God's Bailout Plan for those in Need...YOU!

By Marion Stroud

It was a beautiful place. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean lapped the silver sand and well-padded sun-beds invited us to stretch out under the shade of the tamarisk trees. Smiling waiters constantly came by with iced drinks, and no request was too much trouble. 'It is my job to make your holiday happy' said the pool attendant as I thanked him for bringing me a towel. It was a little piece of paradise, exclusive and gift-wrapped, protected by security men and high fences.

Early one morning we left the beach and the dining tables with their crisp white cloths, which clustered around the swimming pool, and went out into the African village beyond the gates. Here we found a very different world. Chickens scratched at the side of the road, and a little girl walked to school from her one-roomed home with its corrugated iron roof, picking her way carefully down a deeply rutted unmade-up road. Local people squeezed 15 deep into small vans or 'matatus', if they were lucky enough to have a job to travel to, while many others simply sat under the trees, hoping that someone would come along and offer them a days' casual labour. It was a million miles from the comparative luxury that lay just beyond the hotel gates.

As we returned for our breakfast from the 'all that you could eat buffet' I felt as if I was slipping back into a gold fish tank, insulated and sheltered from the real world. 'Hakuna Matata' - no worries - for the guests at Turtle Bay, even though poverty, disease and need of every kind waited beyond its gates. 'Father' I whispered 'is this how we are as Christians?' Staying within our protected environment, hugging your lavish provision to ourselves? Caring little for those who are in such need, and failing to tell the spiritually starving where to find bread?'

Of course it isn't just in the two-thirds world that we find poverty, sickness and spiritual need. In the pleasant market town where I live in Britain, approximately 40 men and a few women sleep rough at night, whatever the weather. Week after week, in the court where I serve as a magistrate, people of every age stand in the dock, accused of shoplifting or other petty crime, because they have a drug habit that demands constant feeding. Old people spend days without a single visitor and failed asylum seekers, live behind barbed wire fences, waiting to be deported to an uncertain future.

All this need just tears my heart out. But the sheer size of the problem threatens to overwhelm me. Like Andrew, when faced with 5,000 hungry men and the scanty supply of 5 loaves and two fishes with which to feed them I'm tempted to shrug helplessly and say 'Jesus, what is the little that I can offer, among so many? Where do I start Lord? I'm afraid of getting out of my depth. And on the bad days, I want to withdraw into the sanitised safety of my Christian world, and let others get their hands dirty.

Then I remember the story about the little boy who was throwing stranded star-fish back into the sea. His big brother pointed out that the beach was covered with star-fish. What difference could throwing a few back into the water make in the grand scheme of things? The little boy smiled as he hurled yet another of the creatures back into the waves. 'I'm making a difference to that one.' he retorted cheerfully.

Jesus cares about the ones and twos. And a cup of cold water offered in his name is noticed and brings him joy. So today I'll remind myself although as one person I can't change the world, I can reach out my hand and change the world, just a little, for one person. And inasmuch as I do it for the least, the lost and the little people, I do it for Him.

Marion Stroud lives in Bedford, England. She is a wife, mother of five adult children and grandmother to eleven grandchildren. She is an established, popular author and sought-after speaker whose books have been translated into 14 languages. In her spare time she enjoys walking, supporting and encouraging missionaries and traveling. - 18306

About the Author:

Take a peak at Marion Stroud's Website

Tarot Reading for Beginners

By Charlie Reese

I used to have a friend with a very strange hobby . Her favorite thing to do was to Dress up like a gypsy in robes and scarves, set up a stand outside school, and offer free love tarot readings. Sometimes, she would do it in a fake, corny accent, while other times she would simply be herself. She never charged a single cent, although sometimes she would ask to barter for things if she saw someone wearing something she liked. One time she got a free necklace out of it, for example, and another time she got a new pair of shoes.

I think the real thrill for my friends was being able to give out the free love tarot reading and get people's reactions. I'm not sure she really believed her psychic readings were authentic, but her customers definitely did. Sometimes they would blush as she told them things about themselves that they thought were secret. Other times, they would laugh or stare. Occasionally, they would get really angry at her. No matter what reaction she got to her free love tarot reading, she would always have a good story to share with us the next day.

