Thursday, April 29, 2004
Above and Beyond
Despite road work right in front of the shop, Above and Beyond is coming along quite well. We had a wonderful drum circle there Tuesday night. About 25 people attended. There were three races represented, gay and straight, old and young, all enjoying a most pleasant evening of music and fellowship in a relaxed living room type atmosphere. This is the type of place we aspire to be--where everyone feels welcome to come, relax and socialize. We'll be holding drum circles and poetry readings on alternate Tuesdays at 7:00 pm.
We also offer more serious classes, workshops and worship experiences. I just got a new drum and hand cymbals that we'll use with chanting at my Path of Love sessions. We'll chant mantras and learn about devotional yoga from sources such as the Bhagavad Gita. I've been following this path since 1967.
There is a close knit feeling of family among those of us involved with Above and Beyond that I think is quite rare. Yet it's not a closed family, but one that is open and welcoming of all. Stop by and check it out if you're in the area. Call or email me if you would like more information. steve@stevebohlert.com or (616) 304-9292
Peace and love,
Steve
Despite road work right in front of the shop, Above and Beyond is coming along quite well. We had a wonderful drum circle there Tuesday night. About 25 people attended. There were three races represented, gay and straight, old and young, all enjoying a most pleasant evening of music and fellowship in a relaxed living room type atmosphere. This is the type of place we aspire to be--where everyone feels welcome to come, relax and socialize. We'll be holding drum circles and poetry readings on alternate Tuesdays at 7:00 pm.
We also offer more serious classes, workshops and worship experiences. I just got a new drum and hand cymbals that we'll use with chanting at my Path of Love sessions. We'll chant mantras and learn about devotional yoga from sources such as the Bhagavad Gita. I've been following this path since 1967.
There is a close knit feeling of family among those of us involved with Above and Beyond that I think is quite rare. Yet it's not a closed family, but one that is open and welcoming of all. Stop by and check it out if you're in the area. Call or email me if you would like more information. steve@stevebohlert.com or (616) 304-9292
Peace and love,
Steve
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
Binary stars
I am very happy to see that modern scientists and researchers are seriously examining the precession of the equinoxes based on the premise that our sun orbits around another star which is its binary companion. This is the basis of the system of sidereal astrology derived from Vedic astrology which I use. It takes into account the fact that at the vernal equinox, the sun is now at six degrees in the constellation Pisces rather than at zero degrees Aries as tropical astrologers say. This means in your horoscope, the signs of the planets, ascendant, etc. are pushed back around twenty four degrees from their tropical positions giving you a much more accurate horoscope reading based on the planets in relation to the constellations which is what astrology is really about.
The ancient Vedic civilization also described the great ages or yugas based on the orbit of these two binary stars. Perhaps they were more knowledgeablee about certain astronomical facts than we are.
A documentary has been made on this subject and will be on PBS. More information can be found here TheGreatYear.com.
Peace,
Steve (Subal)
I am very happy to see that modern scientists and researchers are seriously examining the precession of the equinoxes based on the premise that our sun orbits around another star which is its binary companion. This is the basis of the system of sidereal astrology derived from Vedic astrology which I use. It takes into account the fact that at the vernal equinox, the sun is now at six degrees in the constellation Pisces rather than at zero degrees Aries as tropical astrologers say. This means in your horoscope, the signs of the planets, ascendant, etc. are pushed back around twenty four degrees from their tropical positions giving you a much more accurate horoscope reading based on the planets in relation to the constellations which is what astrology is really about.
The ancient Vedic civilization also described the great ages or yugas based on the orbit of these two binary stars. Perhaps they were more knowledgeablee about certain astronomical facts than we are.
A documentary has been made on this subject and will be on PBS. More information can be found here TheGreatYear.com.
