September 30, 2007
Dear Friends,
Last week I wrote about the people you “attract” into your life, and how those people are often there to help you accomplish a goal or realize a dream. These divinely orchestrated relationships—no matter how brief—are always beneficial to both parties. And usually, the mutual benefits are obvious. But not always.
Sometimes, the universe brings two people together for a purpose that is far more significant than either person recognizes or realizes. I recently met a man in Quincy, Illinois who shared his story with me, and it is a perfect example of what I am talking about.
This man, Mac, is fascinated with antique farm equipment, and he has an entire barn—a museum really—filled with inventions that have made farming more efficient and less physically demanding.
One day, Mac attended a gathering of like-minded individuals in a town in far eastern Iowa. For some reason, Mac felt compelled to introduce himself to one man in particular. This man’s name was Skip, and Mac learned that Skip lived clear across the state in Omaha, Nebraska—the same town that Mac’s daughter, Connie, lived in.
After a few minutes, Mac asked Skip if he knew anyone who had an antique grain conveyor for sale. As it happened, Skip told Mac that his family had that very piece of equipment sitting on a farm in northwestern Iowa, and they would be happy to sell it.
Delighted by this discovery, Mac offered to purchase the conveyor. The two men arranged to meet in Omaha a few weeks later, and drive up to the farm together to pick it up . . . which is just what they did.
After putting the conveyor on a trailer, Mac and Skip began the long, slow drive back to Omaha. During the course of their conversations, Mac revealed that ten years earlier his granddaughter—Connie's child—had lost her life in a car accident when she was just a teenager. Skip asked where the accident had happened, and when Mac told him, Skip grew very quiet.
Mac went on to explain that another teenager—a boy—was driving Mac’s granddaughter home that night, and they were hit by a car that ran a red light. The boy survived, but Mac’s granddaughter didn’t. When Skip heard this, he became quieter still.
After several miles of silence, Skip finally asked Mac what his granddaughter’s name was. When Mac told him, Skip paused, then quietly replied: “The boy who was driving your granddaughter home that night was my son.”
Naturally, Mac was stunned by this amazing coincidence, and he wondered what the significance of this divinely directed encounter was. The answer came quickly enough. Although Mac, Connie, and the rest of their family had made peace with this tragedy long ago, Mac began to get the definite feeling that it still troubled Skip—that there was some kind of unfinished business that he had never attended to. And when Mac found out that Skip had never met Connie, Mac felt guided to ask Skip if he wanted to visit her when they got back to Omaha. Skip said yes.
What transpired between Connie and Skip—the mother of one child, and the father of the other—is between them. Mac only knows that hugs were exchanged, tears were shed, and some kind of needed closure was reached.
What I find particularly beautiful about Mac’s story is this: There are plenty of things in life that we consciously know we want—like a new car, a bigger house, or a better job. But there are also plenty of things we deeply need, which we may not be fully aware of—like complete recovery from an old emotional wound. How comforting it is to know that the divine flow can bring us together in ways that not only give us what we wish for on a surface level, but can also—at the very same time—take care of a desire that lies beneath . . . a desire to be healed, or a desire to be returned to a state of peace.
What a blessing that is . . . is it not?
Steven
© 2007 by Steven Lane Taylor
Friday, September 28, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Networking and The Divine Flow
September 23, 2007
Dear Friends,
In 2001, when I was laid off from my 30-year career in advertising, one of my friends in the business said to me, "You'd better start networking!" I cringed when I heard that. Why? Well, for a couple of reasons:
First, I wasn't sure I wanted to stay in the advertising business any longer. And second, the whole idea of "networking" had always made me feel very uncomfortable. At the time, networking felt to me like something that only high-pressure salesmen did . . . you know, passing out their business cards right and left—often inappropriately.
However, as I began my new career as a spiritual author, speaker, and teacher, it didn't take me very long to realize that networking—if seen in the proper perspective—is actually an important part of living life in the divine flow.
Rarely, if ever, do you get anywhere in life completely on your own. Usually, you need the help of at least one other person to get where you want to go. In fact, quite often, the assistance of several people, or more, is required for you to reach your chosen destination.
When you tell the universe what it is you want to have, do, or be in life, you attract these people to you. The universe literally sends them your way to assist you in fulfilling your desire. These are people who have the leads, contacts, information, and inside scoop that you don't have. And, as part of your divine flow, they have been divinely inspired to share what they know with you . . . or, to direct you to others who might be of assistance to you . . . or, to take direct action themselves on your behalf.
