WHAT IS DIVINE LOVE???

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter November 2013

by Pura Isham

What is Divine Love? Every thought, every feeling which does not vibrate love clouds understanding, and takes you further away from Spirit. Spirit is joy, is life, is the breath and movement of creation. Divine Love is Light, is Abundant, is Infinite, is Incorruptible, is Boundless. It is a cord, a stream of Light/Energy that is always available to the Divine Self of who you are.

Divine Love experiences joy whenever you awaken to its Radiance. This joy, and this radiance merging and pausing and merging again and again gives you, the awakened one, the realization, the awareness that you are Divinely loved. You also realize that in you exists the Divine and Love, and that there is no one wthout the Other just as there is no YOU without The Divine and no Love without YOU.

Pura Isham is a student of spirituality, metaphysics and esoteric subjects. As a very inquisitive person, Pura has been studying these areas for many years, most recently with her teacher, Mario C. Veo. We thank her for the inspiration she is to us, and letting us peek through this window to her personal spiritual path.

PSYCHIC FAIR – SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY 2013

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter November 2013

NOVEMBER 30, 2013 – 10:30 am to 6 pm

at Shining Lotus™
$1 a minute Psychic, Palmistry or Tarot Card Readings
$1 a minute Chair Massage or Foot Reflexology
Every item in the store is 25% off
$5 meditation led by Mario C. Veo at 3:45 pm
ALL READING SESSIONS ARE $1 A MINUTE

Medium/Clairvoyant Readings. Patty Kemp will bring her clairvoyant and intuitive gifts to assist you in expanding your energetic health and advancing your spiritual growth.

Intuitive Readings. Norma Mitchell will provide very accurate intuitive readings that help clear negativity and invite peace, love, good health and prosperity into your life.

Tarot Readings. SuEllen Shepard will invoke the power and mystery of Tarot Imagery to help you reveal the possibilities as you move forward in your life during this powerful time of healing.

Chair Massage. Edna Garcia will add a relaxing, healing and therapeutic chair massage to your Small Business Saturday experience.

Foot Reflexology. Reflexologist Linda Davis will make sure your body and “sole” are perfectly aligned with a foot massage.

Palmistry. Mario C. Veo will give palmistry readings throughout the day, helping you find clarity and insights right in the palm of your hand.

Mario will lead a $5 meditation at 3:45 pm, designed to awaken your awareness, embrace your spirituality and align your abilities with the Divine. This is an entire day dedicated to  spiritual awakening and working toward enlightenment.

Save 25% on every product in the store, every book, every candle, every card, every gift. Everything is 25% off. If you feel guided to be with people of like mind on this auspicious day, please come to the Shining Lotus on Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2013.

SAILING THE STARS

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter November 2013

by Drusant

The sailors of old with their masted ships would look to the sea and ask what was out there beyond their vision. Those sailors did become greater than their containment and they were pushed along in their quest by their imaginations. The sailors became greater than their accepted limits of boundaries.

We look to the moon and the stars at night although we may feel restricted by our physical form. It is our imagination that will push us to sail beyond those seas. Our soul looks beyond the stars as if we wish to venture into a new territory. The stars encourage us to navigate the many dreams of possibility. We are truly greater than that which we see and we are truly greater than the limits of this material reality.

When we are capable of stretching into the borders of the cosmos by our thoughts, then by definition, we have the capacity to exceed the telescopes or the masted sails of spacecraft. In other words, we are truly greater than we can possibly imagine and we can exceed that which we perceive.

Put your soul’s eye into the center of the revolving galaxy and tell me what you see. Put your soul into understanding and tell me what you feel.

Drusant is the pen name of a long-time, faithful customer of the Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore. A unendingly inquisitive mind that never stops asking ‘why?’ or ‘how?’, he continues to quest for esoteric, spiritual and paranormal answers in the Denver area. We are extremely grateful to him for allowing us to publish his creative writings in our newsletter and on our website. Go to www.shininglotus.com and find the search field, type “drusant” and enjoy some of his other articles.

WHO ARE YOU...REALLY???

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter November 2013

by Mario C. Veo

I have always been fascinated by Power and Empowerment…especially once I realized that most of us haven’t a clue!

We drift through Life mesmerized by all that is noisy and shiny, without realizing that it is all designed to use up our Time and Energy…until one day we wake up and wonder where did it all go…and…is it too late now…? What happened to ‘The True One’ – that wonderful Soul Mate that so I yearned for…the Great Job that would fulfill me, and be my valued contribution to society…the Wonderful Family that would openly love and appreciate me, without condemnation and criticism…and those True Friends that will walk with me through Life, so I could share Laughter and Joy.

You may well ask: “Are these things possible?“…or are they Romantic Illusions created by starry-eyed idealists…? Reality check – “when most marriages end in divorce, is there True Love…?”

So, I went searching for the answers, and what I found amazed me – Yes, without question, all this IS both True AND Freely Available…however, there is a small catch: You must first discover who you really are…!

