Buddha Friends of the World

Don't forget to dance!

2011-12-14T20:40:00.001-08:00

Flow with the River!

2011-11-14T14:20:00.001-08:00

It is important to understand that life will lead you where you need to go, if you let it.

Sometimes there are curves along the way.

Always you will find the right way forward by just flowing with the river!

The sky may be cloudy; but there's always a hole in the sky!

2011-11-14T13:32:00.001-08:00

Seek your own 'hole in the sky'

Never accept the clouds attempt to make your day

all grey!

Always seek the positive side

and you will find your own hole in the sky!

Imagine - A world where every human being had what they need to enjoy a happy and full life!

2011-10-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

Flow with the river!

It flows to the sea,

Flow with the river

It brings thee to me!

Imagine - Young children growing up in a world full of hope!

2011-10-11T09:12:00.001-07:00

Imagine a world without fear!

2011-09-16T10:28:00.001-07:00

Imagine - Living in a world without greed.......

2011-09-15T15:22:00.001-07:00

Imagine there was no more pain and suffering in the world!

2011-08-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

Imagine

there was no suffering or pain in the world,

and all the people on earth could live in peace,

and everyone had all the food they needed, but not too much,

and there were no people without a home to live in,

and there was no sickness,

Believe it can happen!

Imagine - your day is full of blue sky, warm sun, and beautiful friends!

2011-06-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

Imagine a politician actually standing up for the majority!

2011-06-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

Imagine......imagine whatever you wish today!

2011-05-07T18:34:00.000-07:00

I wish for a nice dinner with my daughter and her mate that will include for the first time, her mate's mom and step-dad.

Imagine if all humans loved our mother earth more than our wealth!

2011-05-01T21:19:00.001-07:00

Imagine - Peace in the whole world! - from Emmy S.

2011-04-30T15:25:00.001-07:00

Imagine that all sick people in the entire world - were suddenly healed and ready to live life to its fullest once again!

2011-04-29T10:01:00.001-07:00

What would you like me to imagine?

Imagine you could change the world for the better - You can, you know!

2011-04-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

See the photo on the right side of the open palm hands.....as it says..."Happiness is in the palm of your hands."

Imagine.....

Imagine only positive things happening....all negative things have run their course and have ended.

2011-04-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Imagine there were no greedy or evil people in the world!

2011-04-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Imagine - we all had the love of someone!

2011-04-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Imagine - You loved something so much, that you could only express it in a song!

2011-04-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

The fourth song of the playlist is a song called; "I will follow you" by Death Cab for Cutie....if this isn't one of the greatest love songs ever....I don't know what is. It makes me cry.

Imagine if there were no politicians or misguided religious leaders!

2011-04-09T08:09:00.001-07:00

Say a prayer for the people of Japan after the massive earthquake and tsunami.

2011-03-11T12:35:00.000-08:00

Let us all pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes, and their livelihoods in Japan as the result of this enormous earthquake and tsunami.

May all love surround them as they begin to move forward from this devastating act of nature!

"Record-breaking Picasso goes on show in Britain" Reuters

2011-03-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

I believe that this painting is INCREDIBLE. A stroke of genius! A Masterpiece! BUT isn't this an amazing demonstration of how out of balance the economy has become - rich vs. poor. This piece sold for more than $100Million last year! Whoever had that much money must have had even more to be able to afford such a purchase. Paying more for this painting than the amount it would take to feed entire cities for a year? Sounds like the wealth ratios of the medieval times!

Sun Mar 6, 7:11 pm ET
LONDON (Reuters) – The most expensive painting to be sold at auction, Pablo Picasso's "Nude, Green Leaves and Bust," goes on public display in Britain for the first time on Monday at the Tate Modern gallery in London.
The 1932 work, which sold for $106.5 million at Christie's in New York last year, has been lent to the Tate galleries from a private collection and will be on display in a new Pablo Picasso room in the Poetry and Dream section.
"Nude, Green Leaves and Bust is one of the sequence of paintings of Picasso's muse, Marie-Therese Walter, made by the artist at Boisgeloup, Normandy, in the early months of 1932," said Nicholas Serota, the Tate's director.
"They are widely regarded as amongst his greatest achievements of the inter-war period."
Picasso first encountered Walter in 1927, but their relationship had to remain secret from his wife, Olga.
According to the Tate, it was only in 1931-2 that he began to make sculptures and paintings in which the manipulation of Walter's body was explicit and eroticised.
Although Picasso had long disguised his affair with Walter, Nude, Green Leaves and Bust was among the works which openly charted the lovers' obsession with each other.
Before it was sold in May, the work had been in the collection of L.A.-based collectors Sidney and Frances Brody for almost six decades.
They acquired the work in 1951 from Paul Rosenberg & Co., Paris and New York who in turn had acquired it from the artist in 1936. During that period it was exhibited publicly only once, in 1961, to commemorate Picasso's 80th birthday.
(Reporting by Mike Collett-White, editing by Paul Casciato)

Happy Valentine's Day from member Ning

2011-02-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

Ning Mingkong • Dear Mr. Robert Grawet,
Thanks for your letter and beautiful wishes. I checked out your website and
found that it is very interesting and I enjoyed skimming through it, great
work ;-) Since I am writing this on the Valentines day, here is my wish for
you;

Valentine's Day is a day
Meant for sharing.
A day for giving,
For loving and caring.

