Treasures beyond Measure

Memories of the Snowstorm: Haiku and meditations to come

2012-01-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

Remarkable! Beautiful! Fun! Scary ...

The Weeklong SnowStorm of 2012

expressed itself in three movements: Snow, Ice and Wind

(and for some, floods & power outages for days)

However it was experienced ...

SNOWFLAKES REMAIN

in the shape of Haiku here for you:

During those days of forced retreat these poems emerged

and asked to be shared ...

1. Boughs, heavy with snow

Bend to the Earth, pointing:

pure white, powdery delight.

2. Snow fall, Winters day.

Slow down, gears halt to silence;

(So) we may feel the Love.

3. Ice, Snow, Broken Branches

Upon the Ground - Nature's

heavy burden, down.

Next up:

Guided Meditations for Self-Discovery

PROJECTS COMPLETE: This Wednesday AUDIO BOOK Celebration & VIDEO for Holidays

2011-11-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

Here is your invite to Wednesday's Book Celebration /Audio CD and Exercises on CD project
as well as the link below
to a Christmas Song Video to bring joy to these wintry days:

U-TUBE VIDEO LINK:

The url is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQmUyjqqYJ0

Otherwise just type in Christmas in Seattle (is the Christmas for Me) at www.youtube.com
Song by Jennifer Oliver with backing and support by yours truly!

Book Celebration Event - YOU ARE INVITED!!
You are invited to join us in celebrating the release of The Chronic Illness Owner's Manual in Seattle at Ravenna Third Place Books, 6504 20th Ave NE, Seattle,
on Wednesday November 16th at 7 pm.
Author Beth Alderman MD, MPH will read several anecdotes,
Tim Malone will guide a healing exercise, and Will Blades will share his music.

The Manual WILL SOON BE AVAILABLE AS AN AUDIO BOOK READ BY TIM MALONE, via download from
http://sevenfoldhealing.com. See below in bold for Guided Exercises CD coming soon!

The Chronic Illness Owner's Manual: Just the Stories [abridged audio book read by Timothy J. Malone]
Put this audio book on your CD or MP3 player, kick back, and let the stories take you on a journey through the landscape of healing. Ideal for use while in the bath, walking or resting in nature, or attending your practitioner's healing studio. Expected in November.

The Chronic Illness Owner's Manual, Audio Guide to the Exercises [audio book created in collaboration with Timothy J. Malone]
If you are a self-healer or practitioner, you can put this audio book on your CD or MP3 player, relax, and allow it to support and enhance your healing practice in real time. If you are chronically ill and have not yet developed the energy or skills to guide yourself, or you are a practitioner new to sevenfold healing, this audio book can acquaint you with the twenty-six meditative healing exercises and support the development of your inner guide to sevenfold healing. Coming soon.The Sevenfold Healing Creative Team will be available to sign books, answer questions, and schedule bodywork treatments.

The Sevenfold Healing System for relief, wellbeing, and recovery in chronic illness is ready to use and to share with friends, loved ones, and clients through The Chronic Illness Owner's Manual, our new bedside companion, reference book, and wisdom text for integrative and comprehensive self-guided healing transformation. Because it enables the sick to access medical lineages ranging from Allopathy to Daoism; to integrate fragmented and disparate sources of care; and to heal all levels of the body from the flesh to interbeing, the Manual offers readers the chance to join in the revitalization and resacralization of modern global medicine. The Manual includes healing anecdotes with commentaries, working questions, and meditative practices.

Currently it is available on paperback via CreateSpace and as an eBook via Kindle and Kindle App. Paperback version includes original cover art by Coastal Salish artists Dylan Thomas and lessLIE. For more, see our website or continue to the holiday gift list below.

NEXT UP: Kitty Tiger Joy Joy
caught Live in Seattle ...
:)

A poem, New Music Projects & links to a sweet Autumn

2011-10-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings ...
as Autumn colors our world! A poem for you to ponder:

An Ode to the (not-so welcomed) change of seasons

The NW rain brings forth delicious shades
of green
& myriad mushrooms supporting;
where before sweet sunshine warmed our insides,
bringing forth lemonade smiles
the grasses began turning brown, dry ground.

A return to balance
need not bring frowns,
nor the nights, sighs.

Let Autumn be our guide,
a companion bringing nothing short of
LIFE:
drink lush, painted foliage and skies.

C. 2011 Timothy J. Malone

postscript:
I remind myself today as the clouds and wind swept in:
Ah, accepting "what it is"
in the turn of the season
can be excellent spiritual practice ...
not necessarily welcomed
though most growthful, indeed!

THIS WEEK an update on CURRENT MUSIC & AUDIO PROJECTS ...

A celebration!
I AM HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THE FRUIT OF A SUMMER SABBATICAL
AND A 3 MONTH SEMINAR UTILIZING THE "ARTIST WAY" PROGRAM ...

WITHIN THE MONTH I WILL SEND LINKS TO NEW SONGS & AUDIO FILES:

1. "Kitty Tiger Joy Joy" – the Band, THE SONG & upcoming CD
and tour of Japan. This project has roots in cultural exchange of east and west, a bridge that can bring us all closer together. PLAYFUL and danceable these Songs are also chocked full of affirmations.

2. Recordings called forth by local volunteer organizations –

a. Listen to version of “Rawhide” for the NW Parkinson Foundation, recorded for the purpose of inspiring riders on the 150 mile Seattle to Portland (STP) bike ride this past summer 2011

3. Instrumental /Meditational Guitar …

to enter into a tranquil space … for journaling, meditation, inner work, and to enter into a healing state.

4. Guided Meditations/Chants for 21st century living …

a. Coming up next week ... Healing Meditation on our origins using the Enneagram slef-discovery system.

5. HEALTH and HEALING book written by a Doctor, with Voice Over/acting of the exercises, audio book and retreats by yours truly:
Link here to http://www.sevenfoldhealing.com/

***Downloadable formats coming soon***

NEXT WEEK a guided meditation on our origins in Love & what helped us to thrive, and survive ...

Summer Daze may come late ...but how sweet ...:)

2011-09-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

Summer Haiku of Savoring

Sit,
Sun Soak:
Touches
the Skin
like Press
of Warm
Lips on Raw Heart
Strings -
SSSung!

Haiku of opening (to summer)

Walk in Nature,
now
Be led,
beyond the head,
perceive
mysteries
- wow!

Note:Haiku follows a 5-7-5 syllable rhythm.
The draft ones above are stretched for purpose of savoring the images evoked ...

NEXT WEEK: floating along with 60 Orcas whales at boundary waters Canada-USA islands.

A new beginning ... renewed commitment. Join me!

2011-08-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

This week marks the 10th anniversary of my return from a one-year pilgrimage journey across five countries in Asia.

Inspired by this timing and invited to write a book on Pilgrimage as a Healing journey by a local author and doctor for the Sevenfold healing paradigm I am renewing my commitment to utilize this blog as a space to share writings in process as well as fresh poetry and essays which emerge from travels, both outer and inner.
First is the info I sent to the website for this Health Manual. You can buy this book soon via the website and in the next 6 weeks you can download the audio book version which I have been gratefully asked to voice ... may this be for the benefit of all !

