Add to Flipboard Magazine.
Retreat Reviews: "I thought my dreaming days were over, but since leaving my teaching job, I have started a new career and my husband and I are exploring China for two years!! Dream Positioning works for both of us as we move forward together..." -Shulah S. Retreat Participant "My wife and I attended a retreat run by Dr. Lavi years ago. Things we learned still help us keep things exciting!" -Bill and JoAnn H., previous participant
Showing posts with label #9/11. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #9/11. Show all posts

Friday, September 12, 2014

9/11/14 Special Edition: 9/11 and Terrorism: Are We Winning Battles But Losing The War?



Thought for the Day: Yesterday was the 13th anniversary of 9/11. I had planned to write this post, but spent most of the morning watching the Memorial Services instead.  On 9/11 over the years, I have often felt the need to turn off the television and reflect privately on the events of 9/11,  but this year I felt compelled to watch  the powerful images of grief, resilience and rebuilding that the families, New York and our nation have made. I could not help thinking about the recent attacks by ISIS on innocent American journalists and Arabs who disagree with ISIS'  beliefs. President Obama's announcement of a strategy in the eradication of ISIS was also running through my mind. We all owe the people who lost their lives and their families to make every effort possible to win the complicated battle against terrorism.
    As a psychologist with expertise in trauma, resilience and conflict resolution, I also feel an obligation to examine this challenge from a psychological point of view. This post is in no way comprehensive, but I hope it will raise questions and help you come up with ideas that you will share to help find creative ways to resolve this important dilemma which threatens the civilized world.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Throwback Wednesday's Words of Wisdom: Marcus Aurelius on Inner Strength on 9/11


*Photo by Michael Baird

*Marcus Aurelius
Thought for the Day: You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength. -Marcus Aurelius
As we remember 9/11, I decide that this post was appropriate. My computer is still ailing but this post may offer some solace.
Today's quote is a testament to the fact that although everything changes, some things never change. Our world continues to struggle with war, famine & strife. Wise men like Marcus Aurelius pondered the same questions we ask today. He found strength in recognizing the power of the mind & the peace that nature can give us when we face challenges. We are all like innocent children in contrast to the power of the ocean. We cannot move the ocean but we can change ourselves. Our minds can give us the strength to change our lives.

Marcus Aurelius was the last of the "Five Good Emperors" of the Roman Empire from 161AD to his death in 180 AD. He is also considered one of the most important Stoic philosophers. His reign was embroiled in 2 decades of continuous warfare & an internal revolt in the east. Marcus Aurelius' work Meditations, written in Greek, continues to be revered as a philosophy of service & duty. He describes ways to find & stay calm & sane in the midst of war & conflicts by using nature as an inspirational guide. The above quote which stands the test of time makes it clear why he was often referred to as Marcus "the wise." It seems very similar to the "Serenity Prayer" used in Alcoholics Anonymous: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time."





* Marcus Aurelius photo from on Wikipedia Commons
{{Information |Description ={{fr|1= Portrait de Marc-Aurèle. Marbre, œuvre romaine, 161-180 apr. JC.}} |Source ={{own}} |Author =Jean-Pol GRANDMONT |Date = |Permission = |other_versions = }

Girl at beach
http-/www.flickr.com/photos/mikebaird/4644123790/.jpg