Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

On Gaia Networking we like bringing you a Feature Member offering their viewpoints on making Gaia the place to be. 

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Gaia Team's Jessica has posted EXPLORING GAIA to help navigate Gaia and make your experience on-line fun and enlightening.  One of the community services we provide is to take information as vital as this and repost to add your take so that others can find the how-to's that are important to share.  Gaia Networking is posted on Community Service Groups as you place to join and find out about more activites and things to do while you are on Gaia.  On questions we ask I will indent so that it will be easy to separate the answers as we move through this interview.  The first question is just below and can be answered whenever you are ready Meenakshi, and the mods will find it easy by indenting to help the readers see the difference.  You don't have to answer this one or your can… it's there to show others our new format  The Gaia Networking tag could be “bringing it all together” as I have networked a lot from this group.

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

I coudn't be more delighted -
that Meeenakshi is the Featured Member for May !

Overall -how important is Meenakshi to Gaia -
10 plus !!

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Congratulations on being featured. I am interested in the easiest way to click on Gaia and get on groups that talk about exercise, gardening and environment. Since you have started with groups that are easy to find from the list, I joined
Deep Ecology:
Reclaiming our Sanity
in a Crazy World
I am currently interested in following this thread because of earth week and the fact that the Gaia Team are now planting an organic garden in back of their offices.  There is a picture of the team breaking ground.  Were it not for Gaia Networking I don't know how I would have found all of the “green groups' on Gaia.  Thanks for the service to the community that you provide on this one-stop place to discover all things for eco minded people.  I look forward to reading about the other activities you also write about in this column. 

I am interested in seeing pictures of organic living from where you live Meenakshi as this research is helping me to better serve Gaia.

Best to you as you continue to bring amazing articles to this site.  Namasté Lee

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Thanks Sandy!  One of these times it would be wonderful to feature you and all of the amazing things posted on your Global Peace Pod.  You are a 10 right beside Meenakshi!  I love the activist nature.  It is so needed to get the various wake up calls you help deliver to us.  Even if someone isn't active it is worth the reads and petitions. 

& Lee - I am happy you navigated your way around this group and found something for your gardening know-how.  Very cool!!!

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Thank YOU Sandy! You were featured here almost as our first feature, and that's very special to me!
Lee, that group listing is really awesome; and it was Kathy/~KES, whom we first featured in this group, before she was a mod here, who suggested that this group become a network for other groups on Gaia. We have the framework, and are hoping to have more cultivators describe their groups here; but I'm delighted that you find the information here useful.
For the list you mentioned I want to acknowledge the awesome work that Nicole has done over days, adding to the list of Active Groups on Gaia.

When I'm on my regular computer later, I'll upload some pictures of organic activity in my area. I'm thrilled at the organic groups sprouting [pun intended] and blossoming around Gaia. It is a great trend that links our online to our offline life—and you have had a LARGE part in bringing back my interest  in that, Lee!

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Hi Kathy, and thank you so much for this feature. Now I'm appreciating all of our members even more, who have agreed to be featured - or accepted us featuring them as a surprise!

OK, so to the question- I think everyone who knows me would agree that to me, I would say - 11.

The Gaia community is important in my life because here, I can share different aspects of myself. And even more important, I can discover different layers of self. When I look around at community members, and see the variety of interests, experiences, expressions…. I am amazed at how much there is to enjoy!

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Meenakshi, I have a feeling that we are going to be getting to know a lot of very interesting things about you. I'm always delighted to “find” you in different parts of Gaia, writing beautiful poetry, delving into an aspect of the spiritual life, celebrating a birthday. You are full of surprises and the spirit of giving!

Big hugs,

Nicole

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Hi Nicole ~  ”I have a feeling that we are going to be getting to know a lot of very interesting things about you.”  Great insight to come up with this.  That is a beautiful reflection.


Let's ask Meenakshi… tell us about where you are from and what part of the world you live in.  

What has been your most favorite part of your career?  Do you have tips for other moms and how Gaia can enhance being a parent?  I would like to know and I bet our readers are interested in these aspects of your background too.  Again, it is a web scene here so obviously we keep in the security for all of our members, but things that you would be ok to talk about on-line we are very interested.  

