Changes

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

===='''''[[Hope]]'''''====

===='''''[[Hope]]'''''====

During the times of the [[resolution]] of the [[dispute]] in the [[Christian]] church, later known as the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Catholicism church], later yet known as the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_catholicism Roman Catholic church], regarding the [[nature]] of the conception of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]], the bishops settled upon a code of [[conduct]]. A [[triumvirate]] to be taught to the people. They [[agreed]] at length upon the triumvirate of [[faith]], [[hope]] and [[charity]]. Numerous exhortations were [[argued]] and rejected, but a [[parallel]] was drawn to [[the Son]], who was thought by the [[majority]] of the best [[minds]] present to [[represent]] the direct son of [[the Father]] and the member of the [[Trinity]] thought by them to be represented by [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] in human [[flesh]]. And the [[hope]] of the [[future]], the hope of the life everlasting, the hope of the eternal [[salvation]]. This preachment of [[hope]], when taught among the common people, not by the bishops but by village [[priests]] and [[itinerant]] mendicants and religious activists was subtly [[transmuted]] into a doctrine of [[passive]] wistfulness and a reliance [[contaminated]] by the notions of divine [[providence]]. This [[hope]] that was taught in the villages became understood by the common people as a derivation or a product of the original [[faith]] which was, after all and accurately so, a keystone of the new [[covenant]].

During the times of the [[resolution]] of the [[dispute]] in the [[Christian]] church, later known as the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Catholicism church], later yet known as the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_catholicism Roman Catholic church], regarding the [[nature]] of the conception of [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]], the bishops settled upon a code of [[conduct]]. A [[triumvirate]] to be taught to the people. They [[agreed]] at length upon the triumvirate of [[faith]], [[hope]] and [[charity]]. Numerous exhortations were [[argued]] and rejected, but a [[parallel]] was drawn to [[the Son]], who was thought by the [[majority]] of the best [[minds]] present to [[represent]] the direct son of [[the Father]] and the member of the [[Trinity]] thought by them to be represented by [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] in human [[flesh]]. And the [[hope]] of the [[future]], the hope of the life everlasting, the hope of the eternal [[salvation]]. This preachment of [[hope]], when taught among the common people, not by the bishops but by village [[priests]] and [[itinerant]] mendicants and religious activists was subtly [[transmuted]] into a doctrine of [[passive]] wistfulness and a reliance [[contaminated]] by the notions of divine [[providence]]. This [[hope]] that was taught in the villages became understood by the common people as a derivation or a product of the original [[faith]] which was, after all and accurately so, a keystone of the new [[covenant]].

===='''''[[Courage]]'''''====

===='''''[[Courage]]'''''====

In [[modern]] times the [[doctrinal]] teaching, the standard of [[conduct]] of [[hope]], has become [[trivialized]] to the [[point]] of [[virtual]] [[meaninglessness]] and so, while acknowledging that the original concept of the [[Christian]] church was sound, we say to you that [[hope]] is not a [[technique]] for eternal [[salvation]]. We tell you forthrightly that wistfulness will not get the job done. It will not do for the instruction of your [[children]]. It will not serve your [[neighbors]] and it will not prove effective for you as [[individuals]]. We say to you, rather than [[hope]], let [[courage]] be your standard of [[conduct]]. We exhort you to [[assert]] yourselves to the best of your [[understanding]] to help each person whom you meet encounter that [[spark]] within known as Father fragment or the [[Thought Adjuster]], the living God within each of you. We exhort you to be bold in [[proclaiming]] your [[faith]] as you [[understand]] it. Not in an [[effort]] to [[manipulate]] or to [[dominate]] your fellows, but to serve as an [[inspiration]] and as an example of [[normal]] people in a demanding and often demented [[society]] attempting with each identifiable [[event]] to elect among the many [[choices]] which [[path]] would be the path preferred by the [[Heavenly Father]] and to move in that [[direction]].

In [[modern]] times the [[doctrinal]] teaching, the standard of [[conduct]] of [[hope]], has become [[trivialized]] to the [[point]] of [[virtual]] [[meaninglessness]] and so, while acknowledging that the original concept of the [[Christian]] church was sound, we say to you that [[hope]] is not a [[technique]] for eternal [[salvation]]. We tell you forthrightly that wistfulness will not get the job done. It will not do for the instruction of your [[children]]. It will not serve your [[neighbors]] and it will not prove effective for you as [[individuals]]. We say to you, rather than [[hope]], let [[courage]] be your standard of [[conduct]]. We exhort you to [[assert]] yourselves to the best of your [[understanding]] to help each person whom you meet encounter that [[spark]] within known as Father fragment or the [[Thought Adjuster]], the living God within each of you. We exhort you to be bold in [[proclaiming]] your [[faith]] as you [[understand]] it. Not in an [[effort]] to [[manipulate]] or to [[dominate]] your fellows, but to serve as an [[inspiration]] and as an example of [[normal]] people in a demanding and often demented [[society]] attempting with each identifiable [[event]] to elect among the many [[choices]] which [[path]] would be the path preferred by the [[Heavenly Father]] and to move in that [[direction]].

[[Courage]] does not mean [[heroic]] [[efforts]]. It may sound [[ironic]] to say, but it is enough if you do not break and run at the first [[impediment]]. [[Courage]] is not measured by a single [[event]]. We see courage as your willingness to [[expose]] yourselves repeatedly without a [[perfect]] understanding of the [[activities]] in which you are [[engaged]]. Courage means to speak squarely to one [[stranger]] and then another and then another, dealing with all fairly and turning the [[topic]] of the [[conversation]] from [[personal]] concerns to [[spiritual]] concerns. With the necessary [[practice]] you can become quite [[skillful]], I [[assure]] you. You already know that people are willing to talk. It merely requires some [[guidance]] on your part to elevate the stream from the rehearsed [[speech]] which they are likely to deliver to you onto matters of [[consequence]].

[[Courage]] does not mean [[heroic]] [[efforts]]. It may sound [[ironic]] to say, but it is enough if you do not break and run at the first [[impediment]]. [[Courage]] is not measured by a single [[event]]. We see courage as your willingness to [[expose]] yourselves repeatedly without a [[perfect]] understanding of the [[activities]] in which you are [[engaged]]. Courage means to speak squarely to one [[stranger]] and then another and then another, dealing with all fairly and turning the [[topic]] of the [[conversation]] from [[personal]] concerns to [[spiritual]] concerns. With the necessary [[practice]] you can become quite [[skillful]], I [[assure]] you. You already know that people are willing to talk. It merely requires some [[guidance]] on your part to elevate the stream from the rehearsed [[speech]] which they are likely to deliver to you onto matters of [[consequence]].

