By Reverend Mark Hunnemann
At the risk of seeming like I am "beating a dead horse" I want to briefly address a couple other TV shows that highlight the paranormal, albeit in a different way. I am referring to the additional craze of seeking for monsters, but not all these 'monsters' are what some would refer to as cryptozoology.
A favorite TV show of mine is River Monsters, starring Dr. Jeremy Wade, biologist and extreme angler. That is, he seeks, via fishing, river monsters which have wrecked havoc on people. He is an academic who thrills in solving mysteries that surround us in rivers all across the world. I admire his dedication and his respect for the fish which he catches, which Wade almost always gently puts back into the water.
I've learned alot about God's world while watching episodes of River Monsters. As an aside, may I suggest that any documentary type show/movie (or everything for that matter) should be viewed through a biblical worldview, which I outline in detail in my book. In addition, the wild, beautiful, and sometimes bizarre world which is highlighted on River Monsters opens up vistas for reflecting on the glory of God as revealed in nature. I don't know if Dr Wade professes to be a Christian but he is a model to me on how to relish the beauty of God's world. And no doubt he has saved lives by uncovering the watery assailant.
My burden these last few years is in revealing how widespread the occult has spread across the globe, and especially the USA, and helping people to be discerning of supernatural evil. We are a culture that has become addicted to entertainment and we are amusing ourselves to death. Even a scientific show like River Monsters is not immune to this occultic juggernaut.
In a recent episode, Dr Wade was in some remote place (I forgot where) in search of a river monster which was attacking people. The epicenter of the attacks was in an area controlled by a certain indigenous 'Indian' peoples. After consulting with the village elder it was discovered that 'Spirit Rock', which is a very tiny outcropping of rocks in the body of water, was considered sacred by these people and the key to solving this mystery.
Wade visited this sacred place which was feared by the locals and discovered to his dismay that there were no fish, none. He left and then went looking elsewhere. Compressing the story, he becomes convinced that the Muskie fish was the culprit.However, no matter how many times he cast his line he couldn't catch it. He estimated that he casted 13,000 times and remarked that he was exhausted and had lost his confidence. So (and this is crucial), he went back to Spirit Rock out of desperation and did something that shocked me and broke my heart...more importantly it broke God's heart. On that tiny rock island, he offered up an offering to the spirits of that place...an offering of tobacco. With millions of rational 'non-paranormal' type folks watching, think of the effect that one occultic act had on many of them--especially in light of his passion for rational thought and commitment to hard science, and what followed.
With his tackle virtually all used up, he used a rod and line that was woefully inadequate to catch a large muskie. After giving his offering, he cast his line, and IT appeared in the water. This large muskie was snared (remember before he didn't even see a fish there...it was eerily desolate of all things living) It was gripping to watch this epic struggle to reel the fish in without his line snapping. But catch it he did!
While commenting that it was the most exhausting catch of his life, it was also apparently his most supernatural (read demonic). I do NOT view everything that is bizarre or mysterious in nature as supernatural. Not at all! However, Dr Wade's offering to the spirits, which resulted in a Muskie virtually ensnaring itself on the line raised my eyebrows. Even if it was a coincidence, his actions still had the effect on many viewers of the power of the occult. For heavens sake, this is River Monsters and not a cryptozoology or paranormal show! And yet, the tentacles of the occult have reached into this TV show as well....pushing more people off the wrong side of the supernatural fence.
From river to mountains we come to Mountain Monsters. This is a TV show starring some trackers and hunters from close to my neck of the woods, the Appalachian mountains. These guys do focus on attempting to capture creatures many would classify as cryptozoology. As I have suspected, SOME of these cryptic creatures have revealed themselves on this show as being demonic. For example, in the last couple episodes two of the backwoodsmen have seemingly become possessed while in hot pursuit of their prey. Unless the cameraman used tricks, I also saw the little Indian girl in the shack only for her to suddenly vanish. However, it was the effects upon these two men that was deeply disturbing. One of the men was found raving mad without a stitch of clothing on (remind you of an incident in the bible?). It was deeply disturbing to see the fear that had gripped these men as they faced an unseen foe while trying to whoop it up in their hunt of mountain monsters. They were terrified....Both lost all control and could not remember what had happened while under it's control. Losing control and not remembering are classic signs of possession.
These are simple men (not stupid) who are unwittingly hunting the demonic with rifles and home-made traps. Like River Monsters it makes for good entertainment. Entertainment (with a capital 'E') has become a huge idol in our culture. Many are willing to jettison all semblance of rationality or even morality just be amused or entertained.
No doubt there are yet undiscovered species in the rivers and mountains, BUT Satan is using this cryptic craze to broaden his supernatural assault....via entertainment. How awful...how terribly awful.
It is with tears that I wonder about the welfare of these two mountain men, after the camera is gone. And I have to wonder if Dr Jeremy Wade is also experiencing aftershocks from opening a door he should have kept shut. Please be discerning and let us teach our children to be discerning amidst this demonic entertainment whirlwind. For Scripture says that if we sow the wind we shall reap the whirlwind. Jesus have mercy on us, please.
Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.
Looking inside the spiritual & literary worlds
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Please Help the Victims of the 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Nepal
Dear Readers of the Eye on the Paranormal,
Every Tuesday I post a blog about the Dalai Lama and hope that it inspires you in some way. Yesterday, it was a joyous blog about the Dalai Lama meeting with Archbishop Desmond Tutu. That meeting took place only two days before the devastating earthquake in Nepal.
The initial report of 3,700 confirmed dead has now increased to more than 5,000. Many survivors in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, as well as those within remote regions, are without food and water -- their shelter having been leveled by the 'quake. Aftershocks are expected, which will bring more damage.
May 5th Update: The death toll is now over 7200. To read more about the earthquake, here's a CNN link: http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/03/asia/nepal-earthquake
If you would like to help, please read more from the Tibet Fund's website.
On April 25, 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook Nepal, taking a huge toll on human life and property. With over 3,700 confirmed dead, and the number continuing to rise, rescue efforts are still under way. According to The Guardian, more than half the houses in the city of Bhaktapur, just outside the city of Kathmandu, have been destroyed. Hundreds of homes in Patan, Kathmandu and neighboring towns have also been lost. Thousands more in the Buddhist regions of Northern Nepal are now leveled, leaving tens of thousands homeless. The official death toll in these areas is unknown due to inadequate data, and sporadic reports from these rural areas are our only glimpses of this earthquake’s true devastation.
