Evil and the Addiction to Pain (Part 2)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 05, 2008 at 12:23 PM
In the generation before Shakespeare, the French essayist Montaigne remarked that cruelty and vengeance are so inherent in human nature that we wouldn't be ourselves without them. In so many words, Shakespeare said the same thing in his tragedies and histories. Would Hamlet be as interesting if he weren't bent on revenge, or Lady Macbeth without her blood lust? This is a serious question for anyone who wants human nature to transcend its base impulses. I think that what makes Buddha and Jesus so radical is that they gave up on hand-wringing, moralizing, and wishful thinking. Instead of healing human nature, they proposed radical surgery to completely alter it. Aiming at a spiritual revolution that far exceeds spiritual reform, they had to connect pain with a more profound problem: evil.
Continue reading "Evil and the Addiction to Pain (Part 2)"
Evil and the Addiction to Pain (Part 1)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 02, 2008 at 06:40 PM
Common sense tells us that people naturally seek pleasure and avoid pain, but common sense is wrong. Pain is rarely a deterrent from destructive behavior. Sometimes the greater the pain, the more fiercely someone will cling to it. We see this on many fronts, from domestic abuse (when battered spouses repeatedly return to their abuser) to the Iraq conflict (where militias seem willing to slaughter each other until no one is left standing). Our addiction to pain is one of the toughest problems to solve in human psychology.
Continue reading "Evil and the Addiction to Pain (Part 1)"
Spooky Action at a Distance: DNA's "Impossible" Telepathic Properties
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on April 27, 2008 at 05:57 PM
I'm sure this is old news for this crowd:
DNA has been found to have a bizarre ability to put itself together, even at a distance, when according to known science it shouldn't be able to. Explanation: None, at least not yet.
Continue reading "Spooky Action at a Distance: DNA's "Impossible" Telepathic Properties"
Raccoon Adventures
posted by Mallika Chopra on April 21, 2008 at 08:56 PM
It's been a week of fear, frustration, anxiety, escapism, acceptance. To be honest, its been a nightmare week. Since my last post on raccoons, there have been many developments. You have no idea...
Continue reading "Raccoon Adventures"
21 Ways To Celebrate Life
posted by Mallika Chopra on April 15, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Dear friends, I wanted to share this beautiful tribute that my friend, Nancy Rothstein, sent to me to commemorate the 21st birthday of her son, Josh, who was tragically killed when he was 15. His 21st birthday would have been tomorrow, April 16th. Nancy writes to me:
After Josh was killed, I was seeking a way to offer a tribute for family and friends to honor his birthday. Out of such profound loss and sadness, I wanted to create something that would give people inspiration and help them find joy in the gift of life....while it is still theirs.
Continue reading "21 Ways To Celebrate Life"
The Ecumenical Age May Be Past
posted by Deepak Chopra on April 10, 2008 at 03:41 PM
An article in the Washington Post in response to the question: Pope Benedict's recent baptism of a well-known Italian Muslim has prompted criticism in much of the Islamic world. Has Benedict done enough to build bridges to Islam?
The Ecumenical Age May Be Past
God,the Brain and Science
posted by Intent on March 27, 2008 at 12:52 PM
One Prejudice, One Solution
posted by Deepak Chopra on March 26, 2008 at 11:00 AM
An article in the Washington Post in response to the question: Which "ism" is more entrenched in America, sexism or racism? Which should religion address?
One Prejudice One Solution
Non-Local Mind
posted by Intent on March 24, 2008 at 05:46 PM
Resurrection Times Three
posted by Intent on March 22, 2008 at 08:35 AM
An article in the Washington Post by Deepak Chopra on the Resurrection
The Resurrection
posted by Intent on March 21, 2008 at 02:53 PM
Deepak Interview on CNN on Sunday
posted by Intent on March 21, 2008 at 09:46 AM
Anchor, T.J. Holmes interviews Deepak Chopra. This segment airs this Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 7am and 9am (East Coast Time) on CNN Domestic TV (USA) , “To the Top”.
Check your local TV listings.
Deepak Interview on Jesus, God, and Spirituality
posted by Intent on March 20, 2008 at 09:02 AM
A Borders Bookstore in-depth interview with Deepak Chopra followed by open question and answer period with the public. Borders interviews Deepak Chopra
My Mother
posted by Mallika Chopra on March 16, 2008 at 02:41 PM
I walked into a room where my mother sat, taking just a moment for herself. We were in Costa Rica for a conference, and until 15 minutes before, she had watched my kids for two days so I could attend meetings. She was finally taking a moment for herself.
I told her that we needed help. My mother
The Crucial Wisdom – “Who Am I?” Part 2
posted by Avtar Singh on March 15, 2008 at 05:39 PM
The biggest hurdles to realize the crucial wisdom – “Who am I?” are the boundaries of the prison of the ego built upon acquired beliefs, convictions, information, and knowledge of the manifested-only world. The dissolution of the ego is not elimination but dilution of the ego via merging into the vast and unbounded absolute Truth.