You see, the World is not fixed and rigid…there is no ‘One Answer fits All’…and so it is your own Inner Truth that guides you to Success, to Joy, to Fulfillment…and ONLY by realizing this can you awaken a little known Inner Resonance which will automatically and magnetically draw to you all you most desire – in a way that is health, balanced, and rewarding.

And so, I dedicate this month to the exploration of these Energies – both good and bad – so that YOU can be in Choice…and know what you can do to Live Joyfully…or not…as you wish!

Mario C. Veo was born in Italy and grew up in Africa. From an early age his love for Spirituality and Metaphysics led him to explore a wide range of disciplines. He has studied with Sufis, Shamans and Spiritual Masters from around the world. Mario is a senior T’ai Chi and Chi Gong instructor, a Spiritual Counselor, Shaman and Healer, and teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation, Empowerment, Manifestation and Spiritual Alignments. He is available for personal guidance and consultations.
Mario is the featured reader on Tuesdays from 12:30pm to 6pm at the Shining Lotus™. He is also available from 12:30pm to 6pm on the last Sunday of every month.

A BETTER WAY TO MANIFEST…OR, HOW TO TALK TO SPIRIT, AND HAVE IT LISTEN!

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter October 2013

by Mario C. Veo

No matter how ‘attractive’ a new approach may appear, some things should not be forgotten for they are still the best way.

Since the very beginning of Time, gifted Medicine Men and Women reached out to Spirit for guidance and protection. As their skills grew, they learned how to call upon the very Energies of Creation, and through these, achieve a most joyful and satisfying Life…not for them the struggles and turmoils of everyday…nor the meek subservient attitudes of the masses…

NO!  They were Men and Women of Power…not some little submissive wusses who timidly approached Life with faint heart… They were CREATORS!!, shapers of their own Destiny…wise in the Ways of Spirit.
…and, they left us their Knowledge, IF we are good enough to follow in their footsteps (now, ain’t that a hoot!?!)

There is great power in Rituals and Ceremonies, for they not only invoke Spirit, but weave together Energies to manifest safely and efficiently.

We are offering a 7-week Workshop Series starting September 14th to October 26th in 2013. (Saturday afternoons from 2 to 3:30 pm)
Each Saturday we will explore in-depth a different Ritual or Ceremony that will empower you to shape your Life and live joyfully and abundantly.

We will cover Blessing and Protection Rituals (both personal and for home/business); Invocations for Good Luck/Prosperity/Wealth; Healing Rituals; Divorce Ceremonies (did you know that until you do this, you are still tied to your Ex… ye’gads!). You will also learn how to personalize Rituals to manifest whatever you desire…safely and efficiently.

So… what have you got to lose? …except your limitations!?!

Mario C. Veo is a teacher of Spiritual Science and a Healing Arts Practitioner. He teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation and the Expansion of Consciousness. Mario is available for personal guidance and consultations on Tuesday afternoons at the Shining Lotus Bookstore.

MOVE BEYOND YOUR DIAGNOSIS

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter October 2013

by Audra Browne

Monday, October 7, 2013. 7 - 9 pm. $20.

Do you have mystery symptoms that leave your mainstream medical doctors totally baffled? 
Do you find that the only help you are able to secure is through alternative medicine, shamanic healers, TCMs, etc.? Do your symptoms come on on suddenly, acutely, debilitatingly, and then completely disappear for periods of time?

Have you been labeled as having fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (or any of the other related “medical mystery” disorders) with no resolution of symptoms except through opiate pain relievers or other slightly effective medications that leave you unable to function?
Do you find that when you go for diagnostic testing, the doctors make guesses, put you on medicines, and never give you clear-cut answers or results?
Furthermore, if you do have a test-verifiable condition, do you find your medications react in ways doctors don’t suspect?

Furthermore…
Have you ever suspected that something was just different about the way you process the world? Have you ever considered that you’re not crazy, or misled, or maladjusted…that your body knows something you don’t? That your hunch that you are somehow different is actually right?
If any of this describes you, welcome to the club.

What would you say if I told you that the cause may be genetic, and that it may have a  very simple treatment? How much time, money and effort might you save yourself by ordering a simple genetic test?

My name is Audra Browne, and for all intents and purposes, to both the standard and the alternative medical establishment, I’m no one. But to you…I may have the answer you seek.

My story is simple. I was once a beleaguered patient, with “more problems than the average 20 or 30 year old”, as all of my doctors and practitioners had stated it. However, a background in the more clandestine and hidden areas of research, experience in practical chemistry, a keen intuition for how the ‘back door’ of the internet functions, plus a couple of really fortunate strokes of providence, once I hit the bottom of my endurance, were what led me to a realization that has rocked not only my world, but the worlds of those who surround me, and has set me on the path to curing the sometimes debilitating ailments I was suffering from.

Some of the stuff I am going to tell you is dense, other pieces hard to believe, some you’ve heard a number of times, and maybe you’ve even dismissed these absolute truths as propaganda, “health nut kookiness” or lies. But what I will tell you in the course will change your life, and may save it, too. That’s why it’s important that you know how to start unraveling your personal puzzle, and what path you or a loved one must take, so that you no longer tolerate incorrect diagnoses, unneeded prescriptions, and dangerous medical guessing on the part of your doctors.