When you recognize these people for who they are, or who they might be, and—with an open heart and an open mind—you engage them in conversation . . . isn't that networking?
Of course, like most anything, networking can be misused—especially when the relationship is one-side and you are just trying to "get something" from the other person. But when you enter into any relationship—even the briefest of encounters—seeking ways that the two of you can be of mutually beneficial service to each other . . . that's networking as it is divinely designed to be done.
Many of my speaking engagements have come about by just that kind of networking. The lovely house that Carol and I are now living in was the result of networking. And when my book is picked up and re-published by a major publishing house, I have no doubt that it will be because of networking. In fact, "out of the blue," several people have recently shown up in my life who are helping me manifest that very thing right now—without me even asking.
So, my friends, do you have a dream that you want to realize? Do you have a goal that you want to accomplish? Then, as my advertising friend said to me six years ago, "You'd better start networking!"
Or, as I am inclined to say: Pay attention to the people who come into your life, and treat them with the honor, respect, and gratitude they deserve as your brothers and sisters in spirit. Who knows . . . they may be divinely guided "angels" who have crossed your path for the sole purpose of helping you fulfill your heart's desires effortlessly.
With great appreciation for all the people who have been part of the divine flow in my life,
Steven
© 2007 by Steven Lane Taylor
Dear Friends,
In 2001, when I was laid off from my 30-year career in advertising, one of my friends in the business said to me, "You'd better start networking!" I cringed when I heard that. Why? Well, for a couple of reasons:
First, I wasn't sure I wanted to stay in the advertising business any longer. And second, the whole idea of "networking" had always made me feel very uncomfortable. At the time, networking felt to me like something that only high-pressure salesmen did . . . you know, passing out their business cards right and left—often inappropriately.
However, as I began my new career as a spiritual author, speaker, and teacher, it didn't take me very long to realize that networking—if seen in the proper perspective—is actually an important part of living life in the divine flow.
Rarely, if ever, do you get anywhere in life completely on your own. Usually, you need the help of at least one other person to get where you want to go. In fact, quite often, the assistance of several people, or more, is required for you to reach your chosen destination.
When you tell the universe what it is you want to have, do, or be in life, you attract these people to you. The universe literally sends them your way to assist you in fulfilling your desire. These are people who have the leads, contacts, information, and inside scoop that you don't have. And, as part of your divine flow, they have been divinely inspired to share what they know with you . . . or, to direct you to others who might be of assistance to you . . . or, to take direct action themselves on your behalf.
When you recognize these people for who they are, or who they might be, and—with an open heart and an open mind—you engage them in conversation . . . isn't that networking?
Of course, like most anything, networking can be misused—especially when the relationship is one-side and you are just trying to "get something" from the other person. But when you enter into any relationship—even the briefest of encounters—seeking ways that the two of you can be of mutually beneficial service to each other . . . that's networking as it is divinely designed to be done.
Many of my speaking engagements have come about by just that kind of networking. The lovely house that Carol and I are now living in was the result of networking. And when my book is picked up and re-published by a major publishing house, I have no doubt that it will be because of networking. In fact, "out of the blue," several people have recently shown up in my life who are helping me manifest that very thing right now—without me even asking.
So, my friends, do you have a dream that you want to realize? Do you have a goal that you want to accomplish? Then, as my advertising friend said to me six years ago, "You'd better start networking!"
Or, as I am inclined to say: Pay attention to the people who come into your life, and treat them with the honor, respect, and gratitude they deserve as your brothers and sisters in spirit. Who knows . . . they may be divinely guided "angels" who have crossed your path for the sole purpose of helping you fulfill your heart's desires effortlessly.
With great appreciation for all the people who have been part of the divine flow in my life,
Steven
© 2007 by Steven Lane Taylor
Friday, September 14, 2007
The Value of Meditation, Part 2
September 16, 2007
Dear Friends,
Last week I wrote about meditation, and how it helps you live life in the divine flow by opening up tiny gaps between your thoughts. It is through those gaps—as small as they may be—that you are able to sense divine direction, and recognize your next right step.
But that’s not the only value of meditation. There is another benefit that I would like to share with you, as well: A daily practice of meditation helps you respond to situations rather than react to them.
