Communion Blog for May 19, 2022
Looking Ahead
We've come to the tenth of the Julian of Norwich Reflections, the last one in this set. Beginning next week, and continuing through to the Summer Solstice, our reflections will focus on the Sacred Feminine Presence, as presented by Anne Baring for Madonna Rising, (Ubiquity University, August, 2020).
During the months of July and August, there will be a summer break from the weekly writings on our website. These will resume on September 8th. Over the summer you may continue to access our website where a limited number of past Reflections and Gathering Space Sessions will be available.
As I continue my re-reading of Return of the Avatars, the second book in the Future Humans Trilogy by Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman, I am strengthened in the conviction that the wisdom in these books is an essential aspect of the Spirituality required for our time. Attuning ourselves to what these books offer will nourish our souls, and give guidance in our continued growth together. During our summer break, may I suggest you read the two books already available from Amazon in the US, and in Canada from amazon.ca. If you have a local bookstore that you prefer to use, ask whether they will order the books for you. Your local store will need the titles and the ISBN numbers:
Book One: The Quest of Rose: ISBN: 978-1-990093-11-1 :
Book Two: Return of the Avatars: ISBN: 978-1-990093-40-1
I'll be happy to plan weekly ZOOM calls based on the second book beginning later in September. Let me know by September 12th if you wish to take part.
And some news: My novel, Singing the Dawn, will be available for online orders in early June from Borealis Press in Ottawa, Canada: http://borealispress.com
I invite you to attend the book launch on ZOOM scheduled for June 14th at 2 pm Eastern. You need only register with me by email before June 9th to be added to the list to receive the link: amclaughlin@sympatico.ca Blessings, Anne Kathleen
Communion Members' BLOG
Dream of Magdalene
Artwork by Sue Ellen Parkinson 2021
Communion Blog for April 28, 2022 Suzanne writes: I don’t know why, but it makes me happy that Mary Magdalene was the spouse,
the beloved of Jesus. The proof being, according to Jewish law the wife anoints the body of her husband. No proof is necessary, but it is, I don’t know why.I anointed the body of my husband with oil from Egypt, water from the Nile,
from the Gulf, I had to. I don’t know why.
Communion Members' Blog for April 21, 2022 Shirley writes: Today is my Sacred DAY and it is definitely deepening the meaning & joy of this Season. I have recently experienced another friend's passing and last weekend my Sister-in-law whose only daughter is absolutely, totally devastated. For me, I have to hold on to my experience in Providence Bay (see earlier blog entry from Shirley on March 24th). In addition to that experience I did have a beautiful dream last night where I was attending Mass with my Dear Father. He had on a beautiful tweed black and white sports jacket and his presence beside me was the most loving and reassuring feeling but he did not speak a word to me until later in the Mass when he told me that he had to go and lie down. He left for pews behind me and I did notice people moving over to make room for him but he was out of my sight…
Heather Writes: Dear companions along the way: In last week’s reflection and gathering space insights, pain appears more than once and I was particularly struck by this. The pain of suffering, sorrow, loss, elicits many emotions that can behold the picture of pain. This yearly ritual of Passover that continues to stir feelings that surface yet are unable to be expressed. The Easter once again of our lives, where our Gethsemane moments are relived, shared in deep sadness and trial as we remember them and perhaps live new moments of uncertainty. Pain is handled so differently in a world where the presence of pain is suppressed, “a quick fix” with the many distractions that allows it to be masked. The road to Calvary resonates with the vibrational force of many walking in exodus, sounds of wartime loud and clear, a pilgrimage of epic proportions to some kind of freedom; emotional turmoil that seeks to be pacified; a resurrection of hope and newness . Yet, how long does one have to sit in the darkness? It is indeed the Passover of our lives seen through a different lens as this passion play unfolds, unique to each one of us. Moments where tears flow without words, because there just aren’t any, where the emptiness of life reflects an empty tomb, awaiting resurrection, awaiting rebirthing, new life. Yet, the solemnity of a Good Friday moment grabs us or silently nudges us, to sit in the space in between on a Holy Saturday, bringing us to a joy through hope to an Easter Sunday morning. It allows us time to reflect, in lost moments, to begin healing, to lean into the warmth of a new day. The echoes of the past “stay awake” just a while longer as the softening penetration of light infuses a hidden hope, surfaces to the promise of a new dawn of expression and no longer oppression. Where one feels the hint of a deep peace, a transcendent moment in time, in moments of gifted grace that slowly emerge from an empty tomb. Suzanne writes: For me, the Easter mystery is about death/ rebirth/ life from that first star…to the rites of Spring, to our lives. I had a strange experience this morning as I was awakened by the full moon shining in my bedroom. I recalled the John O’Donohue poem “The moon stirs a wave of brightening in the stone.” And I did feel clothed “in the colors of dawn.” Happy Easter. Mary Ellen writes:Thank you very much for the powerful, and very important words and experience of Julian this week, as well as for the re-connection with the mysterious life-death-new life cycle built into the universe. Deep in the work of peace, I feel I have been living and reflecting constantly on all that you shared with us. I have also felt very connected with the journey of the Future Humans as brought to us by Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman. The long list of traumas, suffering and brokenness in the world can so easily overwhelm me and all of us. Working for peace can lead all of us to wonder whether peace, healing and justice will ever be possible. And yet the experience of creation around us which is revealing the new life of spring, as well as the experience of Julian with its profound assurance of the immensity of God's Love, offer us Hope. The amount of suffering and disorder AND the immensity of God's Love for all, dance together in exquisite beauty. Love holds it all together. My heart moves from pain to deep compassion, at one with God's suffering and great Compassion. My compassion is for those living in a disconnection from our deepest humanity, and the resulting violence. I pray for the healing of God's transforming Love. My compassion is for a world which still believes that lethal weapons will bring an end to violence, a world which is always preparing for war. For me, it is the ever-present Love of God, who loves every creature, which gives me the strength to keep working for peace, even when it is scoffed at, and thought to be naive. I believe that Love of God is loving us into a new way of being. And on that long journey of waiting in trust, in our brokenness, God continues to hold all in Love. Communion Members' BLOG for April 14, 2022 Karen Holmes writes of our April 7th Reflection : So hopeful and encouraging. A true Resurrection message: a fruitful way to walk with Sorrow. Sorrow is a sentence in the story of Love. How often have we made the ability to feel sorrow some sort of proof of our faithfulness? Let us be faithful to the Joy of Christ and the call to Abundant Life. Communion Members' Blog for March 31, 2022 Suzanne writes: How hopeful in this uncertain time, to know Julian’s faith was steadfast and all shall be well again.I love going on this walk with you in Norwich. You certainly followed your star with courage.Of course, I am always smiling at the image in the stones.
