May 2004 Connections

Newsletter of the Whole Life Network

Providing a forum for the exploration of options for health, spirituality, and the environment.

ARTICLES

A Teacher in Our Midst
Tibetan Cultural Event at Pavilion
New Location for Friday Night Forum
Remembering Aztlán
How It Started
ReConnections: A Look Back
Peaceful Contributions for the Soul
Letters to the Editor of Connections
Mitakuye Oyasin
Towards An Aquarian Age
Dandelions Extraordinaire
See If This Fits
An Open House to Treat Your Soul
Summer Reading Program Kick-Off Party
Whole Life Network Business Member Profile

A Teacher in Our Midst

An Interview with Neelam by Adrianna Heideman

  I met Neelam two years ago at the Shankar Gallery in Boulder. I had just discovered a school of thought called "advaita," and in searching on the internet for websites, found many advaita teachers, who transmit their teachings in meetings called satsangs. It happened that Neelam (whose name was given her by her teacher Papaji) was interested in living in the North Fork area; to my delight, she moved near Hotchkiss last July.

  Neelam is one of 15 people featured in Quidam Meyers' book "Wide Awake, the Miracle of Spiritual Breakthroughs." The following material is from this book. Neelam was born in Poland. A strong interest and passion for Tai Chi took her to Germany and then to America to continue her studies. In America she came into contact with the writings of Ramana Maharshi and other spiritual teachers and her search to reconnect with the truth and reality that she saw in these teachings began. In this search she had many profound experiences and insights that some wanted to term "awakenings," but she knew that there was still more to be known and found. She eventually traveled to meet Papaji in 1994, and in 1995 she realized the truth of who she was. In 1996 a new phase in Neelam's life started as she began with Papaji's blessing to give satsang and to share her realization with those around her.

Adrianna: Neelam, what is it you teach? Is it a spiritual practice?
Neelam: I wouldn't call it a practice - practice is done toward something that is going to happen in the future - the satsang (sanskrit for "meeting in truth"), or teaching is about the direct experience of who we are in the present. Our meeting is for that purpose: the recognition of that in the present; not a practice that leads to a futue goal or recognition of that. Anything we do, we need a good set of instructions. Finding out who we are is what satsang is about. On the surface it is a group of people gathering together, listening to a talk, having interactions with the teacher, asking questions. When we look at it deeper, at the core of it, we see satsang really is a direct transmission of Self. Satsang is sitting in the space of silence in recognition. All the external things are designed to enable people to have that deeper realization. All the external things help us to receive "instruction" -- that the Truth is to be found inside our own being.

Adrianna: How did you become such a teacher?
Neelam: Through the direct experience of knowing myself. That is the only thing that works. We can all know the words, the right words to speak, but if the experience is not behind it, it doesn't really have the power. And that is what my teacher used to speak about. His name is H.W. L. Poonja (also known as Papaji) and he spoke also about the direct transmission of Self, which is self transmitted to self. It knows itself, you see. And the one who recognizes that, enables others to recognize that.

Adrianna: Where do you hold satsang?
Neelam: We moved to Hotchkiss last year and I hold public satsang in Paonia, Hotchkiss, and in Grand Junction, Aspen, Carbondale and the Boulder area. I have retreats once in a while, and give private sessions as well. (She also travels extensively to other areas in the U.S. and Canada).

Adrianna: Does your teaching have to do with religion?
Neelam: No. The lineage comes from India, but it is not a religious tradition. It is a very direct path to enlightenment, which is called inquiry. It doesn't really matter what the personal beliefs are, people from different traditions and religious backgrounds can benefit from it. In simplicity, and a direct look at who you really are, there is nothing people need to do and no background that is not welcome here. I find that there are people from all different relgions that are attracted to this teaching. What we do is inclusive of all faiths.

