Holiday Issue 2009
TM
INSIDE LOOK southern california’s conscious magazine
Winter Escape Park City, Utah
Unifying Humanity This Holiday Season
The Twelve Interview Author William Gladstone www.insidelookmagazine.com
4(% 2%*56%.):%2 0HYLLIS ,IGHT 0H $ 4ELEPATHIC (EALER
¤
! ,)&%4)-% /& (%!,).' !.$ 02/4%#4)/.
5IF 3FKVWFOJ[FS IBT NBEF B USFNFOEPVT EJGGFSFODF JO NZ MJGF 5IJOHT TFFN UP nPX CFUUFS BOE * GFFM NVDI MFTT BOYJFUZ BOE TUSFTT + 4 3FBM &TUBUF "HFOU
s 0ROTECTS FROM %-&S AND OTHER DAMAGING FREQUENCIES
FROM COMPUTERS CELL PHONES MICROWAVES 46S SATELLITES WIRELESS INTERNET ETC
"%&/2%
s (ELPS COMBAT FATIGUE
HEADACHES AND EYESTRAIN
s (ELPS STRENGTHEN THE
IMMUNE SYSTEM
s %NHANCES INTUITION AND SPIRITUAL AWARENESS
4HIS WOMAN HAD ONLY A FEW HOURS SLEEP THE PREVIOUS NIGHT AND FELT EXHAUSTED AT THE TIME THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN
!&4%2
s 0ROTECTS YOU FROM
OTHER PEOPLE S NEGATIVE ENERGY
AND MORE
!FTER WEARING THE 0ERSONAL 2EJUVENIZER FOR ONLY MINUTES SHE REPORTED FEELING MORE AWAKE ENERGIZED AND REFRESHED
,IGHT 5NLIMITED WWW LIGHTHEALING COM
INSIDE LOOK
Southern California’s Conscious MAGAZINE VOLUME 1, ISSUE 6 November/December 2009
Contents
4 Winter Escape - Park City, Utah Martha Carter
6 Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens Elizabeth Lombardo
10 The Twelve Interview
With William Gladstone
14 Green Christmas
Publisher’s Note Happy Holidays! We know that with the holidays around the corner it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With all the shopping, baking, and giftwrapping - not to mention spending - to do, it’s almost inevitable that we feel burdened. With this issue we wanted to remind you to try to take each moment as it comes and to enjoy what’s happening right now. Forget all that needs to be accomplished, and instead, take a few minutes when you’re feeling stressed and just breathe. You will enjoy the moment more, and ultimately your life more, if you learn to practice this simple “time-out.” Life is too short to be so hurried. Keeping this in mind, we’ve included inspiration from Ronald Alexander with a meditation article to help you learn to quiet your thoughts. Jason Nelson illustrates living more harmoniously and compassionately with all people and all traditions. We thought it appropriate to take this time to tell you about the new Inside Look Magazine. We have decided to put our money where our mouth is and help save the environment by going completely digital. That means no more killing trees, wasting chemicals to treat thousands of pounds of paper, and no more excessive energy consumption. With this new phase of our magazine, we’re excited to be a completely carbon free company! We urge other publications to do the same and embrace technology to relay their message.
Sarah Collins
Thank you for reading our magazine and for signing up at Inside Look Network. The more you participate, the more we can keep conscious communication alive. Feel free to stop by and add us to your friends list!
Jason Nelson
Wishing you a joyous Holiday Season,
16 Unifying Humanity 18 Mindfulness Meditation
Mike Williams and Jennifer Smith - Inside Look Magazine
Ronald Alexander, Ph.D.
22 November/December Horoscope Judy Hevenly
23 Parting Message
Henry David Thoreau
Publisher Michael Williams Executive Editor: Jennifer Smith Staff Editors: Cheryl Snyder, Jackie Aubrey Contributing Writers: Ronald Alexander, Martha Carter, Sarah Collins, Judy Hevenly, Elizabeth Lombardo, Jason Nelson, Tyson Bing Design: Scott Gregory Advertising: 310-363-0456 Inside Look Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 6, is published six times a year - January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/December - by Creative Media Arts, PO BOX 1306, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272. Inside Look Magazine is $24.99 for six issues, or free at select locations throughout Southern California. © 2009 Creative Media Arts (CMA). All rights reserved. No part of Inside Look Magazine may be reproduced without specific written permission. Inside Look magazine, as a publication of CMA, assumes no responsibility for the opinions of our contributors and is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos, which must be accompanied by return postage. Publication of the name or photo of any person or organization in Inside Look Magazine should not be construed as an indication of that person’s expressed opinion. Advertisers and their agencies assume responsibility and liability for the content of their advertisement in Inside Look Magazine. Photographers whose work is published in any advertising or editorial content within Inside Look Magazine agrees to indemnify and save harmless the publishers from all liability, loss, and expense due to a photographer’s failure to gain a model release. Title pending at U.S. Patent Office, Washington D.C.
