Mary Cook's Posts - The Book Marketing Network2024-03-28T20:19:30ZMary Cookhttp://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/MaryCookhttp://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2977842877?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=0ycm1v1qzpm4k&xn_auth=noARE WE HAPPY YET?tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2010-02-01:523145:BlogPost:2709602010-02-01T22:04:04.000ZMary Cookhttp://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/MaryCook
ARE WE HAPPY YET?<br />
By Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
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Happiness cannot be captured in reaching goals or through obtaining what we desire. Security is not something we can possess, give or receive. Freedom cannot be won or awarded. Learning does not occur through written and spoken words. Peace is not a presence that comes at the end of strife or war. Love does not complete us, mend us or save us. For anything to evolve or resolve, we must accept our present condition, empty ourselves of the ideas and…
ARE WE HAPPY YET?<br />
By Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
<br />
Happiness cannot be captured in reaching goals or through obtaining what we desire. Security is not something we can possess, give or receive. Freedom cannot be won or awarded. Learning does not occur through written and spoken words. Peace is not a presence that comes at the end of strife or war. Love does not complete us, mend us or save us. For anything to evolve or resolve, we must accept our present condition, empty ourselves of the ideas and feelings about it, and open to its’ higher spiritual truth.<br />
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Fulfillment in any area lies in remembering that which we already are. Experiences, people, and things can stimulate conscious awareness of our natural state of bliss. Our mistake is to think that we need these triggers continuously, to maintain happiness. We have only to examine our relationship to what we previously associated with happiness, to see that it changes over time. We typically become bored, jaded, take for granted and find fault with what formerly felt so fulfilling.<br />
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What allows us to continue appreciating the positive aspects of our lives, is the understanding of their spiritual connection to our soul. This insight includes acceptance of people, things and experiences passing through our lives, rather than remaining permanently. Permanence is only found in our God. When we seek it on the earthly domain, we will inevitably be disappointed and distraught. With this in mind however, we demonstrate gratitude and spiritual love for all the blessings that are given to us. We cease clinging, exploiting or becoming apathetic, as we understand the source of all goodness is always lovingly with us.<br />
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Our earthly experiences can remind us of Heaven or they can remind us of what blocks heavenly feelings and divine love. In either case, we must not mistake the ephemeral for the eternal. Our evolution includes mindful appreciation of our positive earthly experiences, as well as learning the lessons that darkness, disease and disasters can teach us. Our common human tendencies with the latter, are to attack, defend and despair. And yet it is these lessons that afford us the greatest possibility of enlightenment, and thus true fulfillment. How we learn is through acceptance and awareness, rather than by struggling and resisting. We must understand what blocks illumination, health, peace and abundance.<br />
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It is erroneous to imagine that life’s lessons reflect only what is wrong with society or our environment. Experiences that trigger negative mental, emotional, physical or spiritual states within us, urge us to examine ourselves more deeply. Whatever the discordant elements are, we must diligently seek to discover their parallel existence in us.<br />
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Rather than becoming upset over not knowing or understanding some aspect of life or facet of an individual, we can ask what we have kept hidden from ourselves, and endeavor to uncover it. When we experience disease, it exacerbates the symptoms if we have angry or hateful thoughts and feelings about our bodies. It is more important than ever at these times, to feel positive, loving energy toward our physical being, and determine how best to help ourselves heal. Disasters allow us to fully experience vulnerable emotions that we normally repress. This can lead us to a deeper connection, compassion and understanding of ourselves and others. Loss of people and things to which we were attached, can propel us to re-evaluate our priorities and values, as well as the ways in which we demonstrate love and gratitude.<br />
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Emerging through darkness, disease and disaster allows us to discover elements of ourselves previously unrecognized because of personal complacency. Inner strengths, positive character traits, talents and spiritual principles can become dominant forces in our lives as a result of trials and tribulations. Maintaining a positive spiritual perspective in spite of human trauma, helps us make decisions and take actions which will positively serve us and others. This diminishment of negative energy and stimulation of positive energy creates greater receptiveness and awareness of divine assistance during and following difficult times.<br />
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Our oneness with God is the source of true happiness. Security arises from accepting and understanding what is temporal and what is eternal. Freedom lies in surrendering all but our spiritual principles. Learning occurs as we clear our minds of preconceived concepts and open to the mysterious moments that touch our hearts. Peace is the absence of craving and coveting what is meant to be impermanent. Real love is rediscovered when we recall how we were all created from divine love, and we are meant to share the happiness of this recognition.THE VIRTUE OF HUMILITYtag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2009-12-31:523145:BlogPost:2629732009-12-31T23:31:45.000ZMary Cookhttp://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/MaryCook