And, What would you advise someone who is joining Gaia today? 

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

tell us about where you are from and what part of the world you live in.  

I'm from India; but it's difficult to pinpoint exactly where; because even my great-grandfather moved from place to place. I've lived in many places in India of many cultures; and in my late 30s, moved out - I thought it was temporary, but 16 years later, we're living at the other end of the world from where I grew. We now live in Miami.

What
has been your most favorite part of your career? 

I taught Psychology before getting married; and enjoyed introducing new students to a subject they had never studied before, but had lots of notions about - mostly wrong! When kids would tell me this had become their fav subject; it was so satisfying!

But we moved after marriage, so I'd to take a break, travelled a lot [including to the U.S.!] and then moved into Qualitative Research for marketing. It was a new field in India; and it was fun to show left-brain mktg execs how something so inexact as consumers' perceptions could  bring depth and realism to their offerings.To train new moderators and execs. It satisfied the teacher wannabe in me as well!
 I worked with very idealistic people; so we wouldn't take on addictive products [like cigs] and weren't very good at getting paid for what we did. But the most satisfying aspect of this, was meeting housewives all over India,  facilitating their sharing [sometimes thru translators]; and seeing their surprise and joy at someone giving so much importance to their reactions and responses.I was surprised at the spiritual growth that took place while doing business.It was a good lesson for me to see that it's not the outer aspects that make something spiritual or not; but the inner workings of an interaction. It helped me to understand the flow of energy.

It didn't help me when I began moderating groups online, though!

In those f2f groups, I spoke very little; and used many techniques [nothing ominous!] of helping the women to speak [Indian housewives aren't garrulous when with strangers and speaking to 'working women' and it's tough to get them to open up ];without speaking much myself. But I found that in online groups; the cultivators and mods need to be more active, more verbal, to encourage members in a setting that isn't quite so interactional. I really admire the way members and mods get over this barrier!
Wow! Such lovely questions you're asking Kathy. Taking me down memory lane.

I'll answer the others soon. I've been too wordy here!

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Nicole, you and I do flow into each other in many places, don't we? There are so many places to take a delight in, and learn,  as Zephyr's Poetry Workshop. I really don't think of myself as a poet; but I see that anyone can learn to express themselves poetically.
The garden of Gaia helps us to blossom!

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It's true, Meenakshi, we can unfold in ways we did not think possible here!

Hugs,

Nicole

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Meenakshi feels like the eastern face of my western self, we are so intertwined in our separate uniqueness.  

Meenakshi and I challenge, and ever appreciate, one another.  We each cherish (I think I can speak for that) - the honest, warm, vulnerable and supportive relationship -  we have cultivated with one another, here at Gaia (beginning way back when it was Zaadz).  

Funny things happen between us - like when her name escaped my lips, in my husband's presence in the middle of our evening, when he could not even know who she is.  

My life would have a big gapping hole, had she not entered in, even if I would have known it not.

Deep bows, dear friend -
Deborah

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

When arriving at Gaia in October 08, I settled in by connecting with the Light Group meditations. I read lots of posts by Meenakshi… I found many shared interests and thought I would like to get to know the person behind the words  …… and I am!
Thanks for being you
Love Tai

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

So happy that the wonderful Meenakshi is put in the spotlight, I would like to think that I would be like her if I were a woman and she has such a balanced viewpoint on so many things, I would like to point you to this thread, comments on one of her blogs with a poem by me to my soulsister: http://meenakshi.gaia.com/blog/2009/4/cultivating_on_gaia

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

meenakshi -

what is most appealing to me about you is a selfish gift i allow myself whenever possible…it is very simplistic, you don't even know you're giving it…it is merely this…

i am attracted to the
humble genius.

you know more than most. but would never say so. you share more than most. but don't even notice how much you give. and you're so wise, you'd say maybe you're wrong, when most likely you're absolutely right:)

you are a humble genius, whose light is so bright it beckons to those in search of the power of god.