Any copy of one of your weekly news magazines or any daily paper has numerous [[topics]] which we think would be spiritually provocative as [[topics]] of [[conversation]]. Particularly so far as leading people to consider the [[consequences]] of certain policies. Is God punishing the Californians? Do they deserve what is happening to them? Are the floods of the midwest the floods predicted in the [[Bible]]? More people than you would [[immediately]] guess are willing to [[discuss]] these [[topics]], even among your [[generation]]. There are many among whom these notions were planted years before as [[children]] in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_religion organized religions]. Once the [[conversation]] begins, we [[think]] that the door then is open to elicit [[statements]] of people's [[relationship]] with God. What is their concept? What is the [[degree]] of [[participation]]? Has He turned His [[face]] away from us? Will He return as [[promised]] in the form of His son? Can the humans pull it off [[alone]] or is more [[necessary]]? The part that takes the [[courage]] is to take [[control]] of the situation and to elevate the topic of the conversation. That is the [[difficult]] part. That is what takes the [[courage]]. Nearly all of you are comfortable at this point with conversation with [[strangers]]. The next step is, turn the conversation to topics of [[consequence]]. For if you have any success at opening the door of another [[mind]], even the slightest crack, you will be doing the work that [[the Master]] would have you do, as if he was standing by your side and by your [[thought]], [[word]] and [[deed]] you exhibited your [[understanding]] of his teaching such that you allowed yourself to serve as a conduit from the [[Heavenly Father]] who shines His [[love]] through you upon another and that you provide this [[service]] without self effacement and without [[trivializing]] His [[message]] and His [[interaction]] with another life form destined to someday join Him in [[heaven]] as a full and functioning member of the roster of fully tested and reliable human [[survivors]]. Those who have traveled the entire length of [[creation]] experiencing every level and strata of universe citizenry on their [[path]] from [[birth]] to [[perfection]]. This is my lesson for you tonight.

Any copy of one of your weekly news magazines or any daily paper has numerous [[topics]] which we think would be spiritually provocative as [[topics]] of [[conversation]]. Particularly so far as leading people to consider the [[consequences]] of certain policies. Is God punishing the Californians? Do they deserve what is happening to them? Are the floods of the midwest the floods predicted in the [[Bible]]? More people than you would [[immediately]] guess are willing to [[discuss]] these [[topics]], even among your [[generation]]. There are many among whom these notions were planted years before as [[children]] in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_religion organized religions]. Once the [[conversation]] begins, we [[think]] that the door then is open to elicit [[statements]] of people's [[relationship]] with God. What is their concept? What is the [[degree]] of [[participation]]? Has He turned His [[face]] away from us? Will He return as [[promised]] in the form of His son? Can the humans pull it off [[alone]] or is more [[necessary]]? The part that takes the [[courage]] is to take [[control]] of the situation and to elevate the topic of the conversation. That is the [[difficult]] part. That is what takes the [[courage]]. Nearly all of you are comfortable at this point with conversation with [[strangers]]. The next step is, turn the conversation to topics of [[consequence]]. For if you have any success at opening the door of another [[mind]], even the slightest crack, you will be doing the work that [[the Master]] would have you do, as if he was standing by your side and by your [[thought]], [[word]] and [[deed]] you exhibited your [[understanding]] of his teaching such that you allowed yourself to serve as a conduit from the [[Heavenly Father]] who shines His [[love]] through you upon another and that you provide this [[service]] without self effacement and without [[trivializing]] His [[message]] and His [[interaction]] with another life form destined to someday join Him in [[heaven]] as a full and functioning member of the roster of fully tested and reliable human [[survivors]]. Those who have traveled the entire length of [[creation]] experiencing every level and strata of universe citizenry on their [[path]] from [[birth]] to [[perfection]]. This is my lesson for you tonight.

===='''''[[Stillness]]'''''====

===='''''[[Stillness]]'''''====

Now, on the topic of [[stillness]] [[practice]], our suggestion to you some weeks ago regarding setting aside the [[waking]] moments is intended to be an adjunct and not a substitute for stillness [[practice]]. The [[Heavenly Father]] does not require stillness practice. You do. You are the ones who will benefit. He is already [[perfect]]. These are [[rehabilitation]] [[exercises]] for you. To [[focus]] yourselves for a few minutes of each earth day on something of imponderable [[consequence]]. You are not [[expected]] to see immediate results. You are not expected to see significance in this [[conduct]]. You are expected to [[calm]] your [[animal]] [[minds]] through your own control of runaway [[ego]] which seek to [[organize]] areas in which the ego has no fitness. You have stray [[thoughts]] because your ego attempts to [[organize]] your [[adoration]] of the [[Heavenly Father]]. The human [[ego]] is an adaptive [[tool]] that efficiently serves the demands of the [[material]] life, but it has nothing whatever to do with the [[spirit]] life. Each time you do [[stillness]] practice you build spirit life whether you know it or not by creating a new [[life]] not under the [[control]] of the human ego. Countless [[generations]] of [[wise]] men on [[your planet]] have engaged in [[techniques]] similar to these and found good results. This is not new. It is not some trick whereby we enslave you unknowingly. It is [[rehabilitation]] for you. You're [[free]] to [[participate]] or not participate. The only thing that will [[change]] is you. But then I think we will all readily admit that things need some changing. In order to make [[spirit progress]] you must change. We are changing. That is what [[progress]] is. Try harder in this regard. That is all I have to say.

Now, on the topic of [[stillness]] [[practice]], our suggestion to you some weeks ago regarding setting aside the [[waking]] moments is intended to be an adjunct and not a substitute for stillness [[practice]]. The [[Heavenly Father]] does not require stillness practice. You do. You are the ones who will benefit. He is already [[perfect]]. These are [[rehabilitation]] [[exercises]] for you. To [[focus]] yourselves for a few minutes of each earth day on something of imponderable [[consequence]]. You are not [[expected]] to see immediate results. You are not expected to see significance in this [[conduct]]. You are expected to [[calm]] your [[animal]] [[minds]] through your own control of runaway [[ego]] which seek to [[organize]] areas in which the ego has no fitness. You have stray [[thoughts]] because your ego attempts to [[organize]] your [[adoration]] of the [[Heavenly Father]]. The human [[ego]] is an adaptive [[tool]] that efficiently serves the demands of the [[material]] life, but it has nothing whatever to do with the [[spirit]] life. Each time you do [[stillness]] practice you build spirit life whether you know it or not by creating a new [[life]] not under the [[control]] of the human ego. Countless [[generations]] of [[wise]] men on [[your planet]] have engaged in [[techniques]] similar to these and found good results. This is not new. It is not some trick whereby we enslave you unknowingly. It is [[rehabilitation]] for you. You're [[free]] to [[participate]] or not participate. The only thing that will [[change]] is you. But then I think we will all readily admit that things need some changing. In order to make [[spirit progress]] you must change. We are changing. That is what [[progress]] is. Try harder in this regard. That is all I have to say.

*February 6, 1994

*February 6, 1994

===Opening===

===Opening===

Good evening. I come to bring you a lesson this evening in place of your regular teacher, Will.

Good evening. I come to bring you a lesson this evening in place of your regular [[teacher]], Will.

