October 2014 - Conscious Community

America’s Oldest Spiritual and Metaphysical Magazine Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian

Award Winning

Conscious C mmunity FREE

October 2014 Volume 36, No. 2

DEDICATED TO ELEVATING CONSCIOUSNESS

BMSE Lectures Lecture Schedule

Body Mind Spirit Expo Indianapolis

October 18-19, 2014

Secrets Of Success

Walter Perschke Publisher of Conscious Community and founder of The Spiritual Learning Center

Saturday 10-6, Sunday 11-5

FREE PARKING

BODY, MIND, SPIRIT EXPO Indianapolis October 18-19, Indy Fairgrounds Farm Building 1202 E 38th St Indianapolis, IN Weekend Admission $10

Saturday, October 18, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Room:2 Self-made millionaires do think differently. Learn the secrets to move yourself into a prosperity mindset and how to consciously manifest your dreams in your daily life, your relationships, career or money. This presentation demonstrates the secrets to help you achieve the success that is rightfully yours. Learn four easy actions you can take to achieve your goals, from someone who has done it, and how to start today.

Metaphysical Dream Interpretation Workshop Sunday, October 19, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM Room:2 Dreams are messages from your soul. Our dreams speak to us, find out how to listen. Why do we dream and how can we best remember our dreams? What happens if we don’t dream? What is the secret language of your dreams? What are the archetypes that our dreams present to us and what do they mean? An introduction to metaphysical dream interpretation, complete with real life case histories. Attend this compelling presentation for answers to these and other dream questions.

Dreamers welcome.

For more information call: 847-966-1110

October 18-19

Indianapolis

NATURAL

30 TALKS & SEMINARS

HEALTH PERSONAL

RICHARD BRENDAN

50 EXHIBITORS 20 &HEALERS

READERS

GROWTH

METAPHYSICS SUSTAINABILITY

Indiana State Fairgrounds • Farm Building • 1202 E 38th St Sat 10-6, Sunday 11-5 • Weekend Entry $10 www.bmse.net

Conscious C mmunity FEATURES 6 Halloween: The True History by Walter Perschke

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10 Why the Horse? by Blair McKissock 12 The Day the Laughing Stopped by T. Stokes 40 Meditation: Healing the Scars from Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, PTSD and More by Tom North

COLUMNS All About Town... by Theresa Puskar 8 Green Metropolis Fair - Lakeview High School

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Astrology Basics 101 by Kaye Berjot 14 The 12 Houses From the Heart by Alan Cohen 18 Identity Theft The Shared Heart: New Dimensions of Relationship by Joyce and Barry Vissell 19 How Good a Friend are You?

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Yoga from My Experience by Cynthia Gran 21 Kindness Sound Matters by Steven Halpern 23 Addiction, Recovery, Meditation, and Spirituality The Magical World of Numbers by Elizabeth Summers 25 October... New Beginnings, Money, and the God Force

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CyberWeave: Spirituality and the Internet by Mary Montgomery 38 From Dark Night into the Light COSMIC DAILY WEATHER: Depth Astrological Perspectives by Kelley Hunter 44 October 2014

CONNECTIONS

On The Cover Happy Halloween

THE PULSE CALENDAR 30 OCTOBER Events, Happenings, and Announcements of Interest LIGHTWORKERS CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY 35 Resources for Better Living

REVIEWS 42 IN PRINT by Romina Vintila

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Conscious Community October 2014 Volume 36, No.2

Publisher WALTER PERSCHKE Circulation Manager KASIA SZUMAL Advertising TOYA BELL TAMMY ASPERA KASIA SZUMAL Special Event Coordinator TINA HIGENS KAYE BERJOT

Editors JULIE ROBERTS SUSAN PLUTO ALISON DOMECQ Media Coordinator TOYA BELL Delivery Manager CHARLES ZABELKA

Art Department ROSS CORSON Web Designer ROSS CORSON Online

CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM Conscious Community is published 12 times yearly by Conscious Community 47 W. Polk St., Suite 153 Chicago, IL 60605 Tel: 847-966-1110 Email: info@consciouscommunitymagazine.com

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Letter from the Publisher

It is my observation at expos, conferences and fairs in recent history that the attendees, the public, and many of the vendors and presenters are all searching, but are not exactly sure what they are searching for.

For many, it is the belief that the right crystal, or stone, or wand or prayer or whatever holds the key to their future. It does not. If those items or words can catalyze the answers for you, then they are helpful and serve a purpose. But they don’t hold the answer any more than a radio holds the communication you receive when you turn it on and dial in a station. The radio is a conduit of information, and you still need to decide if those messages are of value to you or not.

We are all ultimately responsible for interpreting and understanding whatever messages we receive. But, even before then, we need to learn how to just listen for the messages, which involves being quiet and just listening. This is what meditation is all about.

I watch as my weekly meditation groups evolve from beginners to increasingly sophisticated participants in the process, and the energy that builds and flows now in every group. The discussions before and especially after the actual meditation are at progressively higher vibrational levels, as people share their experiencea in the safe environment that has been created. I must admit it is very rewarding, as a leader, to witness and participate in so much spiritual growth in a short time of four months.

Thanks to all who are a part of this journey of discovery called meditation.

I have decided to offer a one-time two-hour class that I have not taught recently: Meditation 101 for Beginners. It is for those who would like to start meditating but simply don’t know how, and for those who have tried unsuccessfully to meditate and are seeking some direction and help. As always in my classes, there will be plenty of discussion, questions and answers in a safe, non-judgmental space. Meditation for Beginners is scheduled for Wednesday evening, October 15th from 7-9 p.m. in Burr Ridge. Call Kasia at the magazine for registration and details.

In addition to the “searching without finding” that I am witnessing now, and began this letter with, I don’t see or hear of anyone addressing the philosophical underpinning of New Thought spirituality. It would explain the wandering around searching for direction I have already described. If you don’t know where you are going and don’t have a map, you are going to have a hard time getting there. It is my intention to speak to the philosophical basis that appears absent, at least for now, in future letters like this.

Stay tuned for further developments.

Until next time,

© 2014 Conscious Community.

Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher. Conscious Community does not necessarily agree with opinions of the writers, nor is it liable for advertiser claims or representations. We believe in the reader’s judgment regarding the quality of any information. All ads should be received by the 10th of the month preceding publication.

Walter

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 5

HALLOWEEN: THE TRUE HISTORY

by Walter Perschke Halloween is ancient. We know it dates back to the ancient Celtic and Druid traditions thousands of years ago.

facilitate the conversion of pagans, who were already celebrating these days, to Christianity. It looks like it worked.

Ancient Celtics divided the year into two parts, the light and the dark.

Lemuria, the ancient Roman feast of the dead, celebrated on May 13, was the end of a period of placating the dead. This was a time of not just honoring, but making peace with the departed.

In Roman times, milk was poured on graves to prevent haunting.

They were also offered small cakes, which over the centuries have been transformed into today’s candy “treats.” The Pope Boniface IV co-opted Lemuria, changing the name to All Saints Day, all the way back in the year 609 A.D. The stated purpose was changed, but the traditions and practices of the celebration were passed on in great part.

The holiday of Samhain (sah’-wen) celebrated the dividing point between the two halves and the beginning of the dark half. As the harvest was complete and the days grew shorter, a harvest festival was celebrated on October 31 until sunset on November 1st.

The festival was a celebration of a successful harvest or prayers to carry the people through the winter until spring. It could be a scary time, possible food shortages, nights were fearful and a time to stay home.

One of the beliefs of the ancients Celts was that at this time, time and space became permeable, and one could cross from one to another dimension.

That also meant that spirits of the dead could cross over into the Celts reality and interact with them, a haunting if you will. Not just the dead could cross over, but people or entities from other times, because the veil lifted was not just of time, but of space as well. The veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, the dead could mingle with the living, and the living could be lost in the dimension of the spirits. This is at the root of many of the Halloween traditions. Our obsession with Halloween decorations of skeletons, tombstones, coffins and ghosts probably began right there in Celtic practices.

Bonfires were a staple of Samhain. The Celts observed a ritual where they drove their cattle between two rows of bonfires to determine which cattle were to be slaughtered for the winter.

The celebration of the dead was not limited to the Celtic culture.

Many, if not most cultures, in particular Ireland and Scotland had a day or period of days to celebrate those who have crossed over in death, Agricultural societies were very prominent in their observance of a holiday for the dead, usually coinciding with the end of the fall harvest. The traditions of the holiday for the dead in pagan cultures were carried forward to us today by the Christian church.

Adopting a pagan date for a church holiday was a fairly common practice in the Christian church, which also adopted December 25, the birth date of the pagan god Mithra, for another famous Christian holiday. The practice was believed by the church to 6 Conscious Community - October 2014

All Saints Day was renamed All Hallows Day and moved to November 1st, the day after Samhain, in an effort to supplant the pagan holiday. History does not give us an exact date, but it probably occurred during the papacy of Gregory III (731741). As a result, October 31st began to be called “All Hallows Evening,” then shortened to “All Hallows Even” and we were on our way to the shorter name we know today, of Halloween.

Further enhancing the tradition and mystique of Halloween, the church added November 2nd to the calendar as an “All Souls Day” to honor all who have passed on from life on earth. This reinforced the association of Halloween with death and souls.

Purgatory, a church concept, played a role in the development of our Halloween traditions and practices. Catholic theology says that souls in purgatory, a place between heaven and hell, can be elevated to heaven by the prayers of the living. A Medieval custom, children would go “souling” door to door and receive spiced cakes filled with raisins and called soul cakes, in exchange for praying for the souls in purgatory, with this practice contributing to today’s trick or treat.

The endless cycle of life and death, was a part of many traditions, not just Halloween. The practice of wearing masks came into prominence in the early 1600’s, often associated with violence because the mask concealed the identity of the perpetrators. The practices leading into today’s Halloween had become more rowdy and sometimes violent. Door to door beggars, often children, but more frequently adult indigents became more aggressive with their door to door begging. The “trick” part of trick or treat came progressively into being, with violent demonstrations and vandalism, including bonfires, against the resident population, was facilitated by the wearing of mask to conceal the identity of

the perpetrators. The boundaries between life and death were not the only ones tested; social norms and public behavior were as well.

Guy Fawkes, on November 5, 1605 tried to blow up The House of Lords in England. While Fawkes was unsuccessful and subsequently hanged, a new event, that is still practiced today in parts of England, began to mock and celebrate his attempt by parading in the streets, begging door to door, and setting bonfires.

Guy Fawkes Day is also known as Bonfire Night, in part because after his hanging, his body was burned on a bonfire.

All of this transpired in Europe, but the colonization of America was about to begin.

The early American colonists brought some of their Halloween precursor traditions with them from Europe to the New World, including the fascination with death and the departed. Guy Fawkes Day was among them. The Pilgrims were not particularly receptive to this event, but they had their own contribution to make to Halloween, witches. The witch craze that swept Europe and America in the 1600’s and well into the 1700’s solidified the images we now associate with this holiday.

Broomsticks, cauldrons, black cats and pointed hats were all fairly commonplace household staples in colonial homes at this time, but their association with witches became indelible with the Salem and other witch trials of their time. Why? Who knows?

There is no further recorded influences on our modern Halloween until the American Civil War. With a half million or more dead during the war, many of the bodies unclaimed and unknown, gossip began which becomes legend. The souls of the dead, lost on the battlefield, return home as ghosts to haunt their familiar places or to live as ghosts, wandering in the limbo of the battlefields and surrounding areas. Ghost stories were not new at this time, but the War Between the States gave rise to a myriad of new tales of the realm of the dead. Incidentally, the practice of wearing a white sheet as a ghost costume arose from the burial shroud common in Western Europe and America at this time.

The attachment of these stories to the developing celebration of Halloween was just a matter of time.

Following the war, a major immigration into America from Scotland and Ireland began. Both nationalities had their own version of Halloween, which became integrated into our now native legends. The Scots brought us the bogeyman and their stories were very scary. In their tradition the bogies, or bogeyman, was a pesky ghost bothering children.

We aren’t certain where the tale of Jack O’Lantern originated, but the new wave of immigrants brought it with them to our shores. It did originate in Europe, and the original lanterns were carved with faces from a turnip and placed in windows to ward off evil spirits. Pumpkins came later, an American contribution that happens to be harvested at just the right time. Scots and Irish also donated the stone-throwing and prank-playing by adolescent boys to our culture. Not that we wouldn’t have created it for ourselves. This practice was to erupt in very destructive ways

that surpassed just public nuisance during the 1920’s and early 1930’s in America.

While all this was going on, Halloween, which had been a predominantly rural phenomenon, continued its migration into the cities.

The 1920-1939 period was transformational for Halloween. It was a time of great stress, beginning with the Roaring 20’s and ending in the Great Depression.

The permissiveness of the former coupled with the crowding in the cities, created an opportune environment for the next incarnation of this holiday. The trick part of trick or treat became very violent in the cities. Pranks that had been benign became malicious and destructive. Throwing stones became window breaking on a major scale, including the windows of those newfangled automobiles. The bonfires in the streets and open areas became torched buildings. This destruction peaked in 1933, during the Great Depression and that became known at Black Halloween and sometimes Hell Night. But the aftermath was very positive.

Civic groups began to organize community events which included parades, costume parties and contests, and games. A manufacturer, Dennison, began to mass produce costumes for sale at local drugstores and dimestores. Sears, then the largest retailer in America, listed costumes and paraphernalia in its catalogues for the first time. The mass merchandisers had discovered Halloween and it had arrived in close to its present form. The malicious destruction was over and commercialism was on the rise. But the story is not over yet, and perhaps it never will be, as we reinvent this popular holiday yet again.

The term, “trick or treat,” is relatively new. The practice, as we have seen, is quite old, but the term first appears in print in America in 1939. Trick or treating became indelibly mainstream when it receives the blessing of an American icon, Charlie Brown, in the 1966 comic strip, Peanuts. Trick or treating had officially arrived and so had the theme of the “Great Pumpkin.”

I would be remiss if I did not mention one more twist in the road. In 1978, the classic John Carpenter movie, Halloween, was introduced. Scary, you bet. And that is exactly the new face we were presented with. Not exactly a new idea, but definitely a new face, or mask. Michael Meyers becomes the best-selling mask of all time and we have a new log rekindling the fire of Halloween.

Films and television have had a profound effect on how we practice and celebrate Halloween. It is now a major adult activity which it wasn’t 50 years ago. It is still primarily a kids’ day, but adults are increasingly involved, not just as parents, but as participants, especially in dress up. There is a self transformation aspect of American society that has found an outlet here. Once a year people get to play out their fantasies in full costume and share it with other adults. Hopefully this is not their only avenue of self transformation, but if it is (or isn’t), I hope they have lots of fun with it. Where else can grown men get to be action figures and women get to be ladies of the night!

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 7

All About Town…

Green Metropolis Fair Lakeview High School 4015 N. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL September 14th, 2014

by Theresa Puskar

The Green Metropolis Fair

A Local Green Fair for Conscious + Curious Individuals + Families

Workshops, Local Food, Family Fun, Crafts, Retail Market and Much More!

“Life is a never-ending experience of temporary events.”

– Frank Mallinder I was invited to join a panel of speakers at the Green Metropolis Fair at Lakeview High School in Chicago today. While it was a glorious day outside, there was plenty of “green” indoors at this fun-filled and inspiring event. Founded by Mary Beth Rebedeau, this biannual event showcases speakers, vendors, and familycentered events that all support conscious living.

work that he does not “need,” but rather “chooses” to do, is both intoxicating and infectious. I was inspired by the stories that my fellow panel members shared, and was thrilled to share the stage with fellow spiritual seekers who all find great joy in their life callings.

“We care for recycled animals and use them for education.”

- Erin Yanz The most eye-catching event at the fair was a table filled with several kinds of animals, all of which seemed to be getting along stupendously! There was a chicken, several rabbits, a chinchilla, an iguana, and a massive turtle. This curious display drew kids of all sizes and ages into its domain – young and old alike. I spoke with the proprietor of Erin’s Farm (also known as Nature’s Creatures), Erin Yanz.

Erin shared with me the fascinating story of how her Hosted by Tazdeen Rashid, business began. At the early founder of the conscious age of 16, she was working as a business networking site, technician at a veterinary clinic, www.agorahub.com, the panel and found herself feeling badly was entitled, Professionals for all of the animals that were with a Spiritual Foundation: abandoned at the front stoop.

Challenges, Changes and Gifts.

Her heart went out to them, and My colleagues on the panel (L to R) Frank Malinder, Theresa Puskar, Tazdeen Rashid & Cari Jacobson from that place of compassion were Cari Jacobson, D.C, John she began to rescue and rehabilitate Lionberger, and Frank Mallinder. The panelists each shared the the animals.

She wanted to teach others about the animals and fascinating stories of the origins of their careers, and how they how they could best be cared for.

Thus, the advent of Erin’s were guided, consciously or otherwise into careers that honor and Farm.

The farm has embrace their spiritual commitments. Cari Jacobson, founder of been in existence for the Be Optimal Holistic Health Center, shared how the universe only 2 years. For many orchestrated the inception and evolution of her thriving and everyears, Erin has been changing healing center in Glenview, IL. John Lionberger told taking the animals to a very moving and remarkable story of how he was transformed schools, hosted events from being an atheist to becoming spiritually awakened during like birthday parties, and a dog sledding adventure on his 50th birthday. He has since most recently, began a studied theology and created a magical business, Renewal in Farm Camp experience the Wilderness, which was born from his sledding experience. where children visit Through Renewal in the Wilderness, he takes individuals or groups on spiritual travel adventures throughout the world. Frank the farm and do some hands-on learning about Mallinder, founder of The Learning Institute, shared the joy and how to nurture and care for the animals. passion he has enjoyed throughout the many years he has been a personal and professional coach. The delight he shared in the 8 Conscious Community - October 2014

I was particularly drawn to Timmy, the turtle. While his owners loved and cared for him, unfortunately they did not know that they were incorrectly feeding him the wrong diet. In response to their error, he was no longer able to use his hind legs.