Continue reading "The Crucial Wisdom – “Who Am I?” Part 2"
The Crucial Wisdom – “Who Am I?” Part 1
posted by Avtar Singh on March 08, 2008 at 07:34 PM
Imagine living thru the entire life with a false or unknown identity of the self. Unless we know who we are, whatever we do or accomplish in this world is counted against the personal identities that are either presumed by ourselves or given or imposed upon us by others. The life (biological) that ends in death without realizing the true identity of the Self is a wasteful life since it cannot have a genuine purpose without a genuine identity.
Continue reading "The Crucial Wisdom – “Who Am I?” Part 1"
The Jesus Inside Me
posted by Mallika Chopra on March 07, 2008 at 03:35 PM
Last night, I took my daughters to watch my father at his book signing at the local Barnes and Noble for his new book, The Third Jesus
Continue reading "The Jesus Inside Me"
The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 5)
posted by Deepak Chopra on March 03, 2008 at 08:55 AM
Despite the secular nature of modern society, millions of people lead
a spiritual life, and more of them than ever want to strike out on
their own. The notion of self-exploration isn't novel, threatening, or
forbidden anymore. Yet how many seekers are certain that they are
making progress? Doubts and backsliding are common, because living in
modern times doesn't negate the age-old difficulties of navigating the
hidden recesses of the self. Distractions and false trails abound. I
would define progress more simply and clearly, however. You are moving
ahead spiritually if the following conditions are met:
Continue reading "The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 5)"
Thanks, Supra Universal Consciousness for 40!
posted by DK Matai on March 01, 2008 at 12:23 PM
Dear Friends, we are thankful to the Supra Universal Consciousness for having brought me to 40 on 2nd March! The gift to you is Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose (1885-6) by John Singer Sargent. Thanks Keith, Mieke, North, Empyrius, Bonnie, Heath, Swordsman, Jean-François, Harb, Edmund, Ruth, Richard and Kate for your well wishes!
Continue reading "Thanks, Supra Universal Consciousness for 40!"
Deepak speaks to the Houston Chronicle
posted by Intent on February 29, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Watch the Video
Continue reading "Deepak speaks to the Houston Chronicle"
Divine Impulses
posted by Intent on February 29, 2008 at 10:15 AM
Video interviews of Deepak by Sally Quinn of the Washington Post on Hinduism, Christianity, death and healing.
Continue reading "Divine Impulses"
Lack of Touch
posted by Grace Wilson on February 28, 2008 at 11:35 PM
Not having as much physical contact with people these days is starting to get to me. Used to be I would come home from a busy day at work completely exhausted, having massaged four or more people, and having been very intimate with them as they worked through their panchakarma (detoxification) process. At those times, all I wanted was to
Continue reading "Lack of Touch"
Life and death, natures way
posted by Vijay Sappani on February 28, 2008 at 08:41 PM
Do you believe in God?
Continue reading "Life and death, natures way"
Raining on the AntiChrist Parade
posted by Intent on February 26, 2008 at 10:03 AM
Washington Post- On Faith: Raining on the AntiChrist Parade by Deepak Chopra
How do you let it flow when what's flowing doesn't work?
posted by Max Simon on February 22, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Over the last few months, I have noticed a shift in myself. Situations where I once felt totally comfortable make me a little nervous. Circumstances where I would normally feel afraid don't phase me. I've found myself feeling out-of-sorts more often then usual lately.
Continue reading "How do you let it flow when what's flowing doesn't work?"
The Audacity of Enlightenment
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 18, 2008 at 10:37 AM
Although Barack Obama's slogan is "the audacity of hope," the words have deeper connotations at this moment. One of the most powerful, I think, is the audacity to wake up. In order for the right wing to succeed in its reactionary agenda, the American public had to agree with it. On the surface it wouldn't seem that people could agree to freeze their incomes, give tax breaks to the least deserving, amass a huge national debt, ignore the rising cost of health care, and various other aspects of the right-wing agenda. To offer their agreement, the public had to vote against its own interest, and doing that required them to be asleep.
Continue reading "The Audacity of Enlightenment"
TIME Magazine Interview
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 15, 2008 at 11:09 AM
Dear Friends,
Here is a recent short interview segment I did with TIME magazine.
This Valentines Day
posted by Mallika Chopra on February 14, 2008 at 02:27 PM
I am grateful. I am grateful for
Continue reading "This Valentines Day"
The Family Field: A Valentine to Enduring Connection
posted by Alison Rose Levy on February 14, 2008 at 11:42 AM
When I first read The Field, I practically gulped it down like it was a mystery novel that I couldn’t wait to finish. As Lynne McTaggart writes in her beautiful sharing on this blog, the new science the book covers "suggests that at our essence, we exist as a unity, a relationship — utterly interdependent, the parts affecting the whole at every moment."
