Mental & Emotional Health

Transpersonal Gratitude

Giving Thanks for Earth, Sun, Cosmos, Nature and/or God

Arnold Shapiro, MD
Jan – Feb 2024 • Vol 4, No 8

Transpersonal gratitude is the third of three Dimensions of Gratitude. The other two (covered in previous articles of this magazine) are Intrapersonal (for the plentitude within us), and Interpersonal (for the benefits we receive from others). Transpersonal gratitude refers to everything from the World (Earth/Sun/Cosmos/ Nature/God) that we can be thankful for.

We are continuously sup-ported, lifelong, by the Earth’s air that we breathe, and by the ground beneath us that we are gravitationally attached to. The Sun gives us lifelong light and energy/warmth. The Sun is part of the Milky Way Galaxy, a disc of a few hundred million stars, and is estimated to be 5 billion years old. The Earth is a planet, along with several others that have orbited the sun since it formed.

The Earth is our home in the vast Universe. During the last few billion years, Life, directed by DNA, has initiated and evolved on Earth, all the way to our miraculous lives and conscious awareness. We are branches of the Tree of Life. It has its figurative roots in the earliest life forms, one-celled organisms. These earliest forms are called “Extremophiles,” and were able to survive the harsh conditions of the early Earth. Some forms of Extremophiles still flourish around the thermal features of Yellowstone National Park!

Only relatively recently (±50,000 years), has there been consciousness, language, and reasoning. We are the special creatures that have the capacity to thank our precious lives, and our roots.

Gratitude is found in all cultures that inhabit our planet. It is deeply ingrained in the human psyche. It is a socio-cultural “glue” that binds us together. Indigenous peoples everywhere have gratitude for the Great Spirits that created their land and ancestors, and support their lives. Gratitude is expressed in ceremonies, where sources of support are highly praised.

All three Dimensions of Gratitude are interconnected. We share extensive commonality, within us, between us, and outside us. The traditional Hindu greeting “Namaste’” expresses commonality and kinship by communicating: “The essence within me salutes the essence within you.” Gratitude is a part of Inner Peace, and Unity with the Allness.

— Namaste!

Dr. Shapiro is a career clinic physician who has utilized relaxation techniques with many of his patients. His YouTube channel is: “Arnie Shapiro, MD • Breathing Easy.” Email Dr. Shapiro at: alloydshapiro@gmail.com.

2023-12-27T13:30:02-07:00Mental & Emotional Health|

It’s a New Year!

Keep on Reading, Learning & Growing!

Raymond Ziemkowski
Jan – Feb 2024 • Vol 4, No 8

We know from the recorded lives of Saints and Sages of the world’s diverse religious traditions, that enlightenment and direct connection with God/Source is a possible and experienced reality. Each unique story and path adds to a “collective revelation” of our potential experience of God and unity, beyond our human sense of limitation and separation.

The “ultimate” Venn diagram of mankind’s course from separation to unity, includes the unique circle of experience and perspective of each of us. The more overlap we see and know, the more unity and cooperation we will experience in our lives and our world.

A Venn diagram uses overlapping circles or other shapes to illustrate the logical relationships between two or more sets of items. Often, they serve to graphically organize things, highlighting how the items are similar and different.

Every new person we meet… every new book, teaching or idea we discover, contributes to expanding our circle of understanding and compassion and offers an opportunity to bring us together towards an ultimate unified circle of oneness and unity.

Do you have a favorite saint or sage, or teacher and teaching, that inspires you to expand the circle of your understanding and your love/ compassion toward all life?

It’s a fun and rewarding exercise to sit down and distill a list of the top ten books that you have read, that have influenced your life and understanding. You might be inspired to read again and reboot these tomes that have inspired you on your life journey.

Two books, A Dweller on Two Planets and An Earth Dweller’s Return, by Phylos the Thibetan, published by Borden Publishing Co., are in my top ten esoteric book list. Collectively, these two books chronicle the progression of “classic” karmic entanglements of a group of souls, as well as larger national, ethnic and planetary karmas playing out (the battle of light and darkness) from their root causes in Lemuria and Atlantis until finding resolution in 19th century America.

These books can be read as fiction or embraced as an Akashic record of our soul’s individual and collective struggles through our earthly journey in time and space. Some of the most powerful imagery of the written word that I have ever read, are within these books.

It is comforting and brings co-measurement to our understanding of the world we live in today, when we see and understand what has been set in motion in our ancient past and is come to our doorstep for resolution today.

