Awake by Katie ~ Katie Davis Author, "Awake Joy"

Friends of the Heart May Issue Now Posted ~ Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:03:00 -0700

Friends of the Heart May Issue Now Posted at:

www.katiedavis.org/friendsoftheheart.html

Free articles ~ Spiritual Awakening, Non-duality

and Self-realization

By Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

This Issue Includes:

"The House of Cards Falls When You Are Ready"

By Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

"The Changeless and the Ever Changing"

By Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

"The Mystical Sky"

By Katie Davis

"Now Released in E-books @ $2.99

Awake Joy and Free Spirit"

Amazon Kindle, iBookstore, Sony, Barnes & Noble, Baker & Taylor, Gardener's, eBookPie, Kobo and Copia.

Don't own a Kindle or other device? Download a Free Browser Reader at our links.

"New Videos - Katie Davis - Sundance Burke"

Katie Davis - Buddha at the Gas Pump

Sundance Burke - Buddha at the Gas Pump

Asheville, North Carolina Satsang, June 1-4

Satsang, Weekend Non-residential Retreat, Private Satsang

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Hosted by Asheville Sangha

Registration open or At the Door

Washington DC at Silver Spring, Maryland, June 8-11

Satsang, Weekend Non-residential Retreat, Kirtan, Private Satsang

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Hosted by OneCircle Center

Registration open or At the Door

FREE SATSANG RETREAT

The Onederful Gathering, June 10-14

Boone, North Carolina

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Hosted by John Troy, The Wizard LLC

Friends of the Heart Donations

We appreciate your donations ~ Thank you!

Go Now: www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Katie Davis - Buddha at the Gas Pump

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:45:00 -0700

Katie Davis is interviewed by Rick Archer at Buddha at the Gas Paump (www.batgap.com). More videos at the Katie Davis YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/awake1010) and at the Free Video Library at www.katiedavis.org.

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke Satsang Schedule:

Asheville Sangha in Asheville, North Carolina June 1-4

OneCircle in Silver Spring, Maryland June June 8-11

Onederful Gathering - Free Satsang Retreat in Boone, North Carolina June 10-14

More information at www.katiedavis.org/schedule.html

Sundance Burke - Buddha at the Gas Pump

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:30:00 -0700

Sundance Burke is interviewed by Rich Archer at Buddha at the Gas Pump (www.batgap.com). More videos at Sundance's YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/sundanceburke). Free Video Library also at www.sundanceburke.org.

Sundance Burke and Katie Davis Satsang Schedule:

Asheville Sangha in Asheville, North Carolina June 1-4

OneCircle in Silver Spring, Maryland June June 8-11

Onederful Gathering - Free Satsang Retreat in Boone, North Carolina June 10-14

More information at www.katiedavis.org/schedule.html

Friends of the Heart Newsletter ~ February 2012 Issue by Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:04:00 -0800

The Friends of the Heart Free Monthly Newsletters

Free Articles on Spiritual Awakening, Non-duality, Self-Inquiry, Self-realization

The New February Issue Is Now Posted at:

www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

In This Issue:

"The Collective Ego State of Consciousness"

Transcending the Layers of Consciousness"

By Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

"Mantras for Precarious Times" Video

By Deva Premal

Now in E-books $2.99

"Awake Joy" and "Free Spirit"

By Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Amazon Kindle, iBookstore, Sony, Barnes & Noble,

Baker & Taylor, Gardener's, eBookPie, Kobo, Copia

Don't own a Kindle or other device?

Links to Free Browser Apps at Friends of the Heart

Conversations with Avant-Garde Sages

John Troy and Trip Overholt

Radio Satsang & Cyber Satsang

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Buddha at the Gas Pump with Rick Archer

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Asheville, North Carolina

Satsang, Satsang Weekend Retreat, Private Satsang

Asheville Sangha

"Principles For Self-Realization"

By Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

Silver Spring, Maryland

Satsang, Satsang Weekend Retreat, Private Satsang

OneCircle Center

A Surprise Engagement and Two Weddings

Sign Our Family Guestbook

Friends of the Heart Donations

Join our Monthly Mailing:

www.KatieDavis.org

www.facebook.com/KatieDavisAuthor

Protected by SafeUnsubscribe - We mail only once a month

Go Now to Friends of the Heart:

www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

New! Now in E-books $2.99: "Awake Joy" by Katie Davis and "Free Spirit" by Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 17:23:00 -0800

New! Now in E-books $2.99

Available:

Amazon Kindle, iBookstore, Sony, Barnes & Noble, Baker & Taylor, Gardener's, eBookPie, Kobo, Copia

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Download a Free Browser Reader at:

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Want to Help?

Write a short book review at Amazon US or Amazon UK.

You do not have to purchase at Amazon in order to write a review.

"Awake Joy" at Amazon U.S. "Awake Joy" at Amazon U.K.

"Free Spirit" at Amazon U.S. "Free Spirit" at Amazon U.K.

www.KatieDavis.org

www.SundanceBurke.org

Buddha at the Gas Pump ~ Guests: Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 16:06:00 -0800

Budda at the Gas Pump with Host, Rick Archer

Guests:

Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

www.KatieDavis.org

Recording - Saturday, April 28

Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

www.SundanceBurke.org

Recording - Saturday, May 5

Videos will be posted shortly after these dates at:

Buddha at the Gas Pump

You are invited to In-JOY!

Conversations with Avant-Garde Sages ~ Guests: Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 15:12:00 -0800

Conversations with Avant-Garde Sages

Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

Guests with John Troy

Anchored and Produced by Trip Overholt

Radio Satsang WCOM 103.5 FM in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Cyber Satsang Live Streaming Everywhere

Join us at www.thewizardllc.com

Tuesday, April 10, 12:00-1:00 pm (Eastern)

Sundance Burke

www.SundanceBurke.org

Tuesday, April 17, 12:00-1:00 pm (Eastern)

Katie Davis

www.KatieDavis.org

Spiritual Awakening, Non-duality, Self-inquiry, Self-realization

You are invited to join us!

Private Satsang Appointments ~ Katie Davis, Sundance Burke ~ March 15-May 1 and June 4 in North Carolina, June 11 in Maryland

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:38:00 -0800

Private Satsang Appointments

Katie Davis or Sundance Burke

March 15 - May 1, 2012

Worldwide: Phone or Skype

In Person: Redmond, Washington

Appointments are scheduling about 2 weeks in advance

Monday, June 4, 2012, 10:00 am-8:00 pm

In Person: Asheville, North Carolina (Now Scheduling)

Monday, June 11, 2012, 10:00 am-8:00 pm

In Person: Silver Spring, Maryland (Now Scheduling)

To schedule Private Satsang with Katie Davis, go to www.KatieDavis.org/Private.html

To schedule Private Satsang with Sundance Burke, go to www.SundanceBurke.org/Private.html

Satsang and Weekend Satsang Retreats

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Friday, June 1-3 in Asheville, North Carolina

Host Asheville Sangha

Friday, June 8-10 in Silver Spring, Maryland

Host OneCircle Center

Register to Save at www.KatieDavis.org/Schedule.html

Also at the Door

(Those who are registered for any retreat receive discounts on all Private Satsang Appointments)

The Collective Ego State of Consciousness – Transcending the Layers of Consciousness – Precarious Times ... or the Pure Light of Consciousness Revealing and Purifying the Delusion by Katie Davis, Author, “Awake Joy”

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 19:05:00 -0800

By simply stopping, truly being still ... as you are ... and through earnest Self-inquiry, it is realized that you are not the ego state of consciousness. The ego is that sense of “me” that is the mind-made self. It is the self-limiting belief that my identity is only the physical body that was born and will surely die. The ego is the idea of “me and mine” and is the sufferer.