This disaster has devastated the Tibetan community in Nepal, especially in remote areas close to the quake’s epicenter. Currently, there are more than 20,000 Tibetan refugees and hundreds of thousands of Tibetan Buddhist practitioners living along the Himalayan Buddhist Belt in Nepal. Reports state that the Tibetan Refugee Settlement at Syabru Bensi has been heavily damaged, with the majority of homes in the settlement having collapsed. Monasteries and centers of Buddhist learning in the remote areas of Bhagang and Liphing in Tatopani have also been leveled by the quake. The rebuilding process will be a monumental task requiring financial support for years to come.
The Tibet Fund has established an Emergency Earthquake Relief Fund and is working with credible and reliable partners in Nepal, such as the Snow Lion Foundation and The Himalayan Society for Youth and Women Empowerment (HSYWE) to ensure that resources reach those most affected by the quake. These organizations are bringing urgently needed supplies and assistance to survivors and coordinating long-term efforts to rebuild communities. Even a small contribution will make a huge difference in the lives of those who have been tragically affected by the natural disaster.
The Tibet Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; as such all donations are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. You can contribute online below to donate or send a check made out to The Tibet Fund with a note "Emergency Earthquake Relief Fund" on the memo line and send it to The Tibet Fund, 241 East 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016.
A Message from The 14th Dalai Lama About The Tibet Fund
The Tibetan people are grateful for the place they hold in the hearts and minds of so many people around the world. Were it not for our community in exile, so generously supported by individuals, organizations and governments, our nation would be little more than a shattered remnant of a people…our culture, religion and national identity effectively eliminated.
Over the past 30 years, The Tibet Fund has worked closely with our Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala to meet the needs of the Tibetan community. The Tibet Fund has raised millions of dollars to help our people to build schools and provide housing and infrastructure, health care and education to the Tibetan community, in exile and in Tibet. The Tibet Fund has also provided resources to strengthen cultural institutions and projects that are essential for the preservation of our cultural heritage, the very seed of our civilization.
While Tibet needs the compassion of the world community to survive, we cannot hope through mere words to convince the world of Tibet's value. We must set an example by our own practice. We are hard at work creating a modern society and democratic institutions based on the values of compassion, nonviolence and justice. Our communities are striving for self-sufficiency and self-determination.
I would like to express my gratitude to all the friends who have generously contributed to The Tibet Fund over the years, with the hope that you will continue to support us until our difficulties have been finally and justly resolved.
The initial report of 3,700 confirmed dead has now increased to more than 5,000. Many survivors in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, as well as those within remote regions, are without food and water -- their shelter having been leveled by the 'quake. Aftershocks are expected, which will bring more damage.
May 5th Update: The death toll is now over 7200. To read more about the earthquake, here's a CNN link: http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/03/asia/nepal-earthquake
If you would like to help, please read more from the Tibet Fund's website.
On April 25, 2015, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook Nepal, taking a huge toll on human life and property. With over 3,700 confirmed dead, and the number continuing to rise, rescue efforts are still under way. According to The Guardian, more than half the houses in the city of Bhaktapur, just outside the city of Kathmandu, have been destroyed. Hundreds of homes in Patan, Kathmandu and neighboring towns have also been lost. Thousands more in the Buddhist regions of Northern Nepal are now leveled, leaving tens of thousands homeless. The official death toll in these areas is unknown due to inadequate data, and sporadic reports from these rural areas are our only glimpses of this earthquake’s true devastation.
This disaster has devastated the Tibetan community in Nepal, especially in remote areas close to the quake’s epicenter. Currently, there are more than 20,000 Tibetan refugees and hundreds of thousands of Tibetan Buddhist practitioners living along the Himalayan Buddhist Belt in Nepal. Reports state that the Tibetan Refugee Settlement at Syabru Bensi has been heavily damaged, with the majority of homes in the settlement having collapsed. Monasteries and centers of Buddhist learning in the remote areas of Bhagang and Liphing in Tatopani have also been leveled by the quake. The rebuilding process will be a monumental task requiring financial support for years to come.
The Tibet Fund has established an Emergency Earthquake Relief Fund and is working with credible and reliable partners in Nepal, such as the Snow Lion Foundation and The Himalayan Society for Youth and Women Empowerment (HSYWE) to ensure that resources reach those most affected by the quake. These organizations are bringing urgently needed supplies and assistance to survivors and coordinating long-term efforts to rebuild communities. Even a small contribution will make a huge difference in the lives of those who have been tragically affected by the natural disaster.
The Tibet Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; as such all donations are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. You can contribute online below to donate or send a check made out to The Tibet Fund with a note "Emergency Earthquake Relief Fund" on the memo line and send it to The Tibet Fund, 241 East 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016.
A Message from The 14th Dalai Lama About The Tibet Fund
The Tibetan people are grateful for the place they hold in the hearts and minds of so many people around the world. Were it not for our community in exile, so generously supported by individuals, organizations and governments, our nation would be little more than a shattered remnant of a people…our culture, religion and national identity effectively eliminated.
Over the past 30 years, The Tibet Fund has worked closely with our Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala to meet the needs of the Tibetan community. The Tibet Fund has raised millions of dollars to help our people to build schools and provide housing and infrastructure, health care and education to the Tibetan community, in exile and in Tibet. The Tibet Fund has also provided resources to strengthen cultural institutions and projects that are essential for the preservation of our cultural heritage, the very seed of our civilization.
While Tibet needs the compassion of the world community to survive, we cannot hope through mere words to convince the world of Tibet's value. We must set an example by our own practice. We are hard at work creating a modern society and democratic institutions based on the values of compassion, nonviolence and justice. Our communities are striving for self-sufficiency and self-determination.
I would like to express my gratitude to all the friends who have generously contributed to The Tibet Fund over the years, with the hope that you will continue to support us until our difficulties have been finally and justly resolved.
