Handbook For Tapping Into Inner Renewable Resources

TAPPING INTO INNER RENEWABLE RESOURCES FOR CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND GOAL ACHIEVEMENT

By Leonard Burg Prepared for PACE UNIVERSITY Staff Development Meeting April 28, 2006

There’s an old saying in Holistic Health circles: “The Disease is the Cure”. The pain and upset of life’s conflicts and challenges makes us pay attention to what we may be ignoring or even denying and suppressing. On the other hand, we can choose to find the time and patience to focus and pay attention without being forced to by conditions. In doing so we can tap into a tremendous, inexhaustible font of inner resources that makes us a more valuable asset in whatever capacity we are working.

Hopefully the Staff

Development meeting which spurred this handbook contributes to Pace University’s effort to retain students and enrich their education 1. And, in doing so, it should contribute to the growth and development of staff and administration. It is my fervent hope that the reader treats this booklet and its tenets as a “Working Hypothesis”, in the spirit of the great Greek philosopher/ mathematician, Euclid.

1

To lead out of students that which is already within them (From the root of the word “educate” as found in the On Line Etymology dictionary - http://www.etymonline.com/ - 1447, from L. educatus, pp. of educere "bring up, rear, educate," related to educere "bring out," from ex- "out" + ducere "to lead")

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CONTENTS INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………

3

Higher Intelligence and Higher Self…………………………………………... Journey From Community Activist to Holistic Consultant…………………. Pace University – Personal Staff Development Resources…………………...

3 3 4

II

THEME………………………………………………………………………….

5

III

ISSUES…………………………………………………………………………..

5

IV

OBJECTIVE……………………………………………………………………

5

V

DISCUSSION: A Holistic Approach to Organizational Development……...

6

Suppression Versus Healing…………………………………………………… Aggravation of Symptoms……………………………………………………... Inconscientized Ideas and The “Creation” of Disease……………………….. Soul Therapy and Denial of a Higher Intelligence…………………………… Conscientizing and Meditation………………………………………………... The Two-Fold Nature of Man and the Benefits of Meditation……………… Organization as Organism…………………………………………………….. The Cosmogony of Roles in Organizations…………………………………… Territorial Prerogative and Conflict in Organizations……………………… Meditation and Organizational Development………………………………... Qualities of a Universal Technique of Meditation……………………………

6 7 8 9 9 10 11 11 12 14 14

VI

CONCLUSIONS………………………………………………………………..

15

VII

APPENDIX: Technique of Meditation……………………………………….

17

Stages of Meditation…………………………………………………………… Getting Started…………………………………………………………………. What to Expect…………………………………………………………………

17 17 18

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I

INTRODUCTION Higher Intelligence and Higher Self

Inside of the “human being” (sometimes called “the Crown of Creation”2 by the ancients) we have, and are, more than just a mind. We are that which uses the mind and the body --- that which sees through our eyes, and hears through our ears. A panoramic study of philosophic, religious and spiritual literature generally finds much agreement that this life giving principle within us is connected to an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent reality. Some call it a Higher Intelligence3, Universal Mind, God, Supreme Being, the All, etc. Whatever this all expansive reality is, or whatever you choose to call it, there is a spark of this “divinity” within each and every human being. Some call this spark Soul or Spirit or Animus4. Whatever you call it, it’s generally agreed that it has the same essential qualities of immortality as the “Higher Intelligence”. To consciously and willfully access this entity, which we will call the “Higher Self”, requires the ability to enter into its domain, first via the mind, and then beyond the mind. The enhanced capacity and will to resolve conflicts, needs, and challenges in route to achieving goals is rooted in our ability to learn how to consciously access the Higher Self, and navigate in the realms where it resides, in an effort to connect with the Higher Intelligence of which it is a part. This small booklet is but a feeble effort to facilitate such a journey.