I’m convinced that planetary peace and unity will never be achieved by political or militant force. Peace and unity will ultimately be won by the work that we do on ourselves, as within so without. Imagine a planet and culture that honors each individual’s sovereignty and unique path to experience life, learn and grow. Separation and division will decrease, and unity and cooperation will rule the day.

I am grateful for a new year of self-discovery and service. I am grateful for this opportunity to share with you my love/wisdom through the Natural Life News online magazine.

Peace, Joy and Blessings to You Throughout the New Year!

Just Published!

Kuan Yin on Mercy, Forgiveness and the Bodhisattva Path
by David Christopher Lewis, with 15 Illustrations by David Keil

Kuan Yin shares her wisdom and love to move us forward to walk the bodhisattva path and fulfill our divine mission on Earth. She speaks of the grace and compassion of mercy, of how mercy is the greatest form of justice and how to accept the flame of mercy in our hearts as a transformative power and life-changing virtue.

“Mercy is required for true healing at all levels of consciousness. The mercy flame impels each being to see the divine within all. The voice of mercy-peace will help end war upon Earth even while merciful, compassionate communication is key to ending all conflict.”

Within these sixty poignant messages, Kuan Yin unveils for all the mystical path of mercy, bodhicitta and bodhi-sattva love. You do not have to be a Buddhist to enjoy the Presence and powerful radiance of Avalokitesvara—another name for beloved Kuan Yin.

The books mentioned here and much more are available at the Alchemy Exchange Bookstore in Livingston, MT, or from their Hearts Center Online Store. Also available at Amazon.com.

2023-12-27T13:30:03-07:00Mental & Emotional Health, The Metaphysical|

Inter-Personal Gratitude

Giving Thanks for the Wonderful People in Our Lives!

Arnold Shapiro, MD
Nov – Dec 2023 • Vol 4, No 7

In a previous article, I described the “dimensions of gratitude” as Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal. I will now focus on Interpersonal Gratitude, the thanks we have for other people in our lives.

It’s highly likely that we have received much benefit from many people in every phase of our lives. Our infancy and early childhood had constant need for parental and para-parental care and concern. In our school years, there were teachers and other caretakers who helped our development. By High School, there was likely a teacher or two who excited our interest in one field or another.

Our family and peers probably played an important role. We may have been excited to develop a special interest and/or mentored through difficulties by a special, caring person. We were the recipients of givingness.

The success of society and community is based on webs of cooperation (including people we are not acquainted with). Gratitude is intertwined with the will to cooperate, and has been called “societal glue.” We give a courtesy, receive a courtesy, and we are “all in this together.”

I’d like to emphasize the benefit of expressing our gratitude. “Thank you,” verbalized when any benefits are received, is common in community. All cultures have words for it. Written thanks are highly recommended to individuals who have been lastingly helpful. When we write down our gratitudes in the form of a journal, it is particularly beneficial.

Expressing gratitude renders us happy. Scientific studies have been conducted using a technique called functional MRI (fMRI). fMRI can detect changes in activity and blood supply to specific centers in our brain. What they found was that when a subject expressed deep gratitude, there was activation of brain centers rich in dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These are neurotransmitters described as “pro-social,” “pro-pleasure.”

Gratitude leads to positive emotions. Additionally, gratitude is a Relaxor, and induces the Relaxation Response, which suppresses the Stress Response. It helps to have intervals of gratitude in times of stress.

In summary, Interpersonal Gratitude is a response to benefits we have received from others. Expressing our gratitude elevates the state of mind of the receiver and the giver. One of the very best things we could do with our gratitude is pay it forward, in the form of acts of kindness, generosity, and love.

— Namaste!

Dr. Shapiro is a career clinic physician who has utilized relaxation techniques with many of his patients. His YouTube channel is: “Arnie Shapiro, MD • Breathing Easy.” Email Dr. Shapiro at: alloydshapiro@gmail.com.

2023-12-27T13:30:07-07:00Mental & Emotional Health|

To Savor That Which Is Sacred

Be Emotionally Nourished by Taking Time to Savor Your Religious Heritage

Catherine Nelson, Ph.D.
Nov – Dec 2023 • Vol 4, No 7

The two words, savor and sacred, seem to be missing in our vocabulary and in our contemporary life. The word “savory” is mostly used to describe food that is delicious and tasty. However, “to savor” can describe how we choose to focus on something positive, beautiful, and impactful with all of our senses of sight, smell, hearing, and feeling. It is as if you are inhaling emotionally into your innermost being something that awakens your essence in every cell of your body.

The word “sacred” can refer to our beliefs and/or feelings about something of great value that may be personal, cultural, religious, or spiritual, which is worthy of veneration. Here are a few examples.

