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Photos - Christmas morning, 2009, with my father.

Mysterious Childhood Visions

When I was a child, I had three mysterious visions which I offer no explanation or interpretation of, but simply share as they have stayed with me all my life.

The first occurred at the age of four. I recall awaking, wide eyed and startled, as a bright feminine figure, in light, stood or hovered at the base of my bed. My immediate reaction was to think I should call out to awake my father to come, but just as that thought passed through me instantly I “heard” the lady apparition tell me not to be afraid and that there was no need to wake my father. I paused, thinking about that for a moment, and felt reassured completely. I stared at her, no audible verbal communication occurred, though I remember she was there for several minutes “speaking” since I was receiving some message telepathically, that’s how it feels in retrospect, though I do not recall what was communicated to me…the last I recall was being instructed to lie back down and close my eyes to rest. I did…but sat up again a few minutes later…and she was no longer there. The following morning I shared the experience with my father, telling him “I had seen an angel,” which was the only way I could find words to try and capture and express what I had experienced. To this day, I remember the incident most clearly, and when I speak to my father about it, he tells me I was most insistent, descriptive, and enthusiastic about what I had seen, full of zeal and wonder when I shared what had happened.

The second occurred also at the age of four. I was outside playing on the slide with another little friend, as I climbed up the ladder to the top again and sat down, I turned to the left (where the shipyard was) and instead of the usual scene, I saw a great expanse of a bright glowing light-giving city. It was brilliant! I looked all around me elsewhere and all was the same - the playground, the buildings, my friend at bottom of slide, and the basketball court farther away where my father was shooting hoops with others. Immediately I looked again, totally focusing my attention, on a most wondrous vision…it was hues of bright gold and bright white with towering buildings of beautiful architecture. Never had I seen anything like it, and the entire scene gave off a brilliant light like sunshine. I just kept staring, aware that my little playmate was calling to me to move on down the slide, but all I wanted to do was gaze at the sight before me. Then, with the persistence of my friend’s voice, I glanced down at her momentarily and then back…and it was gone. I slid down the slide and ran to the basketball court to get my father, but he was very much engaged in the basketball game and unable to come over to the slide right then. A little later, I told him in detail of what I had seen calling it “heaven”…another vision which he remembers my telling him of; he says I was “delighted” when I shared it with him.

The third occurred at about the age of ten. I had a habit of purposefully waking in the middle of the night and getting up to spend time gazing out my back bedroom window at the tall pines, dark night sky and stars when visible through the pines. I did this often, as I liked the quiet stillness of nighttime outside. On one such evening, I awoke as usual and walked to my window and leaned on the windowsill as I gazed around and upwards. I noticed a larger than usual bright light twinkling in the sky and it immediately captured my attention because it appeared to be getting closer as the light was getting larger and larger. Momentarily, it seemed as it had descended from the sky to right above the tree tops. Very quickly, it suddenly just got so large as to cover the expanse of pine tree tops and lit everything to such a degree all I could see was this enormous bright light and nothing else. That’s all I remember, because the very next thing I knew I was back in my bed, wide awake, and very much aware that I had been up at my window and watching that light - I was perplexed as to how I was now back in bed though awake and fully cognizant of having already gotten up as usual only to have witnessed the strange light and now found myself back in bed. I was hesitant to get up again, as it seemed such an unusual light and experience, but I did go back to the window and all was quiet and dark.

Merry Christmas! (photo from yesterday)

 Merry Christmas!

Had a wonderful day yesterday (Dec.10).  Had to go to the city for an appointment, and while there stocked up on all the fixings for delicious Christmas dinners and treats. 

Had to dress warmly (here in my wool coat) since temperature high was around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. 
While there, visited the abbey whose pasture had several beautiful large mules - white, brown, and mixed.  I was invited to feed them, given some of their feed, hiked through the snow in my boots, where I was met by their eager eyes waiting a treat. They joyfully munched on the alfalfa pellets from my gloved hands as I joyfully fed them. 

I am grateful for…

Just returned from an early morning hike through the snow - brisk and cool - a great way to begin the day! Stopped at the partially frozen creek, surrounded by tall slender aspen, and listened to the water music. The blue spruce across the way towered above me. I am grateful for so much, and so now, this Monday morning, as Thanksgiving is approaching this week, I’ll share a few thoughts on it.

Thanksgiving has always been a meaningful day, as it focuses upon the virtue of expressing gratitude. This makes Thanksgiving a day of action, not passivity, in both heart and deed…a way to live throughout the year. 

Every experience in life, and every individual we encounter, holds opportunity for truth to be taught and learned.

Whatever one is grateful for requires supporting actions showing it, protecting it, and restoring it. One shows they treasure and are grateful for something by their actions, not just their words. To be grateful is more than a feeling, it’s a way to live one’s life.

At its heart, Thanksgiving is a day of lessons learned (and continuing to be learned). Its beginnings, which we celebrate, are a testament to liberty and its bountiful rewards. (Indeed, the festivities of today are a celebration of the fruits reaped when the philosophy of libertarianism is sown. For more on this, visit my 2008 Thanksgiving piece and its links regarding William Bradford and the lesson learned of free enterprise by those early settlers- the true story which should also be taught children and everyone this time of year.)

Twenty four years ago I moved to Colorado, with my first day here being Thanksgiving Day 1985. Fortunately, some caring neighbors helped make that day festive by sharing their Thanksgiving fixings, as I was not prepared to be cooking such a meal in a kitchen yet to be filled with accessories and groceries. I remember that first day well, there was an enormous snowfall, and extreme record breaking cold temperatures. The neighbor’s hospitality was most welcome!

