Where to Now?

Last night we had a Katrina Christmas Celebration. The new residents (becoming regular residents) treated us here in Salt Lake with some "New Orleans-style cooking." We fed about 250 to 300 people. Practically everyone who contributed to their adjustment to Utah--from a representative of the Governor's office to people who extended a verbal welcome--was in attendance.

There were very short speeches thanking everyone for their participation in the entire process. As the proceedings occurred, I had this strange feeling we were playing out a play where the whole thing was designed to bring us together with no victim or savior. Just a unity of One. It's difficult to for me to express this feeling in words, but I just felt water trickling down my face--without my conscious permission. Followed by this overwhelming feeling that if I didn't live another moment, I was satisfied with my life.

Friends have shared with me that this is a common feeling that people have when the "self" is lost--and all there is, is an indistinguishable connection to everyone and everything. I have had such experiences before. The result is an irreversible realization of the illusion of separateness. If an earthquake occurs in Pakistan, it's "natural" to feel the pain and suffering of those impacted. Their sorrow is my sorrow. Their pain is my pain. Their will to survive and renew is mine also.

What I'm describing is "a way of being" rather than a belief, mind-set, or way of thinking. That's why I'm struggling with words, because such an experience is beyond the realm of words or description. I am confident that that most, if not all of us, have had a similar experience. Probably with family, a personal relationship, or a close friend. The holiday season has a way of bringing out such experiences. So, you might be aware if you have one over the next week. If so, try not to block it (as I have often done), and fully experience it--tears and all!

I guess the message of this blog is that during this season of love and appreciation of others, there is a high probability that an experience similar to mine will occur for you. You might choose to be in that moment fully! Then fully absorb its aftermath. No skill is necessary. Just an openness and receptivity to your inner spiritual self. It's there ready and waiting for your awakening to it.

Remember to consider an act of love for someone who has supported you unconditionally. A very blessed and happy holiday season to all who have supported this blog site. I can report that there have been more than 8,000 visitors since I began the site. Thank you all!

Bill Guillory