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

I would like to talk tonight about one's ability to keep within the conscious part of your mind, contact with the Father within. This conscious contact is something that must be built upon in the beginning daily with much perseverance. For most this is not an easy task to accomplish. We begin with small steps. Consciously allow the Father to come in to a small part of your mind, a small part of your day. Preferrably a time and space free from stress. Talk to Him. Allow Him to participate in those things that you do. This can be done at the workplace, during your leisure time. It's more often difficult to reach out to the Father when we are under stress. Hence my suggestion of those quiet times, those easy times as being the best platform from which to begin. Each day as you learn to talk with Him, sharing with Him, allowing Him to see through your eyes, hear through your ears, you will be able to expand this platform into larger areas of your day. Done over a long period of time this will hopefully become a habit. You'll know it is a habit when you no longer have to actively begin the process. A habit simply is. It's no longer uncomfortable. When habits are first being constructed, they're uncomfortable. It takes much practice, much perserverance before it does then become your habit and, as such, is comfortable. At this point it's automatic. We no longer have the need to actively engage. It simply happens as a matter of course.

I would like to talk tonight about one's [[ability]] to keep within the [[conscious]] part of your [[mind]], [[contact]] with [[the Father]] within. This conscious contact is something that must be built upon in the beginning daily with much [[perseverance]]. For most this is not an easy task to accomplish. We begin with small [[steps]]. Consciously allow the Father to come in to a small part of your [[mind]], a small part of your day. Preferrably a [[time]] and [[space]] free from [[stress]]. Talk to Him. Allow Him to [[participate]] in those things that you do. This can be done at the workplace, during your [[leisure]] time. It's more often [[difficult]] to reach out to [[the Father]] when we are under [[stress]]. Hence my suggestion of those [[quiet time]]s, those easy times as being the best [[platform]] from which to begin. Each day as you [[learn]] to talk with Him, [[sharing]] with Him, allowing Him to see through your eyes, hear through your ears, you will be able to expand this platform into larger areas of your day. Done over a long period of time this will [[hopefully]] become a [[habit]]. You'll know it is a habit when you no longer have to actively begin the [[process]]. A habit simply is. It's no longer uncomfortable. When habits are first being constructed, they're uncomfortable. It takes much [[practice]], much [[perserverance]] before it does then become your habit and, as such, is comfortable. At this point it's [[automatic]]. We no longer have the need to actively [[engage]]. It simply happens as a matter of [[course]].

So many times we get involved in conflicts with others, even with ourselves. And when given the time to step back and review we have disappointment over the fact that we were not able to ask the Father for His guidance, to allow Him to control. These are the times when He is needed. So I would ask you over the next week to spend some time daily building this platform, where you allow the Father to be a part of your life. Allow Him to share all those things that make up your life. Begin building this relationship. You will find at some point in the future that not only does He answer but will, in fact, share with you His thoughts. These understandings at first may not be verbal, however in time, I assure you, this can happen. I thank you for this opportunity.

So many times we get involved in [[conflicts]] with others, even with ourselves. And when given the [[time]] to step back and review we have [[disappointment]] over the [[fact]] that we were not able to ask [[the Father]] for His [[guidance]], to allow Him to [[control]]. These are the times when He is needed. So I would ask you over the next week to spend some time daily building this [[platform]], where you allow [[the Father]] to be a part of your [[life]]. Allow Him to [[share]] all those things that make up your life. Begin building this [[relationship]]. You will find at some point in the [[future]] that not only does He answer but will, in [[fact]], [[share]] with you His [[thoughts]]. These [[understandings]] at first may not be verbal, however in time, I [[assure]] you, this can happen. I thank you for this [[opportunity]].

I would in addition to ask you to spend more time reaching out to each other. Call each other on the phone. Have lunch. You are building a relationship with each other that won't end simply on this world. This relationship that's being bonded here among you is a relationship that will carry forward in your future lives. So nurture it. I give you my blessings. Shalom.

I would in addition to ask you to spend more time reaching out to each [[other]]. Call each other on the phone. Have lunch. You are building a [[relationship]] with each other that won't end [[simply]] on [[this world]]. This relationship that's being bonded here among you is a relationship that will carry forward in your [[future]] lives. So nurture it. I give you my [[blessings]]. [[Shalom]].

I leave you now, [[thanking]] you once again for allowing me to join you. [[Shalom]].

==Session 7==

==Session 7==

*February 13, 1994

*February 13, 1994

===Opening===

===Opening===

WILL: The light of God surrounds us. The love of God enfolds us. Wherever we gather, He is.

WILL: The [[light]] of [[God]] [[surrounds]] us. The [[love]] of God enfolds us. Wherever we gather, He is.

Good evening my dear students, it is I, Will, your teacher, who loves you. I apologize for having missed our time together last week, however he who came in my stead served you well. I would at this time like to turn this meeting over to my coworker, Ambrose, who has prepared a lesson for you. Ambrose is still in training so I know you will all bear with him.

Good evening my dear [[students]], it is I, Will, your teacher, who loves you. I [[apologize]] for having missed our [[time]] together last week, however he who came in my stead served you well. I would at this time like to turn this [[meeting]] over to my coworker, Ambrose, who has [[prepared]] a lesson for you. Ambrose is still in [[training]] so I know you will all bear with him.

AMBROSE: Greetings. It is I, Ambrose, who come to speak with you this evening. I appreciate the opportunity your teacher is extending to me in allowing me to get my feet wet, so to speak. My lesson for you this evening will be a short one, however one that merits individual attention. I would like to speak to you about what it means to commit oneself to a task. I would like to begin by putting this out to the floor. Perhaps one of you would like to tell me and your comrades what it means to have a commitment.

AMBROSE: Greetings. It is I, Ambrose, who come to [[speak]] with you this evening. I [[appreciate]] the [[opportunity]] your teacher is extending to me in allowing me to get my feet wet, so to speak. My lesson for you this evening will be a short one, however one that merits [[individual]] [[attention]]. I would like to speak to you about what it means to [[commit]] oneself to a task. I would like to begin by putting this out to the floor. Perhaps one of you would like to tell me and your [[comrades]] what it means to have a [[commitment]].

===Dialogue===

===Dialogue===

VINCENT: You know, Ambrose, I think a commitment is a promise to take action and, consistent with that promise, for the time period promised, irrespective of conflicting interests that may arise. That's my take on it. Much of my concept of commitment comes from the days I played sports and I had games. I was committed to go to the games irrespective of the fact that they might be inconvenient at the time. Which did drive my wife crazy but I never missed games. And that's where I started the commitment and the process of the current commitment.

VINCENT: You know, Ambrose, I [[think]] a [[commitment]] is a [[promise]] to take [[action]] and, [[consistent]] with that promise, for the time period promised, irrespective of [[conflicting]] interests that may arise. That's my take on it. Much of my [[concept]] of commitment comes from the days I played sports and I had [[games]]. I was committed to go to the games irrespective of the [[fact]] that they might be inconvenient at the time. Which did drive my [[wife]] crazy but I never missed games. And that's where I started the [[commitment]] and the process of the current commitment.

AMBROSE: So commitment is tied in your mind to giving one's word, basically.

AMBROSE: So commitment is tied in your [[mind]] to giving one's [[word]], basically.

VINCENT: Right.

VINCENT: Right.

ANALISE: And to making a decision and going forward with that decision even when inconvenient or stressful.

ANALISE: And to making a [[decision]] and going forward with that decision even when inconvenient or [[stressful]].

AMBROSE: Yes.

AMBROSE: Yes.

HELEN: I see commitment as a verbal where you are prepared to back up that verbal at whatever level, emotional, physical, spiritual - whatever level is necessary.

