Chapter #1
“You’re doing that the wrong way!!”
I hate to hear those words and I love when the person addressed replies “Well it is working fine!!”
Let’s first look at degrees of right. Just how right are you? Are you completely right? Are you as right as you need to be? Are you more than half right? Is it possible to be half right? Obviously right in the language of man is not absolute and not fully determined.
I know that we have a set of standards that we hold forth as “RIGHT” but they should never get in the way of man’s creativity. When that happens we resolve things in a robotic manner that leads us down the same path to the same conclusion. Right is not always correct and that has been revealed
time after time when learned men have had to revise their conclusion of what right “really” was over time.
time after time when learned men have had to revise their conclusion of what right “really” was over time.
The wonderful challenge of taking on something that is beyond your area of expertise is that it can be the most exciting adventure you will ever attempt in life.
Ask the Prestidigitator who devises a different method simply because he had no access to the “right” way and as a result mystifies his contemporaries. He has developed “his way” and many will later follow his example because it suits their persona and ability.
“You have to do it the right way” is often the cause for not getting it done at all.
For years limitations were accepted as defeat but as men developed the courage to take a chance things changed, The blind can “see”, the deaf can “hear”, the lame can “walk” and the dumb can “speak”. The methods vary but they all work. Who is to say which one is right? Hope fully no one will ever come up with the “right” answer to that.
The right way has to be acceptable to the person that is using it and completes the project to the EXPECTATIONS of his or her self. There might well be faster ways or easier ways but that does not mean that they are any more the right way than the way that you are using or trying. The great thing about us is that when we come upon a “better way” we are not so stiff necked that we will not test it.
This is the manner in which we progress and as our creativity grows the limitations of the mind and body decrease. Whenever anyone questions “How far can you go with this”? There is only one answer! “As far as you desire”!
Take a glance at some of life’s examples. Have you ever noticed an “old” person of 75 to ninety years old who floors you with the youthful life he or she lives? They might ride a motorcycle or go out dancing or go run a marathon. Ask them how they do it, what the secret of their youth at such an advanced age is and you will hear as many different answers as the number of people you talk too.
They will all tell you their “RIGHT WAY
I got right down to the basics of this question with someone who is very close to me. I asked, “What really is the secret of life” and the reply was shocking. I was told that I could have the secret if I really wanted it but I would NOT like it!! Of course I choose to hear it anyway and I am about to share it with you and I warn you “YOU WON’T LIKE IT.”
Let me start with some examples of how people deal with the challenge of life.
I asked a clerk in a store this question “Are you always this cheerful”?
She replied with a grin “I try to be. It’s a commitment I make every day when I get up”.
Then I asked the key question “Why”?
At first she stopped and appeared to be thinking as if there was a right or a wrong answer and she didn’t wish to pick the wrong one. Then she said it; the most common used cliché. “I always remember that there are others who don’t have it as good as I do”. How gallant! How cavalier!
In order to justify her happiness she had to gauge it against the difficulties of others. Just to be happy with the life she had chosen was not enough it had to be validated at someone else’s unhappiness. Sort of a consolation prize!!
Chapter #2
Is that the standard motivational gauge we all use? Unfortunately YES!!
Is there a reason for such a method?
MOST DEFINITELY!! Read on.
In talking with another stranger who was obviously not so pleased with his day, I asked if there where anything that I might do or say that would cheer him up. Obviously surprised that I was even interested in his state of mind he asked me why I would want to help a stranger. To further confuse him I replied ‘It’s what I do!’
To my surprise he asked if we could sit and talk a while. We spent a pleasant two hours discussing the burdens that weighed heavily on the young man and I offered insight into how I might approach them. Since that time I see him often in passing and speak about the marvelous change in him. Recently I learned that on the occasion of our first meeting he was about to put to use some plans he had made to end his life. You just never know!
But what is it that has caused such desperation in us? Can it actually be pinned down?
YES IT CAN and the sinister culprit is none other than the “BIG LIE”!!
1. We have been saturated with lies all our lives by the people we trust most. WHAT lies? So many it is hard to know where to begin.
Life is nothing more than a journey to the grave! Why!! Because Death is inevitable!!
(a) Proof!! No man since the beginning of time is still alive.
(b) Conclusion!! Therefore life eternal is impossible.
2. Life is a predetermined period of time and we are not the ones who determine what that span is!!
(c) Proof!! Records show that man lived varying lengths of time but none of them knew in advance when they would die. The only thing they were sure of was that they WOULD die!!
(d) Therefore there is no way that we can lengthen the life we live, Time is an undefeatable bracket!!
