I've been into the "New Thought" movement since around 74, in my search for answers. I was introduced, at first, to Science of Mind, a book by Ernest Holmes, and it's study groups and "churches". From there I've read literally thousands of books in this time. I then studied a myriad of philosophies, religeons, and lately ventured into an aspect of Quantum Physics, and the link of the mind to the material science world, and have headed and been members of study groups, and have been a metaphysical consultant for many years.
While I'm hesitant to tell the world too much information about my personal self, if anyone would like to join with me in starting a discussion group here in Lakewood, I'd be happy to head it up. This is an area I feel very comfortable in, and would like to see a group formed up.
If you've been part of, or interested in any area of New Thought, or metaphysics, especially if your familiar with the works of Emerson, Holmes, Murphy, Troward, and many others, or your simply looking for answers
or are just curious about the options in the area of the mind and universe and our relation to it, and how it all works, post here or private message me.
We can keep it light, and do some exploring.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
P.S. Here is a fairly good site that is worth looking over: http://www.websyte.com/alan/
New Thought Study Group
Moderators: Jim DeVito, Justine Cooper
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Mark Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
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Can you explain more about it? I went to a Science of Mind church in Philadelphia (not to be mistaken with Scientology) and loved it! Isn't that about co-creating your life here? I haven't read what you mentioned and will check out the website, but if you can elaborate, I would appreciate it!
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Mark Crnolatas
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Science of Mind, and yes, not to be confused with Scientology, is a study that was started by Ernest Holmes, who wrote the book Science of Mind. He never intended that there would be churches, but rather, study or discussion groups for healing and learning purposes. Since his book, thousands of writers have written books that support the different aspects from within Science of Mind. Ernest Holmes derived many of his concepts from ideas from
This was my introduction to "new thought" and "new age" and metaphysics. I have since taken many parts of many concepts from many sources and religeouns, to form my own conclusions.
Back to Science of Mind though. The basic premise is "cause and effect", especially on the subconscience level. What we say, what we think, all is recorded by the subconscience. The subconscience never forgets anythig in our experience. This recording then manifests itself in our lives, influencing our lives one way or the other. In other words, we are creating our circumstances, good or bad, by our thoughts, whether conscience or from within the subconscience. Healing, be it health or financial, or whatever, is accomplished by feeding our subconcious with positive input rather than negative. Enter into the equation that there is "race conciousness" that is basically negative. The TV news, media etc feeds us constantly with negative images, thoughts etc. When you take in account that "thoughts are things", then in Science of Mind, it is easy to see how negativity is the enemy, and we must all strive to think positive, feeding our subconcious postive input, and to try to not accept any negative influence as something we want to "own". Keywords are "Thoughts create things". Cause and Effect is the major phrase.
Meditation is a large part of Science of Mind, but not using a mantra, repeating ommm for a time. During these "mind treatments" we are supposed to use whatever we feel comfortable with, be it imagery, relaxation techniques then consciencously giving our subconcous, postive statements, with the goals to improve our lives or help someone else improve theirs.
In Science of Mind, the churches that Ernest Holmes asked not be formed, did however, begin to spring up, as it seems to be a natural progression for christians to want to have the social building known as a "church".
Ernest Holmes came about the concept that there is a universal power, a universal consciencness that creates. That is all "it" does, is create.
The universe constantly expands, stars are created or burn out, but creation is the result of this universal power. To paraphrase Genesis, but using Science of Mind terminology:
"In the beginning, there was the universal power, and nothing. This power created a universe from nothing, and then created man, so there would be an entity to recognize this power."
If your into exploring more about Science of Mind, I would suggest googling Ernest Holmes, Science of Mind, New Thought for a start.
As I said, for myself, this was just an introduction to this area around 1974. I found this not to be my cup of tea, at least exactly as it was taught, and progressed to other areas, the most recent, Unity and Silent Unity into my personal mix of beliefs and studies.
I have currantly formulated a "belief" which might be termed a ministry of sorts, or termed a "study" of sorts. I'll not go into that in this posting, though
For very personal reasons, I've been on a search for some answers since around 1974, and continue to explore with an open mind, just about any positive area involving the mind, body, God, and our relationship with God, the power, the science, the manifestion of the mind, and more than I can put in one post.
I hope this helped to some degree.