Journey From Community Activist to Holistic Consultant My “inner” approach to organizational development grew out of 13 years of experience as a director of community programs, nationally and in Harlem, NY. During that time I was exposed to holistic5 philosophy. I increasingly learned how important it is to 2

“It is worthwhile to speak of one more point: concerning man's reasoning, thanks to which we find ourselves capable of judging about what we are. This ability is due to the fact that man is the crown of creation, and this spark was placed in him by the Creator of the Universe Himself” - From “Scholars Speak of God” Reprinted from Orthodox Life Vol. 44, No. 6 November - December, 1994 (see http://www.tcgalaska.com/holycrosshermitage/pages/Orthodox_Life/scholars.htm 3

“We often us the word God, but God means different things to different people. But actually we can define God as your higher sacred self, higher intelligence, higher consciousness…”, http://www.urday.com/kalki/article33.asp 4

Webster's Revised Unabridged, 1913 Edition; (Page: 58)An"i*mus (#), n.; pl. Animi (#). [L., mind.] Animating spirit; 5

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary;1 : of or relating to holism; 2 : relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts

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consider the whole person – with a focus on one’s inner resources – in problem solving and precipitating personal and growth and development. This inspired me to apply holistic principles to organizations, viewing them as “organisms” in need of healing and nourishment. For ten years, from 1986-1996, following a career of community activism, I traveled the world studying diverse spiritual and religious philosophies, in an effort to deepen my understanding of the inner structure and functions of human beings. Following that, from 1998 to the present, I have worked as, 1) Recruiting Associate at Pace University), and 2) Co-founder of the NY branch of A Centre for the World Religions (ACWR), a United Nations affiliated NGO6. ACWR (http://centreworldreligions.org/) gives Meditation instruction and holds Peace Forums at the UN, in an effort to harness the inner resources of UN delegates, staff and NGOs, to enhance their work for world peace. ACWR works under the premise that we on this planet have more then enough resources to solve the world’s problems of war, poverty and pollution; and the greatest resource we have is within us, which is where peace begins. A prime resource for achieving Inner peace is Meditation7, especially if it is coupled with Dialogue among the diverse spiritual and religious faiths of the world. We emphasize the faith communities because collectively they have been wrought with internecine conflicts which are deeply implicated in many of the wars and conflicts on the planet. ACWR posits that the wars and battles inflaming nations and organizations on the planetary body we call earth are “macrocosms” of the “microcosmic” conflicts and skirmishes raging within people. War and conflict is rooted in man’s inability to see the universal common roots that we share, irrespective of differences in nationality, race, creed and religion. I have personally resolved to seek this common ground, no matter what milieu in which I find myself, whether in solitude, at home, in the community or at work. Pace University – Personal Staff Development Resources We have been invited at Pace University to share our inventory of personal resources, in order to contribute to a collective attempt at student retention and enhanced student services. There is a general staff concern about the relevancy of such sharing or what relationship it has to one’s responsibilities at work.

6

Non-Governmental Organization Meditation usually refers to a state of extreme relaxation and concentration, in which the body is generally at rest and the mind quieted of surface thoughts. Several major religions include ritual Meditation; however, Meditation itself need not be a religious or spiritual activity. Most of the more popular systems of Meditation are of Eastern origin; “http://encyclopedia.laborlawtalk.com/Meditation ” 7

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II

THEME

The Thesis Of This Booklet Is That Sharing Begins With Cultivating One’s Own Inner Resources, Through A Process Of Role Mediation Supported By The Practice Of Meditation. III

ISSUES

It Takes Time And Patience To Effectively Work Through Conflicting notions of, 1) personal versus work related talents, resources and roles; and 2) how to use Meditation to Slow Down The Mind And Access One’s Inner Resources. Sharing personal resources in the work setting can be inhibited by legitimate staff concerns like: o One may feel that he/she does not really have much to offer outside of the specifics of their work role, or that one’s contributions are unappreciated or unwelcome, or that the work environment is not “safe” enough to inspire sharing o Fears of invasion of privacy; o Concerns about intolerance or harassment because of one’s personal lifestyle or spiritual, political or cultural beliefs and practices; o Apprehension at possible attempts at converting one to other social, cultural beliefs; or o Fears that one’s personal beliefs can be used against him/her. This can be especially true in times of budget cuts, and changes in organizational direction or leadership which may portend significant changes in roles. Thus staff may be faced with the challenge of taking the time to more rigorously clarify and even mediate roles. On a personal level, any effort to use Meditation to help focus one’s role in life in general, or on the job in particular, confronts a shifting, changing mind that seems to have a mind of its own. This is exacerbated by a culture in which a barrage of media and stimuli is specifically designed to capture our attention and divert it outside of us. Music, videos, movies, radio, television, newspapers, magazines, advertisements, food establishments, computers, creature comforts, etc. assault us during every waking hour. So when do we find the time and energy to sit and meditate?