Peace,
Steve (Subal)
Wednesday, April 21, 2004
New programs
I just added two new pages to my website. The Gathering, Eclectic Interfaith Spirituality, Steve Bohlert, Subal Das and Path of Love, Devotional Yoga, Subal Das, Steve Bohlert. Please check them out, and if you are in West Michigan, join us.
Peace,
Steve/Subal Das
I just added two new pages to my website. The Gathering, Eclectic Interfaith Spirituality, Steve Bohlert, Subal Das and Path of Love, Devotional Yoga, Subal Das, Steve Bohlert. Please check them out, and if you are in West Michigan, join us.
Peace,
Steve/Subal Das
Update
With spring here, I've been doing an increased number of pre-marital interviews, planning weddings and performing weddings. I'm preaching "Perfect or Imperfect, It's Your Choice" and doing A Perfect Life Workshop at the LakeShore Interfaith Institute this Sunday. A Perfect Life, Life Coach, Steve Bohlert I'm also planning A Perfect Life Workshop, The Gathering and The Path of Love to be presented at Above and Beyond starting the end of May or beginning of June. The Gathering is an eclectic, interfaith spiritual gathering held on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. The Path of Love is an on-going series of classes on devotional yoga to Radha and Krishna which will be on Thursday evenings at 7:30. I'll be adding web pages further detailing these soon. I've been busy, but not too busy to add new clients or to have fun with family and friends. I hope your life is going well also. If not, let's talk and see how I can help you get on track and live the life you want.
Peace,
Steve
With spring here, I've been doing an increased number of pre-marital interviews, planning weddings and performing weddings. I'm preaching "Perfect or Imperfect, It's Your Choice" and doing A Perfect Life Workshop at the LakeShore Interfaith Institute this Sunday. A Perfect Life, Life Coach, Steve Bohlert I'm also planning A Perfect Life Workshop, The Gathering and The Path of Love to be presented at Above and Beyond starting the end of May or beginning of June. The Gathering is an eclectic, interfaith spiritual gathering held on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. The Path of Love is an on-going series of classes on devotional yoga to Radha and Krishna which will be on Thursday evenings at 7:30. I'll be adding web pages further detailing these soon. I've been busy, but not too busy to add new clients or to have fun with family and friends. I hope your life is going well also. If not, let's talk and see how I can help you get on track and live the life you want.
Peace,
Steve
Saturday, April 17, 2004
Conscious living
Life flows on in a mysterious process all its own. We're born, grow up, get indoctrinated into the culture, fill various roles, get old, get sick, die. Too many persons go through this process without seriously questioning why. I am constantly amazed by how many people buy into the status quo, swallow the propaganda and become mindless true believers. There are those few, brave, adventurous souls who are willing to question, willing to take a peek beneath the veil of mystery. They realize this is not the way it's always been or always will be. They realize there's more to life than satisfying the needs of the body. They nurture their soul. They raise their consciousness and take charge of their lives. They determine their own destiny and choose where they will go when they leave this life. I am here to support, help and guide such persons.
Peace,
Steve
Life flows on in a mysterious process all its own. We're born, grow up, get indoctrinated into the culture, fill various roles, get old, get sick, die. Too many persons go through this process without seriously questioning why. I am constantly amazed by how many people buy into the status quo, swallow the propaganda and become mindless true believers. There are those few, brave, adventurous souls who are willing to question, willing to take a peek beneath the veil of mystery. They realize this is not the way it's always been or always will be. They realize there's more to life than satisfying the needs of the body. They nurture their soul. They raise their consciousness and take charge of their lives. They determine their own destiny and choose where they will go when they leave this life. I am here to support, help and guide such persons.
Peace,
Steve
Thursday, April 15, 2004
New office
It's official. I'm now in my new office at Above and Beyond, 1136 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Why not stop by and see me sometime? The shop is very nice. There's a tea and coffee bar, candles, incense, jewelry, books, clothing, CDs and lots of other great things including the people who work there. It's next to the Wealthy Theatre. There's some road construction in the area, but it is possible to get through. Plenty of free parking in back. If you give me a call ahead of time, I'll make sure I'm there to greet you.