Wishing You
The nicest things
That life can bring your way,
And that's not just
A Valentine Wish
It's meant for every day!

May Buddah and all the holy spirits bless all of the friends of Buddah, you and your love ones always.
Ning

Dancing in the dark or any other time.....

2011-02-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

Dancing in the dark; or any other time is good for the soul!

Tonight I had to dance by myself in my front driveway in the dark. It was my only opportunity....and it was worth it!

Walking.......

2011-02-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

A person who walks with his LEG reaches his DESTINATION but a person who walks with his BRAIN reaches his DESTINY...

It's 2011 - and there is a light at the end of your tunnel!

2011-01-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

Look forward down the road and you will see....there is a light in everyone's tunnel. You must continue on your path toward the light.

A little humour along the way also will help you reach the light.

Best wishes for 2011!

Blue Sky, smiling at me....nothing but blue sky, do I see.......

2010-12-29T18:43:00.000-08:00

Here it is, almost January 2011! This time of year in the U.S. is normally quiet and a wonderful time to catch your breath. Rarely is it a blue sky with calm seas at this time of year.

Today was one of 'THOSE' days! I finished my morning work and decided to take my walk while the sun was shining. When you live in Washington State - you need to take advantage of the sun when its around.

I decided to 'flow with the river' of life. I believe I was on earth today in order to go outside and walk down by the bay. It is a rare December day when you fully need your sunglasses, and today was that day.

I wish you all who read this; to have the same kind of day - wherever you live and whatever you do. It is so important to remember to go outside and enjoy the beauty of nature!

My walks each day to the new park on West Bay Drive - Olympia, Washington

2010-10-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

As summer moves to fall and eventually to winter; my walks take on a new type of joy.

A morning walk in the summer sun is always amazing! Often there are birds, sometime seals, and other animals as I walk down the big hill from my house in West Olympia to Budd Inlet.

However, one of my favorite things is to be all bundled in the perfect outdoor clothes; shielded from rain, wind, fog, and cold; and breathing in the beautiful clean and moist air.

Often I feel even more excitement when my walk is a test of my will against the weather. I always win! Life is good. Go with the river. Go with the flow!

What would you think if I sang out of tune?

2010-09-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

Would you stand up and walk out on me?
Lend me your ear and I'll sing you a song;
and I'll try not to sign out of key..........
I get by with a little help from my friends...

Summer is almost here! Enjoy nature. Take a long walk outside and make your life more complete!

2010-06-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

There is joy in every breath of fresh air! Reward yourself by getting outside every day. It is the best medicine for anyone at any age.

Envy

2010-05-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

Do not overrate what you have received, nor envy others. He who envies others does not obtain peace of mind. Buddha

May you stay forever young!

2010-05-10T22:49:00.000-07:00

Greed, unwholesome anger, and delusion are roots of unwholesome karma.

2010-04-21T21:17:00.001-07:00

Greed, unwholesome anger, and delusion are roots of unwholesome karma. - Buddha

Your body is precious. It is our vehicle for awakening. Treat it with care.

2010-04-19T22:45:00.000-07:00

Your body is precious. It is our vehicle for awakening. Treat it with care. - Buddha...

As I spend another afternoon on the deck overlooking Budd Inlet......

2010-04-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

I invite you to find your own place of peace each day.

I am now somewhere around 8 months into my 'new walking period'. I began a daily walk (95% of days) that is about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. At the turn around place on my walk is a parking lot (soon to be park) overlooking Budd Inlet in Olympia, Washington.

At the edge of the parking lot; overlooking the bay and a creek; that almost no one knows exists (except the neighborhood folks); someone paid to have a small deck built. (Thank you to whoever you are). I began to use this deck for my daily stretching and exercises. It is now the most common place that I visit outside of my home, as I am there almost every day.

I have experienced all weather types while on this deck, except for extreme cold. I've been on it when it was 27 degrees. Now it is coming into spring's full glory!

It is my second favorite place on earth.

I have seen so much while I stand there by myself on that deck. I've seen a bald eagle as close as 50 yards away sitting on an old dock post in a driving rainstorm just as happily as could be. I've seen the beginning of the mating season of many waterfowl. I've seen the tide come in and go out....the birds picking up their oysters and then flying up 50 ft....dropping them to the ground to break them open, and then going immediately down to eat their treat.

I've watched as they loaded the cargo ships across the bay at the ocean terminal....and seen beautiful sunsets as sail boats coasted across the water back and forth tacking with the wind.....I've seen snow, rain, sleet, hail, wind, and amazing beautiful sunsets....and I've seen so many colors in the water that it is impossible to describe.

Buffle Heads ducks are dominant bird in the bay where I go; but there are also Goldeneye, Mallards, Canadian Geese, Kingfisher, Cormorant, many Seagull types, Crows, Robins, and an occasional deer or red fox on the shore.