IV

OBJECTIVE OF THIS BOOKLET

I Aim To Show That We Can Use The Challenges, Conflicts And Obstacles That We Face On The Job, In Life Or In The Mind, To Help Us In Concentrating And Focusing Our Attention Through Meditation.

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Conflicts arise from struggles to determine who makes the decisions to control and guide the use of shared space and resources. Mediation of Disputes or roles in organizations is a sort of collective attempt to “meditate” or concentrate on finding a unifying goal or objective to resolve issues that may have been ignored, denied or even swept under the rug. Often it is only when fomenting emotions begin to erupt that the light of awareness is directed to the issues. Inherent in conflict is energy that can be harnessed and used to mediate, meditate and solve problems. A look at the holistic model of treating “dis-ease”8 (or upset) can be helpful to better understand this. (*In this context please keep this idea of holism in the back of your mind as applied to the organization as an organism).

V

DISCUSSION: A Holistic Approach to Organizational Development

When an entity does not take the time to live more holistically, the organism’s inner attempt to eliminate resulting morbific9 matter is blocked; and disease is both the result and the “cure”10. Whether the “organism” is a human being or an organization the root energy to heal it from conditions of “dis-ease” is found within it. This energy or life force is always working to evolve and grow the organism, and does so with much less discomfort when we identify with it and cooperate with it. Cooperation means feeding the organism what it needs to thrive. This becomes even more critical when the organism is already weakened to a certain degree by hereditary and/or environmental factors. Given the “hand we are dealt” we can still strive to function at the healthiest degree possible under the circumstances. We do this by consciously applying our will to discern what the organism needs, and adopt a “diet”, lifestyle, and environment that, to the extent possible, nourishes and supports the organism. When we fail to properly nourish the organism or tune into its inner most needs, it acts on its own to regain homeostasis. The attendant symptoms of pain and upset make us pay attention to what we otherwise may have been deaf, dumb and blind to perceive. In relationship to the health of the body, a weakened heredity, compounded by toxic environmental factors and willfully unnatural or enervating11 lifestyles overtaxes the organism’s ability to eliminate the toxins of living. When the organism is overwhelmed and 8

Any upset of the normal functioning of the body or mind “Relating to or causing disease; pathogenic” 10 “NATUROPATHIC HEALTH CARE”; http://www.drbarrytaylor.com/about_naturopathy.htm; “The natural state of the human organism is health, homeostatic balance. In this state, the human organism has the innate ability - the vitality to word off diseases and heal itself. Vitalistic medicine maintains that when disease occurs, this self - healing ability has been blocked. Disease Symptoms (fever, rashes, this etc) are not simply caused by an "evasion" of external agents or germs, but are manifestations of the organism's attempt to defend and heal itself. The "disease" is the cure.” A physician's task, then is to help remove the agents blocking that healing process, bolstering the patient's own healing capacity, and this restore homeostatic balance; health. 11 Enervate: “to lessen the vitality or strength of” 9

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blocked in its efforts to routinely eliminate toxins, it leads to an abnormal or heightened effort to detoxify, which we experience as the symptoms of disease. Ideally, the most curative intervention is that which assists the body in this effort to heal itself, as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Suppression Versus Healing The father of western medicine, Hippocrates, said, “If you feed a cold, you will have to starve a fever.” HE DID NOT SAY, “FEED A COLD AND STARVE A FEVER”!!12 If, when the organism reacts to eliminate the toxins of living (such as when we catch a cold), we persist in feeding the body the same enervating “diet” of foods and lifestyle factors at the root of the problem, then the “dis-ease” will magnify; the cold turns into a fever in order to burn up and consume the accumulated toxins; now we will have to starve the fever ---i.e., fast from all food or at least the most offending items. Hippocrates advocated “food” as the medicine of first resort, saying, let "food be your medicine and let medicine be your food.”13 Drugs and/or surgery are most necessary as a last resort or as temporary measures when normal lifestyle factors can not immediately effectuate relief. Even then, however, the use of suppressive drugs or surgery is not necessarily meant to be primary long-term care in lieu of holistic diets and lifestyle. If anything, the two schools of thought should be complementary. Long term suppression of symptoms, without adequate changes in diet and lifestyle can evolve a condition from acute to chronic. The accumulated side effects of suppressive drug use --- when inappropriately used as a routine, long-term palliative14, instead of being used judiciously in conjunction with a more holistic diet and lifestyle --- is to create a new and more chronic condition. The patient may still live and be relatively more free from the pain associated with the suppressed condition, but the organism is in a much weaker state, operating at less than maximum capacity, and vulnerable and susceptible to further ill health. On the other hand when, over the long term, the patient pays attention to and cooperates with the organism’s attempt to heal itself---i.e. attends to and provides nourishment for its inner needs, the organism gradually works to cure itself to the extent possible, even if one chooses to incorporate some judicious use of short term “first aid”, surgery or suppressive drugs.

