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each moment is a turning point

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This is a sign post on the campus grounds of the PL headquarters community near Osaka.  I remember when I saw it, wondering if the construction happening off to the left, was something that would be finished that year, that was 2013.  Japan has been very “present” for the last several days in one way or another.  In particular these everyday signs/objects

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Do I know why, no I don’t.  It is as if something is trying to speak to me, so I’ve been searching through pictures and casting out greetings/messages to see if anything “pops” up that says, “hey look here”  So far nothing, just this strong urge /desire to be in Japan.

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A visit now, will mean that I will be the only member from Canada going, there will be a few members from the States I’m told, in a gathering of many, we may or may not connect.  I am surprised that I am wanting to go without the “security” of other church members being with me who speak the language and know their way around.  Previous time in Japan  has shown me that English is not a language many people speak or know in Japan.  But.. it seems there is a reason for this present moment, and I will have to practice patience to discover just what this “opportunity” is all about.

PL Precept #19 Begin once you perceive.

Pl Precept # 16  All things progress and develop

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This peaceful and serene place is also on the grounds, day or night, it is tranquil and energizing.  This picture was taken from someone in the party from Spain, I love it.  I am filled with anticipation, yet I still don’t know if I can swing the trip on such short notice.

PL Precept #7  Everything exists in relativity

There comes a time when we have to “let go and let God”

 

Namaste          –            Oyashikiri

Chop Suey Friday 6.17

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When I went to Japan a couple of years back for training, I landed in a heat that was smothering.  I’ve been in the Florida sun, the heat of southern California, but never the relentless heat that was beating down in the area of Japan I was in for the training.  I can’t recall the exact reason, but the air conditioning was not working on campus, so not only did I have to adjust to living surrounded by a strange language and more people than I am used to in a given day, I had to adapt to sleeping in Japanese dorm style accommodations.

 

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These were the wonderful ladies from Spain, my roomies.  Ana back left was the only one who spoke any English.  Even with the heat, the foreign languages, somehow we all got along, and had not only a good time, we created GREAT lasting memories.

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Days like today, when I start to want to complain about the heat, I think back to when we learned how to work and pull together, enjoying the moments. the heat forgotten, just the combined energy of  “community”  singing and encouraging each one another.

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We came from all over,  together we renewed our commitment to working towards World Peace.  Whether in Japan, or back home. the objective is still the same, in working to be a better person, every step will lead to living with love in our hearts, and World Peace that much more of a reality.

PL Precept # 11  Always be with God

PL Precept # 3   God appears through One’s Self

top picture, is the PL Peace Tower on campus in Japan

Garage Sale

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Good morning everyone, today is a church day, the sale is this week-end, therefore there is a lot of setting up to do to be prepared.  If you live anywhere in the area, please pass this information along,  The garage sale will be in the parking lot and the Boutique sale will be in the lower level of the church.  We have lots of “treasures” and “goodies” for you to discover.  This year, we have handmade one of a kind greeting cards that we are excited about.  Affordable and fun.  Lots of retro and diva jewelry, rings, necklaces, earrings, accessorize you look, you will have lots to choose from.

Yesterday’s visit to Montreal was very successful, as you know I’m working on Holiday cars for a group that gives crafted cards to shut ins, and seniors without families.    To be ready for the holiday months,  artist and crafters have begun working already on their projects.

PL Precept #16  All things progress and develop – and in life if you know this, then you plan accordingly.

PL Precept # 19  Begin once you Perceive

PL Precept # 7    Everything exists in Relativity

The gathering, the preparations for the Sale, is a fun way to recycle and find ways to raise money, but more then that, it allows us to share the day with each and every visitor, interacting and enjoying the seek and find that happens at these events.

PL Precept #1   Life is Art.          Communication is an art –   Sharing smiles, and conversation is a joy…

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Find the church and come on by 1010 Hunt Club Road, nearest cross road, is the Airport Parkway. If you are at Bank and Hunt Club, facing towards Winchester,(south)  then turn right and head west.  If you get lost, call, the number is on the poster. 613 -225-1850

Namaste          –         Oyashikiri

PS.. anyone interested in Japanese books, we have a lot to pick from, beginners to advanced

all in a day

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PL Principle # 3  I will live with a mind of appreciation towards others and things

We started the day with no clear destination in mind, simply one of our adventures in learning.  The minister I’m working with is from Japan, although he has lived the last six years in Argentina.  Now he is in Canada.  Seeing Canada through someone else’s eyes is very interesting, we are together, so he can learn English, but the reality is that I am learning so much just from sharing his experience with him.

