October's feature: Dave's the star!

Are you ready for October's featured member?

Get ready for a star!




[And if you come by before s/he comes, and guess who s/he is; you'll be entered for our 2009 featured members list!]
Just a few hours left!

And the starting question for our Featured Member is:

“In a word, what is the essence of Gaia?”


[mod note- once Dave posted, changed the title of this thread. Original title:”October's featured member–spotlight on a star!” - meenakshi 2nd oct 2008]

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

Well, stars are worth waiting for; right?


Some more hints:

The **** is an

Has lovely pictures of flowers on the Photos page
Is a pod mod
And is all for peace
 

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

If I were a betting man, which I am not… I would guess that it is Clarence Williams III, or Linc Hayes of the Mod Pod Squad.

Now there is a star!

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

Ta-DA!

er…

…HERE'S…….

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

A-ha! So the star has showed himself.

Gaians and Gaials,
Introducing someone you've known well and will get to know better this month:

Dave de la Plante

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

Hi everybody,

I am blushing with embrassment and joy… thank you so much for thinking of me… shall I sing, dance a soft shoe, or a verse from the Bard?

What an incredible honor… :-)

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

Hello Dave :)
I haven't met you before, but wanted to say congratulations on being chosen as this months featured member.
Love mia xx

Re: October's featured member--spotlight on a star!

Thank you mia… I have no idea what prompted my loving friends to put me in the spotlight… cause you all shine a whoooole lot brighter than me…

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave, THANK YOU FOR appearing on our horizon. I hope you're ready for a month of questions, comments and suggestions.

Here's a question to start you off-it's taken from your own first blog, where you'd asked this question re Zaadz:

In a word, what is the essence of Gaia?

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

What is the essence of Gaia?  An excellent question Meenakshi…

I believe that the essence, of everything, and everyone… can be expressed in one word… and that word comes from the voice of the heart…

When I experience Gaia… my heart is filled with a blend of every spice, every herb, and every unique essence of each and every one of our members…

While it may sound anti-climatic…  the essence of Gaia… is Community… in its most noble and universal sense.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave, that certainly wins my heart over.

There's a lovely synchronicity to this beginning. Your Gaia address is myworldpeace; one of your heroes is Gandhiji or Mahatma Gandhi as we call him in India; and today is his birthday!

What particularly draws you to Gandhi and is there anything he taught us about community?

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Happy Birthday Mahatma Gandhi!

Gandhi rocks! 

I have a very simple philosophy of life's purpose… and Gandhi is an immortal spirit of purpose.  

Whenever we see a falling star, it is a sign that a baby is about to be born.  The star is sent from the heavens, and at the moment of birth, it nestles inside the child, and holds a special gift that is destined for that loving baby. 

Our purpose, each and every one of us, is to discover our gift, and to let it shine for all to see.  When we do this, our spirit, our star inside shines brighter and brighter, so that when we leave this earth… our star will shine brighter in heaven, than when it first arrived inside of us.

Gandhi is one of the greatest stars in human history.

He was deeply devoted to his family, obeyed his mother without question, and believed with all of his being that universal truth is within reach for us all.

A tiny frame of a man, he stood like a giant against injustice, not only within his homeland, but in Europe, and South Africa, whereever he found his life taking him.

As a lawyer, he knew that the law of universal truth is greater than any laws created by man…. and that the path of truth is paved with non-violence, love for thy neighbour, and standing up for the rights of all… especially those who suffer at the hand of injustice.

When he went to law school in Britain, he promised his mom he would not eat meat, and that he would keep his distance from the attractions of women.   His promise was his vow, and any vow is made not only to mom, but to the Universal Source… so that it must always be honored and never broken.  I loved Gandhi's definition of a vow… and we must all have vows.. no matter how tempting it might be to break them… our vows are milestones on our journey.

Gandhi created the Vegetarian Society of London, and created vegetarian restaurants, so that he could eat with friends without the temptation of meat.  The Society spread across the UK and Europe, and the roots of vegetarianism in Europe are the result of the vow of one man.. not to eat meat.

While Gandhi's actions did influence unrest, he remained true to his star inside…. and accomplished more in the name of truth, love and non-violence… and in my opinion stands arm in arm with the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela… as brothers and sisters of universal truth.

When I look to the heaven's, I picked a star that I pray to… and that star is Gandhii… looking down on me, down on us… shedding light on truth.. and calling us to be our own gift, and to let our stars shine beyond what each of us believe possible.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

The ultimate community … the community of truth… is shared by those who are living our journey, letting our gifts shine, and loving and supporting each other so that we can be all that we can be.