Now, every day, I step out onto the deck of my mountain chalet, look at the sky, the forest, the mountains, and think to myself, “This is the day which the Lord hath made…,” I “…will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24-KJV)

My life is filled with blessings, joy, and miracles…a few of which I share here: 

I am grateful for… 

the gift of each day.

my beloved father.

all my Gentle Beings throughout my life.

all my animal companions throughout my life.

the few, but precious, friendships in my life.

the natural world,

the abundance of the Earth, and its creatures.

being able to make my living doing something I love.

friends who give me the gift of trust - needing a listening caring heart - turning to me in times of distress - or seeking my advice or opinion to consider.

those whom have been patient and forgiving with me.

friends who inspire and encourage me through their passion for liberty - their uncompromising devotion, dedication and hard work.

favorite authors.

those who create art I appreciate - in music, painting, prose, film, or sculpture.

the scientific, mechanical and technological inventions and discoveries the mind of man has made.

those with integrity.

the kindness of strangers.

to live in the United States, a most unique and wonderful nation because it was founded on liberty.

our nation’s founders who recognized the rights of the individual are not bestowed by any man or government but are inherent at birth, God-given.

past associations with those whom I helped and those who helped me.

every opportunity given in which I was able to be a blessing in someone else’s life.

my parish, beautiful, built over 100 years ago, and those who make it home to the parish family.

my parish priest and his knowledge, wisdom, gentleness, understanding, and ability to teach God’s truth.

Mother Mary continually listening and teaching me to rest in God’s providence free from worry or anxiety.

God - His love - His patience and forgiveness.

In conclusion (and elaborating a bit on the above):

I have been abundantly blessed in life. I have a fine home, good food, and abundant provision of necessities as well as creature comforts such as all the things I use and enjoy each day which make life easier, comfortable and cozy… from warm fuzzy slippers- a cup of tea- a hot bubble bath–the glistening snow in bright sunshine- a quiet moonlit night- a classical music cd playing on the stereo- to so many more things which delight my senses in their goodness, beauty and simplicity.

I am grateful for my health - my ability to move freely, to go where I choose from travel, hiking, fitness, to just playing, swirling and dancing, to have the sense of smell to enjoy the delightful array of aromas and fragrances from wildflowers to delicious meals, to have eyes to see the beauty all around me and which give me the ability to read, to have the sense of hearing to hear the voices of those I love, to appreciate beautiful music, to learn from others, and to hear the sounds of all the earth from bird songs to the wind, to have the sense of touch so that the softness of a petal can be felt-the warmth of the sun upon my face and the coolness of a raindrop-to have a voice to share, question and sing, the ability to taste the many delicious flavors from savory to sweet, for all the abilities and senses health gives me.

I am grateful I learned early the value of being true to myself, strong, and independent, following my heart where it leads. I focus on developing myself emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually, developing who I am to the fullest so that I am a whole person capable of joyfully sharing with others, and strong to pursue the path of dreams and ideas God gives me. For this realization, I thank my father who raised me to be strong, to pursue whatever I felt was right and would make me happy.

I am grateful to God, the source of all these blessings.

And I reiterate the beginning of this piece: Whatever one is grateful for requires actions showing it, protecting it, and restoring it. Think about those things you are grateful for and live your life in actions to show you treasure them.

November Evocations of Christmas - sharing this day with my regular readers

What a fine Sunday today has been. Bright sunshine and glistening snow - what a beautiful combination! I awoke to over two feet more new snow (this is the third snowstorm this season, the others brought about three feet each time).

After a mug of delicious strongly brewed tea (with orange & chocolate added), had a little breakfast, and began my day.

Spent morning hours in prayer and reading (Catholic theology).

My road was snowed in till around noon (when the neighbor man I hired to plow the road came).

Today’s snow was a delight! I spent time shoveling the deck and walkway, as well as bringing in firewood in the morning, and then later brought in much more with the help of my father. The tall pine boughs are covered in snow and the sky has been a beautiful blue with white puffy clouds. Didn’t see much wildlife today, only a few tracks in the deep snow. (Just recently, I watched a flock of 8-12 wild turkeys walk down my road, single file, treating me to a turkey parade! I also saw a lynx in the snow the other day, and a coyote. And, of course, frequently I see deer, rabbits, (bear, before they hibernate, which they’ve likely just recently begun), fox, chipmunks and squirrels, and many types of birds.)

Christmas piano music from one of my favorite solo piano cds has been playing.

Just added a couple more logs to the fire going in the woodstove (got that started early this morning, it’s now comfy cozy warm).

Am cooking two pumpkin pies right now. I’m detecting the pumpkin pie spice aroma with its cinnamon, ginger, clove, nutmeg and mace. Popcorn aroma has filled the home, too. (Left the computer for a moment to have a little of that popcorn, sprinkled it with cheese and popcorn salt - so good!) Next, I plan to cook some chocolate brownies.

After a hot bath (with one or more of my favorite essential oils), I’ll then prepare dinner.

With a good dinner, Father and I will watch a film together.

Everything about today has evoked Christmas.

As my Father often says, “Every day is Christmas in our home.”

Regarding the Humanae Vitae teachings

Faith is integral to the way I live my life in every area.  Amazingly to me, I now feel a deep understanding inside (beyond mere mental understanding) of matters which perplexed or confused me before.

