEASURES
BRING GREAT HAPPINESS.

~ Mary Helen Brindell

Of Note: A friend says to me all the time: "Keep it simple." I couldn't agree more in principle, but in practice it is much more difficult. Just when I think I've got SIMPLICITY down, some seemingly complicated person, place or thing occurs and blows my good intentions to smithereens. That's why simplicity is a common theme in this blog. It is a way to keep the attitude front and center in my brain. Actually, I've been told that simplicity is a divine attribute, and the nearer to the fact we get, the closer to "heaven" we've come. Just shows I've got a ways to go yet!

Today's Weather Report: Snow with a mind to stay around fell for the first time this season. The first snow is always so beautiful though its allure dissipates sometime in March for me. For others who flee to warmer climates, any snow is too much. I was surprised when I moved up here from Texas thirty years ago that cabin fever is an actual malady. Some folks go a little crazy toward the end of the winter after they've been cooped up without much sunshine for days on end. Others just hibernate and come out when the spring thaw arrives. I would be in the latter category.

The Same Stream of Life

The same stream of life that runs through
my veins night and day runs through
the world and dances in rhythmic measure.

~Rabindranath Tagore

Of Note: We are all one is a tired truism that we learn from childhood. Problem is, we really don't believe it. How do we know that? Because our actions do not reflect our "belief." A true belief is mirrored in action. If we really knew and understood the depth of our Oneness, our world would resonate with the spiritual values of sharing, justice, compassion and brotherhood. A practice of meditation upon these values and attempts to model them in whatever environment we find ourselves would go a long way in the transformation of humanity. What's more, it's free.

Today's Weather Report: The sun peeked out this morning,but was only teasing. Soon heavy clouds rolled in, and we were back to the usual November weather. If anyone has an idea on how to break a puppy from eating cat poop, please let me know. Maybe that is the reason the cats have not been so skittish around the dog--they smell their smell on her breath and think she's morphed into one of them, only bigger.

Always Know In Your Heart

ALWAYS KNOW IN YOUR HEART

THAT YOU ARE FAR BIGGER THAN
ANYTHING THAT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU.

~Dan Zadra

Of Note: "Turning the other cheek" is a recommendation coming from the highest authority, Jesus the Christ. He not only stated the fact but lived Love. It was this demonstration--ending in death--that allowed Humanity to see what the divine quality of Love could be. But more importantly, His resurrection anchored Love in the hearts of Humanity and flipped the switch to "ON." It is the gift of Christ, and for that, He is called Savior.

Today's Weather Report: At 25 degrees Fahrenheit today, we could say BURRR! and mean it. A light dusting of snow greeted us when we arose this morning. The new doggy, Misty, hadn't seen snow before, and she frolicked like a little kid. We can't wait until she experiences a few feet of it. The cats, two of whom are pictured above, and dog declared a truce today--or maybe they just took Sunday off. Whatever the reason, we were pleased. Maybe animals can learn to turn the other cheek, too.

The Mirror of Introspection

Through love and sincerity,
continuously beautify
your inner life in every way
by daily looking into the
mirror of introspection.

~Paramahansa Yogananda

Of Note: Busy lives provide little time for introspection. We fill our days with lots of seemingly important stuff until we fall into bed each night exhausted. So one day gets piled onto the next until we are old and look back not quite knowing where the time went and what we did with it. There is another way. Ageless wisdom suggests a period of looking back on the day with a short reflection as to our thoughts and subsequent actions. Great insight is possible with such a practice. It really sounds too simple to work, but it does. And besides that it's free.

Today's Weather Report: Dense cloud cover described the day. Temps were in the 20's so a jacket was a must outdoors. Our new dog, Misty, is adjusting very well--it is like she has lived here her whole life. What energy! However, the cats have not adjusted to her energy yet and stay hidden most of the time. The only exception is the old cat, Beaner, who walks right by the dog as if she isn't there. Guess it helps that the elder feline is blind in one eye and deaf.

Planting Seeds That Will Flower

We plant seeds that will
flower as results in our lives,
so best to remove the weeds of
anger, jealousy, envy and doubt,
that peace and abundance
may manifest for all.

~Dorothy Day

Of Note: Service to humanity and nature's other kingdoms is part of our divine nature and a gift to the universe. Removal of the weeds of vice is one form of service and is the place from whence every disciple starts on the path. Sometimes it's easier to begin with one vice and work on it for a month or more. When it no longer hinders or hinders less, then we are able to tackle the second. By the time the third and fourth roll around, we get pretty good at it. What's more, the renewal feels good and the guilt associated with poor performance disappears. There is no need to wait until the New Year to start this feel-good practice. Let's start now on Thanksgiving--there's no better time than the present as a wise man once said.