The ancient Hawaiians had a strong relationship with the stars and constellations in the heavens and also with the oceans, which they depended upon for their survival as islanders. Over generations they studied the stars and constellations and their movements in the heavens. They also had great knowledge of the oceans, the waves, the currents and seasonal patterns. Their religious deities emerged from their relationship with the heavens and ocean. They would pray to their sacred deities and ask for help, especially on their long ocean voyages sailing to far-away shores. They would connect with their deities through prayer, through festivities, and with gratitude for keeping them safe. Their deities had divine powers.

Another example of that which was and still is sacred is the culture and beliefs of the American Indians in their respect and reverence for the lands they have inhabited and worshiped for generations. They treasure the mountains, the rivers and lakes, the forests and plains, the wildlife and all the plant life that gives them food, shelter, and protection. They show deep respect for the spirits of the animals they hunt and kill for food. They savor the meat and celebrate the hunt with prayer, ceremony and spiritual gratitude. They understand and appreciate their inter-dependence with all aspects of nature and hold sacred the circle of all life.

Across many cultures and religions, there are sacred objects, recordings, ancient writings, jewelry, icons, and precious stones. There is a sacred vibrational energy that can emanate from objects that may be religious, historical, of personal and/or cultural value.

In Judaism, there is the Torah, which contains the five Books of Moses. They believe that God gave the Torah to Moses. It was handwritten in Hebrew without punctuation, and it contains the history of the Jewish people, as well as their behavioral commandments. The Torah is chanted when read during a service. They so treasure the Torah that to destroy a Torah is equivalent to a homicide.

In the U.S., there are numerous Christian religious groups that have honored, worshipped and celebrated the birth, life and death of Jesus Christ. In our past, people took time to savor the beauty of the religious holidays, to sit quietly listening to the religious music and the special homilies, and to attend the beautifully decorated churches and cathedrals. There are great sacred works of Christian art, sculptures, and artifacts that have been handed down through the centuries. These days, so much of the Christmas holiday is blanketed with marketing, selling merchandise, pressure to buy presents, and planning festivities and celebrations. It is a crescendo of social activity that many people find exhausting. There is no time to savor that which is truly sacred. In some ways, we are losing out on our connection to the basic tenants of our religious doctrines.

Ironically, many would be emotionally nourished by slowing down and taking time to savor the beauty and the spiritual wonder of their religious heritage, beliefs and values. They would be able to access a deeper awareness of spiritual connection, self-worth, core values, and life’s purpose.

Our children need our help and guidance too. They need to learn how to separate from all the electronic technology and commercialization that so many seem to be addicted to these days. At a deeper level, the children especially need to learn that they are spiritual beings. They are loved and valued, and they have a life purpose. If there are children in your life, won’t you set aside some time during the upcoming holidays to instill a sense of the sacred with them? It could be as simple as looking up into the night sky and telling them the story of the Star of Bethlehem. They will savor the moment and remember it for a lifetime.

Catherine Nelson, Ph.D., has a counseling practice in Bozeman with many years of experience working with individuals and groups. She has taught at the Barbara Brennan School of Healing and is a certified Pathwork Helper. She offers workshops on personal transformation and energy healing and is available for individual sessions. Call Catherine at (406) 585-8025. E-mail cnhobbit@gmail.com. Visit: RockyMtnPathwork.org.

2023-12-27T13:30:07-07:00Mental & Emotional Health, The Metaphysical|

Awakening Abundance in Your Life

Introducing Young Living’s “Abundance” Essential Oil Blend

Maria Low
Nov – Dec 2023 • Vol 4, No 7

One of the most meaningful journeys Gary Young, the founder of Young Living Essential Oils, took was a trip to the pyramids in Egypt. He was able to observe the hieroglyphics on the walls of Egyptian temples and burial chambers. The ancient papyrus found in the Temple of Edfu contained medicinal formulas for fragrances and beneficial formulas used by alchemists and priests. Some oils were used as incense before ritual ceremonies. This was the first time he discovered that the people of the time blended essential oils for various purposes.

During the time of Christ, the Egyptians collected essential oils and stored them in alabaster jars, sealed for protection. In 1992, when King Tut’s tomb was opened, over 50 alabaster jars of essential oils were discovered along with 50 liters of various oils. When tested, the oils were found to be just as vital, despite the passage of time. Further adventures led Gary to learn more about how the Christians used many essential oils.

He learned that caravans on the Frankincense Trail imported and exported essential oils as far as China. Essential oils were mixed with olive oil to make a salve for the disciple’s feet when they traveled to preach the gospel. In addition, the oils were used as monetary exchange. They were also used for fumigation, anointing, religious rituals, medicinal purposes, and burials. Finally, the oils were used on animals and livestock.

