Sara Troy's Art of Positive Living

The majority of people go through their lives without ever discovering their true talent. That wealth eludes 95% of the population is no surprise, considering so few of us have any idea of what our greatest individual value is or how to determine it. Deep down, we all want to make a difference, contributing something memorable, leaving the world a better place, enriching the lives of those around us. Yet, as strong as the desire may be, few ever come even close to the capacity for enrichment we’re all capable of, not knowing which way to best direct our energies.

There is a massive shift occurring in our evolution, wherein people are waking up, taking responsibility, and committing to being a positive force guiding the transformation of our world. The world’s been sick – we’ve pushed ourselves to the limits, and our souls are being called to restore balance. Our priorities are shifting; we’ve become aware of the limits of a profit-motive, and are now moving towards sustainable living & business practices with which we can develop both fully as individuals and as a collective working harmoniously to solve the problems facing us as a united human race sharing an amazing planet.

Many of us are highly passionate about various causes – be it education, environmental protection & sustainability, health, or any other humanitarian mission. And while we’ve got numerous foundations, charities, and organizations devoted to each, there’s a major disconnect – despite all the people committed to their objectives, we’ve been failing to tap into the full power within each of us to fuel the positive transformations we’re hoping for.

It isn’t a matter of willpower or commitment. Rather, we’ve been scattering our energies inefficiently, not knowing which way to focus our individual efforts.

We were never taught growing up what wealth really is, or how to go about creating it. No one in the “education system” explains to us the value of bringing our greatest strengths to light and putting them to service in a team of individuals all in their unique flow, to synergistically evolve an entrepreneurial vision into a vehicle for ongoing wealth creation.

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I had been on a quest for riches, embarking upon project after project, chasing dollars in ventures preached to be the next big ticket to wealth. Real estate, forex, internet marketing, network marketing – I had a hunger to learn and try it all. Yet, as I looked outside for opportunities to deliver me money, I was neglecting to look inwards for what unique value I had to offer the world. I had always aimed big, studied & worked hard – determined to make something spectacular of my potential. Yet, I wasn’t able to put a finger on what exactly that potential was or what I REALLY wanted.

My vision still was far from clear – had so many different ideas coming and going throughout the years, I couldn’t possibly juggle them all, didn’t have the infrastructure & teams to move most forward, didn’t know which way to start focusing, and was getting completely overwhelmed in a sea of information I didn’t know how to sort according to importance, need, relevance, and applicability.

I set out to learn, adhering to the advice, “if you want to be successful, learn from successful people and do that they do.” Problem was – so many people were saying so many different things, some contradicting each other, many outdated, few producing consistent results for the typical student. There were thousands of different ways being taught to make money, though practically no one spoke of creating wealth in the flow of your own, unique path. There were tons of new-age Law of Attraction type stuff promising we can get whatever we want and to follow our passions, though little talk of all the various paths we could take & roles we could play reaching our objectives.

A key fact missing amongst nearly all the gurus’ teachings is the acknowledgement they had each created their success putting their distinct talents to use in ways most others aren’t so inclined to. Their inherent strengths and makeup may suit them well to the methods they teach, yet the majority will possess different talents better fit for other ventures. Any particular strategy may work, though only for a fraction of people.

There’s an unspoken assumption in much of the personal development and “wealth education” worlds that “anybody can do it” – that if you put your mind to something, you can make it happen. Problem with that line of thinking is – what many people put their minds to is influenced by the opinions of others, rather than determined by their souls’ calling. Most have no direction as to where their truth wealth lies, so follow the advice of others who have what they want, though not realizing that at this point in our evolution, no one has EVER achieved before what we are here to do in our lifetimes.

Regardless of the guru writing or speaking, they all seemed to agree on the concepts of core beliefs and paradigms. I knew exposing myself to a wealth of knowledge would eventually rub off, so kept persistent, inputing masses of information, sensing each piece fit in a much bigger puzzle. There’d be breakthroughs, plateaus, and breakdowns, before the cycle repeated again. Some deep beliefs have been stubborn, others have been dropped and replaced with better ones. Every now and then, there’d be periods where I stepped into new dimensions of possibility, grasping profound insights, seeing beyond the filters of beliefs through to Absolute Truths. However, the pivotal paradigm shift for me came upon the discovery of Wealth Dynamics…

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Based on eastern philosophy and the energetic principles at the core of the I Ching and other ancient texts, Wealth Dynamics provides a framework for understanding the elements of wealth creation, one’s individual profile, the stages of an enterprise’s business cycles, and how to build strong teams of people with complimentary talents to bring about the fruition and sustainable expansion of a self-sustaining business venture.

A world of possibility opened before my eyes as the philosophies’ Truths sunk in. I had studied tons of business & success gurus, taking in bits and pieces of good info here and there – though this seemed to be the missing link. Nowhere in my searches had I stumbled upon such fundamental wisdom, without which, one is more-less leaving their success to random chance. While I had come across many good concepts and guidelines for various playing fields, none had provided such clear insight to the overall dynamics of wealth creation and how to effectively navigate one’s way thru the business territory according to one’s personal strengths.

Once I took the profile test, it was though I was handed a map to my highest potential. While I had been drifting from project to project with a sense of underlying disorientation, I knew I had the capacity in me for so much greater contribution than any singular venture. In discovering my profile as a mechanic, I could begin to see a much bigger vision. Suddenly everything I’d been learning, all the experience I had gained; my talents, strengths; the goals, dreams, ambitions, aspirations, and inspirations – it all fit into a larger picture.

Looking back, I could see the common thread connecting each phase of my journey and how every part fit together in a common theme. Going back to my high school ambitions of creating an empire encompassing manufacturing, retail, hospitality, publishing, & media – to my constant inquiry into psychology & philosophy, seeking to understand the underlying dynamics of human motivation & natural law – to the independent scholarship in business, attempting to uncover the working of how an enterprise was brought from conception to world-domination – to my immersion in forex, studying & observing the technical systems & strategies at the core of electronic financial trading – to ventures in the world of internet marketing, developing a comprehension of how all the various elements, techniques & strategies all fit together – having been alerted to the fact I’m instinctively wired in a certain way and my wealth lay in the development and improvement of systems and processes, I became increasingly aware of a natural intuitiveness into and perceptiveness of the structures, strengths, and weaknesses of various system dynamics.

I had never in a million years envisioned myself understanding & developing systems and processes – had you told me such a thing, I wouldn’t even have had an idea what you meant. Despite the range of all the business materials I had studied, the concepts were somewhat foreign to me, my understanding only a faint familiarization with the existence of such things, heaven forbid any “talent” in deeper dominions of the arenas. Yet, even though I had never before been well-versed in such language, I felt well accustomed to the territory behind this new door of perception opening up with a heightened degree of self-knowledge, as though perfectly at home.

Provided with the direction as to what path I’m best suited for, given my energetic-psychological makeup, I began seeing the world from an entirely new angle. Things began making incredible sense. My vision was put into a fresh perspective, from which great clarity emerged. It was as if I had matrix-like vision into the the world of wealth, seeing the exchange of value through various mediums of leverage everywhere I went, able to spot opportunity all over.

I could see how in my previous ventures, I had been attempting to put myself in roles I’d forever struggle with. I could see how I had been “chasing butterflies,” rather than “building a garden.” The reasons for my failures were apparent – I’d been attempting to play games I could never excel in, failing to focus on making the most of my strengths, trying to launch various ventures on my own rather than connecting with teams of people in their respective flows, setting off without a compass on the wrong paths.