Today's Weather Report: Well, the forty degree Fahrenheit temps couldn't last forever and today it's in the twenty's and cloudy. It's rather dreary actually. But with all we have to be grateful for, who cares about the cloud cover today. Our new dog, Misty, is laying at my feet fast asleep. Jim pooped her out this morning with a long walk. He could not get over her exuberance. According to him, she can cover 100 yards in a matter of seconds. That's what I would call "lightening fast." HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all and many thanks to my sister, Marie, for her continued support of this blog with her outstanding photos!

The Most Efficient Mirror

No man is the originator of anything.
He is merely a mirror in which
the cosmos is reflected.

And the wisest man is simply
the most efficient mirror.

~ Dr. A. S. Raleigh

Of Note: This statement reflects the truism "As above, so below." One meaning of these words is this: we, humanity, can know the cosmos by looking at ourselves. Thing is, we don't really know our true Selves. When we eventually come to that revelation--and each of us do--it is said the whole universe will open before our startled eyes.

Today's Weather Report: It is still in the mid-forties Fahrenheit, if you can believe it. Tell you the truth, we can't. I don't remember any late November when the temperatures lingered much above freezing, let alone in the forties. Today we welcomed it because we added a new member to our family, a 7-month of German Shepherd named Misty. Tonight she is lonely without her kennel mates and is pacing downstairs--all the while whimpering pitifully. Nothing can sooth her at the moment. Hopefully, this phase will pass within a few days, and she will slip effortlessly into our family.

Giving Makes a Life

From what we get we can make a living;
what we give, however, makes a life.

~Arthur Ashe

Of Note: Giving opens the gates of heaven. It is as if we have crawled out of a hole and see the light of day for the first time. Karma is accumulated as we take and take; it is only by giving that this cycle ends. Giving physically is not bad but often occurs with selfish motives, even if we don't want to admit it to ourselves. Therefore, it's actually a form of taking. Giving mentally through meditation is the key to the door.

Today's Weather Report: Dark and dreary and getting more dark and dreary. The temp is 38 to 40 degrees. Jim just reported that he and his hunting partner heard a wolf very close today. Apparently, it let out a two minute howl....probably he or she got the deer for which the hunters were watching. That's only a guess, of course. Though, the 13-member wolf pack that our neighbor sighted recently could definitely explain the lack of deer in our area the last two years. When we asked, a local wolf authority said that a wolf pack of that size is unprecedented and would probably not remain that size for long.

A Friend Who Really Cares

A friend who can be silent with us in

moments of despair or confusion,
who can tolerate not knowing,
not curing, not healing--
that is the friend who really cares.

~Henri Nouwen

Of Note: A friend who can be silent at the right moment is a friend indeed. That kind of friend knows that our souls have everything well in hand, and each of us needs to work through our own life's experiences. It is guaranteed that friend's like this have had good friend mentors themselves. Being such a friend and mentoring others in the process is a gift to the planet.

Today's Weather Report: It's still hovering in the forties although the clouds rolled in sometime during the night. The day could be officially classified as dreary. Hunting season starts at sunrise on Saturday, and the guys are talking about hunting in tee-shirts! For those who side with the deer, it is interesting to watch how smart they get this time of year. We will see them every day before the first day of deer hunting then they disappear until the day after the season closes. Really. Don't know where they go, but they go somewhere deep into the woods safe from guns and bullets.

Where Love Is

WHERE LOVE IS,
THERE IS GOD ALSO.

~Leo Tolstoy

Of Note: Tolstoy had it right that God is anywhere love hangs out. What he might have been keeping from us, is that God is also where love is not. After all, if we accept that God is everywhere and everything, that would have to be the case.

Today's Weather Report: It was a grand 44 degrees Fahrenheit all day. I spent the afternoon cleaning the new windows in the Taj Mahal hunting cabin on stilts. Now they are more clean than the windows at home. With the plastic down and windows in, the view is spectacular. One side looks out on Mossback Lake, the other at a deep ravine where the Namekagon River used to flow.

The Light of the Sun

As the light of the Moon is the guarantee
that the light of the Sun exists,
so the light of the Sun is the
guarantee of a still greater Light.

