OOOOHHHH......ZZZZZZZ

From: Pluto
Sent: Thursday, September 09
To: Emma
Subject: the hell of it

Hi, I came back to the office because...well it's a long story...anyway I thought I would send you a quickie just for the hell of it.

Anyway, I decided to consult the sage about our common bad days and received #43, Breakthrough /Resolution with no changing lines. This must be an important message since it is the 2nd time we have seen it.

I think it means that it is time for us to turn resolutely against the dark element (within ourselves???) that currently rules the situation and force it out...this should be done by strongly and joyously announcing the "truth" at the "court of the king". I guess we'll have to meditate some more on this one!

Well, I'm off to a game...talk to you tomorrow AM...look forward to the "breakfast" you have waiting for me when I arrive.............lovingly and resolutely, T

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: the hell of it
Date: Fri, 10 Sep

I just had to re-read this....I'm still at home right now but will be leaving in about 30 minutes. I will affirm that we are able to identify the dark elements and resolutely shine the light of truth on them. The only way to banish dark is with light (now is that frikkin profound or what!?!?!?!)

Talk to you soon.............,Emma

----- Original Message -----
From: Emma
To: Pluto
Sent: Thursday, September 09
Subject: Breakfast is served..............

But first your neck massage. Close your eyes, I'm putting warm lotion on my hands, then run my hands on your neck and shoulders, my thumbs pressing into the sides of your neck pressing from the base of your neck up to your skull and back again, now into your shoulder muscles and back again. Imagine this continues for 15 minutes. Now lean your head back while I massage your face (I loooove face massages)......across forehead, down the sides of your face, under eyes and down cheeks, around mouth, back to your forehead paying attention to the area between your eyebrows and down either side of your nose. You start snoring.

Good morning, dear P. Let's plan to have an awesome day today, okay? I'm going to go in late after I stop by a coworker’s house for breakfast. She missed the palace coup yesterday. We walked in the park today while I filled her in and she said, "You know, I watched you in the meeting this morning (policy development committee I'm on with about 30 other people) and you were masterful in presenting what was a controversial issue and how it needed to be resolved. You know what you know and you are calm, articulate and extremely professional in your presentation and one by one the opposition came over to your side. Then I come out here and find out you didn't even get the courtesy of knowing what was happening to your department."

Another friend at work came in and said, "What the fuck is going on? Everyone knows where the problem is and it isn't you."

I'm glad others recognize what is going on.....It at least makes me feel better. Oh well.

I need to take my son off to the store for school supplies that he needs tomorrow that he just remembered! He has to learn how to write his name in Japanese by tomorrow.

How have the soccer games been? I know you are delighted by your kids....as I am by mine.

Talk to you soon....I'll be here until a little before 9 then at work by 10:30 or so...........love, Emma

From: Pluto
To: Emma
Subject: RE: Breakfast is served..............
Date: Fri, 10 Sep

OOOOOOOHHHHHH, don't stop.........zzzzzzzzzz......huh, oh...

Hey, did you get my last e-mail ab.....wait I gotta answer the phone....hey it's you!!.. as always we are operating on the same frequency.

Wish I could have been there for your meeting...sounds like you were awesome!

Soccer was great as always...the other team put a defender on my son man to man for the entire game...I guess his reputation is preceding him. It's nice to know that he's generating that kind of fear and respect. It is awfully frustrating to have somebody in your shorts for 2 hours, though. We managed to win though, despite all this and the team not playing its best. My son is learning how to adjust his game and play with that kind of pressure...it's a great lesson for him.

Can't wait to see what this day will bring for us...I believe it is a major turning point for each of us and our group...and possibly the two of us.(whatever that means!!) It will be interesting to hear what the astrologer has to say about our charts...I can't wait!

It was wonderful to hear your voice this morning...........talk to you later....always, P

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Friday, September 10
To: Pluto
Subject: Can't wait...

.....for you to meet with the astrologer. It should be very interesting, to say the least. I agree about this being a turning point for us individually and collectively.......stay tuned for further developments. I'm trying to see that the events happening at work are not about me, but are about others playing out their control dramas. I can choose to be victimized by this or I can choose to rise above it and continue to walk in the path of spirit. I am asking Spirit to give me a spirit of forgiveness and lovingkindness and to show me how to be of service today.

Hey, I've been wanting to ask you....do you like Sarah Maclachlan's music? I've been listening to her Mirrorball CD and it is lovely....she has incredible range and melodic quality. I was looking back at the personal info surveys we did a few weeks ago and remembered you like women singers. Of course, my women friends and I have some other questions we'd like to see included (such as Boxers or Briefs, favorite book, guiding principles, etc, etc-----don't you think those are important, relevant things???) and we came up with a few other questions but I don't remember what they were (yeah, that's it....I don't remember what they were :-))

Take care, P...............love you, Emma

wet & windy

From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Emma
Subject: I'm back

The email server is back on line.....finally

Hope your run was satisfying. I love the idea of a retreat, and the Rockies is a perfect place...let's continue to manifest it.

The first day of school was uneventful. Afterwards, at soccer practice I had to play ambulance and take the goalkeeper from the team to the ER....dislocated finger. It turned out OK and it looks like he will be able to play in tonight's opener.

It must be hard to not see your son from time to time. My oldest son is living away from home now, and it's very hard to get used to. It doesn't get any easier when they get older.

Still lost in a dream.......love, P


-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: I'm back

Well, I just finished an e-mail to your home addy!! Well, you'll have one there, too.

For the most part, my custody arrangement works pretty well. He's with his dad a week and with me a week. The week he's gone I get to do my own thing...like eat ice cream for dinner, read books, take long hot bubble baths, etc. When he's with me, I'm pretty focused on what he's doing and showering him with lots of love and attention. I tend to be very generous with affection to people close to me...I'm so very Taurus! I can't imagine what it will be like when he goes away to school....he says he wants to go to MIT. I tell him he has to get LOTS of academic scholarships if he's going to do that!!

Ouch on the dislocated finger! My son jammed his index finger the end of school last year and it was swollen and bruised for 2 months. He was bummed because he couldn't grip a golf club!!

I'm thinking seriously about going to San Diego for xmas this year to see some long time friends. My son has never been there and it seems like a good time to get some sunshine. I have to be at work New Year's Eve....yes, you heard right.... Newfrickin Years Eve. We are expecting all hell to break loose. Of course, there's not much I can do so I tell everyone I'll be serving lobster and champagne!

I'm dreaming of a beach retreat with you. Sounds positively awesome. Also dreaming of a mountain retreat...let's create a vision of it and write it down or draw it, okay?.............love you, Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Pluto
Subject: p.s.

I LOVED my Real Astrology horoscope for this week.......erupting with wet and windy brainstorms......kind of reminds me of the weather we had earlier this week!

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Emma
Subject: RE: p.s.

I know....it sounds like something I'd like to be around to witness.(as long as you don't have any wet and windy brainfarts......................I can't believe I just said that...!?!?!?!?)

Anyway.....The New Year's eve lobster and champagne sounds great.....am I invited? Maybe you can call in "sick" and we can do the beach house thing instead.