Come and take the class. Within it, you will discover the things that have been holding you or those you love back, how to get tested, and how to proceed  with this new information that you now have. Come and discover the answer to the problems that have been plaguing you throughout your life. Are you part of the 40 to 60% of the human population who could benefit from this simple knowledge?

TOXIC CHAOS...OR...HOW I LEARNED TO LIVE A JOYOUS LIFE

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter October 2013

by Mario C. Veo

Many, many, many years ago friends of mine decided that “it was about time that I grew up and settled down…and that they knew this really nice girl…”

She was described as fun, energetic and passionate. Giving in to my curiosity I accepted…and it turned out to be the most bizarre – but energetic – date. Quite simply, I thought, we would catch a play, go to a nice little Italian restaurant, and see what happens…well, what did I know…?

It all started when I thought I would ‘take a short-cut’ which landed me on a road much too narrow – overwhelmed by traffic, I rushed (just a few minutes late) to her apartment only to find her already waiting for me impatiently. What followed was (ehm) ‘an interesting discussion’ as to the best way to get to the Theater. We did get there (just in time), flying up the stairs and being rushed to our seats just as the curtains rose (be grateful for small mercies, we did not have any time for chit-chat).

The play was, I thought, rather nice – some experimental piece about inner angst and getting lost in an overwhelming world of money and prostitution. How was I to know that she was a “cultural activist”, with strong opinions about the writer, the director, and the leading actress? I seem to remember her multiple use of the words prostitution!, debasement of human morals!, Nietzsche (yes, good ol’ Freddy)…and some other stuff. She was a Philosophy major, so she had a good vocabulary.

Dinner was…well, the food was, as always, great (although I must say, that night I appreciated the wine a bit more)…let’s just say that the discussion followed as it had been. As I drove her home – thinking that finally it was over – she totally surprised me by saying how stimulating the evening had been, how much she had enjoyed our ‘exchange of opinions’ and that she was looking forward (really?!) to our next date!!!

Well, smack me with a mackerel… and here I thought that it was beyond ruined! (no, I did not take her up on her offer of a night cap…I may be a guy, and I know all about which head drives my hormones…but I can equally look into the future. If this was what she found exciting, then I would have no pleasure. So, as a good gentleman (yes, I can be that as well) I politely declined…and refrained from making further comments…

What did all this teach me? NEVER allow your ‘friends’ to meddle in your love life… next – DO NOT accept any blind dates without much research…but most of all – Way too many people enjoy the Drama of Life…all that is Chaotic, Traumatic, filled with Turmoil…they find exciting! For them, this is Life at its most interesting…How sad!
Later, through my Spiritual Studies, I learned about the connection between Chaos and Illness…between Drama and Unhappiness…between Antagonism and the Dark Brotherhood.

Which brings me to this month’s classes – October is dedicated to learning how to release our Toxic Emotions, how to balance our Stress, how to awaken our Higher Mind, and how to create ‘True and Proper protection’…so that we can all embrace a Joyous Life. Or, would you like an ‘energetic date’…I know this girl who…she’s really nice…very (ehm) “fun…energetic…passionate“…

So… what have you got to lose? …except your limitations!?!

Mario C. Veo is a teacher of Spiritual Science and a Healing Arts Practitioner. He teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation and the Expansion of Consciousness. Mario is available for personal guidance and consultations on Tuesday afternoons at the Shining Lotus Bookstore.

PERFECTION OF THE PURPLE ORCHIDS

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter August 2013

by D. E. Campbell

The pervasive harmonies of smell and sight enlighten our summer senses. The onset of the northern rising of Cassiopeia A boasts the beauties of summer over all seasons and phases.

We seek to bring to light the higher consciousness. The intermediary connection to the future perfected spirit which guides the gifts of the higher divine mind. The ancient Vedic hymn denotes this path and consciousness as the 7 waters of the divine, or the 7 sisters. It is the undying veils which shroud the pure divine psychological concepts, even now; the legacy of the Symbolic Veda leads to the causeways of pure truth.

The Orchid is that very symbol; the reflective energies of the stars and planets are seen flowing in the abstract 5 point shape, the petals seem to orbit the center molecule of the orchid’s blossom. As we ascend forward into higher consciousness, we flow through the stem of life, being immersed in the knowledge of pure lights.

We move further in the growth of the flower, obtaining the pure consciousness of the whole orchid, and here are found the pervasive energies of life; the mind forms an exotic shape and color, upon emersion in divine territories. The spirit-mind assumes a glow; it is the inner luminosity, reflective of having been unveiled in divine consciousness.

The Orchid is the pure perfected desire of the plant kingdoms wishes to move beyond all possibilities.

Left undisturbed, over the next million years on Earth the orchid will become a magical breathing entity, capable of immeasurable perfected mutations. Human life will likewise evolve and obtain more beautiful perfections, and luminosity of Soul. For the orchid is the mind of a human, if left alone and untouched, unharmed by the outer world. Through love of all creatures, all life and humanity, we can redefine our role in this new age. Life is the symbol, it is written everywhere in nature, reflecting above in the galaxy.