Peace,
Steve
It's official. I'm now in my new office at Above and Beyond, 1136 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Why not stop by and see me sometime? The shop is very nice. There's a tea and coffee bar, candles, incense, jewelry, books, clothing, CDs and lots of other great things including the people who work there. It's next to the Wealthy Theatre. There's some road construction in the area, but it is possible to get through. Plenty of free parking in back. If you give me a call ahead of time, I'll make sure I'm there to greet you.
Peace,
Steve
Sunday, April 11, 2004
In process
I have been an adherent of process theology for quite some time now. We and all creation are constantly in process. God is also in process. God is not static but dynamic. Our relationship to God is also dynamic and in process. We do not have to do things today as they were done yesterday because everything is changing. To resist change is to stagnate and die. To try and discern God's will and follow that in the midst of change is life. That is why I am a strong advocate of allowing tradition to change, evolve, adapt and breathe with new life rather than being stifled by the past.
Change or die!
Steve
I have been an adherent of process theology for quite some time now. We and all creation are constantly in process. God is also in process. God is not static but dynamic. Our relationship to God is also dynamic and in process. We do not have to do things today as they were done yesterday because everything is changing. To resist change is to stagnate and die. To try and discern God's will and follow that in the midst of change is life. That is why I am a strong advocate of allowing tradition to change, evolve, adapt and breathe with new life rather than being stifled by the past.
Change or die!
Steve
Happy Easter
Here it is Easter again. It's still cold, cloudy and dreary in this part of the world. Yet as one advances in spiritual maturity, spring blooms eternal in the soul. When our light shines within, it overcomes any darkness outside. It's nice for Jesus that he was resurrected from the dead almost 2,000 years ago, but unless we attain a spiritual rebirth from the darkness of this material world, it doesn't do us much good. May hope, light and spring bloom eternal in all our hearts.
Peace and love,
Steve
Here it is Easter again. It's still cold, cloudy and dreary in this part of the world. Yet as one advances in spiritual maturity, spring blooms eternal in the soul. When our light shines within, it overcomes any darkness outside. It's nice for Jesus that he was resurrected from the dead almost 2,000 years ago, but unless we attain a spiritual rebirth from the darkness of this material world, it doesn't do us much good. May hope, light and spring bloom eternal in all our hearts.
Peace and love,
Steve
Friday, April 09, 2004
Finding a balance
I have just been reading Gaudiya Discussions -> A Rational Approach to Modernizing which very intelligently deals with how to modernize the teachings of Krishna Chaitanya and his followers so that intelligent Westerners may benefit from these spiritual teachings. The intersection of science and religion is also discussed. While I do not agree with everything that is said, it is a very pertinent discussion. I have been working on this issue for thirty years. My approach is a bit more Westernized and eclectic than the two pages I have read so far.
Peace,
Steve (Subal)
I have just been reading Gaudiya Discussions -> A Rational Approach to Modernizing which very intelligently deals with how to modernize the teachings of Krishna Chaitanya and his followers so that intelligent Westerners may benefit from these spiritual teachings. The intersection of science and religion is also discussed. While I do not agree with everything that is said, it is a very pertinent discussion. I have been working on this issue for thirty years. My approach is a bit more Westernized and eclectic than the two pages I have read so far.