An aside; as I'm writing this part, the song; "Sunshine on my Shoulders", by John Denver is playing from the player on this site. What song is playing while you're reading here? What a beautiful song, especially this morning as I sit in my temporary 'dining room' office working. (I'm taking a break right now).

My walk and this 'deck' that I go to each day are my retreat from the stress of the world. I try my very best to not take any stress with me when I go for my walk and then up on that deck. I leave it alone, back at the house for that 1 1/4 hour each day.

I suggest that everyone should have their own walk and 'deck on the bay'....and go there at least for one hour each day. You will find peace and inner strength there. This I know from my own experience. Thanks for the inspiration brother Ken Grawet.

Go with peace and happiness! May the longtime sun shine upon you!

Balance for all humans.

2010-03-30T07:40:00.001-07:00

While we are struggling with the results of the destructive side of capitalism which has caused these current difficulties; let us not forget that life is about balance. Balance for all humans....A great country does not succeed by leaving its people without the means to fulfill their hopes and dreams!

I stood so close to a Bald Eagle Tuesday afternoon!

2010-03-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

As you know by now; I go for a walk outside nearly every day. I'm always amazed because something spectacular happens each and every time. Sometimes its a sailboat tacking across the bay with the sunset in the sky; but some days are even more amazing than the rest.

This last Tuesday it was raining.....actually quite hard and very steady. I had my rain hat and a very good windbreaker on, but was wishing I had my full rain top on with hood. As I walked up to the deck on the bay to do my daily stretches and exercises, I noticed a bald eagle sitting about eye level high out in the bay; about 100 yards from me at most. So magnificent. I decided to not go up on the deck because it seemed like I would be intruding on this awesome bird's space if I did. It was in command of the area, and I did not wish to change the balance. The rain was coming down in a downpour, but the eagle just sat there as if it was watching the surf roll in at a beach in LaJolla; so calm, no reflection of the rain pouring down.

What an amazing day....hope you have something so beautiful come to your life this week or soon!

By the way; There is a webcam where you can watch an eagle's nest on Vancouver Island in British Columbia. The eagle pair has just produced an egg. Last year, we watched from just after hatch until they were quite big. You want to watch it at times early or late in the afternoon, as during the day the parents are regularly gone fishing. Here is the site: http://www.hancockwildlife.org/staticpages/index.php/20090302200021473

Warm wishes for those who suffer around the world!

2010-03-08T22:29:00.000-08:00

I pray for an end to suffering for all those who are currently being affected by one form of disaster after another!
May you find warmth, comfort, and family health for all you love!

Earth Balance Planet Heal!

2010-03-07T20:43:00.000-08:00

Earth Balance Planet Heal.

This represents the kind of respect for mother earth that we all need to carry with us each and every day.

As an example, bend down and pick up some garbage that you pass as you walk along in life, and put it in the nearest trash bin.

Every little bit helps!

Peace to you all! Warmth to you all! Love to you all!

Massive Quake strikes in Chili! Send your warm thoughts and cold cash to help them out!

2010-02-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

Massive 8.8 scale Earthquake strikes in Chili! Our hearts and warm thoughts are for the people of Chili and all people around the globe who may be affected by this terrible disaster.

Start anew!

2010-02-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”

Peace to the friends of Buddha from China and around the world as the Year of the Tiger approaches!

2010-02-07T21:51:00.000-08:00

If you click on the picture above it will explode to full size, so you can read it.

February 14th brings in "The Year of the Tiger". May peace, warmth, love, and great family joy be your gift from me to all of you as you celebrate this wonderful occasion.

As I did my exercises late today by the bay; a seaplane came in and landed.

2010-01-21T22:27:00.000-08:00

I looked up to hear the roar of a seaplane coming in for a landing. Since I was a boy, I've always been extremely fascinated by seaplanes. I still harbor a strong desire to learn to fly one....maybe I will!

It was such a spectacular site! There I was; all by myself...doing my workout....feeling great out in nature...and along came this plane. It was the 'icing on the cake' as they say.

May you have such beauty in your life every day!

Say a prayer, and send some funds to Haiti! - Here is one way.

2010-01-13T07:32:00.000-08:00

Here's one of the place you can donate; there are many more;
http://www.mercycorps.org/?source=19000&gclid=COvPjq_mq58CFQjxDAodE3p50g

May the people in Haiti find comfort, warmth, love, and sustenance to keep them alive and help them rebuild a new life! May all who read this find compassion in their heart and make some small donation.

What's Goin On?

2010-01-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

Marvin Gaye said it in 1971......1971!!!!! How could it be that all these years later; his words are even more appropriate then they were then?

Marvin - Rest in Peace!

May no one suffer pain!

2010-01-04T21:27:00.000-08:00

Sent from an acquaintance:

Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
Sarve Santu Niramayah
Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu
Ma Kashchit Dukha Manuyat.

MEANING:
Oh Lord in Thee may all be Happy,
May all be Free from Misrey,
May all Realise Goodness,
and may no one suffer Pain.
01/01/2010

Would it be possible to say how much you love someone any more poignantly than in "I will follow you?"

