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Illumination of the Nine Mandalas

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John C. Bader

Wisdom Moon Publishing

 

 

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Why do Bad things happen to Good people?

This is an incredibly complex question and it might have a myriad of answers depending on how a person sees the light of day. We all were raised differently, conditioned by society; we all mature with our own spiritual beliefs and each of us may see situations of loss and challenges differently. Some may see negative situations as an act of God… Others may see bad luck as simply a roulette of statistics and probability.  So, the only way I can answer this question is by the aperture of my own sovereign mind.  My experiences, wisdom and energy are merely opinions; the final answer is yours to accept or reject.

When toying with this quandary, God and fate always seems to be averaged into the discussion. First, it is my opinion God DOES exist as the creator of the Universe – our source of instinctual energy – our connection to everything. The problem that arises with organized religion is that the concept of God is not personal. God is not a he or a she – GOD just is…  and humans just are…. It is the ego and our social conditioning that facilitates this false-self perpetuated by fear, guilt and reliance of blind faith that does not take us smoothly through situations of conflict and loss.

God is the energy that drives our being; our True Nature. Humans are the shepherds of this energy and we have the omnipresent power to make life on Earth a sanctuary of heaven built on love, compassion and forgiveness or we can take this same energy and create a living hell here on earth (which many people unfortunately do). I do believe in karma and power of prayer – quantum physics is now shedding scientific light on these manifestations including an afterlife. Still the law of karma does not govern all actions in life. If someone wants to pick up a gun and shoot children at a school then sadly this is still going to happen. Karma, good deeds and God will not save people from such tragedies. God does not operate at the human level. God allows humans to cognitively and instinctually operate and do as they wish with the energy and autonomy bestowed by cosmic creation. Unfortunately human action is warped and twisted by the complex variables of ego and society that shadows most of us.

It was over 13 years ago that my wife and I lost our first baby… a full term stillborn son who was my namesake. We had to bury our first child; left with no answers…. I asked that same question (why do Bad things happen to Good people?) to the heavens above – I got on my knees, tears welling from my swollen eyes demanding answers to why something horrific like this would happen to good people. My anguish and sorrow soon evolved into anger and then depression. It was not a good time in our lives. I begged for answers….

Then one memorable day in autumn, something happened that changed my life. The sun came out and showered me with warmth. The sky looked bluer, the clouds seemed whiter. The trees and plants all seemed brighter and more colorful. It was if I had poor vision all my life and suddenly began to see clearly for the first time. I experienced an awakening – I stumbled upon the concept of awareness and space and how it related to me. I no longer blamed myself for the loss of my son. I no longer blamed God or the Universe. I no longer blindly demanded answers for this tragedy. My son’s death was an unfortunate circumstance of life. I stopped trying to find God outside me. The essence of God was not looking down upon me; it was inside me all along. God had nothing to do with my son’s death – my son’s death was an inexplicable process of energy passing through the Universe, a bright light that burned out too quickly; a shooting star. I realized I had never been close to God, but once I felt this loss, I came to know how precious life is. This realization brought a new sense of spirituality. God was the love I felt for my son. God was the pain I felt from his loss. And God was the renewed and fiercer appreciation I felt for my loved ones still with me. When I felt God as the love that burned with both hurt and joy in my heart, I knew I had tapped into my True Nature. Connecting to my True Nature gave me the space to experience my grief – I felt love lost and love regained and renewed. God is my True Nature.

Love pulled me from the perils of my depression and anger. After feeling such pain and sorrow, you wonder if you will ever love the same way again. You don’t – you love more deeply….  I visualize my son as an angel looking down on my family and reminding me to see the world with the same level of clarity I felt that day of my awakening. My son’s death showed me how precious life is and taught me that love is the bridge between life and death, between sorrow and joy. He showed me a world of faith, beauty, and happiness. The sun will always shine brightly for me in his memory.
Unfortunately life is unpredictable and unfortunately bad things happen to good people. The sad irony is that when bad things happen to good people we notice it more. The art in life is seeing that we are connected to something magnificent and even in the darkest shadows, there is still light. We are all connected and life and death is merely a Mandala – Birth, Life and Rebirth…  A revolving sphere of energy. The key is how we react to life’s most challenging and enduring situations. Do we create negative energy in light of conflict? Or do we stop, breathe and make positive energy and blanket the negativity with positive ripples of ascendancy – reverberating to infinity – creating your omnipresent footprint; your signature of love and life – indestructible and sublime…

Again, the decision is yours… It is not easy, but love will carve a path to illumination…

 

John C. Bader

 

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I write about the ego and its counterpart True Nature all the time. This is a great question queried recently by Dave, a friend and fellow blogger… Is our ego a friend or an enemy? Shall we settle this once and for all?