Adrianna: Tell me about your retreats.
Neelam: Retreat is a time a group of people come together for several days to be in this deep process of inquiry, and assist each other to experience the Self. Support and space are there to work through ideas and beliefs that hold people back from knowing who they are. I recommend that people attend a couple of satsangs to see what that is like, and if they sense a connection, a resonance with the teaching, they are welcome to come to retreat. My next retreat in the Hotchkiss area is Sept. 22 through the 27th. Before and after the retreat will be a time to come and visit and participate in some activities together.

Adrianna: What is advaita?
Neelam: Advaita is a sanskrit word which means non-dual. There have been saints before Ramana Maharshi, (Papaji's teacher), who from their own direct experience came to recognize reality as One or non-dual. There isn't a division in reality; that was their direct recognition. So those teachings that help that recognition are called advaita.

Adrianna: Are there materials you'd recommend?
Neelam: There are books and websites. www.neelam.org has links to other websites for my teacher and his teacher, Ramana Maharshi. Also Ramana and Papaji have books available. (Wake Up and Roar, and the Collected Works of Ramana Maharshi)

[Neelam was also interviewed in "Meeting Papaji" by Roslyn Moore. Tapes and a video of her satsangs are available, as is her schedule of events, through her office at 872-3686]

(Editors Note: Adrianna Heideman, a loyal member of The Whole Life Network, has lived in the Hotchkiss area for over 30 years. She has been a counselor, meditator, mother, seeker of truth, writer and artist for most of those years.)

Back to Top

Tibetan Cultural Event at Pavilion

Western Colorado Friends of Tibet Release

  - Dadon Dawadolma, the most famous and popular Tibetan singer, will appear in concert at the Montrose Pavilion in Montrose, Colorado, on Friday, May 21, 2004. The concert will be from 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM.

  Her performance will be preceded by the showing of two highly respected films. One film is an internationally acclaimed film, WINDHORSE, starring Dadon featured in a role that is descriptive of her life and her experiences growing up in Tibet. The film is rated 5 stars by all reviewers and has been shown in theatres all over the world. The other film, RED TIBET, is a current film about Tibet produced by local Montrose filmmaker Keya Hourishi and shown in 37 film festivals throughout the United States and outside the United States. They will be shown in the afternoon of May 21st.

  Dadon Dawadolma was born in Tibet and grew up under the watchful eye of the Chinese Communist government which invaded Tibet in 1949 and forcefully took over the country by 1959. Life was terribly difficult for Tibetans who could not live their lives by their own traditions and who were imprisoned and tortured for any offenses that the occupying Chinese Government found unacceptable. There was no freedom for Tibetans and it has been considered one of the most terrible instances of genocide (attempting to eliminate all persons of a specific ethnicity or culture) in the world's history. However, Dadon was a very talented and gifted singer and attempted to work with the Chinese authorities. As she continued to try to cooperate, she witnessed continued oppression and severe harm to other Tibetans and finally realized she could not succeed in her attempts to cooperate with the Chinese. Her life's story is told in the film Windhorse which will be shown prior to the concert. Reviewers have commented that the film is one of the clearest movies on the tragedy besetting Tibetans. Dadon will be on hand during the showing of the film and will answer questions and talk about her experiences for all attendees. Reviews of the film can be found at www.amazon.com

  Dadon has been the guest soloist and singer in concerts in many parts of the world and in major cities in the United States, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, and Boston. She has devoted her singing career to educate the international community about Tibetan culture and sharing the terrible situation in Tibet while encouraging people to help others who are truly in need of help. She came to the United States in 1992 and was granted political asylum. She has since performed in concert in many parts of the United States and other countries. She is recognized world wide as the finest, most popular, and most talented Tibetan singer. She performs traditional Tibetan songs and popular Tibetan music.

  Local residents, Bill and Nora Duckworth, first met Dadon in Ithaca, New York, at Cornell University where she was performing and participating in the "March for Free Tibet." Both Bill and Nora were very impressed by her beautiful singing and her talent as well as her heart rendering commitment to helping the people of her country. Our own organization, the Western Colorado Friends of Tibet, has worked with Dadon for several years to bring her to Montrose for a concert and to share her life with the wonderful people in our own community. As Bill and Nora and their Tibetan daughter, Jigchen Tso and Sonam Palmo and Nima Sherpa all realize, Montrose, Colorado, is very much like the home of Tibetans and Sherpas and it is very exciting and fulfilling to bring this well known performer to Montrose to "come home" to a community much like her own and share her beautiful singing and her heartwarming love for her people with the wonderful people of Montrose.