I can give you a direct example of where my eyes have been opened. It is in my understanding of the Humanae Vitae teachings found in the Encyclical Letter of Pope Paul VI in 1968.

Although all my life I have always regarded life as beginning at conception, I couldn’t understand how (artificial) contraception would contradict God’s will. It seems so apparent to me now. But for much of my life, I couldn’t grasp it.

Though I don’t have to consider contraception now since I am single (and believe sex to be a sacrament reserved for marriage), it’s still a matter I’ve given thought to understand. Now, I see it as directly a matter of trusting God. Just as I trust God to provide for me in life, so I would not exclude His will from a matter as sacred as to determine whether or when a new life should be brought forth. Likewise, very importantly and completely interrelated to that, I would want to keep nothing (not even temporarily) of myself artificially from my husband.

Unlike many other females, I don’t spend any time thinking about my “biological clock”; I simply trust and gratefully accept that which naturally happens in my life as God’s will for me. Whether I have a child, or if I never do, is in God’s hands, it’s not a matter I will try to artificially control one way or the other. If I were to marry, I would trust God’s omnipotence and omniscience to determine whether I would become pregnant or not. The blessing of being entrusted with giving birth to the child of the man God would have given me would be a great honor and responsibility - I trust God to determine whether that experience is meant for me or not. God would know what is right for us. Whoever I would be and the man would be when brought together in matrimony, (paraphrasing what the wedding vows say whether we’ve come together in sickness, health, prosperity, difficulties, fertility or not, or any other life circumstance), we would come under God’s hands and intentions to love one another as we are and to help each other grow. My focus in marriage would be caring for and being a helpmate to the man in the authentic love God would have him receive.

I’m busy and happy living my life, doing the work God has put before me and blessed me with. I trust God’s guidance and His timing if such a relationship were ever to happen. If it did, I would want nothing to come between myself and the man God would have given me and given me to, for marriage is “by appointment of Jesus Christ, a sacred sign and symbol of his indissoluble union with his Church…” (The Manual of The Holy Catholic Church,  Rev. James J. McGovern, D.D., “The Sacred Bonds of Matrimony”).

Sex, as physically pleasurable and enjoyable as it is, is a gift meant to emanate from a spiritual union of two individuals. It represents God’s spiritual union with us. It is a sacred communication, joining, and sharing…a physical expression of the joyful spiritual union of two individuals giving themselves first to God, then to one another. It’s beautiful. Sexual desire is natural.  Its sharing with another individual is a gift from God for both. As such, I believe sexual union to be only for marriage.

I find this Scripture beautiful: “But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.” (Mark 10: 6-8, KJV)

Trusting God, and the teachings of His will which He has entrusted and given us through The Holy Catholic Church, takes devotion, humility, strength, courage and steadfastness; it requires forsaking mere intellectual arguments that exclude the reality of a spiritual life; it means putting total faith, trust, and love of God in one’s heart and then following your heart (and asking for guidance from God when questions or temptations arise) realizing that “Temptation is necessary to us to make us realise that we are nothing in ourselves.” - The Cure D’Ars - St. Jean-Marie-Baptiste Vianney, sermon “We Are Nothing In Ourselves.”

Let us, as Catholics, trust God in all matters - without compromise.  Let’s not look to ourselves to try and figure out what is right; let us trust in His will in every area of our life as we“…walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV)

Issues of Life: This Catholic’s spiritual & libertarian perspective

All my life I have meditated upon the sanctity of life and reverence for all life.

But only in the last year and a half, as my devotion to seeking understanding in my Catholic faith has become paramount in my life, have I felt an inner understanding as never before regarding certain issues.

In years past I wavered, torn between trying to use my mind to logically analyze matters and a deep heart sense of what I felt was truly spiritually and morally correct. Any discrepancy between what I felt deep down or believed true in years before (and have come to believe or return to again) and what I had sometimes expressed or condoned came to pain me. I allowed a wondering about certain beliefs to cause me to wander away. I’ve always been sincere, but as I look back, sometimes sincerely wrong.

Such is the weakness of letting only one’s mind and intellect guide them, rather than letting their heart and its devotion to God lead and then using one’s mind to implement the divine guidance provided. Reconciliation/confession, prayer, and sharing through my writing and personal conversations of what I realize spiritually has brought peace from that pain.

libertarianism

Since reading those such as Frederic Bastiat and Leonard Read, my understanding of freedom, liberty, and my personal faith has been clarified. It’s entirely consistent to practice or abstain from something yourself and not try to impose it upon others through the force of government.

Respecting the freedom of every individual to make personal choices, free from government coercion, allows all to reap the consequences (whether negative or positive), leading to personal responsibility which is an essential part of liberty.

In my opinion, the majority of politicians (regardless of political party affiliation) have no such respect for the freedom of the American people. Thus, government gets larger, more powerful, and uses its force to make laws resulting in more government intrusion into our lives. Rather than focusing on their job of upholding the U.S. Constitution, they meddle into people’s private lives, poking their heads into bedrooms, deciding what people can or cannot ingest, what we can or cannot see, and deciding who can “legally” take our private property. They behave as if they are the epitome of righteousness with the right to judge, condemn, and define for us what is moral or immoral, healthy or unhealthy, productive or non-productive, and thus what should be legal or illegal.

If one in or seeking public office feels they cannot uphold loyalty to the U.S. Constitution (or state constitution depending upon the office) because of religious beliefs, they should have the integrity not to seek elected office. As for me, my spiritual and religious beliefs govern my behavior, not the behavior of others. I respect the freedom for others to live as they choose as long as they harm no other. I would see no contradiction between my personal beliefs and my upholding of the Constitution.