To keep him mobile until she is able to rehabilitate him back to health, Erin created a cart upon which he is able to maneuver Theresa Puskar and Erin Yanz around. I didn’t even notice the cart until it was pointed out to me.

The magical energy that surrounded Erin and her team of coworkers and animal friends was palpable. The children were able to approach the animals and pet them. Bless you, Erin for being an advocate for your menagerie of “recycled” animals (as you put it). Both they and those you teach about them benefit from the experience! To learn more about Erin and her animal friends, you can log onto www.naturescreatures.net, or visit her Facebook page, Erin’s Farm.

“All roads don’t lead to Rome; they lead to home.”

– Freddy Zental Weaver

perspective in a dialogue about whether two “alpha” individuals could coexist in a relationship. Kristin Panek shared great wisdom in her revelation of how two strong “alpha” individuals, if they truly were in their power, would both want to seek balance between the masculine and feminine. Thus they could coexist and, in fact, would flourish in a very poignant, evolved way. I was enriched and enlivened by the very engaging and thoughtprovoking conversation that was shared by all.

The event was filled with fascinating things to see and do, from puppet-making workshops and cooking shows, to displays on composting and creating divine energy with art. I enjoyed Green Metropolis, and suggest it to anyone who is interested in evolving their own inner consciousness, and that of the world as a whole.

As we all know, we change the whole world one individual at a time! To learn more about Green Metropolis, you can log onto www.GreenMetropolisFair.com.

Theresa Puskar, our All About Town contributor, is a writer, trainer, speaker and inspirational audio book producer. She has recently authored The Terri Series – seven books that focus on social issues such as bullying, honoring diversity, celebrating creativity, nonjudgment of emotions, finding alternatives to technology-based entertainment, discovering a non-judgmental God, and overcoming fears.

She has also recorded a powerful experiential audio program, How to De-clutter Your Mind and Live a Heart-Centered Life.

(L to R) Ellen Katz, James Hope, Frank Panek, Kristin Panek, Elsbeth Meuth, Freddy Zental Weaver, Tazdeen Rashid

Another panel discussion I enjoyed was entitled: Loving Relationships - Mindful Practices for You and Yours. Among the panelists were Freddy Zental Weaver and Dr. Elsbeth Meuth of TantraNova, Kristin and Frank Panek of the Flowering Heart Center, and Ellen Katz and James Hope of InnerBalance. Each of the couples shared poignant messages and relationship insights that encouraged curiosity, balance, and deep introspection.

Dr. Elsbeth Meuth spoke of our incapacity in the west to create and maintain relationships. She suggested that we remain open to the possibilities that come with looking at the world of relationships from a new perspective. Like the early explorers, who moved humankind beyond seeing the world as flat, we too could discover a new world of possibilities within our relationships, if we are willing to let go of the existing old paradigms and beliefs. Her partner, Freddy Zental Weaver spoke of how the world needs to wake up and open to the power inherent in women. He expressed our need to “come home”, and look within, especially when we find ourselves triggered by choices our partners make. The group shared intriguing

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Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 9

Why

the Horse ?

by Blair McKissock

There is something so healing about reconnecting with the natural world around us. Many of us feel a void deep within that no vice, distraction or outward fix can fill. But spending just a few minutes outside among the trees and living nature, peace begins to fill that space, tension eases and there is the echo of a distant call to return. Scholars who study ecopsychology or nature based therapies often refer to bilophilia or man’s intrinsic attraction to nature that pulls us or calls to us. It is an undeniable force to return to a way of being that ebbs and flows with a natural rhythm. It is that same undeniable urge to pet and love animals.

There is something different in the way we connect with them that is unlike the way we connect with another human. Among those connections, the bond shared between humans and horses is one of the most unique.

Horses have long been a beast of burden and companion to humans. Traced back to the works of Xenophon (350 BC), horses were used not only for war, agriculture and transportation but were even used as rehabilitation for soldiers injured in battle.

Today we face more challenges with the advent of technology reducing human interaction, exposure to violence at a young age, an increase in children born with developmental and physical disabilities and many living with past trauma. With a human’s intrinsic attraction to nature, we can create an effective means for people to enhance the quality of their life through a relationship with horses. Through the growing body of research and experience, there is substantial support for why the horse can be more effective in creating positive change in a person’s life than any drug or single intervention.

For a veteran or first responder dealing with the symptoms of PTSD or a child with cerebral palsy, interacting with a horse can change their life. That interaction can consist of mounted work or therapeutic riding but it can also be facilitated through ground interaction or equine assisted learning and psychotherapy. When you sit astride a horse, something shifts in your body and in your mind. That shift to an experience that is unpredictable or even unfamiliar open people for learning and change. As a horse walks, it creates mutli-dimensional movement. This forward/ back, side to side and rotational movement causes a rider to be constantly thrown off balance. This in turn causes the rider’s muscles to contract and relax in an attempt to regain balance.

The rhythmical movement of the horse is similar to the human motion of walking, teaching rhythmical patterns to the muscles of the legs and trunk in the rider. Muscles of the legs are also stretched when sitting on a horse riding with or without stirrups.

10 Conscious Community - October 2014

This movement stimulates the nerves and muscles in the body improving overall stability and function in the riders. The motion and heat of the horse not only aid a rider’s blood circulation and reflexes, but also gently exercise the rider’s spinal column, joints, and muscles. The horse’s three-dimensional movement provides a combination of sensory and neurological input that can have a positive effect on people with a variety of disabilities.

These movements can not be duplicated by traditional exercise or machines and can not produce body movements in a natural, rhythmic, and progressive way. The desire to ride and connect with the horse motivates them to keep going. It creates a joy and sense of freedom that the rider may lack in their everyday life.

The diagnosis of developmental disabilities has grown steadily over the years. A few years ago the statistic was one in every 150 children is diagnosed with autism. Now it is 1 in 68 according to the CDC. Along with autism, we now find ourselves confronted with an alphabet soup of disorders including ADHD which is as prevalent as 1 to 3 children in every classroom or up to 4% of the total adult population. With such high rates it is imperative to find interventions and methods to improve the quality of life while we search for root causes and march the slow steady climb of societal and environmental change. Participating in activities with horses can not only improve attention and motivate, but a horse’s unconditional love creates an atmosphere of acceptance for fragile self-esteem. Mental functioning is not transmitted verbally from teacher to student but it is the result of a social interaction and experience. Paired with the experiential nature of equine assisted learning and therapeutic riding, horses can help bridge the gaps in learning. Through the simple act of brushing a horse the midline of the body is crossed, activating the corpus-callosum in the brain in stimulating the centers for learning. Learning to observe and interpret behavior of a horse can teach social cues and make a person feel safe to explore what it means to have a relationship with another living being. Riding stimulates the tactile senses both through touch and environmental stimuli. The vestibular system is also stimulated by the movement of the horse though changes in direction and speed. The olfactory system responds to the many smells in a barn and farm environment.

Vision is used in control of the horse. The many sounds of a farm help to involve the auditory system. All of these senses work together and are integrated in the act of riding. When you work with horses, that feeling of peace comes from the realization that you are connected to another living being, and true partnership is devoid of dominance and force but one that follows a give and take.

The foundation of experiential education says that putting a person in an unfamiliar environment will result in a psychological shift creating an opening for learning. Interacting with animals in general can create a greater sense of wellbeing. The unconditional love and the achievement while working with horses can increase self-esteem and confidence. The bond created provides a solid foundation upon which someone can rebuild their own story.

unsuccessful. There are some things that cannot be solved by the thinking brain but need to be experienced outside in a natural world. It is not the latest fad that will solve everything but generating more compassionate, empathetic and aware people through a relationship with a horse sounds pretty good to me.

Blair McKissock is a speaker and author on human animal interaction and experiential education. You learn more about available resources and workshops at www.stridestosuccess.com.

Even in a country where technology provides what we need at the push of a button, there is still a large percentage of people who do not possess the skills to succeed in life. Basic leadership “Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, skills that focus on strength-based approaches to building a team and recognizing assets in others instead of their faults are lacking men cannot live without a spiritual life.” in our younger generations. Basic skills like self-sufficiency Buddha and respect can be learned through interaction with horses as there is a real danger, not just a perceived risk, of getting hurt if you don’t respect them. Interaction teaches compassion, empathy and a return to connection with the earth around us as you see the direct consequences of your actions when around them.

Horse creates an upheaval in a person’s psyche making them vulnerable and not able to act in A couples retreat in beautiful Troncones Guerro, Mexico! their normal pattern. Whether this is due to the flight of fight response is not clear. Humans and horses have shared the most unique relationship The Present Moment Resort & Spa in Mexico in nature, predators and prey working together Includes accommodations, breakfast & lunch, massage, activities, for mutual benefit. Horses have the capacity adventure excursion, yoga & daily programming! to fight off mountain lions and could certainly fight off a human if they chose to. But for some Contact Facilitator Ann Brown: reason they work with us. They allow us to ride ann@mystichearthealing.com or them, care for them and sometimes mistreat Facilitator David Klow: them. Sometimes they turn and fight but the david@skylightcounselingcenter.com instances are few so it begs the question why.

This relationship benefits humans in more ways than one can express. In a quote from Horse NOVEMBER 1-8, 2014 $2295 per couple plus airfare.

Sense for the Human Heart, McCormick said Financial aid available. it well, “Horses quickly anchor us making it difficult to escape from some of the basic realities of our existence. Around them we are confronted with existential truths and with matters of life and death…” Life around horses is real and immediate. They respond to our body language and reveal what we are truly feeling. Their size and power grab a hold of our attention captivating us and make us pay attention for our safety. As we master our fear and skill working with them we gain a greater sense of accomplishment and confidence in our ability to handle situations outside of the barn. They force us to release our old habits and look for new ways of thinking. They prevent us from becoming complacent in our actions. The minute we think we know everything they like to remind us that we don’t.

BRING YOUR RELATIONSHIP INTO THE PRESENT MOMENT

The equine-assisted profession is a rapidly growing alternative for many for whom traditional therapies or interventions have been Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 11

The Day the Laughing Stopped Robin McLaurin Williams (July 21, 1951 – August 11, 2014) July 21 is a cusp between signs of Fire and Water, and Robin Williams epitomized this internal conflict of opposites. The heavy joining of Life and Head lines show extreme sensitivity, shyness and caution not typical in a show biz comedian, (1). His death on August 11 is perhaps fitting, as it is the Day of Saint Clare who, as a penniless vegetarian, lived her life working for various charities.

Williams was an American actor, comedian, film producer, and screenwriter. Starting as a stand-up comedian, Robin was an instant smash hit in England with the TV series Mork & Mindy, (1978-82). Williams went on to establish a career in both standup comedy and feature film acting. But, in the film “Good Morning, Vietnam,” the Brits took him to their hearts, as wars are unpopular with people but the Vietnam War was doubly so.

His manic style was, to some extent, based on the British comedy actor Spike Milligan, whose YouTube video, “Pakistani Daleks,” is a classic. Like Williams, Milligan’s depression was at the core of his work. A drooping Head line at (2) depicts creativity and depression in Robin. Williams’s publicist, Mara Buxbaum, noted that the actor suffered from severe depression. Also, the Sun line, (3), up Apollo’s Mount is missing, designating that he felt he was not a success, and was not good with money.

Williams was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as therapist Dr. Sean Maguire in Good Will Hunting. He received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and five Grammy Awards. In 1986, he teamed up with Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal to found Comic Relief USA, an annual HBO television benefit devoted to the homeless, which has raised $80 million by 2014. Williams made benefit appearances to support literacy and women’s rights, along with appearing at benefits for veterans. He traveled to thirteen countries and performed for approximately 100,000 troops. Williams and his second wife, Marsha, founded the Windfall Foundation, a philanthropic organization to raise money for many charities. In December 1999, he sang in French on the BBC-inspired music video of international celebrities doing a cover of The Rolling Stones’ “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It),” for the charity, Children’s Promise. In response to 12 Conscious Community - October 2014

the 2010 Canterbury earthquake, Williams donated all proceeds of his “Weapons of Self Destruction” Christchurch performance to helping rebuild the New Zealand city. Half the proceeds were donated to the Red Cross and half to the mayoral building fund.

He also supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for several years.

Robin Williams was hospitalized in March 2009 due to heart problems. He postponed his one-man tour for surgery to replace his aortic valve, and the surgery was successfully completed on March 13, 2009, at the Cleveland Clinic, (4). Williams’s wife, Susan, stated that in the period before his death, he had been sober but was diagnosed with early stage Parkinson’s disease, which was something he was “not yet ready to share publicly.”

Williams died on the morning of August 11, 2014, at his home in Paradise Cay, California. In the initial report released on August 12, the Marin County Sheriff’s Office deputy coroner stated Williams had hanged himself with a belt and died from asphyxiation, (5).

To quote Shakespeare: “He was a man and, taken all in all, we shall not see his like again.”

“Happy Palmistry” T. Stokes reads whole life histories from hand prints from all over the world. www.t-stokes.co.uk

“Please, don’t worry so much. Because in the end, none of us have very long on this Earth.

Life is fleeting. And if you’re ever distressed, cast your eyes to the summer skies, when the stars are strung across the velvety night, and a shooting star streaks through the blackness turning night into day. Make a wish. Think of me. Make your life spectacular. I know I did.”

From “Jack” Robin Williams

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 13

ASTROLOGY BASICS 101 The 12 Houses

by Kaye Berjot In previous articles we discussed the Sun, Ascendant, Moon, and the 12 Zodiac signs. For this month’s article we will focus on the 12 houses of astrology, and the role they play in our birth charts.

The houses represent unique areas within our lives that we concentrate on at any given point in time. They can be viewed as the foundation of a chart because they are one of the few elements that remain constant. From one chart to another you will find the First House in the first position, the Second House in the second position, and so on and so forth.

As a reminder: 1. Zodiac signs have mottos.

2. Charts are divided into quadrants with the top two quadrants representing the higher self, and the lower two representing our earthbound self.

a. The lower two quadrants represent houses 1-6.

b. The upper two quadrants represent houses 7-12.

3. Every chart is different because they are unique to our birth date, time and location. Therefore, the zodiac signs can and will change houses from one chart to the next.

The First House is the house of Self, and it is naturally ruled by the first sign in the zodiac, Aries. This house functions as our conscious identity, and carries along with it the motto “I am.”

The Second House is the house of values. It represents what you place value on in life. This house’s role is to plant the values and morals of the conscious identity (the first house), and its zodiac ruler is Taurus.

The Third House is the house of brothers, sisters, and brethren.

The role of the third house is to communicate with the purpose of gathering and sharing information. Its zodiac ruler is Gemini.

The Fourth House is the house of roots, or put another way, the house of home. The role of this house is to identify the conditions of the home. Its zodiac ruler is Cancer.

The Fifth House is the house of creativity, fun, pleasure, and children, and it is ruled by Leo. The location of this house provides insight into what brings enjoyment into our lives.

The Sixth House is the house of service and health. This house is ruled by Virgo, and represents health and service to ourselves. It is also the house of day to day activities.

The Seventh House is the house of relationships. This is a 14 Conscious Community - October 2014

partnering house and shows how we merge with others personally and professionally. The ruler of this house is Libra.

The Eighth House is the house of death, sex, and rebirth. This house also represents other people’s values, and how we earn value from others. The ruler of this house is Scorpio.

The Ninth House is the house of higher learning and philosophy.

It is where we search for meaning and find understanding. It is ruled by Sagittarius.

The Tenth House is the house of work and reputation. It indicates what we will be known for, and the work that we do in order to build our reputations. This house is ruled by Capricorn.

The Eleventh House is the house of community, and represents the work that we do for the collective. It is naturally ruled by the sign Aquarius.

The Twelfth House is the house of the unconscious and of selfundoing. It represents an area where we might confine or restrict ourselves from our fullest capabilities. This house is ruled by Pisces.

Summary: In order to grasp the true meaning of any of the astrological principles written about in the Astrology Basics 101 series, it is important to bridge the gap between these articles.

This means that the Sun, Ascendant, and Moon have a direct correlation to the zodiac signs, which in turn have a direct correlation to the houses. When we view them all together we are able to see how all of the pieces link together, and how they also link back to other spiritual practices.

Now that we’ve covered the mottos of each of the signs, and the functions of the houses, I thought that you might be interested in seeing how these sentences come together. You may have seen these phrases written before.

1st house/Aries - I am who I am 2nd house/Taurus - My worth has value 3rd house/Gemini - My brethren I say to thee 4th house/Cancer - My house is sacred 5th house/ Leo - I grow (create) in the light 6th house/ Virgo - I am in service to thee 7th house/Libra - I reap the seeds that I sow 8th house/Scorpio - From death I am reborn

9th house/Sagittarius - Receive instruction from wisdom 10th house/Capricorn - I am known for what I build 11th house/Aquarius - I know my tribe 12th house/Pisces - Though you have not seen, have faith In next month’s article we will cover planets and their role in astrology.

You could you be the next Hay House Author!