Peace,
Steve (Subal)
Thursday, April 08, 2004
Thom Hartmann
I was recently introduced to the Thom Hartmann radio program. It is good to hear someone on the radio who speaks openly and honestly about current events from a progressive point of view. I have been an avid listener of NPR, but now by comparison they sound very bland. In Grand Rapids, MI, he is on WTKG, AM 1230, from noon to two. That's right--AM and Clear Channel no less. You have to put up with commercials, but it's well worth it. In other places, he's on from noon to three ET on a variety of stations nationwide. Thom Hartmann - radio show, books, writing
Solidarity,
Steve
I was recently introduced to the Thom Hartmann radio program. It is good to hear someone on the radio who speaks openly and honestly about current events from a progressive point of view. I have been an avid listener of NPR, but now by comparison they sound very bland. In Grand Rapids, MI, he is on WTKG, AM 1230, from noon to two. That's right--AM and Clear Channel no less. You have to put up with commercials, but it's well worth it. In other places, he's on from noon to three ET on a variety of stations nationwide. Thom Hartmann - radio show, books, writing
Solidarity,
Steve
New astrology web page
I am happy to announce that I have updated my website in preparation for my move to Above and Beyond on or before April 15th. I have added a page explaining my approach to charting and reading horoscopes. I use the system of constellational or sidereal astrology to give clear, accurate readings. I hope you will let me do your horoscope and give you new insight into your life. Horoscopes, Grand Rapids, MI, Astrologer Steve Bohlert.
Peace,
Steve
I am happy to announce that I have updated my website in preparation for my move to Above and Beyond on or before April 15th. I have added a page explaining my approach to charting and reading horoscopes. I use the system of constellational or sidereal astrology to give clear, accurate readings. I hope you will let me do your horoscope and give you new insight into your life. Horoscopes, Grand Rapids, MI, Astrologer Steve Bohlert.
Peace,
Steve
Tuesday, April 06, 2004
Sexual balance
While there are certainly physical differences between men and women, I believe a more androgynous psychological balance between the male and female aspects of the personality, between the anima and animus, produces a more whole personality. It is through social engineering, either conscious or unconscious over the millennia, that both physical and psychological traits of males and females have been emphasized for the sake of division of labor. Now we have women soldiers, doctors, lawyers, priests, etc. and stay at home dads, male nurses, hair dressers, etc. The more men can get into their nourishing, sensitive sides, the better off they and women will be.
Peace,
Steve
While there are certainly physical differences between men and women, I believe a more androgynous psychological balance between the male and female aspects of the personality, between the anima and animus, produces a more whole personality. It is through social engineering, either conscious or unconscious over the millennia, that both physical and psychological traits of males and females have been emphasized for the sake of division of labor. Now we have women soldiers, doctors, lawyers, priests, etc. and stay at home dads, male nurses, hair dressers, etc. The more men can get into their nourishing, sensitive sides, the better off they and women will be.
Peace,
Steve
Sunday, April 04, 2004
Update
I am sorry that it has been three days since my last post. I have been engaged in hot and heavy discussions on Gaudiya Discussions. These are theological discussions about Gaudiya vaishnava philosophy and practice with persons who are learned and experienced in the field. While I have copied some of them, such as the last two posts, to this blog site, many of them require being read in the context of the discussions in which they are posted for a proper understanding.
I have also been hanging out at Above and Beyond getting to know the people I'll be working with there. They are a great group, and I look forward to when my office is ready for me to move into. The shop has a wonderful atmosphere, and the tea bar, tables and chairs make it a good place to just relax and hang out. There's even a table and chairs on the deck in back. Check it out when you get a chance. (1136 Wealthy St SE, (next to the Wealthy Theatre) in Grand Rapids, MI. I've been updating my website to reflect this move and the fact that I will also be offering sidereal astrology readings there. I'll be up-loading the changes soon.
This evening, I went to dinner and a movie with my friend Fred. It was a wonderful documentary about Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. It's good to see the good guy win once in a while in real life. Hugo Chavez & The Alternative Movie Awards : SF Bay Area Indymedia. eFilmCritic - Movie Review - Revolution Will Not Be Televised, The.
Took part in worship this morning at the Free Spirit Worship Center, the new church start of my friend Rev. Mary Martin. She is doing a wonderful job with her small group.
It is good to have both a cyber community and a local community that gives me spiritual association. I couldn't do it alone.