3.”NOTHING LASTS FOREVER”
(e) All life is destined to die and all flesh will deteriorate.
(e) The SPIRIT of life dies out!!
(f) The PERFECT lie!!
I find (f) the best point to stop at since it designates FAILURE. That is where man ultimately winds up. He has lived his life and discovered all the many possibilities and joys that are possible but he has worn himself down to the condition that says I can NOT go on. So he dies.
Chapter #3
Let’s examine both statements. My first foray will be in the realm of spirituality. After all most people claim to be believers of one sort or another and as a result have been taught certain doctrine that makes it easier for them to move toward the “INEVITABLE” without that dark cloud of fear forever present. I choose to start with Christianity. I will try to deal with those that I have done some study of but I am sure that some of you readers could enlighten me to a much greater extent.
Christianity:
If you believe the resurrection happened then one man lives on from before the start of time. That man was and is JESUS the LITERAL SON of GOD.
Everything about this JESUS defies the natural laws of man. He has no earthly biological father but is the result of a union between the HOLY SPIRIT (one of the triune facets of GOD) and a young betrothed virgin named Mary. Since she was a direct descendant of David who was out of the seed of Jesse she was the human connection that signified the baby as a human in the priestly lineage. The necessity for this connection is explain clearly in the Christian Bible but I will leave it up to the reader to research that to his or her hearts content.
The point of major importance is that HE existed before the worlds came to be and was the one who took on the responsibility to place everything where it had to be according to HIS FATHER’S plans. Even HIS earthly death was directed by HIS FATHER to show that death was not able to hold ANY man if they would surrender to the SON without reservation. Thus to a Christian there is no end to life because death was defeated on the day of HIS resurrection. Therefore eternal life is a reality.
If you believe that the life force of all men is a cosmic energy that returns to function in the great stream of life then all men from the beginning of time still exist in a cosmic form. Universalism’s are quick to point out that we are a part of this cosmic organization and if we work to enter the balanced state of existence we will function perfectly on a cosmic level forever. This life form with proper training can cure itself from disease, depression, addiction and whatever evil forces come against us. There is no end of life just a continuation that not only supports our life but also brings us to a fuller use of the brain than what we now have. A warning to those who would scoff at such ideas “SUCH AN ATTITUDE COULD BE HARMFUL TO YOUR WELL BEING”. Even science has not taken a solid stand on this one.
Since this is a quick glance at what will eventually be revealed as the full story I will leave off at this point, temporarily.
Chapter #4
If you accept the word of our leading scientist and physicians plus the evidence around us, then it is more than possible to lengthen the time of existence in the flesh yet at some point the flesh dies and the body decays.
Something is amiss. What is the answer? Life itself! You CAN believe yourself to death. That’s right, once you accept what MUST be, then you have set the pattern and in time you will die! Your job is to keep the body in a good state of livability for as long as you can. To do this you must be willing to work at it in both the flesh AND the spirit. It won’t be easy but it will bring the joy and peace we all search for.
Now let us look at an opposite. A person is told that they have an incurable cancer and it is only a matter of a few weeks and they will be gone. Years later they are celebrating the “Golden Years”. What happened?
THEY REFUSED TO DIE!! They would not give up and as a result they lived on. They had the nerve and the courage to simply say no thanks I would rather fight this one out. SUCCESS!!
“Why then” you ask “do they eventually die?” Because to the flesh DEATH IS INEVITABLE but the lie tells us that the end finishes everything. NOT SO! We transition from one state of being to the higher state of being in the spiritual form.
Man searches for the wrong solutions and due to that mistake man dies early. To live you must KNOW what life really is. You must understand where it came from, how to unite with it and what it takes to keep it running.
Life is not an accident. Life is a universal gift, a celebration if you will, of the awesome power of creation. To accept the creation you must come to know the creator. To know the creator you must step away from self. Due to the continual lies we have been fed we, have become our worst enemy,
Lies have become of high importance in our culture and this is surprising since honesty was a virtue most of us claimed to strive for. So what is the problem with true rather than false beliefs? Truth shines a bright light into the dark recesses of our lives. Truth holds us accountable for our many short comings so we hide in the shadow of lies. The lies lead us to our death which we accept as inevitable.
“HOGWASH!!” TOTAL Death is our enemy and we should never surrender under any condition. Truth is our ally, benefactor and protector. Study it and you will unlock the secrets. If as a people we decide that we are helpless we shall perish in terror but if we are willing to rise up and take our rightful place in creation we CAN NOT PERISH!!
Chapter #5
At this point many utter “A madman, another dreamer! Where do they come from?”
