Peace Passion Positivity

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2011-02-27T14:27:00.000-08:00

Living by the Spirit

2010-08-22T11:29:00.001-07:00

Living by the Spirit is a new, but timeless, entrancing, yet grounding way to live. It is a sophisticated, yet unassuming, transcendent, yet balancing experience to be had everyday. Living this way is elegant, yet accessible, authentic, evocative and in the moment. It develops within you an unobtrusive, unprecedented sense of power and entitlement to all of life's rich blessings.

It used to be that living according to this manner was more hidden and secluded and not so culturally acceptable. Formerly, the spiritual life was often associated with ascetics and yogi's living in the forest, or in caves and with saints or holy men/women wandering from place to place. More recently in the past few centuries, it has often been associated with monks living in monasteries, or nuns in convents.

Times are changing now it appears. Living by the Spirit is becoming a more trendy and culturally acceptable way of life, as many younger and older people alike are searching for a more genuine, inner, spiritual experience, a more fulfilling experience of life. It's quite apparent that many people are feeling the need to get back in touch with their sacred selves. Yoga, meditation and tai chi centers are popping up all around the country, as many people are reaping the benefits these ancient practices have to offer.

Religion is also changing as many barriers between race and religion are crumbling down. A lot more people it seems are becoming more interested in the inner, spiritual experience, rather than the outer, religious experience. Faith is inner, personal and reassuring. In your heart and soul is a cavern where the beloved can meet you each and everyday for communion. There is also a fountain of living waters that nourishes the deepest parts of you, whenever you drink from it. You don't have to go to a tabernacle, mosque or temple to feel swept away by God's holy, mesmerizing presence. True, spiritual experience is oftentimes simpler than that. It's about going within yourself for illumination, inspiration and enlightenment, knowing the God of the universe is a part of and connected to your very being. It's totally about the inner connection you keep to this sustaining force of life and not so much about only performing the outward rituals and going to worship services once or twice a week. Real spiritual living is about devotion, dedication, giving in, surrendering to the force that can and will change and re-design you for optimal life performance and experience.

This new, yet timeless way of living is Living by the Spirit. It is learning to live from your heart and soul, rather than solely from your intellect. It is learning to be a more integrated, attuned human, spiritual being. It is learning to trust your inner promptings and listen to the subtle, still, small voice within for constant guidance and direction. This way of living is also learning to trust that things in your life are working out precisely how they need to for the unfolding of your soul and spiritual journey. It is learning how to incorporate spirituality into ALL aspects of your daily life. Before you make any plans for each day, take time to pray and meditate and seek spirit's guidance. Always ask for wisdom and necessary guidance in planning your day and events, then listen to any whisperings or inclinations you feel. And then trust and follow the wisdom your given.

Living in the Spirit is exciting and mesmerizing. You get intuitions or hunches about things, a lot of coincidental events start occurring, mysterious people and things start showing up at just the right time and your energy and insight increases. You become more enlivened and life takes on a different hue. You begin to see and experience the world differently. Life becomes rejuvenating, impeccably fulfilling, an unforgettable journey, as stars align and point you the direction you need to go. It is like opening the door to the possibility of spirit's magic and mystery operating in your life. We can either let in, or shut out this magic. When you choose to let it in, your soul catches on fire and colorful passion begins circulating joyously through your being, brightening ALL aspects of your life experience. When you let in and live by the spirit, life becomes captivating, enthralling, riveting, a joyous dance and miraculous adventure.

Copyright Justin Topik, Peace Passion Positivity 2011

Reclaiming Your Inner Artist

2010-08-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a creative spark, a creative genius, or well of creative juice to draw from. And though, not everyone is meant to be a Michelangelo or a Rembrandt, creativity is still a vitally, important part of every one's overall well-being. The need to create is almost an inborn desire, as is apparent in most children. They are so utterly passionate about expressing their creativity, it is quite enjoyable to observe. Kids little minds are just racing with thoughts and ideas. They are so uninhibited in expressing themselves. And they are so in touch with the magical realm of spirit, where all inspiration originates.

Creativity comes in several shapes and sizes. There are a multitude of ways of expressing it and Reclaiming Your Inner Artist. Some of these include: writing poetry, drawing, painting, wood working, decorating, creating plays or musicals, landscaping, pottery, glass blowing, song-writing, dancing, creating or designing products, making inventions, or just simply using your imagination. These are all ways to get in touch with your inner artist, bring it to life, keep it alive, and to help keep that inner spark burning. Each creative expression takes you deeper into an enchanted realm of alluring beauty and magic, a realm that beckons to you, to return to it often, for its life giving essence. Shutting yourself off from this realm, is shutting yourself off from a major source of joy, passion, inspiration and enthusiasm.

In today's world, it is quite easy to lose touch with our inner artist. We live in such a dominated, left brained, analytical society, so a lot of us unhealthily repress, or completely starve our creative selves. We do this to try and fit in, or gain acceptance. All the while, the right brain, or creative, intuitive, side of ourselves is oftentimes screaming out for attention, for recognition. In many of us, ignoring the artistic side of ourselves, creates an emptiness, a lack of expression and can even lead to depression. I was definitely one of those who fell into this category. In my early teens, I got to a point where all of a sudden, I was overcome with an immense amount of darkness and despair, as depression loomed heavily over my being. Looking back now, after I was able to get beyond this phase, or work through it, I really feel it had to do with me being bogged down and bottled up with repressed emotions and unexpressed creativity. These things I had tried so hard to stuff down, trying to fit in desperately, ignoring my inner urges. But, after going through a lot of counseling, I learned to express my true, deep seated emotions. I also started exercising my creative longings by writing music and poetry. Somehow, with the grace of spirit, I managed to heal a broken part of myself, tap into a great, spiritual source and unplug the flow of my inner artist. I was able to re-awaken this glorious part of myself, after feeling stuck in a deep rut for many years.

Embracing your creative side is a simply, delightful way to live. Not embracing it however, leads to stagnation, restlessness, boredom and a sour, unfulfilled life. There are two paths waiting up ahead for you right this moment. One leads to integration, wholeness, a sense of belonging and completeness. The other winds and winds, and has many ruts and potholes you might fall in, if you're not careful. If you traverse only this second path mentioned alone, it will never fulfill your inner longings. The wise traveler learns to walk both paths for the splendid fruit they both provide, knowing sooner or later, both paths will merge into one, spectacular, brilliant, illuminated destination. Reclaiming Your Inner Artist is returing to authentic power and reclaiming all parts of your gloriously, created being.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Embracing the Space Between

2010-08-09T19:13:00.001-07:00

There are times in life when you may feel alone or confused, not knowing what to do, or where to go next. Usually this happens when you are going through some type of a transition. Your life may even feel frozen in time for a season. Take heart though my friend, this too is part of the journey. Life is synonymous with change and change is unavoidable. But, that doesn't mean it is always easy. On the contrary, change is oftentimes downright scary and can be a real, uprooting experience. Change of any sort can be quite unsettling and unnerving. But, a vital part of life and necessary ingredient for spiritual, mental and emotional growth, is learning to be content wherever you are, or whatever you are going through. Sometimes accepting the moment, or place we are in, whatever that place or situation may be, is part of the journey, whether we like it or not.

Until we learn to be content in any situation, we are unsteady and not well grounded. Part of maturity is becoming more steady and constant emotionally and spiritually. There is a nice quote from the Bhagavad Gita that really fits here, "When a man has mastered himself, he is perfectly at ease in cold, in heat, in pleasure or pain, in honor or disgrace. The mature man, fulfilled in wisdom, resolute, looks with equal detachment at a lump of dirt, a rock, or a piece of gold." It also says in a different passage, "Wise men do not rejoice in good fortune; they do not lament at bad fortune." These quotes both signify to me, true wisdom is synonymous with acceptance, detachment and being content with whatever life throws your way.

Life is a journey of traversing many different landscapes. There will be deserts you must cross, flowing waterfalls to revel and bask in, towering mountains to conquer, meandering valleys to wander aimlessly in, fascinating seas to sail and confusing, frightening jungles to walk through. You cannot just be happy when everything is going your way, or when life is all as they say, "smooth sailing." Whether you are between relationships or jobs, about to get married, or going through a divorce, transitioning through different life phases, getting ready to start a new business venture, about to make a move to a different location, preparing for graduation, or whatever the case, Embracing the Space Between is a very important and necessary step for growth and development. Any changes of the above mentioned things are not always gonna be easy. But, in enduring them, you are growing wisdom and understanding, also acceptance is growing within you, adding a new dimension to the canvas being painted by your life experience.

Real life mastery comes not only in accepting the changes life dishes out to you, but rather in embracing them all. Honoring each and every phase of your journey as a part of the total spectrum, only enriches your life experience. The value in Embracing the Space Between, is that it forces you to really go deep within yourself for guidance and wisdom. Also, sometimes when you fall to your knees in desperation, it can help you develop a richness of spirit, by aiding you to surrender to a higher power, to trust and accept what you cannot always see with your eyes, heart and mind. Part of this surrendering, trust developing process is learning or accepting that just maybe there is a reason for the space you are experiencing. Maybe you need the space between for healing, to find yourself again, to get your life back together, or to pick up the pieces and move on from a draining, or destructive life situation. Whatever the case, it is what it is and the space between is not good or bad, only new life experience adding valuable dimensions to your life palette.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

The Most Important Face of Success

2010-08-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

There are many different faces of success. Some of these include assertiveness, a positive attitude, feeling deserving and worthy of success, having confidence in your abilities, being resourceful and somewhat of a risk taker, exhibiting perseverance, focus, dedication and maintaining a vivid mental vision. And while all of these are highly important and necessary ingredients of any success for sure, there is one that far outweighs the others in terms of major importance. In my opinion and life experience, The Most Important Face of Success is by far, attitude. In success, attitude is more important than ability, strength or talent, for there are many, highly capable and talented people standing in the bleachers, watching the game as spectators in the game of life.

The thing is, talented people are all over the place, in every town and walk of life. I'm sure you probably even know some incredibly gifted, clever people in your own group of friends and acquaintances. Maybe you are one of them? Yet, we all know, talent alone is not enough to guarantee real, genuine success. There are many incredibly talented people who are unable to see their own unique gifts, talents or aptitudes, or maybe they just don't have the right mental attitudes? It could also be they're just afraid of rejection. Whatever the case, those who achieve success in any area of life share one thing in common, they have to have the right mental attitudes. They take the bit of raw talent they have, and combine it with an unstoppable attitude, and a great amount of perseverance. I want to make sure you understand though, in referring to achieving success here, I'm not referring to being super, mega rich, or having the biggest, highest house on the hill, but rather in creating and living the life you want for yourself and living in and fulfilling your dreams.

The point is, you can have anything you want in life, if you're willing to go out there and get it. If you are willing to put on this mega important face of success called a positive attitude, you are committed and dedicated enough to a cause, you know how to use your will power and you are willing to really throw yourself into the game, there is nothing you cannot do, be or have, period... Of course you do have to a decent amount of talent to begin with for sure. An important side note here though, is some of history's greatest successes were not necessarily the most talented. If you wanna play in the game of life, you have to show up with the right game face on. And unless you bring the right attitude, you will literally defeat yourself before you even get into the arena. A proper attitude is that important.

Success takes putting on many important faces. It also takes making a firm vow to yourself that you are worthy and deserving of great things. It takes putting your intentions out there into the universe, practicing assertiveness in moving toward the things you most desire. Real success is something that starts inside you right NOW. It starts with you believing in yourself, even when others may not. It starts with you believing you can achieve WHATEVER you set your mind to. It takes looking up at a mountain, lacing up your shoes and beginning the journey, even though you may not be 100% ready. It is having complete, inner faith and confidence that once you start the climb, you will find or attract what you need for each phase of the journey. More than all of these things though, succeeding takes putting on The Most Important Face of Success, which is a positive attitude- a monumental force that makes a big difference.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Light up Your Life

2010-07-28T19:18:00.001-07:00

What if you had the power to boost your energy level to much greater heights, or turn your entire life experience level up a few notches right now? What if you could turn on the lights (metaphorically speaking) and truly Light up Your Life brighter than you ever thought or dreamt was possible? Imagine if you had the ability to get more out of life than you ever deemed possible? What if you could turn the ordinary into extraordinary, the dull into exotic and the drab and boring into an exploding sense of rich passion? What if you could spice up the flavor of your life starting now?

Well what are you waiting for? Inside of you, there is a switch to help you do all of the above mentioned things and more. All you have to do is find it and turn it on. Once you flip the switch, you will turn on the magic. Then, the brightness of your new life that comes shining forth, will more than mystify, more than electrify you. This is something you can do at any given moment of your life. The thing is, we were meant to live in heightened states, to live inside of the mystery, the enchantment of the spiritual dimension, not outside of it. Yet, most of the time, we tune this very essence out and ignore the very presence that enlivens and awakens the very best in us. We also ignore the very powers that give us our radiance and wings to soar. We let the sleeping giant within us stay slumbering, while he is constantly beckoning us to wake him up, and let him out of his cage, so he can let his mighty power roar.

So right about now, you are probably thinking, 'OK this all sounds nice, but just how do I go about doing this?' Great question, and the answer is, there is an infinite energy source inside your body that you have the ability to tap into anytime. It is often referred to as Shakti, Kundalini, Chi, Dao and Prana in various world religions. It's an energy source that once your tap into, or turn on, your life actually comes alive, or enlivened, thus everything becomes brighter, more magnified. Besides tapping into this source though, there are several other things you can do which can also help you Light up Your Life as well. Some of these things include:

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (live foods)
Taking herbs for energy (ginseng, guarana, gotu kola)
Getting adequate cardiovascular exercise
Practicing positive thinking and maintaining a positive focus
Associating with enlivened or high energy people
Doing the things that help you feel more alive and connected to source

In a nutshell, anything which helps you tune into higher energy frequencies, will help you to Light up Your Life. You have the power right now to live a more colorful, brighter and richer life experience. You only need to activate the latent energies of this source within, or turn on the light switch. Then you must find ways to keep the energy or prana circulating and flowing smoothly and unblocked. When you learn to tap into the wealthy reserves of this powerful energy force and to keep your spiritual energy high, and also to maintain a positive focus and incorporate a diet of fresh, living foods, be prepared for your life to light up and for the world around you to brighten as well. And remember, all it takes is one torch burning brightly to light thousands, even millions of other torches. As you Light up Your Life, you will light up the world around you too. Sparks sometimes create big fires!

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Savor the Journey

2010-06-21T18:45:00.000-07:00

Life is a wondrous journey to be celebrated, appreciated and savored. It won't last forever. It's not a final destination, but this moment too, is a part of eternity. It's important to acknowledge, understand and accept that we are having a temporal experience upon this earth and that all things temporal cease to exist, come to an end, but continue onward. We have to look at, come face to face with our own temporality. We also need to remember as Einstein once said, "Energy is neither created or destroyed, it only changes form." We are souls in motion, constantly progressing, re-creating ourselves anew each and everyday. All life continues upward and onward. Walt Whitman wrote in his beautiful poem Song of Myself, "Do you see Oh my brothers and sisters? It is not chaos or death--it is form, union, plan--it is eternal life--it is happiness." He understood that life goes on.

Even though our time on earth is temporal, that doesn't make it any less magnificent. It's still a beautiful and amazing ride. We need to celebrate the preciousness of life and rejoice while on this glorious earth and yet, still keep our eyes on eternity. We cannot control the number of days we're given. Only God knows our timetables. We can however choose to revel in the glories of life and seize the days were given. We can choose to never take a moment, person, gift or opportunity for granted. We can take it all in, relishing the deliciousness of life's gifts. When you eat a lavish meal, drink an expensive glass of wine or champagne, enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee, you naturally desire to take your time, getting the full taste. Savoring life is just the same. We oftentimes get so caught up in the busyness of it all, without taking the time to slow down and smell the flowers intoxicating aroma. It is in taking time to slow down and Savor the Journey though, that the essence of life's sweetness, life's absolute, amazingness is captured, and is experienced.

Basking in the glory of life is the privilege and honor of every living being. Appreciating the beauty, wonder and awe of life, as well as honoring the forces of nature that have conspired to bring us all into existence, uplifts and refreshes the human spirit. No matter how you look at it, life is a magnificently, splendid, exuberant experience, so live it up, savor the flavor of life, Savor the Journey.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

The Glue That Holds it All Together

2010-06-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Imagine that there was a glue you could use to hold all the various aspects of your life together in a harmonious unison. And this glue could also help you be more integrated and balanced in mind, body and spirit. It could help you stay more grounded and calm in any situation, which could alleviate much stress, worry and anxiety from your life. Now imagine this glue was absolutely free, a gift from the beloved, to those who would just reach out and take it from the supply room of infinite resources. Maybe this all sounds too good to be true?

Well allow me to share with you a great secret that has revolutionized my life and may help revolutionize yours as well. There IS a magical glue that CAN do all of the above mentioned things and more... Somewhere down through history, mystics, yogi's, ascetics, great saints, holy men and women have learned there are great physical benefits to cultivating peace and inner harmony, not only spiritual benefits. By accessing deep spiritual wells of knowledge and also by calming the mind, body and soul through the ancient practices of yoga, tai chi, chi gong and meditation, a healing balm is awakened and activated. This source then becomes a great inner remedy for naturally relieving stress and anxiety. Yoga, tai chi, chi gong and meditation have all been scientifically documented from countless sources to be able to help lower blood pressure, counteract stress, and provide a more concentrated, enhanced ability to focus. You too can excavate and use this healing balm to bring about more peace and harmony, more inner and outer balance in your own life. You can reap the benefits of these ancient practices and mine the rich treasures in your extravagantly abundant soul!

For me, living close to spirit is a way of life I will NEVER stray from, because it truly is the glue that holds everything together for me. I would be lost without the grace, inner peace and soul sustenance I receive from my daily practices and devotion. These things keep me from falling apart, or coming undone. When you keep first things first and stay in harmony with your maker, there is a peace, a stillness, an assurance that comes over you, calms your mind and soul, descends upon you, takes you over and reminds you all is well, that God is operating in this universe and in your universe as well. There is a scripture from the Bible I treasure and live by, "He is before all things, and in him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:17). The power of the soul is beyond any drug, any artificial substance. There is no substitute for this elixir, this presence which holds everything together.

There is a Christian song by Fee titled: Everything Falls. It's a powerful song and message. The chorus goes:

"When everything falls apart, your arms hold me together,
when everything falls apart, you're the only hope for this heart,
when everything falls apart, and my strength is gone,
I find you mighty and strong, you keep holding on, you keep holding on."

God's love, grace and presence is just like that-a glue so to speak. The glue mentioned here is of course just a metaphor, but it is real nonetheless, because whenever I get out of touch with my source, stress, anxiety, and mental agitation come back without fail. It's too easy to neglect or forget The Glue that Holds it All Together. We get busy. We get flustered and overwhelmed, but as Thoreau once said, "It's not enough to be busy. So are the ants. The question is: what are we busy about?" Making time for cultivating peace and harmony, for deepening your spiritual connection is something that only helps you feel more alive, compassionate, insightful, intuitive and more connected to all of creation. So why neglect this aspect of your life?

Whenever life pulls at you, breaks you down, or rips your world apart, remember there is a safe haven you can go to, to hide from the storms and there IS a magical glue that CAN and WILL help you keep it all together.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Make Miracles Happen

2010-06-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

If only people knew what they were capable of, they would astound themselves literally. We cling to security, to the known, paved paths, the way things should be, or to the way things have always been done so rigidly, all too often sacrificing a more rich and rewarding experience of life, which is often times lurking right around the corner. We so often sell ourselves short, without even knowing, or being aware we are doing it. I'm sure you've had the experience of coming across someone whom you felt displayed remarkable, soulful qualities, or who had an exuberant personality that you could clearly see was settling for far less than they deserved. And it's not that you were necessarily judging this person, rather you just saw aptitudes or personality traits in them maybe they themselves didn't even know they possessed. Whatever it was, you caught a glimpse of their inner radiance, charisma or charm. You could see genius or brilliance in them.

We all fall prey to settling for less than we deserve from time to time. Maybe you have even been guilty of this yourself? I know I sure have more than I would care to admit. The question is why do we do it? I think sometimes we forget our inherent worthiness, our innate greatness and just how capable and resourceful we really are. We can also lose sight of our phenomenal ability to fashion ourselves, to artfully and craftfully design our lives, and of the ability we have to change virtually any aspect of our lives. We forget that our capabilities are remarkable and transcendental, that we were created by a force that knows no limits, has no boundaries, who only sees possibilities and opportunities.