Monday, April 27, 2015
His Holiness the Dalai Lama & Archbishop Desmond Tutu
On arrival at TCV His Holiness and the Archbishop were escorted into the small library adjacent to the basketball court. Amidst the neat bookshelves and displays of projects the children had done writing about ‘joy’, several students, girls and boys, recounted their own journeys from Tibet to the school. The first, who had come with her grandmother, leaving the rest of her family behind, broke down in sobs and tears. Archbishop Tutu’s daughter, Mpho, stepped forward to hug and comfort her. She completed her tale, but when the next student too was overcome with emotion His Holiness intervened, suggesting:
“You should think about how as a result of coming here you have been able to receive not only a modern education, but also to learn about our rich culture. You’ve been able to study our language. This is the best language for explaining the profound traditions of Nalanda University. This is something to be proud of. And yours may be the generation that can rebuild Tibet.”
The final student to make a presentation spoke of his appreciation for what he had received and how he tries to take joy in everything.
The children, who filled the basketball court, sang a song in Tibetan celebrating His Holiness’s 80th birthday as he and Archbishop Tutu emerged to take their seats in the middle of the throng. They then followed it up with a Tibetan rendition of ‘If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.’
When His Holiness was invited to address the gathering, he turned to the Archbishop and said that since he teases him so much about his English, on this occasion he would speak in Tibetan. He stated that although our various religious traditions have different philosophical viewpoints, they share a common message of love and compassion. This is clearly reflected in the Archbishop and is why he admires him.
Commenting on the hardships faced by the parents of the students who were present His Holiness said:
“We received immense help from the Indian government. The world helped us. Because of the kindness we have received you have the opportunity to study today. Please, work hard. We Tibetans are going through a very difficult time, but we still have our own language and culture. Please take full advantage of your educational opportunities.”
Archbishop Tutu acknowledged His Holiness, the beautiful children and those in the crowd who were not children.
“It’s a great honour and privilege to be here. You are beloved throughout the world and we want to say to you, young people, that it might not seem possible to you that you will one day return to a free Tibet. But we in South Africa lived for many years under a system of injustice and oppression. Many of our leaders and young people went into exile. It seemed as if the chains of oppression would never be broken, that our prisoners on Robben Island would never come home. And yet,” and he let out his characteristic high pitched chuckle, “it happened.”
“In 1995, our beloved Nelson Mandela and the others were released and the exiles came home. One day, you too, all of you, will see your beloved Tibet again. You’ll be free of the oppression that has driven you here. The Chinese government will discover that freedom is actually cheaper than oppression.”
He spoke of the deep honour he feels to count His Holiness as his friend and that the world feels the same way. He continued:
“I want to thank the Indian government and the Indian people who opened their arms to welcome you, because they preserved for us a great treasure that would otherwise have been lost.”
Looking round at the students, he exclaimed:
“Look how beautiful you are! One day you’ll be dancing and singing in the streets of Tibet.”
Students were then able to put questions to the two spiritual leaders starting with one to His Holiness asking whether we can ever hope to live in a violence free world. He replied that there are many different kinds of violence, including exploitation and corruption.
“If you are thinking about serious physical violence involving war and people killing each other, then yes, I think we can eliminate that if we make the right effort.”
Archbishop Tutu was asked his advice about the way people seek happiness in material things. He answered that more and more people are realizing that they will not get real satisfaction from things alone. He said you can have many possessions while your heart remains empty.
“I meet many young people from well-off homes who go out to help others and find a much greater satisfaction in that.”
When His Holiness was asked about how he controls his anger in daily life, he replied that when he’s angry he shouts. He told a story of an occasion in 1956 when he was watching the driver and mechanic who looked after one of the cars that had belonged to the 13th Dalai Lama. While working on it he accidentally banged his head on the car. In anger he then deliberately banged it against the car again and His Holiness wondered: “What’s the use of that?” He remarked that anger destroys our peace of mind.
“Reciting ‘manis’ won’t help, even reciting the refuge prayer won’t help. Training our minds is the only solution.”
Asked whether joy could really be a source of world peace, His Holiness replied:
“I think so and that’s why people should have a clear understanding of how to create joy. Doing harm to others may bring some temporary satisfaction, but being helpful to them is the only real source of lasting joy.”
Archbishop Tutu was also asked how true joy and happiness can be achieved and he answered:
“If we think we want joy for ourselves that’s short-sighted and will only be short-lived. Real joy is the reward of acting to bring joy to others. Deep joy is what happens when you show love, care and compassion to others. You can’t get it any other way. You can’t buy it.”
In reply to a final question about the environment, the Archbishop said:
“We have to remind people that this is our only home and if we treat it badly we’re done for. The ice caps are melting. The summers and winters are too long. We need to say ‘Yes, something is wrong’. People are beginning to hear what many religious leaders are saying, that this is our only home and we have to care for it.”
A band on the stage led the whole crowd in singing, ‘We are the world’. Archbishop Tutu got to his feet, dancing and swaying to the music. At the end he took the microphone and led everyone in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to His Holiness as a large cake ablaze with candles was placed before them. He called for children to come and help His Holiness blow the candles out. The cake was cut and as it was distributed among children and guests, His Holiness, the Archbishop and Team Joy returned to McLeod Ganj.
Tomorrow will see the final day of the conversations that are to become the ‘Book of Joy’.
Click here to see the original article and photos http://dalailama.com/news/post/1268-his-holiness-the-dalai-lama--archbishop-tutu-at-tcv
Symptoms of Spiritual Pollution, Part 3
Continued from:
Symptoms of Spiritual Pollution, Part 1
Symptoms of Spiritual Pollution, Part 2
In our continuation on the blog series Spiritual Warfare from the last time I discussed the critical aspect of Submission. I first started off the blog series with Reverence for the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, which I laid this out so that you will understand and learn that one must fear God. The second part was that to truly understand God you need to submit to his ways and thus not your or other human’s ways.
God is a loving God, yes but God is also a God of wrath! Time and time again the Holy Bible discusses the wrath and penalties from God. Just because you know and have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior does not mean you comply with the Kingdom plan.
To truly comply as a person you must submit to Jesus Christ and make him the Lord of your life. This is why the battle of Spiritual Warfare takes place. This is a pure test to see if the person will truly follow and serve the Kingdom of God as they are called to do, or are they just wanting to “go with the flow” and the “ways of the world”.
