And The Meaning of Life Is…? by Andre Best I find myself continuing to be drawn back into thoughts about the meaning of life. Now this is not an article trying to presuppose the meaning of existence of humanity. Rather this is an article about one man trying to sort out the thoughts that are recently running through his brain regarding what one’s purpose here on Earth is. That is, while we are given our own allotment of time on this physical plane.

Perhaps it’s my own version of a mid-life crisis where my mind is perhaps maturing enough to be able to actually ask these types of questions without spontaneously imploding on itself in an extended bout of black depression. Nevertheless, I’m still stuck when it comes to even trying to answer a question, or conundrum, like this. Basically, I think it will all boil down to that I don’t know the answer to this question because the part of me that is asking the question is also the part of me that is trying to answer it. And if I knew the answer then I wouldn’t be asking the question right now. I hope that makes sense. But, even still, I find recently that to determine what one’s purpose in life is is a rather befuddling pursuit. For me, I walk to work in the mornings along a sunny Arizona sidewalk and I find myself thinking that I’m just starting off into another day of the same-ol’ same-ol’. And out of this thought arises the question ‘But really what should one be doing with their days?’ What would be the ultimate thing or activities that I could do with my time here today that would make this day, each day, worthwhile?

And of course this spawns off into other questions such as ‘worthwhile to whom?’ and ‘what kind of activities?’ and other stuff like that. Let me imagine that I have all the money I need and I no longer have to pursue the elusive goal that everyone else now pursues. Financial freedom. The light at the end of the tunnel. But just for the sake of this example let’s state that I don’t have to worry about survival anymore. I have enough money to satisfy whatever craving I have or need for my family. Then what? What would I do with my day? Would it be to form a multi-billion dollar company that feeds the needy and takes care of every homeless child in the world? Would it be to work in a daycare and work with toddlers stuck in abusive households?

Would it be to clean the bathrooms at the local superstore or gigantic warehouse store? What would give my life meaning right now? You see, that’s a tough question to answer. But, let me step back a bit and slow down. And let’s start at the beginning. When we’re all very young human beings we have no choice what happens to us as we exist. Whatever happens to us in our parents’ household is their doing, not ours. Pretty much all we do is spend our days fluctuating between going to school and not going to school. When we get older and graduate from school we go out into the big, wide world and look to get ourselves that ubiquitous j.o.b.

That’s what we do with our days. Over the years perhaps we decide to throw into the mix a spouse, some expensive possessions, and some fancy vacations to exotic paradises. And then we may even decide to get our own house filled up some more with our own personal priceless treasures. Kids, to be exact. But what are we doing on a daily basis at this physical age in our lives? What are we doing? We’re ‘earning a living’. But beyond that, as we trudge off to work each day, or stay home with the kids, what are we doing each and every day that’s of consequence in the scheme of things? What is it that makes each day meaningful? Is it raising the kids until they too become adults and repeat the process all over? Is it to become successful at that j.o.b. we work at or with that business we own? Or is it to make ourselves as happy as we can by watching all our favorite television shows and movies and eating out at nice restaurants and chatting with our best friends. And only doing the things we like to do and take the vacations to places that only we want to go to.

But then there comes ‘old age’. What then? Hopefully we’ve saved up enough money to be financially set so that we don’t have to worry about ‘earning a living’ anymore. We can sit back. Relax. Maybe go fishing or on other vacations to remote paradises. Or play lawn bowling down at the local community center or play chess in the park. Whatever. But still, what have we done with our day besides make it ‘busy’? What are we doing with our days as we sit there in our recliner flicking away with the remote controls for the plasma television and surround sound home theater system? What are we doing that’s of consequence? If we were to die the very next day, what have we done with our existence since we were little babies?

As I documented above, perhaps we did the odd thing that helped other people. Or we served in an organization that helped the needy. Or perhaps we were just darn good parents and raised ‘two wonderful children’. Or perhaps we did the right things and now are grandparents too. But really, as we’re about to die what is it that we could say we did with our life? With our existence? Can you see that for the most part, without over-generalizing, we pretty much just ‘did’ things all along the years from birth to death. Is that what we’re meant to do? Is that all there is?

Or somewhere in that mix, somewhere along the way, the path to the grave, we may be so lucky to have our days of existence sprinkled with wondrous events that change us inside and elevate our spirits. Be they sights, sounds, memories, happenings, or spiritual teachings. But, nevertheless, what I’ve described is how generation after generation after generation of human beings go through their time on this planet as part of the human race. And what does each generation have to show for their time here? Advances in technology? More wondrous scientific discoveries? New breakthroughs in medicine? Another global war where millions die?

