YOU can be a “Champion for (of) Jesus”

“I want to be a nobody for Jesus.”
– the words of my good friend, Lindsay McIlraith
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 “Faith is the soul seeing what the (our) eyes can’t.”
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.: – Matthew 5:14,15,16 from The Sermon on the Mount
“Together, one mind, one life (one small step at a time), let’s see how many people (and lives) we can encourage, impact, empower, enrich, uplift and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”
 
SUNrisechrist

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

soaring eagle

A Book “Review”: Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam (by Fouad Elias Accad)

A grasp

A Book “Review”: Building Bridges: Christianity and Islam (by Fouad Elias Accad)

Gandhi and Christ: What Did Jesus Mean to Gandhi?

SUNrisechrist

 

Article Title: Gandhi and Christ: What Did Jesus Mean to Gandhi?
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words): Gandhi, Jesus, Christianity, faith, peace, pursuit of peace, beliefs, spiritual, spiritual unity, religion, unity of religion/s, spiritual growth
Web Sites: http://www.geocities.com/orthopapism/gandhi.html + http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080620072944AAmRmHq
Submitter’s web sites http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lockhttp://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://peacepursuit.wordpress.com/

www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

http://breakdownwalls.wordpress.com/

www.breakdownbarriers.wordpress.com

http://drmartinlutherking.wordpress.com/

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.religiousunity.wordpress.com

and his various other blogs are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/craigs-blogs-and-writings/. Obsessive or WHAT!

Other Articles by Craig are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig

Publishing Guidelines:
All my writings may be freely published, electronically or in print.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

*

GANDHI AND CHRIST

Submitter’s Note:

Craig is studying the teachings of different religions and faiths (to attempt to find ‘common ground’/principles) and as he learns from his research, is sharing these notes in the spirit of ‘enlightening’ (himself and perhaps others) regarding ‘eternal and universal truths.’ Hope this piece may be of interest to you too (as well as perhaps promoting more understanding of other faiths…as in sharing, I learn too!

*

What did Jesus mean to Gandhi? Did he have any influence on Gandhi’s life and teaching? What according to Gandhi was the essence of Christ’s message? Was Gandhi a ‘secret Christian’? What is the challenge that Gandhi presents to Christians and Christianity today?

Answers to these questions may be found in a recent book, ‘Gandhi and Christianity’ edited by Robert Ellsberg and published by Orbis Books, Maryknoll, New York 10545. This book is an anthology of the speeches and writings of Gandhi on the subject as well as responses to Gandhi’s challenge by various Christian scholars. It should be a valuable reference book on the ongoing dialogue between Christians and representatives of other religions.

Early in his life, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi had been reading the Bible to keep a promise he had made to a friend. He found the Old Testament extremely difficult going. He disliked the Book of Numbers. But the New Testament produced a different impression, especially the Sermon on the Mount which went straight to his heart. The passion of Jesus Christ moved Gandhi greatly. The verses about not resisting evil but offering the other cheek and giving the cloak to one who asked for one’s coat delighted him beyond measure. They reminded him about something he had learned in his childhood about returning with gladness good for evil done.

“I did once seriously think of embracing the Christian faith“, Gandhi told Millie Polak, the wife of one of his earliest disciples. “The gentle figure of Christ, so patient, so kind, so loving, so full of forgiveness that he taught his followers not to retaliate when abused or struck, but to turn the other cheek, I thought it was a beautiful example of the perfect man…”

However, on another occasion, he said he could accept Jesus “as a martyr, an embodiment of sacrifice, and a divine teacher, but not as the most perfect man ever born. His death on the Cross was a great example to the world, but that there was anything like a mysterious or miraculous virtue in it, my heart could not accept”.

“The message of Jesus as I understand it”, said Gandhi, “is contained in the Sermon on the Mount unadulterated and taken as a whole… If then I had to face only the Sermon on the Mount and my own interpretation of it, I should not hesitate to say, ‘Oh, yes, I am a Christian.’ But negatively I can tell you that in my humble opinion, what passes as Christianity is a negation of the Sermon on the Mount… I am speaking of the Christian belief, of Christianity as it is understood in the west.”

Gandhi could speak beautifully about the message and personality of Jesus. Talking about the Gospel passage of the rich young man, he said, “St. Mark has vividly described the scene. Jesus is in his solemn mood. He is earnest. He talks about eternity. He knows the world about him. He is himself the greatest economist of his time. He succeeded in sermonising time and space – He transcends them. It is to him at the best that one comes running, kneels down and asks, “Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said unto him, “One thing thou lackest. Go thy way, sell what thou hast and give it to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven – come, take up the cross and follow me.” Here you have an eternal rule of life stated in the noblest words the English language is capable of producing.” Gandhi went on to say that he could quote even stronger passages from the Hindu scriptures and the lesson he wanted to draw was that if we could clean our houses, palaces an

Poverty, suffering, the Cross, non-violence, morality – all these were part of the Kingdom of God. But for Gandhi what struck him most in the Sermon on the Mount was Christ’s teaching on non-retaliation, or non-resistance to evil. “Of all the things I have read what remained with me forever was that Jesus came almost to give a new law – not an eye for an eye, but to receive two blows when only one was given, and to go two miles when they were asked to go one. I came to see that the Sermon on the Mount was the whole of Christianity for him who wanted to live a Christian life. It is that sermon that has endeared Jesus to me.”

“Jesus occupies in my heart,” said Gandhi, “the place of one of the greatest teachers who have had a considerable influence on my life. I shall say to the Hindus that your life will be incomplete, unless you reverentially study the teachings of Jesus… Make this world the kingdom of God and his righteousness and everything will be added unto you. I tell you that if you will understand, appreciate, and act up to the spirit of this passage, you won’t need to know what place Jesus or any other teacher occupies in your heart.”

For Gandhi, Jesus was the prince of ‘Satyagrahists’.* “The example of Jesus suffering is a factor in the composition of my undying faith in non-violence. What then does Jesus mean to me? To me, He was one of the greatest teachers humanity has ever had.” For Gandhi, to say that Jesus was the only begotten son of God was to say that “in Jesus’ own life was the key of his nearness to God, that he expressed as no other could, the spirit and will of God… I do believe that something of the spirit that Jesus exemplified in the highest measure, in its most profound human sense exist… If I did not believe it, I should be a sceptic, and to be a sceptic is to live a life that is empty and lacking moral content. Or, what is the same thing, to condemn the human race to a negative end.”

* I think the word literally means ‘soul-force’

Gandhi believed that in every man there was an impulse for good and a compassion that is the spark of divinity, that will one day burst into the full flower that is the hope of all mankind. An example of this flowering, he said, may be found in the figure and in the life of Jesus. “I refuse to believe that there not exists or has ever existed a person that has not made use of his example to lessen his sins, even though he may have done so without realising it. The lives of all have, in some greater or lesser degree, been changed by His presence, His actions and the words spoken by His divine voice… I believe that he belongs not solely to Christianity, but to the entire world; to all races and people, it matters little under what flag, name or doctrine they may work, profess a faith or worship a God inherited from their ancestors.”

For Gandhi Jesus was the true ‘satyagrahist’, who passed the test of non-violence, even if he seemed to be otherwise a failure. “The virtues of mercy, non-violence, love and truth in any man can be truly tested when they are pitted against ruthlessness, violence, hate and untruth… This is the true test of Ahimsa… He who when being killed bears no anger against his murderer and even asks God to forgive him is truly non-violent. History relates this of Jesus Christ. With his dying breath on the Cross, he is reported to have said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what to do.”

According to the theory of ‘Satyagraha’, said Gandhi, an adequate appeal to the heart never fails. “Seeming failure is not of the law of ‘Satyagraha’, but of incompetence of the ‘Satyagrahist’ by whatever cause induced. The name of Jesus at once comes to the lips. It is an instance of brilliant failure. And he has been acclaimed in the west as the prince of passive resisters. I showed years ago in South Africa that the adjective ‘passive’ was a misnomer, at least as applied to Jesus. He was the most active resister known perhaps to history. His was non-violence par excellence.”

This article was directly sourced from http://www.geocities.com/orthopapism/gandhi.html + http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080620072944AAmRmHq

(and I’m sharing these thoughts and ideas in a spirit of in some small way, promoting better understanding and dialogue between faiths…or at least trying (thanks!).