Today I will discuss the third aspect which is Dependency. Webster's online describes DEPENDENCY as follows:
1. Dependence
2. Something that is dependent on something else; especially: a territorial unit under the jurisdiction of a nation but not formally annexed by it
3. A building (as a stable) that is an adjunct to a main dwelling
When it comes to dependency as relating to God we need to focus on point two (2) from above, something that is dependent on something else. As humans we are to be dependent upon God for all our needs. Sadly, our ancestors Adam and Eve chose to cast this dependency aside when both were tricked to eat the "forbidden fruit".
As a result of our ancestors actions many people, as well as fellow Christians feel they do not need to be dependent upon God, because it is God who created them with an innate desire to be creatures who can do all as long as they give God some sort of credit.
Sadly, this is where we get in trouble and thus the Demons know this about us. As humans we desire to control and thus we have been given an illusion so to speak. Wikipedia describes human’s innate drive to not be controlled as follows: "The illusion of control is the tendency for people to overestimate their ability to control events; for example, it occurs when someone feels a sense of control over outcomes that they demonstrably do not influence.”
The effect was named by psychologist Ellen Langer and has been replicated in many different contexts. It is thought to influence gambling behavior and belief in the paranormal. Along with illusory superiority and optimism bias, the illusion of control is one of the positive illusions.
This is where we as humans get into trouble because we will not give the control to the Lord Jesus Christ who is truly in control, yet we profess him as Lord but we do NOT make him the Lord fully over our lives.
Our God is awesome God and our God is huge as well. It is this very God who is the one who holds every molecule in this universe together. God is the one making your lungs work, and your heart beat. Thus you can’t lift your arm without His empowerment. Everything you have is a gift from God.
But while God is a generous provider, none of God's gifts become or are your property. God's gifts are all loans to the person which God could suddenly take back at any time. Your intelligence, your health, your joy, your strength—they are all loans from God. Given this knowledge, what can you truly do apart from God? Absolutely nothing. Which means you are dependent on God for all things, but many refuse to submit to God and become dependent in this manner and that is why they face issues from the Demonic forces.
In the Church, a person is taught to think this is some kind of amazing aspect or gift if you can detect the presence of demons. This person is spoken to that they have “the gift of discernment”, if you can sense some evil aura around you or around others. However, discernment is about wisdom. How much wisdom do you truly have if you won’t or refuse to grasp the super obvious truth that you are dependent on God for all things?
How misguided are you to think it is you who can do anything apart from God? How dense are you to miss how awesome God is and that it is you who will never be anything more than a powerless molecule who was created to love and to serve the One who made you? Sadly in the Church, it is stupidity which is exalted as wisdom, while true wisdom is adamantly rejected. In the Church, a person is taught to memorize a whole list of the glorious powers and attributes we must obtain through the Lord Jesus Christ.
As parishioners we are taught to think that we are incredible creatures who God depends upon to make Him feel complete. We are taught that our happiness is God’s top priority (prosperity gospel and feel good gospels) and that God lives and exists to only bless us. This is all just lies—a smelly pile of manure, which we use to fertilize our growing egos that God exists to please us humans. Therefore those people are already receiving the doctrine of Demons - which we have been warned of.
God does not need us, we need God. Read in the bible in which God stated his great displeasure with us humans, Genesis 6:7 states, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.” Right there this is a stern warning from God that we are to be in reverence, submission and dependency upon him but our egos get in the way.
Understanding that our absolute dependency on God is what slams us out of our Narcissistic Personna and drives us back down onto our faces in front of Him saying, “Apart from you God I can do nothing, and I am nothing. All that matters is you God being pleased with me and that I glorify you in my life. It is your approval as the only reward that I seek.”
So is this the attitude that is being cultivated in you when you sit around contemplating your wonderful life? You best prepare for a massive spiritual onslaught from demonic forces then as one would deserve this because of not wanting to be dependent upon God at all.
I will continue with the next aspect of TRUST in a blog next time.
Rev. Bradley Luoma, Exorcist
Symptoms of Spiritual Pollution, Part 1
Symptoms of Spiritual Pollution, Part 2
In our continuation on the blog series Spiritual Warfare from the last time I discussed the critical aspect of Submission. I first started off the blog series with Reverence for the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, which I laid this out so that you will understand and learn that one must fear God. The second part was that to truly understand God you need to submit to his ways and thus not your or other human’s ways.
God is a loving God, yes but God is also a God of wrath! Time and time again the Holy Bible discusses the wrath and penalties from God. Just because you know and have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior does not mean you comply with the Kingdom plan.
To truly comply as a person you must submit to Jesus Christ and make him the Lord of your life. This is why the battle of Spiritual Warfare takes place. This is a pure test to see if the person will truly follow and serve the Kingdom of God as they are called to do, or are they just wanting to “go with the flow” and the “ways of the world”.
Today I will discuss the third aspect which is Dependency. Webster's online describes DEPENDENCY as follows:
1. Dependence
2. Something that is dependent on something else; especially: a territorial unit under the jurisdiction of a nation but not formally annexed by it
3. A building (as a stable) that is an adjunct to a main dwelling
When it comes to dependency as relating to God we need to focus on point two (2) from above, something that is dependent on something else. As humans we are to be dependent upon God for all our needs. Sadly, our ancestors Adam and Eve chose to cast this dependency aside when both were tricked to eat the "forbidden fruit".
As a result of our ancestors actions many people, as well as fellow Christians feel they do not need to be dependent upon God, because it is God who created them with an innate desire to be creatures who can do all as long as they give God some sort of credit.
Sadly, this is where we get in trouble and thus the Demons know this about us. As humans we desire to control and thus we have been given an illusion so to speak. Wikipedia describes human’s innate drive to not be controlled as follows: "The illusion of control is the tendency for people to overestimate their ability to control events; for example, it occurs when someone feels a sense of control over outcomes that they demonstrably do not influence.”
The effect was named by psychologist Ellen Langer and has been replicated in many different contexts. It is thought to influence gambling behavior and belief in the paranormal. Along with illusory superiority and optimism bias, the illusion of control is one of the positive illusions.
This is where we as humans get into trouble because we will not give the control to the Lord Jesus Christ who is truly in control, yet we profess him as Lord but we do NOT make him the Lord fully over our lives.
Our God is awesome God and our God is huge as well. It is this very God who is the one who holds every molecule in this universe together. God is the one making your lungs work, and your heart beat. Thus you can’t lift your arm without His empowerment. Everything you have is a gift from God.