While the definition of Gaia is steeped in Mother Earth… we are all stars wandering our home planet… and when we leave … we are all stars in the heavens keeping watch over Gaia… and over the billions of stars who are in the midst of their earthly search for truth.

Re: Dave's the star-Gaia community

Overall, on a scale of 1-10 how important is the Gaia community in your life?     What  factors contribute to how you rate the
community?

Dave

:

Re: Dave's the star-Gaia community

I just love the way you describe the opening of the door into Gaia. Or is it portal? One never knows where one might reach!

As you're saying; I think many of us feel the same way; not having people around us to have meaningful conversations with.

Sometimes I wonder if it's also the nature of online communication, as we can take time to write down what we want to convey, edit if required, take a second look [or not!] without being interrupted.

But it's got to be Gaia.
Not all online communities are this way!

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Wow, Dave, I share all those things you said about this community (except for me it's 10 not 8.)

Knock on thousands of doors, indeed. And here they are delivered to MY door, gathered here through all the various ways people find the community. It's a blinkin' miracle, I say. And the benefit to me is beyond calculating, beyond imagining.

So I'm especially glad you feel the same way and gave expression to the feeling as you did !

~lars, that is one heck of an image !!! I can imagine it very suitable for a Group's icon, if moving images work for that…… But I have no particular group in mind yet, hahah!!

Love that cartoon, Meenakshi, as all that this community is NOT !!! :)

Love all the other fancy images in this thread too!!!

Dave, there MIGHT be folks here who “shine brighter” than you, but fortunately brightness of shining is not one of our criteria of selection, hahaha. No, seriously, I don't want anyone to conclude that we pick featured members because they are “better” in any way than everyone else. Nope.

We pick people because….. we feel like pickin' 'em. We agree on someone. It could be because we think the person is interesting and want to get to know them better, and have others know them better. It could be because we think the person has community contributions, and/or world contributions, worth calling attention to. It could be because a little bird whispered the name in our Mod Ears…..  We LOOOOOVE being unpredictable and inconsistent in our criteria, and we plan to remain being unpredictable and inconsistent, hahaha.

So, Dave, yes, you are a star among stars, and we shall enjoy basking in your light, uncovering it more, and perhaps even amplifying it a bit. Perhaps that's what this community does. By shining upon one another, we all get brighter !! At the very least, we appreciate one another more, and appreciation is fuel, Amen !!!

Hugs, OM Bastet

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

OM, I would have to agree that Dave rates a 10. About the Group, just a aside here for a sec., Pods, Groups, Portal's what's in a name? When you talk about “We”, just who are you referring to? Did you know that when I try to forward emails and use the number one key (1) your name comes up?

That thing your talking about is what I call random..or a Poof in some circles.

this is a poof….

hugs and smiles,
~lars

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Thank you OM… very much….  we are all stars… and the only limits to our light, is our own choice…

I agree with you that there is no BETTER, here at Gaia or anywhere else, we are all equal, and so very, very gifted… each and everyone…

Perhaps the reason that I do see how brightly other shine, is because it makes me so incredibly happy to see and feel love flowing from the hearts of others… 

If we are prepared to see with our hearts… the glow of love is blinding… and at Gaia… I can see so much light, it is impossible not to be filled with with awe… for my wonderful friends.

And oh.. as a little challenge to you all.. let's see how much of my light you can uncover…. not only for what I may experience… but perhaps beyond what I know about myself…

Love

D

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

“Jammies” is now in our Community “English Idioms and Slang” resource in the Multilingual Group.

LOL !!

OM

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Dave, do you have a group that you cultivate/moderate that you'd like to feature on Networking on Groups/Pods?

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Dave, do you have a group that you cultivate/moderate that you'd like to feature on Networking on Groups/Pods?

My dearest Meenakshi,

It's funny you know… I have incredible admiration for you, Sandra, Sandy, Kath, Grey, Nicole, OM, Bryan, Winnie, Amber, Peridot and soooooo many other members who have created and grown such amazing everlasting Groups.   

As Gaia members, I see my you, my friends, everywhere around the community, but within your commitments as cultivators and moderators your true light shines… your god given gifts are shared, and your love flows.

While I have 'moderator' next to my name within many groups, I do not feel deserving, because I have not invested the time to truly add value to the dialogues with the same commitment as others.

