Non-Violence in Everyday Life

Sunday, May 19, 2024

Rev. Diana Johnson, with Chris Johnson, RScP and musicians Gary French & Dalton Fitzgerald

Video Chapter Index

0:00	Taizé	Clicking on a chapter link will play the segment in a new YouTube tab. Your link to this page will remain open in this tab, but the video will play in the new window. Clicking on the Play arrow in the video screen above will play both Taizé and the Conscious Conversation on this page. To make the picture bigger, you may click the full screen icon in the lower right corner: To cast the video to your Smart TV, click the Play on TV button: . Also, we now have Closed Captioning available! To access Closed Captions, start the video and click on the CC icon next to the gear in the lower right of the video screen:
22:07	Guided Meditation
46:26	Conscious Conversation

Taizé

Rev. Diana – We follow the bell to the stillness within…        3 Bells

Chris – Opening Prayer

Rev. Diana – Good morning…if you’re new with us here this morning, my name is Rev. Diana Johnson, and I am the Pastor and Spiritual Director of Mystic Heart Spiritual Center. We are an Independent Interfaith Community that teaches Universal Principles and Practical Spirituality. We open our doors in welcome, trusting that you will be led to the  Guidance and Wisdom of your own Mystic Heart.

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Taizé Chants

• Welcome Home to Your Mystic Heart, written by Diana & Chris Johnson
• Let Love Be the Guide, written by Dennis Bryan, Kalyani, Diana & Chris Johnson

Rev. Diana – As we prepare our hearts and minds for Taizé this morning, we ground ourselves in gratitude for the many gifts of this day…taking a couple of slow, deep breaths…and settling into a moment of stillness… letting go of all that has come before this moment… relaxing the body…allowing the chair to hold your full weight…and bringing awareness to the breath… resting there,  giving yourself the gift of Presence…feeling contentment with what is in this moment…feeling the Peace that is always available.

We take a moment to experience our Oneness with all of Life…to honor our connection with our global family. Going to the imaginal realm…that place of infinite possibility…we envision a web of consciousness that surrounds and infuses the planet…a radiant, shimmering web…and each of us, a Divine Spark within that One Light…every human, every creature, every plant…the rocks and minerals, water and wind, stars, and planets…expressions of Spirit’s Infinite Nature…each one unique, but absolutely necessary to the whole…and connected to everyone and everything else.

As we acknowledge that we are all of One Essence, One Substance, One Source, we grow in compassion, empathy, and understanding. From this vantage point, we acknowledge that whatever we offer into the world, whether in thought, word, or action, affects us all. (Pause) With hearts and minds consciously centered in Spirit, our collective prayer and meditation leave an imprint of Peace, of Love, on human evolution, and on the world, for all time. Take a moment to experience the Grace we are sending out…

This month, our contemplations are centered in what it means to create  Beloved Community, and this morning’s reflections point us in the direction of Non-Violence in Everyday Life…an important idea when seeking peace in our own lives, and in community.

Non-Violence is a way of being, a manner of living life as a human on planet earth. Peace is a quality of Spirit, freely given to all people, always available, but not always recognized. Each of us aspires to Non-Violence in our lives…we may even practice it to some degree in our relationships and interactions with the world. But do we actually know what it is?

At first glance, it may seem obvious. I invite you to reflect…what is violence? (Pause)

It is defined as strength of emotion; unpleasant or destructive force; causing damage or adverse  effects. It shares a common Latin root vehemence…showing strong feeling; acting forcefully, passionately, or with intensity; acting impetuously…quickly, forcefully, and without thought or care; and finally, violence indicates attack.

Having clarity with our language leads us to see that there can be many ways that we inadvertently commit acts of violence toward ourselves and others.

Anytime we have intensely judgmental thoughts or feelings toward ourselves or another, we are, by our own definition, committing acts of violence.

When our words become thoughtless, critical, or forceful. We are committing acts of violence. When our actions towards ourselves or others are reactive or destructive, we are committing acts of violence.