That one is easy. We all come from the same marvelous spiritual plan. The original plan of life, sent into the swirling galaxies to stamp the whole creation with the brand of legitimacy.
In the beginning, like all else that became, there was perfect balance and after some basic foundations were shared man was left to carefully nurture that pristine and wondrous balance. One man or even one couple might have done it, but humanity in such a large number was not able to navigate the tides of evil. The battle was on!
The return to a universal balance will be a hard one and yet it is the only battle that offers any eternal hope. Change is often the hardest standard to reach because it is only the beginning but stagnation is not an option.
Man’s strongest gift in life is also his greatest weakness. The human brain! When fully developed it only functions at 16 to 18 percent of the ability yet we constantly act as though there is no way to increase that percentage.
Again what we are willing to accept becomes our reality. Another lie sold and accepted. This has to stop. We must strive to unlock the great power than dwells between our ears.
This CAN NOT be taught by universities or philosophers. It must be sought after by tireless thinkers who are also doers. Men and women, willing to be criticized for: “not doing it the right way”. People who will strive to get it done against all odds.
Our society seems content to sit back and let others do what must be done to get us on the right path. While that may seem the way of the majority; keep in mind that these are the same people who have already given in to the absolute acceptance that life is death in slow motion. Death is the only ending to the scenario called life. Now if that isn’t an oxymoron I don’t know what is.
Chapter #6
For a moment let’s deal with the term sensible. What is the criterion that defines sense and who are the authorities that set this criteria. If it seems sensible to me is it not at least in my sphere of existence sensible.
“NO” comes the harsh reply!
“Why not?” you ask!
The usual reply: “It does not measure up”.
“To what?” the query!
“To the normally accepted way we do it!”
So it goes, on and on, with no actual acceptable final word. You see there can be no final word when you are dealing with the human creation. We are all wired different and that is no accident. We were and are meant to question, to study, to search, to learn, to progress and finally to pass on. Block set on block until we have built something. The final object is of much less importance that the process that got us to the place our hearts were seeking. We were never meant to set a final goal but always to seek at levels reaching for the next impossibility.
The Winchester
Once again the big lie became the winner, BUT NOT REALLY!! The lie never really wins because there is always something left behind that becomes a monument to the SECRET, and so THE DREAM LIVES ON. Thus give life to your work and through what you do you live on forever.
Like it or not dealing with life is like handling poison snakes. An exciting adventure with lots of dangers!! Like snakes life must be grabbed firmly and in a position that offers the least retaliation. If you are well prepared for the challenge and have rested in expectation of what might happen your chances of success are great, yet set backs will still occur.
Most of the advice we are given starts like this; “If you go about it in the ‘right way’ you should succeed but you must follow the rules”.
So you prepare for the big adventure.
Here are the steps most lay out.
1. Lay out a plan.
(a) Know where you want to go.
(b) Determine the hurdles that WILL pop up.
(c) Determine the hurdles that MAY pop up.
(d) Have safeguards in place to overcome resistance.
(e) Do not stray from you designated path
The result of such planning is usually heartache, failure and misery. Where did it go wrong? Right at the beginning!!
Here is a plan that starts out right and will give you the results that can bring you joy, peace of mind, and a life of SUCCESS!!
1. Know what you want life to be.
2. Study to understand what success means ‘ON YOUR TERMS’
3. Build your plan with flexibility and creativity as the foundation.
(a) Know where you are.
(b) Know where you would like to be at certain points in your life.
(c) Determination with sensible thinking will take you up over, through or around the obstacles.
(d) Use resistance as the fuel of motivation.
(e) Expect to make adjustments.
The result of course is;
GUARNTEED SUCCESS!!
YOU CAN NOT FAIL IF YOU ARE THE DESIGNER OF YOUR LIFE
Chapter #7
So far it’s been a pretty smooth journey but ahead lay the real challenges. To change we have to understand what caused us to buy into this misconception of life that has been sold to us.
The unknown is frightening. Every new day is another unknown as long as someone else is in control. For years we have allowed others to speak to us for us and about us. Things have to be reversed.
No one CAN speak for us because they are not qualified to do so. People CAN talk to us but that does not mean that we have no input or right of refusal. People CAN also talk about us but that does not even enter into the product of who or what we are or will become.
At this point I would like to give three examples of what I refer to as passing on what we are able to contribute.
The Puerto Rican Gambler!!
(Daryl)
One day a young man approached me after a performance and began to ask about the show I had done. He told me that his uncle had taught him some sleight of hand but he wanted to go further. Would I be willing to help him?
