Turn, Turn, Turn

It is a common mistake to believe that the expression, “Turn the other cheek”, represents an act of weakness or acceptance.

It is in fact, an act of strength. 

It takes a strong person to look beyond the ego and recognize the frightened soul inside that the ego is protecting. 

An act of revenge serves no one.  It tells the other that their ego was correct in its judgment and that their beliefs about you were true.

A stronger act is not to act. Inaction, that comes from a place of love, is more powerful than action that comes from fear. 

Those who would judge based on the fearful act that they can see or the fear-filled words they hear, will be revealed for who they really are. 

Those with the best and most loving eyes can see through the fear and vengeance and recognize the loving act of inaction. 

If those around you are moved to act from fear and vengeance, be moved from your heart and be still in a place of love.

In the end, the peace and love you create will return to you multiplied. ~Silas

Deconstructing Criticism

You clench your teeth with fear. You are awaiting critique. It may be a test score, a piece of writing or artwork, an audition or a special project you have just completed at work.

The critic walks into the room. Your power goes out. Suddenly, your self-esteem is entirely in their hands. The critique has not yet begun and you are already missing a golden opportunity.

If you want to eliminate flaws and produce work that will be appreciated by others, it is good to have another person check your work. Your work is an expression of who you are, but it is not you. Appreciate the gift of feedback.

A second set of eyes can pick up mistakes that your tired eyes may miss. They may l spot holes and spaces for improvement. They may spot something brilliant that you have downplayed. They may see an interesting pattern that you might want to explore further.

Criticism can be a blessing, if you can remember that it is not about you. It is natural to feel defensive when someone is looking for errors in your work, but as the goal is improvement, you need to deal with those feelings and listen to the message. Sometimes having your feelings hurt can inspire you to improve your work and do a better job in the future, but allowing your feelings to be hurt is a choice that you make.

It is true that some critics let their power go to their heads and can be deliberately mean and harsh. Even their opinions can be helpful, if you let go of your pride and remember that improvement of your work is the ultimate goal. If there is any honesty in their critique, it can be helpful. Use your own judgement as well. Critics aren't perfect either.

Some of the greatest artists and writers and actors have been criticized harshly. Some have been told they had no talent. What made them great was pushing past the criticism, making changes as necessary, and continuing the work. Continued practice often brings the best results.

When you face criticism, look for the good things as well as the bad. Adjust your work as needed, but make sure it remains an accurate reflection of you.

Critics are not always correct in their assessments, but don't be too hard on them. With constructive criticism, persistence and practice, they will get it right. ~Silas

Choose Love, Choose Peace

When your heart opens to Spirit, you will often be guided to a path that supports your feelings and beliefs. Millions on this planet do the same thing, and few pick the same path.

Whether it be a religious or spiritual practice or cultural belief, you cannot sway another with anger or fear.

You might temporarily gain support from those who are undecided, but if your belief system doesn't met their needs, they will not stay.

We ask you, why do they need to stay? Are your beliefs more valid if you have more people standing behind you?

The only true spiritual path you have is the one you have with Spirit, God, the Universe, or whatever you choose to call it. This is the only religion you need to follow.

The temple or church is your body. The congregation of one, sits in your heart. You may enjoy sharing spiritual time with others, but always let your heart and your personal connection to Spirit guide your actions.

Live your love and your truth and let others be attracted to it, rather than attempting to blind them with it.

True spirituality is neither threatening, nor judgmental. There is only one destination. You may travel by expressway or winding country road. You will get there, no worries.

In the end, there will be no, "I told you sos", no winners or losers. You will all reunite (we will join you) and thank each other for playing such a great and lively game. ~Silas

Don't Beat the Translator

Today, we will tell you a story:

Once there was a man wandering around New York City. He was gesturing to people around him and speaking what sounded like gibberish. Many people complained as he accosted people, yelling at them and walked through the streets, interrupting traffic.

Soon, he was apprehended by the police who put him in a holding cell. They called a psychiatrist to come in to evaluate him.

While they were waiting, a British tourist who had come in to report a lost wallet, overheard the man talking.

"Excuse me", he said to an officer, "I think I can help you, I speak a little French. He is saying that he was walking through the city with his grandson. When he turned around, the child was gone. He has been trying to get someone to help him".

The tourist smiled, expecting the officers to be grateful for the help. Instead, a very large officer glared at him. "Shut your mouth! We know what we're doing. This man is crazy! And if you think he's making sense, you might just be crazy! Maybe we need to lock you up as well!"

The tourist left the station and tried to find help for the man, but no one would listen. The child remained lost and the grandfather was sent to a facility where he was kept under sedation to keep him quiet and docile.

This story is ridiculous fiction, of course. In a multicultural city like New York, police officers would understand that the man was speaking a different language, and if a child was suspected of being lost, they would act immediately.

Our point is that you cannot always judge a person by what you see on the outside. Situations are not always what they appear to be. You must be open to new evidence when it comes in. There is no shame in misjudging a person or situation if you do not have all the facts, but do not let pride and ego color the decisions you make about people.

They may do the same for you one day. ~Silas