Higher Intelligence? Another spiritual world leader? In all seriousness, what do we leave as a legacy for those who follow us along the time-path of human existence? And what do we do, as individuals, that adds to that human existence path? And to return to where I started all this questioning…for me, what am I doing that is giving meaning to my existence on this plane and along this physical time-line? That is the question that needs to be answered and thought about. And beyond the teachings I’ve read about from some of the spiritual masters – all I’ve culled is that one’s sole purpose in existence is to become a perfect human being. That’s it. That’s all. But I’m not trying to minimize this statement because becoming ‘perfect’ is a very tall order for most of us. Lifelong, usually. But, really, think about it. Think of any of the ‘great’ people who’ve existed before us. Buddha. Lao-Tse. Mozart. Tolstoy. Einstein.

What are they known for? What did they do with their lives? What did they leave us? Great spiritual teachings? Music? Science? In the scheme of things these brilliant people were only able to leave as their legacy what they ‘did’ or ‘discovered’ for the rest of us to learn from. That’s it. Not in a minimizing way. But really, that’s it. Even the greatest minds and spirits in the world were not able to leave us more than what they were able to personally realize or do in their gifted area of calling. So, is there any more?

Is there anything beyond just ‘doing life’? I surmise that there isn’t. I think that it is true. That all we can do is be the best person we can be as we grow older. We live each day to the best of our abilities for that day. We continue to grow in whatever manner we’re able to positively do. And then it all ends for us someday. But we made the most of this existence. We made the most of our time here on this plane. We made the most of our allotted days here.

We didn’t just grow old, we grew up too. Is there really anything more? After writing this I don’t think there is. Perhaps others will vehemently disagree and start spouting off about The One and all that stuff. That’s okay. Each to their own. But for me, I truly still sit here and wonder what there is for me to do on a daily basis as I await my calling to the other side, where we all began and will go to again.

What can I do to make my existence as meaningful to me as is possible? That is something that I’m still figuring out. And I surmise it will continue to change as I described above. Does that make any one meaning less than any others? No. But it does mean that my meanings will change as my days do. And right now my primary meaning in life is to be the best father I can be to my boys. And I do this by being the best human being I can be in the world. But as for tomorrow… Time will tell.

Written by Andre Best President, Ultimate Results, Inc. http://www.andrebest.com ‘Learn About Life From Another Perspective’ (Author’s permission is granted to share this full article with others. Just leave the signature line intact, please.)

Article Source: And The Meaning of Life Is…?

Choosing the right cemetery is one of the most important parts of a burial plan. A cemetery should be a quiet place for contemplation and remembrance. Additionally a cemetery’s location should be in a location that was important in the deceased person’s life and near his or her family. There should be no compromise on any of the things which are involved in these proceedings.
The funeral cemetery and cemetery plots chosen are the most essential parts of funeral planning. The best way to ensure these are correct is to preplan your burial. Cemeteries vary considerably in terms of quality and quantity of services provided. Remember that the size and price of plots can vary from one cemetery to another. While in the process of deciding on a cemetery, make a trip to that cemetery in person. Preferably an initial visit should be made without a sales representative. You should ask some questions. Is there a chapel where you can hold a memorial service close to the burial site? Are the grounds open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week? Does the cemetery offer financing options? Can you choose between upright or ground level memorial markers? Would you prefer a special section i.e. veterans? Can the cemetery manage a cremation if desired? Is the cemetery staff helpful? Look around at the cemetery as a whole. Is it well kept? Are there mausoleums? What kind are they? Is there an urn garden? Is the purchase of cemetery property limited? Can I purchase cemetery property in advance? Do I have to be Catholic to be buried there? In this way you can spend some time with the cemetery staff and get all the answers you need to make a good decision while not distressed.

Some cemeteries have internet sites. Other sites also offer maps of the cemeteries online. If so, print out a map. This will not only guide you in making your way through an unfamiliar cemetery, but gives you an chance to make notes about areas that seem desirable to you.

It’s wise to plan for all of life’s eventualities. And even though we might not like to think about it, choosing our cemetery plots touches on an eventuality for all of us. Prearrange your funeral and have a firm will ready to guide them through this terrible time. Your family and friends will greatly appreciate your efforts and your mind will be put at ease knowing that you are prepared for the worst. Although planning a funeral is never easy, with help from the right compassionate professionals it can be a little easier.

Old Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery is Oceanside cemetery, founded in 1798, is the oldest cemetery in North County San Diego still in operation. Old Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery is a sanctuary offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Contact us for San Diego funeral services. Every effort will be made to ensure that families have minimal worry when death occurs. They will be assisted in setting the date and time by the cemetery office. The Mission is committed to taking care of the California cemetery as part of this National Historic Landmark. Immediate need or advanced planning, our experienced and caring staff is available to help you.
 