Cover: Seasonal Snowfall Next Issue:
Interviews with Eric Pearl and Judith Orloff
Universal Church of the Master It is our belief that each person finds and travels their own spiritual path, and that no single set of fixed rules is applicable to everyone. Let us facilitate your spiritual journey. We offer several paths for your journey, including an accredited
Undergraduate and Graduate Theology Degree Program. www.U-C-M.org Founded 1908
World Headquarters 100 W. Rincon Ave. #101 Campbell, CA 95008 Email: staff@u-c-m.org Phone: (408) 370-6519
Inside Look Magazine November/December
3
Winter Escape Park City, Utah
T
BY MARTHA CARTER
hrough the winding canyon, towering walls on either side, cool sky stretching overhead, lies a clustered city, nestled in the glorious Wasatch Mountains. Freshly fallen snow sparkles, a web of crystals drapes across the rooftops. Quaint homes with slanted beams boast twinkling lights, singing of holiday spirit. Old Town Main Street pulls you in, buildings snuggling side by side, windows yawning with art, warm clothing and delectable treats. And far atop the mountains, one can see the smooth tongue of the slopes beckoning, as if out of some faraway dream, Park City’s
pride and joy, its Pied Piper, awaits the season’s visitors, impatient and eager. An incredible winter vacation destination, Park City is famous not only for its world-renowned, Olympic-style skiing, but also for hosting the annual Sundance Film Festival. A stomping ground for artist and athlete, this mountain retreat is a must-see for all ages and passions. Adrenaline junkies can head for the mountain to mow through powder at break-neck speeds, while the true “vacationers” can remain behind, hot cocoa in hand and fire blazing, in the comforts of one of
the many resorts and country cottages. Utah has a reputation for being conservative, not only in the religious sense, but the state is often perceived as culturally stagnant. Although tourists still gape at the liquor laws (1.5 oz. of base liquor to any cocktail, “Private Club for Members,” etc.), there is a vast selection of exceptional cuisine and a wide array of entertainment possibilities. Dining is available on every corner, from The Grubstake’s hearty comfort food to the classic flavors of Deer Valley’s, The Mariposa, rated #1 in the
Photo: Deer Valley, Skyguy414 CC-BY-SA
4
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com
The nightlife heats up during the winter season as tourists pour in from around the world. Zagat Restaurant Guide and recent winner of Best Restaurant in Mountain Living’s Best of the High Country issue. One of the nation’s treasured chefs landed in Park City years ago, developing some of its most acclaimed restaurants. At the age of 28, Bill White launched his first project, Grappa, one of Utah’s finest Italian dining destinations. White continued with Chimayo, featuring Southwestern flavors and eventually opened the Asian-inspired Wahso. White’s growing collection of Park City endeavors include the Windy Ridge Café and Ghidottis. Sloping through the center of Park City lays Old town Main Street, which was once a popular destination for the city’s founders. Now it is a sophisticated pedestrian paradise with endless shopping and nightlife possibilities. Local artists play on the rustic elegance of Park City with endless landscapes, woodcarvings and nativeinspired art. Teeming with history, the Mountain Trails Gallery, once a silver miner’s bank, boasts an enormous collection of Western Art. Local artworks pepper the walls, inspired by the beauty of their surroundings. The nightlife heats up during the winter season as tourists pour in from around the world. Club Harryo’s, the largest entertainment venue in Utah, caters to rump-shakers and martini-sippers alike, with a huge dance floor, VIP booths and a strong show lineup featuring all genres. For a post-skiing experience, bars like Cicero’s, The No Name, and Butchers provide excellent cocktails and a relaxed environment without the hype. Vacationing in Park City has a specific charm, and although five-star resorts are available on every corner, one can also enjoy the unique experience of staying in one of the numerous homes for rent. Ranging from sprawling mountain mansions to cozy two- bedroom
The USC Trojan Marching Band leads a parade down Park Avenue, Park City Utah - Photo by Bobak Ha’Eri CC-BY-SA cabins, there are hundreds of rentals during the ski season. This is the cozy home away from home; mornings spent cooking breakfast for the family and evenings cuddling up by the warmth of the hearth after a long day at the slopes. For true snow bunnies, a resort may be the preferred route, as most offer stay and ski discount packages. Especially this year, when tourism has suffered a crippling blow, www.ParkCity.com offers a string of deals and discounts. Vacation packages include everything from lodging discounts to free ski passes with same-day airline tickets. Park City itself can keep anyone occupied for weeks at a time, but a short drive to the Valley opens the doors of Salt Lake City and all of its wonders. Capitol Theatre and Kingsbury Hall offer world-class productions. Temple Square, the site of the original Mormon Temple, is a fascinating
Inside Look Magazine November/December
stop for tourists. During the holiday season, tens of thousands of lights are strung and the square becomes a festive wonderland against the backdrop of Utah’s compelling history. Although tourists typically choose Park City as a winter destination, summertime offers the opportunity to witness this majestic mountain range in full bloom. Attractions include numerous golf courses, hiking, and the Alpine slide, on which visitors cruise down on the mountain on wheeled toboggans. Any time of year, Utah’s landscape and canopied sky are a sight to remember. As the sun settles behind the silver-gray expanse of the Great Salt Lake, cloud formations are streaked with brilliant colors. Valleys and canyons yawn with shadows and curious patches of light. A winter paradise, one of nature’s jewels, Park City gleams, dazzles, and eventually slumbers. 5
Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens Los Angeles, CA
By ELIZABETH LOMBARDO
Photos: Elizabeth Lombardo
D
riving up to the black steel entryway the Peace Awareness Center appears extremely safeguarded from the toiling city streets. As I walk over the gravel and head down the long driveway towards the gardens, the peaceful tranquility envelops me. Prior to entering the grounds there is a definite aura in the air as an endless canopy of tropical foliage hits the eye. An unbelievable utopian escape located in the midst of one of the most populated and bustling cities.
6
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com
The Meditation Garden is heavily inspired by Asian cultural influences seen in the koi pond, rustic bridge, and running water. The various water elements are key components drowning out the disruptive street noise and fostering a subdued sense of relaxation. Sky-high bamboo shoots offer a comforting, secluded fortress surrounding the garden. There are numerous seating arrangements thoughtfully placed throughout the shaded levels of the meditation area. Whether nestled under a tree, resting by a fountain, or lounging beneath a pavilion, there is a plethora of personal moments to reflect on one’s internal being. Offering an altruistic experience, guests are invited to stroll along the paths at their own pace, and enjoy the serenity and beauty surrounding them. Stone hedged pillars resembling ancient temples mark the stairs descending further into the meditation gardens. Accents of deep red hues are incorporated throughout the garden evoking an impassioned and ethereal energy. Periodic moments of energized actualization alight when crossing the cherry wood bridge or gazing at the crimson focal fountain. Overhead a weathered pavilion is covered with woven strands of ivy allowing glimmers of light to penetrate through. Although shaded, the sun’s radiant warmth is felt even in the garden’s most secluded corners.
Water flows through the center of the walkway surrounded by finely manicured sand banks. On the right hand side is the large labyrinth, circular in shape with white and beige curved paths outlining the meditation walkway for visitors. Centrally located, the immense hand-carved stone labyrinth provides ample room for groups of people to meditate simultaneously in silent cohesion. The labyrinth has been an architectural continuum for centuries utilized for spiritual practices and dogmatic disciplines. Dating back to its ancient presence around 3000 years ago, labyrinths were carved on walls, stones, ceramics, bushes, and floors. Adapted by Christianity, the Christians incorporated a labyrinth design within cathedral floors symbolizing the soul’s journey through life. The revived popularity of the labyrinth has bridged religious and cultural settings as a humanistic tool in reducing stress and finding ideological clarity. Walking the labyrinth enables us to become tuned in to our true being, finding a delicate balance in both our personal and professional lives. Once individuals can view their problems with increased clarity, effective modes of change can be begun to improve one’s life. The physical, mental, and emotional balance sought out and hopefully accomplished through meditation has a plenitude of health benefits. Consciously taking deep breaths can alleviate pent-up stress and significantly lower blood pressure. Living in a fast-paced society, stress is at the forefront, fostering ambition while simultaneously breaking down the body’s immune system. The amount of stress an individual has decisively attributes to later health conditions. Relaxation and meditation clearly go beyond simple mind exercises and have a holistic influence upon the entire physical body. The breathtaking garden elements and labyrinth meditation aid in relieving built up physical tension and mental haziness. The Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens promote the spiritual teachings of self-reflection, offering guided meditations, workshops, and retreats open to the public. It also has an onsite Peace Theological Seminary and College of Philosophy proInside Look Magazine November/December
7
Photo Courtesy of Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens
Lily pads, flowering trees, water hemlocks, and varietal ferns are abundantly present throughout the garden. I eventually plop down atop pleasantly plush pillows on a bench underneath the pavilion. The wooden bench is naturally weathered yet provides a cozy worn niche to ponder my thoughts. This daytime retreat offers an invaluable escape from the monotonous week of stressful deadlines. Setting this idle time aside for myself already feels relaxing as I am not responsible for anyone or anything; I am where I am. It is an odd feeling for most at first, to overcome the angst fueling the need to do something. Reflective silence allows us to acknowledge our inner desires and cognitive thoughts all too often ignored or suppressed during daily interaction. The roles, jobs, and duties performed within our society typically nullify individual urges and deep-rooted thoughts. Public displays of emotion are frowned upon and often seen as problematic signs of weakness. During meditation individuals may experience a varied range of emotions as they become aware of their personal struggles and triumphs, weaknesses, and strengths alike. Based on Eastern philosophies, meditation allows us to be freed from ourselves. In a sense, the hyperactivity of our self-inflicting fears and concerns overwhelms our mind, body, and spirit. This newly achieved freedom allows us to live life in the present, the here and now that is today. Reaching a state of relaxation in the midst of nature reminds us of our individual qualities as well as our universally shared human experience.