These adventures influenced Gary Young to formulate essential oil blends. No one in the industry was doing this at the time. Others simply sold individual oils. Gary made a personal blend for himself and took it to France and shared it with colleagues. They were not able to figure out what the oil was because Gary had mixed single oils together.

Abundance™ was the first blend Gary made for the Young Living members. He believed that prosperity also meant perfect health. Everyone could hardly wait to use it. The intention behind this blend was to create a mindset of abundance, so that we would have more than enough for ourselves and to help others. Young Living members developed a unique practice: they would dip a toothpick into the Abundance™ oil and dab it on letters related to their business communications and checks sent with payment to others.

In another example, there were two ladies in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho who owned a gift shop. During the tourist season, however, the pedestrians just walked by the shop even though the door was open. Subsequently, these ladies attended a presentation where Gary introduced the Abundance blend and shared how to use it. After hearing this lecture, the ladies added a few drops to a diffuser in their store. The fragrance wafted out the door. In no time at all, the shop was full of people.

The Abundance™ blend has selected oils that exemplify the true energy of wealth. All the components magnify the vibrations of the law of attraction to generate prosperity. Gary Young combined his knowledge of historical records with what he had learned through visiting places with a tradition of essential-oil use. He was able to create a blend with the vibration of joy, empowerment, health enhancement, and a prosperous mind set. The corresponding essential oils for this energy are: Myrrh, Cinnamon Bark, Frankincense, Patchouli, Orange, Clove, Ginger, and Spruce.

The essential oils provided by the Young Living Farms and partners uphold the Seed to Seal standard. This means that quality is guaranteed from the seeds in the soil to the sealed bottle of oil. You are invited to any of the farms around the world to witness the Young Living process that gets these precious oils into your hands. Experiment yourself with the many uses of the oil blend of Abundance! You can sniff the fragrance from the bottle throughout your day to bring happy thoughts.

Young Living also has packages of frankincense resin for purchase. The resins can be burned for your own personal use, but another helpful way is to put a few resins in a glass of water and place a covering over it and let it soften overnight. This process releases the oils from the resin. Drink the beverage first thing in the morning, or enjoy it during the day. The people of Oman drink this on a regular basis and claim that cancer is exceedingly rare.

Websites: EssentialOilsKitchen.com and EssentialDropsOfJoy.com

8 Steps to Reduce Depression

Don’t Wait to Seek Help!

Bethel Wagner
Nov – Dec 2023 • Vol 4, No 7

According to recent studies, depression affects over 8% of adults and 17% of adolescents in the U.S. Depression takes many forms, including major depressive episodes, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, general anxiety disorder, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Depression is also the top disability and reason for missed work days.

Common signs and symptoms of depression include:

  • Feeling sad, hopeless, or irritable
  • Anxiety or agitation
  • Loss of interest in usual activities
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Loss of appetite or overeating
  • Difficulty thinking or focusing
  • Unexplained symptoms such as backache or headaches

The Roots of Depression

Sometimes depression is linked to an illness, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, or sheer loneliness. At other times, the cause of depression is far less clear. There is increasing evidence that numerous factors are likely involved in the development of depression. Here are some of the root causes that may be involved.

  • Leaky Gut and Dysbiosis— There is a clear connection between gut health and brain health. If the gut barrier is compromised, undigested bits of food, toxins, and pathogens can enter the bloodstream, creating inflammation. Over time, leaky gut and inflammation lead to poor nutrient absorption, which affects the brain. About 90% of serotonin and 50% of dopamine, both “feel good” hormones/neurotransmitters, are produced in the gut. When the intestinal lining is compromised, the brain may not get sufficient amounts of these neurotransmitters. In addition, an imbalance of microbes in the gut may contribute to depression.
  • Underlying Infections— There are various infections linked to depression. They include Lyme disease, West Nile virus, and C. difficile. Chronic, low-level infections cause systemic inflammation and may contribute to symptoms of depression.
  • Toxic Load— The buildup of toxins in the body may contribute to depression. Certain molds can trigger inflammation and cognitive symptoms. Air pollutants may cause neuroinflammation, especially in children. Some studies link EMF exposure to several common depressive symptoms. In addition, widespread exposure to synthetic chemicals contributes to overall inflammation and damage to the gut and its microbiome.
  • Blood Sugar Imbalances— Dysregulated blood sugar levels and insulin resistance negatively affect mood and cognitive function. Anxiety and depression are common symptoms of high and low blood sugar levels.
  • Hormone Imbalances— Imbalances in thyroid hormone, cortisol, insulin, and the ratio of estrogen to progesterone can all contribute to mood disturbances and symptoms of depression.
  • Chronic Stress— Whether physical, mental, or emotional, stress can lead to depression. Chronic stress damages the gut lining, impacts the microbiome, increases inflammation, and strongly influences the development of hormonal imbalances.
  • Lack of Sunlight/Movement — Lack of exposure to natural sunlight contributes to depression, especially in the case of Seasonal Affective Disorder. People who live in northern climates or places with consistently overcast weather are especially susceptible. In addition, there is a strong correlation between a sedentary life-style and depression for people of all ages.