Do you know the difference between responding and reacting?
Reactions are automatic and robotic. They are instantaneous thoughts and actions that are triggered by personal programming and conditioning. These thoughts and actions are not divinely derived, but are, for the most part, ego-based and fear-driven. And they are usually accompanied by feelings of tension and anxiety.
A response, on the other hand, is based on the wisdom of your spirit. It is not self-serving, but is always in the best interests of all involved . . . and that includes you. Even when time is of the essence, and a decision must be made quickly or an action must be taken immediately, when you are coming from spirit you will still experience an underlying sense of peace.
A regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—is helpful because it enables you to stay more connected to your spirit throughout the day. And because of that, you are better equipped to appropriately and effectively respond to situations, rather than rashly react to them.
This can be true even when you are in immediate physical danger, and you need to protect yourself. For example, on a recent road trip to Las Vegas, I suddenly noticed that a tire had flown off of an approaching truck, and the tire was now in my lane and hurtling straight at me! Instead of hastily reacting to the situation, I found myself actually taking the time to more accurately assess which way I should steer my car in order to avoid a collision . . . which—contrary to my first impression—turned out to be to the left. The entire incident only spanned a few seconds, but when you are open to the calming influence of your spirit, that is more than enough time to make a more thoughtful choice.
If you want to experience life as an effortless flow of major and minor miracles—instead of an arduous, endless struggle—remember that, to a great degree, it is a matter of personal responsibility. That is, it’s a matter of your response ability.
Commit to a daily practice of meditation and you will find your ability to respond greatly enhanced, and your tendency to react greatly reduced. And that’s a good thing. That’s a God thing.
Steven
© 2007 by Steven Lane Taylor
Dear Friends,
Last week I wrote about meditation, and how it helps you live life in the divine flow by opening up tiny gaps between your thoughts. It is through those gaps—as small as they may be—that you are able to sense divine direction, and recognize your next right step.
But that’s not the only value of meditation. There is another benefit that I would like to share with you, as well: A daily practice of meditation helps you respond to situations rather than react to them.
Do you know the difference between responding and reacting?
Reactions are automatic and robotic. They are instantaneous thoughts and actions that are triggered by personal programming and conditioning. These thoughts and actions are not divinely derived, but are, for the most part, ego-based and fear-driven. And they are usually accompanied by feelings of tension and anxiety.
A response, on the other hand, is based on the wisdom of your spirit. It is not self-serving, but is always in the best interests of all involved . . . and that includes you. Even when time is of the essence, and a decision must be made quickly or an action must be taken immediately, when you are coming from spirit you will still experience an underlying sense of peace.
A regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—is helpful because it enables you to stay more connected to your spirit throughout the day. And because of that, you are better equipped to appropriately and effectively respond to situations, rather than rashly react to them.
This can be true even when you are in immediate physical danger, and you need to protect yourself. For example, on a recent road trip to Las Vegas, I suddenly noticed that a tire had flown off of an approaching truck, and the tire was now in my lane and hurtling straight at me! Instead of hastily reacting to the situation, I found myself actually taking the time to more accurately assess which way I should steer my car in order to avoid a collision . . . which—contrary to my first impression—turned out to be to the left. The entire incident only spanned a few seconds, but when you are open to the calming influence of your spirit, that is more than enough time to make a more thoughtful choice.
If you want to experience life as an effortless flow of major and minor miracles—instead of an arduous, endless struggle—remember that, to a great degree, it is a matter of personal responsibility. That is, it’s a matter of your response ability.
Commit to a daily practice of meditation and you will find your ability to respond greatly enhanced, and your tendency to react greatly reduced. And that’s a good thing. That’s a God thing.
Steven
© 2007 by Steven Lane Taylor
Friday, September 7, 2007
The Value of Meditation
September 9, 2007
Dear Friends,
In my experience, just becoming aware of the ways that I receive divine guidance, and becoming aware of the ways that I block or limit my experience of that guidance, has been enough to greatly enhance my ability to live life in the divine flow . . . and fulfill my heart’s desires effortlessly.
Most people are looking for more than “awareness,” though. They want something concrete that they can “do” to be in the flow. They are looking for some kind of “technique” that they can employ to experience the flow’s miracles more freely and more frequently.