HELEN: I see commitment as a verbal where you are [[prepared]] to back up that verbal at whatever level, [[emotional]], [[physical]], [[spiritual]] - whatever level is [[necessary]].

AMBROSE: Good. Any other input? I would like, if at all possible, to have some input from each of you. Anyone else?

AMBROSE: Good. Any other input? I would like, if at all possible, to have some input from each of you. Anyone else?

HAL: I think of commitment as a focusing of all of your energies on some task. There is an "in spite of" quality to it. In spite of any challenges, conflicts.

HAL: I think of commitment as a [[focusing]] of all of your energies on some task. There is an "in spite of" [[quality]] to it. In spite of any [[challenges]], conflicts.

AMBROSE: Yes. Good.

AMBROSE: Yes. Good.

KATHY: I guess the idea of a promise speaks to me that often times there is a conflict between what you have promised to do and what you can do. That commitment is often more of an intention. There are conflicts in which you are willing to work those out to the benefit of the party or the issue that you've worked on. But in real life oftentimes you can't - there are conflicts, like Vincent might have committed to his wife for a certain thing but also has committed to the games so there is a conflict with that and even with a commitment you have to be able to work those out.

KATHY: I guess the [[idea]] of a [[promise]] speaks to me that often times there is a [[conflict]] between what you have promised to do and what you can do. That commitment is often more of an [[intention]]. There are conflicts in which you are willing to work those out to the benefit of the party or the issue that you've worked on. But in real [[life]] oftentimes you can't - there are [[conflicts]], like Vincent might have committed to his [[wife]] for a certain thing but also has committed to the games so there is a conflict with that and even with a commitment you have to be able to work those out.

SUSAN: I would see commitment as in the way Kathy brings it up. I would see it as also - very often commitments are like the truth, they are growing things, it's not a dead thing, its not...A commitment to a relationship, be it with a human or with our Father is always going to be a growing and expanding and changing thing because our relationships do not remain stable. They grow and they change. And we change. But the commitment is still there, to do the best and to grow in the most positive ways we can grow.

SUSAN: I would see commitment as in the way Kathy brings it up. I would see it as also - very often commitments are like the [[truth]], they are growing things, it's not a dead thing, its not...A commitment to a [[relationship]], be it with a [[human]] or with [[our Father]] is always going to be a growing and expanding and [[changing]] thing because our [[relationships]] do not remain stable. They grow and they [[change]]. And we change. But the commitment is still there, to do the best and to grow in the most [[positive]] ways we can grow.

AMBROSE: Can you give me an example perhaps wherein you might have made a commitment to someone or something and this commitment has changed because of this growing you are referring to?

AMBROSE: Can you give me an [[example]] perhaps wherein you might have made a commitment to someone or something and this [[commitment]] has [[changed]] because of this growing you are referring to?

SUSAN: Yes. Yes and no. When I moved in with Carol and Eric, we never made a specific commitment of time or that sort of thing, but when I met Brad we could see that at some point it is highly likely that I won't live there anymore but in my mind I have a commitment to them because I know that the income that I provide by sharing their home is helpful to them and that it would be inconvenient for me to just pick up and go just because something else came along. And so I value the commitment I feel that I made even though it was a personal commitment to share that space. So I would not just pick up and go. But there have been changes because I have changed. I think many of us in this room who are divorced have made commitments to other people yet because we have changed ourselves and the relationship changed, we parted company.

SUSAN: Yes. Yes and no. When I moved in with Carol and Eric, we never made a specific commitment of [[time]] or that sort of thing, but when I met Brad we could see that at some [[point]] it is highly likely that I won't live there anymore but in my [[mind]] I have a commitment to them because I know that the income that I provide by sharing their home is helpful to them and that it would be inconvenient for me to just pick up and go just because something else came along. And so I [[value]] the commitment I [[feel]] that I made even though it was a personal commitment to [[share]] that [[space]]. So I would not just pick up and go. But there have been changes because I have changed. I think many of us in this room who are [[divorced]] have made commitments to other people yet because we have changed ourselves and the [[relationship]] changed, we parted company.

AMBROSE: Yes, I can see that. Thank you.

AMBROSE: Yes, I can see that. Thank you.

NADINE: I guess I'm sitting over here and feeling like this is an uncomfortable subject because of my recent experience of breaking my commitment. Yet, at the same time I definitely would agree with what everybody said. What Vincent said makes sense to me, that other people have put in different ways. Its all those things. It is making promises and striving to persevere in that promise. But I also see it as making commitments to different ideals, people, different things that probably changes level to level.

NADINE: I guess I'm sitting over here and [[feeling]] like this is an uncomfortable subject because of my recent [[experience]] of breaking my commitment. Yet, at the same time I definitely would [[agree]] with what everybody said. What Vincent said makes sense to me, that other people have put in [[different]] ways. Its all those things. It is making [[promises]] and striving to [[persevere]] in that [[promise]]. But I also see it as making commitments to different [[ideals]], people, different things that probably changes level to level.

SUSAN: And I would think we learn as we get older to be more wiser - to be more wiser!! [laughter]- to be wiser in our commitments if not in our speech. [laughter]. Way wiser! [laughter].

SUSAN: And I would think we [[learn]] as we get older to be more [[wiser]] - to be more wiser!! [[[laughter]]]- to be wiser in our commitments if not in our [[speech]]. [laughter]. Way wiser! [laughter].

AMBROSE: Nadine just spoke of levels of commitment. Are there different levels of commitment in your mind? And if there are, what would be your highest level? Deepest level?

AMBROSE: Nadine just spoke of levels of commitment. Are there different levels of commitment in your [[mind]]? And if there are, what would be your highest level? Deepest level?

ANALISE: My deepest level of commitment, I think, that I can think of right now is to Father Michael to support this teaching mission and participate so far as I feel able. That changes and grows. There are, I believe, other commitments in my life that I give less importance to and pay some attention to...

ANALISE: My deepest level of [[commitment]], I think, that I can think of right now is to Father [[Michael]] to [[support]] this [[Teaching Mission]] and [[participate]] so far as I feel able. That [[changes]] and grows. There are, I believe, other commitments in my [[life]] that I give less importance to and pay some attention to...

AMBROSE: I'm sorry, may I interrupt for one moment? But you referred to this mission. Was it the level of commitment to it that changes and grows or was it the mission itself that changes and grows?

AMBROSE: I'm sorry, may I [[interrupt]] for one moment? But you referred to [[this mission]]. Was it the level of commitment to it that [[changes]] and grows or was it the mission itself that changes and grows?

ANALISE: It's me that changes and grows. This commitment means it grows in depth and quality. The more I learn, the more I understand what I have committed to and the more responsible I feel for making that commitment show in my life. That's what I mean by growing and changing.

ANALISE: It's me that changes and grows. This [[commitment]] means it grows in depth and [[quality]]. The more I learn, the more I [[understand]] what I have committed to and the more [[responsible]] I feel for making that commitment show in my life. That's what I mean by [[growing]] and [[changing]].

AMBROSE: Thank you.

AMBROSE: Thank you.

