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Wednesday, October 22, 2008
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Spiritual Leaders for Obama |
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General Colin Powell, former Bush Administration cabinet member announced his support for Presidential Candidate, Barak Obama on Sunday October 19th. This announcement is thought to have a noticeable impact on the presidential campaign for those who are “on the fence.” But for those whose political connection is interwoven with their spiritual path, there is another group of supporters that is worth noting. Spiritual Leaders Vote for Obama is a group of today’s leading yogis and meditators who are backing the Democratic presidential nominee.
Decisions of any kind are never easy, and when faced with an atmosphere of anxiety and discord, they become that much more difficult. There are as many approaches to decision making as there are things to decide. Some do all of the research, checking facts, historical precedents, etc. Some crunch the numbers, looking at statistics and economics, budgets and ratings. Others decide from their emotions, looking toward their life experiences to guide them in the right direction. And, a handful of us go to our cushion in search of resolution. In life, in relationships and even in politics, we seek answers from the depths of stillness within. In these cases, we don’t formulate answers and opinions; we listen deeply and receive guidance from a place that is beyond opinion or judgment. So when faced with what seems like the momentous decision of choosing the next leader of our country, our path is pretty much the same. We sit. We listen. We follow our inner guidance. And, we feel deeply supported to see that those who follow the same path reach similar conclusions. It is not necessary to know that those whom we consider to be our spiritual teachers and guides will be casting their votes in the same way that we are guided, but it is nice to know that the universal truth speaks with the same voice. This is not to say that those of us who gravitate to our cushion for answers ignore the facts. We may still crunch the numbers and check the facts, and without a doubt we base our decisions on our life experiences. The answers that we seek in meditation aren’t always comfortable or easy, but we know that they are irrefutably true, and that in working with the truth, we find hope. Even if the work we are guided toward is messy and difficult, within it there is hope for something better. When we cast our votes this November, whether we are the procurers of fact or the cruncher of numbers, may our votes ultimately arise out of the stillness within. May we all make our decisions from a place of peace and calm, and not in reaction or anger. The great revolutionaries of our time worked to create change even in the midst of criticism and doubt because they knew from a place deep inside that they were on the right path. May you honor your inner voice just as you honor the vision of others and cast your vote as a reflection of this voice. 4 Comments
We can save ourselves much anxiety by our realization that the two major political parties in this country have been co-opted by the powerful insiders. Rest easy knowing that the outcome of the general election will change nothing of any substance. People in both major camps are of the same ilk, and will continue the policies that began over 80 years ago. Yes, there are some relatively minor differences in the two major parties, and they are counting on your infatuation with those mostly cosmetic differences to divert your attention away from actions occuring in the background.
Peacefulness is what we seek, and there are ways to find it, but squabbling over politics will not help. I suggest first, that we seek the truth, because the truth will set us free. When you find the truth, you will then know precisely where your efforts should be directed, and with knowing, you will be more at peace with the world. Unfortunately, ignorance is the enemy, and if you ignore the threat, ignorance will prevail, and you will continue to wallow in the anguish that has been so thoughtfully provided for you. Guard against ignorance, and learn the truth! I have given you a hint of what to look for, and Ihope you will find it. Namaste 1
October 24, 2008
I do not believe this yoga website is an appropriate place for "politics". Yoga should be "beyond" politics. I agree that as yogis we should be concerned about many "planet" issues, however, we can show our thoughts, ideas, etc. other ways besides trying to push for a certain political candidate through yoga.
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November 13, 2008
Dear KD33319,
I think Kelly's post definitely goes beyond politics, with the bulk of her writing showing how yoga and meditation can help guide us with important decisions. I believe choosing peace and prosperity over fear and war is the proper choice for the yogi/ni who is following the yogic code of conduct of the yamas and niyamas, and this election presented the opportunity for us to decide between the two. We at YogaBasics.com believe yoga should be lived off of the mat, and that would include practicing yoga at the voting booth. For example, when I voted there was a fuming mad Republican who was yelling and cursing at the Obama volunteer and he ended up being in line in front of me. Instead of being tempted to provoke him further, I choose the yogic path to be present with him and listen to his concerns. Because of this he calmed down and apologized to the volunteer after he voted. 3
November 14, 2008
Thanks so much for the input. I appreciate any feedback that stimulates discussion. I just want to add that my focus at yogabasics.com is to write about yoga and the yogic life in the news and current events. At the time, the election was the bulk of the news here in the States and abroad, and I commented on it, as I always try to do, from a place free of judgment and expressive of the bigger picture.
Thanks. 4
November 14, 2008
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Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.
All contents copyright 2001-2007 Timothy Burgin and Yogabasics.com. All rights reserved. Om shanti peace.