It is so incredibly easy to get caught up in the loop of making a living. We can quickly lose sight of the fact that we hold the keys to marvelous futures in our hands, that we set the stage, co-write, co-direct and play the leading roles in the movies of our lives. We sometimes forget that we can Make Miracles Happen and live lives of our own marvelous creations. How quickly we forget our own power to reclaim and redefine our lives at any given moment. It seems we're often afraid of the power we hold in our hands. It's like we have a magic wand in our hands that we're afraid to use, or maybe it's the effort we know we have to exert to have the lives we want and desire? Regardless, we forget we are part of the miracle, the creative force of life, that the same power which created the universe is lying dormant within us. We forget our sense of entitlement, our deserving nature, our rich heritage. So now is your chance, WAVE YOUR MAGIC WAND and get the magic flowing again that you have tried so hard to repress.

Sometimes it takes something inspiring to get you to break your bounds, to access inner wisdom and strength that may be timidly lying beneath the surface. It takes having an inspiring goal propelling you to dig deep and pull out the mighty, roaring lion inside of you. But, whatever it takes to awaken him, when you do, his strength, courage and ferocity will amaze you. We can all Make Miracles Happen if we're willing to use the God given keys in all of our pockets right now. So take the keys out, put them in the ignition of the vehicle of your grandest dreams, turn on the car and drive away into an enchanted land where you remember you are a great wizard and you can Make Miracles Happen!

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Winning the Game of Life

2010-06-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

When you think about Winning the Game of Life, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Let me guess... being the hero of the game, the captain of the team, the champion of a winning organization, the president of a multimillion dollar corporation, or being filthy rich and living in a glamorous mansion? Our culture inundates us with these beliefs at an early age. These images are plastered in our minds by television, magazine and radio ads. Don't get me wrong though, all these things are nice and there is nothing wrong with them per se, but it's obvious success and fame don't completely satisfy people, as we constantly watch so called famous and successful peoples lives blow up and fall apart after they have achieved massive success according to the worlds standards.

Sometimes you can win it all and still miss the mark. Winning the Game of Life is far more than being famous and achieving super, mega success. Sometimes it is the simple things like achieving contentment, joy and happiness too. I once heard a quote that said something to the effect of, " the measure of a mans success, is the measure of his happiness. " Personally I think someone who makes $30,000 a year doing what he or she loves, is much more successful than an overworked business man, doctor or lawyer who is making tons of money and hates their job. People can have all that stuff and still feel empty. Having stuff doesn't fill your soul. There is a song by Kanye West which is actually untitled where he says, "Do you think I sacrifice a real life for all the fame and flashing lights? It's like I'm looking for something out there. I turn on the TV and see me and see nothing." This song is a powerful reminder that all that glitters is not gold.

In my younger days, I did a lot of competitive running. I went to the Jr. Olympics, won box fulls of trophies and medals, but after a while, even this success didn't satisfy the hunger within. Just because I was winning athletic contests, I didn't feel I was necessarily Winning the Game of Life. There was still an emptiness within, so I decided to change course. I decided I wanted to win the game of life, to truly taste the thrill of victory at a soul level. I have since then discovered an entirely New Definition for Winning the Game of Life:

Being Victorious Over Self (Overcoming the Ego)
Achieving Inner Peace
Feeling Happy and Fulfilled Within
Being Anchored and Connected to the Life Source
Feeling Passionate and Enthusiastic About Life
Being a Team Player, Understanding Your Place in the Great Circle of Life and the Interconnectedness of All Things

Winning the Game of Life is a personal thing. Only you know if you are winning or losing. That's because success is different to different people. I will tell you though, the worlds view of success is highly overrated. You cannot measure your worth by that scale. We always think, I will be happy when I achieve this or that. But, it's not about the success we achieve, the $'s in your bank account, or treasures in your storehouse. To win at the game of life is about the worth and wealth you feel within, treasuring every moment as a gift and being fully present in every moment. You cannot experience true success without keeping God and family first in your life. I have observed true success in life comes from keeping God and family first ALWAYS.

Winning the Game of Life is about finding that rare and often ignored jewel called inner peace. In the Bhagavad Gita or Hindu holy book, it speaks of attaining this level of inner peace. It says, "Attaining this state, he knows that there is no higher attainment; he is rooted there unshaken even by the deepest sorrow." This my friends is the reward of all rewards. Worldly awards and accomplishments are nothing compared to this highly prized gift. If you have peace in your soul, a positive outlook on life, and you are living an animated life that you are in love with, you are most assuredly Winning the Game of Life. You are victorious. The trophy will be yours.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

The Relationship With Self

2010-05-10T20:34:00.000-07:00

The most important relationship any of us will ever have is not a relationship with another, but The Relationship With Self. I know NEWS FLASH right? This goes against a lot of things our media broadcasts to us daily. We are bombarded with many images and ideas which suggest being alone is bad, unacceptable and may even signify depression. Also, in our Western culture, we are taught to sacrifice our needs to please another, sometimes even at our own expense. We are oftentimes even made to feel guilty for making time for self nurture and self renewal. In a lot of ways, it seems we have it backwards. In the highest sense, you have to be happy, content and satisfied with yourself before you can ever be content and satisfied with another. As a society, we look to another to complete us, when a great secret I have found is, the satisfaction we are looking for in another must first be found within. I will go so far here to say that not until you find inner bliss, inner harmony and inner satisfaction in yourself, can it ever be experienced with another. Also with that being said, the more honor, value and respect you give your own self, the more you can honor, respect and appreciate another.

I was married for almost ten years to a lady who treated me with a great deal of disrespect and dishonor. She was ungrateful for me and showed me very little compassion a large portion of the time during our marriage. It did not matter how kind, loving, thoughtful or compassionate I was towards her, she could never appreciate me, but instead, always found things in our relationship to be unhappy about. The intriguing thing is, she was never really content and happy with her own self, which I think was a significant reason she could never be happy with me.

This type of thing is common in many relationships today too. I think part of where the problem stems from is that we live in an instant gratification, throw away society. We are not used to working for much anymore. Relationships with yourself and others require a lot of work, there is no denying that. So naturally, when relationships get tough, people bail. Not too many people it seems are content with themselves or what they have anymore, so they can never be happy or content in relationships as well. Until you are content on the inside, you will always feel like something is missing. You will always want more. The problem here is, when we feel an inadequacy on the inside, we often mistakenly start looking outside, as if there is something out there that can complete us. Unfortunately, like the search for the holy grail to give someone instant eternal life, the search for something outside of ourselves to complete us too is an illusion. If you are always discontent on the inside, nothing will ever satisfy you. And yet, on the other token, if you learn to be truly content on the inside, to stay happy and grounded, you will not need to look outside of yourself for that magic something to complete you. Instead, you will be able to give that magic something away to someone else.

In your time on this world, you will spend more time alone than with anyone else. Sooner or later, you had better learn to like and appreciate the company you keep. This may be accomplished through a multitude of ways including, but not limited to: journaling, soul searching, meditation, tai chi, yoga, prayer, getting massages, being artistic and creative, personal study, taking walks alone in nature, or plain just doing whatever it takes for you to stay in touch with your whole self. Part of establishing a relationship with self too, is learning your likes and dislikes, what you connect to and don't connect to.

Great relationships with others don't start with others. They start with the relationship you have or maintain with yourself in mind, body and spirit. Included in this, is the relationship you keep with your creator or higher power. Within each and everyone of us is a loving, magical, grand and powerful being...the atman or real self. A friendship with this being illuminates and brightens lives and has the power to transform virtually every other relationship in your life. When you nourish yourself emotionally, spiritually, physically, you are undertaking important work. Whatever you do for yourself, you do for another. You can never give away something you do not have. So, in essence, the more peace, harmony, happiness and positive energy (mojo) you are able to cultivate in your life, the more of these things you can share from your cup of treasures with another.

The Relationship With Self is the MOST important relationship you could ever nurture and develop. It is the relationship that will sustain you through all of life's bumpy roads. And with a great relationship with self, when things go awry as they sometimes will, you will be better able to handle the situations life throws at you. The world we live in can oftentimes be a noisy, busy and sometimes confusing place. Making time to stay conscious, to stay in tune with your whole self, and making a space for quiet and reflection time, helps maintain sanity and equilibrium and helps you stay grounded in the truth of your being. True self love is taking time to care for the soul, mind and body. And as you care for yourself in all these areas, you will find the more you have to give away to help a world in need.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Embarking on Your Journey

2010-05-06T18:51:00.000-07:00

The boat which leads to your dreams, to your immaculate life is about to depart. It is loaded with everything you could ever want or need for your journey, for your highly anticipated destination. All you have to do is hop on board. So come on, what are you waiting for? Don't you dare miss this chance of a lifetime. You have been waiting an awful long time for this opportunity, for the chance to get on board the ship which leads to everything you have ever dreamed of. You have prepared tirelessly, painstakingly and ever so diligently, never losing hope, never doubting your ability to achieve your wildest dreams. Now the time has finally come to jump on board and begin the journey-to sail away to your paradise, to live in your dreams.

The question is, are you ready for the amazing journey you are about to experience? I'm certain you have no idea what a glorious opportunity you're about to have, or the magnificent views you are going to see up ahead. But, you my friend were born for this destiny, to reach the port only you can envision. And somewhere inside of you, you know the first step to Embarking on Your Journey is getting on board the ship, daring to lose sight of the shore, really daring to put yourself out there. I have great faith in you. And I know you are ready, for that is why you are standing on the dock ready to hop on board.

You are now ready for greatness. You are ready to own your power, to steer your life, to be the captain of your destiny. The truth is, you have always been the captain and guardian of your destiny. You determine your ultimate destination. You create your fate. There are of course other attributing factors though, such as guiding spirits, your God given talents, and being in touch with your dharma (or the mission your soul has come to this life to perform). All these things together assist you in creating a glorious existence.

Alright, fantastic, so I see you have gotten on board. You have just made a life transforming decision to sail toward your grandest dreams. You have always had the power to make life changing decisions and to achieve your hearts desires, but now you have finally done something about it. Congratulations you have now fully embarked on your journey. Stepping on board was by far the hardest part, I know. I'm sure you're probably scared, yet unbelievably, undeniably and indescribably excited as well. And please don't get me wrong, there will be some dark times up ahead, stormy seas you will have to cross, times when you will feel like giving up, turning back, cowering under the pressure, the fear, but you must persevere.

Facing our inadequacy, our fear of failure, and overcoming our weaknesses is part of growth for everyone. I'm sure even Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time had moments where he questioned his ability to play basketball, or to make it in the NBA. Self doubt is a part of everyones life, but you can't let it stop you from moving forward. Inside your heart of hearts you know what you have come to this world to do. And now that you are Embarking on Your Journey, you must not let anything stop you. You must stay the course even when you feel you can't go on and shine your light even when water is raging all around you trying to dispel your flame.

Now that you have embarked on your journey, you are fully in the game of life. On this playing field you must make the opposition play your game. You must closely observe the field of play and put yourself in a dangerous position where you can score. Never forget your greatest enemy will always be yourself, which can also be your greatest ally. When life knocks you down, just bounce back up, keep moving forward in a positive direction and eventually you will be victorious over self. Winston Churchill once said, "Pessimists see failure in every opportunity. Optimists see opportunities in every failure."

Sail on my friend, on your amazing journey. Never look back, only gaze toward the reddish, golden, illuminating horizon painted up ahead. Your journey is underway. You have great courage for getting on board the ship and heading in the direction of your life dreams. You can overcome anything in your path. At the end of your fears, once you break through your walls and limitations, you will undoubtedly see, the good life lies ahead.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Offering Praise to the Great Spirit (God)

2010-04-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

Why believe in God? This is a question that has existed since the beginning of humankind. For me the answer is simple though. I sincerely believe it's a normal, inborn desire to offer praise to the creator of this amazingly complex and beautiful world, to acknowledge and give respect to the source of all creation, the great scientist; the force which keeps the planets spinning in motion, ripens fruits and vegetables, makes the sun rise and fall everyday, causes rivers to flow, the ocean tides to come in and go out, our hearts to beat-the force which makes all of life possible.

No one can deny that there is some force which allows life to happen. Whatever you choose to call this force however, is clearly up to you. I believe there is something inside each of us which acknowledges a creative force, a creative entity operating in the universe. There is something inside us which understands the grandeur, the splendor, the magic, the exquisite richness of all life and thus desires to offer praise to the source, energy, power, or presence which originates and orchestrates it all.

People have praised God since the beginning of time in many different ways. These include, but are not limited to: building sacred temples, performing offerings, practicing rituals in temples, worship in churches, devotional music or poetry, prayer & meditation, Native American sweat lodges, dancing around fires, drumming circles and pilgrimages. There are many unique ways of Offering Praise to the Great Spirit (God) and none are more correct, or superior than others. Any form of worship from the heart is TRUE worship.

I have felt God's strong presence in Native American sweat lodges, Hindu temples, Taoist Temples, Buddhist Meditations, Christian churches and temples and even standing on top of a mountain. It's really not so important how you praise the source of all creation, but that you acknowledge him, and praise him for giving you this juicy experience of life. It is also important that you strive to develop and maintain an active communication/relationship with this entity that sustains your life.

A lot of people see praising God as weakness, as co-dependent behavior, or simply as a waste of time. To me though, it has always felt right, natural, in fact, just as natural as breathing, eating or drinking water. In my mind and understanding, it has always just made sense that there is a bigger picture out there, of which I am part of. I don't believe life could exist without some force holding it all together, a magic glue so to speak. And I feel stronger, not weaker by acknowledging and praising this force. I don't worship out of co-dependency, or fear, but because I feel the presence of this being in my heart and soul and all around me, guiding every step of my life. I desire to offer it my praise and gratitude.

I fully understand and accept that not everyone believes in God though. I think it's absolutely normal to question God's existence. There have been times in my own life where I have been uncertain as well. Everyone goes through times such as these. Oftentimes, we experience events that cause us to question. Sometimes too, it's hard to believe in what we cannot see. To me, life is just too amazing though, too wondrous not to believe in, or acknowledge a creator. This world is too beautiful. There is just too much intelligence everywhere for there not to be a creative force maintaining and sustaining it all. But it's so much more than that for me. I have also had many times, experiences that have confirmed the existence of a creator to me beyond the shadow of a doubt. These experiences include near death experiences, times when prayers have been miraculously answered, and times when my life has been spared.

Offering Praise to the Great Spirit (God) is a grand privilege and honor. It should not be treated as a chore, but as a gift of utmost significance. Also there are many rewards from believing in, praising and having a relationship with this Great Spirit. This relationship provides us with inner delight, insight and much inspiration. It gives us a peace that can distill any malady. It helps up develop strong roots so we don't break and crumble during a crisis or storm. It provides us comfort, keeps hope alive, brings us protection, makes us feel more alive and provides us constant guidance with an ever present, still, small voice. The Great Spirit is a friend like none other, a shelter and sanctuary from the storms of life. Throw your hands up in the air...

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

Drawing Wisdom From the Well

2010-02-18T21:37:00.001-08:00

It's a simple concept-go to the well when you are thirsty. In a well, water is plentiful. The well is deep, it is rich and overflowing. You can go to it and drink of its life giving substance anytime. Spiritual wisdom is exactly the same. It is everywhere. It is abundant. You can seek and find it whenever you are thirsty or hungry for it. You probably know the phrase from the Bible in Matthew, "Seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you." It's an amazing paradigm-what you are seeking is also seeking you. There is a delightful quote from the Jewish Kaballah, "More than the calf wishes to suck, the cow desires to suckle."

Seeking wisdom can be a great mystery though. There is a Chinese proverb that sheds a little light on the subject: "Teachers open the door, you enter it by yourself." We all think that enlightenment comes from outside of us, but it is really something that happens within us. Teachers merely open the door for us to enter. Your kundalini energy, or energy chakras can be initiated, or awakened by a guru, or deeply spiritual, enlightened person, however most of the journey is yours and yours alone.

Meditation is a great tool in the enlightenment process. In meditation, you learn to go to the well within you, to drink of its rich nectar. Meditation will change you, deepen you. You will find within you peace and contentment, pleasure not of this world. When you draw this out of yourself, what you draw out will transform you, pacify and delight you! Your thirst will be quenched. But, it's not just a one time process. Like going to the well for water, you will continue to hunger and thirst for the mystical experience, for spiritual fulfillment. And the more you hunger and thirst for it, the more you will be filled, until your cup will one day become abundantly overflowing.

There is a rich well of spiritual wisdom from all around the world to drink from. I have studied extensively from all of the major world religions and have found rich jewels, treasures and much spiritual pleasure contained in all of them. When you start opening your mind to this universal wisdom and expanding your horizons, you too will soon find a storehouse of rich infinite wisdom to draw from.

In the west, culturally we are raised to think that only the Bible contains God's wisdom. In the east, they are taught the same about the Torah, Koran or Bhavagad Gita. But truth is truth and wisdom is wisdom wherever it stems from. A pearl is a pearl no matter which ocean it comes from. Enlightenment comes from an open heart, open mind and intense longing for spiritual communion. The path you walk is not as important as the destination itself. Drawing Wisdom From the Well is a way of life. Like the Zen proverb states, "Before enlightenment chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

A Sacred Journey With a Purpose

2010-01-26T18:40:00.000-08:00

We are all on A Sacred Journey With a Purpose, trying to get somewhere, somehow! It is only when we lose sight of this, that life becomes meaningless and or burdensome. When we are alive, on fire with our purpose, life is more than magical, more than fulfilling and more than inspiring. Living purposefully literally takes your breath away. It feels grand to discover and live your purpose. We were all created with a noble purpose, on purpose by a divine architect, to fulfill a royal destiny. He sees all of the details in our innermost blueprints and unfolds them to us one by one as we listen and are still.

When you are walking in sync with your purpose, unexpected blessings find their way to you, doors swing wide open, light appears on your horizon. Life becomes melodic as your spirit is lifted to higher and higher realms. Sometimes, you feel as if you are soaring on a transcendental, euphoric high. I firmly believe the creator desires all of us to feel this alive, this infused with life energy. I believe he glories when we do. It reflects his glory when we live lives filled with passion and purpose.

I see too many people walking around totally unaware of their noble design, or unaware that they may even have a noble design. A lot of people are completely unaware that life could offer them so much more if they would just reach out and grab it. When you take time to meditate and reflect on your purpose, and do the work to uncover it, sooner or later, it will come to you in a dream, a moment of clarity, or in a concrete feeling you cannot deny. Then you can be true to your authentic self, authentic passions and live the life that was meant for YOU.

Writing for me is a sacred gift from spirit. I come alive and burst with flavor and excitement when I write. I discovered this passion as a young teenager when I started writing to deal with a lot of inner struggles I was having at the time. After I got through a lot of hurt, anger and pain, writing became my burning passion. And to this day, it still ignites my inner flame. I feel totally plugged into source energy when I'm writing.

The thing is though, we all have sacred gifts and talents and a sacred purpose to fulfill. These things come instilled in our souls at birth. Sometimes it just takes a little inner excavation to uncover them. It can be difficult though, because as a culture we are urged to spend so much time seeking entertainment that we can easily loose touch with our true selves. Also, too much time is spent asking ourselves sometimes useless questions such as: What is the meaning of life? What on earth am I here for? Instead we ought to focus on and ask ourselves more empowering questions like: How can I make my life more meaningful? What can I offer my community, or the world from my sacred treasure chest of gifts while I am here, that will assist in the spiritual evolution, awakening, or progression of this planet? We are all on A Sacred Journey With a Purpose. When you discover that purpose and live it, your life will transform, as will the world around you!

Copyright Justin Topik 2010

First Things First or Your Bubble Will Burst

2009-12-31T13:47:00.000-08:00

My good friend Sara had this to say to me today, "Dude I am on burn out, don't know why, but it's driving me nuts." So, I replied to her by quoting one of my favorite quotes from the book Conversations With God, "If I do not go within, I go without." I asked her to ponder that for a moment. She then replied, heck no man I am like a robot-no time!" I told her that was the wrong answer. I was joking of course, but serious at the same time. I then read her a quote from Goethe that I live by, "Things which matter the most, must never be at the mercy of things which matter least."

As we continued our conversation, she told me she has been able to handle all her life challenges and stresses for quite a while, until now for some reason. All of a sudden she feels like she is falling apart, totally burning out. She mentioned there must be something wrong with her. In response I told her I didn't think there was anything wrong with her. What I know for certain about Sara though, is she doesn't make a habit of nurturing her inner self much at all, which I encouraged her to make time for, cause the thing is, if you don't take time to nurture yourself, eventually you breakdown, burnout or meltdown, which is never good. That is why you have to make time for self nurturing, self renewal, or returning to the source, the stillness.