Respecting Free Will

The legitimate use of law is for recourse when an injury has been caused to another. But as we know, many laws wrongly criminalize personal behavior.

Just as you would not want those with differing beliefs to force you to accept their values, you cannot condone the government forcing the beliefs you have upon others.

Personal behavior choices, social issues, and research are not a legitimate business of the federal government to determine what is permissible, discriminate against (or for), legislate, punish, or fund with taxpayer money.

Issues not within the Constitutional realm of the federal government (and very few are) should be left to the individual states. Can you imagine a nation where states were free from the many federal mandates/restrictions they now abide by? We could have a nation of states with their own distinct “personalities,” each operating primarily as its own sovereign power under their state constitutions yet as a state of The United States, where citizens of like-mindedness could vote, keeping many decisions closer to the people as they should be.

As a Christian, I share my beliefs with others and I willingly give to causes, charities and people I want to help, but I part company with many Christians because I do not want the government involved in legislating morality nor using taxpayer money for welfare, and I oppose the federal government stepping beyond its enumerated powers to dictate what states may do.

Sex & The Humanae Vitae teachings

As a Catholic, I seek to live in God’s will for my life. I want to learn and grow in faith; my devoutness comes from adhering to the teachings of the Church and is strengthened in prayer. My faith is integral to the way I live my life in every area.

Amazingly to me, I now feel a deep understanding inside (beyond mere mental understanding) of matters which perplexed or confused me before.

I can give you a direct example of where my eyes have been opened. It is in my understanding of the Humanae Vitae teachings found in the Encyclical Letter of Pope Paul VI in 1968.

Although all my life I have always regarded life as beginning at conception, I couldn’t understand how (artificial) contraception would contradict God’s will. It seems so apparent to me now. But for much of my life, I couldn’t grasp it.

Though I don’t have to consider contraception now since I am single (and believe sex to be a sacrament reserved for marriage), it’s still a matter I’ve given thought to understand. Now, I see it as directly a matter of trusting God. Just as I trust God to provide for me in life, so I would not exclude His will from a matter as sacred as to determine whether or when a new life should be brought forth. Likewise, very importantly and completely interrelated to that, I would want to keep nothing (not even temporarily) of myself artificially from my husband.

Unlike many of my friends and associates, I’ve never felt an urge to have a child as if it it were a necessity to my life, but always felt that if it’s meant to be, it would occur in a marriage to a wonderful man. The idea of having a child has always been inextricably linked to a deep desire to love a man whom I would respect, admire, cherish and help in every way I could…only within the idea of the prerequisite of being in such a relationship have I ever been able to imagine the possibility of having a child.

With that, has always come a knowing I would respect what the man finally chose in all matters of importance, not my own will. I am first subject to God, and secondly would be subject to the man whom I loved and married since he would also be one who puts God’s will first, and as such I would have a trust in his judgment above mine.

Unlike many other females, I don’t spend any time thinking about my “biological clock”; I simply trust and gratefully accept that which naturally happens in my life as God’s will for me. Whether I have a child, or if I never do, is in God’s hands, it’s not a matter I will try to artificially control one way or the other. If I were to marry, I would trust God’s omnipotence and omniscience to determine whether I would become pregnant or not. The blessing of being entrusted with giving birth to the child of the man God would have given me would be a great honor and responsibility - I trust God to determine whether that experience is meant for me or not. God would know what is right for us. Whoever I would be and the man would be when brought together in matrimony, (paraphrasing what the wedding vows say whether we’ve come together in sickness, health, prosperity, difficulties, fertility or not, or any other life circumstance), we would come under God’s hands and intentions to love one another as we are and to help each other grow.

My focus in marriage would be caring for and being a helpmate to the man in the authentic love God would have him receive.

Not Lonely, Though Alone

I am not lonely, but alone (in regards to the marriage sacrament and its unique blessings); I rest peacefully that if it ever be God’s will for a man who puts God first who would benefit from my companionship, and I from his, in serving God together, it would happen naturally, (probably) mysteriously and wondrously since I certainly am not someone who tries to meet others to date.

I’m busy and happy living my life, doing the work God has put before me and blessed me with. I trust God’s guidance and His timing if such a relationship were ever to happen. And if it did occur, I would want nothing to come between myself and the man God would have given me and given me to, for marriage is “by appointment of Jesus Christ, a sacred sign and symbol of his indissoluble union with his Church…” (The Manual of The Holy Catholic Church,  Rev. James J. McGovern, D.D., “The Sacred Bonds of Matrimony”).

Sex, as physically pleasurable and enjoyable as it is, is a gift meant to emanate from a spiritual union of two individuals. It represents God’s spiritual union with us. It is a sacred communication, joining, and sharing…a physical expression of the joyful spiritual union of two individuals giving themselves first to God, then to one another. It’s beautiful. Sexual desire is natural.  Its sharing with another individual is a gift from God for both. As such, I personally believe sexual union to be only for marriage.

I find this Scripture beautiful: “But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.” (Mark 10: 6-8, KJV)

In Conclusion: Share What You Believe

A number of those I know are perplexed by my perception and personal choices when they discuss such matters with me. They speak from what they accept (what they consider a practical, pragmatic worldly approach) to life, but I have chosen (and that choice of faith has been strengthened continually inside my heart and in life) to “…walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV)

Similarly, some of religious faith are also perplexed by my perception because they do not draw the line between their moral choices and respecting the the fundamental right of others to choose differently.

