INNER LIGHT MINISTRIES Newsletter
Ending The Game
Volume 27 Number 2
G
by Jim Gordon, President of ILM
od says to us, “I have the tools by which you can bypass all the laws of this creation, get free, and never be called back again.” The way? It is truly through the Sacred Name of God. Jesus called the Sacred Name of God the “Keys to the Kingdom.” Years ago, I was in meditation and heard inside, “Jim, a key not used, opens nothing.” If you’ve been given the Keys to the Kingdom, the Sacred Name of God, to use in your meditation and you don’t use them, the doors aren’t going to open. The frequency of the Sacred Name opens the pathway by which your soul can rise up through the center of all creation, and stand fully free in Soul, and beyond Soul. Even while you’re in the physical body, you can stand free from the bondage of this creation. Your physical body may still respond to the ways and laws of this creation, but your soul won’t. By using the Sacred Name in your meditation, you may begin to have inner experience, have an inner knowing, an awareness that something different is happening. It is that “something” in you that is getting free.
I’ve talked to people who’ve had amazing inner experiences, and I’ve talked to people who’ve had no experience. These people will say, “I don’t feel, see, or hear anything. I don’t know if there’s really anything happening, but I’m doing the meditation.” Over time – maybe weeks, months, maybe even years, some come back and say, “I’m still doing the meditation and there’s still nothing happening, but something is happening. My life is changing. I approach people differently. I don’t get angry the way I used to. I move through the world simpler and easier, so something is happening.” Whether we’re having inner experience or not, things are happening, things are changing because we’re ever rising upward, ever aligning to the truth of the divine within us, letting go of the illusion and of the separateness that this world has put upon us and which we’ve taken upon ourselves.
August 2015
This creation is the only place in all of God, and all of God’s creation, where we live in separateness and experience separateness from God. That which is “you” has been separated into many different selves: we have a feeling self, a mental self, an imaginational self, and a spiritual self; and we are ever having to live in all these different components rather than in the fullness of Soul. We are ever trying to get these selves to work and join together, and regardless of what we do at this level, we’re never going to bring together all these selves fully and know the fullness as one. The only way we’re going to know the truth of who we are as one is to rise above this creation, rise above all that is of “you” in this world, stand free of it, and stand in the fullness of You, as soul.
We walked down through the realms of creation to experience all the different components of the separate self. In meditation, we’re on a journey walking on that same pathway back Home. We’re bringing together all the components of self as a fulfillment, as a completion, as lessons learned. Every time another part of us joins together in this movement upward, we become more whole, more complete, more fulfilled, and the higher we move up on this pathway going Home, the more fulfillment we’ll experience. The way all this takes place is, by loving God and allowing God’s loving in. When we pop through that last little area of separation that this creation is made of and move into the realms of Soul, we’ll look down and know who we were in all those different components of self. It is only through the Loving that all of the separated components of self can be drawn together once again, as one, in Soul. If you have the Name of God given at initiation, use it, because “a key used opens a door.” Fortunately, there are only five doors on the spiritual path that have to be opened. When these doors are opened, the passageway to and from the realm of Soul and into the Heart of God is ever available. It’s up to each of us to choose and get free. It truly is amazing to wake up on the other side, to stand free of this creation, to look around and know the truth in a greater way; and to know who we are, free of this creation, united once again in the fullness of our soul.
Honoring Our
I
Time Together
by Brian Yeakey, Vice President of ILM
our personal time and space before, during, and after events. If you want to share with us, please do so by asking questions during the event Q & A. This gives us the “space” to stay focused on Spirit and to take care of ourselves, and in that way, be here for everyone rather than just a few. This will make it easier on us, which will definitely help us with our health and stress levels.
t’s important to remember that Jim and I, and ILM are here to support the soul’s inner journey of awakening back into the Heart of God. We’re not here to tell people how to live their lives in this physical world or what outer actions to take to live in this world, including attending ILM events. ILM’s outer events are simply to assist the soul (individual) in gaining greater clarity, understanding, and experience as to the inner spiritual journey. Our wish is for everyone to Live the Loving (within themselves) in everything they do, whether at an ILM event or anywhere else in the world. This is done inwardly within one’s self, regardless of what, why, how, when, where, or who with. So, at least at the ILM events, we want to make the inner action of Loving the focus at all ILM events, rather than the outer actions of the world and what to do about it. God first and God only!
Following these Ways of Being will greatly assist Jim and I, you, and everyone in receiving the greatest opportunity and blessings God has to share with us all at ILM events. As we participate with a greater focus on Spirit, and not on the world, this opens our consciousness to allow Spirit in to share with us and receive God’s Grace in all that we do. Jim and I are asking for everyone’s support in being together by creating and holding that space for this to happen. And this happens when we have a true desire to awaken to God and God’s Loving, and do what’s necessary for this to happen. The Ways of Being that we’re sharing here, and at all ILM events, are “ways” by which we can participate to open to a greater experience of awakening to God’s Loving. And isn’t that what we are trying to do through our participation of the teachings and practice of ILM?
To support ILM’s action of soul liberation and awakening into God, Jim and I are asking those who participate in ILM help create that space and focus on Spirit by Honoring Our Time Together at all ILM events. We can do this by participating with an inner focus on the following “Ways of Being”: Being Focused on Spirit; Being Open, Honest, and Vulnerable; Being Loving, Accepting, and Forgiving; Being Responsible for Our Thoughts, Feelings, Actions, and Reactions; Being Compassionate with Our Self and Others; Being Willing to Have Trust & Faith; Being Willing to Participate; Being Our Soul Self.
Not only are the Ways of Being a focus for ILM events, but they can also be a great support and tool for us to use at anytime to support ourselves in our own inner journey of spiritual awakening. In honoring and practicing the Ways of Being we can learn how to Honor Our Time With God. That’s what this is really about anyway. This can support us in our time of meditation and on our journey of life itself. The Path of Sound and Light has often been referred to as, “The Way” by many spiritual teachers throughout history. So practicing the Ways of Being will support us all on our inner journey of The Way!