This is a complex question and it will come with a complex answer. I have overheard Wayne Dyer tell Oprah on TV once that the ego is not necessary – that there is no need. I totally disagree. Still I am cautious in saying that the ego is our friend… it is not in most cases.

What is the ego? The ego is part of our mental devices that experiences and reacts to the outside world and thus mediates between the primitive drives of our being and the demands of the social and physical environment. . The ego for better or worse thrives on ideals, beliefs and laws that determine a perception of the world and life that is larger than the individual. It becomes the governing force from which we unknowingly base our daily actions.

Ever heard of Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs? The model describes an imaginary pyramid that begins with physiological needs at its base and aesthetic principles of self-directed growth at its apex. After the satiation of water, food and warmth, humans seek love and safety needs. These requirements are born from a more primitive human existence dating back millions of years. The ego was necessary for the early evolution of humans; competing, breeding and foraging to survive; and it is necessary in the early development of children today. Many of us are born into a world where social Darwinism defines our existence. Though its mechanisms are crude, the ego is an unavoidable social phenomenon that helps trigger survival instincts and stimulate early social evolution. Now, imagine if a child lives totally alone and isolated from social interaction; he or she will never come to grow an ego. But that is not going to help in human evolution. This child will remain like an animal never progressing or evolving. The ego is basically a bi-product of our social existence.

It was not until more recently – the last 3,000-5,000 years that humans have began searching for self-actualization. This is when modern religion was born and it is when humans began to cross the threshold of a physiological needs based society to an aesthetic needs based society. Still, the ego remains rooted into our mind facilities growing and maturing as we progress into adulthood. The ego becomes this borderless entity that is so interwoven into the fabric of our minds we do not even realize its influence. . It is a complex array of sources that feeds an ego: From the unattainable benchmark set by celebrities to the materialistic urges brought forth by our peers and the advertising we are inundated with daily. It deals with social acceptance in communal arenas and the moral and mainstream pressures of life. In the “material world” the ego unknowingly gains power from these sources and we as malleable creatures inherit control patterns which subconsciously dictate our actions and reactions in life. Control patterns are subliminal hard-wired urges and intentions that are controlled by the ego and facilitate and reinforce the emotions of fear, anger, jealousy and low self-worth, many times unknowingly.

So what was once a crude but necessary friend in early development becomes this complex false-self that feeds on the infinite variables and situations that society yields. Still, without the ego, how would we know what is a balanced and unbalanced existence? How are we to know what our True Nature is without already knowing the extreme opposites of self-gratified bliss and suffering? We need to have a matrix in place that takes in consideration all facets: bliss as it relates to our false-self, suffering as it relates to our false-self and this elusive middle ground called enlightenment. When we are born, society hands us our ego. True the ego is not found in the womb – the ego is manmade and in order to socially evolve it is a necessary function in our lives. It is true that most Buddhists would contend that the ego is not a part of us – it is merely a distortion. Still, even distortions are tangible evidence of who we are. When we look in a mirror, that image may be a distortion of our true self – a mirrored copy that is not real, but still it is rather difficult to deny that this image is not us.

The concept of an ego is in itself a yardstick in societal evolution. Whether we need the ego or not is really not the point – the ego exists whether we like it or not. The focus is not to say we do not need the ego but to acknowledge that it exists and then separate its facilities within our mind – make space for it so that when thoughts and emotions arise we can distinguish which ones are proactive to our evolution and development and which ones are merely there to create false-self and ultimately suffering. We cannot deny the ego but must find awareness for its power – the ego helped build a crude but necessary foundation in our human evolution. Now in the search for enlightenment, the key is to limit its authority and power so that true authentic empowerment can arise from within.

John C. Bader
www.responsiveuniverse.com
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I just found Joseph Campbell!