I pondered why, several times, but in truth, I live in the streets of Gaia, journeying from group to group, meeting friends along the way, and offering my love where there is an opening for it to be received.  I find great joy as a vagabond… much like Hesse's Goldmund…

I know.. I know.. does Dave ever answer any questions briefly?  Yeah.. I do…

As far as cultivating… with Amber as its inspiration, The Smiley Facts of Life… was created.  It is a place to discuss the great wonders of life… with a sense of humor and a bit of irreverance.  Sometimes, discussions on spirituality, faith, happiness, peace… they can get so rational and serious… so I just thought a little fun, helps the heart join the mind in the discussion…

Admittedly, after creating it… we had a hugely popular couple of weeks, and then I got the wanderlust again…

Ok.. next response … I promise to be incredibly brief and concise… (that is gonna hurt).

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Thanks Dave & Amber for putting in the smiley face pod.    

removes  seriousity… :-)

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Dear Dave,

This tendence to “wander” is so much a part of Gaia that it seems fitting that the mods of pods should wander back and forth too. I always find it interesting how people come and go and come back here. How I have come and gone and returned. This weekend several of my friends announced they were going Gaia-free for a few days :) all part of finding that ever-elusive balance, eh?

Love,

Nicole

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Hey Nicole…

Appreciate your thoughts… it's not so much about the balance for me… wandering the avenues of Gaia is balance beautiful.  Have you ever read Hesse's Narcissus and Goldmund?

It is an amazing story of the deepest love of two friends… so very different in their dreams, commitments and loves.. who despite being apart for years… never once lost the bond of love….

An annual read for me… a must recommendation for all of my friends…

d.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Never read that! You know, I'm glad you answered this because as soon as I sent the post I knew it was the wrong answer for you. I'll have to read that sometime. Hesse is a great writer.

Love,

Nicole

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

Hmmm…luckily there aren't any disapproving smileys [an oxymoron in any case!] so I've decided not to be a disapproving mom about your wandering from your pod, Dave. I do think it's a great idea; though if you like wandering; you could probably bring it into wherever you do go.

The idea of bringing humor into our daily communication is something you could spread from there.

And belay the idea that I don't want long answers; remember this thread isn't just for me but all our members and I'm sure we're all enjoying getting to know you better.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Groups

DAVE!

So nice to bump into you on the 'streets of Gaia'! I heard you're the Star of The Party this month on Gaia Networking and… though fashionably late AND jumping right into the middle of the discussion… ( I never learned to make a proper entrance ) I wore my favorite Party Jammies for the occasion! Yay! How often does one get to wear their Party Jammies except on Gaia?! My Party Jammies have Smiley's on them… of course!

See?!

I sure wish I could have pasted the picture instead of linking it but the computer and I are not on good terms tonight. I will be making sure to copy this text and save it before hitting “send post” as I'm sure the Comment Monsters would gladly eat all these words for me!

Hugz to all of you and I'm off to finish reading the rest of this thread!

Amber Smilemaker

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Advice to new members

Dave, What advice would you give someone who is joining Gaia today?

And to satisfy your wanderlust, could I point you to another board where you can add your answer ?: New to Gaia

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Advice to new members

Meenakshi,

For someone who is joining Gaia, here is what I have offered many times…

“Gaia is an oasis where you can trust your heart, and have the courage to be more than you ever dreamed possible.”

Love,

Dave

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star! Advice to new members

Dave, you reminded me of how we use different metaphors for our Gaia. So I've started a thread on another board:Gaia:oasis, sanctuary, nursery or Shangri-La?

Re: Dave's the star! Ambassador

What does being an Ambassador on Gaia mean to you, Dave?

Re: Dave's the star! Ambassador

What does being an Ambassador on Gaia mean to you, Dave?

Meenakshi,

I am so disappointed that my original response to your question failed to post… as simple a question as it is… it was a very emotive response…

In the spirit of this evening's Presidential debate.. brevity is appreciated…

I love my faith as a Catholic, and while the rational world seems to be turning its back on faith as 'irrational folly', I will say that I am not an Ambassador of my faith… for there is so much that I have yet to understand or even agree with.

That being said… I love the honor of being an Ambassador of Gaia, and it is a privilege beyond description… for the openness, the exploration, the unconditional sharing that is Gaia…. makes me want to invite the entire world to join us.

When my mom had her second mastectomy and radition treatments, my mates at Gaia sent incredible messages of love, support and prayer for our family. 

I could not help but print every message, and create a photo / scrap book that I gave my mom on the eve of her operation. 