Continue reading "The Family Field: A Valentine to Enduring Connection"
The Maharishi Years – The Untold Story: Recollections of a Former Disciple by Deepak Chopra
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 12, 2008 at 06:36 PM
August 1, 1991 saw the publication of my book, Perfect Health
The Three Maharishis
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 06, 2008 at 03:26 PM
Even though I last sat with Maharishi more than ten years ago, he left an indelible impression, as he did on everyone. His extraordinary qualities are known to the world. Without him, it's fair to say, the West would not have learned to meditate. During the Cold War era a reporter once challenged him by saying, "If anything is possible, as you claim, can you go to the Soviet Union tomorrow with your message?" Without hesitation, Maharishi calmly replied, "I could if I wanted to." Eventually he did want to, and meditation arrived in Moscow several years before the Berlin Wall fell. In his belief that world peace depended entirely on rising consciousness, Maharishi was unshakable.
Continue reading "The Three Maharishis"
Growing Up With Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
posted by Mallika Chopra on February 06, 2008 at 10:20 AM
I learned transcendental meditation when I was 9. I think I met Maharishi Mahesh Yogi for the first time when I was 13, and for the next decade he was a major influence in my life. I remember sitting for endless hours with Maharishi -- sometimes in crowds of thousands of people, others times just with my parents and brother. Because of my father’s (Deepak Chopra) relationship with him, Maharishi was someone we knew, rather than someone we idolized.
Continue reading "Growing Up With Maharishi Mahesh Yogi"
Learning to Die, Mahasamadhi and St Francis
posted by DK Matai on February 06, 2008 at 02:21 AM
Dear Friends, today -- 6th February -- is the birthday of our family's Great Spiritual Master. His Holiness used to say, "When you know how to die, then there is no fear of death; you die daily." This is synchronous to Mahasamadhi and dear Deepak's recent post in regard to HH The Maharishi on 5th February, as well as "Jai Guru Deva" in the Beatles song "Across the Universe" beamed by NASA towards Polaris. The concatenation of events shines light on the final words of The Prayer of St Francis of Assisi, "It is by forgiving that one is forgiven. It is by dying that one awakens to Eternal Life." Remember Space Odyssey 2001?! Love, DK
Continue reading "Learning to Die, Mahasamadhi and St Francis"
The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 4)
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 04, 2008 at 10:41 AM
Most people relegate matters of the soul to their religion, which is a comforting choice. It's been said that religion is about someone else's experience while spirituality is about your own. The experiences of a Jesus or Buddha were exalted and holy. Attaching yourself to them feels safer than exploring the unknown by yourself. But there are reliable guides to the domain of the soul.
Continue reading "The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 4)"
The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 3)
posted by Deepak Chopra on February 01, 2008 at 03:33 PM
Most people, one imagines, would be fascinated to set out in search of their souls. But they would be held back by two immediate obstacles. First, we use the word "soul" very loosely, with no specific ways to validate what we mean. Second, the tools for exploring the spiritual domain are limited. Most people only know about faith and prayer, with the recent addition of meditation that still applies to a relative few. Both of these obstacles need to be overcome before one can intelligently experience the soul.
Continue reading "The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 3)"
Tips for Dads and Daughters Watching the Super Bowl Together
posted by Joe Kelly on February 01, 2008 at 06:35 AM
Dads & Daughters watching TV sports together—one of life’s pleasures. But what about those
moments (like during some commercials) when you want to cover her eyes with your hands?
Here are a few simple tips I developed for the national nonprofit Dads & Daughters to help fathers and
stepfathers have more fun watching the Super Bowl (and other TV sporting events) together with their daughters.
Continue reading "Tips for Dads and Daughters Watching the Super Bowl Together"
The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 2)
posted by Deepak Chopra on January 25, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Spirituality for many modern people has become a forced choice. Either one accepts a fixed belief system (organized religion or a New Age alternative), or one rejects belief for some variety of doubt (skepticism or atheism). What this forced choice overlooks is the possibility of progress, which means going beyond any fixed belief.
Continue reading "The "Soul Hypothesis" (Part 2)"
The "Soul Hypothesis"
posted by Deepak Chopra on January 04, 2008 at 08:32 AM
The current divisive atmosphere makes it appear that each of us must choose sides. In particular, a rash of books equating atheism and science poses the choice between rational materialism and organized religion -- God or Einstein, in effect, despite the fact that Einstein himself made room for God in his worldview. But why can't spirituality be aligned with reason? One doesn't have to blindly accept religious dogma to believe in the soul. Like any theory that needs proving, the soul is a hypothesis that can be tested. Such testing doesn't take place in a lab. Each person is a living example of the soul hypothesis, and throughout life we can use our own experience to prove whether the soul is valid and real.
Continue reading "The "Soul Hypothesis""
Cellular Cupcakes
posted by Sera Beak on December 26, 2007 at 04:15 AM
There is such a unique shift in my body, mind, and world when I’m in a state of gratitude. It’s like my cells turn into sparkly pink cupcakes and my heart puffs up like it’s supposed too and my perspective loans reality majesty, elegance, awe.
Continue reading "Cellular Cupcakes"
How Your Story Changes the World (Part 2)
posted by Deepak Chopra on December 21, 2007 at 11:03 AM
The only realistic way to think about the world is to see it as an unfolding process that encompasses billions of smaller processes. Our minds don't like to work that way. We prefer snap judgments and simplistic labels. We defend our story and defend against those that disagree with it.
Continue reading "How Your Story Changes the World (Part 2)"
As Above So What?!