It's a good idea to start writing these idea seedlings down so they can germinate.... I’m famous for having great ideas that never see reality...I suppose I need someone to give me a kick (I almost "misspelled" that as "kink".... where’s Freud when you need him?) once in a while.....Love, P

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: p.s.

aaaahahaha, I can't believe you said that either!!! You make me laugh! That's a good thing. Sure, come on down for lobster and champagne...nothing like spending New Years' Eve at work to make you feel loved and cherished, huh? Just as your e-mail came in, 2 women walked into my office with the new digital camera we just got for my department and they subjected me to a photo session. I told them to make sure they edit the pictures so I'm totally babe-ilicious! Haha. We'll see what they end up with. These women are so fun to be around...one works in my department and the other one works in IS...she's 25, has 8 tattoos and 22 piercings and she's the one who turned me on to Marianne Williamson. There are some totally awesome people here and that makes it worthwhile.

So you wanna kink in the bee-hind huh? I'll be your cosmic kick in the arse is you'll be mine. But gently, ok? love, Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Emma
Subject:

I'm struggling to understand the Real Astrology column for Scorpio and Sag. It doesn't seem to jive with the go.com one. I can't tell if it's positive or negative, or both.... any ideas.

I must confess I'm feeling a little down today...not sure what the real reason is...anyway thanks for being a light in my life that I can turn to.

Just make sure I get a copy of some of those (unedited) pictures!

Love, P


-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Pluto
Subject: RE:

Oh, sweetie, I'm sorry you're down today. Anything in particular I can do? (caressing) You are a rich spiritual being and the universe has lovely things planned for you. You will be filled with light and goodness. And, I love you dearly.
I also thought the Scorp and Sadge readings were a bit enigmatic. What I got is that others may have a picture of you that isn't real and to follow your own true path. You have the light within you and all you are required to do is honor that and follow that light and all will be well for you and those around you. Not really negative or positive but seems to be, shall we say, a cosmic kick? Stand true to yourself and don't let yourself fall prey to others' fantasies about who you are.

Feel filled with light and healing energy...I am sending it to you each day..................love, Emma (are you sure you wouldn't rather have an edited photo????)

From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Emma
Subject: RE:

You are a very special person, Emma...thank you for your love, faith and light and know that it is returned ten-fold. I couldn't ask for anything more than you've given already.... and, I love you, too. Sometimes my impatience for life can be my undoing...especially when time is the best remedy.

I get your interpretation of the Real Astrology...it sounds appropriate to what is happening for me right now. I'm looking forward to the time when we can have a long afternoon walk and talk about it..........well, someday.

You'll have to send both the edited and unedited versions so I can make an informed decision............. always...P

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Pluto
Subject:

So how do we manifest getting time to walk and talk together all afternoon?

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, September 01
To: Emma
Subject: RE:

That is the question isn't it? I guess this is where the patience part may come in. I have this book called "the inner art of manifestation" or something like that...written by, oh shit, I can't remember his name (something like….David Spangler?)...anyway, he spent many years at Findhorn in Scotland, where they perfected the process of manifestation (he provides many powerful examples). He outlines a real specific, detailed process by which we can make our dreams and desires manifest...I have used it to manifest parking places downtown, for example, and it seems to work.... I seldom have the patience for it, though. I want to share this process with you for this dream of ours...I'll bring the book in to work tomorrow and maybe we can talk on the phone about it. For now we can start by just living with the vision in our minds and hearts. Perhaps add all of the details, colors, smells, ...the sharp light and stark shadows......................after that, we'll just have to see what happens......you know, let go and let god......Love, P

Healing Touch

From: Emma
Sent: Monday, August 30
To: Pluto
Subject:

You would not believe the rain we are getting right now. If I didn't know better, I'd think we were in a hurricane zone. Some hail is coming down as well. There is standing water of about 1-2 inches in the parking lot and it has been raining for only about 10 minutes. Spooky.

I agree, our meeting face2face will come one day; I get a little impatient at times and I know you do too. I enjoy our conversations and guess I have to be content with this means of communication for now...............l, Emma

----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Monday, August 30
To: Emma
Subject: RE:

I am impatient. I also am a very "tactile" and physical person (high bodily-kinesthetic intelligence) ...so sometimes it feels weird to me when I can't put my hand on your shoulder while we talk....but as you say, we'll have to be content with "electronic presence" for now....all things in their own time, I guess.

It does sound spooky...have you ever experienced a hurricane? We had several when I lived on Long Island....it's quite an experience. It's a great excuse for a candlelight dinner.

----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Monday, August 30, 1999 3:52 PM
To: Pluto
Subject: RE:

I, too, am very tactile........but of course, we are. Also very visual. This is new to me too and feels weird because my normal means of communicating.....touch, sight....aren't available right now.

I've never experienced a hurricane, but love candlelight dinners. I've experienced many windstorms and they are no fun. It used to really frighten me when I was a kid. I'm pretty sure I would not like a hurricane all that much! The rain stopped and it is now "dead calm" (wasn't that the title of a Stephen King novel?) I mean there is NOTHING moving out there! This is almost spookier than the monsoon.

Damn, I hate being so impatient.....soon..........Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Monday, August 30
To: Emma
Subject: RE:

You must be thinking of "Dead Zone"...which of course makes it even spookier!

Hurricanes can be really scary....usually you lose power, trees fall down, windows break. It must be a lot like a windstorm...but with lots of rain.

So, there must be some cosmic message in this "dead zone" you have there....any ideas??...........P

p.s. I really hate being impatient, too

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Monday, August 30
To: Pluto
Subject: RE:

cosmic message? Hmmmm.....not sure I want to know! I think I read the Dead Zone, though, before I got too creeped out to read Stephen King.

Just had a conversation with some supervisors...we may be heading for a lawsuit on the part of one of our trainees who is not doing well. That will be ugly.

Waaaaa....I wanna go home in 15 minutes! Have a great evening.......love,Emma


-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Pluto
Subject: End of the Day

Well, if you can just stay awake for another 30 minutes or so, you can go home!! Have a great evening........I enjoyed talking with you today and getting/giving healing touch. ................ love, Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Emma
Subject: RE: End of the Day

I know...but it seems like hours from now. I always enjoy our conversations and especially the healing touch.........but the hugs are my favorite....Love, P

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: End of the Day

okay, well one more to keep you going until tomorrow...........ready........assume the position ............................love, Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Emma
Subject: RE: End of the Day

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh.................you're the best... do you think we can keep this up till September (the mega-month)??

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: End of the Day

I have no doubt we can keep this up (so to speak) until September.......I'm just scared of what will happen then!! hahahahahahahahahahaha...............talk to you tomorrow.

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Tuesday, August 31
To: Emma
Subject: RE: End of the Day

Me too!..............till tomorrow, P

A visceral sense

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject:
Date: Fri, 20 Aug

Hi again.....thanks for the note. It felt really good to get home and have a note from you. Today at the Women of Power healing I had several very interesting and intense things happen. One was a woman saying she was very worried about my work and my workplace.....without her knowing much of anything about it. She picked it up energetically through some of the work we did. Another thing was this incredible visceral sense about you and being connected to you which I don't really understand. And that maybe we will do some work about that at some point. And that I really want to do eyeballs.

So....for whatever that is worth..........love Emma


Date: Sat, 21 Aug
To: Emma
From: Pluto
Subject: Re:

This workshop sounds like a powerful experience...you'll have to tell me more about it. Maybe we can "do voices" again this coming week sometime.

So, a visceral sense, huh? I think you hit it on the head when you asked "are we the same person??" in one of your previous e-mails. I think we'll discover more about what this really means as time progresses.....'tis a mystery!...........It is exciting, though, isn't it?...and confusing, and fun, and .....?