SPEAK, WRITE, PROMOTE

CHERYL RICHARDSON

See you next month!

Kaye Berjot is a transformational astrologer who can be contacted for readings and guidance at: kayeberjot@gmail.com

BECOME A MOVER & SHAKER November 7 – 9, 2014 • Chicago, IL

REID TRACY

Do you have an important message to share with the world?

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We need silence to be able to touch souls.”

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Do you have a dream to write a book, build a speaking career, appear on TV, or host your own radio show?

The most successful authors, teachers, and speakers know that it takes a firm commitment of time and energy to build the kind of platform that not only reaches millions, but also grabs the interest of publishers, producers, editors, or speaker’s bureaus. If you’re a mover and shaker, and you’re ready to make that kind of commitment, then you’ll want to register now for this exciting event!

Industry experts Cheryl Richardson and Hay House President and CEO, Reid Tracy work with you directly to share key points to catapult your career including: k Rules for building a strong foundation for a public career k The ins and outs of muliti-media writing and publishing k How to generate the right kind of publicity k How to create the right kind of Web presence and what you need to do to build an online community k Tips and practical advice about affiliate marketing k The spokes of a multi-media platform wheel

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”

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Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 15

Crystal River Gifts 310 N. LaFox Street • South Elgin, IL 60177 • (224) 535-8708

October Schedule Workshops and Classes

Tuesday Qi Gong Class Tuesday’s October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th - 6:30-7:30 pm $10

Activate, stimulate and cultivate your chi/life force energy with this gentle ancient exercise. Chi is the spark that beats your heart. Great for all fitness levels. Improve your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being.

This is a no pain great gains form of exercise that will leave you feeling balanced and having calm energy.

“The secret to anti-aging’ it’s the ‘miracle exercise’ for people seeking to avoid drugs, surgery and expensive doctor bills.” - Dr. Mehmet Oz on Oprah

Learn the history, symbolism and methods to read and understand the tarot. Each week we will explore a different aspect of this powerful oracle. Bring a notebook and your favorite deck (if you have one) Instructor: RoseWolf 10/1 - Basic Tarot Spreads 10/22 - Focused Spreads 10/8 - Life Spreads 10/29 - Past Life Spreads 10/15 - Love Spreads

Chakra Dance Class October 4th - 1:00-3:00 pm $25

Yoga Classes Nancy May Tuesday’s October 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th - at Noon

Wednesday’s Candlelight Yoga October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th 7:30 PM Four week session $48 **7 people minimum** Beginners are welcome Adult yoga ( age 16+) Nancy May is a registered yoga teacher for 15 years, teaching yoga classes to adults and kids. She holds workshops and retreats all over the country as well as Costa Rica and Belize in 2015. Take this opportunity to finally try a yoga class and see for yourself what yoga is all about. Try it you have nothing to loose and may find out what yoga enthusiasts are all excited about!

Intuitive Gala

Learning the Tarot Wednesday’s October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th - 7:00-8:00 pm $10

Charkra Dance is a dynamic dance which aids in releaving and balancing the stresses of modern day living. Offering similar benefits to yoga. Chakra dance increases your awareness of the connection between your body and soul and leaves you with a feeling of inner peace and serenity. Through dance we are able to free up our natural energy flows and harmonize our chakras.

Instructor: Razena Unwin

Real Ghost Stories October 17th - 6:30-8:30 pm $10

Join RoseWolf as she delves into 20 years of her personal case files to recount true stories of spirits, ghosts and all things spooky. Instructor: RoseWolf

Essential Oils Class October 22nd - 7:30-8:30 pm $20

October 18th - 12-5 pm October 19th - 12-5 pm

All readings and healing for the weekend are 25 minutes for $35 or 50 minutes for $70. Call Crystal River Gifts at 224-535-8708 to schedule appointment.

From aromatherapy to topical applications, this class will give you a jumpstart to using essential oils in your every day life with confidence. What to use for a headache, muscle stiffness, foggy head and much more . There are thousands of applications where essential oils can be used safely in place of chemical substances. Instructor: Darla Tegtmeier

Monday Meditations Bharat Kalra Guided Meditation October 6th, 6:30-8:00 pm $10

Gong Meditation October 13th, 6:30-7:30 pm $10

Anxiety is the root cause of all stress.

Stress is the cause of most physical conditions as per medical research. It will be interesting to find out the root cause of anxiety and how to work with it. Come join this meditation session to discover a different dimension.

- Bharat Kalra

Detoxify your mind and body from the stress of daily life. Enjoy a sonic massage that will soothe your soul and lift your spirit. Experience the power of the gong with Gong Guru, Andres Peraza, an experienced percussionist for over 30 years. Wear comfortable clothing and bring your favorite pillows, blanket and an open mind - studio does provide these if needed. The Gong will do the rest.

- Andres Perazza

Reconnecting with Energies of the Earth October 20th, 6:30-7:30 pm $10 Reconnect with the Earth Energy: With busy life styles, less outdoor activities, wearing shoes and not physically connecting to the earth, we lose some of that connection with her.

This is a great time of year for you to reconnect with the energies of the earth.

- Darla Tegtmeier

bodyBUZZ October 27th, 6:30-7:30 pm $10 bodyBUZZ SOUND MEDITATION IS A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS. Participants lay on blankets or Yoga mats (please bring your own) and meditate to a lovingly composed musicscape - Antonio & Marie Soriano

www.crystalrivergifts.com

Crystal River Gifts 310 N. LaFox Street • South Elgin, IL 60177 • (224) 535-8708

October Intuitive Gala

Saturday, October 18th from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm • Sunday, October 19th from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm All readings and healing for the weekend Intuitive Gala are $35 for 25 minutes or $70 for 50 minutes Call Crystal River Gifts at (224) 535-8708 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT BHARAT KALRA - Chakra Balancing

Sunday Only

7 major chakras (energy centers) are located at certain spots on vertebral column. Their function is to receive and distribute energy through-out the body. Thoughts create vibrations.

Periodic cleansing can help cleanse this clogging and keep chakras in working condition.

JUDITH BROWN - Intuitive Certified Nutritionalist Taking knowledge of a nutritionalist with a background in biochemistry, combined with a strong intuitive sense. Judith has been helping people achieve optimal health and wellness by offering guidance and suggestions through physical, emotional and mental approaches.

RoseWolf - Psychic and Physical Medium Psychic and Physical Medium. Bringing together messages from spirits & guides, the tarot & shamanic principles, Rose fi nds the answers to the questions that haunt you most. Since 1994, Rose has been a professional reader, teacher and as always, a student of the spiritual arts. Call ahead for an appointment as she books up quickly.

DAVED BECK - Psychic Medium A Medium with over 20 years experience connecting with the whisper of LOVE, transforming emotional fear. In 2013, he was inducted into the Lightworkers Hall of Fame and is a recipient of the Lightworkers Life Achievement Award. People’s Choice Around the Globe: Honesty, Integrity, Efficiency, Services.

KEN BENTLEY - Intuitive Reader Ken has been receiving intuitive messages for more than 20 years.

He is a natural reader who has been attuned to many different modalities. Ken is naturally guided by his guide Archangel Michael.

DARLA TEGTMEIER - Raindrop Therapy and Foot Reflexology Saturday Only Refl exology is a non-invasive, natural therapy that induces a deeply relaxed state. it is based on the principle that there are points in the feet that related to the internal organs of the body.

Pressure or palpitations on a refl ex point can therefore affect these structures.

OKSANA - Tarot Card Reader

ROXANNE BJORKLUND - Tarot Card Reader

Receive gentle Divine guidance from the Angels to help you in your current quest in life. Experience loving messages received from the famous Doreen Virtue’s Angel Tarot Cards hoping they come to you at the perfect time. All proceeds will be donated to help people in need.

Drawn to the tarot at an early age, Roxanne bought her first deck at the age of 13. For the past 10 years she has focused on her tarot studies and on doing readings. She believes the tarot cards are a wonderful tool for discovery and assisting others. Roxanne is also a Reiki Master energy healer.

Saturday Only

FRAN VERZOSA - Psychic Palm Reader For over seven years Fran Verzosa has been following her passion by performing palm/psychic intuitive readings. Fran is able to explain the lines/markings in palms in order to read an individuals life story. She is able to feel the psychic energy within peoples hands, see psychic images and predict future endeavors.

Saturday Only

CAROL RUSHTON - Certified Oracle Card Reader Reiki Master Saturday Only Carol Rushton is an Indigo Adult and Usui Reiki Master. She is an intuitive reader certified in oracle card reading by Doreen Virtue and practices both Usui Reiki and Sa Sekhem Sahu (Egyptian Reiki). Carol has a positive, unique, high energy, and healing outlook to life, love, health, career, and spirituality.

Stop in to see the new Amethyst and Citrine cathedrals now at our store!

www.crystalrivergifts.com

From the Heart Identity Theft

by Alan Cohen

As I read my credit card statement, my eyes bulged. I was being billed for two $5,000 cash advances I had not taken.

Then there was a clothing shopping spree in Dallas. Someone had stolen my credit card information and went to town on it.

Fortunately, the credit card company absorbed those losses, but they are not unusual. Every day crooks steal the identities of thousands of people, and as a result banks and Internet businesses go to elaborate security measures to protect customers’ identities.

There is an even more insidious form of identity theft that has hijacked far more than your credit card account. This theft has caused you to forget who you are and believe that you are small, limited, and powerless—a photographic negative of your true self.

Grand theft identity began soon after you arrived on earth.

Parents, teachers, siblings, clergy, and authority figures told you that you are inept, insignificant, ugly, unworthy, and sinful, and that the world is a menacing place with threats and danger at every turn. Over time you began to believe these terrible lies, and the day came when you forgot your innate beauty, strength, and innocence. Eventually you adopted an identity contrary to your divine nature and have lived as someone you are not.

If you tell a lie enough, you start to believe it. When I was in junior high school I went to a Beatles concert in Atlantic City.

At school the next day, I decided to impress my classmate Donna by telling her that I had met Paul McCartney on his way out of the concert hall. Even more exciting, Paul had given me his guitar pick! To prove it, I showed Donna the pick with his initials “P.M.” carved in it. Her pupils dilated. To thrill her even more, I romantically placed the pick in her hand and told her I wanted her to have it. Donna swooned and gave me a kiss on the cheek, which made my year. Word got around that I had obtained Paul McCartney’s pick, and I had my junior high school day in the sun.

The story, of course, was complete bunk. But I told it so many times over the course of the days that followed, with increasing detail, that now when I think of it, it seems as real as many things that actually happened. I can clearly picture Paul running out the back door of the concert hall and tossing the pick my way. I can feel the excitement of an event that never occurred!

Over your lifetime you have adopted an array of lies about yourself, underscoring what’s wrong with you and the world.

You have been playing out these untruths in your finances, relationships, career, health, and other significant arenas of your life. The world you see is based on a mass of illusions that appear to be real because so many people agree with them and base 18 Conscious Community - October 2014

their lives on them. “If you take enough people to the middle of nowhere, it starts to feel like somewhere.” Yet popularity cannot make fiction true, and habit cannot render fear more substantial than love. The only cure for illusions is truth. The only cure for a mistaken identity is to remember who you really are.

The story is told of a princess who was kidnapped as a child and taken to live among fishmongers. She grew up amidst piles of fish, smelled like them, and accepted the mentality of a struggling hawker. Years later, one of the king’s servants found the princess and brought her back to the royal palace. Her parents welcomed her profusely and showed her to her elegant bedroom laden with the softest bed, flowers, incense, a breathtaking view, a sumptuous dinner, and servants at her beck and call. During her first night in the palace the princess tossed and turned. “Get me out of here,” she cried out. “I can’t stand this. I want to go home.”

What the princess did not realize was that she was home.

Elegance, royalty, and riches were her birthright. But she had gotten so used to living amidst foul smells and poverty that she believed those conditions were her true place in life. Normal does not equal natural. Like the princess, you have become accustomed to living in psychic quarters far shabbier than you deserve.

You can find your way back to the palace by remembering your origin. A Course in Miracles urges us to know, “I am as God created me.” Your real identity is spiritual and spiritual only.

You are not your name, age, weight, address, relationship status, job, bank statement, medical diagnosis, or any other attribute by which the world identifies you. While the world judges and pigeonholes you by fragmented aspects, God sees you as whole.

When you share God’s vision of yourself, you know who you are and you live in the love and dignity you merit by virtue of your divine inheritance.

People can steal your credit card number or another physical item, but they cannot steal your soul. Don’t leave home without it.

Alan Cohen is the author of many inspirational books, including I Had it All the Time: When Self-Improvement Gives Way to Ecstasy. Join Alan’s upcoming Life Coach Training Program to become a professional life coach or incorporate life coaching skills in your career or personal life, join. For more information about this program, Hawaii retreats, Alan’s books, free daily inspirational quotes, and his weekly radio show, visit www.alancohen.com, email info@alancohen.com.

The Shared Heart

N ew D i m e n s i o n s o f R e l a t i o n s h i p

by Joyce and Barry Vissell

How Good a Friend are You? Many would contemplate this question for a minute, then reply, “Not a very good one.” A friend of mine answered that question by saying, “I’m a crappy friend. I do many things well, but not friendship.” Yet this same woman who works almost a 70 hour a week job as a doctor, once spent every free weekend for over a month taking care of a dying friend. When I pointed out that she showed incredible friendship to this woman, she replied, “Well, she needed me.” Yet in the course of her daily life she finds herself too busy to call or email friends, therefore she assumed she was not a good friend. I disagree. I think she’s an excellent friend.

saying, “But you are! You believe in me, love me and ignore my weaknesses to see just my strength and beauty. I know that I can count on you when I need you, just like you can count on me. It’s OK that we sometimes go months without being on the phone together. You tell me often how much you love me.” When she spoke those words, I thought of my mother on the phone with her friends for hours every day. I no longer needed to cling to that image as my ideal of a good friend. I could just be the kind of friend that I am.

One thing I feel is very important is to communicate how much we love our friend and value the friendship. Hopefully we do this often with our partner, children, and parents, yet do we also express our love to our friends? It is wonderful to show how much we care, yet it is also important to communicate it with words.

We have ideals about being a good friend, and when we don’t measure up to those ideals, we judge ourselves negatively. For many years I also judged myself as not being a good friend. My mother had many friends and everyone loved her. She was a stay-at-home mother, and made all of our bread, desserts, and delicious home cooked meals each evening. Even doing all of that, she found plenty of time for her friends. Every day in my childhood I remember seeing my mother pull up the vinyl chair in the kitchen to the wall phone. She would sit on that chair for hours, and call her friends to share every detail of their lives.

Those friends knew my report card, what we were having for dinner, and how the new washing machine worked. Day by day I saw my mother talk on the phone to her friends, and that became my ideal of a good friend. In my mind, a good friend spends hours on the phone, and talks about everything that happens in your life.

When I became an adult and then a mother, I tried to copy my mother’s example. Yet between working and raising children, I just didn’t have the time to be on the phone. Every year, for my New Year’s resolution, I would vow to call my friends more. And every year I would spend every free minute that I wasn’t working either alone, or with Barry or our children. The calls seldom were made. I became friends with mothers who had children the same age as mine. We watched each other’s children, and went to the park together. Yet even though I was spending these fun times with other mothers, I still judged myself as not a good friend.

This year a good friend flew up from Los Angeles to be with me the day after my knee operation. While lying on the couch in such a vulnerable place, I told her that I wished I could be a great friend like she was to me. And she replied by incredulously

Barry and I love the movie Waking Ned Devine. We have seen it several times and enjoy it every time. In this movie, two old Irish friends, Michael and Patrick, go to visit their friend Ned. They discover that Ned has died while holding the winning ticket to the lottery. They hatch a plan to have Michael pretend that he is Ned, and then call the lottery people to claim the money.

All goes well until the lottery man says, “Of course, I will have to visit your village, and ask a few random people to make sure you are who you say you are.” Because of this, they decide to include the entire village of about 20 people in their plan, and share the money with them. The people want to know how they will recognize the lottery man from just some stranger or tourist.

Michael and Patrick tell them that the lottery man sneezes a lot.

Later, during the funeral for Ned, Patrick stands up to give the eulogy. While he was speaking, the lottery man walks in and starts sneezing. Now everyone at the funeral knows it is him.

What to do?? There is a long uncomfortable silence, and then Patrick starts talking about Michael, pretending that he is the one that died, even though he is sitting in the front row looking up at Patrick. This is what he said in his beautiful Irish brogue: “Michael O’Sullivan was my great friend.” Then there was a long pause in which Patrick’s eyes fill with tears before he goes on, “And I don’t ever remember telling him that before. The words that are spoken at a funeral come too late for the man who has died. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful thing if you could visit your own funeral and listen to what is being said, and perhaps even say a

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 19

word or two yourself? If Michael were here right now and could hear what I am saying, I would congratulate him on being a great man, and thank him for being my friend.” Michael started crying, and soon the whole village was crying. It was a very touching scene.

Do we have to wait for a memorial service to fully express our feelings of love and gratitude about our friend? We can tell them now while they can still hear us. At one of our retreats there were two men who had been friends for many years. They were both engineers, and worked together at very demanding jobs. They each had a bunch of children, so there was little free time for just hanging out together. On the last day of the retreat, the one friend reached for the other’s hand and said, “We have been friends for a long time yet I don’t remember the last time I told you how much I love you, and how much I value our friendship.” The other man then shared an equally touching appreciation and love. There were tears in both of their eyes as they hugged.