2009-12-30T12:55:00.000-08:00

Love is hard to describe exactly; however it can be said in actions much more powerfully than in words. "I will follow you into the dark..." by Death Cab for Cutie....I just don't think you could make it more clear!

May you be blessed with Love, Peace, Joy, Warmth, happiness to the depths of your soul.......!

Use every moment wisely

2009-12-30T07:20:00.000-08:00

Time is like a river; you cannot touch the same water twice because the flow that has passed will never pass again. So use every moment you get in life!

Take a walk outside!

2009-12-29T22:40:00.000-08:00

A walk outside.....breathing the fresh air.....

this will bring you peace!

To all the fallen police, fire, and other public servants; thank you for making our community safer!

2009-12-29T22:27:00.000-08:00

Western Washington has suffered the loss of a 6th public safety officer in a very short number of days! The shock of losing Officer Kent Mundell has added to the sadness we have all felt over the last month.

May there be peace, warmth, and healing for the families of all of these fallen servants!

Exercise is so good for the soul! Exercise outside every day!

2009-12-28T15:18:00.000-08:00

When you go outside and exercise you will begin to feel better right away! The stretching alone will be heavenly.

As the new year approaches.......and as the river continues to flow..

2009-12-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

As the new year approaches; and the river continues to flow.........let your inner thoughts guide you to the light!

Life is full of twists and turns, fast and slow currents, waterfalls and dams. Life will take you where you need to go if you let it. There are no coincidences!

Laughing is the best Medicine!

2009-11-30T08:12:00.000-08:00

Laugh it up
A recent study found that laughing out loud for 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn up to 40 calories. Not that that's a huge number, but over the course of a year, it could shave more than 4 pounds from someone who usually doesn't crack a smile. More importantly, laughter is your best weapon against stress, which can pile on pounds in multiple ways. Brain research shows that laughter overpowers the stress response (which is why so many of us laugh when we're nervous), and it reminds us that most of the nitty-gritty we worry about is not a matter of life and death.

Hello to all my friends....including those I haven't met yet!

2009-11-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

I haven't written for awhile, and am happy to have a few minutes today to put some thoughts down.

Two times today I was reminded of the power of buddhist thinking to make my life better and more complete.

I felt the need to come to this place and just say the following to you all:

Thank you! Thanks for being my friends!

Thanks for being you!

Thanks for helping life be much more complete!

I wish for an end to suffering for all those who suffer in the world; whether from lack of food, warmth, safety, or from totalitarian regimes who force their ways upon you.

May peace be with you all.

One Love.....Let's get together and feel alright!

2009-10-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

Let the sun shine in!

2009-10-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

Let....Let...the sun shine in! Let positive energy and thoughts be the prevalent ones! May your day be bright and sunny!

May all the people who are currently suffering in this world from floods, earthquakes, rains, wars, and employment difficulties find some sunshine and happiness on this day!

Don't Forget to Dance!

2009-10-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

Dance, Sing, Skip, Run....whatever makes you happy...but for sure....Don't forget...it brings a smile no matter your age.

Find your partner and dance!

“When they discover the center of the universe, a lot of people will be disappointed to discover they are not in it!"

2009-10-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

Be kind,
be humble,
be giving,
be loving,
be the center of a universe where care for others is more important than care for yourself.

It does not take very much to be happy!

2009-10-01T08:27:00.001-07:00

A secure and warm place to live, some basic food and water; and a few clothes. Everything above that is just 'extra'. Consider what you really need to be happy!

Consume less so that others may live!

My deepest prayer for those who suffer from Typhoon Ketsana and the Earthquake in Sumatra, Indonesia!

2009-09-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

May your suffering come to an end soon! Please consider a prayer for them yourselves tonight!

Please send your warm thoughts and prayers to the people of the Philippines today!

2009-09-28T22:19:00.001-07:00

As of this evening there have been more than 240 people killed from the 'worst floods in more than 40 years' in the capital city of Manila. Many more were displaced and life is difficult now as the country tries to recover from this devastation.

Please say a prayer or send a warm thought to those who are suffering in Manila right now. Find a place to help...send money, send food, send your positive energy!

The world is one and the suffering of one is the suffering of all humanity!

Remember.......

2009-09-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.

While we struggle with the destructive side of capitalism...

2009-09-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

To the World!

2009-09-23T21:15:00.001-07:00

To the World you May
Only be One Person.

But to One Person you
May be the World.

Believe Nothing - Buddha

2009-09-21T15:43:00.001-07:00

Benevolence and wisdom are roots of wholesome karma!

2009-09-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

Saying from Buddha!

May peace and great warmth fill your mind this weekend!

A toast in memory of Mary Travers - from Peter, Paul and Mary!

2009-09-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was deeply saddened this morning when the news came of the death of folk singer Mary Travers. The world loses one of its best people at a time when we need people like her more than ever....who always sang 'for the people', and was able to make my world a better place each time I listened to her sing.

She was a huge part of showing me what the word love was all about...