Breakdowns happen when we are out of balance. We are 3 part beings (mind, body & soul) and as such, all parts need to be in balance and be nurtured for total, complete health and well being. If not, things go awry, things will definitely malfunction. I think EVERYONE needs some personal alone time. I'm talking about feeding your soul, cultivating positivity in your mind, exercising your body, your passions, doing nurturing things just for you, things that uplift and inspire you such as yoga, exercise, tai chi, journaling, painting, being in nature, writing, gardening and etc.

When you are adhering to a very tight schedule, which includes no "you" time, you will eventually hit a wall of burnout, or have a breakdown of some type. When there is a part of your 3 part being that is neglected, a part that is unfulfilled, this part of you will begin sending signals to your body, soul and mind. If you don't listen, the signals will get louder and louder, until tragedy may strike in one form or another to get your attention, or worse yet, your bubble will burst. Keeping First Things First or Your Bubble Will Burst is definitely a good answer, a good philosophy for taking care of yourself and your needs, so as to be able to help better care for others needs as well. If you neglect your own inner needs, your life will sooner or later fall apart, or you will run into some walls that could have been avoided by returning to balance, harmony, self love and self nurturing. First Things First or Your Bubble Will Burst is more than a nice personal reminder, it is a life strategy that works, I promise you.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Don't Sell Yourself Short

2009-12-29T20:28:00.000-08:00

I'm quite certain everyone has sold themselves short at one point or another during their lifetime. We are all guilty of this from time to time. The question is why do we do it? Is it because we don't feel worthy of success or greatness? Regardless of why we do it though, a lot of people, I will even go so far as to say most people settle for less than they deserve. But, YOU don't have to do this. You ought to settle for more, not less than you deserve. Why? because you are worth it. And the world awaits your genius, your talent and your gifts. Anthony Robbins once said, "Life will pay you any price you ask of it." Don't shy away from your personal power, your personal greatness. Find it, embrace it, cherish is, awaken it and allow it to emerge into and color your life experience. Like a lion, stand proud, firm and let your mighty roar shake the earth.

I am convinced everyone has a million dollar idea somewhere inside of them. Everyone has passions, gifts, or some valuable inner resource or commodity to offer this world. And I guarantee you what you have is a lot more valuable than you can probably imagine or comprehend! Sometimes you have to let it out first though, to see how people will respond to it. Like a magician with a plethora of surprises in his bag of tricks, if you don't let your passions, gifts and surprises out of the bag, you'll never know how the world would have responded to you.

People will pay you to do what you truly love to do. I have seen it and observed it in my own life firsthand. One critical thing you must do though, is believe in yourself and believe you are worthy of success first and foremost. You also have to find a way to package your genius, your passion and enthusiasm into a product or service. You have to know what you want in great detail before the universe can deliver it to you... If you could do anything you wanted or be anything you wanted to be, what would you do? what would you be? A lot of people I have asked this question to say, I don't know. But you have absolutely gotta know the answer to this question. You can never reach a port that you cannot see! Get to know yourself, including your gifts, resources and inner latent talents. Here is a question you need to ask yourself: What is it I have in abundance to offer my community and the world? Once you figure out the answer, you will know know what your sacred gift is.

A few years back, I had a really good friend named Ronnie Ryan. My family and I lived on a lake in Tennessee which is where I met him. He had a boat and practically lived on the lake, no joke. That was his passion. Most days in the summer you could find him on the lake. Whenever we were out on the lake with him, he would have us rolling with laughter the entire time. He was like Jeff Foxworthy on the water. And he could navigate that lake better than most fish I'm sure. One time I asked him why he didn't charge people to take them on guided tours and etc. He laughed at me, but I was being serious. I saw a gift and passion, and a gold mine in him. I know many people who would pay for the experience, the joy of being out on the lake with this guy. I know I would have many times. He was clever and a genius in his field of expertise, but he just couldn't see it. Oftentimes, we don't see, appreciate, honor or realize our inner strengths, gifts, and talents, though others can sometimes easily observe them and sometimes have to point them out to us.

We hold so tightly to security and what we think is guaranteed in this life, without realizing nothing is 100% secure, 100% guaranteed. So why not take some chances, because here is the deal, you have a gift, a present if you will, to offer the world. Don't you dare let your lights burn out before you get a chance to shine. Don't die with the music still in you screaming to get out. Let out your glorious melodies. Make a glorious noise with your life... In life as in any game, you win some, you lose some, but you gotta just keep playing the game! Don't Sell Yourself Short. Nobody wins by you living little. Find and fulfill your destiny. Live your life the way you intend to live it.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Moving Forward

2009-12-16T18:57:00.000-08:00

Sometimes unforeseen tragedy strikes. It is an inevitable part of the human experience. It may cause you to shrink back, your heart becoming frozen for a time. Yet, everyone knows you can't have the warming, gentle sun, without the harsh, bitter cold. Winter is just as much a necessary part of the full spectrum as are all the other integral seasons, though it can be intense, grueling and piercing to the core. Winter is sort of like death. You know it's coming, but you are never fully prepared for it when it arrives. The problems or challenges we face can be just like winter too. They can be excruciating and trying to bear, but like any season, they too will pass and soon new life will be blossoming with amazing color and divine fragrance everywhere.

Life is an experience. It is not suppose to be sweet, happy, vivacious, warm and flavorful all the time. If it was, then we would never be able to appreciate all the various parts and pieces that make up the whole human experience. You have to know sorrow before you can appreciate joy. We are here to grow, to develop, to learn patience, suffering and to experience joy, sorrow, death, new life and revival.

After the storm, after getting knocked off your high horse, comes a time for letting go, letting God and moving on! This can be painful and involves taking steps through your fear, hurt, anger and pain. It is a natural human tendency to hold onto hurtful feelings, the way it could have, or the way you think it should have been. But the truth is, life is change and eventually comes a season for Moving Forward, a time for opening the door to a new beginning, a time for taking steps toward a new reality. This is something you have to consciously decide. And it is absolutely necessary. If you don't decide to let go and move on, you will stay trapped in your fear, anger and confusion. This step involves forgiveness and compassion toward those who may have seriously wounded you. The choice to forgive is not always easy, but it is the better, more conscious choice and necessary for moving on.

Moving Forward is taking the first steps that you know must be taken in order to change a situation. I am not saying it is always pleasant, but it is something you've gotta do if you're gonna make a new reality for yourself. It's a positive step in the right direction. And when you are taking positive steps in a positive direction, you're bound to get somewhere, someday. Moving Forward is about embracing hope for a brighter tomorrow. It is about trusting and having faith that there may be a bigger picture that you cannot see, waiting to unfold before you, or that there may be a light about to turn on, just waiting to illumine the way before you. Moving Forward and walking through that door is about trust and faith, knowing that the steps you are about to take may not be easy, but trusting you have spirit's tender embrace calming, sheltering and guiding you. It is about choosing the path of inner peace and serenity, instead of anger and hostility. My friend, now is the time for Moving Forward, start moving...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Personal Responsibility=Personal Power

2009-12-08T20:39:00.000-08:00

Personal power starts in a few areas of your life and trickles down. It has sort of a snowball effect. It picks up momentum and strength as it moves along. When you take responsibility for your health and well being for example, you soon find other areas of your life improving as well, such as your home becoming more organized and tidy, your finances staying in order and your relationships flowing more smoothly.

I recently came across something very applicable to this topic by an unknown author. It is called:

The 3 R's

Respect for self
Respect for others
Responsibility for all of your actions

By consciously following this model, you are bound to achieve more personal power. There are many ways you can achieve and boost your personal power though. These include: positive self talk, or talking yourself up, sticking with your commitments, becoming more competent and self confident in your skills, trades, or fields of endeavor, focusing on your strengths, your own unique gifts and talents, and also by discarding any self-defeating habits, beliefs, or attitudes you may carry around with you.

You have the power right now to take control of your life and destiny. There is a flower ready, desirous, and willing to bud from the green sprouts in the recesses of your innermost being right now. There is only one thing standing in its way though, and that is fear. Personal power is often synonymous with fear, because deep down inside, we know that personal power takes responsibility. Lets face it, whatever we wanna create, we are responsible for it. That word (responsibility) scares the hell out of most people. I think that is what many people are afraid of, deciding what they want, committing to seeing something through, and then going for it. This requires breaking through our own barriers of laziness, fear of not being good enough, etc. There are many reasons to not try, to not take responsibility for your life and destiny, but I promise you if you don't, you will be led to a field of thorns, instead of a lush meadow flowing with milk, honey and the sweet nectar of life. It's your choice. It's always your choice.

In all my years of studying personal power, success and life mastery, I have come up with my own definition of personal power. So here goes...

Definition of Personal Power

by Justin Topik

"It is taking responsibility for your life and what you want to create, finding courage within you to take some positive steps in a direction you would like to go in. It's the ability to get yourself to take action and to follow through, knowing your mission, vision and purpose. It is feeling assertive, empowered and in control of your life and destiny, knowing what you want and going for it, regardless of any outer circumstances. It is also getting beyond any excuses you seem to come up with. Bottom line, Personal Responsibility=Personal Power. It always has and it always will. Personal power without responsibility is like a hot air balloon without hot air!"

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Be Who and What You Want to Be

2009-11-23T18:54:00.000-08:00

A life authentically lived is a great honor, a grand prize to hang on your mantle of life's victories. To be successful and happy in life is a major achievement in and of itself. And you know, it doesn't really matter if you make a gazillion dollars and have millions of fans. What is important is being you, on whatever level you can, just starting somewhere on the road to authenticity and seeing where it leads you. In this world it is too easy to get bogged down with all the responsibilities and details, and end up putting your dreams and passions upon a shelf where they eventually rust and become dusty or rotten.

In my journey to authentic living, I have come to understand success in a whole new light. The first book I ever wrote was a book of poetry. In a few years time, I sold a thousand copies of it, which is small potatoes in the large spectrum of things, but you know something, I felt magical out there doing book signings, and a book tour, having my books selling in many large bookstores in several states. I was in the playing field with the pros. It didn't matter to me that I was not world famous. I was being authentically me, living according to the dictates of my soul. I was letting out my light for all the world to see. A lot of people responded to me well too. In his book 10 Secrets for Success and Inner Peace, Wayne Dyer says, "Listen to your music, and do what you know you have to do to feel whole, to feel complete, and to feel as if you're fulfilling your destiny. You'll never be at peace if you don't get that music out and let it play. Let the whole world know why you are here, and do it with passion."

If you wanna be an athlete, an artist, a speaker, teacher, inventor, songwriter, architect or whatever, then get yourself into motion. Figure out what these people do and start imitating them. Success always leaves clues. I have observed that people who are happy and fulfilled are out there doing what makes them happy, whenever and however they can. Some people make a living sharing their gifts and passions, others do it as a side hobby, or even just for fun. Either way, they are all expressing their unique gifts and talents. They are all coming from a place of giving, joy, enthusiasm and love. You might as well do something with those gits and talents. Your passion and enthusiasm are gifts from the Great Spirit. If you fail to use them and share them with others, then you miss out on one of life's most delicious experiences.

There is a price for living this way though. Others may ridicule, scorn or mock you and even call you a fool. On the other token, others may be dazzled by you and flock to you. By doing what you love and feel moved to do, you spark a fire inside your soul, which turns into a flame within. Others see and feel it in you. Your magic soon becomes visible, electric and magnetizing. You may start to attract spectators. You may even attract fame or fortune.

To Be Who and What You Want to Be, all you have to do is listen to the whisperings in your soul, in the inner recess of your being. Look within for guidance. There is a charted course laid out for you to follow, a course set out and designed by the highest part of yourself-your soul. When you access its wisdom, you will be living from the core of who you are and who you were meant to be. The soul will constantly guide you to your highest good, your ultimate calling and destiny. It will carry you on colorful, feathered wings over life's despairs, disappointments, and illusions to magical places, toward an enchanted destiny waiting for only you...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Get Your Head Into the Game

2009-11-22T19:50:00.000-08:00

It's Friday night and the crowd is anxiously awaiting the anticipated game in the stands. There is a slight chill in the moist, September air. Your team is huddled together, ready to march onto the field. The band is playing. You are getting ready to go to battle with the opposing team. You are psyched, pumped up, your heart is pounding. It is time to put your game face on and get into the game. You have to do this before you enter onto the field. Victory starts even before the game begins. Most people win or lose a game before they even step foot onto the playing field.

The game of life is no different. You have to figure out what you want, put your game face on, Get Your Head Into the Game, and go after what you want as if nothing can stop you, or stand in your way. And when opportunity arises, you have to seize the moment, reach out and grab it tightly with both hands and don't let go. You have to Get Your Head Into the Game and keep it in the game. This means preparing yourself mentally and emotionally, physically and spiritually and then keeping yourself fine tuned in all these areas, which takes a lot of self discipline, a lot of effort. I have found in my own life that to be a great athlete in sports, or in the game of life demands rigorous self discipline, personal responsibility and a high level of confidence. These key components help you to be prepared before the game even starts. A major part of responsibility is taking responsibility for your attitude from moment to moment and cultivating within yourself thoughts of empowerment, victory and success. Self confidence is another huge factor here. Confidence is key to achieving any worthwhile goal and is the result of being competent at something, being prepared, putting yourself in and maintaining peak performance states. It also stems from an inner connection to the sustaining force of the universe. Knowing who you are and your relationship to something greater than you has immense power in creating personal confidence. This type of confidence is an inner, radiant confidence that comes from within.

Whatever you are doing, if you want to do it successfully, you've gotta do it wholeheartedly. In whatever you arena you would like to be successful in, you've gotta actually be on the field. You have to get into the game. If you are not falling on your ass, you are not really in the game. Many people try to pursue their dreams from the sidelines without ever achieving the results they would like to achieve. An example of this is, while I was living in Nashville, Tennessee for many years pursuing a career as a songwriter, it was amazing to me how many people I met who were there supposedly pursuing a music career, who just appeared to me as spectators. These people never sang in any clubs, never recorded any of their music, or did any networking, while I was out doing all that stuff. I met some highly talented songwriters who didn't really dive into the business, but instead, just dabbled in it. They were what I call closet performers and mainly suffered from fear of failure, or fear of not being good enough. Those two fears can paralyze you and take you out of the game of life before the contest even begins.

To Get Your Head Into The Game requires you looking and acting like a winner, carrying yourself like one even before you achieve the success you desire. Pat Riley said in his book The Winner Within, "If you're going to be a championship team, you have to think championship thoughts." This requires knowing how to psych yourself up, not out, and how to channel and broadcast positive recordings in your mind.

Whatever you want to be good at, do it often with inner zeal and passion. Throw yourself into the game even if you aren't 100% prepared. Take some chances, put yourself out there. Get Your Head Into the Game and you will find the playing experience becomes much richer and exciting. You will never win a game you never start, or one you just watch from the sidelines. A quote I really like is, "Life is too short to be little" by Benjamin Disraeli. To be a champion you have to think and act like one. Be the hero in your own life story. Live a courageous, inspiring life and you will have no regrets.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Today is the Day

2009-11-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

Life is a series of winding paths. Sometimes it is full of roses, skies painted with dazzling rainbows and golden streets, other times it is full of thorns, potholes and heartbreaking sorrows. And yet, your life is what you make of it, bottom line, as with each new day. Everyday is a miniature lifetime and a day in which we get to begin our life all over again on a clean slate. Anthony Robbins said in his book Awaken the Giant Within, "The past does not equal the future." It doesn't matter if failure has plagued your yesterdays. What matters is what you do with today. Today is a splendiforous, glorious new day. It's a day for new beginnings, new adventures and new explorations. It is a day for you to re-define you, to start off on an exciting, breath taking, spectacular and colorful odyssey. The beauty of God is that he/she is a God of new beginnings. He/she doesn't focus on our failures and weaknesses of yesterday, but instead sees the picture of where we are headed-our bright tomorrows.

Today is the Day for whatever you would like to begin, but have put on a shelf for that special SOMEDAY. We've all heard the phrase, "the road to someday, leads to nowhere." If there is anything you have been procrastinating out of fear of the unknown, fear of failing, of not being good enough, prepared enough, pretty enough, or even fear of your own inner strength or whatever, I challenge you to start it today. Take that first step you have been putting off-the one you know you need to take. Open a new door to a new reality, discover a hidden world only seen in your imagination. There is a road paved with solid gold waiting to unfold before you. There is power in the NOW and power in you NOW. The fruit is ripe, ready to be harvested. There is no time like the present. There is power in taking your first stride. There is power in motion.

Today is the Day to start living the life you secretly dream about living, the one no one else knows about. If you only knew the power to change any circumstance in your life, you would be astonished. I want you to repeat aloud, "I have the power to change virtually anything in my life." Any circumstance, any limitation, any problem or challenge lies within your power to transcend and overcome. Exercise your personal power. Strengthen those decision making, commitment, faith and determination muscles. Make some goals. Stretch yourself a little bit. Today is the Day to spread your wings and see just how high you can fly!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Finding Your Rhythm

2009-11-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

As hard as it seems to believe, there is rhythm to life's madness, an energizing, soothing, mesmerizing rhythm. And although it is very present, finding this rhythm is not always a breeze to do. The pace of this world is much different than the pace of the spirit. Nature has its own rhythm though, its own melody. And when we walk to and live in accord to the rhythm of this melody, we experience health, vitality, inner peace, happiness and harmony. Conversely, when we get too far away from it, we experience ill health, anxiety, depression, and irritability. Nature holds great secrets of the peaceful reality, the true way of the spiritual path and life. It is the rhythm we must all learn to walk to, to be closer to spirits grace. All great spiritual teachers have spent much time in contemplation in natures domain. It is a great place to gather wisdom, serenity and inner peace, a place to connect with your innermost being.

Nature knows no hustle and bustle, no hurry or worry. Everything in nature takes its own sweet time. Watching the snow or rain fall, the ocean coming rhythmically into the shore, clouds drifting slowly across the sky, a river slowly moving along and seasons changing, we are reminded there is better pace of life, a better way of being. Sometimes our chaotic lives can begin to feel like the norm, but peace is essentially our true nature, not chaos. We just don't realize it, cause we loose ourselves in this fast paced, sometimes harsh world. Yet, when we slow down and take moments to flow with spirit and invite more spirit into our lives, it comes, and we start to realize just how much harmony is a vital part of our true nature.

This peace and serenity is something you have to grow into though. You get used to the peace and harmony after a while. It becomes the norm, instead of the constant chaos, the constant chattering in your mind. Finding Your Rhythm is learning to walk more closely with the flow of nature, the pace of creation and spirit-the rhythm and flow of all life. Returning to this rhythm is a return to a more spiritual state. To the Native Americans the drumbeat has always been a vital and important part in their tradition, because it symbolizes the heartbeat of all creation. It reminds us to walk to that steady, but not frenzied pace. In the Tao Te Ching, it says, "Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity." This to me means don't be too attached to things going a certain way. Don't stress yourself out to make something happen. Do your work then let go and flow, detach yourself from outcomes.

Inner peace is a great gift of priceless value. Let the rhythm of the natural world guide you back into a closer communion with spirit. It's rhythm will help you find your own rhythm. Her wisdom, grace, beauty and natural strength is there to serve as a constant reminder to us of our true selves, our true natures.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Inviting More Joy and Abundance Into Your Life

2009-11-11T20:35:00.000-08:00

What if all you had to do to attract more joy and abundance into your life was to open the door, allow spirits presence and transformative energy to come through and then simply invite more of these things into your life? I know you are probably thinking, "sure, sounds like that hippie, feel good, new age stuff right? It's not that simple or effortless to attract more joy and abundance." Trust me I have been there too as a skeptic. But, as I have consciously awakened over the years, I have learned different, better, more highly evolved ways of thinking and being, some of which I would like to share with you right now.

To invite someone or something into your space, or reality is to grant them permission to enter, to allow an entrance of some sort. Suppose you invite someone into your house, you allow them into your sacred space. You open the door so they can walk in. To invite more joy and abundance into your life works exactly the same way. You simply open the door, make a space for these things, begin to hope, believe and prepare for their arrival. Like cleaning out a room in your house for a new child, you are making a space for new life to grow and flourish. You know this new soul is coming and you plan for its arrival, wholeheartedly believing and expecting it to show up.

Until you make a space in your life for something, you can't have it. To make a space for whatever it is you are seeking or desiring is to fully CHOOSE something. Choosing though is a lot different than wanting. Try saying to yourself aloud right now, "I want more joy and abundance!" Then say to yourself, "I CHOOSE to experience having more joy and abundance." Which one feels better to you, feels more real and infused with power and creative potential? Choosing, rather than desiring or wanting something is the fastest way to experience whatever it is you are trying to experience, because when you choose something, your want or desire changes to a faith filled belief and expectation.