In this mis-identification, the ego experiences separation not only from the divine, but also from all that it sees and experiences. Not realizing that the ego-body is an object appearing within consciousness, this false identity then attempts to have successful relationships with so called other separated objects. True relationship based on separation is not likely possible. Object to object relationships are generally unhappy, whether conscious of the fact or not, because they are based on the illusion of separation, lack and limitation.

The nature of ego is under constant anxiety to acquire or under regular threat ... so rejects ... in order to escape who or what it fears. In fact, desire (greed, sexual obsession and pseudo-power) and fear (all forms of lack and fear of death) are all good names for the ego state of consciousness.

Separation and its delusion of time are the sources of all psychological suffering.

The separation and suffering are not in the world. They only seem to exist, within the shadowy abyss of separation, “between” (duality) the Ultimate Reality that you genuinely are and the false idea of being a tiny fraction of the whole. As a powerless, fictitious fraction, the ego strives to complete itself through some other. This abyss is the pain gap that unconsciously operates within, until it is made conscious. That pain gap is the result of fearing the imagined or through false assumption, both without direct investigation.

The truth of the matter is that ignorance does not exist. There is mostly inattention.

When the ego is in conflict, the egoic mind assists the emotional spin. In direct observation, it may be observed that the state of the egoic mind is directly related to emotional states. In fact, emotional states are caused by the delusion of time, egoic thinking and its judgments.

Then, the whirlpool of negative thinking gains forces and so do the emotions, until finally the collective ego state of consciousness takes over. The negative, collective emotional states are completely out of proportion to the actual events that the ego is experiencing in the life situation. Collectively, anger and frustration become rage; sadness becomes misery, despair, helplessness and hopelessness; fear becomes terror.

Through self-observation and Self-inquiry, the ego may be finally transcended. That is, the false identification with the ego is realized.

There is now this sense that there is no one here to suffer and yet suffering circumstances continue within the world of form. We could consider the daytime dream of form to be a perfect mirror of the collective ego state of consciousness that still remains uninvestigated within you.

The invitation today is to continue the Self-inquiry and observation to realize the delusion of all collective pain.

We could consider all anger to be one deep wave length; call it “universal anger;” even for the delusion that it genuinely is. Deeper than this collective anger, we realize the collective pool of sadness. Deeper still, there is an ocean of fear that is the fear of all humanity as one collective fear. In the collective psyche, anger protects the sadness, which in turn protects the fear.

Are you ready and willing to investigate and to realize the deepest fears of the collective psyche?

After all, you are the pure light of consciousness.

Darkness cannot prevail in the light … just as the rising sun extinguishes the night.

The witnessing consciousness is still a reflected light of the pure light of consciousness.

Some are fooled that the witness is the Ultimate Reality, since the perfume of being-consciousness-bliss is so beautifully at the forefront. Yet there is this sense of going “around and around” between either formlessness (essence) … or … the world of form. We could call this altered state of consciousness as being “between two worlds.”

This persistent sense of duality is perpetuated by the witness itself. The resolution is earnest Self-inquiry into the witness.

When complete detachment is realized, the ego is completely dissolved. This detachment is both profound and completely radical.

Yet, within the “objective void” that may appear as darkness or nothingness, the collective pain has not yet been consciously freed, so duality persists.

It may seem that the witness is formlessness, however it is not. The witness is a subject and as such, it remains a reference point and a sutble form of the intellect.

This subject-witness and its reference point will spontaneously surrender through earnest inquiry.

As far as the world of form, we are indeed in the most precarious times. In fact, we are running out of “time.”

It could be the end of the world … or ... the end of the world as we have previously known it.

I have realized that there is no objective, separate world.

All is pure consciousness appearing as world.

Pure consciousness is sacred, deep peace and radiant love … whether with form or without.

As form, there is no guarantee that the world will make it.

Nonetheless, there is never a loss as consciousness.

You are the answering. Are you willing to put distractions aside and earnestly inquire?

Sri Ramana Maharshi:

“Your own Self-realization is the greatest service you can render the world.”

For those who are ready, it is also a good time to open up those meditation eyes, so that there is clarity, acceptance and response for family and relations on the level of form. Response is not reaction. Reaction successfully fuels the negativity of ego, as well as the collective ego state of consciousness.

For those who have been through the awakening from the ego, it has been seen that the life situation falls apart somewhat … or completely … in order to make way for the new.

In my book that was written back in 2004 and then published in 2008, I spoke about the awakening of the collective ego state of consciousness and its effect within the world of form; collective structures that no longer serve the greater, divine and natural good … fall apart in the same manner.

All that has not yet been investigated within, both “individually” and “collectively,” is currently displaying right before you.

For those who are ready to investigate and realize the true nature of the objective void of collective consciousness, I offer a quote from Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj:

‎"Within the immensity of space floats a tiny atom of consciousness and in it the entire universe is contained." -Talk 55 ~ Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj

You are never an object. You are always that which is looking. That which is looking is what transcends the layers of consciousness: first as the person, then as the self-observer, then as the pure witness and finally the realization of the Absolute.

In “relation” to the world, I am Pure Beingness.

In “relation” to Pure Consciousness, I am Pure Awareness.

I am the Absolute that makes all possible.

Only I stand alone.

I am beyond consciousness and yet inseparable.

Consciousness is my tremendous and unlimited power and while my power is dependent on me, it is inseparable.

I am beyond all and All; beyond existence and nonexistence.

In closing, the fire of Truth is currently exposing the false so rapidly in the world of form; most definitely a quickening.

These truly are amazing times!

Within form, the awakening to the false collective structures is critical now and an important first step. Yet, as long as you think you are in the world, rather than the world appearing within you, you are of little help.

The world stage of false collective structures is a reflection of the false altered states within.

Self-realization of who you already are is essential.

You are the very light of consciousness that burns all altered states into the radiant love that you already are.

Below is a video found on YouTube. It is not the actual album "Precarious Times" by Deva Premal, but rather apparently, the same mantras offered to a Heart friend.

Deva Premal:

"I hope they inspire you and enhance your life as they have mine. As my good friend Sharon Gannon says, 'The power is in the repetition.'" With love, Deva

Mantras For Precarious Times is offered as a guide for daily meditation and includes seven mantras chosen specifically to support us in these challenging times.

Deva chants each mantra 108 times, according to classic Vedic tradition, for a mantra meditation practice, and each mantra has a special focus:

Om Gum Ganapatayei Namaha (Removing of Obstacles);
Om Shanti Om (Peace);
Om Shree Dhanvantre Namaha (Healing);
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya (Liberation);
Om Radha Krishnaya Namaha (Joy & Bliss);
Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha (Abundance);
Om Kama Pujitayei Namaha (Sacred Love Making).

01 Om Gum Ganapatayer Namaha 8:07
02 Om Shanti Om 3:50 ( at 8:07)
03 Om Shree Dhanvantre Namaha 8:26 ( at 11:52)
04 Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya 9:23 (at 20:20)
05 Om Radha Krishnaya Namaha 8:06 (at 29:40)
06 Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha 8:08 (at 37:48)
07 Om Kama Pujitayei Namaha 7:23 (at 45:47)

For the beautiful album, "Precarious Times," please visit:

www.devapremalmiten.com

Katie Davis Website, Author, Awake Joy: www.katiedavis.org

Free Videos, free downloads and free monthly Friends of the Heart Newsletters with articles on spiritual awakening, Self-inquiry, Non-duality and Self-realization

Katie Davis Blog: AwakebyKatie www.awakebykatie.blogspot.com

Fear of the Void: Detachment, the Witness Only, Fear of Death, Consciousness, Visions and Psychic Powers, True Compassion, Self-inquiry, Enlightenment, Pure I, the Absolute, Self-realization by Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 17:33:00 -0800

Question:

I want to work through my fear of the void. I have gone through detachment but form wise, I can still be caught by the ego. Yet when I notice the attachment, I can just let go. I mostly experience that I am only the witness. Through the Self-inquiry that you have recommended, there then arises a vast emptiness that is nothing but darkness. Then I feel terrified. I am afraid I am going to die or something. I fear this stark darkness, resist it and avoid it by turning away. Maybe it is just the ego and it is going to psychologically die for good. It doesn't change the fact that I have this fear of death.