Also, in Honoring Our Time Together at ILM events, we are asking participants to have an outer awareness of: Being on time; Being with cell phones off; Being quiet during the program; Being courteous to one’s self and others; Being aware of what’s going on around one’s self; Being attentive and focused on Spirit and the inner journey of awakening by keeping questions focused on the inner action of Spirit and not on the outer actions of the physical world or what to do about it.
From Jim and I, and all of the ILM Staff, we love you, and thank you for your continuing participation and doing the inner work to awaken into Loving! God Bless everyone! We look forward to seeing you at ILM events, and on the inner, spiritual realms. Happy Journeys!
Jim and I would also appreciate that people allow us 2
INNER LIGHT MINISTRIES
CALENDAR
Classes & Programs: Summer – Winter ‘15 Presented by Jim Gordon and Brian Yeakey in Austin, Texas:
M
For additional information, call 512-306-1056.
onthly
Classes:
Jim and Brian’s meeting is held once a month on the following Sundays,
at the Lake Travis Event Center, 411 Ranch Road 620 South in Lakeway, TX (see directions below).
Monthly meetings include spiritual teachings, Q&A, and meditation. Jim and Brian assist participants to become more deeply aware of the Spirit within. No charge.
These meetings are now being live streamed through our NEW website, ilm.org.
You will find the live stream connection on the front page of our website. You will also be able to connect to the videos of previous meetings as we go through the year. The meetings are held in the Great Hall at the new time of 1 pm and ending at 6 pm.* The Magnolia Room/dining room will be used for the caring of children, as well as for enjoying refreshments during the break. Also, the Magnolia room doors will open at 12:30 pm for those of you who would like to come early and socialize before class. Snacks will be available.
Sundays at LTEC: AUG 30, SEPT 20, OCT 18, NOV 15, DEC 13 Class with Q&A (no potlucks): 1-6 pm*
Directions to Lake Travis Event Center (LTEC), 411 Ranch Road 620 South in Lakeway, TX. From N. Austin/Round Rock: FM 620/ RR 620. Road name changes to FM 620 West/RR 620 West. Take ramp left and follow signs to TX 45 TOLL West. Take ramp for FM 620 W/RR 620 W. Continue on FM 620/RR 620. Arrive at 411 RR 620 South, Lakeway TX. From South Austin: Take TX-1 Loop South. Take ramp right to TX 71 West/US 290 toward Johnson City and Llano. Take ramp to TX 290 West/71 West. Keep straight on US 290 West/71 West. Keep right on TX 71 West. Turn right on FM 620 South. Continue on FM RR 620 South. Arrive at 411 RR 620 South, Lakeway TX.
For additional information, call Laura Doggett at 512-306-1056 or email lauradoggett@ilm.org.
* Ending times are approximate.
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in England
ILM presents:
Saturday, Saturday,October October12 3 Potluck otluck, Sharing haring and and Q&A with with Jim im Gordon ordon and Brian rian Yeakey eakey Time : :Potluck -1:30 pm TimeofofEvent Event Potluck1212noon noon -1 pm Sharing QQ && AA1:30-6 pm Sharingand and 1-6 pm **
Where: Caroline Rose’s, Flat 9, Woolwich House, 183 Lawrie Park Gardens, Sydenham, London Please Please contact contact Caroline Caroline at at 0208-778-9430 0794-959-2411 for for information information and and directions. directions.
Sunday, October 4 ** IInitiates nitiates’’ M Meeting eetingwith withJJim imand andBBrian rian Time of Event: Sharing and Q&A 1-6 pm*
Where here: Marriott Hotel, 47 Park Street, London In Jim and Brian’s Room. Hotel Phone: 0207-491-7282 Please contact Nanna Brincker at 0207-485-0699 for information and directions.
Wednesday, October 7 - Sunday, October 11 Experiencing The Divine Meditative Retreat with Jim and Brian
Time of Event: Wednesday at 4 pm thru Sunday at 3 pm.* Where here: Dunford House, Midhurst, West Sussex, England Cost: Single Occupancy - £550, Double Occupancy (per person) - £480 £50/person deposit is required to register.
For more information call Lynne Johnson at 01903 765928 or 07713 470 004. To register call Laura Doggett at 512-306-1056, email ilmadmin@ilm.org, or go online at ilm.org. If you’d like to support someone with a scholarship please see the last page regarding donations. * Ending times are approximate. ** For Initiates only. 4
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Holiday Events in Austin:
Hallowe-ee-een Party
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SATURDAY, OCT 31
It’s a batty potluck!
6:30 pm at Bill Stratton’s home For further information email billstratton@ilm.org.
So, prepare your gholish delight, and fly on over to Bill’s unearthly haunt, where we’ll feast Addam’s family style with a cackle and a cringe. Costumes are a plus - make us howl! (Optional, of course.) All are creepily welcome -
And as always ... beware!
C°c
Coins For Kids
O ur Coins For Kids Christmas service project is coming up ... so if you’ve been saving your coins or wondering what you might like to do as an expression of service this year, consider participating with us as we, once again, go on a joyful gift shopping spree for children in need at Christmas time. Three ways to donate: 1. Drop off your coins/donation at one of Jim and Brian’s Sunday classes by SUNDAY, NOV 15. 2. Donate online by going to ilm.org and clicking on Donations in the menu list. Follow the instructions and be sure to select Coins for Kids as the Donation Type. 3. Mail a check to: ILM, 2303 Ranch Road 620 South, Suite 135-303, Austin, TX 78734. (Donations to ILM’s Coins For Kids are tax deductible.)
Shopping Day is SUNDAY, NOV 22 Meet at 9:30 am at the Super Target at I-35 and Parmer.
C°c C hristmas Potluck Party Join us for ILM’s Christmas celebration on SATURDAY, DEC 12 4 pm at the Lake Travis Event Center
The celebration begins
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at 4 pm at Lake Travis Event Center, 411 Ranch Road 620 South in Lakeway. (See page 3 for directions.) It’s a potluck so bring a dish to share.
For additional information for this gathering, call Laura Doggett at 512-306-1056.