SECRETS, SECRETS...NOTHING BUT SECRETS!!

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter August 2013

by Mario C. Veo

I once spent a most frustrating 20 hours attending a Workshop which was advertised as “Revealing the Most Powerful of all Secrets“…one that was guaranteed to give me ‘unlimited power’ – now I could (should I wish) win at any gambling table/attract the very best job/cind my ‘one-true-love’/be in perfect health…and even “Be Enlightened“! (be still me Heart!)

Well, how can you pass on such wonderful promises…I know, I know – if it’s too good to be true… I should have been wary – but – the Facilitator was a man of ‘repute’, one of the current “in-Gurus”…so I thought I’d trust his status, and give it a shot…(when will I ever learn!?!)

So, after 20 grueling hours, listening to variations on the Theme “I am Great, and will share with you – my special guests – the Secret of All Ages“…(soon it’s just so much noise). Finally, the Great Reveal…and…(wait for it)…he gets it wrong!!!

Not only does he misunderstand the Ancient Vedic Teachings (which, I will grant you, can be rather abstract), but then proceeds to mangle the information, insists on translating it (poorly) into Hebrew, and presents it in such a materialistic misconception as to ‘offend the original Virtue‘ (and here I thought I could trust his ads!)

Was it a total waste of time…? Well, I thought so at first, and then I realized that Spirit never gives you something which is totally useless.

So, what did I learn?

Yes, there are “True Secrets” out there – and they are the Key to many Teachings (they allow Theory to be brought into Practice).
No, these Secrets are not ‘mysterious’, nor limited to a select/entitled few – anyone can, and should, study them (after all, how else would you expand your Consciousness). They have been taught, and available, for thousands of years…sorry, there is NOTHING new in New Age.
No, you do not have to be ‘special’, nor need to have been selected…all it takes is curiosity, and a desire for Knowledge (after all, Karma will keep you on the right Path).
And finally, beware of Elitist Teachers…for many simply teach for Money, and not for Spirit.

Which brings me to our Tuesday Classes – Secrets to Happiness, Chakras, Success & Overcoming Obstacles, so many Secrets! They are designed to address, clearly and succinctly, many of the Great Teachings (things I have learned over more than 40 years of Spiritual and Metaphysical research). Each class is usually offered as a ‘stand-alone’ – so there is no long term commitment…unless you so desire. You are all welcome…as long as you are indeed a Spiritual Seeker…so, check out the info on our website, and see if any “Secrets” appeal to you.

Mario C. Veo is a teacher of Spiritual Science and a Healing Arts Practitioner. He teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation and the Expansion of Consciousness. Mario is available for personal guidance and consultations on Tuesday afternoons at the Shining Lotus Bookstore.

SUMMER BUTTERFLIES

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter July 2013

by D. E. Campbell

The butterfly emerges during the summer for an amazing lifetime adventure; the days of spring prepare the many species of soon to be butterflies in anticipation of the summer flight. The science of the butterflies gives light into the variations of color and patterns within the digital wings of the butterfly. As summertime begins; The life of the butterfly is sent into the breezy orbits of bliss. Each new season will add a newer corresponding effect to the color evolution of every species of butterfly.

Essentially a butterfly is a Flying Flower; they have taken on the molecular characteristics of the elements which support them. 

As the caterpillar becomes a butterfly it lives in the presence of the grasses and flowers. The waves of life & light within the plant kingdom infuse the caterpillar with the genetic seed and source code for the Re-Birth and directives in life. Upon emerging from the cocoon the reincarnated butterfly is an, altered evolution, a futuristic perfection, as only the mother Earth can magically weave into existence. The butterfly lives to collect genetic knowledge and transfer sacred geometric languages throughout their regulated inherent species rendered path.

Flowers and butterflies speak to one another, through sacred coded languages, and evolved group spirit knowledge. It is evident the many flowers within the plant kingdom share information with the butterflies, helping them to evolve into further perfected species. Likewise, the group spirit kingdoms of the butterflies share information with the flowers and alike species, in the plant kingdoms, to coexist and further one another’s group development.

Butterflies represent positive perfected evolution, even amid the modern background radiation effects and environmental extremes associated with human development. The Butterfly is an order of insects known as Lepidoptera, they along with Moths, are a part of a larger super order known as Endopterygota. Let us enjoy the summer butterflies; they are pure perfections, much like the orchid and the lotus, each Species striving for perfection on the beautiful earth. The reflecting qualities of the flowers within the butterflies are seen in the wing developments, color patterns, and antennae. It is as if the Flower desired to fly and the insect kingdom helped this effect proceed into the material world, through the evolutions of the butterfly.

The caterpillar stage is the reincarnating effect witnessed in all forms of life and nature. It is the Sun with the rays of life causing the springtime to spring into action, while the Summer Sun energizes the planet and the kingdoms of life, inspiring reincarnating effects and change.