** Timothy Malone serves the Creative team of SevenfoldHealing.com as RetreatMaster, meditation instructor/mentor, voice of the audio book, and will offer music and writing to the website experience.
The Seven levels of integration which this process engenders speaks to me as a comprehensive and liberating modality. I come to the team as a facilitator of deep awareness, a kind of contemplative state from which to open to healing on all levels. Entering into a state in which we can heal ourselves is often challenging to do all by ourselves. To access this space of healing we may find great benefit from having a companion or a voice of support which leads us gently into that deeper state. In twenty years of study, teaching and spiritual practice I have been gratefully led to cultivate a number of ways to support the process of growth and wholeness, including guided meditations, music, and 1:1 “spiritual disciplines” Coaching.

Visit www.timmalone.org for more info, to email or set up an appointment.
Tim lives in a hermitage near the Puget Sound writing Songs & poetry and serves as spiritual director with the Spiritual Exercises program (SEEL). Visit www.seelpugetsound.org

Where do we find community to heal?
An Open minded and Open hearted Spiritual community which honors all traditions and which I co-preside the HeartSongs ceremony 5 times a year and teach other classes on Spiritual Integration and Meditation/Prayer styles. The red cedar circle also meets here weekly. www.interfaithcommunitychurch.org

WORLD RELIGIONS, Series of local Visits & Practices begins April 25th at ICC

2011-03-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

How do we experience

the contemplative, mystical core

within all traditions?

One way is to

VISIT

FIVE LOCAL HOUSES OF WORSHIP

on a

"Guided Pilgrimage to Encounter the World’s Religions"

over six weeks beginning April 25th at ICC 7 pm.

:

EXPAND AWARENESS!!

TOUR A MOSQUE, ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH, BUDDHIST SHRINE ROOM, HINDU TEMPLE & MORE

with opportunity to learn ways of praying & meditating which expand the heart & mind!

DATES: Six Mondays, 4/25—6/6 (no class on 5/30 holiday), 7-9 pm

First night at Interfaith Community Church in Ballard.

www.timmalone.org

BRING A FRIEND ...

**** Let us Pray for Japan in solidarity;

see photo from temple in Nagano

on facebook pages "Spirituality Seminars NW"
or Timothy Malone

Group postponed due to winter weather advisory

2011-01-11T11:16:00.000-08:00

Let it snow ... Let it snow ... yet wise to have
no “Integrating your Spirituality” group tonight!!

May we all Travel safe -- or enjoy the view from home (instead of the 7 hour commute I had back in November .... ! remember that?!)

Announcement: DUE TO THE Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 4 PM this afternoon to 4 am PST Wednesday THUS IMMINENT ARRIVAL OF INCLEMENT WEATHER BEFORE AND DURING OUR CLASS TONIGHT Tuesday January 11th WILL NOT MEET AT ICC THIS EVENING.

TWO OPTIONS:

1) MONDAY 17th 7-9pm in Burien. For those who can make it we will meet at the Burien Professional offices, directions enclosed.

Address: Burien Professional Center

801 SW 150th St. - Suite 204

Burien, WA 98166

206.985.4338 for both venues ...

2) TUESDAY JAN 25TH Group resumes to regular schedule at 7-9 PM Interfaith community Church. The series may be extended through end of March to make up this missed opportunity!

:)

How do we Integrate our Spirituality?

2011-01-03T16:32:00.000-08:00

Do you long for a space to share & integrate your unique, expanding spirituality?

So Many choices,
So many traditions and varieties in which part may speak to me ...
how do I name
and claim what is the right path for me?

A BRAND NEW SPIRITUAL GROWTH GROUP FOR THE NEW DECADE BEGINS JAN. 11th

Integrating Your Spirituality:

A Forum for Expressing & Exploring

This Interfaith Spiritual Growth Group is as unique as your unfolding spiritual journey:
Expect an atmosphere which is
Interactive,
Contemplative,
and where you can Express Your Full self.

We will be Engaging Wisdom Texts in a variety of ways to evoke creativity and spark all your faculties. Personal Attention will be a hallmark of this “live” action, experiential environment in which to clarify and name what speaks to you & leads you home.

7-9 pm

on alternating Tuesdays throughout winter in the Lavender room at ICC.
Jan. 11 & 25
Feb. 8 & 22
March 8 & 22

INTERFAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH
1763 NW 62nd Street
Seattle, WA 98107
(find us in the heart of Ballard)
www.interfaithcommunitychurch.org

$10 per session /$50 for series. A second group will meet in Burien on Monday nights.
(Scholarships are available)

Tim Malone, M.Div will facilitate with heart and skill honed as a spiritual director, World Religions teacher, Meditation mentor, Group facilitator & passionate Ritual Presider/ musician/Poet with the Spiritual Exercises (SEEL). He is a frequent Guest presider at ICC.

For more info Visit: www.timmalone.org

How do we spiritually prepare for the holiday? Dec 2 & 9

2010-11-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

UPCOMING EVENTS & CLASSES

“Spiritual Preparation for the Holidays:”
BE FILLED WITH LIGHT AND LOVE …

Thursdays , Dec. 2 & 9th, 7 -9 pm

Interfaith Community Church, Ballard
http://www.interfaithcommunitychurch.org/
http://www.timmalone.org/

Come ground yourself this busy season with Contemplative Prayer, sacred Chant, and Storytelling. Learn practical ways to allow the crazy “Holi-Daze” to turn into truly Holy days with those you love.
Local Author Jan Vallone will read from her Memoir & excerpt from her story in Chicken Soup for the Soul) and “Clutter coach” Carol Paulsen will help us remember to breathe as we join with many traditions who celebrate Light amidst the darkness.
$ 25 for both nights -- or $15.00 at the door.

“HEARTSONGS:”
MEDITATIVE SONGS & INSPIRING CHANTS
December 12, 10 am
from various traditions, including originals, at the Sunday 10-11:15 am Interfaith Community Church. Co-led with singer/composer/pianist Yanna Devi. Free will Donation.

Labrynth walk Wed. & north bend day of yoga/meditation

2010-08-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Much to note and celebrate in this season of summer whirls by
before we can
savor
the sweetness
yet
such is the season
of fullness
each year
in the Northwest!

To walk the Labrynth in an outdoor setting under trees with a candle amidst community & song
or
Yoga and meditation beside a river winding its way from mountain and waterfall
is
still
within
reach ...
Wednesday and Saturday, respectively.

for more info or directions
www.timmalone.org ...
or www.ststephen.us
for wednesday

August 1st service & afternoon contemplative experience

2010-07-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Are you hungry for time to rest in a quiet space
to be refreshed from within?

Come for the Sunday August 1st At 10:00 am:

“Resting in God: Guided Meditations and Chants
for Cultivating Compassion in Everyday Life”

with Tim Malone, M.Div.

Come to a morning contemplative experience -

and optional afternoon retreat (12:30 to 4:30pm) -

where we will steep in silence, meditation, mystical poetry and sacred chant.
There will be opportunity to learn spiritual disciplines from the west to the east which
lead us to the core of our being where compassion for others – and ourselves – resides.
From this place in our being we can experience the Oneness where we all dwell. Inspired
and enlivened we respond to our suffering world in a way that brings light, harmony
and love.

For more info and to register for afternoon retreat at ICC Aug. 1st 12:30~4:30pm visit; www.timmalone.org.

