text:
Site-Wide Activity › Forums › Shrine Room › 30 Days of Nembutsu › How are you getting on?
- This topic has 108 replies, 23 voices, and was last updated 10 months, 1 week ago by John.
October 23, 2017 at 9:45 am #2218
This thread is where you can share your experience so far – have you started practising nembutsu yet? Which chant are you using? When/where are you doing it? How does it feel? You can check in as often as you like.
November 1, 2017 at 8:55 am #2311
The 1st of November. So good to read everyone's introductions on the intro thread – if you haven't written yours yet, do go here, and do reply to other people & say hello by pressing 'reply' at the top of their intros.
I am away on writing retreat and this morning I did my five minutes of nembutsu sitting in front of my little travel Buddha, thinking of you all. I'm excited to hear how you all get on this month and hope you'll post here from time to time, or here if you have any questions about the practice or Buddhism.
Let's go. Namo Amida Bu!
November 1, 2017 at 10:39 am #2312
Yesterday from a different site I downloaded some chant charts. I have only heard some from a U-tube video. I have not had the opportunity to look at the chants from your introduction.
I did however read the introduction and day post and will be using the quotes as an inspiration for daily writing. I had to get up early for an unexpected reason. So I will be unable to officially begin any practice yet – until my home is quiet once again. I will also be away from home for half of the month and will just attempt to do my best.
I did pen my verse (which I will post later on my blog):
"Love. Of all things least illusory." ~ Franz Wright
cloud covers the sky
like a rheumy eye; the stars
still exist like … love
November 1, 2017 at 11:39 am #2315
Jules, I like your idea of writing during this process. 🙂
I sat for the first time today in front of my wooden Buddha statue with a lighted candle and did the singing chant. It takes me a while to pick up a tune, but I'm getting there. It felt good to make a choice for calm today.
November 1, 2017 at 3:06 pm #2318
I usually do a silent Nembutsu chant as my daily practice (well, several, at different times). Sometimes I do continuous Nembutsu out loud. As part of this months practice, I will endeavour to do an out-loud practice daily. I started this morning after breakfast (following my usual morning silent Nembutsu). I'm doing the sung chant quite slowly and with longer breath gaps as I want to let the breath in at its own pace and really fill my lungs when I'm practicing on my own. This quote from Kaspa's email sums up how I'm feeling right now about the practice: It relaxes my attempts at controlling what can't be controlled – my mind, the world. It is love. Well, that's something I'm working on, anyway!
November 1, 2017 at 4:33 pm #2320
I like to practice in the morning, before lunch, because, in that moment, the house is quiet and I have finished my morning duties. It is easier for me to mantain regularity at that time.
I made my formal practice in front of the little shrine I have placed in my bedroom. After having lighted the candles I like to start by chanting the nembutsu in front of the image of the Buddha while making some postrations. For me this is a way to offer myself: my actions, thoughts, speech…to the Buddha. Today I chose to sit in silence afterwards while some inspirtional music was sounding…Then I remembered the little encouter I had just had with a person in the street and my subtle "reaction" to the words this person had said. I was meditating about my lack of compassion in that moment and the speed of my response…I was being aware of this defensive attitude I have some times and I gave it to the Buddha in this meditation…Then I simply allowed myself to receive the blessing of the Light .
This was my experience today. Thank you for sharing your experiences as well
Namo Amida Bu
November 1, 2017 at 7:25 pm #2321Johnathan RobertsonParticipant
I do a little chanting during my little home service. Most of my chanting happens when I walk from my wife's law school to home. Today I chanted while I mopped First Unitarian's Enoch Pratt Parish Hall. It was nice to hear the echo.
Namo Amida Bu
November 1, 2017 at 9:53 pm #2323
I loved thinking of us all chanting around the world today. I wonder how many of us there were today.
I did some formal chanting first thing in the morning, then a little more while walking with my dog up in the autumnal woodland. And I had another opportunity for some silent chanting this afternoon, sitting at the hairdressers while some hair conditioner worked its magic.
November 1, 2017 at 10:17 pm #2324
I finally did chant along with the link at the intro post. I thought it was easier than speaking.
I may be late with my practice and post tomorrow as I am traveling. But then the time difference between the states… Actually you are about four hours ahead right now it is about 6:15 pm for me and about 10:15 pm for you.
my site is: *Here*
November 1, 2017 at 10:20 pm #2325
Hi Jules,
Yes, I tried the speaking one and found it too fast to keep up!
I aim to practice sometime every morning. Good luck with yours. 🙂
November 2, 2017 at 7:59 am #2326
Susie and all –
(My changing will be delayed…but perhaps silently in my head…)
The November 2 moon in the west sinks slowly into the trees…and I thought of all of us in our many different places.)
Up early before travel, to share:
"Our life in this world, even for a day,
is valuable indeed."
~ Zuiken Inagaki
early morning full moon
shines on everything; dreamers,
all wakeful beings
November 2, 2017 at 8:00 am #2327
*that changing, could be left, but it should be chanting… it is early – about 4 am for me.*
November 2, 2017 at 8:23 am #2328Andrew Nicholls (Temple Host)Participant
I chant Nembutsu most of the day every day to be honest. My mind now just drifts there like its on automatic Nembutsu mode. The idea that so many people from Amida Shu now makes it very special. Knowing that so many people from all over the world are also chanting every day fills me with warmth and inspiration. Thank you for this opportunity Satya and Kaspa.
November 2, 2017 at 9:16 am #2329KerryParticipant
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="238"] Cat and Buddha[/caption]
I'm enjoying the singing chanting and am finding it very relaxing. Even my cat has been joining me as you can see above. I'd like to think she's joining in and purring away too! It's wonderful to think so many people around the world are connected in Nembutsu. Wishing everyone a peaceful and happy day
November 2, 2017 at 9:58 am #2330
Sitting at my mother's house on this bright but chilly morning I am waiting for a stair lift engineer to arrive to remove the stair lift that my mother had fitted as her mobility weakened.
The house is almost empty of her personal items now. Just a few items of furniture are left However, the memories of her as I remember her before she died are very evident within this room. This provokes a certain amount of sadness . A sense of loss, a cry from within Breathing in I say Namo, breathing out, I say Amida Bu.
November 2, 2017 at 11:48 am #2331
Day 2: I was now confident that 10 times through the chant at my speed takes 5 minutes so I don't need the watch in front of me as a distraction. I was early this morning, 7.30 a.m., as Ian had to go to work early. I was conscious of the students living next door and hoped I wouldn't disturb them. I was aware this morning of the Nembutsu as gratitude practice. With gratitude comes awareness of Amida. I like the picture of the cat with the Buddha statue- Namo Amida Bu!
November 3, 2017 at 11:52 am #2332
This morning I chanted as part of our public Friday morning practice session. There were four of us circumambulating the tall golden Buddha in the morning light. The sky was full of pink and grey clouds, a little mist hung in the valley…
Last week I noticed the nembutsu coming to me unbidden throughout the day, this week my moods have been lower and I have had to more consciously remind myself to say the name. Each recitation is like a reminder, "the Buddha is here. The Buddha is here. The Buddha is here".
When I first started practising my nembutsu through low moods was like a please, "Please come and lift me out of this space. Let me feel a connection with you. Remind me that you are present."
Now when I practice nembutsu through low moods there is a trust – based on experience – that the moods will pass, and that the Buddha is really there – like the sun behind the clouds, as we say.
Namo Amida Bu
November 3, 2017 at 12:48 pm #2333
I am traveling. Yesterday in my head I recited what I could remember while coloring in a mandala at a train station. Today in the quiet of a hotel room I will quietly chant along with the link.
Morning 3; the quote lead to this tanka:
"The cloud of light is unhindered, like open sky;
There is nothing that impedes it.
Every being is nurtured by this light,
So take refuge in Amida, the one beyond conception."
~ Shrinran
miles from a dwelling –
that structure; walls and windows –
with you I am home
peace comes with your light; with your
smile, nurturing, and humor
November 3, 2017 at 1:54 pm #2334Michael SabaniParticipant
I've been chanting 2 rounds on my mala every morning. Not sure if it is all of five minutes, but it is close.
I've been trying to just chant and not expect too much. I wonder while I chant why I'm doing it, like what purpose does it serve, but I just let that fall away. I had a small realization this morning that I'm just calling out to Amida. I feel like I'm trying to understand just who Amida is and how to connect, but just chanting is connecting, to build a connection that I can remember and rely on during the rest of my day. I work from home, so I'm lucky in that occasionally I will look up in my monitor and see my Buddha statue reflected back. It's a nice reminder to have compassion during the day.
November 3, 2017 at 4:47 pm #2335
Today, I was doing my practice when the telephone rang. It was being a special moment of connection so this ringing bell of the phone sounded like a terrible thunder…I knew I had to pick up the phone,…Firstly,I felt some irritation because of the abrupt interruption… but then I picked up the phone and I suddenly remembered "what am I doing this practice for?"…I long to live mindful of the Buddha, every single moment that the day offers me is an opportunity to live mindful of the Buddha. One of the main reasosns of my practice is because I forget so easily… In that moment I felt grateful for picking up the phone and talking to my husband having this feelings so alive.
Namo Amida Bu
November 3, 2017 at 5:02 pm #2336
It's wonderful to hear from everyone on this thread (love your cat Kerry, & your Buddha Michael). I'm still on my writing retreat and have been enjoying my five minutes of practice. I realised this morning that I've missed my usual three hours of weekly nembutsu practice, as I'm away from the temple, but I've felt close to the Buddha and this shows me how it can be possible with only short periods of chanting a day… every time I look at my rupas, it's another opportunity to tune in to something bigger than me and let myself be led. I liked what you said Nati – yes, how can my practice point me towards being more present, more accepting – how can I let the Buddha show me these things? Keep going everyone, and do feel free to share your struggles or questions as well as the benefits you're receiving. Namo Amida Bu.
November 3, 2017 at 5:23 pm #2337
I've done my five minutes each day. Like Michael, I wonder what the purpose is (especially as I am not a Buddhist) but I want to try it for 30 days and see what happens.
I came across a lovely quote which says so much about attitude:
"Playing the host without understanding the host is how you unwittingly create your own misfortune. When you learn to become the guest of a greater unfolding, you can flow into life's purposeful movement toward the best of what it might become. Knowing your place within the larger flow of life allows you to discover power in great measure.
Trusting that something more profound might understand your needs in ways that you cannot, "all things in the universe have a purpose; is it right that you should be different?" The future must remain a mystery because life has a special predisposition for exploring possibilities. Through its dance of randomness, it generates innovation and novelty. When you are not busy organizing your life, you will discover that you are the guest of something that demonstrates a greater purpose in leading you."
November 4, 2017 at 11:11 am #2340
I like your quote. I think most religious practices can fall into this form…
of following with blind faith – if you will.
But by repetition of those things, any things that bring us joy… like writing –
we can discover a deeper understanding of ourselves as well as others.
November 3, 2017 at 9:00 pm #2338
Once getting through the usual mental acrobatics, which can be so difficult at times, it felt good to sitting with the Buddha. A shadow was cast from the Buddha icon as the candle flickered in the darkened room. Despite the difficulties of the day, this offered a sense of peace that spread throughout the room
Namo Amida Bu
November 4, 2017 at 10:52 am #2339Andrew HobsonParticipant
01: At home with wife: tried the chanting, possibly promoted a few bouts of giggling-amusement, the fast repetition of the talking method was the the most challenging, but also the best for merriment.
02: At home with wife: tried both again. The rapid repeating of the words, again some suppressed laughter and coughing from a dry throat. Must remember, that like a steam engine; it needs water.
03: Holiday Inn evening: chanted while sat on bed doing some kind of special move involving crossed legs and arms out, solo this time so no giggling, occasional mind drifting to content that was non too memorable.
04: Holiday Inn at 0530: The first morning go at it: Being so early I tried to chant quietly, the words came out more jiggly as they were at an uncommonly low volume. Lost a bit of the enjoyment of the vibration of air whooshing around my lungs, but I was more focussed; was not conscious of meeting with the buddha but I started the working day with more energy.
And so I am steadily progressing through each day, at times repeating the words in my head, filling times of silence. Earlier on I had at some times amida echoeing in the background, as my mind focussed (clasped its feathery hand) on the highly charged quick paced morning of meteorology.
And so the rust falls off the machinery, there may be some working bits, some that will need replacing too as the reprogramming begins.
Right, time to try some walking chanting; whilst catching some pokemon; on the go.
November 4, 2017 at 11:16 am #2341
awestruck/ November 4
No mouth is big enough to utter the whole thing. ~ Alan Watts
when two lips are closed
they speak volumes of time and
space; by listening
I am still following along with the chant, when I have quiet times.
I think like any repetitive prayer there is a calming and centering that occurs.
Though when traveling one's routines need to adjust to the location.
November 4, 2017 at 11:18 am #2342
My chanting was interrupted twice this morning – first time by the postman (so I started again from scratch) and then I was aware that a builder from next door was looking at me as he passed, but I ignored and carried on. I'm gradually learning the tune.
Jules, glad you liked the quote. And you are right about repeating those things which bring us joy.
November 4, 2017 at 4:35 pm #2344
The last two days I've been out and about a lot. The Four Noble Truths and Dharmavidya's book, The Feeling Buddha, have come to mind and are related to my chanting these two days. Trying to avoid self-power to solve mental difficulties, I've been reminded to focus instead on the presence related to the Nembutsu.
November 4, 2017 at 10:53 pm #2353DelainaParticipant
Hello All;
I am following the pdf nembutsu chant with tune about twice a day. Here is a little poem I wrote trying to describe the sensations.
cradle me
vast embrace
hold me
tender space
ragged stress
drain from my lungs
I am
I am
I am
I am very much enjoying this chant/meditation. I have never done one before I usually just play some kind of nature sound and let my thoughts come in and out. The chant keeps me more focused on the action of chanting.
Thank you Satya & Kaspa your voices are so relaxing.
Namo Amida Bu.
November 5, 2017 at 3:07 pm #2355
I try to close my eyes when I chant along with the link. My room being right across from the elevator… I can hear the dings… and doors from other rooms opening and closing.
But I get into that gentle rhythm and try to concentrate on my voice blending with the others.
Chanting reminds me to recite other blessings and to be thankful for where I am in the now of things. It will be another odd travel day for me. But traveling with my husband brings me joy. Better than me being at home while he is gone.
Here is my verse for today's quote:
Help! / November 5, tanka
Letting life just be requires mercy towards ourselves. ~ Ezra Bayda
error of ego
lesson to learn, be self-kind;
untangle and unwind
accept that some steps falter;
be brave and ask for support
I like the idea of that at some point in time, somewhere someone could be chanting and linking us all together. Like being under the same moon – even if there is cloud cover. And that brings a unique joy I think – to be an individual, yet also to be a part of a whole.
November 5, 2017 at 3:51 pm #2356
Sitting before the Buddha icon the candle flickers in the darkened room. Each breath a recitation, Namo Amida Bu. Lots going on both internally and externally. My mind full of images. The most prominent image that of a Bournemouth player who scored in the dying embers of the game at St James Park, Newcastle, on Saturday afternoon This ensuring the 'Toon' suffered another defeat. This leaving a sense of disappointment, and a slightly bitter taste as the image ran through my mind. Externally, the fireworks explode close by. The loud explosions reminding me of what it might sound like to be close to a war zone. Namo Amida Bu, This brings my attention back to what does really matter. A prayer for those who do actually suffer in a war zone. Not just a defeat in a football match.
November 6, 2017 at 4:10 pm #2363
My own chanting will be silent today…so far as I have only reached part of a destination.
Though I was up early enough to post:
A Living Song / November 6,tanka
Based on the quote for the day:
"The light of wisdom exceeds all measure,
And every finite living being
Receives this illumination that is like the dawn,
So take refuge in Amida, the true and real light."
~ Shinran
gentle breath of life
rekindle healthful vision
connecting all things
let the music of living
Increase our understanding
November 6, 2017 at 4:44 pm #2366
I have been two days away attending to a workshop given by Dharmavidya. I feel happy for that…Maybe that is the reason my chanting and walking Nembutsu was full of gratitude today. I felt absolutely moved since I was able to appreciate the millions of precious things, circumstances and beings are supporting me in many ways…Most of the time I am blind to that Beauty, but a glimpse of it is a gift that fills my heart, body and mind completely.
Namo amida Bu
November 7, 2017 at 10:20 am #2367
Strange thing this morning: exactly as I began to chant, the builders next door started up a very loud machine outside which almost drowned out the chant. I found it intrusive and irritating. But I remembered something I'd read recently about 'calm in disturbance' and instead of closing my eyes to chant, as I usually do, I focused on the candle light and imagined a connection between myself and the flame. Even stranger, the noise stopped as I finished the chant!
November 7, 2017 at 4:49 pm #2370
Yesterday was an early start and late back from work and was the first day I missed doing the 5 minutes chanted Nembutsu, although I still did my 15 minutes silent Nembutsu formal practice and silent Nembutsu while falling asleep. Coming back to the practice this morning was good. It always (I think) feels like a gift chanting the Nembutsu out loud, an open ended gift, hard to define, but there is the feeling of receiving something good, a centre-ing away from selfish self-power strategies back to something I could call, spreading the Nembutsu, but I mean it in more than the literal sense. Amida becomes like a loving father and mother, unconditionally allowing me to open to and share the light.
November 7, 2017 at 7:52 pm #2371Liz AllmarkParticipant
I've been doing the Nembutsu chant every morning for the past week. I signed up out of curiosity and have been surprised at how much I look forward to doing the chant every morning. I've started to read Kaspa's and Satya's book and am totally intrigued. I'd like to get more engaged in the online practices but usually have other commitments when they're happening, so am sad about this. I'm looking forward to learning and experiencing more through the remainder of the month.