Alas, when my dad read it.. he was concerned that I was part of a 'cult', to which I replied if “love is a cult” then I am all for it.

My mom cried with joy, and she loved reading every message again and again…

All I can say is that Gaia is the most loving community that I have ever been a part of … and anyone who is an Ambassador for our family has a responsiblity and honor to … be love… without condition.

Love,

Dave

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave, if it's not too much to ask , could you sing a verse from the bard as you danse a soft shoe, and we'll all join in the chorus-
” To be or not to be
Oh Davey, can't you see?
you're goin' to make it to the top
you're making history,
it feels so good to me,
Why don't we do it till we drop”
Congrats Dave for being a shining light,
Mike

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Mikey, Mikey… the soul you be…

Gracious words … so warm to me…

A smile, a dance… 1, 2 3…

Life is joy… as is eternity…

To love is life… no other way…

Agape is god's style of play…

A smile, a dance… 1.2.3…

Forever more… at peace we'll be.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the [wandering] star!

Diving here in the middle, sort of ( of the interview ) - re your 'wandering' dear Dave. Quite frankly I think people who 'wander' in the special kind of way you do, are the 'glue' of Gaia.

Cultivating/Moderating groups - if one is serious about it - takes an enormous amount of time. So too does committed 'blogging'. While both these activities are a vital and inherent part of Gaia, if everyone did one or the other ( or both ) things would get pretty isolated and separate.

I like that I can see you here and there, and know that I can call upon you for advice or help in any given circumstance.

My sense is that because of your chosen method of 'being' here, you are able to 'see' the larger picture, and also are able to be a loving, clear and balanced support to many. By not identifying with any particular arena, you don't have anything to 'defend' in a personal sense, but rather, you are able to see what is the 'good' for all.

Love & admiration,
Sandra


—

[mod note: “wandering” added to title- meenakshi 12 October 2008]

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Sandra,

When I hit send to an earlier attempt at responding to you… my heart was so full of joyful emotion about your description, that I had tears diluting the glue you spoke of.

Bottom line… you are a master who coaches those with heartful, soulful literary gifts, and have clearly established a center of excellence at Gaia that brings those with such gifts together to create an immensely powerful community of sharing and love.

As you know, I am writing my own books under the myworldpeace banner… and visit DD from time to time… but I do not see myself, or my gifts as a writer… but as a man of peace… with a message of love to share… through so many media…

Anyway.. I pray this note gets through..

Love and thank you..

D 

Re: Dave's the [wandering] star!

Dave, I have a great idea! On the Mod Pod, we've been discussing an idea of having consultant mods for new or dormant pods. Someone who helps jump-start a group –do you think you'd like to do that?

With your unique and wide-ranging experience, I think you'd be such a boon!

Re: Dave's the [wandering] star!

Hello Meenakshi… I would love to contribute more to Gaia, and as the wandering spirit that I love to be… a consultant mod might be a perfect role.

I will continue to wander from Group to Group and offer what I can to the community, and would be pleased to help our further when there is need…

How do situations arise where the need for 'consultant mods” presences itself?

Also.. I'd love to hear more about what you see in “unique and wide-ranging experience”.. and what you see…  while admittedly.. we are all unique…

Re: Dave's the [wandering] star!

Dave, as I wander too [takes one to know one!] I see you in many places; and what is unique is that you get involved, spread your special brand of warmth, and always seem to speak your truth. You spread peace –your add IS “myworldpeace” after all, and are a loyal friend.

That IS what a consultant mod needs: a wanderer who doesn't mind committing for a while, deeply, and then moving on… [do voice your commitment on the mod pod thread]

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave,  I'm not sure we've ever “officially” met, but wanted to add congratulations to being October's featured member on this great pod. 

You sound like a fascinating person with so much to share with the community.  I love what you said about Gandhi (he is such a hero for so many of us!)  Also your description of Gaia is incredible and especially that jammies quote.  :)

Hope you have lots of fun here this month (I know I did in September) and we'll be eager to learn more about your gifts to this community.

Blessings and love,  Kathy

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Hi Kathy,

I look forward to your guidance on how to be the focus of attention for an entire month… wow… my joy in life is being behind the spotlight, with the hope of shining it on those who are most deserved… and when the light is turned on me… well.. twould appear that I become somewhat tongue-tied and sweaty when feeling the intense heat of light in my face.