Well, there is one thing that you can do that will dramatically magnify the experience of the divine flow in your life, and I highly recommend it. That, quite simply, is to meditate—and to meditate on a daily basis.
For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the practice of meditation, there is nothing really mystical or magical about it. Meditation is simply a way of slowing down your thoughts. Generally, it involves focusing your attention on one solitary thing, such as your breathing, or a comforting phrase, or a peaceful image.
As other thoughts arise—as they invariably will—you observe those thoughts, but you don't let yourself get caught up in them, or get carried away by them. Instead, you simply allow those thoughts to pass by—like watching clouds floating across the sky—and you gently return your awareness to the focus of your meditation.
And how, exactly, does this enhance your ability to be in the flow? Meditation dramatically increases your ability to “hear” G.O.D.—the Guidance Of the Divine.
It is difficult to hear that still, small voice when your mind is always full of noisy self-talk . . . that endless chatter in your head about what just happened, what it might mean, and what might happen next. A daily practice of meditation is an effective way to quiet your mind, and open up enough gaps between your incessant thoughts so divine guidance can come through.
That guidance may not come to you during the meditation itself. But a regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—can help you maintain a state of mind that is much more open and receptive to divine direction throughout the day.
When you start your day in a meditative way, thoughts that enter your mind later that morning, or in the afternoon, are much less likely to immediately take hold, take over, and consume you. Instead of automatically connecting one thought to another, and another, and another, you are more readily able to leave a little room between your thoughts.
It is through those open spaces that Spirit speaks to you. It is through the gaps between your thoughts that divine insights and divine inspiration can make their way into the world.
In short, a daily practice of meditation helps you become more "open minded," so you can be more present and receptive to divine direction all day long. And in the end, that’s what living life in the divine flow is really all about.
Steve
P.S. If you are new to meditation and would like more detailed instructions, here is a link I found that will answer most of your questions: Just click here.
© 2007 Steven Lane Taylor
Dear Friends,
In my experience, just becoming aware of the ways that I receive divine guidance, and becoming aware of the ways that I block or limit my experience of that guidance, has been enough to greatly enhance my ability to live life in the divine flow . . . and fulfill my heart’s desires effortlessly.
Most people are looking for more than “awareness,” though. They want something concrete that they can “do” to be in the flow. They are looking for some kind of “technique” that they can employ to experience the flow’s miracles more freely and more frequently.
Well, there is one thing that you can do that will dramatically magnify the experience of the divine flow in your life, and I highly recommend it. That, quite simply, is to meditate—and to meditate on a daily basis.
For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the practice of meditation, there is nothing really mystical or magical about it. Meditation is simply a way of slowing down your thoughts. Generally, it involves focusing your attention on one solitary thing, such as your breathing, or a comforting phrase, or a peaceful image.
As other thoughts arise—as they invariably will—you observe those thoughts, but you don't let yourself get caught up in them, or get carried away by them. Instead, you simply allow those thoughts to pass by—like watching clouds floating across the sky—and you gently return your awareness to the focus of your meditation.
And how, exactly, does this enhance your ability to be in the flow? Meditation dramatically increases your ability to “hear” G.O.D.—the Guidance Of the Divine.
It is difficult to hear that still, small voice when your mind is always full of noisy self-talk . . . that endless chatter in your head about what just happened, what it might mean, and what might happen next. A daily practice of meditation is an effective way to quiet your mind, and open up enough gaps between your incessant thoughts so divine guidance can come through.
That guidance may not come to you during the meditation itself. But a regular practice of meditation—especially in the morning—can help you maintain a state of mind that is much more open and receptive to divine direction throughout the day.
When you start your day in a meditative way, thoughts that enter your mind later that morning, or in the afternoon, are much less likely to immediately take hold, take over, and consume you. Instead of automatically connecting one thought to another, and another, and another, you are more readily able to leave a little room between your thoughts.
It is through those open spaces that Spirit speaks to you. It is through the gaps between your thoughts that divine insights and divine inspiration can make their way into the world.
In short, a daily practice of meditation helps you become more "open minded," so you can be more present and receptive to divine direction all day long. And in the end, that’s what living life in the divine flow is really all about.
Steve
P.S. If you are new to meditation and would like more detailed instructions, here is a link I found that will answer most of your questions: Just click here.
© 2007 Steven Lane Taylor
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