Otherwise, I have opened up to some new level of consciousness and sometimes have visions. I am never sure when they will come. I feel ecstatic because the visions are beautiful and suddenly, I become terrified of that. I think maybe it too is the fear of the loss of self. Again, a fear of death.

That is similar to how I feel now. There is the 'I am' which is the dissolving of being dependant on the mind, but at the same time an awful dread of living in the void and that brings up fear. My question is how to work with that fear and my attachment to it. On one hand, I am scared of dying and fear this nothingness. On the other hand, I am scared of losing self even when bliss arises.

Katie:

This is a beautiful report on the conscious recognition of the great void. Your report is filled with wisdom and I would like to simply confirm what is being recognized. Most are not yet aware of this void and yet this unknown void lurks. People give many reasons about why they feel fear; at least those who are sensitive enough to be aware of it. Yet, the root of all fear is not in the life circumstance. The root of all fear is the fear of the void.

Individually, the root points to the fear of death of the person. Collectively, it points to the fear of extinction of humanity.

The only way to know or to realize this void as it genuinely is ... is to 'walk into it' to investigate. Trying to escape only creates the runaway madness and imagination of the unawake mind.

Is the void as it seems? Is it more than a blank state of nothingness?

Who is perceiving the void? Is it not true that the void is perceived objectively? Who is the subject?

So first, I invite accepting and allowing. Resist nothing. Yes, noticing that terror is arising and allowing it to be as it is. Is the terror caused by a mental interpretation of how the void seems to be . . . dark, unknown?

All of this is spiritually ripe and shared with wisdom, courage and clarity. At this point, it is not like there is a choice ... the void is ... and it can remarkably point you deeper to conscious liberation and Self-realization. Now is the opportunity of transcending all states of consciousness.

I share with many people and some sense that they are going to physically die. You are recognizing that this is a psychological death ... of the ego.

I might add that it is also a fear of the collective psyche; the collective ego state of consciousness. No matter how it might seem, it is not a physical death or humanity's extinction. It is the 'death' of the psychologic ego state of consciousness and the 'death' of the psychological collective pain body. We will find that neither the ego state of consciousness, nor the collective egoic state of consciousnes, ever existed in the first place.

First and foremost, you can inquire, who is aware of fear or terror? Who is that? Who am I? After detachment, even as the witness only, who am I remains the essential question. There is a purer form of Self-inquiry that I share below in this article.

You have realized that you are not the ego state of consciousness. Then who is 'I'?

I understand that Self-inquiry turns attention directly 'toward' formlessness or the unmanifest and I understand that presently, a tremendous fear arises. This investigation is inescapable and unavoidable in order to live fearlessly.

What I am sharing is that fear and all of it variations such as sadness and anger or rage are delusions. Yet, this must be directly realized. The further inquiry is also essential for enlightenment. Then, the full integration of Self-realization gradually happens by itself. Being free of all suffering is a true possibility.

What is fear? Has the depth of fear been investigated ... both 'individually' and 'collectively'?

Right now, fear is your most valued teacher. Can you allow a great curiosity to arise to realize the true nature of fear and all darkness? Does fear have an end? What is deeper?

Can you allow fear to consume 'you' ... and consume the witness? Not 'someone' who is scared and not a witness of fear. That is duality and separation. Is it possible to be fear itself? How does the 'wave length' of fear feel? Can it be allowed to even deepen more to terror? Being terror ... the 'wave' length' of being terror? Is there anything deeper? Collectively, this void seems massive and infinitely deep. Is this really true?

There is no such thing as control. The residue of the intellect can consume us and may scare us. In those times, when the ego is really caught by the fear, can you simply be aware of the fear and allow it to be? After all, it is. Watch the mind as it attempts to add spin, which perpetuates it. This observing allows an understanding of ego's structure and how it perpetuates. By the way, there is no need to resist the egoic mind or "do" anything; simple watching is enough to transmute it.

The love that the pure witness is will transmute the fear into the radiant love that you truly are. The transforming power is in the observing.

Nonetheless, suppose that the fear is all too overwhelming and perhaps being present ... and welcoming the fear ... is simply not an option. At these times, courageously 'move into it' as I shared above. Take the light of the consciousness that you are into every dark corner. Just as darkness cannot survive the light of day, darkness cannot survive in the light of consciousness.

Will it drive you mad? Well, are you mad right now? Are you willing to investigate the deepest fears of the collective psychic state of consciousness ... the collective illusion? How else can you know the truth directly?

I cannot tell you a concept or philosophy that says ... losing the mind-created self is no diminishment. This must be looked upon directly within you. What are you seeing? You share and I can only confirm that what you are seeing is still the relative truth ... go deeper.

Is awareness afraid of visions or is it simply aware? Who is perceiving?

Some fixate on the fear (attachment) ... some fixate and get distracted by the meaning of a mystical vision. Others fixate on the power of mystical visions. All of these are distractions and ego calling you back to its time. Is it not true that mystical visions and psychic powers ... no matter how beautiful or fantastic ... they come and they go? They are impermanent. Whereas, you are here before, during and after. Who is that?

When the ego is losing its grip and certainly after detachment, ecstatic visions may appear. Unsuccessful at negative attraction, the conditioned mind starts creating extraordinary phenomena. In this manner, the so called mind can be quite successful at luring us back to the fear; fear of the fact ... that by some notion alone, we suddenly sense that we are still separate from the still Heart.

The egoic mind either individually or collectively can never 'know' the still Heart. You are the Heart. Sooner or later, the mind gives up, "This is beyond 'me,' I give up!"

It is ironic that in this unconditional surrender of the mind/ego/body/collective consciousness ... that joy rushes in.

One more word on visions. They may in fact have a relative meaning at the moment when they appear, perhaps. Listen carefully to the mind, while you are experiencing them rather than attending the vision. Listen. Whatever the mind is saying is part of the deeper psychic matters that will be revealed when you are present with what is being said. At that instant, it is clear. The subconscious psychic matters are seen or we could say they are known and therefore are spontaneously surrendered. By subconscious psychic matters, I am pointing to the fear of death or whatever has been previously and subconsciously hidden.

After the vision dissipates, it has no meaning whatsoever. People can spend years in the study of the meaning of some vision, what it means or where it is going is endless mental analyses that in the end, leads nowhere.

Listen, it is the vision that is coming and going... it is in movement ... it is impermanent.

Who is aware of it? THAT is never coming and going. It is the stillness that you are. In the end, mystical visions are essentially meaningless.

The appearance of the void leads to formlessness and the mind may be scared, since it is not known. Are you willing to make it known? Walk into it and see if it is as it seems. Can you measure it? How deep is it? This is the collective consciousness and it can lead to an unwavering true compassion and indestructible unconditional love. I repeat: curiously investigated.

What is the true nature of the void? Is there is a Heart to darkness? Is there a Heart to fear? When you walk into the void, listen. If you sense "hopelessness," become hopelessness and then ask, is there anything deeper? If despair comes up, become despair, and then ask, is there anything deeper?

There is a diamond there!