LOREN: My Thought Adjuster has pointed out a path for me over the years. Something that I need or that I need to do is always placed in front of me and when I realize it I commit myself to it. But this has two paths. One of them is employment where you are there for the whole time and other things on the vocational side that I follow for awhile, maybe two or three years. The commitment to them is more or less a free will offering. For instance, at the present time I am trying to do four things and I, maybe five, and I feel a commitment to all of them but I can't do them all at once so I'm sort of stymied. But the commitment to employment is permanent and also marriage. You must stay by that because that gets into the realm of a contract with you and God and the one you are dealing with.

LOREN: My [[Thought Adjuster]] has pointed out a [[path]] for me over the years. Something that I need or that I need to do is always placed in front of me and when I [[realize]] it I commit myself to it. But this has two paths. One of them is employment where you are there for the whole [[time]] and other things on the [[vocational]] side that I follow for awhile, maybe two or three years. The commitment to them is more or less a [[free will]] offering. For instance, at the present time I am trying to do four things and I, maybe five, and I feel a [[commitment]] to all of them but I can't do them all at once so I'm sort of stymied. But the commitment to employment is permanent and also [[marriage]]. You must stay by that because that gets into the realm of a [[contract]] with you and [[God]] and the one you are dealing with.

VINCENT: I don't know about marriage, but I think your contract for your children is clearly, in my mind, one of the highest levels. You are always committed to your children. Like they say, you don't know love until you've had children and I think the same with the Father. I think that is a very high commitment, at least with my way of thinking, so...spouses, I don't know about that, but children, certainly they are always your children and the Father is always your Father.

VINCENT: I don't know about [[marriage]], but I think your [[contract]] for your [[children]] is clearly, in my [[mind]], one of the highest levels. You are always committed to your children. Like they say, you don't know love until you've had [[children]] and I think the same with [[the Father]]. I think that is a very high commitment, at least with my way of [[thinking]], so...[[spouses]], I don't know about that, but children, certainly they are always your children and [[the Father]] is always your Father.

AMBROSE: Yes, a very good point. Anyone else? Do we have anyone who hasn't participated that would like to?

AMBROSE: Yes, a very good [[point]]. Anyone else? Do we have anyone who hasn't [[participated]] that would like to?

VINCENT: Tell us what you think, Ambrose.

VINCENT: Tell us what you think, Ambrose.

AMBROSE: My reason for asking or, rather, opening up the floor was twofold. First of all I wanted to kind of loosen up a bit myself. Believe it or not, I was a little apprehensive, this being my first group meeting, really - last week didn't count. I also wanted to get a feeling of where you were coming from. This idea of commitment; what it meant to you. Let me get inside your head, if you will. Understand a little bit about where you are coming from. Helped me get to know you a little bit. I also was sincere in wanting to know what it did mean to you. You know, many people can make words, can... what is the expression on your world?

AMBROSE: My [[reason]] for asking or, rather, opening up the floor was twofold. First of all I wanted to kind of loosen up a bit myself. [[Believe]] it or not, I was a little apprehensive, this being my first [[group]] [[meeting]], really - last week didn't count. I also wanted to get a [[feeling]] of where you were coming from. This [[idea]] of [[commitment]]; what it meant to you. Let me get inside your head, if you will. Understand a little bit about where you are coming from. Helped me get to know you a little bit. I also was [[sincere]] in wanting to know what it did mean to you. You know, many people can make [[words]], can... what is the expression on your world?

VINCENT: Talk is cheap.

VINCENT: Talk is cheap.

AMBROSE: Yes, very good. Thank you. That was the very phrase. Talk is cheap. Many times it is easy to talk, it is easy to agree with someone. Sometimes easier than disagreeing. When we are children we may find ourselves agreeing with our peers that this is right or we will move in a certain direction. We will agree to a certain task or a certain job. But we aren't mature enough to really put our heart behind those words. And so what happens, many times, is we get out of the situation something like "out of sight, out of mind" and we soon forget that commitment we made so recently. When we become adults, we become more mature, we put a little more of ourselves behind the words that we speak. Hopefully. So what I heard tonight was that there are levels of commitment, that sometimes these commitments may have other things that take precedence.

AMBROSE: Yes, very good. Thank you. That was the very phrase. Talk is cheap. Many times it is easy to [[talk]], it is easy to [[agree]] with someone. Sometimes easier than disagreeing. When we are [[children]] we may find ourselves [[agreeing]] with our [[peers]] that this is right or we will move in a certain [[direction]]. We will [[agree]] to a certain task or a certain job. But we aren't [[mature]] enough to really put our [[heart]] behind those [[words]]. And so what happens, many times, is we get out of the situation something like "out of [[sight]], out of [[mind]]" and we soon forget that [[commitment]] we made so recently. When we become adults, we become more [[mature]], we put a little more of ourselves behind the [[words]] that we speak. [[Hopefully]]. So what I heard tonight was that there are levels of [[commitment]], that sometimes these commitments may have other things that take precedence.

Would there ever be a commitment that a person in your world might make that nothing could take precedence over?

Would there ever be a [[commitment]] that a person in your world might make that nothing could take precedence over?

ANALISE: I'm not sure if I can think of anything that would take precedence over my commitment to Father Michael to continue to grow in what this mission is teaching us. And by that I mean, I can't think of anything that would interfere so that I no longer believed that I had a relationship with Father Michael and I no longer believed that I had a responsibility to live that relationship in my daily life. So that particular commitment, I can't think of anything that would intervene and cause me to stop the commitment.

ANALISE: I'm not sure if I can think of anything that would take precedence over my [[commitment]] to Father [[Michael]] to continue to [[grow]] in what [[this mission]] is teaching us. And by that I mean, I can't think of anything that would [[interfere]] so that I no longer believed that I had a relationship with Father [[Michael]] and I no longer believed that I had a [[responsibility]] to live that relationship in my daily life. So that particular [[commitment]], I can't think of anything that would [[intervene]] and cause me to stop the [[commitment]].

ABROSE: Thank you. I was almost afraid that I wouldn't get anyone to bite the bullet. I appreciate your answer.

ABROSE: Thank you. I was almost [[afraid]] that I wouldn't get anyone to bite the bullet. I [[appreciate]] your answer.

I think within everyone's mind here in this room the commitment to Michael, to the Universal Father, would be their deepest or their highest commitment. That would probably, if I am reading you all correctly and I think I am, that would be the only commitment wherein nothing would take precedence. And that is, of course, as it should be.

I [[think]] within everyone's [[mind]] here in this room the commitment to [[Michael]], to the [[Universal Father]], would be their deepest or their highest [[commitment]]. That would probably, if I am [[reading]] you all correctly and I think I am, that would be the only commitment wherein nothing would take precedence. And that is, of course, as it should be.

I appreciate your willingness to have a little change in format here. My method of teaching will not necessarily be the same as Will's method of teaching or the same as he who was here last week. But as we grow and learn together, I think we will find doors being opened within both our minds and our hearts that might not have been opened otherwise.

I [[appreciate]] your willingness to have a little [[change]] in format here. My [[method]] of teaching will not [[necessarily]] be the same as Will's [[method]] of teaching or the same as he who was here last week. But as we grow and learn [[together]], I [[think]] we will find doors being opened within both our [[minds]] and our [[hearts]] that might not have been opened otherwise.