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on December 08, 2007 at 06:59 PM
Did you feel ambivalent about the hard-sell, materially-driven style of “The Secret”? If so, check out the new book by my friend Maja D’Aoust (Co-edited with Adam Parfrey), The Secret Source: The Law of Attraction is One of Seven Hermetic Laws: Here Are the Other Six
Continue reading "As Above So What?!"
Spiritual History of the United Nations
posted by Diane Williams on November 19, 2007 at 04:55 AM
I have been a member of the United Nations NGO community for over a decade and have chosen to concentrate most of my time at the UN collaborating with individuals, organizations and committees to integrate spirituality and values into various areas of the United Nations agenda.
Continue reading "Spiritual History of the United Nations"
Achieve “house rules” harmony
posted by Joe Kelly on October 29, 2007 at 07:24 AM
Dads (and moms) are often frustrated by the “discipline” issue. Instead of clashing about problematic behavior, try these tips for creating respectful guidelines for house harmony.
Continue reading "Achieve “house rules” harmony"
HQR*: Homage to Supra Universal Consciousness
posted by DK Matai on October 21, 2007 at 12:45 AM
You are manifest in All, All are manifest in You
You manifest in myself, little self manifests in You
Encompassing One and All, with tender humility
One-in-All, we are All-in-One within Thy infinity
Each thought, intention,word and deed is You
Little me, humbled nothing, is none other than You!
Continue reading "HQR*: Homage to Supra Universal Consciousness"
Pourquoi? French President's Divorce Confirmed
posted by DK Matai on October 18, 2007 at 11:42 AM
Qu'est-ce que c'est? What? President of France's office has just announced the Sarkozys' divorce...
Continue reading "Pourquoi? French President's Divorce Confirmed"
HQR*: Golden Age of Peace - Spiritual Revolution
posted by DK Matai on October 13, 2007 at 11:33 PM
Dear Friends, there are numerous references to the arrival of the "Golden Age of Peace" in some of the key faiths of the world via a "Spiritual Revolution."
Continue reading "HQR*: Golden Age of Peace - Spiritual Revolution"
in the name of a mother
posted by Anouradha Bakshi on October 13, 2007 at 08:17 PM
It is the time of the year when in India we remember the dears ones that have left us and gone to another world.
Continue reading "in the name of a mother"
Politeness versus Humility
posted by Avtar Singh on September 30, 2007 at 09:49 AM
Just as belief is often mistaken as faith and religion is often mistaken as spirituality, politeness is often mistaken as humility. The differences between the two need to be understood to develop a thorough understanding of the secular or genuine spirituality.
Continue reading "Politeness versus Humility"
Play Ball! Ten Playoff/World Series Tips for Fathers of Girls
posted by Joe Kelly on September 26, 2007 at 10:02 AM
Major League Baseball playoffs start soon, followed by the World Series. This is an exciting time for dads to watch or listen to our national pastime with their children and stepchildren.
Continue reading "Play Ball! Ten Playoff/World Series Tips for Fathers of Girls"
Why I love being Vegan!
posted by Zappy on September 22, 2007 at 11:09 PM
French Fries, Pasta, Baguettes, Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate, Coconut Sorbet, Nuts, Avocados, Coffee, Wine, Etc.
Continue reading "Why I love being Vegan!"
the Christian-born-Jewish-Islamic-Hindu-Buddhist...
posted by Heiko Faass on September 19, 2007 at 03:29 PM
- OR: does it really matter?
About 2500 years ago the history of Buddhism started with a prince in Nepal setting in motion the wheel of the law and proclaiming the four Noble truths and the eightfold path. It seems to me as if Buddhism has what I would define as the parameters for the religion of the future if there is at all a need for religion…
Continue reading "the Christian-born-Jewish-Islamic-Hindu-Buddhist..."
Sudden Death is Calling from the Deep Azure Sky
posted by DK Matai on September 16, 2007 at 12:31 PM
Dear Friends, just as my back was slowly getting better, although I remain quasi-immobile, some further bad news has hit us hard. A young member of our spiritual community in London, in his early 30s, who has a lovely wife and child, has just died whilst playing hockey after suffering a brain haemorrhage. Beloved Dame Anita Roddick...
Continue reading "Sudden Death is Calling from the Deep Azure Sky"
Resistance is Futile; Acceptance is the Way - Is it?
posted by DK Matai on September 14, 2007 at 05:11 AM
Dear Friends, it happened suddenly and now I am unable to move much for the last 48 hours because of a severe pain in the back. Despite neither being able to move, nor being able to carry out daily activities properly, one wonders if the Supra Universal Consciousness has chosen this state for little DK for a purpose...
Continue reading "Resistance is Futile; Acceptance is the Way - Is it?"
Nothing is as it appears to be
posted by Heiko Faass on September 12, 2007 at 02:17 PM
Not too many years ago a farmer lived somewhere in the middle of nowhere together with his son. They didn't have much. Their only real possession other than the land they lived on and a simple wooden house on it, was a horse, with which they used to work on the field...