She tried giving live astrology readings, psychic palm readings, and a variety of other things, but for some reason none of it ever have the same appeal to her. Eventually, She refused to do anything but a free love tarot reading. When I asked her why, she explained that it was the cards themselves.

There was something so neat for her about seeing someone's life randomly dealt out on the table as a sequence of pictures and symbols. It seems somehow poetic to her in a way that astrology never did. I'm not sure if she believed in her work after the fact, but it looked like she did what she was doing it.

I Actually had her give me a free love tarot reading once, and I was pretty surprised by the results. I'm definitely what you would call a hardened skeptic, but at the very least my friend was good at cold reading. There were certain things that she revealed in that free love tarot reading that I've never told anyone. When I asked her about it, she smiled but kept her lips shut. Apparently, for her part of the fun was the mystery. She loved to keep people wondering how she did it and whether she was psychic. - 18306

About the Author:

Charlie Reese likes tarot and giving a free horoscope on his horoscope today website daily.

6 Steps to Inspire and Rejuvenate Your Soul in 20 Minutes

By Carolee Laffoon

Do you ever feel too busy to take even a single moment of time out of your hectic day just for yourself? Have you been constantly searching for more time in the day because you run out of time to get everything done?

I expect that most everybody has time management problems at one point or another in their lifetime simply because we fill our lives with too big a To Do list and then frantically scramble trying to cross everything off that list every day.

But what cost to our inner peace and our souls inspiration do these stressful days cause?

I had one of those stressful days recently, and I decided to take just 20 minutes to write in my journal. I knew in my heart it would be good for my soul and time well spent as I truly enjoy the peace I feel from doing this simple activity. I have been trying to plan more time to feed my soul every day by doing activities like writing, reading, and being creative, but as with most changes that we try to make, I find myself challenged many days to meet my goal.

So, on that day when I struggled to find a spare 20 minutes to write in my journal, I was rewarded with inspiration for this article: Inspire and Rejuvenate Your Soul in Just 20 Minutes. I developed a list to remind me of six simple, yet powerful activities to do when I feel challenged to make time for myself, and Id like to share this list with you in the hopes that it will help you find those precious 20 minutes to rejuvenate yourself and inspire your soul.

Here are six activities to inspire and rejuvenate your soul in just 20 minutes

1. Take a short walk. Walking can clear your mind and is good for your body and soul. You can walk while listening to music, an audio book, an inspirational podcast, or just your own thoughts. A walk in a new place can give you perspective beyond what youve seen driving in your car. I notice so many more details when walking, like beautiful landscaping, gorgeous flower beds or details on houses in my neighborhood that Ive never noticed before. Walking is a great way to slow down the pace of life, see the same old place in a new way, or just get in touch with your inner self.

2. Get outdoors . Another activity that is good for both your body and soul is to simply go outside your home or office and breathe in some fresh air. Feel the breeze on your face and soak in some sunshine. Simply enjoy the day and marvel at the beauty of Mother Nature. Or do another inspirational activity while youre outside, such as writing, journaling, stretching, yoga, reading a book or magazine, or meditating. Just enjoying being outside in the fresh air for 20 minutes can really shift your perspective.

3. Practice gratitude. Focusing on gratitude wakes you up to the precious, small pleasures in life, like the flowers that are blooming or someones simple kind gesture. There are several ways to practice gratitude. You can write in a journal a few things that you are grateful for and why, write a thank you card to someone, or plan a fun gift or activity for yourself or a loved one to show your gratitude. You can even practice a random act of kindness to a stranger to foster feelings of gratitude within yourself. To learn more about gratitude journaling and the benefits of practicing gratitude, I recommend that you check out Sarah Ban Breathnach's book, Simple Abundance.