I believe it was mentioned last week that this relationship between you all is a relationship that will have meaning beyond this world. It was suggested that you take the time during your week, during your day, to reach out to each other. Make those phone calls. If you find during the day that one of your group member's name crosses your mind, act on that. That's an impulse from within that perhaps that person may be needing your assistance. We quite often attempt to move you in these directions, that you may build this relationship. As your relationship with each other grows so will your commitment to each other, to the mission, to Michael grow. This is not to say that we don't want you to reach out to those in your community. You know that is a given. We simply would have you remember each other in that reaching out.

I believe it was mentioned last week that this [[relationship]] between you all is a relationship that will have [[meaning]] beyond [[this world]]. It was suggested that you take the time during your week, during your day, to reach out to each other. Make those phone calls. If you find during the day that one of your group member's name crosses your [[mind]], [[act]] on that. That's an [[impulse]] from within that perhaps that person may be needing your [[assistance]]. We quite often attempt to move you in these [[directions]], that you may build this [[relationship]]. As your relationship with each other [[grows]] so will your [[commitment]] to each other, to [[the mission]], to [[Michael]] grow. This is not to say that we don't want you to reach out to those in your [[community]]. You know that is a given. We simply would have you remember each other in that reaching out.

That is all I have to say this evening. I would let you know how much I appreciate having been able to be here and share with you and grow and learn from you. Stay always, dear students, within the light of His love. Seek Him within. Share your life with Him and with each other. Shalom.

That is all I have to say this evening. I would let you know how much I [[appreciate]] having been able to be here and [[share]] with you and [[grow]] and learn from you. Stay always, dear [[students]], within the [[light]] of His love. Seek Him within. [[Share]] your life with Him and with each other. [[Shalom]].

ALL: Shalom.

ALL: Shalom.

===Closing===

===Closing===

WILL: It is I once again, your teacher, Will, who loves you. I have not much else to add. I would like to thank you for your attentiveness, your willingness in allowing Ambrose to learn from you. In allowing him, perhaps, the chance to teach you. We will be using this format at times in the future so you may have to continue to stay on your toes. I bid you good evening and send you my love.

WILL: It is I once again, your teacher, Will, who loves you. I have not much else to add. I would like to [[thank]] you for your [[attentiveness]], your willingness in allowing Ambrose to learn from you. In allowing him, perhaps, the [[chance]] to teach you. We will be using this [[format]] at times in the [[future]] so you may have to continue to stay on your toes. I bid you good evening and send you my [[love]].

Shalom - Will

Shalom - Will

==Session 8==

==Session 8==

*February 20, 1994

*February 20, 1994

===Opening===

===Opening===

WILL: The love of God surrounds us. The love of God enfolds us. The love of God supports us. Wherever we gather, He is.

WILL: The [[love]] of [[God]] [[surrounds]] us. The love of God enfolds us. The love of God [[supports]] us. Wherever we gather, He is.

Good evening once again. Thank you for inviting me to your midst. I am you teacher, Will, who loves you.

Good evening once again. Thank you for [[inviting]] me to your midst. I am you teacher, Will, who loves you.

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

For centuries the traditional Christian churches have taught the recipe of faith, hope and charity as the path for salvation of people's souls. Over this short course of lessons I have taught you that it is more appropriate to modify our concept of faith to apply our knowledge and belief in the fragment of the Father that lives within each of us, all normal minded humans. I have also taught you that a hope that tends toward inaction is not a kind of hope to be fostered and should be replaced by a forthright brand of courage to act upon your discernment of the will of the Heavenly Father and apply that knowledge and faith to each set of circumstances wherein you are offered a choice between many paths.

For [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_christianity centuries the traditional Christian churches] have taught the recipe of [[faith]], [[hope]] and [[charity]] as the [[path]] for [[salvation]] of people's [[souls]]. Over this short course of lessons I have taught you that it is more appropriate to [[modify]] our concept of [[faith]] to apply our [[knowledge]] and [[belief]] in the [[Thought Adjuster|fragment of the Father that lives within]] each of us, all normal minded humans. I have also taught you that a [[hope]] that tends toward inaction is not a kind of hope to be fostered and should be replaced by a forthright brand of [[courage]] to [[act]] upon your [[discernment]] of the will of the [[Heavenly Father]] and apply that knowledge and faith to each set of [[circumstances]] wherein you are offered a [[choice]] between many [[paths]].

Tonight I will say that the Christian value of charity which was once applicable among societies as a remedy with a gap in material possessions between the upper class and nobilities of the older societies and the peasant classes below is no longer appropriate for modern circumstances. Each of you well knows that institutionalized programs of charity, whether need based or merit based, such as your American welfare system, are corrosive to human spirit and, notwithstanding that I have openly taught you that you are to freely give to those less fortunate than you without taking any responsibility whatsoever for the use to which your gift is put, still I say to you that handouts too are corrosive to the human spirit. Neither sweeping governmental reforms nor individual acts of charity are any kind of recipe for progress in the upliftment of unfortunate people.

Tonight I will say that the [[Christian]] [[value]] of [[charity]] which was once applicable among [[societies]] as a remedy with a gap in material [[possessions]] between the upper class and [[nobilities]] of the older societies and the [[peasant]] classes below is no longer appropriate for [[modern]] circumstances. Each of you well knows that institutionalized [[programs]] of [[charity]], whether need based or merit based, such as your [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welfare#Aspects_of_American_welfare_programs American welfare system], are corrosive to human spirit and, notwithstanding that I have openly taught you that you are to freely give to those less fortunate than you without taking any [[responsibility]] whatsoever for the use to which your gift is put, still I say to you that handouts too are corrosive to the human spirit. Neither sweeping governmental [[reforms]] nor [[individual]] [[acts]] of [[charity]] are any kind of recipe for [[progress]] in the upliftment of unfortunate people.

Only your example as servants of the Father's will can motivate people and nations to change for the better. You cannot cajole, or shame or lobby people to progressive upliftment of the spirit. They may be led only by your example and the consequences of your acts. Even on those rare occasions where your personal interaction with another is of spirit teaching value, the effects are fleeting and only repeated cumulative exposure to the positive benefits of spiritual progress is likely to bear fruit. Each of you has an individual duty to conduct yourselves at all times in the fashion we have covered many times before. You probably remember. To conduct yourselves as if Jesus of Nazareth was standing by your side and by your every thought, word and deed you demonstrate your appreciation of the meaning and value of his teachings. That you do so in a fashion that allows the love of the Heavenly Father to flow through you unhindered, directly to the person to whom you are engaged. And, lastly, that you do not discount your function in the scheme of Heavenly progress with attempts at levity or skepticism.