~ Master Djwal Khul

Of Note: We take for granted the lone moon shining above us at night, and the sun peering down on us every day. That they point to a greater Existence could be a new thought. Not mentioned in this passage is the "lesser" light blazing in each and every atom, which continues the hierarchical chain with no beginning and no end. Beautiful really. The day will come when Humanity will partake in the vision and literally see all the connections. Even now individuals have the sight and are the forerunners of a new age. They look forward to the day all will follow.

Today's Weather Report: Even though it was bright and sunny today, the temps did not rise above freezing. So, the warm outside appearance was a little deceptive. We usually have only 4 days of sunshine in November and have had many more than that in the first 17 days of the month. Sunshine is always welcome. Because of the unseasonal, delightful weather, the "Taj Mahal" hunting cabin now sports windows, and the rubber roof will be completed tomorrow. No more rain inside!

Love is a Work of Peace

EVERY ACT OF LOVE IS A WORK
OF PEACE NO MATTER HOW SMALL.

~ Blessed Mother Teresa

Of Note: Mother Teresa is a favorite on this blog, it seems. Some people are just good at summing up the truth in a few sentences or less. These kind of folks are definitely in direct communication with the Divine Consciousness. For me personally, this ability is one or two steps removed from where I'm at--though we will all be there some day, I believe. This thought gives real meaning to the phrase "Onward and Upward. "

Today's Weather Report: It was 51 degrees today for the high. 51 degrees is warmer than it was for half of the summer! Odd weather, but welcome--even if it was overcast like a typical November day. At this moment it's raining. We know that because the King of the Cats just came in soaking wet and wanted to get close. Ick. There's nothing worse than a big, wet, smelly cat. I take that back, a big wet, smelly dog is worse although I'm sure readers of this blog might have other nominations in the wet, smelly animal category.

Being Love

SPREAD LOVE EVERYWHERE WE GO:
FIRST OF ALL IN OUR OWN HOMES.

LET NO ONE EVER COME TO US WITHOUT
LEAVING BETTER AND HAPPIER.

BE THE LOVING EXPRESSION OF GOD'S
KINDNESS IN OUR WARM GREETINGS.

~ Mother Teresa

Of Note: Mother Teresa reminds us that Love is a way of being rather than an action. We are inherently loving beings and eventually attain that lofty goal through the evolution of consciousness. A loving being emanates a sweet perfume that enhances the entire environment and attracts magnetically, much like flowers, which are powerful and beautiful signs indicating the path of love. Ask any gardener if this is not true.

Today's Weather Report: The sunrise this morning was spectacular--blood red with streaks of bright pink and mellow purple. The old timers have a saying "Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning." That could explain why the clouds rolled in later in the morning though nothing has happened so far. However, I'm still waiting because I've got faith in those old sailors.

Inevitability

AT FIRST DREAMS

SEEM IMPOSSIBLE,
THEN IMPROBABLE,
THEN INEVITABLE.

~ Christopher Reeves

Of Note: You might have noticed a theme since I started writing the blog again after taking the summer off. This insightful statement by the former Superman summed it up in a few simple words. Through day-dreams or use of the imagination, acting "As If" always works. As a matter of fact, it's the oldest psychological trick in the book, probably going back to ancient times. Back then, folks most likely just did what worked without thinking so much about it and may have gone straight from the dreams to the inevitable in one fell swoop. It is our modern brain that has added the thought of improbability and impossibility to the mix. The world might benefit greatly if we got back to the ancient knowledge and utilization of our creative skills without taking so many steps to get there.

Today's Weather Report: It was warm again outside, probably in the 40's. The roofers came out to begin the project on the Taj Mahal hunting cabin. By the end of the week, we will be able to say "Let it rain, snow, hail or sleet." With a new rubber roof and windows, the building will be snug and will no longer rain on the inside like it did a few weeks back. On another note: it is 5:00 pm and dark outside for the most part. What a difference from July and August when it was light until almost 10:00 pm!

Discovering Fire

Someday, after we have mastered
the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity,
we shall harness for God the energies of love.

Then for the second time in the history of the world,
we will have discovered fire.

~ Teilhard de Chardin

Of Note: Can you imagine a world where Love, Truth and Beauty reign supreme? Light would definitely have to be part of that bountiful scene. In my mind's eye, all beings glow from the inside out--like fireflies--each emanating it's own combination of color from a scintillating palette. It will take such imaginative thoughts to create a beautiful future. Might I suggest that every day we take five minutes and rest with our eyes closed thinking about a future filled with Love, Truth and Beauty. The universe will thank us for the thoughtful contribution--and if nothing else, it will be the best five minutes we spend each day in communion with all like-minded people.

