TRUTH JOURNAL. for individual and global spiritual enlightenment. What is the Truth That Makes Us Free, and How Can It Be Known? 4

Transcription

1 August September Years of Continuous Publication TRUTH JOURNAL for individual and global spiritual enlightenment A Center for Spiritual Awareness Publication What is the Truth That Makes Us Free, and How Can It Be Known? 4

2 COMMENTARY What Do We See* From Where We Are? *see 1. To perceive with the eye. 2. To have or to create a mental image (visualize). 3. To comprehend, understand, or intuitively apprehend (grasp or know). It is normal for most people to acknowledge that the conditions and events they see with their eyes (and/or perceive with one or more of their other four senses) exist and to accept them as being effects of causative influences. What can be done if the trends of their personal circumstances and the events which influence or produce them are neither entirely life-enhancing nor satisfying? The metaphysical (above or beyond physical laws of cause and effect) approach is to learn to inwardly see (and believe as true) what can be possible and produce and attract it by effective, skillful actions and creative imagination. Creative imagination is controlled with specific intentions. Uncontrolled imagination is fantasy: idle speculation, hoping, or daydreaming, and unsupported by intention or conviction. What do we inwardly, easily, clearly see and believe to be true from our present states of mind and consciousness? Do we see and believe that we are (or soon can be) spiritually awake, mentally competent, intellectually discerning, emotionally stable, physically healthy, abundantly prosperous, and in harmonious accord with others and emerging events? What we choose to clearly see and believe to be true can be experienced. With best wishes and constant blessings, ROY EUGENE DAVIS Read or download Mr. Davis 32 page booklet How to Use Your Creative Imagination. Click on Free Literature. Also a free e-book version can be obtained with your Amazon Kindle or Apple ipad. 2

3 Front Cover: At the CSA retreat center, Lakemont, Georgia What is the Truth That Makes Us Free, and How Can It Be Known? 4 The Processes and Categories of Cosmic Manifestation 10 Answers to Questions About the Spiritual Path 13 Guidelines to Inspired Living 16 Conscious Food Preparation: Fresh Vegetable Salad 18 Discovering the Sacred in Everyday Life 19 Observations, Reflections & Discoveries 21 News and Highlights 25 Meditation Retreat Schedules 29 CSA Meditation Hall and bookstore (upper level) Published bimonthly: February, April, June, August, October, December Subscription in the U. S. $10.00 Other countries $15.00 airmailed Copyright 2012 by Center for Spiritual Awareness P. O. Box 7 Lakemont, Georgia Phone Fax info@csa-davis.org Web Site Offices and Retreat Center at 151 CSA Lane off Lake Rabun Road 3

4 ROY EUGENE DAVIS What is the Truth That Makes Us Free, and How Can It Be Known? truth Conforming to fact, what is real or actual. make To cause to happen or be experienced. free Not controlled or limited by specific conditions or circumstances. know Directly perceive or to accurately comprehend by personal experience. For thousands of years, perhaps starting when human beings were self-conscious enough to perceive themselves as being different from each other and from their environment, some of them asked, and are still asking: What are we? What is our real nature? Why are we here? How was the material universe produced, and why? What forces or powers enliven and drive the trends of evolution? What happens to living things when the body dies? Is there an enduring fact which, when known, will enable us to know all that can be known and forever free us from the constraints of mundane existence? The liberating truth is flawless realization direct personal experience along with accurate knowing that only one Reality exists and we are units of it. There is a vast difference between that realization and having a belief or opinion about it. When we have it, all else that is possible to know can eventually be known and neither objective nor subjective events or circumstances will hinder us. Until our realization is flawless, belief in an idea or concept of what is true that motivates us to prepare our consciousness to be receptive to discovery, or to be able to trust in what enlightened people say, can be of value. In the course of time, the unveiling and progressive emergence of valid knowledge will replace beliefs and faith. Although much information about the processes of life and higher realities can, and should, be obtained from others who already know it, our awakening through the stages of spiritual growth has to be personally experienced. 4

5 Specific Limiting Conditions or Circumstances to Avoid, Discard, See Beyond or Rise Above Spiritual evolution can be quickened by condensing experiences with concentrated endeavor. Paramahansa Yogananda Units of time in which awakening occurs may be shortened by intensive, effective endeavors that are compatible with one s capacity to practice and psychological temperament. Although sudden spiritual enlightenment may occur, it is more usual for Self-knowledge to gradually, progressively emerge. Because human beings are at different stages of spiritual growth and their intellectual capacities and functional abilities differ, the philosophical teachings and spiritual practices that are suitable for some people are not suitable for everyone. New truth seekers who don t have a wise teacher or mentor, can acquire helpful information by diligent study and skillful use of what is learned. Even if a wise teacher or guide is accessible, one will still have to do what is necessary to elicit their innate qualities and knowledge of higher realities. Ordinary states of mind and consciousness are modified by thoughts, illusions (misperceptions), delusions (erroneous ideas and opinions), memories, sleep, and restlessness. Well-reasoned, rational thinking may enable us to produce mental concepts about higher realities that allow us to almost comprehend them. During occasions of profound contemplative meditation, the mental field is calm and thoughts cease. Illusions can be avoided by accurately perceiving what is observed, thought, remembered, experienced, or examined. Be intent on knowing facts about the world in which you live and higher realities. When thinking about philosophical concepts, endeavor to completely understand them. Delusions should be discarded, especially false or simplistic ideas about God, souls, creation, evil, religious doctrines, heaven, hell, karma, reincarnation, and all other matters that may influence your thoughts, moods, or behaviors. Irrational thinking and frequent indulgence in fantasy should be avoided. 5