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As I’ve immersed myself in the philosophy and begun to study materials enabling the development of foundational knowledge and skills catered to my inherent talents, the doors of perceptions have opened wider & wider.

Whereas before I had allowed myself to get excited over the latest and greatest money-maker, buying into the opinions of others on what is the “best” way to get rich quick, my perception has shifted to open up a whole new vision – understanding the dynamics behind wealth creation and what role I’m best suited to play, I can see and feel wealth surrounding me on all sides.

I had gone from a worldview of scarcity, to truly being able to see abundance. The ventures I’d been previously pursuing were mostly because I thought they could make lots of money and provide financial security. Becoming aware of the critical implications of understanding our human life value, it became clear that all security is internal – how the capacity of any situation on the outside of being able to produce financial reward for us only in direct proportion to the personal human life value we bring to the table.

I’ve grown from a subtle desperation & impatient yearning for my latest project to be the one to make me rich, to a solid confidence in knowing regardless of what unfolds with the current venture, I’ve established the foundation to proceed into a wide range of enterprises with a value far beyond the limited vision of those preaching get-rich-quick schemes and opportunities.

There’s no need to get into a business just because you think it would be profitable; in fact, to do so will often lead us astray from the path where our true wealth lies. Though every experience has its valuable lessons, we can get on track much faster with the initial direction of knowing our profile and following the right path for us, shaving years off our journey to discovering our path of least resistance.

To pursue any project with an expectation of security within that business itself is akin to building a castle on sand. Take a look at the statistics – 95% of ANY type of business is likely to fail. Each industry will have gurus teaching the magic formulas to success within it, though despite how closely a person follows those formulas, the odds are stacked against them. Why? The lack of a proper foundation in place. What is that foundation? A person’s internal value.

Though I had, of course, learned much through various ventures in pursuit of riches, the majority of that time was spent acquiring specialized knowledge, most of which was not at all applicable outside those contexts and would become outdated and useless. It eventually hit home, like a 2×4 to the forehead – study alone is useless and counterproductive, until its in not only in a specialized field, but the content is best suited for a particular path, at a particular time in the journey.

We will put themselves on the fast track to success, not learning techniques & buying into “business opportunities,” but by acquiring knowledge catered to the development of internal value – building skills fit to our natural talents. The only way we can ever create wealth is through getting into flow, doing what we’re best at, playing a game we’re passionate about. And once we find our flow, vision expands and clarifies, attraction happens, and amazing possibilities open up for us to explore.

The success we desire will not come from what we do exactly, but from who we are and allowing ourselves to be that completely, sharing and contributing in ways only we can…

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It took quite a stretch in thinking to realize OUR PROFILE IS OUR TALENT.

My conception of “talent” had been rather limited, as it is for most people. We typically assume a talent is a specific, measurable skill of some sort or another – most of the time something creative like music, art, or acting. I knew I had incredible musical and writing talent, though I sensed that was only a fraction of the value I had to offer, that my top strengths were something I hadn’t thus far realized and definitely not yet able to define.

My self-perception transformed, allowing access to an entirely new realm of possibility and power having been told, as a mechanic, my value & talent lies in my perceptions & insight. I had always sense it, though it’s not exactly something you can grasp or measure, so I had never considered it. I always knew I had an ability to see what others didn’t; a certain adeptness for grasping a bigger picture; an inclination towards comprehending the dynamics underlying an interaction, situation, or organizational structure. The idea this was actually a talent, however, was new to me.

Though, that awareness brought an indescribable sense of relief. I had been plagued by a restlessness, feeling as though my true value in the business world would never be recognized because it wasn’t something I was able to put into words, much less effectively communicate. I had felt isolated from the traditional work-world of J.O.B.s – the entrepreneurial drive insuppressible, though not able to be channelled without the knowledge of where or how to apply. With the gift of self-awareness in having my value defined by someone wise, experienced, and wealthy, came a certainty – not only could I now define my value, I could see limitless opportunity as to where that value would be applicable, appreciated, and vital as a component for expanding the visions of others who shared a common purpose.

I also recently took the Strengthsfinder profiling test, which provided an even greater degree of self-insight, discovering my top 5 strengths – intellection, deliberative, futuristic, input (learning, collecting, absorbing information), and ideation. This made complete sense, confirming what I already intuitively knew about myself, but had struggled to define. With that clarity, I was able to see where my value lay, where it might best be put to use, what prospects/opportunities to follow and avoid, and who I need on my teams to counter my own strengths & weaknesses.

Around the same time, I also invested in a “True Colours” / “Personality Dimensions” profiling, which maps out an individual’s balance of 4 main “colors,” or energies. Simple yet effective, it provides a powerful way of understanding both ourselves and others – whether a person is predominantly “gold” – structured, rule-governed, responsible, orderly, prepared, loyal, dependable, thorough, sensible, punctual, stable, caring, concerned; “orange” – lives more in the moment – somewhat impulsive, spontaneous, witty, charming, eager, bold, physical, impactful, generous, optimistic; “blue” – sympathetic, much more in touch with their emotions and others’, tuned in to those around them, highly valuing harmony, warm, communicative, more spiritual, sincere, peaceful, flexible, imaginative; or “green” – intellectual, analytical, logical, cool, calm, collected, perfectionistic, conceptual – (which I found myself to be WAY out of proportion in)…

The insight within the profiling has given me guidance on how to communicate more effectively with people of other colors, rather than scare them off with my unbridled intellectualism, and how essential it is to bring myself into balance, being able to connect with others, tap into my other inner resources & capabilities, and bring my ideas into form through proper grounding & structure. As well, the awareness brings a new level of understanding of those around me – I can better relate to those in my life, seeing where they’re coming from and how they “tick.” It’s a rather simple profiling system with only 4 dimensions, though powerfully insightful & effective, with far-reaching implications once one grasps and implements the knowledge within.

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Having discovered my Wealth Dynamics profile, my top strengths & weaknesses, and “colours” clearly defined, I can now see how it all fits together; I can see exactly what it is I can excel at; my internal value is something I can figuratively grasp; I know where I would and would not make a good fit within an enterprise or project and how I can most effectively contribute.

Though my bank balance may not be an accurate reflection of the wealth I’ve been developing in my knowledge, network, skills, character, and clarity of vision & purpose – I’ve never before felt so empowered and confident in all our abilities to do amazing things with our lives.

As I’ve become part of the XL community – an organization of outstanding entrepreneurs all clear on their profile, following their passions – my conviction in the power of the human spirit to overcome all obstacles and create prosperity for all has increased a thousand-fold.

Realizing the incredible force to be applied towards any worthy cause by becoming clear on our profiles and collaboratively creating wealth based on timeless principles & divine wisdom, I can’t help but advocate the progression of self-awareness, defining & pursuing one’s talents. Knowing what great potential lies within each of us to be accessed through clear vision and alignment with others in their flow, I feel it essential for the knowledge in Wealth Dynamics and strengths-based leadership & development to become more & more mainstream, if we are serious about making the kinds of differences our souls are calling for.

Why?

Coming into the realization of what makes oneself great and significantly valuable is a life-altering step into a world of increasing possibility and freedom.

By discovering the constant source of wealth within us, we move from reliance on any single job, contract, or opportunity, to a confidence in our ability to walk into a number of companies with beneficial value – from dependence upon the strength of a particular company or venture, to the stability of a solid foundation which can serve hundreds or thousands of enterprises, perhaps even simultaneously.