Note: After writing this post, I looked up Religeous Science, aka Science of Mind, and the wikipedia is not entirely correct in it's explanation and would seem to mislead the reader into thinking it to be something it is not.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
Musician, "Explorer"
This was my introduction to "new thought" and "new age" and metaphysics. I have since taken many parts of many concepts from many sources and religeouns, to form my own conclusions.
Back to Science of Mind though. The basic premise is "cause and effect", especially on the subconscience level. What we say, what we think, all is recorded by the subconscience. The subconscience never forgets anythig in our experience. This recording then manifests itself in our lives, influencing our lives one way or the other. In other words, we are creating our circumstances, good or bad, by our thoughts, whether conscience or from within the subconscience. Healing, be it health or financial, or whatever, is accomplished by feeding our subconcious with positive input rather than negative. Enter into the equation that there is "race conciousness" that is basically negative. The TV news, media etc feeds us constantly with negative images, thoughts etc. When you take in account that "thoughts are things", then in Science of Mind, it is easy to see how negativity is the enemy, and we must all strive to think positive, feeding our subconcious postive input, and to try to not accept any negative influence as something we want to "own". Keywords are "Thoughts create things". Cause and Effect is the major phrase.
Meditation is a large part of Science of Mind, but not using a mantra, repeating ommm for a time. During these "mind treatments" we are supposed to use whatever we feel comfortable with, be it imagery, relaxation techniques then consciencously giving our subconcous, postive statements, with the goals to improve our lives or help someone else improve theirs.
In Science of Mind, the churches that Ernest Holmes asked not be formed, did however, begin to spring up, as it seems to be a natural progression for christians to want to have the social building known as a "church".
Ernest Holmes came about the concept that there is a universal power, a universal consciencness that creates. That is all "it" does, is create.
The universe constantly expands, stars are created or burn out, but creation is the result of this universal power. To paraphrase Genesis, but using Science of Mind terminology:
"In the beginning, there was the universal power, and nothing. This power created a universe from nothing, and then created man, so there would be an entity to recognize this power."
If your into exploring more about Science of Mind, I would suggest googling Ernest Holmes, Science of Mind, New Thought for a start.
As I said, for myself, this was just an introduction to this area around 1974. I found this not to be my cup of tea, at least exactly as it was taught, and progressed to other areas, the most recent, Unity and Silent Unity into my personal mix of beliefs and studies.
I have currantly formulated a "belief" which might be termed a ministry of sorts, or termed a "study" of sorts. I'll not go into that in this posting, though
For very personal reasons, I've been on a search for some answers since around 1974, and continue to explore with an open mind, just about any positive area involving the mind, body, God, and our relationship with God, the power, the science, the manifestion of the mind, and more than I can put in one post.
I hope this helped to some degree.
Note: After writing this post, I looked up Religeous Science, aka Science of Mind, and the wikipedia is not entirely correct in it's explanation and would seem to mislead the reader into thinking it to be something it is not.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
Musician, "Explorer"
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Justine Cooper
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New Thought Study Group
Thank you for the explanation. I have explored several churches over the years. I really like the Science of Mind in Philadelphia where I attended shortly before I moved here. Now I enjoy the Unity in Westlake but have not gotten there lately! I too like to combine different ideas from different churches. I just attended the new church in Lakewood (Lakewoodnewlife i think) and loved the spiritual feeling and warmth in the room.
I am curious of your opinion of the Secret, given your background with Science of Mind and co-creating everything. I am trying to write an article about it for the new holistic section in the lo. Vibrational energy to create?
I am curious of your opinion of the Secret, given your background with Science of Mind and co-creating everything. I am trying to write an article about it for the new holistic section in the lo. Vibrational energy to create?
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
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- Joined: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm
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..
I have yet to watch the 'net movie or see the DVD, but from all that I have read on it, so far, it seems derived from one portion of Science of Mind, the Law of Attraction, and was developed around that and a hard-hitting marketing campaign that would rival or exceed Scientology, which so far is a blockbuster money-maker as most know, at least for the upper echelon of it.
With the decline of interest in conventional religeons, it seems people will explore just about anything and with the marketing going on with the "Secret", it should be a winner, in the profit side.
As far as the content side, I'll make a point of watching the internet version asap, then give my opinion.
When you dive into the book Science of Mind, it covers so much and in so much detail, and with so much logic, that in the words of Joseph B. Zito, who was a manager of mine, formerly in Las Vegas who introduced me to it, "no matter what philosophy or religeon you look at out there, your going to see portions of what you've already read in Science of Mind.