Today's Weather Report: Here we are talking about fire again. As I was reporting on it two days ago, unbeknown to me, Jim was fighting a big grass fire in our field! It burned a large section before going out--thankfully, two neighbors helped. Although the field is a sooty black now, next spring the growing grass will be thrilled with the ash. Today it was a balmy 51 degrees Fahrenheit, and a friend and I enjoyed a lunch of soup and salad in the streaming sunlight.

Afire With God

EARTH'S CRAMMED WITH HEAVEN,
AND EVERY COMMON BUSH
AFIRE WITH GOD.

~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Aurora Leigh

Of Note: That "God is Fire" is a foundational belief in ageless wisdom. It is not the only manifestation of God on the physical plane, but it is one of the easiest to conceptualize. We all know what fire looks like and what are its exoteric qualities. Heat, light, color, sound, movement. But the essence of fire is still a mystery to most of humanity because it has its origins on planes we cannot see. Substance on the invisible etheric plane is fire as it is on every plane including the mental and astral. When we get "all fired up," we are recalling this truth held collectively by the whole. It has been said that the etheric lines of communication, the light and sound waves of the air, underlie all human and planetary relationships and evolutions. Thus, it is invisible fire that binds us and holds all together as one. The Lucis Trust offers 429 half-hour radio programs concerning the tenets of ageless wisdom. For example, a program concerning the etheric body is number 361. Individual programs can be accesses on-line at www.lucistrust.org. This is a FREE offering to anyone with a spark of interest in universal knowledge.

Today's Weather Report: Wow, it's 50 degrees Faherenheit right now! So warm that the bulbs which arrived in the mail today were quickly planted in the still unfrozen dirt. That will not be the case for long, however. These bulbs were sent because of a small donation we made to the Arbor Day Foundation, whose mission is to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees--and the organization backs this up by planting trees all over themselves. We had not been members before this year, but I am impressed so far.

The Seasons and Breathing

Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.

Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.

~Yoko Ono

Of Note: The four seasons are reminiscent of the four cycles of breathing: inspiration, higher interlude, expiration, lower interlude. Activity followed by inactivity, and then again. It is during those periods of inactivity, the interludes, where the fires carried from the breath create. Paradoxically, these are the magical times. We might remember that in-activity has its place as we scurry from one doing to another in a constant state of busy-ness. We are told that without moments of quiet through meditation, we will not discover our true Self. Sogyal Rinpoche said of meditation: "Its purpose is to awaken in us the sky-like nature of the mind, and to introduce us to that which we really are, unchanging pure awareness that underlies the whole of life and death."

Today's Weather Report: At 40 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny, you would think it is spring outside. Summer and winter are the extremes and not interchangeable, but there are days in spring and fall that could fool you. This photo of the leaning maple tree was taken last fall on the Namekagon River that runs next to our property. It clings to live with perseverance though one day will fall into the river and be swept away by the currents.

The Wonders of the Universe

The more clearly we focus our attention on the
wonders and realities of the universe around us,
the less taste we shall have for destruction.

~Rachel Carson

Of Note: Some may grouse at the money spent on the national space program. After all, couldn't this money be better spent feeding the poor or taking care of the sick and homeless? I have felt that way a number of times during the many takeoffs and landings of the soon obsolete space shuttle. But, then I think of the breathtaking and paradigm-shifting photographs of the universe beamed from the Hubble Space Telescope and reconsider. While providing sustenance for bodily needs is vitally important, nourishing the mind is equally so. One could argue that using the mind is the foundation of a sustainable future; indeed, its proper use might guarantee that there is a future to experience.

Today's Weather Report: When we got up this morning, clouds and drizzle welcomed us. At 34 degrees Fahrenheit, we were wondering how long the drizzle would last because a 2 to 4 degree drop would guarantee icy roads. Let me tell you, light rain in those conditions is the worst. Thankfully, it never got below freezing. The lone duck above was photographed on a gorgeous day in August by my daughter, Susanne, during a visit we made to Bayfield on the shores of Lake Superior. The duck thought she carried food and soon a whole flock of ducks arrived waiting for a handout. Unfortunately for them, the only things we toted were a camera, purses and a shopping bag. They soon dispersed, but not before several pictures were snapped. On another note, many thanks to www.gratefulness.org for the many quotes that are delivered to my email every day and find their way to this blog.