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I nner L Light M inistries Calendar in Austin:
ILM Community ommunity Potluck otluck Nights ights:
Due to the recent sale of Laura Kesten’s home, Community Nite in Austin will resume Saturday, January 2, 2016 at a new Austin location. Address and directions will be sent out in advance. We look forward to creating new loving ILM community nite memories in 2016. See you then!
Wednesday, March 30 - Sunday, April 3, 2016
Experiencing The Divine Meditative Retreat Retreat facilitated by Jim
Gordon and Brian Yeakey
At the Purple Sage Ranch, Bandera, TX Time of Event: Wednesday, March 30 at 4 pm thru Sunday, April 3 at 3 pm.* $670/person for double occupancy & $850/person for single occupancy Please make sure you’ve registered and have paid the balance of your registration fee on or before February 29, 2016.
To register, contact Laura Doggett at 512-306-1056 or email Laura at ilmadmin@ilm.org or register on our website at ilm.org. * Ending times are approximate.
If you would like to support ILM’s Scholarship Fund, please see the back page regarding donations.
Welcome to Inner Light Ministries Introductory Packet
In this packet you will find: ILM’s book, Love and Loving; the CD, An Introduction To ILM;
the CD, Understanding The ‘Inner’ Pathway; the CD, Lotus Meditation; ILM’s brochure, Inner Light Ministries Guidelines For Initiation And Initiates; and a copy of our latest newsletter.
All of these materials have been selected to give the newcomer a better understanding of who we are and what we’re about. If you would like an Introductory Packet for yourself, or someone else, just let us know. Call us, email us, or write us! Feel free to take a look at our website, too: ilm.org (see more information on page 11). We are happy to do what we can to assist you on your spiritual journey. Blessings of Peace, Joy and Loving To You! – Jim Gordon, Brian Yeakey, and the ILM Staff 6
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Holiday Events in Ft. Wayne: Child At Heart Program:
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HOWL-oween Pumpkin Transcendence OCT 30 at 6-7:30 pm
at the ILM Midwest Center.
I t’s that time in the Midwest
for the children and children-at-heart to come together for carving and lighting up our transformational pumpkins. (More Child At Heart on next page.)
C°c
Coins For Kids Our Midwest Coins For Kids Christmas service project is coming up ... Come join the jolly ILM “elves” as we shop and wrap for our local adopted Christmas family!
Shopping Night is NOV 30. Meet at 7 pm at Wal-Mart on Coldwater Rd. Please RSVP by Nov. 20 if you can join the shopping elves! Gift-Wrapping Night is DEC 8. Meet at 6:30 pm at the ILM Midwest Center. Pizzas and sodas will be provided. Extra bows, boxes, gift tags, and tape are always welcome!
C°c
Christmas Party
Join us for the Festival of Inner Light celebration on DEC 11 at 7-10 pm
Come light up the night! Join us for a potluck feast and songfest to make the season bright. We welcome our ILM family to our “holiday home” in gratitude for the loving you bring us all year round. The gift of your presence will make the celebration complete! At Steven & Ani’s home in Fort Wayne. Everyone is welcome!
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For additional information, call Steven at 260-485-2167 or email stevenmcafee@ilm.org.
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I nner L Light M inistries Calendar Presented by Steven McAfee, Midwest Area Coordinator: For additional information, call Steven at 260-485-2167 or email stevenmcafee@ilm.org. ILM Midwest Center: 220 Insurance Drive, Ste F, Fort Wayne, IN 46825
uesday Class Series: Steven offers a series of weekly ILM classes intended to awaken and inspire T our loving devotion to God. Each class begins with a meditation and then moves into a period of spiritual
sharing. The classes are open to anyone. Please call Steven for more information. TUESDAYS
7-8:30 pm
ILM Midwest Center
Donation
C
ILM ommunity Nights : More fun community events are on their way! Please RSVP the week before so we can plan appropriately.
Child At Heart: These programs are opportunities for children and the people who love them to come participate in fun activities together in ILM. See page 7 regarding Pumpkin Transcendence. DEC 5
Cookie Decorating
2-3 pm
ILM Midwest Center
Donation
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S pecial ideo Conferences: Live from Austin! Special live video presentations with Jim and Brian via the magic of technology! See YOU at the ILM Center. SEP 1, NOV 3 7-9:30 pm
ILM Midwest Center
Donation
T P : AY S S :F I ,H U – The 2015 WTP program W is devoted to looking at what it is that you want in your life and deciding on practical actions you can alking
he
ath
ear of
elf
tudy
arther n
igher
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take to support yourself by asking the questions: “What do you want? What are you doing? And do they match?” In addition to the regular Sunday afternoon monthly meetings, there will be periodic day-long Saturday workshops. There is no requirement to attend all the meetings to participate in the program. While the program is designed as a year-long study, it is NOT necessary to attend every month to benefit from it. Donations are welcome. SEP 6, OCT 4 2-4:30 pm NOV 7 9:30-4:30 pm
Regular Meeting Day-long Meeting
ILM Midwest Center ILM Midwest Center
No charge No charge
S : Steven occasionally serves as a guest speaker for Brigade of Light and other S spiritual groups in the Midwest. The following is presently scheduled: unday
ervices
NOV 8, DEC 6 AUG 16, OCT 11
11 am 10:30 am
Brigade of Light Unity of Fort Wayne
State Street, Ft. Wayne Crescent Ave., Ft. Wayne
Donation Donation
R
“ The Build Your Own Retreat ” etreat: We’ll provide the space, and help you
design the retreat that suits you best: Silent, Study, or Contemplative! This retreat begins on Thursday evening at 6 pm and ends on Sunday after lunch. Registration forms are available at the ILM Midwest Center or you may request a registration form at stevenmcafee@ilm.org. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. For more information, call Steven at 260-485-2167. NOV 12-15
GilChrist 8
Three Rivers, MI
$210 per person
(ILM Hawaii Calendar continues on next page)
I nner L Light M inistries Calendar Presented by Kelsie Mc Sherry, Hawaii Area Coordinator: For additional information, call Kelsie at 808-285-6624 or email kelsiemcsherry@ilm.org.
iving The Loving: Via Skype. These classes focus on how to walk the Path of Sound and Light and L to live the Loving in our daily lives through the study and practice of the spiritual tools that Jim & Brian share. 1st SUNDAY 10 am-12 pm 4th SUNDAY 10 am-12 pm Dates, Time & Location TBA
Doug’s on the North Shore, Oahu Kate’s in Hawaii Kai, Oahu Maui
Donation Donation Donation
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L ive ideo Conferences with Jim and Brian: See, hear, and share with Jim & Brian live from Austin via internet technology!