Also see an excellent article/link at https://sites.google.com/site/whoisthisjesus/gandhiandchristianity

“My life is my message.” – Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi

“Ï love Christ, but am not so keen on his followers.” and/or “I would have been a follower of Christ, if it weren’t for the Christians!”

(Apparently, Gandhi was kicked out of a church during his time in South Africa)

Gandhi greatly admired Christ; God is not a religion. God is love. Religious tradition is the enemy of true spirituality. Seek God and shun religion. It is the only path to true peace with God.

Religion divides; whereas truth unites.”

So after all that…

Isn’t WHAT UNITES US IS FAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN WHAT DIVIDES US!

“There is neither east nor west, tribe nor ethnicity, male or female, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist. Christian nor Jew. There is only a God-filled humanity.”

Find, then walk your OWN path to Highest Truth and be happy

Shared by craig

“I would like the British (military) to leave India as friends.”

PS: Former Archbishop in South Africa Desmond Tutu said these inspirational words: “We have come to a time in the history of the world, where we need to rediscover the path to peace, and the path to peace can never be war. This pathway is lined with the concept of co-existence and co-inhabitance of the world.”

“A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation, long supressed, finds utterance.”

– Jahrulal Nehru, first Prime Minister of India

“It is time for people of good will from every faith, culture and nation to recognise that a terrible danger threatens humanity. We must set aside the partisan bickering between nations and join together to confront the danger that lies before us. Let us seek common ground between peoples around the globe… because what unites us is far more important than what divides us.

In our own little ways in our individual lives we can touch so many others and share our common humanity. And in so doing we can illuminate the hearts and minds of humanity. We must offer a compelling alternate vision for the world: a bright future of justice, tolerance, respect for other traditions and values and especially a vision of goodness and hope fuelled by the flame of love – one that banishes the fanatical ideology of intolerance and hatred to the darkness from which it emerged.”

– craig (as inspired by and adapted from the words of Abdurahman Wahid, former President of Indonesia)

About the submitter:

Craig likes (no loves) to share information and insights to encourage others to be all they are capable of being. He’d love to try to ‘build bridges’ (not metal or wooden ones, thank goodness!) between people, firmly believing that what we share is way more important than what divides us. In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives. He believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lockhttp://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://peacepursuit.wordpress.com/ www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

http://breakdownwalls.wordpress.com/

www.breakdownbarriers.wordpress.com

http://drmartinlutherking.wordpress.com/

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.religiousunity.wordpress.com

and his various other blogs are at http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/craigs-blogs-and-writings/. Obsessive or WHAT!

“Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most intense obsessions mercilessly.”

~ Franz Kafka

Craig’s new manuscript, ‘A New Dawn’ is set in the Middle East: In it he attempts to find ‘common ground’/principles between different religions and cultures and to try to make some difference in building bridges in an ever more dangerous, turbulent and uncertain world. A passionate story of inspiration: hope, faith, peace and especially love.

“A good book should take you from your everyday life to another place entirely.”

These thoughts may be published, electronically or in print (with acknowledgment to the source web sites, thanks)

“What we learn in the darkness, we are to share in the eternal light.”

“Live simply, so that others may simply live.” – Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi once said to a group of missionaries: “You Christians look after a document containing enough dynamite to blow all civilisation to pieces, turn the world upside down and bring peace to a battle-torn planet. BUT you treat it as nothing more than a piece of literature.”

When the missionary E. Stanley Jones met with Gandhi he asked him, “Mr. Gandhi, though you quote the words of Christ often, why is that you appear to so adamantly reject becoming his follower?”

Gandhi replied, “Oh, I don’t reject Christ. I love Christ. It’s just that so many of you Christians are so unlike Christ.”

“If Christians would really live according to the teachings of Christ, as found in the Bible, all of India would be Christian today,” he added.

from http://in.christiantoday.com/articledir/print.htm?id=2837

For more reading on Mahatma Gandhi and Christianity

See http://in.christiantoday.com/articledir/print.htm?id=2837 and

Gandhi’s message to Christians

Click on http://www.mkgandhi.org/africaneedsgandhi/gandhi%27s_message_to_christians.htm

“Let us look in the mirror of history*, heeding its lessons, then hold hands will all peoples in facing and heralding in a better future, a brighter tomorrow for all peoples around the globe.”

-craig

* that’s a metaphor, btw

“Whilst we can (and should) celebrate our uniquenesses, let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let the Spirit of our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

“Lord,

Help lift our eyes a little higher.”

GOD

Sharing Some Uplifting Thoughts (Thought Conditioners) from Dr Norman Vincent Peale

“If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed…nothing shall be impossible to you . . . ”
“According to your faith, be it unto you.” – Matthew ix.290
“If God be for us, who can be against us?” – Romans viii.31
(and you may as well be too!!!)
Simply affirm:” God is with me in this situation; God is helping me; God is guiding me.
Remind yourself that God is with you and nothing can defeat you. BELIEVE that you now receive power from Him.
Faith is a choice It’s a decision It’s a commitment
“The just shall live by faith – Romans 1:16,17
MATTHEW: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” *

Goddream

Article Title: Sharing Some Uplifting Thoughts (Thought Conditioners) from Dr Norman Vincent Peale

Shared by: Craig Lock

Category (key words/Tags): Self help, self help books, Norman Vincent Peale, Christianity, faith, hope, persistence, trials, words of upliftment and inspiration , Inspirational Quotes, books, spiritual, spiritual writings, spiritual growth, Jesus, Jesus Christ, inspiration, empowerment, words of empowerment (enough there now, craig)

Web sites: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981

(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig

Publishing Guidelines:

This piece (as with all my writings) may be freely reproduced electronically or in print. If it helps others “out there” on the ‘amazing journey of life’, then we’re very happy.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow

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SHARING SOME UPLIFTING THOUGHTS from DR NORMAN VINCENT PEALE (to Give Comfort, Strength and Peace of Mind in Times of Trial and Struggle)

Submitters Note:

These are some notes that I wrote down many years ago in a very dark period of my life . . . a time of prolonged great hardship in a seemingly impossibly difficult situation, which I’m “passing on”. (I think they were from Norman Vincent Peace, the author of the Power of Positive Thinking). Yes, on checking my notes these words from Dr Peale’s ‘Self Help Book’ of Thought Conditioners (from the Bible) served to sustain and encourage me to “hang in there” with hope, faith and persistence. And I hope they may do the same for you . . . whatever situation you may find yourself in.

Hope these thoughts are not “too heavy-heavy religious” for you.

The light of God will be with you on the path up ahead.

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Christianity has its roots in the mystery of eternal life. This faith is a way of understanding the unknowable. Wanted to understand the cycle of life, death and rebirth.

However, one has to be a believer to “get into different levels of understanding”… which is achieved through the immense power of faith.

“If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed…nothing shall be impossible to you . . . ”

“According to your faith, be it unto you.” – Matthew ix.290

“If God be for us, who can be against us?” – Romans viii.31

(and you may as well be too!!!)

Simply affirm:” God is with me in this situation; God is helping me; God is guiding me.

Remind yourself that God is with you and nothing can defeat you. BELIEVE that you now receive power from Him.

“Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. Everything passes away except God. God alone is sufficient.”

Thomas Carlyle: “Silence is the element in which great things fashion themselves.”

I was in a situation where I had to make a decision: an intellectual, rational one (of the mind), or that of some kind of spiritual discipline and faith. The first (selling Sky subscriptions) one was easy, the second, the writing path) hard. The first is about ego, the second about the battle inside you that gives life meaning.

I chose the hardest path – it was like having wings. I wanted to look at everything another way.

It’s no specific faith. It could be any religion – it’s a deep belief in God, the human spirit.” – the words of Ingrid Betancourt (Colombian hostage)

Faith is a choice It’s a decision It’s a commitment

“The just shall live by faith – Romans 1:16,17

MATTHEW: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” *

LIFE’S PROBLEMS

1. Believe, really believe, that for every problem, there is a solution (and very often it’s a spiritual one).

2. Keep calm. Tension blocks the flow of thought power. Your brain cannot operate efficiently under too much stress.

3. Don’t try to force an answer. Keep the mind relaxed and the solution will become clear. List the facts of the problem on paper – be objective, so that your problem does not become subjective.

Be patient waiting for an answer, a solution …which comes via the subconscious mind

6. Pray about your problem, affirming that God will flash illumination into your mind. Believe God’s promise in the 73rd Psalm: “Thou wilt guide thee by thou counsel.”