In turning inward & recognizing our greatest internal assets, we transition from a vulnerability to economic conditions or market cycles, to a security in knowing when & where our value is most needed, how to best adapt to changing circumstances, given our individual aptitudes & temperaments.

Knowing who we are and what we’re wired for provides priceless direction. A simple profiling test (www.WealthDynamics.ca / http://www.strengthsfinder.com) can shave years off our learning curve, putting us on the right path, with great confidence, the knowledge of who to connect with, and a whole new level of invaluable insight and enthusiasm.

So many of us completely overlook our greatest strengths, not realizing what gold lies within us, simply for the fact our talents are so much a natural part of us, we may barely give any second thought to them. What of our gifts others may most value, we may not even give serious consideration to, it’s so much an integral part of us – coming so easily, we don’t even realize the potential within such small things that could make such a big difference to others.

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We are in the midst of a transformation unlike any we’ve ever seen or imagined; it isn’t merely the continuation of our physical evolution, but the stepping into realms beyond what we can see, taste, touch, and hear – discovering the incredible power of spirit by embracing it fully as our true nature. With these leaps in consciousness come the opportunity to form our outer worlds in ways few ever have.

Business, economic, and financial models must evolve to adapt to a dynamic, rapidly-shifting world. The way we understand & do business is undergoing a major metamorphosis, with the culmination of centuries’ of experience, Timeless Universal Principles, imaginative genius, entrepreneurial spirit, and collective vision providing the alchemical formulas to the fulfillment, prosperity, and completion our souls have been aching for. Traditional jobs will become more & more a thing of the past as we move towards increasing automation and continual innovation in thought, technology, and spiritual empowerment allowing us greater freedom, more energy, effortless sustainability, and the ability to do more with less as we follow our paths of least resistance, allowing our actions to rise out of our core Being.

Through this shift, we are seeing the establishment of new and improved systems to accommodate the smooth flow of wealth into constructive investments for all-around empowering community development. Through the midst of the chaos & conflicts currently around and within us, we are provided the opportunity to rediscover ourselves, reconnecting to our Source, harnessing our power to fully engage in the developing manifestation of a new collective dream. Within this new world, awaits a space for each of us to grow beyond our past, formulating our future in alignment with our deepest principles and values.

Though the number of traditional “jobs” available is declining, giving rise to an increase in entrepreneurship, this does not mean we all need to own our own businesses. Most of us are much more likely to get what we really want by contributing to others’ projects and enterprises – it is often better to be a part of something established and sustainable in line with our purpose & passions, rather than risking everything starting from scratch for the ego gratification of ownership & doing it all ourselves, having it all be about us. Though, this does not necessarily mean conventional “employment” in a set job description.

Whereas traditional employment contracts may call for an individual to fit a pre-specified role – reducing the individual to a mere component of a mechanic system – the capacity of an enterprise to survive and thrive in our evolving world is becoming increasingly dependent upon its openness to adaption through continual restructuring, with the guiding force being that of a “workforce” growing increasingly aware of and yearning for the recognition & deployment of its own greatest internal values.

While there may continue to be the average low-wage jobs, those seeking the expansion of wealth are entering a new game. The individual choosing to play will, as a necessity, undergo a journey of self-discovery, finding themselves in a new realm of possibility as they become aware of and accept value within themselves society has not traditionally recognized nor rewarded. The progressive enterprise will be found choosing its associates based not on expectation for a position to be adequately filled according to a person’s resume, but much more so on the potential for exponential growth through the addition of these individualized value components having a transformative effect on the organization’s possibilities.

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Whatever our greatest internal assets, there are groups of others waiting, needing the type of input we can bring. Whatever greater cause we believe in; whatever purpose we feel driven towards to make our difference – there are thousands, perhaps millions, of others out there in enterprises that could expand, achieve and exceed their objectives far more quickly & easily with the addition of our value. Though, it is absolutely essential to be clear on what that value is.

The ancient sages were right, when they simply said, “Know Thyself” – for this is the ultimate key to all True Wealth – wealth not just meaning money, but overall wellness; quality of life; joy, fulfillment, acceptance, gratitude, sustainable expansion, contribution, and all that other good stuff…

Understanding ourselves is not some novelty, new age fad, or something to be pursued on the side while we go on with usual lives in the “real world,” but the fundamental key allowing ourselves to step beyond our self-imposed limitations and expand to be a source of Light and inspiration.
Only once we get a clear grasp on what value we have to offer, can we step forth to significantly contribute towards the causes closest to our hearts. Only once we form organizations & teams based on our fundamental differences & designing orders to make use of each our own top strengths in synergistic combination can we harness the power to move forward confidently in the direction of a sustainable, harmonious, positively constructive global community.

Let us not struggle in attempting to survive “crises” and desperately rushing to “get ours,” continuing to buy into accumulation theory & seeking to escape the problems of the common, unprosperous man – rather, let’s proceed steadily in the fulfillment of our destinies, heeding to the calling of our spirit. Let us listen to the inner guidance of deep wisdom, heeding the signs pointing us in the course we were prepared to take in this lifetime.

We can now step out of the spiritual dark and acknowledge we’re here for some sort of karmic completion or another, the common factor being rising above the ego and into self-actualization as part of an integrated whole. Within the game of mass collaboration, we’ve been assigned particular roles to play, blessed with certain gifts and faculties for us to use in bringing forth our brilliance to shine. Only once we tune in to the power in our strengths & virtues can we allow their value to be a force for fueling the positive transformation in the outer world. Only once become present to our True selves, can we begin to experience real prosperity…

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written by Rok Sivante
http://RokSivante.com

Worldwide, there are billions of people who believe in a wide selection of causes, millions of which who have started up charities and organizations dedicated to bettering the world, in both small and large ways. The human spirit is alive and well. Despite all the doom and gloom in the media, the majority are still honest, good-hearted people who want to make a difference contributing to the well-being of our fellow beings in this global village.

Unfortunately, while we’ve got MANY organizations aiming for the fulfillment of worthy ideals, most are lacking the organization and effective structures enabling their objectives to be reached. Best of intentions aside, we’ve been falling disappointingly short of our potential. (And though it could easily be agreed the problem lies out there with us playing no part, we are beyond such a worldview – stepping into the reality we are all connected, each taking a share of the responsibility to shape our collective future.)

While there are millions of amazing people bursting with passion to change the world, the majority work in a job or business they aren’t particularly passionate about, simply in order to survive. Then, they may or may not donate 10% of their miniscule earnings into what they really believe in, giving to charities whose mismanagement carries only approximately 30% – if that – to the actual cause. No matter how strongly most believe in their chosen mission, few have either the financial capacity, focus, or know how to make the impact they’re truly capable of making. Confused as to their true talents and how to apply them in the service of their greater soul purpose, the masses wander blind, trying to pin the tail on the donkey, sincerely wanting to make a difference, yet having no idea where or how to start…

Under the false, misguided, restrictive impression they’re too small and powerless to make a real difference, many defeatedly delegate responsibility to a fund-raising organization through donations and volunteering. Just as they’re content to hand over power to governments, medical establishments, and other authorities, the majority prefer to sit along the sidelines in the comfort of resignation, convincing themselves “someone else will look after it,” that others are in a better position or more knowledgeable to do something about it; that by offering moral support or money, they’ve played their part.