Continue reading "Nothing is as it appears to be"
Time
posted by Mallika Chopra on September 07, 2007 at 09:52 AM
Two years ago, I wrote a blog about Trusting The Universe when Tara, my elder daughter, started pre-school. Fast forward - Tara started Kindergarten this week and my baby, Leela, is starting pre-school. Time - how did it fly by so fast?
Einstein's God, or The Hopes for a Secular Spirituality (Part 2)
posted by Deepak Chopra on August 31, 2007 at 01:18 PM
Einstein spent decades in a search for a God that could survive the scrutiny of science. One may think at first that this has little to do with ordinary religious belief. The spiritual needs of a genius who formulated the General Theory of Relativity seem far removed from those of people whose contact with science is minimal. But each of us has a great deal in common with Einstein. Like him, we struggle with the possibility that God cannot survive rational scrutiny. Yet among his generation of brilliant physicists, Einstein was the most stubborn in insisting that God could survive all the obvious arguments.
Continue reading "Einstein's God, or The Hopes for a Secular Spirituality (Part 2)"
Commonalities between Einstein and Mother Teresa: Part 1
posted by Avtar Singh on August 30, 2007 at 05:46 PM
Ordinarily one may laugh at the very suggestion of any “commonalities” between Einstein and Mother Teresa. What could be common between a scientist like Einstein chasing photons and a saint like Mother Teresa serving the destitute in the slums of Calcutta? However, a deeper look into the recently revealed doubts of Mother Teresa about the existence of God sheds a new light on the commonalities of the faiths of the two apparently opposite personalities and pursuits.
Continue reading "Commonalities between Einstein and Mother Teresa: Part 1"
The Great Turning
posted by Velcrow Ripper on August 30, 2007 at 11:39 AM
Todays blog posting is by Fierce Light crew member extraordinaire, Sera Beak, who writes of our powerful empowering interview with Joanna Macy, the grandmother of deep ecology. It was clear that
Joanna is someone who sits in the lap of the God/ess and exhales the sacred fire....
Continue reading "The Great Turning"
Pasing Down Your Name
posted by Joe Kelly on August 23, 2007 at 11:35 AM
When our twin girls were pre-schoolers, they became best friends with a girl down the alley. Krista had great parents, and a priceless little brother named Jeris. For the next year or so, I was filled with a sometimes painful longing to have a son.
Continue reading "Pasing Down Your Name"
The Art of Happiness
posted by Saira Mohan on August 13, 2007 at 05:31 AM
Yesterday, I introduced Sri Sri Ravi Shankar prior to his talk at a wonderful new cultural event held in Beverly Hills called India Splendor...
Continue reading "The Art of Happiness"
You’re Dyeing Your Hair Orange?
posted by Joe Kelly on August 13, 2007 at 05:29 AM
Perhaps every father should be issued a football mouth guard when his daughter is born, since he’s liable to spend the next few decades biting his tongue.
Continue reading "You’re Dyeing Your Hair Orange?"
What Have They Got Against Girls' Sports?
posted by Joe Kelly on July 19, 2007 at 04:51 AM
A dad named John Humphreys recently wrote to me upon learning that the Department of Education is weakening Title IX, the federal civil rights law granting fair access to sports for girls and women. He asked “Why ever should there be any darn sex discrimination at all?” Like John, I’m stumped, too. But the fact of the matter is that discrimination still exists—which means we parents and others who care about girls need to do something about it.
Continue reading "What Have They Got Against Girls' Sports?"
How DO Boys Become Doofus Daddys?
posted by Joe Kelly on July 16, 2007 at 12:37 PM
With some regularity, I read opinion pieces bemoaning the fact that popular culture and media regularly portray Dad as Doofus (if that's the correct spelling....I'm a spelling Doofus). Of course, every parent has moments when she or he feels like an idiot and our kids usually feel free to tell us when we’re acting like one).
Continue reading "How DO Boys Become Doofus Daddys?"
HQR*: Socrates (469-399 BC), Dialogos & Apology
posted by DK Matai on July 15, 2007 at 01:07 AM
Please accept a sincere apology for any errors or omissions on our part. To think of Socrates is to think of apology and the need for forgiveness. What we remember most about Socrates is his quote...
Continue reading "HQR*: Socrates (469-399 BC), Dialogos & Apology"
You are a father. It looks like such a simple sentence.
posted by Joe Kelly on July 12, 2007 at 07:15 AM
You are a father. It looks like such a simple sentence. But your new role is actually profound; one you are a father, you can never be “not-a-father” anymore. By becoming a father, you’ve embarked on an amazing and fulfilling journey, powerful from the moment of birth.
Continue reading "You are a father. It looks like such a simple sentence."
HQR*: Remember Aristotle of Stagira (384-322 BC)?
posted by DK Matai on July 11, 2007 at 04:31 AM
Aristotle of Stagira, Greece, is usually upheld as one of the greatest philosophers of all times. Why?
Continue reading "HQR*: Remember Aristotle of Stagira (384-322 BC)?"
Marshall: Glasgow's Psyche; Re: Chopra & Carlson
posted by ATCA on July 11, 2007 at 02:42 AM
We are grateful to Elizabeth Marshall, born in Glasgow, Scotland, for "Understanding Glasgow's Psyche" in response to Dr Deepak Chopra's "Case of the Evil Doctors: Changing Perception" and Aurora Carlson's "The Other and Me."