SEPT 6 NOV 8
10 am-1:30 pm* Kate’s in Hawaii Kai, Oahu 10 am-1:30 pm* Nadine & Joe’s in Manoa, Oahu * Ending times are approximate.
Donation Donation
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ILM editation & LAF Retreat: Join us for a four-day retreat focusing 100% on Spirit!
Each day consists of a 2 1/2 hour meditation, sharing, Q&A, and processes to help awaken us more into the Loving. Advance registration is required.
JAN 7-10, 2016
St. Anthony’s Retreat Center, Oahu
Cost TBA
Community ILM Meetings & Events Worldwide:
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Kalamazoo:
Call Judy Richards at 269-349-3943 or email jg.richards@charter.net.
S G : Please call Judy at 269-349-3943 or email jg.richards@charter.net for S more information. Meetings are combined with a potluck each month – yummy! unday
tudy
roups
AUG 23, OCT 25, NOV 22 SEP 27 - Sharing from Steven McAfee : M more information. editations
12:30-4 pm 12:30-4 pm
Dallas:
No charge No charge
Please call Carolyn Dailey at 269-327-6851 or email carolee12@chartermi.net for
AUG 19, SEP 16, OCT 21, NOV 18
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4715 Thistle Mill Court 4715 Thistle Mill Court
1-3 pm
2485 Brahms Avenue, Portage
No charge
Call Gerri Barrick at 512-541-9584 or email gerlamere@gmail.com.
: Recordings by Jim and Brian are selected to keep our focus on meditation and the Path of M Sound and Light. eeting
(No AUG), SEPT 13, OCT 4, NOV 8, DEC 6
1-3 pm 9
1409 S Lamar St., Apt 751
No charge
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I nner L Light M inistries Calendar Community ILM Meetings & Events Worldwide:
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Deerfield Beach:
Call Victoria Eng at 954-682-3244 to RSVP and get dates and directions.
: The focus of each evening is on spiritual awakening and connecting to the Loving through M listening to an ILM meditation and talk by Jim and Brian. eeting
Alternate Wednesdays
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Honolulu:
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editation:
London:
Deerfield Beach, FL
No charge
Call Nadine Ferraro at 808-988-7509, or 551-3123 (cell) for dates and directions.
Twice a month gathering for a two and a half hour meditation.
Call for schedule
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6 pm
Manoa Valley, Honolulu, HI
No charge
Call Nanna Brincker at 0207-485-0699 for directions.
: Join us for a 2-hour meditation at 42A Montpelier Grove, London NW5 2XE, or join us M on skype at 4 pm for the meditation (log on 10 minutes before). Please let Nanna know your skype name. eeting
SEPT 6 & 27, OCT 18, NOV 8 & 29
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4 pm
London, England
No charge
AVAILABLE ON OUR NEW WEBSITE
ove and Loving are not exactly the same. Love simply IS. Loving, in contrast, is the on-going flow, or movement, of this pure quality within us. Although this may seem like a subtle distinction, it is really a very important one. - Jim Gordon
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ife on earth is designed to help us to fully know and express God’s living consciousness within us. We are co-creators with the Divine, all pursuing our own unique and sacred journeys into the common destiny we share – the ever greater realization and expression of our oneness with God and His sacred creation. - Jim Gordon Check out our recently updated ilm.org today!
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ILM.org — the NEW Inner Light Ministries Website Check Out These Areas On Our NEW Website:
Live Streaming Videos The Sunday meetings in Austin are now being streamed live through our NEW website. You’ll find the live stream connection on the front page of our new website. You will also be able to connect to the videos of previous meetings as we go through the year. The audio versions will be available in the usual section, ILM Talks on Audio.
Open-Ended Meditations & Chantings Sections The Open-Ended Meditations section has meditations by Jim and Brian that have been edited to allow you to end in your own timing. The updated Chantings section has several Ani Hu chantings in half hour increments up to 2 1/2 hours, with the addition of a lead-in meditation by Brian followed by an hour of Ani Hu chanting.
K.I.S.S. – Keep It Simple Soul KISS is a series of weekly studies in which you can follow along and continue to grow in your spiritual development. The selected excerpts, from Jim’s and Brian’s talks on Meditation and this Path, are designed to help keep your focus on your spiritual journey throughout the day. There are no posted dates for the weeks so whenever you start, begin with Week 1 and progress from there. Go to our website, click on “Self Study”; then, click on K.I.S.S.
Example from Week 15:
Keep It Simple Soul
The one thing that God has asked us all to do, as creative beings, is to keep our eye on God, to keep God in all things. Every day gives you an opportunity to do just that. As you move throughout your day keep reminding yourself – God first. Whenever you are walking, put God first in front of each step, and see what happens when you begin to hold a focus towards that.
Read more... (Go to our NEW website at ilm.org)
Initiate’s Handbook Initiates, remember to check out the Initiate’s Handbook in the “Initiates Only” section of the website, www.ilm.org. Whether you are newly initiated or a long-time initiate, this most current version of the Handbook contains information that will be of special significance to you.
I
nitiation is the greatest treasure of all the universes.
- Brian Yeakey
Check out our recently updated ilm.org today! 11
GO GREEN! ILM is going GREEN! Send Us Your Email Address, Choose Green Newsletters, and Update Mail S ince we are doing our best to communicate with our ILM members through the internet, please send
(or update) your email address to your local representative, or to Laura Doggett at ilmadmin@ilm.org.