However – the charity model is fundamentally flawed. Though well-intentioned, it may often in fact do more harm than good, serving to foster reliance on handouts, a sense of entitlement, and dependence…

While we may truly wish to help others in need, the entire “not-for-profit” model does little to encourage responsibility on the end of the receiver —- perhaps, in fact, even squandering the potent human drive for independence responsible for all progress. We’ve been embracing the concept of a global village, yet isolating over half our population, viewing them as impotent to conceive & give birth to enterprise providing a solid foundation for steady economic development to take place. In seeking hand-outs from others – be it as a charity receiver or fundraiser – we are at some level looking to others as more powerful than ourselves, putting them at the cause of our effect. In essence, we are doubting our own power and distrusting in our own ability to fulfill our own needs, forever at the mercy of forces outside ourselves…

By giving another something for nothing, we fail to bring light to that person’s internal value and capacity to produce. Though it may not be the intention, as we give to disadvantaged others without a fair exchange of value, we subtly reinforce the perception of them as victims, incapable of participating as equals in the creation & trade of value. Rather than give encouragement to develop their potential, the charity model suppresses the possibility of its receivers to become empowered themselves – either denying the feasibility, or projecting the likelihood so far off into the future, it becomes little more than a fantastical wish. In a culture whose prosperity has been grown out of the capitalist beliefs in an individual’s appetite for self-realization & definition, equal opportunity, continual expansion, and participation in the blossoming of enterprise to serve our fellow citizens – where have we managed to find room for the existence of countless organizations whose solutions to problems involve completely overlooking the root causes of inequality and simply tossing the less-fortunate the scraps, deluding ourselves into the sense we’ve made some contribution towards restoring justice?

This isn’t to suggest ruthlessly withdrawing all form of assistance and leave those less fortunate on their own. Far from it. Rather, what is being proposed is a shift from looking down upon those in poverty & dire circumstances in need of help, to realizing and serving the potential and human life value of those individuals. Let us consider the possibilities that could unfold should we not to give handouts, but rather provide them the education and means of making something of themselves. Something like the fish analogy – rather than continually giving them fish so they can remain unproductive, teach them how to fish so they can become self-sustainable.

If we had $1000 and the desire to feed a starving village, we could potentially invest that $1000 in educating the villagers how to build their own fishing equipment, how to use it, and how to turn raw fish into healthy meals. In effect, the villagers would not only be able to feed themselves on an ongoing basis, but the introduction of such knowledge & skill would give rise to a whole new realm of economic activity, stimulating the local market, and creating more wealth for the village.

However, with the misconception it is somehow morally superior to give hand-outs, our society, subscribing to the charity model, instead spends $700 of that thousand to acquire another thousand, then of the $300 left, it may purchase $100 of fish, then spend $200 shipping and disbursing it to the villagers, by which time it has dried out and decreased in nutritional value. The entire $1000 has been SPENT, 15% somewhat usefully, with the villagers left hungry the next day. Does anyone else see the supreme idiocy of such a model? Can you begin to sense the benefits INVESTING, rather than spending, may occur – not for a personal return or profit, but for the ongoing advantage of others’ entire communities?

We have created entire bureaucracies and continue to burn up the majority of our funding to ineffectively give them the poor necessities of survival, but withhold the resources they could use to create their own wealth. Our worldview seems to even exclude the possibility that wealth could be created in these communities. Or if it does, we have been doing little to encourage its creation – wealth cannot flow without value being recognized or utilized, neither of which are occurring within the context of the charity model.

To get an idea of what alternatives exist out there and have already been proven viable, take a look at the fine example Muhammad Yunus has set with Grameen Bank. This leading micro-credit institution has been giving out small loans to the poorest of the poor in Bangladesh, providing people the opportunity to create their own enterprise. Not only does the bank make a consistent profit, which it continually reinvests into community & economic development, but the effect of the entrepreneurs given the means to create value in the market has lifted a LARGE percentage of the country’s population out of poverty. The success of the system has proven without a doubt that while the western world may tend to look down upon the third world as helpless and in need of hand-outs, the poor & disadvantaged are fully capable of bettering their own lives given the chance….

The micro-credit movement is a testament of the positive growth and expansive wealth that can occur as a result of restructuring our financial systems and choices. Whereas in the soon-to-be-prehistoric charity model, funds are inadequately dispersed and depleted, micro-credit serves to powerfully redirect the channeling of wealth into constructive investments. Rather than money being spent once on consumables, it recycled over and over, each time giving rise to the expansion of an enterprise increasing value & wealth within the community. A donation is not simply a hand-out to be devoured, but the means to initiate increased economic activity – rather than never being seen again, that gift returns to the giver to give again, enabling the evolution of an entirely new enterprise, which can create wealth to be reinvested, and so on, and so on, and so on…

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Why do so many people limit themselves to the belief we can’t make both a profit and a difference, that there must be a separation between financial enterprise and those whose purpose it is to serve?

Are we not willing to move beyond the centuries of financial myths perpetuated through cultural conditioning that have associated money with evil, accepting that in order to make a difference, we must have the financial means to invest in fueling development? We have no problem slaughtering thousands of cows per day to support our beef addictions, yet why the stubborn refusal to killing the ages-old sacred cows that have been saturating our societies’ thinking around money with crippling consequences?

Our culture is immersed in financial paradox – the masses lusting after material status, hoping & wishing for the cushy life provided by a winning lottery ticket; yet on the same clock, most will ridicule the wealthy, shunning the rich as though they’re gain must be coming at the expense of the poor. The logic is distorted and restricted, costing us all the chance of collective empowerment. As the masses stay resistant to openly accepting wealth – not from greed and insecurity but a state of abundance and self-worth – they destroy their vision, blinding them to the incredible value and potential within…

Thankfully, a transformation is underway. Enough of us have been waking up and heeding the call of our spirits to explore the imaginative realm for resolution to the conflicts we’ve decided are no longer acceptable. We’ve been disconnecting from the cultural norms keeping us locked in mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial slavery, seeking wisdom and guidance to create and live in empowering alternatives. And as more of us commit to the transformation, the force enabling our positive evolution grows in power, propelling us into an abundant reality wherein we have access to our internal power to overcome the challenges we face, both individually and as a larger community.

While few of us may possess the worldly influence to change everything in the blink of an eye, we each can play a role in bringing about the long-term transformation we desire, starting with the simple and powerful tools of inquiry combined with intention. Let us alter the twisted views persisting in our minds and those of our neighbors, harnessing the potential to see Truth through the lens of better questions. Whereas continuing to ask “why” such injustice must exist, how we can let such equality persist, and what we must do to stop what we don’t like will restrict our thinking to the level of the problems being analyzed, to what degree will our thinking rise by asking questions from the higher altitude of “what lessons are to be learned here, so that we can change our ways to create the results we deeply want and believe ourselves worthy of?”

Must we submit ourselves to lives of drudgery in order to merely survive, and then half-assedly spend a fraction of our reserves to do what we REALLY believe in, or how accessible may other options be, should we choose to consider the alternatives?

What if we were to apply our energies not towards rallying and raising funds to be atrophied within inefficient non-profit bureaucracies, but rather on innovating ways to reinforce the belief in and systems enabling continual sustainability and ongoing productivity? What if it were possible to work in a position we were highly skilled for in our natural talents, that we absolutely loved, in support of the causes we hold conviction in, while making more than a survival wage, but were creating an enormous amount of wealth for both ourselves and others?

How have we managed to lose sight of the truth capitalism is built on the freedom to pursue enterprise not for the reason of selfishly receiving excess amounts of money, but for the purpose of serving our fellow citizens by becoming providers of value and conduits through which wealth may flow through in greater amounts, so that all may benefit from an overall increase?