Only your example as servants of [[the Father]]'s will can [[motivate]] people and nations to [[change]] for the better. You cannot cajole, or [[shame]] or lobby people to progressive upliftment of the [[spirit]]. They may be led only by your [[example]] and the [[consequences]] of your [[acts]]. Even on those rare occasions where your personal [[interaction]] with another is of spirit teaching [[value]], the [[effects]] are fleeting and only repeated cumulative [[exposure]] to the positive benefits of [[spiritual progress]] is likely to bear fruit. Each of you has an [[individual]] [[duty]] to conduct yourselves at all times in the fashion we have covered many times before. You probably remember. To conduct yourselves as if [[Jesus]] of [[Nazareth]] was standing by your side and by your every [[thought]], [[word]] and [[deed]] you [[demonstrate]] your [[appreciation]] of the [[meaning]] and [[value]] of his teachings. That you do so in a fashion that allows the [[love]] of the [[Heavenly Father]] to [[flow]] through you unhindered, directly to the person to whom you are engaged. And, lastly, that you do not discount your [[function]] in the scheme of Heavenly [[progress]] with attempts at [[levity]] or [[skepticism]].

So we have thus far taught [[faith]] but of a different kind, [[courage]] rather than [[passive]] [[hope]], which together make for a potent combination. When you turn on your television [[machines]] any day at any hour you can see the outcome of [[faith]] and [[courage]] which are untempered by [[wisdom]] in the acts of the soliciting [[preachers]]. Much like the [[Pharisees]] of old promising spirit in exchange for [[money]]. Promising spirit in exchange for the [[abolition]] of human will. Promising spirit in exchange for subservience to a [[book]] and whatever happens to be recorded therein. Promising spirit in exchange for [[commitment]] to some outside person who claims that he or she better [[discerns]] the word of [[God]] than you. That is not our teaching.

So we have thus far taught faith but of a different kind, courage rather than passive hope, which together make for a potent combination. When you turn on your television machines any day at any hour you can see the outcome of faith and courage which are untempered by wisdom in the acts of the soliciting preachers. Much like the pharisees of old promising spirit in exchange for money. Promising spirit in exchange for the abolition of human will. Promising spirit in exchange for subservience to a book and whatever happens to be recorded therein. Promising spirit in exchange for commitment to some outside person who claims that he or she better discerns the word of God than you. That is not our teaching.

For this reason, then, we suggest that you temper the heavy combination of [[faith]] and [[courage]] with the [[simple]] and frank [[humility]] shown by the great teachers of [[your planet]]. Those who went among the people and did not [[devote]] themselves to a life of [[intellectual]] rarified [[thought]] in a [[monastic]] setting but walked upon the ordinary people [[sharing]] their personal [[vision]] of the [[joy]] and [[liberty]] of the life in [[the Father]]'s [[love]]. We teach you that [[humility]] is [[necessary]] to proper [[progress]]. You can learn and [[exercise]] it now or you can learn and exercise it later. Either way you are going to learn it. It is inescapable. We think you will enjoy this life much more if you [[practice]] this now.

For this reason, then, we suggest that you temper the heavy combination of faith and courage with the simple and frank humility shown by the great teachers of your planet. Those who went among the people and did not devote themselves to a life of intellectual rarified thought in a monastic setting but walked upon the ordinary people sharing their personal vision of the joy and liberty of the life in the Father's love. We teach you that humility is necessary to proper progress. You can learn and exercise it now or you can learn and exercise it later. Either way you are going to learn it. It is inescapable. We think you will enjoy this life much more if you practice this now.

There is nothing so special about any person that the [[Heavenly Father]] has chosen to call His work complete. He loves us all; sees [[value]] in each of us. Recognizes that due to the vagaries in circumstance and the [[potential]] for imperfection which comes with [[free will]] and [[liberty]] that not all receive an [[equal]] start much less an equal [[share]]. Many times we, your teachers, have [[listened]] as you joked among yourselves about the distinctions among people. And, in brief moments of [[inspiration]] in your joking, received a [[glimpse]] of how the distinctions which seem so keen to you must look from a [[cosmic]] [[perspective]].

There is nothing so special about any person that the Heavenly Father has chosen to call His work complete. He loves us all; sees value in each of us. Recognizes that due to the vagaracies in circumstance and the potential for imperfection which comes with free will and liberty that not all receive an equal start much less an equal share. Many times we, your teachers, have listened as you joked among yourselves about the distinctions among people. And, in brief moments of inspiration in your joking, received a glimpse of how the distinctions which seem so keen to you must look from a cosmic perspective.

I [[think]] we can safely say that there has never been and never will be the [[person]] born on [[your planet]] who needs not know [[humility]]. Humility finds [[expression]] in many things. It is [[humble]] to appreciate the air that you [[breath]], the fuel that you burn as you speed back and forth, the food that you eat, the [[companions]] whose [[presence]] you enjoy however briefly. It is humble to appreciate that [[God]] loves you and your fellows. It is humble to make a gift from one to another, particularly to those in need, realizing in the [[moment]] of doing so that it is of no momentous [[consequence]] and probably [[changes]] nothing except it changes you. For our teacher said, "He who does this for the least of my brethren, does it for me."

I think we can safely say that there has never been and never will be the person born on your planet who needs not know humility. Humility finds expression in many things. It is humble to appreciate the air that you breath, the fuel that you burn as you speed back and forth, the food that you eat, the companions whose presence you enjoy however briefly. It is humble to appreciate that God loves you and your fellows. It is humble to make a gift from one to another, particularly to those in need, realizing in the moment of doing so that it is of no momentous consequence and probably changes nothing except it changes you. For our teacher said, "He who does this for the least of my brethren, does it for me."

It is too easy in your [[society]] to live your life without even a [[ritual]] requirement of [[appreciation]]. Many people, due to innate [[intelligence]] or [[Thought Adjuster]] [[leading]], appreciate that this is inappropriate. A God knowing person cannot exist and, certainly, cannot take [[action]] without [[humility]].

[[Service]] is asked. Not [[charity]]. Service [[opportunities]] will show themselves to you. You do not need to get on a boat to go someplace. It is all around. Many of you need not even leave your house to provide [[service]] to those in need. You need not concern yourselves overly with the [[worthiness]] of the recipient nor the worthiness of your [[effort]]. I would only [[counsel]] you not to waste valuable time on those capable of serving themselves. Service cannot be genuine without [[humility]]. For you do these things not in your own name but in the name of one greater, thereby [[demonstrate]] your [[love]] and [[respect]] and your [[understanding]] of His will.

 

Service is asked. Not charity. Service opportunities will show themselves to you. You do not need to get on a boat to go someplace. It is all around. Many of you need not even leave your house to provide service to those in need. You need not concern yourselves overly with the worthiness of the recipient nor the worthiness of your effort. I would only counsel you not to waste valuable time on those capable of serving themselves. Service cannot be genuine without humility. For you do these things not in your own name but in the name of one greater, thereby demonstrate your love and respect and your understanding of His will.

===Closing===

===Closing===

That is all I have to say.

That is all I have to say.

I hope that you enjoy the teaching style and technique of our visitors. I look forward to our next meeting.

I [[hope]] that you enjoy the teaching [[Manner|style]] and [[technique]] of our [[visitors]]. I look forward to our next [[meeting]].

 

[[Shalom]].

==Session 9==

==Session 9==

*February 27, 1994

*February 27, 1994

===Opening===

===Opening===

The love of the Father uplifts us. The strength of the Father upholds us. Wherever we gather, He is.

The [[love]] of [[the Father]] uplifts us. The [[strength]] of the Father upholds us. Wherever we gather, He is.

