The Original Metaphysical Bookstore, since 1972
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in this issue:
So… Just How Happy Are You…?
by Mario C. Veo
Many of us seek ‘happiness’ without really knowing what it is … Sounds strange but it’s true !
Look, from the very beginning we’ve been told that “The pursuit of happiness is our God given right” … Ok., I’m not disputing that, but when I innocently ask what actually is ‘happiness’, no-one can give me a straight answer… They say things like – “ Well boy, don’t you want to have a good job, get married, have a big house and maybe a few kids of your own…?” [what the heck does ANY of this have to do with this ethereal thing we call ‘happiness’ ?!? All I’m hearing is – at best – materialism is king… or worse, just a bunch of propaganda spewed out by far too many people – and, I suspect, especially those who are trying to fill their lives with so many things because – frankly – they do not know what else to do !]
How empty a Life is this …!
Yes, of course I want a ‘good job’ – just not one that will enslave me, and dictate how to think, and how to be…
Yes, I do want to be married – just not simply for the sake of fulfilling an expectation…
What I want is that elusive ‘Soul Mate’… you know, ‘the One’…that glorious partner that will melt my soul and keep me yearning for more …[Yes, I have been diagnosed as being ‘the eternal romantic’ – so sue me already ! I still think that if I’m going to spend my life with someone, she should be more than just ‘another wife’ – we all know the statistics about divorce…and no, I’m not going to get married out of convenience…or – god forbid – out of fear of being alone … ]
And as far as kids are concerned – how can I justify having any, when I’m still trying to work out what Life is all about… plus there’s that thing we call ‘happiness’ that I’m really beginning to wonder if it’s just a made up word – y’know, one of those nonsensical things, like ‘honorable leaders’ or ‘ethical presidents’…
But I digress… So here I am, after all those years still trying to figure out why most people think that achieving a certain degree of material comfort equals happiness …
It really doesn’t, y’know… I’ll tell you a well known ‘secret’: “Money doesn’t buy you happiness”…and I can attest to this – some of the happiest, most peaceful people I’ve ever come across are those that do NOT make ‘money / materialism / status…etc.’ the most important thing in their Life… quite the contrary, they first look at love and relationships AND do not compromise in their choices [as someone once said – “Arm-candy ages just like everyone else… what will you talk about then ?!”]
Ok., so where am I going with all this – simple…
Happiness cannot be defined.
Yes, it does exist, but it’s different for each of us.
And while we all need some financial security [and even a few material toys to make our Life more colorful], we should never fool ourselves that wealth equal happiness – it does not…[in fact, at some stage too much money begins to own you, and you will dance like a puppet to its tune…but that’s another tale for later …]
So how do we find this ‘happiness’ that everyone seems to be confused and obsessed with …?
Begin by going within …find out exactly Who and What you are …what make you tick…what makes you smile … and what brings you peace… Once you know this, then look for other people who value the same things, for they are your ‘love-ones-to-be’ … and by embracing them you will find not only ‘happiness’, but also a quality that most people will never experience – Oneness – that true bond that will transcend this Life… and now you will experience ‘the One’ – that elusive Soul Mate you didn’t even know existed…
…and finally you will be happy… [now – was that so difficult ?!]
Mario C. Veo is in private practice in Denver where he teaches Spiritual and Metaphysical classes, and guides Seekers on their personal Path of Transformation and Empowerment.
He can be reached at 303-525-7223 / email pathtospirit@gmail.com / website YourPathtoSpirit.com
Planets and Possibilities: A Look At The Astrology Of March 2020
by Sally Shotwell
We’re now entering the last lap of the Zodiacal year and anticipating the energetic lift the Spring Equinox brings with it on the 19th. Before we get there, however, we can’t help but reflect on how many preconceived ideas have fallen by the wayside, necessitating our revising our perceptions of what’s what. Since 2008, relentless Pluto has been routing out the decay caused by corrupt and mismanaged authority. This is at the behest of Capricorn, the sign representing worldly authority, embodied by entrenched institutions. This whole destabilization causes personal and global uncertainty, but, we have support as we revise our expectations and discover our previously hidden potential. We’re in Pisces Season and the Sun (our consciousness), MercuryRx (our thought processes), and otherworldly Neptune, and they’re guiding us to access realms beyond logic and reason. We need to nurture our spirit with this compassionate influence, but, at the same time, remember that we need focus in approaching everyday existence.
March 4 MercuryRx backs into airy, intellectual Aquarius, loosening the emotional hold on our thoughts and lightening up our interactions. Venus, Goddess of Love, Beauty, and Money, also gets into the act when she enters her home sign of Taurus, whose earthy energy stresses the wonders of Nature. Her mellow social skills now encourage us to approach relationships in a soothing fashion, giving us permission to indulge in pleasure.