November 7, 2017 at 9:33 pm #2372
I was mostly on the road today. Our plans seemed to always be changing – hopefully I am settled for a few days before heading back east. And early rise prevented verbal chant. And traveling in a car for about 6 hours most of it during rain was not a good time for silent practice of any kind.
I am glad that I read some where that if you miss a day or two – just start again the next day.
I just posted my verse on the quote now:
Compassion and wisdom
(haiku & Septolet)
"The basic paradox: everything is a mess and yet all is well." ~ Ezra Bayda
with emphatic to
grace the heart tugs mind to use
diligent prudence
We learn
From our
Those lessons
Nature can teach
If we
Really listen
November 8, 2017 at 12:35 pm #2374
I was able to chant this morning. The time seems almost too short. I may extend it to ten minutes tomorrow. I am settled where I am for a few days (Good morning all it is 7:30 am my time).
The sound of a meditation bell November 8, haibun
What happens when people open their hearts?"…
"They get better.
~ Haruki Murakami
Many years ago I walked willingly into a yoga class.
The sessions ran for about eight weeks. I had gone
with a friend. The were held in a room that had once
been part of a carriage house. Now entrusted to the
local park the building and room was used for many
things. I remember it was a cold room. After the moves
were completed there was a quiet lights out time, when
a bell was rung to start and end a soothing meditation
period. One forgot discomforts, at least I did.
openings are gifts
different beginnings that
are endless moments
November 8, 2017 at 3:26 pm #2375
The last few days, my usual routines have gone awry but the new routine of daily vocalised Nembutsu practice has continued for me. Today I realised some of what was missing, just basic things like doing my hand and wrist exercises to strengthen against too-frequent injuries, and watering the greenhouse. Odd how these things happen. Namo Amida Bu!
November 8, 2017 at 6:09 pm #2376Andrew Nicholls (Temple Host)Participant
Today I changed Nembutu in my flat as my grandaughter did her homework. Yesterday in my office as I worked and Monday at a local temple.
Shows me that Nembutsu can be recited anywhere anytime and my practice really is spontaneous.
Namo Amida Bu.
November 9, 2017 at 9:50 am #2378
Really enjoying everyone's updates here. Thanks for sharing.
My morning nembutsu was outside this morning. This week I slipped back into my running shoes and learnt just how far my fitness has fallen since the last time I wore them – maybe a year ago! Still, I enjoyed being out this morning, and my route took me downhill to begin with.
"Namo Amida Bu" The rhythm matching my feet hitting the pavement. My mind cleared of anything else – just my body, and my breath and the Buddha.
November 9, 2017 at 10:10 am #2379
I haven't managed to sit down and formally chant quite every single day so far (rushing from one thing to another in my life is something I know I have to address!) but I have been loving the daily emails and the quotes within them that I have been trying to take with me through the day. I have enjoyed being curious about how I have responded to the contrasts between the chanted and spoken versions of the nembutsu. While I love the melodic nature of the former, I have been interested that mostly I have been finding the latter more powerful in stilling my monkey mind and being focussed in the present. I have to admit that onn Saturday morning I actually chanted in my head to get me through a Parkrun that I was finding a bit tedious otherwise! What I have valued is the sense that, while sometimes the nembutsu feels totally amazing and transformative, sometimes it just doesn't hit the same spot and that's okay too – you can just trust that at another time it will. That sense of being able to trust that things will be okay even if they are not working out at the moment has been a very important blessing I have received from my practice since I started coming to the temple. Right, I better get on a do some more packing now!
November 9, 2017 at 11:39 am #2380
"Day 9
As you continue to practice you might want to experiment with saying 'Namo Amida Bu' at other times of the day – when you make a mistake, or when you feel grateful for something. This is a reminder of Amida's presence and it plugs you back into wholesome energy."
I actually, earlier this week when I was having trouble falling asleep attempted to chant in my head 'Namo Amida Bu' rather than count sheep. It is like saying other short prayers that we were taught in any other religion. The repetition and the depth of knowledge and community that comes with this practice brings a serene stability – a cohesive connectivity that helps to process the actions of the day – whatever those actions may be.
The Buddha is present, November 9 renga
"Always be compassionate in your faith. Just as a thirsty man longs for a drink, always have exceedingly great love." ~ Pratyutpanna Sutta
presence and present
depth of faith is required to
give and receive both
there are many current paths
held by different good names
some believe all lead
to the same conclusion or
November 9, 2017 at 3:49 pm #2381
Namo Amida Bu. I mentioned you all in my Dharma talk yesterday – how lovely it was to think of you all chanting in your different homes/lives. Fi – Parkrun is the perfect place for nembutsu! I often do it when I'm driving… (that isn't an official recommendation, don't want to be responsible for any car crashes!) This evening I'll be chanting as a part of the service I run on Facebook. Keep going & keep letting us know how you're getting on – if you miss a few days, no problem! Namo Amida Bu.
November 10, 2017 at 12:28 pm #2383
I really enjoy chanting with the five minute link. Hearing those other voices with my own helps to make me feel connected. Though I do find myself chanting in my head from time to time – especially when I have to wait for something that is out of my control.
Taking action, November 10 reverse haibun
The course of the boat is left to the sail,
the movement of the sail is left to the wind;
As for me, I leave everything to Amida.
~ Zuiken Inagakie
stepping outside self
accepting currents of change
linking with a name
Great Father, Venerable Mother, The Source, The Unknowable,
Adonoi, Amida; there are so many names one could choose
when seeking to find comfort and direction. Our individual crafts…
must float. Though the sails have various shapes and colors.
Even the wind a constant unpredictable force, drums different
beats throughout the universe.
In the end is it always the movement on the path that brings
us the most joy rather than achieving the ultimate destination?
What actions can be taken today that were not taken yesterday
to make one whole and to make the whole healthy?
Practice takes practice. The ultimate action. To eventually
become second nature to nurture.
November 10, 2017 at 6:16 pm #2384
After chanting for a while, I like to practice slow walking while reciting the nembutsu… I tend to make some sort of balance in that moment, while I am walking and calling out Amida, I usually remember some words, acts, or feelings I have experienced throughout the day, it is a way of experiencing my human nature, my vulnerability…At the same time, lots of images of what I have received arise in my mind , usually in a spontaneous way. So gratitude appears as a strong feeling at the beginning of the practice.
Namo Amida Bu
November 11, 2017 at 11:34 am #2385
I tried the longer chant this morning. To prevent distraction of thoughts I imagined life force rising up through my body staring with my toes up to the top of my head.
Practice inspires more practice, November 11 haiku
"Effort is necessary in spiritual practice; strain is not." ~ Ezra Bayda
life requires breadth;
depth of thought and diligence,
being true to truth
Thirty days of nembutsu
breadth: noun 3. freedom from narrowness or restraint; liberality
Yes I did a play on breadth and breath sounding alike.
breath: noun 1. the air inhaled and exhaled in respiration. 3. life; vitality
November 12, 2017 at 3:03 pm #2389
Being in a small town where most things are closed…
Perhaps, it will be a quiet day.
I have already been on a morning walk – at least it is warmer today.
My daily post on the quote for today is here:
Inexhaustible love November 12, renga
November 12, 2017 at 7:56 pm #2391
I enjoyed the 10 minute version, too. Your visualisation sounds interesting, Jules – I will try that myself. When I did it yesterday I decided to do a modified version of the prostrations with it (I tend to listen to it on my earphones with laptop, which doesn't lend itself to full prostrations!) and that felt a very satisfying, emotionally opening experience. NAB x
November 13, 2017 at 1:43 pm #2399
This morning being a tad under the weather I only did five minutes. But I did the same visualization. I hope to go a second round with the longer version later.
I am just starting this journey and do not know the 'prostrations' – continued success with your experience 🙂
November 13, 2017 at 8:50 am #2393DayamayParticipant
Note to self: Namo Amida Bu!!!
November 13, 2017 at 10:40 am #2394
Today I woke up out of sorts. Nothing major, but a sludge (maybe a hangover from my dreams) that I couldn't find a way out of.
At ten Kaspa said he was going out for a run and my immediate thought was, 'I can do some nembutsu'. I sat in front of this Buddha and chanted for ten minutes.
I feel different now – something has shifted. I realise that I find it harder to make space for what I need when I'm with someone else, even Kaspa – at any point this morning I could have said I was going into my office for ten minutes and chanted, but somehow I didn't give myself the mental space.
I also work well with routine – today is our day off, and so there's no regular space in my day for practice – from Tues til Sat mornings I practice in the shrine room upstairs with others (often just Dayamay!).
I wonder if you're still going or if you need to restart? I wonder what you're learning about yourself?
Namo Amida Bu, lovely to be accompanying you all this month.
November 13, 2017 at 1:53 pm #2400
When one travels I think out of sorts can be normal. I may end up missing a day of solo chanting when I have to travel home. Travel seems to take up the whole day. But I can still chant in my head. But for now I have quiet alone time in the morning.
While chanting with you – the recording sirens of perhaps police, fire or and ambulance ran trough the town right by my first floor window – I continued my chanting with a prayer that were ever those vehicles were going that the people be safe and cared for. I seem to always be distracted by other thoughts so that is why I began trying to visualize a calm life force rising through me while I chant. To keep my thoughts on the same page as it were.
I did my changing before opening the 'mail' and enjoyed seeing the photo of others who could be changing with me. Thank you. My daily verse on the quote can be found here:
November 13, 2017 at 2:18 pm #2401Johnathan RobertsonParticipant
Considering my school work and church work, I've decided to make Monday my day off from anything school or church related. This has helped me reconnect with practice in a great way as I can get back to my Vow 22 studies and chant with only the cats around.
Yesterday, during nembutsu practice at First Unitarian, one of the participants made an observation about the nembutsu in relation to all of the noise at the church. She said that, even when we were chanting softly, her mind stopped dwelling on the noises around us. I think that is a nice concrete way to describe the some of the benefits of chanting in general.
November 13, 2017 at 3:38 pm #2402
I recognice in myself that what you say, Satya, about the difficulty of making space for what I need when I am with someone else, specially talking about my practice: I tend to find spaces much more easily when I am alone at home…Maybe the fact that nobody else is buddhist around here… and the fear of being heard …I am not sure, in some way, maybe, I am not used to share my practice and I feel it very intimate,and, on the other hand , it is a celebration, an special encounter, and I feel that it should not be "hidden"…However I also remember those words by Jesus: "If you want to pray, go to your bedroom, close your door, that your left hand does not know what your right hand does…"…As you see there are some contradictory thoughts inside me and I need to learn being more natural about it. Thank you.
November 14, 2017 at 1:16 pm #2405
Counting the days until I am home again. It is nice to visit someplace new… but home is calling…
My daily verse on the quote can be found here:
November 14, 2017 at 4:53 pm #2407CarolineParticipant
This is from an email I sent on Saturday:
I am listening to nembutso on the train to Oxford and feel blissful…held in the grace and love of the Divine.
No mean feat on a drizzly Saturday and a crowded GWR train!
Please accept my gratitude…hard to express.
For bringing Amida to Malvern (and spreading far wider)….such a gift.
May all blessings be yours.
Have a wonderful day.
Thank you, thank you for your vision, energy and love
November 15, 2017 at 1:38 pm #2409
Tomorrow is a travel day, I shall attend to my practice late in the day instead of the morning.
However this day started blissfully…Perhaps it is just in the knowing that I will be returning home soon.
here is my daily verse on the quote:
Unwavering strength; November 15 renga
November 16, 2017 at 7:26 pm #2413
We have made it home safely. But my own routines will still be different with the holiday week in the States. And then also with the second half of December. But I will attempt to find quiet time for myself when I can.
Angel of Truth; November 16 haibun
"Among all living things mountains and rivers, grasses and trees,
even the sounds of blowing winds and rising waves –
there is nothing that is not the nembutsu" ~ Ippen
Many traditions have selected times to open our doors to strangers.
There are also teachings to accept those who are down on their
luck and even look less than appealing – for it is how we treat
those most in need that reveals how deep our traditional lessons
have reached.
If we can believe
heaven can exist on earth
we all are angels
When we walk along everyday paths, we are taught to look for
the possible angel in every heart. To treat with respect those
who are so very different from ourselves. To listen to those who
have no voice and speak for them.
truth questions, listens,
accepts different teachings
with similar goals
November 17, 2017 at 1:54 pm #2414
Only questions… no answers… yet.
Though I do believe there has been some 'strength training' 🙂
Teachers throughout the ages; November 17 renga (conversation)
November 18, 2017 at 7:13 am #2417
It's still dark here, still and crisp – I watched the stars when I was out in the garden. The city, across the river, is quiet – being Saturday, there's no rush-hour traffic along the road below us. I'm just about to start this morning's nembutsu chanting, happy in the knowledge that others will be joining, somewhere on the planet, sometime during the day – Namo Amida Bu
November 18, 2017 at 10:07 am #2418
Just quickly nipping on here because I really should be doing other things! But this morning I sat down to do my 10 minutes of nembutsu with a certain resentment in my heart that life circumstances dictated I was not sitting down in the beautiful 'real' shrine room with some of the rest of you which was where I would much rather have been! But as I chanted, the realisation came to me that I should just allow myself to just hold this resentment lightly and be curious about it. This led me to accepting that actually, life was unfolding for me as it should and that was all okay. Coming to that feeling of acceptance makes me feel a lot better. Deep bow of gratitude _/|\_
November 18, 2017 at 10:23 am #2419
I am still doing my 5 minutes each morning. I have a simple, wooden statue of the Buddha. I light a candle and sit wrapped in a shawl in front of it (trying to tune out the builders next door). I can't say I feel much about doing it (as I'm not a Buddhist) but it's a commitment I have made to myself in the hope of being with some kind of wholesomeness. It must be wonderful to have a faith.
November 18, 2017 at 1:44 pm #2420
Yesterday I chanted in my head. I meant to make time… and did not. Did I miss something.
I do not light candles or have statues. But I did have a conversation with a living angel.
Sometimes we do not see ourselves as angels… but that is what happened yesterday – sometimes by just saying 'thank you' for something it also makes someone else happy and they believe that you are the angel who visited them. So perhaps that was enough?
Today I have another reverse haibun on today's quote:
Nembutsu is grace; November 18 reverse haibun
"The essential vow of Amida Buddha is so profound that birth in the Pure Land is within the palms of your hands." ~ Honen
within our grasp all
promises can be attained
through grace of giving
This seems to be the lesson that every major religion teaches. Walk in the footsteps
of the guide who is sometimes named and other times nameless. Or walk off the
beaten path without the crowd; be not one of the blind sheep to bask in rote script.
Humanity must vow to care for those who are helpless, to keep air, water and sustenance
clean. Yet we must also feed those scientists who prefer the accurate accounting of numbers
and facts to uncover some of the mysteries that perhaps we once knew but have become blind or complacent to in our quests for singular survival.
Walking together strengthens individuals. Especially in this electronic age where we tend
to let our fingers walk more than our feet. Let us all vow in our great variety to continue
to believe – if in nothing else, in the grace of goodness.
Thirty days of nembutsu
Note: In most areas of the United States the Boy Scouts of America have a program called; Scouting for Food. If you have received a note on your door, please read it, follow the instructions and donate to this worthy cause today.
November 18, 2017 at 4:04 pm #2421
Today I was chanting in a soft voice while I was going for a walk with my dog. The sky was totally blue and there was a real beauty in the brightness of the morning…It was the perfect shrine to chant or saying the nembutsu, and I felt a sense of special reverence in my heart…the Light always permeating everything, though there are so many times I forget that…
Namo Amida Bu
November 19, 2017 at 10:54 am #2424
Namo Amida Bu. Condolence to Cynthia and your family. I can empathise with your recent loss. It is just a few months since my mother died at the age of 83yr. Her health deteriorated quite quickly during those final few months. Although sad, it was with some relief to see the end to her suffering. This ending the pain that she had stoically endured for a number of years. I will always remember her grit,determination, and tenacity* as life brought its daily challenges. This her legacy that I will hold in my heart.
During those final moments as my mother took her final breath, I quietly began reciting Namo Amida Bu, this brought forth the images of the Buddha, Amida, Dharmavidya and the wider Amida community to my mind. This brought a feeling of comfort within my heart. A feeling of being held as my mother had once held me when I was a child. Namo Amida Bu
November 19, 2017 at 11:37 am #2425
The cold wind outside embraces everything with a chill. Yet I am awake before dawn, the rest of my household sleeps. Yet I think of the warmth that internal recitation can bring. Just staying committed to a singular act or actions to connect with and perhaps bring long distant comforting to those who need an additional 'hug'.
Spontaneous nembutsu; November 19 haiku
"Although my eyes, blinded by passions, do not see the brilliant light which embraces me, the Great Compassion never tires, always casting its light upon me." ~ Honen
lovingkindness is
a compound word seeking to
exist in every heart
Thirty days of nembutsu
Notes:1) lovingkindness can also be two words or a hyphenated word, loving-kindness.You can research lovingkindness and find definitions in relationship to several teachings. 3) According to one site the First Known Use of lovingkindness: 1535. 3) though, chesed is found in older documents according to one site (חסד, also Romanized ẖesed) is a Hebrew word commonly translated to mean; mercy, lovingkindness, steadfast love, compassion and even goodness or acts of goodness (acts of lovingkindness).
November 19, 2017 at 6:10 pm #2426