You mentioned that sometimes there is still attachment to the ego state of consciousness. As we have spoken before in our appointments, the "who am I?" question is still most appropriate. Yet, there are levels to Self-inquiry. Since detachment has now been realized, I would like to suggest the purest form of Self-inquiry.

As the witness only, I would like to suggest simply being "I." That is, resting as that feeling sense of "I" alone; Pure I.

Pure I is not the egoic-i which is only a thought form. What does the thought form represent? Attachment to the ego-I requires 'identification with' an object. You have realized that this is a mis-identification. Attachment requires an object to which consciousness identifies.

Whereas, Pure I is the Absolute. Only Pure I stands alone. Pure I is Pure I now. It is Pure Identity free of all objective experience. Only realizing the Absolute is enlightenment ... realizing That which stands alone.

Gradually, this then integrates as the Totality as Pure Beingness; a fully integrated pure awareness. This alone is Self-realization.

In closing, when deep fear arises, it is a chance to be gentle, kind, loving and understanding ... self-compassion.

Katie Davis Website: www.katiedavis.org

Friends of the Heart December 2011 Issue Is Now Posted by Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sat, 3 Dec 2011 15:53:00 -0800

Friends of the Heart December 2011 Issue Is Now Posted:

Please click Friends of the Heart

http://www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Free articles on spiritual awakening, Non-duality, Self-inquiry and Self-realization

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

This Issue Includes:

"Physical Space vs. Time Place, Mind Control, Know Thyself"

By Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

Asheville, North Carolina Satsang

Satsang, Weekend Non-residential Satsang Retreat

Host: Asheville Sangha

"These Amazing Times"

Video by Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

Interview by Richard Miller on Chicago's Never Not Here Show

Maryland Satsang, Silver Spring Satsang, Washington DC Satsang

Satsang and Weekend Non-residential Satsang Retreat

Host: OneCircle Center

Free Downloads - Chapters and E-books

By Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

"Say I Am You"

Jelaluddin Rumi Poem

Friends of the Heart Donations

To enjoy, go now:

http://www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Sundance Burke and Scott Kiloby on Never Not Here with Richard Miller, November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sat, 3 Dec 2011 14:40:00 -0800

Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit and Scott Kiloby, Author, "Love's Quiet Revolution" are interviewed by Richard Miller on Chicago's Never Not Here Show in November 2011.

"These Amazing Times" (1 hr 40 mins)

Sundance Burke Website: www.SundanceBurke.org

Scott Kiloby Website: www.Kiloby.com

Never Not Here Website: www.NeverNotHere.com

Katie Davis Website: www.KatieDavis.org

Washington DC Satsang in Silver Spring Maryland, Weekend Satsang Retreat & Private Satsang, June 8-11, 2012 with Katie Davis & Sundance Burke - Host: OneCircle Center - Open Registration

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sat, 3 Dec 2011 12:57:00 -0800

Washington DC Satsang in Silver Spring, Maryland

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Friday, June 8, 2012, 7:30-9:30 pm - Host: OneCircle Center

Who are you really at the core of being beyond thought, emotion and form? Who or what is here now and is ever present? In this compelling inquiry and radical realization, how is the life situation transformed?

Satsang begins in meditation, followed by pointers by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke and finally questions, sharing and music.

Please arrive 15 minutes early, enter in silence to begin silent sitting. Doors open at 7:15 pm. Latecomers after 7:30 will be seated whenever the meditation is completed.

Donation at the door or register for the Weekend Satsang Pass (Includes Friday-Sunday)

Washington DC Satsang in Silver Spring Maryland

Weekend Non-residential Satsang Retreat

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Saturday-Sunday, June 9-10, 2012, 10:00 am-4:00 pm

A Weekend of Self-Inquiry

Host: OneCircle Center

Weekends with Katie Davis and Sundance Burke offer a rare opportunity to retreat from our work, our families, our friends, our concepts and judgments, our personal sense of self with its history and anxious future to allow the mind to open to the most profound truth of who we really are here and now. Over the period of two days, we will commit to the deepest inquiry supported by the potent environment of satsang.

Each day offers two sessions. Each session begins in meditation, followed by pointers from Katie Davis and Sundance Burke that are spontaneously interspersed with the radiant stillness that is constantly available. Each session will also include questions, sharing and some music.

Donation at the door or register for the Weekend Satsang Pass (Includes Friday-Sunday)

Register for the Weekend Satsang Pass

Washington DC Satsang

Silver Spring Maryland Satsang Weekend

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

In order to encourage the entire Silver Spring Satsang and OneCircle community to commit to the entire weekend of satsang and inquiry (highly recommended), we are offering a Weekend Satsang Pass that is affordable for everyone.

Includes Friday Satsang, June 8, Saturday-Sunday, June 9-10 and a discount for a Private Satsang Appointment on Monday, June 11, if you choose to schedule one.

Online Registration is open now and closes May 22

Private Satsang Appointments

Katie Davis or Sundance Burke

Monday, June 11, 2012, 10:00 am-8:00 pm

(first come - first served)

Host: OneCircle Center

Schedule an appointment now with Katie Davis at www.katiedavis.org/private.html

Schedule an appointment now with Sundance Burke at www.sundanceburke.org/private.html

You may also contact Tania at OneCircle Center to schedule.

Appointments are discounted for those registered for the Weekend Satsang Pass

Katie Davis Website: www.katiedavis.org

Sundance Burke Website: www.sundanceburke.org

OneCircle Center Website: www.onecircle.net

Asheville, North Carolina Satsang, Weekend Satsang Retreat & Private Satsang with Katie Davis & Sundance Burke, June 1-4, 2012 ~ Hosted by Asheville Sangha ~ Open Registration

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sat, 3 Dec 2011 12:12:00 -0800

Asheville, North Carolina Satsang with Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Friday, June 1, 2012, 7:00-9:00 pm - Host: Asheville Sangha

Satsang begins in meditation, followed by pointers by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke and finally questions, sharing and music.

Please arrive 15 minutes early, enter in silence to begin silent sitting. Doors open at 6:45 pm. Latecomers will be seated whenever the meditation is completed.

Donation at the door or register for the Weekend Satsang Pass (Includes Friday-Sunday)

Asheville, North Carolina Weekend Non-residential Satsang Retreat

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Saturday-Sunday, June 2-3, 2012, 10:00 am-4:00 pm Host: Asheville Sangha

A Weekend of Self-Inquiry - Potluck Lunch Each Day

Donation at the door or register for the Weekend Satsang Pass (Includes Friday-Sunday)

Register for the Weekend Satsang Pass for Asheville, North Carolina Satsang

Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

In order to encourage the entire Asheville Sangha community to commit to the entire weekend of satsang and inquiry (highly recommended), we are offering a Weekend Satsang Pass that is affordable for everyone.

Includes Friday Satsang, June 1, Saturday-Sunday, June 2-3 and a discount for a Private Satsang Appointment on Monday, June 4, if you choose to schedule one.

Online Registration is open now and closes May 15

Private Satsang Appointments with Katie Davis or Sundance Burke

Monday, June 4, 2012, 10:00 am-8:00 pm

(first come - first served)

Host: Asheville Sangha

Schedule an appointment now with Katie Davis at www.katiedavis.org/private.html

Schedule an appointment now with Sundance Burke at www.sundanceburke.org/private.html

Appointments are discounted for those registered for the Weekend Satsang Pass

Katie Davis Website: www.katiedavis.org

Sundance Burke Website: www.sundanceburke.org

Asheville Sangha Website: www.ashevillesangha.com

Physical Space vs. the Time Plane, Mind Control, Know Thyself by Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Tue, 8 Nov 2011 17:43:00 -0800

I AM

Nature is this physical space with all that can be contacted by the body's senses. It includes the dense, physical body or what some still believe to be "me and my world." It is the limitation that the body is my identity, without yet realizing that the body is an object to which the ego state of consciousness is attaching or identifying with.