Taken into consideration all the views expressed above, those on the receiving end are clearly not getting the benefit intended. So who, in fact, does the charity model serve? As discomforting it may be to consider, perhaps the primary beneficiary is our ego and its dear, beloved self-righteousness. If handouts are in essence doing more harm than good, and the money pumped into the system is being rapidly depleted, what else could keep this destructive inefficiency perpetuating besides sheer ignorance and the satisfying sense of “doing good,” no matter how mistaken and misguided it may actually be? Though – have we not evolved beyond the egotism of arrogantly believing ourselves to be the saviors of the less fortunate, acknowledging within each impoverished human being lies a pressurized radiance building to shine bright, enlightening the capacity for self-realized & sustainable prosperity? Would it not be holding to a higher level of integrity and respectability to acknowledge the need for change, reexamination of our priorities, and restructuring of our institutions, enterprises, and personal behaviors to collectively create the environment wherein each of us have an opportunity to make something of and for ourselves?

The technological marvels we’ve managed to construct are so far beyond the comprehension of most individuals; the quantum leaps we’ve made in consciousness have left collective mindsets of extreme scarcity & limitation in the history books, opening doors to unbounded opportunities – is it so far out of our grasp to suggest we are capable of collaborating on the development of answers to the most pressing questions of how to lift billions of our brothers & sisters out of poverty & into empowerment? Is it unimaginable they possess the ability to do it themselves, should they only be provided the direction & initial investments required?

Let our minds drift in imagination to the possibility of a world wherein we gave each other a chance to be great…

Let it be… for so long as we will not, it cannot happen. Or if it does, we will not recognize it, having decided to exclude the possibility from our reality…

Let us envision order arising out of the chaos around us, bringing sense to a world gone mad, restoring integrity to our communities, empowering all of us to make something of our selves…

Let us move forward into a realm – where though we may never reach the ideal of totally equal opportunity, we will commit ourselves to the creation of opportunity for others where there is currently none…

Let us drift into the objective analysis of our institutions, and let us summon the courage to restructure them to truly serve – let us shift our beliefs to those of abundance, aligning our actions & habits with universal laws of expansion, constructiveness, and well-being, investing in the development of enterprise to enrich our communities and those within them…

…
written by Rok Sivante
http://RokSivante.com

the latest completed writing work…

“Government Reanalyzed”

Stop and let the reality behind that question sink in. Let the answer come not from society’s typical answers and the definitions we learned in formal schooling, but allow yourself to fully experience the Truth of the situation…

(Of course, people’s answers to the question will vary, according to perception. What most believe to be the truth is not actually so, but simply ideas – many incomplete, distorted, and false – they’ve picked up throughout the past and taken on as their own. Truth does exist, though can only begin to be seen and understood when moving outside of our restricted perceptions to view a situation from all angles.)

Now…

Dare to call me a rebel, unpatriotic, a fringe-dweller, non-conformist, idealist, anarchist, or any other judgmental name, if you will – though here, now, I must state a perspective rarely heard or understood by the majority, for the sake of revealing the Truth so that we may access our greater power to construct a world of sustainable expansion, abundance, happiness, love, and empowerment…

The government is serving less of a beneficial purpose each passing day.

More harm than good is being done with our political systems perpetuating as they have been.

There is no hope of salvation coming from our governments. They are not, in fact, despite the mantra-ish societal conception, there to serve our best interests.

Anyone who hasn’t had their head under a rock for the last hundred years knows “the official story” is B.S. Corruption has rotted the system out from the inside with lies, greed, fear, manipulation, injustice, and the worst of inhumanity rising to the surface of our society, projected out onto those we’ve called leaders.

Of course, there’s no power in blame, and if we are to develop ourselves further, we must take a share of personal responsibility in the larger matters, as difficult as it may be to comprehend our impact in the global scale of political operations. Though, let this not take us away from the main issue at hand, being”

What has government done for us?

Education? Ha. Let’s be honest. Actually, let’s leave that one for an entire other conversation. I’ll skip this with faith that each of us knows if not experientially, then intuitively, that our school are falling seriously behind in keeping up to the needs of children whose evolution cannot be permitted within systems structured as prehistorically as our public education…

Health care? (writing this in Canada, I may be coming from a slightly different angle than those in other countries, though the core principles are applicable universally, focusing on regulatory bodies rather than service providers) How about health destruction?

When did we consciously decide it was wise to delegate personally responsibility for our well-being to men in white coats with years of preparation in the science of cutting people open & putting toxic chemicals into their bodies, and little to know education of how to cultivate health & prevent disease in the first place?

The military? Come on. When was the last time Canada was attacked? Would America really need to fear being attacked, if they had simply stopped waging covert wars all over the world? If this is a true “democracy,” you’re telling me the majority of citizens really want our tax dollars going to the conservation of war and …

Financial bailouts? Trillions of dollars spent/disappeared to try patch up a black hole? Granted, I’m not up-to-date on all the details of the economic fiasco that’s been going down, yet is it really clear to ANYONE where the governments have (mis)allocated TRILLIONS of dollars to?

Effective environmental reforms and protection? Not in our lifetime.

Though, it does “take care” of all its people, right? Using the tax dollars of hard-working citizens to support those that don’t want to work, as though there’s something noble about robbing the rich to sustain the laziness & irresponsibility of the poor? Work full-time four months of the year to sustain the welfare system, providing thousands of negligent bums the means to keep drunk & incapable of exploring their potential for a real contribution to society?

And what about taxes in general? Are we really so stupid to have fallen blindly for the lie there’s something noble or dignified about handing over a large portion of the fruits of our labour to a governmental body who has proven itself incompetent to channel it constructively? Do your homework, and you will discover that taxes are little more than an outright scam disguised in ambiguous, misleading legal & political jargon. Why do are the wealthy known for tax evasion? Because they are smart! They know they’re being cheated and refuse to play by the rules of a fixed game that serves neither them or their fellow citizens. Were it publicly known how duped we got, the government may be known by an entirely different name much better suiting the true nature of what they’ve become – crooks.

…

Of course, there surely must be some good points to the government, underneath the heaps of bullsh!t they’ve been pumping out for decades/centuries. Though this isn’t to pick apart the pros from cons (advantages from disadvantages, or professionals from slick con-men in high positions of political power). Rather, the overall here focus is to bring light to the Truth – not opinion disguised in select facts parading around as truth, but the absolutely, inarguable, undeniable, timeless, all-pervasive pure essence that remains in its complete, enlightening, powerful integrity…

What is the purpose of passing and enforcing thousands of different regulations if not to control, rising from the disbelief we are unable to control ourselves?

What is the worldview of a body putting continually more restrictive laws into effect? What is the underlying message? Distrust? Scarcity? Paranoia? Isolationism? Insecurity? Powerlessness? Are these conditions of Truth?

What is the reason for the mass propagation of half-truths, biased opinions, and distorted fact if not to mislead, flowing from fear of what we may be able to accomplish with True knowledge of ourselves, our world, capabilities, and potential to govern ourselves from a foundation of honesty, compassion, and constructive collaboration?

What are the consequences of a system keeping its people in a state of ignorance, submission, fear, and denial of their true worth? Disease? Implosion? Debilitation? Frustration? Regression? Are these conditions of the True nature of universal well-being and expansion?

What is the effect on the human spirit of having our reality dictated to us – the information we’re exposed to passed through a filter, shaping people’s perceptions to suit an ego-driven agenda? An impotent complacency? Depression? The stunting of growth? The decay of genius? Disconnection from the True Self? Are these states in any way conduits of Truth?