Too often we focus on what we don't want in our lives, what we can't have, or can't experience. By doing this, we make too much of a space, or compartment for the things we don't want to experience and thus end up experiencing more of these things. Part of Inviting More Joy and Abundance Into Your Life is consciously monitoring and choosing your thoughts wisely, because thoughts are things too, and have life shifting potential. You have to focus more on what you would like to experience, rather than on what you don't want to experience.

Another secret to attracting abundance and joy into your life is to give them away. Share your joy and abundance in whatever capacity you are able. Share whatever gifts and talents you have to offer, whenever possible. Often what we have to share is much more relevant and valuable to others than we could ever comprehend. It's like the butterfly effect. By flapping your figurative wings, the effects of your actions have far reaching consequences.

If you are serious about Inviting More Joy and Abundance Into Your Life, you have to make a conscious decision right now to open the windows and doors to your heart, soul and mind. And as you make a place for these things to enter into your life, welcome them with open arms. Affirm to the universe right now, "I welcome more joy and abundance into my life. I make a place for them to enter into my life right now, I invite them in!" Everything has energy. Even joy and abundance operate at a certain energy frequency. As you open the door to this frequency, I promise you, you will open a door to a new, exciting and wondrous realm.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Highest Authority Lies Within You

2009-11-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

What if there was a TV channel, or radio station you could tune into, to receive direct revelation from God, Allah, Yahweh, or the Universal Spirit? Well, newsflash... here's a little secret in case you don't already know, the signal is being transmitted right now and is actually being sent, ALL the time. The problem may be your receiver is just a little dusty, or maybe a little bit out of use. The good news is you can always fine tune your receiver and learn how to tune in and listen to it often. Each of us has a direct link to eternal wisdom and a direct communication channel broadcasting a LIVE signal from our creator. It's like a built in walkie talkie. In the extraordinary book Conversations With God by Neale Donald Walsch, he says in reference to the voice within, "It is the radar that sets the course, steers the ship, guides the journey if you but let it."

This voice is what I am referring to by saying, The Highest Authority Lies Within You. Rumi said, "You have within you a deciding force that knows what to receive, what to turn from!" You have to learn to trust, and validate this voice, this force on your journey towards becoming a more integrated, authentic, spiritual being. This voice is the highest authority you should trust in your entire life. It will give you all the answers you need on your life's path. The beautiful thing about it is, it is already inside you now. The Highest Authority Lies Within You. It is your conscience, inner voice, inner spirit, your inner wisdom, or the voice of your higher self.

So, who is entitled to this inner wisdom? All of us can receive direct inspiration from our source or God. EVERYONE is entitled to this two way form of communication. It seems to me that much organized religion discourages people from thinking and living this way. They call it blasphemy. I have seen for myself and come to believe that a lot of religion oftentimes discourages you from seeking personal revelation, and from trusting yourself, or relying on yourself for wisdom, guidance and direction. I think a big part of this is because if you start to rely upon your direct wisdom from God within, then eventually you establish a strong connection, you get strong signals, and you don't need to rely solely upon the church anymore. Also, at this point, you don't have to rely on the church and church leaders authority. I believe this is the churches fear. Maybe it's because there is a lot of money and false sense of authoritative power there? Either way, this issue has been one of the biggest battles in the past two thousand years. Church leaders from many different traditions have done everything they could in their power to cast out and denounce any wisdom, teachings or texts that led members into a personal relationship to spirit.

I fully believe true leaders always lead you to uncover and discover your own guiding force, your highest truth, your highest, innermost wisdom though. Ralph Waldo Emerson said in his provocative book, Self Reliance, "The faith that stands on authority is not faith." I have to absolutely agree with that quote. I was raised in a religion that I was thrown out of for questioning authority.

But I think it is healthy and necessary to question authority. Abraham Lincoln said, "Question everything, even God." Questioning is how we find out for ourselves what is true for us. If you just accept everything on blind faith, then you miss out on forming a COMMUNION WITH THE FATHER. You miss out on a relationship with the highest authority, the guiding force which can shape and inspire your life. Wayne Dyer said once, "You are a divine creation of God. You can never be separate from that which created you." It's the same with a mother and child. There is a bond which time and space cannot ever separate! And with that bond, there is an ever present, always active energy/soul connection.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Live Life on Your Terms

2009-11-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

Imagine if you could create an extraordinarily vivid, colorful, enchanting blueprint for your life. Let's just say you were an architect and you had the ability and the know how, to make a master design for your life. And starting with this well constructed, drawn out blueprint, you were then able to materialize this design into a phenomenal work of art. And in this master design, you could include the dream job you are totally passionate about, the amount of money you would like to be earning, the type of house you could see yourself living in, the perfect mate for you, and all the details of how you'd like your ideal, daily life to look like. Also, you could include in this design all the goals you'd like to accomplish in the next say, 5-10 years, the exotic travels you'd like to experience. Let's just say that you are a brilliant architect and that anything is possible and failure isn't even a possibility.

I want you to know that I fully believe with every ounce of my entire being that you are the master architect of your life. I am here to remind you that you can design and Live Life on Your Terms. You can create and design a life that you love. You can make a life rather than a living for yourself. Somewhere inside of you, I am certain there is a brilliant architect just waiting to be discovered.

To Live Life on Your Terms takes a lot of personal responsibility though. In fact, you are the only one who can create this type of life for yourself, well with God's help of course. It has to be a partnership if you really wanna experience lasting joy, success and abundance. I have learned that if you don't include God in your plans, the foundation of your constructed masterpiece will not be rock solid and may collapse at any given moment. Masterpieces take time though. The Sistine chapel wasn't painted overnight. And sometimes too, spirit unfolds plans to us for our lives in its own time. We have to exercise patience and wisdom in creating our master plans.

In his book, The Winner Within, Pat Riley, famous NBA coach says, "Every now and then there comes a day where someplace, sometime, you simply have to plant your feet, stand firm and make a point about who you are and what you believe in." To Live Life on Your Terms takes this kind of commitment and dedication. You have to stand up firmly for the kind of life you are committed to having and living. You have to take responsibility and bring it into being. Life is too short to be dull tasting. Live your life with flavor. It's YOUR life we are talking about here!!!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Wisdom of a Turtle

2009-11-02T20:49:00.001-08:00

I'm speeding along at a frenetic pace, running late for work again. I get to the office 20 minutes late. I'm feeling utterly stressed as I hustle and bustle trying to catch up and get everything done I need to accomplish for the day. I end up leaving work an hour late. I drive through downtown, racing through the city full of bright lights, surrounded by a thousand noises from every direction. Fighting traffic, with ten thousand other people, I'm trying to get home in time to go to my sons basketball game. As I turn off the freeway and onto the highway, all of a sudden I see something in the middle of the road. I slam on my brakes, and there directly in front of my car, taking his own sweet time is this amazingly large turtle crossing the road. At first I'm angry-just something else to slow me down, but instead, I'm suddenly captivated by his mystery and gracefulness. And I think to myself, why can't I be more like him? What an amazing animal he is. For a few minutes while I wait for him to cross the road, I completely forget about my stress, my worries and the fact that I am going to be 15 minutes late for my sons game. As I drive off, my focus has suddenly been shifted. The great spirit, or God has sent me an extraordinary reminder. I offer up a prayer of gratitude for the small miracle I have just witnessed.

The turtle is a mighty creature revered by many cultures around the world. He has much to teach if we will but listen. He is natures perfect balance-a tough outer shell with a tender soft heart. The turtle walks quietly, in stride with the pace of the universe. He is in no great rush to get wherever he is going. Because of his slow movement, he is much more aware of what's going on around him. The turtle reminds us to slow down and go with the flow, to keep a smooth and steady pace, keeping in stride with the Tao (pace of nature), to be in the moment and savor the moment, to take in all the moments of life. He is strong, independent. He understands the art of patience, tranquility, balance and inner harmony.

The Native Americans believed that the turtle represented healing, nurturing, mother energy, survival, longevity, protection, patience, persistence, and knowledge. Turtles encourage us to be in the flow, to enjoy the journey, the path we are on, without hurrying the pace. They teach us to take things one step at a time and be patient in attaining our goals. Turtles show us a new perception of time and our relationship with it. They are like a river that moves ever so slowly, yet powerfully and forcefully, one step at a time towards a seemingly unknown destination. They remind us to dance with the universal dance.

The turtle reminds us to keep an impenetrable shell, to go within ourselves for guidance and protection at any given moment. Buddha once said, "Even as a border city guarded well within, without, so guard ye well yourselves. See that the moment pass not vainly by. " The turtle is the perfect depiction of both of these things-guarding ourselves and not letting the moment vainly pass by. Like the turtle, we must learn to go within ourselves for wisdom, guidance and protection.

That day, I learned much from an unusual animal encounter. The Wisdom of a Turtle is astounding. I once read a remarkable quote somewhere, that we are human BE-ings, not human DO-ings. We get too caught up in the doing and not enough in just being. Let us be more like turtles savoring every step along our journeys, remembering that all of life is a process and that ultimately, the journey is the destination.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Honoring the Wise Guide (Inner Voice)

2009-10-30T21:22:00.001-07:00

No matter where you go, there is always someone who can serve as a guide, someone who knows the landscape, the territory, who can navigate the foreign regions. It is the same with the inner voice too. No matter where you are at, you can ALWAYS tune in to it and ask for guidance and direction. It is an ever present, highly intelligent, guidance and operating system and an infinitely transmitted, fine tuned radio signal. Through my life's journey, I have come to fully rely on and trust the guidance and wisdom I receive from this soft and subtle, yet oftentimes unmistakably unignorable voice time and time again. It has never led me astray.

The thing about Honoring the Wise Guide (Inner Voice) though is you have to learn to trust it. It takes a lot of courage to learn to access and follow something you can't visibly see. And sometimes, the guidance seems downright ludicrous. But, it is radically instinctive and highly intelligent nonetheless. In her book A Still, Small Voice, Echo Bodine says this about intuition: "Life is not only more magical when we live by our inner voice but also extremely efficient. From the life-changing to the mundane, your intuition is always your best guide." That's because it knows, and it knows that it knows. It is God's voice within all of us, our direct link to the spirit realms infinite wisdom.

I remember an experience from a while back in my life. I was hiking in the mountains with my youngest sister, who was five at the time. She was running ahead of me most of the way, when suddenly I got a strong inclination to pick her up right then and there and carry her for a while. So I did just that, and not less than one minute later, a rattlesnake was sitting right in the middle of the trail we were hiking on, and began rattling at us as we approached it. She could have easily been bitten had I not listened to and trusted my instincts, or as I like to call it, my "inside information."

Everyone has intuition. Its when you know something and you're not sure how you know, but you do. It's that nagging voice deep within you saying, "turn around, walk another way, get away from this person, or a certain situation." It's that inner compass that points the way for us. It is constantly trying to communicate with us. You just have to learn to listen to and follow your heart, soul and intuition more. These are precious, holy gifts from a loving, compassionate creator to be used often and cherished. The problem with the still, small voice though, is that it is just that, A STILL, SMALL VOICE. And in our society, there is so much noise, so many distractions. These things can definitely prevent us from hearing the guidance and instruction from within. That is where taking the time to go within daily comes into play. The more you tune in through yoga, meditation, prayer, spending reflective time in nature, and etc. the more this voice becomes present and active in your life.

I have always felt God's presence and guidance in my life. I was raised in a highly organized religion, but left it when I became an adult, because I felt a prompting for a deeper, more sensitive, intuitive relationship with spirit. I always felt that there was more out there for me. I feel that most organized religions lead people away from listening to and following their own inner voice and promptings. That is why I don't subscribe to organized religion. It encourages you to seek much wisdom from bishops, pastors, the Bible or other various scriptures and etc. instead of encouraging you to go within to find the answers in your own heart and soul. That is where all the true answers will be found. There are no intermediaries now between me and God. There is a direct line of communication that is very present and visible. I work hard to keep it open and accessible. This direct communication is available to everyone, all the time.

The beauty of Honoring the Wise Guide is it leads you to your highest good, your highest calling, and your fullest experience of life's joy, bliss and happiness. It is the part of you that knows who you came into this world to be, what you need to do with your particular gifts and talents, and how to bring you into a harmonious union with all of life. If you turn away from it, you will lead a frustrated life and miss out on rich blessings. If you listen to it and follow it, it will lead you into a glorious, new experience of life. Listen to and honor the wise guide. It is certainly a true friend.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Sharing-The Ultimate Giving Machine

2009-10-28T20:34:00.000-07:00

Sharing is just like gambling. The more you put in, the more you are bound to get out. And when you give the highest and best of what you are capable of giving, something amazing happens, lives are blessed and touched and you open the flood gates to rich blessings and an abundant life. The universe rewards you for sharing your authentic gifts, talents and passions! In fact, the law of giving is like the law of gravity. What goes up must come down.

One of the definitions of the word AFFLUENCE in Webster's dictionary is: an abundant flow or supply. So in essence, in order to attract more abundance into your life, you have to give something more of yourself, (your time, talents, material blessings, money, or some form of tithing) to this abundant flow or supply. And as you add to the flow, you keep the flow going, and then you increase the flow of abundance in your life naturally and gracefully. It's all about allowing the flow without damning it up with selfishness and greed.

The whole rhythmic dance of the universe operates under the law of giving. A flower is pollinated by the bee and in return gives her nectar to the bee, who makes honey, which feeds a myriad of insects and animals. A tree gives her fruits that we might eat, and in return we take care of the tree. A river gives of its water freely on its way downstream, nourishing and watering all living things in its path, and in the end, it flows into the ocean where it merges with an infinite supply again.

Whenever you are giving, you are declaring to the universe you have abundance to share. And whatever you believe is true and act on, has far reaching effects. The reason for this is the universe listens to and responds to your beliefs and actions, and therefore gives you more, because you are claiming yourself to be abundant. Conversely, when you hoard, or don't share out of fear of not having enough, that is exactly what comes your way-more lack, because you are declaring to the universe you are poor and have very little to give. It is always listening and responding to our thoughts and beliefs!

Once you start giving more of yourself though, you will quickly realize just how much more you receive than ever before. Giving not only makes you feel good, it welcomes positive vibrations, and a positive flow of a myriad of blessings into your life. And it doesn't really matter what you give either. Tithing doesn't have to be just about giving money. It is a spiritual law. It's about giving and sharing what you do have. And it is absolutely imperative that this give and take exists. Without it, life could not go on. Selfishness only stops the natural flow of give and take. The native Americans understood this concept miraculously. They would never take more than they needed from the great mother, because they understood their interconnectedness to her sacred web of life. If they killed something, they utilized most of the entire animal for something. Also embedded in the native culture, is the notion that whenever you take something from someone else, you also must give them something in return.

I believe in our culture we are taught subconsciously to be takers more so than givers. It's all about me, me, me. What's in it for me? It's amazing how stingy we are, when we have so much to share. I spent several weeks in Mexico in great poverty and I had total strangers invite me into their small, heavily populated homes. They fed me and welcomed me with open arms. It was beyond humbling. It brought tears to my eyes, because I had never seen generosity freely given like that before. The ironic thing is in our culture, what we don't realize is, this very resistance to circulate our wealth and abundance keeps more wealth and abundance from coming into our lives as well. The whole earth operates under a give and take philosophy, or an abundance mentality. It knows there is more than enough to go around for everybody and everything, and the more it freely gives, the more it will be freely given in return. That is why I titled this: Sharing-The Ultimate Giving Machine, because there is marvelous power in sharing. The more things of value you share with others, the more things of value will be shared with you. Sharing is like laughter, it is highly contagious. Always be on the lookout for ways to share with others and just watch the jackpot flow...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Getting Down to Business in Your Life

2009-10-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

It's 4th quarter, with only 3 minutes to go in the championship basketball game. Your team is down by 5 points. This is it. It's time to fly. It's time to pull all of the tricks out of the bag, time to create a little magic, time to pull together and utilize all of your individual strengths. It's time to put your game faces on, time to decide RIGHT NOW if you are 100% in, or out, and if you're gonna win, or lose this game. Winning is a choice too. It is always a choice!

On a more personal scale, you've gotta use this same sports minded mentality to get to where you wanna go as well. You've gotta step up to the plate if you are serious about Getting Down to Business in your life. You do this by deciding what you want, what you're committed to having, doing and being in your lifetime and by taking absolute responsibility for all you wish to create and experience as well. Nobody is gonna do it for you. Getting Down to Business in Your Life requires these 5 Components and Ingredients for success:

Life Management Skills-Knowing how to manage your emotional and mental states of focus and how to stay in peak operating states on a day to day, moment to moment basis
Toned Decision Making Muscles-Strong decision making muscles, strengthened by rigorous repetition and use
Major Action Taking Ability-Not being afraid to get in the game and make big plays, learning the game you are participating in, getting off the bench as merely an observer and becoming an actual player
Total Commitment-Giving 110% commitment in whatever area or arena you are truly committed to
Strong Desire to Face and Overcome Fears-Climbing the scary mountains, facing your own vulnerability and fears of uncertainty and failure, and overcoming inadequate self worth feelings

You can't always wait for the perfect day to begin something. What's wrong with today? You've gotta seize the day sometimes. You've also gotta seize the opportunities that present themselves. These often include: resources at your disposal, or people who wanna help you succeed, financial resources and etc. Don't just wait for your ship to come in. Build the damn thing , decide where you want to go in it and START SAILING!

Getting Down to Business in your life means, you've gotta to know what you want and deserve and not be afraid to ask life, the universe, or God for the things you want, or desire. Also, another few key points to Getting Down to Business in your Life are, knowing and expecting that you will see good things happen in your life, and also making key choices and decisions along the way. There is an intense power in a REAL decision to do something. It summons large, unfathomable resources and the God's intervention. The perfect day you have waited for is TODAY.

Getting Down to Business in Your Life is similar to starting a business with nothing more than a business plan for your product or service. Then you have to follow that plan and keep your focus on your successes, your triumphs and where you are going in the long run. Also, like in sales, you can't accept no for an answer. You've gotta be willing to have some doors shut on you. In fact, if you don't have any doors shutting on you, you are not really in the playing field. And as with a business, there also needs to be a Marketing, Publicity and Innovation team to help you brainstorm new ideas and to get your ideas out there in physical, tangible form. Like in creating a successful business, you have to follow your business plan, market yourself and grow your brand or product. After you do all these things, success will naturally and harmoniously follow.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Reward of All Rewards

2009-10-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

From the time we are born into this world, we can be easily seduced into thinking and believing that the greatest rewards this world has to offer us are: worldly honor and fame, prestige, glamour, power and wealth of all manner. And along with this, we are culturally taught that the pursuit of and accumulation of more and more of these things, is what will bring us more joy and happiness. As a society, we are drawn to game shows where people win large sums of money, or expensive material gifts. The treasures of this world are indeed charming and alluring, such as fine jewelry and adornments, fancy clothing, large, glamorous houses and expensive, sleek cars. The problem with these things though, is that they originate from outside of us and history proves these things alone do not satisfy the inner longings of our souls. Some of the wealthiest and famous people of all time have ended their lives tragically, brutally, or have even ended up strung out on drugs and alcohol.

It is not until we attain some of these worldly treasures that we begin to realize it was all a lie from the beginning-that these things would indeed bring us happiness. All these rewards are like sand that you hold in your hand, which at anytime may be blown away by a sudden windstorm in a fraction of a second. They are perishable. All the riches and rare treasures in the world don't bring the highest pleasure, the highest happiness. There is a reward though, that is imperishable. There is a jeweled crown that most of the world knows nothing about. Its splendour is stunning, shimmering beyond the beauty of the Taj Mahal, or a storehouse of red rubies, green emeralds, glittering, sparkling sapphires and diamonds, opals, pearls, bars of shiny gold, and metallic silver. And unlike earthly treasures, this reward cannot be taken from you once you attain it. It is a permanent gain. So what is this treasure I am referring to you may ask?

In the Bhagavad Gita (Hindu holy book) in chapter 6, it speaks of this sacred, holy treasure. I am going to paraphrase here. It refers to a man of Yoga attaining a state of consciousness where he knows there is no higher attainment, where his mind becomes clear and peaceful and he enters absolute joy, his passions are calmed forever and he is utterly absorbed in God. In this state he gains true freedom and finds an infinite joy.

This state of consciousness is known in eastern religions as SAMADHI or NIRVANA. Samadhi means oneness and union with God. Nirvana, on the other hand is the state of being free from suffering. Nirvana literally translates to "blowing out" — that is, blowing out the fires of greed, hatred, and delusion within oneself. It is considered the highest happiness. In eastern religions such as Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism, when you reach this level of peace and bliss, you are considered by many to have graduated so to speak, to have reached enlightenment and attained the crown of life, or The Reward of All Rewards. To reach this state is to graduate life with Honors. This inner treasure of inner peace, or true satisfaction and inner bliss is The Reward of All Rewards I am referring to here.