7. Trust fully in the faculty of insight and intuition.

Go to church (and/or meditate) and let your subconscious work on the problem.

There is always a close connection between how a man thinks and how he feels. In addition, there is impressive evidence to support the view that God works through both the practitioner of science, the doctor, and the practitioner of faith, the minister (mind-body relationship). The answer is in the healing teachings of Jesus.

“Be still and know that I am God.” – Psalm XVI.10

“In him we live and move and have our being.” – Acts xvii.28

By faith you place yourself in the flow of divine power.

William James: “The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” As you think, so shall you be. fill your mind with fresh new creative thoughts of faith, love and goodness.”

1. Don’t get the idea that you are Atlas carrying the world on your shoulders. Don’t strain so hard. Don’t take yourself so seriously.

2. Determine to like your work. Change yourself and your work will seem different.

3. Plan your work and work your plan.

4. Don’t try to do everything at once: “This one thing I do.”

5. Get the right mental attitude.

6. Practice being relaxed – take it all in your stride.

William James: “One of the deepest drives of human nature is the desire to be appreciated.”

“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peacably with all men.’ – Romans xii.18

It is not advisable to attempt to carry the burden of sorrow and mental pain without Divine help; for it’s weight is more than the personality can bear. There is always the soothing presence of God at hand.

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” – I Corinthians ii.9

Socrates: “No evil can befall a good man in this life or in the next.”

* State your problem

* Ask for a specific answer. Believe that you are getting that answer. BELIEVE, really believe that now through God’s help, you are gaining power over that difficulty.

Higher Power/Authority

If there is deep desire, intensity of longing, and a reaching out after the Power, it will be given.

We may never meet in person, but in this book we have met. We are spiritual friends. I pray for you, God will help you – so believe and live successfully.

Jesus Christ: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John X 10.

*

PRAYER

Prayer helps people to tap forces and to utilise strength not otherwise available.

A famous psychologist once said these wise words: “Prayer is the greatest power available to the individual in solving his personal problems. It’s power astonishes me.” Release of spiritual energy through prayer. It releases and keeps power flowing freely.

According to your faith, be it unto you.” – Matthew ix.29

“What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” – Mark xi.24

Faith and harmony are important factors in the prayer process.

Hard work, positive thinking, fair dealing, right treatment of people, and the proper kind of praying always gets results. Formula: * Prayerise + * Picturise + * Actualise

The Kingdom of God is within you.” – Luke xvii.21

Prayer is the mightiest power in the world. Every day is good if you pray.

Always accept willingness to accept God’s will in your life. Ask for what you want; but be willing to take what God gives you. It may be better than what you ask for.

Prayer: I believe I am always divinely guided I believe I will always take the right turn of the road.

I believe God will always make a way when there is no way.

A P R P B W P R A: Affirmative prayers release powers by which positive results are accomplished. PEACEWORK

Prayer helps people to tap forces and to utilise strength not otherwise available.

A famous psychologist once said these wise words: “Prayer is the greatest power available to the individual in solving his personal problems. It’s power astonishes me.” Release of spiritual energy through prayer. It releases and keeps power flowing freely.

“According to your faith, be it unto you.” – Matthew ix.29

“What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” – Mark xi.24

Faith and harmony are important factors in the prayer process.

Hard work, positive thinking, fair dealing, right treatment of people, and the proper kind of praying always gets results. Formula: * Prayerise + * Picturise + * Actualise

“The Kingdom of God is within you.” – Luke xvii.21

Prayer is the mightiest power in the world. Every day is good if you pray.

Always accept willingness to accept God’s will in your life. Ask for what you want; but be willing to take what God gives you. It may be better than what you ask for.

Prayer: I believe I am always divinely guided I believe I will always take the right turn of the road.

I believe God will always make a way when there is no way.

A P R P B W P R A: Affirmative prayers release powers by which positive results are accomplished.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you.” – John xiv.27

“Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest awhile.” – Mark vi.31

Discipline ourselves to quietness. Slow down, quiet down. do not fume, do not fret, practise being peaceful.

“The peace of God which passeth all understanding.” – Philippians ix.7

Life can get muddled, but muddied water, let stand, will become clear.” – Lao-tse

Practise serenity

Affirm: “God is here and his peace is touching me.”

“Come unto me, all that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew xi.28

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John xiv.27

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.” – Isaiah xxvi.3

Tranquillity – the very word denotes a sense of peace.

So long thy power hath kept me, sure it STILL will lead me on. Send into the area of your thinking a healing balm.

With God’s help I am now emptying my mind of all fear, all anxiety, all insecurity. Repeat. Picture all worry thoughts flowing out of you.

I place this day, my life, my loved ones in the Lord’s hands.

“… but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians iii.13-14

Mark in your Bible every passage that speaks of faith, hope, happiness, glory and radiance. Commit each to memory.

When Jesus Christ was born He was called Immanuel, meaning God with us.

* PRAYER

EXPECT THE BEST AND GET IT

“If thou can’st believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” – Mark IX 23

Whatever you believe you can do, you can do, with God’s help. When you put your trust in God, he guides your mind so that you do not want things that are not good for you, or that are inharmonious with God’s will. When you learn to believe, then that which has seemingly been impossible moves into the area/becomes possible. When you expect the best, you release a magnetic force in your mind, which by a law of attraction tends to bring the best to you.

Faith moves mountains: Faith, belief, positive thinking, faith in God, faith in other people, faith in yourself, faith in life.

Freed from self doubt, you can put your whole self into your endeavour, and nothing can stand in the way of the man or woman, who focuses their entire self on a problem. Expect to succeed and you WILL.

“Throw your heart over the bar and your body will follow.”

Expect the best, not the worst, and you will attain your heart’s desire. It is what is in the heart of you, either good or bad, weak or strong, that finally comes to you. Emerson: “Beware of what you want, for you will get it.” faith power works wonders.

Have faith in God. “For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed and be thou cast into the sea.”

– Mark 11

“But shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” – Mark XI. 22-23

Be specific. Ask God for any right thing, but as a little child, don’t doubt…NEVER.

* STRENGTH

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

– Phillipians iv.13

“Mighty oaks from little acorns grow.”

“A clean mind, as a clean engine, always delivers power.”

A fundamental doctrine of Emerson: the human personality can be touched with Divine Power and thus greatness can be released from it.

“The greatest factor in any undertaking is one’s belief about it.”

– William James

Thoreau: the secret of achievement is to hold a picture of a successful outcome in mind.

Jefferson: “Take the smooth handle”…ie. follow the path of least resistance.

RELAX. Affirm the thought that God is filling us with strength and quiet energy. Get yourself in tune with Him and open yourself to the flow of His power.

Give your job all you’ve got, but in a relaxed manner.

“According to your faith be it unto you.” – Matthew ix.29 is a basic law for successful living.

“The just shall live by faith – Romans 1:16,17

“YOU are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40.28-31.

Shared by craig (“Information and Inspiration Distributor, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

PPS

For more of my writings on Dr NV Peale see

enjoy

download (1)
About the submitter:

In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives. Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being.

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://www.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

“A book is small enough to hold in your hand; but when you read it, the walls fall away and you’re in a room as big as the world.”

A book is like a garden carried in the pocket.” – Chinese proverb

“A book, like a dog, is man’s best friend, but inside it’s too dark to read.” – Groucho Marx)

“Together, one mind, one soul at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, empower, encourage and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials. Change YOUR world and you help change THE world…for the better”

eagle

THESE THOUGHTS MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

“What we learn in the darkness, we are to share in the eternal light.”

PPS
“When (or is it perhaps if ever ??) you arrive in a place (or rather state ) known as heaven, let faith, hope and love be the wings of the chariot that carried you there.”

– craig (as adapted from the words of Jonathan Edwards, a former minister in Massachusetts (New England

“The Greatest Race: Living by (with) faith, hope and love is the highest podium any person can reach, God’s podium that anyone stand on.”