Taking the time to share love and appreciation is always beautiful and powerful. You will never regret having done so.

Friendship is a treasure.

Here are a few opportunities to bring more love and growth into your life, at the following events led by Barry and Joyce Vissell: Oct 14-20- Living from the Heart in Assisi, Italy for individuals and couples; Nov 12-16- The Greatest Journey (our 6-month program for individuals and couples); and Feb 1-8, 2015-Hawaii Couples in Paradise Retreat.

Joyce & Barry Vissell, a nurse/therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors near Santa Cruz, CA, who are widely regarded as among the world’s top experts on conscious relationship and personal growth. They are the authors of The Shared Heart, Models of Love, Risk to Be Healed, The Heart’s Wisdom, Meant to Be, and A Mother’s Final Gift.

Call Toll-Free: 800-766-0629 (locally 831-684-2299) or write to: the Shared Heart Foundation, P.O. Box 2140, Aptos, CA 95001, for a free newsletter from Barry and Joyce, further information on counseling sessions by phone or in person, their books, recordings, or their schedule of talks and workshops.

Visit their website at: http://sharedheart.org/ for their free monthly e-heartletter, their updated schedule, and inspiring past articles on many topics about relationship and living from the heart.

Carmen Harra Karmic Cures for Complicated Relationships Relationships are Grounded in a Greater Reason Daylong Workshop: Saturday, October 11

Sandra Taylor & Sharon Klingler Unlimited Power, Spirit, and Success Align Language, Power, and Life-force Vibration Daylong Workshop: Saturday, November 15

Jean Haner Chinese Face & Birth Date Reading Use Skills to Understand, Coach, & Help People Weekend Retreat: October 18-19 Limited Space, Register Today: InfinityFoundation.org org 847 847.831.8828 831 8828 Free course c guide with 50+ courses, events & more. CEUs av available.

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20 Conscious Community - October 2014

Yoga

From My Experience

by Cynthia Gran

Kindness

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle,” - The British Weekly, Ian Maclaren, 1897

and stir less suffering and it will become easier to practice ahimsa toward others.

Ahimsa is the primary conviction in yoga. It’s similar to the Golden Rule, communicated in virtually all religions: treat others the way you wish to be treated. This is so simple, yet so incredibly difficult.

For instance, some think it’s all right to act rudely and disrespectfully on the Internet. Others are brusque and condescending toward store clerks, believing they will never see them again -- as if there are no repercussions! Ahimsa is the very reason many people in the world eat a vegetarian diet: to not harm another life in order to sustain one’s own.

Ahimsa means non-injury or to cause no harm to another being. In yoga it is the greatest dharma, or duty, and all other convictions require ahimsa in spirit. It is not only refraining from causing injury, but also deliberately cultivating good will and kindness toward one self and others.

A transgression occurs if one knows that an act could be harmful, but one does it anyway, what modern psychology calls cognitive dissonance. According to the Yoga Sutras, injury toward another person is injury toward oneself and this deliberate action creates obstacles. It begins with the mind. Yogis harness the mind so that it does not stray from concentration. As humans, we have the capacity of mind to be greedy, jealous, and angry, to manipulate, to love, etc. Striving to reduce these emotions provides a means to freedom for our selves and benefits others. Rather than unleashing harm in word or deed, remove it first from the mind.

Underneath the coverings, we are all one.

“Isn’t it a pity? Isn’t it a shame?

How we break each other’s hearts; we cause each other pain.”

- Isn’t It a Pity? George Harrison Ahimsa toward oneself is often overlooked. Kindness and compassion toward our own person allows freedom and opens space in the mind for creativity. Begin with consciously not causing harm toward oneself in thought. Catch yourself so you do not even think judgmentally or callously about yourself.

Then learn to cultivate kindness toward yourself inwardly, then outwardly. Soon you will interact with others more peacefully

Mind control was also given to Moses in the Tenth Commandment. That dictum requires eliminating the desire for objects that belong to others. Here, wanting is the harmful thought we are ordered to curb. Negative thoughts can be very powerful. People can and do pick up untoward thoughts from others! We are obligated to correct these habits if we wish to grow spiritually.

The Bhagavad Gita teaches that all we do begins first with a thought. All words and all deeds begin in the mind. It teaches that training the mind to create inner strength allows proficient living and generates good karma. It teaches that whatever our perceptions or misperceptions, we can modify them with wise discrimination. A yogi’s firm decision is to seek liberation from worldly traps, and these lead her to do the things required in life, such as employment, care of others and housework, skillfully and competently without cutting corners, and always going the extra step, offering assistance and working for the benefit of others.

Ayurveda teaches us everything that exists in the microcosm has its counterpart in the macrocosm - its reflection. Your outer life is a reflection of your inner life. For example, if you are judgmental on the outside toward another person, what is it inside yourself that you are really judging? Do you have the courage to look inside honestly, scrutinize the iniquity and tear it from your heart?

“It is the enemy who can truly teach us to practice the virtues of Compassion and tolerance.”

- Ocean of Wisdom, The 14th Dalai Lama If I find someone has perceived my words as painful, I take it as an opportunity to ponder what I said to them. Why or how did I hurt them? I have learned to smile more and have found that this softens everything I say. And it helps if I do not comment unnecessarily. I try to be in the moment rather than interrupt people with what I want to say. Listening is a virtue.

“If you smile at me, I will understand, ‘cause that is something Everybody everywhere does in the same language.”

- Wooden Ships, Crosby, Stills & Nash

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 21

If someone doesn’t see your perspective, don’t press it. Release competition. Decide not to argue. Try purging pet peeves, removing anger, and relinquishing road rage from the mind before reactions occur. Separate what you want from what you truly need. Honor the differences between you and others and move on. Do some selfless service; it purifies the mind.

Never forget kindness begins with you. Take care of yourself: eat well, exercise, play, rest, and forgive yourself. Learn from your mistakes.

Relax the body and relax attitudes. Quiet the mind by practicing meditation regularly.

Cultivate patience. Think kindly. Allow for the simultaneous existence of others and try to acknowledge the divinity in everyone.

“Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty.”

- Anne Herbert

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Do I insist on my way and need to be right?

Do I offer reassurances? Support? Compassion?

What do I judge about myself?

Where can I practice gentleness?

Pathways to Light has Co-sponsored with Commonwealth Educational Seminars to provide 40 continuing education credit for Nursing through California Board of Registered Nursing.

Essential Oil Kit must be purchased separately from Wisdom of Light prior to class. Please call for details (773) 216-9882.

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“On one hand, we know that everything happens for a reason, and there are no mistakes or coincidences. On the other hand, we learn that we can never give up, knowing that with the right tools and energy, we can reverse any decree or karma. So, which is it? Let the Light decide, or never give up?

The answer is: both.”

Yehuda Berg

22 Conscious Community - October 2014

Give the gift of our Blood Moon Frequency Water or Give the gift of Bio Coffee a great alkaline coffee made with Organic Arabica Coffee.

Come and explore the journey of your soul for and spiritual growth, personal development and conscious awareness. Call Ellie Stewart (773) 216-9882 for Registration, Cost and Details. www.pathwaystolight.org Or Call (773) 455-3444. Ellie Stewart, MHPE, HTCP, CCH, ACM, CCA Certified Advanced Practice Akashic Records Practitioner/Advanced Practice Instructor

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Sound Matters:

by Steven Halpern

ADDICTION, RECOVERY, MEDITATION AND SPIRITUALITY The news of Robin Williams’ suicide was so shocking and painful. What could lead him, of all people, to do such a thing?

In the days and weeks since, there’s been a lot of discussion about the three primary “demons” (the same code word that was used with Whitney Houston): alcoholism, addiction, and depression.

Perhaps the positive effect is that Robin’s sobriety and recovery is opening up discussions that include the biochemical aspects of addiction, as well as the spiritual vacuum that leads to addiction and depression. Addiction and alcoholism affect millions of people, either directly or indirectly as family members, friends, and colleagues.

John Bradshaw Several months before Robin left us, I had begun remastering the bestselling meditation album that John Bradshaw and I recorded in l990, at the height of his popularity. John Bradshaw is the New York Times #1 bestselling author of Homecoming, PBS-TV series host, and a primary figure in the self-help movement.

I had the honor and privilege of accompanying him on tour to major cities across the US as his “musician in residence” in his well-attended “Inner Child” events from 1988-1992.

As I listened to his words, I was struck by how precisely he spoke to the emptiness and depression we can only imagine Robin experienced in his private life. John’s far-ranging perspective brings together many ancient spiritual traditions and leading edge research in neuroscience and quantum physics which really resonates with me.

Let me share a few of his thoughts as he and I discussed sobriety, stress, meditation and spirituality. If you read his books or attended one of his workshops, I think you may also agree he was so far ahead of his time that we’re only now catching up.

As John states on our recording, Meditations To Support Sobriety And Recovery, “For most anyone dealing with their own recovery issues, it is increasingly important to do the inner work of prayer and meditation to maintain your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

It’s clear to me now that addictions are about an inner emptiness, a spiritual bankruptcy. Addicts have what I call ‘a hole in the soul’, and try to fill it with dysfunctional behaviors. Learning to access the inner silence through meditation can help you fill the hole in your soul. That’s why it’s an important part of the 12-step program, as the 11th step. Meditations like the ones on this recording really helped me in working my program, because when I started, like most people, I didn’t know how to meditate.”

At John’s lectures and workshops, I handed out a booklet I published in 1990. It summarized the relationship between meditation and alpha and theta brainwaves. I referenced research

by Dr. Eugene Peniston and others who found that addicts and alcoholics were typically deficient in producing those frequencies of brain activity, except when they drank or took drugs.

There are many ways to shift into these states. Listening to relaxing, balancing music is one of the easiest and most enjoyable. No special training is necessary when you choose the right music.

This is such an important point. Only a few authors have pursued this topic. And some of them were so impressed with my writing that they blatantly plagiarized my book.

The larger point is, for all of us, whether in recovery or just seeking balance in this out of balance world, we need to find ways to tune in to the inner silence, and the inner wisdom within each of us. Whatever name you feel most comfortable with, whether it be Higher Power, God, the Universe, your Higher Self or the quantum field, the bottom line is that most individuals benefit from including a version of this psycho-spiritual technology into their lives.

Full disclosure: I first met John Bradshaw in Houston when I was on my book tour for Sound Health in April 1985. He told me how important and helpful my music was in his recovery. I was not familiar with his work at that time, and didn’t realize what a profound connection we’d share when he invited me to accompany him on stage at the legendary Red Rocks amphitheater near Denver on July 8, 1988. It was a magical evening on many levels.

Over the next five years, I learned so much from him. I also

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 23

know that many thousands of individuals were introduced to my music at his events, live recordings, and appearances on Oprah, Sally Jesse Raphael and many other programs.

We recorded an album that featured two meditations for daily use. It was originally titled 11th Step Meditation And Recovery, then Meditations For Personal Growth. I had recently revised the recording, and it’s now available as Meditations To Support Sobriety And Recovery. I’ve also included as a free bonus, the music that was featured on the companion album, Lullabies For Your Inner Child.

The meditative music that he featured can now be found on Chakra Suite, the upcoming Nurturing Your Inner Child, and Music For Creating Love (now available as Music For Lovers Vol. 1). To this list I would add my more recent releases, Deep Alpha and Deep Theta (which both add Aural-Sync™ sonic brainwave entrainment tones), as well as Relaxation Suite and Gifts of the Angels.

SPECT Brain Scans, Addiction and ADD The other night I was channel surfing and got lucky. I landed on KQED’s first airing of Dr. Daniel Amen and Tana Amen’s new programming on ADD, Addiction and the Brain. What I found especially persuasive was that, once brain scans had identified the specific areas of concern, nutritional and other protocols could be suggested that effectively balanced the individual.

I was so impressed by Dr. Amen’s research and successful treatment protocols that I wanted to get my own brain scan. Then I found out it costs $3500.

I was therefore delighted that his package deal on the PBS stations includes a do-it-yourself questionnaire and material covering the Best Natural solutions to ADD. I ordered it, but have not received it yet, so I can’t report any further than that. For more information, check with your local PBS station, or visit Dr. Daniel Amen at Amenclinics.com.

Yours for sound health and balanced brains, Steven Halpern STEVEN HALPERN is a GRAMMY® nominated recording artist, pioneering sound healer and researcher. His latest releases are AMBIENT ALCHEMY featuring Michael Diamond, and MEDITATIONS TO SUPPORT SOBRIETY AND RECOVERY featuring John Bradshaw.

24 Conscious Community - October 2014

“God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today.

Have you used one to say ‘thank you?’”

William Arthur Ward

THE MAGICAL WORLD OF NUMBERS October... New Beginnings, Money, and the God Force

by Elizabeth Summers

By October, the beautiful season of Fall has arrived bringing with it new looks in Mother Nature, new weather conditions and new life styles for we humans as we begin our nesting for the next several months.

mind that money is simply an energy boomeranging back to us for our past efforts to move forward in life. During the middle part of life, the Wheel of Good Fortune should definitely turn in one’s favor.

This tenth month of the calendar year has all the energies of a compound Number. Not only does Ten carry the qualities of One but the Zero “super charges” One which adds intensity.

Metaphorically, the Zero is like a Delco battery sitting on a store shelf full of force and power. It is not until the battery is connected to the motor in a car, for example or some mechanical device, that it really literally gets its “motor going”!

When Number Ten appears in a chart for a reading it indicates a time to begin again as a new cycle of luck is about to come into one’s life.

The Zero “supercharges” any single Number it is connected to and thus, the power of Number One in October is intensified greatly.

The ancients believed that the Zero symbolized eternity, wholeness, oneness equaling the power of God. To these believers, this glyph was the Alpha and Omega concept as represented in the geometric of a circle.

Let’s examine just what is being supercharged by Zero that can bring a new exciting energy to many in October as they say, write, and think the Number Ten. Happily, the Number Ten is a good Karma Number not a nasty Karmic Debt Number which usually leads to personal and financial losses in a lifetime. The Number Ten is not about a debt still to be paid and rectified but an energy to be enjoyed as a consequence of good behaviors and choices made in this incarnation and previous human lives. There is a freedom connected to this Number that says “your debt has been paid and now you may begin again”. Now is the time to stand on your own and use all your energetic skills to the positive that are now buried in your subconscious.

Basically, Number One represents the energy of drive and focus.

This intellectual and masculine energy represents “no nonsense” leadership. Ambition and determination are the buzz words.

Being a “bossy boss” is a danger here. Those born on the tenth of month are not only predestined to lead but their attainment of material goods in this lifetime is assured.

Keeping these qualities in mind, the Number Ten is represented by the Wheel of Good Fortune in ancient Tarot decks. The Number Ten is a good Karma Number that many think of as winning the lottery, receiving lucky breaks or even financial advancements in the stock market. One, however, has to keep in

As a personality and temperament, Number Ten people are in perpetual motion. Multi-faceted and multi-talented. It is not unusual for them to promote several businesses at one time. They regard money as a means to an end or as an easy way to further their name, reputation or position in life. A gift for invention and creativity is prevalent. This shows the influence of the God Force connection to Spirit, the Zero, where all creativity originates.

The best money can be made in fields that are new, different and original. A desire for self-employment may be prevalent.

The Number Ten personality resists taking advice from others, tending to believe that their judgment is paramount and that they should be the giver of wisdom instead of the taker. As a result, there may exist a possibility for jealousy by friends and associates, thus creating a sense of loneliness. Because of Ten’s fierce independence and self-starting qualities, Number Tens appear not to need help from others and therefore do not receive it. They appear to be the tower of strength that others can rely on.

Astrologically, October brings two eclipses to our energy fields.

Eclipses always bring change and surprising news that push and shove us into new directions in life. The first eclipse is a total eclipse of the Full Moon in Aries, October 8, bringing an ending, final chapter or closure to a one’s life that is no longer for the soul’s highest good. Take heart, though as the New Moon eclipse in Scorpio, October 23 is friendly and will instigate new openings for one to follow.

Speaking of Scorpio, “big daddy Saturn, the Marine Corps drill instructor in the Universe” is still sitting in the sign of Scorpio until December 23 when it kicks into high gear and moves forward into Sagittarius until mid-summer. For the last two years, this power house has been shaking up lives, relationships, governments, economies, finances both on a personal and general level especially for Scorpios but, in fact, all of us.

October brings us the final Mercury retrograde of 2014…hurrah!

October 4-October 25 has some of us slowing down our lives as Mercury, planet of communication, electronics, appliances, Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 25

cars and anything else that has moving parts, takes a “nap”. Just be patient and deal with whatever shows its self needing your attention. Interestingly, one does not have to wait until October 4 to feel Mercury’s slow down as two weeks before it starts waving to us that it is on its way. Recall was grabbing your attention in late September for the themes you were dealing with then were foreshadowing the issues of the retrograde.

Focus on having a personal vision for yourself in October. See how everything connects in your life making you more aware.

Listen to the God Force within you to uncover new patterns and establish new cycles of good fortune. Think “out of the box” and expand your horizons for this good Karma vibration showering over all of us in October clearly has the energy potential to show us the great and glorious abundance of the Universe.

Elizabeth Summers Spiritually guiding clients since 1988, Elizabeth Summers provides practical information.

To contact Elizabeth Summers by the phone call 303-702-5420 or by email at: elizabeth@elizabethsummers.com.

“The moment I have realized God sitting in the temple of every human body, the moment I stand in reverence before every human being and see God in him - that moment I am free from bondage, everything that binds vanishes, and I am free.”