4. Write. Studies have shown that writing just 20 minutes a day for four consecutive days can provide positive health benefits for up to six weeks. You can learn more about this technique by reading Louise DeSalvo's book, Writing as a Way of Healing. In her book, she explains the process that should be followed to experience health benefits which has three components: you should write about 1) a traumatic or challenging event in your life; 2) the feelings you had at that time, and 3) the feelings you have now about that experience. All three components should be included in your writing to get the maximum benefit. Another thing I like to do is to write in different places, such as outside or at a coffeehouse, to see what inspiration comes from being in a new environment.

5. Read. Read inspirational stories, fiction, non-fiction, or anything else that interests you. Rejuvenate your soul, expand your perspective and relax all at the same time by reading. I often carry a book or magazine with me so I have it available if I have some unexpected time or find myself waiting in line for a doctors appointment etc.

6. Be creative. The act of creation reveals your souls innermost desires. Ideas and talents that are uniquely yours will be realized when you create. Whether your passion lies in music, art, writing, redecorating a room in your home, starting a new business, or any other artistic pursuit, you will experience inspiration and can share your unique creations with others if you desire. Or be creative just for yourself by writing personal affirmations to review often for your ongoing inspiration and personal growth.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, overworked or stressed, take a break and spend 20 minutes doing one of these six activities, Remember, you can inspire and rejuvenate your soul in just 20 minutes!. - 18306

About the Author:

Carolee Laffoon publishes a monthly newsletter Affirmation Inspirations to share her favorite affirmations, inspirations, and product specials. Visit Affirmations To Go and sign up to receive her newsletter as well as participate in her special monthly Affirmations product giveaway.

What's Next After Enlightenment

By Dr Bil Holton

Each swept floor invites another sweep. Every child bathed invites another bathing. Each lawn mowed requires another mowing. Every breath taken requires another breath.

The sun rises each morning and sets every evening. The moon shines each night. Tides ebb and flow each day. Birds sing perfect songs today and sing them again tomorrow.

Oysters open their shells when the moon is high in the heavens. The chambered nautilus creates a new chamber in its spiraled shell every lunar month.

When we breathe, we do not stop inhaling because we have taken in all of the oxygen we will ever need. We stop breathing because we have taken all the oxygen we need for that particular breath.

When we exhale we stop exhaling in order to prepare for the next breath. We will need to repeat the process, however, no matter how perfectly we have inhaled and exhaled.

What these scenario are telling us is what is done invites refinishing.

So what do we do after we become enlightened? We become more enlightened. When we are consciously one with the Infinite Isness there is a tendency to think we are finished, that we are perfect, that we have reached the pinnacle of our perfection.

But nothing could be further from the truth. There is a Zen saying which goes like this: Before enlightenment, mountains are mountains and rivers are rivers. At the moment one is enlightened, mountains are no longer mountains and rivers are no longer rivers. After enlightenment, mountains are again mountains and rivers are again rivers.

An updated version of this Zen saying comes from Unity minister, Jim Rosemergy who asserts, "Mystics do not turn from the world once they turn to God. They remain in the world but not of the world. Even mystics have bills to pay."

Once we are enlightened, that is, once we positively, absolutely, without a doubt realize we are the Christ expressing as us, we remain in the world, but not of the world to show others the way to enlightenment.

That is our spiritual mission: to fully express our Christ potential and help others to do likewise. It is the same call to purpose expressed in Matthew 28:19-20.

I will share the New Revised Standard Version and then sprinkle an metaphysical interpretation from the New Metaphysical Version of Matthew to add spiritual depth.

After His resurrection Jesus told His disciples in verse 19:

"Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

Ontologically Jesus was referring to three specific nations: our body, mind, and soul. Baptizing the nations means cleansing our body, mind, and soul from unhealthy material attachments.

We are to do this 'in the 'name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.' Name means 'in the nature of.' And, metaphysically speaking Father, Son, and Holy Spirit refer to the three aspects of Divine Order (Mind, Idea, Expression).

So, we are to purify our body, mind, and soul by becoming one with the nature of the Christ Presence within us so we can divinely order our experience.

Matthew 20 says in the New Revised Standard Version: " Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you, remembering that I am with you always, even to the end of the world."