– craig

“Having pursued the goals, the dreams set before us and run the race with persistence and endurance, after giving it all. Then one day standing on the summit of life, breathing in the pure sweet oxygen of achievement, totally satisfied in running the greatest race, the race of life one that ANYONE can run and win.”

craig 11/11

from http://godandformula1.wordpress.com/2013/07/08/on-the-podium-after-the-greatest-race/

and The Chequered Flag
Available at http://www.amazon.co.uk/THE-CHEQUERED-FLAG-GREATEST-ebook/dp/B0064R6D36

May you all see God’s bright light on the path (road) up ahead

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the-light-of-the-universe (from vineandbranchworldministries.com)

“Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” (a Self Help Book by Skip Ross): A SUMMARY

“Say ‘YES’ to your Potential” (a Self Help Book by Skip Ross): A SUMMARY

What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?

What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?

“Whilst we can (and should) celebrate our differences, our unique cultures, let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

– me

Peace. it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.”

– author unknown
 
“Instead of the limits of borders (of countries and of our minds) let us and our leaders expand our sense of possibility… and together let’s look at building bridges to distant horizons, far and great. Lord, help us all lift our eyes a little higher.”
– craig

 

What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?

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Article Title: What are Some Key Similarities between Christianity and Islam?
Shared by: Craig Lock

Category (key words): Christianity, Islam, religion, faith, beliefs, peace, spiritual, spiritual unity, breaking down barriers, building bridges

Web sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock&sort=relevance&ie=UTF8&qid and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.peacepursuit.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com

www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig)

Publishing Guidelines:
All my writings may be freely published, electronically or in print.
# #


WHAT ARE SOME KEY SIMILARITIES BETWEEN CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM?

Submitter’s Note:
Craig is studying the teachings of different religions (to find ‘common ground’/principles/ and as he learns from his research, is sharing these notes in an attempt to ‘enlighten’ (himself and perhaps others) regarding ‘eternal and universal truths.’ These notes form part of Craig’s new novel set in the Middle East, titled ‘A New Dawn: Let the Journey Begin’. Hope this piece may be of interest to you too.
*
INTRODUCTION

The issue of RELIGION throughout history of mankind and today evermore plays a vital part in many conflicts around the world. Religion is (and was) often blamed as the cause of the conflicts; whereas it is/was people misusing religion for their own ends (often taking particular and significant interpretations out of context) that have shaped societies and cultures. I truly believe it’s critically important to emphasize the common values shared by different religions to drastically reduce tensions around the globe. So that religion (and it’s beliefs) can be turned around from being part of the conflict to be part of the SOLUTION. Instead of focusing on the differences between people, in this ‘battle of ideas/ideologies” we should focus far more on what we have in common.

So what are the foundations, what is the frame-work of the respective beliefs?

Most religions of the world espouse (nice word, eh!) good moral values as a code of conduct: the virtues of passion for liberalism, tolerance, compassion, decency and generous ideals. However, there is a fundamental doctrinal incompatibility between the major faiths of Islam and Christianity (though together with the Jews, they worship the God of Abraham). These three major religions share the common truth of the Old Testament, having many prophets in common and consequently have many “shared values” that have shaped societies over the past two millennia.

Whilst there are some major differences between Islam and Christianity, from my research (fascinating and mainly online) some of the fundamental similarities in beliefs between these two main religions (as well as Judaism) are as follows:

ISLAM

The main beliefs:

* There is only One True God: the Sovereign Ruler of the universe…
and has full control over our lives (and will meet all of our needs)

* God (Allah) is the Creator of everything and central to Muslims lives. Allah is simply beyond human thought and understanding.

* True believers are not to worship any other gods

* Allah’s goodness and benevolence is seen everywhere, because He is compassionate and merciful.

* Many Old Testament prophets were from God (ie. were sent by God as messengers to the world)

* Jesus’s strong sense of mission, unity and sense of purpose.
He was sent by God to serve humanity and being divinely inspired was a great moral teacher and prophet.

* God gave the Torah, the prophets, the Koran and the Gospel to guide our lives. ( I don’t know enough about Mohamed and his “divine destiny” to pass comment on his “mission”).

* We are to obey God’s words (as in the first five books of the Old Testament, the ‘Pentitukes’- spelling?)

* We should surrender/sacrifice ourselves fully to God
(in fact, the word ‘Islam” means ‘full submission to God’s will’)

* Jesus will return to earth one day (though in which form is uncertain). Though Jews do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah…
and I’m not sure on that point with Islam.

* Humans have free will and exercise a choice between doing good or evil in their daily lives.

* Humans only live once on this earth, then face judgment:
One day there will be a day of Judgment for how we’ve lived our lives.

* Believers who die will go to ‘heaven’ and live forever (though the concept of heaven is not precisely defined).

* Disbelievers will go to ‘hell’ (or suffer torment, which is ‘separation from God’ forever). Heaven or hell are written about in the Qur’an in poetic terms, ie. symbolic rather than actual places.

* It is important to pray to God frequently (Muslims do it five times a day) and attend a congregation at least once a week (usually mid-day on Fridays)

* We should have a spirit of charity and help the poor and those in a less fortunate position to ourselves (with money and/or works)

* A person’s allotted time on earth is predestined.

* All people are equal before the law.

and finally

* We should respect our differences and Christians, Jews, and Muslims should never be killed purely on account of their faith.

#
CHRISTIANITY

Christianity and Islam are both missionary religions. Both faiths believe they have a monopoly over the truth. Both want to share their version of truth with others and both compete in seeking converts. I am motivated to share these “truths” with others, so people may benefit and enhance their lives in a meaningful way…if they so CHOOSE.

There IS a significant difference from Islam: Christianity exists solely on the basis that Jesus Christ is the ‘son of God’ (ie. the fact is taken literally); whereas the faith of Islam exists purely on the basis that God dictated his laws to Mohammed and that the Koran contains God’s actual words. Most “informed” Christians, however, do not believe the Koran is the un-intermediated word of God. Most followers of Christ know very little about Mohammed being perceived as a ‘messenger of God.’ They can, therefore, only think that Mohammed was deluded, if not a liar. (Of course, most Christians are far too polite to say such a thing!).

The Bible teaches that Jesus is the son of God/God incarnate (“the human face of God”) and that he dies on a cross to reconcile mankind and God. Then he was resurrected after three days and now lives in heaven. The gospel message teaches that reconciliation with God is to be found through the redemptive work of Jesus only.

Good works as “entry” to heaven count for nothing, in the absence of acceptance of Jesus.

And as regards Christianity, it’s the notion of the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit as one), which rationalists find to be the most implausible aspect of Christianity. If Jesus was not the Son of God, then he too was deluded, crazy … or perhaps even a “liar”. And if he – as opposed to He – was either of those things, then the Resurrection is also a lie and Christianity, as a faith rather than as a philosophy is utterly null and void.

Christianity is based on the concept of FAITH and God’s Infinite Grace. We are “saved for eternity” (so our soul lives on) through our faith in Jesus and are not solely judged for the ‘hereafter’ by our good works during our lifetime. (And these good works are inspired by our faith and the ‘divine spirit’ at work through God’s Infinite Grace). This is a battle of ideas. Cardinal Ratzenberger: “Islam simply does not have the separation of the political and religious spheres which Christianity had from the very beginning. The Koran… insists that the whole order of life be Islamic (ie. no separation of religion/church and state). One must understand that Islam is not simply a denomination that can be included in the free realm of a pluralistic society.”

True Muslims cannot accept either the separation of powers or the freedom under the law (ie. “democracy”), which are the hallmarks of Western civilization.

* extracted from an article (excellent) in ‘The Independent’ by Dominic Lawson.

As we are what we believe yourself to be (You are what YOU believe), I believe that Jesus genuinely believed himself to be a ‘Son of God’, divinely ordained with a specific mission, a unique purpose which he CHOSE to fulfil in his short life. Christians say that the tradition of Jesus of Nazareth points us to a new life and new thoughts, as well as new possibilities… as a community and as a nation. Still you may or may not CHOOSE to believe in Jesus Christ and follow his teachings as YOUR pathway to connect to God, a Higher Power, ‘the Ground of all Being, the Essence of Existence’, your spiritual self.
#

Whilst we can celebrate our differences, we should love God (whatever we understand the concept to be) with all our hearts, minds and souls and our neighbour as we love ourselves (common teachings from both faiths of Islam and Christianity). Simple, eh!

It’s not such a matter of conflicting ideologies, the great ‘battle of civilizations’ is it?

So
Isn’t WHAT UNITES US IS FAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN WHAT DIVIDES US!

and

God’s greatest gift to us is allowing us to find, then choose to follow our own truths.