Communion Members’ Blog for March 24, 2022 Responding to our first exploration of Julian’s writings several years ago, Shirley wrote a Reflection which I share with you now. Shirley writes: What I had to ponder repeatedly was this from Julian’s words: "God wishes to be seen, and he wishes to be sought, and he wishes to be expected, and he wishes to be trusted." Julian's creation-centered theology fed me abundantly. I had that very experience in Providence Bay, Manitoulin Island… sitting on the deck where Monarch Butterflies were dancing in front of me, hearing an unidentifiable bird song and another bird friend answering. Viewing the perennial flowers that were the same kind that my Mother had in her garden, hearing the sound of the powerful waves from the deck, and then from a couple of cottages over someone playing the accordion which brought back many beautiful healing memories of my Father entertaining us with his accordion, I felt in a warm unified field that held everything together with joy and goodness. My heavy grief at my parents’ passing was finally lifted. I have to remember that God wishes to be sought, wishes to be seen, wishes to be expected... and I have to be awake to see this every day. I have to be still to come to new consciousness. As a spiritual seeker I tasted stillness and experienced the benefits of stillness of the soul. The sacrament of the moment! In the silence I have learned to find my voice, reclaim my body, move without fear and reconnect with the Divine in Creation and to recognize it within the people around me. I can now embrace an all loving God, embrace Christ as Mother. Know sin as part of the learning process. Julian is an anchor for me as I learn to honour the sacred feminine, reconnect with the powerful aspects of feminine wisdom that have been lost but are rebirthing. I love and I appreciate Julian for her attitude of optimism in spite of the turmoil around her. She is a guide who helps me be open to the future and walk through the adventure with "optimism". In this process, or shall I say adventure, I am more open to the future since: “All Shall Be Well.”
March 17, 2022 Colette writes: Just watched a zoom this morning from the Earthwise Centre with Jim Garrison from Ubiquity University interviewing Anneloes and Jean about the Return of the Avatars, archetypes at play in us and in our present time with the war in Ukraine. What a gift! Love big pictures of reality. Very practical help to position myself in the present situation of the world. A few words on the last posting of the Communion of Creative Fire: I had written in my journal that I was feeling a desire and a need to widen my heart space (which isn’t easy) and I come upon these words from Carolyn McDade:“You are the love within all things, a widening embraceA flame that weeps and launches joyTo leap through realms of grace.”This went straight to my heart and inner experience of grace. And then words from Jean, again speaking to my experience and to my heart:“To be looked at by these people is to be gifted with the look that engenders.You feel yourself primed at the depths by such seeing.Something so tremendous and yet so subtle wakes up inside that you are able to release defeats and denigrations of years. (happening in my life in time, ever so gently, a work in progress)An unconditional love joined to a whimsical regarding of you as the cluttered house that hides the holy one.How beautiful and amazing is that. Communion Members’ Blog for March 10, 2022
Heather writes: It has been some time now since I have set pen to paper to write about the reflections and shared information in the gathering space. As the world observes the scenes of war in Ukraine, I cannot see clearly for there is a constant swelling of tears that spill over quietly and in the spaces are the words of lament that cannot be mouthed. And so in my haziness I have gone to nature, spending time in the bush, anchored in what appears to be the only true and steady force that holds me in tenderness.... I can breathe, I no longer hold onto that breath that suffocates. It releases its hold and I exhale and then inhale the oxygen-filled air. pure in its heavenly form. I can feel the embrace of something greater than me, a whisper in the gentle winds, "stay for a while, drink the nectar of freedom, refresh your weary spirit, your feelings of losing a grip.” It is the one true space where I can feel a divinity that will never slacken its release.And then these words from Etty Hillesum, the Dutch mystic that you quote, sends a resonating deep into my soul: "but one thing is increasingly clear to me, that you cannot help us, that we must help you to help ourselves." The energy that permeates the air out in the forest is like a drug than calms, that pacifies, so we can see more and "safeguard that little piece of you, God, in ourselves.”
The deepest waves of light transmission collectively can reach the thousands of refugees, immigrants in exodus once again, the many who fight for freedom and the many who do not know what freedom is, soul to soul, separated but never separate, for the pain is our pain, the sorrow is ours to carry for it is the only strength I can give, to carry the anguish for them for a while. The struggle for a new humanity demands of us a love, an acceptance so pure that it is hard to deliver as the scales of injustice need to be rebalanced. Yet, the wounded bird learns to fly again, the sun always shines behind the clouds and the human spirit is lifted up on the wings of the eagle. "You raise me up to more than I can be"
Mary writes: During my morning meditation this past week or so I have been walking among the Russian soldiers sending them positive energy, telling them that they have been lied to, in hope that they would have a change of heart. I use the Peace Ritual with the intention of sending peace and positive energy to all around the world. Heather, as I read your comments, these words of yours: “The deepest wave of light transmission collectively can reach thousands....... " strengthened my thought that we need to form a ring around the world and collectively send out the light, peace and positive energy to all people of the world. As these thoughts were coming to me I could hear another voice saying, "Now is the time. “
Suzanne writes: The Gathering and Reflections… have lifted me in these dark times. The peace ritual is a practice I will invoke many times. I was especially struck by the Dutch mystic in the concentration camp who calls forth the divine. Amazing. Berry and Laszlo summon us to a new language of consciousness in order to heal and preserve the planet. As Jean has remarked many times, (paraphrasing):“the gods are waiting for you to take that step.” You have given us the shoes and walking stick so let’s go… Colette writes: The Gathering Space Ritual was a delight as always. All of it! The reading from Angela of Foligno stands out for me as it speaks to the dark night of the soul so positively. I particularly notice that she says: “Afterwards did I see him darkly, and this darkness was the greatest blessing that could be imagined and no thought could conceive aught that would equal this ….I felt so sure of God that all fear left me …for by that blessing which came with the darkness …. I was made so sure of God that I can never again doubt but that I do of a certainty possess him.”Just magnificent.Lots to ponder from the broad perspective that is given in the reflection section. Communion BLOG for February 3, 2022
Karen writes: Where are you Rose? Have you gone across the threshold to the new universe? which is actually the universe that has always been? I will join you there. I'm letting go of some sad stories and old archetypes. Waiting in the Ripe Darkness. Stepping into the way of the new hero and heroine. I know you'll wait for me while still moving on with your creative dance. One day soon, I look forward to twirling with you under rainbow-streaked clouds that carry the universe's loving rain. What new flowers will grow? What new life will be given to the old favourites -- the iris, the rose, the lily? I look forward to seeing them sprout forth. All the new relationships waiting for me. I can see them, shadow-like, on the horizon. The old story crumbling into a dust that will make a fine compost. I will resist drawing back into myself when I hear the Old Language: I will not apologize for my Being when it does not fit the labels that have been developed as chain-link over the centuries. I'll keep singing and speaking into the Wind until I hear it as a gentle breeze carrying my words to the Beloved. Life is always stronger than Death. We are all On The Way, On The Road to Being and Becoming. Blessed be.
Heather writes: With much to think about this past week as I am coming down from the "ups and downs" lived during The Quest of Rose for 9 weeks, my thoughts go to the darkness of these winter months. It was, as in the past, a time of quiet, nesting, allowing the seeds to ferment into a new significance of what life is meant to be for me, moving into more light. Yet, the dark moments lived daily in some quiet contemplation were so unlike the past as each Tuesday evening we gathered "communion of women" breaking bread resembling thoughts and drinking the wine, the elixir of sharing....... sharing our reflections, touching each of our hearts, stirring more light within, keeping the embers glowing with each encounter that so softened the harshness of winter solitude.
For me, this describes a fulfilling vision and better understanding of the meaning of "communion of women" and what that looks like. The sharing, although centred around some of the literature from the book, had its inspiration for sure. But what resonated from our hearts was voiced soulfully to complete in me thoughts and feelings I could never fully express without what each one of us shared. There was a collective oneness in each of our quests that completed our circle. This was truly an awakening of significant depths of emotion expressed so vulnerably, so pure, so necessary.