Wonderful to read your updates. I've also had a dozen private updates from people on email who are also finding it helpful/inspiring/having spiritual experiences etc.
Namo Quan Shi Yin Bosat, Colin. Sending love.
I'm settling into a little routing of doing 5 mins morning and evening, in addition to whatever else happens here, using my mala with 54 beads. It feels good for me to have some structure, and I'm enjoying doing the same chant today – we have so many here.
If anyone is interested in how we sound on the continuous nembutsu chanting we did yesterday morning (although they are a bit different every time!) here's an old recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPrSzY8pxes
November 20, 2017 at 2:02 pm #2432
Today I wrote on the quote as well as the photo in the daily email:
Blessings and benefits; November 20 renga
"The life of a person of Nembutsu is life in the joy of faith."
~ Zuiken Inagaki
positive thinking,
visualizing goodness,
ripples like water
in the calm pond where lotus
bloom and their seeds fall freely
around the statue
of the figure head always
smiling for us all
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 21, 2017 at 11:08 am #2436
While visiting my family in Belgium I was off-line. I did formal Nembutsu practice when I went to bed and when I got up in the morning. These were worship moments and I reflected on how worship and gratitude can be the same thing. Namo Amida Bu.
November 21, 2017 at 1:47 pm #2437
I liked the heart in smoke, but I missed seeing a Buddha – I do have a photograph of a crystal Buddha that was on display at a store…
For today: The same boat; November 21 tanka series
"Everything belongs, even the bad and dark parts of yourself.
Nothing need be rejected or denied." ~ Richard Rohr
everything shapes us –
others choices and our own
each; one whole puzzle
some of the pieces seem lost
or adrift at some far sea
being accepted
brings a calming peace; a glue
to mend that distance
negativity dances
All around us everyday
in science that force
is needed, is natural;
like the yin and yang
the past cannot change, only
our reactions moving hence
Thirty days of nembutsu
hence : 2. in the future (used after a period of time).
November 22, 2017 at 12:50 pm #2438
Full of awe; November 22 haibun
"Learn to pray without ceasing." ~ Ezra Bayda
It seems that I have been writing forever. Almost more than
anything else i have ever done with my life, maybe except to
breathe.So I also equate the poetry of words strung on a page
as my breath. Some of the thoughts may have been angst filled
walking from an age of discomfort through the age of reason
into the age of adulthood.
Yet every path I take seems to end in question marks. If prayers
are also questions then I have prayed long daily. Everyday with
a variety of voices that flow freely from my thoughts that some-
times get penned.
every breath prays true?
thankful for air, life, and love;
is that not enough?
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 22, 2017 at 1:59 pm #2439
Today, I've been thinking about building that bank of worship and gratitude around my wounds. I've been thinking about wounds becoming wounding in their own right, to myself and others. There can't be too much worship and gratitude in that bank! (Unless it gets compulsive and loses its flavour.) Namo Amida Bu!
November 23, 2017 at 10:29 am #2441
Namo Amida Bu enables me to keep the door open at least a chink, letting in pain and the potential for healing. It's about removing a block today, to enable Amida in. Namo Amida Bu!
November 23, 2017 at 2:34 pm #2444
Unconditional hospitality; November 23 renga
"Where there are humans,
You'll find flies,
And Buddhas."
~ Kobayashi Issa
there is an ebb and
flow to the places that we
gather to break bread
some hearts are young, old, stubborn;
all are seeking to belong
a meek fly seeks a
warm wall to briefly listen
to joyful voices
*Note to those in the USAmerica Happy Thanksgiving –
And happiness to all who gather to everywhere everyday to celebrate lovingkindness*
November 24, 2017 at 2:05 pm #2451
Listen to Amida; November 24 renga
"Know, therefore, that Amida Buddha is light,
and that light is the form taken by wisdom." ~ Shinran
light by sun and star
light by reason and wisdom
light by the home hearth
that inner spark of the soul
can radiate through the skin
light up the dark room
light up the conversation
light up the present
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 25, 2017 at 2:10 pm #2454
The presence of the sacred; November 25 haibun
"Cast aside idle discussions and go straight to Amida's Mind."
~ Zuiken Inagaki
Is nature ever idle? Listen to the conversations of the seasons as you
walk with or without routine to the corners of your yard, or to the depths
of the sea, the heights of known sky or beyond into the welcoming song
of the universe. There is always action. That presence of something to
sally forth too. The hug of our parents, our teachers, or our own reflections
of all that is held within. Sometimes I can truly believe that simple quiet
breathe looking inwardly is the key to opening that door which leads us to
the opportunities of our lifelines and lifetimes. When my mind can connect,
then reflect, then perhaps I am embracing holiness.
Named, Unnamed; listen
when bridging Universal
gaps to Love's embrace
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 25, 2017 at 10:50 pm #2455
Yesterday I spent all day at hospital with my husband because he was operated. I spent long hours waiting. Hospitals are special places to remember our weakness and the fact that we are not in control. There it is easy to experience suffering and decay, also to be a witness of it… A good place to chant in silence while you know that the only thing we can do is to surrender.
Namo Amida Bu
November 26, 2017 at 2:41 pm #2457
Also thinking of you and yours for a speedy recovery. ~Jules
November 25, 2017 at 11:04 pm #2456
Nati, I do hope all went well with your husband's operation. May he recover very quickly and easily.
November 26, 2017 at 2:43 pm #2458
A power greater than me; November 26 haibun
"When one abandons the self-perfection project,
whatever precise detail it takes, there emerges
the possibility of genuine acceptance of reality
and faith in something beyond self."
~ Dharmavidya David Brazier
I have rarely followed the guidance of the popular majority opinion
concerning the commercial reality of how to dress, look or what to
eat. Being a rebel has had some advantages allowing the acceptance
of the Serenity Prayer throughout times of difficulty.
Being a rebel though also has disadvantages. Being different in small
or large groups makes one stand out as different, difficult and maybe
even displeasing to the masses who prefer the same color of light.
It is not my place to judge, only to help, when I can; I have and do.
Remembering that the helping of self is critical when moving forward
in any direction.
with shattered old soul
and a poet's heart, I allow
repairs by nature
Thirty days of nembutsu
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.
~ Reinhold Niebuhr
November 27, 2017 at 8:25 am #2459
Still chanting each morning. I wonder if anyone can shed light on this morning's quote about irritating things flowing like water? At the moment, my life is full of irritations – and imagining any kind of flow feels impossible. What do you understand by this quote?
November 27, 2017 at 1:18 pm #2462
I think it was a personal opinion about life flowing. And apparently not always in the direction we want it to go. Take a meandering stream or an ocean coast – not one day is it it exactly the same. And yet… water flows. The irritation perhaps is the inability to control the flow, of emotions? I just chose to write a winter renga…
Be well. Flow will continue – it is how we react to it, water or any other elements, that matters. Breathe deeply and think of peaceful flow. Water can be very healing – so I believe.
I have a particular irritation to the invasion of my privacy. My husband tells me to ignore it. A group wants me to more or less fill out a questionable that I believe to be useless. In my mind and even just for myself I have written a reply to this 'demand' – Though so far I have not acted. It is a situation where I don't want to completely close the door or put my foot in my mouth when I speak. I just don't want to participate in this particular project. And I think 'they' have the right to know at least that much. Even if I keep all of my other disgruntled thoughts to myself.
November 27, 2017 at 1:21 pm #2464
questionable is supposed to be questionnaire – I thought I chose the correct auto correct 😉
November 27, 2017 at 12:11 pm #2460
What it means to me is that even the most irritating of things will pass. Everything evolves, changes, disappears. Even when we feel frustrated or overwhelmed we can remember (even if it's through gritted teeth), 'Not always so'!
November 27, 2017 at 12:28 pm #2461
Thank you, Acharya Sujatin. 🙂 That makes sense. Will see if I can practise that!
November 27, 2017 at 1:19 pm #2463
Grounded; November 27 winter renga
"This world of dew is only a world of dew –
and yet…" ~ Issa
cold air is outside
there's less to green pad upon
with bare human feet
southeast sun barely rises
with dawn in the front window
cold air contact on
my face has to be enough
to keep me grounded
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 27, 2017 at 1:57 pm #2465
Thanks, Jules. Irritations are the opposite of flow, aren't they? Glad that you are letting your words flow daily, in spite of the irritations…(or because of them? oyster and pearl?)
November 28, 2017 at 10:20 am #2471
Coming to the end of these 30 days, suddenly and unexpectedly, seeing day 28 on the VDU and realising there are only 30 days in November, I wondered what I might do next. I'll probably keep using this particular Nembutsu chant more than I did before. I find it very grounding in terms of its musicality helping to keep me focused on the Buddha rather than the sounds around me, interesting though they are. Everything is reducible and arguable down to nothing, which is good to know when I'm feeling stuck with something but can also suck all meaning out of life and make practices seem pointless. This musical chant has an inexpressible point, so I think I'll keep the motivation. Namo Amida Bu!
November 28, 2017 at 2:10 pm #2472
Comforting rituals bring a unique calm. Flexibility is also paramount to success.
While I really don't have a morning routine, my morning started off with an unexpected service call – better to laugh at the miscommunication and be thankful that eventually the problem will be resolved so the heat pump will work correctly throughout this winter…
Perhaps after a month or so of nembutsu I have become slightly less agitated at the things I can not control?
Always do nembutsu; November 28 haibun with tanka
"Within those six syllables (Na-mo A-mi-da Bu), one turns heaven and earth."
~ Master Lianchi
To me the specific syllables of a prayer are flexible; as a Searcher.
It is the attitude and sincerity that matter above all else to my Heart.
I appreciate support from the positively charged universal Guide.
leaning into wind
the air flows around my face
peace rises softly
internal or external
the song is harmonious
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 29, 2017 at 10:04 am #2478
Last night, almost unheard of (though who is there to hear?), I didn't do my formal Nembutsu practice (though I had done two morning ones). I was so engrossed in my favourite scene from Cold Comfort Farm, where aunt Ada Doom is lashing out with the Cow Keepers Manual, and just didn't want to put it down. Ada Doom is using her mental illness as a means of controlling her family (this is an aspect of the mental illness, not its only manifestation). I did the formal practice in bed instead and I wondered how I use mental illness to control others. In the morning I actually felt a little mentally ill (in case you are offended by this and think I am belittling mental illness- I am diagnosed chronic OCD- and mean that my difficulties were more manifest than usual). I then did two batches of formal Nembutsu practice (this is usual, not something special to try and tackle mental health issues). I remembered how for me Nembutsu is an expression of faith and if faith is not expressed, for me it is not there, or it is blocked. With faith flowing again, I felt a whole lot better, and remembered 'faith, not technique' or Other Power, not self power. Namo Amida Bu!
November 29, 2017 at 1:30 pm #2479
An expression of gratitude; November 29 haiku
"Beauty is simply Reality seen with the eyes of Love." ~ Evelyn Underhill
again, a sunrise
a scientific blessing
bringing the dawn awe
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 30, 2017 at 2:11 pm #2481
The 30th day – and weirdly, for the first time, I forgot to practise! But I remembered later. I will probably continue with the chanting, because I find it brings a moment of stillness to my day, and I like looking at my altar. The act of chanting is a kind of marker that I put down – a wholesome choice for the day. Thank you.
November 30, 2017 at 2:20 pm #2482
The secret wisdom; November 30 haiku
"The light of compassion illuminates us from afar;
Those beings it reaches, it is taught,
Attain joy of dharma,
So take refuge in Amida, the great consolation."
~ Shinran
with an open heart
learn all that you can, and share
kindness willingly
Thirty days of nembutsu
November 30, 2017 at 4:51 pm #2483
Jiyu Kennett Roshi said something about Zen being a religion for spiritual adults. Taking responsibility for Namo Amida Bu as an adult is for me about being aware that I am capable of both good and evil. Namo Amida Bu can be about trying to choose the good, or allowing the good to choose me, but this is still a responsibility- I can choose to be open to Amida Buddha or try and put up walls. Namo Amida Bu is also about faith for me- from experience of Amida Buddha comes faith in Amida Buddha and if I put up a wall against this faith, I find I also put a wall up against allowing good to choose me, then, being an adult is an extremely scary prospect. Namo Amida Bu!
November 30, 2017 at 5:58 pm #2484
Dharmavidya once said that Amida takes away anxiety and hands us responsibility.
Sometimes we are able to accept that, and let go of our anxiety, and sometimes we aren't. Amida loves us just the same.
January 4, 2018 at 11:21 pm #2565TristanParticipant
My first official day was today. Saying the nembutsu is something I do as part of my Reiki practice because of the (possible, although I'm going with it )connection between one of the symbols and the Amida Buddha. I like that every day has a mini-lesson and I'm really looking forward to them. At the end of my daily Reiki practice, when I'm nice and calmed, I have added five minutes of nembutsu, quietly, in my mind, or just a whisper. It feels right that way: my quiet voice calling out.
January 6, 2018 at 2:15 pm #2573TristanParticipant
I just loved today's email (day 3) with this passage of Shinran's
"The cloud of light is unhindered, like open sky;
There is nothing that impedes it.
Every being is nurtured by this light,
So take refuge in Amida, the one beyond conception."
April 6, 2018 at 7:58 am #2788AnonymousInactive
Hi , am on day 26. Realised I've been leaving my posts for 30 days of Nembutsu in wrong place in virtual rooms. Coming towards the end now and just wondered how people followed up and continued with things of they so chose once the course finished.
April 6, 2018 at 8:11 am #2789
Hello Ken, I've now embedded the melodic chant into my day. I use it particularly at night if I wake up for a bit. I do the chant a couple of times through, sing a positive affirmation to myself and go back to sleep. I also use it when I'm meditating, either silently or out loud, and find myself singing it to myself a lot, throughout the day. Namo Amida Bu!
April 7, 2018 at 12:29 am #2793AnonymousInactive
Hi Andrew and thanks. I can relate to the finding myself singing it throughout the day. I'll just come out with it when normally I can be a bit self conscious .
July 5, 2018 at 8:03 am #2931Jason HarrisParticipant
Hello there 🙂 I actually completed the 30 Days of Nembutsu a few days ago so I'm not sure whether this is the right place to post this. But I thought I'd share a sort of summary of my experience with the nembutsu.
These are just things Ive noticed as Ive being going along. I have found that it doesn't seem to matter in the slightest what kind of frame of mind I'm in when I start to chant "Namo Amida Bu"…sometimes it will take a few minutes other times it seems almost immediate but it's like there is (and I dont really know how to describe it) like a peace/calm, a (for want of a better word) presence that just seems to fill me with a deep happiness and a incredible aliveness. I am struggling to find the right words to properly explain what I'm talking about..lol. There was one time not long after I first started chanting the nembutsu where I felt a deep tranquility I dont think Ive ever experienced before.
Also I have found it doesnt seem to matter where you chant or what the situation is. Ive often found that chanting in my head either at times at work or just generally throughout the day especially if I've got frustrated or annoyed about something or just feeling down…somehow that completely changes the mood.
The nembutsu seems to act like a tuning fork. Only Im not the one doing the tuning…as I chant "Namo Amida Bu" it feels like Amida is the one tuning me.
Namo Amida Bu
July 6, 2018 at 7:52 am #2938
I really appreciated reading your story, Jason. I love reading about other peoples' deep, subtle and empowering experiences. Namo Amida Bu!
October 30, 2018 at 8:18 pm #3116AnonymousInactive
I am on my 7th day of the course. I chant using Namo Amida Bu. I have tried to commit myself to chanting thirty minutes in the morning and thirty minutes at night along with reciting texts from the Nien Fo Book. My real struggle in getting up in the morning to chant. I am not much of a morning person, but I am soldiering on. I haven't always perfectly met my goal, but thus far I have chanted every day for at least thirty minutes. I feel such peace since I began the course. I have chanted nembutsu before, but my down fall has been lack of consistency in practice. In the past if I missed a few days I would foolishly give up, and only restart my practice months later. Luckily, I am starting anew and I have a better attitude toward my daily practice. It is not about perfectionism. That's impossible. So I am embracing my bombu nature, and taking it a day at a time.
October 31, 2018 at 9:24 am #3118
Hi Jeaunice, good to hear from you. I am not much of a morning person either. When I used to teach meditation, I always used to encourage people to practice at a time that worked for then. Evening person – meditate in the evening!
Great to hear you are just starting again when you lapse – no one practices perfectly, and just a single nembutsu is enough to take us to the Pure Land
November 15, 2018 at 5:19 pm #3177AnonymousInactive
I am nearing the end of my 30 days of nembutsu course. This has been an awarding experience. I feel like my practice has expanded. I've discovered new aspects to Pure land practice that I wasn't aware of before now. I am doing silent sitting more. I have started doing the prostrations to Amida. Above all, I am more flexible about my nembutsu practice. I read in "How to Practice" by Dharmavidya that we should not be a slave to ritual, that it should be a natural expression of our gratitude to Amida Buddha. Thus, I continuously recite nembutsu in my mind during the day. I don't beat myself up if I don't make a morning practice-I just make it up in the evening. So far I haven't missed a day of chanting. I just wanted to thank all of you here at Friends of Amida for your wonderful advice and guidance during this 30 days of nembutsu course.
Namo Amida Bu.
November 15, 2018 at 5:48 pm #3179AnonymousInactive
Hi Jeaunice . Glad to see you're nearly at the end and found your own way with things . That's the beauty of Pureland , we get to figure out and do and use what works for us as individuals. No hard and fast rules. There is another 7 day nembutsu course if you want to follow on from that.
December 22, 2019 at 10:18 pm #3711JohnParticipant
Well, I'm into Nembutsu 30 days plus 5. Thanks for the daily messages.
I've practiced every day and I'm really enjoying it.
I'm feeling more grounded and centred, more calm and more at one/at peace with things, more so than before I started.
I'm feeling more oneness with other things, and differences which mattered a lot to me don't seem to matter anymore.
I feel that Amida has got my back and for that I am grateful.
I chant to say thank you and to express my love back. It's a 2 way thing!
I'm feeling more invigorated and confident.
It's good.
Namo Amida Bu.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