THE VIRTUE OF HUMILITY<br />
Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
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Humility is not self-deprecation, impoverishment, shame or humiliation. It is not codependence, inferiority or passivity. Neither is it lack of personal caretaking or responsibility. Humility is recognizing that we see a tiny fraction of ourselves and life, and that everything is much greater than our physical senses and human awareness indicate. Humility is believing there is a deeper dimension in spirit, and that higher consciousness can lead us…
THE VIRTUE OF HUMILITY<br />
Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
<br />
Humility is not self-deprecation, impoverishment, shame or humiliation. It is not codependence, inferiority or passivity. Neither is it lack of personal caretaking or responsibility. Humility is recognizing that we see a tiny fraction of ourselves and life, and that everything is much greater than our physical senses and human awareness indicate. Humility is believing there is a deeper dimension in spirit, and that higher consciousness can lead us there.<br />
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Humility means that we remain curious, open-minded and teachable, and thus in a process of continual growth. As divine creations, we have a responsibility to honor, respect and care for ourselves, each other and our planet. We all have a profound effect on one another and we choose whether it will be positive or negative. As the earth, its elements and atmosphere enable plants, animals and humans to survive, humility engages us to protect and nurture our precious resources and each other. Harmful actions in the world can remind us how important it is for us to share peaceful, healing, loving energy in all that we do.<br />
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Humility recognizes the interdependent family of humanity. We understand that free will was given to us as a sacred right by our Creator. We see the contrast between our human and spiritual selves and the duality on this planet. We appreciate the opportunities to learn from the rich diversity of life and the contrast of opposites. Our experiences with giving and receiving, ignorance and knowledge, war and peace, love and hate, freedom and oppression, joy and sadness, beginnings and endings, allow us to mature. Recognizing the consequences of our thoughts and actions as individuals and as a collective society helps us to be more careful, wise and considerate of a much larger perspective in life.<br />
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Because flaws and faults are an integral part of us, we focus on observing, listening, understanding and forgiving rather than judging and condemning. Humility means that we do not take more than we need, and we willingly share what we have. We do not seek to control people nor our God, for that entraps us in mental, emotional, physical and spiritual sickness, and removes our ability to fulfill our soul’s purpose. We rightly understand that our human will is far from higher consciousness. We accept disappointments, loss and tragedies for the lessons that we learn from them. Humility is reinforced with failed expectations. They help us discern between our will and divine will. Trust and faith can be strengthened as we allow the temporary feelings of disappointment to abate.<br />
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I once heard that the purpose of bowing is to place the heart higher than the head. Our minds perform perpetual exercises in associating the present with the past. Thus dominant thoughts and habits commonly determine our present condition. This leads to repetition and stagnation rather than growth. Our deepest imprints occur in early childhood when we are helpless, needy, and hungry for information to understand the world. Later in life, experiences that stimulate these associations, automatically bring childhood feelings and thoughts to our attention. Thus rather than using our adult knowledge and resources and our spiritual beliefs and practices, we tend to react from a childhood dependent state, which is typically defensive or offensive. Humility reminds us that our goal is to positively change ourselves, and offer assistance when it is appreciated and beneficial. Humility asks what positive energy we have to give to the present.<br />
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Humility means that we place a higher priority on our heart and soul experience, and pay less attention to our mental chatter. Our spiritual perspective tells us that we are complete and we have all that we need. Suspending focus on our mind, allows each present moment to unfold without past or future referencing. This leads to a wellspring of fresh energy and joy which is independent of external circumstances. When we are struck with awe and wonder, when we are witnessing blessings and miracles, our mind is still and quiet. There is no thinker and no thought, only pure experience in the moment. This is a humble and ecstatic merging into the oneness of life.<br />
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Humility means that we conduct ourselves with honor and integrity. We witness and accept the whole of life, to learn what positive contributions we might offer. We pay equal attention to information from our physical senses and information from deeper awareness. We understand that although we are a tiny part of the world, our presence has an important ripple effect on the planet. Humility informs us that we are here to become enlightened, and that this is a process of perpetual discovery.<br />
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<a href="http://WWW.MARYCOOKMA.COM">WWW.MARYCOOKMA.COM</a> Mary Cook has a Master’s degree in psychology and is a registered addiction specialist, with over 33 years of clinical practice and 29 years of University teaching experience. She is a writer, a national speaker, and has a private practice in San Pedro, CA. Mary is available for telephone and office counseling, consulting, guided meditation, speaking engagements and in-service training. Her book “Grace Lost and Found” will be available by March 1, 2010. Please see website for further information. Contact her at 310-517-0825.THE GOODNESS OF GIVINGtag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2009-10-04:523145:BlogPost:2409522009-10-04T19:34:48.000ZMary Cookhttp://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/MaryCook