By the way, I also enjoy Unity, and the bookstore was well stocked, at least the last time I was there, with authors of many diciplines and beliefs, but again, while I don't drop my whole anchor with Science of Mind,
every time I find something new, it's like the TV commercial says: "It's in there" regarding the books of Ernest Holmes, Joseph Murphy, Quimby, Joel Brown, on and on and on.
My dad published a book called "Why am I here", which he wrote some years back after I came home and turned my whole family into Science of Mind followers. Many of my friends also.
The book most known, which is also in any Unity or Religeous Science bookstore is "Think and Grow Rich" by Jos. Murphy. This book is well known to many in colleges, used in various subjects, excluding the track we are on presently on this thread.
Back to the Secret, I'll check it out and give my ideas on it.
This is an area I'm highly interested in, and can go for hours non-stop.
When I write my songs, I tap into the "whole". Well, enough for now, as it's 234am .
One point: If thoughts can create things in our lives, from becoming aware of a new opportunity to healing a sick friend, and the negative side, ie: creating sickness or poverty, then should we not guard our thoughts?
Mark Allan Crnolatas
With the decline of interest in conventional religeons, it seems people will explore just about anything and with the marketing going on with the "Secret", it should be a winner, in the profit side.
As far as the content side, I'll make a point of watching the internet version asap, then give my opinion.
When you dive into the book Science of Mind, it covers so much and in so much detail, and with so much logic, that in the words of Joseph B. Zito, who was a manager of mine, formerly in Las Vegas who introduced me to it, "no matter what philosophy or religeon you look at out there, your going to see portions of what you've already read in Science of Mind.
By the way, I also enjoy Unity, and the bookstore was well stocked, at least the last time I was there, with authors of many diciplines and beliefs, but again, while I don't drop my whole anchor with Science of Mind,
every time I find something new, it's like the TV commercial says: "It's in there" regarding the books of Ernest Holmes, Joseph Murphy, Quimby, Joel Brown, on and on and on.
My dad published a book called "Why am I here", which he wrote some years back after I came home and turned my whole family into Science of Mind followers. Many of my friends also.
The book most known, which is also in any Unity or Religeous Science bookstore is "Think and Grow Rich" by Jos. Murphy. This book is well known to many in colleges, used in various subjects, excluding the track we are on presently on this thread.
Back to the Secret, I'll check it out and give my ideas on it.
This is an area I'm highly interested in, and can go for hours non-stop.
When I write my songs, I tap into the "whole". Well, enough for now, as it's 234am .
One point: If thoughts can create things in our lives, from becoming aware of a new opportunity to healing a sick friend, and the negative side, ie: creating sickness or poverty, then should we not guard our thoughts?
Mark Allan Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
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Hm Should we guard our thoughts? Some of them! What I get from the Secret and from the book "Ask and It Is Given" by Hicks, is that our thoughts and emotions attract things in our life. It is like a train, so one thought might get the engine going, chug chug, but it takes more thoughts to get it moving steadily in that direction, AND the important part of it is that there needs to be emotion involved. It takes a long time to change thought patterns. A lot of bad habits over the years have formed! I have tried some of the exercises to "manifest" and small things have happened but not the bigger ones yet, which they say take longer, of course. It is like the train moving toward the destination, then maybe gets of course when my thoughts revert back to negative or fear or worry. Visualization and meditation are big parts of it, because only in meditation or quiet times can we really know who we are and what we want. In the "real" world our mind is so busy and often trying to please others, kids, family, boss, etc .
When I think about the times I did put my thoughts to one goal and not accept anything differently, I had success. And I like to think about the Jim Carey story, where he carried around a check made out to him for a million dollars while he was poor. Now look at him. And look at the rappers who came from the ghetto, now filthy rich and famous-how-I think by focusing on their goal and accepting nothing else, envisioning it, etc. And a lot of hard work too! Plus you have to believe the goal is possible and most importantly, not get tripped up with having financial success as your only goal! Look at the most rich and famous-the most screwed up! It has to be a balance of mind, body, and soul!~ That is my take (well a portion) but I find it fascinating. I also find it fascinating that the authors of the book/movie were already millionnaires and successful, so why not try what they recommend??? I still have the desire and need for other aspects of religion though, the fellowship and spirituality of a church. I will settle on one soon so my kids can have that extended family. My four and five year old talk a lot about God and have a great understanding, as I teach it daily, but the fellowship is missing. That energy in a room with all there to worship God is undeniable. I don't believe in one religion, I love the fact that many can find God through different religions. He did create a variety in us, so I am sure He/She welcomes the variety of ways in which we reach Him/Her, and ultimately, the knowledge that we are a big piece of HIm/Her!