6 Memories are mental impressions of prior perceptions that should be easy to access and view. Memories that elicit painful or unwanted thoughts and emotions should be viewed with detachment. Troublesome subconscious influences or habits can be resisted, weakened, and neutralized. As spiritual beings, we can choose to be superior to mental and emotional states and subconscious conditions. Regular hours of restful sleep are necessary for mental and physical health. Insufficient or unrestful sleep dulls awareness, causes mental confusion, contributes to emotional instability, impairs concentration, weakens the body s immune system, and may result in inattentive or erratic behaviors that contribute to accidents. After restful sleep, we should be alert, refreshed, and energetic. Experienced meditators may not need as much sleep as nonmeditators. During dreams, memories of perceptions and experiences are organized in the subconscious levels of the mind. People who don t peacefully dream enough, or stay awake for extended periods of time, are inclined to experience altered states of consciousness or have hallucinations. Restlessness constant fluctuations (wavelike movements) of thoughts and emotions, and perhaps physical unrest dulls awareness and interferes with endeavors to think rationally, concentrate, and effectively meditate. It is the primary obstacle to experiencing refined superconsciousness and transcendence. A meditator s consciousness is illumined when fluctuations in awareness cease and the subliminal impulses which activated them are no longer influential (Patanjali s Yoga-Sutra 1:2). Wavelike movements in our mind and awareness can be slowed, weakened, and stopped by attentive ritual actions, prayer, affirmation, chanting, pranayama, dispassionate observation, and contemplative meditation. The Self-knowing that we may have when we meditate, or that spontaneously occurs at other times, may partially or completely be obscured when our attention is again identified with modified mental states and objective phenomena. To live freely we have to learn to be continuously Self-knowing while attending to duties, interacting with others, observing flows of events 6

7 and circumstances, and awakening to complete realization of our true nature and ultimate Reality. Ritual actions performed in a prescribed manner that flow without effort concentrate attention and produce harmonious interactions between both hemispheres of the brain. Extended performance of significant rituals can result in altered states of consciousness and transcendent perceptions. Not all different states of consciousness are of spiritual-growth value; they are different states that are still modified or limited. Prayer, to be effective or transformative, should be fervently continued until one s purpose for praying is accomplished. Affirmations are declarations of what is true or what can be true for us. To affirm, I am an immortal, spiritual being with extraordinary powers of perception and exceptional functional abilities, is a declaration of what is true that can be realized and expressed. When you start to meditate, affirm, I am pure consciousness. Or, The radiant purity of my essence of being continuously illumines my mind and consciousness. Or use your own words. Continue until you have a definite, constructive adjustment of awareness and mental attitude. Devotional chanting involves the body, emotions, and mind, produces harmonious interactions between both hemispheres of the brain, elicits devotional ardor, and focuses attention that can be concentrated for contemplative meditation. The word pranayama is composed of prana (life force) and ayama (unrestrained or extended). Breathing is regulated or controlled in the early stages of practice. The result of attentive practice is that the duration of inhalations, exhalations, and natural pauses at the end of inhalation and exhalation are extended. Breathing may become so slow, refined, and reduced in force that it may be difficult to observe. Physical relaxation and mental and emotional peacefulness allow Self-awareness to be easily experienced. Dispassionate (unemotional, nonjudgmental) observation of feelings, thoughts, physical sensations, or environmental conditions, while sitting upright and still with eyes closed or open without looking at anything. Attention and awareness can then 7