may you continue…simply continue…to be who you are - for that is indeed a powerful force…and yet…one of the sweetest we shall ever know.

mahalo for your wisdom, and the sharing there of in such beautifully poetic form.

we are one
heaven & earth
akai

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Namaste, beautiful Meenakshi. The divine within me honors the divine within you. Sometimes I think there's nothing more that can be said. :)

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I still remember when  you came new to Gaia, dear Tai; and how quickly you've become such a presence here. And akai,the gift of your presence is so precious. I miss your words at The Power of Light and hope to see you anywhere you shine. Mikey, my alliteration ally, make my message more meaningfully alligned! [that's the best I could do here!] Your playful spirit is real fun for me to encounter, and I love the way the one who came as a monkey [wasn't it somewhere in this or the Ambies' pod?] has become such a wonderful cultivator of groups.

Siona, I still remember seeing your message once a long time ago, on my grapevine. Itwas a wonder that I still feel, when one who is so busy can make each member of Gaia feel so special. You embody the spirit of Namaste that Kes referred to; as much as your words spell it out.

Deb, yes; it's really enjoyable to see that there can be deep sharings and moves as we are each so open to each other; and respectful of each other. It brings me immense pleasure to know someone so closely,who lives in a place I will probably never visit; but who brings us into her life. I had mentioned  you too, early in Zaadz days, to a walking buddy - telling her: see, on Zaadz you meet people who you might never otherwise encounter, and get to know their different life. I look fw to seeing what else unfolds.

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Dear Meenakshi,the origins of your name come from the sister of Lord Vishnu and Wife of Lord Shiva…there are temples built in your name…You have inherited a mantle and wear it well,I am honoured and blessed to be a part of your world here at Gaia.   The picture is the original Meenakshi,and the temple….

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I'm so happy to see you featured Meenakshi!  Your open handed giving is a blessing to all of us here.  I'm not at all surprised that your name came from such auspicious origins.

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I went to the Madurai Meenakshi temple and saw the image made out of Green cloured stone. That is a huge temple and dedicated to her since inception. When I came across her in Gaia/ Zaadz , I reminded about this mother goddess several times. I have blogged about this temple several times here and recently about the Kumbabishekam. Ipraised her sveral times already. Again I wish her better living and better future.

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This carving is coming out nicely.  I have enjoyed meeting new people here.  Meenakshi, when you said:

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Lee, what a great question! In a way, searching for an answer to this one,is the crux of what Gaia is about; community is about;and our own personal journeys are about.

I have no definitive answer to this; but this is something each of us encounters and tries to deal with daily. I see the question as :” How can we best listen to each other and speak to each other?” Or how can we have reverent communication? In which we read not only the words themselves, but give the benefit of the doubt. I am so glad that you have learned not to be antagonistic; because that does not help communication. I think that if I show anger, I am giving the other person the responsibility of handling my emotions. Why would I burden someone else with that?

Instead, I hope that in the community we use our different resources:[mentioned as different rooms in this group]: different groups, our friends, inspiring quotes, meditation spaces; or for a while, go off-line, take a walk, BREATHE, or do our chores; and when we've handled our own anger, engage in conversation that helps everyone rather than just airs our own frustrations.

 I would recommend that a new member, on  joining a group, introduce themselvesas new so that mods and members are aware of that; and also in keeping with the group's focus. For example, if I introduced myself on GN [where I'd describe what draws me to community], it would be different from how I would introduce myself in the Labyrinth group [where I'd describe my spiritual journey] or the Mod Pod [where I”d describe my groups]. This gets me as a new member, in line with the focus of the group; helps me to become oriented.

There is a wealth of Advice from Featured Members also!
[There are some resources on the Mod Pod where we are also attempting this conversation -Mediation and Reverent Dialogue: Resources]

Thank you for being such a wonderful friend, dear Lee!

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akai, Hi sistar… It is so good to read your comment.  I have missed you but know you are a click away from all of us.

Namasté There is a thread that we need all of your comment on with more ideas about communicating in this community.  Thanks for bringing up and activating this  subject.  There is linking going on vigorously with Gaia to make things streamlined and easier to have a sequence going and be in touch on a broader level.