 

As luck would have it, I stumbled on to a new documentary film about the philosophy of Joseph Campbell. Luck is really not the appropriate word because when we realize and understand we live in a Responsive Universe, we find there really is no luck; only meaningful connections. This movie found me and now I want to share it with you…

“I don’t believe people are looking for the meaning of life as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive.”
– Joseph Campbell

The film is called “Finding Joe” a new and refreshing movie by Patrick Takaya Solomon. Already the recipient of the Visionary Award, Finding Joe is a unique and masterful journey into the teachings of Joseph Campbell. Joseph Campbell, a true visionary and philosopher, has always been a huge influence on my journey to self-discovery. Much of what I write in blogs and books transcends Campbell’s unadulterated wisdom. Much like Campbell’s message the film makes a parallel of the “Hero’s Journey” through stories of ancient mythology and even the modern movies we see in the theater today. Campbell was successful in connecting parallels in visual media and ancient lore that resonate with the struggles and toil each of us face today. Interwoven into this wonderful journey are familiar faces like Deepak Chopra, Mick Fleetwood and sport legends like Tony Hawk and big wave surfer Laird Hamilton. If you have ever watched the Bill Moyer’s interviews with Campbell (The Power of Myth) then you know how cerebral his message is. Patrick Takaya Solomon takes this message and playfully and skillfully makes it more palatable for the average Joe like me.

“Find a place inside where there’s joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.” – Joseph Campbell

We learn that there are many stories in life, some good and some bad; yet in actuality there is only one story – the meaning for this existence – this thing we call life. A question arises: how do we fit into this story; this hero’s journey? Under the static of ego, materialism and money there is this other world. The myths of the past and stories of the future teach us to go beyond the limits of possibility. When we wake up to the fact we are the hero in this story of life magical things happen.

“Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.” - Joseph Campbell

There are really two stories within this film. There is the wisdom and energy of Joseph Campbell which Patrick Takaya Solomon successfully brings to illumination. And then there is our place in this journey; this story of life. This film adeptly sheds warm light on a new path; a path of self-discovery. We find that we are really not that different from each other. We find that we all struggle and are faced with challenges. We see the heroic stories of past and present and then this incredible realization takes hold: When we look in the mirror we do not just see a reflection of ourselves, we see a hero looking back at us. Yes, this new and inspiring film is about finding Joe, but it is also about finding you!

For more information please visit Finding Joe

John C. Bader
www.responsiveuniverse.com
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How do you spot an Energy Vortex?

Energy Vortex? What is that?
Depending on how open and mindful you are – especially in nature; you may have noticed special places that exist here on Earth that hold higher levels of spiritual and, or quantum energy. Several notable places exist in Sedona Arizona for example. An energy vortex is a unique place where the quantum energies found here on Earth actually gather in a specific area or region. Mindful humans can sense these energies both in nature and in other humans. James Redfield is famous for writing about such energies in his Celestine book series. Dating back thousands of years, ancient civilizations have built churches and temples on or near these sites: Stonehenge in England, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Uluru-Kataijuta rock in Australia and the Pyramids of Egypt have all been documented as places akin to energy vortexes.
So how do you find these places locally? Well, also called Chakras, these special vortexes exist with varying levels of energy everywhere. Even the natural beauty of a forest, coastline or simply a sunset vista can hold higher levels of energy. On all accounts, it requires some effort from the person trying to connect to such energies. It is critical for a person to be focused in the present: Gone should be thoughts of the past and future which are typically rooted in fear and fantasy. Once our focus is fixed in the present, we can open up to the vast energy that is present in these unique places. I have a hunch that you too have felt this energy in one form or another. In general, we rarely pay attention to energy rushes or the peculiar fervor of a clear, sunny day because of our preoccupations with life. Yet I am sure everyone has had at least one moment where they tasted this kind of acute perception, especially while surrounded by nature.

In Sedona there are several energy vortexes within a 20 square mile radius. Many of the sites are marked by juniper trees whose branches and trunks are twisted and warped as if the energy present at this particular location is swirling – juniper trees at other locations do not represent this phenomenon. Two years ago, while researching my book, I traveled across America visiting places of beauty like Sedona; meditating at noted sites and blogging my experiences. The more mindful and aware you are; the more space and clarity you exhibit; the more connected you will be to these places. I have learned from experience that a sunny day can help accentuate these experiences. Clouds, trees, the ocean; it seems it is all connected in some form or facet. So, the objective is to be aware and you too will find your own prefect paradise in the backyard or somewhere locally. For me, the local forest preserve is where I spend several hours a week meditating and contemplating. There are several spots within this preserve that I am drawn to – it is there I feel centered, clear and connected. It is best to not over think such things; just simply revel in the beauty and energy of it all. Its purpose is simple.. to heal and connect us to the sublime…
So, resolutions aside, maybe make it a point to be a little more aware; especially in nature, and find that perfect meditative paradise you can call your very own church or sanctuary. This is something that can be shared or kept special just for you. Trust me on this… The proof is in the experience!
For more information about energy vortexes and meditating out in nature check out my blog series, Meditating Across America.