8 eventually be withdrawn and detached from external and internal events and conditions. A calm, Self-aware experience of pure existence of being will prevail. Meaningful insights may emerge from within you. Contemplative meditation is a steady flow of concentrated attention on an ideal or purpose. To transcend an ordinary or egocentric sense of self-identity, contemplate higher realities such as the Om vibration (the omnipresent, emanation of the power of ultimate Reality). Allow attention and awareness to be absorbed in that vibration. Then gently aspire to go beyond it to its source: the expressive field of ultimate Reality with attributes. Then go beyond that to the absolute or pure-conscious aspect of ultimate Reality. If transcendent perceptions are not had, patiently, contemplatively meditate on a regular schedule. To discern the truth of ultimate Reality and its processes or of your essence of being, contemplate that with alert expectation of discovery. Although thoughts will naturally occur, be receptive to insights that may emerge and occasions of direct knowing. If understanding is not acquired during the meditation session, insights may suddenly emerge later, when you are not trying to have them. In the course of time, as your mind is calmed and you become more aware of your true nature, your innate knowledge of higher realities will be unveiled and revealed. Avoid anxiety about the outcomes of meditation practice. Faithfully meditate as your spiritual duty. Your mind will be purified, your awareness clarified, and your consciousness restored to its original, pure wholeness. Think and Live Realistically While Attentively Nurturing Spiritual Growth While we are intent on knowing about higher realities, we should appropriately relate to and skillfully live in the physical world. Remember that spiritual and material realities are not separate. Attributes of the expressive field of ultimate Reality that it emanated with its vibrating power are further emanated as fine, subtle, and gross element influences that produce the realm of Nature. Because it is possible to be spiritually awake 8

9 in the physical realm, our aspiration to be spiritually awake as soon as possible should be constantly confirmed by our wisely chosen constructive thoughts and behaviors. To more quickly and easily experience authentic spiritual growth, think and live as a knowledgeable spiritual being: not as an ordinary or egocentric, incompetent person. If you aren t thinking, feeling, or behaving as you know you should, change your mental and emotional states and behaviors. Realistic thinking and living contribute to well-being, enable us to more easily accomplish purposes of value, and nurture harmonious psychological conditions that allow spiritual growth to occur spontaneously. Affirm With Confidence Knowing the truth that illumines my mind and liberates my consciousness, I live wisely, enjoyably, and effectively. The comprehensive understanding and freedom that I have, I sincerely wish for everyone. Although knowledge of ultimate Reality and its processes will emerge from within you, until your Self-revelation is complete an intellectual understanding of the processes of cosmic manifestation can prepare your consciousness to be receptive to it. Read an overview on the following two pages. If you have a copy of my book Absolute Knowledge That Liberates Consciousness, read it. If you don t have it, see pages 20 or 30 in this issue of Truth Journal to order a copy. Or do it online at It is available as an e-book for an Amazon Kindle or Apple ipad. 9

10 The Orderly Processes and Categories of Cosmic Manifestation Your understanding of this information will improve as your intellectual and intuitive abilities develop and your awareness is clarified. A universe is a continuum, one whole manifestation of cosmic processes expressing as regulated by the relationships and influences of three constituent attributes of ultimate Reality. The word field is used to indicate a region of space marked by a physical property, such as gravitational or electromagnetic force, with a value which can be determined (discovered or known by attentive investigation) at every point of that region. Absolute Consciousness-Existence-Being The pure aspect of ultimate Reality which did not have a beginning and will never end. Transcending relative phenomena, it cannot be intellectually known. It can be realized (directly experienced and known) by its units (souls). Radiant Field The expressive aspect of ultimate Reality, also referred to as the Oversoul, Cosmic Soul, or Godhead. Its forces and attributes produce universes and influence their processes. Field of Primordial Nature A vibrating force (Om) emanating from the Radiant Field with fine essences of space, time, and cosmic forces. Interactions between this field and the Radiant Field produce individualized units of pure consciousness-existence-being, the true nature or enduring essence of souls. Because units of ultimate Reality have innate knowledge of their essence of being and ultimate Reality, spiritual enlightenment is the result of Self-revelation. Field of Cosmic Mind Emanated from the Field of Primordial Nature. Here, self-aware units (souls) of ultimate Reality influenced by inertia in Primordial Nature may assume a mistaken sense of selfidentity (ego) because of weak powers of intellectual discernment and a mind which records impressions (memories) of perceptions and enables thinking, reasoning, and imagination. 10

11 Causal Field A realm of electricities and magnetism, which causes manifestation of astral and physical realms. Souls here are self-aware with intellectual and mental capacities and a magnetic field as a covering, sheath, or body. Astral Field Souls here have subtle capacities of perception (hearing, touch, sight, taste, smell); subtle capacities for actions (movement in space, grasping and holding, speech, elimination, procreation) and a sheath or body of life forces with seven major vital centers (chakras) in the astral spine and brain. Also here are subtle essences of gross elements that are in an objective or physical universe. Physical Universe A realm of material elements. After incarnating here, souls may return to astral or causal realms, or transcend them: inclined to be attracted to conditions that correspond with their states of mind and consciousness. There are many billions of galaxies in our universe. The Milky Way Galaxy with billions of suns (stars) is estimated to be one hundred thousand light-years wide. A lightyear, the distance light can travel in a vacuum at 186,282 miles (298,051 kilometers) per hour is trillion miles (9.46 trillion kilometers). Travel across our galaxy at 38 thousand miles (60,800 thousand kilometers) per hour would take almost 2 billion years. The three attributes (specialized qualities) of the expressive aspect of ultimate Reality pervade it and all levels of cosmic manifestation. Their influences in Nature and living things are indicated by: 1) purity and luminosity; 2) movement and transformation; 3) inertia. For well-being and spiritual growth, it is recommended that we think, feel, and behave in ways that purify the mind, clarify awareness, and enhance total well-being; avoid thoughts, moods, and behaviors that dull the mind and awareness or cause discomfort or misfortune for us, others, or the environment; and think, imagine, and act constructively. 11