  This is truly a wonderful opportunity both for our community and for this wonderful performer to share their "homes" with one another and to share with one of the world's best performers in a night of sharing love and caring for a people and a country who have suffered far too long and too much. We invite you to come to this marvelous concert and program and participate in this heartwarming experience. This promises to be one of the most memorable concert events ever in Western Colorado.

  For tickets (all tickets will sell at $10.00) and information, please feel free to contact Fred and Kim Schmidt at 970-249-8000 or Bill and Nora Duckworth at 970-240-4197 in Montrose, Colorado. Tickets will also be available, while they last, in stores in Montrose, Grand Junction, Telluride, Delta, and Ridgway. We are also seeking sponsorships from persons, businesses, and organizations truly interested in helping in this event.

Back to Top

New Location for Friday Night Forum

Whole Life Network Release

  Wind Spirit Gifts is moving across Main Street to 525 East Main (next to Hartman Brothers). So the Friday Night Forum venue is moving right along with Kim and Wind Spirit to her new location. When you come to participate in the May presentations, just remember that the new location is across the street; you can't miss it. In the new location we have scheduled a great lineup of subjects for you to explore with our volunteer presenters, as always, absolutely free to the public. Bring a neighbor or friend. Come early and browse among the bamboo plants, fountains, crystals, candles and wind chimes. Visit with your friends and fellow members of The Whole Life Network. In this network, you won't be a stranger for long.

  Do you have a subject on which you want to be heard? We plan to schedule one of these free-to-the-public presentations every other week all year long. To have your "Forum" reserved for you, just call Jody at 240-0234. For a great evening out, come to the Friday Night Forum.

At Wind Spirit Gifts - 525 E. Main St., Montrose
Friday - May 14th at 6:00 P.M. Ann and Bill Sayers "Crystals and Stones: Experiencing the Energy"
  Ann and Bill have studied the properties and magic of the "stone people" and have experienced matching people to the right rock in their business lives. You will learn to feel the energy of different types and shapes of stones. You will be handling many different crystals/stones and discussing the properties/uses in healing, emotional release, energy movement, etc.

At Wind Spirit Gifts - 525 E. Main St., Montrose
Friday - May 28th at 6:00 P.M. Warren Cotts "Native American Spirituality - The Natural Way"
  Warren Cotts is a local resident whose heritage and instinct has led him to spend years investigating the ways of the original residents of our land. Why did the native American content that "we are all related"? Warren will explain the basic beliefs of our North American ancestors and how so many of these beliefs parallel the teachings of the world's major religions.

At Wind Spirit Gifts - 525 E. Main St., Montrose
Friday - June 11th at 6:00 P.M. Back by Great Demand - Robert Gulick The Matrix: Sacred Geometry and the Principles for the Design of Worlds Part 2
  In the synthesis of the ancient wisdom and the new physics a sacred science emerges that provides the keys to coding of the multi-dimensional nature of reality, being and consciousness. This fundamental coding, written in a Language of Light of number and geometry, is the Matrix. This presentation will explore aspects of the matrix and the relationship of mind, energy and form in traditions and science, seeking to understand the architecture of multi-dimensional reality and the map of the paths of return.