It then experiences itself through the physical senses such as hearing, seeing (physical eyesight), smelling, touching and tasting. The senses then message the impulses via the body's nervous system to the brain, where the impulses are interpreted and this forms a mental image that we call "our world of experience."

Perhaps through psychological therapy or maybe in the name of "self" improvement, attention shifts away from nature and its physical objective space, back to the subject; the idea of "me" that is "independent" from the world and the divine. The purpose is at first a greater self-understanding, through simply observing what is.

In a way, we could call this a deeper "dimension" of who we think we are. Far more subtle than nature and its physical space, we realize and objectively observe the mental plane of time, perception and cognition.

For "self" understanding, we begin observing thoughts that appear in the time plane (conditioned concepts, attitudes and beliefs), mental images (past sense experiences), memories (ideas about past experiences that are selectively remembered), imagination (future ideas or visualizations based on the past and limited to separating ideas that are limited and conditioned), subtle energies, the process of perceiving, knowing, understanding and the idea of selfhood that is limited to the mental ego-I thought of separation and its body idea.

Through observation of the mental plane, we now have a broader experience of who we think we are. It is not that nature and its physical space are ignored. In fact, we become more conscious of the impact of the mental plane on physical space and how they interrelate. The "negative" content causes the physical body to contract and we experience that as negative emotion (all forms of fear). When the mental content is "positive," the body relaxes and we experience relative happiness.

We are then able to take responsibility for emotional states, rather than blaming or crediting "someone else." Instead of reacting to so called others, there is acceptance and perhaps response. Further, we are no longer limited to the physical space "dimension." Through wider and broader understanding, we are able to integrate the mental plane of time and physical space.

It is important to mention that none of the above actually has anything to do with spiritual awakening and Self-realization (realizing true identity). While not necessarily so, it is likely that this broader "self" understanding will precede the awakening.

It is nature's physical space that is manipulated by the mental time plane. It is this mental time plane that is subject to mind control. Through realizing who you really are, you have shifted beyond, or we could say, risen above, both the mental time plane and nature's physical space.

So the first invitation is to know thyself through "self" observation. The mistake that is frequently made is that the ego judges what it sees and then begins to try to change or improve itself. It is futile to change a false self into a better false self.

Observing is the natural, transforming power of all that is false. This tranformation is effortless and happens by itself in the willingness to observe and simply be present. We observe and allow all to be as it is; avoiding nothing, resisting nothing and escaping nothing. Allow the body its freedom to feel emotions fully and completely, while observing.

Even though the body is not true identity, it is the perfect tool for waking up out of time. The body is always appearing as part of the content of the present moment and tending to the beautiful senses or conscious breathing shifts attention out of the head and compulsive thinking into the physical body.

Spiritual awakening is waking up entirely from the mental plane of time and the dream of physical space.

Enlightenment is the realization of the Absolute (Pure I), when the reference point of the witness has surrendered and dissolved.

Self-realization is the fully integrated Pure Awareness as Pure Beingness-Consciousness-Bliss that is beyond all and ALL; free of all perception of duality.

"My Body" is the presence of multiple universes and in this dimension, that dynamically includes the body named Katie ... as a conscious field of complete equanimity.

As Pure Beingness, the world is neither real nor unreal.

You are already the Absolute Reality.

You are not a psychological self becoming something more.

In awe and wonderment, we realize that we are radiant love that is absolutely indestructible; the magnificent Heart of all Being.

There is not one thing wrong with you ...

Katie Davis Website www.KatieDavis.org

Free videos, free downloads and monthly free Friends of the Heart Newsletters

New Nisargadatta Maharaj Website Recommendation by Katie Davis

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 6 Nov 2011 11:48:00 -0800

Manu Namasivayam recently introduced us to a new Nisargadatta Maharaj Website that I would like to share with you. The website exclusively offers articles related to Nisargadatta and includes hundreds of photos, books, free downloads when permitted, videos and much more.

www.Nisaradatta.org Website includes:

About Nisargadatta Maharaj - Pronunciation and Meaning, Biography - Meet the Sage - Navnath Sampradaya - Nisarga Yoga - I Am That - Lasts Days: Last Teachings - Mahasamadhi - Maharaj's residence - Monuments of Maharaj - The Style of Teaching - Consciousness - My True State - Memories of Maharaj - Narrations by various devotees - The Famous books of Nisargaddat Maharaj - Various other books about Nisargadatta Maharaj - Traditional scriptures often referred by Maharaj - Where to buy books - A Large collection of photos of Nisargadatta - Download print size portraits - Nisargadatta Quotes from famous books - Other Related Websites - Videos of Nisargadatta Maharaj - Original DVDs - Translations of I AM THAT into various languages.

Quoted from www.Nisargadatta.org:

"Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj was an Indian spiritual teacher and philospher of Advaita (Nondualism), and a Guru, belonging to the Navnath Sampradaya. Sri Nisargadatta, with his direct and minimalistic explanation of non-dualism, is considered the most famous teacher of Advaita since Ramana Maharshi. In 1973, the publication of his most famous and widely-translated book, "I AM THAT," an English translation of his talks in Marathi by Maurice Frydman, brought him worldwide recognition and followers."

The new Nisargadatta Website is truly a dedicated and devotional service to one of the most revered sages of India and the world and I would like to recommend it as an excellent resource.

To enjoy, please click www.Nisargadatta.org

Friends of the Heart November Issue by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:52:00 -0700

Friends of the Heart November Issue Now Posted at:

www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Free Articles on Spiritual Awakening, Non-duality, Self-Inquiry and Self-Realization

In This Issue:

"I Am the Witness Only - Who Am I Remains the Essential Question"

By Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

"Self-Inquiry"

By Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

"Embracing Otherness, Embracing Myself" by Thandie Newton - Video

Go to Friends of the Heart at:

www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Gig Harbor Satsang - Harbor Wellbeing Center - Friday, October 28, 7 pm - Washington Satsang and Pacific Northwest Satsang - Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:22:00 -0700

Gig Harbor Satsang - Harbor Wellbeing Center - Katie Davis, Sundance Burke

Friday, October 28, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Mallards Pointe Professional Center
7195 Wagner Way, Suite 105
Gig Harbor, Washington

Donation at the Door; Everyone is welcome

Contact Jude (253) 453-0163
Gig Harbor Sangha

More: www.KatieDavis.org/Schedule.html

Pacific Northwest Satang - Washington Satsang
Eastside Satsang in Bellevue, Washington
Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Every Sunday Satsang with Katie Davis and Sundance Burke
October 23 - December 18, 4:00-6:00 pm
(except November 13)

Every Thursday Satsang with Katie Davis OR Sundance Burke
October 27 - December 29, 7:00-9:00 pm
(except Thanksgiving, November 24)

Katie Davis Satsang, October 27

Sundance Burke Satsang, November 3

(Katie and Sundance alternate Thursdays until December 29)

Friends Philosophy and Tea
13850 Bel-Red Rd in Bellevue, Washington

More information at www.KatieDavis.org/Schedule.html

Private Satsang - Individual Appointments
Katie Davis or Sundance Burke
October 25 - December 28
(except Sundays and Thursdays)
In person in Bellevue, Washington or Worldwide by phone or Skype

Appoint Katie Davis: www.KatieDavis.org/Private.html

Appoint Sundance Burke: www.SundanceBurke.org/Private.html

What in the World Are You Seeking? by Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:31:00 -0700

Questioner:

In my seeking, I was glad to stumble onto your blog. You explain the truth with a lot of love. I know all there is to know on non-duality and often put it into practice, but I can't help feeling like I'm waiting for something, something more, enlightenment or the mind to turn off or the world to become brighter and light up. I am still seeking. How can I find the courage to just be? To end my seeking?

