Final paper for Paganism Course: Life is Sacred. Nature is Sacred. Humanity is Sacred. Every particle of creation is Sacred. So believe the Pagans of the past and present. Why then are there so many religions and so many lost souls walking around in a daze, looking for something to believe in and hold to as their core of existence? I have spent, literally, a lifetime looking for the truth of my creation and my Creator. I have studied many religious groups and their beliefs. I have joined some in hopes of finding the truth. But alas, nothing. I have always been curious and my mind craves knowledge. Knowledge based on what is, and not on what we wish it would be. I found great comfort in studying Paganism. Finally, a group of people who understood creation and the Creator. Simple, straightforward, belief in the Sacred. In Paganism, the human is not some flawed, frightened little creature, cowering in the corner, waiting for his master to inflict unbearable punishments on him. The human is Sacred. We make our own decisions and live our own lives and we hold ourselves entirely responsible for the outcomes, so say the Pagans, and they are absolutely correct. We must not hurt or cause harm to anyone or anything. We must have a sense of honor and self respect. We must also respect all that has been created and is there for us to share in it's greatness. Blessed be to all and everything. I sat on the beach, looking out onto the ocean and marveled at it's beauty and trembled at it's strength. I felt very small and I felt respect for the water's power over us. I wondered, what is religion anyway? And where do I fit in this picture? Who or what is God? I pondered and meditated on this for many years. Now, I believe that God is not a he or a she or even and it. God is the great force of life, the great blast of energy inside the Big Bang! I pictured it as a rocket in the fourth of July fireworks show. God is the gigantic explosion and we are all the little bits of fire that falls to the earth, right after the explosion. We are all part of the great essence. All part of that which is God, which is life itself. That force, that energy is within us and that is who we are. As I sat on the beach, in my mind's eye, I saw, there walking out of the water, a shape of a monk with his hood covering his features. I thought, OK?! What is this about? Who are you? When the figure was a few inches away, the monk pulled back the hood and to my astonishment.......it was me! Of course!! It is me! It has to be me!! The only way to find God is in me and in so doing become closer to creation and all it's Blessedness. The Pagans have it right. Sacredness, self responsibility, Blessedness are what will make our existence on this earth worthwhile. We are not flawed, sinful creatures, needing to be saved from ourselves. We are guardians of the earth, keepers of the truth, and God's expression of love. Many religions try to make us feel ashamed of our bodies, of our thoughts, of our feelings and they love to tell everyone how they will burn in the pits of hell! Follow us or you will be sorry. We will teach you what to believe and what to do. It is not my intention to offend anyone's beliefs, what I write here, is simply my point of view as to the path I have chosen for myself. Paganism is a religion and it has clergy, but it has no dogma and it is the individual's responsibility to behave in such a manner as to cause no harm to another. I have found myself comforted in studying Paganism. it has shown me a world before organized religion and controlled religious beliefs. We were created free and happy. I am not here to be a source of entertainment for some higher being, but to enjoy life. Paganism was here at the beginning. The Pagans knew the wonders of the creation and the Creator. I say, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". That applies to my chosen way of spirituality. There are many pagan paths from which to choose what fits your beliefs. I tend strongly towards the Druid path of spirituality. Others, Wicca and so forth. Thank you for offering this course. I have studied Shamanism, Druidism, and Wicca, each in their own individual courses. This course pulled it all together for me and now life seems a little happier and fuller. Blessed be, till we speak again. Rev. Nitza Luz Melgar, ULC Minister ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Monday, November 02, 2009
Paganism
Paganism
Final paper for Paganism Course: Life is Sacred. Nature is Sacred. Humanity is Sacred. Every particle of creation is Sacred. So believe the Pagans of the past and present. Why then are there so many religions and so many lost souls walking around in a daze, looking for something to believe in and hold to as their core of existence? I have spent, literally, a lifetime looking for the truth of my creation and my Creator. I have studied many religious groups and their beliefs. I have joined some in hopes of finding the truth. But alas, nothing. I have always been curious and my mind craves knowledge. Knowledge based on what is, and not on what we wish it would be. I found great comfort in studying Paganism. Finally, a group of people who understood creation and the Creator. Simple, straightforward, belief in the Sacred. In Paganism, the human is not some flawed, frightened little creature, cowering in the corner, waiting for his master to inflict unbearable punishments on him. The human is Sacred. We