text:
The events described here take place at an indeterminate place and time in the future, in the Madrigal LARP world.
A quiet voice speaks from within a dark gate, "Who stands before the gate of death?"
The red-robed spirit standing outside the gate responds, "It is Adeon."
The figure steps forward, passing through the veil and into a dark chamber. Before him sits a Reaper, perhaps the very same one who travelled with the heroes of Shadowfane as they traversed the path of the Aurora to save the world from the Blood Queen. On a table between them rests a book, closed. Hovering in the air above the book are faint, ghostly words, lettered in red with a golden nimbus, "Though my soul may pass through the gate of death a thousand times, yet it shall return, and I to the fight until my family is safe."
The Reaper speaks, not the words Adeon expects to hear, but rather "I heard your oath, those many years ago, and though not bound by it, I honored it. Your family is safe, now."
Adeon simply nods in response. Though his wife perished fleeing from Wickford, her sacrifice allowed the children to escape. Adeon had found them in the Greyfang and brought them to Mal'Kharad root, and had spent many years living there with them after the Blood Queen was made whole and sent back to her world to face justice.
"You have not been here a thousand times, but this time is your last. The deck holds only one card for you."
"I know," Adeon responds aloud, "or I suspected as much. I am at peace, and ready for my fate."
"There are some things you must do first," the Reaper continues, "You have some things of which the world may still have need – the torch, the pendant, the toadstool," and after a moment's pause, "the hammer."
Adeon knows the items to which the Reaper referred. The torch, created of the fires of a volcano and the boons of the Fae, to cleanse the Carrion Rot which Skarris had inflicted upon the Root Maze. The Phoenix pendant, found by chance along a path as he had pursued training in higher magics – the very same pendant which had been owned by an Archmage generations ago whose title Adeon inherited. The toadstool, given to him by the patron Fae of the Order of the Spore. The last one surprised him, though. The hammer the Reaper referred to was once known as the Chaos Hammer, but since defeating Atkoya it had no power. "Shall I leave them with you, then?"
"No, not here. You know where they belong. Go now, as a spirit, and return once they have been delivered."
* * *
A spirit hovers in the midst of a volcano's core, just above the fiery magma. The Guardian was brought forth but does not see any Champions approaching. A red-robed spirit appears in front of him, holding a small torch containing some of the Guardian's power. "The Carrion Rot has been cleansed and there is no further need for this in the world. I return it to you, to hold against some future need, should the Rot return."
* * *
The red-robed spirit appears in a clearing next to a non-descript path in the woods. He sets a small phoenix-shaped pendant in the center of a fire-pit in the clearing, and murmurs a few words under his breath – an enchantment to keep the pendant hidden until its next owner should rest there.
* * *
On the edge of Shadowfane, a toadstool ring grows atop a tree stump. The red-robed spirit appears in the midst of the ring, and gently sets a red ceramic toadstool in a gap in the ring. A few whispered words, and the toadstool sinks into the stump and becomes a living thing, left behind by one of the founders of the Order.
* * *
Farris, an Eurvein of Fire, stands next to her forge. She has been working all day on a new sword for her not-brother Dag, and after a few more runes are carved, it will be complete. A red-robed spirit appears before her, holding a golden hammer. She looks at the spirit, surprised at first but then understanding. She nods. The spirit uses the hammer to carve two runes upon the sword – a Rune of Sharpening to ensure the blade will always hold a sharp edge, and a Rune of Immolation, his last gift to his son. He sets the hammer down next to the anvil, and fades away.
* * *
A quiet voice speaks from within a dark gate, "Who stands before the gate of death?"
The red-robed spirit standing outside the gate responds, "It is Adeon."
The words no longer hover in the air. Adeon speaks quietly, "It is done."
"Your time among the living has come to an end, then. It is not for me to decide the fate of your spirit; that decision has already been made. Have you anything left you wish to say?"
"No, it has all been said."
The Reaper extends one arm, and gently touches the teardrop-shaped crystal below Adeon's eye. "You have wept so many tears for this world; it is good to see you at peace." With those last words, she inflicts Final Death upon the once-hero of Shadowfane.
* * *
A new rune appears on the Serpent's Forge. This new Rune of Courage, in the shape of a teardrop, is a warning against Despair. Its spirit is one of Courage and Hope, and lends its power to artifacts created upon this forge.
* * *
A new spirit appears in the Topiary. It resembles the red-robed spirit which stood before the Reaper, and yet it is somehow less. All traces of runes are gone, and only its arcane nature remains. A pair of fiery wings grows from its back before it slowly turns to stone, to stand as a Guardian against any who would threaten the Crystal Tower.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Let us introduce you to our second future champion…
MALLORY BURDETTE left Stanford University after her junior year in 2012 to turn pro at the age of 23. She wanted to build on the strong run she had at the 2012 U.S. Open where she reached the 3rd round. But she eventually fell to the then #3 Maria Sharapova.
The rest of 2012 was a roller coaster ride with her winning some matches but losing more. While she didn't play at the Australian Open in 2013, she did enter the French Open for the first time where she enjoyed a first round success. However, she was eliminated in the second. Undaunted, she is looking forward to a more promising year in 2014.
Stay tuned as we feature up and coming champion female tennis players as we approach the 2014 tennis season!