During his 20 years in Seattle Tim has served as counselor, peace activist, retreat leader, meditation mentor, spiritual director,
leader of music and chant, and teacher of Prayer and different Spiritualities.
As a bridge between cultures and spiritual traditions,
Tim leads a six-week Pilgrimage each Spring to encourage dialogue between the World Religions. Tim is also a member of Interfaith
Community Church and our most often requested returning diverse worship presenter

Combining Prayer, Meditation & Yoga June 12

2010-06-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

Join us for
an Afternoon of

yoga and meditation

Saturday June 12th 1pm – 5pm

Come explore combining gentle yoga with meditation practices from various traditions. Nourish your body and soul with mindful movement, awareness, and compassion. Take with you some ideas for a continued personal meditation practice. Open to all – no previous experience necessary!

Co-Leaders:
Tim Malone, M.Div. and Jayde Pryzgoda, 200-RYT will lead this workshop.

Place: Motion Sense Studio,
7001 3rd Ave NW, Seattle (Phinney Ridge)

Registration and/or Questions:
Please contact Jayde at thisonemomentyoga@gmail.com or
206-755-8132

Suggested Donation $15 - $20

Tim Malone is an experienced meditation practitioner and retreat facilitator. You can read more about his background and interests here:
http://www.timmalone.org/tim_malone_bio.htm

Jayde Pryzgoda is a certified yoga instructor in the Viniyoga tradition. For more information on her style of teaching, please see her blog:
http://thisonemomentyoga.blogspot.com/

THis will hopefully be the beginning of a regular offering -- bringing together movement & meditation from various traditions in one afternoon.
won't you come -- and try it out with us?!

I will be co-leading this 4 hour mini-retreat alternating Yoga with guided sitting & meditations at a studio in Phinney Ridge area where Jayde teaches.
. This is a mindful, Rest-filled opportunity to deepen spiritual life with body, mind & spirit.

May 11 -- A Unique Window into Muslim, Sufi ways of praying

2010-05-04T16:10:00.000-07:00

**************************************************

“Muslim & Sufi Ways of Praying and Living.”
May 11th , 7 pm, St. James' Cathedral Hall.

Tim Malone, M.Div will be facilitating a panel of “ordinary” women and men who will share experiences of daily life as a Muslims in this society.
We will hear what is most meaningful for families living in USA practicing five times a day prayer and other pillars of Islam.
The goal is to awaken each of us to faith of Islam as it is practiced by men and women locally so that we can understand and dialogue more compassionately in our own communities.
Panelists include persons from Turkey & a Whirling Dervish from the lineages connected with the poet Rumi.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend this unique event
aimed at Interfaith dialogue and cooperation toward a more peaceable world.

WWW.STJAMES-CATHEDRAL.ORG
www.timmalone.org

MAY 18th WINDOW INTO THE EAST ... as it prays ....

Want to see how people pray & seek healing on the island of Bali and beyond?

Come on a Visual Pilgrimage alongside a veteran traveler and teacher who encountered World Religions from the inside on a one year Pilgrimage in Asia. Meet “holy men,” healers & sacred sites for women and men for more than three millennia.
Eastern spiritual traditions come alive on this evening of stories and powerpoint images.

All are welcome. Come as you are.
Same info as above.
see flyer on website
WWW.STJAMES-CATHEDRAL.ORG

When will there be peace?? How??

2010-04-13T22:16:00.000-07:00

There will be no peace
on earth until understanding
comes between Spiritual Traditions (& religions).

WORLD RELIGIONS TOUR SHEET 2010

1) APRIL 20th VISIT TO ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

7 PM Tour and Presentation with Deacon and members
Saint Gebriel Church
940 26th Ave. S
Seattle, WA 98144 http://www.st-gebriel.org/
ETTIQUETTE: BRING SOCKS or wear so that you can remove shoes once in Church.
Reading assignment: 1) Neusner, pp. vii-xix as introduction 2) Chapter 6 on Orthodox Christianity & any introductory chapters you desire to explore. 3) Visit Website to learn about services and local practices.

2) APRIL 27 JUDAISM & VISIT TO A SYNAGOGUE
7 PM tour and presentation
Temple De Hirsch Sinai Reformed Synagogue,
1511 East Pike street, Seattle, 98122 www.tdhs-nw.org
PARKING: Park in lot on East Union just west of 16th. Walk north on 16th to Temple Entrance on your left just south of Pike st..
Reading Assignment: Chapter 7 in Neusner: handout on “Judaism” in the packet. Visit Website to learn about services and local practices.

3) MAY 4TH ISLAM & VISIT TO MOSQUE
Sheikh Idriss Mosque, (enter basement via parking lot - see below)
1420 NE Northgate Way, Seattle, 98125 www.simq.org

NOTE ON ENTERING MOSQUE: The front door may not be open. Just west of where Northgate way meets 15th Ave Turn left into small lot or park on 14th /15th and enter this way: “handicap entrance” via parking lot lower level.

7:00-8:00 pm presentation downstairs, basement entrance
8:00 Q & A
8:15 break and prepare for prayer
8:36 We are invited to join the evening Prayer, Sunset "Salat," the 10-15 minute prayer period performed 5 times daily by Muslims. We will Stand/sit in back behind.

Reading Assignment: * Read etiquette below & “Islam” section, Chapter 11, in Neusner; Handouts in Packet; Visit Website for extensive and helpful information.

Etiquette for Visiting the Mosque

Welcome to Idriss Mosque, the House of Allah (God) and place of worship for Muslims. We believe it important to learn about and share our similarities as well as discuss our differences to learn, live and work together with each other in peace and harmony. When visiting Idriss Mosque, we ask your courtesies in complying with the following to honor our house of worship:
Dress modestly -Women - no see through, tight clothing, halter tops, shorts or skirts above calf length, no exposed breast, stomachs, arms, etc. Men – no bare chest, tight shirts, pants, exposure of underwear, open front, sleeveless shirts, etc
Avoid - heavy makeup, perfumed lotions, cologne, strong perfumes
Remove footwear upon entering the Mosque. No bare feet - wear or bring socks.
A scarf, hat or loose covering for the head of women visitors is not required but appreciated.

May 11 PANEL: Muslim & Sufi Daily Life & Prayer. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
7 pm St. James Cathedral Hall: Women and Men represented.
Bring your Questions.

May 17 PILGRIMAGE: A Visual Journey to Asia to see Eastern ways of Praying

7 pm St. James Hall. Led by Tim. Open to the public.

Spring Retreat and Upcoming World Religions series

2010-03-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Scents tickle the nose,
Songs fill the moist, gusty air:
Spring Blooms mightily!

© TJM 2010

I wrote this haiku in the spur of the moment; sometimes this is the most effective crucible for letting a poem bloom! (Or for letting ourselves bloom ... in the joy of spontaneity!)

I will be on Spring Retreat next week at the Trappist Abbey. Over the Easter Break happened to be the best time to be away. I am celebrating one year down in South King County. I have not posted for a few week due to several transformative personal and professional changes taking precedence. Now underway are plans for a 9 month training for skills in "Spiritual Companioning" to begin in May.

I will host and convene the 15th World Religions series (since 2000) downtown Seattle next to St. James Cathedral Tuesdays from April 13 - May 18.

May 11 & 18 will be open to the public. May 11th I will facilitate a panel of women and men Muslims about their prayer and daily life, including a Sufi "Whirling Dervish" who will demonstrate prayer while turning. May 18 will be a kind of Spiritual Travelogue, an audiovisual of how people pray in Asia. See the website for the flyer and updated info ...

www.timmalone.org

Spiritual Exercising

2010-03-01T17:58:00.000-08:00

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES 2010

A 10 WEEK SERIES To deepen your spiritual life / learn many prayer styles to use in daily life.