But while God is a generous provider, none of God's gifts become or are your property. God's gifts are all loans to the person which God could suddenly take back at any time. Your intelligence, your health, your joy, your strength—they are all loans from God. Given this knowledge, what can you truly do apart from God? Absolutely nothing. Which means you are dependent on God for all things, but many refuse to submit to God and become dependent in this manner and that is why they face issues from the Demonic forces.
In the Church, a person is taught to think this is some kind of amazing aspect or gift if you can detect the presence of demons. This person is spoken to that they have “the gift of discernment”, if you can sense some evil aura around you or around others. However, discernment is about wisdom. How much wisdom do you truly have if you won’t or refuse to grasp the super obvious truth that you are dependent on God for all things?
How misguided are you to think it is you who can do anything apart from God? How dense are you to miss how awesome God is and that it is you who will never be anything more than a powerless molecule who was created to love and to serve the One who made you? Sadly in the Church, it is stupidity which is exalted as wisdom, while true wisdom is adamantly rejected. In the Church, a person is taught to memorize a whole list of the glorious powers and attributes we must obtain through the Lord Jesus Christ.
As parishioners we are taught to think that we are incredible creatures who God depends upon to make Him feel complete. We are taught that our happiness is God’s top priority (prosperity gospel and feel good gospels) and that God lives and exists to only bless us. This is all just lies—a smelly pile of manure, which we use to fertilize our growing egos that God exists to please us humans. Therefore those people are already receiving the doctrine of Demons - which we have been warned of.
God does not need us, we need God. Read in the bible in which God stated his great displeasure with us humans, Genesis 6:7 states, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.” Right there this is a stern warning from God that we are to be in reverence, submission and dependency upon him but our egos get in the way.
Understanding that our absolute dependency on God is what slams us out of our Narcissistic Personna and drives us back down onto our faces in front of Him saying, “Apart from you God I can do nothing, and I am nothing. All that matters is you God being pleased with me and that I glorify you in my life. It is your approval as the only reward that I seek.”
So is this the attitude that is being cultivated in you when you sit around contemplating your wonderful life? You best prepare for a massive spiritual onslaught from demonic forces then as one would deserve this because of not wanting to be dependent upon God at all.
I will continue with the next aspect of TRUST in a blog next time.
Rev. Bradley Luoma, Exorcist
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Demonic Oppression: On The Rise??
I don't know if anybody else noticed that there is a major rise in Demonic Oppression?
It seems that more and more people are dabbling in occult/satanic type activities from what they see on TV. Sadly they inadvertently put themselves in the line of fire inviting God knows how many in human entities in their life and home. It's legal ground for them even if it wasn't intended and it was an accident. I just don't think it's healthy when someone buys a 7 year old digital recorder to reenact what we've seen on TV for slumber parties and things to that nature. Many did spooky things when we were younger such as 'light as a feather stiff as a board' or the famous 'bloody Mary, bloody Mary, Bloody Mary' and then she is supposed to appear after the third chant. Then of course the Ouija board. I fully admit I was one of those people who participated in the bloody Mary and the ever so popular Ouija board. I wanted to know how real it was and I was the only one in the group that challenged something to come through...... I would explain what events took place but I'd be accused of lying. In this field every body looks for something to harass somebody about. It's like a piece of sand but making it out to be an entire Sandcastle with issues, that's why I don't share what took place. I was 17. All these years later the two other friends refused to talk about it because that's how badly they had been traumatized. I decided not to bother.. I remember two kids that I came across that were older around 11 to 12 who had K2 meters, dousing rods and the ghost box and they received them from their parents
This was a requested topic from Allison K. I understand that many are curious about this and I have "closet curious readers" for lack of better words who prefer not to make it known that they believe this topic. They would unfortunately endure a lot of harassment and possibly trouble in the work place and among circle of friends. There's just so many things that can open you up to oppression so I am guessing I'll start with the basic. You can always research this yourself on the Internet I'm sure there would be a plethora of information. Christian book stores and Barnes & Noble have many good books on the subject and many subjects related to it. You can go to Amazon.com. Over the years since at least 2000 I have purchased many good reads that assisted in my research. I prefer to stay away from the ones written by para-celebs. 98% claim all this experience in all these things they've done but yet they can't provide any references or any certificates that were given to them for any courses that they took etc...it kills me to know there are about 8 people that are so knowledgeable in this particular area of the field. And I do mean extremely knowledgeable having 40 something years experience but you never ever hear of them invited to speak or to come on the radio to be interviewed. They would be a very big blessing and we could all learn a lot from them but because they're not well known or don't have well known friends in the field all these stupid people are just seeking fame. Their heart isn't fully into helping the client they're hoping for some major action at the clients expense in order to put them on the map.
A demon is believed to be a force that can be conjured and controlled. They are also believed to have the ability to possess or inhabit the body of humans and the only way to rid the person of them is to conduct deliverance and/or Exorcism. Demons are portrayed differently in different cultures. Some believe demons to be actual physical beings that can take the form of anything, including animals. Others consider the real demons as more of a spiritual force of evil battling for one's soul. They have been feared and written about in almost every culture in one form or another
What Is Demonic Oppression?
Demonic oppression is the work of evil spiritual forces that try very hard to encourage us to sin. It mimics depression down to a T! Discernment, which is a gift of the spirit, is needed to determine which one is actually present. There's a lot of mental illnesses that are not caused by the devil and his demons. We have to be very careful and not blame everything on demons. They have the ability to make us feel spiritually dead, and to be in bondage to sinful activities and thoughts. This oppressive work is performed by demons, which are fallen angels who resist God, and who sinned in their first estate. This information can be found in the book of Jude chapter 6). They wage war against God, against God's people, and against unbelievers as well. Their goal is to bring as many people as possible into rebellion against God and condemnation in hell. They want to drag as many souls to hell as possible.
A Few Examples Of The Type Of Attacks
Emotions. Exaggerated emotional states: fear, anxiety, anger, panic, shame, rejection, grief that is over-extended or out of proportion, hopelessness, helplessness.
The Mind. Tormenting thoughts of suicide, self-mutilation thoughts, confusion, forgetfulness, blocked memory, self hate, feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of being unloved and thoughts that God won't ever forgive you and he doesn't love you.