But the more I’ve shared of my faith, in addition to sharing my libertarian political stances, the more I’ve found there are those of us out there who adhere to both a religious faith and are simultaneously devoted to freedom and liberty. We may not be as rare as it sometimes seems. Perhaps all that is needed is for more of those who do live this way to make it known occasionally, so that others don’t automatically only associate Christians with those often vocal ones who have an inability to respect the freedom of people to live their lives as they choose.

For example, recently I had a happy experience of meeting someone at a political gathering who reached out and motioned toward my necklace (The Miraculous Medal which I always wear) while asking me if I were Catholic. When I replied yes, the lady was most insistent that we speak together before we left. We did: regarding our faith, our parishes, ministries we participated in, and what experiences we each had regarding sharing our liberty views with fellow believers and vice versa. Turned out she was a state representative. It was a most enjoyable sharing!

I think it’s important those with spiritual and religious basis for their life, who are libertarian, let others know; for that in itself can dispel many false assumptions among believers and non-believers.

As for one’s personal spiritual and religious choices - It takes courage and steadfastness; it requires forsaking mere intellectual arguments that exclude the reality of a spiritual life; it means putting total faith, trust, and love of God in one’s heart and then following your heart (and asking for guidance from God when questions or temptations arise) realizing that “Temptation is necessary to us to make us realise that we are nothing in ourselves.” - The Cure D’Ars - St. Jean-Marie-Baptiste Vianney, sermon “We Are Nothing In Ourselves.”

The Qualities of a Good Man

I recently came across the prose linked below and thought it was so sweet and so true.

I shared it with a friend of mine who told me her husband told her when they married, that she should never love him more than she loved God, that she should love her husband as #2, and God #1. I thought that was so wonderful. And, of course, that shows a man who will endeavor to put God and His will first in life.

The idea of a man who would respect a female, care about who she really is, and as the prose beautifully says, would encourage her in her walk of faith and most importantly a man who loves God first (more than his love for you) is the only kind of man a female who loves and trusts God would ever want in her life. It is why I choose to never compromise, even in the early stages of knowing someone, with ever beginning to think I could trust someone who doesn’t share the principles and beliefs which come from the spiritual faith and religion I have and practice. Integrity, a focus on truth, choosing to endeavor to live a life which is spiritually based upon God’s love and will…I value.

The qualities of a good man come from a strong faith…A good man is one who loves God and does his best to live every aspect of life according to the will of God and seeks to know His will.

I am very happy in my life, and am not someone who would ever “look” for anyone…but if God’s will is ever that a man enter my life whom I would join in the sacrament of marriage, I have a feeling this prose would describe him:

“Wait For The Man” by Adrienne Sadosky (published at the Pittsburgh Standard).

The Mistake of Compromise

Compromise has become the way of life for the majority of people.  From support of political candidates, parties and politicos to such personal aspects of life as dating and evaluating potential marriage partners, many people accept compromise of the values and positions they otherwise espouse and desire if adherence to said values might mean having to reject an association which promises immediate advantage.  And, often, even that “promise” of happiness or achievement of some goal will never be realized due to the very nature of the compromise. 

When I see someone make a conscious choice to violate one of their fundamental important principles in life, I lose much respect for them.  Realizing what is right, yet choosing to compromise anyway, betrays oneself (and others in the process). It is something I view as a deep emotional weakness caused by a lack of or an underdeveloped spiritual basis for one’s life.  Rather than choosing to be courageous in faith, one opts to analyze with their mind (prone to doubts, rationalization and confusion) matters which should remain with their heart or conscious.  In matters of principle, the mind should be a tool to implement what is within the heart.

Choosing compromise, one sells themselves short, and in doing so will hurt others (including not only those they involve themselves with in such a relationship, but often unknowingly they even hurt others who care about them).

All my life I’ve endeavored to remain true to the things I chose to believe.  To have my actions match my words is an instrumental part of who I am.  Thus, when it comes to my spiritual beliefs (which affect every other choice in my life from personal to the political), I will not compromise.

Recently, I’ve had several associations with others in which devotion to standing by my values has resulted in disillusionment, some hurt, and certainly the pain of disappointment.  I tend to attribute (call it giving another the benefit of doubt) more values to another who is voicing the same values as my own in the beginning…but fortunately, I also know the important necessity of giving all new associations with others the time to find out who they really are. 

To even begin to entertain the idea that one can closely be involved with another who does not believe as you do in matters of strength of character (even if they are a relatively good person) sets one up for disappointment to say the least, if not heartache or hurt to the degree one begin to think it may be possible.

In giving all new friendships plenty of time and experience to learn more fully about one another, fundamental differences can be discovered which preclude closer association. 

Those who choose not to compromise in important areas of their life must be strong to avoid joining closely with those who will compromise.  Recognizing such an emotional weakness in another is a warning sign that, under stress, that same person may be unfaithful to you in matters you have chosen to trust with them.
Love, like trust, (the two being inseparable actually) takes time.  Time reveals truth.  To jump into believing physical attraction, chemistry, and emotional comfort is “love” is dangerous.

The same applies to joining with organizations who state the cause you may believe in, but whose actions contradict it.  They may think compromise will achieve a desired outcome, but it will fail. 

Likewise,  jumping into believing some politico or candidate is libertarian because of some wonderfully expressed words you agree with is misguided and dangerous. 