March 8 the Sun and Neptune embrace in a dreamy atmosphere which support each other’s longing to unite with the Infinite. Their pursuit of the ideal is most attractive but we must remember that right now pragmatism
is also welcome. The Full Moon (culmination) brings this to the fore on 9th when the Moon is in Virgo, the the practical earth sign, opposite the Sun in watery, mystical Pisces. If we, ourselves, can employ discrimination while
retaining an open, expansive world view during this period, we feel fulfilled. The Sabian Symbol states “A caravan of cars headed to the West Coast: The need of cooperative effort in reaching any ‘New World’ experience.“
This message was revealed in 1925 when there was no highway system in America and a successful trip across the continent truly depended on the efforts of an entire group. This was seen as a ‘goal of destiny’ (Neptune)
and ‘an ordered and structured endeavor’ (Virgo), illustrating the how positive the combining of of complementary forces can be. We’re also reminded that our authentic connection with others is invaluable.
March 9 Mercury finally turns direct in Aquarius and we can temporarily breathe a sigh of relief, but, let’s not get too excited since he reenters foggy Pisces the 16. He remains here until April 12.
March 14 Mars (our vitality, in Capricorn, and Neptune conspire to help us give ourselves credit for our efforts to grow more self-aware and compassionate. The Sun and transformational Pluto are also in the act, spotlighting the integrity which is so tied to the process of dealing with recently unearthed unconscious material. This can be released or contribute to increasing our adaptability.
March 19 it’s the first day of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere and, from ancient times to the present day, has been celebrated as the beginning of a whole new cycle. The Sun is in fiery, adventuresome Aries and the energy
generated by this renewal is contagious, inspiring us to open ourselves to new possibilities which lead to uncharted territory. In this sign, we are encouraged to strike out on our own to establish our independence and the Ram, its symbol, depicts the vitality we need to venture forth. Success is enhanced when we’re flexible and open to the input of others. The 20th, Mars and Jupiter (in Capricorn) share their gravitas by aiming their confidence and abundant energy our way, guiding us to develop our gifts and show initiative. How can we take advantage of this opportunity to expand?
March 21 serious Saturn enters airy, unpredictable Aquarius ( tradition meets innovation) and the possibilities seem promising but daunting. In traditional astrology, Saturn ruled the sign of the Water Bearer and each is concerned with the well being of humankind, but, their coming from different places should make for tumultuous activity. As the brilliant (but unpredictable) and the discipled (experienced) factors meld and reinforce each other’s strengths, great things may be accomplished, but, meantime, we need to pursue what we value and follow our hearts. The 22nd, affectionate Venus and receptive Neptune share loving energies and inspiring images, encouraging us to open up to them. Are we arranging for time alone to do so?
March 23 Mars and Pluto conjoin in ambitious Capricorn and we may encounter power plays where people are feeling the need to burn off aggressive energy. it’s built up over issues which have nothing to do with us and we’ve learned to literally exit, if possible, and emotionally withdraw, otherwise. We want to be fresh as a daisy for the coming New Moon!
March 24 the New Moon (new beginnings) is closely tied to the Vernal Equinox and reinforces its message of a strong fresh start and of planting seeds for a promising future. The Symbol states “A triangle with wings: The capacity for self-transcending…A NEW DIMENSION of being is envisioned mobilizing creative endeavors.” Alan Watts wrote that he, and many others through the ages, propose that we’ re a part of the Universe which is ‘organic’ and ‘transactional.’ If we accept this, we’re reassured that we’re participating in more than an arbitrary set of events and realize that we, and everything, are interconnected.
March 27 cordial Venus and optimistic Jupiter meet for a love fest and carry us away with their warm message that all is well. During these fraught times, it’s imperative that we cloak ourselves in these positive feelings and share them with others. Our authentic relationships are such a source to sustain us when we feel droopy. The 30th we’re in for an electrical jolt as Mars enters Aquarius, the sign literally representing electricity. Detached H Humanitarianism is also high on its list of characteristics and we may find ourselves being drawn to new groups of people with whom we share special interests.. The 31st he and Saturn put their heads together and generate efficiency directed at an unusual project. Let’s enjoy this time of renewal, relax and even make new friends!
Blessings
Sally Shotwell is a life-long student of esoteric spirituality whose focus on studies in Astrology have spanned decades. She has entertained and informed our readers with her articles for a few years now.