Whether taking an outing solo or bringing a loved one along, this daytime oasis is an incredible experience. The visit can also be an enlightening, personal experience when accompanied by a friend, sibling, parent, or significant other. In fact, when meditating side by side and reflecting upon your life’s journey and future incentives, there is an intrinsic bond felt during this shared experience. As naturally social beings it is rewarding to feel interconnected while contemplating the inner self and one’s relation to the broader world. It is during these moments that life’s extraordinary complexities are fully realized and thoroughly appreciated. Perhaps the most amazing part of this exploration was the discovery of this natural haven in the epicenter of Los Angeles. Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 West Adams Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90018 323-737-4055 www.peacelabyrinth.org Liz Lombardo graduated from UC Davis in 2008 with a double major in English and Sociology and is currently a freelance writer. Her ultimate dream is to become a travel writer and explore various social, cultural, and entertainment capitals throughout the world.
viding masters or doctoral programs pertaining to universal spirituality. Advocating the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness (MSIA) the labyrinth and gardens emphasize soul transcendence and pragmatic spirituality. Promoting the actuality of living true to one’s will in solidarity with God enables spirituality to be practiced in real time. MSIA breaks beyond the confines of spirituality as a theory and encourages individuality in one’s quest for inner realization. Visitors can truly experience a peaceful solidarity with the earth’s surroundings by embracing the breathtaking stillness of this natural setting. Visiting hours are Tuesday thru Friday from 11a.m.-3p.m. 8
Guided tours of the gardens and historical mansion are available Sundays starting at noon and finishing around 4p.m. The staff and groundskeepers are friendly yet enable guests to fully embrace their private experience free of disruption. Updated regularly on the Peace Awareness website, www. peacelabyrinth.org, a host of exercises including free-form writing, spiritual dancing, and group meditation are held throughout the month.
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
Photos by S
thunder and then there is the silence. It is midnight and Day squeezes my hand. She has been fighting a cold all week and I briefly
Greening
Your
Aging
Home By Rhonda Halfon
F
The man across from me, an older man whose name I no longer recall, looks at me eco-conscious enhancements despite its age. Today’s green movement has introduced a cornucopia of products and solutions that are readily available, affordable, and highly effective for homeowners of all levels. From energy-saving appliances to water-reducing systems to environmentally friendly flooring and window treatments, choices abound. The average home spends about $1900 per year on energy costs. Not only is much of that energy wasted, electricity generated by fossil fuels for a single home emits more carbon dioxide into the air than two average cars. Applying simple energy-efficient improvements could increase your air quality and cut energy costs considerably. And when you sell your home, this value-added “green” feature is likely to yield a higher price among savvy green-conscious buyers. So if you’re looking to breathe cleaner air and keep more of your energy bill in your pocket, it’s a good time to get started.
You can conduct a simple home energy audit yourself, contact your local utility company, or call an independent energy auditor or professional contactor for a more comprehensive examination. An energy audit involves checking your home’s insulation levels, identifying holes and cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, and doors, and light and plumbing fixtures that can leak air in or out of your home. Only 20% of homes built before 1980 are well insulated. In addition, about 1/3 of air infiltrates through openings in your ceilings, walls, and floors. Installing insulation and sealing air leaks are among the most common cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable year-round. An audit will also ensure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. Once you have identified where your home is losing energy relative to your energy bill, you can prioritize where you should be focusing your improvements.
Stop Searching, Start Living!
eeling a draft on your home energy bills? Does the air quality in your home often feel stagnant? Snuggle up to cost-cutting green solutions. And in the process, transform Whole House Approach HIDDEN LAWS: Read Rhonda’s complete approach to a whole your home to a healthier, more comfortable U LTIMATE T OOLS FOR D IVINEhouse C O -atCREATION www.insidelookmagazine.com. environment. To begin, consider a whole house While most homeowners associate green Rhonda Halfon is a professional Realtor affiliated b y approach U l l a Jaco bs w w w. h i d d e n l aws . co menergy efficient to deterbuilding and remodeling with new homes with Keller Williams Realty/Westside Los Angeles. rhonda.larebuzz@gmail.com built from scratch, today’s homeowner of mine which parts of your house use www.LARealEstateBUZZ.com. the not-so-new home can undergo countless the most energy. Inside Look Magazine May/June Sacred Places
13
Inside Look Magazine March/April Green Issue Inside Look Magazine November/December
11 9
I N S I D E L O O K I n t e r v ie w W I T H T H E TW E LV E A U T H O R
INSIDE LOOK MAGAZINE: How were estimated to be at least 3000 years and when were you first introduced to old found on the plantation which is the concept of 2012? high in the mountains about 30 miles from Izapa. The markings were similar WILLIAM GLADSTONE: As a young to markings found in Izapa and were eviboy I was fascinated with the Olmec and dence that the Mayan calendar itself may Mayan civilizations and especially their have actually been developed by ancient mathematical prowess. I was aware of peoples even older than the Mayan. the 2012 end date to their calendar and thought it curious to have a birthday December 12th (12/12) that was also linked IL: Are there other world calendars as to the number twelve. accurate as the Mayan calendar? If not, how do you explain this level of precision from a culture less technologically IL: Have you actually visited Izapa, the advanced than our own? supposed home of the Mayan calendar, and if so, what did you find there? WG: No, there are no other world calendars as accurate as the Mayan calendar. No WG: Yes. The site itself is not spectacu- one can actually explain why or how the lar but the glyphs are intriguing. While Mayans created their calendars. The long visiting Tapachula, the modern town just count which ends December 21, 2012, a few kilometers from the site of Izapa, I is just one of several dozen calendars the encountered a family that has lived in the Mayan, or as I suspect, pre-Mayans crearea for more than one hundred years. ated. There is clear correspondence of the I visited the coffee plantation that was 26,000 year cycle of the Long Count calstarted by the present family’s great-great- endar with what is known as the “wobble” grandfather and was shown artifacts that that corrects itself every 26,000 years in 10
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
the actual movement of planet earth, but how they could have observed or known that seems to be a genuine mystery. I suspect the creators of these calendars had keen powers of observation and were also brilliant mathematicians. I also believe they had economic surplus that allowed them to develop thinkers and mathematicians who focused primarily on these mathematical computations. IL: How does the Mayan prophesy coincide with the Indian Yuga cycles? WG: The Kali Yuga of Indian belief is coming to an end. This “iron age” will be replaced by a more enlightened time. The correspondence of dates is not exact but the general belief in a spiritual transformation at this time is nearly identical with the belief of many Mayan elders and Mayan scholars. IL: What inspired you to write The Twelve? www.InsideLookNetwork.com
WG: I had a near-death experience at the age of fifteen that is similar to what Max Doff experiences in the novel, but the actual inspiration came from meeting a woman in 1979, in San Diego, California, who had an almost identical near-death experience in which she too was given twelve names while “out of her body.” I immediately saw the final scene for a major film and created a film treatment at that time.