Back to Top

Remembering Aztlán

A Column of Poetry, Culture & Spirit by Art Goodtimes

Exploring Ancient Chinese Wisdom With A Local Scholar

BRAD HATCHER … As luck would have it, I ran into Bradford, whom I hadn't seen in quite some time, at the Cimarron Bookstore and Coffeehouse (one of my favorite on-the-road stops) in Ridgway last week. I told him about finding his manuscript buried in my things, and my starting on the new lifetime task of translating Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, using his brilliant exegesis as aide. That's when he told me he had a website, open to all … www.hermetica.info … And a most amazing site it is. Certainly there are many documents, fully downloadable, that comprise an amazing examination of the Yijing (formerly the I Ching or Book of Changes) and the Dao De Jing by a great scholar of language, who makes no such claim, but is fully deserving of that title … Here is just the first paragraph of his 53-page Introduction to the I Ching … "Welcome to the world's oldest unsolved Chinese puzzle. By the time you are done here it will still be unsolved. This little book, which in Chinese fits onto less than forty pages, has been teasing and tormenting scholars for thousands of years, and translators for centuries. Many more than ten thousand lifetimes have been spent in its study. Over the centuries it has been consulted more often than the Bible, the Koran or the Vedas, and been read more often than Shakespeare or Homer. Yet it neither lays down a law nor tells a story. What is it?" … And there are hundreds and hundreds of more pages in various documents detailing the history, notes on the translations, problems with academia, variations of the hexagrams, etc. If you are a student of the Book of Changes or Lao Zi, or use them as divination tools or reference works of wisdom, as people have been doing for centuries, studying Brad's site is a must. And even if you aren't, the site is fascinating just to wander around in … Indeed, the Book of Changes and the I Ching aren't the only texts that Brad investigates. In progress are a Thesaurus of Occult Linguistics, Notes for the Next Constitution (in the spirit of Jefferson, looking towards a new Constitutional Convention), and a Summary of Theravada Buddhist Doctrine (for which there is a draft outline) … Personally I've had the pleasure of knowing Brad since I came to the area some 25 years ago. It's hard to believe that such an unassuming person could have such incredible learning at his fingertips and would, as he has now done, turn it over freely to the people rather than hoard it into expensive books. I consider him among the most brilliant individuals now living and working in the San Juans. May he be honored as such.

GRAND JUNCTION … It was a first chance to see the wide field of political candidates for the U.S. Representative seat that Scott McInnis is vacating at Club 20's spring meeting in March. For the Democrats, Grand Junction Mayor Jim Spehar was very impressive, with a wide command of the issues, a good speaking voice and a strong liberal bent. Front-runner State Rep. John Salazar stumbled in his opening speech, and was not as nimble on his feet in the ensuing debate … On the Republican side, former Club 20 chair and retired State Natural Resources Greg Walcher was still the frontrunner, skillfully working the crowd with humor and a very conservative agenda. State Rep. Matt Smith, Scotty's brother-in-law, spoke well and had a good grasp of the issues .. Of course there are three of four more candidates in each party in the crowded field for this newly opened seat … Enviros were in strong attendance at the meeting of what used to be strictly a good old boys (and girls) booster club for industry. But no more. In fact, Grand Junction's Daily Sentinel trumpeting the new diversity as the front page headlines for its March 21st issue … And the Progressive Caucus that we've started in Club 20 had its first meeting and will be working hard to start making liberal waves in what used to be a of conservative thinking. The times are a-changin'.

EQUINOX … It was kind of depressing to celebrate this great earth festival back in March, the beginning of spring, and the start of yet another cycle of the seasons, knowing that it was also the one-year anniversary of the Second Gulf War … But it was wonderful to hear that Michael Franti and others were marking that dolorous date in Telluride … I was stuck in Grand Junction at the annual Club 20 Spring Meeting, although I got to attend the March 20 peace rally in Lincoln Park, drum in the trees, and read Judyth Hill's internationally celebrated poem, "Wage Peace", to the couple hundred Junction peaceniks in attendance.