And now.....on the eve of Brigid's feast day..... this scene comes to mind with so much meaning ! Was it not said that Brigid's mother held on to a doorway when birthing Brigid, born over a threshold, perhaps one foot in the old and one foot in the new. I cannot help but wonder… we are leaning on that doorway......into the new.
Then the questions from the Gathering Space that particularly stirred me: "what new seeds have been quickened within us by winter's darkness"? and "how shall I stay focused"? There is a quickening, an awakening. However, how shall I stay focused? … I have no words but just staying the course of what I have just experienced.
Suzanne's Blog: Quest of Rose Chapter Nine January 25, 2022Put on your magic cloak of consciousness and enter the realms of science, myth, mysticism, meditation, art and music- discovering the ties that bind- coming to the realization that we are connected across space/time in a Universe that has an innate memory. We are past, future and present on the “Rainbow Bridge.” As you prance across the Bridge, remember to look for the Flower and Bee.
Carol Ohmart Behan’s Reflections on Chapter Nine Our journey with Rose brought us out of 2021's tumultuous months and into the now-growing light of 2022. As we accompanied Rose *arising* from her Covid near-death experience, we likewise sought the possibility of evolutionary transformation through engaging in the study and practices given her by Verdandi, grandmother and wise woman (aka Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman). It was a daunting journey at times as we pondered the material and danced our way along together. So much to "take aboard" and sort through.....'Is this for me?'
As the weeks of reading and reflection passed, we more and more often wove our own stories into our weekly gatherings as we followed along in Rose's wake. In the glimmering light of our assorted screens, we were warmed by each other's smiles and voices each Tuesday night, ready to puzzle out the present chapter and try out the practices. And then there were the Dance Breaks! (What a genius of Direction in all matters offered by our Intrepid Leader, Anne Kathleen!)
I personally delight at arriving with Rose in Avalon, its magical energies stirring anew for me. And such a perfect place for me and my traveling Companions to unfurl our beautiful new butterfly wings and try out their powers of flight! It has been a remarkable and momentous Journey together.
Last night following our final gathering and one last dance, I un-Zoomed and felt the quiet descending in my living room. An awareness came to me of something most wonderful that's emerged from this shared Adventure. Our de-Light-ful Communion has evolved into a beloved Community...... None of us know with much certainty what awaits in this still-new year, but how reassuring it is to know we will go forward into it together. Heather's Reflection on Chapter Nine Alas !! entering into chapter 9 reaching a crescendo like moment in the first couple of pages that under normal circumstances would befitting the end of a chapter , however, this is Rose’s journey and hers only in this stirring rendition of her encounter in the depths of a floral ecstasy. It is simply Rose as we have come to know her and her vivid expression of circumstances, losing herself in her quest for a future becoming. The all encompassing rapture of nature as seen in the existence of a flower , codependency with humanity and the needed union of bees and nectar.This quest is also mine as I decide how I will be led over the threshold into as of yet , undefined future. This unusual timing in my life where the older ways perhaps continue to grip fear and I remain a prisoner trapped by my own confines or could I consider rebirthing and what that means. Visualizing slipping through the birth canal though painful is the transitioning or crossing over from what is old to new. I need to reflect on what I want to carry with me and what I want to leave behind. Discern a new awakening, a new acknowledgement that one step at a time solidifies growth and trust. What beliefs do I leave behind, what part of these beliefs to I take with me?It is indeed a cocooning , holding the mysterious, allowing the mysterious to teach me something, a preparation for transformation. Heather's Reflections on the first half of Chapter Eight I replayed the scenes of our zoom gathering for the first half of chapter 8 and it brought a smile to me once again, maybe , even a chuckle. In every Shakespearean play there is a jester, comic relief, perfect timing to release some of the intensity of the play. I believe this happened to all of us , untethered , I needed a breather. I needed to let out that breath I held onto lost in the land of Rose. I needed to speak my truth, though comical in its presentation, it broke the rigid holding on of misunderstanding. Thank you beautiful women who supported and carried me a bit further, though perhaps not over the threshold yet, with one foot in the old and the other foot in mid air with our hands linked together. What affirmation of the collective unity we all share . We really are solid together and complete what each other is missing .My dearest Anne Kathleen, you are steadfast , never unglued and always attempting to make it better, smoother, understood. I continue this quest, this journey we have all started together and how beautiful is it, to stir within some of our own stories of the past. It is in that, our human experiences, our blueprint to our future becoming. Heather's Reflection on Chapter Eight Part TwoAs I reflected back , in particular , the last session on the second half of chapter 8, what impacted me most was the meditation of the beach scene. I could relate to this because it was tangible, it mimicked life in so many ways. The ocean waves ebbing, the stillness and then the flood tide. The ocean waves ebbing, flowing, becoming a rhythm so heavily influenced by the moon , nature in perfect harmony , responding, surrendering and allowing each change as it should. The one constant that relies on the influence of nature in perfect synchronicity. I paralleled all of it to life. The sureness of change and the response to the change as it happens. The receding, the returning to peace and the pause in between, the reflecting period on what one experiences during the times of loss, sadness or just being and the the flood tide or flow of tide returning. The sometimes windy and tumultuous returning and receding. Life is like that. But it is in the beauty of welcoming the true inner nature of its reflection in our souls. The beauty of nature and its incessant impression that stirs so much joy in my own soul. This oneness I choose to accept of this enchanting stir in my soul takes away all fear. It is remaining in the moment that one tames fears. Revelation moments come in many ways. However, to just sit quietly and listen as on a beach with certainty that the ebb and flow of life brings what all that is required to continue this journey. Heather's Reflections: Chapter Seven: The Quest of RoseThe enthusiasm of being together once again was so apparent. There was excitement on the zoom air and how we greeted each other with so much love. Yes, love was the theme that proclaimed our sharing and our thoughts on this wonderful chapter 7. I have read the poem Clara sent and how appropriate, “let me become” let me become the future becoming, one in the universe and the universe in me. And then Karen’s reflection brought me back to “Desiderata” which means “ things desired” and how I cherished this writing from a young age. It was a poster that has followed me for over 50 years. It so faithfully affirms our journey with Rose. This mysterious collective oneness of our spirits lights the pathway ahead as we continue the quest to betterment. I quote from the book that for me sums it all up” your spirit is connectively, always sourced in the awareness of one eternal self. Love melts away all barriers of the mind, when love is present , understanding comes naturally”As Verdandi has had such a powerful impact on calming Rose these words from Desiderata signal the same message.“Go placidly amid the noise and the haste and remember what peace
Communion Members' Blog for April 21, 2022 Shirley writes: Today is my Sacred DAY and it is definitely deepening the meaning & joy of this Season. I have recently experienced another friend's passing and last weekend my Sister-in-law whose only daughter is absolutely, totally devastated. For me, I have to hold on to my experience in Providence Bay (see earlier blog entry from Shirley on March 24th). In addition to that experience I did have a beautiful dream last night where I was attending Mass with my Dear Father. He had on a beautiful tweed black and white sports jacket and his presence beside me was the most loving and reassuring feeling but he did not speak a word to me until later in the Mass when he told me that he had to go and lie down. He left for pews behind me and I did notice people moving over to make room for him but he was out of my sight…