What do you say to someone who is reaching out but not really sure of how he will be received. I knew that my reaction would have a lot to do with his decision about what appeared to be very important to him. I also knew that there was not very much that I could pass on as far as technique or skills but I was sure that I had something that he would be able to use and that was the friendship and encouragement of someone he looked up too. I had no idea I was in the presence of a young genius. Daryl in a matter of a few short years caught up with me cruised with me for a time and quickly sped on by.
So what did I give him? Hours of constructive criticism, opportunities to meet and express himself with others in the profession and the encouragement to “MAKE IT HIS OWN”!! Of course no one makes the journey on their own but I like my young friends to know that there will be a mysterious aligning of the right people at the right time and if you are tuned in to how and what they can offer you will be prepared to move on,
Today he still resides at the pinnacle of success. He has few equals but everybody respects him. The nice part about him is he has learned to pass what he has along. No not the tricks or illusions but rather the inner SECRET.
CHARLES AND THE LADY
(Charles and Kathy Amaral)
A young man at the age of nine came into the shop and shyly looked at some of the props that were on display in the glass enclosure. Finally he settled on one that seemed to fascinate him. He turned and asked how much it was.
Instead of answering his question I began to search out what his interest in that particular prop was and if there might not be other things that were better suited for him at this time of his short career.
No this was the one he wanted and all he had at the time was a small amount of money and he would save up for the remainder of what the cost was. I had still not quoted a price and asked him how much he had saved. The figure he gave me was much less than half of what the prop sold for but I quickly told him that if he were willing to come to the meetings we held every week I would give it to him for what he had already saved and I would teach him how to perform it. The deal was made and another young man started the journey of his life,
Today Charles and his family tour the country performing to the delight of many people who get to see a real live magic family up close. If they could know the many obstacles that had to be overcome on their journey they would be totally amazed. Life threatening disease, maddening schedules, regional and national competitions, all the while adding more members to the family and holding it all together!!
Yes Chuck and Kathy made use of the inside information and are a shinning example of the SECRET.
Are there more? Yes many but I will only tell you of one more at this time.
Vice President of Engineering
(James Brown)
“He is not going to waste anymore of his time!!” He took another drink and continued “He will be a doctor or an attorney but he will not be a mechanic!”
I was interceding for a young student of mine and it was not going well. These were wealthy people and the idea of their only son being a “grease monkey”, as it was referred to more than once that evening, was quite distasteful. The young college student was at a crossroads and I was the only buffer he had during the onslaught of his parent. I searched for the words that would dissipate the tension and anger but knew that when I left there would be more to come,
The following day I was called into the school administration office and informed that a formal complaint had been filed with the board charging me with interference in a family matter! I was informed that if I had any further discussions with James in regard to his career plans I would be dismissed at the end of the semester.
Of course James and I had a long talk in which I stated that the life decision he made would be the determining factor in how much he would profit from his life ahead. We discussed why he wanted to follow the course and I was pleased that he had made the decision after much study and deliberation.
I was dismissed at the end of that semester and wondered for years what had happened to James.
One day I was getting ready to head for the airport and the phone rang I picked it up with the strangest feeling and spoke into the receiver “Hello is this James”? I could hear the sudden intake of breath and then the question “How did you know”.
The conversation went on so long that I had to get another flight but the news was worth it. After eight long years James informed me that he was Engineering Vice President of a major firm in Oakland , California
James had done it. He had taken advantage of the SECRET!
Lives changed because someone was willing to encourage others to step out in faith. The faith that says if I am willing to plan and work I can become who I know I will be happy to be.
Chapter #8
That is a question I always ask young people “What do you want to be?” I am very pleased when they reply I am not really sure but I am trying to lay a foundation to be this or that. That part will be in place when the time arrives but the follow up is the question that really counts.
“Who do you think you will be at the end of five or ten years?” At first it is answered as if it is the same question but soon they realize that this presents a whole new level of self examination. That is when the fun begins for me because I can almost see that first awakening as they start the mental discovery. For possibly the first time in their life the question; “Who am I?” enters the thought process. WOW!! This is new, strange and exciting! Who am I and more importantly who will I become? Yes they have discovered the continuation process. Now there is a new set of tools to work with and many new discoveries to assemble that will lead to an as yet undisclosed SECRET. I am!!
Chapter #9
Many times I have been asked are there “SIGNS” along the way to guide us on our journey. I quickly reply “more than you’d ever imagine”. The problem is that we tend to be in such a hurry that most of them are never given a second thought. Universal help ignored and another chance at a growing enlightenment gone.