Blessings and love,
Steve
I am sorry that it has been three days since my last post. I have been engaged in hot and heavy discussions on Gaudiya Discussions. These are theological discussions about Gaudiya vaishnava philosophy and practice with persons who are learned and experienced in the field. While I have copied some of them, such as the last two posts, to this blog site, many of them require being read in the context of the discussions in which they are posted for a proper understanding.
I have also been hanging out at Above and Beyond getting to know the people I'll be working with there. They are a great group, and I look forward to when my office is ready for me to move into. The shop has a wonderful atmosphere, and the tea bar, tables and chairs make it a good place to just relax and hang out. There's even a table and chairs on the deck in back. Check it out when you get a chance. (1136 Wealthy St SE, (next to the Wealthy Theatre) in Grand Rapids, MI. I've been updating my website to reflect this move and the fact that I will also be offering sidereal astrology readings there. I'll be up-loading the changes soon.
This evening, I went to dinner and a movie with my friend Fred. It was a wonderful documentary about Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. It's good to see the good guy win once in a while in real life. Hugo Chavez & The Alternative Movie Awards : SF Bay Area Indymedia. eFilmCritic - Movie Review - Revolution Will Not Be Televised, The.
Took part in worship this morning at the Free Spirit Worship Center, the new church start of my friend Rev. Mary Martin. She is doing a wonderful job with her small group.
It is good to have both a cyber community and a local community that gives me spiritual association. I couldn't do it alone.
Blessings and love,
Steve
Thursday, April 01, 2004
The failure of success
I was inititated by Bhaktivedanta Swami in San Francisco, February, 1967. His movement was very small then, a temple in NY and one in SF, both in storefronts. I consider Bhaktivedanta to be very pure at that time. He went to the West at an old age following the order of his guru with little hope of success in creating disciples. He was humble, spiritual, had a presence that could fill the room and spoke teachings that made sense even to a hippie with authority. He totally won me over. I knew him intimately and lived with him as his personal assistant for a couple of months in 1968.
During that time, in LA, a reporter from Life magazine came, did an interview and took some pictures. An article was published profiling leading gurus of the day such as Bhaktivedanta, Maharishi, Guru Maharaj Ji, etc.. I think that's when Bhaktivedanta got the idea that he wanted to be the greatest guru in the world and to do that he had to be the greatest guru in India. He showed off his Western disciples in India and called us his "dancing dogs" or "dancing white elephants."
By 1974, his success surpassed his wildest dreams. I believe he suffered from meglomania. He certainly seemed like a different person than when I first met him. The corruption of the movement surpassed my greatest fears. I thought, "It took the church hundreds of years to get so big and corrupt. We did it in just eight. How wonderful." I left in disgust along with others to begin a new life.
Question authority,
Steve (Subal)
I was inititated by Bhaktivedanta Swami in San Francisco, February, 1967. His movement was very small then, a temple in NY and one in SF, both in storefronts. I consider Bhaktivedanta to be very pure at that time. He went to the West at an old age following the order of his guru with little hope of success in creating disciples. He was humble, spiritual, had a presence that could fill the room and spoke teachings that made sense even to a hippie with authority. He totally won me over. I knew him intimately and lived with him as his personal assistant for a couple of months in 1968.
During that time, in LA, a reporter from Life magazine came, did an interview and took some pictures. An article was published profiling leading gurus of the day such as Bhaktivedanta, Maharishi, Guru Maharaj Ji, etc.. I think that's when Bhaktivedanta got the idea that he wanted to be the greatest guru in the world and to do that he had to be the greatest guru in India. He showed off his Western disciples in India and called us his "dancing dogs" or "dancing white elephants."
By 1974, his success surpassed his wildest dreams. I believe he suffered from meglomania. He certainly seemed like a different person than when I first met him. The corruption of the movement surpassed my greatest fears. I thought, "It took the church hundreds of years to get so big and corrupt. We did it in just eight. How wonderful." I left in disgust along with others to begin a new life.
Question authority,
Steve (Subal)
