I have been involved in countless conversations over the past forty years about how to be a better person, how to meet some standard that has been set, how to please God, gain God's favor, etc. I began looking into myself at a relatively young age. The Judeo-Christian standard set for me left me sad, frustrated and extremely good at judging myself. All of this self-flagellation brought little lasting change and an ongoing battle with low level depression. Ultimately, I became a bible teacher and was fortunate to receive solid training in how to study and interpret the bible. Seeing the importance of things like historical context and word studies began to set me free.

For example, an Old Testament verse commands that a man must not wear women's clothing. When that was spoken and recorded, everyone wore the equivalent of a dress! This historical data makes it necessary to look further and interpret context as well as multiple references. There are no other such admonitions,...

I have practiced and taught hatha yoga and meditation for almost 30 years. This enhanced my mat practice and has brought my meditation practice to a level that takes me deeper into my True Self and my relationship with the Divine.

Just before signing in to write this particular blog, I visited the web site of a local studio to check out their current schedule because I am always open to new experiences on the mat, whether moving or sitting. I remain open also to teachers who approach their classes differently than I would. 

I remain open to learning...period.

A person who has come to believe that they have all the answers for themselves and, often, for others is missing out on life experiences that could bring growth, love, laughter, and sometimes tears (whether in the sorrow of loss or the joy of gain) to their life.

I thought my days of teaching were probably over. Oh, perhaps I would have an occasional student who wanted to understand meditation better, but not teach classes...

These three words describe the course of my lifetime. As I sit at my keyboard, I realize they make sense in any order:

HEAL...LEARN...GROW:     I had to discover how to heal myself by releasing counterproductive or harmful behaviors. Once the healing began to take hold, I was able to open up to clearer, healthier ways to live and interpret life. This resulted in mental and emotional growth, understanding, maturity.

LEARN...GROW...HEAL:     As a child, I learned a lot about what works in life by watching others. I tried on different behaviors, seeking approval and a sense of belonging. As I grew toward adulthood, I sought marriage and a family and I was blessed with both. I also faced disappointment and tragedy which taught me what I needed to heal from within.

GROW...HEAL...LEARN:     All through life I have been blessed with loving, compassionate spiritual teachers. They came to me through both the Catholic and Protestant sides of the Christian family....