Please take care of yourself at work! It sounds like some very strong energy...especially if people are picking upon it out of the blue. Let me know if there is anything I can do...and remember I am here for you.

Hope your weekend is perfect....Love, P


-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Sunday, August 22
To: Pluto
Subject: Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Hello, my friend. Thank you for your e-mail and words of encouragement. I'm not sure what you can do except to be the wonderful support you are. This connection is important to me and I value you as part of me. The visceral sense I got about you on Friday was as if you were there, in the room with me or somehow within me.

I'm still reeling from all the stuff I experienced Friday. I had to come home and take a nice long walk with the dog Friday evening and I had a headache all day yesterday. It was kind of a low-grade thing that niggled all day long. Went to a potluck with some of my AA homies last night and laughed uproariously at silly shit from the past and present. One of the things I'm most grateful for these days is the ability to find humor in most all areas of life.....particularly the ability to laugh at myself.

Trust you had a good weekend. Did you take your son to NY for school? Lots of people are doing that this time of year. Autumn always feels like a time of new beginnings to me.

I probably won't go to SF until the end of September. Like most government agencies, they can't get their shit together to move very fast. We'll see what pans out.....perhaps it's like you said and a distraction from my true path......in which case the universe will see to it that I don't get distracted.... because that's what universe has done for the last 2 years...... removed everything from my life that was keeping me from following my path. A relationship was removed from my life (which I had struggled to hang on to for the 2 prior years); my home was removed as an obstacle to my path (and replaced with one that is perfect for me); my birth family was eliminated as a source of attachment; etc. I have had to rely on Spirit and nothing else for guidance. Finally, I guess spirit said, "Ok, I'll give you some people in your life who will help you on your path, but they'll all live really, really far away so you don't forget that you must look within for the Source."

Wow.....how did I get off on that riff??

I like my life and am at peace. I really crave companionship at times, though, but I don't think I'm supposed to be in any kind of romantic relationship right now. I'll have to be content with good friends for now......I certainly don't want to "push the river" on that part of my life......I always make a mess when I do!! :-)

Sheesh! This is just getting worse instead of better! I'd better shut up for now or I'll blurt out my entire life! Must be part of the residual from my powerful day....I'm getting way too open here.

Take care, Universal P and stay in touch........................love, Emma

----- Original Message -----
From: Pluto
To: Emma
Sent: Monday, August 23
Subject: RE: Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Boy, just when it started getting good you stopped opening up....only kidding. Don't ever worry about censoring what you say to me, though. With relationships that are as old as ours is (now there's something to think about!), and as deeply connected as we are, it's hard to be anything but open. Such connections can be scary as hell, but hey...I'm a sucker for a good roller coaster or Stephen King novel. Sometimes I think the river of our lives hits the white water rapids and the "pushing" that we do is to try to get it to stop. In any case, it's best to pull your paddle out of the water and just enjoy the ride.

I think romantic relationships are, by definition, messy. I am hopelessly romantic and sentimental and sometimes the lines between friends and lovers become a little fuzzy. Imagine the messes I've created!!

Don't stop getting off (that wasn't a Freudian slip, was it??...) on all those "riffs".... it's wonderful to hear them. As far as staying in touch is concerned...just try and stop me (the river) ...............love, P

Deepening

From: Pluto
To: Emma
Subject: RE: Good Morning
Date: Tue, 3 Aug

Here is today's quote for you:

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."--Alan Watts

Love, P.........have a perfect day!

p.s. in case you're curious, one place I get many of the quotes I use is from a book called Zen and the Art of Making a Living by Lawrence Boldt...a great career "planning" guide.

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Tuesday, August 03
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: Good Morning

I have that book!!! This is so amazing.....I love the connections we continue to discover.

Love the quote from Alan Watts. I will carry that with me today as I plunge into the changes ahead. Thanks..............love, Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, August 04
To: Pluto
Subject: Gifts from the Universe

Hello, my friend..........it was fun to talk with you this morning even if by e-mail. I had a great day, thanks in part to you. It was great to be downtown again, and I realize how much I miss the energy and vitality of downtown. I worked there for 7 years and felt really part of the downtown community.

On a break today, I took my camera in to see if it could be fixed. The place I usually go moved a block or so and they don't fix cameras. So I walked back to the office building where I was working via a different route. As I stopped for a light (rare for me, but there were cars) a very young man approached me and asked if I live here. I said, "yes" and turned away.....I saw he was holding some books; he asked if I am an artist (I was holding camera) and I said "somewhat;" he said he had some books to share with me. The light changed and I said "that's nice but I have to be somewhere." And I walked off. For 2 blocks it bugged me.......I am looking for synchronous events, I am asking to be open to messages from the universe and I blew off what could have been someone I needed to talk to. So I turned around and went back and said, "I think I'm supposed to talk to you for some reason. And yes, I am an artist." He said, "I knew that." We then got into a conversation about purity of consciousness and intent. I talked a bit about the project and he merely reminded me of having a pure purpose and to do this without expecting anything in return. He of course wanted to give me the books in exchange for a donation, but I didn't have any cash. So he gave me a flyer about his ashram and his e-mail address. I may contact him in the future.

At least I didn't let this go by. I have a friend here who says, "Sometimes a doorknob is just a doorknob." Maybe this was just a doorknob......or maybe it is encouragement and reminder that this isn't about me. Now there's a concept..........something in the universe that isn't about ME??? Well!

I've also started a journal about the Face of God.

The book, Synchronicity (Joseph Jaworski) is great....and that's just the intro by Senge! In it he talks about fundamental shifts of mind that are necessary. He talks about, "...a shift from seeing a world made up of things to seeing a world that's open and primarily made up of relationships, where whatever is manifest, whatever we see, touch, feel, taste, and hear, whatever seems most real to us, is actually nonsubstantial. A deeper level of reality exists beyond anything we can articulate....... When this fundamental shift of mind occurs, our sense of identity shifts, too, and we begin to accept each other as legitimate human beings.......when we start to accept this fundamental shift of mind, we begin to see ourselves as part of the unfolding. We also see that it's actually impossible for our lives not to have meaning."

He also uses some of Bohm's work and talks about the "flow of meaning." Pretty awesome stuff, huh?

Hope you're loving life right now..........I am, too............................love, Emma

----- Original Message -----
From: Pluto
To: Emma
Sent: Wednesday, August 04
Subject: RE: Gifts from the Universe

Hi...It was nice to have your e-mail waiting for me when I arrived at work today. I don't look forward to coming to the office much anymore, but our conversations are a bright light in my day.... thank you. Your experience downtown reminded me of a quote from Albert Einstein that is one of many on my office wall..."There are two ways to live your life, one is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as if everything is." It seems to me it's always a choice. Lately I've been feeling as if there are few choices open to me, but I know that for the things that matter in life, there is always choice.

Life is indeed a miracle...thanks for reminding me that it takes no effort at all to love it.

I need to ask a favor of you. There is an area of my life that is sorely in need of a miracle. Without going into details now (I’ll share it with you sometime), I need your help in channeling some miraculous energy towards this "issue." I've been blocked or clouded in this area and I'm hoping that by asking you (and the universe) for help it may clear the way for some healing and transformation to take place. So, if you would please join me in asking the universe to shine its abundance on me, I know that my path will soon open up.

yours.........P

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: Gifts from the Universe
Date: Wed, 4 Aug 1999 07:04:44 -0700

Of course, my friend.....I will ask for miraculous healing and transformation in this area of your life. Consider it done. I'm reading Marianne Williamson's Return to Love and she talks a lot about miracles and asking for them. I've used it to help me through some stubborn attachments in my life.