…

While there’s still many brainwashed into believing in their government is there to look after them, more of us are waking up. Deep down, we’ve known for a long time the jig is up. We’re smarter than to fall for the insulting misinformation and disinformation propagated throughout the mass media & “educational” system. Each of us knows, at a soul level, the “government” is far from what its cracked up to be.

It is soulless – an abstraction, lacking any tangible form.

It is an entity given shape by our collective agreement upon its structure, its actual presence no more detectable than that of a fictional ghost. (A ghost may be a good metaphor – a spirit lingering around after its timely death, having not come to peace with its passing, incomplete with its ascension from worldly restriction & egoic preoccupations to a state of completeness, oneness, higher consciousness.)

Despite what crimes against humanity its officials have horrifyingly carried out over the years in the name of public duty, the government is not a force to be resisted or fought against.

The bureaucratic processes required to create any significant change in government are so archaic and ridiculously based in pretensions and dogmatic falsehoods, they can’t possibly keep up to the rate of change and dynamic nature of our evolving world. No matter how much we push they to change, they are incapable. And no matter how long they say the same, they are doomed to collapse as the planet’s energy fields shift to the point they cannot be supported any longer.

In reality, it poses no threat. Understand – there is no “IT.” “It” is merely an illusion; a poorly disorganized, inefficient, decentralized body of mostly disempowered individuals playing out predetermined, mostly counter-productive roles in a big, tragic, comic drama. This, to which we have assigned authority, influence, and personal responsibility over to.

We can decide to participate in the system, playing by the rules having been preached to us for centuries – or, we can choose to expand our vision beyond the narrow sliver of reality carved out for us by the ego’s dominance, entering the space for us to create our own game & play by our own rules…

As restrictive as some may view the governments & laws, we – at least in much of the “developed” world – are blessed with as much freedom as we need to create whatever it is we truly desire, provided it is based in the power of love & integrity. As imperfect as it may be, the “free market” system does provide us the playground to build enterprises catering to our true needs & wants.

Regardless of what “elite” forces there may be, fingers crossed & hoping for global domination, or what fools for frontmen may have been selected as governmental spokes figures – most leaders do wish for our prosperity, and we can be grateful for an abundance of resources needed to build whatever is needed to support the next step in our development.

Granted, we may and probably will confront many challenges, navigating through a maze of legalities in order to reach our objectives. While nearly anything is possible, we may at times have to watch our words and actions, sometimes giving into political niceties, treading carefully so not to as too deeply disturb opposing forces. We cannot just bombard ahead full of passion & excitement, but must proceed strategically. Our advancement will require not only vision backed by conviction, but organization, the determination to work our way around the obstacles, and the exponential power of synergy in collective collaboration…

Regardless of what cause we may strongly believe in, we are not alone. Personally, I have conviction in the need for transformation in the arenas of health, education, and sustainability – a great deal of causes being advocated fit into one of these categories, with hundreds of thousands of varied charities, foundations, organizations, enterprises, and individuals devoted to progress in these fields.

Yet, many of us are filled with a sense of isolation – as though the world is going crazy and we can’t do anything about it because we are separate and don’t yield the worldly influence we’ve associated with the power to bring about change. We may know there are numerous groups out there promoting a cause – we may even be part of one – yet, there’s an unspoken, subconscious belief lurking in the collective psyche that we are too small to make a difference, that the system is too big and powerful to fight, that no matter what we do, “the powers that be” will not move.

As twisted, counter-productive, and inept as governmental structures may be, it does not make the people within them enemies. While there may be much corruption at the top levels, the majority are still decent, genuine human beings who desire to make a difference.

Placing blame on any particular person serves no purpose. Many are quick to judge and put all the responsibility on a puppet, finding it easier to point fingers at less-than-perfect (a.k.a. human – or perhaps even half reptilian, according to some theories) politicians than to take responsibility and stepping up as leaders in their own lives and communities. Yet, no single person within the government can be held accountable for the system’s failures.

Protesting, shouting, and criticizing are in no way constructive towards initiating and sustaining positive change. While the government may have failed and may be a restriction on the rate of our progression, attacking it in any way is a brilliant way to deplete ourselves of the creative energy that could be otherwise directed into the creation of more fulfilling alternatives…

…

For many, these views will appear extremist, far-fetched, out of touch with “reality.” The government has been such a fundamental component of our world, our entire lives have been defined by the notion of an external governing body, to some extent or another. To break out of “the box’ and think in terms of a reality where the only True authority comes from the insider is quite a stretch.

However, no progress was ever made by sticking to the status quo. All the great innovations throughout the history of our societies would not have occurred had some rare individuals not dared to challenge the standard thinking. And in times like these, with our systems crashing down all around us, it is of paramount importance we rise above the level of the thinking that has created the problems we face.

The core problem is governments and established institutional authorities are steeped in such thinking, stuck in a reality that no longer exists but in the minds of men & women refusing to let go of the past and step into the unknown, opening to a wider, deeper, clearer, holistic vision.

Yet, there’s nothing to fear, and there’s no need to try force it. A million laws can be passed, though even a billion laws cannot contend the force of Truth, nor can they stop the expanding awareness recognizing such laws as unnecessary and destructive to the human spirit. Human consciousness is moving forward regardless, and no outside authority can stop it.

Regardless of what is going on in the greater world, we now have the freedom to exercise our own power, sharing Truth, spreading Light, disconnecting from restrictive belief systems, choosing connection to the eternal, all-powerful, enlightening Spirit.

Regardless of the counter-productive economic programs and agenda put into place readily sapping collective finances, we are fortunate to be afforded the opportunity to build our own enterprises to achieve the social objectives close to our hearts, and are living with a world with MANY others who share our convictions and passion for positive transformation.

The change we desire will come from us.

Governments may continue to hold their physical place in the world, though more & more will continue to disconnect. The benefits offered to us of playing their game are being discovered as falsehoods. We are realizing the power in choosing new games to engage in with new rules.

Though there may be a time-delay in the manifestation of our desired transformation in the greater world, we can find peace – in the midst of all the chaos out there – in the Truth that transformation is inevitable, once we begin to govern ourselves, living in harmony with Universal Law…

…
written by Rok Sivante
http://RokSivante.com

Time flies – like it’s invisible. You can’t catch it, save it, or see it, not until it’s behind you. But at least you can remember it, cherish it and hopefully learn from it. Whoever came up with the expression “time is money” was quite right. As I look at my watch or look into my wallet I tend to question ‘where did it all go?’ I for one feel like I’m always running out of time, and money for that matter, as sometimes they can be the same thing: you can’t get either back and there never seems to be enough.

It could also be the fact that I don’t always spend either of it too wisely. The concept of buying time intriques me.
I haven’t been in Toronto for very long yet, but perhaps that’s all the time I need. Notably it has been crazy, wonderful. Crazy as it drives me to such lengths, though that’s just my life as I let it, and wonderful for those moments that I revel in them.

I am very grateful to be settled into a house living with roommates who are absolutely, brilliant human beings that despite our differences we are reconcilable (they are also good looking which makes seeing them in their underwear less of a shock). I also have a job at a popular, cultural establishment that always has something going on and have a great staff, which ensues a bit of a family atmosphere (without the bickering). There is much to see and do here and I simply adore the friends I’ve made and every week I look forward to my Sunday nights at the pub with my favourite, local band playing, or having coffee at the shop around the corner, riding my bike to the park to read on a lazy afternoon. These little things that make staying here feel cozy. Yet, I’ve been back in Canada for exactly five months now and it still doesn’t feel like home. Though “home” won’t even feel like it anymore.