So many people do everything 'for the money'. Mary Travers would have to stick out to me as one who seemed to do it mostly for the joy of singing, for the joy of entertaining us, and with the intent of sharing her vision of how the world could be a better place.

"Where Have All the Flowers Gone"...a deeply thoughtful song that was for many of us the beginning of our political thinking. A song that is more valuable today than it was back then.

"In the Early Morning Rain"...wow!

"Follow Me"...Follow me, where I go, what I do, and who I know....making part of you to be a part of me....How better might you tell someone how much you love them?

"And When I Die"....the reality of life....enjoy it while you can!

"Puff the Magic Dragon"....one of the first love songs that a child can really understand.

I'll end with that....

May peace be with you Mary Travers! You made my life a better place! Thank you!

A saying from the Dalai Lama!

2009-09-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

We must recognize that the suffering of one person or one nation is the suffering of humanity. That the happiness of one person or nation is the happiness of humanity.

Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.

2009-09-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Sayings from the Dalai Lama!

I gained some great new friends this weekend!

2009-09-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to spend a long Saturday evening with 4 of my great neighbors. Here's to Walt, Jim, Svein, and Aaron!

Nothing more fun than a 'guys night in Jim's garage'....little beer....lots of story telling!

I hope you found time for old friends or new this weekend! Friends and Family....that's what its all about!

In our struggle for freedom, truth is the only weapon we possess.

2009-09-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Whales in my backyard! Nature is such a blessing!

2009-09-10T18:14:00.001-07:00

5 transient orcas seen in South Sound
John Dodge

Five transient orcas were spotted patrolling the waters of South Sound on Thursday, according to reports compiled by Cascadia Research of Olympia.

“It’s highly likely they’re the same whales seen in Oakland Bay a week ago,” Cascadia marine mammal researcher John Calambokidis said.

He said the whale sightings came from several locations, including Eld Inlet, Dana Passage and Harstine Island. The whales also were seen in Budd Inlet as far south as Gull Harbor, Ralph Munro said.

Unlike the resident Puget Sound orcas, which feed on fish and are listed as an endangered species under the federal Endangered Species Act, the transient orcas, which roam the waters from Alaska to Mexico in small groups, eat marine mammals and aren’t listed under the ESA.

Three transient orcas last were seen in South Sound near Fox Island in May 2009, Calambokidis said.

“I’d characterize their appearance here in South Sound as periodic – every one to two years, on average,” he said.

Six transients paid an extended visit to Hood Canal from late January to late spring 2005, a world-record stay in one place, according to marine mammal biologists. That came on the heels of a two-month extended visit to Hood Canal by 11 transient killer whales in 2003.

The 2003 Hood Canal visitors included T-14, a whale present in Budd Inlet in 1976 during the controversial, and last, capture of killer whales in Puget Sound for use in aquariums.

It’s not yet known whether any of the killer whales seen in South Sound in 2009 were among the Hood Canal visitors in 2003 or 2005, Calambokidis said.

Male orcas have a life expectancy of 50 to 60 years; females have a life expectancy of 90 years.

Have YOU seen the stars tonight?

2009-09-08T21:50:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the stars tonight?

Photo from the Hubble Telescope files.

Imagine!

2009-09-08T09:21:00.001-07:00

CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO BLOW IT UP!

Original Lyrics by
John Lennon

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

To laborers of the body and the mind....Peace and Joy to you on this Labor Day Weekend!

2009-09-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

In my little town of Olympia, Washington, Labor Day means Harbor Days! The annual festival brings tugboats from all along the West Coast. It's a weekend of fun climaxed by the annual Tugboat Races in Budd Inlet.

Yesterday and this morning; a small pod of Orca Whales were observed in our bay as well. At the bridge over 4th Avenue, the returning salmon will be thick as they enter Capitol Lake and on to the Deschutes River to spawn.

We will be focused on the enjoyment of these events and we hope you will also find happiness and warmth this long weekend.

Never forget the meaning of Labor Day. As so many people suffer in our country and many others around the world; let's send our best prayers to them. May those who are without a job be blessed with strength to carry on and begin anew!

While we are struggling with the results of the destructive side of capitalism which has caused these current difficulties; let us not forget that life is about balance. Balance for all humans....A great country does not succeed by leaving its people without the means to fulfill their hopes and dreams!

My strongest and deepest prayers go out to you that are hurting!

There was a powerful earthquake in Indonesia this morning!

2009-09-02T22:20:00.000-07:00

I say my best prayer for all those who may be suffering as a result of this force. May you find comfort, peace, and the love you need!

Special prayers for Steve, Sanita, Donna, Jessica; my family in Jakarta.

Sunday Evening - Quiet, reflective, go to the light!

2009-08-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

Follow the light, flow with the river......allow positive to be strong, reject negative! Smile today!

Think about a song that makes you happy or gives you a good feeling...

2009-08-26T22:01:00.001-07:00

Monday, Monday.....Tuesday Afternoon....Wednesday Morning 3 AM....Think about a piece of music; a song; a musical....let it take you to that moment that made you happy! Simple, effective relaxation!