How Do People End Up A Target Of Demonic Oppression
Sometimes people involved in occult activity will curse you or your family. It is not that you can actually be cursed as a Christian. Rather, those who are against Christ and his people can focus demonic activity on you. Anger, bitterness and strife. These things feed off that. When we are vulnerable already or depressed better or what have you that's when they zoom in like flies on honey. When we're in that state of mind it's only by the blood of Jesus that we can defeat these vile entities.
I noticed Occult traditions have some ideas about the topic. Tradition suggests a maleficent spirit (or thought) can try an invasion. Normally we put it out of our mind, and it is gone. However, if we are passive in the face of a negative influence, eventually our connection with our own Higher Self may be severed. Our higher self is that part of our being that coexists with the realm of eternal Spirit. We are normally unaware of our higher self, but it steadily guides us invisibly. Call it our intuition. A negative entity (or thought) might try to replace our higher self (or intuition) with itself, like a parasite. If we allow it, the entity/thought will become our new, lower self. Then we’d be stuck, unable to access our higher self’s assistance. Once our own spiritual abilities are extinguished we require help from others.
There are many demons assigned to torment us by satan just as Jesus assigns angels to look after us . We have demons of fear running amok trying to destroy any and all humans before the appointed time. Yes they know very well the second coming of Jesus Christ will in fact take place. They already know they are defeated but they will still try to drag as many souls to hell with them or make our life hell in hopes we may take our own life or just live so miserable and depressed we end up making ourselves sick. It is their job to torment us day in and day out. They messed with our heads in major ways. They HATE humans. They hate our guts and want nothing but death for us. But remember, Christ is in control. The battle has already been won. Jesus got his victory and his grave was literally denied because he appeared before a certain amount of people so they could see him and touch him and told them to go spread the word and they said Jesus what shall we do the devil roams about like a lion and he says......and I quote " I leave you with the power of the Holy Spirit so you may cast out demons in my name."
Written By Jennifer L Auld
It seems that more and more people are dabbling in occult/satanic type activities from what they see on TV. Sadly they inadvertently put themselves in the line of fire inviting God knows how many in human entities in their life and home. It's legal ground for them even if it wasn't intended and it was an accident. I just don't think it's healthy when someone buys a 7 year old digital recorder to reenact what we've seen on TV for slumber parties and things to that nature. Many did spooky things when we were younger such as 'light as a feather stiff as a board' or the famous 'bloody Mary, bloody Mary, Bloody Mary' and then she is supposed to appear after the third chant. Then of course the Ouija board. I fully admit I was one of those people who participated in the bloody Mary and the ever so popular Ouija board. I wanted to know how real it was and I was the only one in the group that challenged something to come through...... I would explain what events took place but I'd be accused of lying. In this field every body looks for something to harass somebody about. It's like a piece of sand but making it out to be an entire Sandcastle with issues, that's why I don't share what took place. I was 17. All these years later the two other friends refused to talk about it because that's how badly they had been traumatized. I decided not to bother.. I remember two kids that I came across that were older around 11 to 12 who had K2 meters, dousing rods and the ghost box and they received them from their parents
This was a requested topic from Allison K. I understand that many are curious about this and I have "closet curious readers" for lack of better words who prefer not to make it known that they believe this topic. They would unfortunately endure a lot of harassment and possibly trouble in the work place and among circle of friends. There's just so many things that can open you up to oppression so I am guessing I'll start with the basic. You can always research this yourself on the Internet I'm sure there would be a plethora of information. Christian book stores and Barnes & Noble have many good books on the subject and many subjects related to it. You can go to Amazon.com. Over the years since at least 2000 I have purchased many good reads that assisted in my research. I prefer to stay away from the ones written by para-celebs. 98% claim all this experience in all these things they've done but yet they can't provide any references or any certificates that were given to them for any courses that they took etc...it kills me to know there are about 8 people that are so knowledgeable in this particular area of the field. And I do mean extremely knowledgeable having 40 something years experience but you never ever hear of them invited to speak or to come on the radio to be interviewed. They would be a very big blessing and we could all learn a lot from them but because they're not well known or don't have well known friends in the field all these stupid people are just seeking fame. Their heart isn't fully into helping the client they're hoping for some major action at the clients expense in order to put them on the map.
A demon is believed to be a force that can be conjured and controlled. They are also believed to have the ability to possess or inhabit the body of humans and the only way to rid the person of them is to conduct deliverance and/or Exorcism. Demons are portrayed differently in different cultures. Some believe demons to be actual physical beings that can take the form of anything, including animals. Others consider the real demons as more of a spiritual force of evil battling for one's soul. They have been feared and written about in almost every culture in one form or another
What Is Demonic Oppression?
Demonic oppression is the work of evil spiritual forces that try very hard to encourage us to sin. It mimics depression down to a T! Discernment, which is a gift of the spirit, is needed to determine which one is actually present. There's a lot of mental illnesses that are not caused by the devil and his demons. We have to be very careful and not blame everything on demons. They have the ability to make us feel spiritually dead, and to be in bondage to sinful activities and thoughts. This oppressive work is performed by demons, which are fallen angels who resist God, and who sinned in their first estate. This information can be found in the book of Jude chapter 6). They wage war against God, against God's people, and against unbelievers as well. Their goal is to bring as many people as possible into rebellion against God and condemnation in hell. They want to drag as many souls to hell as possible.
A Few Examples Of The Type Of Attacks
Emotions. Exaggerated emotional states: fear, anxiety, anger, panic, shame, rejection, grief that is over-extended or out of proportion, hopelessness, helplessness.
The Mind. Tormenting thoughts of suicide, self-mutilation thoughts, confusion, forgetfulness, blocked memory, self hate, feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of being unloved and thoughts that God won't ever forgive you and he doesn't love you.
How Do People End Up A Target Of Demonic Oppression
Sometimes people involved in occult activity will curse you or your family. It is not that you can actually be cursed as a Christian. Rather, those who are against Christ and his people can focus demonic activity on you. Anger, bitterness and strife. These things feed off that. When we are vulnerable already or depressed better or what have you that's when they zoom in like flies on honey. When we're in that state of mind it's only by the blood of Jesus that we can defeat these vile entities.