Also, if you would like to forego the paper route and receive an email notification when the ILM Newsletter is published, please let us know. Each time a new Newsletter becomes available (3 times per year) we will send an email notification with a link to download the latest Newsletter in PDF format. Send us your email address and put “Choose Green Newsletter” in the subject to ilmadmin@ilm.org. Finally, if we don’t have your mailing address, or you’ve had any recent address changes, please notify your local representative or email that information to ilmadmin@ilm.org.
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ook from a place of holiness to see God in all things. – Brian Yeakey
New CD
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Ending The Game
e walked down through the realms of creation to experience all the different components of the separate self. In meditation, we’re on a journey walking on that same pathway back Home. We’re bringing together all the components of self as a fulfillment, as a completion, as lessons learned. Every time another part of us joins together in this movement upward, we become more whole, more complete, more fulfilled, and the higher we move up on this pathway going Home, the more fulfillment we’ll experience. The way all this takes place is, by loving God and allowing God’s loving in. When we pop through that last little area of separation that this creation is made of and move into the realms of Soul, we’ll look down and know who we were in all those different components of self. It is only through the Loving that all of the separated components of self can be drawn together once again, as one, in Soul. – Jim Gordon
Recent CDs
Be Here and Be Now
Meditation & Ani Hu Chant
Living In Grace The Answer Is God
Keep It Simple Soul
For a complete listing of ILM Products and ordering information go to the ILM website, ilm.org, for more information.
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Q& A
with Jim and Brian
Q:
on The Master Disciple Relationship When we agree to “take on” a disciple, it is a great responsibility, and we are accountable for our actions just as the disciple is accountable for theirs. We (Brian and Jim) have a responsibility to do what we can to get the disciple to Soul, but we can only do what the disciple allows, and that is based on their willingness to do the meditation and the inner work of Loving, Accepting, and Forgiving (LAF) and of taking responsibility for their thoughts, feelings, actions, and reactions. If the disciple is not willing to do their part, this doesn’t allow the space for us to do ours. (But this does not stop us from continually loving the soul and ever reminding the disciple to love God and make God first in all things!) Just as God gives the soul freedom of choice, so we, too, have to do the same (as we want to reflect into the world as much as possible the relationship in Spirit).
What is the true relationship between the master and disciple? A: (Brian) The true master–disciple relationship is an inner relationship between the soul and God! The ‘True Master’ is the Spirit of God’s Loving, also known as the Holy Spirit, the Sound and Light, the Radiant Form of the Spiritual Teacher and other given names; and the soul being the child of God, the divine spark of God, the living loving essence of the Lord. The physical relationship between teacher and student is a reflection of that inner relationship, but a very poor reflection, as it can never be the direct truth as it is in Spirit. But the relationship in the world can act as a vehicle by which movement and inspiration takes place to assist the soul along on its inner journey of awakening and returning back into the Heart of God. It can help to have a better understanding of both the inner and the outer relationship to assist the soul on its journey. Once this is established, then the real work begins!
So, realize that this relationship is based on what the disciple puts into it, and is willing to do and allow, as well as what we put into it and do and allow. We will not impose or make anyone do anything that is not their choice freely chosen. If we ever did, that would go directly against the very action of spiritual freedom and soul liberation that we are supporting and encouraging here in ILM. And we don’t want to do that. (Believe it or not, many people don’t like what I’m saying here because they want us to tell them what to do!) This is a path of soul liberation, waking up, and spiritual empowerment; and the disciple has to learn to take responsibility and make choices for themselves. If they don’t, then there’s not going to be the freedom and liberation that comes with doing so (This will simply prolong the soul’s journey in this physical creation until the soul is truly ready to take responsibility.).
When we (Brian & Jim) agree to initiate someone into this Path of Sound and Light (sharing with them the Sacred Name of God to meditate upon), it is a relationship, a spiritual relationship. As in any relationship, there has to be a sharing, a giving and a receiving for the relationship to “work.” Each one has a responsibility to that relationship, and what each one puts into the relationship will also determine what one will get out of it. Many times people think that being a disciple is about receiving – receiving the Master’s Loving, God’s Grace, Blessings, spiritual gifts, special dispensations, etc. But what they don’t realize is that what they receive is based upon what they give and allow! Yes, God loves the soul (and so does the Spiritual Teacher, who acts as a “Representative” for God in the physical creation), but many don’t allow that loving in or aren’t willing to give loving as well. As disciples, we must be willing to share our loving, as well as allow ourselves to receive loving in order for this spiritual relationship to awaken us into our God Beingness and liberate the soul. This is key! Without it, the spiritual work doesn’t get done, and the relationship doesn’t serve the purpose for which it is intended!
What I’m sharing here isn’t because I say so; it’s because this is how it works! You don’t have to believe me; you simply need to pay attention and discover this for yourself through your own experience. Part of the role of the Spiritual Teacher is to point out or show the way through this physical creation and into the spiritual… And it is the student’s responsibility to learn and do the work to have their own experience to know for themselves. Once this is done, then the disciple will 13
Q& A
with Jim and Brian who initiates a disciple (Brian and Jim for ILM Disciples), a purple or blue light, a golden or white light, and many other various forms or ways as God wishes to express His Loving! The key in it all is Loving! And it is through this ‘spiritual form’ that the disciple develops their relationship of loving with God! That’s why God has given us a form to work with, as it is through this inner relationship with the spiritual form that we “wake up” to our oneness with God. And the only true way to develop this relationship is to “go within,” and this is done through the action of meditation upon the Sacred Name of God.
begin to awaken and know the truth of their divinity and their oneness with God! Not only is it important to remember that the master– disciple relationship is an inner, spiritual relationship, but it is important to know that once the disciple has received the Sacred Name of God with Initiation, then the relationship is truly intact … and from that point on, the work really is done inwardly! And although outer contact with the Spiritual Teacher can be supportive and beneficial, it is not a necessity! And for some, it can even be a distraction! If a disciple puts too much emphasis on the outer, physical relationship with the Teacher, this can hinder the process. Just as in any relationship, if someone is ever outwardly seeking approval and attention, it gets in the way of the experience of Loving. That is an outer process that is filled with control, judgment, fear, unworthiness, rejection, neediness, etc., and will never bring fulfillment, joy, or loving! To prevent going into these outer processes, it is important to always remember to come back to the inner, spiritual focus of Loving and let go of the outer focus. As we say over and over, God first and God only!