Recently I’ve been in receipt of a number of inquiries asking my opinion of various people in the political spotlight who suddenly are voicing libertarian sounding words.  Without exception, each of the people I was asked about, were conservatives yet far from the core values of libertarianism.  Conservatives have long seen value in using the terminology of libertarian ideas and references to our founders and the U.S. Constitution and words such as freedom and liberty. This is nothing new, only particularly prevalent now since it taps into the current prevalent distrust of government. 

Conservatives are doing what serves them well: Saying the right words, while continuing to support anti-freedom legislation, laws and policies both domestically and abroad. Using libertarian terminology doesn’t make them libertarian, and neither does self-identifying with the libertarian label. 

To begin to think they are libertarian or enough so to warrant your support, without tangible proof and public reversal of previous anti-liberty positions on fundamental issues, is to compromise one’s own values in exchange for having some popular candidate or celebrity politico to identify with.  Every individual I was questioned about failed, in my view, even when considering just one issue - that of military interventionism, conquest, and empire building.  Their “fine” words about liberty and freedom mean nothing when they have no respect for the freedom of other sovereign nations nor respect for the principles upon which this nation was founded.

Fear of not having something one wants leads people to compromise.

Even good people, intelligent, ethical, high achievers, who are otherwise wise and with a well developed sense of right and wrong, can be tempted to compromise the values they hold due to a fear of not having or gaining something they desire.  They may rationalize it for awhile, but nonetheless behavior which dishonors the values deep within the heart, will have negative consequences in the long run. 

Fear of not achieving a political goal, for example, does not mean one should water it down to something “acceptable” to others who simply wish to achieve their political agenda with your support.  If you believe something should be abolished (as in unjust government programs), you shouldn’t settle for debating its reform.  You must devote the time to working toward achieving freedom not simply making tyranny more palatable.  Neither does one of principle settle for supporting one of the ‘lesser of two evils.’  And certainly, one’s political decisions and positions shouldn’t be governed by any power, gain, or advantage they might receive - yet this is how many choose what they support. Fear of having no candidate to support in a particular election, or fear that a good uncompromising liberty candidate can’t be elected, leads people to compromise and thereby become part of maintaining the problems. 

Likewise, when it comes to personal romantic relationships, one must never allow temporary gain (companionship, pleasure, etc.) to become more important than the deepest desires emanating from the core character values of honor, ethics, morality, and self-respect.  Yet, many who because of fear of being alone or perhaps fear of never being married, sadly settle for relationships with those of far less character, spiritual consciousness, and intellectual and emotional development than they.  Rather than adhere to their principles and beliefs about what constitutes a good, beautiful, fulfilling, wholesome loving relationship, they compromise in order to have something such as it is (losing faith that what is in their best good will come in time).  Some enter into such relationships because they want to have a home, a family, others look to the security a mate can provide, while others seek to have the natural desire for companionship fulfilled.  But none of those reasons justify compromise of one’s heart values.

Even in friendship, fear leads people to compromise.  Failing to express what is truthful (even if might result in disappointment in the other), often delaying or not saying at all things which should be frankly shared sooner rather than later, and avoidance of saying just what one feels or does not feel doesn’t build a friendship.  Once fear thoughts wedge into a friendship, honesty and openness end…artificial barriers are made, and the peace and happiness which otherwise could be shared if truth were honored and respected by all is not present.  One must be willing to risk loss of a relationship entirely by always adhering to truth and sharing honestly in order to gain and cultivate true friendships.  Kindness and tact have their place, but not at the expense of the truth.  True honest communication should never be compromised; if the recipient is incapable of receiving and appreciating it - so be it…there are those who will accept it, appreciate it, and cherish the blessing of the friendship offered. 

As a single woman, I’ve often met men who have tried unsuccessfully to impress me with what their money can buy, offering a lifestyle they think is conducive to achieving my favor, as if wealth would gain my affection.  And, I’ve had those who in the guise of altruism, attempt to enter my life for a stated political purpose (for example), but within weeks or months their true colors would show in terms of what they were really after.  Same with men who feigned the same religious beliefs, which within a short time it became so apparent they did not believe, even to the point of their ridicule of beliefs I do wholeheartedly accept.  And, as a previous political candidate, there were those who came offering substantial sums of monetary contributions if I would reverse myself on a stated issue. 

In their frustration in failing to obtain their agenda (whether it was personal or political) with me, some simply accepted it, while others, in their immaturity, became vindictive through slander and other means, with some even becoming vindictive toward others in the same cause simply because they knew they were in some way associated with me.

It is interesting to watch such people try repeatedly to get what they want, as they are so sure of (because of their previous successes) what their money, power, influence or personal traits can achieve.  With much confidence in their ability to manipulate outcomes, they ignore the very clear statement of principles I shared early on in their association with me (be it personal, spiritual, religious, ethical or political), and rather continue in their vain attempts.  I have laughed within that anyone would think such pathetic offers could cause me to compromise my principles - whether personally or politically.

I am only impressed by those who endeavor to live their lives in truth.  Mistakes, because we are human beings can be made, but at the core, a resolve to never compromise their beliefs and to correct mistakes when made, must be present.  Those of such integrity, rare as they are, inspire me.

Worthy goals, for yourself, as well as worthy goals for society, will never be achieved by compromise of your principles.  To join with anyone or any organization operating with a far different level of consciousness, understanding, and maturity than yourself is headed for heartache, strife, and pain. 

Looking to take or get anything else from another is a false premise to build a relationship upon. Often such compromise is achieved by lying to oneself, as if they are being altruistic and compassionate, when in actuality they are settling for something that is less than they desire and believe to be right.  Oftentimes, two people who both choose compromise come together to form relationships which are essentially based on a quid pro quo arrangement.  They call it “love,” though it is far from it.