make our own decisions and live our own lives and we hold ourselves entirely responsible for the outcomes, so say the Pagans, and they are absolutely correct. We must not hurt or cause harm to anyone or anything. We must have a sense of honor and self respect. We must also respect all that has been created and is there for us to share in it's greatness. Blessed be to all and everything. I sat on the beach, looking out onto the ocean and marveled at it's beauty and trembled at it's strength. I felt very small and I felt respect for the water's power over us. I wondered, what is religion anyway? And where do I fit in this picture? Who or what is God? I pondered and meditated on this for many years. Now, I believe that God is not a he or a she or even and it. God is the great force of life, the great blast of energy inside the Big Bang! I pictured it as a rocket in the fourth of July fireworks show. God is the gigantic explosion and we are all the little bits of fire that falls to the earth, right after the explosion. We are all part of the great essence. All part of that which is God, which is life itself. That force, that energy is within us and that is who we are. As I sat on the beach, in my mind's eye, I saw, there walking out of the water, a shape of a monk with his hood covering his features. I thought, OK?! What is this about? Who are you? When the figure was a few inches away, the monk pulled back the hood and to my astonishment.......it was me! Of course!! It is me! It has to be me!! The only way to find God is in me and in so doing become closer to creation and all it's Blessedness. The Pagans have it right. Sacredness, self responsibility, Blessedness are what will make our existence on this earth worthwhile. We are not flawed, sinful creatures, needing to be saved from ourselves. We are guardians of the earth, keepers of the truth, and God's expression of love. Many religions try to make us feel ashamed of our bodies, of our thoughts, of our feelings and they love to tell everyone how they will burn in the pits of hell! Follow us or you will be sorry. We will teach you what to believe and what to do. It is not my intention to offend anyone's beliefs, what I write here, is simply my point of view as to the path I have chosen for myself. Paganism is a religion and it has clergy, but it has no dogma and it is the individual's responsibility to behave in such a manner as to cause no harm to another. I have found myself comforted in studying Paganism. it has shown me a world before organized religion and controlled religious beliefs. We were created free and happy. I am not here to be a source of entertainment for some higher being, but to enjoy life. Paganism was here at the beginning. The Pagans knew the wonders of the creation and the Creator. I say, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". That applies to my chosen way of spirituality. There are many pagan paths from which to choose what fits your beliefs. I tend strongly towards the Druid path of spirituality. Others, Wicca and so forth. Thank you for offering this course. I have studied Shamanism, Druidism, and Wicca, each in their own individual courses. This course pulled it all together for me and now life seems a little happier and fuller. Blessed be, till we speak again. Rev. Nitza Luz Melgar, ULC Minister ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Spirituality
Final essay The most fascinating part of this course was the discussion of god/God as an ever maturing entity. That was a completely new concept to me and one I rather enjoyed pondering. The multi-discipline approach (science, philosophy, etc.) was also unique from other presentations so that too was quite refreshing. The teacher had a great capacity to present complex ideas in common parlance. He also demonstrated considerably more than a passing understanding of the verifiable material presented. The romp through science was a great start to this course and I found the physics-lite portion of particular interest. I wish I had bumped into some of these concepts when in college, as the material was the same, however this rendering was far more interesting. The section on Marx too was particularly interesting. Again, the history was not new per se but the context in which it was placed allowed me to widen my understanding and for that I am grateful. Early on I surmised that the teacher of this course has (in the past or currently) a Christian point of view. Not a denominational affiliation - but an understanding of life's purpose and a relationship with God that aligns most often and most closely to my understanding of that shared by most Christians. He does not state that - but that is my take away. If correct, that point of view cannot help but color the lens and/or filter of his understanding. He makes every effort to be objective and certainly at every point is sensitive and accepting of other points of view as being of worth. For that I am appreciative. If that is his belief, there is no harm in sharing that fact directly. The last lesson in this course was a gutsy, personal and touching. It has an impact. Perhaps even a positive impact. While it is not inappropriate in the context of this course - a more objective and less personal ending would have suited me better. Classroom work is different from spiritual testimony and in a classroom setting one does not expect such a personal account. It is NOT a negative but it is a startling conclusion to a course that begins with science, traces the philosophers throughout the centuries and ends denoting the limitations of religion on personal growth. One final point in summation, I very much appreciated the condensed, clear and intelligent presentation of the materials and would encourage Rev. Chuck to offer a follow up course. ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Spirituality