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The miles of neat farmhouses, swept past as we made our way down a secondary highway back to the city, “what is that” he exclaimed as we drove by a property that was full to brimming with objects, most who had seen better days.

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Having been to Japan, I could well understand his consternation. ” Look” he said “there is the entrance, but no one can enter”  Looking down the lane I could see what he meant.  I was still trying to figure out what to answer him.  The sign said antiques, but….  there was very little space to move between what rows there were. Every available space was taken and from where we were, it looked like the rooms inside were much like the outside. we mutually without verbalizing it, simply moved on. There was no draw, or interest for us.  yet to someone else, this would be a treasure hunter’s paradise.  In French there is an expression, translated says, to each his/her  own.

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We did find a treasure of our own, in an eating place that claimed home-made meals, and baking, it was very nice.  Nothing fancy, just good, home cooking and healthy portions.   The whole idea of out outings is for the minister to experience our culture, and what better way then to drive out to the country. See life in the small towns, cross over bridges that span one of our many rivers and abundance of lakes. The snow is not all gone, but spring is on its way,

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Never judge a book by its cover, the inside is warm and welcoming, and the food, delicious.  Lots to pick from,  This little gem is outside of Perth. Perth, can you say Perth… it was a lot of fun, hearing it said by the minister, he has a great sense of humour.  No matter how hard he tried, the sounds would not work for him.. It will come in time, but for me… it brought home an awareness of just how spunky he is,  In less than a year, he is already able to read and carry one a conversation, it may be short sentences, and one word at a time, but he is doing it.  I’m so proud of his achievement. His sincere efforts to learn and his application to learning, inspires me, to do better with my projects in life.

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When we approach each day like an open page, a vista waiting for the seasons to change, and new beginnings to come into our lives, we are growing, we are taking in new sights even if we have seen them hundreds of times before, each time is different.  No two days are alike, every second is different..  that makes every day an adventure, and a thrill to live,

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Look the crocus are in full bloom today … they are happy and singing, with their pretty faces lifted towards the sun,  life is good, it is all in a day, to laugh and play, come what may, we are here today, and loving it…..

namaste      –      oyashikiri

PL Precept # 1     Life is Art

he discovered Tim Bits today!!

Carleton Place,Perth. Smith Falls, Ontario

if the shoe fits

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Like what is that!  That is a picture of my fossil purse, (texture)  I bought this one a couple of years ago while wandering downtown in a high-end shopping outlet that draws  tourists.  It was a purchase that I made in one of my “gotta have” moments.  No real reason or rhyme, I just really  took to the bag.  It wasn’t even a style that went with “my lifestyle” or manner of dress.  I just liked it.. it was one of the moments where you see something and .. you don’t think of the price, or what you’ll do with, how you’ll incorporate into your wardrobe.. you just buy it and bring it home.

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These are pictures of clocks I found but resisted.  I stood there and considered them, appreciated them, but didn’t get to the stage where I REALLY wanted them.. so I took their pictures instead.

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Now what does that tell you, have I changed my shopping M.O.  noooo, just found an easier way to enjoy some of the treasures I find, and not end up with a lot of clutter, “just because”

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I also discovered Jo-Annes, I knew the one store, but had not experienced the store in a bigger city centre… had a great time.. here I did come out with a rather full bag of goodies. The fact that I was unable to use my  lap top for most of my time away, contributed a lot to the items I was gathering since they are tools of the trade, that fuel my creativity in a manner that will bring in extra pennies. =^_^=

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I found these interesting, who and how can anyone wear such high heels.  Gone are those days for me, I did find the decoration down the back of the heel fun, so they made the photo capture, and so did this little doll.   cute as a button, but certainly not something i was going to come home with.

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Now this cheerful little fellow, he was cute too.  Since I have a friend who delights in rooting for the Flyers, I only thought it fitting to perhaps, send some Penguin cheer his way, for those of you reading this, Flyers and Penguins are hockey teams.  I think the Penguins are doing well???  obiously they are a happy lot. IMG_1255

I can see all my friends out there, chuckling over my time away with that knowing.. there she goes again, shopping… Ha.. on you.  I wasn’t shopping I was on a photo excursion.  Let me look, I’ll show you a picture that had nothing to do with being in a treasure shop.