Metaphysically 'teach them' means to walk our talk with integrity. 'I am with you always' means we have an indivisible, unshakable, divine connection with Spirit. To the 'end of the world' means from one level of consciousness to another.

Matthew 20 means we are to walk our talk by letting our Christ Light shine as we move from one level of Christed awareness, one level of refinishing to another. So, what's next after we enlightenment?

We remain in the world but not of the world. We live as monks and mystics in cities, towns, and communities. We light up the world by our example. Like the spiritual masters who became enlightened before us we will teach others how to teach others.

We will look like typical men and women, but our values and the way we live, move, and have our being will demonstrate our surrender to our higher calling.

We will have human challenges, but we will not be limited by them. We may wear glasses or contacts, hearing aids, or pace makers, but we will not be defined by them.

We may take medications or require hospitalization, but we will not be imprisoned by them. We may live in a world that is not perfect, but we will not be limited by that imperfection.

We will be in the finishing and refinishing business. We will pot and repot ourselves daily. We will renew and continue to renew ourselves. We will tool and re-tool ourselves constantly.

We will continue to seek a higher calling because enlightenment is a verb, not a noun. Enlightenment is a process, an unfolding, a journey from one exhilarating cusp of consciousness to another. - 18306

About the Author:

Dr. Bil Holton is a metaphysician, Unity minister, and Truth practitioner. His Metaphysical Bible interpretations take readers beyond the limitations of embedded theology to a higher, more enriched perspective of Bible study. Visit his website to view the many resources that are available to help you on your Truth walk and spiritual journey.

Religion vs. "The Secret"

By Laurice Egerton

If you're like me, The Secret and other books on the Law of Attraction seem fascinating. But, how do those theories of finding joy and getting exactly what you want fit into your religious beliefs? I was a bit concerned at first. I mean, if I could get whatever I wanted stepping right into my life, what about all the psychos out there attracting victims into theirs?! And, how about God not just giving us everything we want in order to let us learn and grow?

My purpose here is to share what I have come to discover after months of reading everything I could find on the subject of the law of attraction as compared to my traditional Christian beliefs.

First, have you ever prayed form something whole-heartedly and didn't receive it? I always believed that God had a higher purpose or a better plan that my egotistical mind couldn't see at present. The Secret teaches that your unconscious beliefs were getting in the way. Further study lead me to find that the law of attraction would not bring you what you desire if it is not in alignment with your higher self. So, in actuality, the two principles are in alignment.

Second, The Secret says basically to fake it till you make it in regard to your emotional state. At first glance this too seems a little backward. After a deeper look, it goes right along with the age old teaching of gratitude. Be grateful for where you are, and what you have, and you will receive more. Use your talents, abilities, and gifts to serve and be happy and God provides more. Hey, Im starting to like this whole new aged approach to timeless principles!

Third is faith. We've all heard of that. Some grasp and practice it daily. Though the new aged approaches may call it something different, it is a key component. "Whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve." I think we can all relate to this to a certain extent. Believing in something, and allowing the feelings of hope, love, joy and anticipation in will fast forward our righteous desires to us.

Finally, isn't the whole point, the goal at hand in this life to find joy. Joy looks different for everyone. Some are happy to live alone in a shack. Some want loads of friends. Some money...you get the picture. So, learning to enjoy the journey and not get caught up in the end result is really what its all about. If you learn to enjoy the journey, being grateful, and serving others you have actually found your peace and may not need that end result you were seeking. Ironically, that is probably when you will receive. Both Biblical and new aged woo woo teach this. How nice to observe that the Biblical/Christian beliefs this country were founded on are actually getting some more media and attention through what has been dubbed as a secret or a universal law that none of us knew consciously how to use until recently.

However you see it...God/universe, gratitude/positive thought, talents/source energy, Child of God/part of the immense universe...truth is and always will be truth. Surprisingly refreshing. - 18306

About the Author:

The teachings of The Secret can help you build abundance and find joy. Find out how today.

The Dead Sea

By Dana Evron

The dead sea has many names that describe the many things that are so special about it. This is the saltiest lake in the world and people like to visit there mainly to relax and kick back.