That being said… I LOVE LIGHT… just not when I am wearing my jammies.. cuz it presumes wearing a top and a bottom… and I would never presume to let you know what jammies I wear, nor would i ever request anyone to share what degree of bodily coverage thier jammies provide to you… or any other Gaia member.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Oh, Meenakshi… you could not have made a better pick for October. It's my birthday month, and I know Dave has shared his own side of finding Gaia, but he holds a special place in my heart, too. We met during one of my first trips out to Colorado, when Zaadz was just being handed the project of holding the space and becoming Gaia; we were staying at the same hotel and had one of those 'accidental' run-ins that turned into hours and hours of conversation.

Dave… I'm so glad for whatever peregrinations led us together, and so, so fortunate to get to share you with the whole of the community. We're lucky to have you.

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dear Dave, Congratulations on the acknowledgment of what a star you are! Your response to my very first post about a discussion between Fear and Anger was so clever, fun, funny and interesting that it gave me the courage to get more involved. You have provided so many smiles and out-loud laughter through your quirky sense of humor that I have to take a moment to thank you once again for all of your contributions. The fact that you float around and turn up at different places also qualifies you to join the ranks of a shooting star, a wishing star and a polestar! Thanks for all you do. Warmly, Susan

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Gawrsh Susan… it is so easy to offer love and support to you, and all the other stars of Gaia… simply because you inspire me… and I want to return the love…

Regarding humor.. I am watching the McCain and Obama debate, and it seems my sense of humor is being sucked out of me this evening… other than the fact that as clearly as I can see the hearts of both men, I seem to see them naked right now… and can tell you with sincerity, that despite the size of their feet, or the color of their skin… both Presidential candidates would benefit greatly if thier 'reproductive packages' were as large as their verbosity….

But then… are there women out there who would like to 'do McCain'?

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave,

You might want to turn off and BACK AWAY from the television set! ~grin~

You gave me such an awful visual of both our presidential candidates out of their Jammies! Whew! I think the eye twitching will stop soon, I hope…

All my television watching friends are moaning the plethora of political ads and countin' the days until we elect SOMEBODY just please, please stop with the campaign ads!

It must be awful to hear all those promises without the 'packages' to back them up… I wouldn't know, my fish t.v. only has one channel… Mr. Fish and his friends swimming 'round and 'round in the pond by my bed! If they start acting out the presidential debate I will have to call National Geographic or something!

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Wow—I love that our lovely members have shown us why Dave is such a great Ambassador. You didn't even have to answer this question, Dave. In your silence, the places where your light shines, spoke up.

Sandra, what a great way to look at the ones who meander; the glue indeed; and perhaps they might even prefer–threads of light?

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Thanks Meenakshi…

How ironic how this day on Gaia is unfolding… to test the fortitude of Ambassadorship…

After responding to Mike, I wrote lengthy responses to Sandra, to Susan, to you… and enthusiastically preparing for my Libran souley Siona… and EVERY time it hit SEND.. it failed…

brb

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Congratulations on being the Star of October, Dave !!!

You are always a star, to me !!!!

You are one of my favorite people to be online, I enjoy
our friendship and always enjoy your pod comments.

You are exactly what I imagine a Gaian to be and are very wise
and learned.

It’s going to be a great month!!!

Love ya !

Sandy

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Thank you dear Sandy,

You always can count on my support while you lead the charge of activism for peace and human justice… don’t ever look over your shoulder… cuz I got your back!

Love,

D

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

yes; yesterday was a real oopsy day! 

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Hey, Dave, I am sooooo underlining all the nice words about you !!!!!

I never saw “brb” before. Does it mean “better remember backup?” Is it standard Internet-ese? Should I put it in my English-language Idioms Board/dictionary on the Multilingual pod?

Hugs, OM
 

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave… Control A…. Control C… THEN HIT SEND POST…

You are feeding way too much of your words to the Comment Monsters and they NEVER feel full… in fact, I hear a tummy growling and it isn't mine!

Control A… Control C… now I'm going to hit Send Post!

Smiles!

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

Dave,  could I have you wander over to FILL IN THE BLANKS…THE BEST & THE WORST 
and play the game–which was the best friends' invite you got on Zaadz/Gaia?Which was the worst? [naming no names, of course!]

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

That was fun Meenakshi… thank you!!!

Nice to reflect on our invitations and our friends…

Love,

D

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

Dave, thank you for sharing this:

“The BEST invite I have received:

By a Baaztard with whom I fought with constantly… only to realize through his reaching out … that we were so very much committed to exactly the same things… he is an irreverantly good soul.”