12 God is in all, all that is, is God. The various forms in Nature are God s manifestations. Kabir ( ) Photo: At Center for Spiritual Awareness retreat center, Lakemont, Georgia. May 2012

13 Answers to Questions About the Spiritual Path What are some constraints that might cause unrest or discomfort and interfere with our attempts to live effectively and enjoyably and to nurture authentic spiritual growth? Constraints are conditions which restrict, confine, or limit us in various ways. Their influences may be mild or seldom noticed, occasionally troublesome or distracting, more pronounced and discomforting, stressful, painful, or even disabling. They may be physical, psychological, environmental, or a combination of conditions. Physical constraints may include disease or illness, obesity, physical weakness, impaired vision or hearing, neurological disability or other conditions. Psychological constraints may be less obvious to people who have them. The primary restrictive condition is a false or mistaken perception of one s self-identity presuming to be a body-mind-personality instead of knowing one s essence as pure consciousness-existence. When that error of perception is corrected, all psychological constraints vanish. Before accurate Self-knowledge is constant, psychological constraints that are identified can be removed. Troublesome subconscious tendencies and impulses can be identified, resisted, and neutralized. Erroneous or flawed beliefs or opinions that we may or may not know we have can be restrictive because they can interfere with rational thinking and attempts to discern the difference between reality and misperceptions. For emotional well-being, even rigid opinions about insubstantial or transitory mundane matters, such as politics, sports, entertainment preferences, fictional stories, and much of what some people consider to be important, should be avoided. False beliefs regarding health practices, morality, our true nature, God or ultimate Reality, religious doctrines (if one is concerned about them), and how to nurture spiritual growth should be discarded and replaced with higher understanding. 13

14 Physical and psychological well-being are rapidly improved by holistic, constructive, purposeful living; fervent aspiration to be spiritually awake; insightful study of higher realities; and superconscious meditation. Environmental constraints, such as disordered, unclean, or noisy living or work conditions, or discordant personal relationships can be rationally examined and improved or changed. To live without limitations, mastery of mental states, emotions, states of consciousness, and behaviors is essential. Devotees who are calmly self-disciplined, with mental impulses subdued, realize oneness. The Bhagavad Gita 6:15 After several years of irregular sessions of meditation practice I have decided to meditate more consistently. What beneficial results should I aspire to have, and how can I have them? The physical and psychological side-benefits of meditation practice will occur naturally. Aspire to be spiritually awake, to be completely Self-realized. To have that realization, meditate to the stage of superconsciousness* and be willing to rise above or be detached from subjective conditions (emotions, thoughts, changes in state of awareness) that modify, change, or distort your perceptions of self-identity. Eventually, you will be able to abide in pure Self-knowing without the support of any external condition. Aspire to go beyond that stage of internalized realization to be constantly Self-knowing while engaged in ordinary activities. The great value of that degree of Self-realization is that you will be permanently free from subjective constraints and able to more easily relate to mundane circumstances. *Super, above or beyond. Sometimes defined as a fourth state of consciousness, superconsciousness is not a state (condition or kind of existence), it is the nature of our being; the substratum (underlying essence) other than ordinary conscious, dream, and deep sleep states. It cannot be attained or produced by endeavors or actions; it can only be acknowledged, recognized, or experienced. 14

15 As a new truth seeker I have recently visited some metaphysical bookstores and explored several Internet web sites that promote self-improvement or spiritual growth services. How can I know what is true and worthwhile and what is not? The only way to know is to think rationally and use common sense. When I started to inquire into higher realities more than sixty years ago, only a few books on metaphysical themes where available and Yoga practices were little known. Today, thousands of books, videos and audio recordings, and web sites offer a variety of philosophical opinions and self-improvement practices. Some of what is offered is of value; much is useless speculation or fraudulent promotion of false ideas. Disregard the following themes: Quick and/or easy spiritual enlightenment methods. Certification or ordination as a spiritual teacher or healer after a few hours of instruction. Illumine your mind and consciousness by visualizing violet or other colors of light and/or chanting certain sounds. Initiation or arousal of spiritual forces by telephone or computer communication with someone who lives hundreds or thousands of miles distant (after paying a fee). Talks, writings (or recordings) by people who claim to be in telepathic communication with enlightened beings in other realms or dimensions. Avatars or spiritually enlightened teachers with exceptional abilities and/or a new message for the world. The importance of working for the enlightenment of the collective consciousness of our planet by December of this year (or any other calendar date). Apocalyptic (a soon end of the world or of human civilization by catastrophic events) predictions or other dire pronouncements by people who claim to have revelations or access to secret information. Instead, do what will enhance your life, clarify your awareness, and allow authentic spiritual growth to progressively occur. 15