Final essay The most fascinating part of this course was the discussion of god/God as an ever maturing entity. That was a completely new concept to me and one I rather enjoyed pondering. The multi-discipline approach (science, philosophy, etc.) was also unique from other presentations so that too was quite refreshing. The teacher had a great capacity to present complex ideas in common parlance. He also demonstrated considerably more than a passing understanding of the verifiable material presented. The romp through science was a great start to this course and I found the physics-lite portion of particular interest. I wish I had bumped into some of these concepts when in college, as the material was the same, however this rendering was far more interesting. The section on Marx too was particularly interesting. Again, the history was not new per se but the context in which it was placed allowed me to widen my understanding and for that I am grateful. Early on I surmised that the teacher of this course has (in the past or currently) a Christian point of view. Not a denominational affiliation - but an understanding of life's purpose and a relationship with God that aligns most often and most closely to my understanding of that shared by most Christians. He does not state that - but that is my take away. If correct, that point of view cannot help but color the lens and/or filter of his understanding. He makes every effort to be objective and certainly at every point is sensitive and accepting of other points of view as being of worth. For that I am appreciative. If that is his belief, there is no harm in sharing that fact directly. The last lesson in this course was a gutsy, personal and touching. It has an impact. Perhaps even a positive impact. While it is not inappropriate in the context of this course - a more objective and less personal ending would have suited me better. Classroom work is different from spiritual testimony and in a classroom setting one does not expect such a personal account. It is NOT a negative but it is a startling conclusion to a course that begins with science, traces the philosophers throughout the centuries and ends denoting the limitations of religion on personal growth. One final point in summation, I very much appreciated the condensed, clear and intelligent presentation of the materials and would encourage Rev. Chuck to offer a follow up course. ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Metaphysical Healing
| Metaphysical Healing: Final Lesson This course has touched me in a number of ways. Katharine's insight and spirituality embodies each technique and historical piece of information on the traditional and indigenous healers of South Africa. I found it intensely interesting to learn that there are over 35,000 healers in that country. It has made me wonder as to how many healers practice in the United States, and why these practitioners are not as recognized as their counterparts in South Africa. I would liked to have learned or seen more studies outside of South Africa. The information in this series was (at best) limited. The Native American and European cultures that have become more acceptably integrated into American culture have long and respected knowledge and practices that apply to the healing arts. Wicca, and other nature based philosophies, have ingrained in them, the knowledge of herbs and plants that are both beneficial and potentially harmful. While there is much to be gained and given from the practice of the laying on of hands, it would seem that it is also as important to know what herbs, plants, aromatherapy, materials for ritual…etc…are used and for what side effects accompany them. One of the final lessons on distance healing was probably the most inclusive of step by step technique and what 'tools' to use in the preparation. Perhaps an expansion would be well and good for another course study. A couple of the most important and interesting techniques that I gained from this course, is the examination of the aura and the techniques for relaxation, which are, by any other name, Hypno-therapy, and meditation. I have been able to practice these methods with my Husband with excellent results in helping him to manage his painful shoulders and back, which are a result of stress and physical labour. I am looking forward to reviewing all of the material over and over, so that I can become adept in fulfilling my calling as a healer as well as a minister and counselor. In fact, these all work together for the balance and harmony, the health and well being of everyone. Along with the medical profession, I believe that there should always be holistic alternatives available. Perhaps America will see the benefits of partnering with traditional healers, here in the US, to allow a more fruitful and complete form of healing the body, might mind and soul. It is my true belief, that if God has given you a gift, then it is your responsibility to hone it and share it, to give the glory to God for it's purpose and humble gratitude for its nature. I am grateful for the opportunity to have studied this course, to continue to hone my own skills (gifts) and the guidance that this study course has offered, to do so. Rev. Krissy Mahrling-Harding ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Metaphysical Healing