I noticed Occult traditions have some ideas about the topic. Tradition suggests a maleficent spirit (or thought) can try an invasion. Normally we put it out of our mind, and it is gone. However, if we are passive in the face of a negative influence, eventually our connection with our own Higher Self may be severed. Our higher self is that part of our being that coexists with the realm of eternal Spirit. We are normally unaware of our higher self, but it steadily guides us invisibly. Call it our intuition. A negative entity (or thought) might try to replace our higher self (or intuition) with itself, like a parasite. If we allow it, the entity/thought will become our new, lower self. Then we’d be stuck, unable to access our higher self’s assistance. Once our own spiritual abilities are extinguished we require help from others.
There are many demons assigned to torment us by satan just as Jesus assigns angels to look after us . We have demons of fear running amok trying to destroy any and all humans before the appointed time. Yes they know very well the second coming of Jesus Christ will in fact take place. They already know they are defeated but they will still try to drag as many souls to hell with them or make our life hell in hopes we may take our own life or just live so miserable and depressed we end up making ourselves sick. It is their job to torment us day in and day out. They messed with our heads in major ways. They HATE humans. They hate our guts and want nothing but death for us. But remember, Christ is in control. The battle has already been won. Jesus got his victory and his grave was literally denied because he appeared before a certain amount of people so they could see him and touch him and told them to go spread the word and they said Jesus what shall we do the devil roams about like a lion and he says......and I quote " I leave you with the power of the Holy Spirit so you may cast out demons in my name."
Written By Jennifer L Auld
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Tragic Paranormal TV Follies
By Reverend Mark Hunnemann
Recently a fine blog was written regarding the dangers of indiscriminate watching of paranormal television programs. I want to piggyback on that and point out a couple things I noticed recently that took paranormal folly to new and more dangerous depths. I don't say these things out of ridicule, but out of sincere concern for all involved in this thing we call "paranormal" (or I prefer supernatural).
I watch a lot of paranormal programs, but I do so to assist me in my calling to educate people regarding the spread of supernatural evil and how to avoid it.And I pray before and during each program for protection.
When critiquing people we need to stop and ask: am I loving this person as Christ would? With that in mind, my first concern is what Zak Bagans said in the most recent "Aftershock" program, where he interviews people from past investigations to see how they are doing. I think that is a noble and good thing for him to do.
During this episode Bagans interviewed an investigator whom they were convinced became temporarily possessed during an investigation. Footage was shown of him in this altered state and it appeared that something was wrong with this man.However, my focus is not on whether he was actually possessed but on what Mr Bagans said regarding it.
After the investigator stated that he did not suffer after the possession, Bagans stated that it appeared that some possessions may be therapeutic. How so? Since spirits are made of energy, then misfiring neurons in the brain may be "re-aligned" during the energy transfer of a possession. Hence, it may correct chronic problems for some people.
Something along those lines....
Granted, Mr Bagans did not seem to be dogmatic on this point but he was strongly suggesting the possibility. I say this humbly but that is foolish in the extreme to postulate that being possessed might actually be a good thing for some people. We all have heard of instances of demonic "healing"--whether through Reiki or whatever--but it always comes with a high price tag. Is it woth it to have one's body healed temporarily but then be damned to hell?
However I do want to point out that Zak Bagans does seem to follow his unbiblical presuppositions to their logical conclusion, which is absurdity and foolishness.
Secondly, I have been watching for the first time episodes from "Ghost Asylum", with the guys from Tennessee Wraith Chasers. Again, I have to humble myself before the Lord before commenting because walking with the Lord is moment by moment and I want to reflect the heart of Christ.
In one sense this show is just like all the others, with all the attendant dangers. However, there is an additional or new folly that they have introduced...at least it is new to me. Their stated mission is to not only investigate places and free spirits but to be the first team to CATCH a spirit--be it a ghost or demon. In one episode they were convinced the spirit was demonic (got that right anyway) but they were determined as ever to snare it in one of their contraptions. I ask you: how wise is it to attempt capturing a demon? We know that all the spirits present are demons, but even with their faulty beliefs, they still do not hesitate to try to imprison what they know to be a diabolical spirit. The devices they create each show are usually made of some kind of vacuuming mechanism along with some material like quartz to entrap the spirit.
This is not funny. It would make us weep, for them and the whole paranormal community. I have no idea how worse this makes the situation, but I have to believe that attempting to entrap a demon is going to open the floodgates even further. The more energy is put into communicating or interacting with the spirit realm, then the worse the consequences. There is no way in the world that a man-made machine will entrap a demon, UNLESS it allows itself to get "trapped" (to encourage more people to do the same perhaps). If/when that happens, God help them.
I am not surprised at this because of the law of diminishing returns. This introduces a whole new and exciting adventure and entertainment......with more people being drawn into the paranormal craze. But the Lord tells us that the wisdom of man is foolishness. These are two sad examples of the inevitable foolishness that comes from disregarding the holy law of God, which is intended to protect us. May the Lord have mercy. Amen.
Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.
Recently a fine blog was written regarding the dangers of indiscriminate watching of paranormal television programs. I want to piggyback on that and point out a couple things I noticed recently that took paranormal folly to new and more dangerous depths. I don't say these things out of ridicule, but out of sincere concern for all involved in this thing we call "paranormal" (or I prefer supernatural).
I watch a lot of paranormal programs, but I do so to assist me in my calling to educate people regarding the spread of supernatural evil and how to avoid it.And I pray before and during each program for protection.
When critiquing people we need to stop and ask: am I loving this person as Christ would? With that in mind, my first concern is what Zak Bagans said in the most recent "Aftershock" program, where he interviews people from past investigations to see how they are doing. I think that is a noble and good thing for him to do.
During this episode Bagans interviewed an investigator whom they were convinced became temporarily possessed during an investigation. Footage was shown of him in this altered state and it appeared that something was wrong with this man.However, my focus is not on whether he was actually possessed but on what Mr Bagans said regarding it.
After the investigator stated that he did not suffer after the possession, Bagans stated that it appeared that some possessions may be therapeutic. How so? Since spirits are made of energy, then misfiring neurons in the brain may be "re-aligned" during the energy transfer of a possession. Hence, it may correct chronic problems for some people.
Something along those lines....
Granted, Mr Bagans did not seem to be dogmatic on this point but he was strongly suggesting the possibility. I say this humbly but that is foolish in the extreme to postulate that being possessed might actually be a good thing for some people. We all have heard of instances of demonic "healing"--whether through Reiki or whatever--but it always comes with a high price tag. Is it woth it to have one's body healed temporarily but then be damned to hell?