Hugging as a Miracle Drug

Hugging is nothing less
than a miracle drug.
Hugging is all natural.
It is organic, naturally sweet,
no artificial ingredients,
non-polluting,
environmentally friendly
and 100% wholesome.

~ Charles Faraone
Chicken Soup for the Soul

Of Note: Isn't hugging great? Besides all the above attributes, giving hugs is free. And free is good these days. Rachel Ramen said that in the silence of listening, we can know ourselves in anyone. We could say the same about hugging. For in heart meeting heart, no secrets remain.

Today's Weather Report: This glorious sunset last evening predicted the bright and beautiful day that greeted us this morning. I have photographed out my front door a multitude of sunsets over the past two years, and many of these shots have graced these pages. Last evening's was the most stunning and spectacular ever, bar none. Maybe the heavens were giving us a real show because it was All Saint's Day.

Imagination as the Fountainhead

WHAT IF IMAGINATION AND ART
ARE NOT FROSTING AT ALL,
BUT THE FOUNTAINHEAD
OF HUMAN EXPERIENCE?

~ Rolio May
The Courage to Create

Of Note: It is predicted that some day in the future we will not work as we do now. As Humanity moves closer and closer to its ultimate destiny, that of Light-bearer for the universe, simplicity will reign and needs will be met. People will not be enslaved by money as they are now. Sharing will have taken the place of hoarding on a global level. Everyone will be educated, and children will understand that all are one. How will this come about? Only by our use of the creative imagination now to envision a future where love, light and power prevail. Because of the immutable cosmic law, energy follows thought, acting AS IF the future is here now is a good start to a transformative meditative exercise.

Today's Weather Report: It rained all afternoon, on and off, following a bright, sunshining morning. Temps are in the low to middle forties. Pretty typical for a fall day. Historically, November has few days of sunshine at all. The little we got this morning may be all there is most of the month.

Investing Your Humanity

A little friendship, a little sympathy,
a little sociability, a little human toil
is needed in every nook and corner.

Therefore, search and see if there is not some
place where you may invest your humanity.

~Albert Schweitzer

Of Note: Just think, if everyone served as Dr. Schweitzer suggested, the world would change overnight. No one would be out too much because implementing his suggestions is basically free. What really stymies us is inertia and the hopeless feeling that one person can't make a significant difference. Thing is, we might just have to get over looking for immediate results. The emanations of love spread through service are invisible and long lasting--having faith in that concept would free us to joyfully give and leave the results to take care of themselves.

Today's Weather Report: Yesterday it was in the 50's Fahrenheit but chilly because it was damp. Today it is just plain chilly because the temperature dropped to the low 30's. On the way into town, it started to snow--or maybe that was sleet. Whatever it was, it thankfully stopped within a few minutes because I did not relish driving on potentially slippery roads. Good news! The old 1937 dump truck parked in our pole barn was fixed today by the local implement mechanic and should be running after the battery is charged. Its conversion from a 6 to a 12 volt electrical system was stymied two years ago when the repairman at the time moved out of town. The dump truck was great for hauling things around, and we've missed having it running.

Sacrifice as the Best Possible Business Policy

Sacrifice is the very door to affluence.
It is by giving that we receive.
Self-sacrifice is, therefore, not a duty,
but the best possible business policy.

~Dr. A. S. Raleigh
Science of Motion and Number

Of Note: Dr. Raleigh has a good point. If we accepted his thought, gone would be the previous concept of sacrifice as dry and dreary. You know, the self-flagration stuff. Instead, sacrifice would come to mean a joyful giving--the ultimate act of love.

Today's Weather Report: Clouds welcomed us this morning but the sun peeked out later in the day. Around noon it was 39 degrees Fahrenheit, but it probably got into the low 40's before the sun went down. It is getting dark early now, starting at about 6:30 pm. Before the winter solstice in December, it will be dark by 4:30 pm. No kidding. That contrasts with the summer when we have light until almost 10:00 pm. Winter hibernation has real meaning both for humans and animals in the far northwoods of Wisconsin!

Big Change, Small Steps

BIG CHANGE STARTS WITH SMALL STEPS.

~ Anonymous

Of Note: Back when I was 34, I got braces at the suggestion of a friend who was a dentist. Some folks asked why I would bother with it--as if it was too late in my life for change. Slowly over four years the crooked teeth came into alignment and to this day a retainer, applied weekly, keeps them in place. It was my first experience with the truism: "If you don't start down the path, then you will never arrive." With braces, the end could be seen from the beginning. Admittedly, it is much more frightening when this is not the case. It might be reassuring to think of change simply as movement forward, taken one baby step at a time. The important thing is to get moving.