I find this so wonderful! I love it when reaching out in friendship can mean a way of reaching out to a new understanding. It helps us to understand that sometimes we need to look beyond the outer veil.

It makes us realize that we don't have to be like-minded, but we can still vibrate  harmoniously together.

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

Meenakshi:

I find this so wonderful! I love it when reaching out in friendship can mean a way of reaching out to a new understanding. It helps us to understand that sometimes we need to look beyond the outer veil.

So very true… I remember in Grade 10, there was a kid named Kenny, who was the school bully… he was a tiny framed guy, but he did not hesitate to hit somebody in the head if he felt like it.

One day, in the classroom, our teacher left for a few minutes and Kenny decided to give me a hard time.  He challenged me to a fight right there… in class… right then.  I don't know what got into me, but I smiled at him and said.. ok… for fun.. and no punching.. wrestling… he laughed and then jumped me.

We rolled on the floor, knocked some desks over, and we both started to laugh our heads off… I was on top of him, and realized he would look bad to everyone, so I got off him, grabbed his hand and helped him up…

We were friends after that, and he stopped being the bully from there on in… it wasn't planned… it just was..

To your point… he just wanted to be understood… and it broke the ice for us… but also for everybody else too.

Meenakshi:

It makes us realize that we don't have to be like-minded, but we can still vibrate  harmoniously together.

Are we talking about the first or second invite here?  lol.. sorry could not help myself.

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

Dave, you irreverent one, you! I think we HAVE uncovered something new about you here—okay, let's not go there!


coming back to what we were saying…[sharp right turn here!]; when you said “To your point… he just wanted to be understood… and it broke the ice for us… but also for everybody else too.”  I remembered that there was a guy who bullied my son; and when I heard what he'd do, I realized he [“bully”] wanted his [son's] attention. I told him that; and said that it's like animals who sometimes fight before they come close. That awareness was enough for him to make things right between them.

I guess it's like we see in  Hindi movies too–the hero teasing the heroine into finally loving her..

So are we saying that some people don't know how to make friends by just saying–hi! They need to fight them or bother them first? Just to get their attention perhaps?

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

Exactly Meenakshi,

Many mean people have been hurt before, and build as you say.. a veil… a veil of aggression to protect  deeply wounded heart. 

If people back away from them… they feel strong.
If someone stands up to them… the fight to win…
If someone honors their veil, and is willing to see through it to thier heart… the veil has a chance of coming down…

As Jesus said.. do not be afaid…

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

I think this is an important point for us on Gaia. Often we have friendship invites from those who aren't “like me”; it's a great opportunity to see if behind the manner there is something worth exploring. I have to admit that some members made me fearful in the early days; but now, don't like to say No.

The same for those who are already friends. If they are silent or “different”; perhaps there is something we need to explore further…

I don't know how far the community can take this; on one hand, I feel that we “should” be able to bring out the best in everyone, even those that come here kicking and punching; but on the other, I see that it has not always been possible.

Re: Dave's the star! Friendships

It really depends, Meenakshi. On our skill, we are not always as adept as Dave was, and on the openness of the other, who is not always as receptive as Kenny is. But we can do our best and see where that takes us.

Thanks for the inspiration, Dave!

Love,

Nicole

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave, I've just had one of the Aha! moments.


The WORST invite I sent out…
To the stalker… you know who you are… I miss you.. not!


Namaste'

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

lars, Nicole and Meenakshi

Oops… shoulda copied before hitting send… lost the response…

This topic is one that I am insanely passionate about..

First, none of us… no one… has a greater capacity to see love or face fear than any other…  the only difference is what we are committed to see in others…

I see the world of humanity as billions of loving hearts… everyone full of love and joy… the one thing that makes everyone of us equal and one.

Then, there is this thing called reality, where every being has in Meenakshi's words.. veils… veils of fear that subdue the light and love and the heart…

Subdue it's flow outward from the heart…
Subdues the view by others into their heart…

Veils of fear are demonstrated in emotions and actions that often portray strength over another.. the strength of intellect… the strength of the body, the strength of words, the strength of force, te strength of physical beauty…

However, any strength that seeks to overpower or subdue another… no matter how effective it is… is based in fear… and it is nothing more than a veil.

There are only two things that are important in how we live our lives…

1) To be in touch with the love in our hearts, and let it shine for all to see.  When we do this, we illuminate our own veils of fear, and like the morning mist, the light of love vaporizes the veils away. 