| Metaphysical Healing: Final Lesson This course has touched me in a number of ways. Katharine's insight and spirituality embodies each technique and historical piece of information on the traditional and indigenous healers of South Africa. I found it intensely interesting to learn that there are over 35,000 healers in that country. It has made me wonder as to how many healers practice in the United States, and why these practitioners are not as recognized as their counterparts in South Africa. I would liked to have learned or seen more studies outside of South Africa. The information in this series was (at best) limited. The Native American and European cultures that have become more acceptably integrated into American culture have long and respected knowledge and practices that apply to the healing arts. Wicca, and other nature based philosophies, have ingrained in them, the knowledge of herbs and plants that are both beneficial and potentially harmful. While there is much to be gained and given from the practice of the laying on of hands, it would seem that it is also as important to know what herbs, plants, aromatherapy, materials for ritual…etc…are used and for what side effects accompany them. One of the final lessons on distance healing was probably the most inclusive of step by step technique and what 'tools' to use in the preparation. Perhaps an expansion would be well and good for another course study. A couple of the most important and interesting techniques that I gained from this course, is the examination of the aura and the techniques for relaxation, which are, by any other name, Hypno-therapy, and meditation. I have been able to practice these methods with my Husband with excellent results in helping him to manage his painful shoulders and back, which are a result of stress and physical labour. I am looking forward to reviewing all of the material over and over, so that I can become adept in fulfilling my calling as a healer as well as a minister and counselor. In fact, these all work together for the balance and harmony, the health and well being of everyone. Along with the medical profession, I believe that there should always be holistic alternatives available. Perhaps America will see the benefits of partnering with traditional healers, here in the US, to allow a more fruitful and complete form of healing the body, might mind and soul. It is my true belief, that if God has given you a gift, then it is your responsibility to hone it and share it, to give the glory to God for it's purpose and humble gratitude for its nature. I am grateful for the opportunity to have studied this course, to continue to hone my own skills (gifts) and the guidance that this study course has offered, to do so. Rev. Krissy Mahrling-Harding ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A Course in Miracles
| A Course In Miracles Achieving any objective can appear deceptively simple, and understanding the message of this course is no different. From the beginning, we must put aside our ego and engage our higher mind, the realm of the spirit. Our ultimate goal is happiness and salvation, and there are two essential elements we must use to get there – love and forgiveness. And this is where it all starts to get complicated. We all desire happiness, and with happiness comes love. That desire drives our will and our thinking. Our ego constantly tells us that it has the answer to our desire, and provides us with plenty of illusions designed to make us happy. But these illusions provide only temporary happiness, to be replaced by other illusions. Happiness comes from our higher mind, not the ego, for it is a state of being in which we are immune to the troubles of the world, and protected from the world. The ego cannot provide happiness, but only the illusion of happiness. We desire more than illusions. But, desire is not enough. To achieve true happiness, we must have a conscious purpose to achieve happiness, powered by our intention to seek happiness, and our devotion to that pursuit. This is where the two essential elements come in. Happiness requires that we love ourselves and all the rest of creation. And, we cannot find that love until we are prepared to forgive ourselves and others for the slights we have suffered. "Only illusions can be forgiven, and then they disappear" says A Course In Miracles (T24.III.1.2). Accordingly, we must forgive others for the illusions we created in response to their "attacks" on us, and we must also forgive ourselves for that response. In that way, we rid ourselves of illusions and open ourselves up to love. But that is not enough. We must also extend that love to all of creation. For only by extending love to others can we give it to ourselves. And thus is happiness created and salvation attained. Love and Light, Rev.Robert Gill ******************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials. Many have been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and can attest to its ongoing growth and change. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar |
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