One of the groups Meenakshi cultivates is called The Power of Light where we unleash our light powers around the world.  Feel free to join in prayer today helping debyemm  on her request.  Thanks for helping.

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Sanmugan I wonder if that was you I saw when I visited the temple at Madurai? lol!  If I bring a smile to your face, I”ll be happy. We went about twenty years ago! Very spacious temple; and beautiful to know more about the goddess with the parrot on her shoulder.

When I was a child, an American lady visited Madras, that we were visiting. She told me things about the Meenakshi Goddess that I hadn't known! From childhood I have seen that the world is divided only on the outside with words. But the language of heart and mind brings people together. BTW, she also introduced me to Vedic math. Go figure! [as they'd say here]

Kathy, I'm sorry - I'm being very verbose; but to answer your questions:
What features of Gaia have you used: blogs, pods, e-mail,
grapevine,
bookmarks, quotes, etc. What have been your experiences with each?
Which would you like to know more about?  What is your favorite as a
receipt point from us to get into communication with you personally?

I've used all features mentioned and written about them in various discussions around our group [e.g. What do your different pods/groups mean to you? and  the game we'd played a long time ago :Warriors, guerilla soldiers, tennis players, monks and who else?].

But bookmarks aren't something I use too often. I guess I'd like to know how others use bookmarks and the new “Discussions I liked” feature. On a new thread, perhaps?

With OM, Nicole< Barbara and other community members, some of us are working as Quotes librarians- more information here:

Quotes! We have a wealth of information here; and with the new Gaia greetings feature, they've become even more valuable.

I wasn't very good at using Gaia messages except for short messages and directing people to pods. But of late I've seen that they can deepen our connections. I try to keep up with new features and learning them through the Team's support groups [Help
] so right now I don't have any other questions.

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Thanks Meenakshi - this is just swell to have all of your journeys on GN on one feature like this… I wasn't aware of the buried treasures of golden threads your just unraveled.  It gives us and new members more certainty.  It would be great someday to index all of the many topics alphabetically to help on other's networking.

I have great news for everyone!!!! 

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Thanks for filling us in Kathy, that's great news!
All is well
Tai

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This has been a pleasant surprise and coordinated like a symphony. 

Meenakshi thanks for answering my questions and you are not verbose to me. 

You have opened the doors to have others explore and discover new pieces of life. 

I appreciate all of the links and see that more can be added.  Someone once mentioned that communication was like playing tennis to complete what is started.  It makes sense to a degree.  On line we are all in a constant game and together we can see when the thing spoken of is done.

Tell us about the artist in you.  Do you sing, do poetry, author books?  And if nothing was in the way of having your favorite art out to the world, what would your art that you would want others to share over and over, be?

Is it ok if we ask you questions?
Namasté
Lee

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Lee, yes- it's ok if you ask questions; it's an honor that you would want to know something about me. One of my spiritual mentors told us that sometimes, wanting to be in the background, or being timid or shy, is also of the ego. So–I am striving to work through but not from that space of separateness!  
As you probably know, I love asking questions too - so why not answer as well!!

So- artist. I feel that in this lifetime I 'm a sleeping artist. I sometimes get ideas for mystical art; and wish I could paint - but don't yearn for it as I do for writing; so I don't. I think I”m lazy where painting or art is concerned; and from what I was told in childhood art classes, don't have talent either!

 But what I'd like to do is, find someone who would hear the art I have within me; and bring it to life. That's a dream I have never told anyone - you sure are a great gardner, Lee! I can just see you coaxing out buds that are hesitant to blossom!
Do you sing- love singing; learned some Indian classical as a child
do poetry- thanks to the kindness of Zephyr, yes, I sometimes do share on Poets's Workshop on Gaia
- author books: I wanted to be an author; and there's a book waiting to be written [if not two] - but since I write to communicate, I enjoy my monthly mailers and occasional blogs and discussions so much! I have some published articles in Qualitative Research and healing and parenting.