When I think about the times I did put my thoughts to one goal and not accept anything differently, I had success. And I like to think about the Jim Carey story, where he carried around a check made out to him for a million dollars while he was poor. Now look at him. And look at the rappers who came from the ghetto, now filthy rich and famous-how-I think by focusing on their goal and accepting nothing else, envisioning it, etc. And a lot of hard work too! Plus you have to believe the goal is possible and most importantly, not get tripped up with having financial success as your only goal! Look at the most rich and famous-the most screwed up! It has to be a balance of mind, body, and soul!~ That is my take (well a portion) but I find it fascinating. I also find it fascinating that the authors of the book/movie were already millionnaires and successful, so why not try what they recommend??? I still have the desire and need for other aspects of religion though, the fellowship and spirituality of a church. I will settle on one soon so my kids can have that extended family. My four and five year old talk a lot about God and have a great understanding, as I teach it daily, but the fellowship is missing. That energy in a room with all there to worship God is undeniable. I don't believe in one religion, I love the fact that many can find God through different religions. He did create a variety in us, so I am sure He/She welcomes the variety of ways in which we reach Him/Her, and ultimately, the knowledge that we are a big piece of HIm/Her!
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
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...
When I say "Guard our thoughts" I mean that if we let ourselves drift into negativity, focus on bad things, then we will attract bad things. You can bet people like Jim Carey, did not wallow in what was "never going to happen" but rather kept his focus, by whatever means, on "success" Some people do it without realizing it, and they achieve fantastic heights. Some people have to fight to keep positive because they are surrounded by negativing talking and feeling people. Ever notice some people seem to enjoy talking about how bad things are? They don't admit they enjoy talking like that, and maybe they do not, but they seem to never talk about the positive things that surround them. Someone once said " if you look for things to go wrong for you, you'll certainly find them".
I was raised in an atmosphere of "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, and you'll be poor because no one in the family will leave you any money" type of thing. Tough to wash that negativity out of the subconscious mind, but I'm also the only one in my whole family that ever had a business. It shut down due to unforeseen circumstances but I'm working on myself to keep a positive attitude, focus on goals and find where I should be and what I should do now.
Part of that is surrounding myself with positive thinking people. Positive input is surely needed, to help push back the onslaught of negative media, negative people's comments, negative vibrations from negative thoughts and the like.
Again many people do it without realizing they are using the "law of attraction" or to use Murphy's term, "A Master-mind group".
Jim OB has done that, in the formation of the L.O whether he realized it or not by forming a group of people with positive attitudes, then all focusing on similar goals, that at least would compliment each other's goals for whatever reasons. and bada bing, the L.O was born. Result- A great success, with kudos to Jim OB for his vision to begin with.
Because at the time I was a staunch republican, I think that had something to do with not being part of the founding members, or maybe it was just because something else was not of good use, I'm not sure, which I would have loved to have done, but as weather and times change so do viewpoints, world events and politics.
Anyway, the Secret seems to be again, just one portion of what is included in the writings of Earnest Holmes, the "Law of Attraction", and is being marketed very very well relative to other ideas.
While being a graduate of the LHS class of '68, and having a toddler, that puts me in a fairly unique position. I do want her to have influences that are positive and morally sound. This is why I have formulated a "study" of my own, not calling it a religion but rather a basis for discussion. It only excludes negativity, and is open to most everything of a positive nature.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
I was raised in an atmosphere of "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, and you'll be poor because no one in the family will leave you any money" type of thing. Tough to wash that negativity out of the subconscious mind, but I'm also the only one in my whole family that ever had a business. It shut down due to unforeseen circumstances but I'm working on myself to keep a positive attitude, focus on goals and find where I should be and what I should do now.
Part of that is surrounding myself with positive thinking people. Positive input is surely needed, to help push back the onslaught of negative media, negative people's comments, negative vibrations from negative thoughts and the like.
Again many people do it without realizing they are using the "law of attraction" or to use Murphy's term, "A Master-mind group".
