Cosmic Awareness - 1988 14 - cord children mind psychology subconscious meditation religion christianity ethics jesus

Magazine Overview

Title: Revelations of Awareness
Issue: NO. 335
Volume: 88-14
Date: January 1988 (raw date 88-14)
Publisher: Cosmic Awareness Communications
Country: USA
Price: $3.00

This issue of "Revelations of Awareness," subtitled "THE NEW AGE COSMIC NEWSLETTER," features a dramatic cover illustration and focuses on the concept of giving, its ethical implications, and related psychological dynamics. The newsletter is published by Cosmic Awareness Communications, based in Olympia, Washington.

The Concept of Giving

Cosmic Awareness, presented as a Force expressing through various spiritual avatars, offers insights into the nature of giving. It distinguishes between gifts given freely out of affection and those given with an expectation of return, which are likened to trades or transactions. The text emphasizes that a true gift is one that makes the giver feel good, with any appreciation from the receiver being a bonus. It warns against giving with ulterior motives, such as impressing others, making them feel obligated, or seeking something equal in return, as these can lead to disappointment.

The newsletter discusses the "Picky Gift Receiver" who may belittle a gift, and the "Gift-Receivers who Won't Respond" who may feel unworthy or unsure how to react. It highlights that the key to contentment in giving lies in the act itself, not in the expected outcome or acknowledgment. The concept of "invisible strings attached" is explored, particularly in relationships and during holidays like Christmas, where comparisons can create expectations and dissatisfaction.

Ethical Considerations in Exchanges

The publication delves into the ethical dimensions of exchanges, particularly when gifts are involved. It addresses the scenario where an entity receives a gift without knowing there are strings attached, stating that in such cases, the recipient is not ethically obligated to return a favor. It stresses the importance of clearly defining the nature of any exchange at the outset to avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts. The "Trojan Horse Gift" is used as a metaphor for gifts that appear beneficial but carry hidden obligations or negative consequences, advising readers to avoid such situations.

The 'Godfather' Dilemma and Undefined Favors

An example from the movie "The Godfather" is used to illustrate the dangers of undefined favors. In this scenario, a powerful figure offers help with the implicit understanding of a future, unspecified favor. Cosmic Awareness states that the recipient is not ethically obligated to fulfill an undefined favor, especially if it involves harmful actions. The text suggests that clarifying the nature of any potential future obligation at the time of receiving the gift is crucial to avoid such dilemmas.

Dating and Reciprocity

The newsletter addresses the questions surrounding dating, specifically the idea of whether a meal or gifts exchanged constitute an obligation. It posits that if an invitation to dinner or a date is extended without clearly stating any expectations of reciprocal favors, the recipient is not obligated to provide more than what was initially expressed. The text critiques the notion of "socially accepted prostitution," where dates are seen as a means to gain sexual favors in exchange for a meal, emphasizing that genuine company is what is being paid for, not sexual desserts.

The "Liberated Woman" and Peer Influence

This section discusses the "Irony of the 'Liberated Woman,'" noting the apparent contradiction between the assertion of bodily autonomy and susceptibility to intimidation in dating. It suggests that younger girls, lacking clear guidance from adults, often adopt the conventions of their peers, which may include the expectation of sexual activity following a date. The text emphasizes the importance of parents helping children formulate values and understand the reasons behind their choices, enabling them to confidently say "no" when necessary.

Responsibility and Child-Rearing

Cosmic Awareness discusses when to give a child responsibility, advocating for a balance between freedom of self-expression and the ability to handle that freedom. It suggests that as children mature and gain insight, parents can delegate responsibilities, gradually releasing control. The analogy of a parent running alongside a child on a bicycle is used to illustrate how to support a child's development while ensuring their safety.

The Rescuer, Victim, Persecutor Syndrome

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the "Rescuer, Victim, Persecutor Triangle." This syndrome is described as a dynamic where individuals can become dependent on a rescuer, or the rescuer can enjoy keeping others dependent. The text explains how this can lead to emotional attachments, misunderstandings, and a cycle of blame and obligation. It highlights that the syndrome arises when emotions enter the interaction, transforming business-like exchanges into psychological entanglements.

To break free from this syndrome, the advice is to give and rescue out of genuine desire, not obligation or expectation of reward. The true reward is the feeling of happiness derived from the act itself. The newsletter advises against expecting appreciation or return favors, as this can lead to disappointment and a feeling of being victimized or persecuted.

How the Law of Gratitude Works

The concept of "true giving" is reiterated, emphasizing that the gift itself carries its own reward. The "Law of Gratitude" is presented as a situation where giving energy returns bearing gifts, but not as a hook to extract more than was given. True giving results in immediate happiness, regardless of external consequences, as long as no one else is harmed. Waiting for recognition or a return for a gift indicates being more focused on bonuses than the act of giving itself.