Heather Writes: Dear companions along the way: In last week’s reflection and gathering space insights, pain appears more than once and I was particularly struck by this. The pain of suffering, sorrow, loss, elicits many emotions that can behold the picture of pain. This yearly ritual of Passover that continues to stir feelings that surface yet are unable to be expressed. The Easter once again of our lives, where our Gethsemane moments are relived, shared in deep sadness and trial as we remember them and perhaps live new moments of uncertainty. Pain is handled so differently in a world where the presence of pain is suppressed, “a quick fix” with the many distractions that allows it to be masked. The road to Calvary resonates with the vibrational force of many walking in exodus, sounds of wartime loud and clear, a pilgrimage of epic proportions to some kind of freedom; emotional turmoil that seeks to be pacified; a resurrection of hope and newness . Yet, how long does one have to sit in the darkness? It is indeed the Passover of our lives seen through a different lens as this passion play unfolds, unique to each one of us. Moments where tears flow without words, because there just aren’t any, where the emptiness of life reflects an empty tomb, awaiting resurrection, awaiting rebirthing, new life. Yet, the solemnity of a Good Friday moment grabs us or silently nudges us, to sit in the space in between on a Holy Saturday, bringing us to a joy through hope to an Easter Sunday morning. It allows us time to reflect, in lost moments, to begin healing, to lean into the warmth of a new day. The echoes of the past “stay awake” just a while longer as the softening penetration of light infuses a hidden hope, surfaces to the promise of a new dawn of expression and no longer oppression. Where one feels the hint of a deep peace, a transcendent moment in time, in moments of gifted grace that slowly emerge from an empty tomb. Suzanne writes: For me, the Easter mystery is about death/ rebirth/ life from that first star…to the rites of Spring, to our lives. I had a strange experience this morning as I was awakened by the full moon shining in my bedroom. I recalled the John O’Donohue poem “The moon stirs a wave of brightening in the stone.” And I did feel clothed “in the colors of dawn.” Happy Easter. Mary Ellen writes:Thank you very much for the powerful, and very important words and experience of Julian this week, as well as for the re-connection with the mysterious life-death-new life cycle built into the universe. Deep in the work of peace, I feel I have been living and reflecting constantly on all that you shared with us. I have also felt very connected with the journey of the Future Humans as brought to us by Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman. The long list of traumas, suffering and brokenness in the world can so easily overwhelm me and all of us. Working for peace can lead all of us to wonder whether peace, healing and justice will ever be possible. And yet the experience of creation around us which is revealing the new life of spring, as well as the experience of Julian with its profound assurance of the immensity of God's Love, offer us Hope. The amount of suffering and disorder AND the immensity of God's Love for all, dance together in exquisite beauty. Love holds it all together. My heart moves from pain to deep compassion, at one with God's suffering and great Compassion. My compassion is for those living in a disconnection from our deepest humanity, and the resulting violence. I pray for the healing of God's transforming Love. My compassion is for a world which still believes that lethal weapons will bring an end to violence, a world which is always preparing for war. For me, it is the ever-present Love of God, who loves every creature, which gives me the strength to keep working for peace, even when it is scoffed at, and thought to be naive. I believe that Love of God is loving us into a new way of being. And on that long journey of waiting in trust, in our brokenness, God continues to hold all in Love. Communion Members' BLOG for April 14, 2022 Karen Holmes writes of our April 7th Reflection : So hopeful and encouraging. A true Resurrection message: a fruitful way to walk with Sorrow. Sorrow is a sentence in the story of Love. How often have we made the ability to feel sorrow some sort of proof of our faithfulness? Let us be faithful to the Joy of Christ and the call to Abundant Life. Communion Members' Blog for March 31, 2022 Suzanne writes: How hopeful in this uncertain time, to know Julian’s faith was steadfast and all shall be well again.I love going on this walk with you in Norwich. You certainly followed your star with courage.Of course, I am always smiling at the image in the stones.
Communion Members’ Blog for March 24, 2022 Responding to our first exploration of Julian’s writings several years ago, Shirley wrote a Reflection which I share with you now. Shirley writes: What I had to ponder repeatedly was this from Julian’s words: "God wishes to be seen, and he wishes to be sought, and he wishes to be expected, and he wishes to be trusted." Julian's creation-centered theology fed me abundantly. I had that very experience in Providence Bay, Manitoulin Island… sitting on the deck where Monarch Butterflies were dancing in front of me, hearing an unidentifiable bird song and another bird friend answering. Viewing the perennial flowers that were the same kind that my Mother had in her garden, hearing the sound of the powerful waves from the deck, and then from a couple of cottages over someone playing the accordion which brought back many beautiful healing memories of my Father entertaining us with his accordion, I felt in a warm unified field that held everything together with joy and goodness. My heavy grief at my parents’ passing was finally lifted. I have to remember that God wishes to be sought, wishes to be seen, wishes to be expected... and I have to be awake to see this every day. I have to be still to come to new consciousness. As a spiritual seeker I tasted stillness and experienced the benefits of stillness of the soul. The sacrament of the moment! In the silence I have learned to find my voice, reclaim my body, move without fear and reconnect with the Divine in Creation and to recognize it within the people around me. I can now embrace an all loving God, embrace Christ as Mother. Know sin as part of the learning process. Julian is an anchor for me as I learn to honour the sacred feminine, reconnect with the powerful aspects of feminine wisdom that have been lost but are rebirthing. I love and I appreciate Julian for her attitude of optimism in spite of the turmoil around her. She is a guide who helps me be open to the future and walk through the adventure with "optimism". In this process, or shall I say adventure, I am more open to the future since: “All Shall Be Well.”
March 17, 2022 Colette writes: Just watched a zoom this morning from the Earthwise Centre with Jim Garrison from Ubiquity University interviewing Anneloes and Jean about the Return of the Avatars, archetypes at play in us and in our present time with the war in Ukraine. What a gift! Love big pictures of reality. Very practical help to position myself in the present situation of the world. A few words on the last posting of the Communion of Creative Fire: I had written in my journal that I was feeling a desire and a need to widen my heart space (which isn’t easy) and I come upon these words from Carolyn McDade:“You are the love within all things, a widening embraceA flame that weeps and launches joyTo leap through realms of grace.”This went straight to my heart and inner experience of grace. And then words from Jean, again speaking to my experience and to my heart:“To be looked at by these people is to be gifted with the look that engenders.You feel yourself primed at the depths by such seeing.Something so tremendous and yet so subtle wakes up inside that you are able to release defeats and denigrations of years. (happening in my life in time, ever so gently, a work in progress)An unconditional love joined to a whimsical regarding of you as the cluttered house that hides the holy one.How beautiful and amazing is that. Communion Members’ Blog for March 10, 2022
Heather writes: It has been some time now since I have set pen to paper to write about the reflections and shared information in the gathering space. As the world observes the scenes of war in Ukraine, I cannot see clearly for there is a constant swelling of tears that spill over quietly and in the spaces are the words of lament that cannot be mouthed. And so in my haziness I have gone to nature, spending time in the bush, anchored in what appears to be the only true and steady force that holds me in tenderness.... I can breathe, I no longer hold onto that breath that suffocates. It releases its hold and I exhale and then inhale the oxygen-filled air. pure in its heavenly form. I can feel the embrace of something greater than me, a whisper in the gentle winds, "stay for a while, drink the nectar of freedom, refresh your weary spirit, your feelings of losing a grip.” It is the one true space where I can feel a divinity that will never slacken its release.And then these words from Etty Hillesum, the Dutch mystic that you quote, sends a resonating deep into my soul: "but one thing is increasingly clear to me, that you cannot help us, that we must help you to help ourselves." The energy that permeates the air out in the forest is like a drug than calms, that pacifies, so we can see more and "safeguard that little piece of you, God, in ourselves.”