However I do want to point out that Zak Bagans does seem to follow his unbiblical presuppositions to their logical conclusion, which is absurdity and foolishness.
Secondly, I have been watching for the first time episodes from "Ghost Asylum", with the guys from Tennessee Wraith Chasers. Again, I have to humble myself before the Lord before commenting because walking with the Lord is moment by moment and I want to reflect the heart of Christ.
In one sense this show is just like all the others, with all the attendant dangers. However, there is an additional or new folly that they have introduced...at least it is new to me. Their stated mission is to not only investigate places and free spirits but to be the first team to CATCH a spirit--be it a ghost or demon. In one episode they were convinced the spirit was demonic (got that right anyway) but they were determined as ever to snare it in one of their contraptions. I ask you: how wise is it to attempt capturing a demon? We know that all the spirits present are demons, but even with their faulty beliefs, they still do not hesitate to try to imprison what they know to be a diabolical spirit. The devices they create each show are usually made of some kind of vacuuming mechanism along with some material like quartz to entrap the spirit.
This is not funny. It would make us weep, for them and the whole paranormal community. I have no idea how worse this makes the situation, but I have to believe that attempting to entrap a demon is going to open the floodgates even further. The more energy is put into communicating or interacting with the spirit realm, then the worse the consequences. There is no way in the world that a man-made machine will entrap a demon, UNLESS it allows itself to get "trapped" (to encourage more people to do the same perhaps). If/when that happens, God help them.
I am not surprised at this because of the law of diminishing returns. This introduces a whole new and exciting adventure and entertainment......with more people being drawn into the paranormal craze. But the Lord tells us that the wisdom of man is foolishness. These are two sad examples of the inevitable foolishness that comes from disregarding the holy law of God, which is intended to protect us. May the Lord have mercy. Amen.
Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.
Monday, April 20, 2015
Dalai Lama: Helping Others is 'Wise-Selfish' Since all are Connected
Some of the Dalai Lama's teachings Tuesday were surprising: Meditation can double the body’s ability to fight infections. With more education, religion might disappear in the next 1,000 years. Selfishness is good – if it is wise selfishness. Looking to the secular ethics that undergird all of the major religions is one path of uniting humanity. Compassion can be taught – and women have a special responsibility to promote affection.
The Dalai Lama, considered the reincarnation of the founding teacher-saint of Tibet, Gedun Drub, and also an emanation of the compassion of the Buddha, has dedicated his life to promoting the way of compassion and peace. His rambling talks Tuesday, in a public event at the Gwinnett Center attended by more than 8,000 people, were frequently interrupted by his laughter. He pointed to the possibility of teaching compassion and promoting peace by untangling ethics from religion and emphasizing the common sense of secular ethics.
“Destruction of neighbor is destruction of yourself – everything is interdependent,” The Dalai Lama said.
The Dalai Lama’s secular ethics, outlined in his 2011 book, “Beyond Religion: Ethics for a Whole World,” points to the basis of ethical behavior as stemming from three factors: common experiences of human beings; common sense that good relationships are based on friendship, trust, respect and honesty; and scientific findings.
In the last 20 years, the Dalai Lama has also led discussions about the intersection of science and religion. At his initiative the Drepung Loseling Monastery schools have modernized the teaching of science. With the help of Emory professors, new science textbooks have been produced, replacing ancient texts that taught that the world was flat.
Healthy mind, healthy body
The Dalai Lama has also reminded the scientists that building a healthy body is dependent upon building a healthy mind.
“It is a scientific finding that fear, anger, hatred is actually eating the human begin,” the Dalai Lama said.
“In order to build a healthy body, we must pay more attention to a healthy mind. An education system oriented around material value is inadequate.”
Human beings may naturally be selfish, but they are also naturally compassionate, science shows. Helping someone else does make a person feel good – but that is a wise kind of selfish, the Dalai Lama said.
“By nature, every human being loves oneself,” the Dalai Lama said. “But by helping another, you are building your own happy future. We should be wise-selfish rather than foolish-selfish (like someone who takes drugs).”
The Dalai Lama himself attributes his earliest lessons about love and compassion to his mother. He remembers riding on her back and tugging at her ears like she was a horse to get her to go the way he wanted.
“No one ever saw my mother’s angry face; they saw my mother’s gentleness,” the Dalai Lama said. “My mother was so kind.”
While he said one can’t always generalize, he himself generalized to say that women have a special role in promoting human affection.
The afternoon’s presentations were made by researchers at the Mind and Life Institute, the Center for Investigating Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Yerkes National Primate Research Center at Emory, and the Department of Religion at Emory University.
Research is showing that the incidence of cooperation, compassion, helping and empathy among animals, particularly mammals, offers a corrective to the simplistic generalization that evolution progresses through the survival of the fittest.
Animals are demonstrating a sense of fairness and empathy, the Mind and Life Institute is developing a curriculum to teach secular ethics, and mindfulness meditation can significantly affect the ability of the brain to recover from trauma and of the body to fight diseases.
Presence of peace
But perhaps the most enduring impression of the day is just the power of the lovingness of the Dalai’s personality.
“Is there a better ambassador of peace?” asked Augusta Kantra of Mobile, Ala., as she and some friends waited in the line that wrapped around the immense Gwinnett Center, inching through security. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to be able to see someone who has had that influence over so many people. We want to be in the presence of a man who’s spreading peace.”
Bhavani Kakani, the founder and director of AshaKiran, a non-profit in Huntsville, Ala., that seeks to strengthen families and to fight domestic violence, particularly in the Southeast Asian immigrant community, traveled with friends for the event. She admired how the Dalai Lama was interested in science and would ask questions, not taking results at face value just because they supported his teachings.
Kakani said coming now was particularly appropriate since Huntsville has just become, by resolution of the City Council, the first city in Alabama to begin the process of becoming certified as a Compassionate City with the International Campaign for Compassionate Cities, and Birmingham is fifth on a list of compassionate U.S. cities released by Forbes last week.
For Kakani, the Dalai Lama’s message that changing the world begins with one’s self, not with government systems or large organizations, resonated.
“If we have empathy and compassion in our heart, we become that,” said Kakani, who is Hindu. “The Buddha teaches: What we think, we become – and what we become, the world becomes.”
Original link to story with photos: http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2013/10/dalai_lama_helping_others_is_w.html
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