Jim OB has done that, in the formation of the L.O whether he realized it or not by forming a group of people with positive attitudes, then all focusing on similar goals, that at least would compliment each other's goals for whatever reasons. and bada bing, the L.O was born. Result- A great success, with kudos to Jim OB for his vision to begin with.
Because at the time I was a staunch republican, I think that had something to do with not being part of the founding members, or maybe it was just because something else was not of good use, I'm not sure, which I would have loved to have done, but as weather and times change so do viewpoints, world events and politics.
Anyway, the Secret seems to be again, just one portion of what is included in the writings of Earnest Holmes, the "Law of Attraction", and is being marketed very very well relative to other ideas.
While being a graduate of the LHS class of '68, and having a toddler, that puts me in a fairly unique position. I do want her to have influences that are positive and morally sound. This is why I have formulated a "study" of my own, not calling it a religion but rather a basis for discussion. It only excludes negativity, and is open to most everything of a positive nature.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
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A New Thought Study Group
I can't believe a staunch Republican could have went to Science of Mind!! And got your family there! OK on that subject, while I work on all my positive thoughts, I can't reconcile this war at all in my heart, mind, or soul! Other things I can be positive about, but this weighs so heavy I can't get it out of the back of my mind or soul. And I feel like if we don't talk about it, we are accomplices. But talking about it brings up negativity and brings out hostility in others and the whole things is so horrid to me. The families who lost a soldier or who have one there, the injured ones that will never be OK, the country that will be worse off after we leave, all of it. How do you reconcile that with creating positive thoughts? And I have to be honest, I don't know if you are still Republican, but my experience in "debating" with them, feels like debating with the bully on the playground! They get angry and sucker punch if you defend your beliefs! So in line with staying positive, do you not engage in politics and then feel like an accomplice by not standing up? That part gets tricky. I know the Secret says Mother Theresa always attended Peace Ralleys, never anti-war rallies. To stay with what is positive, but I also feel that more people should stand up and state the opposition they feel toward the war. Of course more are every day, but how does that work then with Science of Mind thinking?
As for JOB I totally agree! That is why I never recommend he watch the Secret! He already knows it with this project. And some people do it naturally with religion and faith, same focus and belief and success. Others have to work harder to change all thoughts to positive, especially if they grew up hearing negative, which many did! Although we are our own worst critics most of the time. You should bring your study group idea to Goddess Blessed and try starting it there weekly. She has great space and open mind. Let me know!
As for JOB I totally agree! That is why I never recommend he watch the Secret! He already knows it with this project. And some people do it naturally with religion and faith, same focus and belief and success. Others have to work harder to change all thoughts to positive, especially if they grew up hearing negative, which many did! Although we are our own worst critics most of the time. You should bring your study group idea to Goddess Blessed and try starting it there weekly. She has great space and open mind. Let me know!
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
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- Joined: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm
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...
Not a Republican at all. Not a Democrat at all either. I was both, brought up a Democrat, and changed to the other side. I found, for me, that holding a "card of either party" was not logical. You cannot line up 20 of anyone, in anything, and find all 20 to be the right people for the right "thing". It's just not there in human nature, in my opinion, so with that in mind, I became a hard-core Independent.
Now I believe in weighing the history of a political candidate, not much what they say in trying to be elected but what they said and did before that point.
I believe many will say what they think the public wants to hear, rather than state what they really feel, during any election cycle. I now ignore the club they say they are members of, since many seem to ride a vague fence, and try to weigh in the issues, and any one politician's past voting history, what their speeches have said regarding different aspects, before their declaration of seeking the next job up the ladder of political "rock-star".
Regarding Science of Mind, I don't perscribe to it as a primary source anymore, either. I use it as part of a multi-faceted line of beliefs that I feel more comfortable with at the moment.
Regarding the war, I'm militaristic. I'm pro-law enforcement. I was in the military and in law enforcement so I understand the ways of that part of the society.
To me, the war isn't about politics, and for sure it's not a Republican only supported war. The war has divided the country and it is better to not verbally talk much about it, if you want to be elected. I still have yet to hear much from either side at this point, on how to get out. "HOW being the keyword.
I separate my thoughts from the war, and from my own family's needs and wants, and especially my own, since how I think and perceive, manifests itself in my family and other people.
Thoughts are things. Statements made with conviction are also known as prayers, whether realized or not. It's a matter of terminology.
