Posted to Marianne's site by Robert Strayer on Wednesday, 3 June 1998, at
6:49 p.m.
Beginning June 16, we will begin discussion of self-growth and
spirituality, through the eyes of combined Twelve Step (for the major
existential "handles") and A Course In Miracles. EACH WEEK we will cover a
different step/chapter of my book, entire text located at:
http://www.noblecomm.com/tearsofjoy/ for joint discussion and mutual
growth. DISCUSSION GROUPS will be the primary means of discussion, one for
each chapter, at: http://www.noblecomm.com/stepstudy/index.htm
If you are more fundamentalist, the book works well for you too, thanks to
one's free choice of a Higher Power within the Twelve Steps. I've differed
on the subtleties of others' religious beliefs, but never disagreed with
the same people, who were proficient at 12S, on the value (and usually
interpretation) of each of the Twelve Steps.
This will highly resemble a comparative religion study "format" between
Twelve Step and A Course In Miracles, which fold together beautifully.
Others may join the ride by simply interpreting their own Higher Power into
the chapter by chapter discussion group, furthering their own self, while
learning of two other approaches towards peace. Joseph Campbell probably
had the right approach to comparative study...by looking for the
SIMILARITIES between the great spiritualities and religions of the world,
instead of the differences.
For those who've studied ACIM but not 12Step, the latter will give you 13
"handles" on ACIM, especially for those who more appreciate the profundity
of the text instead of the lesson approach. (Not to replace, but assist.)
These "handles" will allow you to see the 12 components of transformation,
via daily actions/inactions, where the "rubber hits the road." It's the
same difference as intellectually getting a concept, and internalizing it
by demonstration, in appropriate situations. You'll also learn how to do
miracles, with actual examples. As well as be more miracle-conscious, and
more easily recognizing when a miracle is offered to you.
For those with some Twelve Step, but not much ACIM, but open minds, hang
onto your boots. In 13 weeks you'll probably be able to sponsor others
online with 12S, and obtain at least a glimpse of your true identity, which
will cause you to laugh at death, at which point most other concerns pale.
Or maybe shit simply happens in your life, and you're ready for another
way. Or maybe you're age 35-42, when you're in that period that major
existential questions must be answered, when the universe starts bombing
you with inconsistencies. Or maybe you're simply interested in being a more
human, peaceful and joyful person. Come one, come all, and learn of a
fascinating process that will cement your spirituality. Atheists (start
shopping for a ‘Home Improvement' "Wilson" now, grin) and particularly
agnostics (my former "path") also welcome. Let's start doing some miracles
on the Internet, and creating some peace in the world...
Please email me and let me know if you'll be participating. Spread the
word, and I'll probably have to drag in some old-timers that don't show up
here anymore (also found a great ACIM facilitator in ACIM page, who I'll
try to entice). I'll also try to locate my old ACIM group teacher here in
Sacramento, who's big with computers. The book can be read for free at:
http://www.noblecomm.com/tearsofjoy/ and the DISCUSSION GROUPS are linked
at the end of each chapter - to:
http://www.noblecomm.com/stepstudy/index.htm
I'll be on vacation next week, so go ahead and start reading first part,
through Denial - The Problem, and I'll join in Discussion Group on June 16.
Should be fun and instructive! In growth and peace...
Your eternal brother, Robert Fox's Place: http://www.NOBLECOMM.COM/fox
Email: f...@noblecomm.com