Among the many facts that make the dead sea so unique it is also the lowest points in the world and there are 7 million tons of water that evaporate on a daily basis however the minerals in the dead sea still remain.

Floating in the Dead sea is one thing that makes this place so unusual and people always enjoy that experience.

What can be more fun than floating in the Dead Sea, floating around and reading a paper all at the same time?

The main reason for the slow disappearance of the Dead Sea is the diversion of incoming water. The Dead Seas sea level continues to drop every day which makes scientist believe that by the year 2050 the Dead Sea will disappear.

The Dead Sea is known for many things like the fact that you can float and also its unique characteristics that makes the Dead Sea what it is.

The minerals and salts only found in the Dead Sea are been used to heal and improve many skin ailments like eczema and psoriasis. The water contains 21 minerals and 12 of them can not be found in any other sea or ocean.

The salts are great as exfoliates and the rich and thick Dead Sea mud is perfect to heal any type of skin, to nourish it and moisturize all at the same time. - 18306

About the Author:

If you are looking for Dead Sea Skin Products you can visit Dead Sea Salt Products for all of your skin care needs.

Gay Travel With Purpose

By Howie Holben

Imagine making the perfect gay travel plans. Wouldn't it be a wonderful experience to visit ancient civilizations and have a glimpse at the magnificence and mystery of the natural wonders that can be found on our planet? There are many destinations that allow a person to interact with indigenous cultures while tapping into the philosophies of ancient cultures. A person could participate in ceremonies and mediation while visiting sacred sites that also provide the opportunity for sightseeing, adventure and relaxation.

Whether you use the services of an agency or plan your vacation yourself you first need to determine your budget. Your budget and your schedule will have a great deal to do with determining your destination. If you have just a few days to spare perhaps weekend retreat would be the perfect getaway. There are many gay travel retreats and workshops that can provide the perfect atmosphere for you and your partner to reconnect and relax. Many retreats offer workshops that focus on personal growth, self-awareness and spirituality.

Many people that are planning gay travel enjoy taking trips with likeminded people. There are a huge number of destination journeys available that can allow you to explore many unique destinations throughout the world. Tours are available that can allow you to view a beautiful sunset at Lovina Beach on the north shore of Bali.

There are a number of trips that provide an abundance of fun activities along with the spiritual aspect. One such gay travel trip that has been a long time favorite of travelers of all ages and genders is the Grand Canyon rafting trip. These trips usually last around seven days and include all the meals and camping gear that will be needed. There is plenty of time for hiking and relaxing. Most people that have had the pleasure of taking this journey describe the trip as being one of the most spiritual experiences of their life.

Another spectacular destination that fits well into gay travel planning that is both spiritually fulfilling and fun is a trip to Egypt. Just imagine being able to view the ancient Pyramids or cruise down the Nile River. A person could have the opportunity to view King Tut's burial mask at the Cairo Egyptian Museum or stand in front of the ancient Sphinx. Travelers that have visited these ancient sites have reported life changing spiritual experiences.

Planning gay travel journeys that are spiritually uplifting as well as fun can be just the way to rejuvenate both the body and the soul. By taking advantage of the expertise of agencies that have years of experience at planning exciting and exotic destination vacations you will have the opportunity to visit places you may not normally think of. Take the time to plan the journey of a lifetime.

Gay travel can include a variety of events where inner experience is matched by the mystery and magnificence of the natural world and ancient civilizations. These journeys, which can be called pilgrimages, include interacting with indigenous cultures, tapping into ancient philosophies and cultures using meditation or ceremony, and wandering sacred sites, as well as offering opportunity for adventure, sightseeing, and relaxing.

People have traveled to power places for thousands of years. They are drawn to these places because of the healing power associated with the location. These places will always be respected for their ability to teach us about ourselves. - 18306

About the Author:

The author, Howie Holben is a Reiki/Karuna Ki Master,a Quantum Touch and Breathwork Practioner. He is a world traveler for over three decades and operates Spirit Journeys, a gay travel company. Learn more about Howie and Spirit Journeys Spirit Journeys.