We are lifting the idea of practicing Non-Violence in Everyday Life to higher ground…maybe seeing it through a different lens, under a brighter light than before. Our purpose is not to denigrate ourselves for having such thoughts and feelings, or for becoming reactive with our words and actions. Rather, it is to raise our awareness. Until we are aware of our own patterns…until we accept that they are disturbing the Peace…we cannot change them.

Lao Tze reminds us:

If there is to be peace in the world, there must be peace in the nations. If there is to be peace in the nations, there must be peace in the cities. If there is to be peace in the cities, there must be peace between neighbors. If there is to be peace between neighbors, there must be peace in the home. If there is to be peace in the home, there must be peace in the heart.”

I would add that if there is to be peace in the heart, there must be peace of mind, peaceful language, and actions. This is practicing Non-Violence in our Everyday Lives. And this is what it will take to bring Peace to our planet…to bring Heaven to Earth.

The Rabbi Yeshua, over 2000 years ago, raised the bar for humanity in his Sermon on the Mount. From the book of Matthew:

²¹ “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ ²² But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.

²³ “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, ²⁴ leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

²⁷ “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery. ²⁸ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

³⁸ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. ³⁹ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. ⁴⁰ And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. ⁴¹ If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. ⁴² Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. (Pause)

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵ that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶ If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷ And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? ⁴⁸ Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ 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. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

In other words, acts of violence are not always visible actions.

Equally important and powerful are our thoughts, feelings, intentions, motivations, and language, including both words and tone. If there is to be Peace on Earth, it must begin in the hearts and minds of every human.

Chris – Guided Meditation

In the early 1950s, artist and poet Paul Reps traveled to Japan on his way to visit a respected Zen master in Korea… He went to the passport office to apply for his visa and was politely informed that his request was denied due to the conflict that had just broken out… Reps walked away, and sat down quietly in the waiting area…

He reached into his bag, pulled out his thermos and poured a cup of tea… Finishing his tea, he pulled out a brush and paper upon which he wrote a haiku, adding a picture… The clerk read the poem and it brought tears to his eyes… He smiled, bowed with respect, and stamped Paul Reps’ passport for passage to Korea…

The haiku that so affected the passport clerk read… “drinking a bowl of green tea I stop the war…” Instead of becoming upset about the passport problem, the poet collected himself… He sat… mindfully drank tea… pulled out ink and a calligraphy brush… drew his tea bowl… composed a haiku…

And in addition to composing the poem, he composed himself… instead of reacting from frustration, he enjoyed his tea… rather than becoming annoyed, he drew a picture… he refused to forfeit his peace of mind to negative emotion… he simply sat… drank tea… drew… and wrote…

The first century Roman philosopher Seneca said, “The greatest remedy for anger is delay…” In our three minutes of Sacred Silence this morning, I invite you to be creative… to contemplate a technique you might use to create that delay… an inner exercise to distance you from negative reactions… Emotions pass quickly if we do not engage them… if we stop and compose ourself before responding… Let us ask within, “When I am disappointed, how might I create a space for self-composure?…”

Silence – 3:00

O, Great Mystery… Divine Creator, thank you for your Sacred Presence in this place… for your Inspiration, Love, and Peace… for your Holy People who support me in this Beloved Community… for this reminder that we are at choice… We can choose to respond in healthy, peaceful ways… May we never forget who and Whose we are…

Peace is an inside job… and it is not always an easy task… but we each have the capacity to pause… interrupt our reactive patterns… and choose who we are to be in any given moment… to say, “In this moment, I choose to respond with Love, Compassion and Peace…

As Taizé continues, we receive Rev. Diana’s inspiration with our entire Being… allowing ourselves to be transformed… to become instruments of Peace… empowered always – and in all ways – to practice Non-Violence in Everyday Life…

Rev. Diana

It is up to us to practice Non-Violence in Everyday Life so that a Love-Soaked World can be revealed. This is big Work, important Work, challenging Work, our Work. We leave you with a reminder that Peace is always available…Non-Violence is a choice you can make in every moment. And when you’re finding it difficult to quiet yourself, you can use these powerful words as a mantra…Peace, Be Still…and they will guide you to stillness.

Join us now in musical prayer…

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Musical Meditation

• Peace, Be Still, written by Diana Johnson

Rev. Diana – I invite you to come back into the awareness of your body…notice the atmosphere in the room,  and when you feel ready, gently opening your eyes and allowing your gaze to take in whatever is before you.