I'm sorry work is not fulfilling for you. I've talked a bit about my work and the frustrations I have with it, so I understand your feelings. It is a struggle. Maybe that's part of why we were to come together....so we could support one another through these times and into new ways of living and experiencing life. You do sound a bit down today, so I hope you are taking care of yourself. Perhaps hanging out is exactly what's called for.

Just remember 2 things my dear friend: You will have everything you need when you need it (but probably not before). AND, you are God's most favorite child (we all are.)

I am in interviews again this morning then at the office for meetings in the afternoon. I'll be here for a while yet, so If you want to write back, I'll be here. Take care, Pluto and be gentle with yourself.

Sending you peace and love............Emma

p.s. I'm gonna have to hurt you for planting that song in my head yesterday....yes, it was Petula Clark. Now it's here again today. Peace and light

Here. Now

From: Emma
To: Pluto, T---, C---
Subject: Silent Exchange

Silent Exchange

Settling down to meditate
in my book-lined alcove,
I gaze at Buddha on the shelf,
sitting palms up, cross-legged, calm.
What is he? Where is his mind?

Deep oceans roll between us,
the Buddha and me,
even though his cast iron likeness
is solidly planted before my eyes
among amethysts and books.

His sloping shoulders and benign face
reveal a radiant humility
surely possible to humanity,
yet seldom found in bodily beings.

Where is your mind, Lord Buddha?

Your focus seems a thousand miles within
as you meditate here
in silent serenity.

May I somehow join your journey?
What must I do to walk your path?

A sunbeam shines now
through the nearby window
and rests on Buddha's heart.

"Look within," he whispers innerly.

"Look within for a pattern of being
that will respond to your aspirations.
Consciousness is supple and supportive
if you discover and respect its laws.

"Bliss abides in every inch of space,
and will be found hidden in the obvious.

"Master nature by obeying her perfectly.
Examine her ways, ask her secrets,
and use her for the benefit of all.
Blessings accrue to the workman
who skillfully unfolds a subtle pattern,
then shapes from it a living temple to truth.

"You live in the pattern
and the pattern lives in you,
as the flower hides a seed
and the seed hides a flower.

"Proceed now into your peace,
into your meditation.
Leave my sunlit statue here
and turn to your inner light.

"Slip softly into the shining sea
of possibilities,
releasing love into life
as life releases you into love.

"I will be here when you return."

--Alan Harris

From: T---
Sent: Friday July 29
To: Emma
Subject: Silent Exchange

“Where is your mind, Lord Buddha?”

Here. Now.

Something Bigger!!

From: Pluto
Sent: Saturday July 24
To: Emma
Subject: Something Big!


From: Pluto
Sent: Saturday July 24
To: Emma
Subject: something bigger!!

Hi, Sorry about the previous non-message. I hit the wrong key and pre-maturely, well...you know.

So, what mega-event is about to happen?? Everything seems to point to that. Anyway, I wanted to say that the Xena quality you left out, but you seem to me to exemplify is "courage". From what you told me about your past (thank you for trusting me enough to share that with me) strength and courage must be strong in you. I think you are well prepared for whatever huge cosmic happening is about to transpire. Perhaps that is the prime "gift" you bring to our soul group.

Well, I've got to go and do the next right thing(housework).

with love from the tower......P


From: Emma
Sent: Saturday July 24
To: Pluto
Subject: Something Bigger!!

hahahahahahahaha

----- Original Message -----
From: Pluto
To: Emma
Sent: Saturday, July 24

Well, again I feel as though I’ve said something stupid or insensitive (am I being silly??) I know you are dealing with shifting energy, and I know how hard that can be. Please believe me about the courage thing...I said it with all sincerity because it is something I have felt in you and I know is there...whether you know it or not....trust me on this.

faithfully...P

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject:
Date: Sat, 24 Jul

Pluto, Pluto, Pluto....you are a dear and I love you. No you haven't done anything silly or insensitive.

I was laughing at the "premature" comment you made. :-) It just struck me as very funny and I laughed.

I don't take life all that seriously these days and I especially don't take myself too seriously. You are right, I do have courage and I forget to acknowledge that at times. Thank you for recognizing it and for reminding me of it. Sometime I will tell you more of my story. It will either leave you laughing your butt off or weeping (or both).

I would also like to do some past life stuff with you. I think it could be a powerful experience.....I have never done any past life work but think that is part of my future.

I'm going off now to meet someone face2face that I've talked to in the chat room. She owns a meta physical store in Beaverton, the next town west from me and about 10 minutes from my house. Amazing, huh?

Then my son and I are going to an open house a new friend. He moved here from Denver in January and he and his partner are now settled into their new home. Today is the party. I won't be home probably until about 7 p.m. PDT, but will send you e-mail tonight or tomorrow. I like our connection.

Pluto, please don't worry about offending me or pissing me off or saying something insensitive. If you ever do, I will tell you. Trust that. I know we are still working around the edges of our friendship and have also experienced some incredibly intimate connections. I honor your spirit of gentleness and openness and love you for it.

Peace, my brother and soul mate...........Emma

From: Pluto
Sent: Saturday July 24
To: Emma
Subject: Re: Something Big??

Yes indeed. It still awes me. Our common roots must run deep. It might be worth exploring someday with someone who works with past lives.

P.S. I've got to run a couple of errands....see you in an hour or so....P

I just sent you mail and here is one from you.............are we connected or what???

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject: You Ok?
Date: Sat, 24 Jul

I'm worried that you're not okay with our e-mails today. Part of the frustration for me with e-mail is that tone doesn't get transferred very well.

Let me know what you need........I want our friendship and connection to continue and grow. You are pretty awesome, Pluto................love, Emma

From: Pluto
To: Emma
Subject: I'm OK
Date: Mon, 26 Jul

Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I was out most of Sunday and didn't check my e-mail until this morning.

I can be quite naive at times. While my innocence is a positive quality sometimes, it also can get in the way. Thank you for being so understanding, and I apologize for distracting you from your more immediate issues. You are a great friend and I love the connection we've discovered.

I too have difficulty "reading" emails. It's impossible to really look into someone's eyes and sense their body language to get the real meaning of what they are saying or feeling. I am a very tactile and visual person to start with, so I wind up at quite a disadvantage with email. Bottom line is, it would be great to have a more "complete" means of communicating with each other. Oh well, everything in it's own time.

So...are you OK? I get the sense that you are dealing with some weird energy...and lots of it. Remember that chaos is the natural process of change and transformation. If you remain open it can result in positive changes. But, "chaos in the middle feels like failure", so it's important to keep the lines of communication flowing (even though I might grossly misread it!). The power of your relationships is what carries you through to the other side, and I believe that the universe gives you the ones you need exactly when you need them. That's one of the reasons why we were brought together at this time.

So, even though I may get confused from time to time, I will be there for you.

Love.................P


P.S. Relationships are a pisser, aren't they?.........you gotta love it!

we meet...

From: Pluto
Subject: hmmmmmmmm
Date: Mon, 19 Jul

Emma, It's great that you were able to find a good used copy of the I Ching book, and to find the workbook as well. I'm sure they'll serve as able and trusty guides for you.