PLANT YOUR EXPRESSION OF SPIRIT

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter July 2013

by Denise Montoya

Enter summer and find yourselves planting and creating a tapestry from the flowers and plants you have chosen.  Let it be your own expression of who you are.  Allow unfolding of your garden to give you enjoyment as life reveals itself.  Recognize that by working in your garden your life will find growth.  Even if we are not planting a garden, evolution can come into your life by the imagination.  Seeing the result of what you want and transition towards your spiritual true self.  Plant your inner garden too, which can bring your true articulation.  The poem contains perhaps a concept for you to ponder.

T H E   G A R D E N

Come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses…

FOR THE GARDEN OF YOUR DAILY LIVING PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS:

 Peace of mind
 Peace of heart
 Peace of soul
PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH:

 Squash gossip
 Squash indifference
 Squash grumbling
 Squash selfishness
PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE:

 Lettuce be faithful
  Lettuce be kind
  Lettuce be patient
 Lettuce really love one another
NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS:

Turnip for meetings
Turnip for service
Turnip to help one another
TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME:

 Thyme for each other
 Thyme for family
 Thyme for friends
WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE.

THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW.

Denise Montoya has over 1000 hours of training and over four years experience teaching yoga, breathing, and meditation techniques. Let yoga be an avenue for your inner calmness, peace and tranquility. Yoga can offer many benefits for your body and mind. It regulates our heart rate and increases oxygen up take. It can increase your energy, improve digestion, and reduce stress. OMYoga, LLC.  denisemontoya7@msn.com 303-507-3388.

SUCCESS OR FAILURE...LIFE IS A TRIP - DON'T FALL!

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter June 13

by Mario C. Veo

There is a simple “Secret” to a happy, fulfilling Life – Change…wonderful, joyous, unexpected, challenging (but never boring) Change…unfortunately too many of us don’t know how to embrace this with enough flexibility to make it work correctly. Change is inevitable – every day we grow older (not necessarily wiser), every day we face totally unexpected events (have you ever swallowed a fly…inadvertently of course), every day we repeat the same mundane actions hoping that Life will keep on being what we expect…well, accept this, it simply is not going to.

So, why is that…?

Here is the great “Secret” – we are part of an ever expanding Universe and , if we wish to succeed, we’d better keep up with it!! It is always, and only, our Choice – we can grow, expend, blossom, discover new gifts and abilities…or not… We can choose to b#tch and moan, complain endlessly that “no matter what I do, it simply doesn’t work“…well, keep this up and only Disease, Disorder, and Destruction will remain available to you (not the Triple-Ds I am fond of).

So, what can we do…?

This month is dedicated to Self-Empowerment, to releasing all our struggles and limiting ideas – be these of poor health or self-esteem, financial difficulties of lack of Higher Guidance…no longer submissive, but Self-Empowered to create whatever we wish…and a lot more! It is my firm belief that Life is for living…joyfully and abundantly (otherwise God would not have created Chocolate!), and I will gladly share with you all that I’ve learned on my interesting Journey. So, if you are facing health challenges, disruptive Karmas, struggling with Manifestation, or in need of Protection…I welcome you to join our classes (don’t worry, we’re all in the same boat, paddling as fast as we can…but, trust me, we ARE going in the right direction!).

Mario C. Veo was born in Italy and grew up in Africa. From an early age his love for Spirituality and Metaphysics led him to explore a wide range of disciplines. He has studied with Sufis, Shamans and Spiritual Masters from around the world. Mario is a senior T’ai Chi and Chi Gong instructor, a Spiritual Counselor, Shaman and Healer, and teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation, Empowerment, Manifestation and Spiritual Alignments. He is available for personal guidance and consultations.
Mario is the featured reader on Tuesdays from 12:30pm to 6pm at the Shining Lotus™. He is also available from 12:30pm to 6pm on the last Sunday of every month.

TREES AND THE SPIRIT OF THEIR WISDOM

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter June 13

by Denise Montoya

Trees grace us with an unusual allure; as individualistic as we are.   The wisdom of a tree is truly beautiful, and they unfold with each season.  Let us learn from trees; focusing on nature and releasing of stresses.  Trees stand in their abundance for us to view, each spirited woody perennial gives life to the fullest creation. Their roots go deep and thrive with each new beginning.   The attention given to each root, each branch, and leaf shows in their exultant growth.  They stand tall and with their natural qualities, and their growth extends beyond limitations. The types are of a vast list. Each tree has a lesson in the amount of water it can devour.  One type the aspen, will share its water available with those of its family.   They know that water is the gift of life and will always take in what is given.  As rain and snow provide moisture, trees stand majestically, and partake in the beatific and bring forth new maturation. Let us enjoy trees; as they are fruitful with shade, fruit and blossoms.   There here for their true purpose providing us with the miracle of their fruition.  Let us begin to follow in their roots as we live life to the fullest.  The following poem gives the message of what the simple but yet miraculous trees have to say.

Stand tall and proud.

Sink your roots deep into earth.

