Encounters

I went to Des Moines tonight to work with Kurt on Council Ritual. We had a good time. When we went out to the car this little fellow was sitting on my car right between the wipers. He (or she) flew up to the window and Kurt snapped this photo. I worry about it. Little doves should be out in the fields. But I guess I am too much of a softie. Not a pigeon they can do their own thing - I don't worry about them.


We both love the Council Ritual. Especially the work of the Royal Master Degree. There is a part of it that was written my Max Erhmann. Severn joined us at Djengo's for dinner and we got to talking about the ritual. I tried to remember this which was also written by Erhmann. Of course I couldn't so I went out and found it on the (wonderful) internets and share it with you here.

DISEDERATA---> resemblance of life

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant, they, too, have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons. They are vexations of the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about; for in the face of all aridity and enchantment, it is perennial as grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul. With all its sham and drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

Max Erhmann

I had a doctor's appointment this morning and he said my blood pressure was good and my cholesterol was good and my blood sugars were in a good range. So I feel good about that.

I have noticed that my numbers are down. It was fun being a blog of note but I feel more relaxed now. Hope those who are still stopping by are enjoying my poor offering. ARTYAL. Hugs, j