Many of my friends in Vancouver are married with children now, births and weddings that I have unfortunately missed out on. The infrastructure of the city I used to know so well is developing for the Olympic Games in 2010 and if or when I return I will once more have to re-settle into another new place and find work for myself all over again. So much will be different. It will be exciting of course and seeing everyone again will be the ultimate highlight, but everything changes and so have I after twoyears away. I still associate Melbourne as home even after nearly half a year later. If I wrote this on a really good day then my tone about my living in Toronto would indeed be on another page. Before starting to write this I was just browsing through photos of people I love and have had to leave off; I miss them immensely. It’s a keen ache, though I know that sounds absurd, hence, where an open heart becomes a calloused heart. It toughens up a little and gets harder to get through to over a while, but there is a spot that weeps and another that softens with tenderness.

My nostalgic sensibility is based on not knowing if I belong or not, right now? If not here, then where, when and how? I’ll tell you one thing that I do know, (even though I know I should suck it up and stop being such a pussy,) is that this bleeding cold really gets under my skin and has definitely made me re-consider my choices for living. I quite enjoy the sensation of recognizing my fingers and toes as part of my body, and yes I am Canadian but I’m sorry, fuck this! Coming from 15 months in Australia has resulted in utter wimpiness at any severity of wind. Winter in Australia of course wasn’t warm, but nothing as cold as this that I remember in comparison. Mind you I have basically been chasing the hotter seasons throughout the globe since 2007. So pardon me Torontonians with your big woolly coats prancing around casually whilst my teeth chatter!

I also don’t really have any peace of mind; it wanders ever so precariously. I have changed my hair style 3 times and the colour 7 rainbows over upon arriving here, how the hell am I to make up my mind on where to be? Nevertheless, my hair colour (from brown-red-orange-green-blond-blue-violet so far-) and the aforementioned cold sting doesn’t therefore mean for me to just forget it, doesn’t mean I have to make my mind up this second.

I don’t want to just leave like that. I need a destination and of course I need more time to save. My objective is to eventually be able to travel freely for a few months. But for the time being only I must figure out what is making me feel incomplete here and why I am starting to react a little bittersweet and numb as of late. I am quite aware that what I am sensing is feeling stuck. Yup, I got the city blues.

It’s now mid October. Summer is over and already seems so long ago. By now I have nothing to show for it since I didn’t plan ahead, I just got lost in working long hours and in the bustle of activity. This recent stretch of worry is that my shifts are becoming far and few; whereas before I could actually make money and not fret about where it went ’cause it was regularly coming in. I never managed to save a dime. I find in this vicious cycle of the hospitality industry, especially during hectic schedules, after work drinks, shows in between, a trip up north, a casual dinner party here or there, one tends to just blow dough as soon as it’s put into purse. You’d think there was a bloody hole in it! As soon as any money was made it would soon fade. You just burn so fast because of your lifestyle, mine that I have been leading up to this point anyhow. You get used to it and live for the day really; work, then play. But then it slows to a halt all too quickly and so you’re not ready for it. I cannot complain I had fun, a lot of it, I worked bloody hard throughout and I compensated with many a cheers!

I got to go to Montreal which was tremendous, (it’s so European feeling, I’d forget it was part of Canada at the twinkling of an eye.) There I saw jazz bands and went swing dancing, was entertained by 3 boys who embellished nights out on the town, I ate well and drank even better, had a picnic in the park with champagne and croissants, I went to the Church De Basilique (replica of the Basilica in Rome), to a pirate gallery, to a transvestite (a sweet transsexual, from Transylvania!) burlesque show, swivelled my glass on the piano; clearly I had a grand four days, not to mention how expensive this short holiday cost me. I really love that city and could possibly live there one day, aside from the fact I do not speak the Quebecois french whatsoever. My cousin moved to Montreal and she swears by it. She also does not care much for Toronto; (it’s an on-going, silly, city rivalry.) She also lived in New York the past decade. I want to go back there too!

This summer I only went swimming a couple times, seeing as how I don’t have a car here and beaches were too far away or unclean. Apparently the waters were not sanitary enough for people to swim in. We also had a large garbage strike that stunk up the city and littered the streets and our doorsteps for what seemed like 12 weeks straight. However, I can compare Toronto to summers I’m used to with lovely lakes and mountains and beaches you can bike to from other places I’ve spent time in, though I was still fortunate to go boating (and pulled behind one) with friends up North at a cabin, have a bonfire, and swing with a beer on hammock. I was lucky to have floated down the Elora Gorge with my friend and had the best rock and roll day trip. I went kayaking with another friend in Rockwell and found a little island to play cards topless in the glistening warmth of the sunshine…. and those were the three times I got wet, but they were honestly magical occasions. Oh yes and I did splash around the Water Park at “Canada’s Wonderland” once too, what a fun experience that was!

Some of the best rides I’ve ever been on, despite the 45-minute line-ups! I got soaked in Niagara Falls doing the “Maid of the Mist” but that doesn’t quite count as swimming, but I had a blast going there twice and hitting up some wine tastings along the way.
Ok so really I cannot claim I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the typical summer beach tan, I just didn’t get to take as much advantage of it as I would have liked to, (rather I didn’t get that many chances I was always working when people were going), but the opportunities that I did get compensated in quality over quantity. Recently I got to see my sister who came in for a visit and she’s all grown up now. I’m so proud of the woman she’s become and it was nice to be able to go to a bar together and re-bond over a pint. After she left another mate from out West came to visit. That’s a lot of catching up to do back to back. I mean, yes I spent all of my hard-earned money already but it was worth it.

Today I’m adjusting to the fright of not having any more of it for a gruelling period. It shouldn’t be a shock, but it is devastating. Typically this new found, lack of work is kind of a huge downer at the present and causing a bit of concern, as I have no money in which to make any future plans with. Makes one contemplate the bane of existence. During this critical, slower season where I am consistently broke and cold, trying to be optimistic is tough, yet I also realize that I will always manage to make do with what I got and hopefully soon enough ‘break through’ once more. When I had ten euros left to my name in Barcelona I had the best, last few days ever. Everyone has their fair share of just scraping by in any city they reside in, especially this time of year (you see, everything really is about timing!) so I’m convincing myself it’s only temporary and in this next chance around I am adamant to actually save, it’s for a good cause, and I’ll know I can’t go out and blow my earnings on the spot. Things will look up, there’s always a falling point in journeys then things sort themselves out and pick up again. Meanwhile you try to laugh it off and sit at home watching movies eating leftovers ’cause that’s all you can do. Or I can get another job, but there is of course the issue of everywhere is slow right now.

Five months in Toronto and still counting. Well that’s a considerable amount of time, considering how I wasn’t really willing to leave my beloved home in Melbourne, (Australia) back in May. Regardless of being given the sudden boot from that country for over staying … perhaps I needed to move on… I had no choice to stay otherwise, unless illegally. And very quickly I had to prepare for leaving my Aussie ways and the jobs, places, my boyfriend and people I loved. I immediately struggled in Toronto the first month and a half, but then came to love it. Toronto takes time to grow on you, or like it chooses when you can grow. Having to leave a familiar world behind to come to one somewhat familiar, yet all so different was such a beguiling compromise. Arriving alone, realizing I wouldn’t be seeing my boyfriend again for lord knows how long, without job or my own bed, it was both amusing and confusing. I was broke, lonely, felt like I was waiting constantly for a chance. I was torn if whether or not I should go back to Vancouver finally or seek out and hang on. But then one day I got the job, then the house, I made some friends and everything turned out better than I thought. It all worked out and I am content, although now it’s not working as well as I had hoped for…for now. I just lost another shift due to there not being enough hours to go around just yet and no doubt it’s gloomy outside, therefore playing up my dramatic omission. My moods sway with the falling leaves as my nerves bustle with worry regarding my empty bank account and no promise of tomorrow. (Sigh…..)