As fall approaches us in the Northwest, we can look forward to 'the early morning rain'

2009-08-25T23:19:00.001-07:00

Nothing sweeter than the smell of an early morning rain! Also a perfect setting for a day of contemplation and coffee! In the early morning rain.....

May peace come to all who are suffering....let the light come in! Flow with the river!

Special wishes of happiness for those who miss a loved one; be it a friend, a lover, a child......special thoughts for you....may the day bring you sunshine!

I say hello to old friends and new friends!

2009-08-19T21:51:00.000-07:00

Don't know why; but for some reason, I thought of Bob's Park as I was thinking about old friends. I can imagine that Bob (from Bob's Park - between 7th and 10th on 31st Street in New York City) must have brought his friends there. Hello Bob.....I would like to have met you, and thank you for leaving this park to all who pass by as a memory of you. What a great thing to leave behind. I hope to be able to do something equally as good!

Hello old friends, I loved you then, I love you now; I hope to cross your path again some day.

Hello new friends. I look forward to knowing you as well some day.

My best and strongest thoughts go out to the many people I have been lucky enough to know and spend time with in my life so far. I wish for you all to have the most happiness possible in your life. I remind you that every day cannot be the happiest, you must have some un-happy to truly appreciate happy.

Peace be with you!

OM.......Remember to find humour and joy in every day!

2009-07-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

A great site for downloading some Buddhist teachings!

2009-06-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a great site...http://www.lamrim.com/

A good site for downloading mp3's of Buddhist teachings http://www.lamrim.com/

David

I haven't posted in a while! ....Sometimes less is more!

2009-06-11T20:55:00.001-07:00

YOU MUST CLICK ON THE POSTER PHOTO AND IT WILL BLOW UP SO YOU CAN READ IT!

the Bear Poster has nothing to do with my words to follow; and everything to do with them. When you look at a person for the first time; you must not judge them or take action without understanding the entire person....or in this case, the entire message!

It has been over a year since I began this quest; right here for the world to see. I still find peace when I come to this site; and spend enough time to listen to all of the songs that are on the player.

I still believe my opening words............and I still am searching for the kind of inner peace that Buddha found.

I can also admit openly, that my earlobes are much longer than when I was a boy....does that qualify for anything?

I head off soon for my big work related trade show in Orlando this year. Last year was full of questions as I headed down to Las Vegas (it was there last year).

Luckily last year, I rode my motorcycle down with good friends Fran and Peter Galea from Vancouver, B.C. This gave me lots of mellow 'think' time, and was a great way to go to the show.

I'll be flying this time, as Orlando (from Seattle) is a bit far given the amount of time necessary to enjoy a ride that long....maybe some other time.

May peace come to all those souls around the world who have stress and suffering in the lives tonight!

Chin-Ning Chu

2009-03-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Without the strength to endure the crisis, one will not see the opportunity within. It is within the process of endurance that opportunity reveals itself.
Chin-Ning Chu

Let your stress go today!

2009-03-13T08:20:00.001-07:00

A lecturer, when explaining stress management to an audience, raised a glass of water and asked,
"How heavy is this glass of water ? "

Answers called out ranged from 250g. to 700g.

The lecturer replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it."

"If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm.
If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance."

"In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes."
0A
He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."

"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden. "

"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work/life down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow."

"Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested.
Life is short. Enjoy !"

Believe Nothing - Buddha

2009-02-07T10:54:00.001-08:00

Fireworks over Copacabana Beach,New Years Eve 2009!

2009-01-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

Buddha

2008-12-30T22:17:00.000-08:00

Flow with the river!

My best prayers to the people of Mumbai!

2008-11-30T10:41:00.000-08:00

A thought of those who aren't here to speak to anymore!

2008-11-19T22:39:00.001-08:00

CLICK ON THE PHOTOGRAPH AND IT WILL EXPAND TO FULL SIZE.

In the photo, I'm the guy with the dark black moustache. Don is right behind me, carrying a suit bag over his shoulder. It was April 1969, we had just landed at Buckley Field, Colorado, having come back from one year in Viet Nam.....we were the lucky ones. For most of us, there were lots of people waiting to cheer us off the plane. We were the Colorado Air National Guard; coming home from the war.....

Here's to you!

Don L. Winters - We met in 1967 as we both went into the Colorado Air National Guard at Buckley Field, Colorado. We went to bootcamp from August 13th for six weeks at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Don was the youngest guy in the entire unit, and I was second youngest as we were sent to Viet Nam the following spring.... April of 1968. We had been roommates just prior to getting the word we're going to get shipped out.

We lived in downtown Denver, Colorado. We shared a two bedroom apartment with another young Guardsman; Jay Applegate. "hey Jay", I hope you read this someday.

That was a wild place to live in the fall and early spring of 1968.....

They were putting out these lists of who would; and who would not, go to Viet Nam. There were 900 total guys in the Guard unit. Only 300 were going to be sent there.

In the end Don was on the list; and I was not. I decided to go in and volunteer to be put on it. That was way too easy.....now I was on the list. The next day we found out that Don was taken back off the list....then we left.

