Two Realms: Spiritual and Material
There are two distinct planes of existence. The spiritual realm concerns important ethereal issues, such as: advancement of soul; elevation of vibrational frequency; the attainment of a peaceful way of being, both internally and interpersonally. At its most basic level, the material realm is more rooted in practicalities like: making a living; keeping the mortgage paid; putting food on the table; and pursing a degree of financial security in an uncertain world.
It has been my experience, regrettably, that these two spheres do not necessarily intersect. Rich spiritual depth does not automatically equate to material abundance. And real embodiment of the most desired spiritual qualities (ie, kindness, compassion, generosity, morality) do not necessarily translate into equivalent material success. This morning, I am wondering why that is?
It seems the intersection of these two value systems creates the very conflict that challenges the spiritual core? But perhaps, that is the point. Maybe the whole purpose is that spiritual progression DEPENDS on how we navigate the material world.
I have read that resolution of basic financial considerations comes into manifestation when the inner realm is properly balanced. In that serene, self-contained state, higher energies are emanated which activate the Law of Attraction. So the real question this morning then, is HOW to remain in a blissful state of peace and expectancy when panic about impending financial obligations ensues?
After much contemplation, and drawing on years of similar experience...the only answer I can offer is that it comes down to faith. We must do our best, which is to say we must control the matters which are within our control, in the present moment. And we must simultaneously trust that our sincere efforts and good intentions will create desirable results.
That is how I am approaching Wealthy Affiliates. I plan to learn as much as I can from the offered trainings, and from the more experienced members, to develop a cumulative, workable scope of internet marketing knowledge. I am trusting that this endeavor will take a more specific shape as time goes on. There will be more clarity of vision. I can feel it, even though I can't see exactly what it looks like yet. And that is the definition of faith--"believing in things unseen", to paraphrase Hebrews 11:1. The actual quote is: "Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." Have a blessed day, new friends!
{Note: Photographic images are original and the sole property of this author. As such, no photo may be copied, reproduced, borrowed or published without express prior and written permission of the photographer (who is the author).}
Recent Comments
4
And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Luke 12:15
We give weight to the spiritual side and material things should not serve as deterrent.
Of course the Almighty doesn't want us to be pitiful but at least we should leave decently.
Hello Accad! And thank you for reading my blog. I appreciate your time, and your wise comments.
I agree with what you wrote but, to clarify, I wasn't speaking about the gluttonous pursuit of "things".
Rather, I was addressing the dilemma so many of us have--the earnest striving to do the right thing in all regards, and the seeming impossibility of making ends meet, despite correct spiritual choices.
Warm regards and thank you for the follow. Much success to you!
-Lorraine
See more comments
I really like your blog. I spent a summer at an Ashram living with Yogis and Monks and learning about the realms of consciousness: the physical, astral, causal, and infinite (oneness, nirvana, Samadhi, or God) depending on your Spiritual perspective. It was an amazing experience, one that changed my life forever. Right now I am focusing on helping people find Wealthy Affiliate, and once they have, to help them while they are here and help them with perspective and motivation. But I do plan on building a site devoted to this subject. Specifically, Kriya Yoga Pranayama Mediation, as taught by Yogananda, Babaji, Buddha, Some believe Christ but it was kept a secret, Krishna, and is the first and original form of Raja Yoga taught in the Baghavad Gida, and passed down in secret lineages until humanity was ready. And, they believe that time is now. To learn the original full method, which they teach should not be done unless you are a seasoned practitioner of meditation or are guided by an enlightened master, because they liken it to charging a 5 watt light bulb with a billion watts of energy, and regular meditation, spiritual practices, spiritual principles or right action, right diet, and faith are what prepare you for it, can be found now for the first time during this age of humanity unless your Karma was advanced and ready.
It is pretty profound to me, some find too much, but I share it with those I feel are ready to hear about it. And, you can read about it in the "Autobiography of a Yogi", by Paramahansa Yogananda: https://www.yogananda-srf.org/ (the organization in which I lived with the monks and yogis) where you can find the basic techniques or spiritual practice, and a form of Kriya designed for most people in today's day in age.
If you already practice Kriya or something similar, you can find the original technique, that Yogananda's guru's guru taught here: Kriya Secrets Revealed, by J.C. Stevens (can get on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2mPRXGL ). I really do not recommend unless having practiced other forms of meditation on a regular basis and have some form of immense faith, because it can be so powerful that if you are not ready it can have adverse effects, as I have experienced, but I also experienced the effects being ready, and every aspect of my life is now on another plane, as you were talking about). Hope that helps and is interesting to people, as it changed my life completely and many people and their families that I know!
Steve Jobs only wanted one book handed out at his funeral - The Autobiography of a Yogi (thought that was fitting)
Dear Roderick, What a lovely surprise to find such a contemplative response to my blog! That's very gratifying.
Please let me thank you for taking the time to send me such an intriguing and informative reply. It really makes me happy to receive a compliment from someone who is as learned as you are on the topic. You sound to be extremely advanced in knowledge and practice of meditation, yoga and the spiritual arts. I have done extensive reading, probably over the past 15 years or more. But my understanding of it all is more intellectual, and intuitive. You actually LIVED it ;}.
What I find I use most recently are the guided meditation videos.
They fit my lifestyle and they are very effective in keeping one grounded, relaxed...and focused on the higher purpose of life...not the minutiae.
How fabulous that you got to spend a season in an Ashram! Must be an experience you will remember for your whole life, and one that you will spend the rest of your days integrating into your approach to the world.
Your plans sound honorable and selfless. I will follow your work closely. And I wish you great success with them. Also, you sent me such interesting and specific suggestions. I will be reading and learning eagerly from the link and the books you recommended.
Very glad to have met you, Rod. A peaceful evening to you, and I hope we speak again. -Rain