16 Guidelines to Inspired Living Speak the Affirmations With Conviction August 5 11 Improve Your Self- and God-Consciousness Don t wait until you are older or have fewer responsibilities. Contemplate higher realities, meditate superconsciously, and nurture Self- and God-awareness while performing your duties and interacting with others. I am rapidly awakening to Self- and God-consciousness. August Improve Your Powers of Perception Avoid illusions that result from flawed perceptions. Calmly endeavor to accurately comprehend what you read, hear, observe, and experience. I accurately perceive what I read, hear, observe, and experience. August Improve Your Intellectual Powers Use your powers of discriminative intelligence to discern the truth of what you examine. I accurately discern the truth of what I examine. August 26 September 1 Acquire Helpful Knowledge Acquire higher knowledge to understand your true nature and ultimate Reality and its processes. Acquire secular (this-world) knowledge to live creatively and effectively. I enjoy acquiring helpful knowledge that clarifies my awareness and enables me to live effectively. 16

17 September 2 8 Think Rationally Rational thinking is consistent with well-reasoned examination of accurate information. While thinking rationally, be receptive to the emergence of intellectual and intuitive insights. I am well-informed, think rationally, and receptive to intellectual and intuitive insights. September 9 15 Live Holistically Be healthy, happy, and productive by harmoniously integrating (blending) the spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and environmental aspects of your life. I wisely integrate the spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and environmental aspects of my life. September Live Skillfully and Effectively Be so higher-purpose directed that you are continuously inspired and Self-motivated to live skillfully and effectively. My life is an adventure in learning how to easily express my innate qualities and functional abilities. September Cooperate With Spiritual and Mental Laws of Cause and Effect Your habitual states of consciousness and mental states make you receptive to the circumstances and experiences you want to have and can produce and attract them. All of the resources that I need and supportive events, circumstances, and relationships always harmoniously emerge for my highest good and the well-being of others who are influenced by my mental states, states of consciousness, and actions. 17

18 Conscious Food Preparation Delicious, Nutritious Fresh Vegetable Salad Obtain fresh, locally grown vegetables when possible. Bright colors usually indicate more nutritional value. Basic salads can be assembled with chopped or sliced tomato, red or other colors of sweet pepper, cucumber, and lettuce (romaine is good) or tender spinach leaves. Use what pleases you: other vegetables, pitted olives, grated or shredded cheese, walnuts (if you or your guests are not allergic to nuts). Be creative and innovative. Preparation Wash and dry vegetables. Oil in dressings won t easily adhere to wet or damp surfaces. Slice or chop vegetables shortly before serving to preserve vitamin content. Don t save leftover salad in the refrigerator; most of the nutritional value will rapidly diminish and it might also spoil. Vinaigrette Salad Dressing Vinaigrette is from a French word for vinegar. Various kinds of vinegar can be used with a good grade of oil; extra virgin olive oil recommended. Apple cider or a balsamic vinegar work well. When the mixture is shaken in a bottle or stirred in a bowl, it will produce an emulsion that will adhere better to the salad ingredients. Add dressing a few minutes before serving to ensure that vegetables stay crisp. When an oil-based dressing is in a salad that isn t immediately served, some oil may seep though breaks in the waxy cuticle of lettuce or spinach where it might displace air and cause the leaf to darken and collapse (wilt). Vinaigrette Recipe for One Small Salad To 3 tablespoons olive oil add 1 tablespoon vinegar; 1 teaspoon prepared mustard; 1 pinch of black pepper and salt. Shake well in a bottle or rapidly whisk in a bowl. Pour onto salad and toss lightly. Serve immediately. 18

19 Discovering the Sacred in Everyday Life Let Your Inner Radiance Shine Ellen Grace O Brian Discard the false belief that there is a separation between spiritual and material life. In everything you do, express your limitless soul qualities. Paramahansa Yogananda The purpose of a spiritually awakened life is not to remove ourselves from mundane circumstances; it is to live effectively with clarified awareness. Fulfillment can be where we are because the reality of God is where we are. Effective spiritual practices purify the body and mind so that the radiance of our essence, our true nature, is revealed. Spiritual practices should include study of higher realities, meditation, and the choices we make. The mind is purified by cultivating thoughts and feelings of kindness for those who are happy, compassion for those who are suffering, joy for those who have well-being, and dispassion for those who are misdirected. Patanjali s Yoga Sutra 1:33 Cultivating thoughts and feelings of good will toward others and all forms of life helps us to spontaneously think, feel, and act in ways that are natural to enlightened people. Self-centered mental attitudes, feelings, and behaviors tend to elicit thoughts and behaviors that disturb our mental peace, reinforce a false sense of separate existence, and contribute to inharmonious relationships with others. Ellen Grace O Brian is the senior minister and spiritual director of Center for Spiritual Enlightenment 1146 University Avenue, San Jose, California Tel: info@csecenter.org 19