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This was a charming church we found on our way from Syracuse to Watertown, It appealed to me enough that we circled around and parked so I could catch it for you.  You were on my mind all the time.. always, I was looking for subjects that could or might interest you. (really)  nooo you did not see the sign on the ground, besides the shop was closed.

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Really we had a great time and weather, except for when we tried to see the falls, in Niagara Falls, both Canadian side and American,  There we encountered rain mist,fog,clouds,etc. so thick that we saw absolutely nothing of the falls themselves.

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.. I missed reading your posts, following along on your adventures, discovering new far away places, that those of you who are travelling keep us  waiting for the next chapter and verse with delightful captures. I obviously have more pictures, but there is lots of time ahead.  For now just wanted to say I’m back.  Oh and quickly, I discovered on the Canadian side, another one of those designer outlet malls, and… err… I now own another purse like the one I started this blog with.. only in blue.  I was over the moon.. really.. Canadian funds even!!!!

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Can a Puffin count for a penguin?

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The only vintage cars I found this time, were models, good ones, but not good enough to bring back with me.

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I have totally left the building, when I find myself again, I’ll be back..

Meanwhile..  Happy Monday everyone!

Namaste      –      Oyashikiri

PS I am unable at this time to find another file of pictures.. you have been spared.

Smile and be happy !

This little light of mine

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On Sunday during my talk I told everyone that PL makes me want to sing, and this is the song I want to sing.  I believe with all my heart that love is the key  to World Peace.  In practicing the philosophy of Perfect Liberty, the happiness and joy in my heart keeps  love in my life.

When we love, and live our lives  with the spirit of appreciation for everything around us, we see life differently.  As I said yesterday during service, when I feel a complaint bubbling up …  I look for the shortcomings in my thinking,       and I look for creative solutions to my problem.

LIFE IS ART… PL. Precept #1 .

In PL we are taught that we are all unique, and that each and every person, is an individual, therefore, what works for someone else, might not work for us, but there is always a solution, or “way”  Members of PL have access to personal guidance through consultations given my PL ministers.  Consultations are tailored to your individual character and situation.

My heartfelt thanks to each and everyone who shares with me.  I love you each and everyone =^_^=

bee,blessed

HOT DOGS!

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WOW and wow again.. Good morning everyone, here it is a few days before the big day.. everyone is having a family get together soon, has had one or is planning one.  Last night at church we had our monthly Thanksgiving service.  After service on the 21st, tradition has it that we have Japanese Curry on rice..  We get two different choices, mild and spicy along with a green salad.. and yes there is always a dessert, members bring in goodies too.    Last night it was a big honking apple pie from Costco that was front and centre for those with a sweet tooth.

On our way home I turned to my friend Eartha and said ” I could go for a hot dog right now”.  I really really meant it, I’d had hot dogs on my mind since the other dat,  Not any hot dog, but the big ones we get from Costco, steamed.  It is the closest to the Montreal dog that I drool over.   I’ve learned to eat it  bare.  No condiments.  Why, cuz they don’t always have them out, and because it is messy if you are going to be eating it in your car..BEFORE you drive out of the lot.

Obviously we did not stop for hot dogs.. it was late and time to get home.  But the thought has not gone away, because in doing my research for the blog… look at what I found… No there is no point in my going out and buying hot dogs and buns.. that is not how it works with a craving…  The best part of eating an “all dressed” hot dog, is to go and get one from a vendor who knows how to dish them out.  Do you agree?

Everyone has their own specialty.  Something they do well.  I accept that making a good hot dog is not one of mine.

In PL we have a Precept … Precept #13 – There is a Way for Men and a Way for Women.  I’ve always had a bit of a problem with the wording, and I’ve had many a discussion about this with various ministers and officials of the church..  I am of course limited due to the fact that this ministry is out of Japan, and few of the  ministers, I myself can dialogue with, speak with a good command of the English language.  I do not speak Japanese.

So to me, and this is MY take on it after years of study and being with PL.  we men and women are like the hot dog,  we come in one shape (human) the  shapes and sizes differ, but we  all hot dogs.  And then depending on where we live and the customs and beliefs we are adorned with as we journey along.  We appear to be other than what we actually are. (in this missive, hot dogs =^_^=) human beings.

We, each and every one of us, may take a different path, or use different condiments to enjoy our hot dog, in the end, we are satisfying a craving, an urge, a desire….. What is different is how we want our hot dogs, our choices are what we decide to do with the hot dog…. and in the end, the choice we made, was it a good one?