Continue reading "Marshall: Glasgow's Psyche; Re: Chopra & Carlson"
Someone's Story...
posted by Mallika Chopra on July 10, 2007 at 10:06 PM
Once in a while, someone's story affects you to the core. And that someones story entangles itself into your own life, its details becoming your own, whispers echoing in your head, flashes of someone elses memories haunting you so that you cannot sleep at night, that you cry even though you dont know the names or faces of those you cry about...
Continue reading "Someone's Story..."
The Luminous Numinous
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on July 02, 2007 at 11:08 PM
To paraphrase the great Rudolf Otto, the Numinous can be described as a distinctive experience of God, ineffable and transcendent, the primary source of beauty and love. Feelings of awe, fascination and elements of overpowering-ness, urgency, and that which is "Wholly Other" are present in the numinous experience.
Continue reading "The Luminous Numinous"
Can a parent make unforgivable mistakes?
posted by Joe Kelly on July 02, 2007 at 09:17 AM
To my imperfect understanding of the universe, this question seems impossible to answer with certainty. But I think exploring effective responses to our mistakes—rigorous honesty, complete amends, and ongoing recommitment—is worthwhile no matter where we are in our parenting.
Continue reading "Can a parent make unforgivable mistakes?"
HQR*: Seven vices & virtues: Which ones fit you?
posted by DK Matai on July 01, 2007 at 02:52 PM
Continue reading "HQR*: Seven vices & virtues: Which ones fit you?"
"A Picture Says A Thousand Posts"
posted by Mallika Chopra on June 27, 2007 at 06:46 AM
Yesterday, Rosie O'Donnell put the above picture of her daughter on her website with the heading "a picture is worth a thousand posts." Many were outraged. Personally
Continue reading ""A Picture Says A Thousand Posts""
Sam's New Dad (aka Tiger Woods)
posted by Joe Kelly on June 26, 2007 at 03:17 PM
“My parents always told me they loved me every night, every time we said goodbye. That was just something that I was never afraid to go out there and push myself to the limit. And if I failed, so what?
Continue reading "Sam's New Dad (aka Tiger Woods)"
A Scientific-Spiritual Definition of Success
posted by Avtar Singh on June 25, 2007 at 06:44 PM
A successful life is the one that has fulfilled its purpose.
A fulfilled life is the life filled with contentment and gratitude for what is as is.
A fulfilled life is the one that has no more left to be filled – desire or objective.
Continue reading "A Scientific-Spiritual Definition of Success"
A Truly Unforgettable Experience
posted by Saira Mohan on June 25, 2007 at 11:38 AM
I had a very special...almost surreal experience that I want to share with you...
...just figuring out how to put into words.
Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment - Podcast 4
posted by Deepak Chopra on June 25, 2007 at 10:59 AM
Dear Friends,
Here's Part 4 of Deepak's Podcast on Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment.
Continue reading "Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment - Podcast 4"
HQR*: The Absolute Success
posted by DK Matai on June 25, 2007 at 10:59 AM
Dear Friends, dear Deepak asks, "What is your one key to success in life?" The One in All, manifest through Deepak and yourselves is Absolute -- and absolutely wonderful! In response to Deepak Chopra, Keith Alan Watson, Kristin Masterton, and Kate...
Continue reading "HQR*: The Absolute Success"
Love In Action
posted by Velcrow Ripper on June 24, 2007 at 06:11 PM
This week was a journey through the history of the American Civil Rights movement, a story we've all heard of time and time again. I thought I knew the story myself, but it was not until I actually set foot in the historic heart land of the movement -
Continue reading "Love In Action"
Immortal values in John D Rockefeller's 1941 speech
posted by DK Matai on June 22, 2007 at 07:30 AM
Dear Friends, I was discussing some distressing issues with a friend, in connection with taking a stand based on certain key principles. The immortal values espoused in the 1941 speech of John D Rockefeller, Jr, (1874-1960) flashed before my eyes...
Continue reading "Immortal values in John D Rockefeller's 1941 speech"
bell hooks
posted by Velcrow Ripper on June 20, 2007 at 07:54 PM
Today Sera and I drove to Kentucky, to interview bell hooks, the brilliant spiritual activist and visionary. She wrote a must read book for anyone who cares about Love, called "All About Love
What do You Tell a Pregnant Dad?
posted by Joe Kelly on June 19, 2007 at 08:08 AM
Have you ever met a man who is about to become a father for the first time? To an experienced father, such a man looks a bit like an alien—or at least someone who doesn’t yet fully grasp what it means to irrevocably cross over from not being a father to the “other side” of fatherhood.
Here’s what I might say:
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What is Your Definition of Success?
posted by DK Matai on June 17, 2007 at 02:03 AM
Dear Friends, recent events and happenings in my life have led me to conclude that defining success is very important in order to build a better world for ourselves and others around us. What is your definition?