QUOTE ME … The dangerous patriot: "The one who drifts into chauvinism and exhibits blind enthusiasm for military actions. He is a defender of militarism and its ideals of war and glory. Chauvinism is a proud and bellicose form of patriotism … which identifies numerous enemies who can only be dealt with through military power and which equates the national honor with military victory." … Marine Corps, Colonel James A. Donovan.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY? … In February, the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) sent Governor Owens a four-page list of possible criminal justice reforms that could reduce the prison population, save money, and protect public safety. Along with the list of ideas, the JBC asked the governor to identify any proposals he could support … On February 27, Dr. Nancy McCallin (the director of the Governor's Office of State Planning and Budgeting) presented the JBC with Gov. Owens' response, which said he would not support any effort to reduce the prison population. Ignoring the vast numbers of drug offenders who are currently in Colorado prisons, the letter plays up "assault, rape and murder" from and mentions several statistics, either taken out of context or from discredited research … And Colorado's budget deficit continues to mount … www.ccjrc.org

SPEAKING OF RESPONSIBILITY … As if the lies about Iraq weren't enough, now we find out the Bush administration has lied about the costs of the prescription drug Medicare benefit bill that his party was able to squeak though Congress. Another scandal of covering up the truth. How long will this nation put up with such mendacity?

WITHIN THE NATURAL BOUNDS … Mary Mitsos, Bruce Towl and Penny Frazier of the National Network of Forest Practitioners are preparing for the annual NNFP meeting in Ouray this fall. The themes of Restoration, Collaboration and Responsibility will be the three legs of the NNFP footstool at the conference. And here's what the NNFP trio have written up so far, regarding Responsibility … "The underlying struggle is between people wanting to live well and the need to live within the means of nature. The problem is that living well is currently secured through continually increasing supplies, but the ecological capacity to provide these supplies is limited. Also, without the integrity of the ecological capacity, the provision for human life is put at risk."

Back to Top

How It Started

by Don Bailey

  Fifteen years ago - how many lifetimes ago was that - it seems like many! I do recall Becky Lindsay called about some group she was organizing. Becky, I, and several others had just finished Life Spring (a self realization training) and certainly felt supportive. "If it's meant to be - it's up to me". I liked the idea of serving on a board and, of course, had no idea what an important part of my life the WLN would become. I was studying "A Course in Miracles" and studying with my first spiritual teacher, feeling very "out there" and New Age especially being a preacher's kid. At that time, for Montrose - a very conservative agricultural community - the idea of the WLN was way out there and did push a lot of buttons. I lasted the first year or so, the slow time of organizations, putting together by-laws, 501(c)(3), etc. and then I drifted off.

  In 1992, I was invited to the annual retreat in Ouray and quickly got involved. Lots of momentum at that time with two successful symposiums and Deepak Chopra on the way. I served for a year or so then served as president for two years, hiring Christine Knight - an awesome lady and our first and last paid director. During this time we hosted Ken Ring on Near Death Experiences and then Larry Dossey Power of Prayer and "lost our shirts" financially.

  Jane Leyva stepped in and I stepped out, just observing for a few years knowing I was complete. Then at a WLN annual meeting at the home of my neighbor and dear friend Roland Holzwarth, here we are around a campfire talking about me coming back as President for the next year. What a year it was in so many ways. That fall, Peter Russell blew me away, a brilliant scientist that could speak simply from his heart. One of my favorite memories is sharing wine and laughter with him after the symposium. I served one more year as treasurer and knew I was complete, with others very capable and ready.

  Serving and letting go so pushed every button I had, we laughed, we cried, we grew and WLN continues to grow. I always saw the WLN as being it's own divine entity, greater than any one person. The WLN continues through all the ups and downs, and I give thanks to all the many people who have served and who are presently serving. I also give thanks for the many fine people who I have met through the WLN, and especially those relationships that feel like family.

  Today, especially since 9/11, I am attempting to listen to that still, small voice as to how I can make some positive difference in the world while maintaining some degree of sanity and humor - the blessing of our 5 year old Annie, the strength of my son Noel, a beautiful young man at 22, my wonderful wife Ellen, plus an ever-growing family of conscious neighbors and friends.

  Joyous Blessings, Mitakuye Oyasin

(Editors Note: In 2004, The Whole Life Network celebrates fifteen years of service to our community. This article is the fifth in a series written by our founders, the original members of the Board of Directors of The Whole Life Network. We honor Don Bailey, husband, father, business man and "cool conscious dude".)