The deepest waves of light transmission collectively can reach the thousands of refugees, immigrants in exodus once again, the many who fight for freedom and the many who do not know what freedom is, soul to soul, separated but never separate, for the pain is our pain, the sorrow is ours to carry for it is the only strength I can give, to carry the anguish for them for a while. The struggle for a new humanity demands of us a love, an acceptance so pure that it is hard to deliver as the scales of injustice need to be rebalanced. Yet, the wounded bird learns to fly again, the sun always shines behind the clouds and the human spirit is lifted up on the wings of the eagle. "You raise me up to more than I can be"
Mary writes: During my morning meditation this past week or so I have been walking among the Russian soldiers sending them positive energy, telling them that they have been lied to, in hope that they would have a change of heart. I use the Peace Ritual with the intention of sending peace and positive energy to all around the world. Heather, as I read your comments, these words of yours: “The deepest wave of light transmission collectively can reach thousands....... " strengthened my thought that we need to form a ring around the world and collectively send out the light, peace and positive energy to all people of the world. As these thoughts were coming to me I could hear another voice saying, "Now is the time. “
Suzanne writes: The Gathering and Reflections… have lifted me in these dark times. The peace ritual is a practice I will invoke many times. I was especially struck by the Dutch mystic in the concentration camp who calls forth the divine. Amazing. Berry and Laszlo summon us to a new language of consciousness in order to heal and preserve the planet. As Jean has remarked many times, (paraphrasing):“the gods are waiting for you to take that step.” You have given us the shoes and walking stick so let’s go… Colette writes: The Gathering Space Ritual was a delight as always. All of it! The reading from Angela of Foligno stands out for me as it speaks to the dark night of the soul so positively. I particularly notice that she says: “Afterwards did I see him darkly, and this darkness was the greatest blessing that could be imagined and no thought could conceive aught that would equal this ….I felt so sure of God that all fear left me …for by that blessing which came with the darkness …. I was made so sure of God that I can never again doubt but that I do of a certainty possess him.”Just magnificent.Lots to ponder from the broad perspective that is given in the reflection section. Communion BLOG for February 3, 2022
Karen writes: Where are you Rose? Have you gone across the threshold to the new universe? which is actually the universe that has always been? I will join you there. I'm letting go of some sad stories and old archetypes. Waiting in the Ripe Darkness. Stepping into the way of the new hero and heroine. I know you'll wait for me while still moving on with your creative dance. One day soon, I look forward to twirling with you under rainbow-streaked clouds that carry the universe's loving rain. What new flowers will grow? What new life will be given to the old favourites -- the iris, the rose, the lily? I look forward to seeing them sprout forth. All the new relationships waiting for me. I can see them, shadow-like, on the horizon. The old story crumbling into a dust that will make a fine compost. I will resist drawing back into myself when I hear the Old Language: I will not apologize for my Being when it does not fit the labels that have been developed as chain-link over the centuries. I'll keep singing and speaking into the Wind until I hear it as a gentle breeze carrying my words to the Beloved. Life is always stronger than Death. We are all On The Way, On The Road to Being and Becoming. Blessed be.
Heather writes: With much to think about this past week as I am coming down from the "ups and downs" lived during The Quest of Rose for 9 weeks, my thoughts go to the darkness of these winter months. It was, as in the past, a time of quiet, nesting, allowing the seeds to ferment into a new significance of what life is meant to be for me, moving into more light. Yet, the dark moments lived daily in some quiet contemplation were so unlike the past as each Tuesday evening we gathered "communion of women" breaking bread resembling thoughts and drinking the wine, the elixir of sharing....... sharing our reflections, touching each of our hearts, stirring more light within, keeping the embers glowing with each encounter that so softened the harshness of winter solitude.
For me, this describes a fulfilling vision and better understanding of the meaning of "communion of women" and what that looks like. The sharing, although centred around some of the literature from the book, had its inspiration for sure. But what resonated from our hearts was voiced soulfully to complete in me thoughts and feelings I could never fully express without what each one of us shared. There was a collective oneness in each of our quests that completed our circle. This was truly an awakening of significant depths of emotion expressed so vulnerably, so pure, so necessary.
And now.....on the eve of Brigid's feast day..... this scene comes to mind with so much meaning ! Was it not said that Brigid's mother held on to a doorway when birthing Brigid, born over a threshold, perhaps one foot in the old and one foot in the new. I cannot help but wonder… we are leaning on that doorway......into the new.
Then the questions from the Gathering Space that particularly stirred me: "what new seeds have been quickened within us by winter's darkness"? and "how shall I stay focused"? There is a quickening, an awakening. However, how shall I stay focused? … I have no words but just staying the course of what I have just experienced.
Suzanne's Blog: Quest of Rose Chapter Nine January 25, 2022Put on your magic cloak of consciousness and enter the realms of science, myth, mysticism, meditation, art and music- discovering the ties that bind- coming to the realization that we are connected across space/time in a Universe that has an innate memory. We are past, future and present on the “Rainbow Bridge.” As you prance across the Bridge, remember to look for the Flower and Bee.
Carol Ohmart Behan’s Reflections on Chapter Nine Our journey with Rose brought us out of 2021's tumultuous months and into the now-growing light of 2022. As we accompanied Rose *arising* from her Covid near-death experience, we likewise sought the possibility of evolutionary transformation through engaging in the study and practices given her by Verdandi, grandmother and wise woman (aka Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman). It was a daunting journey at times as we pondered the material and danced our way along together. So much to "take aboard" and sort through.....'Is this for me?'
As the weeks of reading and reflection passed, we more and more often wove our own stories into our weekly gatherings as we followed along in Rose's wake. In the glimmering light of our assorted screens, we were warmed by each other's smiles and voices each Tuesday night, ready to puzzle out the present chapter and try out the practices. And then there were the Dance Breaks! (What a genius of Direction in all matters offered by our Intrepid Leader, Anne Kathleen!)
I personally delight at arriving with Rose in Avalon, its magical energies stirring anew for me. And such a perfect place for me and my traveling Companions to unfurl our beautiful new butterfly wings and try out their powers of flight! It has been a remarkable and momentous Journey together.