Swami Vivekananda

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Conscious Community

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October 2014 Subscribe NOW

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America’s Oldest Spiritual and Metaphysical Magazine Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian

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• MONDAY MEDITATIONS South Elgin • bodyBUZZ SOUND MEDITATION IS A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS - South Elgin • STARTING YOUR OWN REIKI BUSINESS - Chicago

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• ANNOUNCING THE 21ST ANNUAL FELLOWSHIP OF ISIS GODDESS FESTIVAL Chicago • CHAKRA DANCE CLASS RAZENA UNWIN - South Elgin

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Pulse Calendar Wednesday, October 1 LEARNING THE TAROT - ROSEWOLF - $10 Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. 6:30 PM-7:30 PM. Learn the history, symbolism and methods to read and understand the tarot. Each week we will explore a different aspect of this powerful oracle. Bring a notebook and your favorite deck (if you have one) 10/1 - Basic Tarot Spreads 10/8 - Life Spreads 10/15 Love Spreads 10/22 - Focused Spreads 10/29 - Past Life Spreads Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Thursday, October 2 GUIDED MEDITATION WITH WALTER PERSCHKE Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 7-8pm Suggested Love Offering $5 “Now is the time to build bridges. Because when the flood comes, and it will come, you need to be ready. It will be too late to prepare.” Walter Perschke Be a learner to prepare for the changes our world is experiencing now and the changes to come.

Learn how to center yourself and enter the inward journey we are all on. Join the peaceful future rather than the chaotic present.

The answers are there for us to find. Let us help you to find them.

Instructor: Walter Perschke Location: Burr Ridge details available when registering 312-786-0077. Free Parking. www.SpiritualLearningCenter.com.

Saturday, October 4 ANNOUNCING THE 21st ANNUAL FELLOWSHIP OF ISIS GODDESS FESTIVAL--The Chicago FOI is pleased to once again host the 21st annual Goddess Festival on Saturday,

October 4, at the ManKind Project building, 1900 W. Fulton St., Chicago, 60612 from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Workshops on a variety of metaphysical topics, presentations, and a Himalayan gong group sound healing session precede the Main Ritual, “The Awakening of the Golden Phoenix,” which honors the goddess Kwan-Yin. All are welcome! $30 registration by 9/17; $40 at the door.

Registration fee includes snacks and beverages. Free parking!

Email hail_isis@yahoo.com for more information or to register.

CHAKRA DANCE CLASS RAZENA UNWIN - 1 PM- 3PM $25. Chakra Dance is a dynamic dance which aids in relieving and balancing the stresses of modern day living. Offering similar benefits to yoga. Chakra dance increases your awareness of the connection between your body and soul and leaves you with a feeling of inner peace and serenity. Through dance we are able to free up our natural energy flows and harmonize our chakras.

Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Monday, October 6 BHARAT KALRA GUIDED MEDITATION - 6:30 PM -8:00 PM. $10. Anxiety is the root cause of all stress. Stress is the cause of most physical conditions as per medical research. It will be interesting to find out the root cause of anxiety and how to work with it. Come join this meditation session to discover a different dimension. Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

MONDAY MEDITATIONS - Crystal River Gifts. 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Attention Advertisers Did you know that the Pulse Calendar section is one of the most read parts of Conscious Community? The Pulse Calendar listings are $1.00 per word with 20 words minimum.

Copy is due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Copy submitted after the deadline is not guaranteed to be included in the next issue. Check or credit card must accompany calendar listings.

For questions, please email: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com or call 847-966-1110.

30 Conscious Community - October 2014

Tuesday, October 7

LIVE DEMONSTRATION OF HIGHER BRAIN LIVING® in Chicago. 7:00-8:30pm. Discover how to organically and sustainably transform your life.

RSVP: www.SecondThursday.Eventbrite.com.

DREAM INTERPRETATION CLASS - 7-9pm $25. Learn the importance of your dreams and how to interpret them. Learn to utilize your own dreams to improve your life. You will also learn techniques to remember your dreams. Dreams are the primary method of communication from the subconscious mind for most people. The various types of dreams their function in your life, and their symbolic nature will be discussed. Bring your dreams questions and leave with answers. Instructor: Walter Perschke Location: Theosophical Society in America. 1926 North Main Street Wheaton, IL 60187. SpiritualLearningCenter@gmail.com 312-786-0077.

Friday, October 10 A.K., MUSCLE TESTING, INTUITION, & SPIRIT RELEASE 7-8:30pm, Soul Proprietor, Willow Springs, 2CE’s, $15 Adv Reg. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com.

Saturday, October 11

TUESDAY QI GONG CLASS - 6:30 PM - 7:30PM $10.

Tuesday’s October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th Activate, stimulate and cultivate your chi/life force energy with this gentle ancient exercise. Chi is the spark that beats your heart. Great for all fitness levels. Improve your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. This is a no pain great gains form of exercise that will leave you feeling balanced and having calm energy.

“The secret to anti-aging’ it’s the ‘miracle exercise’ for people seeking to avoid drugs, surgery and expensive doctor bills.” Dr. Mehmet Oz on Oprah Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY - Tuesday’s: October 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th, at noon. Wednesday’s Candlelight Yoga October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. 7:30 PM Four week session $48 **7 people minimum** Beginners are welcome Adult yoga ( age 16+) Nancy May is a registered yoga teacher for 15 years, teaching yoga classes to adults and kids. She holds workshops and retreats all over the country as well as Costa Rica and Belize in 2015. Take this opportunity to finally try a yoga class and see for yourself what yoga is all about. Try it you have nothing to lose and may find out what yoga enthusiasts are all excited about!

Wednesday, October 8 LEARNING THE TAROT - ROSEWOLF - $10. Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See listing for Wednesday, October 1 for full details.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY - Candlelight Yoga. October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Thursday, October 9 A SOUL’S JOURNEY – 7:30pm - 9:30 pm. Our past lives provide the back-story to the life we are living here. $20/$25.

Inner Metamorphosis University, 1418 W Howard St, Chicago, 773-262-1468. www.Lifesurfing.org.

GUIDED MEDITATION WITH WALTER PERSCHKE Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. See listing for Thursday, October 2 for full details.

CREATING AND EMPOWERING A PERSONAL HEALING CIRCLE (Shamanic practice with Dawn Wrobel) 9:30-4:30 www.SoulProprietor25.com 708-277-4958.

PAST LIFE REGRESSION WORKSHOP with nationally acclaimed author MIRA KELLEY! Through the gentle and beautiful process of past life regression, Mira provides an opportunity to learn about your past lives and discover your true purpose in this life. Everyone is able to experience a past life regression with resulting insights and instantaneous emotional or physical healing. 10 am – 6 pm, Theosophical Society, 1926 N. Main Street, Wheaton, 60187. Registration $125 at theosophical.org/programs/workshops or 630-668-1571 ext. 315.

PSYCHIC FAIR 5pm ‘til 10pm Enlightened Balance 30F North Williams, Brink Street Market, Crystal Lake 815-307-1180.

SAVE THE DATE– Only 30 days: Meditation Retreat with mystic Bhashkar. Nov 11 -16 in Wisconsin. Hosted by Inner Metamorphosis University, 773-262-1468. www.Lifesurfing.org.

A GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION. Rosley’s Rocks and Gems in Chicago has lost their lease after 21 years of business!

Don’t fret, they’re moving into a larger, more spectacular location! They will now be offering classes and workshops in their large classroom in The Center, healing sessions by different healers in the Chicagoland area in their healing room, and will even have a crystal skull room that will have hundreds of crystal skulls for adoption. Visit the new space, and join the grand opening, October 1st, 2014, noon – 7pm @ 4344 N. Western Ave, Chicago IL 60618 (just south of Montrose Ave on Western Ave)! www.crystalmaster.com. Come and play with us!

CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR NEARDEATH STUDIES (IANDS)/INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES (ISEE), support/ study group/resource/forum for spiritual experiences, near-death experiences, out-of-body experiences, losses, research. Saturday, October 11, 2014: Guest Speaker: GREGORY SHUSHAN, PhD, from Oxford, England, ”Near-Death Experience and the Origins of Afterlife Beliefs.” Don’t miss it!....Frank Auditorium in Evanston Hospital. 2-5 pm. Free covered parking. For more info: 847.251.5758 or http://www.chicagoiands.org.

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 31

Sunday, October 12 UFO’S, CROP CIRCLES, ST. MALACHY’S PROPHECY - This is the last Pope, Christ’s return, Healing Wells, All connected?

9:30-10:30am, Soderworld Healing Arts, Free. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com.

Monday, October 13 ANDRES PERAZA GONG MEDITATION - 6:30PM-7:30PM. $10. Detoxify your mind and body from the stress of daily life.

Enjoy a sonic massage that will soothe your soul and lift your spirit. Experience the power of the gong with Gong Guru, Andres Peraza, an experienced percussionist for over 30 years. Wear comfortable clothing and bring your favorite pillows, blanket and an open mind - studio does provide these if needed. The Gong will do the rest. Crystal River Gifts.310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

MONDAY MEDITATIONS - Crystal River Gifts. 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Tuesday, October 14 TUESDAY QI GONG CLASS - October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th.

See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY -- $10. Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Wednesday, October 15 BEGINNERS MEDITATION 101. Time: 7-9pm. $25. This is a class for those who want to learn how to meditate and for those who have tried with limited success. If you are a beginner or challenged to quiet the mind chatter and focus enough to successfully meditate, this one time class is for you. Learn a simple “how to” process through guided meditation to improve your life. Only offered once each year. Instructor: Walter Perschke. Location: Burr Ridge. Please call 312-786-0077 or send email for location SpiritualLearningCenter@gmail.com. www.SpiritualLearningCenter.com HEAVENLY MARRIAGE: THE UNION OF MIND AND INTUITION. 6 to 8 PM, $35. When the mind is properly oriented, the intuitions coming from the soul will be correctly interpreted. But if the lower mind and emotions are overly involved, the soul’s intuitions can become distorted and misapplied. Learn specific techniques to coordinate the efforts of the mind and intuition for their greatest potential. Instructor: William Meader. Location: Equilibrium Energy + Education, 47 W. Polk St., Suite M5, Chicago. Registration is required: 312-786-1886.

LEARNING THE TAROT - ROSEWOLF - $10. Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See listing for Wednesday, October 1 for full details.

32 Conscious Community - October 2014

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY - Candlelight Yoga. October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Thursday, October 16 ANGELIC HEALING WITH CRYSTAL AND OILS - Learn which crystals and oils have angelic connections and how to use them to heal. 7pm. www.SoulProprietor25.com 708-277-4958.

GUIDED MEDITATION WITH WALTER PERSCHKE Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. See listing for Thursday, October 2 for full details.

Friday, October 17 A.K., MUSCLE TESTING, INTUITION, & SPIRIT RELEASE 4-5pm, Mid-America Hypno-Conf, 1CE. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com.

REAL GHOST STORIES ROSEWOLF - 6:30PM-8:30 PM $10.

Real Ghost Stories. Join RoseWolf as she delves into 20 years of her personal case files to recount true stories of spirits, ghosts and all things spooky.

Friday-Sunday, October 17-19 MID AMERICA HYPNOSIS CONFERENCE - Go to the web page for information Hypnosis, Readers, Alternative Solutions www.midamericaconference.com. 847-451-9303.

TWO-DAY WORKSHOP AT BENET LAKE WISCONSIN Discover the hidden clues of your spiritual mission in the world in this . 4PM The Science of the Seven Rays and Astrology combine to reveal the powerful insight into your soul’s nature and purpose. http://meader.org/event/astro-rayology-workshop-3/ 630-780-0733.

Saturday, October 18 INTUITIVE GALA at Crystal River Gifts, South Elgin. Time: 12-5pm. To schedule appointment for any of readers or healers please call 224-535-8708. www.CrystalRiverGifts.com IMU ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION PARTY - 5:30pm - open end - FREE: Potluck, laughs, music, dance. Inner Metamorphosis University, 1418 W. Howard, Chicago, www.Lifesurfing.org.

773-262-1468 LEARN HOW TO USE SELF-HYPNOSIS and the power of your mind to change and improve your life! 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for only $35 when you register online by September 30 at www.mid-americaconference.com/selfhypnosis. $45.00 after September 30. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 N. Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook.

PARANORMAL CONFERENCE in Palos Hills. Time; Saturday 10-7pm and Sunday 10-5pm. Weekend admission is $20 and one day admission is $12.50. More information about the conference

you can find on website: www.PalosParanormal.com . 708-2053667. Location: Moraine Valley 111st Street & 88th Ave. @ Moraine Valley C.C. Palos Hills IL 60465.

chemical substances. Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

PURPLE BEACON WORKSHOP CHAT CIRCLE - 7:30-9PM. $10. Experience Vocal Toning. Explore Aromatherapy and how to use it yourself. Brief Meditation, and Chatting. At The Purple Beacon, 6056 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago. www.SherylRak.com.

FREE GUIDED MEDITATION AND PRANIC HEALING - 7-9 pm Kuma Health and Wellness 1905 East 31st Street LaGrange Park, IL 60526 (708) 352-1000.

Sunday, October 19

LEARNING THE TAROT - ROSEWOLF - $10. Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See listing for Wednesday, October 1 for full details.

INTUITIVE GALA at Crystal River Gifts, South Elgin. Time: 12-5pm. To schedule appointment for any of readers or healers please call 224-535-8708. www.CrystalRiverGifts.com

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY - Candlelight Yoga: October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

A.K., MUSCLE TESTING, INTUITION, & SPIRIT RELEASE - 2-4pm, Mid-America Hypno-Conf, 2CE’s. Tom Masbaum, 708955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com.

Thursday, October 23

PARANORMAL CONFERENCE in Palos Hills. Time; Saturday 10-7pm and Sunday 10-5pm. Weekend admission is $20 and one day admission is $12.50. More information about the conference you can find on website: www.PalosParanormal.com . 708-2053667. Location: Moraine Valley 111st Street & 88th Ave. @ Moraine Valley C.C. Palos Hills IL 60465.

GUIDED MEDITATION WITH WALTER PERSCHKE Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. See listing for Thursday, October 2 for full details.

MELT YOUR TROUBLES AWAY – HEALING WITH COLOR - Create a piece of art (no art experience necessary) and learn about the healing properties of color. Mini-reading: what does your art reveal about your personality? 7pm. www.

SoulProprietor25.com 708-277-4958.

Monday, October 20 DARLA TEGTMEIER RECONNECTING WITH ENERGIES OF THE EARTH - 6:30 PM-7:30 PM $10 Reconnect with the Earth Energy: With busy life styles, less outdoor activities, wearing shoes and not physically connecting to the earth, we lose some of that connection with her. This is a great time of year for you to reconnect with the energies of the earth. Crystal River Gifts 310. N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

EFT, FULL LEVEL ONE WORKSHOP - 10am-6pm, MidAmerica Hypno-Conf, EFT Certificate of Completion, 7CE’s, $97. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com.

Friday, October 24

SPOOKY SPAGHETTI GOURMET DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION - 5:00 – 8:00 PM @ Unity of Northwest Indiana, 740 River Drive Hammond, IN. Family Fun! Dinner, Basket Raffle, Silent Auction! Costumes encouraged. For tickets call 219-9315284 or email officemanager@unitynwi.org.

Sunday, October 26 THE BASICS OF ORGANIC GARDENING: A WAY TO PROMOTE HEALING with Master Gardener PAUL DENNIS, 1:30-4:30pm, at The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Organic gardening defined, setting up an organic garden, the value of mulching and seasonal preparation tips. Cayce concepts on a healthy diet and how this assists with meditation. $30, $25 for A.R.E. members. 847-299-6535.

MONDAY MEDITATIONS - Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Tuesday, October 21 TUESDAY QI GONG CLASS - October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th.

See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY -Tuesday’s: October 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Wednesday, October 22 ESSENTIAL OILS CLASS DARLA TEGTMEIER - 7:30 PM -8:30 PM $20. From aromatherapy to topical applications, this class will give you a jumpstart to using essential oils in your everyday life with confidence. What to use for a headache, muscle stiffness, foggy head and much more. There are thousands of applications where essential oils can be used safely in place of

Monday, October 27 bodyBUZZ SOUND MEDITATION IS A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS - Antonio and Marie Soriano 6:30 PM-7:30PM $10 Participants lay on blankets or Yoga mats (please bring your own) and meditate to a lovingly composed musicscape Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

MONDAY MEDITATIONS - Crystal River Gifts 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

STARTING YOUR OWN REIKI BUSINESS. 6 to 8 PM, $35. Everything you need to know to launch a rewarding and

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 33

successful Reiki practice. Instructor: Equilibrium Director Bernadette Doran. Location: Equilibrium Energy + Education, 47 W. Polk St., Suite M5, Chicago. Registration is required: 312-786-1882.

Tuesday, October 28 TUESDAY QI GONG CLASS - October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th.

See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY -Tuesday’s October 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Wednesday, October 29 LEARNING THE TAROT - ROSEWOLF - $10. Wednesday’s: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See listing for Wednesday, October 1 for full details.

YOGA CLASSES NANCY MAY - Candlelight Yoga October 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. See Tuesday, October 7 listing for full details.

Thursday, October 30 GUIDED MEDITATION WITH WALTER PERSCHKE Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. See listing for Thursday, October 2 for full details.

HEALERS AND CRONES PARTY! Come share some healing wisdom, a trick or a treat, and laughter (the best medicine). Come in costume if you dare! 7pm. www.SoulProprietor25.com .