Be content with your natural beauty.

Go out on a limb.

Drink plenty of water.

Remember your roots.

Enjoy the view.

by Ilan Shamir

Denise Montoya has over 1000 hours of training and over four years experience teaching yoga, breathing, and meditation techniques. Let yoga be an avenue for your inner calmness, peace and tranquility. Yoga can offer many benefits for your body and mind. It regulates our heart rate and increases oxygen up take. It can increase your energy, improve digestion, and reduce stress.

OMYoga, LLC.  denisemontoya7@msn.com 303-507-3388.

SO...HOW DO YOU DEFINE YOURSELF?

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter May 13

PURA’S INSIGHTFUL APPROACH TO A HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT
by Pura Isham

I really define myself as an individual with desires to live life, with desires to grow in a more vertical, spirally way with discernment and compassion. As I contemplate this question I sense that different aspects of who I’ve been, who I am, and who I am becoming have gone and will go through a process of fulfillment, development, and satisfaction with and without stagnation. I am aware that there may still be areas in my life that need to be healed and reintegrated, a process of closure, commitment, growth, expansion and many other things, and possibilities which will bring or create their own challenges and joy.

I think that for now and in the long future (other lifetimes) there is going to be a critical, a social voice, a scale that will define through impositions who and what I am. Most of this answer is so concrete and tangible, and at the same time I am ever so aware that I am more than this. There is the spiritual Divine component of who I am and yes, to a certain extent, my concrete and tangible answer is somehow intertwined with my spiritual process of fulfillment, of the development of growth and expansion.

The extent that I define myself as a creator begins so far as accepting the responsibilities of my participation in the things I have accepted, that I have chosen, that I have decided upon, that I have enjoyed, that I have screwed up in my life. All of these and more have I created whether I have been aware of it or not.

So, it has taken a while in this lifetime to really become aware of claiming, truly claiming myself as a creator, and to be conscientious about the kingdom of Creationship which is mine because I am part of Creation Itself. Great Question! This answer, so far, it’s a very powerful beginning and continuation of experiencing, conscientiously, this integral aspect of who I am. Because of where I am on my Spiritual Path, on my Discipleship Path, I am learning and remembering with understanding and consciousness that I have always been a creator and that I can’t be otherwise. Sai Ram.

This essay was in answer to a homework assignment from Mario C. Veo’s Esoteric Studies Class. The assignment was to write about your definition of yourself as a spiritual being, the scale on which your definition is based and to what extent do you define yourself as a creator.

Pura Isham is a student of spirituality, metaphysics and esoteric subjects. As a very inquisitive person, Pura has been studying these areas for many years, most recently with her teacher, Mario C. Veo. We thank her for the inspiration she is to us, and letting us peek through this window to her personal spiritual path.

SO, YOU THINK YOUR MIND CANNOT DECEIVE YOU, EH…?

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter May 13

by Mario C. Veo

Jack was seen walking around New York City frantically beating two wooden sticks together.
“What are you doing?” asked the cop.
“I’m keeping the lions away!” replied Jack, striking the sticks even harder.
Bewildered, the cop said, “There are no lions in New York!”
To which, Jack wisely replied, “You see…it really works!!!”

So now I ask you: who is ‘right’ – Jack or the cop? Both of their belief systems were proven to be correct – in their own minds…but only because they believed in it. Now then is the next question for you: as the Wise Outsider to this outplay, what do you believe in…and why? It is the Mind which drives and directs us, frequently without us even questioning why…and through this, create the demands imposed upon us by ‘Life’.

I recently bumped into an old friend who was wearing a glorious purple coat – when I complimented her on it she told me that it was her favorite…yet I have never seen her wear it in all the many years I have known her. Was she wearing it now because she felt good about herself – thus wanted to ‘reward herself’…or did she do it because she needed ‘pampering’? We all have ‘favorite colors’ (and we know the powerful effect Color has on our wellbeing), yet we never stop to consider “why??”

Much information is locked within our Minds – especially our Subconscious Mind – so this month I have dedicated a series of classes to explore this intriguing mystery…from the Obstacles it programs, to the Success it yearns for…from its ability to manifest (or not), to the Curses it attracts. Fascinating…simply fascinating.

Mario C. Veo was born in Italy and grew up in Africa. From an early age his love for Spirituality and Metaphysics led him to explore a wide range of disciplines. He has studied with Sufis, Shamans and Spiritual Masters from around the world. Mario is a senior T’ai Chi and Chi Gong instructor, a Spiritual Counselor, Shaman and Healer, and teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation, Empowerment, Manifestation and Spiritual Alignments. He is available for personal guidance and consultations. Mario is the featured reader on Tuesdays from 12:30pm to 6pm at the Shining Lotus™. He is also available from 12:30pm to 6pm on the last Sunday of every month.