The Wonder-Working Apollonius of Tyana
by Bruce Johnson
Apollonius of Tyana is one of the most enigmatic and misunderstood religious figures of Earth’s history. A veil of secrecy surrounds much of the life of this great spiritual reformer, Pythagorean philosopher and magician for good. Apollonius was born in Tyana, in the south of Cappadocia, sometime in the early years of the Christian era according to his biographer Philostratus. No historian knows for sure when he was born or when or where he died, as he disappeared from public view in the later years of his life. He traveled and taught throughout the ancient world in the First Century A.D. One of his last recorded acts was a traveling clairvoyant vision of the death of the Roman Emperor Domitian in 96 A.D. Apollonius had a great reputation as an adept theurgist and wonder-worker and to the surprise of some, shared many parallels with Jesus of Nazareth.
Both Jesus and Apollonius were adepts, and twice-born Initiates of the Mysteries. Both men taught the highest morality and ethics, continually demonstrated charity in action, and were educated in the secret wisdom of India, Egypt, Chaldea and Greece. Each of these advanced souls understood that knowledge and the applied Laws of Nature were behind the spiritual and physical phenomena they produced, and that “miracles” through the divine intervention of an allegorical God didn’t exist. Perhaps the strongest common desire they had was the restoration of the Ancient Wisdom in its pure and undistorted form back into the temples and lives of the people.
Jesus and Apollonius took complementary but different approaches to the task of restoring the Ageless Wisdom to the spiritual seekers of those early times. In his mission, Jesus reached out primarily to the common people and the lower classes when teaching the timeless truths through parables, healing phenomena, and numerous “miracles”. Apollonius in his many travels was often in the company of the educated aristocracy, kings, emperors and the upper classes of the countries he visited. Like his illumined predecessor Jesus, he taught wisdom, healed, and performed many wonders called “miracles“by his followers. The result of this dual approach by Jesus and Apollonius was that every stratum of people in the First Century was exposed to the ancient Wisdom-Religion and to their common message of love and goodwill to all.
The same well-attested magical wonders of Apollonius that caused him to be so well known in Roman times were also the cause of the injustice and persecution his name has suffered at the hands of the early Christian fathers. The many “miracles” attributed to Apollonius by credible historians were a cause of great concern to early Christian church. It would not do for some godless pagan magician to be demonstrating a copious number of “miracles” that are leading souls away from the church while undermining the exclusive right of Jesus to demonstrate divine “miracles”, and the church’s doctrine on this matter.
Unable to deny the much- documented genuine phenomena of Apollonius, the church was left with the option of recognizing the “miracles” of Apollonius, but charging that they were the work of evil. Apollonius has been cruelly portrayed for centuries by the Christian church as the “medium of Satan”, and the antichrist.
Granting there’s a spiritual mystery involved, this writer believes Jesus and Apollonius to be the same soul in two successive embodiments.
Bruce Johnson has over 30 years of study in the fields of Ancient Wisdom and occultism. He has taught classes on a wide range of topics, from Atlantis to mediums to Zoroaster. He is also a spiritualist minister, with a background in spiritual astrology. He lives in Colorado with his wife and their cat.
Eternity: One Day At A Time
by Bob Romero
Recently, I was at a funeral service for a dear loved one. Eternity was mentioned a lot, as we have to come to grips about what happens after death. Eternity and infinity are two terms that are hard for us to grasp. Our bodies may die, but our energy still continues to exist. We know that time and space go on forever, but beyond the planet earth, and our limited time here on earth, we have no practical experience with these concepts. Spiritual studies try to give us more insight especially about our immortal soul, but our brains are too limited to comprehend the infinite God and the expanding universe.
During the service, I heard a beautiful song called “One Day at a Time”. Usually when we take one day at a time, it’s so that we can cope with a difficult burden. Later in the day, there was a moving video of numerous pictures showing lots of joy. These were moments in time that were captured as snapshots of a loving and fulfilling life. These eternal memories will be joyfully remembered by everyone who was there. And these pictures represent just a small sample of many more joyous moments of an entire lifetime.
Then it hit me, that maybe the key to eternity is to be in the present moment. Not only should we endure tough times, one day at a time, but we should try to be in the “now” and try to make use of every moment. The term “Carpe Diem” or “Seize the Day” means to do just that. It used to annoy me, when I would hear someone at work say, “I’m bored” or “I’m just waiting until 5 o’clock” or “I can’t wait until the weekend arrives”. I thought that they were probably in the wrong job. A colleague friend of mine and I used to talk about how much fun we had working, and that we were actually being paid for it. It’s often said that “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life”. In addition to a rewarding career, all of the time that we spend laughing with friends and family, enjoying spectacular sunrises and sunsets, watching children play, listening to our favorite music, praying and meditating, supporting good causes, and helping those in need, all should be appreciated. These activities raise our vibrations and bring us closer to Spirit and they will always remain in our energy.