harmonic convergence which will unite a minimum of twelve million people at a minimum of one million locations throughout the world. The focused meetings will mirror those described in the novel The Twelve and will allow each individual and group to address individual, local, and international issues related to solving immediate problems and, most importantly, creating a field of “conscious harmony,” allowing the birth of new solutions to international problems.
IL: Do you believe the Mayan Prophecy predicts Earth’s destruction, or a new era IL: As a young child, the main character of understanding? Max Doff is slow to learn to speak and is considered mentally defective. EventuWG: Clearly, I believe we are on the ally it becomes apparent that, at least in verge of a new level of awareness and un- mathematics, Max is somewhat of a gederstanding. This is what most Mayan nius. Do you think the line between geelders and scholars also believe. At the nius and mentally defective is as close as same time there is always free will, and what you have depicted in the book? given the current world situation, it is imperative that humans of good will take WG: Actually I do think it can be close. positive action to ensure that this coming The film A Beautiful Mind starring Rustransformation will be positive and not sell Crowe is an example of the thin line. negative. However, I think this is the exception and not the rule. Genius requires stepping outside of conventional thinking, IL: What do you think will happen in and often such geniuses are ridiculed the year 2012? and ignored, but that does not mean that they are insane. As has often been stated WG: The sensation of time speeding up of a great new idea--first it is rejected as will accelerate even more. There will be nonsense, then it becomes accepted, and dislocations and financial problems for finally everyone claims credit for having many. At the same time, millions of peo- had the idea in the first place. ple will continue to wake up to the startling truth of who they really are and how they are intimately connected with other humans and all living beings and how they can play a major role in the transformation of consciousness on planet earth leading to a more benign and joyful world for everyone (even those who will deny that there has been any change at all).
IL: The near-death experience of Max Doff is essential to the plot of the The Twelve. Did you research near-death experiences, and how much of the description in your book is based on actual facts? WG: I did research near-death experiences, but the description in the novel is simply based on my own experience. It was gratifying to do research that later confirmed that my personal experience was common to more than ninety percent of those who also reported positive bliss energy in their personal experiences. Of course, my experience was unique to me, and except for one other woman, I have not yet uncovered other accounts of being given twelve names during a neardeath experience though there are many reports of individuals who upon “coming back to life” report a sense of mission and purpose to help others. That was clearly an essential element in my own experience and a reaffirmation of a sense of destiny that I carried since my first memory as a child. IL: In The Twelve Max Doff experiences an out-of-body trip to the Moon. Do you think such out-of-body experiences are possible, and, if so, how do you explain them? WG: I do think such experiences are possible and many people have shared such
IL: Have you planned any specific events or teamed up with other organizations to create positive events in the year 2012 which might tip the balance in favor of a positive outcome? WG: Yes. We are working with Jose Arguelles, Barbara Marx Hubbard and the Club of Budapest, among other philanthropic organizations to create a focused Inside Look Magazine November/December
11
experiences with me. Again, my experience was unique to me and then stated as factually as possible in the novel itself. I do not really understand how such experiences are possible and certainly do not have sufficient scientific training to explain them. At the same time, given new breakthroughs in quantum physics, string theory, and related scientific and philosophical analysis, I am certain that these are valid experiences which we will someday understand from both a scientific and spiritual perspective.
WG: Go within. Become aware of who you really are and what is truly important to you. Realize as Max Doff does in the novel that “A is and is not equal to A,” that you are both a human being and a divine being at the same time. And once you truly realize this, go beyond the realization and explore what that implies for behavior on a daily basis. IL: You also specify that a portion of your author royalties are being donated to Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots. Why did you choose Roots and Shoots from among the hundreds of worthy causes to be a benefactor from book sales?
IL: What is the significance of the number twelve in the world religions you depict in your book? WG: Each religion has a unique connection to the number twelve. For Christians, The Twelve Apostles were essential for the growth of Jesus as the savior. The Jews reported on The Twelve Lost Tribes of Israel. The Muslims write of twelve sacred ones and also of the importance of the number 144 in certain mosques. The holiest number for Hindus is 108, which is also a multiple of twelve. The Mayan themselves have the legend of The Twelve princes of Xibalba. IL: Why and how do you see people changing from reading this book? WG: Of course, each individual will react differently and not every reader will be changed by reading The Twelve. However, there is so much fundamental truth in The Twelve about how both the material and spiritual world actually works that most readers will find themselves recognizing the truth of their own existence in the synchronicities and everyday magic that governs the life of each and every human being. Max Doff is a model only in the sense that he is an everyman/ woman. There is nothing all that special about Max except his dedication to the truth, to be present in every moment, to always look for the good in others, to do whatever he can to help others, and enjoy each and every moment of his life. Max suffers from business and love affairs that do not go well, and yet he never closes his heart nor loses his enthusiasm and optimism about the nature of life and love.