Thought I'd not see him again, at least for the year we would be in Viet Nam. Nope....son of a gun....there he was walking up the street one day about 10 days or two weeks after the rest of us got there. Never did find out how that worked out.

The year in the war was an amazing time. We were very young (both of us; just 18). We were so naive, and so optomistic...we never thought about anything bad happening to us....and luckily nothing did over there.

We met a bunch of other young guys from our unit and we became bonded for life as we spent that year....always wondering.....what was happening back home with our girl friends; our wives, our families.....Many got the infamous; "Dear John" letter. I did....so did Don....although he really got it before we left as well.....

So there we were, young, naive, broken hearted, becoming a close group of friends that would last forever......

And then we got introduced to Mary......Mary Jane....you know.....

As we spent the rest of the year learning about life, war, and ...Mary....we all began to develop the personalities that would stay with us for the rest of our lives.

OK.....back to Don...(although this free form rambling is really taking me back there, so please forgive my wandering)......

Don was the Super Hippest guy of all of us....(my opinion). Tall, great looking, and just ooozing cool....

There was Don....Jay....Scott T.,Bob Reposa (Rip - Rip was his nicknamne), Jim Murray (I hope you're alive buddy, I've tried a long time to find you), Doyle M. (who called me from his farm in Colorado to wish me Happy Veteran's Day last week while I was in NYC)...thanks Doyle.....Larry Christiansen (we spoke last year), and a couple of others as well.....

We came back from VN in April of 1969...hard to believe it....home again. The longest year of my life.

As I assume happens in all war-buddy stories; we hung together for a few years after we came back....always close in a special way. But then, one by one, we got married, or 'kinda' got married, and moved off with our spouse; had kids, and pretty much - disappeared....

I hadn't seen Don between March of 1972 and August or September of 1975....I couldn't get my act together after coming back, and finally...out of desperation; I joined the U.S. Coast Guard, simply in order to get away from the influences of my friends and begin to make my own life. I was poor, and had no daddy to ask for a loan....so it seemed like my only way to get back on my feet on my own. When I was around my friends, it was easier to party or 'go to the park', then it was to work, so I didn't work much then!

Coast Guard - August 13, 1971 - August 12, 1975.....it actually worked out very well for me. I got my 'act' together nicely. I married Joyce, and we had our only child; Gretchen.

When I got out; it was August 1975. I saw Don a few times then, although I never got a really good chance to talk to him. There was always something that would get in the way of a nice chat....wife's needed something; other guests wanted to talk...whatever.....but I never got a good chance to talk again with Don.

Sometime a few years later; I got a phone call to say Don was in the hospital after a motorcycle wreck between Glenwood Springs and Aspen, Colorado. He had been rushed by ambulance down to a Denver hospital with more services available. I tracked down the hospital; called it; got to the floor he was on and spoke to the nurse on call.

She said; very slowly and sadly.....I'm afraid Donald has passed!.....WOW! It hit me incredibly hard........

We saw his wife a few times after that; but she soon left town, ended up marrying someone else, and I only saw her one time after that.......Hello Dana! I hope you're doing well....up there in Georgetown.

So......"Here's to Donald Lewis Winters", A2c, Colorado Air Nat'l Guard...My friend, and a hell of a cool guy.

And Jim....If I don't hear something soon......I'm really going to wonder if you're still with us.

Finally; Bob Reposa; Doyle Miller; Scott Terhark, Larry C, here's to us all - brothers in arms!

God bless us all!!!!!

Proud to be an American tonight!

2008-11-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States of America!!!!!

We have finally come back from the dark path we have been on for the last 8 years and are once again the Great Nation that I grew up believing in!

I am just back from New York City!

2008-10-19T19:43:00.001-07:00

Something about being in NYC always makes me think of Simon and Garfunkle. They sang so many songs with reference to the city. I lived in NYC from September 1971 - March 1972 while going thru a 'school' for the U.S. Coast Guard on Governor's Island out in the River off the tip of Manhattan.

The picture is actually me from about six months earlier; just prior to joining the Coast Guard. (my hair was much shorter after joining). It's the closest picture I have to that time and probably reflects who I was at that time more than any other picture I have.

You could see the twin towers; and the Statue of Liberty and the hustle and bustle of the city while in the comfort of a little island that was only accessible if you were in the Coast Guard.

I have deep and warm feelings for the city. Back in '71 I spent many a day and night wandering the streets watching the people. I was pretty poor back then, and so walking around was about all I could afford. I look back with great fondness on that now, and really enjoy each trip to the city.

Why am I talking about that; well,....I'm reminded that wherever you are; there you must be.....and whether in a city the size of NYC or in my back yard in Olympia, Washington...you are responsible for yourself, and the only way to find peace is to look within and find it in yourself.

Peace to you all...may the Bush and Bush imitators be thrown from power for ever and may the USA come back to being the great nation it was prior to those criminals coming to power.

God Bless America!