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Meenakshi, one question please ( or do I mean one answer please?)
Q. When you first log on to Gaia, where do you begin? for given your various/numerous functions/activites here, you must be drawn in so many different directions. Where do you tend to go first and Why? I ask this that I (and others may learn from you) thanks,
M

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Gr8 Q. Mikey! Nowadays, I go to first my grapevine, posts and then the private moderator pods. Then I go to my Groups, see which ones are showing New post; visit the ones I cultivate/ co-moderate and then down the list to the others.

Sometime during the day, if I'm home; I'll then check out my Friend's blogs through the Blogs -Friends tab or Friends Activity tab.

And btw, I liberally use the New Tab feature and usually have at least three - if not more- tabs open at the same time. This way, sometimes the page that loads first, gets read first!

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• I found your  first blog :-) I posted it here as a keepsake ~  A blog connection Meenakshi Posted on Feb 23rd, 2007

“This is my first blog; …the first in my name. I love writing, meeting people in cyberspace and 3-D space, who have the intent to vibrate harmoniously. Reaching the healing level, developing the heart of a healer, has helped connect - perhaps re-connect - all the different interests, ideas, yearnings, passions, questions in my mind. The single thread that puts it together, was the search for truth- for universal truths, & to accept only those values & ideas that  were universal. I now know that the inner aspect of that thread, is love. 

…”you have polished your poem to shine like the lotus, the haiku is like the icing on the cake, beautifully.  iced..Somehow this form suits the zen style of what you wrote.  Meenakshi, I do hope you love it too.” is wonderful. 

“The lotus flower blooms in a muddy pond.

She is revered for her purity.

She does not clean the mud from the pond, but grows and glows not inspite of the mud, but because of it. 

The flame of light removes darkness wherever it shines. 

It reminds us of the light of divinity.

Yet it is seen best when surrounded by darkness:

 flowing like yin and yang.

Mud gives nourishment to the lotus,

where the seed falls and is reborn. 

Darkness propels us towards light. 

It is the nothingness whence all is. 

Shining lotus flame Beacons cutting through darkness 

Miracle of spring.”

© 2009 Meenakshi

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Meenakshi,

I have the next question ready for you to answer for our members to interact and co-create with you: Which pods are you involved in, and what is your role in them? What do you see as the special value of each for the community and for you yourself? What is the best way for someone new to discover groups?  And, what does a new member have to do to train to become a Mod? ~kes

I just need for you to know that you are completely appreciated & are a wonderful leader & I admire the fact in working directly with you, that no matter how heavy or light it gets on Gaia, you are always that beacon of light that shines brightly. You are fun to have on any team.

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Meenakshi - after reading all of this since I have been gone, I come back and see the artist I thought I did see.  This is a vulnerable thing sharing like this. What a fortuitous moment to just be in this group getting an overview of what's on Gaia.  I tried out all of the tricks you gave Mikey, now making my trip here much faster, which I need.

It's good to round out this GN which I see necessarily tackles the tough
issues, with some lighter – yet still substantial – fare. You think
well “on your feet”!  Keep up the good work!  Here is to a Happy Buddha

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~KES, you asked:
”Which pods are you involved in, and what is your role in them?

I cultivate three groups: moderate quite a few- they're listed on my profile. Come to think of it, I've to update the list.I enjoy playing in some of them, 'walking' [the Labyrinth]  in others, learning, sharing… There are too many to list here!


What
do you see as the special value of each for the community and for
you yourself?
I see that groups are valuable ways for the community to share ideas and get the feeling of vibrancy and even growth, as we toss ideas back and forth, and learn how to communicate with clarity but also with compassion.

What is the best way for someone new to discover groups? 

The best way for someone who's new to find groups, is to look at the Groups page, to look at the Currently Active Groups list  in the God Pod and this group. I also hope that more members list their groups in their profile so that their friends can find the ones they're involved in. Of course, we can also find the groups by seeing friends' Activity pages, if we like.   