Today's Weather Report: Oh, glorious sun, how I love it when you shine! Particularly after a VERY gloomy day the day before. It was in the forties today, and the colorful fall leaves glistened in the light. The swamp-loving tamarack trees are golden and will soon loose all their needles. At first sight, the trees look like sickly fir trees, until one realizes the yellow needles are a natural part of the northern Wisconsin landscape in the fall.

Standing Where You Are

DO WHAT YOU CAN
WITH WHAT YOU HAVE
WHERE YOU ARE.

~ Theodore Roosevelt

Of Note: Taking a stand has many connotations. Spiritually it can mean standing at the center without deviation, a steadfastness of mind as it were. An outcome of this would be a calm, centered attitude toward whatever comes our way. Even though this might not seem possible at the moment, such unwavering standing is part of our evolutionary future. Starting to picture such a possibility will one day aid in producing the projected outcome because energy inevitably follows thought.

Today's Weather Report: My Mom assured me tonight that lakes overcome by drought eventually refill. It does not seem possible at the moment that our lake will ever recover, but I will take her word for it. The rain today may inch us closer to that eventuality. Like I have said many time before, bring it on. Last night our two resident deer came very close to the house to munch on some of the last green vegetation in the garden. At this point it does not matter because the green will be done shortly anyway. In the spring, I would have been out there shooing them off but now they can eat what they want to fatten up for the long winter ahead. I noticed that the baby no longer has spots so it can no longer officially be called a bambi.

Reach High

Reach high, for stars
lie hidden in your soul.
Dream deep, for every
dream precedes the goal.

~ Pamella Vaull Starr

Of Note: I have a special affinity for TheHungerSite.com and post a link to it on the right. Under six different categories, a person is able to donate to the specific cause for FREE just by clicking in the brightly colored box on each of the six pages. Just think, with one click we can impact hunger in the world, or breast cancer detection, or rain forest devastation, or literacy, or animal welfare. Plus, the site is full of information about the initiatives--but only asks for the click. Want to start one of those 28 day habits mentioned here so many times? This is a simple and easy one with which to begin.

Today's Weather Report: Although drippy because of the heavy rain yesterday, the sun was out today and a jacket was unnecessary--meaning it was about 40 or so, though I never officially looked. We were busy readying the place for a special guest--Jim's chemistry teacher from high school, who just happens to be a nun. What a delightful visit we've had since her arrival at 3 pm. Interestingly, she is the influence behind his decision to pursue an undergraduate engineering degree--a story she heard for the first time tonight. We all shook our heads in amazement at the influence people can have on others without even knowing it.

All is Energy

Much of the true revelations since the time of the Christ
has come to the world along the line of science.

The presentation, for instance, of material substance
as essentially only a form of energy was as great
a revelation as any given by the Christ or the Buddha.

Who shall say that the statement "God is Love" is
of more value than the statement "All is Energy"?

~A. A. Bailey

Of Note: As we speak, a brave group of scientists is bringing to the world the idea that the universe is electrical in nature--meaning positive and negative energies shape what we see. That might not sound like earth-shattering news but mainstream science postulates that the space is not influenced by electrical charge. To make up for phenomenon that can't be explained by a non-electrical model, the Big Bang, Black Holes and the like are mathematically invented and then accepted by astrophysicists around the globe. Soon, hypotheses are seeping into the lay media as incontrovertible truth when in actuality nothing has been proven. On the other hand, when electrical engineers and plasma physicists see photos beamed from the Hubble telescope, they say to themselves, "We've seen this same thing in our lab, it looks just like Birkeland currents" or whatever. Their explanations are straightforward and based on proven physical laws. Many predict that within the next 5 to 10 years the evidence will be so overwhelming that the electric universe model will be the accepted standard. This knowledge will accelerate the understanding that all beings are electrically One without beginning or end. As above, so below. Check out www.thunderbolts.info for more information on this fascinating subject.

Today's Weather Report: It's in the thirties today, just a little above freezing. The rain has stopped but the clouds persist. Nothing could be done for the flat little roof on the Taj Mahal; so, a professional will be called in to fix the problem. Without a question, when it is raining as much inside as out, the time has come. I don't usually mention sports, but a momentous day is coming up on November 1st: for the first time ever, all four professional leagues (NBA, NFL, NHL and MLB) will be playing games on the same day. If you or someone you love is interested, check out Inhistoric.com for more such tidbits.