Craig Lock

Former Archbishop in South Africa Desmond Tutu: “We have come to a time in the history of the world, where we need to rediscover the path to peace, and the path to peace can never be war. This pathway is lined with the concept of co-existence and co-inhabitance of the world.”

“A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation, long supressed, finds utterance.”
– J.Nehru, first Prime Minister of India

“It is time for people of good will from every faith, culture and nation to recognise that a terrible danger threatens humanity. We must set aside the partisan bickering between nations and join together to confront the danger that lies before us. Let us seek common ground between peoples around the globe…
because what unites us is far more important than what divides us.

In our own little ways in our individual lives we can touch so many others and share our common humanity. And in so doing we can illuminate the hearts and minds of humanity. We must offer a compelling alternate vision for the world: a bright future of justice, tolerance, respect for other traditions and values and especially a vision of goodness and hope fuelled by the flame of love – one that banishes the fanatical ideology of intolerance and hatred to the darkness from which it emerged.”
– craig (as inspired by and adapted from the words of Abdurahman Wahid, former President of Indonesia)

“What we learn in the darkness, we are to share in the eternal light.”

“What we believe is not nearly as important as how we relate, interact with each other… and how we live. Only when we can say, ‘I am first and foremost a human being, and second a Jew, Muslim, Shi’ite, a Sunni, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu ,or a Sikh…’ will we progress and break down barriers between peoples, nations and cultures, both east and west. Let not our beliefs , but our shared humanity (ALL of us) define who we really are. “

“Let us build bridges rather than barriers, openness rather than walls. Rather than borders, let us look at distant horizons together…in the common spirit of the value and dignity of a shared personhood – our common humanity as citizens of planet earth.”

– craig

“God’s greatest gift to us is allowing us to find, then choose to follow our own truths.”

“Let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

– me

About the submitter:
Craig is “a passionate ‘extremist’ about respect for religious tolerance and moderation”. In his various writings little by little, one mind, one heart, one soul, one small step at a time, Craig hopes to promote better understanding across countries and cultures, striving in some small way to break down economic, social, cultural, religious and political barriers. He truly believes that whilst we should celebrate our differences, what we share in the form of our common humanity is way more important than what divides us.
http://www.craiglockbooks.comhttp://www.selfgrowth.com/experts/craig_lock.html

Craig’s new manuscript ‘A New Dawn’ is set in the Middle East: In it he attempts to find ‘common ground’/principles between different religions and cultures and to try to make some difference in building bridges in an ever more dangerous, turbulent and uncertain world. A passionate story of inspiration: hope, faith, peace and especially love.

Craig’s booklet ‘Jesus Meets Muhammad’ is available at http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Meets-Muhammad-Real-ebook/dp/B005H86TPU/

The various books* that Craig “felt inspired to write” (including his books on Jesus and his numerous e-books on “the spiritual journey”) are available at: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=la_B005GGMAW4_sr?rh=i%3Abooks&field-author=Craig+Lock&sort=relevance&ie=UTF8&qid and http://goo.gl/vTpjk

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstores”

“A good book should take you from your everyday life to another place entirely.”

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at www.peacepursuit.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com

www.sharefaith.wordpress.com

www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com

www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

http://religiousunity.wordpress.com

http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com + so many others I can’t keep track (obsessive or WHAT!)

“Whilst we can (and should) celebrate our differences, let not our different beliefs set us apart as human beings, but rather let the Spirit of our shared humanity be what defines and unites us as common citizens of our planet.”

-me

Together, one mind, one heart, one life at a time, let’s plant the seeds, the hope of a better and brighter future.

THESE THOUGHTS MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED, electronically or in print

Peace. it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.”
– author unknown

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Gandhi and Christ: What Did Jesus Mean to Gandhi?

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Article Title: Gandhi and Christ: What Did Jesus Mean to Gandhi?
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category (key words): Gandhi, Jesus, Christianity, faith, peace, pursuit of peace, beliefs, spiritual, spiritual unity, religion, unity of religion/s,
spiritual growth
Web Sites: http://www.geocities.com/orthopapism/gandhi.html +
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080620072944AAmRmHq
Submitter’s web Sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4 http://goo.gl/vTpjk and http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://nzwriter.blogtown.co.nz/http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/craigs-blogs-and-writings/ www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com and www.religiousunity.wordpress.com .

Other Articles by Craig are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration
and money management, how boring now, craig


Publishing Guidelines:
All my writings may be freely published, electronically or in print.


“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”

*

GANDHI AND CHRIST

Submitter’s Note:

Craig is studying the teachings of different religions and faiths (to attempt to find ‘common ground’/principles) and as he learns from his research, is sharing these notes in the spirit of ‘enlightening’ (himself and perhaps others) regarding ‘eternal and universal truths.’ Hope this piece may be of interest to you too (as well as perhaps promoting more understanding of other faiths…as in sharing, I learn too!

* What did Jesus mean to Gandhi? Did he have any influence on Gandhi’s life and teaching? What according to Gandhi was the essence of Christ’s message? Was Gandhi a ‘secret Christian’? What is the challenge that Gandhi presents to Christians and Christianity today?

Answers to these questions may be found in a recent book, ‘Gandhi and Christianity’ edited by Robert Ellsberg and published by Orbis Books, Maryknoll, New York 10545. This book is an anthology of the speeches and writings of Gandhi on the subject as well as responses to Gandhi’s challenge by various Christian scholars. It should be a valuable reference book on the ongoing dialogue between Christians and representatives of other religions.

Early in his life, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi had been reading the Bible to keep a promise he had made to a friend. He found the Old Testament extremely difficult going. He disliked the Book of Numbers. But the New Testament produced a different impression, especially the Sermon on the Mount which went straight to his heart. The passion of Jesus Christ moved Gandhi greatly. The verses about not resisting evil but offering the other cheek and giving the cloak to one who asked for one’s coat delighted him beyond measure. They reminded him about something he had learned in his childhood about returning with gladness good for evil done.

“I did once seriously think of embracing the Christian faith“, Gandhi told Millie Polak, the wife of one of his earliest disciples. “The gentle figure of Christ, so patient, so kind, so loving, so full of forgiveness that he taught his followers not to retaliate when abused or struck, but to turn the other cheek, I thought it was a beautiful example of the perfect man…”

However, on another occasion, he said he could accept Jesus “as a martyr, an embodiment of sacrifice, and a divine teacher, but not as the most perfect man ever born. His death on the Cross was a great example to the world, but that there was anything like a mysterious or miraculous virtue in it, my heart could not accept”.

“The message of Jesus as I understand it”, said Gandhi, “is contained in the Sermon on the Mount unadulterated and taken as a whole… If then I had to face only the Sermon on the Mount and my own interpretation of it, I should not hesitate to say, ‘Oh, yes, I am a Christian.’ But negatively I can tell you that in my humble opinion, what passes as Christianity is a negation of the Sermon on the Mount… I am speaking of the Christian belief, of Christianity as it is understood in the west.”

Gandhi could speak beautifully about the message and personality of Jesus. Talking about the Gospel passage of the rich young man, he said, “St. Mark has vividly described the scene. Jesus is in his solemn mood. He is earnest. He talks about eternity. He knows the world about him. He is himself the greatest economist of his time. He succeeded in sermonising time and space – He transcends them. It is to him at the best that one comes running, kneels down and asks, “Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said unto him, “One thing thou lackest. Go thy way, sell what thou hast and give it to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven – come, take up the cross and follow me.” Here you have an eternal rule of life stated in the noblest words the English language is capable of producing.” Gandhi went on to say that he could quote even stronger passages from the Hindu scriptures and the lesson he wanted to draw was that if we could clean our houses, palaces an

Poverty, suffering, the Cross, non-violence, morality – all these were part of the Kingdom of God. But for Gandhi what struck him most in the Sermon on the Mount was Christ’s teaching on non-retaliation, or non-resistance to evil. “Of all the things I have read what remained with me forever was that Jesus came almost to give a new law – not an eye for an eye, but to receive two blows when only one was given, and to go two miles when they were asked to go one. I came to see that the Sermon on the Mount was the whole of Christianity for him who wanted to live a Christian life. It is that sermon that has endeared Jesus to me.”