WEEK 1: (3/1) Overview of the Series & Format:
Prayer Experience: “Let your God love you” (handout)
Setting up a prayer practice – habit of 15 - 30 minutes a day
Ignatian Prayer Style: Setting up a prayer period – (handout)
Initiate Lenten-Easter faith sharing exp./ neighbor / encourage new each week
Prayer Partners/support (faith sharing guidelines) – prayer processing

WEEK 2: (3/8) The Movements and the Foundation:
Prayer Experience: Receiving God’s Love
Prayer Style: Praying the Principle & Foundation (2 versions – handout)
Movements of the Exercises (handout)

WEEK 3: (3/15) The First Movement: Obstacles to Receiving God’s Love
Ignatius’ recovery -- Prayer Style: Examen, pt. 2 (handout – 2 sides)
Discernment of Spirits: Consolation and desolation

WEEK 4 : (3/22) The Second Movement: Images of God
Prayer Style: Lectio Divina
Meditating with the life of Jesus – ministry of love and compassion
Looking at how he related and received God’s love and guidance

WEEK 5: (3/ 29) The Third Movement: Passion
Entering into the Suffering of the Holy One
Prayer Style: Ignatian Contemplation/
Praying with our Imagination in Gospel/ / Triduum

4/5 EASTER MONDAY: WEEK OFF …

WEEK 6: (4/12) From Death into New Life:
Praying our experience of Holy Week & Triduum
Prayer Style: Application of the Senses

WEEK 7: (4/19) The Fourth Movement: Resurrection
Praying with the Risen One through gospel encounters

WEEK 8: (4/26) Discernment in the Light
Listening & Responding to God’s call with the whole person/
Labrynth, Rosary and Chant as other ways to pray

WEEK 9: (5/3) Contemplation on Divine Love
Praying the Contemplatio: “Take, Lord, Receive, all”
Contemplative Prayer: Sitting in Silence with God

WEEK 10: (5/10) Closing night
(or 5/17 - if Tim in Costa Rica previous May weekend)

Continuing your “Spiritual Exercising” in Daily Life
Continuing Prayer Practice & Gratefulness Prayer
Resources for support: Spiritual Direction, SEEL, retreat, books

The Art of Discernment and simple steps

2010-02-19T16:48:00.000-08:00

DISCERNMENT:
The Art of Listening to that still, small voice --

deep enough and it is the voice of God

Notes from RETREAT DAY February 20th 2010 Renton, WA
www.timmalone.org

* How do we come to hear the voice of God in our busy lives?
* What is “God’s will” for me at this time in my life?

WHAT IS DISCERNMENT ?

Discernment is often defined as “perceiving what is hidden or concealed” from our view by means of a “keenness of discrimination.” (Webster’s Dictionary). Yet in its fullness it is first a process: of “sifting and sorting” out what is true or right for me – be it a specific choice, a response, a lifestyle or our life’s purpose (i.e. vocation). Also, in this process we invite and involve the Spirit – in fact it’s all about God!

Thus, there is a difference between entering a particular Decision-making process - and a larger discernment. Often we can decide more easily between what we want and don’t want, what is more obviously good/healthy or not so healthy /helpful. Discernment is often a choice between two goods.

“There are many good things out there. Not all are good for me … at this time.” Sr. K. Dyckman, SNJM

We begin with a Practice of LISTENING, of noticing within, to tease out differences between:
· A Craving
· A Desire
· Our Deepest Desire: is this nudge coming from our most authentic self?

· When we follow the root to the core of ourselves and discover our deep desire to love, express, create a life with God’s grace, St. Ignatius notes, we will find this is the same as God’s will for us.

THE BIG Q. How do I know whether my deepest desire is what is God’s deepest desire/call for me?

CLUES: Energized; Joy, fruits of the Spirit; A sense of God’s presence or being called; work = prayer.

The Spiritual Goal of Discernment.

1. Receive God’s Love daily and Give back out of place of freedom and joy for gift given.

2. To become freed (from inordinate attachments) thus available to respond in Love in the circumstances of our lives.

3. To begin to Know our deepest desires and choose that which leads us closer to God. Entrusting ourselves to God’s care we offer our talents in becoming the person we have been created to be as we live out our life’s purpose most fully.
We begin to ask: how can I best serve?

TOOLS and Practices to uncover our deepest desires and listen for the voice of intuition, deep wisdom, God speaking:

A. Practice the EXAMEN review daily – in personal prayer and/or shared with others. Talk to God/Spirit/the Mystery/Source.
B. LISTEN . Daily Awareness: Noticing times of craving v. deeper desires; Discernment of Spirits.
C. BE PRESENT TO GOD. With you. Now. Sitting in silence & stillness Five minutes a day. Scripture or inspiration from sacred traditions can be conduit for power of grace coming into your life.now.

contact me to learn about the EXAMEN or other meditation disciplines tailored to your life.
or visit www.timmalone.org for coming events and Spiritual Exercises.

Upcoming events and new flyer on Spiritual Direction

2010-02-08T10:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday there were yellow Crocuses smiling at the sun and the scent of sarcophogi and phlox perfuming the air:
Celtic Spring is here!
Also, Chinese new year shares the weekend with St. Valentine's day.
Are we an interfaith world, or what?!

For info on my writings and a new tri-fold bold glossy flyer on "What is Spiritual Direction" go to this (or cut and paste in your browser!)

http://www.timmalone.org/tim_malone_bio.htm

COMING EVENTS:

1) A DAY of Reflection on the topic of DISCERNMENT

FEBRUARY 20th 9 am - 12 noon

A MINI-RETREAT: HOW DO WE LISTEN
For the Deepest Voice, the still small voice, even the voice of God?

Come for REFLECTION, PRAYER, CHANT & Spiritual Conversation.

St. stephen the Martyr in Renton, WA
See calendar on Coming events page on my website -- link above.

MARCH 1 "A Taste of the Spiritual Exercises"

March 1 thru May 24 -- 12 week series
For more info on both events contact (253) 631-1940 www.ststephens.us
Free will donation. All are welcome.

Brief Bio /Bioptic (So far...)

2010-01-23T17:51:00.000-08:00

A BRIEF AUTO-BIO (So Far...) Written in third person):