Last night following our final gathering and one last dance, I un-Zoomed and felt the quiet descending in my living room. An awareness came to me of something most wonderful that's emerged from this shared Adventure. Our de-Light-ful Communion has evolved into a beloved Community...... None of us know with much certainty what awaits in this still-new year, but how reassuring it is to know we will go forward into it together. Heather's Reflection on Chapter Nine Alas !! entering into chapter 9 reaching a crescendo like moment in the first couple of pages that under normal circumstances would befitting the end of a chapter , however, this is Rose’s journey and hers only in this stirring rendition of her encounter in the depths of a floral ecstasy. It is simply Rose as we have come to know her and her vivid expression of circumstances, losing herself in her quest for a future becoming. The all encompassing rapture of nature as seen in the existence of a flower , codependency with humanity and the needed union of bees and nectar.This quest is also mine as I decide how I will be led over the threshold into as of yet , undefined future. This unusual timing in my life where the older ways perhaps continue to grip fear and I remain a prisoner trapped by my own confines or could I consider rebirthing and what that means. Visualizing slipping through the birth canal though painful is the transitioning or crossing over from what is old to new. I need to reflect on what I want to carry with me and what I want to leave behind. Discern a new awakening, a new acknowledgement that one step at a time solidifies growth and trust. What beliefs do I leave behind, what part of these beliefs to I take with me?It is indeed a cocooning , holding the mysterious, allowing the mysterious to teach me something, a preparation for transformation. Heather's Reflections on the first half of Chapter Eight I replayed the scenes of our zoom gathering for the first half of chapter 8 and it brought a smile to me once again, maybe , even a chuckle. In every Shakespearean play there is a jester, comic relief, perfect timing to release some of the intensity of the play. I believe this happened to all of us , untethered , I needed a breather. I needed to let out that breath I held onto lost in the land of Rose. I needed to speak my truth, though comical in its presentation, it broke the rigid holding on of misunderstanding. Thank you beautiful women who supported and carried me a bit further, though perhaps not over the threshold yet, with one foot in the old and the other foot in mid air with our hands linked together. What affirmation of the collective unity we all share . We really are solid together and complete what each other is missing .My dearest Anne Kathleen, you are steadfast , never unglued and always attempting to make it better, smoother, understood. I continue this quest, this journey we have all started together and how beautiful is it, to stir within some of our own stories of the past. It is in that, our human experiences, our blueprint to our future becoming. Heather's Reflection on Chapter Eight Part TwoAs I reflected back , in particular , the last session on the second half of chapter 8, what impacted me most was the meditation of the beach scene. I could relate to this because it was tangible, it mimicked life in so many ways. The ocean waves ebbing, the stillness and then the flood tide. The ocean waves ebbing, flowing, becoming a rhythm so heavily influenced by the moon , nature in perfect harmony , responding, surrendering and allowing each change as it should. The one constant that relies on the influence of nature in perfect synchronicity. I paralleled all of it to life. The sureness of change and the response to the change as it happens. The receding, the returning to peace and the pause in between, the reflecting period on what one experiences during the times of loss, sadness or just being and the the flood tide or flow of tide returning. The sometimes windy and tumultuous returning and receding. Life is like that. But it is in the beauty of welcoming the true inner nature of its reflection in our souls. The beauty of nature and its incessant impression that stirs so much joy in my own soul. This oneness I choose to accept of this enchanting stir in my soul takes away all fear. It is remaining in the moment that one tames fears. Revelation moments come in many ways. However, to just sit quietly and listen as on a beach with certainty that the ebb and flow of life brings what all that is required to continue this journey. Heather's Reflections: Chapter Seven: The Quest of RoseThe enthusiasm of being together once again was so apparent. There was excitement on the zoom air and how we greeted each other with so much love. Yes, love was the theme that proclaimed our sharing and our thoughts on this wonderful chapter 7. I have read the poem Clara sent and how appropriate, “let me become” let me become the future becoming, one in the universe and the universe in me. And then Karen’s reflection brought me back to “Desiderata” which means “ things desired” and how I cherished this writing from a young age. It was a poster that has followed me for over 50 years. It so faithfully affirms our journey with Rose. This mysterious collective oneness of our spirits lights the pathway ahead as we continue the quest to betterment. I quote from the book that for me sums it all up” your spirit is connectively, always sourced in the awareness of one eternal self. Love melts away all barriers of the mind, when love is present , understanding comes naturally”As Verdandi has had such a powerful impact on calming Rose these words from Desiderata signal the same message.“Go placidly amid the noise and the haste and remember what peace
Communion Blog Postings on Chapter Five of The Quest of Rose Heather writes: The evening of sharing was woven together in diversity of opinion yet connected by the same thread of thoughts as each one of us shared our feelings. How interesting the ritual once again of the different photographs of women and how some of us were drawn to the same picture but for different reasons at that time. I think this just adds to the mystery of discovery and wonder of how one can be drawn to the same thing but with a different perspective. There is such an evident yearning in all of us to really get it right this time. To crossover into that future of becoming , future human. To embrace this new beginning without prejudice or judgement, to simply be an instrument of love, to be able to understand humanity by the art of listening. To listen to each other's journey and what has made us become who we are or in the midst of becoming who we are meant to be.
I love these passages from page 127:
"Real change starts small, by living intentionally through the daily interactions of our lives. The ultimate goal is not to save our world from collapsing but to be the world we wish to live in."
"Through consistent love and care, our world will transform, as will each of us."
"Life renews itself every minute, and so can you by being part of its renewal." Communion Blog Postings on Chapter Four
December 2, 2021
Ruth writes: The joys and reverberations of this chapter continue to grow this morning after a fruitful discussion in last night's Zoom Room. Our discussion around the subject of suffering/brokenness seemed to me to bring us to a new level of collaborative searching. It reminded me again of the new path upon which Matthew Fox set us with his theology of Original Blessing. At the time of its publication it was a radical departure from the approved narrative, but now seems to me at least, to be the most faithful representation of the underpinnings of the bright future to which we aspire. Unlike Original Sin, which requires making someone wrong (thus duality), Original Blessing affirms the goodness and worth of all Creation at its inception. It makes possible the Peaceable Kingdom of the animal world, many examples of which are becoming more and more evident in the “strange” friendships among species. It provides the framework for the formation of Beloved Community based on the common created worth.
All of Creation is in harmony because all are blessed and all can be a blessing. This is the vision which excites and calls me, and to which I wholeheartedly commit. Finally, I would share this poem of Hafiz, which came to me serendipitously at the end if the call, while I was looking for something else:
You, that come to birth in order to bring the Mysteries back to life;
all of you who came to life to bring the wonder back;
your Voice in song makes all the creatures very happy.
So please sing from your soul and tear the veil off
this moment of becoming.
Heather writes: I want to thank everyone once again for the shared pearls of wisdom in this quest, our quest journeying with Rose. Our quest for a future becoming!!
"Somewhere over the Rainbow"... how selectively chosen was this piece !!!!! Rainbows present themselves after a storm, turbulence, chaotic weather systems and they come in beauty, displaying colours in perfect harmony. They are segways into a more tranquil time in nature. They announce a new beginning. So it is with this present day quest, this travel with Rose. There is a symbolic ark of the covenant, rainbow-like connections that will help us from the old into the new.
I liked the chatter about turning inward to our own internal compass, to reflect on our moral and ethical attributes and beliefs. To sit quietly and review what needs changing so we can be armed with the love, compassion and hope to move forward into becoming that future human. To take with us the very fabric of principle and integrity weaving the old tapestry into the new. To ignite the inner flame that will guide us out of darkness, as quoted from Rose:
"invoke our moral passion for doing what is right and necessary by guiding us to our own architect power"
" a common Polaris that can guide us through this difficult time”
Till we meet again, let the blessings of the Universe keep us focused.
Clara sends us this poem by Jan Phillips:
Think of yourself as a thought of the Infinite One
made flesh by your sheer desire to see and be seen.
Think of yourself as nature looking upon nature
in awe at its grandeur, in tears for its wounds
Nature loving itself, healing itself, speaking out for itself.
Think of yourself as a vessel of stardust and clay,
a child of the cosmos evolving and transforming
every minute of the day
matter into energy, particle into wave, mortal into Immortal.
Think of yourself as a soul who took on a body
to be of use, to radiate love and receive it in return—
Think of yourself as a shaman whose hands heal whatever they touch;
as a storyteller whose words fall like rain on a drought stricken land,
whose stories are medicine---miracles—
that heal the sick and raise the dead.
Think of yourself as a circle holding yin and yang,
as unity cradling the dualities in your arms.
Think of yourself as thought leaning toward radiance,
an early dawn rising into daylight.