Also, it is important to realize that it is the disciple’s responsibility to handle their daily lives and the choices they make in how they do this. This is not to be “put upon” or asked of the Spiritual Teacher. It is through the disciple’s choices and actions that they will learn their lessons (karmas) that are to be learned. Neither God nor the Teacher takes this away, but rather supports the disciple in learning how to handle these choices inwardly with Loving, Accepting, and Forgiving. The disciple’s job is to take responsibility for their lessons and learn from them, not try to get out of or get rid of their lessons. It is to this end that ILM makes available all of the spiritual teachings, not only at live events with the Spiritual Teachers or their assistants, but through the ILM website (ilm.org), books, CDs, newsletters, recordings, etc., all of which are free of charge and available to serve the disciple in walking their spiritual journey. We ask that everyone utilize all of these resources first, more often, and before coming to Brian and Jim with all of their questions, as most questions have been already asked and answers are already available! But, of course, when a disciple has a question and needs assistance, clarity, and understanding about the spiritual pathway, how to live the pathway, about inner experiences, and how to move through inner obstacles, they are encouraged to ask! We just want the questions to stay focused on the inner journey and God, and not be about the world or what to do in it.
So, once initiated, truly the main focus is inwards and upwards, and not about the outer. The outer relationship with the Teacher, the gatherings, events, classes, workshops, retreats, etc., are available to gain further teaching, clarity, understanding, and support as to the inner, spiritual relationship, but are not meant to be used as a replacement for the inner! If a disciple makes any of the outer actions more important than the inner, then it becomes a hindrance rather than a support. So, everything must be evaluated and utilized in a way that supports the disciple – this is part of the learning and taking responsibility that every disciple must go through to come to understand and find what works for them selves. And it will be different for each one…
What is important is for the disciple to develop the inner relationship with the Radiant Form of the Spiritual Teacher. This is the true expression of God’s Loving and is often seen as the Teacher 12 14
The Road I Walk
I
by Steven McAfee, ILM Minister
It’s easy for me to reflect my surroundings and take on their tone. It is better when my surroundings reflect me, the soul.
’ve been walking a spiritual path for a long time, sometimes with devotion and focus, other times rather lackadaisically. So I felt like it was time for a look at where I am and what I have learned.
Most of my regrets have not arisen from what I’ve done, but from what I have not done because of fear. Much of what happens in life seems wrong to me – the violence and cruelty, the unfairness of life; wrong because it is not the life my soul remembers: a life of boundless loving, joy, and peace in the realms of Spirit. My soul has looked for permanence in the impermanent, for reality in the reflection, and for fullness in the emptiness. No wonder it looks wrong. Knowing where to look and knowing who is doing the looking is the key.
What I need to know will come when I need to know it. Not by my own accord, but by the grace of God. My part is to be open to receive it. I’m most open when I’m Loving and most closed when I’m afraid. I do not like being afraid. I do like being loved. So, I run toward what I love and away from what I fear. But the running toward and the running from both move me out of the flow of Loving.
I love playing music and singing. It gives wings to my heart, voice to my soul, and a vibrant means of expressing my devotion to God. No matter who else is present when I’m singing, I am singing to God. It cuts through my sense of separation and transports me into a deeper awareness of connection. Learning how to listen and flow with the melody, harmony, and rhythm of music is wonderful training in how to listen and flow with Spirit.
The more regularly I meditate and spend time in a spiritual focus, the easier it is for me to stay in the loving. The more time I spend caught up in the dramas of the world, the more stressed I become and the more I feel pulled into the world to fix what is distressing me; it becomes a vicious downward spiral. The more time I spend in gratitude – for both what I have and what I don’t have – the more conscious I become of the presence of Loving within me and around me, and it becomes a gentle, uplifting spiral.
The best moments of my life have been the loving ones. I love my wife, my family, my friends. I love that I am at home with them, that I can be me. I love when they see in me what, at times, I cannot. I love watching them awaken to who they are, even as I am awakening to who I am. I love having a place where love is welcome. Nothing has ever made me happier than loving. I know of nothing more Godlike.
I feel an inner freedom when I am who I am, and express myself with clarity and sincerity. My mind thinks that the way to be loved is by trying to be what others want me to be. This usually makes me miserable and resentful. It is not easy for me to be confrontational, but it’s worse when I avoid; putting off unpleasant necessities has rarely, if ever, made things better.
I love Spirit – call it what you will. No name can name it, no book can hold it. That awesome, all-embracing Loving that brings everything into Oneness and completion; that which is beyond, beyond, beyond, and yet present, present, present – that living, loving essence that is in us; that is us, that Being of which life is its manifestation: that is what I love, adore, yearn for. I like who I am ... finally. I love my life. And I love the God who gave it to me.
What I cannot forgive, in myself or others, burdens my heart. When my heart is burdened, I live in the shadow of its sadness. Forgiving is releasing. What I can release makes me feel relieved, buoyant, and expansive. The shadow is gone. That which troubles me, but which I cannot undo or mend, continues to trouble me until I move into the genuine accepting of the situation as it is. In acceptance, I find peace. Not answers, just peace.
