Richard’s Comments (group member since Jan 12, 2009)

Richard’s comments from the Open Mind, Open Heart group.

"...to realize one's true nature..."

something I'm discovering only when I get really quiet.

"Every beauty which is seen here below by persons of perception resembles more than anything else that celestial source from which we all come..." ~Michelangelo

I resonate and use "the Source" ever since I read Wayne Dyer's, "The Power Of Intention". But, I'm not very hung up on names as Emily pointed out from the Tao, "the name that can be named is not the eternal name".

Emily wrote: "It seems I'm always reading 10+ books at a time these days! One of my current reads from my "Spirituality" shelf is Taking the Leap by Pema Chodron, a book rooted in Buddhist principles that is rea..."

I once saw a PBS interview with Pema and was intrigued by her. I think she had just written a book. I'll have to check her out the next time I hit the bookstore.

Not too long ago, I read 'Ask and it is Given' by Esther and Jerry Hicks. It's been added to my top shelf. Has anyone else read it?

I was thinking the same thing, Peni.

I read recently the reason why we may only have 23 chromosomes rather than 24 like chimpanzees and apes, is that two were fused into one. Therefore, many scientists do believe we evolved from primates. This gets me thinking, perhaps Ego, like that 24th chromosome has served a purpose, but is on it's way to becoming obsolete. Perhaps humanity is coming to a fork in the road or new fusion.

I know it's another book to read, but you may consider Wayne Dyer's book called "Change your thoughts, change your life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao." It contains all 81 verses of the Tao, which he read over one year's time, compiling the essays which eventually became this book.

Anyone read the book by Esther and Jerry Hicks called "Ask and It Is Given"? I recently heard them on a lecture series and really like what they say.

I believe Wayne Dyer does mention it in either either The Power of Intention CD'. I think it may be the Secrets to the Power of Intention CD's.

Starr wrote: "Hmmm...that's interesting. I've heard Dyer mention a concept of having an open mind without attachment. It's a hard thing to do. I can be open to new things, ideas, etc..., but it's hard for me to..."

He likes to quote one of his teachers, Abraham Maslow, who spoke of detaching yourself from outcome. It's a challenge for me as well, but I'm better than I used to be!

I don't necessarily see ego as a 'bad' thing. I've always had trouble when I hear Wayne Dyer speak about eliminating the Ego. I think it's probably because my definition is different. Human experiences are all unique and freedom of expression are all part of the wonderful world of ego. I think the issue comes more from attachment. Someone once said, "have a mind that's open to everything but attached to nothing." When you attach to things, you lose your center. (Just thinking out loud too!)

I'm not sure if this exactly pertains to the topic but your discussion reminded me of a quote.

"No one can choose your mountain
or tell you when to climb...
It's yours alone to challenge
at your own pace and time." ~Patricia Harber

Really understanding at a deep level that the present moment is all we ever have. It makes life so simple and so beautiful. The challenge is quieting the voice in the head.

(Tolle readers will see the connections)

A book called Jesus by Deepak Chopra. This was the first time I've ever read a fictional depiction of Jesus. I think the most difficult part of the reading was my own ego unwilling to keep an open mind to another's concept. I hope to re-read it at another time, when I'm more centered and less egoic.

For right now (no order):

1. The Power of Now*, Eckhart Tolle
2. A New Earth*, Eckhart Tolle
3. The Power of Intention, Wayne Dyer
4. The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Robin Sharma
5. The Bible

Eckhart Tolle has come out with two smaller companion books for The Power of Now & A New Earth that I find very suitable for re-study.