Think of yourself as necessary—purposeful, here for a reason—
remember, you came here to light the world.
Deep inside you the fire of creation burns day and night,
atoms from the Big Bang spin and swirl in your blood and bones,
your lungs and your legs.
Like salt in the tear, joy in the laughter, the Holy One is in you,
being scattered like seeds across the land as you speak and write
and reach out to touch.
You are the hands and feet, the eyes and ears of the Great Beloved
It is time now that each of us say what happened
and what we learned.
To reveal ourselves is to heal ourselves—
and to heal ourselves is to heal each other and the world entire.
From our revelations of intimacy and truthfulness,
vulnerability and generosity, the future takes shape and enters into us---
OUR words made flesh, OUR thoughts made real.
Yes, think of yourself as a creator…
the peace you desire, the justice you cry for ---
these will come as we speak them into being.
As the cosmos is being created by the Mind of the Infinite One,
this world is being created by the minds of the finite ones,
by us.
Let us be mindful and full of care for the words we speak,
the thoughts we think,
the stories we tell…for these are the tools
with which we build tomorrow.
The Quest of Rose BLOG for November 25, 2021
Heather writes:What a sacred journey we have embarked on!! Thank you all for accompanying me into new frontiers, not clearly defined yet... with each step forward and the individual wisdom shared, it is making this quest so much more precious!
How insightful Anne Kathleen in your creative nature to begin with the emotion cards. It drew me into the picture that described my emotional state and caused me to reflect deeper on its meaning for me and the symbolism that paralleled my day.
As well the re-reading of the Reflection "The Holy Grail of Communication" sparked a common theme as well in the words that fit our gathering so appropriately last evening: "co creating systems and cultures, a partnership where taking care of our planet and one another is the most natural and obvious thing to do " and again from Chapter Three: "most of the old systems are unable to guide us into the future or prepare us for who we are to become."
In our vulnerable moments, newness is unleashed in the sharing of our woundedness. In addressing my own woundedness and in sharing this in a private space, I can finally put words to the hurt, the sorrow, the brokenness that, once emptied, makes a room for new beginnings. Like Mother Earth, she is exposing the wounds produced by so many years of abuse, neglect and disrespect, of suppression held till the continuing of the old can only lead to death. Internal combustion needs an escape and once untethered gives way to a brighter outcome.
I am fuelled by the sharing amongst us and inspired at a deeper level, a soul connection that is birthing a collective love. Thank you...Thank you!!
I picked up my copy of "To Bless the Space Between Us" by John O'donohue and it opened up to this page and so I end with what I feel may be so apropos for us and the journey we are on.
“When you travel,
A new silence
Goes with you.
And if you listen,
You will hear
What your heart would
Love to say.
“A journey can become a sacred thing:
Make sure, before you go,
To take the time
To bless your going forth,
To free your heart of ballast
So that the compass of your soul
Might direct you toward
The territories of spirit
Where you will discover
More of your hidden life,
And the urgencies
That deserve to claim you.
“May you travel in an awakened way,
Gathered wisely into your inner ground,
That you may not waste the invitations
Which wait along the way to transform you.”
Suzanne writes: Thanks to you Anne Kathleen for bringing your deep insight into Rose’s reflection “within every challenge there’s a potential solution that requires a new or different state of consciousness.” Who was it who said the consciousness that created the problem cannot be the same consciousness that solves it. So, heartfelt knowing is not limited to humans but is a partnership with the intelligence of the planet, indeed of the cosmos.
Heartfelt reflection, Anne Kathleen, “on to Mombassa “
BLOG: for November 18th on Chapter Two of “The Quest of Rose”
Heather writes: My thoughts of last evening lingered long into the night and this morning and really got the better of me so here I have put it on paper once again.
Wow! What an epic night of truth revealing, of vulnerability and honesty in our sharing as we attempt to continue this journey of discovery into a new way of thinking, of being, into an awakening we really can no longer ignore. The shifting is being signalled by Mother Earth, being heard in the gentle breezes and the strong winds as our grounding and rootedness is being shaken and nature announces this turbulence.
As I reread notes from Chapter Two and from the sharing this is what resonated:
"keeping some of the old, what brings you joy, as you move on to a new reality "
"your view of your life as a story often determines how life will treat you"
"if you see life as a trivial story, you may fall into inertia and defeat"
"seeing your life as a great story can fuel you with passion, grant codes, give you a mythic life and higher purpose"
Imagine the hesitancy Rose experienced while in her coma: Should I leave or should I say "yes" to a new way of living? We know what seed Rose chose to plant, the choice she made.
Perhaps, that is where our hesitancy lies as well, can we leave the old that does not serve us well anymore and carry the memories that fan the flame as we step over the threshold into an awakened awareness that change is happening and there is a place for us in this new level of existence?
The intensity we speak about is trying to stir us out of complacency. Are not our hearts burning with a desire we cannot put words to?
Many times in transformation, we don't know what is ahead of us and in the struggle with change we miss seeing the new self we are becoming. Our very being is being pried open and yet we can't behold what it will become once opened.
And then a break in the heaviness as "Mama Mia" propelled us into dance and yes in the clever words of the song "Mama Mia, here we go again, my my how can I resist you?" A bit of the old reassuring us we are ok and we can rewrite the messaging without fear and negativity.
"a rebirth of the self, "
“hold in your heart the intention of abundant creative goodness"
As we continue our journey under the direction of Rose and her grandmother, let us be each other’s voice of wisdom, insight, encouragement and love. Holding you all in blessing, Heather
Suzanne writes: Some musings from last night's reflections on Chapter Two: As Anne Kathleen pointed out, this is not a Ph.D. Course, no grades given. Sooo, relax, savour.
Having said that, "the future self already exists as a cosmic potential within your own imaginal self which activates the possibility as well as the transformative powers, for realizing these possibilities. The Universe renews itself from the imaginable realm of consciousness, and you can do the same."
How to do this? Therein lies the rub. I believe it was Mary Ellen who commented that we are already sending out goodness and abundance.
This Communion is a remarkable thoughtful group sending out abundance. What is the next step? Anne Kathleen quoted Julian, "speak to us as each heart needs to hear."
In Gratitude, Suzanne
Ruth writes: Thank you, Suzanne. I agree that we have a wonderful, thoughtful group of friends gathered for this endeavour. One thing I have been thinking about this morning is how to keep moving forward as most seem to want to do, but still allow for deeper thought and sharing on certain chapters. Thus far my process has been to read the chapter and underline what stands out for me. Then a few days later a second reading takes me deeper and I see new things. On the day of our meeting, I reread again and by that time the message for me personally has come together. Perhaps something of the same sort could work for the group. This first time through we are hitting the highlights, but we might make note of those areas which need more exploration. One such area which both Carol O-B. and I found in Chapter 2 was The Holy Grail of Communication. It could take us into many side streets, not the least of which is interpretation of scripture itself. Blessed day to all, Ruth
Communion Blog November 11, 2021
Karen Holmes writes: We have begun our Quest with Rose. Rose, the woman, who has dared cross the threshold and remember it. Rose, the listener who bears the name of a sacred flower whose five-fold curves have often been compared to the shape of a human ear. Rose who “holds all things in her heart.”
I picked up this book because of the word Rose. I thought maybe Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman might be going to tell me something about the Mystic Rose Compass, or the Feminine Mysteries of Chartres, or even the Rosicrucians. (Roses have always been my favourite flower: I have planted a garden of them and I eagerly await their unfurling each spring.)
