It is important to be clear on just what these blogs are and what they are not. Blogs are great for sharing concepts and ideas. However, some topics are just too delicate to be addressed in blogs or emails. Some topics require face-to-face interaction. The written word is too easily misconstrued or insufficiently communicated. Recently, for example, I received a number of requests to address the rights of passage, which is obviously a very delicate subject. I’ve also been asked to discuss seva/service and the issues that come up for people regarding that topic. In general, topics that involve people’s personal issues are much better addressed in person face to face. Otherwise, any little miscommunication can trigger the reader. Once a person is triggered, it is difficult to move past that, particularly if the interaction is not face-to-face.
When you do read the blogs, if something is not sitting right, please give it some space. Ask yourself if the words on the page could have another meaning… another intent… another context. For example, a subtle point, when given too much emphasis or weight, can be distorted when the bigger picture is ignored.
Oftentimes, it is easier to tell if a person is triggered by the tone of their words, as opposed to the literal meaning of their words. For example, the simple phrase, “I don’t understand,” can be said with a humble, reflective, and sincerely inquisitive tone, or it can be thrust out as a wall or declaration, that they flat out don’t agree. It is all in the tone. When the interaction is not face-to-face, the inferred tone of the words can be quite different than the original intent. That can create problems that can feel irreconcilable, particularly if the face-to-face meeting never happens.
As the years go by, I am receiving more and more emails, blog questions, and blog requests that are really not proper blog material. They are questions that the person would need to deal with in private sessions (usually with Barbara) or in class with me. When I do try to address them through email, I usually find it unsatisfying for myself and, I suspect, for the person receiving the response.
In short, the blogs are no substitute for class or personal process sessions. I am reaching out to everyone with all of my heart and soul. At some point, you do need to take it upon yourself to take that extra step. I trust this blog is understood and received in the spirit with which it is intended.
Thank you Michaelji! I am tilling the soil and digesting many notions, fears, in short life as I know it currently.
I agree that the blogs don’t compare to being with you in class. But they are a wonderful way for me to stay connected and keep my wheel spinning. And since I’m not able to come to classes much at this point, I’m still learning and re-learning a lot.
I very much appreciated the blogs on incarnation and the vedic rights of passage as they beautifully answered some pressing questions. Thank you for taking on these topics in spite of their delicate nature.
I’m sure there was a time that even this blog could’ve triggered me. Now I just marvel at how exquisitely well stated it is. They are all profound. Each and every one “pregnant with meaning.” It’s all I can do to just ponder in awe. What a gift. Thank you Brahmarshi.
Jai Guru Dev!
Thank you, excellent Blog !!!
I work in an environment, culture where everyone relies heavily on email, text and some voice communication.
It is very challenging and frustrating, even for relatively simple subjects. Projection I fear is rampant. Misunderstanding is common place and flow in communication almost never happens.
I have witnessed relationships degrade and the entire organizational culture seems threatened.
The art of communicating, connecting, communing, seems to have been totally forgotten …
The song or poetry between people seems to have disappeared …
Lord help us….
I particularly like this line: “if something is not sitting right, please give it some space. Ask yourself if the words… could have another meaning… another intent… another context.” I find that this is a good idea no matter when or what the circumstance. Also, I find this particularly important when receiving communication from you because I am almost never in the same realm you are. By definition, I can’t see what all you see, know what all you know, etc.
I also like the line “if something is not sitting right, please give it some space. Ask yourself if the the words on the page could have another meaning.” I am learning this is a good idea in lots of circumstances. And also as Barbara wrote, “I find this particularly important when receiving communication from you because I am almost never in the same realm you are.” Thank you Brahmarshi for your teachings and patience.
During CA class (which was amazing as always), I was struck with the thought, “what kind of incredible luck landed me here?” Nature’s support is profound. What I’ve learned from you has positively impacted every corner of my life, my work, my health, my relationships, and I know it’s only the tip of the iceberg. I was going to come to NC for class this week but had to regretfully cancel. Every class is so valuable I hate to miss a minute. The face time is important, and every class is richly laden with healing, wisdom, and tills the soil in a way I often don’t even see or understand. Just being there is important. I marvel at the opportunity. Thank you from my heart.
I deeply appreciate your genuine, heartfelt ability to reach out to me, our community, and beyond. I am especially thankful to have a living Guru and feel blessed even through the chaos of my karma. Feeling humbled… And, thank you for traveling to California for Surya Ram class.