Feel free to look around and say good morning to everyone who is here celebrating with you this morning.

This is your Spiritual Family…one of your support systems. These are some of the people who care about you and are there for.

Rev. Diana – Love Offering

As we close our Taizé Meditation, we offer the opportunity for you to share  your financial good in support of the work we do in the world. If you’re joining us online, you can find a Donate Button and our mailing address at mysticheart.org. We thank you in advance for your gifts. And we call to mind the words of Helen Keller…life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Offertory Music

• Peace is Possible, written by Karen Mitchell

Rev. Diana – Blessing for the Offering

Feel free to grab a cup of something warm next door and meet us back at 10:30 for a Conscious Conversation. We’ll bless you on your way with

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Closing Song

• A Soul’s Blessing, written by Chris Johnson

Conscious Conversation

Diana – Good morning and welcome, or welcome back…and welcome to those joining online. If you’re new with us here this morning… my name is Rev. Diana Johnson, and I am the Pastor here at Mystic Heart. We are an Independent Interfaith Community that teaches Universal Principles and Practical Spirituality. We open our doors in welcome, trusting that you will be led to the  Guidance and Wisdom of your own Mystic Heart.

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Opening Music

• Welcome to the Mystic Heart, written by Diana & Chris Johnson
• One Big Family, written by Robin Hackett & Gary Lynn Floyd
• Wholly Holy Way, written by Rickie Byars

Let’s take a creative journey…calling upon the full power of both mind and heart…engaging the body…to join in the creation of a Love-Soaked World.

Feel with me now, a world where all people, everywhere on earth, are living from their Highest Potential…expressing Love, Kindness, Generosity, and Compassion…Peace…Cooperation.

In this new world, all people honor and care for one another, for all of the life forms that share this beautiful planet with us, and for the Mother Herself.

We remember  that we are connected to all of Life…that we are dependent on the planet to sustain us, and on one another.

By our every thought, word, and action, we’re creating a world in which  all beings are well-fed…have the safety and comfort of home and a deep sense of purpose and belonging. We are so grateful that health, education, and healthy relationships are supported by social systems grounded in Integrity, Compassion and Wholeness.

Every being is valued for its  uniqueness…we practice living Authentic lives where vulnerability is celebrated…there is no need to defend or protect. The work we are doing within ourselves shows up as a world free of hatred and violence.

We recognize the abundance that surrounds us…giving and receiving flow freely in every direction and all beings  gratefully receive all that is needed to live physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually fulfilling lives.

The planet and its beings thrive like never before as we learn to see the  sacred in everyone and everything…and we walk in reverence and gratitude for all that we have been given.

We maintain this Vision day by day, moment by moment; we align our actions with our Vision, living these changes first in our own lives, with our families, friends, and neighbors…and one neighborhood, one community at a time, a new world is being born. In this process of profound change, this Community stands as an open and welcoming place for all who seek support, belonging, Family.

By the power of our deep faith, this prayer is acted upon, answered even before it is spoken, as Spirit knows our heart’s desire and intent. In full expectation of its Graceful unfolding…we release it to the Creative Power and Intelligence that I call God…to the One that gets it done…And so it is…Amen!

Bringing awareness back to the body, to the room, to this beautiful life, and to the amazing beings who share this space with us this morning…look around to say good morning to your Spiritual Family.

Our theme this month is Beloved Community, and the topic of Conversation today is Non-Violence in Everyday Life.

This morning during Taizé, we redefined Non-Violence as refraining from destructive, forceful, judgmental, or impetuous thoughts, words, or actions. We contemplated the creative nature of our intentions, motivations, and reactions. And we suggested that in order for there to be Peace in our lives, and in our world, we truly need to increase both our awareness and self-control…that there can be no Peace as long as we allow ourselves the luxury of thoughts, words, and actions run amuck!

That’s where we’ll begin our Conversation this morning.

What are some of the obvious ways we can practice Non-Violence in Everyday Life?

Let’s dig a little deeper now. What are some of the subtler ways that violence creeps into the ways we treat one another?