THE GOODNESS OF GIVING<br />
By Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
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We are the healthiest when we are in a continuous flow of giving and receiving. Unselfish giving is our true nature, and this consciously connects us with the divine, which is always giving. Acknowledging all of the goodness that we have inside of ourselves, and perceiving goodness in others, fosters feelings of fellowship and unity rather than adversity and separation. This deeper perception of life generates positive energy for all aspects…
THE GOODNESS OF GIVING<br />
By Mary Cook, M.A., R.A.S.<br />
<br />
<br />
We are the healthiest when we are in a continuous flow of giving and receiving. Unselfish giving is our true nature, and this consciously connects us with the divine, which is always giving. Acknowledging all of the goodness that we have inside of ourselves, and perceiving goodness in others, fosters feelings of fellowship and unity rather than adversity and separation. This deeper perception of life generates positive energy for all aspects of our journey, and reinforces feelings of fulfillment regardless of outward circumstances.<br />
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Abundant blessings and lessons visit us in daily life to tempt us toward growth and enlightenment. When we are relaxed and open, we are more likely to notice the messages of the present moment and meet them with fresh, creative energy. Inspiration is remembering the spirit within us and others. We are a creation, and we are meant to receive, create and give from the eternal source of love. Being open to life means that we have the faith to make positive use of all that life gives us.<br />
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Increasing our capacity to give is the most worthwhile practice in our personal development. The best gifts come from the pure and simple goodness of our heart. Whether loved ones or strangers, we can give compassion, kindness, sincerity and sensitivity. We can cultivate deeper value for all that is given to us, from our own body, mind and spirit, as well as from our environment and others on this earth. As we mature in our practice of giving, we develop greater discernment for the gifts that best match specific situations and people.<br />
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Sometimes the perfect gift is listening, and sometimes it is active assistance. We might give patience or encouragement, a playful or a peaceful response depending on circumstances. Some people need a prayer and others a warm embrace. We can give hope or humor, a tender touch or an open mind. We have gifts of clarity and curiosity, attention and appreciation to give. Giving joy, respect, smiles and love opens and enriches hearts. Acceptance, understanding and forgiveness are healing gifts for both the giver and receiver. We can add gifts from our creative and practical talents, or ideas that facilitate others’ well being.<br />
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We also give to others through our example. Those who see us, interact with us, or know us, receive the energy of our thoughts and feelings, as well as outward behavior and communication. And where there is discrepancy, the inner energies dominate over the outer. Identifying, healing and transforming personal negative energy into healthy, positive energy, generates feelings of goodness, that automatically extend to others’ hearts, minds and bodies.<br />
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We can develop regular practices of nurturing, valuing and protecting the earth and the plants and animals that live here. Cultivating a relationship of caring, considerate stewardship for our environment, promotes peace and goodwill, for a planet that gives so freely of its resources for our survival. The earth and all of its elements and inhabitants are interconnected into a huge web of life. Every aspect affects the whole. How we treat the vulnerable, damaged, disowned and impoverished beings and aspects of life, either strengthens or diminishes our personal and global goodness. Witholding what was created within us to give, produces tension and discord. Being gracious and generous in our offerings to life generates ease and harmony. There is no higher calling than to be of service.<br />
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Whatever we give, carries the energy of our motivation, and the level of our integrity and spiritual development. When we give solely from a sense of duty or obligation, or to feel superior, or control or receive something from others, we are offering our own defects of character rather than goodness. To illustrate this from a different metaphor, if we listen to a musician playing mechanically, or with feelings of arrogance, or focussed on winning a prize or controlling someone, we do not feel elevated listening to this gift of music. Alternatively, when we listen to a musician absorbed and uplifted by the passionate joy of each note of the melody, we accompany the player into this higher state of glory and goodness. We join together in true giving. We remain apart and empty when we are selfish. We are meant to play and share the music of life from our heart and soul. We are meant to remember and rekindle goodness and extend a sense of heartfelt hospitality to the earth and its inhabitants. This expresses the divinity within us, which is our true self.<br />
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WWW.MARYCOOKMA.COM Mary Cook has a Master’s degree in psychology and is a registered addiction specialist, with 33 years of clinical practice and 29 years of University teaching experience. She is a writer, a national speaker, and has a private practice in San Pedro, CA. Mary is available for telephone and office counseling, consulting, guided meditation, speaking engagements and in-service training. Her book “Grace Lost and Found” will be published early spring 2010. Please see website for further information. Contact her at 310-517-0825.