Don't worry about getting too 'woo-woo'. I go to work each day in a place where it's politically incorrect to have faith in such things and it's comforting to be able to communicate regularly with someone who is uninhibited about it.

I re-read an e-mail from you last weekend, about your visit to the beach. I got a strong impression that it's someplace I've been before. I've never been to Oregon, but the feeling was there none-the-less. You just go....hmmmmmmmm.

It would be wonderful to meet you in Denver (Vail would be preferable). Somehow I know that the 'physical' meeting of our group (and you and I) will be one of those "cruxes" in time and space. You know...one of those times around which you define 'before and after'. Perhaps this is when we will awaken to the "reality" we seek.

Well, gotta go......perhaps we'll "do voices" later today...I think I have your number at work...Love.... Pluto


From: Pluto
Sent: Monday, July 19
To: Emma
Subject:

E,

Well, it was great to finally hear your voice. I must tell you that your voice has a very soothing, familiar quality for me. I'm not sure what this means, but perhaps that is what we will discover as our group progresses toward its true purpose. I think as time goes on, we will discover that we are connected in many more ways than we know.

Anyway, the question that comes up for me now is: What does the universe want/need from us?...and...What does each of bring to our group, that when combined becomes so powerful that the world will never be the same? Learning the answers to these questions is no small task. We took a small step towards that today. I think the key will be in the relationships. We can't know completely what we are called to do together until we explore what being together means for us.

For now, I just want to bask in the joy of connecting.

So...remember...'a whole few watermelon'!......love, Pluto

From: Emma
Sent: Monday, July 19
To: Pluto
Subject: RE:

Thank you for your kind words. I am often told I bring a calming influence and am very soothing. It is a useful attribute. Your questions are excellent and should be posed to the group. I for one will begin thinking about them...........E

From: Pluto
To: T---, Emma, C---
Subject: more questions
Date: Tue, 20 Jul 1999 07:55:20 -0400

Fellow soul groupies,

These questions came up for me after Emma and I talked yesterday:

What does the universe want/need from us?...and...What does each of us bring to our group, that when combined becomes so powerful that the world will never be the same? Each of us has been on an individual journey up to now, gaining unique skills and experiences along those paths......why?... What draws us together now? So, I believe we now need to explore our relationships in order to come to full understanding of our individual gifts. I think it's essential that we continue this dialogue to "hold up the mirror" for each other.

I don't expect that the answers will be easily arrived at, but I believe it is ultimately a question of purpose.

(By the way, if we're going to be the "Fantastic Four", I want to be the guy who can turn his body into a ball of fire)

with love and light.............Pluto

From: T---
To: Pluto, Emma, C---
Subject: RE: more questions
Date: Tue, 20 Jul

Sorry, Big Pluto,

The Fantastic Four only had one woman. I don't think Emma or C--- are interested in being that Rock dude.

T---

From: Emma
To: Pluto
Subject: Re: more questions
Date: Tue, 20 Jul

This isn't an answer, but another question. In last night's meditation, I was guided to ask the universe a question. So my question was, "How can I be of service?" What I got back, resoundingly and unequivocally was, "Be love." I was reminded that T--- posed that very question a while back by asking each of us to think about what it means to "be love." I'd like to add this to the questions.

p.s. can I be the yellow power ranger?

love and light..............Emma

Is It Real or Illusion? Is Anything?

From: Pluto
Sent: Monday July 19
To: Emma
Subject: illusion

Emma

I had an "interesting" encounter with illusion this weekend. As I told you, I received the dragonfly medicine card the other day. The root of the dragonfly's meaning has to do with recognizing the things in your life which are illusions. I was sitting in my backyard yesterday when a dragonfly began to fly back and forth in front of me. I thought, well, that's an interesting coincidence (knowing full well that there are no coincidences...like the bicycle built for two!) Anyway, I went inside and sat down to watch a movie with my son...which, of all things, turned out to be 'The Truman Show'. Here's a guy whose whole life turns out to be one enormous illusion, and he finally musters the courage to confront it and transcend it...by holding tight to the memory of the only taste of reality he ever had, and turning it into a quest for truth.

I couldn't help but see myself (our group???) as Truman. Having to decide between the safety and security of his false world and the fear and unknowing that goes with it. So, I wonder...which part of my world is the illusion here? Where does this "soul group" fit in? Are these questions that all of us in the group are dealing with? I suppose that is why the question 'what's next?' comes up so often. It is really the question 'is this real?' in disguise.

I guess I have to remember this quote: "When you have come to the edge of all of the light you know, faith is knowing one of two things will happen--you will find solid ground under your feet, or you will be taught how to fly."

Love, P

From: Emma
Sent: Monday July 19
To: Pluto
Subject: Re: illusion

Pluto, your thoughts and insights are profound. I will need to spend some time reflecting on "Is this real?" I have been talking with a few others about the group, because my life is pretty much an open book and it is uppermost in my mind. My silent witness observes some reluctance (fear?) about the group. I wonder if it is because it is something I really want (and the wanting, in itself can cause things to go away from us rather than approach us). Maybe the group should talk about that question and talk about what does “real” look like when it comes to this group.

I think the connections between us are real, and I think our visions are real. You know, believing is seeing, so what is it that each of us sees? That might get to what we believe which would get to what is real for each of us. And then, if we create our reality, what is it we are creating? (This is almost getting a little too Gertrude Stein for me!!!)

The Truman Show is a great metaphor for the blindness with which we accept our surroundings, our blindness to the truth. He had that ache to know the Truth and didn't let anyone dissuade him from his search. There was something inside that kept him seeking. You know, the Buddhists say, "That which you are seeking is causing you to seek." Something is causing our group to seek one another and to seek community. My horoscope for this week talked about "dream your dream home (designing my life?), feed your roots, build your community (the soul group?)." I also believe we are in a time of deep introspection and are being called to let go of everything that holds us (mercury is in retrograde right now and my numerology chart says that's what I get to do for the next 18 months.) [Silent witness: as I read over that, it sounds way to woo-woo, AND I think there is truth to it.]

I see us meeting face to face. I will likely go to Denver in late September - early October to take care of some business and visit with my mom. I'm also very hopeful at continuing training with BCAL in the next year. I did an I Ching reading this morning about successfully bringing DALS into my agency and I got #9 Small Influences (Wilhelm/Baynes calls it The taming power of the small) but it seemed positive in that if I am watchful, don't try to push the river, but quietly work to incorporate the principles of DALS into MY work and my department's work, I'll have the opportunity to influence the outcome slowly. If I try for big changes, it will all fail. It changes to #61, Centering in Truth - I get from this a willingness to "see" not just "look." Interestingly, I have been affirming for the last 2-3 days, "Just for today, I will let go of my judgment of everything which occurs."

I found a used copy of the Wilhelm/Baynes book Third Edition in perfect condition. I also got the workbook. This is awesome stuff.

I want to go work in my yard for a bit. I'm feeling the need to be in nature and feel the richness and abundance of those gifts. It's also time to water some plants :-)

Take care, dear Pluto. I look forward to the time we meet and talk face to face. Even voice-to-voice would be good.

Love....................Emma

A Powerful Connection Emerges...

As the dialogue around the "soul group" continues, Pluto and Emma are sensing something unique developing between them. They start exchanging emails between only the two of them and a powerful force begins to emerge...though neither of them are willing to admit it yet.