Katie:

Thank you for this intelligent and focused question. You wrote, "I am still seeking." Please look directly right now, before answering these questions:

You are AWARE that you are still seeking, right? Is this not so? Now, look first ...

Does that awareness have any issue at all with the one who is seeking?

YOU are that awareness ... and not the one who is seeking ... the ego-I-body. Not that the body is excluded. It simply is a false identity. I am pointing solely to a shift in identity. Identity is not identification or attachment. When one identifies or attaches to a 'thing,' it requires a separate object; whereas true identity is pure. You simply are. When you identify with the body as false identity, you are identifying with an object.

So then, who is I? Who am I?

Perhaps, there is the realization that you are not the ego-I. Perfect ... then where is the mere word pointing? What is the I thought symbolizing? By analogy, let's day you wanted to banish the word "bread" from your vocabulary. Ok, fine and well. Would you then throw out the loaf of freshly baked, sourdough bread, without tasting it? Likewise, once we realize that we could not possibly be a mere thought, we are then invited to realize where the word is actually pointing. From whence does the I-thought arise? If the ego-I-body is not who you are, then who is I? Who are you?

The situation seems to be with many that once they realize that there is no ego, they begin seeking the object of enlightenment or seek the Heart objectively. We are not here to notice an object or even attain an object. We are here to realize who YOU are. Pure I is already here and readily accessible. This is why pure Self-inquiry is considered the Direct Approach.

Finally, wake up to ego's tactics and postponement strategies. The ego would have you believe that seeking some-thing in the future is the answer. Yes, of course, it would, since the ego needs time. Free of time, there is no ego here and now. The answer is to stop; just no longer be fooled by ego's becoming strategy. Compassionately see that the ego is more like a small child stamping its foot and crying for a toy it cannot find. This discovery is not for the ego. It is in the absence of ego that we realize who we are. The ego can even be appreciated with the wisdom of understanding. Ego is adorable in its drama and harmless ... when seen as it is.

That said, resist nothing. Allow all to be as it is. But why continue attending it? Ego cannot be fixed. It would only become a better false self.

The most efficient means is to be who you are ... be the feeling sense of I-ness. Rest as I-ness. Pure identity is prior to the ego co-opting its identity.

Another possibility is to simply rest as "I am." I am not this. I am not that. "I am."

At first, it might seem that "I am" is the personal sense of being. In truth, it is pure beingness that is free of its objective identity ... the so called ego.

You asked what you can 'do.' There is no "doer." There no "seeker." Both are the ego dressed up and pretending to be spiritual ... the spiritual ego. Beloved, you are already the Ultimate Reality ... not a psychological self (ego) becoming something more (enlightened ego).

You mentioned "waiting." Until Self-realization, a sense of waiting does seem to prevail. No waiting and nothing to wait for. Enjoy the waiting place. If I could humbly suggest however that once it has been seen how compulsive, programmed and insane most of those thought forms are why continue to tend them? It is true that you are less apt to identify (attach) to them if you are watching and the thought stream does slow in the observing, however once it has been noticed how the ego structure operates and how it changes the emotional states, let the thoughts flow by like autumn leaves on the surface of a river as they float downstream and disappear.

The thought stream is mostly dull and boring anyway. Thoughts are mostly repetitive and all in reference to the ego. Ego needs those thoughts to give the impression that it is real. That becomes the ego's story and it (ego) is the storyteller. Where is the story without the storyteller?

Right now, stop for a moment. Close your eyes from the computer screen. Take a moment to relax and watch your breathing. Can you sense how beautiful the air feels as it gently comes in and out the nose? Go ahead.

Try it again for a moment. Close the eyes, conscious breathing ... are there any thoughts? No ... thought needs time. Conscious breathing points to timeless presence.

For those readers who are just becoming curious about awakening, I point to the body as the perfect tool to wake up out of time. The body is always now, so it is a natural tool for being timelessly present. Being aware of the body's sensing (or breathing), the attention shifts out of the head and into the body. The body and its inner space is the only entry into the formless reality that is our essence.

You are that which you are seeking. Any movement/effort/doership is a movement away and that is exactly what the ego wants.

To summarize:

1. Stop

2. Conscious breathing/sensing

3. Rest as the feeling of I-ness or as "I am."

Now the ego asks, "Yes, but isn't there something MORE I can do?"

Love and gratitude for the inquiry, sweetheart.

Questioner:

Thank you so much for your detailed answer. I can see you move to help those around with great enthusiasm. Mistaken identity ... I'll remember that next time the thoughts say, "this is not enough.' I will refer back to these words of wisdom again and again. Thanks for taking the time to post.

Love and gratitude.

Katie Davis Website www.katiedavis.org

Seattle Satsang - Eastside with Katie Davis, Sundance Burke, Oct 2-Dec 29

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 06:24:00 -0700

Seattle Satsang - Eastside begins this Sunday, October 2, 2011

Every Sunday Satsang, 4:00-6:00 pm
October 2 - December 18
(except November 13)
Satsang with Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Every Thursday Satsang, 7:00-9:00 pm
October 6-December 29 (except Thanksgiving)
Satsang with Sundance Burke OR Katie Davis
October 6, Simply Being Free with Sundance Burke
October 13, Satsang with Katie Davis
They will then alternate every Thursday until December 29

Private Satsang Appointments
In Bellevue, Washington and Worldwide by phone or Skype
October 1 - December 28

Seattle Satsang Eastside Location:
(satsangs and appointments)
Friends Philosophy & Tea
13850 Bel-Red Rd in Bellevue

More Information at www.KatieDavis.org and www.SundanceBurke.org

Friends of the Heart October Issue by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:25:00 -0700

The Friends of the Heart October 2011 Issue

Free Articles on Spiritual Awakening and Non-duality by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke

Now posted at www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

In This Issue:

"The Heart of the Matter" by Katie Davis

Self-realization is complete and utter fulfillment. It is the end of all suffering and the perception of separation. It is also the conscious beginning of deep, sacred peace and realizing the radiant love that you already are. However, this is far more . . . Click Here to Continue

"Seattle Eastside Satsang" October 2-December 29

Every Sunday, 4:00-6:00 pm, Sundance and Katie

Every Thursday, 7:00-9:00 pm with Katie or Sundance

Private Satsang Appointments Worldwide by phone or Skype or in Bellevue, WA

"NOW" New Music Video by Songwriter, Jim Angus

"Humanity's Last Superstition" by Sundance Burke

Just now, a sliver of yellowish light appears from under a bank of night clouds just above the horizon. It is moonset time. I feel the lovely approaching. As though suspended on a string, the sun's pretty sister . . . Click Here to Continue

"Rumi Lover's Delight"

What is the Heart? It is not human and it is not imaginary. I call it You. This is how I would die into the Love that I have for You . . . Click Here to Continue

"What Is Simply Being" by Sundance Burke

Simply points to that which is timeless and thus beyond effort or practice. Being is your presence; the Isnss of consciousness . . . Click Here to Continue

IN-JOY!

Go Now to Friends of the Heart at http://www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

The Heart of the Matter by Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 21:22:00 -0700

However, this is far more than a personal affair. As the consciousness transforms, that is, as the altered states of consciousness fall away, so does the life situation and the world transform. With Self-realization, an enduring world peace is a true possibility.

Everything conceived by the ego is separate and dual in nature. It experiences that it is split from the world and apart from the divine. The psychological self then suffers the alienation of the daytime dream of conceptual reality, its time and negativity.