Relationship, to be true, must be based on joyfully sharing because this other person is one whom you wish to be a part of helping them fulfill themselves and experience happiness.  It is based on shared fundamental important values.  Then all else becomes meaningful.

Without the courage found in a strong spiritual faith and trust, one’s mind begins to tell them that by accepting a certain compromise, one will gain or maintain whatever it is they desire - be it a relationship, money, prestige, career advancement, a political goal, etc.  Once compromise is allowed to enter, much behavior one would have otherwise rejected as wrong, becomes possible.

I live my life in faith.  If I’m asked my opinion of a topic or issue, I don’t evaluate whether to say something is “acceptable,” or whether it will gain approval, because doing so would compromise what I believe.  I believe speaking and working for the truth makes a tremendous difference, even if I cannot see it at the time. 

Similarly, if I find myself with an opportunity for a personal relationship with one who now (or recently) compromises important character values (whether seeking to do so with me or if I see that behavior recently with another), I reject it regardless of how attractive other aspects are.  If the other is capable and willing, I offer my friendship with a clear frank expression of its parameters. 

It is a mistake to think about having a close relationship with one whose beliefs and character in life is fundamentally different, for as the Bible, 2 Corinthians 6:14, says “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?”  (KJV)

The yearning to join with another is natural to us.  But for true joy, it must a union between individuals of like character, morality, and beliefs. 

And, the yearning to join with others in common causes is also natural. 

But worthy goals, personally and politically, will only be achieved by the union of like-minded individuals who will not compromise their core principles.  There can be no union between an individual choosing “light,” as Corinthians says, with another individual or organization that chooses “darkness.” 

Identify your most important core values and principles upon which you have chosen to base your life.  Whenever an important life decision is to be made, evaluate and ponder each of those core values and principles as you consider what you will do.  Do not allow a want that is lesser than your fundamental principles to get your priorities out of order. 

Settling for less will not bring joy or fulfillment. 

Be strong.  Keep your faith and maintain your courage.  Good things you deeply desire do not come through shortcuts in which conscience is ignored (even if ever so briefly).  Good things manifest through a life of uncompromising principle, trusting that God will provide what you need.

Emily Dickinson

 Aside from the occasional exposure to a poem by Emily Dickinson I randomly came across in the past, I had not read much of her work - till now.

I am finding her poetry so good- such expression of so much I, too, feel and am experiencing.  I shall embark on reading much of Emily Dickinson now and obtaining one or more volumes, as I am finding her writing to express so much of my own experience at this time in my life. 

Some of her poems so accurately evoke feelings I’ve had over the past two years.  Some sweet and light, others contemplative and reminiscent of times I spent pondering a number of experiences - spiritual - relational - and of nature.  Some of her poems bring a smile and laugh, others a contentment, a knowing inside - conveying and reminding me of something I’ve acquired in experience, knowledge, and feeling that wasn’t there before…or not to to the degree realized now.

It is a rather amazing experience to find another’s writings so evocative of one’s own feelings and awareness. 

In addition to obtaining more of her work, I must learn more of Emily Dickinson’s life and shall, as the rapport is deep.

Enough words!  Poetry speaks for itself.

I share a few which particularly resonate:

“If I can stop one heart from breaking”

 “Farther in summer than the birds”

“The soul unto itself”

“No rack can torture me”

“Who never lost, are unprepared”

“Have you got a brook in your little heart”

“Going to him! Happy letter! Tell him”

“All circumstances are the frame”

“There came a day at summer’s full”

“How happy is the little stone”

Photos from this morning: A mother bear & her two cubs, & squirrel

Thoughts on dialogue & (lowercase) christians, republicans & libertarians

“I hardly know an intellectual man, even, who is so broad and truly liberal that you can think aloud in his society. Most with whom you endeavor to talk soon come to a stand against some institution in which they appear to hold stock, — that is, some particular, not universal, way of viewing things. They will continually thrust their own low roof, with its narrow skylight, between you and the sky, when it is the unobstructed heavens you would view. Get out of the way with your cobwebs; wash your windows, I say!” - Thoreau, Life Without Principle.

A most rewarding aspect of attending Cato University (in addition, of course to the highly informative lectures from some excellent scholars) was the dialogue between attendees.  We had no “cobwebs” getting in the way of our communication.

Most places I go and the people I speak with remind me of another of Thoreau’s observations in Life Without Principle, “Just so hollow and ineffectual, for the most part, is our ordinary conversation. Surface meets surface. When our life ceases to be inward and private, conversation degenerates into mere gossip. We rarely meet a man who can tell us any news which he has not read in a newspaper, or been told by his neighbor….”

At Cato University, rather than “surface meets surface” it was “depth meets depth.”

But Cato University was so different!  Here discussion of ideas flowed.  After lectures, during breaks, while dining, and at receptions and other social gatherings attendees were often discussing issues and ideas.  Rather than “surface meets surface” it was “depth meets depth.”

That was because none of us thrust “some particular, not universal, way of viewing things: upon any other.”  We focused on shared premises, so as to develop thoughtful (and oftentimes entertaining) conversation.  It was always enjoyable!  For example, a friend posed a question at a table of several, qualifying it with the prerequisite we were all little “c” christians, and as all nodded, he proceeded with his point of discussion.

