Be it a child’s game, a health challenge, the state of the country, or, everything in between; the faith factor is always being activated, even in the darkest moments, when there seems to be no answer. 

The childhood game, Hide-and-Seek, was a favorite of mine.  I was super confident that I would always find my playmates in their favorite hiding places; or that they would tag the goal while I was still searching. This faith based on my previous experiences of playing the game was my assurance of success. When the game ended, I was summoned to come inside for the day and prepare for tomorrow.

Fast forward with me to the early part of 2002. I was feeling very low; lower than I had felt in a long time. Arriving home that day, I parked the car and hurried into my apartment.  I had a lot on my mind, so I was glad my new friends, the shy little girl and her mom who lived in the adjacent building, were not there to greet me as usual.  I was not in the mood for pleasantries. 

Once inside, I began to process the diagnosis the doctor had given me. Fear of the unknown flooded my mind. I was alone with my thoughts, feelings, confusion, and grief when suddenly there was a loud knock at my front door. Very unusual. 

It was my young neighbor standing there, her eyes filled with fear, crying, “my daughter, my daughter, I can’t find her. Help me.” In that very moment, I forgot what I was thinking about. Quickly I put my shoes on again and frantically I followed the young woman out of the door, asking “What’s your daughter’s name?” As we ran in opposite directions in search of the child, she shouted back to me, “Her name is Faith.” 

For the next 15 minutes, I ran throughout the complex, shouting: “Faith, Faith, where are you?  The young mom and I met again at our starting point.  There she was. We both saw her at the same time, this whimsical, mystical being called Faith. She showed her face from the walkway of her building. It was if her shy smile was saying, “I love this game of hide-and-seek.”  

I returned to my apartment and laughed out loud as I reflected on my search for Faith. Now, reunited with my core beliefs, the energy completely shifted. All anxiety was gone. The mesmeric spell of downward gazing was broken. I am summoned to that secret place within myself and I began preparing for tomorrow.  

This search for the child-like faith of my youth reminds me “that as I deal with my own individuality, I am dealing with the Universal, which has projected out of Itself that which is like itself on a miniature scale.” ¹ 

Anchored in a consciousness of Light, I know the nature of God is changeless, the Word of God is Law, deeply embedded in the substance of Wholeness, Oneness, Peace, Harmony, Love, and Wisdom; all that is indestructible, absolute, and self-existent. ²

While I do not ignore the cross-currents of division that appear in the world, I listen deeply to that still small voice that guides me into the unifying force that is irresistible and must yield a world that works for everyone. My unwavering faith is in the Indwelling Presence as I am motivated to seek and find the way.

1. SOM, 165.1
2. https://stillpointcsl.org/what-we-believe/

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This Weeks Affirmation

I elect to stand still, go within, and know the way.

By Keith D. Childers

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Celebration of Life Service  

in loving memory of
Judy Hilley
Saturday, July 20, 2024

Spiritual Living Center of Atlanta
2650 N Druid Hills Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30329

Visitation: 11:00 AM
Service: 12:00 Noon

Refreshments and Fellowship following the Service

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(Revisited)

“Before ye call I shall answer.” 
“This means that “every good and perfect gift” is already man’s, – awaiting his recognition.”
~ Florence Scovel Shinn, The Game of Life and How to Play It ~

~ ~ ~ ~

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
~ 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV) ~

~ ~ ~ ~

“Whatever the nature of any principle may be – in so far as it is understood by anyone, it may be understood by all who take the time to investigate.”
~ Ernest Holmes, The Science of Mind ~

~ ~ ~ ~ 

“What I Know for Sure”
~ Oprah Winfrey ~

~ ~ ~ ~ 

When is enough, enough? What is the difference between faith and belief? Are some individuals more deserving than others? Does one have to know the Truth in order to benefit from the Unfailing Principle of Love and Law; or, does Grace fit into the equation? Truth seekers want to know – and, be for sure. Yet, we can only know for sure what we can prove for ourselves. 

Recently, I watched reruns from the once-popular TV Game Show, “Deal or No Deal.” The dynamics of the show reminded me of some of the above questions. The whole premise of the game is to receive the largest sum of money possible by ‘the luck of the draw,’ or ultimately, by striking a deal with the banker in order to get the best possible outcome.

The process/or strategy of the various contestants was interesting to observe. Some, I noticed, were defiant, insisting the box they chose contained the big prize, although the only reasoning that went into the selection was pure sentiment or superstition. This approach is used by those who “wish” and “hope” their dreams come true. They take a “chance” on life.

Some participants have a preconceived notion (mental equivalent) of the amount of money that would be sufficient for their well-being. Yet, when arriving at that mark, they gamble it all, hoping for more. The mental equivalent, or consciousness they brought to the game, can be likened to a container or their capacity to receive. “Man can only receive what he sees himself receiving.” (Florence Scovel Shinn, The Game of Life and How to Play It) 

Some players are influenced by the opinions of their family and friends; i.e., the by-standers.  Others, while accepting support and encouragement, nonetheless, make the final decision for themselves.