“Jesus occupies in my heart,” said Gandhi, “the place of one of the greatest teachers who have had a considerable influence on my life. I shall say to the Hindus that your life will be incomplete, unless you reverentially study the teachings of Jesus… Make this world the kingdom of God and his righteousness and everything will be added unto you. I tell you that if you will understand, appreciate, and act up to the spirit of this passage, you won’t need to know what place Jesus or any other teacher occupies in your heart.”

For Gandhi, Jesus was the prince of ‘Satyagrahists’.* “The example of Jesus suffering is a factor in the composition of my undying faith in non-violence. What then does Jesus mean to me? To me, He was one of the greatest teachers humanity has ever had.” For Gandhi, to say that Jesus was the only begotten son of God was to say that “in Jesus’ own life was the key of his nearness to God, that he expressed as no other could, the spirit and will of God… I do believe that something of the spirit that Jesus exemplified in the highest measure, in its most profound human sense exist… If I did not believe it, I should be a sceptic, and to be a sceptic is to live a life that is empty and lacking moral content. Or, what is the same thing, to condemn the human race to a negative end.”

* I think the word literally means ‘soul-force’

Gandhi believed that in every man there was an impulse for good and a compassion that is the spark of divinity, that will one day burst into the full flower that is the hope of all mankind. An example of this flowering, he said, may be found in the figure and in the life of Jesus. “I refuse to believe that there not exists or has ever existed a person that has not made use of his example to lessen his sins, even though he may have done so without realising it. The lives of all have, in some greater or lesser degree, been changed by His presence, His actions and the words spoken by His divine voice… I believe that he belongs not solely to Christianity, but to the entire world; to all races and people, it matters little under what flag, name or doctrine they may work, profess a faith or worship a God inherited from their ancestors.”

For Gandhi Jesus was the true ‘satyagrahist’, who passed the test of non-violence, even if he seemed to be otherwise a failure. “The virtues of mercy, non-violence, love and truth in any man can be truly tested when they are pitted against ruthlessness, violence, hate and untruth… This is the true test of Ahimsa… He who when being killed bears no anger against his murderer and even asks God to forgive him is truly non-violent. History relates this of Jesus Christ. With his dying breath on the Cross, he is reported to have said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what to do.”

According to the theory of ‘Satyagraha’, said Gandhi, an adequate appeal to the heart never fails. “Seeming failure is not of the law of ‘Satyagraha’, but of incompetence of the ‘Satyagrahist’ by whatever cause induced. The name of Jesus at once comes to the lips. It is an instance of brilliant failure. And he has been acclaimed in the west as the prince of passive resisters. I showed years ago in South Africa that the adjective ‘passive’ was a misnomer, at least as applied to Jesus. He was the most active resister known perhaps to history. His was non-violence par excellence.”

This article was directly sourced from http://www.geocities.com/orthopapism/gandhi.html + http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080620072944AAmRmHq

(and I’m sharing these thoughts and ideas in a spirit of in some small way, promoting better understanding and dialogue between faiths…or at least trying (thanks!).

“My life is my message.” – Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi

“Ï love Christ, but am not so keen on his followers.” and/or “I would have been a follower of Christ, if it weren’t for the Christians!”

(Apparently, Gandhi was kicked out of a church during his time in South Africa)

Gandhi greatly admired Christ; God is not a religion. God is love. Religious tradition is the enemy of true spirituality. Seek God and shun religion. It is the only path to true peace with God.

Religion divides; whereas truth unites.”

So after all that…

Isn’t WHAT UNITES US IS FAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN WHAT DIVIDES US!

“There is neither east nor west, tribe nor ethnicity, male or female, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist. Christian nor Jew. There is only a God-filled humanity.”

Find, then walk your OWN path to Highest Truth and be happy

Shared by craig

“I would like the British (military) to leave India as friends.”

PS: Former Archbishop in South Africa Desmond Tutu said these inspirational words: “We have come to a time in the history of the world, where we need to rediscover the path to peace, and the path to peace can never be war. This pathway is lined with the concept of co-existence and co-inhabitance of the world.”

“A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation, long supressed, finds utterance.”

– Jahrulal Nehru, first Prime Minister of India

“It is time for people of good will from every faith, culture and nation to recognise that a terrible danger threatens humanity. We must set aside the partisan bickering between nations and join together to confront the danger that lies before us. Let us seek common ground between peoples around the globe… because what unites us is far more important than what divides us.

In our own little ways in our individual lives we can touch so many others and share our common humanity. And in so doing we can illuminate the hearts and minds of humanity. We must offer a compelling alternate vision for the world: a bright future of justice, tolerance, respect for other traditions and values and especially a vision of goodness and hope fuelled by the flame of love – one that banishes the fanatical ideology of intolerance and hatred to the darkness from which it emerged.”

– craig (as inspired by and adapted from the words of Abdurahman Wahid, former President of Indonesia)

About the submitter:

Craig likes (no loves) to share information and insights to encourage others to be all they are capable of being. He’d love to try to ‘build bridges’ (not metal or wooden ones, thank goodness!) between people, firmly believing that what we share is way more important than what divides us. In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives. He believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” are available at

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock + www.lulu.com/craiglock

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://nzwriter.blogtown.co.nz/http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com/2013/09/28/craigs-blogs-and-writings/ www.buildbridgesofunity.wordpress.com www.buildbridgesofunderstanding.wordpress.com

www.breakdownwalls.wordpress.com and www.religiousunity.wordpress.com .

Craig’s new manuscript, ‘A New Dawn’ is set in the Middle East: In it he attempts to find ‘common ground’/principles between different religions and cultures and to try to make some difference in building bridges in an ever more dangerous, turbulent and uncertain world. A passionate story of inspiration: hope, faith, peace and especially love.

“A good book should take you from your everyday life to another place entirely.”

These thoughts may be published, electronically or in print (with acknowledgment to the source web sites, thanks)

“What we learn in the darkness, we are to share in the eternal light.”

“Live simply, so that others may simply live.” – Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi once said to a group of missionaries: “You Christians look after a document containing enough dynamite to blow all civilisation to pieces, turn the world upside down and bring peace to a battle-torn planet. BUT you treat it as nothing more than a piece of literature.”

When the missionary E. Stanley Jones met with Gandhi he asked him, “Mr. Gandhi, though you quote the words of Christ often, why is that you appear to so adamantly reject becoming his follower?”

Gandhi replied, “Oh, I don’t reject Christ. I love Christ. It’s just that so many of you Christians are so unlike Christ.”

“If Christians would really live according to the teachings of Christ, as found in the Bible, all of India would be Christian today,” he added.

 

For more reading on Mahatma Gandhi and Christianity

See http://in.christiantoday.com/articledir/print.htm?id=2837 and

Gandhi’s message to Christians

Click on http://www.mkgandhi.org/africaneedsgandhi/gandhi%27s_message_to_christians.htm

“Let us look in the mirror of history*, heeding its lessons, then hold hands will all peoples in facing and heralding in a better future, a brighter tomorrow for all peoples around the globe.”

-craig

 

“Lord,

Help lift our eyes a little higher.”

 

* that’s a metaphor, btw

The God Memorandum’ (from ‘The Greatest Miracle in the World’ by Og Mandino)

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Article Title: ‘The God Memorandum’ (from ‘The Greatest Miracle in the World’ by Og Mandino)
Submitted by: Craig Lock
Category/Key words: Inspiration, ‘The Greatest Miracle in the World’, Og Mandino, book “reviews”, inspirational books, good books, spiritual,
spiritual growth

Web sites: http://www.ragpicker.org/http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4

http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html and https://www.createspace.com/3779691/

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://ogmandinobooks.wordpress.com

www.newbooksbycraig.wordpress.comwww.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

Other Articles are available at: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 and http://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981
(Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig!)

Publishing Guidelines
We hope that the following article may be informative and helpful to your ezine readers, or on your web site. If it helps others “out there” in any way, then we’re very happy. This article (as with all my articles) may be freely published, electronically or in print.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”
#

Submitter’s Note:

I ‘ve been reading this most uplifting and empowering book by Og Mandino; so am sharing this “review” in the spirit of passing on excerpts of the content, in the form of thoughts, quotations, concepts and principles (like the Laws of the Universe). And as I share, I learn too! In this piece I’m sharing what I feel is the central message of Mr Mandino’s highly inspiring book (first published by Frederick Fell Publishers Inc in 1975). ISBN 0-553-27972-6

To properly understand my “highlighted” notes, you need to read the book fully …to put them in their proper context.