Avoiding the Syndrome

The issue concludes with advice on how to avoid the Rescuer-Victim-Persecutor syndrome. It suggests that when rescuing, one should do so because they want to, enjoy seeing the person free, and feel good about helping. Any return favor should be considered a bonus. The text also touches upon business arrangements, such as charging for services like fixing a tire, as a way to avoid emotional entanglement and the syndrome.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of giving, the importance of clear communication in relationships and exchanges, and the psychological dynamics that can arise from unmet expectations and emotional attachments. The editorial stance, as conveyed through Cosmic Awareness, promotes self-awareness, ethical conduct, and genuine, unattached giving as pathways to personal contentment and healthier relationships. There is a strong emphasis on understanding motivations and defining expectations to prevent conflict and foster genuine connection.

This issue of REVELATIONS OF AWARENESS, identified as issue number 11, explores several profound concepts related to human interaction, spiritual practice, and health. The content is primarily text-based, with a few visual elements including a quote attribution and a small graphic related to patriotism.

The Dynamics of Rescuer, Persecutor, and Victim

The issue begins by examining the prevalent "rescuer-persecutor-victim" triangle in human relationships. It posits that individuals often get caught in these roles, leading to emotional entanglement and a sense of being victimized. The text suggests that Jesus, while a victim, also became a persecutor through the religions created in his name. To avoid this syndrome, it is advised to detach emotionally and avoid expressing things in terms of advice. The core idea is that if an entity is oppressed, they tend to feel victimized, but this only occurs if they become emotional and feel attacked or subordinate.

Mirroring for Communication

A key strategy proposed for communication within this dynamic is to "mirror the action of the other." If someone attempts to persecute you, you can choose to play the role of a persecutor as well, leading to a more direct communication. Similarly, if someone presents as a victim seeking a rescuer, mirroring their victimhood can prompt them to switch roles. The text suggests that when two rescuers encounter each other, they can also get stuck in a loop of trying to help one another. By mirroring, entities are forced to communicate differently and look at themselves and their relationships in a new light, breaking patterned relationships.

Meditation and Material Desires

This section addresses a question from L.P. in Costa Rica regarding whether it is unwise to meditate for material items. The questioner recounts an experience of materializing a house through meditation, which later led to divorce and the pain of selling it. She questions the need to ask God for desires when God already knows what is best. The "Cosmic Awareness" responds by indicating that it is permissible to ask for material items and help, provided the meditation is conditioned with the concept of "Thy Will Be Done." This means asking only if the request is seen as within Divine Will and for one's highest and best. This approach is seen as a way to avoid receiving something that might be a mistake or cause problems.

The Law of Gratitude and Prayer Conditioning

Further elaborating on prayer and requests, the Awareness explains that conditioning a request with the intention that it be for the highest and best, and within the will of God, can alleviate karmic problems. It suggests that simply asking without conditions might lead to receiving something that is not to one's best advantage. The Awareness indicates that while trusting God to provide is sufficient, being specific about desires is also beneficial for personal planning. The concept of "The Law of Gratitude" is mentioned, implying that gratitude plays a role in the process.

Aspirin Use and Health Concerns

The issue then shifts to a discussion about the daily use of aspirin, prompted by a controversy arising from research in 1983 involving male physicians. The research showed that taking aspirin every other day significantly lowered the risk of heart attacks compared to a placebo group. However, the AMA is now reportedly urging companies to stop promoting this research, possibly due to concerns about potential dangers.

How Aspirin Works and Potential Risks

"Cosmic Awareness" explains that aspirin's benefit in reducing heart attack risk is due to its effect on blood platelets, which it loosens, allowing blood to flow more freely. This is described as an "acid effect." The controversy is linked to the concern that aspirin, acting like an acid, can cause sores or lesions, particularly in individuals with insufficient stomach acid, potentially leading to ulcers. There is also a concern that aspirin could affect the brain or bloodstream, causing strokes.

Individualized Approach to Health

The Awareness emphasizes that the effects of aspirin can vary among individuals. For most people who do not experience stomach problems with aspirin, the risk might be lower, and a half-aspirin might suffice. The issue concludes by stating that health matters are individual, and each person must weigh the risks according to their own situation. It is noted that the research specifically excluded women, so its applicability to them is uncertain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around self-awareness, the nature of human relationships, spiritual practices like meditation, and practical health advice. The editorial stance, as conveyed through "Cosmic Awareness," promotes a perspective that encourages individuals to take responsibility for their choices, align their desires with a higher will, and approach health decisions with personal discernment. There is a consistent emphasis on understanding the underlying dynamics of interactions and spiritual pursuits, moving beyond superficial interpretations to deeper self-knowledge and alignment with Divine principles.