708-277-4958.

Saturday, November 1 ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT LABYRINTH WALK & SAMHAIN RITUAL by Pagan Unity at 6:00pm Elgin Unitarian Universalist Church. Suggested Donation $5.00. https://www.facebook.com/silvermoontones.

REIKI ONE - WITH DARLA TEGTMEIER 9 am - 5 pm. $150.

You will learn the basics of Reiki, fain an understanding of what it can, and cannot do, and start to incorporate it into your life.

Reiki is not something that you just do, it is a way to be. Crystal River Gifts 310 N. 310 N. La Fox St. South Elgin, IL 60177 (224) 535-8708.

Saturday-Saturday, November 1-8 PLAN YOUR MEXICAN RETREAT with Ann Brown of Mystic Heart Healing and David Klow of Skylight Counseling at the beautiful Trocones Spa and Retreat Center! For more information about this enchanting experience go to www.mystichearthealing.com.

Sunday, November 2 (Every Sunday thru 12/7) RAISE YOUR SPIRITUAL AWARENESS - 5-week Psychic 34 Conscious Community - October 2014

Development Course. Learn How To Communicate with Spirit Guides, Read Oracle Cards, Experience Auras and Chakras, and Tap Into Your Healing Self. Sundays November 2nd - December 7th (11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30, 12/7) $360, Early Bird $300 thru October 19th. Urban Escape Healing Studio, Chicago, IL. www.CarlaStarla.com 773-294-2289, www.BarretHedeen.com 847-951-6328.

Friday-Sunday, November 7-9 AROMATHERAPY CERTIFICATION OVER A WEEKEND Complete the entire 50 hour level 1 aromatherapy certification over a weekend! Taught by Dr. Christina Wilke-Burbach PhD, a leading aromatherapy expert, teacher, and business member of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. Lodging on site! West Bend, WI (southern Wisconsin). Registration/More Info contact Mind, Soul, and Self at http://www.mindsoulandself. com or mindsoulandself@yahoo.com or 608-393-7353.

Tuesday-Sunday, November 11-16 MEDITATION RETREAT WITH MYSTIC BHASHKAR - Nov 11 -16 in Wisconsin. Hosted by Inner Metamorphosis University, 773-262-1468. www.Lifesurfing.org.

Saturday-Sunday, November 22-23 CERTIFICATION CLASS FOR EFT WITH A GUARANTEE™ 9-6pm, plus Sun, Nov 23, 9-5pm, 14 hour Certification workshop to become an “EFT With A Guarantee™” Practitioner. Basic EFT, plus Full level one plus how to guarantee success in every EFT session (for yourself & for your clients). This workshop is for both beginners & experienced EFT Practitioners. 2 reports of successful sessions required for Certification. 14CE’s, $225/$195 advance, $75 if repeat of “EFT With A Guarantee” certification class. Discounts for prior attendance at any of Tom’s 6 hour workshops. Soderworld, Healing Arts Center, Willowbrook. .

Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634, www.EFT-Tom.com ONGOING HOW IMPORTANT IS YOUR SELF-ESTEEM? Our WomensWisdom gatherings in Des Plaines support mentors & heals self-esteem of the feminine spirit. We support feminine spirituality, mentor feminine wisdom and heal our feminine image. Sundays 10:00a-11:30a or Mondays 7:00p:8:30p. For more info 847-258-7225 wwwomenswisdom@aol.com or www.womenswisdom.org.

INTERNET RESOURCES CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM Conscious Community online includes our print edition plus links to past issues.

SACRED MOVEMENT WORKSHOP facilitated by Katherine Bonev, held on Tuesday 10:30-11:30am. Sacred Movement is the personal organic expressive link between spiritual and physical.

This is not dance class. Creative motion encouraged.

847-258-7225. wwwomenswisdom@aol.com.

Lightworkers Classified Directory

AKASHIC RECORDS

ASTRO-RAYOLOGY

ILLUMINATIONS ON YOUR PATH THROUGH SHERYL RAK - sharing information, suggestions, and answers to your questions and concerns through Spirit and the Akashic Records. By phone, skype, or in person Chicago: 773-283-8349, $60 PayPal or Cash. www.SherylRak.com.

DISCOVER THE HIDDEN CLUES OF YOUR SPIRITUAL MISSION in the world in this two day workshop at Benet Lake Wisconsin. October 17-19. The Science of the Seven Rays and Astrology combine to reveal the powerful insight into your soul’s nature and purpose. http://meader.org/event/astro-rayologyworkshop-3/

ALTERNATIVE HEALING AND WELLNESS A R. PETER, D.C., M.S., REIKI MASTER, AND CERTIFIED ACUPUNCTURIST is dedicated to finding a holistic, comprehensive solution to your unique needs by way of Clinically Designed Nutrition, MuscleTesting, Chiropractic, and Acupuncture.

Also a provider of Lipo-Laser and Zaaz Whole Vibration Machine. Visit www. healthupwellness.com or call 773-4813950.

AROMATHERAPY THE SCENTUARY - Inspiring health, wellness, happiness, freedom, and perfect self-expression through the healing art of aromatherapy. Custom fragrances; natural products. www.thescentuary.com Call 773-643-1425.

PSYCHIC Intuitive Readings and Reiki along with other Wellness Options offered DAILY. Please learn more about us at www.EnlightenedBalance.com or stop in and see us at 30 North Williams Street in the Brink Street Market in Historic Downtown Crystal Lake. 815-307-1180.

STYX AND STONZ, 1758 W. Algonquin Rd. Hoffman Estates, IL 60195. 847-3589975. www.styxstonz.com.

BOOKS & METAPHYSICAL STORES

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

CRYSTAL EARTH ROCK SHOP. 207 S. Hale, Wheaton, IL. 630-588-4009. www.

CrystalEarth-Wheaton.com.

CRYSTAL RIVER GIFTS offers an eclectic assortment of books, meditation CD’s, essential oils, jewelry, crystals and much more. The services that we provide include astrology sessions, tarot readings, psychic readings, pet readings, Reiki, and reflexology. Address: 310 N. La Fox Street, South Elgin, IL 60177. 224-535-8708. www.crystalrivergifts.com.

CRYSTAL RIVER GIFTS offers an eclectic assortment of books, meditation CD’s, essential oils, jewelry, crystals and much more. The services that we provide include astrology sessions, tarot readings, psychic readings, pet readings, Reiki, and reflexology. Address: 310 N. La Fox Street, THE SPIRITUAL LEARNING CENTER South Elgin, IL 60177. 224-535-8708.

(SLC) is here to offer you the opportunity www.crystalrivergifts.com. to study with like-minded people in emotionally safe environments. SLC ENLIGHTENED BALANCE IS A strives to provide learning opportunities SPIRITUAL ENLIGHTENMENT based on expansive concepts that challenge DESTINATION - featuring a wide variety and amplify mainstream knowledge and of Nurturing Classes, Natural Products, experience. We offer the chance to learn Eclectic Gifts, Local Artist’s Art and about things that you may have always Jewelry and Private Wellness in a truly been curious about, but haven’t known Unique “BOUTIQUE” Environment! where to go for answers. To check our

LIGHTWORKERS CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY

The Lightworkers Classified Directory provides listings of a wide variety of practitioners, products, and services available to our readers.

Lightworkers listings are $1.00 per word with 20 words minimum. Copy may be submitted by email or regular mail.

Check or credit card information must accompany your insertion unless you are submitting it by email. In that case, please call with your credit card information to finalize your listing.

Please call: 847-966-1110 or send your listings to: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 35

classes, please go to our website at www.

SpiritualLearningCenter.com or call 312786-0077. 47 W. Polk Street, Suite 153, Chicago, IL 60605.

PAST LIFE REGRESSION

Soul Proprietor Holistic Center

Supporting you on your personal/spiritual journey.

Join us for a Harvest of Healing in October

GREGORY PAXSON: Past Life Regression since 1977. Quickly achieve freedom from a myriad of issues and situations. Gain real spiritual growth.

See your life with new eyes. See me on YouTube. Information or appointment: 773-262-1168.

SUSAN WISEHART, LMFT, 25 years licensed therapist. Past/Between Lives regressions. Trained by Brian Weiss and Michael Newton. Des Plaines/Mundelein.

847-438-7878. www.susanwisehart.com.

COUNSELING SHERILYN ALEXANDER, MS OMC, Spiritual Counselor, Author, Journalist.

Please visit Sherilyn Alexander’s HOPE BLOOMS (www.lightblooms.com ) or e-mail to brightangel2012@outlook.com for information.

Infinite Possibilities, the Art of Living Your Dreams 6 week class that will heal and change your life

Astro Chat – House of Health Working with the Healing Archetypes Gong Meditation w/ Andre the Gong Guru Creating & Empowering a Personal Healing Circle Intuitive Development Healing Your Chakras Meditation – Breathwork for Healing Create a Vision Board for Healing Angelic Healing with Crystals and Oils Melt Your Troubles Away – Healing with Color Healers and Crones Wisdom Party!!!

Yoga Basics – New* Tom Masbaum: Applied Kinesiology for Health & Healing New Moon SoulCollage® Reiki/Healing Share Drum Circle For more information check our website: www.SoulProprietor25.com

Private Session with Joan Zabelka or Dawn Wrobel by appointment: Life Coaching, Wisdom Card Readings, Spiritual Direction, Reiki, Akashic Readings, Animal Communication, Lympia Cleanse, and more.

Email: soulp25@comcast.net Call or text: 708-277-4958 8695 S. Archer Ave. Willow Springs, IL 60480

EFT – EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES EFT WITH A GUARANTEE (Emotional Freedom Techniques) is a simple, rapid yet very effective process (gentle tapping).

Success Guaranteed in classes and individual sessions (over 5,000). Tom Masbaum, www.EFT–Tom.com 708–955– 3634, EFTwithTom@Gmail.com.

ENERGY HEALING NAN ACTIPES, Certified Master Practitioner of Yuen Method, Balances Body, Mind and Spirit on 6 levels. For Information Call: 312-802-6244.

HEALTH SERVICES ALTERNATIVE HEALING & WELLNESS Dr. Theresa R. Peter, D.C., M.S., Reiki Master, and Certified Acupuncturist is dedicated to finding a holistic, comprehensive solution to your unique needs by way of Clinically Designed Nutrition, Muscle-Testing, Chiropractic, and Acupuncture. Also a provider of Lipo36 Conscious Community - October 2014

Laser and Zaaz Whole Vibration Machine.

Visit www.healthupwellness.com or call 773.481.3950.

running. Hypnosis can help you discover and overcome them. Call me 630-8531910. oli@mentorsforchange.com.

HOLISTIC HEALING SERVICES Providing massage therapy, healing, ionic detox ($19/hr), Weight-loss, and Body Balancing. Insurance Accepted! http:// www.h2oholistic.com/. Call 773-664-8683.

INTERNET RESOURCES

HYPNOSIS ADVANCED HYPNOTISM by awardwinning, Board Certified Diplomate of the National Guild of Hypnotists. Specializing in difficult cases, including supportive medical hypnosis. Get our Free Report to learn more. www.CSGiles.org or call (630) 668-1141.

WHAT FEAR OR DISCOMFORT IS HOLDING YOU BACK? Maybe you have some out of date behavior programs

CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY ADVERTISERS: Tap into an open and aware community by advertising your message in the Conscious Community Magazine! Display ads, Pulse Calendar and Lightworkers Directory listings are due by the 10th of every month. Call Conscious Community at 847-966-1110 or see www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine. com for advertising information.

CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

Conscious Community online includes our print edition plus links to past issues.

INTUITIVE ARTS

SCHOOLS & LEARNING CENTERS

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Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 37

CyberWeave: Spirituality and the Internet

by Mary Montgomery

From Dark Night into the Light Well, the good news is that I got my membership in the Pollyanna Club renewed. As I wrote last month, I was plunged into something of a Dark Night of the Soul in late July when I was told I needed a second set of high magnification mammograms after questions were raised about my routine mammogram.

Exploring the definitions and meaning of the Dark Night of the Soul was not only the topic of last month’s column, it was a form of therapy for my own Dark Night. As promised, I am devoting this column to advice I found on finding your way out of the darkness, and back into the light.

For me, the process was fairly easy. Even before I went back for my second test, my Dark Night had lifted. There was all the wonderful support I got from family and friends. Also, suddenly, everywhere I went I was running into organizations and survivors who were proving that breast cancer did not have to be a death sentence. As the photographer for State Senator Mattie Hunter’s 11th Annual Health, Fun & Fitness Fair, for example, I got a chance to talk to some folks from the What If…Carolyn Y. Adams Breast Cancer Foundation (http://www.whatifacure.org), a group that envisions that all individuals throughout the State of Illinois will have equal access to Early Detection Mammography, and the best treatment and support possible for their diagnosis.

Then there were the ladies wearing bright t-shirts with the word Touched on the front. Some were relatives and friends of women who had breast cancer. Others, the ones with the word SURVIVOR on the back, had faced the disease and won. I was uplifted by their courage and concern, and by the fact that there were groups out there ready to support you during this type of Dark Night journey.

For me, the radiologist at the Breast Imaging Center at Rush University Medical Center had good news. There was nothing to be concerned about, she said. I will have to go back in six months for a precautionary retest, yet I shouldn’t be concerned about that either. I’m not saying that I wouldn’t have struggled if the news hadn’t been good. Yet I already had a basis for tempering any Dark Night with a positive outlook and courage.

As I continued to research Dark Night of the Soul, I realized that at least some of the experts wouldn’t consider my own experience as a Dark Night at all. For them, the depth and length of one’s suffering is a key factor. I have to admit that my own suffering, 38 Conscious Community - October 2014

while deep at first, didn’t last, and it wasn’t only because of the radiologist’s good diagnosis. It was because of the way I look at life. After all, didn’t I end last month’s column by saying that I would listen to the “Always Look On the Bright Side of Life” YouTube Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJUhlRoBL8M)?

The idea that you have to suffer in order to have true spiritual awakening is central to a lot of religious and psychological thought. In 1902, for example, William James, the Father of American Psychology, published The Varieties of Religious Experience. His exploration of religious feelings and religious impulses led him to believe that there were two types of religious (aka spiritual) folks: the Healthy-Minded, and the Sick Souls. The Healthy-Minded are those who have the tendency to look on all things, and see that they are good. Evil is, by and large, excluded from their vision. They are Once-Born, seeing God, not as a strict judge, but as an animating Spirit, beneficent, kind, and merciful.

Because of this, James viewed the Healthy-Minded as a lower level of religious experience.

Sick Souls, on the other hand, according to James, look at life in terms of the resident evil that lurks there, recognizing that a supernatural remedy is required. These must be Twice-Born in order to be happy. They have to go through the depressive valleys of their discontent, and emerge via religious revelatory experience to a state of happiness that does not deny the existence of radical evil. (See William James and the Sick Soul, (www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLUBcOXI5pU) Hmm… Well, maybe. Yet, after reading pleas by those who have had Dark Nights lasting for years, I think it is time to set aside the categorizations, and get some practical advice from those who are naturally optimistic, and those who have struggled through the depressive valleys to experience happiness. One of those pleas was particularly poignant. In December of 2008, a post in the Beliefnet community section stated: “I’ve been firmly stuck in the Dark Night of the Soul for eight years. I was wondering if anyone has any practical advice on surviving it.” While the writer appreciated the discussion his plea had generated, he basically ended up saying: “…I’m starting to think now that there’s nothing really to do but trust in the process, and keep praying for guidance.”

While I too, believe in praying for guidance, I do not think that there is “nothing really to do.” One of the reasons that I think I was able to pull myself out of my Dark Night quickly, even before getting the good news, is that I have developed a toolbox of spiritual and self-help techniques that I can apply to challenging situations. Another is my support network of friends and family, which I purposefully connected to, rather than disconnected from. Therefore, my first advice is to develop your toolbox and support network before—or in between—any Dark Nights you experience.

What if you’re not naturally optimistic or Healthy-Minded? There are some excellent resources out there for you too. One of them is the work of Marci Shimoff (www.happyfornoreason.com).

Her book, Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out, has become a classic. It is particularly valuable because she wasn’t a naturally happy person. The book is a result of her quest to become happy. It emphasizes a holistic approach using mind, heart, body and soul, and uses ground-breaking research to back it up. Exercises and quizzes give readers practical steps toward their goal, such as breathing exercises (Spring Forest Qigong), and writing assignments (“Write a letter to your Higher Power”). Hey! Spring Forest Qigong (www.springforestqigong.com) is one of my practices!

Shimoff has also written Love for No Reason, a guide to attaining an inner love state that anyone can access at any time. As a first step, you can go to her website and sign up for the newsletter, and receive a free Happy for No Reason Self-Assessment and workbook. (Editor’s Note: She also is a co-author of many of the great Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and The Secret.)

Nights is by purposefully reconnecting with our loved ones, and our friends, then extending this connection out to all other beings, to nature, and to the universe.

Those Dark Nights of the Soul when fruitfully traversed are supposed to help us remember who we really are. St. John of the Cross said that in a Dark Night of the Soul, “the divine touches the soul to renew it and to ripen it, in order to make it divine.” We are all one, all part of the same tapestry of life. By purposefully reconnecting, even though we are weighed down by our Dark Night, aren’t we tapping into that oneness that is the essence of the Divine? I think it is.

My Advice: Recognize that while Dark Nights of the Soul are inevitable in our lives, these should be temporary states. There is no intrinsic value in staying there—that’s depression. Use the resources mentioned in this column. Above all, nourish your connections with those other beings in your life—for as you nourish them, they surely are nourishing you.