Old Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery is Oceanside cemetery, founded in 1798, is the oldest cemetery in North County San Diego still in operation. Old Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery is a sanctuary offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Contact us for San Diego funeral services. Every effort will be made to ensure that families have minimal worry when death occurs. They will be assisted in setting the date and time by the cemetery office. The Mission is committed to taking care of the California cemetery as part of this National Historic Landmark. Immediate need or advanced planning, our experienced and caring staff is available to help you. 

Publish this article: San Diego Cemetery

Now, in this moment, we ask for new light. Illumine our minds. Use us dear Lord, as never before, as part of a great and mighty plan for the healing of this world. May we no longer be at war with each other. May we no longer be at war with ourselves. Let us forgive this century and every other, the evils of history, the pain of our common fears. Remove from our hearts the illusion that we are seperate. May every nation and every people and every color and every religion find at last the one heartbeat we share. Through you, our common Father/Mother and the redeemer of our broken dreams. May we not hold onto yesterday. May we not obscure Your vision of tomorrow but rather may You flood our hearts. Flow through us, work through us, that in our lives we might se the illumined world. Create, sustain that world on earth, dear God, for us and for our children. Halleluhah, at the thought.

Praise God, the possibility that such a thing could come to be, through You, through your light that shines within us. So may it be. So may it be. We thank you, Lord Amen" – Marianne Williamson http://marianne.com Sharing this beautiful, inspiring and powerful piece of writing by Marianne in a spirit of a better peace in the world in the days ahead. Shine your own bright light on an often darkened world… in a spirit of living at the highest level of our common humanity (or through our shared "personhood"). Craig Lock ("Incorrigible Encourager and Peoplebuilder") http://www.craiglockbooks.com http://www.craiglock.com

"There is neither east nor west, tribe nor ethnicity, male or female, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian nor Jew. There is only a God-filled humanity that lies within us. So let each one of us build bridges, rather than barriers, project a spirit of openness rather than walls. Let us look at distant horizons together in a spirit of tolerance, acceptance, helpfulness, co-operation, co-existence and peace.

Let our leaders look at the future with a ‘grand’ vision – to see things not as they are, but what they could one day become- for the ‘Greatest Good’ of ALL humanity." "Our Greatest Good is perhaps not to achieve wealth and share our material possessions, our money and ‘riches’ with others, but through encouragement and faith in other people, to lay the firm foundation of revealing the rich treasure that lies within themselves." 

Publish this article: Prayer for the World

Dear God, We pray for this world. We ask that you remove the walls that seperate us and the chains that hold us down. Use us to create a new world on earth, One that reflects Your will, Your vision, Your peace. In this moment, we recognise the power You have given us to create anew the world we want. Today’s world, dear Lord, but reflects our past confusion.

Now, in this moment, we ask for new light. Illumine our minds. Use us dear Lord, as never before, as part of a great and mighty plan for the healing of this world. May we no longer be at war with each other. May we no longer be at war with ourselves. Let us forgive this century and every other, the evils of history, the pain of our common fears. Remove from our hearts the illusion that we are seperate. May every nation and every people and every color and every religion find at last the one heartbeat we share. Through you, our common Father/Mother and the redeemer of our broken dreams. May we not hold onto yesterday. May we not obscure Your vision of tomorrow but rather may You flood our hearts. Flow through us, work through us, that in our lives we might se the illumined world. Create, sustain that world on earth, dear God, for us and for our children. Halleluhah, at the thought.

Praise God, the possibility that such a thing could come to be, through You, through your light that shines within us. So may it be. So may it be. We thank you, Lord Amen" – Marianne Williamson http://marianne.com Sharing this beautiful, inspiring and powerful piece of writing by Marianne in a spirit of a better peace in the world in the days ahead. Shine your own bright light on an often darkened world… in a spirit of living at the highest level of our common humanity (or through our shared "personhood"). Craig Lock ("Incorrigible Encourager and Peoplebuilder") http://www.craiglockbooks.com http://www.craiglock.com

"There is neither east nor west, tribe nor ethnicity, male or female, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian nor Jew. There is only a God-filled humanity that lies within us. So let each one of us build bridges, rather than barriers, project a spirit of openness rather than walls. Let us look at distant horizons together in a spirit of tolerance, acceptance, helpfulness, co-operation, co-existence and peace.

Let our leaders look at the future with a ‘grand’ vision – to see things not as they are, but what they could one day become- for the ‘Greatest Good’ of ALL humanity." "Our Greatest Good is perhaps not to achieve wealth and share our material possessions, our money and ‘riches’ with others, but through encouragement and faith in other people, to lay the firm foundation of revealing the rich treasure that lies within themselves." 