Back to Top

ReConnections: A Look Back

The heritage of The Whole Life Network from the pages of Connections.

1 Year Ago **"Back by Popular Demand may be really trite, but the literal translation of the familiar saying really applies to The Whole Life Network's speaker series, Friday Night Forum. Beginning May 16th and every Friday night after, you can catch presentations from some of the Western Slope's most respected teachers, healers and spiritual leaders during the Whole Life Network Friday Night Forum."
  **Alan Joel's advice on warm weather, "Keep in mind that the foods we eat and the beverages we drink, all have varying effects on us and our internal temperature. For that reason, in warm or hot weather times, it is useful to cut down on heavy proteins in our diet and emphasize raw foods, natural juices and lightly steamed methods of cooking."

5 Years Ago **"Enthusiasm and anticipation is building for Montrose's first WLN May Day Festival. This event, to be held at Riverbottom Park, promises to be a day full of fun, magic, music and dancing. The Whole Life Network and KVNF are presenting this as a benefit for Youth Central, and as an opportunity for all of us to come out and play and celebrate Spring."
  **Kate Clifford comments on Y2K,"For the past three months or so, I have been seriously looking into the nature and possibilities of the Y2K computer issue. It has been a fascinating process on many levels and has lead me toward an understanding of the potential for many exciting and long overdue changes to take place in our individual and communal lives."

10 Years Ago **"The Whole Life Network is pleased to announce the opening of our first "official" office. The office is located at 307 E. Main St." (Editor's note: It still is!)
  **Dee Gallenbeck reported, "This national conference on the topic of death and consciousness is exciting to see as we prepare for The Whole Life Network's 1994 Symposium with Dr. Kenneth Ring, a nationally recognized expert on Near Death Experiences."

Back to Top

Peaceful Contributions for the Soul

by Kathy Gates

A daily reflection meditation

  This is a time of year for new beginnings and new life. When the earth is in spring all of life seems to be bursting forth with new energy. Animals bear their young and begin to teach them.

  Human's are a lot like nature in spring as well. Bursting with enthusiasm, energy and willingness to try as many new things as they can. It is a magical time both for earth and humans. When incredible energy is available for growth on all levels. (Do not drive while meditating)

  Get yourself comfortable, and relax, let go of time for a moment. By focusing on your breath, moving in and out of your body. Feel it come in and blow it out gently. Do this, letting go of any stress for several minutes until you feel at ease.

  Begin this daily reflection:

  Imagine what the world would be like if we would all take our steps each day this way. Open yourself up to an idea of healthy thoughts. Activate the beauty within. Invite harmony into your life. Each of us can make a difference. Now go back to focusing on your breath and be glad you are alive. Remember the beauty and energy the spring brings us, be glad in it.

  More on meditation to come ..

(Workshops for May-Sun Bears Visions Saturdays-1st, 8th, and 29th from 10am to 2pm bring a sack lunch $10; Join us June 4-6 for a retreat - Writing from Spirit-a journey to your inner self, self discovery through nature. Space is limited Call for additional info. Kathy Gates may be contacted at Women's Spirit Retreat, (970)856-7665)

Back to Top

Letters to the Editor of Connections

The Naked Truth

Letter To The Editor:
  I was trying to convince myself that I did not need to spend this $20 (for membership). Then I received the April issue and read "Naked" by Dr. Jerry Overton and I scanned the rest of this wonderful publication and I wondered what the question was about. Keep on doing and being and growing as you have been. You are doing great!
/s/ Cher Hanssen, West Stockbridge, Massachusetts

CARES Working!

Dear Editor:
  Participation in CARES is paying dividends. We just received a check for $192. This is up from about $170 per quarter. We owe Pauline Crespin, WLN Secretary, our thanks for seeing to the administration of this program and we should set our intention to improve to $1000 per year.
/s/ Larry Lemser, WLN Treasurer