Mary Montgomery’s company, Montgomery Media Enterprises, specializes in public relations, writing projects and web authoring, development and publicity, especially in the non-profit sector. Ms. Montgomery has a Master’s Degree in religious studies from Chicago Theological Seminary (CTS), and is working on a Ph.D. with a focus on the scholarship of Unlimited Love and the Other Regarding Virtues. Contact her via e-mail at: monty764@sbcglobal.net

I found another key (a whole key ring full of keys, really) when I happened to tune into the PBS/WTTW pledge drive and saw The Happy Movie (www.thehappymovie.com). The documentary, created by Academy Award nominated Roko Belic, co-founder of Wadi Rum Films, searches the globe looking for the fountain of happiness. I was so moved by the movie that I made a donation and got the DVD. I only got one of those DVDs, yet there are also a three-pack, and a ten-pack selection. “You will want to hand out copies of this movie to your friends and family,” said Belic, who was in the WTTW studios. Now, I wish I had gotten more. I shared the movie with friends who asked to borrow my copy to share with their daughter. Of course, I let them borrow it, yet I think I need to get more copies, and start giving them away.

The Happy Movie deserves a column of its own, so stay tuned for that next month. I will share one of the insights as stated by Belic: “We all have the ability to have relationships, no matter how rich or poor,” he says. “Nobody I studied [who was happy] was selfish or alone. They all had somebody they loved, and somebody who loved them.”

Which takes me back to my September exploration of the Dark Night of the Soul: one of the hallmarks of the Dark Night is experiencing a vast interior landscape of loneliness and abandonment, even in the midst of loved ones and friends.

Perhaps one of the ways we can find our ways out of our Dark Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 39

Meditation:

Healing the Scars from Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, PTSD and More

by Tom North

Meditation saved my life.

My father, Richard North, died in a Navy jet test flight crash when I was six years old. Fifteen months after his death, my mother, Helen North, who had eight children, re-married a man named Frank Beardsley, who had ten, making us one of the largest families in the country. We became famous, and our story was featured in the movie, Yours, Mine and Ours. But it wasn’t one big happy family. We had to hide the fact that we were living a lie.

My stepfather was abusive on every level - physically, emotionally and sexually. His constant rage, disapproval and controlling personality left deep emotional scars. And, to make matters worse, our family hid this from the outside world, so we each suffered in silence. The toll I paid was enormous. Lacking any sense of self-worth, it drove me to depression and drugs. I imagine many people will identify with the feelings, even if their home life was not as extreme as mine. But trauma is trauma-whether suffered in a living room or the theatre of war.

As a young adult I discovered meditation. It was my passage out of a deep depression and emotional despair, and I’m here to recommend it as a powerful and effective solution if you cannot get out of the mental patterns that keep you stuck, feeling a victim of past trauma.

Meditation was and still is a vital therapy for my continued survival and healing from a life of child abuse and domestic violence. I still practice it every day, having begun more than 38 years ago.

Meditation is indeed a powerful tool for health and healing on all levels. Research shows that group meditation can produce a radiating influence of peace in society. Recently, Dr. Deepak Chopra sponsored and conducted an online Global Group Meditation for Peace with over 100,000 people participating from around the world. I was happy to be a part of this important event.

This was a tremendous service Dr. Chopra was delivering to the audience, for as he explained, meditation is the key to our connection with ourselves, our Divine Selves. It is also our connection to the collective consciousness. Studies show that 40 Conscious Community - October 2014

everything in the universe is connected and it is possible to unite people in heart-focused care and intention to facilitate the shift in global consciousness from instability and discord to balance, cooperation and enduring peace.

The Health Benefits of Daily Meditation are Many The scientific evidence documenting the benefits of Transcendental Meditation, especially for PTSD, which includes child abuse, is conclusive. While there may always be skeptics, it is irrefutable that meditation delivers improvements on every level of life, from stress management to emotional, physical and spiritual balance.

Dr. Norman Rosenthal, senior research scientist at the National Institute of Health (NIH), has published his studies of over 300 experiments that prove the importance and benefits of meditation.

This is in addition to the many thousands of published reports that have become available over the last 40 years that have come out of Maharishi University of Management, Harvard University and many others.

In my own experience, and in the experience of many meditators who have been culturing a daily meditation practice over time, the ongoing result has been a steadily growing expansion of awareness and appreciation for all of life. This takes the form of improved relationships with those around me, connection with the entire human race and seeing the divine intelligence in the simplest life forms.

I would be remiss if I didn’t include experiencing an overwhelming sense of love for everyone and everything I encounter. As one friend and former college classmate of mine said, “I was stopped in commuter traffic on the 405 freeway in L.A. I looked around me at the thousands of cars and people and was feeling an unbounded love for all of them!”

If this is the outcome of consistent meditation, then it certainly is worth trying for anyone whose long-ago trauma-related or trauma-triggered emotions frequently get the better of them. For those who simply cannot see their way out of their own personal darkness, meditation is even more important. I encourage you to make the commitment.

*Disclaimer: Please remember that meditation is not a substitute for professional care or psychiatric help if that is what is needed.

Many physicians and psychologists recommend meditation in conjunction with standard therapies.

Tom North is the author of True North - The Shocking Truth About “Yours, Mine and Ours” They appeared to be the blissful Beardsleys, the happily blended family-eight of Helen North’s, ten of Frank Beardsley’s, and two children from their union.

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1. Give yourself permission to get better, understanding that meditation can provide healing and relief.

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3. Commit to regularity. Research shows that 20 minutes twice a day is optimal.

4. Create a space that is just for you to meditate each day.

Unplug the phone(s) and put your silenced cell phone where you cannot see it. No cheating!

5. Get your mediation checked regularly by your teacher. This is very important.

6. If you absolutely have to miss a session, do not be hard on yourself - it is OK to renegotiate with yourself, recommit and pick up where you left off.

7. Wait two months, and then check in on your memories of pain and trauma...do you feel better able to just let them go, to allow them to NOT MATTER anymore?

8. Congratulate yourself for staying with it! You’re on your way to true healing.

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In Print

by Romina Vintila

Create Your Own Destiny by Rachel Madorsky ( Avanty House, $19.95, Paperback)

Love’s Calling – A journey to Self by Elizabeth Griffin (O books, $19.95, Paperback)

The unique book, written in easy-tounderstand terms, is a desktop guide to health for those interested in the preservation of health and the maintenance of karma.

This is a journey through Italy, as the author embarks on an adventure in the search for love, goes through her own battles with illness and comes out victorious.

I’m Free- Awareness of Who you Are by Discovering Who you Are Not by Erika Kind (Balboa Press, $20.99, Paperback)

Toxic World, Toxic People by Anna Victoria Rodgers (Soul Rocks, $37.95, Paperback)

This book looks into the way our thoughts and feelings create our outer reality and how important it is to check those and bring them to the surface.

This compendium of different environmental toxins and dangers is an educational look at our food and all the different chemicals we are exposed to and how to overcome their effects.

A Little Piece of Me - A Novel by Stephen A. Geller (Authorhouse, $17.95, Paperback) This is the story of a struggling mother, who has to overcome many obstacles including the health struggles of her son, and she eventually has to donate part of her liver to her son.

The Simplicity of Love Meditation by Tony Samara (Tony Samara Books, $18.99, Paperback) Through the life lessons we all learn, one stays with us, the energy of Love, acceptance and forgiveness has the power to help us heal and transcend all out worldly problems.

Mind Worx- An Inside Story by Dan Brand (Balboa Press, $18.51, Paperback) In this book, many different concepts from ego, to death and truth seeking are explored.

Written in a philosophical manner, the author attempts to explain some of the most common questions about existence.

42 Conscious Community - October 2014

The Wisdom of White Wing by Donald M.T. McQueen (Trafford, $19.29, Paperback) This book is a precious collection of channeled messages from papers that the author acquired more than 50 years ago.

The messages come from Native American tribesman, White Wing and they cover a wide range of topics about our planet, our souls and how to overcome the pain in our past.

The Path to the Guru by Scott Teitsworth (Inner Traditions, $19.95, Paperback) Inspired by extensive studies into the Bhagavad Gita, this book explores the many parallels drawn from this beautiful Hindu story and science, spiritual transformation and the dilemmas that humans encounter when it comes to their faith.

The Dance of RealityA Psychomagical Autobiography by Alejandro Jodorowsky (Park Street Press, $24.95, Paperback) This book, a motion picture as well, will take the reader on a paradoxical journey of spirituality, imagination, quirky and mixed elements of life, as well as shock through its use of blunt language and visuals. It is a ride in it of itself that will challenge and awe.

The Anomaly by Wendy Joyce (Red Hour Ink, $19.69, Paperback) In the aftermath of one lie told by the protagonist, Zia, all life on Earth is changed and a battle is waged between Haven and Hades. The domino effects spiral out of control making the reader think of reincarnations, karma, and cause and effect.

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Romina Vintila is a Chicagoland writer, activist, and spiritual mentor. For over a decade, she’s been studying metaphysics, esoteric philosophy and has been published in OM Times. She’s been writing for Conscious Community and other spiritual publications for the past few years. She loves fairytales, astrology and crystal healing. You can find her blog at www.treesylph.blogspot.com

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Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 43

OCTOBER 2014

COSMIC DAILY WEATHER

by Kelley Hunter

COSMIC DAILY WEATHER 2014 - Now Available Cosmic Daily Weather 2014 Day-to-Day Astrological Guidance for Everyone

It doesn’t matter what sign you are or how much you know about Astrology,

COSMIC DAILY WEATHER 2014 is a useful guide for you. * Daily interpretations of planetary patterns in plain English with minimal use of astrological terminology. * Written for Central Time with alternate time zone instructions.

consciousness awakening throughout the solar system, including Earth. The issue is bigger than what is called global warming on our planet.

* Moon Tables for all four U.S. Time Zones, include New & Full Moons plus Moon Changes & Void of Course Moons. * A dash of poetry and musical suggestions.

Kelley Hunter, Ph.D, C.A.P.

There is a time to every purpose under Heaven Astrology seeks to reveal that time and that purpose, interpreting astronomical data in relation to our experience on planet Earth.

As a cosmic language, Astrology expands awareness of universal patterns so that we move in harmony with the ever-changing rhythms of life. As a tool for self-awareness, Astrology reveals the larger meaning of our personal and collective experience.

In these exceptional times, we need a broad perspective and all the guidance available to navigate through the turbulent seas of change. COSMIC DAILY WEATHER 2014 gives useful insights to help you through this coming year.

by Kelley Hunter, Ph.D., C.A.P.

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or call 847-966-1110 October 2014 Overview

We carry great enthusiasm into an October punctuated with a pair of unusual and potent eclipses as well as a Mercury retrograde cycle. This trickster planet turns retrograde in early Scorpio on the 3rd, but spends most of its backward loop in Libra. Decisions are being reconsidered, as well as some of the new partnerships we were surprised and excited about last month. Terms of agreement are a little harder to come by, so negotiations take longer. Sometimes it’s just a matter of opening wider the listening ear.

Especially the first week, leading up to a total lunar eclipse, the Sun is directly involved with the Pluto-Uranus Square. It may be solar flares that impose transformation and press for 44 Conscious Community - October 2014

The Full Moon on October 8 is a powerful total eclipse that emphatically indicates where we are in the process of achieving harmony on personal and global levels. We must come together in order to address necessary systemic changes. We must rise to the occasion and rebuild as indicated under Pluto’s insistent agenda to cooperate with natural cycles, rather than impose our own for the sake of our convenience and profit. Some relationships and alliances break up; others unions come together in order break free of unworkable restrictions. Venus in Libra is in on this action as well, seeking conciliation and cooperation in the revived negotiations and relationship discussions. Different points of view need to be talked out with care and attention, and maybe in the presence of an objective advisor. Again, we experience this in our own lives and see it happening on the larger world stage.

We are moving toward a pivotal point in the 20-year cycle of expansive Jupiter and conservative Saturn. This cycle monitors a shift in the political-economic arena. We are in a cycle that began in the millennial shift year of 2000. We are at a pivotal consolidation phase of this cycle. Signals are emerging that give hints about the upcoming challenge between these two planets. Developments will build this month and into November, though we must wait a few more months for this shift to be fully incorporated.

The solar eclipse in Scorpio on the 23rd features an extraordinary fusion of energies that bring a major shift of energy and, likely, a major event. Soon thereafter, Mercury turns forward. Venus and Mars change signs: Venus into intense Scorpio, while Mars moves from adventurous Sagittarius into down-to-business Capricorn. Mars can be at its best in this earth sign that calls on the best of our experience and know-how to make essential progress. The month ends with clearly changed scenario.

Wednesday, October 1

With Venus now in its own sign of Libra, both sides of the issue are being weighed. Fair play is sought, but power plays are particularly strong today, as the Moon encounters Pluto and the Sun moves closer into the hub of the Pluto-Uranus Square over the next week. There is a grumpy tone this morning. Are you feeling like you woke up on the proverbial wrong side of the bed? Financial issues continue to plague many of us. We need to look our situation in the eye and talk it over with partners, both business and personal. It might be wise to seek advice. There may be programs that can help us work things out better. Parents and children may be having arguments. Rather than being controlling, let’s see if we can come to an understanding. However, when it gets right down to it, someone is in charge. Hopefully that person is responsible and mature. We really would like to relax, have a good time and forget about all these things, but nice as that sounds, it’s clearly not a good idea today.

Thursday, October 2

We’ve made it through some intense encounters and come out the other side this morning. The situation can still be firmed up or plans and procedures discussed. What’s happening and what does it mean to you, to me, to us? The Moon goes Void of Course at 11:19am, with some good results to show for our efforts. Let’s take stock of where we are at and bandy about some ideas, maybe even wacky ones, just for fun. A sense of humor goes a long way to lighten things up and you never know when a whopper of an idea will pop out from what starts out as a joke.

Friday, October 3

The Moon move into Aquarius at 3:00am, offering perspective to something we might be stewing about. Mercury is about to go retrograde and there is some bother. Step back and watch yourself reacting. Is it worth getting in a bad mood about? Take a deep breath and shrug it off. Talking to a good listener is a good way to help figure out what is bugging you. Maybe it’s just the general gestalt. On the other hand, don’t put your too much of your stuff on others and don’t take on too much either. There might be a tendency to be overly nice and then feel really drained.

Saturday, October 4

Mercury turns retrograde today at 12:03pm. The Moon goes Void of Course almost immediately, at 1:33pm, leaving us frowning about something or other. For some good reason, we need to give penetrating Scorpio laser beam scrutiny to an issue or some decision we have made that is making us edgy. There may be some hidden factor nudging us to reexamine the plan. Mercury retrograde is about re-thinking and, when it goes back into Libra in next week, it will be about renegotiating. Another troublesome indicator is that the Sun is now confronting Pluto, stopping us in our tracks. There are big issues to contend with. This is an opportunity, not a tragedy.

Sunday, October 5

The Moon swims into sensitive Pisces at 4:24am, suggesting feelings of vulnerability. Some may seek a quiet, meditative day; others respond to a call to service. We are all swimming in the

same sea. We are seeing more and more clearly that whatever happens “over there” inevitably affects us all. Our global awareness is heightened to a point unprecedented in the known history of humanity. Some people don’t want to know or think about the implications of this undisputable fact. Many of us feel like wounded warriors. It can feel like too much to take on and some people want to turn it all off. That is one choice on a day when we feel it all so acutely. Another choice is to turn within, activate our spiritual warrior side, to distinguish what we can deal with, how much and what we can handle right now. People want to believe in higher guidance. Intimate conversations and communion with our most important people, coming from heart, answer many questions and reveal a new level of understanding.

Make sure to get a good night’s sleep to recoup your energy.

Monday, October 6

Overnight the mood has shifted, likely through the healing power of deep rest and dreams. There is so much motivational energy on tap, we can hardly help but be excited about the opportunities and possibilities in the air. There has been a universal feeling that “something’s gotta give.” Set your goals and let the winds of change fill your sails with optimism to move onward. Maintain your role as spiritual warrior. Remember the Aquarian motto, “We are the people we have been waiting for.” Take the day at an easy pace so you don’t blow your circuits or burn the candle down too far at both ends. The Moon goes Void at 2:39pm, with a sense that we are proceeding in the right direction. Allow the energy to keep flowing that way the rest of the day.

Tuesday, October 7

With the Moon entering Aries at 5:07am, we feel the Full Moon energy approaching. We are on the brink of something significant.

We sense this and cheer the energy on, taking actions that contribution to the momentum. Some persons are clearly not on this positive page and are arguing about it, metaphorically (or literally) stamping their feet. There are some rogue cowboys out there, with itchy trigger fingers. Chose your company, keep on your track, and do what you see to defuse tension and tempers.

