Theos-Talk Archives (October 1997 Message tt00238)

Andrew Stinson wrote:

> I agree!  Could I recommend a shifting of gears?

Good idea.

> How about somebody coming up with a list (or everyone contribute)
> of 50 (or 10 per person) ways to incorporate Theosophical
> ideals/practical wisdom into everyday service activities?

Very good idea.

I'd be glad to start out:

> 1.  Affirm at the beginning of the day that you will seek to be a
> channel for the spiritual energies seeking expression on the
> planet at this time.

Yes! "I Am accepting and releasing the Light and Power from my
Inner Being to bless all Life".

> 2.  Keep a watchful eye that you observe Right Human Relations
> (ie, Brotherhood) with everyone you encounter - even the folks
> you can't stand.

Watch your tongue! (And pen/keyboard) Probably the most powerfuk
karma making (or karam balancing) instruments in existence.

> 3.  Work actively to rectify any difficulties you have with other
> people.

Never hold grudges. Rejoice in forgiving and letting go.

> 4.  Take moments throughout the day to `center' oneself
> spiritually.

Choose a favorite meditation/visualization and learn to "tune in"
in mimicroseconds.

> 5.  During these moments, also invoke the Soul and affirm one's
> essential spiritual unity with all other beings.

"I Am everywhere in the Consciousness of God".  "I AM here, I Am
there, I Am everywhere".

> 6.  Actively seek at least one person during the day and help him
> or her, perhaps in some very small way, but definitely give this
> person your full attention when helping them.

Sounds like a small thing but it probably would make a big
difference if we really did this.

> 7.  Try to practice mindfulness of thoughts and subtle motives,
> as well as "brain noise" and direct physical actions.

A kind of "Buddhist" meditation we can do at all times.  Just
watching ourselves and what is coming through us.  Very
educational!

> 8.  Be mindful of how energy-efficient you are along non-physical
> lines.  So often these words refer to things like (conventional)
> electricity and water, but ...  we could all use improvement at
> managing the energies of the Inner Life, true?

Don't really know what you mean by this.

> 9.  Try not criticize others, either individually or (especially)
> en masse (groups, religions, ideologies) ...  except
> constructively.  Re-program your thought-pattern when you see
> this arise by intentionally thinking something *positive* about
> the person, group, etc.  in question.

When we dislike what someone is saying or doing - separate the
dislike from the person/group.  We can disagree and disapprove of
people's opinons, without feeling negatively toward the person.

> 10.  Take a moment or two to silently thank those agents (Devas,
> nature-spirits, Agnishvattas, Masters, animal companions, fellow
> humans) who enrich our lives, each time you experience a moment
> of Joy that they have brought us (leaves of autumn,
> spiritual/moral upliftment, innate virtuous qualities, etc.).

The Spiritual power of gratitude can not be overstated!

> Aren't there DOZENS of others ways, even more practical than
> these, that we can LIVE the Ageless Wisdom in our lives?

Yes, certainly: How about sponsoring a Tibetan child in exile?
(It only costs $25 per month, 100% of $ goes directly to cover
the needs of the child.  I have details for anyone who is
interested)