A great cause of many peoples miseries in this world is seeking for impermanent treasure that never satisfies. You can have it all and yet feel miserable, and empty inside. The Upanishads, an ancient Hindu text says that "bliss is our natural state, our birthright, but mankind remains unhappy since he hasn't learned how to obtain it, and that the inner self, or spirit within is the place where bliss and lasting happiness can be found. And the closer we get to the inner self, the more happiness we experience."

Bliss is the fruit of being charmed, or allured into a mystic union with God, or universal energy. It is The Reward of All Rewards, because once you attain this peace and happiness, you will never hunger and thirst solely for pleasures, treasures and desires of this world, which are so unquenchable. This constant thirst and hunger keeps us always striving for more, without giving us what we are really after. Ultimately, everyone wants happiness, peace and bliss. We can all have it too, once we tap into the source of the mystic fountain within and let go of our attachment to worldly treasures, worldly rewards. There is a reward waiting for you that is so lavish and rich, and once you taste it, you will hunger for nothing else. Wayne Dyer said in his book Your Sacred Self, "When the divine light within you is experienced directly, it adds a radiance to life unlike anything that can be described with words, or pictures." Seek it, this divine light and inner ecstasy. It is the ONLY thing that will really satisfy and it is much closer than you may realize!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

A Life Transforming Machine

2009-10-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

The mind is a marvelously powerful piece of equipment! It is most certainly and undoubtedly A Life Transforming Machine. It is an elaborate power tool that can take you from where you are to where you would like to go. The mind is sort of like a copy machine, spitting out copies of whatever you put in to photocopy. And this great secret can either be used graciously and consciously as a gift, or unappreciatively, unconsciously with very mixed results. It is up to you! The mind is like the lens of a camera. Whatever you focus the lens on, is exactly what shows up in the photograph. Likewise, whatever you focus on in life, is oftentimes what you get. However, unlike a camera, whatever you focus on in your mind, gets bigger. The more we place our focus, our attention on something, the more that object, or event dominates and even controls our lives, and the bigger it grows.

I have learned through the school of hard knocks and life experience, that I have the power to direct my focus, regardless of what may be going on in my life. And that gives me great power to control my experience of life, from moment to moment. One of the first things I do every morning is ask myself positive questions to mentally get myself in a positive, resourceful, optimal state for the day. Some examples of these questions are:

What am I happy about and grateful for today?

How am I gonna make today a great day?

What is great about me?

What can I do to transform my life in every area (mentally, physically, spiritually and socially) right now?

What do I NOW choose to create and experience in my life?

Now don't get me wrong, things still go wrong in my life. I'm not positive 100% of the time. And Life still throws unexpected curve balls at me from time to time, but I get to decide how to interpret these events by the power of my focus, as do you in your own life as well. It is not the events themselves though that determine how your life is shaped, but how you interpret the events. The emphasis you place on them and the meaning you give them determines just how much events will affect you. Literally our focus becomes our experience of life.

I am convinced most depression, unhappiness is only a state of mind. We often create the conditions in our lives by our focus. This life transforming machine-the mind, can either be our best friend, or our worst enemy. I believe we don't often utilize the power of our mind and mental focus to our benefit enough. If I go around with a pessimistic attitude, saying everything sucks, nobody likes me, nothing in my life ever is gonna work out, blah, blah, blah, then I am actually using this life transforming machine in a negative, or destructive way. And I am actually drawing more of the conditions into my life that I am trying to avoid.

There are powerful metaphysical things happening all around us, and unseen force fields that we are affecting, even though we may not see it with our physical eyes. Deepak Chopra said, "Quantum physics is not only stranger than you think, it is stranger than you can think." We are operating inside an energy sensitive, energy dynamic matrix. Everything you think, feel, say and picture in your mind is pulled to you either consciously or unconsciously by the focus of your mind. Just like in the law of the harvest, you reap what you sow. Whatever you put into the mind, is what comes out.

Understanding and using the power of focus gives you enormous self power and life transforming capability. Use your power, this life transforming machine as your friend. The #1 reason that prevents people from getting what they want in life is, a lack of focus and lack of using and harnessing the powers inherent in the mind. People who learn how to focus and harness their energies, prosper and excel, while those who don't, struggle. There is great power in knowing what you want and where you are going, and in using the powers of the mind, or A Life Transforming Machine to assist you. And once you wholeheartedly put these forces into play, the dreams of yesterday will soon become the reality of today.

Take Out the Trash

2009-10-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

We all have a little junk in the trunk, so to speak. We all have areas in our lives we need to clean up, rearrange, or sometimes even overhaul. Sometimes a little spring cleaning on ourselves is very uplifting, revitalizing and can even be healthy and necessary. It is empowering to realize that we are in charge of ourselves and the things we store in our trunks, metaphorically speaking though. And at anytime, we can Take Out the Trash, or take out the old and bring in the new.

So let me take a moment and define the type of trash I am referring to here. Basically, it can be all the things in our personal lives we lug around that interfere with us enjoying the present moment, our present relationships, the stuff that keeps us from experiencing inner peace and happiness! Come on, you know the stuff I am referring to-BAGGAGE! This could include emotional hurt, resentment toward someone we feel has wronged us, unresolved anger, fear, stress, worry about the future, feelings of inadequacy, slavery to addictions, negative or pessimistic attitudes, or thought patterns. This type of trash, if we carry it around too long, poisons our lives. It also prevents us from achieving the lives of our dreams. It keeps us stuck in a rut. So take it out before it rots a hole in your soul. You must take this stuff out if you wanna make room for new treasures in your life. Face it, you wouldn't put new wine in an old, dirty bottle.

There are many reasons why we hold onto our junk though. Sometimes it may feed a need in us, or even allow us to play the victim role, or act helpless, or powerless in any given situation. Other times though, it can be healthy and be us actually feeling our pain, hurt, loneliness, or whatever, so we can move on from it. Sometimes we have to allow ourselves to feel this stuff, to carry a little baggage, before we can release some of this junk, put it down and move on. But the key here is to not allow yourself to drown in this filth, stench and toxicity. If you need to carry some baggage and garbage with you, do it for a while and allow yourself to feel the weight, to smell its raunchy smell. But, then put it down. The key here is not to drown in this toxic waste, not to allow the weight of your life to weigh you down into the dumps. It is too easy to fall victim to depression and despair if you get stuck in this place.

I recently divorced from my wife of 9 years and I will admit, divorce has been especially hard for me. I have had to face an immense amount of rejection from my spouse, as well as a lot of hurt, anger, emotional pain, insecurity, and fear of being alone. This is something I am still working on releasing and moving on from. It has been a year now since the divorce was final. I have fully allowed myself to go through the grieving process and to feel my pain, hurt and insecurity. Now, I am ready to put this stuff down and move on. But, I could just as easily get sunk into depression and despair and feeling sorry for myself. But I choose not to. That point of recognition is the key to healthy self care and preservation. You have to be willing to let your garbage go at some point, in order to live a healthy and productive life.

Once you Take Out the Trash, and cultivate positive energy and emotions, you can begin to step into your glorious new shoes, new life and even your new self. You lighten up spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally. You prepare your self for a better quality experience of life. You also become more receptive to the creative mind that attunes you to all the possibilities the universe has in store for you. So think of me right now as a gardener helping you prepare your inner soil for an abundant harvest. If you wanna manifest, or grow great things in your life, and experience the dance of the universe more powerfully, you've gotta get all the junk out of your trunk. I challenge you once and for all, to free yourself from the slime, muck and filth that have only been weighing you down and Take Out the Trash...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Power of a Positive Attitude

2009-10-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

There is a Great power in attitude. It is an extraordinarily, gigantic force in shaping your life and destiny. Never underestimate The Power of a Positive Attitude! It can either stage your life for a cornucopia of success, or plague you with imminent failure and disaster. Attitude is a supercharged, magnetic force, drawing circumstances towards you that will either make or break your life, your relationships, and ultimately your success and happiness in life. And the wonderful thing about it is, it is a power YOU have control of EVERYDAY of your life. Sure, you can't always control all the circumstances of your life. Life happens as it happens! You can however, certainly control your attitude about how you choose to handle the situations that arise in your life and the challenges you may have to face. Many people say "Life is a bitch." I say, "Life is habitual." And whatever attitudes you continuously put out there to the universe, reap a material and spiritual harvest of some type, either good or bad.

Attitude is a momentary and daily choice, just like choosing what you are gonna have for breakfast, or what clothes to put on for the day. And the difference between a mediocre life and a great one, is oftentimes just a slight attitudinal adjustment. I have come to the conclusion that people that are happy and successful work hard at keeping a positive attitude. I have observed this trait in many of my mentors and role models. I believe full heartedly that a positive attitude is a precursor to life success and life mastery. Maintaining a positive attitude is something you have to commit to and take full responsibility for. A positive attitude doesn't just happen to anyone spontaneously. It comes from constant self cultivation. It is constantly deciding that, "I will make the most of this and everyday. I will find a way to succeed. I will stay positive no matter what happens today. Today is gonna be a great day because I will make it a great day!

When you truly understand The Power of a Positive Attitude, you will begin to realize and understand that whatever you are focusing on becomes your reality each day. Earl Nightingale said this: "Stay positive, you become what you think about." And Buddha said, "All that we are arises with our thoughts, with our thoughts we make our world." That's why you must guard your thoughts and focus, because positive or negative, they bring astonishing results into your existence. We are more powerful than we realize! The power of focus is nothing to be taken for granted.

Something I have learned though, is that it is easier for me to have a positive attitude and outlook on life, when I feel connected to my soul. It seems positive energy originates from the source, or "the force." I have noticed a rather strong correlation here. Inner peace/spiritual fulfillment and a great attitude are closely related. In fact they are brothers and sisters in the matrix of the universe. So, when you make time to nourish your soul, it becomes easier to maintain positive energy and a positive attitude for longer periods of time. I came across a great quote by Vince Lombardi Jr. just the other day, "The will to win... the will to achieve... goes dry and arid without continuous renewal." To me continuous renewal refers to feeding your mind, body and soul often. Nourish your soul, cultivate a positive awareness and attitude, and you will plant seeds in your mind and soul that will one day blossom into ripe, delicious and luscious fruits! That is The Power of a Positive Attitude!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Staying in the Flow

2009-10-13T21:53:00.000-07:00

We have all had days where it seems everything is going our way. The heavens open up and the universe seems to be conspiring for us. It feels like we are on fire, totally in sync with the universal flow. It's as if there were some kind of magic fairy flying a few paces in front of us, sprinkling pixie dust ahead of us at every step, magically transforming circumstances so that everything goes our way. It's as if everything we touch seems to turn to gold, and everything falls into place just as it should. And the astonishing thing is, we don't even have to try so hard in this state of grace, the flow is just there and you are a part of it, just flowing with it. Like a river, life is flowing smoothly, powerfully and purposefully.

I am sure everyone has experienced moments such as these from time to time. They are moments to be treasured. You know the moments I am referring to? where you don't have to try so hard, or force any thing to happen, where things just happened. And in this place, this state of being in the flow, it feels good, natural, you feel refreshed, light and in tune with all creation, totally alive and on purpose. That's because, being in the flow is our natural state. We were meant to live this way, feeling good, calm, relaxed, peaceful and happy, in a place of non-resistance. When we are in this state, everything seems to work better, more efficient, more precisely. Even our relationships run smoother and more harmonious. It is a buoyant state of being.

And then, on the contrary, there are days when nothing feels right, when it seems we are out of touch with our higher selves and the rhythms of life. Nothing goes right and we just kinda feel off. It is a strange phenomena too. And sometimes it has nothing to do with your routine, or outer circumstances. I practice yoga and meditation pretty much daily, and sometimes, even after all I do, I just don't feel it. I may have a harder time relaxing and feeling inner peace, bliss and connected. At times, it seems we can lose the flow. We may feel blocked, irritated, anxious, confused and exasperated. It can also be very difficult to get back into the flow. One thing I know for absolute certain though, is we were not meant to live with so much stress and tension. And a lot of times, we blame our outer circumstances for the lack of balance and peace we may be feeling. That is oftentimes not the case. Being in and Staying in the Flow starts on the inside.

An important point I'd like to make here is that I have found it is much easier to stay in and maintain the flow, when I am connected to the source of flow-spirit. Being in the flow comes from within you, when you experience brief moments when you heart, body and soul are all aligned, or connected. You can increase the moments of being in the flow by raising your spiritual frequency and doing things to encourage more inner peace, such as tai chi, yoga, meditation, art and deep breathing. Being out of the flow usually indicates we are out of flow, or sync with spirit. In a nutshell, Staying in the Flow is as simple as staying connected to the source of the flow. If you work to stay close to your source, you will experience more moments of being in the flow and Staying in the Flow!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Awaken The Genie Within (Re-Claim Your Personal Power)

2009-10-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

Don't seek it any longer, just call it forth-the life that you desire! Your power is so much greater than you realize, far greater... Infinite possibilities, infinite abundance and infinite power are at your fingertips right this very moment. Exercise the God given power at your disposal. The creator infused you with massive creative potential and unfathomable, unlimited resources with which to shape your life. It is part of your royal birthright. He made you rich. You are wealthy and resourceful beyond your imagination, beyond your ability to comprehend. All you have to do is just believe, just accept the creators offering to you as a free gift to his beloved and then, exercise your imagination & visualization faculties and your personal power to act.

The genie is in the magic lamp, within you, slumbering restlessly, waiting to be summoned by you. He is ready at any given moment to be called forth, waiting for the chance to show forth his astonishing powers. Believe in him, awaken him, let him out and watch your life transform. You are not weak and powerless by any means. You are much greater than you might know yourself, or think, or believe yourself to be. Take a few chances, exercise your God given gifts. The only grow stronger with use.

Life was really meant to be magical, enchanting, full of passion, adventure, satisfaction and delight! It is only us who keep ourselves from experiencing these things. What if you could have, do, or be anything you really desired? What if you really had the power, the tools and the magic at your beckon call, inside you right now, with which to create a magical reality, a magical life, a life beyond your wildest dreams? Would you seize the opportunity and use this power and these tools, or would you just waste these highly precious things and play the victim card? You are not a victim. You are a glorious creation, and you do have phenomenal, extraordinary, and enormous power, but first, you have to find it within yourself!

A creator puts a bit of him/herself into all of his or her creations. The gift is in you. The creators magic is in you. The tools needed to build and construct a glorious, new life are in your reach now. Use them, they are a priceless, matchless gift from the Great Spirit. Let the magic flow, waste it no longer. Awaken the Genie Within and Re-Claim Your Personal Power...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Power of Surrender

2009-10-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you find yourself at a crossroads, or a turning point. You know the place? where you can either go one way, or the other, and in this place, you may need to seek counsel and advice. Other times, all you can do is fully surrender. This happens when you are faced with a circumstance so big, like a enormous boulder in your path that you cannot see literally any way around on the narrow path you may be walking. You have tried EVERY possible way around the boulder, or challenge, but nothing seems to be working. It is during moments such as these, when it seems all you can do is fully surrender to a situation, or challenge you may be faced with. There is power in surrender though, because the creator, or Great Spirit knows our every need and concern. And sometimes I believe, he is just waiting for us to quit trying so hard to fix everything, or to fix a situation we have very little control of anyways and just give it over to him. He waits, he glories in those opportunities to show himself, to reveal his power, and his unfailing love for us all. He yearns for us to call upon him for everything. It is just in these moments of surrender that he can really show forth his glory and power, usually because we are so humbled and so broken down and open.

A perfect example of this type of surrender was the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt in their exodus (or migration), when pharaoh decided to take revenge. In the moment when all the Israelites were surrounded by the Sea on one side and by the army of pharaoh on the other, coming to literally destroy them, all Moses could do as their leader was surrender, because in his limited perspective they were trapped. So that is exactly what he did was surrender to a higher power. And look what happened? God revealed marvelous power and delivered the people in a miraculous way.

I remember well a very trying time such as this in my own families lives. It was few years ago. I had lost the best paying job of my entire life just a few months before Christmas. My wife and I at the time and I were praying for a miracle, not knowing where to turn. We couldn't pay rent, and we had absolutely no money for Christmas. On top of that, we were several thousand dollars past due on all of our most basic bills. In that moment and situation, all we could do was surrender, as we were in way over our heads. So, that is what we did. We surrendered everything to God. You see The Power of Surrender is that it pulls you to your knees, to the ground, where you realize your own humility and limited power compared to the power of the universe and you humbly and sincerely ask for help and surrender your situation to a much greater entity.

Needless to say, our prayers were answered, but in a completely bizarre way. We were praying for a miracle for things to turn around. I guess the old saying is true, "be careful what you pray for," because just a few weeks later, our house caught on fire in the middle of the night, due to a wood burning stove. We lost pretty much everything. But, then an amazing thing started to happen. The community responded to our loss. Money, gifts, clothing, food, furniture and etc. began flooding in from everywhere in an avalanche of abundance. We lost our home, but in our surrender, God gave us a fresh new start with a ton of resources and we were able to totally start over with a clean slate financially.

That is The Power of Surrender. It is not weakness. It is not about giving up, but rather giving in to a power and force that is much greater and wiser than you and me. This lesson was a great lesson in surrender for me and my family. In surrender lies great strength and power because you are saying, God I can't fix this. All I can do is all I can do, the rest now God is up to you. I can't get out of this jam alone. And you are turning your problem/challenge over to God, or the Great spirit, or Allah to help you resolve it. You are reaching, or turning to him for help. And I am here to testify that in that moment of surrender comes some of life's greatest blessings and gifts!

Extraordinary Leadership

2009-10-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

I have been intensely studying what makes people with extraordinary leadership quality and ability tick for much of my life. And through this pursuit to unravel and dissect the art of personal greatness, I have read countless books and listened to countless audiotape programs as well. I have a passion for studying about Extraordinary Leadership. I am truly inspired by boldness, greatness, and honorable, noble character wherever I come across it. I believe we are all inspired by those who demonstrate extraordinary qualities of the human spirit. It is hard not to look up to and admire someone of remarkable caliber, just like it is impossible to stand beneath a 300 foot redwood tree, or next to a towering mountain, or the ocean, and not admire their beauty, strength, presence and power.

Some of the key role models who have undoubtedly influenced my life in a remarkably, positive way and whom I feel have demonstrated, or who currently demonstrate Extraordinary Leadership are: John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, Vince Lombardi, Nelson Mandela, Zig Ziglar, Anthony Robbins and Oprah Winfrey. Through studying these remarkable souls lives, beliefs and teachings, I have come across a lot of similar core traits they all seem to possess and demonstrate. I believe all of these great leaders and all other extraordinary leaders for that matter, possess these core traits and habits, which we can all model and incorporate. I will call them:

11 Traits for Personal Greatness and Extraordinary Leadership

1) Personal Responsibility and Self Discipline

-Taking responsibility for yourself in all areas (mind,body, spirit), being assertive, taking charge for what is in your realm to accomplish and being disciplined in thoughts, actions and beliefs

2) Inner Motivation

-Finding within yourself the will to achieve, to stay positive, the strength and desire to keep improving, to keep challenging yourself to grow and become better day by day

3) A Vision For Life

-Having a vision for where you're going and holding to that vision even when it is stormy outside, or when others may be trying to discourage you, or put out your fire

4) Service Mentality

-Understanding that being service minded is a key value, a strong asset to any team, corporation, or organization and truly giving of yourself and your talents whenever possible

5) Passion and Love for What You are Doing

-Following your bliss, exercising your authentic gifts and passions, radiating joy in your work and your dharma, spreading a little sunshine from your soul

6) Respect and Compassion for others

-Giving recognition and praise where it is due, truly operating for the good of all, understanding the interconnected web of all existence, the value of all life, and coming from a place of love in all you say and do

7) Priority Driven Mentality

-Ability to stay in focus, see the job or task through to completion, taking care of first things first, ability to start and finish tasks begun in a timely manner

8) Commitment to Excellence

-Constantly improving yourself and holding yourself and others around you to a higher standard (more of an attitude than anything), maintaining absolute commitment and dedication to self mastery and life mastery

9) Trustworthiness and Integrity

-Always being dependable, demonstrating predictable behavior, promoting trust to peers, family and friends, and demonstrating true character in EVERY possible situation

10) Action Oriented With an Assertive Will

-Getting the job done, taking responsibility for creating the life you want to create and experience, exercising total self confidence and self belief, and not being afraid to walk your own path, or blaze your own trail

11) Optimistic and Have a Winners Mentality

-Keeping yourself in resourceful states at all times, always finding a way to stand out, excel in any crowd, in any group, ability to stay positive through any situation, and practicing positive mind conditioning

Vince Lombardi once said, "Leaders are made, they are not born. They are made by hard effort, which is the price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile." Leadership is not just about ability, but always taking responsibility, always exceeding others expectations and coming from a true place of service, always looking for ways to give more of yourself. A true leader doesn't glory in making followers out of others, he or she glories in making leaders out of everyone around them. That is the true mark of greatness. Aristotle said, " Excellence is not an act, but a habit." Our habits either make or break our lives. Great habits can and will establish great character. Exemplifying all of the 11 Traits for Personal Greatness and Extraordinary Leadership, you are sure to be well on your way up toward Extraordinary Leadership.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

A Little More Substance

2009-09-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Hunger, intense hunger, everywhere I look, I see hunger, but what are we hungry for? We eat, but we are never filled. We are so busy, busy, busy, constantly looking for the next high, the next thrill, the next bit of excitement. We live in a culture of fast food, fast cars and instant gratification. We are enamored with all kinds of material abundance (things, things, things). And yet, I still see hunger, a lot of hunger; for even though we have so many things, these things can and never will satisfy the longings of the soul. The soul desires an internal connection with its source, and if you don't nourish that, you will always feel a sense of emptiness. It doesn't matter how much material wealth or belongings, or temporary highs you achieve, or acquire. If you don't satisfy your spiritual hunger, you will never find satisfaction of the highest nature.