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Mindful Awareness in the Classroom
posted by Kanika Sethi on June 16, 2007 at 09:00 AM
Students at some elementary schools in California are being taught "Mindful Awareness". Supporters and skeptics in the schools discuss. An interesting article.
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Buddha: A Story of Enlightenment Podcast - Part 1
posted by Deepak Chopra on June 14, 2007 at 10:26 AM
Dear Friends, I hope you enjoy watching this four part series with Deepak and Wild Divine: Part 1.
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HQR*: Vasudaiva Kutumbhkum: One World Family
posted by DK Matai on June 14, 2007 at 06:43 AM
Dear Friends, in Sanskrit we have a philosophical saying "Vasudaiva Kutumbhkum" which means that for a wise person the entire world is one family.
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The Third Fire
posted by Velcrow Ripper on June 12, 2007 at 07:59 AM
It was an exciting first day of shooting on this mid western wing of the Fierce Light journey, which will bring us face to face with some of the greatest spiritual activists of today. I'm travelling with Sera Beak, aka The Spiritual Cowgirl (www.serabeak.com) author of "The Red Book: A deliciously unorthodox approach to igniting your divine spark.".
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What if you had only a few more minutes with your child?
posted by Joe Kelly on June 11, 2007 at 02:33 PM
Early one morning a year ago, in the lobby of a Michigan motel, I read an online group where some fathers were discussing how to get the upper hand in arguments and legal battles with their exes—the mothers of their children.
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Packing
posted by Velcrow Ripper on June 11, 2007 at 07:45 AM
I’m packing!!! Heading for another wing of the Fierce Light Journey, my new feature documentary about spiritual activism around the world. I’ll be on a plane to Chicago soon, to interview Andrew Harvey, then i’ll be renting a car and driving down to Kentucky for the brilliant visionary bell hooks, onwards to Alabama for the birth place of Martin Luther King, and then to Washington DC to interview Archbishop Desomnd Tutu, as well as some surprises along the way. Join me!
-Velcrow Ripper
Buddha and the World (Part 4)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 28, 2007 at 01:43 PM
In the end, how does Buddha fit into the world? I think we will have an answer only after the question is put a bit differently. How does Buddha's purpose fit into the world? His purpose was to bring a kind of spirituality that frees people to live in peace. Right now we desperately need secular spirituality. God has been hijacked by fundamentalism to the point that seekers who don't want to be coerced by a fanatical concept of faith have few places to turn. Buddha opens a path to truth without a church.
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Buddha and the World (Part 3)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 25, 2007 at 11:09 AM
One reason that people revere Buddha but don't follow him is that they don't feel motivated enough to seek change. They hold an image of Buddhist monks perpetually meditating, observing strict discipline, and avoiding the world. The images aren't false, but they aren't complete, either. Like every great spiritual teaching, Buddhism turned into an organized religion, and in so doing it offered a way of life to ordinary people as well as renunciant monks.
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Questions and Religion
posted by Mallika Chopra on May 23, 2007 at 08:37 AM
I rearranged my schedule this morning to participate in a radio show. Waited for the call, didn't get one, so I called them. The woman on the other line curtly stated, "We are Christian radio station, and we have decided not to discuss your book." I laughed and said "ok." Who knew that kids questions were so loaded with dangerous ideas?
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Buddha and the World (Part 2)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 21, 2007 at 09:28 AM
Buddha stood for peace, and one would think that he would praise us if we ended the present war (and all wars.) We are told that the American people have now woken up to the folly of the invasion of Iraq. Since wars are where illusions die the fastest, Buddha would also want us to end a war because we became more awake. I think these things are true, but Buddha was more radical. He wanted us to wake up in general, to see through all illusions. That is the only way to escape suffering before it occurs. Learning after the fact, as we are doing in Iraq, doesn't really accomplish Buddha's goal.
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Buddha and the World (Part 1)
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 18, 2007 at 10:17 AM
Since 9/11 there has been a pervasive sense of anxiety in the world, and at the same time a search for spiritual answers. Is violence an aspect of human nature that can be cured, or are we caught in an endless cycle of violence that will never end? One of the most optimistic answers to that dilemma came from Buddha more than two thousand years ago. In the light of what he taught, I wanted to post my thoughts about the Buddhist solution and what it means for you and me as we seek to live in a troubling world.
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I AM SO WICKED SPIRITUAL
posted by Gotham Chopra on May 17, 2007 at 01:31 PM
FOR EXAMPLE:
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Towards Higher Consciousness in the 21st Century: Global Sustainability, Peace and Total Wellbeing!
posted by DK Matai on May 17, 2007 at 11:53 AM
When we look at any complex global challenge which has hitherto proved to be intractable, it appears to be deeply interlinked to other complex global challenges. When addressing the subject of clean energy and climate chaos in developing countries, one cannot ignore the parallel need to raise masses out of poverty...
The Dharma Drug: Buddhism as a Psychoactive Agent
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on May 15, 2007 at 04:49 PM
The Buddhist and psychedelic paths share some certain commonalities in the expansion of consciousness in both theory and practice. Both philosophies can serve to make one a more compassionate, sentient being. Practice in Buddhism's mindfulness, as do well-planned and intentioned sessions with psychedelics give people the power to overcome habitual behaviors and attachments.