Each day I sit in silence for 30 minutes, chant from multiple traditions and go to bed with an examination of my consciousness ( grateful and challenging moments from the day). From an early age Tim was known to be sensitive, especially to the movement of the Spirit, a felt a connection that defined his path. Though it was said he rocked and rolled on the scale so much they could not weigh him as a baby the gentle -spirit Tim has so far emerged strongest. Reared in the Catholic Christian Tradition in the Midwest Tim attended U of Notre Dame and was trained as prayer and retreat leader amidst his own period of initiation into the spiritual life, including serious illness and chronic fatigue. This struggle resulting in changing tracks from pursuing medical Doctor to the healing arts of counseling psychology. Tim served for a year internship with JVC in Seattle which led to seven years in the mental health profession, equipping him to be with people in searching and in suffering, “a light in the dark,” as one woman suffering deep depression called him.
In 1991 he took the first of his sabbaticals overseas, this one to Europe for four months. He experienced such an awakening from living at Taize monastery (France) and living like St. Francis in Assisi Italy that he returned to the states and entered the Franciscan order. Continued discernment of religious life resulted in clarity that though he exhibits the “priestly” archetype his style of living this charism out would not fit in Holy Orders as they exist now. Returning to the NW and a brief engagement to a fellow pilgrim he followed an inner call to live in intentional spiritual community with both men and women. While studying for his Masters of Divinity he co-founded a community in Seattle which lived, served and meditated together for five years. This community initiated him into many different spiritual traditions and expressions of faith. During this time Tim served as adult spirituality coordinator in a parish and then coordinated the CHANNEL leadership training program until 2000 when he embarked on a one year solo Pilgrimage in Asia. Before his departure he co-founded and facilitated two “World Religions” series, each attending five houses of worship in the community for the purpose of encountering and learning to dialogue with often unknown “others” such as Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist.
This jubilee year marked an intense exploration and growth period which still involves yearly pilgrimages to the East. Having attended events and dialogued with leaders such as the Dalai Lama in India, Nepali Hindu Priests, Thai Buddhist monks, Bali-nese healers and Japanese Zen practitioners Tim realized that truly until there is understanding between the people of the world’s religions there will always be war between nations. Returning from Asia three weeks before 9.11.01 Tim was called forth by the Stillpoint Spirituality Center to lead groups to the Mosque so as to build a bridge in the community. In the intervening years Tim has led over 15 groups from all over the county to over 20 houses of worship, connecting over 1000 persons.
Between 2001 – 2008 Tim honed his skills as a Spiritual Director in both 1:1 and group settings through the Spiritual Exercises training program as well as learn to teach prayer and meditation both east and west. Six years in leadership of the non-profit Ignatian Spirituality Center birthed the popular “Spirituality on Tap” program across two counties. Tim explored other modalities and integrates these in his practice as Spiritual Director/Disciplines coach/Presider: Chanting, contemplative prayer ,Focusing, Enneagram, Healing Touch and Energy work/medicine, Mythology – modern and ancient, indigenous healing and shamanic practice. Recently, Tim presided at both the Interfaith Community Church and Swedenborg Community where a participant at each remarked, “you are a kind of “spiritualist:” you facilitate the Spirit to come into this space … into our hearts … with your deep, melodic speaking voice and simple song which opens up the soul …to grace.”
In Sept. 2009 Tim’s first Audio CD debut in the Philadelphia area, “Resting in God: Guided Meditations and Original Chants for Everyday Practice.” He is fresh off his third sabbatical (this lifetime) and living in a carriage house on a 3 acre estate in South King county which affords him ample time in solitude and nature to be “fully present” and energized to love and offer gifts of music, voice, meditation and healing presence. He enjoys writing poetry and songs in free time, many of which are available on this website or blog. Some day he may enter into the world of paper books, voice acting and lecture circuits yet at present he is content to just be. It is enough to dedicate oneself in offering spiritual direction, retreats and seminars, both in USA and in Costa Rica. If interested in having Tim facilitate an uplifting and contemplative spiritual experience contact him through this website ( left side panel.)

Influences over time: Family (Malones, Bott and Schmidts), Thomas Merton, Dorothy Day, Rumi, St Ignatius and Jesuits, Francis, and John of the Cross, Dom Bede Griffiths of South India monastery, Taize, Thich Nhat Hahn, Therese of Lixeiu,MLK, Ghandi, Jesus, Buddha, Sri Ramakrishna, George Harrison, Zen poets at Haiku

Mentors and Spiritual Directors: William Johnston SJ in Tokyo (Cloud of Unknowing), Bro Wayne Teasdale (Mystic Heart), Tibetan leader in Exile H.H. Dalai Lama, Andy Dufner SJ of Nestucca Sanctuary, Sr. Mary Walsh OSF, Many Jesuits at Seattle U., ND,JVC, and Katmandu Nepal; Sheik Sufi leader Jamal Rachman, Rabbi ____,Swami Bhaskarananda Vedanta Society, Crestone Colorado Community, Shantivanum (India) and New Camaldolesce (CA) Hermits,

Taking Time for just Being: An Interfaith Way of practicing SABBATH

2010-01-11T15:39:00.000-08:00

Excerpts from my presentation tonight
for Cabrini "Continuing Education" program:

TAKING “SABBATH” as a way of RESTING IN GOD

SABBATH ORIGINS:

JEWISH: Out of Genesis 2: SABBATH in over 25 passages in Hebrew and Christian Scriptures
Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy: The 10 Commandments

CHRISTIAN: Jesus, the Gospels & the Sabbath: His Practice of Going away to rest & pray ;
Practicing Compassion; Love your neighbor as you love yourself

ISLAM ... Koran enjoins the sabbath in over six passages
HINDU ... From the Upanishads ; festivals in India and Bali call for a day to turn off all power.
BUDDHIST ... meditation, communally and individually, discplines the mind and renews body

SABBATH TOOLS:

· Commit weekly to a time of 1-3 hours, a half day or full day – outside of Mass -
· In solitude or shared with a loved one
· Try “fasting” from electronics of any kind
· Feast on what else there is that is life-giving around you
· Begin by Lighting a Candle(s) … to connect with Tradition
· Place keys, phone, TV controller, etc. and petitions in a Sabbath box
· Bell or Gong (or alarm, if you must) to begin and end your sacred time
· Sacred Space or Altar with icons, images, mementos lead you into Sabbath rest
· Book of reflections or prayers which leads you to your Inner Sanctuary
· Walking stick or binoculars … to encounter Nature out your front door
· Favorite prayer practice or Scripture/Poem – for centering, grounding in rel. with God
· Musical instrument (or favorite quiet background music /guided meditation CD)
· Silence is your friend and can be a companion … leading you to deep self and to God with you.
** Whatever sensations or emotions arise in the time for Being, once attended to, will grow you, like a garden, winter into spring.

SABBATH RESOURCES & BOOKS:

Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in our Busy Lives by Wayne Muller
The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel and Susannah Heschel
Solitude: A Return to the Self by Anthony Storr;
Thoughts in Solitude by Thomas Merton
Out of Solitude: Three Meditations by Henri J. M. Nouwen
Resting in God: Guided Meditations for Everyday Life (Audio CD) by Tim Malone

FOR MORE INFO ON SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
AND UPCOMING RETREATS/ SEMINARS:

www.Ignatiancenter.org ; www.TimMalone.org

Two Benevolent Encounters (and upcoming 4 week Series on Meditation!)

2010-01-05T15:11:00.000-08:00

Haiku: “Swirl”
11.28.09

Pine needles
Swirl
In pond
Revealing patterns:
What Being
Traces

Zen
(-fully)?

© TJM 2010

“Greeting Wild Robin”
12.3.09

Each morn'
Before sunrise
Outside my window in a holly tree
Waits
A plump, orange-breasted Robin.
Upon opening shutters
We greet
With our eyes,
head tilted in curiosity.
Benevolent Glances.
Together we watch the dawn rising
Over frosted rooftops
Until she begins to sing,
And poop and eat red berry,
Eyes meeting mine now and again;
Until one of us must needs
Travel on our way
Into the sunlit day
Perchance, full,
With Wild Communion,
We, two,
Companioned Souls.

© TJM 2010, www.timmalone.org

Are you looking ways to deepen your meditation and prayer life?

Do you desire a closer walk with the Divine each and every day?

Would you like to “try on” different styles of praying?

Ways of Praying

A Four-week Introductory series
Exploring Spiritual Disciplines
including sitting in Silence.

Begins Tuesday January 12th.