The first sign I always refer too is the dream. No; dreams are not the phantom result of the daily grind and pressure that we all struggle through. Dreams are a visual answer given us by the cosmic powers to help us understand. The more you develop the acuity to recall the dreams in detail the more information you are able to discern.
Often people tell of the same re-occurring dream and become concerned that it may be an ominous sign but in reality it is a safeguard set in place by the spiritual side of our being to prepare us for a coming event. It is more likely to usher in good rather than evil so don’t be negative when evaluating a dream.
One of my recurring dreams has really given me insight into life itself. I remember the first few being of me trying to fly. The effort was difficult and very strenuous but I refused to quit. Then suddenly I was in the air. I had taken flight while on a steep set of stairs and although I could not gain much altitude I was flying.
Many dreams later the effort became easier and I was able to gain height. Soon I was encouraging and teaching others how to do what had become common place to me. Life was being opened up so that I could see how much more we could experience if we would just find the courage to venture out.
I recall a dream that occurred one night and was so vivid it stayed with me when I awoke. In my dream I had prepared for a trip downtown. I had decided to walk so I informed my wife that I would get coffee when I reached a diner I often went too. As I briskly walked along I heard my name called and turned to see a friend. I stoped and he rushed up and asked if I might like to join him for breakfast. I agreed and we both walked along talking about nothing in particular. On arriving at the diner I thought I would order a breakfast that I had put together in my head. To my surprise we were greeted by Carol who sat us at a table where my imagined breakfast waited.
Suddenly the harsh ringing of my alarm woke me from the dream and I got up and prepared for the day. I heard the doorbell ring as I shaved but paid little attention to it.
Opening the door to go downstairs I heard my wife talking with someone in the kitchen. As I walked in I saw my friend of the dream sitting at the table with his meal and the exact same meal from the diner was waiting for me at my seat. No previous plans had been made. On impulse he had decided to stop in and accompany me downtown. Sue had invited him to breakfast and he had graciously accepted.
I have had many dream experiences that finally led me to write down the information I am sharing with you now and I promise to get much deeper into the dream session as we get further along. I am hopeful that you will find them as fascinating as I have.
Chapter #10
Let’s deal with another mind bender. “I did not ask to be here so why should I be in any way committed to anything except self?”
Good question! None of us asked to be here as far as my research has shown so why should any of us care one way or the other. Well believe it or not this is another choice situation which the extreme fundamentalists insist is not possible because everything is the result of GOD’S detailed plan which leaves nothing to chance.
Wow this creates a real problem. If I have no choice; then why bother about even the smallest of things. It is all decided so just wait and see what happens. Oh my! I just made a choice. I decided not to act. This is getting out of hand. As a fundamentalist I must be so careful it’s just like being under the law. No! That can’t be since the completion of the law was carried out by the Savior.
Believe me this quickly becomes a circular discussion with no end in sight.
On one hand we are told that we have no right to question, yet on the other we are told to search the scripture since all answers are found there. That won’t help when the first question is never answered in the bible or anywhere else. We find many pleadings asking GOD why did I not die in the womb or how can I be in such a dreadful place. In the final conclusion we are asked to be satisfied with “Because this is how GOD wants it to be!”
It’s hard to find that answer satisfactory.
So far the journey for the reason of life looks more like an obstacle course than a well laid out roadmap.
That is exactly what it is to the majority of people whether Catholic, Protestant, Fundamental Christian, Non Denominational Christian, Universalism, Mormon, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Muslim, Buddhists and whatever else. All running one big mine field hoping and praying that each step will be well placed.
Not much peace and joy as far as I can determine. Still it continues without end in sight. Some are expectantly waiting for the return of Jesus to set everything in proper perspective. Others knowing that the cosmic forces are aligning the spiritual powers for the equally exciting balance of the universe, continue in their blindness. Still others seek to bring inner peace while ignoring that the outside forces even exist!
Look HOPELESS? It’s not!
I recall a student once asking me “What is the penalty of life?”
I understood exactly what he was asking but I answered; “For a life taken one must be given”!
He quickly jumped on that with the reply “No I am talking about the penalty for just living. In that case what is the penalty?”
He expected me to reply DEATH!! Instead I answered.
“That is for you to determine!”
There is no absolute answer because IF at the end you face a penalty, you have the responsibility for it and you will determine what it is.
Life is meant to be a journey and should be as joyful and unencumbered as possible. Every day should be a new awakening both physically and spiritually. First we stretch our bodies, then our minds and then we stretch our souls. Never allow life to take control because life is like a sassy woman and if she takes the reigns you will never be sure of where you are or how to return.