Instead, it’s not really about knowledge ‘out there’. It’s about what’s in us: how we contain the entirety of the cosmos within; and how the cosmos ‘out there’ calls to us to realize our beauty, vocation and majesty. A seed has been laid within us – long, long ago. We were born into this Earth, carrying this seed. We often forgot it was there. It was laid in us in the past; and it calls to us from the future as a magnet that could align all of the seemingly disparate ‘iron filings’ of our soul.
It takes Rose being in a Covid-induced coma to create the cocoon through which she can awaken to the new aligned life. This cocoon is her place of Resurrection and Transformation. In the cocoon, she becomes aware that her body is not its physical shape, but the process of Life that created it (p.20). In this womb of rebirth, she encounters the force of Life who gives her many images and truths. With her friend Sophie, she is not about to forget these truths and just “let things get back to normal.”
We could forget what we have been given over these past 20 months of Covid. We could decide that that was just an unpleasant dream; an alternate reality that we can now set aside. That would be amistake. We have been invited into Rose's cocoon. Do we want a still-birth so that all can appear normal upon exit? Or do we take up the images of Life which have been given to us – truths of Life that have become more intimately near to us through the proximity of Death – and seek the Butterfly that we are, dancing in union with the Universe?
Like Rose, we have chosen to journey together. Rose turned to Sophie; she shared openly with her grandmother and with the male nurse who attended her while unconscious. This to me is a call for all of us to share openly; to share abundantly of the heart – to not keep the individual and collective experiences we have had locked away somewhere in a drawer (or in journal pages).
I am touched how people’s memories speak in and through present encounters – with a leaf, with a song. One image speaks of a caring mother who brought a special book to a sick child; another speaks of a beloved sister whose inclusion in a family gathering was so important that she drove 3 hours to get her. These are seeds laid in the ground – deep in their soul-spirit – and the future – Rose’s future – calls us to activate them in the love-song of the universe. They will express themselves in new and wondrous ways.
Many years ago when I worked as an ESL teacher, a man who I ‘taught’ shared with me an old phrase he had learned in the old country of Sicily. I can still see him now, speaking to me with a kind smile upon his lips and a sad-joyful wisdom in his eyes. I was just about to get married. He said, “Se vuoi cogliere la rosa, non temere la spina”: If you want to pick the Rose, fear not the thorn. His words --in him and in Rose -- are calling me into a future of beauty, abundance, courage.
Carol Ohmart Behan writes: With a conflict last Tuesday, last night's gathering was my initial one with my Sister Questers. Our hour and a half together was rich and delightful on many levels. And there was a certain sense of celebration in our mutual agreement to "set off" together on this metaphysical Adventure-Quest. The "dance break" to ABBA's "I Have a Dream" sure added to this! I wish to thank everyone for their wonderful sharings--not unlike other Zoom calls--but I felt and sensed a new level of openness of heart and soul in what "came through" last night. The powerful portal of 11.11 is tomorrow as I write this....another lovely affirmation of the portal we've entered joining Rose on her Quest.
Heather McGuinty writes: I so enjoyed our gathering (Tuesday) evening as women seekers sharing their thoughts and reflections, insights on chapter one. Meeting Rose in chapter one has touched all of us in different ways yet there was a common thread of desire to know more, to be lured into an unknowing yet knowing we are being called to a new universe. We are the chrysalis of transformation holding space in a womb that is preparing us for birthing, rebirthing. The resounding statements that confirmed our yearnings:" the choice to renew your life from a new cycle of time"; "Universes shedding their old skins, periods of renaissance"; "You cannot renew your life from old realities, enter the consciousness of your future potential"; "If part of your life is dying or sick then something inside you is seeking to be reborn."
The words "trust and surrender" became a mantra that was expressed by more than one. How fortunate we are at this time in our lives to be called, to answer the calling with a "YES.” Let's do this together, let's hold each other recognizing our growth as separate but collectively supporting our transitional moments. This ongoing conversion confirms our soulful integration in unity and love that will be filled by grace fulfilling moments, no doubt. My heart is filled with gratitude for the journey I am embarking on…travelling with companions filled with wisdom, warmth and unconditional love.
“The Quest of Rose” Week One: BLOG for November 4, 2021
Colette Writes: Here is what I have to say about our first Zoom coming together in this new phase of the Communion of Creative Fire.
I was eager and happy to see the companions who presented on screen for the journey: some familiar faces and two new ones I was happy to meet, two I know already who are yet to come.
I was happy to hear about the intensive weekend some of them lived with Jean Houston and Anneloes Smitsman. They provided context for us to enter into the experience that lies ahead. Something like an initiation. After reading the introduction and the first chapter, I get a sense that this will be about EXPANSION for me as well as a big time ADVENTURE in the company of beautiful engaged women. I am grateful for the opportunity and the challenge that lies ahead.
The ending ritual we were invited to participate in was very meaningful as well as an excellent way to bring our time together to closure
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Carol Zickell writes: Last night I was touched by our group's sincerity and generosity of spirit. I have always loved the beach and I'm fortunate to live by the ocean. The guided beach practice (p. 190 in The Quest of Rose) is very powerful for me. This time I felt the ocean waves coming ashore with an ease in the flow of understanding. For me it hinted at less grasping and pressure with its usual demand to understand and know and more related to the natural order as a way of being and understanding.
I'm excited to enter this material of heart, mind and soul with a group that is so willing to explore it together.
Heather writes: The gathering last night was a coming together of women sharing the same desire and willingness to let go of any barrier that might hinder the birthing of new horizons. Newness, awareness that we are a collective consciousness wanting more. I felt a deep yearning and steadfast focus from everyone expressing an anticipation of wanting more and wanting to be part of this internal compass that will direct our ways. This bigness that is greater than us but that we are so much a part of. A new spirituality or enhancing of the old is igniting in us "a powerful Yes" to a consciousness of the higher emergence of these times. Friends of like minds wanting to see more deeply, to look at life and spirituality from a different dimension, to fulfill our life's purpose in this life time, a unique and beautiful, intense, and delightful way forward, to be a healing presence in this world. I like this poem from Rumi: There are ways of being born twice, of coming to where you fly, not individually like birds, but as the sun moves across the sky with its bride.
Mary Ellen writes: Thanks to the Spirit in all of us who led us to a new moment in our journey together. As I listened at our Zoom gathering last evening, and as I spoke, it seemed more and more clear to me that we are experiencing the evolution of the Cosmos; we are part of it. Anneloes and Jean have been deeply engaged in that evolving consciousness all their lives, and so has each of us in our own ways. There has been an energy preparing us for this "new moment" of "Yes", of courageous, trusting commitment to a Future calling us, and yet not visible to us. We are called to remain open to everything within and without which will be the "compass" for our path. And we are held in Love as we take our first steps.
It is interesting to me that I find myself sensing a congruence with spiritualities and wisdom which are already part of my life. And it seems as though this can be an integration of wisdoms for all time, recognizing where they are leading now in our evolution. They will all help us to heal, to become freed from what hinders us from moving on. Gradually, in freedom and drawn by great Love and Wisdom, we can become the "butterflies" we are created to be. And deeply meaningful to me is that such personal evolution can never be for me alone. With the interconnectedness and interrelatedness of all, each of our journeys is one with the Cosmic Journey and so for the good and healing and freeing into wholeness of all. What a magnificent Calling! I am immensely grateful for my companions on the Journey.