There is a song by Jewel that is absolutely amazing. It is titled, Little Sister. The lyrics go:

"Every day we starve while we eat white bread and beer, instead of a handshake or hug, we spill the pills and sweep them under the rug. My little sister is a zombie in a body, with no soul, a role she has learned to play, in a world today where nothing else matters, but it matters, we gotta start feeding our souls, not our addictions, or afflictions of pain, to avoid the same questions we must ask ourselves to get any answers. We gotta start feeding our souls have been lost to the millions with lots who feed on addiction selling pills and what's hot. I wish I could save her from all their delusions, all the confusion, of a nation that starves for salvation, but clothing is the closest approximation to God, and he only knows that drugs are all we know of love."

There is an interesting correlation I have noticed. We as a society abuse so many substances (prescription pills, drugs, pornography, food and etc.) as a substitute for real substance. Ironically enough, it is called substance abuse. Ultimately, people are looking for more substance, many just go about it the wrong way. We all want the same thing-a richer, fuller experience of life, but there is no substitute for real substance. Spiritual fulfillment is the only satisfying substance. Until your soul is content and full of substance, you will constantly be craving and always hungry.

I remember growing up, my needs were always met. We weren't wealthy by any means, but we were never poor either. The physical comfort just didn't do it for me though. My family sat around and watched a lot of TV, and played video games. I was never interested in that sort of thing. And through the wisdom of my years, I have come to understand why. All these material things don't satisfy the soul. I have always craved more substance. I hear the longings of my soul, I feel it's hunger. And I feed my soul often just like I feed my body. I am not interested in the food that perishes, I am interested in the food that never perishes-SOUL FOOD! I don't want milk. I want meat, spiritually speaking. That feel good, shallow stuff doesn't do it for me. Our family went to church almost every week and yet, my soul was still always seeking more substance. I felt the hunger from an early age on. I am convinced there is a lot of shallowness in our culture.

I had the chance to worship and study with a Native American group for several years in Tennessee , while I lived there. I now believe native Americans lived with a lot of substance. There's was a very rich spiritual culture. I learned a great deal in those ceremonies and studies. Spirituality was a core component of the native life and culture. I think our culture could benefit a lot from their wisdom and way of life. We need a return to the spiritual way. Oscar Wilde said, "Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot. In your soul are infinitely precious things that cannot be taken from you." That is where the real substance lies. Real substance is what I'm talking about here. Let’s be done with shallow living. This is a call for a return to A Little More Substance.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Let Nothing Get Your Goat

2009-09-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

This is a phrase I heard a lot growing up, from several various people. It always stuck with me. There was something about it that resonated with me. I did some research and found two possible origins for this commonly used saying. The first comes from an old french phrase, "prendre la chevre," which basically means, "to get your goat, or to take away the goat." In olden times, a person's goat would oftentimes be their only source of milk, so as you could probably imagine, they might get highly irritated, or offended if someone were to try and take it! The second possible origin I found, is a story that dates back to the early 1900's, about goats being placed with racehorses to keep them calm before horse races. So, if someone were to steal or take away an others goat, the horse would become unsettled and run badly, and thus they would 'get someones goat' and oftentimes their prize money too.

So in either case mentioned, the goat was highly prized, which explains how the saying became so popular. The "goat" I am referring to here, in reference to Let Nothing Get Your Goat, is your peace. You must treat it like a highly prized possession. Inner peace after all is the the greatest treasure. You must guard and protect your peace, like a turtle in an impenetrable shell. Others will try to steal, borrow and attack it, especially those who don't have much themselves. You yourself can even destroy and push it away by anger, pride, selfishness, envy, greed, addictions and etc. Buddha said, "Beware of bodily anger, and control your body! Beware of the anger of the tongue, and control your tongue. Beware of anger of the mind, and control your mind. Let a man leave anger, let him forsake pride, let him overcome all bondage!" This stuff is bondage because it keeps us from our natural, peaceful state.

In the parable of the Ten Virgins in Matthew, in the Bible, you can also gather similarities of this topic of letting nothing get your goat. It's a story about five virgins who had oil in their lamps and five who tried to borrow from those that had oil. The five that had oil were wise though and didn't let the others borrow theirs, so they could be prepared to see the son of man. This can also be symbolic of trying to borrow others light or inner peace, or not letting others borrow your light or peace, or ultimately, not letting others get your goat or your peace. There is also another great demonstration of this subject in 1 Peter 5:8-9. Peter basically tells us to be self controlled and watchful so the adversary who walks around like a prowling lion won't devour us. This is another great demonstration of guarding your peace and Letting Nothing Get Your Goat. A huge part of maintaining or having inner peace is self control in all areas.

The point I am making here is whenever we let things get our goat, we are letting them take our peace. We are giving our peace to them literally. And I don't know how valuable inner peace is to you, but it is everything to me. I work very hard to maintain mine and there is no way I am just gonna let someone try and steal, or borrow it from me. Sometimes it is challenging though, I won't lie. I was married to a woman for 9 years who didn't have much inner peace and she was constantly attacking mine, sometimes with a vengeance. She was very jealous of the peace I had within me. I had to be very strong to resist the temptation to fight and get defensive.

When you work hard to achieve inner peace, you also have to work hard to protect it. Some people are extremely manipulative and take great pride in borrowing others light and peace. But, if you let others get your goat, then it is you who ends up losing in the end. Inner peace is a pearl of great price. Guard it with your life. It is more valuable than a storehouse of treasures. Let Nothing Get Your Goat!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

You Are Beautiful

2009-09-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

I don't know you specifically, individually, whoever you are, but I know one thing-You Are Beautiful. And how do I know this you might ask? The answer is simple, because you are a child of a phenomenal, amazing creator, a creator who doesn't make anything that isn't intrinsically good. You were created by divine light, and you are sustained and maintained by divine light. And along with that, there are gifts and talents inside of you that no one can replicate anywhere in the whole world. You have a unique expression of your talents. You have a sacred calling, or purpose (dharma) that is yours and yours only.

Sometimes though, it seems we live in a world where there is just not a lot of encouragement. Doesn't it seem that others try harder to discourage us, more often than they try and build us up? I know for me personally, my own family has not been so encouraging of my writing and supportive of me following my passions in life. You may feel the same, or maybe you have a great support system? But, no matter who has, or who hasn't supported, or encouraged you in your past, I want you to know that I believe in you and your dreams, your passions, and your greatness, so I want to encourage you. And God/spirit also supports and believes in you. You deserve to be loved and supported for what you have to offer/contribute to this world. And even if you can't see it right now, I know there is something, some force hiding inside of you, right at this very moment just waiting, maybe even screaming at you to unleash it, a force or passion that can ultimately transform your experience of life for good.

I want you to think about 3 people in your life who have been encouraging. If you are lucky, you can hopefully name at least 3. And think just how much these people have influenced, or have helped shape the person you are today. I remember when I lived in Nashville, Tennessee for many years, while I was actively pursuing my writing and songwriting, one day, I was introduced to this highly famous producer/musician named Tom Roady. I asked him to listen to a few of my songs. To my amazement, he said sure. He came over to my house and gave me an hour of his time. I was blown away. He didn't know me from Adam. A few weeks later, he asked me to come to his studio to do some recording. He told me he really believed in my talent and wanted to help me record some of my music. I was beyond moved by his gesture of kindness. He helped me produce some very nice music. His kindness and generosity and his encouragement made me believe I could be successful as a singer/songwriter in the music business. The point is, all he did was give me a little bit of his time, and offered some hope and encouragement to me, and it changed my world.

So, I would like to do that for you right now as well. If you have a dream, you need to pursue it. If you have passions, you need to express them. You are truly beautiful in the eyes of the creator who created you. And he desires only the best for you. He desires you to be full of his glory and to have a rich and abundant life, not just materially, but spiritually as well. Please believe me even if this is hard for you! Spirits are also constantly around you offering encouragement. You just have to learn to listen! I work very hard at having a close connection to spirit. I feel spirits presence strongly encouraging me to be who I am and to do what I am passionate about. In fact, this very website came about because of an idea during a meditation that I felt spirit was whispering in my ear, encouraging me to share a bit of the gold that is within me, to others. You too have a bit of gold within you as well, and You Are Beautiful especially when you are doing your bliss, when you are sharing what it is you have within you to share. Let your beauty manifest itself in the physical world. Be the beautiful creation you were meant to be!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Unity, Harmony and Love are Calling

2009-09-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

She is calling. I hear her tantalizing, seductive voice drawing me in, inviting me into a closer communion with spirit, a closer communion with all of creation. I don't know her name, but I hear her whisper unity, harmony and love. The time for her emergence is at hand. It is a seminal moment in the history of humankind. She is drawing us in with her angelic, enchanting, mesmerizing, hypnotic, tranquil, blissful voice, calling all people, all races into one.

It is time for us to look beyond religious, spiritual, racial and economic differences and see only the brotherhood and sisterhood of all humanity, the interconnected web of all existence! Prophets and mystics from all over the world have heard the calling, have seen the vision.

It is a time for unity. It is a time for religion to stop being a childish game, a contest about who has the most correct truth, who has the bigger monopoly on God's teachings. This limited mindset does more to create separation than unity. It actually takes away from the simplicity and beauty of true religion. It is time for Jews, Gentiles, Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, Native Americans, Taoists, Bahais, Sikhs and etc. to find a common ground, a common thread that we can all weave together. We are not that different. We all bleed red, have hearts, minds and souls that are all intrinsically connected to our creator. We all have the same basic needs and desires (to be loved, to feel a connection with spirit, to eat and sleep and to experience the joy and excitement, the wonder of being alive). We are all more similar than different. We all worship the same God under different names.

I wrote a poem the other day for a beloved friend and I felt it fit nicely with this material so I wanted to share it here. It is called:

Unity is Calling

Beyond our differences, there is a glorious field.

Come, I will meet you there, where love will be blooming,

Amidst flowers of all shapes, colors and hues.

We will be dancing, running wildly, barefoot through the fields.

The heart and soul see no differences, only interconnectedness,

Only the mind differentiates, separates.

Come let us embrace each other and dance together.

Unity is calling!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

There has never been a time when unity, harmony and love are more needed than now, with all the global pollution, global warming, and the countless wars going on inside and outside of our country. It is time for us to put the weapons down, time for a glorious dawning of spiritual inner transformation that is the ONLY force that can truly change the world once and for all. It starts with you and me individually. Once you find peace, harmony and love within your self, and more and more people start to awaken to this consciousness, then the world as we know it will finally change and transform. Unity, Harmony and Love are Calling. Listen, follow their melodic tunes. She is speaking loudly drawing us all into one!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Every Day is a Gift

2009-09-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

Anthony Robbins, a great motivational speaker said, "Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more." Every day we all have the opportunity to decide to let in the sun's rays or get caught up in the haze, the gloom, to give a lot of ourselves, or to give just the bare minimum. And this choice, this attitude reflects in everything we think, do and say for that particular day. Attitudes are highly contagious and a bad attitude is like a rotten piece of fruit. It spoils the rest of the bunch.

Imagine how differently we would treat others, if we consciously decided to treat each day as the amazing gift it really is. It truly is a choice. Mother Theresa said, "It's not how much you do, but how much love you put into what you are doing!" Whatever you may be doing, do it with love and kindness, do it with gratitude and joy. That attitude reflects to all you encounter on your journey today. Put a little bit of yourself into whatever you may be doing. Life is valuable and we should treat it that way. There are NO guarantees in this lifetime.

Bottom line, life is a gift and a treasure. The fact that we are alive, having this extraordinary life experience is amazing in and of itself. I remind myself every morning on my way to work, that today is a day that will never come again. I choose to make it a great day because if you think about it, each day is a miniature lifetime, and you only have one chance to live that particular day. In order to really experience joy, happiness and achieve real and lasting success, we must treat life as a gift, and find ways to give more of ourselves, to be the gift to others and to life itself. A true spirit of giving can transform individuals, organizations, communities and entire societies. Every day is a Gift and a present. Make it count!

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Somewhere to Hide From the Storm

2009-09-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Every human being seeks shelter, comfort, a place to hide from the storms of life. As baby chicks are sheltered and protected by the mother hen, we all long to feel safe, secure and protected. We all respond to kindness, mercy, tenderness, love and compassion. It is a normal, healthy, and inborn tendency, or human desire. And though, there are physical safe havens such as our homes, buildings, temples and etc., there are also inner sanctuaries which are just as important. Rumi, a great persian poet said, "Make such a place for your early mornings, seeker of truth, if you're really looking for truth. Build the place with love that has no greed or fear in it. Demons are also at work who trick and prevent us from having such a place. And remember, the entrance door to the sanctuary is inside you." I have made it a daily habit to seek refuge in my inner temple, my inner refuge. It is in this place that I find the most inner security.

Bottom line, outer security can always be lost, destroyed or taken away at any given time. On January 1st 2008, my family and I awoke in the middle of the night to a blazing fire which literally consumed and devoured our home. As devastating a blow as this event was, to have our outer sanctuary literally destroyed, I found comfort in the only place i knew to go-my inner sanctuary. It is this place that can never be destroyed by the storms of life, or tragedies, or etc. That is why it is so important to make such a place as this for yourself.

Jesus talked about building your house upon the rock so that when the winds and rain come, it will still be standing. Buddha spoke of making yourself an island. Both of these teachings I believe are symbolic of being firm in spiritual wisdom and peace and maintaining an inner refuge or sanctuary, since earthly things are temporal and can easily be lost or stolen. I would like to share a poem I wrote that goes along perfectly with this subject now. It is called:

Inner Houses

As I was watching my neighbor outside today working on his house, I thought how strange it is that most humans spend so much time building and repairing their outside houses, which are but fleeting and transitory, and so little time constructing their inner world and inner houses, which are lasting and eternal. Such a waste!

Copyright Justin Topik 2000

When you need somewhere to hide and your world is crashing down, seek to find rest and refuge within your soul. Don't reach for substances or temporary uppers to make you feel better. These things will never bring you the peace and comfort you're looking for. Establish for yourself an inner sanctuary that will always be standing, where you can go at any hour to refresh, recharge, to find rest, repose and inner peace. I promise you the investment will be well worth the effort involved. I would be lost and empty without Somewhere to Hide From the Storm.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

What Lights You Up

2009-09-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

I will never forget the first time I met Angela. I walked into a Yoga/Meditation center in Nashville, Tennessee, called the "House of Bliss." And there to greet me was this amazingly vibrant being. Her spirit was on fire, literally glowing. There was a lively passion and enthusiasm in her voice. There was this radiant magic about her entire presence. I had heard about people who were this happy, but had never personally, until that day, had the chance to actually meet one of them. I was in awe to say the least. It was a cosmic meeting and event for me! Angela was as her name suggested, an ANGEL with an extra A at the end. She was definitely in her dharma, or following her life's purpose, or bliss. There was no hiding it. It was TOTALLY self evident. I couldn't help but to be inspired to create and experience this kind of zeal, this kind of passion and enthusiasm in my own life. Needless to say, Angela soon became a great friend, role model and mentor to me!

I remember ever since I was young, my mother always told me that no one likes their job. She said I was never gonna find a job that I loved. But, I never really bought into her philosophy. There was something inside of me that could not accept this belief. And meeting Angela that day proved my mother's theory wrong. I am 100% absolutely certain that everyone has passions, things that totally inspire them, things that light them up. I think a lot of people just bury them. It seems from an early age society almost tries to get you to put your dreams aside, to be realistic, to get you to "conform to the norm." But, I have never been one to do that. I have always liked walking my own path, even at the mercy of my families, peers and friends ridicule. My family used to make fun of me all the time for doing what I was passionate about. Looking back now, I think they were just jealous of me because I was actually inspired by something, and none of them ever really pursued anything they were truly passionate about. None of them ever had the drive, the fire, the inspiration that I had, so they tried to put mine out too.

Over the past 15 years of my life, I have done a lot of things I am passionate about. I have always been one to follow my bliss and go against the grain. I don't want to be like everyone else . I don't care what anyone else thinks about me! I have a lot of passion, creativity and different ideas about life, success, happiness and personal fulfillment. I am not afraid to take a different path. And if I can't find one I want to walk, then I will just create my own.

It has taken me a long time to figure out what I really want to do with my talents and creativity. But, I finally have it together, in more ways than one. So for me, what lights me up is studying spirituality and motivational material, writing uplifting, positive and inspirational material, songwriting, recording my music in the studio, creating work shops, seminars and inspirational products. I love to create. And I love to share what I have created with others. That is what lights me up.

So what about you? What gives you that feeling of total joy in your soul? What lights you up and puts that magic in your life? If you bury these things, you bury with them the greatest part of yourself. And as you bury these passions, these things die and the greatest part of you dies along with them. What lights you up is one of the Universes/Great Spirits/God's gifts to you. What energizes you? What gives you that inner zeal, inner enthusiasm to keep going in life? I challenge you to follow those things, to pursue a more authentic experience of life.

You might as well do what you are passionate about, do what lights you up. If you don't, you will always feel a constant nagging in your soul. Also, what lights you up, lights everybody else up too. And ironically enough, when you share these authentic gifts/passions with others, abundance often follows. So, if you don't let your lights shine for everyone else to see, you are taking away from the light and joy that your gifts could offer yourself, others and the whole world as well.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Creating a Magical Life

2009-05-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

One of my all time favorite books is, Oh the Places You'll Go, a children's book by Dr. Seuss. It is full of profound, humorous, yet practical life wisdom, for how to create and live a magical life. The book starts off like this:

"Congratulations! Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!You're off and away!
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes
You can steer yourself any direction you choose."

Dr. Seuss understood the magic that we all possess intrinsically. You do have the ability to steer yourself any direction you choose. That is because you are the great magician of your own life! And your magic is far greater than you could possibly imagine. Encoded within all of our spirits DNA, are magical powers of enormous capabilities. These powers include: Visualization and Manifestation, the Law of Attraction and the ability to create mental, emotional and physical states of being. And besides these powers, we also have embedded in our souls, ruby red slippers, a magic wand, a cape and magicians hat, which we can access at any given moment. And with these powers and tools, comes the ability to manifest virtually anything we could ever desire-anything... I decided to look up the word "desire" in the dictionary. One of the definitions is: to ask for; request something. So, to "desire" something is actually to ask for, request something from the universe. And with a strong enough "desire," we can actually pull something toward us, in a metaphysical sort of way. The amazing thing is, the universe is set up to give us the wishes of our heart. But, it only works according to our faith and intensity of our desires.

Our lives are meant to me magical, enchanting. The spiritual realm is full of magic and mystery, as is the physical world. The magic is all around us. We live in a magical universe. It is only when we lose our connection to spirit, or become negative and cynical, that life becomes dull and unmagical. Whether we realize it or not, we are all using our magic positively or negatively anyways, either consciously to our benefit or unconsciously to our demise. It is impossible not to use it. It is a free gift of the spirit.

Magic is something we all secretly yearn for. Look at the appeal of Disneyland to the general public. I believe, it's because somewhere inside of us, we know that magic is possible. We all hope that somehow, someone or something will arrive and wave that magic wand and then our lives will suddenly transform. But, what we don't realize, is that we all have the power to create magic in our own lives NOW. We don't need someone else to waive the wand for us. In fact, waiting for someone else to do it for you, is like waiting for rain in the desert, while at any given moment, you could dig a well and tap into a unlimited supply of water.... So stop waiting for something outside of you to give you magic. Just waive your magic wand, accept your God given power and use it to unleash the magic residing within you.