That is what I know of the road I walk. 15
Endless Opportunities
A
by Laura Kesten, ILM Minister participating with these two key actions of soul liberation for me now is that instead of just trying to change my behavior, or change a thought or feeling, or stop a reaction, I’m asking my spiritual self, my soul, to share with me what I need to dissolve the fear that is keeping my soul trapped. And it shares with me. Sometimes, my soul shares with me to surround the fear simply with loving; sometimes, it shares for me to accept that that’s the way I’m feeling and to love that; sometimes, I’m overwhelmed with how much forgiving I have to do with myself. I’ve put so much energy on these things of the world, the world inside of me, and it’s kept me separated from the loving that’s always been there just waiting for me to connect again to it. So now, I’m using each opportunity God gives me as a means by which to love, accept, and forgive resistance, blame, judgment, self-righteousness, and so many more behavior, thought, and feeling patterns that have had dominion over me … and through this action, the fear does dissolve.
few years ago, I was sharing with a friend that I was getting a divorce. She grabbed my arms and said with exuberance, “What an opportunity!” She knew my ex husband and liked us both so her statement had nothing to do with anything in this creation. It was simply a statement of truth. For the past several years, I’ve been discovering more and more just the truth of that statement with everything I do, everything I create, everything I choose into, everything I think and say and live by. Absolutely everything is an opportunity, but it’s only been recently when I’ve experienced what that opportunity actually is. For much of this time, I’ve lived as if everything is an opportunity to something better. And while “something better” may or may not always appear to be the case, it profoundly leads to something better when using it as a spiritual tool. What I’ve been learning is that opportunity is a means by which to love myself, and God, more fully. The details, the results, figuring out if it’s good or bad, better or worse, fun or stressful doesn’t matter, except to lead me back to my loving. Rather than getting myself wrapped up in the details, or in how to deal with or resolve the situation, I’m becoming more inquisitive; I follow along the path of opportunity, track my thoughts, my feelings, what I do next, what I say next, all with the knowing that this opportunity is presenting itself to love myself and God more fully. I’ve experienced a tremendous awakening as this revelation has opened all kinds of doors to more loving and knowing the divine soul that I am.
The third Key Action of Soul Liberation is Meditation. Implementing the first two actions is an outer reference to what I want to ultimately do inwardly in meditation. In meditation, I’m bowing down to God, giving up my ego, giving up all that stands between God and myself, and surrendering to the flow of Spirit. Sometimes, in meditation or in my dreams, I’m shown the places where I’m still stuck or the things that I’m holding onto. At first, I want to run away from it, bring myself out of the meditation or dream, and then I remember that this, too, is an opportunity to love myself and love what is coming forward for me. And so, I allow the loving to wash over me and dissolve the fear.
Two of the Key Actions of Soul Liberation through ILM are: Taking responsibility for your thoughts and feelings, your actions and reactions, and LAF: Loving, Accepting, and Forgiving. Over the years, I’ve worked really hard implementing these key actions. I’m discovering now that whatever my reaction may be, it is never about what’s really happening in the moment, but what’s happening in the moment triggers a place inside myself that is feeling scared. What’s different in
No matter what’s going on – what I’m feeling, thinking, imagining, creating – whether in my every day life or in meditation, God is giving me endless opportunity to love myself more fully, and in that love God more fully, and visa versa. Pushing away the fear, ignoring it, quieting it down absolutely does not work, at all, not ever. It only delays the loving, the peace, the surrendering of all that stands between God and myself, and my soul liberation. 16
Developing Friendship
I
With God
by Kelsie Mc Sherry, ILM Minister
by focusing on God within! I said, “God, I want to know your love and friendship first, here at the seat of the soul. I don’t want to seek it from others outside. Once I know your loving and friendship, then I will be open to experience loving and friendship from people at the retreat.” I knew that I didn’t want it on the outer until I really had that inner connection and friendship with God first.
n taking ILM’s new Honoring Our Time Together “guidelines” to heart and participating with it, I went to the Fort Wayne’s Experiencing the Divine Meditative Retreat ready to honor God within me in a way that I hadn’t quite done before. My focus was to stay awake and to connect with God at the seat of the soul. Jim’s opening talk at the retreat brought to light that I truly have to let go of my attachments, because I am here on this Path of Sound and Light, not to stay attached to the world, but rather to let go of the world and attach myself to God.
As I held my focus on God throughout the day, at the seat of the soul, sharing with God my insecurities as they came up, asking God into them and giving them up to God, I began to experience God present within me. I began having a relationship with God first, receiving loving, peace, and joy directly from God within. I began letting go of needing to be loved through my relationships in the world, and began allowing the loving to flow through me from God.
This being the first retreat on my own without husband, mom, or close friends, there were no distractions! I decided to spend the next five days developing my inner relationship with God. I literally took God, at the seat of the soul, with me to every meal, to every spiritual exercise, to every break, and to every time I went to my room. I had a lot of opportunities to practice bringing God with me to my empty room! This action opened me up to inviting God in and letting go of attachments in the world.
I also realized in Jim’s sharing in his opening talk, that I am really here for my relationship with God, and that as God takes care of me, so too, God is taking care of my loved ones. My neediness and worries for my loved ones began melting away as I gave them up to God. So, for the next five days my focus was on God, at the seat of the soul, bringing God into every thought and feeling, and with me everywhere I went. The more I sought God’s loving and friendship inside, the more I experienced that with everyone at the retreat. After five days of not seeking love, acceptance, or friendship on the outer, I found God’s loving, acceptance, and friendship inside.
Being there without my husband, and because I didn’t know most of the people at retreat, I had to face not feeling connected on the outer. I had to deal with the insecurity I felt being alone; for example when I had no one to walk with to the cafeteria, or when I didn’t know who to sit with at the meals. Because there was no one for me to lean on, no one to distract me from my insecurities, I could not hide them away. I had to accept the insecurities I held inside myself and love myself with them.
I now know that with God, I am not alone. I was more alone before, when I was caught up and attached to my loved ones, needing their love and worrying about them. Once I let go of focusing on them and let God take care of them, I was able to free myself to focus only on God and develop that relationship. I now spend more time focusing on God and sharing with God at the seat of the soul. There is no greater friendship in this world than that One with God. Thank you, Brian, for bringing to light Honoring Our Time Together. It has changed my life!
The crazy thing was, I had no idea that all this had been running inside of me, until I found myself at the retreat alone. I was so uncomfortable the first evening that after meditation, I decided, rather than looking for a connection outside of myself to feel accepted, loved and safe, I needed to stay connected inside. And the only way to do that was to honor my time with God 17
of
Core Tenets
Inner Light Ministries (ILM) God Created You (Soul)
You Are The Living Loving Essence Of The Lord One Day You Will Wake Up
And Realize You Never Left The Heart Of God
The Actions Of Soul Liberation Through ILM Meditation - Loving God and Allowing God To Love You By Focusing On The Inner Light and Sound Of God. You Do This Through Chanting The Sacred Name While Holding Your Attention At The Seat Of The Soul.