Article Source: Prayer for the World

Astrology is a group of systems, traditions and beliefs which hold that the relative positions of celestial bodies can provide information about personality, human affairs, and other global matters. The word ‘Astron’ means star and ‘Logos’ means science. Thus, it is the science that studies the stars in the horoscope of every human being. However, India has given more importance for the study and research of this science. The concept of horoscope in the India Verdict system is the most accurate and sophisticated method of astrological predictions. Horoscope foretells almost every area of human being such as health, wealth, love, marriage, business, profession etc.

Horoscope is the creation of basic placement of planets at time of birth in a pre-decided format called the birth chart. It is used as a method of prediction regarding events relating to the point in time. An assembly of basic placements of planets at the time of birth in a diagrammatic format is called horoscope chart.

The Indian horoscope is created by the help of nine planets on the heavenly body at the time of birth. The nine planets would get position in different house of the zodiac sign. These nine planets and twelve signs of the zodiac play a vital role in the life of every human being. The life of a mankind is determined as per the position of the planets in the horoscope. Thus, the nine planets such as Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu have a vital role in the life of every human being.

Horoscope is the most important chart on which astrological predictions are made. To specify their positions at the time of birth, or any moment of time, a reference point is needed to identify the position of planets in relation to the earth. Thus the planets, their positions and their movements can be studied through horoscopes.

When horoscope readings are made, it is important to realize that planetary positions are estimated in relation to both the zodiac signs and the asteroids. Horoscope charts may be circular, rectangular or in other geometrical forms but they all represent 360 degree of the celestial horizon. The horoscope consists of twelve houses. Each house of horoscope has been divided into sections and each section is associated with various deities as a specific purpose.

A horoscope is a passport for the native at the time of birth and it is a proof of one’s existence on earth. Proficient astrologers study the astronomical diagram and make spiritual predictions on the effect of the various planets intruding upon the native. Suitable remedies are suggested to maintain the goodness of native related to prosperity or power, health or harmony and misfortunes or family affairs. There are many kinds of remedies such as Vedic rituals or Yagya, Gems, Mantra, Tantra, Yantra etc. Yagya is prescribed at the bad phase in life. Gems in astrology are prescribed as per the position of planets in the horoscope. Mantra is a sound that is repeated to overcome planet issues. Tantra and Yantra are used together to rid negative forces by planets energy.

Hence, the science of Indian astrology is the universal remedy for the entire problem in human life. The people from all walks of life have been following the philosophy of astrology from time immemorial.

Would you like to know about Indian Horoscope? An Indian horoscope can predict your accurate future. For accurate and scientific Indian astrology visit Jathakam (jathakam.org)

Article Source: Indian Horoscope – A Way To Future

When was the last time you took time out from your hectic life to concentrate on relaxing and de-stressing your mind? With the multitude of new and inspiring alternative therapy and spiritual retreat centers popping up throughout the world, now is the time to take a weekend break or even longer to unwind and focus on yourself.

Retreats are the best way to soothe your mind, body, and soul and to reconnect with your inner spiritual self. Going on a relaxed, religious retreat is the ultimate way to boost your spiritual life by clearing your mind and focusing on your beliefs. Take time out of your hectic life and concentrate exclusively on rebuilding your spiritual connection.

Spiritual retreat center allow you to discover a whole new self and help you in removing the limitations that your mind is occupied with. These spiritual retreat centers also allow you to discover a whole new perspective towards life. Spiritual healing retreats allow you to transform your perspective and focus on things besides your daily life and work; these retreats help you find new paths in life. These spiritual retreats usually have group activities. Participating in these activities helps in increasing your confidence level, however, if you think you require individual attention then you can always enroll in individual spiritual classes.

These activities are as well high-quality ways to get the youth closer into an association with the God. They offer a place to educate fresh things in a secure environment. Many members could get their associates as well to the church retreat before they could get them to adoration services.

Retreat Centers offers a place for solitude, healing, and revitalization with a wide variety of spiritual and educational programs. Create your private day away (Quiet Days), join for a half day or evening session (Twilight Retreats) or treat yourself, or a loved one, to a complete weekend of spirituality and sacred space.

There are several things to consider when planning a retreat and finding a proper retreat center. Always visit the camp in person. Meet the staff, tour the facilities, and get as much information as possible. You can learn a lot from simply being with the people who will be serving you. Are they friendly? Can you tell they are genuinely excited about what they do? What are their specialties? While you are there ask honest questions about the food they serve. If you will be using hi tech equipment, be very specific in what you need and what the retreat facility has available to you. Be detailed, ask specific questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for specific answers.

It is recommend quarterly retreats, a week at a time. At the least, get away for 4 days. Stay away from e-mail and the phone as much as you can, and at the most once a day. Take a break from social media, too. The reason for this is that when we turn off the television and cell phones, we are in an environment to affirm our commitment to spiritual priorities.
 

For more information on Spiritual Retreats and Retreat Centers visit California Retreats. 

Article Source: Retreat Centers For Spiritual Retreats