To create magic, you need to do these 5 things:

#1) Believe in magic (believe in and accept that you have magic power inside you at your disposal)
#2) Keep your mind totally positive (understand that like energy attracts like energy)
#3) Stay close to the source of enchantment, mystery (the creator, the great genie of the universe)
#4) Watch the company you keep (a rich, enchanting life requires you surrounding yourself with people who are believers in the magic as well)
#5) Practice creating magic in your life regularly (take out your magic wand and magicians hat, put them on, and access their power)

One last bit of advice on Creating a Magical Life is, to act is if you are a powerful magician. Even if you don't feel like it, you can bluff your way into the magic. Pretend you are magic. In my former clothing business, I had one particular young men's t-shirt line with a cartoon hero character on it. I found that I actually had to become the hero character on the t-shirts, to act and think as if I were him, in order to be able to draw forth the inspiration I got, for the ideas for the designs. There is power in acting as if you are something that you are not at the moment. By acting as if you already are something, you bring the magic to become that something right to you. It's time for you to start acting like the great magician that you really are. It is time for you to unleash the magic and create a magical life.

Giving in to Letting Go

2009-05-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

I remember the first time I heard this concept-the idea of letting go, the power of surrender. I thought it was ludicrous. I have always been a go getter. And I have always been able to make things happen, to go after and achieve the results that I wanted to achieve. I was involved in a lot of sports when I was growing up (basketball, football, track, and soccer). And I learned to excel at most of them, by being aggressive, by using that bull headed, take charge mentality. It wasn't until many years later, that I learned there was a higher power I could incorporate into my life and actually accomplish more, by not pushing so hard. It is a Hindu teaching called The Law of Least Effort, or "do less and accomplish more." The idea behind this is that when we are pushing hard to accomplish something, we are rigid in our approach, and we are not acting in harmony with natural laws. Also, in this state of mind, we are most often coming from a place of "I" can do this. "I" can make this thing happen, which is the ego operating and not our highest selves. And don't get me wrong, there are people who produce, or who have produced great results this way, that have achieved a lot of success and abundance in their lives. I know, I was one of them. The problem with this type of approach though, is that you eventually run out of energy, or you become rigid and break under pressure, or you cause yourself a lot of unnecessary pain and stress. And you also keep out the presence that would gladly help you achieve your desires.

There is a better way to do things, a more natural way. That way is what I call, Giving in to Letting Go, or The Law of Least Effort. Lao Tzu said, "An integral being knows without going, sees without looking, and accomplishes without doing." The word integral is synonymous to being integrated, whole, or integrated in mind, body and spirit. When we operate from a place of being integrated, we are more balanced, poised, flexible in our approach, more aligned with the natural order of things, and more aligned with spirit. Deepak Chopra had this to say about The Law of Least Effort in his book The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, "This law is based on the fact that nature's intelligence functions with effortless ease and abandoned carefreeness. This is the principle of least action, of no resistance. This is, therefore, the principle of harmony and love. When we learn this lesson from nature, we easily fulfill our desires."

In our culture, we are all about convenience and instant gratification. We all want success and we want it now. This is not what Giving in to Letting Go is about. It is not about being lazy and just waiting for things to come to you, or about instant gratification. But, it is about staying in tune with the natural order of things, being patient, and accomplishing things gradually, like nature. It is about keeping the spiritual aspect first in your life and always coming from a place of being spiritually full. There is a scripture from the Bible that really sums it all up, in Matthew 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. " When we take time to go to the source, to stay connected to the source, we are able to utilize a greater power to accomplish everyday things. Giving in to Letting Go is also about using visualization, positive affirmations, will power, in short, using our God-given resources to attract the things we desire, using the spiritual gifts we have been given, to create. Giving in to Letting Go is about surrendering to a higher will and design for our lives. It is about non-attachment to results, or not expecting things to go a certain way. This means remaining flexible. If you are pushing and pushing and nothing is happening, or things are not happening the way you want them to, then let go. Maybe it's not the right timing, or you are not ready yet, or maybe there is a better way to accomplish what you're trying to accomplish. Be patient, listen to your spiritual promptings and guidance. Breathe and meditate upon the things you are trying to bring forth, allowing spirits presence to come into play. Taste the sweetness and ease of living and accomplishing your goals and desires in a new way, Give in to Letting Go and watch the magic flow...

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

The Courage to Be You

2009-05-06T10:59:00.000-07:00

Today is your lucky day. I am going to put in your hand, right now, the ticket to your success, the inspiration you may be searching for, to unlock the courage to be you. You were created on purpose, for a unique, divine and noble reason. You are an incredible, magnificent creation. No one anywhere in the world can duplicate your unique expression of your gifts and talents. No one can offer your community, the world, your unique contributions. Your unique dharma is truly yours and yours alone. And right now, you have everything you could possibly need within you, to become a glorious new creation and to bring forth a glorious new life.

Sometimes, on our journeys toward a more authentic life though, we have to bravely and boldly walk through gloomy places and unmarked streets, just to find our way. I was actually excommunicated, or kicked out of the church I was raised in, for being me, for walking my path. I learned quickly, you can become quite unpopular by your peers and community for thinking outside of their box!!! Many of my long time friends even turned me away for this and wouldn't have anything to do with me anymore. For a long time, my family even turned their backs on me. But nonetheless, I have continued to blaze my own trails through the wilderness of life, because I am not interested in finding acceptance from family and false friends who don't accept me for who I am. I am only interested in fulfilling the dictates of my soul, walking to the beat of my drum and fulfilling my destiny...

And this is where courage comes into play. Discovering who you are is the easier part, while having the courage to be who you are, regardless of others support, approval or understanding, is oftentimes the more challenging and critical part! Even though we are all equipped with all the skills, talents and inspiration we need to make our lives work for us, we have to find within
ourselves the courage to be uniquely ourselves. We also have to find the courage to announce and declare ourselves to the world, or as Walt Whitman said to, "Sound your barbaric yawp over the rooftops."

We all have inborn impulses that urge us onward toward our goals, toward our life's path. Our souls know the agenda we have come here to fulfill. We also have core values and inner impulses that are motivating factors behind all decisions that we make and all actions that we take. Though no one else can do it for you, I promise you, you have what it takes to be magnificently successful at being authentically you. Allow the beautiful person waiting inside of you to come more fully to the surface as each moment passes. Let yourself, and the world around you, know the joy and fulfillment that is meant just for you to experience and express. If others disapprove of you, or give you a hard time, don't worry about it. Just understand that it is probably only because they're envious or jealous of you for living passionately and for reaching for and seeking a higher station in life, that they have probably never allowed themselves permission to go after, or found the courage to reach for.

There is an intense power in knowing who you are and what you want out of life. When you have defined your life's mission and values, and you start to act on them, regardless of how others view you, or talk about you, or even treat you, then you can then make every day of your life more fulfilling than the last - and you will experience a new euphoria, a new optimism for life!

It takes great courage to stand up for, and go after the life you wholeheartedly desire and deserve. It takes great courage to be uniquely, authentically, and passionately you...
I would like to end this today with the lyrics to a song I wrote titled:

My Cup of Tea

Sometimes I go walkin' and I cant seem to find my own way
Well it's gettin' late and I'm frightened, but this happens everyday
I get turned upside downside inside out
Sometimes I feel like water from a water spout
And I'm splashin' all around
and I'm a crashin' to the ground
But I guess that's the price that I've gotta pay
For being different in a different way
But it sure suits me well
Yeah it sure suits me well

Cause I don't care what I should do Where I should go, who I should be
And I don't care about the clothes I should wear I just wanna be free and be me
Cause being like you and everyone else just ain't my cup of tea

Sometimes I get lost when I'm strollin' down my own road
There are not too many on the path I'm on
And the streets aren't always paved with gold
But I'll take the road less traveled any day
And I don't care what the people say
Sometimes I'm lost but then I'm found
And I'm a crashin' to the ground
But I guess that's the price that I've gotta pay
For being different in a different way
But it sure suits me well
Yeah it sure suits me well

Cause I don't care what I should do Where I should go, who I should be
And I don't care about the clothes I should wear I just wanna be free and be me
Cause being like you and everyone else just ain't my cup of tea

I sit and watch the blind as they follow the blind
And I thank the Lord above that I'm not the sheepish kind

Repeat Chorus

Cause being like you and everyone else just ain't my cup of tea
No being like you and everyone else just ain't my cup of tea

-Copyright Justin Topik 1998

Being Present

2009-05-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

In today's world of busyness, one of the greatest gifts we can offer others, is just being fully present. Everywhere you look, there is so much hustle and bustle, so much to do, so much visual and auditory stimulation. Life is moving at lightning speed and yet, there is so very little peace. We have mastered the art of busyness, but very few people it seems, know how to just be present anymore. In fact, just this morning, my mother came over to watch my kids so I could go to work. And right when she arrived, she started saying,"OK guys so where do you wanna go today?" And I said, "Mom, just stay here and play with them. They need that." But my mother, although she is a nice person, has very little inner peace and can't just sit still very long. I think it is sad too, because kids really need adults to be present with them. They get so little of that anymore. We as a society, are so busy running around, doing this and that, going here and there. We have forgotten how to be present!

I find it ironic how in our society, oftentimes we are so busy trying to capture the moment, that we miss the moment. I watch people constantly with their cameras and camcorders, exerting so much energy to capture that picture, perfect moment. And it's not that there is anything wrong with taking pictures or making family movies. But it seems to me, that if you are always trying too hard to capture the moment, you oftentimes end up missing the moment. Deepak Chopra said in his book, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, "The past is history, the future is a mystery, and this moment is a gift. That is why this moment is called 'the present'." There is power in being present, in being in the moment. In fact, the moment is where all the power is. What good is spending so much time and energy trying to capture the moment, if you have to exert all your attention to that, and actually miss out on the joy, the experience, of whatever is right at hand, or what is going on in the moment?

I am a big believer in the power of meditation, as I have been practicing for over ten years now. I have learned through yoga and meditation how to be fully present. Also, I have learned how to quiet my mind and be still, and how to actually enjoy and be OK with the quietness. It is something I think you have to grow into. When your mind is still and you focus on the nothingness, your deep breathing, and on just listening to spirit, you can tap into a great source of stillness, peace, and presence. I am sure you know the scripture in the Bible, Psalms 23:2, "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters." To me, this is all about growing into a closer union with God/spirit, and how peace, if you let it, can take you over and become a more integral part of your daily life. When you commit to the practice of yoga and meditation, you will notice that you will be more able accept your life as it is, and that it becomes easier to be present in your environment, wherever that may be.

Namaste

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Life's Wisdom

2009-05-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

Life's Wisdom is all around us. We don’t have to look far to find it. Life is constantly bringing us lessons to learn from and teachers to inspire us to greater understanding and purpose. There is a Hindu proverb, "The wise person looks within his heart and finds eternal peace." So with that being said, wisdom is much more than just knowing how to do a lot of different trades. It is more than knowing how to be successful in life, or mastering science, math, language, the arts, etc. Wisdom is understanding that you are a three part being: mind, body and spirit, and honoring the spiritual aspect as an active part of your life. It seems this is the part that is most often left out in modern culture. And sadly, the spiritual aspect is completely left out of our traditional educational system.

We get so caught up in our lives, that we oftentimes neglect one of the most important reasons I believe, for our being on this earth-learning life’s wisdom. Making time for growing in wisdom is one of the most important things we can do. I was just teaching my kids this concept, during our spiritual lesson this morning on "wisdom". I know if I didn't take time everyday to go to my source, I would be living without a lot of passion and inspiration.

Wisdom is understanding your place in the great spectrum of things, your part to play. It is knowing that you are just a small part in the circle of life, but an integral part nonetheless. It is not having all the answers, as no one does, but it is knowing where to go for the answers. Wisdom is knowing you are connected to a life source and that you are only as healthy and strong, as beautiful, as powerful, as creative and intelligent, as is your connection to this source. Wisdom is knowing that all things emanate from a source, and without a source, life wouldn't and couldn't exist. There is a quote from the Bhavagad Gita, one of the sacred Vedas, "I am the divine seed of all that lives. In this world, nothing animate or inanimate exists without me." Wisdom is understanding that you are a piece of the divine. Wisdom is staying close to and connected to your source, going to it everyday for clarity, guidance, support and nourishment. Wisdom is knowing and trusting that this source is guiding and directing your life. Wisdom is saying, "God I know what I want. You know what I need."

Wisdom is honoring the divine mother (mother earth), and taking from the earth what is needed and nothing more. It is understanding your connection to all of life, and honoring the sacredness of "all" life. It is honoring the sacred, spiritual teachings of all cultures, knowing there is much to be learned from all traditions. Wisdom is giving thanks to the creator for each new day, and knowing there is a sacred rhythm to all of life and trying to stay in tune with it. Wisdom is treating your body with respect and reverence, as well as the earth, knowing it is an extension of your body. It is knowing that all things in this world are temporary and impermanent. Wisdom is knowing there is enough of everything in this world for all of us. In fact, there is more than enough to go around, and therefore, no one needs to hoard anything. Wisdom is knowing that what we can see, touch, taste and smell, is only a small portion of reality, that there is a whole other dimension to life beyond the senses-a spiritual dimension.

One final and important point I’d like to make here, is that wisdom is not just walking around with your head in a book, or meditating night and day under a bodhi tree. It is practical, useful and oftentimes simple. I know from experience, that the deeper and deeper I have gotten into yoga and meditation, the more childlike, I have become. There is wisdom in simplicity, generosity, giving to your neighbors and in laughing, rejoicing and being present in the moment.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

Dare to Live the Life of Your Dreams

2009-05-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

If I told you that you have in your back pocket right now, the instructions for living the life of your dreams, would you take them out and read them? And after that, would you actually apply them? Now these are kind of tricky questions. Some of you are probably thinking, yeah duh... of course I would, while others may be thinking, hmmm.. I am not so sure. That sounds a little bit frightening. Some people decide to live the life of their dreams, and they just go out there and really live it up. They create a sublime experience of life, a masterpiece so to speak, while others, although they may really want to have this kind of life, are afraid of taking responsibility for, and of creating and designing this type of life. They are afraid of the work and commitment involved.

There is a Chinese proverb, "Better to make a net than to yearn for fish at the edge of a pond." I know it may sound a bit funny, but to live the life of your dreams, you have to plan to succeed, work your plan and be proactive. Those are the essential ingredients for the recipe of success. There are also other essential ingredients. These include: practicing positive thinking religiously, risking looking like a fool for your dream, studying successful, passionate people's lives, and modeling what they do. Then, there is visualization, actually seeing yourself doing what it is you want to be doing. And last but not least, you've gotta take action.

You absolutely have the choice to live the life of your dreams, to live deliberately. We all do. Everything in life is a choice. And with that being said, everyone has something valuable to offer, something to contribute, to do from his or her essential nature. Thoreau said, "I wish to learn what life has to teach, and not, when I come to die, discover that I have not lived."

Be who you are, do what you do,
stick to your ideals, and love to be you!
-Justin Topik

So you wanna know how to live the life of your dreams starting today. Mike Dooley said, "The best way to live the life of your dreams is to start living the life of your dreams Today, in every little way that you possibly can." Quit waiting for the perfect day to take action and do something you believe in. We all know people who complain endlessly about what they're gonna do someday, how they're gonna live someday, and so forth. You know the type-everything today is horrible, but someday, it’s all going to become magically perfect, right? The funny thing is, most of these complainers have one thing in common, they always speak of "someday," but never really have a plan for how to get there today. They don’t take those crucial steps toward making someday be TODAY.

Purpose, intention, vision, and determination, these four things are crucial on the path to reaching your goals. The only way to reach your goals is to SEE yourself doing them now. Focus your intention and clearly SEE yourself in your dreams, reaching your goals today. And each and every day, do everything in your power to live the life of your dreams in every small way that you can. Now just go on and do it! Don’t think about it, don’t worry about it, and don’t be afraid of anything! As Nike says, just do it!!! Live bold, or die trying.

Copyright Justin Topik 2009

A Quiet Power

2009-04-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

Franklin Roosevelt once said, "Walk softly, but carry a big stick!" I am certain some people may think this type of thinking represents weakness, but to me, it represents combining humility with strength and intelligence-a more integrated, balanced form of strength. What if the whole world operated this way, combining humility and reverence for all of life, with strength? War would be a lot less common indeed. When I think of this kind of silent power, two great men come to mind, Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi. Both were amazing individuals who understood the sacredness and reverence for all of life. They both preached and practiced nonviolence and had a tremendous amount of quiet power and strength, a giant inner power and strength that heavily influenced millions.

This quiet power I am referring to here, is closely related with non-violence. There is a Jain scripture I really appreciate, "A piece of blood-stained cloth cannot be washed with blood, we need water to do it." Gandhi also said, "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary, the evil it does is permanent" and "An eye for an eye makes the whole world go blind." There is a Indian, Sanskrit word for nonviolence (ahimsa). Ahimsa does not just mean the absence of violence, it means the greater unnameable force opposite of violence. This force is a potent force that emanates in the soul. There is much power in the soul. The same power that created and maintains this entire universe is a part of each of our souls. Power doesn't have to be so dominant, so aggressive. That type of power isn't genuine power anyway. Gandhi and Rev. King both accessed and utilized this deep, inward, soul power I am referring to. They proved that nonviolence can solve political upheaval. War is a disease, a disease that keeps re-infecting the world. Someone has to stop it. If we don't, it may be our demise. Enough is enough...

Ironically just now as I am writing this, I received an email from a friend that had a short movie clip of an elephant and a dog that are the best of friends. This is a true story from an elephant sanctuary in Tennessee. At the end of the clip it said, "come on world, if these two can get past their differences, why can't the whole world?" I don't know about you, but right now, I choose for a time of great peace in the world, a peace that can only come as a result of this kind of quiet power operating inside all of us. I choose to operate from a sense of this quiet power. I choose a new world of cooperation, equality, and nonviolence. Imagine if everyone chose this kind of power! We could really transform the world!!!

The Magic Cure

2009-04-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

It seems these days, many people in our culture are constantly looking for the quick fix, the magic cure. You know, the wonder pill, the miracle drug, the super fast weight loss pill or diet plan, the antidepressants to cheer you up when you're feeling down, the pain pills to numb your pain. Television ads bombard us with endless advertisements of products that will cure whatever ails us, or products that will make us feel young again. As a society, we are taught to look outside of ourselves starting at a very early age. We are taught to seek this magic cure, this outward remedy somewhere out there. I believe this is a major problem and defect though.

We are always looking for the magic cure outside of ourselves, and a way to feel better outside of ourselves, while the real magic has always been and will always be within us. It's kind of like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. She had the magic power all along, in her magic ruby slippers to get back to Kansas. Though, it was only through the experiences she went through on her journey, that she was able realize her real power within and only then was she was able to really believe in and utilize the power in her magic shoes. She had to go through all the experiences she went through to discover the power she was seeking, was in herself all along.

For centuries, people have searched for the fountain of youth, the holy grail, for the miracle cure all. It is as if people believe there is something out there that can transform them, make them feel young again, and make them happier. I have never really bought into all this type of thinking. I am one who doesn't believe that there is a quick fix, a miracle drug. I believe everything worth while is part of a natural, gradual process. And nature supports this theory too. If you observe the process of nature, there are no quick fixes. Everything grows, blossoms, unfolds, or ripens in its own time. A tree doesn't grow overnight. You cant hurry up the ripening of any fruit or vegetable. There is a old Chinese proverb, "Good medicine is bitter to the taste." This to me, means that anything worthwhile, or that is healthy might not be tasty or easy, though it is still worth it. Nothing comes easy in this lifetime. Everything worthwhile requires some sort of effort on our part.

And though, there is no magic cure for all of the ails in life, I believe I have found a supreme treasure of immense worth. On my journey for more peace, passion and positivity, I have found what I believe is the magic cure most people are subconsciously seeking-inner peace, and spiritual awakening. Through my intense yoga, meditation, spiritual study and prayer over the years, I have found, tapped into a great source of peace, energy, passion and what I believe is the only source of true happiness in this world. Rumi, a great persian sage once said, "The friend will become bread and spring water for you, a lamp and a helper, your favorite dessert and a glass of wine. Union with that one is grace!" I can definitely relate to this. I believe the only miracle cure if there is one, the only magic remedy so to speak, out of the cold and harshness of reality, is union with God, spiritual awakening or a closer walk with our creator...

Walking Your Path

2009-04-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

Robert Frost wrote a poem titled The Road Less Traveled in which he stated,"Somewhere ages and ages hence, two roads diverged in a wood, and I-I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." What is your path? the one that will make all the difference for you. I was in Pre-Med for almost 3 years with a 3.9 GPA. I dropped out and started my own business, even though my family thought I was out of my mind. I did this because I knew in my soul, I was walking down the wrong path for me! And I needed to find and walk my own path and be true to myself.