It creates the delusion of a pain gap between the body’s limitation and the magnificent Heart that we genuinely are. The illusion of division then unconsciously operates in daily living. This subject-object relationship (ego vs. everyone else) is the source of all loneliness, anger, lack, desire, greed, fear, exploitation, guilt, shame, manipulation, control, anxiety, worry and sorrow.

Without an ego-subject, there can be no divided objects and separation is plainly unattainable. This is not to say that we do not honor our diversity. In fact, when we are no longer inhibited by the ego, innate creativity, natural abilities and uniqueness thrive.

We are a single symphony of wise love ... and beyond experience, infinitely more. This wondrous shift is one of identity only; from a suffering ego that is limited to a finite body ... to joyful pure being, whether with form or without.

Even conceptually, we can understand that nothing could be separate from that which is called totality. Totality is simply whole. By analogy, when we cut a piece of pumpkin pie for dessert, we do not claim that it is other than pie. Likewise, who we are is diversified, yet whole.

You have the opportunity to investigate the truth for yourself. Have you been curious enough to look directly and deeply within? Who are you really at the core? There is a brilliance already shining within you that is profoundly deeper than the body and its surface reality. You have only to realize it by direct looking and inquiring within.

This does not require the mind’s philosophical analysis. It only compels you to become conscious of what is within right now. When we cherish aloneness and quietude for this deeper contemplation, we realize that we are the love that we have been seeking in every other.

Suffering is not in the world. It is in the pain gap of separation within you and then projected by the divided mind as the painful world. One could say that it is superimposed much like a movie on a cinema screen. Whereas, free of the pain gap, we have a far more enjoyable movie! Just wait and see. Indeed, a life that is free of suffering is a true possibility for all being.

The fragmented "me” thinks that it is IN the mental space of time that we label physical experiencing. In truth, time and space are appearing within you. To confirm this, simply notice that everywhere you are, it is always here and now. If it was reversed … if you were limited to time and space … and if your identity was the body only, this could not be so. Every time and place would be something other than here and now. You are the permanent factor that is not confined to the body’s time and place.

In the divided world of duality within time, the ego experiences that it is subject to the push and pull of the opposing forces that are in constant resistance with one another. Every experience is threatened by its opposite. The ego constantly vacillates between pleasure-pain, happy-sad, relative peace-conflict, relative love-hate, etc. It has virtually no conscious stability. In fact these opposites depend upon one another for their definitive existence. For instance, we define happiness as a lack of sadness and sadness as a lack of happiness.

There is a continuum between these opposites along which there are many varying degrees. The ego defines its placement on the continuum, through the absence of the other … and only time separates them. First, the ego cycles to being relatively happy and after certain duration, it cycles to being relatively sad, which in turn will once again cycle to being relatively happy.

In fact, within time, constant sadness is just as unattainable as stable happiness; whereas joy is inherent in both and beyond the opposites. For the ego, pleasure cannot exist without pain. Relative love cannot prevail without hatred. As a time traveler, the ego's time-space-body limitation is always subject to both.

Non-duality is transcendental and its world is free of the cycling of time. Therefore, the opposites, such as relative love-hatred or relative peace-conflict, disappear into oneness and the darkness cannot survive the love of the merger. We are stunned by a brilliant stillness that is preeminent, sublime and unrivaled.

Steadfast joy is natural to the human being. As the non-dual reality, true experience is not in opposition to any other. Therefore, competition, aggression, envy, greed and sexual obsession are effortlessly banished. My point is that you are needlessly suffering and that the transformative power lies within you.

First, the invitation is to realize time freedom. In this attentive openness, we are free of the time required for the vacillating cycles. The opposites cannot take flight and are transcended. Since the concept of “me” requires time, we are also free of the pain gap and its delusion of separation.

The opposites are part and parcel of the idea of “me,” its never-ending desires and fears, and its need based insecurity. When the concept of “I” profoundly surrenders, both relative love and hatred are extinguished by unconditional love. We move beyond the relative peace that inevitably cycles to war and realize the absolute peace that is beyond all understanding. This transforms so called human experience into an appearance within an all-pervading field of innocence and equanimity. One could say that we regain virginal sight.

In the beginning, we practice being present to this moment; the only entry point to the "inner body." In this, we become aware of what it feels like to actually be fully and completely in our body, rather than ruminating in our head. Our senses come alive and we become aware of our effortless breathing. We realize our aliveness.

Then attention begins shifting to simply "I am" rather than “I am this or that.” Here, we are in alignment with the infinite pure being that is the open door to a "new" reality. In truth, you are already the infinite and intelligent power that is the totality.

The timeless Now, or what Ramana Maharshi called the Forever Now and Eckhart Tolle, The Power of Now, is beyond the appearance of the present moment. The timeless Now is free of content altogether and is the space within which the present moment is appearing. It is beyond the concept of "you," your idea of separation and the vacillating cycles that oppose one another ... and that allow the perception of negativity to persist.

If you could realize that you are radiant love and that this realization is the key to world transformation, would you hesitate and wait? Would it not be worth it to at least look and consider the Heart of the matter?

Katie Davis Website www.KatieDavis.org

Friends of the Heart September Issue by Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Sun, 4 Sep 2011 19:13:00 -0700

Friends of the Heart September 2011 Issue Now Posted:

www.KatieDavis.org/FriendsoftheHeart.html

Free articles on spiritual awakening, radiant love, Non-duality, Self-inquiry and Self-realization

This Issue Includes:

"Before the Awakening: Forgiveness and Allowing"

Article by Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

We enter the temple of the Heart as love and you are already the Abode of radiant love. Yet, when we begin shifting attention out of the head and into the physical body to be present, we become aware of emotions that were previously unnoticed . . . Continue reading by clicking HERE

"Simply Being Free"

Article by Sundance Burke, Author, "Free Spirit"

The great Indian sage, Ramana Maharshi, once said, "Our duty is to BE and to not be this or that. Of course, he said that in the Now, as that's the only reality of Being. Accordingly, the impact of the expression is to be realized now. So what is the distinction between . . . Continue reading by clicking HERE

"Today: Better Together Discount at Amazon for All Three Books"

"Awake Joy," "Free Spirit" and "Conversations on Non-duality: Twenty-six Awakening"

More information HERE

"New Releases"

MP3 Downloads (52 minutes each)

"A Conversation on Non-duality with Katie Davis"

"A Conversation on Non-duality with Sundance Burke"

More information HERE

"Seattle Eastside Satsang ~ Seattle Friends of the Heart"

Article by Sundance Burke

October 2 - December 28

Sundays, 4:00 pm, Seattle Eastside Satsang with Sundance and Katie

Alternating Thursdays, 7:00 pm, Seattle Eastside Satsang with Katie Davis

Altternating Thursdays, 7:00 pm, Simply Being Free with Sundance Burke

More information HERE

"What is Simply Being Free with Sundance?"

Article by Sundance Burke

Simply points to that which is timeless, and thus, beyond effort or practice

Being is your Presence ~ the ISness of consciousness

Free ~ You are That

With ~ Connector of Oneness

Sundance is a name I calls Itself

Continue reading by clicking HERE

"Private Appointments" with Katie Davis or Sundance Burke

October 1 - December 28

Worldwide: By phone, cell or Skype

In 'Person' in Bellevue, WA, USA

More information HERE

Free Downloads and Free Videos at www.KatieDavis.org

Free Videos at www.SundanceBurke.org

(Tour Schedule Resumes Soon)

Eckhart Tolle's Definition of Qi by Kris Caldwell, Seattle Tiantian School of Qigong

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Tue, 2 Aug 2011 17:13:00 -0700

Kris Caldwell is a certified Qigong Instructor, Turtle Longevity Lineage Holder and the Founder and Director of Seattle's Tiantian School of Qigong.