At the classes on “Predictions for the year 2020”, we were told to not get caught up in the dark political climate that’s going on, because it will draw down our energy. Instead we should focus on beauty and joy which will not only raise our vibration, but it will raise the vibration of the entire world. This will cause light to prevail over darkness, and then truth and justice will save us. This can only happen though, if we take eternity, one day at a time, and focus on spiritual growth on each day.
Bob Romero has been a diligent student of esoteric spiritual subjects and metaphysics for many years, with a life-long quest for answers. He has submitted new and original articles that focus on life lessons and experiences he wishes to share with our readers and the world.
Events & Classes In January
Sunday, March 1
2:00 – 3:00 pm
A donation bowl will be available
Channeling Spiritual Guidance with Norma Mitchell. The Source (“I Am. I Am You. I Am All That Is… You know me in your heart for I am that which you call Love.”) talks to us, and we need a channel through which to hear these messages. The valuable information that comes through Norma from the Source is lovingly supportive and profound. Please join us for the beautiful and spiritual messages that come directly from Spirit. Bring a question if you want to. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Thursday, March 5
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
$1 a minute
Rejuvenating Chair Massage by Edna Garcia. We know how stressful your day-to-day life can be. Wouldn’t it be great to have a restful and calm place to go for a few minutes and get a rejuvenating massage from a certified and licensed massage therapist? Now you can take some time out from your busy life and invest in some self-care. One dollar a minute with a ten minute minimum is just the ticket. Call 303-758-9113 and reserve a time.
Sunday, March 8
10:15 – 11:15 am
A donation bowl will be available
The Intention Project with SuEllen Shepard. The Earth level isn’t always an easy one. Sometimes we see or hear about big world problems and we are left uneasy and not knowing what we can do. It seems too big. We feel overwhelmed or helpless. This is where intention comes in! Intention is a web of energy exchange that can be channeled and focused to reconcile mind with matter and bring about positive change in our lives. Human thought and intention has been defined as an inexhaustible and tangible energy with the potential to focus our lives, heal our illnesses, clean up our communities, deal with negative forces, and hopefully improve our planet for everyone. Each month will have a different topic. Come join us for an hour of discussion and intention! Call Shining Lotus 303-758-9113 to register.
Sunday, March 8
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Free Presentation
How To Stop Your Egomind with Devananda. A 30 minute lecture regarding what the egomind is. Why it is a problem. Basic information as to the nature of our predicament. Then 30 minutes of doing exercises to stop all thoughts or at least realize you can observe them while feeling bliss. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Sunday, March 15
10:15 – 11:15 am
Free Presentation
Connect with Your Deceased Loved Ones with Susan Dintino. Losing a loved one is always a challenge and we often look for signs that let us know they are still with us. In this talk, Susan Dintino, creator of Grief Reliefs, will discuss the signs to look for and do a guided meditation that will teach you how to communicate with your loved ones on the other side. Call 303-758-9113 to register for a seat.
Sunday, March 15
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Free Presentation
SimpleTales™ Cosmic Astrology Monthly Update with C. A. Brooks. If you are thinking about your future, your past, or just your place in the physical present, you owe yourself a visit with C. A. Brooks. C. A. has been a student of astrology for more than 25 years and a professional astrologer for over 2 decades. She has studied Tarot, Feng Shui, Space Clearing and Animal Communication. Join C. A. and friends for a fun and informational look at the astrology of the month ahead, and you may even get a personal Tarot mini-reading. Don’t miss this class. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Sunday, March 22
10:15 – 11:15 am
by donation
What Damages Our Aura with Mario C. Veo. The Aura is made up of our very Life Essence – it supports and promotes all that is healthy and successful…
But what happens when it is damaged… Do you know how to repair it …? Join us on Sunday morning to find ways to limit and repair damage. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Sunday, March 22
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Free Presentation
Accept Happiness with Norma Mitchell. Are you happy? Do you know the answer to this question? Many people are so tied up in their everyday problems that they are not able to break away and do something that will make them happy. Happiness and Joy can be found in so much of the mundane things we take for granted. Norma can help you find more happiness in your life. Join us for this hour of questions and answers. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Sunday, March 29
10:15 – 11:15 am
Free Presentation
Two Meditations for Inner Peace with Mario C. Veo. Leap Our Minds and Emotions are very powerful – they can create miracles…or – when agitated, will create chaos. Join us as we explore 2 gentle Meditations to restore our Inner Peace and harmony. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Please call 303-758-9113 if you have any questions about our schedule. Most of our events require a registration call to ensure your seat.