text:
A revolutionary project that changed security and security management through an ingenious design, the OVIO PairLock is constantly pushing the boundaries of design and innovation to provide its users a solution that is effective, practical and aesthetically pleasing. Recently, the developers of the OVIO PairLock announced the launch of a line of products that are an extension of the Flagship OVIO PairLock line. To move into the next phase of production, the OVIO Pairlock will be seeking funds by launching a crowdfunding campaign in November.
The newly added products include three new aesthetically pleasing variants of OVIO Pairlock model – one with a wooden knob, second with a wooden lever and the third has a curved metal lever. These new looks have been added to extend the product line to fit the various aesthetic demands.
OVIO has also introduced a new fixed numbered key, which has been specifically designed for property owners in mind, so they can make fixed numbered keys for their tenants. Finally, a mini padlock has been added to the product line, which will be more convenient and elegant to use on luggage and jewel boxes.
Basically, the easy to manage and affordable OVIO PairLock is an award winning design that is made up of OVIO PairLock cylinder locks with Digit Wheels which allows users to set up their unique multiple digit codes and also change the combination. All OVIO Pairlock have a standard 4-digit passcode, or an additional unique digit wheel can be added for additional security. The second component of the OVIO PairLock is the "One Key For All" OVIO PairLock key. Key codes are changeable, same as the passcodes on cylinder locks. Locks open when codes on the cylinder lock and keys match. This means that multiple cylinder locks can be managed by one key.
The funds raised from the upcoming crowdfunding campaign will cover the costs of tooling, manufacturing and various other expenses. As always, OVIO will be offering a variety of different rewards and perks in return of the generosity extended by the financial supporters of the project.
For more information about OVIO Pairlocks and the upcoming product line and crowdfunding campaign, please visit: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/oviolocks/ovio-pair-locks-the-new-ultimate-locks-solution or www.ovio.com.tw
About: OVIO is an international company based mold design and design-oriented creative ID of the company, has accumulated More than 600 design cases , mainly in the main mold design , development to product design, combined with a wealth of experience in mold design , including the appearance of the ID design , mechanical design , model making, production agents , taking into consideration the market demand for products , manufacturing costs, product value , unique concept for enterprises to achieve possessed leading brand design.
Media Contact
Company Name: OVIO Inc.
Contact Person: Sean Shieh
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
City: Los Angeles
State: CA
Country: United States
Website: www.ovio.com.tw