Steps to Reduce Depression

If you suffer from depression, there are several steps you can take to reduce and reverse your symptoms. At the same time, seek the advice of your doctor or another healthcare professional to ensure that you receive the appropriate care.

  1. Get Regular Exercise. Regular, moderate exercise is known to be as effective as medication for relieving mild to moderate depression. Exercise oxygenates the body, releases feel-good hormones like dopamine, and improves eating and sleeping patterns. Walking for 30–45 minutes at least four days a week is a great place to start.
  2. Try Light Therapy. Using a full-spectrum, 10,000 lux light daily is helpful for people with SAD.
  3. Include Omega 3s and Key Nutrients. Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for brain health. They also reduce inflammation in the body. Other nutrients to consider optimizing include B6, B12, folate, vitamin D, magnesium, and the zinc-to-copper ratio. Herbs such as St. John’s Wort may also help reduce depression. I strongly encourage working with a health practitioner who can help you pinpoint which nutrients you may need to supplement.
  4. Ditch the Sugar! Sugar is a significant factor in the development of inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and hormonal disruptions. Refined sugar consumption can contribute to depression and anxiety. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to wean off all refined sugars, flour, and alcohol. Doing so can lead to an improvement in symptoms.
  5. Eat a Whole-Food Diet. A diet rich in whole foods such as vegetables, low-glycemic-load fruits, and clean protein will reduce inflammation and provide a variety of nutrients needed for optimal brain function and balanced moods.
  6. Focus on Gratitude. Writing down three things you are grateful for every day can begin to shift your negative thought patterns. Another strategy is to intentionally refocus in a positive direction whenever you notice a negative thought pattern arising.
  7. Listen to Music. Music has a powerful impact on your mood. Listening to music that has a relaxing or uplifting quality is a simple yet effective tool.
  8. Start a Meditation or Breathwork Practice. Both meditation and breathwork help to improve moods. They are excellent tools for processing and releasing emotions that may be contributing to depression.

If you are suffering from depression, don’t wait to seek help! At Sage Wellness Center we can help you discover what factors are at the root of your symptoms and support you in making changes to restore balance to both body and mind!

Partnerships in the Age of Aquarius

Books & Teachings to Assimilate & Become!

Raymond Ziemkowski
Nov – Dec 2023 • Vol 4, No 7

Partnerships in the Age of Aquarius

Books and Teachings that Are Ushering in the Age of Aquarius—
Meant to Be Read and Reread, to Assimilate and Become!

In the Age of Aquarius, toxic and worn out hierarchical structures, which are based on authoritarian fear and control paradigms, will be replaced by partnerships. We see this in many new ways and teachings that have emerged in recent years and within our lifetimes.

Without question, hierarchical structures are part of the fabric of Creation. It is also without question that toxic, authoritarian, hierarchical structures are a part of our collective “human creation” and the collective mess that we have made of our planet!

Our understanding and attitudes about organizational structures are at the core of our transition to new possibilities in Aquarius. Central to this shift is the understanding that the spiritual sovereignty of the individual is the foundation upon which any collective can be truly successful. Our individual spiritual sovereignty must be acknowledged, understood, and championed within organizations, institutions and governments of our world.

Marshal Rosenberg’s books on Nonviolent Communication, move us from typically authoritarian communication modes into a heart-centered space of empathy and respect that honors each individual’s voice and needs. Mastering deep listening skills, learning how to make observations without judgment, how to communicate our feelings, and to make clear requests will transform our relationships, our communities, and the planet.

Conscious Language, The Logos of Now, by Robert Tennyson Stevens, teaches us the language of the adept. We learn how to speak, how to form out intentions and words: first-person-personal, conscious-creative and outcome-oriented. The “Word” is a creative force and our subconscious mind works overtime to create exactly what we speak! Mastering thirteen domains of speech that can self-sabotage positive outcomes, can transform our lives from lack and want into prosperity and abundance.