By now I have itchy feet again. It happens over time rather. I could even say itchy-cold feet, because I want to go but feel a tug to stay. Yet I don’t feel able to stay put and am getting more impatient, it’s a very obstinate virtue to have but one that I do well. If I don’t feel really settled in without any future plans for where I am lost. I can’t seem to run away from my head; my thoughts are an utter battlefield these last two weeks, ever since I discovered what little my pay cheques will look like over the next month. I am all over the place in my head, but not getting anywhere. I couldn’t even go anywhere anyhow, not without that darned paper stuff that will ensure these further engagements of worldly frolic.
Before the New Year I really need to make decisions regarding where to travel next and then choose a place to live. I am eager to live out of a suitcase if I must, as long as it’s in a place where I don’t speak their language.

Toronto is my home right now until I leave and I will definitely come back, for it is an amazing city full of opportunity and culture and music and food and events. Vancouver will always be my home because that’s where I grew up and learned things, have family and friends, memoirs and old schools, documents, boxes of my things made or collected over the years – but all of that doesn’t mean it’s right for me to live there right now either. Melbourne suited me and I could go back easily for it was heaps of fun. I still miss it and my boy, but I suppose that time was then, for then, and now I need to figure out the next step because I want something new again. The only thing stopping me from returning to Europe and South Africa is – you guessed it – the financial situation. There is so much more to explore and discover there, its beauty and history is infinite. I can always come back to anywhere in Canada and start over again; in a foreign country it costs a bit more effort. So now is a crucial time period to wait it out then earn my leave, and live in the meantime as much as I possibly can afford. At least it’s just one more month till the busy Christmas season and work will be plentiful. I am actually begging for Christmas to come early. Will I be here for it? Traditional, Canadian style, turkey with my mates for orphan dinner? or visit my family in Vancouver?

At the end of the month of December and I have been lucky to have spent both my 25th and 26th birthdays and two Christmases’ in foreign countries the last couple years, it would kind of be cool to keep up the ritual and have it in Berlin or New York, why not? Have ticket, will fly. It’s time to save whilst I waste time. Ha, an oxymoron. Man, I have really got to stop feeling so pitiful for myself. I’ve gotta use that energy for some serious decision making. All I know in this moment is that I feel bad and cannot foresee a happy future here. All I want to do is continue to cover the map over the next three years, get well paid work that I can do travelling, learn a new language, practice guitar, go to yoga, paint and write, help out others (including helpless animals), have my own place with my own things, never get fat or get cancer, find direction, have a bunch of good friends –maybe even a relationship again at some point- and I will be the happiest girl in the world. I will get there.
Maybe I’ll see some of you somewhere, sometime…

© Tabytha Towe October 28th 2009
t

Times are tough I know and if you are listening to the news we are all going to fall into this great big bark hole very soon and all die. Yes some thing has to be done but crippling people with fear that the economy will come to a complete stand still is not very productive. Money has to be realigned and taken out of the hands of incompetence and those that have had nothing but gravy for the last 8 years are now going to do the right thing and give back to society and generate income through industry and employment.

I do believe that this is the right time to start an innovative technology company especially if it is one that covers all the needs of to day. 

1. A green technology that rids us of the dependancy for gasoline

2. A technology that is easily integrated into existing manufacturing and only uses 20% of existing electric motors natural resource to manufacture.

3. A technology that will save jobs and create new ones.

4. A technology that is global and can spread around the world fast and productively.

5. A technology that is so easy to adopt to, to repair and is scalable to any industry using an electric motor or the combustion engine.

6. A technology that will grow innovating other technological industries alone the way.

7. A technological company that gives 10% of its company profits back into developing and supporting new innovative technologies that get over looked because they can get funding to develop.

8. A clear conscience technology that will not only be profitable to all involved but will be supported by governments around the world because of its no carbon no gasoline, friendly fuel and job creations.

This is the time to step up and make a difference, to look to the opportunities that these economic times presents and look for the alternatives that will change things for the better.

President Obama was voted in because the world needs change and America was holding it back. Now there is hope around the world again that we can align are selves, readjust and move forward with innovative ideas that do make a significant difference to the world in a progressive and productive way.

Are you on board this train of new inspiration? do you want to be a leader in the next era of success and positive productivity? If you do then step up to the plate and get technologies like Cyclzone Technologies building its technology to make this world a cleaner and more productive place to live in.

I know if we knew every thing we would eat nothing, but every now and again some thing comes along to make you think and then get mad. We give up control of our lives to Presidents, PM’S , Drug companies, Doctors, food industries and who ever else because we are told that they are working for the better meant of man kind, for us. Well after viewing this movie below, you may want to re think that, because these industries their mankind is in the mirror and their bank accounts.
They say we are what we ate, and what a toxic mess we are becoming. Cancer is a norm now, unacceptable, detoxing is considered normal (even though done wrong can kill and does regularly) asthma, allergies, behavior problems and much more even impotence and birth defects are all becoming commonplace and it needs to stop.
But who will speak out against these greedy dishonest and all to powerful industries that exploit the every day man so they can coin a buck? We as the people can and should change the ways; we wont do it by loud noises or by hating all industries painting them with one brush. But we can change things where it really hurts them, STOP BUYING WHAT THEY ARE SELLING, AND GET EVERY ONE ON BOARD THE BOCIOTING TRAIN, and THAT YOU CAN DO.
Violence, hating, mud slinging and all that, will not change a thing, but if they are not making the bucks any more because buyer has become aware and does not buy from them any more, then maybe we can slowly but consistently change to industries that are higher in price but purer in product and safe guard our health and wealth.
Have a look at the video, it is 1 hoour-48 mins long, so all at once of in stages, look to educate your self and come up with non violent ways to free our selves of this kind of dictatorship, for we all behave as sheep when we follow so blindly with out questions, with out common rights. Take charge and do your bit to make a difference, as human beings, we are amazing at fighting to protect and fight the wrongs, so start now, bit by bit, one + one =———success.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6262083407501596844#<>
1ST comment on movie is by P…..
No one today makes any apologies about collateral damage of any kind. Everybody easily states that the purpose of any company or corporation (and what is not one now) is to make money for the investors – period. That is their only concern. Neither service or assistance is a worthy reason.
Every day in every interviews I hear so may pussy footing around greed selfishness exploitation ignorance and all the other vices without calling them what they are. But excusing every misuse of power for personal financial benefit with the pat phrase It is after all a business to make money. One must apologise today to speak of a morality or duty or obligation of concern.
The only fear is “HAVE WE DONE ANYTHING ILLEGAL” if not then no problem. Almost anything these days easily rationalised in terms of success or financial benefit to someone.
The west will pay a long time for its sins against the others on this planet. I am only sorry I will not be here to cheer when it does.
I know of so many atrocities justified in the name of so many things that are accepted as worthwhile as long as it is not illegal. Any report on anything today of significant size and significance will exonerate any abuse and use terminology to rationalise it. But the hypocrisy is when they scream at a politically incorrect term of no significance at all and cry human rights et al.
Sad and stupid. And no one listens cos we are all benefiting indirectly with a life style of opulence and greed. No one wants to change for fear of losing a privilege they have however small.