text:
Hello 🙂
Last week was all about sculpting tiny berries, which I had a blast at doing!
I also happened to close my Etsy shop because work was starting to be too heavy on me.
There are still some orders that need to be sculpted and shipped, but I have more time and energy to work on the up-coming miniature fair in Paris, the SIMP.
Taking some workload off really was a necessity as I was starting to be annoyed by sculpting. Which is a bit of handicap in my line of work, you'll surely agree on that.
I'm taking time to laze and sculpt and watch tv shows and the last three days I have not worked on any orders… Dear customers, I hereby apologize for letting you wait, but my sanity was at stake.
What else? I'm hungry, and it's going to be (again) noodles with veggies… I love that but it's been 5 days in a row, and I can't really seem to muster anything else. It is my fastest way to cook. (one pot pasta saved my life ha!)
Anyway! I'm hungry, nothing is ready, time to invent something 🙂
p.s.: Full daily art challenge over on Tumblr


text:
I don't think an expiry date can be set. You will remain untrusted until a moderator decides to give you the trusted flag again. Dave gave you the "ban", so I would not give you a trusted flag without his consent.Entity Valkyrie wrote:When is the untrust expiry date?
I will send a private message with further thoughts on this issue.


text:
The Cafe at the Abbey offers a wide selection of delicious home-made lunches, afternoon teas, light snacks and beverages. It is situated within the magnificent St Albans Cathedral.
Where possible the Cafe sources local produce, seasonal ingredients and fair trade products. It is also available as a venue for special events, functions and group tours, and is fully licensed.
Time your visit to enjoy a FREE guided tour of the Cathedral
see www.stalbanscathedral.org/visit/what-to-do/tours for details.
Get 10% OFF at the Cafe at the Abbey.
Monday to Friday mornings 8.30am to 11.00am
Monday to Friday afternoons 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Terms & Conditions: 10% discount only applies at times specified.
Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer valid until 31st December 2010.
Place Categories: Cafes & Coffee Shops