Such an attitude can only inspire others to think the best of themselves and others and to realize that being good is not a burden but the easiest path to experience joy. IL: What can we change today to make a better tomorrow – even before 2012 arrives? WG: We can stop pretending that material abundance is the most important goal in life. Of course, everyone needs clean air, clean food and water, a nice place to live, and some fun toys and diversions, but the material is not in fact the key to true human happiness. The Dalai Lama has recently spoken of the importance of compassion and kindness and, in fact, the mere exercise of such behavior can create greater happiness for each of us than the accumulation of great material wealth. If each person would simply look around and see how wonderful this planet is, how wonderful most human beings are, and encourage kindness and altruistic behavior, the world would immediately become more joyful and efficient about solving the very real problems that sharing a finite world with nearly seven billion people entails.
WG: Jane is an inspiration to so many. I have had the good fortune to spend time with her and I came to respect the wonderful combination of practicality that she brings as a scientist with a truly spiritual perspective that goes far beyond just caring for human beings. Her Roots and Shoots project reaches more than one hundred thousand young people and teaches them to respect all living beings including animals and plants. This is the essential starting point for creating a planet that works for everyone and every living being. I am honored that Jane’s organization allowed me to promote Roots and Shoots at the end of the novel and felt that Roots and Shoots shares the combination of practical problem solving and dreamer that characterized Max Doff in a way that perhaps no other philanthropic organization does. IL: Is there a website our readers can visit for more information?
WG: Visit www.12thebook.com for more information about the novel itself, the iPhone games, and the contest with a grand prize weekend in Sedona, Arizona, re-enacting one of the critical scenes from the novel. Visit www.planetchange.tv for videos related to positive change and to view interviews with major authors under the title The 2012 Chronicles and www.planetchange2012.com to discuss IL: What is the single most important issues of positive solutions for problems action our listeners can take to ensure local and international. that 2012 will be a positive rather than IL negative tipping point?
Inside Look Magazine November/December
13
Simplify The Season With a Green Christmas
Whether you have financial concerns, don’t like crowds, or aren’t looking forward to travel or a visit with old Uncle Jack, there’s nothing quite like things that shine to remind you that the stress will soon come down the chimney with the elves. Toning down your decorations will not only ease your mind in a remarkable way – it’ll also save electricity and you’ll cut down on a lot of waste by keeping plastic, foil, and packaging out of your home. So this year, instead of layering your tree with glass and tinsel opt for strings of popcorn instead. Get the family together to thread the kernels and tie scraps of red and green fabric into bows at the tips of branches. Together, you’re guaranteed to create some memories that just don’t come in a box.
Give Green
by Sarah Collins
A
re you dreaming of a green Christmas? I’m not talking about the kind with lots of money (well, what could that hurt?) or one without snow (the horror!). Rather, how about the kind that tosses materialism out on its grinchy ear and instead welcomes back an era of quieter, simpler times? Yes, my friends, chestnuts really can roast by an open fire and a silent night is possible after all. So if you want to celebrate this year without sending your electrical meter zooming into a tailspin, ripping a hole in your wallet, or harboring stress in the bags that shouldn’t be under your eyes, then consider these tips for going green for the holidays!
Cut the lights Not all of them, of course, but step back with purpose. If your house can be clearly seen from two blocks away, it’s time to unplug. Stand at the curb and look at the snaking miles of cords running across your festive façade and think, just for a moment, how great it would look to see bountiful greenery with velvety ribbons instead. Then, once you’re convinced, gather boughs of pine or other evergreens if you have them nearby and wrap them with florists’ wire to hold them in shape. Add a festive red bow and you’ve got the perfect holiday home accessory. Even better, unlike the wires and bulbs, it’ll look beautiful both night and day!
Deck the Halls …with a whole lot less! Few folks will deny the beauty in the shimmery, sparkling world that falls over Christmas like a blanket of snow, but you’d be surprised at how much stress it can bring on. The visual noise may excite the kids, but for adults it tends to push a subconscious panic button. 14
You’re not thinking about money again are you? Well, maybe this time you’re not so far off. Gift cards are no longer considered thoughtless; in fact, they’re a great way to cut down on unnecessary waste! Personalize your gift by choosing one for their favorite store, or take it one charitable step further and give to a good cause in the recipient’s name. Eliminate the expense and waste of wrapping paper and do something really great for someone all in one fell swoop! It’s amazing how going green will ease the stress on your wallet and on your mind, but it’s when you simplify the season that you’re getting back to what it’s really all about. There, hidden just beneath the lights, traffic, and the crowds is the true meaning of Christmas. It’s in the joy of giving, the silence of night, and the blessings of a season that can, indeed, make it a holy one after all.
Merry Christmas! Sarah is a part time freelance writer and a full time home schooling mom to five. She lives with her husband of more than 11 years on the southern coast of Virginia, where they spend warm afternoons out on their boat …occasionally tossing the kids overboard for some much needed peace and quiet. Visit www.sarahcollins.net to learn more.
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com
UNIFYING HUMANITY By JASON NELSON
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
W
to look forward into the future, and and “I am accepted for every part of me to help create harmony in the world is good.” The unknowns within ourselves e often find it tempting to disthrough unification instead of isolation. immediately become less scary when tance ourselves from people we deem our subconscious is not permitted to unusual or different. Society and lanHow do we practice unifying? We start hold us back from our greater potential. guage can encourage this behavior. After by unifying within. Unity is not just an all, humanity is divided against itself by idea. It is a feeling, an act, and a way of When we have unity within ourselves, borders drawn on maps. Demographers, living in every moment, in each new ex- when we come from a place of love eager to throw us into socioeconomic perience. Too often, we allow our fears and understanding, we don’t need bins, ask exactly which one of several and insecurities to overwhelm us, to fear the unknown anymore. That checkboxes most accurately defines us. leaving us to doubt our own which was unfamiliar or scary is now We root for the home team and boo the potential instead of interesting or exciting. Those who rivals into a homogenous blur of pure realizing it. Why used to seem distant or threatening enmity. It is normal to do this but is it are we now seem approachable or innocent. natural? These social constructs hide afraid the physical truth that in fact we of our This shift in where we come from and are all connected to each other how we perceive others now permits in many wonderful ways. us to accept them. Acceptance then allows us to replace ego-based thinking It is especially critisuch as judging, blaming, and rejectcal to remember this ing with soul-based living gifting us during the holiday seawith compassion, love, and oneness. son, when traditions of When we feel this way for each other cultures can come other, we are unified and one into public contrast with our step closer to a peaceful world. own familiar traditions. We may be put off by traditions or beliefs Despite all of the differencwe do not share or understand. es we highlight between But when we reach across such dipeople and traditions, vides, we come one step closer towards we are all part of the a more peaceful world. This holiday same humanity. Beseason, let us aspire to feel at one with hind the artificial borour fellow humans, and take it upon ders we create are individual ourselves to fill the voids of apathy and people with the same insecurifear with compassion and friendship. ties and hopes we have. So remempotential? ber it doesn’t matter what we call our If you look at any holiday gathering Because it is individual holidays or exactly how we closely, you will see people enjoying each an unknown. celebrate them. The holiday season is a other’s company, reflecting on the past, In order to unify ourselves, time for people to come together, and no planning for the future, and taking care we must break free from the time is better to do that than right now. of their loved ones. You will find the same self-imposed chains of doubt that hold precious laughter and celebration taking us back. Then we are present in every place in every home, irrespective of the ge- moment and acting instead of reacting. Jason Nelson is a spiritual coach and author of Age ometry of the religious symbols, the color of the Soul. He is known for his simple three-step of the food, or the sound of the language. Instead of allowing old dualistic affirma- process for getting one connected to their spiritions such as “No matter how hard I try, I tuality. Through one-on-one coaching, personal Ultimately, we are all profoundly uni- won’t make it” or “I need to prove myself appearances, tele-classes and open dialogue, he is fied by our shared humanity and our to people” to play like a looped record- a defining voice and significant contributor to the world of self help and personal transformation. To shared earthly home within a universe ing in our subconscious, we must repeat contact Jason call (818) 618-2880, email jason@ of astronomical enormity. Although empowering, liberating mantras that jasonnelson.info, or visit www.jasonnelson.info. the traditions of the holiday season speak from the soul. Such affirmations remind us of our past, we also need assert truths like “I am safe,” “I am loved,”
16
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com
Mindfulness Meditation
Adapted from Dr. Ronald Alexander’s new book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change (New Harbinger Publications, 2009).