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Asking for Help
posted by Mallika Chopra on May 15, 2007 at 06:02 AM
A friend of mine recently told me how for the first time in her life, she openly asked people around her for help. It transformed her life. I realized
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The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success Trailer
posted by Intent on May 09, 2007 at 10:29 PM
Watch the trailer of The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success...
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A DIALOGUE WITH HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA
posted by Deepak Chopra on May 09, 2007 at 06:23 PM
Dear Friends, I am posting a transcript of a conversation between His Holiness the Dalai Lama, several leading scientists, and Deepak Chopra.
Warm regards, Carolyn
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Reports from the Edge of Evolution. Or Something.
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on April 23, 2007 at 07:49 AM
"All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident."
-Arthur Schopenhauer
I am amused and shocked @ what ire was raised, simply by stating I'm attending the SCIENCE & CONSCIOUSNESS conference in Sante Fe.
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HQR*: HH Kirpal: Surat Shabda Yoga & Relativity
posted by DK Matai on April 21, 2007 at 02:26 AM
Surat Shabda Yoga means Soul Word (Vibration) Union -- The two things that emerge from an examination of the popular forms of yoga that were evolved after Patanjali are:
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Greetings from the Science and Consciousness Conference in Sante Fe!
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on April 20, 2007 at 08:30 PM
A paradigm-shifting gathering of minds is commencing this evening,
4/20
in Sante Fe, New Mexico.
The exploration of consciousness is a new frontier for the psychonaut. The conference is bringing together a multi-disciplinary team of experts who will share their knowledge through lecture, discussion and experiential sessions.
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A Moral Obligation to Transform
posted by Craig Hamilton on April 19, 2007 at 02:54 AM
We might call it the malady of contemporary spirituality. As a speaker, workshop leader and transformative life coach, I hear it all the time. The refrain usually goes something like this:
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Mom, why did that boy shoot all those people?
posted by Mallika Chopra on April 18, 2007 at 03:50 PM
Today, I have been doing back to back radio interviews for my new book, 100 Questions From My Child
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HQR*: HH Kirpal: Don't Think Evil Of Others
posted by DK Matai on April 17, 2007 at 03:43 AM
Never hurt anybody. We hurt others by thinking ill of them. We think ill of others, we scheme...
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Science, Experience, & Reality
posted by Avtar Singh on April 16, 2007 at 11:59 AM
It is hard to disagree with most of the comments forwarded by Dr. Parmjit Singh in his IB weekly intent post - God as a Mental Construct on April 15, 2007. However, his post misses some important and deeper insights embedded in my earlier IB post – Science vs. God on April 6, 2007, which I would like to reiterate in this post.
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Materialism to the Pipes o' Panpsychism: What is your TRUTH?
posted by Renee Reeser Zelnick on April 15, 2007 at 05:45 PM
A few years ago, I was wonderfully lost, wandering around the streets of Paris. Trying to get my bearings in a beautifully historic neighborhood, I’d stopped by chance, in front of a row of lovely old homes. Turning around, I noticed a small plaque on one wall, claiming the house was a former home of famed French philosopher Rene Descartes.
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HQR*: John Outram: The Birth of Consciousness
posted by DK Matai on April 14, 2007 at 12:43 AM
Dear Friends, the following is worth bearing in mind in the context of Holistic Quantum Relativity as submitted by Fresporta on IntentBlog.
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The Mystery of the Real Heaven
posted by Saira Mohan on April 13, 2007 at 10:23 PM
Looking at the history of civilization, there is something curious about the various portrayals of paradise: they all seem to conform to the earthly life, needs, and desires of the particular people concerned…
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The Mystery of the Real Jesus (Part 5)
posted by Deepak Chopra on April 13, 2007 at 10:07 AM
The search for the real Jesus will continue for as long as anyone can foresee. One can predict that the rise of skepticism and the decline of faith will both increase, as they have for more than a century. Where does that leave us in regards to Jesus of Nazareth? Will he continue to polarize the religious world and become more irrelevant to the secular one? This leads directly to the last argument:
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Magical Beginnings, Enchanted Lives
posted by Mallika Chopra on April 10, 2007 at 07:13 AM
If you are pregnant or know someone who is, you may want to take advantage of a special promotion around Magical Beginnings, Enchanted Lives.
When you’re pregnant, you dream of holding your precious baby in your arms. But do you realize
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The Mystery of the Real Jesus (Part 4)
posted by Deepak Chopra on April 09, 2007 at 06:46 AM
In our time the main divisions in Christianity appear to be political: fundamentalists are struggling for power against their liberal adversaries. In terms of church attendance and attracting coverage from mass media, the fundamentalists have the upper hand. But t
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HQR*:Kirpal: Love, Concentration & Self-Surrender
posted by DK Matai on April 08, 2007 at 03:35 AM
Dear Friends, Happy Easter! Circular 17 by His Holiness Master Kirpal is worth noting within HQR* -- Love, Concentration and Self-Surrender -- The Psychology of Mysticism, including the importance of self-surrender as a means of transcending the limitations of ego, and the identity of lo