text:
1981 Jeep J10 AMC High Low Range 4X4 pickup truck honcho
- Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana, United States
- Condition: Used
- Make: Jeep
- Model: Wagoneer
- Type: Crew Cab Pickup
- Trim: J10
- Year: 1981
- Mileage: 145,140
- Color: Copper
- Engine size: 6 Cylinder
- Number of cylinders: 6
- Drive type: 4WD
- Interior color: Tan
- Vehicle Title: Clear
- Options: 4-Wheel Drive
1981 Jeep Wagoneer description
1981 Jeep Pickup Truck 4X4 J10 258-6cyl.
This 1981 Truck belongs to a good friend of ours. We are listing it for him as he no longer uses it. He retired from the Body Shop business a few years back. He bought 12 acres so he thinks he is a rancher now. He of course needed a truck to run his acreage. He had me bid on this truck on the internet and we got it-Bought it out of Texas and had it shipped here. He has enjoyed it for several years and being a body man I guess he couldnt' let well enough alone. It was faded from Texas sun beating on it. As our pictures show he put on a heck of a paint job on it.It is very sharp. Actually it is so sharp now he never wants to use it as a truck any longer so why not sell it-it makes sense. He bought a beat up 05 chevy to use as a truck. The Jeep truck is dependable and there are things he has recently done to truck that he asked me to mention in the ad. Tires are good, he did rebuild the front end. New brakes, new starter. Also a new radiator. Truck has high and low range and is a 4 speed. The 258 six is strong and has plenty of power. Clutch is very good and makes a bit of chatter mainly in low gear taking off, we use second and it is smoother. If you can come look at truck Great please do so, if not and need shipping we have a local professional trucking company who is a friend and he can give you a quote Call Jim at 831-840-3630 or try 812-539-2886. He is bonded and fully insured. BID AWAY JEEP LOVERS. These are far and few between. It is a very sharp paint job. Questions call 812-584-4277


text:
Bicycle helmets
The bicycle helmets do not comply with the impact requirements of the federal safety standard for bicycle helmets, posing a risk of head injury.
None reported
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helmets and contact Louis Garneau for instructions on how to receive a free replacement helmet.
Louis Garneau at 800-448-1984 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.garneau.com/us/en/ and click on "Recall Notice" at the bottom of the page for more information.
© 2020 SafeBee. All Rights Reserved.


text:
Opening up your self to your girlfriend can give a relationship many advantages. When a man is not comfortable enough to open up himself to her girlfriend that is just because he is not used to it yet. Men are not known as people who like to open up about their feelings and emotion. People expect men to be silent about what they are thinking and never talk about their problem. But not trusting your girlfriend enough can end a relationship. If you want to have a good relationship and want it to last very long. The most important thing you can do is to open up.
When you are always open to a girlfriend about what you are feeling or thinking about the relationship you have will be so much healthier. When you do not trust each other enough to tell the truth about what each other's problems that is very problematic. No relationship can survive very long if a guy always chooses to stay quiet about what he is thinking about. Both person needs should still be met so that it would work. So what can a guy make himself open up to her girlfriend more? It's all about trust. The reason why men are not honest about what they are really thinking is when he does not trust his partner. When that happen you need to changed that.
If you are a person who has trust issues, you're going to need to find a way to fix that. If you don't want, then any relationship you have with a woman will not last long. Being afraid to be judged or hurt isn't the most common reason why a man won't speak his mind. If you are the kind of guy who will not open up to your girlfriend no matter what, then maybe you are a movement for each other. A guy should be comfortable enough to tell her girlfriend things of he is not then perhaps they are not the right person for each other. Finding a girl who can get you to be comfortable towards yourself is not easy. If you can see that person then never let her go.
Make sure that you are with a person who you feel trustworthy and will not betray you in the future. Don't commit to someone that you do not even feel good about. Make sure that she is worth your time first before you make any moves. But you can always book London escorts. London escorts will always find a way to make a man happy. London escorts from https://charlotteaction.org/ are caring and kind people. That is why if you ever need a person to hold then you should book London escorts.


text:
The IFA CiFT (Foundation) is offered by the International Feltmakers Association to encourage and develop good feltmaking.
It is available to all IFA members. If you are not a member but want to register for this course, then you need to join the IFA first.
Learning is student based which means that you follow the syllabus at your own pace and if necessary find workshops relevant to your needs.
The course is divided into five modules. Module 1 must be done first, as this is the base on which everything else is built on. After that there is no time limit as to when you work on the other modules, as long as you let us know that you still want to be kept on the register.
Although you will work on your own, at your own pace, you will send samples to be verified at certain stages of each module, and this will give you good feedback and guidance as to how to proceed. There are also mentors amongst the IFA community, experienced feltmakers, who can be called upon for advice. At the moment there are only two of them throughout the UK, but we hope to increase their numbers in the coming year.
For everyday support, exchanging ideas and hints there is an IFA CiFT students group on Facebook; this is a closed group, where the students can post pictures of their latest items, ask questions, help each other, and feel more connected with other felters, rather than working in isolation.


text: Anandi, a widow for several years, lives all by herself in a small village. One day out of the blue comes Arun Gupta, claiming to be her relative, and literally begs her to come to live with him and his family in the city, which she does. Once in the city, she finds out that things are not the same as in the village. She finds out that Arun had actually brought her to the city, not out of pity, love or compassion, but for doing household duties, and baby-sitting, without any wages. She moves out and lives in a broken-drown structure hoping and waiting that someday, someone will actually come for her, and claim her as family. Will Anandi ever have a family of her own??


text:
Everybody wants cheap premiums. Folks need good values. Many prices have risen lately. It's easy to see why families hope to stretch budgets. Looking for cheaper rates might help. But homes are an average family's most important asset. Owners are welcome to check prices. They should also compare value. The best insurers are around when you need them.
Compare Florida Homeowners Insurance
What's the best homeowners insurance? These are the four most important things to consider:
- Coverage: What's the right coverage? Weigh premiums and risks. Raising deductibles reduces the price. But owners could have higher costs at claim time. The same is true for lowering limits or cutting coverage.
- Stability: Can an insurer pay claims? Pay attention to financial ratings. Strong insurers weather the worst Florida storms. Insurers with risky practices might be gone when they are needed the most. Insurers publish ratings on their sites. Learn more about financial stability here.
- Service: Does the company focus on customers? Good insurers focus on service. They provide good contact and billing options.
- Satisfaction: Does the insurer make people happy? Learn what current customers think. Check customer survey and review sites. Examples are JD Powers and the BBB.
Homeowners Insurance Florida
Finding a Florida homeowners insurance company that meets all of these criteria can be a challenge. Companies like USAA Homeowners Insurance have strong customer satisfaction ratings, but they don't write policies in Florida. Southern Oak Insurance proudly writes Florida homeowners insurance and understands Florida property because we're a company of Floridians protecting Florida residents. Southern Oak has a company focus on customer satisfaction and a reputation for great service. Southern Oak also earned an A- Exceptional financial stability rating® from Demotech. That means Southern Oak is can be trusted to be there after the next minor incident, major storm, and even several major storms in the same year.
As mentioned before, when choosing home insurance for yourself there are many questions to ask. If you still need help, visit our blog post 7 Questions to Ask Your Insurer to get you on the right track.


text: In this episode, George samples a restaurant's five-star dishes featuring ingredients from its organic gardens. He stops at a local farmers' market where East End farmers and food producers provide sustainable fresh ingredients. Back in his home kitchen, George prepares savory vegetable dishes, including field greens and tomato, vinaigrette eggplant and squash gratin, and zabaglione with chocolate cake and berries. Recipes: - Field Greens & Tomato, Vinaigrette - Eggplant & Squash Gratin - Zabaglione with Chocolate Cake & Berries.


text:
06 Mar 2014
Sustainable management strategies targeting grain based pests aim to reduce risks of crop loss from pests while also reducing our reliance on insecticides. cesar is teaming up with interstate entomologists and ICAN to provide three workshops on sustainable pest management. Workshops are targeted at advisers and leading growers who seek an improved understanding of insects and wish to implement more sustainable pest management practices.
Currently, insect management in grain crops relies heavily on insecticides. The success of insecticide use is challenged with the development of resistance as well as the threat of regulatory withdrawal of a number of older insecticides. cesar works to educate and support Australian farmers and advisers in incorporating and transitioning to practices aimed at sustainable or integrated pest management.
Grain advisers and growers are invited to participate in a GRDC-supported training workshop on insect management in grain crops.
Topics include:
The Workshops will focus on pests of local significance. Participants receive access to a first class resource kit including Fact Sheets, Ute Guides, course notes and presentations. Technical input for workshops comes from cesar, Qld DAFF, SARDI, NSWDPI and ICAN.
Workshops presenters are: Garry McDonald & Paul Umina (cesar), Melina Miles (Qld DAFF) and the facilitator is John Cameron (ICAN).
Workshop dates:
Albury - 8th April 2014
Bendigo - 9th April 2014
Horsham - 10th April 2014
Click here for further information and on-line registration details


text:
A pleasant sweetness contributes to good taste and can help compliance in patients and thus contribute to success of therapies. Sunett's fast onset of sweetness helps mask the bitter taste common in pharmaceutical actives.
Sunett? Acesulfame K offers an excellent taste profile in individually optimized combinations with a range of other sweeteners. When used in combination with other sweeteners or polyols, Sunett? Ace K blends will ensure complete coverage of bitterness.
Recommended applications:
Key attributes:
This website uses 'cookies' to give you the best, most relevant experience. Using this website means you are Ok with this. You can change which cookies are set at any time - and find out more about them - by following this link.