From: Pluto
Sent: Friday, July 16
To: Emma
Subject: RE: Your Dream

Do you ever wonder how it could be that we are so "attuned" with one another? I know that "understanding is the booby prize", but it is quite uncanny, isn't it? The workings of the "universe" never cease to amaze me. I suppose we should just continue to relax and enjoy the ride (especially since we're not driving the bus anyway!)

I haven't read the Jaworski book, but I have heard of it. Let me know if it's worth getting. If you're interested in leadership stuff, you should read "Sacred Hoops' by Phil Jackson, former Chicago Bulls coach. Whether or not you are a basketball fan, there are some wonderful insights and details of his "unique" approach to coaching.

Have you attended the BCAL leadership workshop? I don't know what they call it now; it used to be Quantum Leadership. I facilitated a bunch for the State of Colorado 2 years ago. There is some great stuff in it...kind of an expanded DALS, but not...if you know what I mean. The model is very close to Meg Wheatley's vision of organizational behavior...it's one of those things that when you hear it, it just resonates and you say...of course. Have you read any of Wheatley's books... "Leadership and the New Science" or "A Simpler Way"?

Anyway, I'm rambling. I'm looking forward to hearing about the I Ching book you got and your further adventures with "the sage".

Love, Pluto

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Friday, July 16
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: Your Dream

You know, it used to just amaze me at how attuned I can be with another. I don't think the feeling has been as strong as with this group, however. And with someone I've never met face to face. At first, I was just blown away, but now I expect those connections. The Tibetan belief of how soul groups are formed makes more and more sense to me as we continue this journey.

I haven't attended any but the initial DALS workshop although this week I wrote down all the things I want for my life (like T---'s description of designing a life) and put on my list that I want to attend all of the BCAL training and become certified as a facilitator. I am so drawn to the principles it embodies because it is so absolutely consistent with my principles and values and how I want my life to be. You're right, "Understanding is the booby prize." I believe I had to go to the DALS training (about which I was initially lukewarm - until after the first hour) to connect with C--- and T---, so I could connect with you, so I could finally feel like there is a place where I belong, so I could begin to manifest all the good in my life, so I could own my power and use it to help others so I could......... and on and on.

I think the 4 of us need to "do eyeballs." (Meet face2face). I'm not willing to push the river on this and know that it will happen in the fullness of its time. I am enjoying the leisure and ease with which I am getting to know you. It feels really nice and right. What I imagine will happen is that T--- will end up in Denver, C--- is in Boulder, I go to Denver a few times a year to care for an aging ex-mother-in-law, and you will come out to do something with BCAL. It will be seamless and easy.

I haven't read any of Meg Wheatley's books but want to. Have you read Leading with Soul by Bolman and somebody else? I also really like the Tao of Personal Leadership by Diane Deher. My view of leadership is that it is the area where I can evoke in others the knowledge of their own power and connectedness. I try to hire the best people I can, then I keep everyone else out of their way so they can excel, while at the same time assisting them in growing and developing in their richness. I am now rereading Deepak Chopra's 7 Spiritual Laws of Success because my doctor on Monday said, "It really is how energy works." I can't wait to dive headfirst into Synchronicity and the I Ching. Should be fun and I'll make a full report!!

......................peace and love...........Emma

From: Pluto
Sent: Friday, July 16
To: Emma
Subject: RE: Your Dream

I agree with you about the doing of eyeballs...a few e-mails ago I hinted at it (another one of my what's next messages). This seemed to stir up something that was before its time. T--- called me shortly after that wondering what the heck I was talking about...so...yes, we shouldn't push the river here. I'm reminded of an analogy that my astrologer friend gave me about how we are getting through these lives of ours: we are riding on a bicycle built for 2, but we are on the back seat. We have to work hard, but we don't have our hands on the steering wheel.

No, I haven't read Leading with Soul, but I've heard of it. I will take a look at it.

By the way, you are a truly amazing and insightful person and I'm looking forward to the time when the river brings the 4 of us together. My instincts tell me it may be sooner than any of us are consciously ready for.

Love, Pluto

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Friday, July 16
To: Pluto
Subject: RE: Your Dream

I read your last message then we went to a fast food joint for onion rings. When we got there, there was a very high-tech bicycle build for 2.....how weird is that?

Yes I AM amazing and insightful :-) I also think we will meet soon................love.......Emma

-----Original Message-----
From: Pluto
Sent: Friday, July 16
To: Emma
Subject: RE: Your Dream

Somehow I'm not surprised at all. But of course now I really want some onion rings. Perhaps we should meet somewhere over a plate of them........love...Pluto

The Face of God

-----Original Message-----
From: Emma
Sent: Thursday, July 08
To: T---, Pluto, C---
Subject: RE: The Kingdom of God is Within You

Well, T---, you really pulled my covers on the "Face of God" thing. I'm happy to share it with the group because it has been on my mind very strongly the last couple of weeks.

Now for the story: About 12 or 13 years ago, when I was married, my in-laws were visiting from Colorado. We took them downtown to an open-air market one weekend just to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and local artisans. The area of downtown where this market is located borders Old Town and is a haven for homeless, street people, alcoholics, etc. The park, which runs along the waterfront especially in this area, is a place for street people to congregate or to sleep on park benches. While there, we saw an old, battered man in dirty, urine stained clothes sleeping either on a park bench or propped against a trash can. I pointed to the man and said to my in-laws, "See that man? He has the face of God."

That has percolated ever since and about 18 months ago crystallized into the idea of creating a photographic exhibit entitled, "The Face of God" with high contrast Black & White portraits of street people, children, old people, showing the face of god in all of us. As T--- says, the kingdom of god is within us. My vision is to have this be a traveling exhibit where it could be used to collect donations for homeless shelters, food for the homeless, whatever good could come of it. It is about healing and transformation. I sometimes attend a Quaker meeting and I value their commitment to social justice, peace and the environment and I know that is a place where the exhibit could be viewed. I don't want to limit the Universe or the possibilities for this project, but the Guggenheim seems a bit on the far other end of the scale :-).

What do I need to manifest this project? Belief that it is possible for me to create this. Thank you, T---, for reminding me I am not alone and don't have to do this alone. I have a loving supportive soul group to assist. Please help me manifest this project with good intentions for healing part of our world. As I said in an earlier e-mail, last night's meditation for me was on the 8th insight from the Celestine meditations (why is it I am unable to do that meditation without weeping?)

I want to share a dream I had last night. I have profound dreams from time to time and this feels like one of them. In this dream I was in an environment that seemed similar to where I grew up – C--- will relate because she knows where that is and had a similar growing up experience. There were 4 of us (the soul group?) together traveling into the mountains and we were well prepared for the journey, taking with us items we thought would be useful, but we also knew that we would be given everything we needed in its time. We were being carried up the mountain, but not in a vehicle. At times, I was being carried by one or more of the others; at times I was carrying others. But the mountains were incredible. There were designs placed on the ground in the most brilliant colors of precious and semi-precious stones, designs pointing the way to go, designs indicating places to rest, there was even another person at one of the resting places who looked at us and said, "19 million dollars." (That certainly caught my attention!!) And we walked on with joy and delight and fellowshipand innocence until Yoda, my kitten, bit my foot.

Peace, light and love.............Emma

What Does It Look Like to Be Love?