Chapter #11
Another pitfall one should avoid is looking too far ahead. You know that there will be hills and valleys with ruts and bumps. If you look ahead and see more than you wish to deal with you will never leave and so you never arrive. A move delayed is a venture lost. When the time comes we must have all things in ready preparation and without second thought leave.
Once the move is in action carry with you only the lessons that are a positive reminder of the past! The rest must be left behind. The ‘Siren of Lorelei’ can be a formidable restraint and in time will diminish the luster that you first experience. The past is gone and should be nothing more than a pleasant memory.
That said be warned the words are easier said than the deed accomplished.
In everything you move toward or away from deal always heart to heart and mind to mind. This seems difficult at first but is the only reality in change that makes sense. If the heart controls the mind then the emotions rule and common sense goes out the window. The opposite happens when we allow the mind to control the heart. Cold hard calculations have no place in relationships any more than our emotional satisfaction should be the driving force behind that special business deal.
This is the operating factor in many people who ultimately become criminals. The excitement of the crime feeds two very human needs and the more risky the crime the higher the emotional value. I have spent many years in the company of criminals and let me state here and now that generally we are dealing with a sick or diseased mind. In my years visiting prisoners I was amazed at the simplicity of the thought process. It is very much like that famous commercial “Just Do It!” The feeling is important not the impact. The emotional high like any addiction MUST get bigger and better but the big problem is that the more jaded the criminal becomes the harder it is to duplicate that euphoric sensation.
Be aware that these factors can and often are present in every life. Every emotion calls for bigger and better and when we reach the point where we can no longer satisfy it life becomes turmoil, guilt and self loathing.
Early in life the rapist learns that in order to be satisfied he must go outside the “norm”, the pedophile understands that his warped desires will drive him even when he wants to stop. The serial killer knows that his only mission is to get that next victim. Each convinces themselves that the next one will be the last. I can’t tell you the number of times I heard that, especially from pedophiles.
Chapter #12
I have sat with murderers who have never killed anyone, such as Charles Manson whom I met before the La Bianca and Sharon Tate murders.
At the time of our first meeting I was living in Hayward Mission Blvd
I went along and met the self proclaimed savior of the world, Charles Manson and some friends including Tex
Years later I would spend time talking with him at Corcoran prison when, as a visiting chaplain, I would accompany Chaplain Elijah Owens on his rounds of the SHU (Secured Housing Units). I was quite surprised when on our first prison meeting Charlie reminded me of our common friend Mike and told me that he was aware of my feelings toward him and wondered why I was now in his presence. Almost like a great man having a discussion with a commoner and wanting me to know exactly what he thought of me. During that and numerous other conversations I had with him he always started off reminding me that he knew my friend Jesus Christ personally and that in the end times he would be one of the Lord’s warriors who would bring down the dark sinners of the world. When I reminded him of where he was and why he only laughed and assured me that if he wished to leave he could bring about his release at any time. I was tempted at times to let him know that I found that hard to believe.
The strangest thing about him was that it took so long to get him to talk about the murders which of course he claimed were not of his doing by action or command. When I finally did get him to speak of them I sensed a difference in him and at first could not put my finger on it. Then it hit me. He was sexually aroused as he talked and was actually “turned on”.
The weasel had a button and I had found it. After the first time he initiated the conversations about the attacks on the two families! He even admitted to going back with Tex
I understand that later Tex
I think if Charlie is leading any of the heavenly angels I’ll just wait for the third coming.
I asked Manson what he would say if anyone ever asked him what the secret of life was and I was surprised at the depth of his answer.
He said that life was the creation of GOD to give men an opportunity to show how great they could be but it messed up because we believe that all men are equal when in fact there are just a few strong leaders such as himself and the rest of us were there to serve the masters. I have no doubt that Charles Manson is one of the better bit part actors to come along in quite some time. Too bad Charlie! You might have been a champion.
I’ve heard a lot of tales of Manson and other well known inmates at Corcoran and some of the other institutions and over time discovered one very interesting thing about the human nature. We all seem to have a desire to guild the lily so we take one part truth and mix it with as many parts fiction as we think we can get away with and that becomes the story. I’d like to say that this only happens on the dark side but I am sorry to say that would also be an untruth. The more interesting part of the discovery came when I was able to answer the most obvious question. Why do people lie? The answer was simpler than I had imaged. Lies make plain stories more interesting! That’s right!