John C. Bader
www.responsiveuniverse.com

Did you know you can meditate anytime and anywhere?

Welcome to the One Week Responsive Universe Challenge - as seen on MindBodyGreen!

“If you are new to practice (meditation) it’s important to realize that simply to sit on that cushion for fifteen minutes is a victory”.

- Charlotte Joko Beck


If you are having a difficult time connecting to meditation you are not alone. Have you tried to meditate only to end up frustrated and more agitated than when you started? It’s okay.

The first step in meditation is to simply be aware – mindful of all those thoughts careening through your head…. Most of the time we just let thoughts run ramped, simply unaware. Once you stop and actually focus on the steady stream of thoughts you realize it is a pretty busy place up there in the mind. No wonder some of us have a hard time falling asleep.

Where do thoughts arise from? Can you pin point it? Where do they go? Does the mind have a border or perimeter? Meditation only asks for mindfulness – nothing more…

What really is meditation? Meditation is the conscious focus of the present. What is happening right now? That is meditation… When we let our thoughts run ramped we are replaying tapes of fear and fantasy, past and future – the director of this mental function is your ego. When you root your mind in the present you are creating gaps between those thoughts of fear and fantasy, past and future. Your ego is powerless. You are living in the moment; present, authentic and connected to your True Nature – that is meditation: The focus is on what is happening right now – the experience at hand and all the feelings and emotions associated with that moment… and the next moment… and the next moment….

Did you know you can meditate anytime and anywhere?

I do bike riding meditations all the time. Walking meditations are great too because any meditation that includes exercise is fantastic! I have this beautiful forest preserve near my home with miles of trails that traverse ponds, tree tunnels, marshes and wild flower fields – no man made intervention, few people, lots of birds and sometimes perfect clouds above. As I ride, I connect to what is around me and not the continuous thoughts in my head. As I ride I breathe in the sweet air, notice the intricacies and beauty of nature and in doing so; stretch those gaps in my mind between aimless thoughts. Within those authentic gaps is this sublime connection to energy, relaxation, reverence and bliss. Most times I will ride between 10-17 miles which can take up to 2 hours. Along the way I will stop and simply settle into the moment around me. My thoughts slow, inspiration and awareness is fine-tuned and there is this heartfelt feeling that I am evolving in the right direction.

That is meditation….


John C. Bader
www.responsiveuniverse.com

What is Meditation? Meditation just is…. Let your Meditation flow…

 

There are so many different ways to meditate. In my own journey of mindfulness, I have read and studied almost every technique imaginable. From Transcendental Meditation which is making a comeback to the thorough guidelines of my formal Buddhist training; to simply discovering my own path to mindfulness along the way.  I am guilty as charged for dedicating a whole book to meditation including helpful hints and tips in my recent release, The Responsive Universe.

Still, I have to digress; learning technique and skills is important. You need to have a foundation for which to build your practice on. Still, there is this continued misconception with meditation – about what it is and what it isn’t.

Simply said, meditation is…. It is that simple. We try to make it seem complicated and I find that the more complicated it gets the more trouble people have connecting to its quality of wellness. Taking it a step further, meditation is about mindfulness… nothing more, nothing less… it is about being present – keeping and continually redirecting your thoughts to what is happening right now; away from thoughts of fear and fantasy, past and future… What are you feeling right now? That is meditation… Did you have to refocus your thoughts a hundred times in 5 minutes? That is meditation…. Did the dog interrupt your session by chasing a fly across the room (happened to me yesterday) – that is meditation… Your stomach is growling and your foot just fell asleep? That is meditation…

You see, meditation just is…. Any attempt to meditate; any attempt to root your mind in the present is considered meditation. Even if you think you failed miserably at meditating it is still considered meditation. In this sense, you can’t lose!

You can meditate anywhere: walking the dog, riding a bike, sitting still and undisturbed. Meditation just is….

So, let your meditation flow – Stay diligent and do not stress about posture or your out breath; or all those thoughts that keep popping in your head. Every experience good or bad, positive or negative is considered part of the meditation. Meditation just is…

So, relax, breathe and just let it flow…

John C. Bader
www.responsiveuniverse.com