Personal ownership is at the core of our mastery and initiation on the spiritual path. Numerous books on Ho’oponopono, including The Book of Ho’oponopono, The Hawaiian Practice of Forgiveness and Healing, by Bodin, Lamboy and Graciet, give us a framework to practice radical ownership and radical forgiveness, to transmute our karmic entanglements in the material world and forge our self-mastery.

David Spangler’s autobiographical book, Apprenticed to Spirit, shares valuable insights into new frontiers of partnerships and spirituality emerging today. His life story chronicles the emerging New Age in the 1960s and his participation in the early years of the Findhorn Foundation spiritual community and his partnership with Spirit throughout his adult life. His journey is our journey, as we champion a culture of blessing and honoring the God within each other and shed paradigms of labeling, judgement, justification and blame.

We are emerging from a period of extreme separation and duality on Earth. A collective and personal narcissism has eclipsed our experience and connectedness with our Source and the greater evolutionary emanations of life evolving both on our earth and throughout the greater creation of stars and planets of the cosmos.

Egocentric modes of interaction based on separation, fear, lack and competition serve the status quo of just that—separation, fear, lack and competition! Clearly our world requires a new model if we would truly create Heaven on Earth—as Above, so Below. Non-duality teachings challenge and dissolve every facet of human limitation and dysfunction that is born of any sense of separation.

Eckhart Tolle’s two epic books, Power of Now and A New Earth quicken our awareness to begin to discover the “observer within” and the “witnessing Presence” that is at the source of our Being.

Michael Singer’s trilogy of books, The Untethered Soul, The Surrender Experiment, and Living Untethered, teach us how to say “yes” to the present moment and embrace an accelerated spiritual growth, whatever life brings to our doorstep.

And if we choose to engage in a path of personal and planetary self-transcendence and service, Saint Germain on Advanced Alchemy, and Advanced Studies of the Human Aura, by David Christopher Lewis, provide a comprehensive framework to engage in our spiritual adeptship.

Our individual and collective remembering of our origins is shifting the axis of our awareness from a personal, separate, egocentric axis to a new axis that is based on partnerships and felt connections with all life. Our remembering is opening the door to new opportunities of Aquarian Love and Freedom.

I believe these books complement the ongoing and emerging culture of ownership and mastery through our personal Christ/Buddha self. And I invite you to read or reread and study these books and teachings on your path of self-realization.

All these books and much more are available at the Alchemy Exchange Bookstore in Livingston, MT, or their online store. (See ad on next page.)

2023-12-27T13:30:09-07:00Mental & Emotional Health, The Metaphysical|

Core Values and Core Beliefs

Which One Is More Important to You?

Catherine Nelson, Ph.D.
Sept – Oct 2023 • Vol 4, No 6

When I drive to different local events and activities in our town, I often take one or two people with me who need a ride. There are two former passengers I seldom see anymore, but I often think about them.

Mary is a lover of dogs. She and her husband are both retired. They chose to adopt several older dogs from the local animal rescue facility, as they know these dogs are unlikely to get adopted by others. They willingly pay the medical bills for expensive medicines for these older animals and want the dogs to have a good life. Needless to say, the dogs become increasingly healthy and happy with all the love and attention that they receive.

Mary is a volunteer at the local library, and she has several jobs. One is to deliver library books every week to several older people who can no longer safely drive their cars. She typically stays a while, talking to each house-bound individual. Mary has a quality of goodness that shows up in a number of her other volunteer activities.

Bill is another former passenger I often think about. Bill is retired, and he too finds many ways to be of service as a volunteer in his small community. In the summer months, he works

for the National Parks Conservation Association to help remove or modify barbed wire fencing on ranches near the national park. Sometimes he removes the lower strand of barbed wire so the pronghorn can crawl under the fencing as they migrate through a valley.

Sometimes he gets to remove all the fencing, so wild animals can travel through the fields freely. Other times, he helps to roll up old rusty barbed wire, so the wild animals will not get caught in it and get injured. It is hard work on hot and dusty days, moving through fields, ditches and mountainous areas.

In addition, Bill is a volunteer at the local food bank in town, helping with the shipments and distribution of foods. Once again, he works hard lifting heavy boxes of vegetables, canned goods, and other products in and out of trucks on to the shelves in the storage area of the old building.

Mary and Bill have a lot in common. They are caring individuals, and they volunteer many hours during the week doing what they love. They contribute willingly in a multitude of ways. However, there are major differences between Mary and Bill. Mary reads a lot, talks to people where ever she goes and believes in the fundamental goodness of human beings.