In the above photo, Kris is performing 1000 Hands Buddha Meditation that she instructed at our 2004 Mount Rainier Silent Retreat, as a movement meditation to practice presence.

Kris has recently returned to the Northwest after a sabbatical in China. This article was published to her Qigong community in 2009.

Eckhart Tolle's Definition of Qi by Kris Caldwell

My first exposure to what are also the teachings of Eckhart Tolle came in the form of being invited to teach 1000 Hands Buddha (a form of qigong meditation) at a Satsang retreat held by Katie Davis and Sundance Burke at Mt. Rainier in 2004. I learned of Sri Ramana Maharshi's lineage, extending through Papaji and Gangaji, and how those teachings were being disseminated by people like Katie and Sundance, Kirtana, and Eckhart Tolle.

My experience that weekend was profound to me, and shortly thereafter I read the introduction to Sri Ramana Maharshi's book. However, I did not continue as I was already entrenched in studying Daoist and Buddhist philosophies, and in daily extensive qigong practice. While I have studied/practiced many paths since the age of 17, when exposed to a new practice in the midst of another, I have always waited to begin the new one until I had come to a place in my current practice spacious enough to do so. While occasionally there has been some overlap between the conclusion of one practice and the beginning of another, historically I have come to a place of completion before going on.

So here I am again. I have come to a place of spaciousness in my qigong practice. And I am reading Eckhart Tolle, and finding it to be deeply connected to my Daoist/Buddhist/qigong studies. Here is an example of why: his definition of qi, found on p. 131 of the paperback edition of "The Power of Now." You will notice he has chosen to use the Wade-Giles spelling "chi."

"The Unmanifested is the source of chi. Chi is the inner energy field of your body. It is the bridge between the outer you and the Source. It lies halfway between the manifested, the world of form, and the Unmanifested. Chi can be likened to a river or an energy stream. If you take the focus of your consciousness deeply into the inner body, you are tracing the course of this river back to its Source. Chi is movement; the Unmanifested is stillness. When you reach a point of absolute stillness, which is nevertheless vibrant with life, you have gone beyond the inner body and beyond chi to the Source itself: the Unmanifested. Chi is the link between the Unmanifested and the physical universe."

I think those of you who have practiced some form of qigong are likely to recognize his meaning in your experience of your practice. I certainly do, and am grateful for the opportunity, after more than ten years of practicing qigong, to understand the connection between what I have been practicing and the practice of Presence.

More about Kris Caldwell and Qigong at www.tiantianqigong.com

Kris mentions Kirtana who offered an evening concert at the retreat. More about Kirtana at: www.kirtana.com

Visit the Katie Davis Website at www.KatieDavis.org

"Be Still and Know I AM God" ~ Katie Davis, Author, "Awake Joy"

noreply@blogger.com (Katie Davis, Author, Awake Joy) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 14:51:00 -0700

Devotion is attending the sacred flame in the Heart, rather than mindfully wishing to change what already is. Upon awakening, one could say that we are in prayer all day long, during all that is appearing or being done. The still center point of the spirit is the permanent factor underneath all of the impermanent experiences. In this manner, life seems pristine and sanctified, regardless of how the mind and its time might judge it. Ultimately, we are being the sacred flame and we are effortlessly faithful to being the glowing light.

We finally realize that every life encounter is flowing from the fullness within and we profoundly appreciate the sacred essence, within which all is appearing. We are very much present to life, but attention is resting as the Heart, instead of projecting into the mind's life and its problematic situations and conflicts. We have directly realized that we are not separate from the divine and therefore do not objectify this dimension as a separate power, such as in duality. What greater prayer is there than to humbly rest as sacred unity and simply allow wisdom to do its work?

This inner vigilance has a feeling of objectless worship and reverence. We sense overflowing gratitude and divine appreciation. Vigilance prevents the confusion of our outer, conditioned existence from invading our inner space. Attention "protects" the Heart's flame, much like we would protect a candle from the wind. Witnessing keeps the inner space open, free and clear. Through silent and still watching alone, we are then able to recognize the slightest nuance of emotional contraction, so that we are free of reaction, when things go wrong or other than expected.

We are able to be gentle, patient and compassionate with the ego and that of so called others. When we are silently witnessing grief and suffering, this conscious allowing transmutes the negativity into the precious fuel for unconditional love, while the light seems to glow brighter and thrives. By being consciously present, the sacred loving burns everything into itself and only the loving prevails. Conscious suffering may not be comfortable, but it does have an end. We are no longer afraid of suffering or trying to escape it. When we allow the heart to crack open, we transcend into the perfect peace that we truly are.

Forbearance is one of the last gatekeepers to enlightenment and perhaps best described through my father's words. When I was very tiny and crying, he would often repeat the well known saying that every cloud has a silver lining. Yes, we may presently be sorrowful, but the primary focus is on the shining that surrounds it. This attentive light dissolves the misery, just like the morning sunlight gently parts the clouds.

Forbearance is the patient acceptance of how we presently feel, with the deeper knowing that we are safe and out of harm's way. We are able to maintain a sense of equanimity and innocence. This field of innocence is within you right now and it is a pathway to Self-realization; the only true answer to enduring fulfillment. Self-realization is love's conscious completion and is the end of psychological suffering.

The invitation of these teachings is to devote to being love's light, instead of tending to the phenomenal display called life experience. If we deny this light, we will suddenly find ourselves in the world again and get lost in the struggle. When this occurs, we merely shift attention back to being the open flame and we regain quietude and tranquility. In this manner, we might even be able to welcome the opposition of others as a rising teacher for the freedom of our inner space.

When we are able to consciously rest as the pure beingness within, we are an open window for the unconditional love to flow into the life situation and into the world. We unconditionally accept life as it is, without getting lost in the mind's resistance. In the refuge of timelessness, the past fades away and we respect life for the miracle that it genuinely is. This sacred dimension allows a sense of continuity and security in our lives. We are able to accept, welcome and honor the ever changing conditions and seasons of the life situation. Free of resistance, life is graceful and we experience an ease in living.

Resistance seems unique to the human being. Nature provides many examples of yielding to life, rather than resisting. In a tropical storm, a palm tree yields to the wind and then regains its graceful sway. A river yields to its gravitational force as it descends a mountain to enter the ocean. Winter yields to spring, just as the ocean yields to the tides. A bear surrenders to hibernation, rather than weathering the snows. An eagle soars in the sky and simply glides with the changing winds. Daytime gracefully surrenders to the intimacy of the night. Thought free, nature meets life as it is and never slips into time.

Surrender is a powerful transformer of negative energy, so that we become more present for genuine living. We surrender our anger, fears and desires to the grace that knows the way. When we let go of these contracted burdens in this manner, we regain a gentle lightness of being and an outpouring of peace that is simply beyond the mind and its ideas. The mind-made self and its delusion of control and manipulation are finally finished.

Since we have stopped feeding our thoughts, we are also free of the emotional body and its suffering. Instead of trying to make life conform to the ego's wants and need-based insecurities, we rest in "not knowing" and every life experience becomes a mysterious adventure. Uncaused joy surfaces and comes to the forefront as we discover that life, with all of its idiosyncrasies and what the mind might call its imperfections ... it is perfection.

I invite you to be as still as your meditation or church’s alter, while life's complexities, struggles and failures are passing by. They are only begging for forgiveness and in the light of consciousness, darkness cannot prevail. Be present when they arrive, compassionately allow them while they are here, and notice that after their passing, only the love that you are remains. In this willingness, life's greatest nourishment is adoration.

Visit the Katie Davis Website at www.KatieDavis.org