This week: The Whole Truth Edited by: Sophurky  
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Hi, I'm Sophurky ~ your editor for this edition of the Spiritual Newsletter.
The Rev. Scotty McLennan, author of the book Finding Your Religion, compares humanity's innate need for spiritual searching to climbing a mountaain. In his view, we are all endeavoring to climb the same figurative mountain in our search for the divine, we just may take different ways to get there. In other words, there is one "God," but many paths. I honor whatever path or paths you have chosen to climb that mountain in your quest for the Sacred.  |
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Don Miguel Ruiz – The first of the Four Agreements – Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Are you aware of the power of your word, of speaking your truth? What are some of the ways you’ve experienced the power of your word in your life?
Being honest and truthful was instilled in me growing up – I was taught that it was always better to tell the truth and face whatever consequences there might be, than to lie and lose trust and respect. My parents taught me this by example, and as a result, not only is it almost physically impossible for me to lie, I have always found truth-tellers compelling and admirable – especially those who speak truth to power, in spite of the inherent risks of doing so. Conversely I have always been particularly offended by liars – I take lying personally, even if I’m not the one being lied to!
The Four Agreements by don Miguel Ruiz came to mind for me as I was reflecting on this passage in light of the impeachment hearings. Rev. David Weissbard writes, “Ruiz places the greatest emphasis on the first agreement: Be impeccable with your word. [Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.] Words are symbols, they are a force, [among] the most powerful tools we have. Words can free us or enslave us. In his book, Ruiz wrote about how Hitler sent out ‘seeds of fear’ by the words he used and successfully manipulated a whole country of intelligent people. ‘All over the world people destroyed other people because they were afraid of one another.’ Note: Ruiz’s words were written [over 20] years ago and were not intended as a commentary on any contemporary politician, although ‘if the shoe fits…’” Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Now, lest our takeaway be to point fingers at “those people" or anyone who lies – let me remind us that whenever we point our finger at someone else there are three pointing back at ourselves. There is little we can do about other people being dishonest. We can certainly call it out, and perhaps there will be fitting consequences – but at the end of the day we cannot control the behavior of anyone else. We can, however, be responsible for our own behavior, our own words. In the face of deceit from others, it is my hope that we may we be inspired to speak the truth, to monitor our own words. We all have a responsibility to the truth – however we perceive the Divine – and nothing gets closer to the core of the Sacred than the concept of speaking truth, of building up rather than tearing down. Therefore, may we turn our eyes onto ourselves and be impeccable with our word. Perhaps one way we can do that is to ask oneself before we speak: Is what I am about to say true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?
Returning to my original question, are you aware of the power of your word, of speaking truth? What are some of the ways you’ve experienced the power of your word in your life? Here is an example from my own experience. Near the end of a conversation with a friend, I shared some positive affirmations with her. They came at the end of our conversation, and they were heartfelt. A couple of days later my friend let me know how much my words meant to her – that she really appreciated my sharing some of the things I admire about her. I have to admit that I was taken aback by her gratitude. I remembered the exchange, and meant every word I said – but they came as sort of an afterthought at the end of our conversation, if you know what I mean – a few parting words I shared that as it turned out, were very meaningful for her. That gave me an example of the power of my words – even as an afterthought – and the impact they had.
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Below you'll find some spiritual offerings from other WDC members. Please let the folks know if you read their piece by leaving a thoughtful comment or review. If you have something you would like me to highlight, please do share it with me, thanks!
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Now for some comments about my last newsletter "Spiritual Newsletter (November 13, 2019)" : about "Choose Curiosity:"
From Zeke 
I agree with the message in this piece too, but we have to keep in mind that good judgment is very necessary in some cases.
Keep writing.
Zeke
Thank you!
       
From Lilli 🧿 ☕ 
Thank you for your timely newsletter. Kindest Regards, Lilli
Glad you liked it.
From Mia - craving colour
Hi Sophy,
Once more you’ve written a thoughtful piece that stirs the imagination and has practical implications. In reflecting on replacing judgement with curiosity, I recall reading that when one wants to abstain from something, it’s easier when something else takes its place. In light of this, what a marvelous way to become more aware of where and when judgement sneaks in and then being able to shift to another mode of perceiving. Thank you for sharing another insightful issue.
So glad you found it helpful, thank you for letting me know! 
From Quick-Quill 
I too was curious about my roots. In discovering how my ancestors came to this country then as I followed them to the present, I found the search for a real relationship with Christ was the mitigating factor to their migration. Here I am, the product of two families who received a paper about living a Christ like life (or was told about it). Each came to have that personal relationship then moved to Portland to be with the people who preached it. I find that though I'm not the only one with this familial story, I smile that my "cousin" from another branch of the family is working with me.... Life is good.
Love finding things like this out!
From bombshellbeauty 
I absolutely love this article.
Thank you.
Please keep your comments and suggestions coming - and Happy Holidays! Sophurky |
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Spiritual: December 11, 2019 Issue [#9907]
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