text:
I took 2 trips to PNG to deliver Bible Storytelling and Discussion training to our teammates there and to coach them to deliver their own workshops. Here is the fruit!
The clay pot has changed its function
The clay pot for the Ubir tribe living in the Northern Province of Papua New Guinea is the key utensil in any kitchen. Its function ranges from cooking pot, water container, food safe, and can be given as a present. It is also a highly valued item to exchange in a barter system economy. For example a good size out triggered canoe can be purchased for 20 clay pots.
In this time and age the metal cooking pots have replaced most of the clay pot's function but they cannot replace its value in a barter system. The reason is that anybody can buy a metal pot but only a few skilled women can make a clay pot; thus its value in the barter system and its significance as a gift.
Telling stories is part of the life style in Wanigela…
View original post 855 more words


text:
A cute sea turtle charm, crafted from natural baltic amber and complete with a geometric sterling silver design.
The authentic shape and attention to detail, mixed with the modern geometric shape makes this the perfect accessory for ocean lovers. The amber shell is the perfect touch of colour and meaning - as our amber is sourced directly from the sea.
Green Amber Turtle Pendant also available.
The pendant has been coupled with our 45cm Sterling Diamond Ball chain which matches the style of the pendant and provides safety and durability for everyday wear.
This pendant is part of our Biography Collection, which has been made to reflect personalities and to offer personal, thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Check out more of our Jewellery with Meaning.
All orders are wrapped in our beautiful branded Jewellery Boxes and shipped via Royal Mail.
Explore our Delivery Policies for more information.
In an effort to reduce our paper usage, no invoices or order notices will be included in your parcel. If you would like to include a gift message, please add our Luxury Gift Wrap option at the checkout.
We guarantee quick and easy returns. All items are returnable within 14 days of receipt, excluding orders with customisations. Extended Returns up to 28 days available for gift giving, please contact us first to request an extended returns policy.See Returns for more information.
Add this comprehensive gift wrap option to perfect your Baltic Beauty gift and treat your loved one to something truly special.
Select our Gift Wrap Add-On for £4 per item in your Shopping Cart.
Includes: Signature Wrapping Paper, Satin Ribbon, Sterling Silver Anti-Tarnish Cleaning Cloth & Note Card
For no extra cost, we can create a printed typographic message on the notecard to send with your Baltic Beauty gift. Just leave a note at the checkout with your message to the lucky recipient.
As official Recommended Sellers of Amber Jewellery by the International Amber Association (IAA) we commit to meeting all criteria as laid out by the IAA - offering a guarantee of the authenticity of your amber jewellery. We also comply with all Hallmarking regulations, and Baltic Beauty is registered with the Birmingham Assay Office.


text:
Family Dollar (FDO) reported a negative earnings surprise at the start of the year and didn't capitalize on the Wal-Mart memo leak snafu. The stock is a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) and is the Bear of the Day.
A mid-February e-mail was leaked from one of the nation's largest retailers. In the e-mail a Wal-Mart exec noted that people were not spending at the mega store and that the company was trending the worst February in years.
The thought at that time was that customers were feeling the pinch of higher taxes and higher gasoline prices. Those two headwinds for WMT could have been a big tailwind for FDO as consumers were thought to "trade down" to a lower level retailer.
Family Dollar Stores operates a chain of self-service retail discount stores primarily for low- and middle-income consumers. It operates a chain of approximately 7,400 general merchandise retail discount stores in 45 states. The company was founded in 1959 and is based in Matthews, North Carolina.
Special Offer: Stock picks from Forbes Dividend Investor are up 15% vs. 10% for identically timed buys of the S&P 500 index since July. Average yield on buys is 5%. Click here now to try Forbes Dividend Investor free for 30 days.
One look at a price chart of FDO and you can see a big drop at the start of 2013. The company posted a negative earnings surprise of 6%. That miss sent the stock lower by more than 11.5% in the session following the release.
Competition is intense in the dollar store segment, with Dollar Tree (DLTR) competing directly with FDO. Another competitors would be Five Below (FIVE), which offers products for $5 or less. Both DLTR and FIVE are Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stocks.
Estimates for FDO have been declining of late. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2013 for LTM stood at $4.25 as of October 2012. The consensus now stands at $3.98. Similarly, estimates for 2014 have moved from $4.95 in September 2012 to their current level of $4.46.
Following the big drop in share price, the valuation for FDO has become more reasonable. The trailing twelve months PE multiple of 16x is less than the industry average of 22x. The forward earnings multiple of 15x is nearly at an equal discount to the 20x industry average. Price to book of 5x is well above the 3.6x industry average while the price to sales multiple of 0.7x is slightly below the 1x industry average.
The 3 month chart below shows the stock doing the Wall Street equivalent of "being discounted." A recent recovery since February lows has this stock trending higher with earnings right around the corner. The last three earnings reports have seen two meets and one miss. At present, there might be better alternatives in the lower end of the retail space.
Brian Bolan is a stock strategist for Zacks.com. He is the editor in charge of the Zacks Home Run Investor service, a buy and hold service where he recommends the stocks in the portfolio. Brian is also the editor of Follow The Money Trader a trading service that tracks institutional money flows and looks for great stock picks from that data.
Follow Brian Bolan on twitter at @BBolan1
Like Brian Bolan on Facebook
We track earnings estimate revisions to spot hot stocks.


text:
I am trying to recreate this bottle as accurately as possible, but I'm kind of stumped at how to go about it.
So far I figured I would extrude a square base and flex it, but upon filleting it I'm find that it doesn't really bend in the subtle way the reference bottle does (below).
I would like to recreate this cleanly as possible and was wondering if anyone had any good pointers on how to go about doing so; advice on the body and neck would be much appreciated.
reference bottle (Jamba Juice brand)
my attempt


text:
Community Involvement
Contact Lieutenant Crawford at (903) 457-2923 or by Email about the following programs:
- McGruff - McGruff is an interactive, larger-than-life costume that has been taking a bite out of crime for over 25 years.
Non GISDClassroom Presentation
- Building Tour
- Drug / Alcohol Program
- Security Inspections
- Other Programs
- Apartment Managers/Police Partnership Coalition
- Personal Safety Tips
- Fraud Prevention - Education for adults and businesses on scams and identity theft. These scams range from online scams, pigeon drop scams, bank and check washing scams, to construction scams. These criminals mainly target the retired and elderly, but they will target anyone. With a little
educationthese crimes can be prevented. Just remember, if it's too good to be true, it probably is.
- Kid Fingerprinting - Provides identifying information on a missing child. When a child is missing or is considered a runaway, the police investigators need as much information as possible about the child. Kid fingerprinting allows you to keep up to date information of your child's vital statistics. Even though fingerprints will never change, the Greenville Police Department recommends that you update your child's height and weight and replace your child's photo with a current photo each year.
- National Night Out - The annual neighborhood crime prevention event brings neighbors together to stand against crime. Everyone is encouraged to get involved whether by hosting or attending a neighborhood party or just by turning on your porch light during National Night Out to show your support.
- Neighborhood Watch - The Neighborhood Watch program brings citizens together to watch out for each other's property. This concept builds on the primary Crime Prevention strategy of having a vested interest in your community. The simple act of neighbors knowing neighbors has been proven to reduce crime in neighborhoods.
Useful Links
- Center for Safe Communities & Schools Fighting Identity Theft
- Guard Against Internet Fraud
- Identify Theft is a Crime
- National Crime Prevention Council
- North Texas Crime Prevention Association
- Stay Safe
- Texas Attorney General
- Texas Department of Transportation - Automobile Burglary & Theft Prevention


text:
Formed in 2017, Qi Entertainment aims to become a premium esports authority and organizer via the combination of production, knowledge and expertise that our team brings to ours and your very own event.
Our mission is to allow players and teams that have yet to break into the scene to pro-actively be able to participate in international tournaments and pursue their dream careers. As well ease the introduction of companies into the ever growing esports industry.
The uprising in the esports industry over the past couple years has created a new playing field for companies all around the globe. Now, more than ever, having brand presence in esports is as valuable as the use of social media when targeting a younger audience. Qi Entertainment helps both endemic and non-endemic brands to enter this amazing industry with everything it has to offer through a highly customizable model to fit your needs.


text:
The "human factor" is vital to every aspect of how we do business at Green Suites Hotel Solutions. We care about our customers; We care about our employees; We are grateful for our investors; We care about our suppliers; We care and are grateful for the men and women who make our products. We want every exchange with Green Suites Hotel Solutions to be personal, caring and human.
Although we are in business and our collective livelihoods are held dearly, never do we wish to take ourselves too seriously. We are grateful to our customers (large and small), our vendors and our team members. Success is nothing without them and their contributions.
Progressive development of our personal & professional lives is critical to our success. Embracing new ideas, challenging old norms and welcoming input from all team members have been integral to our growth as individuals and as a company.
Our goal is to have joy in our daily lives and to share it with the people we encounter. When we are joyful we spread this feeling to customers, guests, friends, families and, sometimes best, absolute strangers.
We believe it's our responsibility to give back. Through charity we give to improve our team, our community, our Earth. Through giving back we grow as people and as a company.
We believe that integrity is an amalgamation of all our values — family, love, friendship, dignity, honesty and helpfulness. We do what we say we will and expect the same from all.


text: In the long run, the direction of most equity markets is always up. That's the best reason one can think of for long term buy and hold style of investing. However, there are downsides in the short term. The efficient market hypothesis indicates that investors (or fund managers) can't do much about these temporary downsides. Does that mean the market is efficient?


text:
Overland Park Regional Medical Center
August 24, 2017
August 24, 2017
Sleep is clearly vital for adults, but it's especially important for the well-being of young kids. With school in full swing now, you may be struggling to get your child to develop a healthy sleep pattern. Dr. Michael Anderson, of the Sleep Disorders Center at Overland Park Regional Medical Center, talks about best sleep routines for teens and younger kids.KCTV5


text:
She started to become influenced by Paul Hunt about the policies she parsed. She also dismissed Liam's warnings about Paul and the Scorpius organisation and fired him from his position in the Army. She sanctioned the conversion of refugees into Cybermen. (AUDIO: Fear)
Shortly afterwards, she was persuaded by Paul to place the Cybermen on the streets of Earth for protection and told the populace that she was going to lead a mission into the Android controlled zone as a final strike. She was then converted into a Cyber-Leader. (AUDIO: Conversion)
She was sent on a mission to Telos in order to activate the tomb there which would then activate all cybertombs. She met with an Android ship there and died in the attack. (AUDIO: Telos)