Bill was a quiet passenger in my car but when asked his opinion about different topics, he would speak and his thoughts were usually critical. He read the local community newspaper every morning with his coffee, and he listened to his favorite radio talk show. Bill would get annoyed and angry about the actions and decisions of local and national politicians and leaders. Bill tended to be suspicious of people’s intentions, and he expected worse things were going to happen all the time. Even when Bill heard of something good going on in the community, Bill would quickly move to another issue or topic that was not, in his opinion, “right” or fair.

I think about Mary and Bill and wonder how they are doing. They are good people, and they each are reliable and responsible community members. They are generous with their time and energy in their numerous volunteer activities. Mary was much better company on long car rides. She could be critical and concerned, but she could also talk about something happening that was positive and worthwhile going on in the community. Mary also enjoyed talking to other passengers in the car and was interested in their opinions and ideas. Bill was more introspective.

Sometimes when I think about Mary and Bill, I remember the old cliché, “Is the glass of water half empty or half full?” Bill would be the one who saw the glass as “half empty” most of the time. Mary was more likely to see the glass as “half full.” I wondered how two people could be so generous and caring and yet, have significantly different beliefs about people and life.

I do not know about their individual backgrounds growing up, or their families or friends. I do not know what life events might have helped to shape their fundamental beliefs about others or even their own sense of self-worth. I do know that as different as they were in their beliefs about others, they were equally committed to helping do good things for people, for animals, and for the community. In retrospect, perhaps what I saw in Bill’s and Mary’s contributions and good work is all I really needed to know about each of them. Their core values were more important to me than their beliefs about human nature and life.

Catherine Nelson, Ph.D., has a counseling practice in Bozeman with many years of experience working with individuals and groups. She has taught at the Barbara Brennan School of Healing and is a certified Pathwork Helper. She offers workshops on personal transformation and energy healing and is available for individual sessions. Call Catherine at (406) 585-8025. E-mail cnhobbit@gmail.com. Visit: RockyMtnPathwork.org.

2023-12-27T13:30:12-07:00Mental & Emotional Health|

Life & Love Lessons

Ask Dr. Ma: I Want to Find Someone to Fit My Needs

Marlenea La Shomb, N.D., LMT, P.Tr.
Sept – Oct 2023 • Vol 4, No 6

Dear Dr. Ma,

I’m in my twenties, and I can’t find someone to fit my needs. I’m tired of the dating scene… Any advice would be helpful.

— Dawn

Dear Dawn,

With respect to relationships, the person you are with is like a mirror for your growth. If you start out needy, that is what you will attract into your life. Start by changing your thoughts, and you will attract a different kind of person to be with. Here are some points that I offered my dating-age girls in terms of the four kinds of attraction: Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual.

If you are only attracted, say, to a person physically, but do not connect on other levels, it will fade out quickly and be short-lived. If you can talk (mentally) with a person for hours on end, that would be a great friend to have, yet if the relationship is lacking in the other three areas, you may not find it fulfilling overall.

Choose to wait for the person to come along in your life that you connect with on at least two of the above, minimum, and preferably three. And, of course, all four is perfect for a life-long connection.

Just be yourself, simply growing daily, and life will take care of itself. You were made in love. You are love. And you start by loving yourself. And yes, it’s a life-long process. Life is an adventure of connecting. Love is knowing that your very presence makes a difference. It means being true to yourself and your inner calling. The blessing lies in the opportunity for loving.

Here are four of my favorite life lessons: What should I love first? Whatever is in front of you. What do I do first? Whatever is facing you. Who do I help now? The next person you talk to. What do I learn next? The solution to a problem. You don’t have to seek your lessons in connecting. They find you. The power of a simple lesson to give love is staring you in the face when taken as an opportunity for growth.

Then your next lesson will appear. And this goes for ALL kinds of relationships. My favorite book on this subject is Love Without End—Jesus Speaks… by Glenda Green. It answers some of our most basic questions: Who am I really? How can I have an abundant and healthy life? What is my highest purpose? What happens when I die? Why is there so much pain? Can there ever be peace in the world?

The answers to these will invariably emerge from the presence or absence of one great power—LOVE.

I hope this is helpful.

— Dr. Ma!

Send your questions to Dr. Ma La Shomb, N.D., LMT, P.Tr., by text only, along with your name & phone number, to (406) 224-5425. Email to jumpstartyourhealth@gmail.com. Marlenea passionately works as a health coach and writer for all who are ready to find harmony and balance in body, mind, and soul through natural therapies and education.