The player does not have an opponent, his/her fate is between herself and the banker.

All of this reminds me of Howard Thurman’s prose where he compares individuals with “A Seed Upon the Wind.” He describes how we are constantly being pushed and pulled by conditions and circumstances. The one who is unaware of their relationship with The Omnipresent Spirit, often believes he is powerless over what happens in his life. On the other hand, the one who is anchored in a Principle-driven life is assured, with unwavering faith, that the Life Force whose Divine Nature is Love, Peace, Harmony, Order, Wisdom, Abundance, and Joy is forever present in all of life experiences; be it finances, relationships, health, or creative expression. 

It pays to reflect on our personal relationship with The Divine, and receive the answers we seek.  

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This Weeks Affirmation

“It’s true. I AM exactly ALL that I know that I AM!”
~ Keith Childers ~

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ANNOUNCEMENT

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Celebrating the Life 
of
Judy Hilley

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Spiritual Living Center of Atlanta
2650 N Druid Hills Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30329

Visitation: 11:00 AM

Service: 12:00 Noon

Repast and Fellowship following the Service

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(Revisited)

It was the mid to late 1970s. There I was sitting on the shores of the Long Island Sound, having just completed a weekend retreat with Tara Singh. ¹   I was sure I would come away with that one nugget that would tell me exactly what to do to stay in alignment with Truth.  Instead, most of the days were spent in the silence where the only guidance the enlightened teacher offered was to tell us to move beyond words and concepts. 

I remember feeling somewhat disappointed. I expected a clear-cut path to follow. I had imagined that all the participants would somehow bond as one regardless of our diverse backgrounds; unify in our common interest; join hands; and leave singing the proverbial Kumbaya! Instead, we were left suspended, for long periods of time, in an unfamiliar territory – in the depths of our own self. 

Although I didn’t realize it at once, this retreat was actually a turning point in my life inasmuch as it offered a profound gift of spiritual enlightenment and self-realization; a gift that keeps on giving.

Here it is many years later, and somehow, when I bear witness to the out-picturing of world consciousness, I sense and feel the same energy rising up that I felt way back then. For example, I have a desire for a clear, conscious path that actualizes the unity of all people regardless of apparent diverse backgrounds, various cultures, and different opinions. My desire is for this retreat of shelter in place to move our nation forward toward one common goal; i.e., a good and equitable life for all, even when there is disagreement as to how to arrive at the goal. 

“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.” ~ Matthew 5:8

I now remember to slip into the silence of my own being. Here, free of words and concepts, I am refreshed, renewed and aligned with the Presence and Power of God. My heart is purified. It is in this state of consciousness that I am empowered with the nature of the Divine, I see as God sees.  

“All’s Love, yet All’s Law.”  ~ Robert Browning ~

I realize: God is Love. The Love of God fulfills itself through Its own Law by becoming every form imaginable. I am the vehicle who does the imagining. The Law creates that which I accept. It is done as I believe. I make conscious choices. This Immutable Law of God, of Good, is a law of Cause and Effect. I do not fear outcomes. 

I Got It!

The choices I make, based on my beliefs, values, and intentions, are powerful whether I am choosing a healthy body, right relationships, or casting a ballot for POTUS. For this, I am so grateful.

~ ~ ~

“When the Lord ² is your confidence you will never find yourself at all deceived by the ways and speech of men and women, though they be very brilliant, if they speak outside of the Principle that demonstrates healing and goodness and life.” ~ Emma Curtis Hopkins ~ ³

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This Weeks Affirmation

I am the only determining factor in my life.
 by Keith D. Childers

(Revisited)

Back in July 2021, I watched four space travelers leave Earth for a brief luxury tour of what lies beyond. Much preparation and anticipation preceded the adventure that lasted only minutes. Then they returned safely back to earth.  

Many thoughts flooded my mind as I recalled the excitement of the first space travel back in 1961; and, how far technology, through man’s innate intelligence had evolved since then. Amazing!

I began imagining how earthlings, since the beginning of time, have gazed into the sky contemplating its mysteries and wondering, “what else could there be beyond the visible?”  With constant attention on the subject, the universe began revealing her secrets.  One invention after another was tried and proven, until what seemed like suddenly, a dream became a reality.

As amazing as I find this state of awareness that is now accepted as one of humanity’s great discoveries about the universe and the infinite possibilities stretched before us; I thought about how absolutely everything starts in mind. 

~ ~ ~ ~

Spiritual mystics have taught: “as above – so below,” and “as within – so without.”  Napoleon Hill apparently came to the same conclusion when he said, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” The mystic-minded scientists of all time have set forth to prove such principles.  