20 Read This Book and Listen to 4 Audio CDs ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE That Liberates Consciousness A Clear Explanation of Higher Realities Trade Paper 128 pages $ CDs 228 minutes $20.00 Order Form On Page 30 or online at The Truth About Your Essence of Being and Relationship With the Infinite Sequential Categories, Specialized Capacities, and Orderly Processes of Cosmic Manifestation The Psychological and Physiological Basis of Spiritual Enlightenment Superconscious Meditation Practice That Clarifies Awareness and Facilitates Authentic Spiritual Growth Guidelines to Dedicated Discipleship Three Transformative Practices to Use Infinite Life Addendum: The Evolution of Religious Beliefs and Practices ALSO AVAILABLE IN INDIA Full Circle Publishing Pvt. Ltd. At Full Circle bookstores in New Delhi and bookstores in other cities in India. Or order online at

21 Observations, Reflections & Discoveries Continuous Learning and Skillful Living Nurtures Emotional and Spiritual Growth Sombrero Galaxy / NASA For two weeks in November 2009, the ocean currents flowing around Antarctica changed enough to temporarily speed up the planet s spin by about one ten-thousandth of a second. Scientists monitored the length of the Earth s day through space geodetic techniques, such as counting how long it takes laser light to travel from Earth to and from a mirror on the moon. Changes in how mass is distributed in the atmosphere or by major earthquakes can change the speed of our planet s rotation. Note: A few billion years ago when our planet was young, its spin was completed in about ten hours; 620 million years ago the duration of an average day was almost 22 hours. Earth s rotation is gradually slowing because of the moon s gravitational influence on ocean tides. We go around the sun at 66,000 miles (105,600 kilometers) per hour. Venus, a million miles closer to the sun, orbits it at 78,400 miles (125,440 kilometers) per hour in 226 Earth days because of its shorter orbit and the sun s stronger gravitational influence. Mercury, with a smaller orbit, goes around the sun in three Earth months. Imagine our sun and solar system as it circles our galaxy at approximately 480,000 miles (768,000 kilometers) an hour during 255 million years four times every one billion years. Some nonpsychotic (or seemingly ordinary) people have had hallucinations (various kinds of mind-produced phenomena). Tanya Luhrmann, a Stanford University anthropologist, spent four years interviewing evangelical Christians in Illinois and California. More than 30 percent of them recalled one or more 21

22 occasions when they heard God s voice or had a holy vision. Other surveys conducted during the last 100 years revealed that 10 to 15 percent of U.S. and British adults reported having been startled when they heard a voice when they were alone or seeing something that couldn t be seen by others. Many said they had heard, seen, or sensed the presence of a departed companion. People in many countries have told of having had waking nightmares with their eyes open, not able to move, and with malicious beings sitting on their chest as their breathing became difficult. Science News, April 7, 2012 Note: Several years ago, several people in the U.S. and other countries reported having had one or more awake but unable to move or speak episodes during which they seemed to communicate with alien beings from other planets in or beyond our solar system. Lie detector tests that seemed to confirm their stories indicated that their statements regarding memories of their hallucinations were true. People who say they remember past lives can also have vivid, inaccurate perceptions. Because some people hallucinate or have what seem to be memories of unusual experiences doesn t mean that all such perceptions are unreal or mind-produced. The divine voice was always in their ears. Often, they misunderstood it. Often they thought they heard it when it was only the echo of their own thoughts and wishes that they had heard; but the desire to hear it, the sense that life consisted in hearing it that never left them. Phillips Brooks ( ) Sermons Truth Journal is provided free to our members (see page 27), free on our web site ( and mailed six times a year to subscribers. In the U.S. $10. Outside the U.S. $15 includes airmail postage. To subscribe, see the bottom listing on the order form on page 30; info@csa-davis.org; telephone weekdays; or order online at 22

23 Roy Eugene Davis e-books for your Kindle or ipad Prices lower than for printed books Paramahansa Yogananda As I Knew Him The Science of Self-Realization (Yoga-Sutra) The Eternal Way (The Inner Meaning of the Bhagavad Gita) Absolute Knowledge That Liberates Consciousness Siete Lecciones para Vivir Conscientemente (Spanish edition of Seven Lessons in Conscious Living. Kriya Yoga practices) FREE Booklets for Kindle or ipad An Easy Guide to Meditation (48 pages) The Simplicity of Spiritual Enlightenment (48 pages) How You Can Use Your Creative Imagination (32 pages) Booklets and Truth Journal can also be read or downloaded free on the Center for Spiritual Awareness Internet web site: Send a link to your spiritual friends. For regular printed book orders see page 30 or our web site (above). CSA-Asheville, North Carolina, Meditation Center Meditation Sundays 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Thursdays 6:30 p.m. In the North Louisiana Office Park 370 North Louisiana Avenue, Suites D-3 & 4 Michael Getch, Minister michaelgetch@gmail.com Tel:

24 Roy Eugene Davis and newly ordained CSA ministers, May 9, Left to right: Barbara Zanella and Claudio Massetini (Italy); Edith Goss (British Columbia). Some members and spiritual friends who attended private week long retreats during the month of May. 24

25 NEWS and HIGHLIGHTS Members and spiritual friends from North American communities, Canada, and Europe attended meditation retreats at CSA headquarters from early May through July. The autumn 2012 schedules are on page 29 of this magazine. Reach Out to Your Spiritual Friends Tell your spiritual friends about our web site where they can read Truth Journal, An Easy Guide to Meditation, How to Use Your Creative Imagination, The Simplicity of Spiritual Enlightenment, and several books in Spanish free. If you prefer to give them a printed copy of Truth Journal, request them free. Send a note to our office, info@csa-davis.org, or telephone weekdays 8 a.m. 3 p.m. If your friends have an Amazon Kindle or Apple ipad, provide them with the information on page 23 of this magazine. Attend the 2013 International Kriya Yoga Congress See the announcement on the back cover of this magazine and read the brochure on our web site or request a printed copy. Hundreds of participants will be at the gathering in San Jose, California: March 7,8,9. In Fond Memory Doris Isley, born October 28, 1920, a dedicated CSA member for more than 40 years, passed away peacefully in Durham, North Carolina, April 14, After serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve in the early 1940s, she moved to Florida with her husband, Bill, where she began a career teaching children using the Montessori educational system. In the 1970s when CSA provided youth programs during meditation retreats, Doris worked with the children and trained volunteer teachers. In her latter years, she and Bill lived on a small farm in Franklin, North Carolina, before moving to Durham. 25

26 CSA maintenance projects completed in late spring. Above: Wall and loading dock restoration by our office building. Below: New cap stones on the wall behind the Meditation Hall. 26

27 Our Members Read Studies in Truth Lessons Published Six Times a Year 16-Page Magazine Format Distributed Internationally Written by Roy Eugene Davis Approximately eighty percent of our ministry funding is provided by donations from our members some of them have been with us for more than forty years because participation is of value to them. Donations can be made monthly or on a schedule that is convenient for you. We will send you a Studies in Truth Lesson 6 times a year, Truth Journal magazine 6 times a year, and occasional ministry reports. Use the form below or on our web site: CSA Membership Application Name Address Are you a Truth Journal subscriber? [ ] yes [ ] no Donation $ by check [ ] Visa [ ] MasterCard [ ] Discover [ ] AmEx [ ] last 3 digits on back of most cards or 4 digits on front of American Express card Card # expires / Name on card Center for Spiritual Awareness P. O. Box 7 Lakemont, GA Tel: Fax info@csa-davis.org 27

28 Classes and Workshops With CSA Ministers at August Week Long Meditation Retreats Roy Eugene Davis will teach morning classes and conduct Kriya Yoga initiations on Thursdays at 1 a.m. Kriya initiates not at retreats: If you plan to attend initiation services to review your practices and renew your commitment, inform us. Donald Glassey Guidelines for Holistic Living and Self-Care Routines. Mr. Glassey D.C., conducts meditation seminars and classes in St. Petersburg, Florida. Martin Wuttke Kriya Yoga: Transformation of Body and Mind. He is the Executive Director of Neuro-Therapy Centers for Health International. Katherine Geddes Think of God All the Time. Mrs. Geddes, a former hospice chaplain, presents meditation seminars and classes in south Florida. Steven Ridley Daily QiGong classes. Mr. Ridley teaches meditation and QiGong in Denver, Colorado, and conducts seminars in various U.S. communities. Ron Lindahn Integrating Spiritual Practices With Everyday Life. Samuel Sasu Director of Centre for Spiritual Awareness, Accra, Ghana (West Africa) Clifford Rosen CSA minister, Miami, Florida. 28

29 Meditation Retreats At CSA Headquarters Travel map on our web site: Click on Retreats page Meditation and lifestyle routines taught by Roy Eugene Davis. Kriya initiation Thursdays at 1 p.m. during the week long retreats. Guest houses. Vegetarian meals served Retreats Week Long: August Weekends: October November Holy Season Meditation: December 1 10 a.m. to 1 p.m Private retreats CSA members and Kriya Initiates September May 6 10 May May Retreat Reservations: Reserve only when your travel plans are firm. Mail this form, phone, fax, or , res@csa-davis.org Dates Time of arrival Daytime phone Travel directions, see web site or mark here [ ] for mailed copy. Prefer a CSA guest house [ ] Will stay at a motel [ ] Name Address Center for Spiritual Awareness PO Box 7 Lakemont, Georgia Tel: weekdays 8 a.m. 3 p.m. Fax

