REFLECTIONS ON SEPTEMBER 11TH
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From: Jonathan S.
Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2007, 12:04 AM
Subject: Reflections on September 11th
ID: 258441

Blessings every-One,

Today, we each may reflect upon the events that took place on September 11, 2001.

I am moved to offer these thoughts...

How has the world changed in the past 6 years since that day?

All that remains emblazoned in my mind's eye are images of the planes crashing into the twin towers, the flames burning, the towers coming down and the cries of hundreds and thousands of people witnessing and experiencing probably the most traumatic event they will ever go through in their lives.

Living in Eugene, OR, I could only watch as the television news stations played those images over and over. Through vicarious experience, I could place myself alongside those who were there or those who passed on and feel the depth of what they must have been experiencing during that time in the unfolding history of the United States.

...and while my heart goes out to every-One, I am left wondering, what are the deeper spiritual implications of this event?

It seems that destruction must occur and oftentimes very earth shattering events are needed to wake up from the hypnotic dream of separation...In our city of Eugene, OR, there has been an interfaith prayer service that has happened the 11th of every month since that day. Tonight, this was the 6th anniversary of this service which brings people together from all different faith traditions and those who don't practice anything specific. It is a time to offer prayers, chant, sing and do something that seeks to unify rather than divide people in our community. It is a celebration of diversity within unity or unity within diversity.

I imagine that events like this have been happening all over the United States and the world which are attempts to practice joining together through a recognition of our common humanity rather than divide us through our differences.

Here at GRN, we dialogue about many topics all under the context and umbrella of Oneness. This leads me to question if I really am living from an awareness of Oneness or just intellectualizing the concept without really experiencing what it means.

Perhaps, awakening into Oneness is a process which leads to a gradual dissolution of the illusion of separation and a dawning of the One Self as our true identity.

Today, because of the memory of 9/11, I am left asking myself how I may practice dissolving the " me " that appears separate from " you " and let go of fear so that I may allow Love to be expressed more and more through this life. How may I heal the wounds of the past, allow my heart to open more and be a living example of someone who truly lives a life based in Divine Love/Wisdom and an authentic realization of Oneness?

It is not enough that I speak about this ideal while remaining attached to the conditions/beliefs/programs which maintain the illusion of a self that is separate from the world. I want to experience this Oneness with every breath in each moment that unfolds. I want to see the spark of divinity that shines within all people and every aspect of creation. I want to bear witness to the beauty and miracle of life and be able to touch the hearts and souls of every-One, especially those who seem to be suffering...and I am left wondering, How may I be a more loving and compassionate presence in this world?

Ultimately, " the war on terror " which appears to be external is best dealt with on the internal battlefield of my own mind, heart and soul. If I emerge victorious in this battle which is so beautifully portrayed in the Bhagavad Gita with Krishna's counsel to Arjuna, then I walk in this world as a healing, transforming and awakening force that is a reflection of the One Life...

With gratefulness in my heart to all of you,

Jonathan