I
n a crisis, we’re likely to resist change and give in to fear of the unknown. Yet the ancient Buddhist practice of mindfulness, remaining fully aware of what you are experiencing in the present moment, is the key to bringing yourself out of suffering and back into happiness. Mindfulness is a process of linking awareness with attention in order to develop, expand, and enhance both. It results in more focused and heightened concentration: You observe your thoughts and feelings rather than become immersed in them. You become aware that you have two selves, the self that is having the experience and the self that is witnessing it and is separate from it. First, you allow this witnessing self to
18
By Ronald Alexander, Ph.D.
emerge in your consciousness. Then, instead of thinking about, analyzing, and building upon a sensation or feeling, such as a sense of panic or sadness, you simply observe it as it arises. Then you catalog it as “not worthy of further exploration” or “something to contemplate later to see what I can learn from it,” and let it drift out of your awareness.
allow the witnessing mind to come in fosters the courage to fully experience even the most painful emotions, beliefs, and memories, and tolerate any accompanying physical sensations. The witnessing mind knows that you’re separate from your circumstances, so you feel safer than if your awareness were completely absorbed in those thoughts and feelings. Remain present in your suffering until it As you meditate and allow the witnessing passes, and it will. mind to sort through what arises, you’ll find that most of what it generates has litFour Myths about tle significance. The more you experience Mindfulness Meditation this process, the easier it will be to avoid jumping onto your thoughts or feelings The majority of my clients resist mindand riding them like a wild horse wher- fulness meditation at first, although ever they take you. Peacefulness and joy the time commitment is small and the can arise in you as you let that wild horse payoff is enormous. One insisted that it ride off into the distance. wasn’t necessary and that she didn’t have enough time in her day to devote to a The dual awareness that arises when you regular practice. Then she went through
www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com
the loss of a parent, and had such trouble coping that she couldn’t even drag herself out of bed. After missing work ten days straight, she called me for my advice. I told her to mindfully meditate while in bed. Terrified and bewildered, my client did and, in a few days, found that she could face going to work again. After that, whenever she was in an overwhelming state of grief or so distracted that she couldn’t focus, she would close her door, tell her assistant to hold all her calls and do a five minute meditation. Slowly, her grief lessened.
listen to the divine wisdom that can be found only when you tune out the endless chain of thoughts your own mind creates. This form of meditation turns down the volume of the chatter in your mind and allows you to tune in to deeper wisdom and insight. Mindfulness practice is a pathway to discovery that any of us can use, regardless of our religious or spiritual beliefs.
Typically, those who resist meditation are buying in to one of the following four common myths that create resistance to regular mindfulness meditation practice.
Just twenty minutes on a meditation cushion twice each day will cause you to need less sleep, be more productive and less distracted, and make the most of your time during the day. When you first begin to meditate, you’re likely to experience many mental distractions. Rather than judge yourself, simply observe any disruptive thoughts, feelings, or sensations and set them aside. You’ll never have complete freedom from distractions, but with practice, it’ll be easier to quickly turn down the volume on them. As your concentration abilities increase, so will
Myth 1: “Practicing mindfulness meditation will conflict with my religious beliefs.” The practice of mindfulness meditation is free of religious and spiritual dogma. In fact, if you believe in turning to God for guidance, you can use mindfulness meditation to set aside distractions and
Myth 2: “I’m too restless and busy to learn to be quiet and practice any form of meditation.”