2) Believe with all of your being, that underneath the veils of others, is a heart that is aching to shine with love… when we do not feel that love.. do not be afraid… but engage them at their level, not with fear and resistence, but with your purest love.  Once others feel the joy of their veils disappearing, the love will begin to flow.

These actions are not a gift for a few, but are a choice for us all.

Love,

Dave

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Dave, this post and the one above are among the clearest and most beautiful wordings of this teaching I have ever read !! Thank you!! I am printing them out. As a minister, I will have many opportunities to share your words with folks.

Thanks for your story about Kenny. A story is worth a thousand lectures !!

And I would like to add that while this is true for me, too, what you said:

2) Believe with all of your being, that underneath the veils of others, is a heart that is aching to shine with love… when we do not feel that love.. do not be afraid… but engage them at their level, not with fear and resistence, but with your purest love.  Once others feel the joy of their veils disappearing, the love will begin to flow.

it does NOT imply any particular ACTIONS on our part. That “engagement” does not have to be on the physical plane IMO.

If I am near a known serial killer, I can leave the vicinity and still do this engaging with love in non-physical ways. There is prudence, discretion, discernment.

And I might in some situations choose to stay and engage physically. Miracles do happen. I would look to my inner guidance about what physical external behavioral ACTION to take in any situation.

Does that resonate for you?

Also sometimes, when I cannot summon the human emotion of love, I drop or relax into the Divine Love which is always already my State of Being. That is a Love which allows whatever is, to be. It can embrace anything. Including my judgments !!

It's on another level from the human feeling or emotion of love. I experience it differently. It is more diffuse, it is “about” all of existence, about everything, less about anything in particular, although every particular seems infinitely precious, even if I am not led to engage with it on the physical level. I have the human love feeling as a goal, but I do not believe it is always possible, nor even that a gushy kind of love-action is always best. There is also “tough love” which regards some behaviors (never a person) as needing definite curbing or re-direction.

IMO trying to feel the human emotion of love for everyone at all times, since it is IMO impossible, often results in lack of self-love, a judgment on self as a spiritual failure, which is counter-productive to the whole endeavor !

What is your take on those perspectives?

“A choice for us all.” Indeed !!!!!!!

You are truly an Ambassador of Love !

Blessings, OM Bastet

Re: October's feature: Dave's the star!

Oh Blessed OM, my love, thank you for such a great note!

You said:  IMO trying to feel the human emotion of love for everyone at all times, since it is IMO impossible, often results in lack of self-love, a judgment on self as a spiritual failure, which is counter-productive to the whole endeavor !

This paragraph is so full of wonderful jewels of love…

I believe that Jesus lived a life as close to perfect love of all beings, and even he had his moments of anger and judgement towards others.  I agree that we can only aspire to feel love at all times, and equally accept our own weaknesses as humans in that we cannot.

To your point on judging ourselves of lacking self love, or judging our spiritual 'sucess or failure', I agree that the pursuit of love is a journey, and all we can do is be aware of and learn from our thoughts and emotions… so that we can strive to be better at giving and loving.  That is the fun of the journey!   Hopefully, people can come to understand that when they turn to judging themselves, they have become one of their veils, rather than being their heart.

In modern terms, we have lost the distinctions of love that existed in everyday life for thousands of years.

In Greek, Roman, Persian, times, there were two distinct definitions of love which we have now integrated into the word love..

Eros - is the feeling of love… it is a mutual bond that is felt between humans.. be it physical, emotional or mental… it exists as 'a good feeling' … this is what we today typically regard love to be… I agree entirely OM… that this type of love is finite, and impossible to exist all of the time.

the second definition is:

Agape - which is the selfless giving of one's energy, thoughts and feelings to another… without a single expectation of receiving anything in return.  It is unconditional giving, and can be offered to someone sitting next to you, or to thousands of people who are thousands of miles from you… through focused thoughts, meditations or prayers.

Agape in its purest form… is spreading God's love in its purest form…  Eros is sharing, God's love, through a filter of self satisfaction.

This distinction is at the root of why certain religions call for celibacy / virginity… to dedicate onself entirely to agape, in effect, to channel all of one's being to God's love.  For thousands of years, this was a noble profession, more noble than kings and queens who accepted their connection to earthly desires. It was not torment, as we may view such 'sacrifice' to be, but it was instead, viewed as special dedication of self, and highly regarded within society.