Good evening, I am Will, your teacher, who loves you.

Good evening, I am Will, your teacher, who [[loves]] you.

===Lesson===

===Lesson===

We have spoken before on the ways modern man, through various methods, attempts to understand his God. The ways chosen sometimes meet with success, but often times does not. There is little truth gained, there are no easy proofs that God exists. Man must fight against his basic intellectual method of assessment, in his attempts to know his God. There is always inner conflict involved and whether or not it is overcome determines how far the individual will reach in his journey for truth. The study of various religions, both of the past and present, give insight into the various ways man has chosen to portray his God. The variety of ideas are endless, for some, the possibility exists, there may not even -be- a God. Yet, most eventually ascertain that there must be a higher source, a creator at the very least. As they move forward, whether their progress be quick or slow, they will find that they cannot trust in the outside sources available so much as their -own- belief in their own heart. Most christians recognize this fact as well, with their belief that God does indeed reign on high and that to believe in him, to have faith in Him, is what is required.

We have spoken before on the ways [[modern]] man, through various [[methods]], attempts to [[understand]] his [[God]]. The ways chosen sometimes meet with success, but often times does not. There is little [[truth]] gained, there are no easy [[proofs]] that God exists. Man must fight against his basic [[intellectual]] method of [[assessment]], in his attempts to know his God. There is always inner [[conflict]] involved and whether or not it is overcome determines how far the [[individual]] will reach in his [[journey]] for [[truth]]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparative_religion study of various religions], both of the [[past]] and present, give [[insight]] into the various ways man has chosen to portray his God. The variety of [[ideas]] are endless, for some, the possibility exists, there may not even -be- a God. Yet, most [[eventually]] ascertain that there must be a higher source, a [[creator]] at the very least. As they move forward, whether their [[progress]] be quick or slow, they will find that they cannot [[trust]] in the outside sources available so much as their -own- [[belief]] in their own [[heart]]. Most [[Christians]] recognize this [[fact]] as well, with their [[belief]] that God does indeed reign on high and that to [[believe]] in him, to have [[faith]] in Him, is what is required.

As you discussed earlier, regarding the Teaching Mission, the opponents and the proponents, your conclusion was also that the truth may only be determined by the individual, one is not likely to be swayed by the printed material presented either way. Your highest understanding of the truth will not be compromised, if you trust in the Father and turn towards Him for your answer. We must ever strive forward towards God to remain in the truth and light. The path does not differ from those around you, although the individual experiences will obviously vary from individual to individual, as you go through your mortal life. Those who recognize others are on a forward path also, however slow and cumbersome, will see that the truth cannot be suppressed.

As you [[discussed]] earlier, regarding the [[Teaching Mission]], the [[opponents]] and the proponents, your [[conclusion]] was also that the [[truth]] may only be determined by the [[individual]], one is not likely to be swayed by the [[printed]] material presented either way. Your highest [[understanding]] of the [[truth]] will not be [[compromised]], if you [[trust]] in [[the Father]] and turn towards Him for your [[answer]]. We must ever strive forward towards God to remain in the [[truth]] and [[light]]. The path does not differ from those around you, although the [[individual]] [[experiences]] will obviously vary from [[individual]] to individual, as you go through your [[mortal]] life. Those who [[recognize]] others are on a forward path also, however slow and cumbersome, will see that the [[truth]] cannot be [[suppressed]].

I do not expect that you will find yourselves in any form of faith crisis over the opposition to Teaching Mission groups, such as ours. There are those who allow their doubts to overcome them. Although some doubt is to be expected, we do not expect blind adherence to our teachings, nor do we ask this of you. They are not intended to replace information you have already been given. The encouragement and guidance we hope to provide, are merely to supplement the growth you are already experiencing. In the hopes of fostering and furthering that growth. Have no fear but that all will be perfect in the end. The Father's plan encompasses all. It is designed for variety among beliefs. Each individual is responsible for his or her own growth and relationship with the Father. No more can be asked than that.

I do not [[expect]] that you will find yourselves in any form of [[faith]] [[crisis]] over the [[opposition]] to [[Teaching Mission]] groups, such as ours. There are those who allow their [[doubts]] to overcome them. Although some doubt is to be [[expected]], we do not expect [[blind]] [[adherence]] to our teachings, nor do we ask this of you. They are not [[intended]] to replace [[information]] you have already been given. The [[encouragement]] and [[guidance]] we hope to provide, are merely to supplement the [[growth]] you are already experiencing. In the [[hopes]] of fostering and furthering that [[growth]]. Have no [[fear]] but that all will be [[perfect]] in the end. The Father's plan [[encompasses]] all. It is designed for [[variety]] among [[beliefs]]. Each individual is [[responsible]] for his or her own [[growth]] and [[relationship]] with the Father. No more can be asked than that.

We encourage you always to treat your fellow citizens well. This is asked that you may learn more about God's love. For your own growth, you will be asked to perform many more services in the future, but all have the ultimate impact upon you. It takes courage and faith to continue on your paths when you meet obstacles. The Father has given you the tools you need and we feel you are up to the task. The mission continues onward, it is still growing, many more will come into the fold. We wish no dissension with our brethren, however, only you can decide which course of action is best in your meetings with them. With tolerance as your yardstick, and love as your guide, we trust your actions will be worthy of your status as children of God. We have said before you can do no wrong, if you seek the highest path. This will always be true.

We encourage you always to treat your fellow [[citizens]] well. This is asked that you may [[learn]] more about [[God]]'s [[love]]. For your own [[growth]], you will be asked to perform many more [[services]] in the [[future]], but all have the [[ultimate]] impact upon you. It takes [[courage]] and [[faith]] to continue on your [[paths]] when you meet [[obstacles]]. [[The Father]] has given you the [[tools]] you need and we feel you are up to the task. [[The mission]] continues onward, it is still [[growing]], many more will come into the fold. We wish no [[dissension]] with our brethren, however, only you can [[decide]] which [[course]] of [[action]] is best in your meetings with them. With [[tolerance]] as your yardstick, and [[love]] as your [[guide]], we [[trust]] your actions will be [[worthy]] of your status as [[Faith sons|children of God]]. We have said before you can do no wrong, if you seek the highest [[path]]. This will always be true.

===Closing===

===Closing===

I ask that you go forth this week with a renewed interest in shedding love and light on your fellow man. That is certainly one thing your world can use more of, there will always be a need for more love on your planet.

I ask that you go forth this week with a [[renewed]] interest in shedding [[love]] and [[light]] on your fellow man. That is certainly one thing your world can use more of, there will always be a need for more love on [[your planet]].

That is all I have to say. I leave you with the Father's peace and my love.

That is all I have to say. I leave you with [[the Father]]'s [[peace]] and my [[love]].

Shalom

[[Shalom]]

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: The Teaching Mission: Dialogues]]

[[Category: JoiLin]]

[[Category: JoiLin]]

[[Category: Eric]]

[[Category: Eric]]

[[Category: Service]]

[[Category: Service]]

[[Category: Transmitting]]

[[Category: Groups]]

[[Category: Value]]

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[[Category: Sacrifice]]

[[Category: 1994]]

[[Category: 1994]]