And, what does a new member have to do to train to become a Mod? 
The best way is to participate, and to be pro-active about learning the technical aspects of the site, using the Team's Help groups to do so, asking questions, and so on. Usually cultivators also train mods if required. Another place where we are discussing the best ways to cultivate and moderate groups is the “The Mod
Pod”

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Hi Meenakshi, 

I used to list my groups in my profile but then the list got too long and it keeps changing and then I thought, well, it's not so important what groups I happen to be in, is it? So I simplified my profile greatly. And will probably change it again many times :) but for now, just featuring a few groups including some interesting new ones.

Love

Nicole

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Yes, you're right when we belong to so many! But at least the ones you cultivate? I also like the way some people write a blog and link them to the profile page, so it's not too long. I shortened my profile recently but it still needs some work. any suggestions?

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Yes, how could I not mention my babies? :) 

I think your profile is wonderful. It's such a personal thing, isn't it? I don't feel that I could tell you how best to arrange it because it is an expression of you on Gaia at this point.

Love,

Nicole

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Just dropping in to wave “hi” to you Meenakshi and tell you how much I admire you.  Which you already know. When I was first new on Gaia a year or more ago, it was amazing to watch you answering questions and handling controversy with care and thoughtfulness and beauty.  I remember saying “I want to be like Meenakshi when I grow up.”   You were (and still are) a great mentor to so many people.  Many of us have learned so much from watching the quiet and thoughtful way you manuever through your life.  Thank you for all that you are.  And I'm glad you're being featured!  Love, Kathy

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It is lovely to read through all the delightful posts on how
Meenakshi has reflected on our lives.

There is no doubt Meenakshi -that you are loved and apprectiated
beyond measure!

One of your many, many attributes, I find really quirky and I often
have a smile on my face when reading some of your posts :)
To me, your quirkiness is the way you love to ask questions of people!
You have a great big thirst for knowledge, on what makes us tick,
I guess!
A knowledge that you put to such great use, as an understanding,
compassionate communicator.
You reach in an “draw us out” -and although at first, personally
I was a little reluctant to open up, and wondered at all the question's
you asked, I now can give more freely of myself.

And I sit at my computer and have little giggle, when I see you
post a barrage  of questions about something or someone and think-
” That's our Meenakshi” !!

Love and happiness,
Sandy

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Centria/Kathy, there are times on Gaia when I read a post that is so beautiful and fulfilling that I get teary or moved or so thankful. Then I have to leave the computer and bask in that the whole day long. Your post did that for me yesterday. That isn't a way I saw myself; and I thank you for being such an encouraging friend.

I'll remember to pass this feeling on to others.

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As Lee with his laughing image, Sandy, you made me laugh at your giggle
and catching my quirk! I remember as children we'd all ask so many
questions of any guest; and I carried this into my life as a
researcher. Yes, I do ask questions to draw others out; and I have to
say that I feel very blessed when people answer because I know it can't
be easy. Still, I must say that I have enjoyed answering questions here.

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Glad you laughed Meenakshi!

And yes, you ARE blessed that people answer- but they answer
because of you're talent to draw them out of themselves :)

I am glad too that you have enjoyed answering question's as well,
perhaps those you ask of us are question's you would like to be
asked yourself, as well?
It's just that you have a better ability to do so !

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sandy… you are too cool for words and that is a beautiful picture of you.  I am happy to see this thread is still active.  I will be back tomorrow.  I like the research aspect but after reading I also like the art which is drawn by two people sharing… then more.

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perhaps those you ask of us are question's you would like to be
asked yourself, as well?

Ah, insightful, Sandy!
Well there was that moment when I thought: would I be able to answer them? And then when Kathy asked, it all just came through…..

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Thank you Lee :)

And that was so sweet moment, Meenakshi -of doubt
and honesty!

The answer is though, of course you would and I am glad you
answered it.

It is so strange- it is on the tip of my tongue to ask you a question,
and yet I know not what to ask of you?

So here is a poser for you -if you were me, and knowing that I already
do know quite a lot about you-what you would you ask you ?

What would you share with us that perhaps we don't know about you-
would it be an endearing little trait you have that haven't shared?
I don't know -do you??

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

sandy - do you prefer being written as sandy or Sandy?

I feel I share a lot about myself in my blogs; and so I really can't think of what I haven't shared yet. As to endearing traits…who knows? Possibly not.