Today, our society has lost sight of this distinction, and so many people relate love to a physical or emotional attachment to another… Eros.  It is why many people argue that priests should be allowed to be married.. to avoid the temptations of illicit sex…  this truly is a sign of how our society has lost touch with the purest energies of God's love - agape- and most of us can only relate to love as a special form of relationship between specific people.

love,

D

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Hey Everybody,

I missed chatting today… and just want to let you know that I am so thankful for your love and kindness.

Its Thanksgiving in Canada this weekend, and while my family always kids around that it was designed around my birthday, it is really a moment to thank everyone and everything that is near and dear to your heart.

So.. my sweet Gaia friends… I am so thankful for every one and you, your energy, and your hearts… and the joy I feel because of you.

Thank you … thank you.. thank you…

Love..

Your buddy,

Dave

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Dave, for me, both a birthday and an anniversary are times when we can take stock, make an intention; go to a lookout point as it were, and see where we are on the journey…

Any thoughts you'd like to share from the lookout point?



[Hope this goes thru now; I got an oops msg, perhaps as a certain being OMMMed her way to the goal post ahead of me! IMAGINE that!!!!]

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Dave, h appy birthday [which date?] and Happy Thanksgiving!  In case we don't see you online, I'll post one of your answers to a question I'd posed earlier….

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Thanks Meenakshi,

I'll be online for the weekend fer sher.  When Thanksgiving is about thanking those we love, how can I not be online with my friends?

My birthday was on Thursday, October 9th… John Lennon and I both!

D

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Thanks Kath, and everybody… how come I can't blow the candles out?  They keep going and going, even when I blew my notebook off the table!

My birthday has doubley special meaning… cuz well, it's celebrates two births… one… the day I was born, and two.. the day a year ago I was born into Gaia and became a member… one of the bestest decisions of my life!

Love to all,

Dave

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Happy Belated Birthday Wishes, Dave !!!

How appropriate and right that you share it with the
late, great, John Lennon.

And , of course your Gaia Birthday has given us all
the greatest gift of all- the gift of knowing you!


Love and happiness,

Sandy

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Good one KES~!

Of all the nice people in the world to give a cake where the candles don't blow out to… Dave is the perfect candidate! {{{giggle}}}

During Dave's birthday month (as usual… I'm late for the actual date so am going for the entire month…:O) and since Dave has given us an example of why he loves his birthday month we could say one thing (or many) things we are thankful for! I have so much to be thankful for but I'll keep it to five.

1. I'm thankful the Spirit of Gaia reached out to me today and brought me back to this place that centers me.

2. I'm thankful for Dave's belief in the goodness and potential of all humanity as I also believe the best and only way to drop 'the veils' is to shine love as fiercely as one can in spite of what may seem to be a dangerous situation.

3. I'm thankful for the technology we now use to connect with all the bright lights around the globe so I don't have to knock on a thousand doors to find my Dave's, Meenakshi's, OM's, KES~'s, Centria's, Susan's, HeyOk David's, Morning Star's, Budding Sprites, Fastdarts, oh dear this is going to get lengthy and thank goodness for so many bright stars on this planet for me to try and list….

4. I'm thankful for my mother who has been my role model, an angel walking on this earth… she has always shown me the good in every person, the good that so many people hide beneath layers of veils so the world, not even themselves, can see their light. Because of her example and teaching I get the opportunity to discover the light in my fellow beings.

5. I am thankful today for the gift my maternal grandparents gave me in their last moments in this form. I was able to be with each of them, rubbing lotion on my grandmother's legs and arms, holding my grandfather's hand, hugging and holding them both as they wiggled their Spirits out of the shells. They took all the mystery and fear of death away from me and gave me a passion for working with the elderly I might otherwise have not discovered.

Hugz Dave for the inspiration tonight for me to reflect on… Control A… Control C… Send Post! Oops… ABC check mark then Send Post!

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Wishing you a year ahead, full of satisfaction, upliftment, and delightful surprises !! And everything else wonderful you can imagine !! and more than you can imagine !!!! [Now why did the word Imagine come up??? Hmmmm. Imagine that.]

Duh, Dude, you can't blow the candles out because we and you are all The Eternal Flame. :))

OMMMMM

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

And I forgot to say, ~KES, that is a MINDBLOWING image !!!!!!

WOW !!!!

:)
OM

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

happy birthday and gaiaversary, Dave! Lots to be thankful for, good buddy!

Love,

Nicole

Re: Dave's the star! Birthday

Thanks sister Nicole… it has been a wonderful weekend… family can be so special…