-----Original Message-----
From: T---
Sent: Thursday, July 08
To: Pluto, Emma
Subject: The Kingdom of God is Within You

Hello from the clouds!I am writing you from 30,000 ft., high above Ohio...or is that Indiana down there. It's so hard to tell without those little dotted lines dividing us into "us and them."

C---, I'm sure you've been brought into the conversation by now, but since it has been 12 hours or more since I checked my e-mail, I don't know what has transpired. To bring you up to date, Pluto, Emma and I have been having a conversation surrounding the idea of a soul group and what we bring together as a team.

I go back to a meeting C---, Pluto and I attended a few years ago... affectionately known as the "be" meeting. In that meeting (Emma, I think I told you about that meeting before), a fellow named Sam challenged us to "be" before we "do." Well, the soul group is, now, so it's time to do the "vision" thing. As Pluto has pointed out, we create the field. Who are we? How do we identify that?

I believe the answer lies in our shared values. What values resonate with all of us? Notice that the question is NOT, "what values will make us the most money?" nor is it, "what values will corporations be able to get behind?" But, instead, what values do we resonate with? That way, when we can focus our energy together on a core set of values, we increase the resonance exponentially. As we increase the resonance, we attract others into the soul group. And yet, there will always be the core soul group.

For example, I can totally see Rosa (whatever her last name is) coming into the conversation. She could grow the soul group into the international realm. Yet, I know Rosa has her own vision and values that will take her to other places that we as a group will not go. So the soul group is like concentric rings of light, going out from a single source. Each ring of light is no less bright than the original group. How can that be? If I have a candle and I light your candle, will your candle burn any dimmer than mine? So we keep the bright light burning by giving it away. (Am I rambling on? Well that's OK, I just want to capture these thoughts while they're with me.)

So, how do we create the field? By identifying a core set of values and then focusing our energy (meditation?) on the core values. Then the field grows, and we resonate in a way that others are attracted into the conversation. This doesn't have to look like a business. In fact, I see many businesses spinning out of the core group. For example, Emma, I've been really seeing in my mind's eye the idea you had for "The Face of God." Will you please share that vision with the others? Also, would you like to do some investigating to see what it will take to get that project done? And then if you will share your needs with the group, I may be interested in participating.

This doesn't mean that we go off on half-baked business ideas. But...I'm getting ahead of myself again. Before we can do, we must figure out who we are (the be thing). What are our core values? Maybe we can each name a core value, and describe in detail what that value looks like to us. When I think of each of you, what is it about you that attracts me to you?

The primary and overriding value that is behind all of this is Love. When I think of each of you, I think of love. Each of you is loving and giving. What does that look like? Hmmmmmm..... Well, it doesn't necessarily mean that we spend all of our time communicating with each other on a physical plane. But it does mean that, even when we are not communicating physically, we are communicating spiritually. We are connected. It means that everything we do must pass the test of service..."Does this serve?" Service seems to be closely linked to love. Love is the litmus test of everything we do.

When we are loving, everything we do is from our higher selves and causes the higher self of the other person to be evoked.

How else do you see this service of Love? How would you describe it? What does it look like to be Love?

T---

Buzz-Buzz......Doh!

From: Emma
To: Pluto T--- C---
Subject: A response of sorts
Date: Wed, 7 Jul

Dear Pluto, T--- and C---,

I think we believe this is a pivotal time for something to come together. T---'s description is that we are forming a soul group and the 4 of us are part of it....I believe there are likely others as well.

The Tibetans talk about how soul groups are formed (not the kind you see on Soul Train). Essentially, at times a group of souls "come through" together and share a common mission or purpose. Those souls often go on to other lives, etc and lose track of one another. When people make solid connections like we have, it is often because of the soul group they share. The Tibetans also talk about how to recognize those members, but I think intuitively, we know because of the work we have individually and collectively done.

I, too, am delighted at the prospect of continuing our conversation in the hopes that “What's next?" becomes clearer. I believe that Spirit will reveal to us what's next if our intentions are pure. Pluto, I believe you're right that we have been brought together for a purpose, and through mindfulness we will understand what that purpose is. I believe my purpose if to “provide healing to my community.”

Intuition is the place within us that you talk about, Pluto; that place where real learning, change and transformation occurs.....it isn't outside us. When I am centered, when I have conscious contact with Spirit/Universe, my intuition is at the forefront of my energy. That is the place of power, the place where we are able to evoke or invite others to participate.... through their own willingness (fearlessness?) to center.

Let's fearlessly open our minds and hearts to the opportunities and gifts that the Universe provides in each moment. And...let's continue our discussions. A little scary perhaps, but I feel great anticipation at the possibilities.

Peace and light to you all.... Emma

From: Emma
To: Pluto, T---, C---
Subject: Addendum to previous e-mail...courtesy of the universe
Date: Wed, 7 Jul

Tonight's meditation is (serendipitously?) on the 8th insight from The Celestine Prophesies: Forming spiritual groups (soul groups?) for the purpose of utilizing our energy to create healing and transforming.

In the words of Homer Simpson, "Doh!"

From: T---
To: Emma, Pluto, C---
Subject: RE: A response of sorts
Date: Thu, 8 Jul

As I read this e-mail, spirit checked me and said, "Quit saying 'what's next.' Start saying 'what's now?' Emma, I like your, "to provide healing to my community." Mine is "to facilitate spiritual growth." What about you, Pluto and C---, what is your mission?

From: Pluto
To: T---, Emma, C---
Subject: do-be-do-be-doo
Date: Thu, 8 Jul

I learned when I was 5 from the children's TV show 'Romper Room' that my mission is to "do be a 'do-bee' "

Buzz-buzz, Pluto

The Words of Truth are always Paradoxical

From: Pluto
Sent: Wednesday, July 07
To: Emma
Cc: T---
Subject: Questions

Emma,

Let me tell you a story. After returning from advanced DALS back in 1996, I was tasked with presenting a 3-month technical course for about 30 people. I was very excited to do the course in an accelerative way, since I had just had a wonderfully renewing experience with BCAL. One thing led to another and the course was presented in a rather ordinary, objective based, lecture oriented way due to (perceived) time constraints and various other "rational excuses." I felt somewhat guilty about this afterward, since I was, at heart, very committed to a DALS approach. Then, several days after the course ended, a very "mysterious" thing happened. I began to receive some of the most positive and inspiring feedback I had ever gotten!... what happened? I reflected on this for a long time. It then dawned on me (and I actually knew this all along) that all I needed was to be committed to a DALS approach AT HEART. I then decided that it was possible to "do DALS without doing DALS". (The words of truth are always paradoxical)

The thing which creates and sustains real learning, change and transformation is deep within each of us, and is common among us. It is what allows us to remain ourselves even though we have evolved. The model we use in the quantum leadership workshop calls this "vision" or "field". It is like the genetic blueprint that allows a species to evolve into a new version of itself. In organizations it manifests itself as the common understanding of who we are, and what is our purpose. I communicated that vision to my group in ways that at the time I did not understand. It was there even though I wasn't conscious of it. Imagine how powerful we can be when we become conscious of it!

What scares people the most about change and transformation is that they can't always see themselves in the new "them". We lose conscious connection with our identity through the chaos process. So...no... your question "How can I/We take these principles..." is not too grandiose or head-in-the-clouds. It is exactly the right question, and, I believe the answer is to somehow help people and organizations to maintain conscious awareness of the field/vision/identity through the changes life asks them to endure.