SPRING CAN BE KEY TO SPIRIT

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter May 13

by Denise Montoya

Our true beauty can be found by enjoying what nature has to offer. For instance, thinking that winter has left us may bring us relief, but the surprise of a heavy spring snowstorm can be tranquil. As it falls in its perfect stillness, let your mind release all stresses and focus on the moment. Let us welcome any and all moisture as a blessing from the universe and feel it cleanse our soul. The snow can be a chore, but rejoice in what it does for our gardens. Furthermore, as moisture comes in those heavy spring storms, let your unproductive thoughts fall away to the ground with the snow. Welcome to your heart and mind what nature brings for a new season and winter has gone for now.

Let the radiance of spring come into your body, mind and spirit. The beauty peaks through our lives bringing inklings of plants. This freshness of spring can be encouraging to go forth and create favorable expressions for our life. Spring is the promise of the many blossoms we look forward to, but remember you too are a blossom in your own special way. See the differences in the bountifulness of flowers and colors which come forth for us to enjoy; recognize that you too are unique and have your own beauty. Stated by Rama Jyoti , “allow nature to fill our pores with its majestic beauty,” continue to  discover yourself with the transformation that spring brings. Finding peace in the beauty of a tree or a flower can give us grace and compassion for the creator of such blessings. In return you may receive more calm to your mind. Each thought we have today can inspire and make our tomorrow better, so let’s enjoy what we can and take on each challenge with fullness.

Notice how the air changes in spring, to a renewed light breeze; offering your body the song of “prana” (breath) take it in fully to let it rejuvenate you. As the rain comes it provides us with great moisture, find cleansing with the water to release and bring you more of your natural allure.

As wind blows in our spring months it brings renewed creation, let us listen to its howl hearing the song of the cosmos and unseen. Everything is there for us to enjoy, may your time in the outdoors rejuvenate you. Our lives can be happier if we use our senses, to take time to notice what has been put in our surroundings. This may make the challenges of everyday life seem a little easier. As you find beauty in the sky, clouds or plants which come to fruition in spring remember and capture your true beauty- within.

Denise Montoya has over 1000 hours of training and over four years experience teaching yoga, breathing, and meditation techniques. Let yoga be an avenue for your inner calmness, peace and tranquility. Yoga can offer many benefits for your body and mind. It regulates our heart rate and increases oxygen up take. It can increase your energy, improve digestion, and reduce stress.

OMYoga, LLC.  denisemontoya7@msn.com 303-507-3388.

COLOUR MIRRORS ~ From South Africa

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Apr 13

with Moira Bush

Moira Bush

`If you truly let go of the patterns that no longer serve you who would you be?`Moira Bush.

Already well established in UK, Europe and the East ~this exciting and transformational `psychology of color` therapy will be presented to the USA here in Colorado by `Colour Mirrors` company partner and trainer, Moira Bush ~ well known clairvoyant and psychic from the UK. see www.moirabush.com

Using natural oils, these dual colored bottles reflect back to us the issues and history we carry in our auric fields, and working with a trained practitioner they give us the means to identify, connect with, and heal our deepest issues.

 Moira will be presenting and, explaining these beautifully faceted and colored oils to you, and will be performing free mini reading demonstrations with the bottles to some audience members.

*See article in April`s issue of Natural Awakenings magazine*

Wednesday 10^th April , 2013        7 -9 pm.

Shining Lotus Bookstore ~ 2178 S. Colorado Blvd. 

Cost $10.00 pp.~ Booking advised ~  303 7589113 or www.lifelightworks.com

WELCOME SPRING & THE REBIRTH OF NATURE

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Mar 13

by Denise Montoya

There is history on what St. Patrick’s Day commemorates and celebrates. All of that is for another article. St Patrick’s Day to me is the color of green, and the leprechauns whose character brings a smile to my face.

The color of green reminds me spring and the rebirth of nature is on its way. Try closing your eyes and imagine the color of green; and see how it brings brightness to your mind.

On the other hand, let little things like the cuteness of leprechauns bring a moment of joy. I imagine that little leprechaun dancing upon my yard and saying, “good tidings for another spring comes”. Or let us use our imagination to see the leprechaun spreading of his magic dust to bring in that green of spring.

If we can accept of what nature brings and transpires to each season we become more true to ourselves. We will be less stressed and be trusting to the universe to bring nature as it is meant to be. And deciding that nature’s best is what is coming into being; this acceptance is our agreement with the universe to bring the best for all. The result is being more content in our lives; because we release this to trust. By acceptance of what is, contentment brings us to a healthy state of mind.  Develop credence and cultivate wisdom by being happier with what the universe has transpired.  At times we will question this because of the incredible storms and disasters, but have confidence that these things are with the natural regeneration that is meant for transcendence to newness.

Denise Montoya

Let us see nature as it rebirths itself. Live in the fruition of a new spring to come, and find moments of rejuvenation. Take a walk and feel the vibration of this happening in the stillness or silence of all the earth’s essences.  Be grateful for the miracles that transpire each season and find joy in watching it develop to beauty of green.  By finding grace in such little things, it inspires us to a whole new appreciation for the meaning of our lives.

Denise Montoya has over 1000 hours of training and over four years experience teaching yoga, breathing, and meditation techniques. Let yoga be an avenue for your inner calmness, peace and tranquility. Yoga can offer many benefits for your body and mind. It regulates our heart rate and increases oxygen up take. It can increase your energy, improve digestion, and reduce stress.