Transcending Barriers

The sharing of knowledge, ideas and values
is the noblest way to transcend barriers.

In this sense, globalization is the architect
which constructs academic
bridges across geophysical landscapes.

~Her Highness Shiekha
Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned

Of Note: Next month Qatar is hosting the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE.) 1000 world renowned experts and decision-makers will converge to map out challenges and solutions, tools and practices in the field of education. The organizers, including the Qatar Foundation chaired by the Sheikha, promise a unique global and a multidisciplinary approach. The event will culminate in presentation of the WISE Awards 2009 to the "six most significant achievements that have contributed to improving pluralism, sustainability and innovation in the field of education." Although sustainability and innovation have been common themes these days in many fields, pluralism has not been. As used by the foundation, pluralism is defined as "creating education for respect and understanding, increased access and equalities in a globalized education." It is based on the principle expressed above by Her Highness. Not many would look to the Middle East for dynamic movement in the all important area of education. But we may be in for a surprise. To find out more, click on www.wise-qatar.org.

Today's Weather Report: How often have we seen a 100% chance of rain in the forecast? Not often, I would guess. Today is the day, though-and it IS raining so the prediction came true at our house. Bring it on. We will also get to see if the leak is fixed at the Taj Mahal cabin that I worked on two days ago. This leak is the last one and has been persistent. If water is still coming in, more drastic measures will have to be taken but maybe not until the spring. At 40 degrees Fahrenheit which it is today, caulk and the like will no longer work.

A Long Time

WHAT A LONG TIME IT CAN
TAKE TO BECOME THE PERSON
ONE HAS ALWAYS BEEN.

~Parker Palmer
Center for Courage and Renewal

Of Note: The evolution of consciousness takes a long time. I mean a really long time. That's where the concept of reincarnation comes into play. Ageless wisdom teaches that it is the soul evolving over eons of time rather than a personality, which changes from lifetime to lifetime. The personality is only a vehicle for the soul--a means of expression as it were. Over millions of years it "tries on" every imaginable combination until ultimately, having tried them all, no longer craves the human experience. Personalities with souls at this juncture often stand out as servers of Humanity. Look around, read the news. Appreciate their sacrifice, for their suffering has been great.

Today's Weather Report: The weather forecasters originally said today was to be a carbon copy of yesterday. Well, it wasn't. Sunday's blowing winds brought clouds right behind it, and rain looked immanent all day. So far, we haven't been graced with any precipitation but that could change at any moment. That's AOK with us, bring on the rain. We need every drop in our drought-stricken area.

Smiling as Peace Work

If in our daily work we can smile,
not only we, but everyone will profit from it.
This is the most basic kind of peace work.

~Thich Nhat Hanh
Buddhist Teacher

Of Note: Not all of us can be Hillary Clinton, who as Secretary of State is responsible for "Big Picture" peacemaking throughout the world. Many of us just go about our daily lives feeling essentially helpless when it comes to Peace on Earth. This Buddhist teacher certainly has a good suggestion, doesn't he? Smiling--it's free, simple, and we all can do it, often. It's a no excuse kind of solution. And what's more, studies has shown it's infectious and raises the good hormones in our bodies. So what are we waiting for? This is our chance to start changing the world right where we are. This quote came to us via www.64-days.org which provides 64 daily practices in non-violence. On day 64 we read: "Today, rejoice in the work that you have done. Celebrate the journey that you have made with countless others who believe that every individual can move the world in the direction of peace with their non-violent choices and actions."

Today's Weather Report: It was supposed to be in the 50's today, but I bet it got up into the low 60's Fahrenheit. I had a jacket on when working outside but was uncomfortably warm. The wind was blowing to beat the band until 2:00 pm when it suddenly died down. Before that, all the chimes around the house were singing. It was amazing that with 4 different chimes, the tune was so melodious, soulfully melodious.

The Glowing Kingdom of Our Love

Extend the boundaries of the
glowing kingdom of your love,
gradually include your family,
your neighbors, your community,
your country, all countries
-- all sentient creatures.

~Paramahansa Yogananda

Of Note: Ageless wisdom suggests an evening review of one's daily thoughts and actions. Part of this activity includes making specific plans for improvement the next day. Mr. Yogananda's advise would fit well into such a process. Extending the boundaries of our "glowing kingdom of love" might start out as an "as if" exercise of the imagination but if practiced regularly would definitely change us. And, just think, as our mind changed, so would the world--one person at a time.