30 CDs DVDs Books Books, Videos (DVD format), and Audio CDs U.S. packing/postage $3.00 for 1 item; 30 cents for each extra item. Other countries: double the U.S. postage for airmail. Quantity [ ] Satisfying Our Innate Desire to Know God $4.95 $ [ ] Self-Knowledge $5.00 [ ] The Eternal Way Inner Meaning of the Bhagavad Gita $12.00 [ ] Mystic Reflections $5.00 [ ] The Spiritual Basis of Real Prosperity $5.00 [ ] Absolute Knowledge That Liberates Consciousness $7.95 [ ] Paramahansa Yogananda As I Knew Him hc $12.00 [ ] The Science of Self-Realization yoga-sutras hc $10.00 [ ] DVD Infinite Life 2010 Kriya Yoga Congress Talks $10.00 [ ] DVD Know Your True Nature & the Reality of God $10.00 [ ] DVD Our Awakening World 2008 Kriya Congress $10.00 [ ] 3 DVDs Light on the Spiritual Path $20.00 [ ] DVD 6 Questions Every Person Should Ask $5.00 [ ] DVD Experiences With Paramahansa Yogananda $7.00 [ ] CD Meditation Instruction & Guided Practice $5.00 [ ] CD Know Your True Nature & the Reality of God $5.00 [ ] CD 6 Questions Every Person Should Ask $5.00 [ ] CD The Only Permanent Solution $5.00 [ ] 3 Audio CDs Light On the Spiritual Path $15.00 [ ] CD Meditation Techniques / German & English $5.00 [ ] CD Conscious Living & Superconscious Meditation $5.00 [ ] 2 CDs Paramahansa Yogananda As I Knew Him $10.00 [ ] 4 CDs Absolute Knowledge (audio book) $20.00 Book/CD/DVD Total Packing and shipping Truth Journal new[ ] renewal[ ] U.S. $10.00 Foreign $15.00 Total With check [ ] Visa [ ] MasterCard [ ] Discover [ ] American Express [ ] Credit card # expires / Last 3 digits on back of card 4 digits on front of Amex card Name on card Tel: Name Address Center for Spiritual Awareness P.O. Box 7 Lakemont, Georgia Weekdays Order online:

31 United Kingdom: Gazelle Book Services Ltd. White Cross Mills, Hightown, Lancaster LA1 4XS India: Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi. (10 of Mr. Davis books) web site: And at Motilal Banarsidass bookstores in Delhi, Patna, Varanasi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune. B. Jain Publishers, New Delhi. An Easy Guide to Ayurveda Full Circle Publisher, New Delhi. Paramahansa Yogananda As I Knew Him (English and Hindi) Abolute Knowledge That Liberates Consciousness Indian Books Centre, New Delhi. The Science of Self-Realization Dr. L. Mahadevan ayurved@sancharnet.in Paramahansa Yogananda As I Knew Him (Tamil edition) How to Live Consciously in God (Tamil edition) Italy: Marco Valerio Editore. Paramahansa Yogananda Così come l ho conosciuto La scienza della realizzazione del sé La strada maestra per la meditazione e la crescita spirituale Srimad Bagavad Gita / La Via Eterna Insegnamenti sul percorso spirituale del kriya yoga La base spirituale della vera prosperità Immortalita cosciente Guida All Ayurveda Libertà e consapevolezza la conoscenza dell assoluto Germany: Harald and Marlies Reiske. Pfad des Lichts Paramahansa Yogananda wie ich ihn kannte

32 Next Year (2013) in San Jose, California March 7, 8, 9 THE FOURTH INTERNATIONAL KRIYA YOGA CONGRESS Holiday Inn San Jose Airport (formerly Wyndham Hotel) 1350 N. First Street 1 mile from airport All Welcome Donation Basis Reservations Required Sponsored by Center for Spiritual Awareness, Lakemont, Georgia and Center for Spiritual Enlightenment, San Jose, California Roy Eugene Davis: Meditation Seminar & Kriya Initiation Cynthia Ambika Copple: Ayurveda Principles and Practices B.A., C.M.P, Dean of Mount Madonna Institute College of Ayurveda and Director of Lotus Holistic Health Institute. Dr. Christopher Key Chapple: Patanjali s Yoga Sutras Navin and Pratima Doshi Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology at Loyola Marymount University, author of Yoga and the Luminous: Patanjali s Spiritual Path to Freedom. Phillip Goldberg: How Indian Spirituality Influenced the West An interfaith minister, founder of Spiritual Wellness and Healing Associates, author of American Veda: From Emerson and the Beatles to Yoga and Meditation Ellen Grace O Brian: The Transmission of Kriya Yoga Traditions Through the Ages Gitanjali kirtan band and One Voice Choir Vegetarian Banquet Request Kriya Congress Brochures from: Center for Spiritual Enlightenment info@csecenter.org Tel: Or read the brochure & make reservations on these web sites: Click on 2013 Kriya Yoga Congress Brochure