OMYoga, LLC.  denisemontoya7@msn.com 303-507-3388.

FINDING SPIRIT IN THE NEW YEAR

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Jan 13

by Denise Montoya

You are all perfect just the way you are.  Your New Year resolutions, rather than focusing on imperfections, should affirm your wholeness.   If you participate in the New Year resolutions let them be for your benefit of mind and body.  Living in the fullness of your life is the joy, and that is coming to the awareness of being whole.  I like to think of New Years as a time to reflect and release, keeping what is good close to the heart, allowing you to keep a strong focus which gives you the strength to continue.  As you live a life which is constantly changing and is full of challenges, self acceptance going deep within your heart, and being with the hearth of your heart can fulfill you.

Sit in your own stillness and connect with your presence to give you a feeling of peace. Glance upon the barrenness of a tree while you sit in traffic, and use it to give you a special relationship with nature. By allowing time to be alone and bonding with nature is your opportunity for relaxing and centering yourself. Just coming to the appreciation of being alive, noticing the weather or the beauty in a child, gives stillness and has a direct affect on your heart, including lowering your blood pressure. These special moments, if time is taken for them; can give good feelings inside and reflect positively on your health.

Start your day in the present moment, and as you enter the shower; imagine the water being that perfect waterfall cleansing our bodies to newness. Let release come into the miracle that you have become.  You have connected with your spirit through the symbolism of purification.

Denise Montoya

Let this New Year be the doorway to a different perspective, using the timeslots of life to renew body and mind.  Awaken to your true self by experiencing nature, finding beauty in the miracle of your body and mind.  Reflect what path life has been, connect with your presence and become an uplifted spirit.  Find a thread in life and weave it into to be moments of joy in life.  Then let your miracle be complete as that belief is felt deeply within the heart.  This deep connection enriches your soul.  Your spirit is free, it has no time, no past, and no future; being present with Spirit is the perfect perfection.

Denise Montoya has over 1000 hours of training and over four years experience teaching yoga, breathing, and meditation techniques.  Let yoga be an avenue for your inner calmness, peace and tranquility. Yoga can offer many benefits for your body and mind.  It regulates our heart rate and increases oxygen up take. It can increase your energy, improve digestion, and reduce stress.  OMYoga, LLC.  denisemontoya7@msn.com 303-507-3388.

FEBRUARY 2013 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2013 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Feb 13

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

AQUARIUS (January 21-February 19)

As the New Year progresses into the month of February we can readily feel the powerful physical, spiritual, mental and emotional transformations taking place. We are encouraged to seek new ways to infuse more vitality and creativity into our authentic self-expression. We are called to open our minds and hearts to a higher truth of who we are.

The Universal number for 2013 is 6:  2+0+1+3=6.  In numerology, six is the number of relationships, responsibility, emotional security, service and concern for our fellow man.  In astrology, the number six is synonymous with Venus, indicating our ability to attract, our creativity, our values, our relationships and our finances.  It is likely that this year will accentuate all of these areas of our lives, with major emphasis on financial and emotional needs.

This month’s cosmic view includes a planetary shift, as the Sun leaves ambitious Capricorn and enters progressive Aquarius. Our scope is broadened from self-interest to cooperation with others. The New Moon at 21 degrees Aquarius 43, on February 10^th offers breakthrough perspectives in our communications with others and in our lives in general.  February 10^th also marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2013 is The Year of the Female Water Snake. Thisreaffirms our path for re-birth, new beginnings, and transformation. Delusion and deception are common during the year of the snake well. Nothing is as it seems, giving way to mystery and elements of surprise.

AQUARIUS
by Josephine Wall

Later in the month, both reasonable Mercury and aggressive Mars move into an uncomfortable placement in Pisces. The potential for misunderstandings based on false impression is great. We are cautioned to use the practicality, discipline, and focus of transiting Saturn in Scorpio, to temper our uncertainties. Saturn goes retrograde from the February 19^th until July 8^th restructuring our sense of stability.

Mercury makes the first of its tri-annual retrogrades in the sign of Pisces from (February 23^rd to March 18^th).  Communication breakdowns and heightened anxiety may surface. We can draw upon our spiritual practices for higher wisdom, truth and peace of mind. As a reminder, Mercury retrograde represents a time to revisit, refocus and revise old projects. This is not a time for initiating anything new.

The Full Moon at 7 degrees Virgo 24, offers an opportunity to organize our lives in the areas of work, health and service. Virgo does its best work in humble service to others. This Full Moon is about perfecting our skills and talents to be of greater service out in the world.

This year marks a time of letting go of all attachments to anything that has held us back, including old patterns and behaviors. Doing the same things and expecting different results is counterproductive to the task at hand. We are charting a course for new possibilities in our future.

© Star Direction 2013

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, an author and an accredited Conscious Change coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore.
To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net
For free, valuable resources visit her web site at http://www.stardirectionastrology.com