Loving, Accepting, Forgiving (LAF) - Loving, Accepting, and Forgiving Yourself, Others, and God.
Take Responsibility For Your Thoughts And Feelings, Actions And Reactions
- Acknowledge and Accept Responsibility For Your Thoughts and Feelings, Actions and Reactions (Be Honest and Take Ownership). 18
Happy Autumn! Dear ILM Community,
from the ILM Staff
Below is a list of the ILM Staff and a summary of their job descriptions. If you have a question about something in the Newsletter, on the website, with registration, with donations, with Midwest, Hawaii, and England activities, or anything else, please refer to this page and direct your question to the staff member connected to that area. Much Loving,
ILM Ministers
Jim Gordon - President & Founder: Jim has served as ILM’s spiritual teacher for many years, and as an anchor point for sharing the Path of Sound and Light through ILM, his teachings have created the foundation of ILM’s focus in the world. Jim Gordon He now supports Brian Yeakey as the spiritual teacher for ILM.
Brian Yeakey - Vice President & Spiritual Director: As successor to Jim Gordon, Brian serves as ILM’s Spiritual Teacher, sharing the Path of Sound and Light and initiating people into the meditation practice with the Sacred Name of God. As the Brian Yeakey Spiritual Director, Brian is responsible for ILM’s overall Mission and Purpose, as well as overseeing ILM’s Ministerial Program.
Laura Doggett - Administrative Assistant & Event Coordinator (lauradoggett@ilm.
org): As Jim and Brian’s assistant, Laura is the contact person for information regarding ILM, ordering books and CD’s, and scheduling initiations. Laura handles registration and logistics for ILM’s Meditation retreats in Austin, Hawaii, and England, Austin events and classes, and assists ILM’s Area Representatives.
Laura Doggett
Laura Kesten - Managing Editor (laurakesten@ilm.org): Laura edits the text for the ILM Newsletters, fliers, books, workbooks, booklets, and website, as well as the audio for the CDs. She also transcribes and edits many of Jim’s and Brian’s talks and Q & A sessions for the ILM Journal and website.
Laura Kesten
Bill Stratton - Creative Visual and Audio Director (billstratton@ilm.org): Bill creates, designs, and produces the ILM Newsletters, as well as creates fliers and ecards for local events. In addition, Bill records Jim and Brian’s Austin classes, produces audio/visual files for the production of CDs and the website, and prepares all audio files for the ILM website.
Bill Stratton
Henry De La O - Comptroller (henry@ilm.org): Henry is ILM’s Financial Administrator responsible for all accounting, record keeping, and financial reporting.
Steven McAfee - Midwest Area Coordinator (stevenmcafee@ilm.org): Steven creates
Henry De La O
and facilitates the Midwest ILM retreats, monthly workshops, and weekly classes. He, also, provides information about questions regarding ILM’s initiation process and its teachings.
Ani McAfee - Midwest Administrative Assistant (stevenmcafee@ilm.org): Ani assists
Steven McAfee
Kelsie Mc Sherry
Steven by managing logistics for all Midwest events, classes, workshops, retreats, and community gatherings, including class schedules, retreat details, calendars, fliers, and ecards. As chaplain, Ani also provides support as a spiritual caregiver for those who have experienced recent bereavement.
Kelsie Mc Sherry - Hawaii Area Coordinator (kelsiemcsherry@ilm.org): Kelsie creates, coordinates, and facilitates Hawaii area ILM classes, workshops, and retreats using ILM’s teachings and practices. Through spiritual counseling, Kelsie assists people in working with ILM’s teachings, LAF, and utilizing ILM’s LAF Workbook and Meditation Journal. 19
Ani McAfee
Inner Light Ministries
PRESORTED FIRST CLASS MAIL U.S. POSTAGE PAID AUSTIN, TEXAS
A Path of Sound and Light ®
Editorial and Publishing Office P.O. Box 164332 Austin, Texas 78716-4332 Phone: 512-306-1056
PERMIT NO. 1149
INNER LIGHT MINISTRIES Newsletter About ILM ®
I nner Light Ministries (ILM) is a non-profit
organization dedicated to teaching spiritual awakening through an inner practice of meditation. This meditation practice is an inner path through which the soul transcends the physical realms of creation to its true home in the spiritual realms within the heart of God. In spiritual teachings and literature this inner path is often referred to as “The Path of Sound and Light,” “The Path of The Holy Spirit,” “The Path of Love,” or simply as “The Path,” or “The Way.” ILM offers initiation into this meditation practice enabling one to fully experience this inner journey of awakening. To provide support for those individuals interested in this path, Inner Light Ministries offers numerous publications, materials, programs, and services, which encourage devotion to God and support a life-long practice of meditation, spiritual study, and service.
Inner Light Ministries:
Mailing List To keep our present mailing system up-to-date, please check the spelling of your name, street and city. If there is an error, please notify us by phone (512-306-1056), email (ilmadmin@ ilm.org) or by mail (PO Box 164332, Austin, TX 78716-4332).
Donations Donations to Inner Light Ministries are gratefully accepted, and help us support: 1. ILM events, production of CDs, the ILM Newsletter, and books. 2. Scholarships toward supporting members taking ILM retreats and workshops. 3. ILM’s Christmastime project: Coins For Kids. Checks may be made payable to Inner Light Ministries and sent to: 2303 Ranch Road 620 South, Ste 135-303, Austin, Texas 78734. Or to make a donation by credit card, go to ILM’s website at ilm.org. ILM is a 501(c)(3) non profit ecclesiastical organization. All donations are tax deductible.
Main Office: Jim Gordon, Brian Yeakey, P.O. Box 164332, Austin, TX 78716-4332; Midwest Office: Steven McAfee, P.O. Box 5139, Fort Wayne, IN 46895