~ ~ ~ ~

The universe is forever revealing Its secrets of Wholeness to the one who, with childlike faith, gazes into the possibility of actually experiencing the seeming impossible. This requires consistent curiosity and wonder. This contemplative meditation transforms all thoughts and notions of limitation into expanded ideas of success. 

~ ~ ~ ~

Jesus, the master teacher, taught: “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” One of my teachers explained to me that ‘righteous judgment’ means spiritual principle or law; i.e., an infallible Truth, that does not and cannot change. In other words, regardless of one’s present circumstances, there is a Principle of Life (First Cause) that is always Whole, Complete, and Perfect in terms of Love, Abundance, Health, Creativity, or any Good Thing for that matter that one may deem necessary or desirable for well-being. 

As we gaze into the great possibilities for Good in our lives, let our thoughts fall into the realm of the answer, no longer involved in the problem. If the attention slips into the issue at hand, try likening it to a mathematical equation for which we are arriving at the logical conclusion through an understanding of the principle that undergirds that science.

~ ~ ~ ~

My faith is deepened and my soul rejoices as I travel in consciousness, through the One Mind, Out of This World of effects, and experience the sweet assurance that says: “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” It is here, above the clouds that I see clearly all that is mine right now.  The peace that arises within me surpasses all human understanding. It is as if I am floating on air. 

Soon, after rising above the circumstances that may have suggested separation from the Source, I return to the world, uplifted, and inspired by the brief inward journey, a great adventure of my lifetime. I now let it be on earth as it is in the heavens of my mind; and, it becomes so.

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This Week’s Affirmation

” Today I rise to the highest planes and connect to the Good that is Perfect, Whole, and Complete.”

~ Judy Hilley ~ 

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REMEMBERING JUDY HILLEY

On Thursday evening, June 13, 2024, our beloved Judy made her transition into a more expanded life. We bless her journey as it continues to unfold, bathed in Love and Light, and as her spirit soars toward its next abode.

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“Outside is form. ~ Inside is thought. ~ Deepest is the soul.”
~ Deng Ming-Dao, 365 Tao ~

~ ~ ~ ~

“It is impossible for a person to live happily unless he believes in the integrity of his own soul and his union with the Over-Soul.”
~ Ernest Holmes, The Spiritual Universe and You ~

~ ~ ~ ~

“Meditation quiets conscious thought and the physical realm, making a doorway to spiritual awareness.”
~ Jenna Alatari ~

~ ~ ~ ~

There it is a place of perfect peace at the center of each one of us. It is The One Infinite Life that permeates all time and all space. It has no beginning and no ending. It is that point of stillness within us that is the creative energy and healing power that makes all things new.  It is in this sea of unlimited potential that all individual life lives, moves, and has its being. It has been called the Over-Soul.

“Any person with training can reach this soul. Only then can you be convinced of its presence. When you reach it, your body and mind will become irrelevant, for you are now as a state beyond the senses and beyond thought. The soul is called absolute because it is beyond all relativity.” ~365 Tao ~

While a diligent practice of silent meditation is a great, mystical, and effective way through which we experience our unity with the Divine; it requires mental stamina in order to consciously move through the distracting thoughts that delay the process of stilling the mind. Stilling the mind does not mean eliminating thoughts, for they are always there. However, it does mean rising above and transcending thoughts of limitation, fear, and separation. Otherwise, we are pulled off course.

Our course, in attaining the silence of Pure Consciousness, must be one of total focus on the field of omnipotent no-thing -ness. It is the return to the beginning before thought and form and simply hangs out in the essence of The Divine. Here there are no words or concepts to decipher. There is nothing to plan or visualize. It is simply a time to feel the vibration of Love bubbling up as Peace, Harmony, Beauty, Joy, Wisdom, and Sufficiency. 

It is through the consistent practice of this silent meditation of the soul that renewed strength, wisdom, and courage express through you as you step back into the realm of effects.    Your consciousness of  Love, Peace, Harmony, Beauty, Joy, Wisdom, and Sufficiency begin to infuse matters of health, relationships, finances, creative expression, and anything else your heart longs to experience. Yes, after basking in the consciousness of The Divine, the world is lifted to a higher vibration. The life-enhancing qualities that you have freely received are now freely given by you, to everything you think, say, and do.

Like a great contagion, the overflow of enlightened consciousness begins to touch individual minds.  When this happens, through the Immutable Law of Mind in Action, there follows an inflow of peace on earth and good will towards all the inhabitants of the earth.

“You may say I’m a dreamer. But I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us. And the world will live as one.”

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This Week’s Affirmation

“From the silence of the stillness of my mind, all spiritual good manifests into the world.”

~ Angela “Chris” Beam ~