your mind strength. Quickly, you’ll discover that you can simply rest and relax into the moment, enjoying the sense of spaciousness and abundance. Myth 3: “If I practice mindfulness, it will put out the fire of my ambition and creativity.” Mindfulness practice seems to ground restless people, transforming their energy from a chaotic, even manic, discharge to a more focused and heightened exuberance that then can be channeled into productivity. If you’re uncomfortable with the thought of slowing down your mental output because you think you’ll lose something valuable, keep in mind that this is not the goal of mindfulness practice. Instead, this approach will allow you to access some of the vitality and passion you associate with mania. Myth 4: “If I practice mindfulness, what I’ll discover will be so upsetting that I’ll become paralyzed with fear.” The fear of what will arise from the subconscious isn’t entirely irrational, but the
Star of Hope Look for a bright new ‘star’– visible both night and day around the world – heralding the imminent appearance on national television of the World Teacher for all humanity. He has come now to point the way out of our global crises and inspire a brilliant new civilization. Watch for a man calling for: * SHARING, to create justice, and therefore peace * Provision of food, shelter, health care and education for all as basic human rights
For pictures of the ‘star’ and further information about the emergence of the World Teacher and his group, the Masters of Wisdom, visit www.share-international.org or call 888-242-8272. Inside Look Magazine November/December
19
www.sagradawellness.com Yoga, Pilates & Wellness Retreats
323.924.5950
chances of experiencing intense discomfort while mindfully meditating are slim. Emotions that remain buried have no chance of dissipating, and will remain as an underlying toxin that affects the functioning of the mind and body. If you’ve been avoiding painful feelings and thoughts for a long time, you may not be able to handle more than a five-minutelong session of mindfulness meditation initially, and you may need someone with you to support you in your process of uncovering this pain. A skilled psychologist or mindfulness meditation teacher can be enormously helpful in guiding you through these emotions and modulate their intensity. By cultivating mindfulness, you allow yourself to hear even the subtlest messages from the unconscious. You can be awakened with a gentle nudge instead of a splash of icy water. Embracing your circumstances despite the pain, you can craft a fulfilling life that’s infused with passion and originality, driven by a sense of purpose, and in sync with your values and priorities. How to Create and Use a Mindfulness Journal One of the concerns about meditating that my clients often have is the fear that if they quiet down, a great idea will come to them and they’ll have no way of capturing it before it leaves their consciousness. I suggest you create and work with a mindfulness journal, a blank book that you can use to record your sensations, observations, thoughts, feelings, emotions, images, creative ideas, and messages of wisdom from your mind and body as you become mindful of them. When you write, be mindful of simply noting what you’ve experienced and why you might have experienced it. Here are Some Tips on How to Work with a Mindfulness Journal: Schedule Your Time
also want to sit on a meditation chair or cushion with peaceful music playing, wrap yourself in a meditation shawl or blanket, and light a candle or incense. Categorize Thoughts and Sensations Categorize what your mind churns up. Our minds create a mix of emotions, thoughts, and sensations, all of which influence each other. The thought, “My boss is so insensitive; I can’t believe he was so abrupt with me today,” might not surface in your mind until you sit and begin meditating, and might appear not as a fully formed thought, but as a headache or an overall sense of vulnerability and defensiveness. Sit With Your Feelings In meditation, it’s important not to go wherever those sensations and feelings take you, but to simply sit with them, allowing them to reveal themselves. Afterward, as you write in your journal about your experience, work with a therapist, or ponder where that feeling or sensation came from, you might discover that it has deeper roots. Recognize Your Experience Recognizing that your experience bears a powerful emotional resemblance to a past experience can be a helpful and freeing insight, but in the end, the story of its origin is just a story that can distract you from healing. If you come to realize that your defensiveness around your gruff boss reminds you of the way you reacted to your highly critical father, the value in that insight is acknowledging how deeply your mind has been programmed to respond to criticism or abruptness with fear and defensiveness. It’s easier to be patient with yourself when you recognize that your mind has actually created an elaborate neural network to support this reaction, because clearly, it will take time, patience, and repetition to change that instantaneous response.
Don’t Give It Too Much Weight Schedule your time to write when you sit quietly in a peaceful, restful place, Don’t give too much weight to such a perhaps in a room surrounded by books revelation as you can reinforce that realand pictures that inspire you. You may ity. You reinforce your habitual thinking Inside Look Magazine November/December
and feeling patterns when you subscribe to a narrative of suffering such as, “I can’t help being the way I am. My defensiveness goes way back to my childhood.” I call this the “big story.” It has the potential to shut you off from the art of creative transformation. Set Aside “Old Stuff ” Once you’ve identified the big story, categorize it as “old stuff ” and set it aside whenever it comes up. The major healing work most people need to do is to transform and move beyond their “big story” whether it deals with their parents, lack of abundance, insecurities or fears. There’s no benefit in retelling it to yourself over and over again. Let Go of “New Stuff ” It’s also important to let go of the “new stuff ”-- each “small story” or rationalization for why your present life is the way it is. The small stories are worth examining to discover what lessons they hold, but if you hang on to them, repeating them to yourself, they become “old stuff ” and part of the big story as well. As long as you remain in these stories, you create suffering for yourself. To change your life, you have to see the story for what it is: a way of framing events that doesn’t contribute to your happiness and holds you back from positive change. Holding on to your story, big or small, giving it life in retelling and embellishing it endlessly, will cause you pain. The point isn’t whether or not you’re justified in telling that particular story, or its veracity, but whether you’re suffering because of it. This takes practice but the more you meditate the more it will feel as if you’re simply sorting the laundry as you observe what your mind generates. Ronald Alexander, Ph.D. is the director of the OpenMind Training® Institute, practices mindfulness-based mind-body psychotherapy and leadership coaching in Santa Monica, CA for individuals and corporate clients. He has taught personal and clinical training groups for professionals in Integral Psychotherapy, Ericksonian mind-body healing therapies, mindfulness meditation, and Buddhist psychology nationally and internationally since 1970. (www.openmindtraining.com)
21
SCORPIO
October 23 – November 21 VIRGO There will be an amazing transformation for you this November. August – September 22 in your career and hard work pays off. You start23 a whole new cycle Happy Birthday, You discoverInfascinating of your Thanksgiving Day Virgo. is full of surprises. December, facets wear ‘pink’ to personality that have untapped. You romantic dazzle the opposite sex.gone Romance-wise you clarify can relyyour on complete needs and new goals. brand cycle sees all your hard honesty andset trust to lead theAway to anew better future.
work paying off. In October, it’s good to turn off your brain by
relaxing more, setting goals to build your net worth, and elimiSAGITTARIUS
nating debt. November 22 – December 21 Quick thinking in your workday activities brings progress. Sweeping changes greet your personal life. Diplomacy helps you smooth ruffled LIBRAfeelings. In December, business and travel at a distance play an important23role in your affairs. September – October 22 Spend quality time with family and friends, sales, and cut back on you. holiday spending. Successshop and good fortune follow Your self-esteem grows as your discover wonderful new talents. Doors swing open to you.
CAPRICORN You find fulfillment through stimulating adventures and rela-
December – January tionships. 22 October sees19you planning for the next phase of your Enjoy quality timeand withnew loved ones andgains children. Goals personal growth, monetary are in the formed works! now for 2010 lay the foundation for the New Year. Make plans early this holiday season to help avoid holiday traffic. In December, the sun arrives in your sign the SCORPIO 21st, making a wish come true. Visualize what October 23 –expect November 21Due to conflicts you want and to get it. You understand in your chart it isyour bestlife’s not purpose to traveland on are De-fulfilling your dreams. Mercury31st; turns directstay theclose 29th, youGofind out who you can cember instead, toand home. count to stick bythose youraround side. Time easy onon yourself and you.spent outdoors reveals fresh
insight. Teamwork at work is needed in October with Halloween
seeing you dressing up to the 9’s. AQUARIUS
January 20 – February 18 Many changes are still ahead. Consolidate lessons learned this year. Castles built in the SAGITTARIUS air come tumbling down the2115th, but you November 22 – December make and turn adversity Focusthe onnecessary achievingrepairs your career wishes now. Romance takes cento advantage 14th. Pamteryour stage. You are on in November the limelight more than ever and you love per in December, as itextra is theattention month - take time to please the yourself status! Little people need of self-renewal. Sleep, rest, stay warm, and them. Close friendships made in October last a lifetime, and there eat to avoid a coldencounter. or flu. A sound New is awell twin-soul cosmic Year’s Eve choice would be to stay home and make your New Year’s resolutions.