(verbal abuse…might even be in soft tones, concealed as a joke, a tease, or sarcasm; unreasonable expectations; judgement or criticism; reactivity; isolation; manipulation; humiliation; shaming; intimidation; refusal to ever be pleased)

What are some of the subtler ways that violence creeps into how we treat ourselves?

(beating ourselves up for past mistakes; self-criticism; not-enoughness; playing small)

We visited the Sermon on the Mount during Taizé. I’d like to loop back around to explore what Yeshua might have been asking us to consider. Offering some context, he was not asking the people abandon the Ten Commandments or the 613 mitzvot, or Laws of Moses. He was raising the bar. Let’s take a look.

 In Matthew 5:21-24, he says: “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”

In a nutshell, what is Jesus saying?

(that hateful, vengeful, or angry thoughts are powerful and as destructive as actions)

Then in verses 27 – 28, he says:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery. But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

What about that one?

(Again, thoughts are powerful; thoughts reveal our true level of Integrity)

Next, in verses 38-42:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”

Is he suggesting that we give away everything we have to our own detriment?

Is he suggesting that we become doormats for other people?

What is he saying here?

(that if we return evil with evil, we are no better than our opponent)

Okay, last one…verses 43-48:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

What do you think he means?

(that we are all children of God…each a Divine Spark…and that if we are to know Love in our lives, we must approach all beings with Love; that we judge no one)

At this point of transition, getting ready to move, and to begin the next five-year stretch as Mystic Heart, we have been reviewing our Community Agreements. Two weeks ago, we dove into the first two, and last week the third and fourth. Let’s just read those four together, then take a quick look at five, six, and seven. Remember, these are our guiding aspirations.

1. We agree to always be respectful, compassionate, loving, honest, and authentic in our thoughts, words, actions, and communications, speaking our needs clearly. In doing so, we create a safe, loving, and supportive environment in which complete transparency is the norm, vulnerability is honored, and where people are free to evolve physically, psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually.
2. We agree to take personal responsibility for our thoughts, words, and actions at all times. In doing so, we create a loving environment where spiritually mature individuals promote peace, joy, and celebration in all that we do.
3. We agree to reverently seek Spirit’s Guidance, going directly to parties involved and seeking the help of a Minister if needed, when resolving conflict. In doing so, we trust that Love is leading the way, and that Peace prevails.
4. We agree that we are consciously choosing to create a Spiritual Family. In doing so, we are creating a space in which to belong, a place to call Home.

Now let’s take the last three one by one:

5. We agree to welcome all who come, gracefully honoring each individual as a unique child of God; accepting all faith paths and levels of awareness as a sacred part of the Spiritual Journey. In doing so, we attract a vibrant group of diverse members who practice living in the consciousness of Oneness each and every day.

What jumps out at you with this one? (welcoming and honoring diversity and uniqueness)

6. We agree to respect one another’s personal space. In doing so, we create a comfortable community experience in which everyone feels safe and honored.

(honoring one’s physical space…mental and emotional space… not only asking if I may hug you, but giving you the space and time to process for yourself…trusting and knowing that given time, you have everything you need to overcome challenges; rather, I am here to listen and reflect back so that you can put the pieces together for yourself)

7. We agree to live from a consciousness of Wholeness and Abundance. In doing so, we create personal lives and a Spiritual Home that are radiantly healthy and free from limitation of every kind.

What does this say to you?

(for me, it means living from Guidance, grounded in Faith and Infinite Possibility, trusting that all needs are always met, and God uses all things for Good)

Are these challenging agreements to live up to? You bet they are.

Is it hard sometime? Even exhausting? Of course.

Are they worth striving for? Absolutely.

Let’s close in prayer, knowing the Truth for each one of us.

Closing Prayer

The Light of Spirit shines brightly in this place.

The Love of God fills our hearts, our minds, and our Sacred Space as we gather together in Community.

Coming to know one another, we experience the Presence of God.

We are the hands and feet, hearts, and voices of the Divine.

And here is what I know…we need one another.

We are made to live together…to serve one another…and to receive the gifts offered us by others.