Each evening will include teaching and a guided prayer experience (including prayer with scripture, prayer in the tradition of Saints Benedict and Ignatius, and prayer with silence). Later in the evening, participants may choose to take part in silent reflection or small group faith sharing.

Facilitators: Tim Malone, MDiv, and Rosanne Michaels, MATS
Tim and Rosanne are both spiritual directors and retreat leaders in the Puget Sound area. Both have facilitated prayer experiences at the Ignatian Spirituality Center, and are directors of the Spiritual Exercises in Everyday Life.

Dates: Tuesdays, January 12, 19, 26, February 2nd

Time: 7:00 -9:00 pm

Place: “Cathedral Place” behind St. James, Downtown Seattle
Directions: www.st.james-cathedral.org

Questions? Call Helen Oesterle at 206-382-4514

“The light within us and within all things

needs to be enkindled

by our acts of love,

our emptiness,

our reaching out.”

Patrick Twohy, SJ

Winter as time for Being

2009-12-28T17:47:00.000-08:00

The light is returning yet our energy may seem sapped or drained out of us. Many of us feel pretty tuckered out by this point in the season and some of us crash, physically (sickness, sugar) or emotionally. This season can be a time of harvesting the fruits of the year by simple spending time "doing" nothing, that is, by "being" for a day or two. Do you notice the body calling you to just rest, to lean into the winter "blanket"?

For me, this is when naps and creativity take more front and center. These seemingly "unproductive" activities can mean loads of space for something new to grow in the next season or at least a chance to let the soil take a much needed breather!

Suggestions:
Go take a walk and see what nature is doing, (or being!).
Write a journal entry or a poem about where you at this time of year.
Sing or paint, create a meal which is nourishing.
What else might fit into "being" activity for you?

Question for meditating upon this season of New Light, new beginnings:

What if you saw your life as largely un -charted territory…

with infinite choices

that could each be lived "in the light," with divine inspiration at your back?

December Haiku

2009-12-21T18:34:00.000-08:00

Winter Frost,
Two nights,
Full moon,
Shining on Lawn:
Shortest days, Longest wait.

For my ally is ... (May the light be with you!)

2009-12-21T17:05:00.000-08:00

Today is the Solstice: the first day of winter yet marks the beginning of light returning and longer days a burning.
Isn't that just like life?
The first day of the (often) most dreaded season and yet a new beginning for the Light, that fiery glow on the horizon which makes life possible here on earth. "Light," by the way, is the most prominant positive image of the Divine which is shared in spiritual traditions worldwide.

I offer a snippet of conversation heard on the street in NW: "Isn't it great the sun came out today - I need that light -vitamin D -bring it on! "so tell me, HOW ARE YOU??"

What if we said when people asked this common question: "Ah, I am glad you asked. the Light is my ally. When I am feeling myself IN the light, connected to the light (Divine, God, etc.) my whole being is well. I am well, right here and now, thank you."
The ancient Yule, welcoming the light, was a communal practice in the British Isles, a community celebrating for days in just this kind of spirit! Maybe you are like me: I sure like to fill myself with food and glittery trees and presents for the holidays. Yet I wonder: what if I focused my gaze each morning before all this holydays/holi-daze on answering this question:
Who is my ally?

What if we thought not of a person, or an image (of God), nor a concept only (Love) but a felt experience...
Another way to ask this might be: What is the primary ally which gives life, (and is not the sun or the earth) but the force behind the light, the Source and essence behind all of life? What might that be, for you?

Any one of us might answer this with a million different responses or descriptions. Today, my answer would be: "the Light or the Force." This, for me, draws and sustains my essence, even when I am not aware. This is my primary relationship, winter and summer, pain of loss or joy of just being alive in a forest. This is what is behind a mass of people across the planet feel moved by films and stories such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter: "The Force," "and magic are just other images for this all-pervading, life-sustaining energy which comes from ... that which made us. "The Force be with you" was director George Lucas just slipping in a different word for the first greeting the catholic priest gives at Mass: "The Lord be with You." It is curious that when the census asks for "religion practiced" hundreds of thousands say "Jedi/the Force." As a teacher of comparative religion this is essentialy the same as saying, in the East, the Tao (Ying Yang), and the West, the (Holy) Spirit. Thus, its not just a silly movie or a new moder myth, its pointing to something people have experienced as real for ten thousand years.

Yoda, the little Jedi master/teacher in Star Wars 6 movies, says it like this :

"For my ally is the Force, and a powerful ally it is. Life creates it, makes it grow. Its energy surrounds us and binds us. Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter. You must feel the Force around you; here, between you, me, the tree, the rock, everywhere, yes."

There will always be this movement toward balance: light and dark, emergence and shadow, life and death, ending and new beginning. This is happening to us all, individually and collectively. This is happening to me at present, if I take a moment to sit, settle and notice the movements in my life. Or stop in a church or sacred temple for five minutes. Or "treat" myself to a massage, other treatment such acupuncture/cranial sacred/alternative medicine. All of these "alternative" modalities are about balance; and compliment western medicine beautifully because of this primary focus. Opening myself to these many ways of finding balance have also opened up my image of God -- and allowed the Light -- to show me how the real God works...

A student at the Seattle Institute for Oriental medicine looked at my website and wrote, it seems you are "Forging a new path in relatively unaddressed field …" Whatever that field might be called, for me, it must always come back to the source -- experience and relationship to deepest connection in life. When i write haiku I notice "the Force" meditates me, that is, flows through me into words on a page. Experience becomes form. Life speaks, through me, as it were. On Christmas day I will post a few of these peaches (or mangoes?). Scroll down to earlier posts for to taste poems ripened on my tree -- from last year in Thailand and this year in the Northwest.

MAY THE LIGHT BE WITH YOU!

Meditation from new audio CD "Resting in God"

2009-12-15T15:03:00.000-08:00

In these darkest days before the Light returns

what if :

you gave yourself a gift

of a quiet moment,

to sit on our favorite chair,

to breathe,

to sink into

the moment,

take a break

from the busy-ness

of holi-daze ...

read this meditation aloud or

silently,

as you wish...

Be Still …

and

Be Found.

Be
Still …

Be
in
the
Silence.

Be . . .
Here,

Be . . .
Home ...
in
this
moment.

Be … with
what
Is.

Be Freed . . .
from suffering…
constant movement,
response, reaction.

Be released . . .
from seeking,
for a moment.

Let yourself
be found . . .
as you are.

Be still
and Know . . .
that you
are found

In the Heart
of Love.

Be
Still.

Be
Found.

At
Last!

From Outer space to Exploring Inner space

2009-12-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

From Outer space to Inner space: "to boldly go where ..." “

I love “outer space” and the limitless imagination of authors and filmmakers to dream of what the future might be, at its best for all humanity. Hearing my musing a friend of mine noted, “its seems to me that you help people explore inner space.”

I could not deny the accuracy of this image and the call of deep within me to / walk with others as they unfold more and more authentically on the journey we name Life.

"Spiritual direction" is the field of Spirituality in which one person accompanies another on their spiritual journey with the explicit intention of supporting that "Life unfolding in each person." click on the link below to continue reading this about this passion and call for my life as I meet with around 10 people a month in person and via skype as far as Colorado and Costa Rica ... http://www.timmalone.org/tim_malone_spiritual.htm

Review of the new CD Resting in God, (Resting in Silence):

“I listened to your CD in my car while I am driving. It’s such a precious jewel that you have made, a wonderful gift you have put out into the world. I am really glad to have received it.” Dr. Spring Cheng, JourneyDance and Joyful Spring.com

Be Filled with Light

2009-11-30T15:16:00.000-08:00

Mondays will no longer be a "blah" day but a "BLOG" day!

