Jesus.Sufi.Yoga.

Three "things" have had a big impact on my spiritual development:

1. Jesus

2. Sufism

3. Yoga (and meditation)

Jesus hung out with the outcasts, the untouchables, the not populars, and showed them love. I want to do the same. Walking with Jesus brings a freedom that is hard to explain--a deep sense of peace. The experience is powerful.

I was attracted to Sufism initially through Rumi--who speaks of love so powerful, almost drunken quality. Something of a drug, but with side effects a bit more positive. In Boston I was part of a Sufi house. I felt a deep acceptance in those people--no facade, no fakeness, an authentic way of being. Sufis also dance. I like to dance. Dance with the drunkards as you walk along the path.

If my body is a temple, then I have found yoga to make my temple long, strong, calm, peaceful, and full of vitality. I teach yoga because I feel it will have similar beneficial effects for others if practiced on a regular basis. For me, yoga is a way to sharpen the tool (or tune my instrument) to continue the work that I am called to.

Meditation is a way for me to "swim in the deep ocean," meaning deep and peaceful. I struggle with sitting still, so it will take much patience and practice. Yoga relaxes my muscles enough (usually) to allow me to sit still in meditation. The sitting in stillness is a good balance to the constant movement of the day.

I was raised a Christian, but the Sufi and yoga thing fall outside the Christian "box." Oh well. That's why I'm not a pastor. Well,  not yet. The new consciousness arises. For me, a blending. I have found this to be effective.

In the end, all that remains is Love.

I listen to KLove radio

I listen to Imago Dei sermons

I listen to First Lutheran pastor

I read Sufi Magazine

I read Portland Magazine (University of Portland)

I read the Sun Magazine

I pray (sorry no web site for that one)