Wednesday, October 8 FULL MOON ECLIPSE at 16 LIBRA-ARIES, 5:50am CDT

A “wow” day! This Full Moon is a powerful total eclipse. The West coast will see the whole sequence, while the rest of the country will see part of the eclipse as the Full Moon is setting, a lovely and special sight. After the peak of the eclipse, the Moon quickly goes Void of Course at 9:21am. There is a really good feeling about this eclipse. Make it so in your life. Whatever or whoever is not feeling in tune with you, free yourself and make a break. The Nodes of the Moon, which pinpoint eclipse locations through the signs, indicate a line of destiny. Last month Mercury was hanging around the North Node, bringing people together and initiating important conversations. Now Venus does the same and in her own sign, creating a great feeling of harmony, like that 1960s song: “Everybody get together, try to love one another right now.” The potential is quite extraordinary, especially with Uranus (invisibly) accompanying the Moon. There is a big movement on hand, not completely unlike the Full Moon last

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month, but with fuller, grander impact. Love, beauty and, yes, the economy are issues up front and central. Change is afoot. A most encouraging sign is the Moon’s participation in a grand trine of planets in fire signs. There is a lot of motivation for change, signaling a great day for demonstrations or big gatherings that feature the arts and innovative technologies. No mistaking that this is a revolution, with lots of good will to fuel it. One potential warning is not to go over the top for the sake of shock value, and a possibility of storms. This is a big wake-up call, with the Full Moon plugged squarely into that Pluto-Uranus Square. Consider it a kind of holiday and celebrate tonight.

Thursday, October 9

The Moon enters into practical Taurus at 6:44am, urging us to get down and make things happen. We take the best ideas on the board and DO them. First we need to consider which is the best and most worthwhile thing to start on. Innovative ideas can sound good, but need to be pragmatically sound and grounded.

Primarily we to consult our gut feeling about what project we can totally get behind, so that we put our full desire and will power into it. To do this we need to believe in it and get our full energy behind it. Remember the good advice of Bashar, a channeled teacher from the future, who speaks to our current consciousness shift. He adjures us to, “Follow your highest excitement.” The Full Moon was all about doing just that.

Friday, October 10

Retrograde Mercury backs into fair-minded Libra around noon (12:28pm), suggesting an increase in dialogue about the possibilities and options. We may still be feeling out which options we can get behind, vote for and pay for. We are taking a more pragmatic viewpoint today, as we get down to the financial bare bones. Needless to say at this point, national elections are heating up, probably with more vociferous and polarized opinions than ever. We need to listen and entertain various points of view as we collectively face meaningful, even world-changing, decisions. As we discuss the pros and cons, we get needed information about how new initiatives are going to affect ourselves and others. We can make productive headway if we keep our nose to the ground and don’t get too pulled into the arguments. The Moon goes Void of Course at 7:50pm, with lingering tensions among opposing camps. Make plans to enjoy an evening of pure fun, without pushing any agenda or bringing up issues that will ruin the mood. If someone else does, don’t get into it. Nobody’s mind is likely to change tonight.

Saturday, October 11

With the Moon going into Gemini at 10:51am, people’s minds are more likely to change. There are lots of questions on the table. Many of us are confused. No wonder, as some people are purposefully obfuscating the issues. Sheer lies likely hit the airwaves and the evening news. Some people buy into it, because on some level they really want to. Some of us don’t want anything to rock our boats. We are seldom encouraged to think for ourselves and many don’t want that responsibility. Others see through the deceptions and get angry that anybody can fall for them. Ask for and present facts in support of your point of view, though debate may be an exercise in futility. Some people’s 46 Conscious Community - October 2014

belief systems are deeply entrenched and emotionally welldefended. We can try to be as rational as possible, but the tricky mind can rationalize and make convincing excuses for any selfrighteous conviction. If we engage a deeper, heart-based level of perception, we are able to feel a compassion that forgives and allows rather than making judgments that fuel the antagonism.

This allowance heals and smoothes over tension on a subliminal level. It’s one of the higher consciousness options on offer.

Sunday, October 12

Review yesterday’s entry as debates continue. Sunday morning television may feature interesting reality shows, if you are able to be amused. We want entertainment to lighten the mood. Maybe a good movie is coming out. It’s good to get off your butt and off the computer to go hiking, out for a drive, etc. We need a change-up, some new landscape or input to change it up and give us fresh perspective. This is a lovely night for social gatherings, to enjoy convivial conversation with good people. Who knows, you might meet someone special. If you have a significant other, make a spontaneous date night. Share a new experience. Invite serendipity and delight.

Monday, October 13

Delightful leftover snippets from last night’s meetings, dates and conversations stay with us today. Even through a busy day, keep up the enjoyable interplay via email, voice texts and calls. The sound of your voice carries more feeling quality than short words.

Flowers, too. This might be easier to do after catching up this morning. The Moon goes Void at 12:59pm, leaving a space to pay more attention to sweet personal back-and-forth playfulness. This can lead to a closer feeling when the Moon enters home-sweethome Cancer at 6:30pm.

Tuesday, October 14

Today is one of “those” days, when the Moon brings to our personal attention the overarching transformational power of the ongoing Pluto-Uranus Square. There is an extra dose of tension as the insecurities of the times lead to feelings of vulnerability and defensive reactions. Misunderstandings come from taking things too personally. Continuing economic pressures force decisions that are not viable long-term solutions. Don’t jump the gun to make such irrevocable decisions unless you have to.

Mercury is still retrograde. All the information will eventually be forthcoming, but maybe not yet. Ask advice of those more in the know, take their words into consideration, talk to your family and see what options come up. We don’t want to overreact to the news, either, remembering to be wary of the deceptive spin people put out in their own best interests.

Wednesday, October 15

We are considering the fallout of yesterday’s intensity, feeling out where we stand with the situation at this point. Then we consider some strategic plan. We may not be thoroughly convinced.

For now we do what we need to do. Have conversations as necessary to gain some objectivity and realize when you are being subjective in your thinking. This goes for family and work discussions. When the Moon goes Void at 6:28pm, we are left with unresolved questions and conflicting opinions. Further

conversation tonight is not likely to lead anywhere except to more misunderstanding. So go into your “cave” to think back over what has been said when you are not in the heat of the moment. Get out, get some exercise and fresh air and call it a day.

Thursday, October 16

The Moon goes into fiery Leo at 5:30am, with a confident optimism to start out the day. Can you trust that things are going to work out? Maybe you have come up with some new thoughts since yesterday. It’s more important to be in a good emotional space than anything else. Take care of yourself so the pressure doesn’t overwhelm you, leading to poor judgment. This is the special day in its retrograde cycle that Mercury is in the heart of the Sun, promoting a heightened understanding and harmony that colors the next few days. Big deal issues are being hammered out over the next several weeks, leading to breakthroughs. We can get a jump start today. Don’t take anything for granted. Write down your understanding of the conversation and share it as appropriate. Speak your truth. Enjoy some music along the way to raise the vibrations and enhance the harmony of the day.

Friday, October 17

Indications today hint at an upcoming pivot point in the politicaleconomic sphere. Power struggles are happening on many levels, including inside ourselves as we wrestle with self-empowerment vs. self-aggrandizement in the midst of contentious issues. We will lose out if we compromise beyond a certain point, but we don’t want to be unduly selfish either. With courage of heart, stand up in your truth, even as emerging leaders stand up for the public good. Think of it as a world-changing act of great magnitude, which it is. Some lines from Shakespeare’s Hamlet come to mind, parting words given by Polonius to his son: “To thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.”

Tuesday, October 21

A Libra Moon starts bright and early at 6:13am. Some people are on the phone early. There are meetings to attend, matters to settle. Mercury is still, and obviously, retrograde, so there are some phone tag delays. We just have to laugh about it, since it so cosmically correct and may actually delay discussions that produce better results because of the time lapse. The general cooperative spirit of the last week or more continues, so let’s take advantage while we can. Some planetary shifts are soon coming, changing the vibrational field.

Wednesday, October 22

As this Moon cycle comes to a close, there is some lingering business to wrap up. We may be feeling a little more urgent about it today, as the Moon plugs into the Uranus-Pluto Square first thing in the morning. What’s going on in the morning news shows? Can you believe it?! The conversational buzz is hot and heavy. Look for the silver lining; it is there. Keep your emotional tone on a high note. Even as we witness, in some fear, distress and sorrow, the deconstruction of life as we have known it, we can be amazed, awe-struck and joyful about many of the events unfolding in our time. We just need to eliminate the word “normal” from our vocabulary.

Saturday, October 18

The Moon goes Void of Course at 8:11am, with our hearts beaming like the Sun, as long as we have been true to ourselves.

Keep shining and let the day roll on its course without pressure or much of an agenda. Enjoy every moment—another worldchanging act. This is a day to have as much fun as you can with your favorite people—belly laughs, games, arts, whatever floats your boat. When the Moon goes into Virgo at 6:08pm, you might have a seemingly incongruous inspiration to tidy up. You may need to if you have been hosting the party! Everybody should pitch in, not just the Cinderella of the house.

Sunday, October 19

Monday, October 20

We begin the work week ready to give our attention to the task at hand. We can take care of a long to-do list and a piled-high desk if we use the time well with the efficiency available under this Virgo Moon. Cooperation helps. Include some attention to health improvements, especially if your body is complaining at all. Such a finely tuned instrument that it is, we often take it for granted, compromising its self-correcting intelligence. Make room for some exercise to stretch your muscles, especially if you are at a desk or on task all day. If you have not paid attention to your physical wellbeing, the Void Moon starting at 10:31pm is likely to cause some grumping and grumbling, and possibly a restless night.

SCORPIO, the SCORPION Thursday, October 23 NEW MOON SOLAR ECLIPSE at 1 SCORPIO, 4:56pm HAPPY BIRTHDAY, you intense Scorpios.

It’s another drifting Sunday, with remnants of dreams misting the morning. See if you wake up in the 3-5:00am Neptune-influenced spiritual hour, by tradition the best meditation time. You might hear an angel singing in your ear. Amidst the big picture changes, it can be the little things that make the day-to-day difference.

A kind word, neighborly help, church soup kitchens, spiritual meetings—all are appropriate choices for this kind of day. You can make a small, but meaningful difference in someone’s life, including your own.

The energy changes dramatically over the course of the day.

This is an incredible, triple dark chocolate truffle to some or bitter dose of medicine to others. The Sun (at 6:58am) AND the Moon (after a short Void period from 12:23pm to 4:10pm) AND Venus (at 5:53pm) ALL enter Scorpio to join at the very edge of the sign in the dark of the New Moon. AND, by the way, it’s a solar eclipse! Most of North America will be able to see this partial eclipse. The Sun is more than half covered by the Moon. See the approximate time above. We might just as well celebrate Halloween on this witchy and alchemical day, one that veritably drips with esoteric arts and mystical symbols. Examine the depths of your heart to tap into your truest desire and draw

Conscious Community - www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 47

it to you over the next two weeks. Be careful what you wish for.

Several multiple astrological genius aspects are activated. Magic is clearly afoot.

This New Moon just over the Libran line into Scorpio fuses the energy of both. Interestingly, the two stars that once marked the claws of the Scorpion were redrawn into the Scales of Libra by Roman Emperor Julius Caesar when the calendar was readjusted during his reign. The Scorpion’s claws were pictured holding an Aladdin’s oil lamp or an incense burner that purified planets, Sun and Moon as they passed through. That’s an intriguing way to imagine Scorpio. In other systems those two claw stars were seen as a measuring rod, an essential tool for building sacred space. Those stars still carry the Arabic names that refer to their origin as the southern and northern claws. Here’s introducing my favorite star names: Zubenelgenubi and Zubeneschamali! Take all this into account as you pop a truffle in the mouth of your loved one and seek deep delights in the dark, or otherwise enjoy the depths of this life-altering New Moon joined with Venus in the heart of the Sun.

Friday, October 24

Yesterday’s genius aspects continue with potentially extraordinary results. This New Moon eclipse, though not total, was such an unusual phenomenon, that we are still reverberating from the life-altering ripple effects. It clearly shifted the general mood toward an intensity beyond the recent peace-loving tone of Libra. Transforming situations are altering the landscape of life, demanding a response we may not be ready to make on a practical level. First, we need to take a deep plunge into our psychological reserves and reset our emotional response, supported by our spirituality. We are experiencing death and renewal on some level in this emerging Moon cycle. Venus remains in the heart of the Sun. We usually think of Venus as the goddess of love, but this is a tough love Venus directing this show, like Hindu Kali who wields her sharp sword to cut away all that is no longer life-giving and vital.

Saturday, October 25

Still in Scorpio, the Moon enters a 12-hour Void of Course period at 11:12am, after it conjuncts serious Saturn. The energies suggest large-scale destruction from storms, earthquakes, volcanoes, violence or something else. Whatever the event, these last few days have evoked a supremely powerful moment that unquestionably changes our lives directly or by implication, for better or worse. But who is to judge? We don’t yet know what this all will lead to. What we do know is that we need to harness our resources to address the situation. This is a test of our resilience. The basic motivations that drive us will be on display, also for better or worse. Mercury turns to forward motion at 2:18pm, making communications much easier. The Moon changes into fire sign Sagittarius at 11:40pm, directing us into action. A little scattered at first, by morning we have clearer goals and harness our forces. Every degree of the Zodiac has a “Sabian Symbol” that describes its particular energy. Often these images manifest literally. The image for the Sun/Venus conjunction today is “A happy house-raising party among western pioneers.” I wonder how this will manifest.

48 Conscious Community - October 2014

Sunday, October 26

Mars makes a move into take-charge Capricorn at 5:44am, very timely. We get a plan together and move on it, using all the knowhow we have gained from past experience. We all need to rise to the occasion, as we are able. We need more than one captain of this large game plan, in order to address each situation on its own terms. One size does not fit all circumstances. We need to listen to the people on the ground, who can see what is happening. The Goddess is still in the heart of the Sun. Imagine Kwan Yin, an Asian goddess of compassion who offers magic gifts from the wish-granting tree.

Monday, October 27

A strong alignment of planets in fire signs is motivating and encouraging. The news, full of change, is generally good.

This can bring out the best in people, as we join together to accomplish goals. The Moon is Void of Course at 11:19am, with an encouraging sense that things are well underway. We need to take stock and review the plan. As we get new information about what is happening, we can make adjustments to be more effective and use our resources well.

Tuesday, October 28

The Moon joins Mars in Capricorn at 5:03am. A lot is getting done. As the day goes on we start to consider longer term plans in light of the larger agenda of the Pluto-Uranus Square, requiring initiatives that address sustainability and environmental harmony.

This is an ideal opportunity. There is general support from all sides. Various groups and organizations with know-how and experience ready to lend practical aid and even show others how to use some of the tools. This is an educational experience of learning by doing. There are lots of volunteers. It’s rather thrilling really. Let’s make it as fun as we can. Late tonight those in charge can make necessary changes to the operating plan. High-profile activity on the other side of the world may also take place overnight to make morning headlines.

Wednesday, October 29

We can accomplish more than we would have thought. It can be very satisfying to see how things are developing. There may be some glitches, miscommunications or disagreements around mid-day that may cause delays on some fronts, but many worker bees keep doing their thing like troopers. Power struggles may also impede some decisions, as to be expected. The top dogs at central control may be grumpy about being out of the loop, but that can’t be avoided in some cases especially when far from the front lines. A Void of Course Moon at 10:02pm suggests time for a respite, leaving much accomplished and motivation to continue in the morning.

Thursday, October 30

At 8:52am, the Moon moves into Aquarius to begin a social action day. There is a disgruntled mood, especially in the afternoon. We are in another sweep of destiny week, don’t we know it, and many are disappointed at the slow pace of change.

It could be that we are not getting the full story about what is going on. We need to remind each other to keep our attention on the positive developments and not get pulled down into

discouragement. This is key piece of the work we are each doing.

Positive attitude and motivation will lead to the results we want.

This is a deep change, not a superficial one, and it comes from the inside out. Take refuge in Nature. You will see life-giving inspiration all around you. Buy a bouquet.

Friday, October 31

It may still take some effort to maintain a positive attitude today.

Channel any frustration into constructive activity or playful

creativity to get your juices going. It’s Halloween, after all! Be careful on this All Hallow’s Eve, as there are some crazy people out there. More big news hits the airwaves today, but the biggest news may be what is going on between people. This is an aspect of the revolution in consciousness we can all contribute to.

Kindness, respect, listening, and other such thoughtful attentions to others helps create the world we want to live in. This includes all the other beings we live with on Earth. By joining hearts and resources we can do more than we can on our own.

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Spiritual Learning Center October 2014 Calendar of Events Guided Meditation with Walter Perschke

Thursday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • 7-8pm • Suggested Love Offering $5

“Now is the time to build bridges. Because when the flood comes, and it will come, you need to be ready. It will be too late to prepare.” Walter Perschke Be a learner to prepare for the changes our world is experiencing now and the changes to come. Learn how to center yourself and enter the inward journey we are all on. Join the peaceful future rather than the chaotic present. The answers are there for us to find. Let us help you to find them.

Location: Burr Ridge details available when registering 312-786-0077. FREE PARKING.

Dream Interpretation Class

Tuesday, October 7 • 7-9pm • $25

Learn the importance of your dreams and how to interpret them. Learn to utilize your own dreams to improve your life. You will also learn techniques to remember your dreams. Dreams are the primary method of communication from the subconscious mind for most people. The various types of dreams their function in your life, and their symbolic nature will be discussed. Bring your dreams questions and leave with answers.

Instructor: Walter Perschke Location: Theosophical Society in America. 1926 North Main Street, Wheaton, IL 60187

Beginners Meditation 101

Wednesday, October 15 • 7-9pm • $25

This is a class for those who want to learn how to meditate and for those who have tried with limited success.

If you are a beginner or challenged to quiet the mind chatter and focus enough to successfully meditate, this one time class is for you. Learn a simple “how to” process through guided meditation to improve your life.

Only offered once each year.

Instructor: Walter Perschke Location: Burr Ridge details available when registering 312-786-0077. FREE PARKING.

SpiritualLearningCenter.com Email: SpiritualLearningCenter@gmail.com 312-786-0077

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