2023-12-27T13:30:12-07:00Mental & Emotional Health|

Everyone Needs Significance…

Take Me Seriously. Show Me Some Respect. I Matter.

Janet Little
Sept – Oct 2023 • Vol 4, No 6

“Everyone needs significance,” a client said to me last week. He continued, “Even the guy who puts a gun in your face is asking for significance—the unspoken, Notice me! Take me seriously. Show me some respect. I matter.”

Not showing respect, not having appreciation for another’s journey in life manifests as waiting for the chance to speak instead of really listening to the other’s words. It shows up as bursting in late and noisily to a meeting. It’s the action of a person who reads the first part of an email and misses important details in the sentences that follow.

“If you don’t care about other people,” my client said, “how are you going to appreciate the idea, the significance of the other?” Most of us have the capacity to develop empathy and appreciation and understanding of others. We have the ability to learn to hear and then to reflect that we appreciate the significance of the other.

In a loving culture, like the kind that we all want our kids and grandkids to live in, like the kind we want to live in, we show respect to each other. Showing respect requires practice in mindfulness, being in the moment, taking the time to appreciate the other, to communicate to them that you acknowledge what they have said, what they have done. Showing respect for others is a type of empathy—the expression of one of the virtues of a loving heart.

Yet, it takes effort to recognize other people—and we’re busy and stressed. Where do we start? We start with learning to appreciate ourselves. You might know about the many forms of intelligence, a theory proposed by Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner. He proposes: Visual-spatial, Linguistic-verbal, Logical-mathematical, Body-kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, Naturalistic. He has suggested a ninth: Existential. Yet, with all these fine groupings, where does mechanical intelligence or animal whispering fit in? What about the talent of being a food wizard? The point is, recognize your intelligences—and the limits of them—and learn to listen to what others see from their vantage point.

Consider various vantage points. Read Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats, and learn to understand your own and others’ perspectives. The leading authority in the field of creative thinking, De Bono says our perspective can be compared to the wearing of a certain color hat: a Blue hat for organization, planning; White: facts and information; Green: ideas, creativity; Yellow: benefits, values; Red: feelings, instincts; Black: risks, caution.

First, determine which color hat you typically wear. How do you show up in a meeting, whether the meeting takes place in a conference room or at a dinner table? Then learn to use your understanding of these “hats” to appreciate where another person is coming from. The person in your life who meets your suggestions by telling you what can go wrong could be a Black-hat thinker. Take the information in, and examine it from that perspective instead of reacting to what you see as negativity.

To learn more about yourself from a vocational point of view, you might take John Holland’s “Self-Directed Search,” a career assessment test, to learn where your strengths lie, where you fit in the interests categories comprised of Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising and Conventional—RIASEC for short. Simple quizzes to find your top three interests/ strengths are available online.

If you’re career exploring or reexploring, Holland has also categorized thousands of jobs by personality types, a compendium that may be available online or in your local library. As you begin to appreciate the unique snowflake you are, also recognize your own conceits—so as not to take them too seriously. Those conceits are like pride before a fall or wearing stiletto heels to a Montana rodeo! Wear your boots instead! Have patience in overcoming. After all, did you deliberately show up with dog hair on your jacket? You’re working on getting better, on becoming your true, best self—and, for the most part, so is that other person, that other you are standing in front of, that other one-of-a-kind snowflake.

Choose to believe that your slowness to recognize another’s idea or perspective is a block in your own awareness. Pause. Show regard. Reflect back to that person what you perceive he said or did. Stay curious as to how she views life such that she came to that conclusion, chose to react in the way she did. As best you can, model clear and concise communication and help others to learn the benefits of that.

Give significance to others by interrupting your crazy, galloping mind. Look the other person in the eye and say something that helps give that person significance, like: I appreciate your work; You really add to our team; I’m so glad you are part of our family; and thank you!

One of my favorite ministers once said to me, “Yes, dear, things would be more efficient if I did them myself, but God has entrusted me to train leaders.” Really, we’re all training leaders, whether we have that role as a parent, teacher or mentor, or whether we are just meeting another, face to face for a moment or longer.

Did you know that the golden rule—a version of it—appears in all major religions? Remember to treat others as you would most like to be treated.

Janet Little is a psychotherapist and editor currently living in Boise, Idaho. She calls herself a Christian Buddhist and is active in The Hearts Center Community.

Read more about other perspectives, worldviews, and biographies of individuals who have experienced life-changing events. Wonderful examples are available at The Alchemy Exchange Store at 130 N. Second Street, Livingston, Montana when you are in the neighborhood or visit their online store.

2023-12-27T13:30:14-07:00Mental & Emotional Health|
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