Where the pronoun “his” is used in this article, please substitute “her” if appropriate.

Thank you, Mr Mandino and Frederick Fell Publishers, Inc.

*

About the Author and the Book:

The leading inspirational author of our time, Og Mandino was once a down-and-out alcoholic, who contemplated suicide. In this best-selling book, Og Mandino shares his personal story and reveals the process that turned a derelict into a millionaire and a happy man in ten years. It’s one of Og Mandino’s best stories

“This book is a celebration of a unique vision – a vision which reaches out and shines, touching with magic the drama of life across all it’s limitless horizons.”

“Ingenious and enjoyable, it is penned by an author groping in the darkness of the past for clues to the puzzles of the present and the future.”
*

‘THE GOD MEMORANDUM’ (from Chapter Nine of ‘The Greatest Miracle in the World’ by Og Mandino)

“I love you and am with you through these words…

Light your own candle

YOU are my greatest miracle.

YOU are the greatest miracle in the world

You were given the secret even of moving mountains, of performing the impossible.

If you are feeling down, count one blessing in your life.

Love:

To receive love it must be given with no thought of its return. Love is a gift on which no return is demanded. To love unselfishly is its own reward. And even should love not be returned, it is not lost; for love not reciprocated will flow back to you… and soften and purify your heart.

Your brain is the most complex structure in the universe. Within its three pounds are thirteen billion nerve cells that make your DNA, you unique. YOU are my finest creation.

Know then the first secret to happiness and success – that you posess, even now, every blessing necessary to achieve great glory. They are your treasure, your tools with which to build, starting today, the foundation for a new and better life.

The return of humanity from living death

For he is not poor who has little; only he that desires much… and true security lies not in the things one has, but in the things one can do without.

What are the handicaps that produced your failure? They existed only in your mind.

1. Count your blessings.

You are the most valuable treasure on the face of the earth.

You are the rarest thing in the world.
Imitate no one. Be yourself Show your rarity to the world and it will shower you with gold.

2. Proclaim your rarity. Celebrate your uniqueness

You have no handicaps. You are NOT mediocre.

3. The third law: Go the extra mile (for others)
In a word, serve. The only certain means of success is to render more and better service than is expected of you, no matter what your task may be. This is a habit followed by all successful people since the beginning of time. The surest way to doom yourself to mediocrity is to perform only the work for which you are paid.

You cannot command success, you can only deserve it.

Be patient with your progress.

Be proud. You were made with a purpose.

You need me… and I need you.

We are both miracles and now we have each other.

I gave you the power to think…

to love

to will

to laugh

to imagine

to create

to plan

to speak

to pray

‘I gave you the power to choose. I gave you complete control over your destiny, in accordance with your own free will.’

Use wisely your power of choice.

Choose to love… rather than hate.

Choose to laugh…rather than cry.

Choose to create…rather than destroy.

Choose to persevere… rather than quit,

Choose to praise…rather than gossip.

Choose to heal…rather than heal.

Choose to give…rather than steal.

Choose to act… rather than procrastinate.

Choose to grow… rather than rot (or stagnate).

Choose to care about others

“Where there’s care, there’s hope.”

“Hope is the anchor of the soul.”

“The spring of hope is universal, eternal and will never run dry.” – craig

Choose to forgive those who have hurt you, rather than hating

You can never be successful without forgiveness.” (like Nelson Mandela, the “father of freedom/democracy in South Africa) Forgiveness is a great tool in healing (the giver, as well as the receiver)
“When you forgive (another person or country), you empty your mind of negative thoughts (perhaps even thoughts as strong as hate). Then the infinite Spirit of God makes a fresh space in our hearts to allow new positive feelings to take their place.. to pour into our hearts. The ‘freed’ person then moves forward with a new spirit…which takes root in people’s minds, hearts, spirits and even in the deepest recesses of their souls.”

– craig

Choose to pray (for strength and for others)… rather than curse.

Choose to LIVE, rather than die.

This world has provided me with everything a man could desire. It is time I began to repay my debt by doing all I can to help make a better life for all mankind.

*

You are more than a human being; you are a human becoming.

You are capable of great wonders. Your potential is unlimited.

YOU can be a shining example of how much IS possible to accomplish with one’s life despite obstacles and handicaps …by releasing the champion within.

Never hide your talents from this day hence!

The choice is YOURS:

Remember, then, the four laws of happiness and success.

Count your blessings.
Proclaim your rarity
Go that extra mile
Use wisely your power of choice.

To fulfil the other four.

Do all things with love . . . love for yourself, love for all others, and love for me. Never, ever forget . . .

As a member of the human race, the greatest miracle in the world is YOU!

Shine YOUR bright light on humanity”

Shared by craig (“information and inspiration distributer, incorrigible encourager and people-builder”)

“The untapped potential in every human being is limitless: we are perfectly capable of producing, all by ourselves, true magic.”
– Clyde Brolin writing in his great book ‘Overdrive; Formula One in the Zone’ (web site
www.overdrivef1.com)


“Each ONE of us CAN reach deeply into ourselves and plant seeds of hope,
faith and love for those around us. Like throwing a pepple into a a calm pond produces ever-widening circles, your ripples of ‘inspirational energy’ forming on a peaceful heart will one day turn into waves, which can spread far and wide to galvanise positive change…in ourselves, others… and perhaps even the world.”
“Since I can never see your face,
And never shake you by the hand,
I send my soul through time and space
To greet you. You will understand.”
– James Elroy Flecker

To dearest dad, ‘RC’ Raymond Carruthers Lock, “the greatest salesman, supporter and encourager in the world” and to you mom, Hazel… for your great care and love and especially for your “infinite wealth of an enquiring spirit”… that lives on

Death is not a foe, but an invisible adventure”

Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity.”

“Earth hath no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.”
– Thomas More

“Together, one mind, one heart, one life at a time, let’s plant the seeds of a better future.”

“Instead of the limits of borders (of countries, of peoples and of our minds) let us and our leaders expand our sense of possibility… and together let’s look at building bridges to distant horizons, far and great. Lord, help us all lift our eyes a little higher.”

– craig

 

About the Submitter:
In his life mission Craig hopes to encourage, motivate and inspire people to be their best through realising their full potentials and live their very best lives. Craig believes in the great potential of every human being in the journey of life and loves to encourage people to share their individual (and guiding) spirits, so that they become all that they are CAPABLE of being

Craig is currently “working” on ‘Endless Possibilities, Far and Great Horizons’ – true inspiring stories of the human condition in overcoming seemingly impossible odds.

The various books that Craig ‘felt inspired to write’ are available at : http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4http://www.creativekiwis.com/amazon.html` http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock and www.lulu.com/craiglock

A book is small enough to hold in your hand; but when you read it, the walls fall away and you’re in a room as big as the world.”

“A book is like a garden carried in the pocket.”
– Chinese proverb

“Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read.”
– Groucho Marx

The submitter’s blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are at http://ogmandinobooks.wordpress.com

www.newbooksbycraig.wordpress.comwww.sharefaith.wordpress.com and http://craigsblogs.wordpress.com

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

““Together, one mind, one soul at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, empower, encourage and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials. Change YOUR world and you help change THE world… for the better”

PPS: Always remember…
YOU ARE THE GREATEST MIRACLE IN THE WORLD

Check out: http://www.ragpicker.org/

“Together, one mind, one heart, one life at a time, let’s plant the seeds, the hope of a better and brighter future.”

Determination – the Key to Success in Sport and in Life

from http://www.grandprixchampion.wordpress.com

 

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Article Title: Determination – the Key to Success in Sport and in Life

(from ‘Steps to Success, Prosperity and Happinessand The Winning Mind”)
Author: Craig Lock
Category/Subject: Spiritual, Inspiration, Empowerment, Success, Success Principles, Personal Growth, Self Help, Motivation, Mind, Mind Control, Mind-power, books, self help books, (enough there now, craig)

Web sites: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4www.creativekiwis/amazon.html andhttp://www.creativekiwis.com/books.html#craig

The submitter’s motor racing blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are athttp://grandprixdriver.wordpress.com
 
 
his various other blogs are athttp://craigsblogs.wordpress.