Regarding this thread, I think many people are wary of what is being said here, thinking it is not part of being a christian. I hope more people will jump in with comments, because what I am talking about is not in replacement for being a christian, but rather, in addition to parts of many areas of many faiths, adding up to something that seems logical and believable.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
Now I believe in weighing the history of a political candidate, not much what they say in trying to be elected but what they said and did before that point.
I believe many will say what they think the public wants to hear, rather than state what they really feel, during any election cycle. I now ignore the club they say they are members of, since many seem to ride a vague fence, and try to weigh in the issues, and any one politician's past voting history, what their speeches have said regarding different aspects, before their declaration of seeking the next job up the ladder of political "rock-star".
Regarding Science of Mind, I don't perscribe to it as a primary source anymore, either. I use it as part of a multi-faceted line of beliefs that I feel more comfortable with at the moment.
Regarding the war, I'm militaristic. I'm pro-law enforcement. I was in the military and in law enforcement so I understand the ways of that part of the society.
To me, the war isn't about politics, and for sure it's not a Republican only supported war. The war has divided the country and it is better to not verbally talk much about it, if you want to be elected. I still have yet to hear much from either side at this point, on how to get out. "HOW being the keyword.
I separate my thoughts from the war, and from my own family's needs and wants, and especially my own, since how I think and perceive, manifests itself in my family and other people.
Thoughts are things. Statements made with conviction are also known as prayers, whether realized or not. It's a matter of terminology.
Regarding this thread, I think many people are wary of what is being said here, thinking it is not part of being a christian. I hope more people will jump in with comments, because what I am talking about is not in replacement for being a christian, but rather, in addition to parts of many areas of many faiths, adding up to something that seems logical and believable.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
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New Thought Study Group
I know-sorry to get on politics during "religion" but it is all mixed for me. I consider myself Christian too, but hard core Christians probably don't, as I believe in other religions too. The most spiritual weekend of my life was putting on a retreat when I was about 18 in a Catholic Church for other young Catholics. I swear I felt so close to Jesus I could see Him! But I no longer subscribe to Catholisism.
As far as being of the military, my twin sister was in National Guard, then Peace Corp! Then worked for the Red Cross and now is working for Peace Corp in Africa and prefers to live overseas to here. Being in the military doesn't always mean pro-fighting or pro-war. I doubt she will come home under this administration, and she has seen all sides of it. I agree with you on not following the "groups" the politicians are in. What have you learned in following what they do before and after? The little I see, is the Democratic presidents that leave office, go on to become great humanitarians! Even if you don't believe in Global Warming, Gore is still advocating for the environment! He wasn't pretending to get votes! What do the Republican presidents go on to do (I am not asking this rhetorically! I am asking to get an honest answer with no anger, sarcasm, or insult, which is why I am asking under the spiritual section).
Being a Democrat does not mean I agree with all left sides. I don't agree with Partial Abortion (unless saving a life) and I do agree with the death penalty. I don't believe in reforming child molesters. I do believe there is room for God in schools, as long as God is defined in each student's own mind or home. But, what I never got, was the Republican side being Pro-life and against assisted suicide, then cutting funds for the children brought into the world and the seniors! OK I am letting politics go on this side!!!! Spirituality does feel better. I am seriously trying to figure out how to mix it all, and still remain positive. If you have any suggestions, since you have been on both sides, then I would love to hear them. Do I let it all go and not debate it? What does all the relious beliefs you have formed dictate there? How do I stop thinking about all the children whose parents are at war and the attachment issues they will face, even if their parents come home? The effects are agonizing to think about. (I can assure you that we will see a rise in behavior problems though). So from a spiritual perspective, how do I balance that?
As far as being of the military, my twin sister was in National Guard, then Peace Corp! Then worked for the Red Cross and now is working for Peace Corp in Africa and prefers to live overseas to here. Being in the military doesn't always mean pro-fighting or pro-war. I doubt she will come home under this administration, and she has seen all sides of it. I agree with you on not following the "groups" the politicians are in. What have you learned in following what they do before and after? The little I see, is the Democratic presidents that leave office, go on to become great humanitarians! Even if you don't believe in Global Warming, Gore is still advocating for the environment! He wasn't pretending to get votes! What do the Republican presidents go on to do (I am not asking this rhetorically! I am asking to get an honest answer with no anger, sarcasm, or insult, which is why I am asking under the spiritual section).