"Now the years are rolling by me, they are rockin even me
I am older than I once was, and younger than Ill be, thats not unusual
No it isnt strange, after changes upon changes, we are more or less the same
After changes we are more or less the same"...........Paul Simon from "The Boxer"

Sunset in Sochi!

2008-10-06T22:47:00.000-07:00

The sunset...oh the sunset....

The gift to remember each day!

15 Buddhas are in my home!

2008-08-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

Here are the 9 Buddha's who sit on the mantle in my family room! If you look down the blog you'll see my Buddha garden in the back yard, where a large Buddha sits to remind me to put my Buddha head on whenever I see them.

There are 5 more Buddha's around my home as I move from room to room.....

I am just beginning to learn how to be more like Buddha, but these small reminders help me every time I pass them.

Almost 60 days since my last post!

2008-08-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

I have been rewarded for my hard work. I have sold the company I manage to a very solid Japanese company, and have been focused on making the transition to our small company to being part of this much larger company.

This has taken much of my time.

However, even more so, I have spent the last two months mostly focusing on helping my wife handle some cancer treatments and balancing that by taking her to some nice quite places away from home where she can concentrate on relaxation and good things.

As a result I have not written in here for some time, but I am back now.

As I've said; maybe no one ever reads this, but for me, it's a therapeutic way to explore my inner self, and to take things from my mind by putting them to paper (so to speak). This has been an ongoing way for me to find my own inner peace.

Peace to you all!

Good things come to those who wait!

2008-07-01T06:42:00.000-07:00

Patience .......... Flow with the river! These are the thoughts I must keep in the front of my mind as the river enters an area of rapids. There are many new ideas in the fast moving river. Go with the river; do not fight the current!

My last post until my return from my beginning!

2008-06-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

My life has been adrift like the leaf in this picture was prior to landing on the rock. My leaf has found a new land.......a new beginning.

I leave on Saturday; riding my motorcycle toward my destiny in Las Vegas where next week my life will start again in some way.

For clarity; I am not going to gamble in Las Vegas in the traditional way. I AM going to gamble in a very traditional business way.

Will the business gamble pay off? Where will my rock come from? Have I already found it?

Only upon leaving Las Vegas on June 21st will I have the knowledge to really know.

Please come back to visit often while I'm away. ......and say a prayer for me......in the way you do best!

I send my own prayer of hope for those who suffer in the world in a much greater fashion than I.

My Backyard Buddha Garden

2008-06-09T21:54:00.001-07:00

Click the picture and it will blow up to full screen.

This last weekend, I prepared my house and yard for the upcoming visit of my close friends Peter and Fran. They will arrive this coming Friday afternoon on their motorcycles from Vancouver, British Columbia.

We'll share the evening and spend some time in the back yard here with Buddha, the fountain (just out of site), and the birds chirping....

On Saturday morning we will get on our bikes and ride to Las Vegas. Along the way we will surely find our own personal Nirvana........It always happens on the annual long ride.

I may not post more before leaving......may peace be with you!

I send my thoughts of well-being, peace and good will to the people of the world who are suffering tonight. May good things come to you on all levels very soon!

A Second Old Friend makes contact this same week!

2008-06-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

The last time I really talked to Larry Christenson was probably 1969 in May. We had just finished spending a year in VietNam together and were back safely in Colorado.

We were 'a little messed' up from the experience. All in different ways.....

Larry and his good buddy Tom Freeman.....were good friends while we were in Phan Rang. They were some of my 'big brothers' since in their mid 20's they were 'old' guys. I was the second youngest guy in my unit at 18 1/2 years old at the time we arrived in VietNam. My good friend Don Winters was the youngest.

Larry found my email and sent me a note. We followed that with a phone call.

We share motorcycles as a passion.

I'm going to try to remember the other members of our 'group' that hung out and watched out for each other in VietNam.

Don Winters (died in early 90's from motorcycle crash), James L (Jim) Murray - used to see him and talk regularly; but he's disappeared and I can't find him, Doyle Miller - Lives in Elizabeth, CO, Scott Terhark - lives in Parker, CO, (saw Doyle and Scott at our big coming home reunion in 1989, but not since), Jay Applegate (lives in Denver), Bob (Rip) Reposa - lives in Aurora, CO....Hi Bob!

I love you guys! Miss you! Wish we could all get together again.

I send a message of peace and an end to suffering for all the people in the world affected by war, drought, hunger, natural disaster, or internal personal suffering. I pray you will have an end to your suffering and a return to joy and inner happiness very soon!

Today I began the next journey of my business life!

2008-06-05T13:52:00.001-07:00

After three and 1/2 months of steady movement......always coming back to center myself on the idea of going with the flow.....I have just signed a legal document to initiate moving toward a contract that will take me to the next stage of my journey.

Although the next stop is not absolute as a result of this signing; it is nearly that.

So....I take a breath......and begin to move slowly ahead again toward the final contract and the realization of my plan for the future.

Thank you.

My blessings and humble thanks are sent to you.

Please give a moment for silent prayer in support of the many who suffer in the world on this very day, at this very moment. They need our 'extra' prayer.

Peace to all who read this!