(Other articles are available at:http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/user/15565 andhttp://www.ideamarketers.com/library/profile.cfm?writerid=981

Personal growth, self help, writing, internet marketing, spiritual, ‘spiritual writings’ (how ‘airey-fairey’), words of inspiration and money management, how boring now, craig)

Publishing Guidelines
We hope that the following article (an extract from one of Craig’s first manuscripts on sport psychology‘The Winning Mind’, as well as an extract from Chapter Two of one of Craig’s first manuscripts (“rather wacky”) titled ‘STEPS TO SUCCESS, PROSPERITY AND HAPPINESS’ and his book on thepsychology of sport titled ‘The Winning Mind’ written “many many moons ago” may be informative and helpful to your ezine readers, or on your web site. If it helps others “out there” on the pathway to success (and most importantly, happiness), then we’re very happy.
This article (as with all my articles) may be freely published.

“We share what we know, so that we all may grow.”
#
DETERMINATION – THE KEY TO SUCCESS

I think the key words in the path to success are: DETERMINATION and SELF DISCIPLINE. Others are FOCUS and a SINGLE-MINDEDNESS (in pursuit of one’s goals). The words ‘determination’ and (by association) ‘ruthlessness’, suggest a person who wants success and power for it’s own sake. This is another sort of obsession. However, a desire for power, riches and fame may have virtually nothing to do with it. By the way, I feel that not all successful people and business executives are ruthless – they are not all “money grabbing corporate raiders”. Most of them are “normal and good family men”, who have perfectly natural reactions in that they hate firing employees. “Soft gentle souls!” Determination is often at its greatest, when a person is enslaved by an idea and wants to see the idea work. There is a further sort of determination: the determination to see things through, to finish the job. For example, a compulsion to qualify for the PGA golf tour in America, to finish a building, or in my case to finish writing this manuscript…and then get it published… which is the hardest part of all. Especially with the way I write!

I suppose all these characteristics are somewhat abnormal; because so-called “normal” people are more passive and less focused than us “obsessive types”. They are regarded as being less “mad” by the majority of the public, who engage in more ordinary activities and have more “normal” occupations. This thought leads me on to another question: Is the top-most level of success the only one worth having, or is it sufficient to merely enjoy sport for it’s own sake (even the professionals)? Does every player entering Wimbledon really think he or she is going to win the Championship? Or is it success itself just to play in the Wimbledon tournament? How realistic is the vision of success to YOU? It all depends on how you define success for yourself…which is the thought with which I introduced this chapter. I believe that a strong SENSE OF DIRECTION or PURPOSE IN LIFE is a very important ingredient for success. So too is a persistent personality.

To be successful in whatever endeavour one chooses, first of all requires a great of talent. It might be latent, waiting to be uncovered. Perhaps, you are not even aware of it. I wonder how many budding Ayrton Senna’s and Michael Schumachers there are around, who just have never had the opportunity (mainly in the form of money) to race cars? Motor racing is certainly the “ultimate rich boy’s sport”. To finally reap the rewards of success, obviously talent has to be there on the long slow road to success – and at the time of success…but has it always been there? Chess geniuses, athletes, tennis players, architects, athletes, scientists, dress designers and advertising creative directors. These “creative types”! There can be talent deep within; but there has to be hard work and training before the talent bears fruition – so that it can succeed against (all) others…and this often takes a great deal of time to bear fruit.
“Ït took me 20 long years of blood, sweat and tears to become an overnight success.”
– “a nony mouse”

I believe in life it’s firstly a matter of finding your “niche”, then unlocking your unique talents…and finding it is the most difficult part. You may not even be aware you have any special gifts. That is the “key” to success. As I mentioned, I found whatever little ones I had through a process of serendipity…and it’s probably my one and only talent! My writing, I mean. Once uncovered, it’s then a question of building on it and maximizing it. Maria Callas, the opera singer with “a voice like an angel” put a great deal of effort into maximizing her talent. Sometimes a phenomenol talent, like a Juan Manuel Fangio*, Jim Clark or Ayrton Senna soars above all others; but in most cases it’s the effort and total dedication put in to make the most of one’s natural talents, that puts an individual into the realm of a superstar – someone who is on a different level, a cut above the best of the rest, us ‘mere mortals’.

* Fangio won the World Driver’s Championship five times.

One can sometimes substitute hard work, training, experience and strategy for flair. Nice word that ‘flair’. Could be a girl’s name. Some detectives are like “Mr Plod”, while a few sleuths have the natural insight of a Sherlock Holmes. Most others have to get results through hard detailed work in uncovering cases. I don’t yet know whether I’m a “natural” writer or a methodical plodder, a “gatherer and passer-onner of useless information” through a great deal of effort. Perhaps only time will tell! I might have mentioned before (once, twice or ten times) that this manuscript has been written for anyone: from the most lowly amateur to the real ‘pros’ in the sporting world. So no matter how lowly your abilities, make the most of them.

As I mentioned already, a positive attitude to life is all-important. A positive attitude says that your natural talent can be maximized. It also says that without further effort, natural talent will be wasted. I do like repeating myself: for emphasis primarily and as a sign of encroaching senility too. Sometimes persistent effort alone won’t succeed in getting you to the top – only sheer talent will do that… together with consistent effort to keep you at “the top of the tree”.

Never mind – JUST TRY TO IMPROVE yourself and simply DO YOUR BEST at all times.

Say: “I WILL UNTIL…”

Have “heaps” of FUN as you “ride the rapids of life” *

Shared by Craig Lock (“Information and InspirationDistributer, Incorrigible Encourager and People-builder”)

* that’s a metaphor, btw

“Ï write, because I like to make things…and the only things I am good at making are with words.”

– PJ O’Rourke

“The important thing is this: to be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.”
– Charles Du Bos

“I am not just a human being…
I am a human ‘bean’ just becoming.”
– My good friend and “wise” intellectual philosopher, Dr Andy Eastcott (thanks for fixing my teeth and for the most
interesting discussions on life, “mate”)

“The roots of true achievement lie in the will to become the best that you can become.”
– Harold Taylor

“The task ahead of you can always be overcome by the power within you…and the often seemingly difficult or even
“impassible”) path ahead of you is never as steep with the great spirit that lies within you.

– craig

“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have.”
– Abraham Lincoln

“Oh man! There is no planet sun or star could hold you, if you but knew what you are.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson

“He who cherishes a beautiful vision, a lofty ideal in his heart, will one day realize it. Dream lofty dreamsand as you dream so shall you become.”
– James Allen

“No vision and you perish; No Ideal, and you’re lost; Your heart must ever cherish Some faith at any cost. Some hope, some dream to cling to, Some rainbow in the sky, Some melody to sing to, Some service that is high.”
– Harriet Du Autermont

About the submitter::
Craig believes in (and loves) helping others to find their passions and gifts… through encouraging people to reach out for, then accomplish their “wildest” dreams. He truly believes people can overcome obstacles, rise to any occasion, and accomplish their dreams in life with enough FAITH and PERSISTENCE.

http://members.tripod.com/~lock77/www.craiglockbooks.com andwww.selfgrowth.com/experts/craig_lock.html

The various books that Craig “felt inspired to write” (including ‘The Winning Mind’ * *) are available at:http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005GGMAW4www.creativekiwis/amazon.html
http://www.creativekiwis.com/books.html#craigwww.lulucom/craiglockand http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/craiglock

www.creativekiwis.com/index.php/books/74-craigs-books +www.lulu.com/craiglock

* * A look at the psychology of sport, the ‘arm-chair’ author’s great passion. This manuscript goes into more depth, from the amateur sports-person to the professional. How to master ones mind, the “top two inches”… in sport…and in life.

The submitter’s motor racing blogs (with extracts from his various writings: articles, books and new manuscripts) are athttp://grandprixdriver.wordpress.com
 
 
his various other blogs are athttp://craigsblogs.wordpress.

“The world’s smallest and most exclusive bookstore”

“A book is small enough to hold in your hand; but when you read it, the walls fall away and you’re in a room as big as the world.”

“Together, one mind, one life at a time, let’s see how many people we can impact, empower, uplift, encourage and perhaps even inspire to reach their fullest potentials.”

THIS ARTICLE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED

PPS

Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to use the Internet and he won’t bother you for months…or perhaps even years!
(Sorry men!)

As they carry me to my deathbed, I’ll be saying:
“Lord,
Can you just give me one more hour to finish off this one last article, or book…. PLEASE!”
– craig (as inspired by the quote of singer, Barry Manilow)

from http://www.grandprixchampion.wordpress.com

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