Being a Democrat does not mean I agree with all left sides. I don't agree with Partial Abortion (unless saving a life) and I do agree with the death penalty. I don't believe in reforming child molesters. I do believe there is room for God in schools, as long as God is defined in each student's own mind or home. But, what I never got, was the Republican side being Pro-life and against assisted suicide, then cutting funds for the children brought into the world and the seniors! OK I am letting politics go on this side!!!! Spirituality does feel better. I am seriously trying to figure out how to mix it all, and still remain positive. If you have any suggestions, since you have been on both sides, then I would love to hear them. Do I let it all go and not debate it? What does all the relious beliefs you have formed dictate there? How do I stop thinking about all the children whose parents are at war and the attachment issues they will face, even if their parents come home? The effects are agonizing to think about. (I can assure you that we will see a rise in behavior problems though). So from a spiritual perspective, how do I balance that?
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
- Posts: 400
- Joined: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm
- Location: Lakewood, Ohio
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It's a separation of thinking. While I had a security/private investigation company, I worked nearly daily with Cleveland Police due to where our contracts were. It was a hotel that is no longer in existance. In this hotel every crime you can dream of, occured during the years it was one of our clients.
One night I heard screams coming from a room. On entering the room ( won't go into the legalities but I did it within the law) found an illegal abortionist who had just finished the "crime". The entire room was full of blood, and while I was calling on the radio for our own radio people to call CPD, I was fighting off the woman who had done the abortion. While she was trying to stab me, she was also trying to get to the bathroom to flush the evidence. While this mess was going on, a friend of hers managed to get to the bathroom and did flush the evidence.
For a month, that image flashed in my mind. What if I had done this, or that, or this or that? Looking back, I had done exactly what I had to do. The guys that responded, from CPD also told me I had done what I had to do, since this crazy woman was trying to kill me, yet the evidence was lost.
Here's the reason I went into all of this. With this graphic incidence in my mind, I still had to do my daily activities, talk like a human being and smile when it was needed. I had to file that incidence in my mental "filing cabinet" shut the mental door, for further use if needed.
I suppose it is best described as the need to put things into perspective.
We have a war going on. It is rough as all wars are. You cannot live your life around that war, and be happy, I would think. Much the same as me and that once incidence, I could not live my life around that incidence and do anything but become a turnip or something.
I had strange and rough incidences almost daily working where I was, since we took contracts most other companies did not, or they couldn't keep personel there. The only saving grace was the great guys of CPD., who considered me and our guys and gals as one of them, part of their brotherhood. Had it not been for that comraderie, I might have had a different mental outlook on many things.
Maybe you can file your emotions in different files too, like a computer.
It is not wrong to be aware of the war, to even be an activist if you feel the need, but it is stressful to try to live it, replay the negatives over and over, and live your own life too at the same time.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
One night I heard screams coming from a room. On entering the room ( won't go into the legalities but I did it within the law) found an illegal abortionist who had just finished the "crime". The entire room was full of blood, and while I was calling on the radio for our own radio people to call CPD, I was fighting off the woman who had done the abortion. While she was trying to stab me, she was also trying to get to the bathroom to flush the evidence. While this mess was going on, a friend of hers managed to get to the bathroom and did flush the evidence.
For a month, that image flashed in my mind. What if I had done this, or that, or this or that? Looking back, I had done exactly what I had to do. The guys that responded, from CPD also told me I had done what I had to do, since this crazy woman was trying to kill me, yet the evidence was lost.
Here's the reason I went into all of this. With this graphic incidence in my mind, I still had to do my daily activities, talk like a human being and smile when it was needed. I had to file that incidence in my mental "filing cabinet" shut the mental door, for further use if needed.
I suppose it is best described as the need to put things into perspective.
We have a war going on. It is rough as all wars are. You cannot live your life around that war, and be happy, I would think. Much the same as me and that once incidence, I could not live my life around that incidence and do anything but become a turnip or something.
I had strange and rough incidences almost daily working where I was, since we took contracts most other companies did not, or they couldn't keep personel there. The only saving grace was the great guys of CPD., who considered me and our guys and gals as one of them, part of their brotherhood. Had it not been for that comraderie, I might have had a different mental outlook on many things.
Maybe you can file your emotions in different files too, like a computer.
