STUDY GROUPS

"I have personally watched these study groups work around the world, and in my own living room," says Judith Stevens, who worked with study groups for some 30 years to change things for the betterment of the world. Everyone who goes to these gatherings is encouraged to attend their usual churches on Sunday, but for ways to put into practice what was learned on Sunday, these groups gather weekly or biweekly as a type of practicum for continued spiritual growth in working with and expediting spiritual growth.

Lesson number one carried the title "Cooperation" that I wrote about in my Blog yesterday. Lesson number two is "Know Thyself" which I called, "Self Portrait." in my book "In Touch." Here are some lines from that poem.

Upon the rolling sea of life, Its ebb and flow of tide,
The undulating waves roll on, As depths its secrets hide.
Man too is more than can be seen, The outer skin-bound shell,
A higher being waits to be, Freed from his inner cell.

The one who searches ocean depths, Takes care with diving gear,
He goes for fun or treasure ships, Beneath its surface clear.
With tested gear he plumbs within, Recesses of the deep,
With careful preparations first, So life and health he'll keep.

And all who wish to journey to, The kingdom of the soul,
May wrap around a prayer shield, Of light for good control.
What's furnished to the senses, Their pick-ups magnify,
To touch in meditation's hour, And spirit edify.

The highest value to be gained, And measure of man's mind,
Is will to build eternal self, When its shell is left behind.
A temple rising in the heart, Built up through thoughts and deeds,
That forms the attitudes we take, And precepts that we heed.

Beliefs accepted on the way, Make up an inner core,
When positive, creates success, And opens many doors.
Doors to wisdom, health and wealth, To take whate'er we will,
Belief with practice opens all, And heart's desire fulfilled.