Chapter #13
Some time ago Joe was standing center stage telling his friends another of his dull old stories and became aware that everyone was less than interested. With that sinking feeling beginning to settle in Joe decided to spice up the tale. A few untrue but shocking additions and suddenly all eyes were on Joe and every ear was straining so that not a word would be missed. After that Joe became the main story teller at all the functions and a new art was born. Enter the laugh lie! Properly delivered even the dullest nerd became the center of attention. What a lift to the ego. This was better than anything else and everyone became social liars. Inmates could dress up their crime to make them sound like a first class novel and people like Oprah and Letterman were getting in line to interview them. The good old politician’s cat was out of the bag and a new profession was birthed.
One more step down for the moral structure but it has to be acceptable it’s even done from the pulpit by some of GOD’S best messengers. That’s right! Lies from the pulpit spread as gospel truth by the same men who are supposed to be the examples for us to follow. Someone has upset the apple cart and gone and exposed another “secret”! What is this world coming too?
I know this sounds flippant and some may think that I am making light of these indiscretions but I am NOT!! This whole farce has been continuing far too long and we need to take a stand right now and make it clear that we are not pleased by these actions.
Truth is a vital ingredient in life as it was and is meant to be. The perfect life is lived in balance. The slightest imbalance and we are unable to function at our maximum best. We describe it as being sick or not feeling well. A better explanation would be out of kilter. It might well be likened to a misalignment of the planets since it is exactly the same thing but on a smaller scale. Our maker deals with balance and we are his creation so it is desired that we maintain that same balance on ALL levels of our existence. Spiritual, physical, emotional, earthly, cosmic and ideologically! When we are in balance we are fit and functional. We prosper through the fruits of this condition, Joy, Peace, Patience, Love, Hope, Kindness, Obedience, Caring and Returning. That’s right we experience the pleasure of returning to others what has been given freely to us.
That statement has brought quite a few outbursts. Free, I don’t think so I was once told by a young man who then continued to explain to me how hard he had worked to get what he had and wondered why he should ever be asked to share it with another. After his short outburst I asked him if he was married and wondered at his reply.
He was living happily with a partner and was not going to put any strain on the relationship by getting into a situation where he would be forced to share the fruits of his hard work with someone else. When I suggested that he would probably change quite a bit of his philosophy as time went on, he assured me that there was little chance of that happening.
Unfortunately the conversation could not be continued as his live in partner had turned and left the meeting as this exchange was taking place. I have a pretty good idea how that relationship ended.
Chapter #14
Sharing is a difficult concept to teach anyone as we all can testify. Children do NOT have to be taught to be self centered. Is that wrong? Not if you are going to live life as a hermit but remember the old saying ‘No man is an island’. We are not born able to stand alone and unlike some animals the process takes a while to learn. When we do learn it we have a tendency to over use it.
Life was and is meant to be shared. Possessions are acquired, relationships are developed. If you look hard enough you will find the silver lining in everyone and everything. Many a life changing statement has been made during the heat of an argument but only those who are listening will hear it.
In recent years I have made a few journeys through the valley of death and certain mandates have been made clear to me. One of the hardest to deal with has turned out to be the easiest to understand. I refer of course to the statement by God which goes like this; ‘Vengeance is mine” saith the Lord! It is a lot easier to accept the hand that kills shall be slain, or an eye for an eye. Well that’s not the way it is. God delivers death as the ultimate blow to a person and only He can be sure of all the extenuating circumstances. This punishment is the eternal punishment when decreed by Father God and I am glad that I do not have to labor over such a decision and so should you be.
When you travel through the valley of death it is not a journey you make alone. Yet it can be a frightening journey because of those on the road with you. Some are young and full of sorrows others are young and full of age not in years but in ways of life, still others are young and trying to catch up with the reasons that have brought their lives to this point. The one thing that surprised me was that all of them were young. No maturity in any of these who were on their way to uncertainty. Another thing that stood out for me was that my journey had purpose. I was learning as I was traveling and at one point I came to realize that I was learning the same things over and over. When I reached a point where I could stop and rest He came to me and said. “Well you finally have it. You just realized we were learning with every step we took and just now it suddenly became clear that you have been learning the same things over and over. Now that you have become aware of the basic lesson you can begin to use it. These are the secrets everyone learns and few ever really master them because the process is not easy.
Never store away the things in life that make you happy. Share them wisely with those who prove to be good caretakers and don’t allow wolves to enter with in the fold or the flock will be decimated. Those who appear to be the model you are looking for will be your downfall. Those who seem to be satisfied with the menial are no better. They tend to deceive by convincing you that they only desire to do for others and have no care for themselves. Remember that all men must come to the awareness of whom and what they are before there can be change and change only comes from spiritual direction.