Walking through life is a marvelous journey, but filled with a myriad of possibilities and choices. Sometimes you just know when a path you're on doesn't feel right for some reason, so you decide to take an alternate road that feels right for you! We all need to feel like we are on target, living authentically, walking the right path for us.

On life’s journey, you will encounter much-narrow paths blocked by boulders, forks in the road shrouded in fog, deep valleys of darkness and despair, and bright sunny days in meadows of golden poppies. It is all a part of life's journey. And through it all, the only constant is that you are you, that you have an inner voice within you and a path to walk. If you allow your inner voice to tell you which fork in the road to take, if you allow that internal compass to tell you which mountain to climb, then you will do well indeed and have a fulfilling, interesting, and enjoyable life. If you go chasing after security, or living someone else's dream, then you will find yourself suddenly awakening in a deep forest without knowing where to turn. You will find yourself lost and confused, because you have lost touch with your own personal truth. And when this happens, you must just sit down in the forest, become very still, return to yourself and find yourself again before you continue walking, or else you will simply go around in circles, becoming more desperate and alone and lost.

In her book, A Still Small Voice, Echo Bodine had this to say, "Because the road that leads to God is not an easy one, many people choose the wide road instead. It may seem easier to follow the crowd and do what everyone else is doing-following what appears to be the safe road in life-but the truth is, that road doesn't encourage individuality. Instead, it promotes a deadening conformity, and it keeps you farther away from God."

Have the courage and the heart, the centeredness and audacity to follow your own path. Be who you are and love being you no matter what. Your path is your path only and no one knows better than you which path to walk. Shine your light and show the world who you are, so that people who are looking for someone exactly like you can find you. Do not allow setbacks or even major betrayals to dampen your shine and your being. You are a shining star when you are walking your path!

Live With Passion

2009-04-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Only passions, great passions can elevate the soul to great things!"
-Dennis Diderot

Life is meant to be juicy, sweet, full of flavor, excitement, passion and adventure, not hum drum, dull, boring and monotonous. So why do some people live with zest? while others, as Thoreau said, "lead lives of quiet desperation." The answer I believe is that we all have the choice to tap into and live lives of passion. Each of us has a well of passion deep within, an unlimited reserve just waiting for us to tap into it. It's just that not everyone knows this and not everyone chooses to go after and seek this source. I think it boils down to making a choice to live a passionate life and taking action to create it, to go after it. Lets face it, life requires effort. Anything worthwhile requires effort!! Whatever it is you want, you have to work at it. And isn't it easier to just sit around, be lazy and not do anything to better yourself, your situation, etc? The funny thing is, people do this and then wonder why their lives are not working.

Creating a life of passion requires taking action, and personal responsibility. It requires spending time figuring out what you are excited and motivated about and what juices you, and then doing more of those things-following your bliss. For me, it is writing (music, motivational/inspirational & spiritual material and poetry, also spiritual study, yoga and meditation, spending time with my kids, fishing, hiking and exercise). I am passionate about all of these things! While I am doing them, I feel more alive, more connected to my soul and etc. If you want to feel more passionate, take the things you enjoy and figure out how you can incorporate these more into your daily life. Maybe you could possibly build a career out of one particular thing you are passionate about?

I choose to live with passion and you can too! Here is a list of things you can do to help you start living with more passion today:

~Live in the moment (slow down, learn to savor each moment, take time to contemplate the mystery and gloriousness of all creation)

~Take chances, risks (put your self out there, dare to go after the things you desire, to live your dreams)

~Keep a journal (journaling helps you stay in touch with yourself and helps you to keep on focus, on target)

~Remember to keep close to the source of all passion and inspiration (this one is huge, to feel more alive you have got to be aligned with the cosmic energy, the flow of life-spirit)

~Exercise (exercise is proven to release endorphins which makes you feel more happy, more alive)

~Give what you have to give (offer your gifts, you may be surprised at the response you get from others when you showcase your talents and give whatever it is you have to give)

~Do things that make you feel strong and powerful (I climb mountains, it totally makes me feel alive and powerful)

~Cultivate happiness and optimism (by asking yourself positive questions, doing positive affirmations, visualization)

***WARNING*** Failure to follow this list may result in a life filled with regret, a life of boredom and may be detrimental to your health!

It is very possible to live a life of passion. And you can create it! All you have to do is ask more from life and know you are worthy and deserving. Be a hero in your own life story. Live with Passion.

Staying Close to the Source

2009-04-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

I recently wrote a song titled, I'm Flyin' Free Now. The first verse and chorus goes like this:

This is where I go, when I'm feeling low,
and I'm feeling low again.
This is where I hide when the goblins come alive
and I feel like I haven't got a friend.
This is where I run, when my life comes undone
and all the colors fade to gray.
Its a place I go inside, a place I run and hide
from everyone even me.
When I need a pick me up, I drink from your tin cup,
until this thing in my flies free,
I'm flyin' free now...

For me, this song symbolizes staying close to the source of inspiration, the source of rejuvenation, the source of vitality and fulfillment, the source of all life and creation. I go to this magic place everyday. It is my sacred place, my sacred space. I would be lost without it!!! I believe we all have an inborn need and desire to connect with and stay in tune with this source. I don't know about you, but I desire the feeling of inner contentment, inner peace and inner bliss, as much as, and sometimes even more than I desire food. Rumi a great persian poet once said, "Loving God is the only pleasure. Other delights turn bitter. What hurts the soul? To live without tasting the water of its own essence." What an amazing quote that is!

We can run, but we can't hide from our essence. The ironic thing is many people run away from what could provide them with the utmost happiness, peace and bliss. We turn away from inner peace in search of that which will never satisfy. And for what reason, laziness, fear of the unknown, fear of our own magnificence?

In the Tao te Ching, we read:

"Empty your mind of all thoughts.
Let your heart be at peace.
Watch the ten thousand things rise and fall,
but contemplate their return.
Each separate being in the universe
returns to the common source.
Returning to the source is serenity.
Not knowing the source leads to disaster."

Ultimately, the choice for serenity, peace, or chaos, disaster and disorder is up to each of us. If you want peace, all you have to do is look within, seek within, make a time and a place for peace, for communion with spirit. Peace is not far, it is right where you are... We are all like plugs and at anytime, we can plug into the outlet for more energy or to re-charge. So, why resist what can make you feel most alive? Our true power comes in staying close to this source, the source of youth, vitality, energy and passion.

I was listening to a CD by Wayne Dyer this morning and in paraphrasing, he commented that at this point in his life he now realizes that he doesn't write the books, his lectures, etc. but that it is only spirit working through him. He just allows spirit to work through him. That is true wisdom. That is knowing who you are in the large spectrum of things. What marvelous works the spirit can accomplish when we allow it to move in our lives. Staying close to the source is not a chore, but a gift from above. You can walk alone, and try to push away the urge to connect with source, or embrace it and let it transform your life. The choice is up to you...

Magnetize Your Self for Success

2009-04-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Whether we realize it or not, we are all magnetic. Haven't you ever heard someone say that a certain person has a magnetic personality? Well, it's true, some people do. The reason is, they have learned how to increase or supercharge their magnetic ability/energy. Essentially, we are all magnetic beings. And the things that are being pulled towards us, or being repelled by us, are predicated by our thoughts, our focus, our beliefs about life, relationships, existence and etc. I have come to realize and believe, we are all powerful co-creators with spirit. And just like magnets, our magnetism can be increased or supercharged.

This is something I practice continuously in my daily life-magnetizing myself for success. I have made a clear distinction between my positive and or negative thoughts and focus, and attracting positive or negative things. I have also learned that I have the power to elevate this level of magnetism consciously, by elevating my positive thoughts, using visualization, focusing on the good things I want to manifest in my life, by asking myself positive questions, by keeping my spiritual energy high, by keeping out all negative self talk, and by staying clear of energy drainers. I make a conscious effort to spend most of my time around positive, happy and uplifting people. Energies rub off and it is my goal to keep my magnetic energy high.

I now finally understand the whole energy/law of attraction thing and constantly practice using it. I have attracted some pretty good things in my life and am learning more and more, how to do it consciously. I don't waste too much time on trivial things. I don't believe in wasting good energy on bad things.

Now there is one more secret I'd like to share with you: THE MAGNETISM IS IN YOU... You already possess the magic! You just might not realize it. And though I don't claim to have all the answers, I have found that there are 4 main keys to increasing magnetism and magnetizing your self for success. They are:

1) Gratitude
2) Positive Attitude
3) Happiness/Joy
4) Inner Harmony/Spiritual Fulfillment

Increase these 4 things and watch your magnetic ability soar! As you work on developing more of these things within you, your magnetic ability will automatically increase and you will attract more of the things you want to attract in your life!!!

Take Time to Sharpen the Saw

2009-04-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

Take time to sharpen the saw is an old metaphor for being prepared for your daily work. And being someone who loves to chop wood, I know first hand how important it is to take 5-10 minutes before I start, to sharpen my ax or saw. It can make a humongous difference and probably saves a good 30 minutes-1 hr of work on a 3 to 4 hour job.

Taking time to sharpen the saw can also be applied to the self-keeping yourself refreshed, recharged and in optimal, harmonious states. This includes, but is not limited to, exercise, sleep, healthy eating, positive thinking and care of the soul. The area I am going to focus on the most here however, is care of the soul. This is because I believe it is the first area to get neglected and is one of, if not the most important areas. In Neale Donald Walsch's amazing book Conversations With God, he says, "If I do not go within, I go without." Taking time for daily rejuvenation is both restorative and necessary for the soul. And yet, most people I know go through their daily lives without taking the time, or making the time to sharpen the saw in this area (to refresh, recharge, rejuvenate at a soul level). If the soul is not at peace, at rest, then nothing is in harmony. Harmony and peace start inward. It doesn't matter how good you eat, how much sleep or exercise you get. If your soul needs are lacking, your total health in mind, body and spirit will be lacking. The soul needs care as well.

Taking the time to go within has made all the difference in my life. I have seen a dramatic increase in my health and vitality, and my energy level over the past ten years, since I began daily yoga/meditation, combined with spiritual study. My daily routine begins at 5 am everyday with journal writing, spiritual study, yoga/meditation and prayer. And what it gives me is balance, poise, inner strength, insight, clarity, tons of energy, and passion and enthusiasm for the day. If your life is lacking these things, I encourage you to set some time aside for care of the soul. It will most certainly make your day flow more easily and smoothly. And if you want to experience total health in mind, body and spirit, take time to sharpen the saw in all these areas.

Sowing Seeds of Positivity

2009-04-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I was very fortunate to grow up around a quite large fruit and vegetable farm. There is much to be learned from the farm life. One invaluable lesson I was taught early on is that whatever you sow, you reap. And yet planting, sowing seeds isn't as simple as just throwing seeds on the ground, or digging a hole and putting them in. You can't just sow the seeds on hard, rocky soil. You have to work and prepare the soil, by breaking up and loosening the dirt, removing the rocks and etc. Only then, when the soil is fully ready, can you plant the seeds. And the work doesn't end there. You still have to water and cultivate the weeds continuously, fertilize, etc. Then, after much patience, diligence, sweat and labor, can you reap the harvest.

Sowing seeds of positivity in our lives, follows the exact same process. Just merely planting our hopes, dreams and goals isn't going to ensure we reap the rewards of our desired goals/outcomes. Just as in sowing actual seeds, we have to follow all of the steps mentioned above. First and foremost in this process, we have to prepare the soil metaphorically speaking; meaning we have to get ourselves right at the core. We do this by developing good thinking habits, a positive attitude, a good work ethic. Also involved in this process is preparing the soul. We do this by nurturing, feeding our souls, cultivating inner peace, and spiritual wisdom. Then we must plant seeds of positivity and water them continuously with hope, belief, faith and action. And last but not least, is the weeding or cultivating part, keeping out the weeds (overcoming our own or others criticisms and negative thoughts).

It is just as easy to sow seeds of negativity as it is to sow seeds of positivity. The tricky part is and the part you gotta be mindful of is, whichever ones you sow the most, you reap. So if your focus is always on negative events, or why your life is not working, instead of on obtaining or creating the positive desired change, you will attract more of what you don't want in your life. In order to sow more positive seeds, it requires a conscious decision to monitor and take responsibility for the thoughts you allow in your consciousness, the thoughts you focus on. I promise you if you start sowing more positive seeds, you will most certainly start harvesting more positive things in your life. Our minds and souls are like gardens and all they do is grow whatever we put in. It's the law of the harvest, you reap what you sow!

Manifesting Your Hearts Desires

2009-04-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Visualize... visualize... visualize... I can't over-stress the importance of visualization! If you want something, you have to see it in your minds eye first. The old adage is true-seeing is believing, although, believing is also seeing. Whatever you focus on, you will most definitely experience more of. This is talked about immensely in the book The Secret. If you haven't read it, READ IT! It is a remarkable read for learning to manifest your hearts desires. Visualization works, but it is also something you have to practice. I have personally used visualization to manifest the car of my dreams, and to help launch my former clothing business. I would go into department stores and stand there and visualize my clothing lines on the shelves. And in just a few short years, I was selling to over 40 department stores in five different states. It is some powerful stuff!!!

The secret to manifesting is knowing what you want and desire first and then, focus... focus... focus... Instead of hocus pocus al-a-ma-gocus, it should be focus... focus... al-a-ma-gocus. You can truly have anything you desire, when you believe. This works because when you believe something enough, you fill up your thoughts and focus on the outcome, and visualization automatically comes into play. Neale Donald Walsch said in his book Conversations With God, "seek it no longer, call it forth!" He was referring to the God power in all of us to bring forth what we most desire to experience. This power, like the power in Aladdin's lamp, is sitting there inside of you and me right now, just waiting to be called forth.

The reason people manifest lack, poverty and unhappiness is, that is what they see in their minds eye. Your minds eye can either be your best friend, or worst enemy. Get to know it, and let it work for you. People that have achieved greatness or who live passionate, exciting, fulfilled lives, have known this power and used it for centuries. Einstein said, "imagination is the coming preview to life's attractions. " Visualization is one of the most important tools you can use in attracting the things you desire to manifest! Use it, it is a God given tool.

Trusting Your Inner Wisdom

2009-04-09T09:23:00.000-07:00

It was Dec. 31, 2007, I woke up in the middle of the night in total horror. I lied there in awe, consumed by a nightmare about our home being completely destroyed as if some major catastrophe had just hit. In the dream, I was walking around outside of this destruction trying to put the pieces back together. The next day I was really bothered by the dream and feeling a lot of apprehension all day long. That same night, Jan. 1, 2008, I woke up for no apparent reason at 1:15 AM in the morning to find our house was completely on fire. I frantically woke up my wife at the time and 4 kids, and by the time we got out, the flames were 20 feet high as the entire house was on fire. How did I know that something was gonna happen? How does anyone know that something is gonna happen before it does? Where do these premonitions come from? The answer I believe is, we all have a built in compass, an inner voice, a direct personal link to universal wisdom. It's just that in today's world, we as a society are quite out of touch with this element. There is so much noise, so much busyness, so many distractions, that we as a society have almost forgotten how to access what I call, "inside information." Native Americans totally understood this ancient wisdom and lived in complete harmony with the spiritual element of life. They understood the inner connectedness and sacredness of all life. They didn't have so many distractions. Their goal was harmony, balance and respect for all of life, not acquiring riches, looking for the next thrill, the next distraction, the next high. Somewhere in our quest for technological advancement and entertainment, we have sacrificed our inner connectedness to spirit and we have got to find a way to get it back.

No one knows better than you what is best for you, what is your path to walk. We have got to learn to access and trust our inner wisdom again. We've got to as a society get back to a more spiritual way of living. Your inner guidance is your friend, your alli, not your enemy. If you make daily time to listen, it will unfold to you your path, your place in this world. It will help you with any challenge you may be facing. There are many traditional religions that I believe actually discourage trusting and following your inner voice. I know, I was raised in one of them. I had to actually leave behind my family religion just to learn to rely more on the spirit as my guide. Your relationship with God, spirit, whatever you call it, is between you and spirit. You don't have to go through any priest, any person, any organization to get to this source. The relationship is instilled, automatic. Sometimes learning to trust you inner wisdom requires you stepping away from others who may be telling you what to think, what to believe. I am not saying religion is a bad thing here. Anything that encourages spiritual growth and development is definitely good. I am just saying that in order to have a more personal relationship with this entity, you need to make a sacred place for you and it alone. Trusting your inner wisdom requires courage to step outside your comfort zone and devotion to learning to quiet yourself in a distracting and oftentimes noisy world. I promise you though, that as you make more time to listen to and walk with your inner wisdom, you will achieve a greater sense of inner peace and harmony and feel a closer bond to spirit.

Learning Wisdom

2009-04-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

Life is full of obstacles, challenges, ups and downs, ins and outs. Life is like an ice cream shop, with a variety of flavors. Sometimes it is a rocky road and other times it is a colorful sherbet. And through it all, we are constantly reminded that there is a higher power, a higher order to the flow of the stream of life. And every experience, every moment can teach you much wisdom if you are receptive to the lessons that the universe is trying to unfold to you. I have learned to accept life as it comes, to have plans, yet allow for the unexpected and sometimes even to expect the unexpected. No one has it all figured out. God, the Tao, the Great Spirit, the Unnameable is mysterious and unfathomable, as is life oftentimes. No one is meant to understand it all. I believe some things are meant to be a mystery. Life happens as it happens and sometimes you've just got to roll with it. There are no guarantees in this life. True wisdom is not having it all figured out, but being in the game, being a part of the mystery, embracing the mystery and just accepting that all experiences are part of a whole circle-birth, death, passion, despair, grief, utter joy, are all natural parts of this life experience. Wisdom comes in part by realizing this whole thing, this entire experience of life is bigger than you and me. There is a divine architect, I am certain of it. We are all just a small part in the web of creation. And yet, housed within my soul, your soul is some of the same power that created and operates the universe.

Life is good, no matter how you look at it. Life is a gift and a treasure. And we are all just a part of the dance of creation. So keep on dancing, singing, doing your thing, being who you are authentically, passionately and joyfully and enjoy life to the fullest. Through all your experiences, life is trying to teach you wisdom and also remind you quite often that there is a higher wisdom than your own operating in this universe. Learning wisdom is a process and that process often involves patience, quietness, and making time daily to pray, meditate and ask guidance from the master of wisdom. Sometimes wisdom comes in acceptance of things as they are or as they appear. No one here in this lifetime is a victim. We are all on a journey, a journey that involves constant life lessons and evolution of us as spiritual beings.

Namaste

Happiness is Always a Choice

2009-04-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

If you could choose your mood like you choose your clothes for the day, what mood would you choose? Is choosing your mood or state of mind really a choice anyway? A lot of people I'm certain would say no to that question, but I totally believe the answer is YES. No matter the circumstances, no matter the challenges or adversities you may be facing, no matter what the weather looks like outside, or what may be going on inside of you, you always have a choice to choose happiness or not. Bottom line is, you are in control of your focus. And that means, at any given moment, you can choose peace, happiness, positive thoughts or misery, unhappiness and negativity. I know a lot of people are saying yeah right, I mean that guy in the parking lot stole my spot, or that woman in traffic cut me off, or my boss said a harsh, mean comment to me. I had no choice but to react the way I did. But somewhere inside of you, either consciously or unconsciously, you decided how to react, or not to react at all.

All of life is a choice. I grew up in a family with a very angry and reactive father. Putting it mildly, there was a lot of abuse there! There was not a lot of love and compassion in our home, but somehow I managed to stay positive through it all, while a lot of my family to this day has continued to hold on to the hatred and anger. For me, I had an absolute moment of clarity and perspecive one day when I was about 20 or so, and I realized that I could either continue to hold on to my hurt, anger or pain, or I could DECIDE in that moment to let it all go and forgive my father. And decide is a powerful word. I made a decision to once and for all, let it go. In that moment of decision, my life was positively impacted. There is a song I am sure you have heard of. It is by June Carter Cash. It is called "Keep on the Sunny Side" The lyrics start out with:

There's a dark and a troubled side of life
There's a bright and a sunny side too
Though we meet with the darkness and strife
The sunny side we also may view

Keep on the sunny side always on the sunny side
Keep on the sunny side of life
It will help us every day it will brighten all our way
If we keep on the sunny side of life

This is a great little song with a large implication. So remember, the choice is always up to you and me. As our focus, so is our experience. It is not always easy to be positive, but it is well worth the effort. No one likes a grouch. Life is too short to be miserable and unhappy, take the challenge and as June Carter Cash's song says, keep on the sunny side!!!