As Autumn seems to have been usurped by coming Winter yet still there are four apples hanging onto one bare tree (mostly nibbled by passerbyers!) I offer these poems written in quiet moments on the estate. This season of gathering darkness can be one where we follow the rhythms of nature into more interior silence and rest -- or follow another driving force of our own nature. Four tuesdays in December are highlighted below as a way to welcome our longing for light. It is a contemplative way through dimmed sacred space and simple chant which may leads us to our song of our soul.
(and to writing haiku of our own!)

More poems to remember Summer and Autumn:

1. Haiku: Song of the Gathering

Bird symphony above the path,
Trees rustle, berry drops:
Winter closing in.

2. Summer to Autumn:

Ode to winged ones in search of seed:
So much on the vine.
Is that why you are flying,
to and fro,
at such speed,
Gleeful at first light
of dawn for the gifts
brought on
by summer’s baking long?

3. Haiku: “New Growth”

Planted softly here
Watered with care, Blossom
Emerges
Into
Light.

4. Haiku: “Released”

Awake, Freed from longing;
At rest, in God, like a babe
In Mother’s womb.

5. Haiku: Still Life with ____ (or are they kissing?)

Ripe yellow Pear leans
on Spiral Conch Seashell:
Tabletop tenderness.

“BE FILLED WITH LIGHT:”
DECEMBER EVENINGS OF REFLECTION

Featuring original poems & songs
and Chant
from Taize monastery, France
:
Come to one, Come to all. Open to all faiths.

Tuesdays, December 1, 8*, 15, 22
Time:7:00 - 9:00 pm (*Except Dec. 8, begins 8:00 pm)

Where: St. Francis of Assisi Main Sanctuary,
15226 21st Avenue SW, Burien 98166
www.stfoa.org 206.985.4338

A participatory Experience Facilitated with musical accompaniment by Timothy Malone, M.DivEach evening come into contemplative space, with votive candles andicons. Enter the silence, follow the chant with your voice, weak or strong, whether carrying grief or in joy … Connect with your Soul.

Free will donation. Cd's available for purchase.

INTERFAITH EXPLORATIONS

** BIG NEWS: MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR APRIL 2010:

The WORLD RELIGIONS series II

Visiting 5 different houses of worship in King County area, Including a Mosque, SIX WEEKS, APRIL 13- MAY 18, 2010 !

NEW CD is here!!-- Light and warmth to you!!

Mondays will no longer be a "blah" day but a "BLOG" day. click here for weekly writings and meditations:http://treasuresbeyondmeasure.blogspot.com/or go to http://www.timmalone.org

autumn haiku -- for you

2009-11-23T22:59:00.000-08:00

Autumn Haiku

1. Gold carpeted street:
Autumns’ parting gift –
Thousand
pine needles released.

2. “Rain Meditation”

So Quiet: chorus
of tap, tap, tap, gentle drum,
constant hum, as one.

3. One last ( gigantic) Pear
Clinging to the vine:
One final taste,
Harvest, 2009.

4. Sigh at Summer’s end:
Apples lie like dew on grass,
reflect glories past.

****All draft poems Copywrite @ 2009 Timothy J. Malone. www.timmalone.org

Sabbatical complete, a new season begins

2009-11-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

GREETINGS!

I am back in the groove this Autumn; ready to enter a new season which include resuming this blog as a space for creativity and spirituality, poetry and explorations of important themes in our day.
www.timmalone.org is my website and lists upcoming events as well as how to order my new

NEW audio CD, "Resting in Silence, Resting in God. " It is 60 minutes of Tim's voice offering support for your spiritual practice, whatever your tradition, in the form of guided meditations, mystical poetry and chant.
It was produced by my brother on the eastcoast during a series of presentations in the Philadelphia area, one of which was attended by nearly 75 people, all whom received the CD that evening to help further their practice of "praying everyday and staying with it."

MY HOPE AND DESIRE IS TO POST A POEM OR REFLECTION EVERY WEEK ON THIS SITE as a means of radiating light and inspiration in the world. I welcome your comments and also any reflections or poems/images which come to you in reading. This is OUR blog, searchers and finders in the spirit of life, flowing in and out of the wonderful energy of God.

;)