CAPRICORN PISCES
December – January February 1922 – March 20 19 Don’t to the look forward future. Times are Get rid cling of clutter thispast, month in the officeto andthe home. A clean space changing; no mind. need Take to worry, relief in sight. You’re well exreflects a clear matters into isyour own hands regarding a pectedmember. to achieve your personal goals and obtain ones. family Speak words that inspire and to give hope new to others. In December, October, someone close toyour you circulation has wise advice which health. proves In walking improves and overall to be invaluable. Foreign interests figure prominently. Don’t cosign for a loan, the debt could become yours. New work opportunities give you a reason to shine.
AQUARIUS
ARIES January 20 – February 18
March 21 – April This month sees19 you repairing a troubled relationship. Financial You’re going toofmake somemust decisions that willwith set you a new arrangements all kinds be handled greaton caution. course. Associates may not be until pleased to learn that you are caught Don’t sign any agreements after the 29th. Besides being up in plans that includeyou them. Be win prepared to dealofwith the lucky in love in don’t September, could at a game chance. fallout. Get your annual health check-up this time and let your body On October 4th, the full moon puts you in the center of the do the talking. Your life will seem on hold at work, but be patient. information chain;foruse it to promote yourorideas. Satisfy your desire new horizons by yourself visiting aand library buying some books to read.
PISCES TAURUS
February – March April 20 –19 May 20 20 Don’t make your mind abouton anything until the this end month. of SepYou will find up that there is drama the home front tember. or personal in a tailspin, butDon’t clarYou needBusiness to calm down and takematters volatileare conditions in stride. ity off looms the when you get the answersofyou seek.says At put whaton you can11th do today. Neptune’s direction motion month’s associates are eager to meet terms. October you have end, reached a professional turning pointyour in your career; now you what role you at play and where go. Write andinmail 16thsee is aexactly high energy period work, which to could put you the Christmas cardsatahead of the crowd. youpeople with a for nicea perfect place the perfect time toDecember meet thesees right year-end bonus andoffer. a package with your name on it. promotion or job 22 14
GEMINI
May 21 – June 20 ARIES Rest and recharge your matters. This is difficult because you are Marchto21accomplish – April 19 more than usual. You are cultivating new condrawn Lighten this September and don’t anything getengage you down. tacts and up expanding your horizons. Thislet month, try to othWork is at in anyour impasse don’t seem to seem be seeing ers’ interest plans,and andpartners domestic-wise, partners readyeye to to eye. Everyone is pressing foror answers - wait untilDecember after the 21st, say yes to your wishes to a move domestic change. sees where you will aim to please personally andand career-wise. you as an attention getter with allboth the charming words charisma In attract October, on circle. recent events and what you learned to newreflect peopleback in your
from them. Cash is on the horizon!
CANCER
June 21 – July 22 You’re cautious by nature, but you can afford to take some risks. TAURUS Start Aprilups, 20 especially – May 20of the entreprenual kind, are brilliantly accented and will flourish any creative Socially, is a Stopyou worrying and doineverything towork. promote yourNovember own interests. period in whichSeptember you take time out for point good when deeds,doubts and December Romantically, is a turning dissolve sees and the family listening to Christmas bakingand goodand you everything starts going right. It’s time Carols, to socialize get ies, and decorating the tree. Don’t forget the cookies and milk for out there and sparkle. The full moon October 4th encourages Santa come Christmas Eve. you to eat healthy and make relaxation a part of every day. Come
October 29th, you may LEObe asked to take on more work, so you need to be in tip-topJuly shape do so. 22 23 –toAugust
Positive times loom ahead. You are ready to change the world. Reorganization of the home GEMINI or a move will be best for all concerned. Try May 21 – June 20 to listen to what others have to say, as people Travel and communication atbest a distance center have your interesttake at heart. Youstage. are a You dysee important happenings at all home; you are amore anxious and namo on fronts. Enjoy hot toddy or two, protective of familyand members and to arestart feeling burdened. remember holiday baking This early.is December seesthe that Mars, your action planet, not for long. The new moon on 18th brings a positive turnslows downWork-wise, and only starts in Marchpraise again.is ing point in domestic affairs. wellup deserved Ratherand than fight thismatters slowingwill trend, the on the way in October, any legal be seize resolved opportunity to catch up on personal matters quickly. and relax.
CANCER
VIRGO
June 21 – July 22 August 23 – September 22 A new cycle begins that holds greater You worry about plans you have recently made.farYou feel staapbility. This month you should take your own prehensive that youideas haveand chosen the right path. Start thinking hunches to heart and start following positively - a financial breakthrough the way. on the the through on them.isInon2010, you Look will reap bright side and project confidence. Love partners make youpartfeel harvest of the seeds you plant now. New cherished. career claimsfavorably a significant amount of so time in nerships willYour work out far more than you imagine, don’t early October, and lunar energy springs and hesitate to commit. Others will hold up forth their some side ofwelcome the bargain well-deserved and meet you praise. halfway. December is all about entertaining friends and relatives and adding new decor. New opportunities and financial investments are favored.
LEO
LIBRA July 23 – August 22
September 23 – October 22 and lovable this month, so don’t show You are particularly radiant You less toinsecurities. fear than you think--you now are moreinto disciplined yourhave financial You have no need to buy others’ and mentally sharp.The Money verya much on your and mind; should strange behavior. 21stissees turn around, allyou offers that read thewill lines nothing on faith. You should comebetween your way beand welltake worth considering. A meeting withbea able to work favorable arrangements and steer stranger is a out turning pointnew in your life. October 18th your sparksfinanyour cial ship into waters. Lettogo of the pastcold and weather create a new curiosity andsmoother spirit of adventure travel as the hits. future. December, havebrings a special words through the A new In pair of winteryou boots youway lotswith of praise. 24th, thanks to a grand new moon placement in your third house of communications.
Judy Hevenly, Psychic/Astrologer Judy Hevenly, Psychic/Astrologer Tel: 310 310 820 820 7280 7280 Tel: E-mail: judy@judyhevenly.com judy@judyhevenly.com E-mail: Website: www.judyhevenly.com www.judyhevenly.com Website:
www.InsideLookMagazine.com www.InsideLookMagazine.com
www.InsideLookNetwork.com www.InsideLookNetwork.com
PARTING MESSAGE
The view from the Gerlache Strait between Anvers Island and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Photograph by: Zee Evans, National Science Foundation
“I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestioned ability of a man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.� Henry David Thoreau Inside Look Magazine November/December
23