We depend on one another to do our Work…psychological, emotional, and spiritual, so that we might rise in awareness…

So that we might transform destructive patterns to those that support and uplift…

Bringing Peace to our hearts and minds, to our lives and our world.

Thank you, Spirit, for my Spiritual Home…my Spiritual Family.

May we all be Peaceful, Happy, and free from harm.

May we come to know and live from the Truth of who we are.

And may we know the rich blessings loving relationships.

May we forever shine the Light of Love and Devotion into the world.

May we shine the Light of Integrity and deep Faith into every corner of our lives.

May we find within, the Humility, Courage, and Strength to walk in Peace.

Thank You, Spirit, for this day, and for Blessings too numerous to name…those gifts that I would call beautiful and graceful, and those that challenge me to grow in character, resilience, faith, and love.

I walk in reverence and gratitude for Your Masterful Creation, and for Your Powerful Presence and Guidance in my Life. Resting in Your Presence and knowing that my prayer is answered before it is spoken. I let it be. And So It Is! Amen!

Take a moment to allow your awareness to return to your body, to this space, to this beautiful gathering…welcome back.

Offertory

I invite you to join in the celebration of the work we are doing in the world by sharing of your financial Good, should you choose to.

If you are at home, you can go to mysticheart.org to use our Donate Button or to find our mailing address.

We also have a Gracious Giving Program for those who would like to make a heartfelt monthly commitment of support so that we can more effectively budget and plan for our growth.

We’re going to share a couple of songs this morning, just because we’re here and we can…

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Offertory Music

• Games People Play, written by Joe South
• A Voice for Peace, written by Dan Fogelberg

Chris J –  Bless the Offering

Chris J – Brief Invitations

• The Mystic Heart Book Club is meeting on Tuesdays from 3-5 pm with Michael Bordeaux and Chris Netto. We are reading Conversations With God, Book 1.
• Please consider joining us on Wednesday for our weekly work session on the new building. Gather at 1:00pm in the new location to lend a hand. Wear your grubbies!
• This just in…we have eight tickets available for this Wednesday night’s performance of Fowl Play in French Gulch at the Riverfront Playhouse. We’ll be joining Unity and First Christian Church in a buy-out performance. Tickets are $20, available today.
• Fast Track to Wellness meets with Rev. Diana on Thursdays from noon – 2:00 pm. This week featuring Dr. Sharon Brisolara for Mindfulness Practice.
• Please consider joining us after the Wellness Circle this Thursday to begin pricing items for our Parking Lot Sale.
• Metaphysical Bible meets on Thursdays, from 3-5 pm with Chris Johnson.
• Join us for Community Meditation each Thursday evening in May. Our purpose is to create Connection, positive vibes, and a solid spiritual foundation in preparation to the move to our new location. Suggested donation is $10 (or more), to support our Building Project.

Looking Ahead…

• Join Sherri and John Dotter on Friday, May 31^st, for the next Mystic Heart Fun-Raiser. They are offering a casual five-course dinner and beer pairing in their home. The cost is $35 per person. There is only one ticket left…two if a couple…get them today!
• We’re gearing up for a Fundraising Parking Lot Sale to help fund our remodel and move this summer. Doreen announce.
• Please join April Jimenez-WinterSky, Saturday, June 15^th from 11am to 1:30pm for part 2 of the Dancing the Wheel Workshop. (Note – This date has changed.) Suggested donation: $20 Snacks will be provided.

There is more information available in the May Bulletin…take one home with you. And check out our amazing website.

Information Cards if new people

Prayer Requests: I am available after service for prayer, or fill out a prayer card and she will get your request to our Prayer Team for daily prayer – We invite everyone to help us make a private space for prayer here in the Sanctuary by joining us next door for lunch

Rev. Diana, Chris, Dalton, & Gary – Closing Song

• Love Be With You, written by Lainey Bernstein, RScP & Gary Lynn Floyd

©2024 Mystic Heart Spiritual Center, All Rights Reserved
Permission is granted to duplicate for non-commercial educational use only.
All rights to music performed remain with the copyright owners.
Diana Johnson’s music is © by Barefoot Angel Publishing, ASCAP.
Chris Johnson’s music is © by SeaJay Music & Publishing, ASCAP.