Do you have any questions you want to ask me?

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Recently I read on Meenakshi's profile a line she wrote that I will copy/paste here, and I agree all of your blogs show endearing traits and Gaia is fortunate to have someone leading the way here and for many groups on Gaia.  For that I am grateful to be your friend: 

“My journey takes me towards those who are seeking to awaken. My healing experience helps us to connect without attachment at dense levels, as we raise each other to greater, more joyful awareness.”

CONNECTOR AWAITS
At a bend in the path Connector awaits
'Till the next traveler appears
To guide, explain, enlighten
Illumine the path, lighten a burden

For the shell-shocked or weary Connector is a refuge For the uncertain wanderer the unswerving guide
For the caterpillar ready to transform, the alchemist who burns the dross
For one who is asleep, the one who gently awakens

Who is Connector?
The master who teaches
The friend who assists
The child who pushes
The book that informs

Connector can be a sudden illuminationOr a moment of indescribable joy
A moment of harmony
With a person, an idea or song

Whence came Connector? 
From the source of your inner voice
What caused it to arise now?Your need to know
To what does Connector guide?
To the path that takes us home


The home we left a long time ago, but which never left us!©2002-2009 Meenakshi Suri  http://www.geocities.com/connector_1/

THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE AND DOING WHAT YOU DO FOR MANKIND. ~k

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

The ONLY REASON I am taking the time to write (and hoping you will take the time to read, and then further take the time to LISTEN) is that there IS now an excellent leader, beautifully written blogs, I feel marks a new high point in the aesthetics in our culture from East meet West and visa versa today.  Take the time to read a few of Meenakshi's blogs and you too will see the essence of someone that cares deeply about Gaia and its survival.

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

I'm sighing and cussing a blue streak. This thread happened in early May when I was in the trauma of moving, and it escaped my attention until now. So glad it got mentioned again. How could I not say something appreciative here!!!!!

I like what sandy said, “How important to Gaia is Meenakshi? 10 plus!!!!” Laughed out loud in agreement!

And I have to echo a lot of what others have said, especially the way Deb expressed her feelings. I share so many of those!

Meenakshi joined Gaia about the same time I did, and I quickly sensed a solid and benevolent energy as we kept popping up in the same places. Since then my awe of her is constantly deepening. Her dedication, her creativity, her compassion, her humor, humility, humanity, and so-bright embodiment of the Power of Light (one of her favorite groups she started.)

This community would be very different and less rich and varied and interesting and inspiring without her sparking so much of its content into existence, and without her inspired support and handling of so much here. If I were forced to name her one top talent that I see, it's her embodiment of The Connector, her nickname, as she asks questions of us that evoke so many wonderful expressions about so many topics from so many people.

And my life would not be as rich; I feel supported on a personal level, sometimes directly and often indirectly; I have learned a lot of more gracious ways of interacting with others; I am constantly inspired and uplifted. Meenakshi is an extraordinary example of a “translucent” person, I see from the book I am currently reading, The Translucent Revolution, which is giving me better language to describe so many of the awesome, inspiring people I have discovered in this community.

Meenakshi, there is Divine Right Action in having this feature on YOU, and I'm delighting in reading the conversation here, the questions and answers, and I'm thrilled so many are articulating so beautifully what you mean to them and to this community. I find myself saying “Ditto” and “Me too” a lot lot lot here!!!!!!!

I'm grateful our paths have crossed in this lifetime, and I thank you for you, on behalf of myself, the community, and the world! 

And deep thanks to ~KES for shepherding this thread!!!!!!!!!!!!

In the Love We Are,
OM Bastet

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

OM Bastet - I am right on your heels and echo your sentiment exactly.  Where in the world was I during this feature on Meenakshi?  I must have been under a rock somewhere!

Meenakshi - You are a light on the path.  I am so blessed to be in your sphere of influence, thank you.

 

Re: Meet our Cultivator - Feature on Meenakshi

Dearest, dearest friends; as we are all reflections of each other; I see with intense joy how much beauty you are showing and seeing! I accept all that you say in that spirit; and am humbled by it.