Oh my, won’t you be happy when I find myself hot dog and move on……  cravings !!!!

hot dog with cheese

 

Have a super happy day everyone!

Namaste      –      Oyashikiri

dec.7.15

English proverb

I have the huge honor of sometimes getting to read a Sr. Minster’s words, I’m always left with a new way or a different perception of one of the Perfect Liberty Percepts.  This minister lives in another country, so it’s not like I can just pick up and attend one of his services. When I have heard him, his messages have been insightful.

That is one of the ways we learn in life, by listening.  Not only to being aware of our own adventures, and understanding the values we learn and the blessings we receive.  We learn by “listening” paying attention, to verbal and non verbal communications that come our way.

Part of the PL culture is sharing our blessings and challenges.  We call them testimonies.  It hasn’t really caught on here in Canada, but in South America, and Asian countries, ie. in particular Japan, where PL was born, standing up and sharing what your faced during your week, or that day, and what you learned, not only acts like a cleansing in a way, but it gives others an insight on something in their own lives, that they relate to or with.

One of the Precepts that I have worked on and I imagine I will continue to work on, is PL Precept #4   Being Annoyed limites your expressions.

Or if you wish.. PL Precept #5, One’s Self is lost by being emotional.

The Sr. Minister, tells of how when he and his wife were travelling to a special event, they had a long way to travel, and he was driving fast.  He was doing 74 mph on a hwy that was usually 65 mph.  However he missed when it changed to 55 mph, and guess what.. he got a speeding ticket.  AND when he was stopped, the police officer gave him a notice .. the ticket and fine etc would follow.  We had a very unhappy Sensei.

In PL we reflect on what happened, and why……….what Precept we were not following.

In this case, he and his wife during the trip, had one of those marital moments we all know if we have ever coupled, where a quarrel happens and the response to that is silent stewing. He was not paying 100% on what he was doing,   Refer back to PL#4 and PL# 5.

19 miles over the limit, the disharmony cost him $211.

In telling of this expensive lesson, a church member said,  “you are lucky, 19 miles over the limit means you lost 4 points. Had you been going 1 mile more over the limit 20, you license would have been suspended.    Your insurance premiums will likely be affected in the next 3 years!… but here is a good thing to know, If you take a course at the traffic school, 4 points will be reduced, this would reset your points.”  Sensei was very happy to learn this,  the member was very kind to have explained this to him.

In this experience, Sensi learned a lesson, in sharing it, he was blessed with information he had not had before.  “Life depends on how we accept things”   PL Precept # 16  All things progress and develop.

PL Precept #1    Life is Art

Oyashikiri

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love a duck

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I took my duck puppet to church today… I wanted to talk about LOVE, and “ducky” is a good  ice breaker… kids and adults alike smile and chuckle as soon as “ducky” makes an appearance. Why the prop, well, love although a small four letter word, really packs a punch, and to everyone, it means something different.

Children have no problem saying the love you, or showing they love you, but … for many reasons, adults have a more difficult time with the word.  AND if you have a problem with the word,  how do you manage the emotion that goes along with that word.

When you love someone, you are saying, I care, you mean something to me.  Loving someone is including them in your life, in your heart, in your space.  it isn’t a restriction, it is am embrace.

Love is the freedom to be………………. love is knowing that happiness or sadness is all part of the embrace ……………………. love is being able to share your vulnerable moments and know you are safe …………………… love is knowing when you fall, or make a mistake, it is just a moment in time,  that true love is forever, always and everlasting.

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Friendships are built on trust

Love is the thread that binds us all

it may be small, however

the word, is one that has the power to  forestall

the negatives in this world, to erase
fear,greed,wars and strife

so that, we all live with love in our life

yes… ducky went to church and made everyone smile today!

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LOVE to each and every one of you.

namaste     –     oyashikiri

awesome capture

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I seem alone

but I am not

in finding you

I lost you

but

never

will I forget you

for like it must be

we are ONE

in the Universe

you sun

I moon

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– Whether we are happy or not depends on our own perspective.  Life is neither good or bad, it is how we perceive the moment, that will determine whether the outcome is a good or an unfortunate one. -Live a life in Perfect Liberty, and every day will be a brand new canvas…. Life is Art. PL Precept #1

Torres Del Paine, Chile, Unearthly Contemplation by Photographer Alexandre Deschaumes

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