It is not wrong to be aware of the war, to even be an activist if you feel the need, but it is stressful to try to live it, replay the negatives over and over, and live your own life too at the same time.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
- Posts: 775
- Joined: Thu Jan 12, 2006 10:12 am
- Location: Lakewood
New Thought Study Group
You are right of course and I had to learn to live that as a Social Worker, but it did not come easy. I saw incredibly disturbing things, and as the system was set up, could only do so much. I used to go home and feel guilty if I went out to dinner while thinking of others who had nothing. It came to a point that I had to separate emotions, not as easy for a female. They never turned off, but I got thicker skin and did what I could. I still think about certain individuals and families and where they might be right now. But I still find it difficult to let myself be happy when others are in the war zone or waiting here for family to come home from there. That is the hard part. It comes up even in prayer or meditation.
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
- Posts: 400
- Joined: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm
- Location: Lakewood, Ohio
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Yes it isn't easy. Elsewhere on the Deck here, I ask if anyone collects things. I collect a few things, one being Sneakers. We give to the homeless shelter some huge bags about once every month, so I sometimes look at my sneaker collection and think, all those homeless people need shoes, need anything, and then I will feel guilty also.
The same can be said with anything I look at around the house. The homeless literally have nothing. That's worth a whole thread in itself, but since there isn't a homeless shelter in Lakewood, would probably not be the place here on the deck to discuss a problem that is mostly in Cleveland.
It still can get to any of us, with feelings however.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
The same can be said with anything I look at around the house. The homeless literally have nothing. That's worth a whole thread in itself, but since there isn't a homeless shelter in Lakewood, would probably not be the place here on the deck to discuss a problem that is mostly in Cleveland.
It still can get to any of us, with feelings however.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
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Justine Cooper
- Posts: 775
- Joined: Thu Jan 12, 2006 10:12 am
- Location: Lakewood
New Thought Study Group
Man I was thinking about what you witnessed during the day and I just can't believe it. How horrible! What year was that???
As far as no homeless shelter in Lakewood, I was surprised to find that several churches open their doors for nightly shelter! I never knew that! We are working on a plan to help get the word out for all Lakewood charities since there really are a lot but many don't know of them! (JOB is really working on it).
Now, as far as the "religious" aspect, how would you describe your philosphopy of combined religion? What did you take from the ones you like? What are your main beliefs?
As far as no homeless shelter in Lakewood, I was surprised to find that several churches open their doors for nightly shelter! I never knew that! We are working on a plan to help get the word out for all Lakewood charities since there really are a lot but many don't know of them! (JOB is really working on it).
Now, as far as the "religious" aspect, how would you describe your philosphopy of combined religion? What did you take from the ones you like? What are your main beliefs?
"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive" Dalai Lama
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Mark Crnolatas
- Posts: 400
- Joined: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm
- Location: Lakewood, Ohio
...
That particular incidence was around 7 yrs ago, but incidences that are quite "hard core" are fairly normal for the special units of CPD ie: Strike Force, Narcotics Unit, Auto Theft, on and on. People think NYC is the hard -core police dept. but Cleveland guys and gals should get some strong applause from all of us in N.E. Ohio, for all the criminals they take off the streets of not only inside the city of Cleveland, but what bleeds over to the burbs from inside the city there.
I could write a book of incidences that covered a span of over 20 yrs, but I woudn't know where to begin.
As far as my beliefs, I still believe in many basics of the Catholic church. Then I add to that, the open mind of New Thought, mainly using parts of Religious Science that seems logical to me, and parts of Unity that seem logical to me, and also parts of several philosophies, eastern religions, too much to list here, and also I think by speaking of the parts, it would take away from the whole "mind-set" that I have composed. I discard what I do not feel is logical or is "altered" from the era of around 500 -600 AD when almost all the religions were changed by men who looked for power using religion, and the ones since then also.
Mark Allan Crnolatas
I could write a book of incidences that covered a span of over 20 yrs, but I woudn't know where to begin.
As far as my beliefs, I still believe in many basics of the Catholic church. Then I add to that, the open mind of New Thought, mainly using parts of Religious Science that seems logical to me, and parts of Unity that seem logical to me, and also parts of several philosophies, eastern religions, too much to list here, and also I think by speaking of the parts, it would take away from the whole "mind-set" that I have composed. I discard what I do not feel is logical or is "altered" from the era of around 500 -600 AD when almost all the religions were changed by men who looked for power using religion, and the ones since then also.
Mark Allan Crnolatas