Of course, this then leads to your other question..."what does that look like in the physical reality...?" Perhaps this is best approached by finding out what's next. An astrologer friend of mine said to me once..."the next step is always right in front of you." Maybe we should just take a look. (Actually I'm a little scared to find out what's really there)

Hopefully this dialogue will allow us to fearlessly open our eyes and hearts to what's next, so I am thrilled about continuing it. I know that we have all been drawn together for a reason and that this process will make that reason crystal clear.

Pluto

P.S. My friend, the I Ching, gave me hexagram #13, Fellowship (line 3 changing), and #25, Innocence, relative to these questions we are asking. I will leave you to your own interpretations.

Second Installment

From: Pluto
Sent: Tuesday, July 06
To: Emma
Cc: T---
Subject: What's next?

Hello Emma,

My name is Pluto, and I am a friend of T---, who attended DALS with you last April. T--- and I attended DALS for the first time together in 1995 and life hasn't been the same since. We both have been on a journey since that time, having had many powerful and transformational experiences with the knowledge that the DALS experience evokes. Both of us have facilitated workshops for BCAL and have come to the realization that the "real" experience lies somewhere beyond what is written in the workbooks and said in the workshop.

T--- and I, from time to time, challenge each other with the question "what's next?" I think that both of us intuitively know that we are destined to take the DALS experience to the next level, and this is a reminder for us to reconnect with that path. Lately, it seems to me that we are approaching a pivotal time, which will bring all of us (T---, myself, C---, among others) together for this purpose...sort of a mile marker, if you will. After my continual pestering about this, T---'s reaction was that I should email you. His intuition is that you are a part of this "soul group" which is forming.

I believe that our purpose will crystallize very soon, and we will be called to make this... whatever it is...manifest. So I feel compelled to invite you to try and answer this question as well...What's Next??

Sincerely,

Pluto

P.S. You may use the email address above or my home email address...or if you think I am completely insane, you can just ignore this!

From: T---
Sent: Tuesday, July 06
To: Pluto, Emma
Subject: RE: What's next?

Actually, Pluto IS completely insane, which is what I love about him. Since I'm at the Minneapolis airport right now, the analogy that comes to mind is, "flight DALS is preparing for take off. All ticketed passengers are asked to board at this time."

Pluto, I will be in Columbus, OH this week, but I will be checking e-mail and voice mail every evening.

You know, this conversation could be started by us, and spiraled (like in spiral dynamics, Pluto) out to different people. Maybe we need one focus question. Maybe the question is, "What's next," or maybe the question is, "What is this DALS thing REALLY about?" We already know that it is much bigger than accelerative learning. But if it's not just about learning, what is it?

Anyway, you two get to know each other. Enjoy.

T

To: Pluto, T---
From: Emma
Subject: FW: What's next?
Date: Tue, 6 Jul

Dear Pluto,
Thank you for your e-mail. You use the term "insane" like it's a bad thing! I actually prefer the term genius and that's what I believe we are. Yes, I believe I am part of this soul group that is forming and there could likely be others as well.

My experience of DALS was that it confirmed the path I am traveling and introduced me to some wise fellow travelers - T--- and C--- among them - and now you. What I experienced was that many areas of my life are coming together in a completely consistent fashion. I like the metaphor of "flight DALS" and others that bring to mind the sort of quantum expansion in awareness that is occurring at this time. I attribute it, in part, to DALS and to other experiences in my life – the persistent beckoning of the Universe to seek greater levels of awareness. I don't think that makes me insane, but it certainly makes me impatient. I agree that this may be a pivotal time, but don't know exactly what that means. To me, the question, "What's next?" could be answered by "Whatever we want (or choose, or manifest, or...)” I’m not sure THE question is "What is this DALS thing REALLY about?" either, although I think that is certainly a great question and I want to explore it. It is probably a good starting point.

I want to manifest applying the principles in all aspects of my life. For me, I think A big question is, "How can I/we take these principles as applied in my/our own life to teach, evoke, invite others to join in a transformational journey that will lead to greater awareness for us all?" Does that sound too grandiose, too head-in-the-clouds? I don't believe it is, but there may be a lot of questions that come before this one, such as...... "What's next?"

I've talked to T--- (and to a lesser extent C---) about our purpose in life and find those to be remarkably in alignment. Pluto, the cool thing for me is finding like-minded people who are actively striving to move to the next level of growth. I've often thought I must be insane because I see beyond what most people see and I see patterns others can't even conceive.

I look forward to more conversations with you and with all of us. Also, I look forward to hearing more from you about your path and what this all means to you.

My question back to you, Pluto.... and to T---.... is "What does this look like in the physical realm a year from now?"

Emma

So it begins......

Like most truly great love stories, this one begins with an unlikely premise and seeming insurmountable odds. Whether it is truly great or even true will be for you to decide. This story is about the enormous changes brought about in the lives of two people by a simple “coincidence” or, perhaps, synchronicity. It is about growing, seeking, finding.

This love story begins when a man of generous spirit innocently makes the connection that two of his friends should meet: one living in the Northwest, the other in the Northeast; one living alone for the first time in almost 20 years and feeling (not entirely) content doing so, the other living a life of quiet desperation as he described it; both with children preparing their flights from the nest; both yearning for spiritual companionship and meaning. All are on a journey across an unknown sea, bringing to mind a quote from Andre Gide: “One does not discover new lands, without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time.” But I’m getting ahead of the story……

July – The Meeting

From: T---
To: Emma
Subject: Would you like to meet Pluto?
Date: Fri 2 Jul

I've been getting a big hit that you and Pluto need to meet. He's a very kewl soul and could add a lot of value to your life from the 50,000 ft level. He's always out in the ether sending back messages from the universe.

Whadya think?

T---

From: T---
To: Pluto
Cc: Emma
Subject: Soul Group...Now forming
Date: Fri, 2 Jul

Pluto,
Meet Emma. Emma, meet Pluto. Pluto, I met Emma at DALS in April. She is definitely inner circle material. You guys need to get to know each other. Emma is practicing Tai Chi in Portland. You two share a lot in common.

Enjoy each other’s company. You are two very cool souls and we are all part of a single soul group. C--- is also part of this. I've made the first move to bring the soul group together. Now, Pluto, it's your turn. Send Emma an e-mail talking about your path. You'll find it's the same as Emma's which is the same as mine, which is the same as C---'s, which is the same...who knows?

Pluto, you'll get this. Exit, 1/4 mile.

T---

Welcome!

Welcome to our story. Emma and I are happy you've decided to join us. We started this journal to share with you the continuing story of our life and love together. Our journey together began with many miles between us, and as you might imagine we relied almost entirely on email correspondence interspersed with a phone call now and then. Some time ago we decided to compile these "letters" in a book in the same fashion as "84 Charing Cross Road" by Helene Hanff, and "Griffin & Sabine: An Extraordinary Correspondence" by Nick Bantock. Our goal is to post an excerpt from the book regularly to share some of our favorite bits and pieces. Some time soon, we will formally publish the entire compilation (most likely as an e-book) and make it available for you. Our desire is to invite all of you into our hearts, heads and history. We see our life together as a miracle, and we've overcome some obstacles, both large and small to fulfill what we see as our destiny, and to continue a relationship that seems to have started many lifetimes and reincarnations ago.

So, Thank you once again for being here. We hope you enjoy what you read here and come back again to share "The Incredibly True Love Story of Pluto and Emma".

Pluto & Emma