2009-03-04T22:00:00.000-08:00

Running with SHARKS !
A close encounter with a wild fin on Sanibel Island

It was a cloudy day in January on this Gulf island and even the alligators were hiding from the cold, much to my disappointment. Having cruised the wildlife refuge for a sign of the behemoths the only way to save the day was to take a walk on the beach to see if some dolphins might surface.
Parking the car and walking the private beach path to a largely deserted sunset view I began searching the surf for signs of black fins circling out about one-hundred yards. Last night I was treated to a surprise school of bottle-nosed dolphins fishing within easy view of where sand met the sea. I walked the raging surf a good clip to keep up with the five or more dolphins closest into land. It was a marvel: the paintbrush rosy sunset as backdrop for these sleek creatures parading up Sanibel islands’ coastline. Ah, perfect end to a growth filled day.
Today, however, was so far a bust – no alligators, minor sunset, cold as autumn in the NW, and no dark fins in sight. I sighed, and let go even as I cried out to dolphin community of my desire to meet again. Alas, I shook it all off and greeted the sandpipers as I strolled purposely toward some good exercise, at least!
That’s when I saw it. You know, at first your eyes catch a glint of something out of the ordinary in the water and try to make sense of it. Then I noticed evidence of this unconscious tactic: my brows furrowed, and frown on my face. Then that moment of realization: riding the surf eight feet from where the tide touches my toes was a fin. A tan colored fin. Not a big grey or black dolphin fin. It was something else. It hugged the edge of where the tide crashed in like it had a homing beacon (which it probably did). It was a fin coming out of the water as the tide came in and it was traveling about as fast as I could stride my long legs forward without running. When the tail came out of the water ever so slightly my suspicions were confirmed: it was a Shark!
By god, I asked for a dolphin and I got a shark. It was too cold for alligators but this creature was out fishing like it was born to surf under the waves. My pulse quickens. Was I supposed to be scared, and run away from shore? Don’t some sharks EAT people or at least bite them if they are swimming. My lord, this thing was not more than ten feet from me and I was not even in the water. If I was, would he bite? Nah, some deeper voice inside me quieted gulping fear.
Or was he a companion on this walk? Hmm, Was there such a thing as shark spirits to commune with? Of course the answer is yes to both, yet at that moment all I could do was go with my tremendous excitement and that inner urging saying: “Walk with him, run as he swims, keep up as he journeys. Play “follow the leader” and have a ball.” And so I did , for over a mile up the Sanibel island coastline - with wild abandon! I could taste Young blood surging in my veins all the way… but I am getting ahead of myself here. So here was my adventure:
During this whole time my goal was essentially to dance with the waves and get as close to him as I could without actually going in the water. A few times it was close, maybe a little TOO close. I wanted to see his face so bad I almost fell in - and over him - as the swells calmed enough for me to see his fin and backside. Yes, and I talked to him. Really and truly. I Called him pet names. I Gave him a ribbing when he seemed be gone like I would a buddy in a bar who was not telling me the full story of his latest encounter. What was I thinking, after all. I was walking and talking to a shark, for god sakes!
I could not keep in him out of my sight yet often in order to keep up I had to juggle running in and out of tide water surges while dodging spiny sea urchins and sandpipers feeding or flying away just over my head. The wind came up and blew my hat off a few times and had to run back to catch up, nervous I would miss him. Or a fright took me: when would he just end his fishing and that would be our time, our “moment?”
(It was thrilling, engaging, like playing hide and seek – with a crocodile. I felt just safe enough, yet riveted to the screen, which was the lenses in my glasses. )
An older couple walking past me in the fading light greeted me serenely and than I pointed to the water, and said “that ain’t no dolphin, eh?” The woman looked aghast, the man interested and in broken german accent said something as he nodded his head and walked along same way a few paces. Than they were gone as the commitment to keep up was too much. I wondered if they were concerned for me, this solo walker on the beach driven to follow a shark as it rode the edge of surf. And one slip, and I would be …what ? shark bait? Our moment would not end up that darkly, would it?
Well, truth is: we did have a moment. I got gutsy/ballsey/all daring and started demanding he come out of the water more and show me his stuff, just for a moment. (Even as I said) I wondered and spoke my plea aloud: can you actually come out of the water and onto the edge of the surf next to where I am standing? A question more than a request, it seemed. My partner never once answered in words yet as our running together took us into an area where the tide changed its course over a shallow reef I lost him. For a few minutes he was no-where to be found. I let go after a time, ran forward several paces than began walking back. I remembered seeing some kind of movement in the water right before he disappeared. Ah, maybe caught something. What though? I walked back from where I had paced ahead, squinting in the twilight, sunset almost finished its painting lesson to all of us.
Then a flash of light – a reflection from the last pastel glow of sky -- the golden fin appeared. I sighed in relief, a strange thing given that at some point either he would swim out to sea or it would be too dark to spot him as dusk settled in. “Shark spirit,” I prayed out loud, “show me your beauty before you go.” As he slipped easily between waves I threw him some sea urchins. He never changed course to check out what entered the water. Interesting, I thought. Now back to shallow area the fins seemed to swerve this way and that. I walked with rapt attention as close to the shore, leaning over the edge like I could do a roll aikido style. Then it happened, all at once, and I jumped up and a little back: He came out of the water back tail toward me as the tide pulled in. I saw all of him as he forcefully chewed on something he caught. His form was a marvel. Though I could not see his teeth his top/back/dorsal fin was much taller than I thought, almost prehistoric in its shape, like a stegasauras plate. It was only a moment, but after all our running together these past 20 or so minutes it was the answer and gift I was looking for. Wow – he really came out of the water, and thankfully, not at me – but at another prey. Whew! And Woo-hoo!
Then as soon as the next wave pounded in and he made off with his meal my welcome companion departed for good. And it was good. I walked around looking for him here and there for a time as it became dark and marveled at it all: It was an encounter alright, an adventure not even imagined. With the upcoming Caribbean cruise I had considered paying $$ for a ‘dolphin” encounter, all safely administered, undoubtedly. But a SHARK ENCOUNTER – holy ___. How can you script that?!
As I acknowledged it was over, this running with the fin and tail, all I could do was stop, take a breath --and bow. And so I did. Bending forward I breathed in, I am Grateful. Breathing out, Yes. Here it was, yet another treasure beyond measure. At that moment my intuition caught a big fish: I knew the next thing was to run back home to my Tahiti drive house and write the whole thing down. The wild masculine spirit in others would appreciate this true story of a man who survived a close encounter with a shark. In fact, they might even eat it up …
:)
© Copyright 2009 Timothy J. Malone

** Help!! Please send your feedback or comments, including on the title …*
directly via this here blog: or send to your friends via http://treasuresbeyondmeasure.blogspot.com/

*Alternate titles:

(He was ... ) Running with a Shark …

(or, the man who runs with sharks // ran with a shark)

NEW writings: Poems & Haiku from the last 6 months journey

2009-03-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

Haiku U: 18 dragonflies over a lotus pond*

© Copyright 2009 Timothy J. Malone

I. Out of a VisionQuest in the Desert come these patterns: Oct. 2008 near Moapa Indian Reservation, Valley of the Fire, NV

1. Beyond the call to
“Taste” lies voice to go deeper:
Listen, red rock speaks.

2. Golden Eagles fly
wide circles over (ponderosa) gnarled pines /tops;
one sound, wind through wings.
no sound, (but the) wind //shifts.

3. Flecks of gold dancing !
Ah, Dragonfly wings -- reflecting
The(Hot) desert sun.

II. “Return from harrowing one month in Asia” Haikus:

Two from the shores of the great River Phra, Bangkok, Nov. and December 2008:

4. Watching the Lotus
I noticed truth: Bees stay and drink
from flower to live.
[ from flower//drink from its source//sup from its center .//bees know to drink there]

5. Over Wat Po’s pond
Butterfly lands, wing expands
Unfolds,
majesty.

6. Into the dark I
Sank, noise of another life
heard: Not your home now.

7. Middle of night, awake -
To emptiness, silence –
Resist
filling
space.

8. Unfolding life
Taking a different form;
What it is, don’t know
Yet.

9. Still on sabbatical
Forget not: this time of spac-
-iousness feeds,
soul.

III. Haiku from a hermitage deep: February 2009

10. Spirit weaving the
Next forms; my task – to simply
Stay out of the way!

11. So Quiet inside;
This new place, space, pace – is yours;
Welcome home, at last!

12. Liquid Lava: Energy
flows – or It does not,
blocked; Love is the Same.

13. In the sanctuary
Kept sacred, the silence,
Zen steward, Monk’s cell.

14. Drink morning still-
ness – heart flutters – gentle me;
“no thing, we have to do.”

IV. After storms, inner and outer (from February hail to stomach flu wail):

15.
A storm settles in;
Wracks siding and sinew, sweeps
Out ... winter, purging.

16. Silence: no words echo
here For (many) hours. Heart rests in still ness/ point.

17. Transitions: from what
I’ve known -- a tunnel -- to new
Pastures, green and gold.

18. “Take care of me, dear”
Speaks body. In sickness lies
Opportunity.

Each Haiku © Copyright 2009 Timothy J. Malone

V. SO, NOW ... Tell me some of your stories …. :)

New blog for "Treasures beyond Measure," a book in process

2008-10-10T22:18:00.001-07:00

One of my biggest Dreams since 2001 is that of publishing, in book form, the writings from my one year pilgrimage in Asia in 2000-01. A unique aspect that may appeal to people is the context: looking back on it as a pre-911 perspective. See http://www.timmalone.org/tim_malone_bio.htm for some more reflections on how these writings may be of service in these confusing, challenging times.

FIRST STEPS: I need your help! please read my writings on this post and on the website (above) under "Asian Pilgrimage." Enjoy, offer feedback, even edit ...if you feel so moved. Why? This will help me generate enthusiasm to re-visit it and also get it out there SOONER for the benefit and service to others. So inspire me! Next blog will be a short story...

VISION: Now 3 months into my sabbatical these are some aspirations: ** the next step for me is to copywrite the title and also update my website as place for emerging writings, emerging new directions. ** In January 2009 I will spend a month in Florida on Pine island to dedicate a good chunk of time for writing and editing into a form suitable for next steps. ** Then to explore publishing and contact writers I know to assist with final forms, a preface, illustrations, etc. This is all 7 years in the making ... may Spirit guide and support all our creative expressions!

in peace,

Timothy