I had never heard the word “christian” used that way before…and the more I pondered it the more I liked it.  Actually, I liked it immediately.  For to engage in truth with others requires certain premises to be acknowledged and agreed upon for the sake of discussion and understanding (while differences,if any, are set aside).  That’s the way to effective dialogue.

The lowercase “christian” concept is one I relate to.  In fact, as I think back on my life, for so many years it would have been a quick way to describe myself (not a member of any church for most of my life, I always told people that I believed in the love Jesus taught, to distinguish myself from practicing any particular religion but not rejecting the premise of living one’s life with goodwill toward others).

And although Catholicism (especially the writings of Catholic mystics being meaningful) is my faith, I still maintain that mine is a spiritual practice far more than a religious one.  I distinguish between the spiritual and the religious.  Often, I think religion can be the way one comes to a deep spiritual path or it may enhance their life. The religious aspects of Catholicism have enhanced my understanding, this I am aware of, but the spiritual focus of my life has always been present.

Letting conscience be the guide

It is my own conscience, not any church pronouncement or “rules”, which determines my choices in life.

In other words, I concern myself with the “way” I spend my life as Throreau would express it, but not in any regard to what anyone else may think about or judge it, including the Church.  In all matters of life, I consider all factors, and then make my decision as to what I believe is personally right for me.

Thus, when in mixed company, such a designation as the lowercase “c” allowed for us all to proceed with an intellectual and ethical dialogue without becoming caught up in our possible differences, rather we all understood a basic meaning, a way of life based on certain ethics upon which we all agreed, so that we could go from there in our talk together.

Lowercase “l” “r” & “c” libertarians, republicans. and christians

It’s just like lowercase “l” libertarians and lowercase “r” republicans.  It makes sense.  As I consider it, ironically, most lowercase “l” and “r” libertarians and republicans I’ve met adhere to principle to a much greater extent than many of their uppercase counterparts, and I have often sadly seen it’s the same with “Christians” and “christians,” with those most loudly declaring their religiosity often some of those who are most far from the loving principle upon which it is based.

My personal emphasis is placing my priority on principle above all. Principles I hold and believe manifest in my work, friendships, as well as in my faith and politics, which makes everything I do a labor or expression of love.

Principle guides every expression without thought to whether it be well-received, approved of, or compensated by others. I cannot say “I know” anything, only that I believe.  As such, I truly appreciate being around others who also forgo egocentric debates in favor of learning and sharing.

“Let us consider the way in which we spend our lives.” - Thoreau, Life without Principle

I really enjoy being around people who value true communication.

I learned a great deal from my many conversations with others at Cato University.  And more than anything in those conversations, I loved listening to others and their perceptions and experiences.  What a joy it was to be with those who are “so broad and truly liberal” (liberal in the classical sense), for conversation brought us together with good dialogue and ample exchange of ideas.  The ethical and political premises we shared allowed us to proceed to learn from one another.

Give me lowercase christians, libertarians and republicans to discuss things with as they (whether they choose to affiliate or not with any organization) are most capable of true communication as no institution takes priority over their own judgment and conscience.

So indeed let’s as Thoreau wrote,  “consider the way in which we spend our lives,” living in ways encompassing truth, love, humility, and thereby fostering rewarding conversation, learning, and friendship.

Cato University

Back home in Colorado from a week in San Diego attending Cato University (the annual educational conference/seminar by the Cato Institute), and I feel great. It was a wonderfully enriching educational experience for me - the line-up of speakers/professors and authors and the political topics and history explored made it informative, thought-provoking, and clarified my understanding particularly in regards to issues relating to economics.  To listen to this number of scholars on the topic of the event, “Economic Crisis, War, and the Rise of the State,” was an intellectual treat.  But even beyond the lectures, learning continued as attendees visited amongst ourselves.

A major part of my decision to attend was knowing that Robert Higgs (of the Independent Institute) would be lecturing (he is one of my favorite authors & I always appreciate hearing him in person), so hearing all the other excellent speakers provided even more knowledge about areas of interest to me. 

In addition to the classes, the conversations with international students in attendance were also valuable as they provided a perspective on their nations one is usually not exposed to (offhand, I recall visiting with individuals from South Africa, Nigeria, China, Spain, Canada, Germany, Australia, & Chile). 

I met so many interesting individuals from across the United States, and most of us would just spontaneously leap into conversation about political issues whether we met on the walkways, dining, or festivities after each day’s lectures.  Ideas and discussions were abundant! 

What made the conversations interesting and unique was that it is so rare to be in a gathering of persons all of whom (for the most part) share the common premise of valuing liberty above all else.  Most of the time, in my life, I find myself listening then educating, debating, and hopefully persuading…but at Cato University I found myself listening (much!) and questioning, speculating, and exploring ideas and solutions with others.  It was some of the most intellectually stimulating conversation I’ve had in a long time. 

I intend to write a few future blog pieces abut aspects of Cato University I particularly appreciated, but right now am just resting (and getting back to work) from being away.  It is good to be back home, and on my return home I was greeted first by a beautiful large sunflower smiling at me as I entered the country road to my home.  In 8 days, much had changed as all the wildflowers are now in full bloom. 

Later I will write here about some of the speakers and topics from Cato University, but suffice to say now that it was a wonderful educational experience for one who values liberty.

Meanwhile, I invite you to visit the following Cato University webpages:

Description of this year’s Cato University - Economic Crisis, War, and the Rise of the State.

and 

Schedule–look at the lecture lineup.

Blog

I will not be updating my blog until after August 2 because I will be on an out-of-state business trip.