If your days are bountiful care for others but keep in mind always the hard times. They who say all is well are about to find the deception in those words soon after they are spoken. This life was not meant to be lived care free but rather worry free. Prepare only for tomorrow with the understanding that the odds are in favor of tomorrow never coming, When you wake to the dawn and all seems sunshine and roses ask the Father to allow you to enjoy this day but to keep you aware that the enemy is prowling with a ravenous appetite. Life is not counted by the days that you live, it is counted by the number of times that you smile. When life seems empty and you’re all alone that only means that you are ignoring Jesus. If you don’t want to talk He will. Just listen.
Chapter #15
WOW!!
Just when I thought the flow had stopped and I decided to rest it happened. The Holy Spirit dropped in with some great questions and even better answers and it is all about eternal life.
The first and most important question is can WE do it on out own. Many will say yes. I think even Peter would have answered in the affirmative in the beginning of his walk but of course he came to an understanding of who he was and just how weak he could be when strength was what he needed. So how can we honestly answer the question? We must examine the records and the evidence will answer the query completely. There were many who walked close to GOD and did as well as they possibly could.
Let’s started with Job who lived with GOD in heart at all times and went the extra mile for everything and everyone around him. Test after test could not diminish his love for GOD and his unwillingness to blame anyone but himself for the disaster that now controlled his life. We would be quick to say that from the example of his loyalty and determination he should have been a satisfactory example of what it took to get into heaven, but alas he fell just a little short. Sure things turned out well but the human trip ended without the secured desire. Still even to the end he was sure that one day he would receive this elusive promise. So much for Job!
Noah on the instructions of GOD worked day in and day out building a great ship on a plain where there was no possibility of ever launching it. He withstood the taunts and jeers without complaint believing that GOD was true and there was a purpose. When the rains came and Noah was told to seal the ship his heart ached for those same people who had ridiculed him. He knew that once secured the door would not be opened again until GOD wanted it to be. Tears streamed down his cheeks as the mounting cry for mercy could be heard clearly yet Noah knew that GOD was doing what had to be done. The eight people on the ship plus the animals were the only survivors of the great flood but even their rescue turned out to be temporary. Again so close but not close enough. Noah perished the way of all flesh!
Abraham looked like the best candidate to reach the prize. Always faithful and obedient to GOD he waited to become the father of all nations far beyond what seemed to be a reasonable time for Sara was old in years and had no faith in the promise whatsoever. She told Abraham that the whole idea was ridiculous and if he was willing to think otherwise the he should make use of her handmaiden since she was certainly not going to be a part of this foolishness. GOD in his own way had established every facet of the plan and soon Ishmael would be born to Abraham and the handmaiden while at the same time Sara became pregnant with the promised child. Of necessity Haggar and her child Ishmael were turned out while Isaac entered as the rightful heir of all that would be given Abraham. The crown would be worn by the younger instead of the elder and this was later to be repeated with others in this royal and loyal chain of men.
When Abraham was order to sacrifice Isaac this was the test that proved his willingness to do whatever GOD said regardless of how improbable the results would make GOD’S promises to keep. Still Abraham went off to do what GOD had requested and at the last moment Isaac was spared and GOD supplied a ram for the sacrifice. Surely this was the one. He had to be. Alas NO!! Abraham went to the grave still waiting for the promise. Was there no one who could please this GOD of ours?
Many would step forward to give it a try. Moses, Isaiah, Jacob who became Israel, Joseph who saved and forgave his brothers and his nation, Jonas who was the first wrong way Corrigan(told to go to Nineveh he decided Tar shish was a better place) He wound up in Nineveh, Debra a judge, Ruth who gave her rights away for the sake of GOD and Naomi, Ezekiel, Daniel, Shad rack, Me shack, Abendigo, Rehab, Joshua, Caleb, Jesse, David, Solomon and finally Mary, but none could quite make it because with GOD close is not good enough.
Men were finally coming to understand that GOD wanted perfection and they became frenzied. How could he do this to us? He made agreements knowing that we could never reach the standards that HE had set. He even called them commandments giving the impression that he was as bound by them as we.
Some stepped forward with a bold announcement; they had been deceived by GOD. Could anything be worse?
It’s like a father saying to his young son, ”You will do for now but you are not what I expected so we will have a closeness but when I finally get the son I want you will have to step aside”.
Was this what GOD was doing. We shall see!! For sure we can never make it to heaven on our own. The evidence is clear!
Chapter #16
No wonder most of us are miserable. We are so upset with the seemingly unjustifiable decisions of GOD we can not enjoy just living.
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