Today's Weather Report: Today the last daffodil and crocus bulbs went into the ground with several of the cats "helping." This is by far the latest I have planted bulbs but thankfully digging was not a problem. It was in the 40's Fahrenheit, and no jacket was required. The sun kept peeking out from behind the clouds as if it couldn't make up its mind whether to go or stay. Tomorrow, it is supposed to be in the 50's, and we are going to try caulking a couple of leaks at the Taj Mahal. I say "try" because the caulk may or may not work at that temperature. Guess we will find out.

Let's Send Poverty to Museums

Make people believe that
we can send poverty to museums.
When I talk to people about it,
they laugh and say it's impossible.

But when you don't believe something,
you can't achieve it.
You have to imagine and make
that imagination achievable.

~Muhammad Yunus

Of Note: Most folks had never heard of Muhammad Yunus before he won the Nobel Peace Prize a few years back. His contribution to the world was a belief in a poverty-free society and his translation of this belief into action through the creation of a micro-credit bank. Micro-credit provides small loans to the poor, sometimes as little as $50, to start a business or other enterprise. Yunus opened the first Grameen Bank in his home country of Bangladesh. From these humble beginnings, the bank now has a staff of 28,000, 8 million borrowers and 2,600 branches, including a program in New York City. The new ability to borrow has particularly impacted disadvantaged women around the world. Amazingly, $100 million flows through monthly and any dividends are returned to the borrowers who own the bank. When asked in TIME magazine this week if microloans have been hard hit by the recession, Yunus replied: "We use very local money that is going to the local poor, so there is no way the hit taken by the financial centers of the world could be transmitted to us. We are OK."

Today's Weather Report: Partly sunny and cool--what you could call a typical October day. Yesterday it rained a wee bit, but not enough to put a dent in the lake level, which has not moved all summer. Only a few places in the United States are on the official government drought map but northern Wisconsin is one of them. Fisherman used to be able to fish from the pier and catch all they wanted in about 15 minutes. Now any fishing experience on this lake takes a boat because the water has all but disappeared from under the pier.

Anybody Can Serve

Everybody can be great
because anybody can serve.
You don't have to have a
college degree to serve.

You only need a heart full of grace,
and a soul generated by love.

~Martin Luther King

Of Note: MLK is giving us in three short sentences the formula for moving onward and upward on our evolutionary journey. What he does not say is physical service is only the outcome of service on the mental level, the home of the soul. Thus, a mind ignited by the heart serves. This concept of service may be a new one, but it makes practical sense for when the head and heart combine all things become possible.

Today's Weather Report: Yesterdays snows departed leaving a gorgeous, sunny albeit cold day in its place. Now more snow clouds have rolled in. Yesterday before turning off the waterworks, we watched a flock of robins frolic in one of the pools. I have never seen so many robins together, and they were a joy to watch for the short time they were flying through. Jim said they were gathering in order to migrate--I'll have to take his word on this since he is studying and gathering such data for his new book.

Breathing

THE WHOLE UNIVERSE IS
BREATHING AS OUR BREATH.

WE LIMIT THE PROCESS BY OUR
ASSUMPTION THAT WE ARE
DOING THE BREATHING.

~Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan
Alchemical Wisdom

Of Note: If we ever wanted to actually see the breath of God, all we have to do is watch the clouds form and move across the sky. In fact, the whole weather process reflects the mighty inhalations and exhalations of the Divine. Maybe that is why we are so awestruck by presentations that add the radiance of light to the swirling movement of clouds.

Today's Weather Report: We awoke to snow this morning, and it lasted all day. Nothing "stuck" because it was 33 degrees Fahrenheit--just one degree over freezing. Turning off the waterworks that run through our huge flower garden was on my agenda today--snow or not. So, I bundled up and went to it. Four hours later, and having changed clothes and boots twice, I was done. In past years, this was a 10 minute job. However, this past spring we changed the whole system, and this presented interesting challenges today. But, I cannot grouse because on Saturday Jim ran a marathon in the snow with 35 mph winds at 29 degrees. He was between miles 21 and 22 when the organizers closed the race because people were dropping like flies, including the volunteers. It was his first marathon in 15 years, and the worst conditions he had ever experienced in a race. Even at that, Jim smiled on Sunday knowing he had done what he could under weather conditions that kept me in the house all day.