12

“Cold and Flu Virus &Toxicity”; http://www.healingessences.com/ColdFluVirusDiet.html; The above quotation is probably one of the most misquoted and misunderstood sayings of all time. Usually quoted as "starve a cold, feed a fever," or "feed a cold, starve fever," either way the wisdom of the saying is missed. The point that Hippocrates tries to convey is this: at the onset of a cold, fasting is necessary in order to promote the body's detoxification process; otherwise the condition will worsen and one will eventually be forced to fast due to the severity of the symptoms. 13 “Action Steps for Treating the Cause”; http://www.drlenlopez.shoppingcartsplus.com/action.html 14 “treating symptoms only: alleviating pain and symptoms without eliminating the cause”

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Aggravation of Symptoms In the process of holistic cure, the organism may temporarily re-visit symptoms which were suppressed in route to increasingly more chronic disease. However, this resurfacing can be a sign of cure because of the direction and character of the symptoms, as epitomized in Homeopathic modalities of healing. According to Herrings Law of Cure15: “The cure is from above downwards, from within outwards, from major organs to minor organs, and symptoms will disappear in reverse order to their appearance (i.e. the first symptoms to appear will be the last to go)” As “cure” proceeds and some symptoms recur, it is important to let nature take its course.16 Unfortunately, many a person who is treated holistically is not told that there may be a temporary aggravation of symptoms in the process of cure or remission. One can recognize curative aggravation of symptoms by the noticing that recurring symptoms are: less frequent; less intense; of shorter duration; and commensurate with an overall increased vitality of the patient. The patient who is not aware of these phenomena sometimes acts like the drunk or addict who is going through temporary symptoms of withdrawal: He/she opts for the “quick fix or “silver bullet”---i.e., he/she imbibes the very substances which helped cause the disease condition in the first place. Why? Because, as in the case of drunks/addicts, a “shot” of drugs or alcohol temporarily stops the withdrawal symptoms or “hangover”, which is essentially part of the body’s attempt to heal itself. Drugs and alcohol --- as well as a whole host of other unnatural diet and lifestyle factors ---- act as stimulants which enervate or use up the organism’s energy while providing little or no real nourishment.17 Abuse of mind altering substances is actually an attempt to suppress and deny awareness of what is really going on inside the individual’s sphere of awareness. The attendant pain and upset is actually designed to “conscientize”18 individuals--i.e., make them conscious of what is really going on inside of them, but which they deny and suppress. 15

“Homeopathy”; http://www.medicus.net.au/MEDICUS/pgb3_homoeopathy.htm **What is true in the case of Homeopathy has been observed generally in Holistic approaches to healing: “In chronic disease, homeopathy usually does not give immediate relief of symptoms. Usually there is an aggravation of symptoms briefly as the vital force is stimulated prior to the cure. In spite of this, the patient will somehow feel better. Intensification of existing symptoms is a sign of the body's own healing power and is considered a favorable response. Although difficult at times, it is crucial at this point to wait out the aggravation”; “Dr. James Schacht”; http://www.theavh.org/members/custom/jschacht.htm 17 When the sum of our daily expenditure is greater than we can or than we do recuperate daily, we become enervated. When an enervated individual is saturated with toxins, any additional enervating influence that puts an added check to elimination will cause the toxemia to be pushed above the point of toleration, and will precipitate a crisis, a process of compensatory elimination through channels whose main work is not elimination, e.g., en mucous membranes (colds, catarrh, inflammation and skin eruptions); “Therapeutic Fasting and Detoxification - Internal Cleansing - Optimum Health Through Natural Hygiene”; http://www.shirleyswellness-cafe.com/fasting.htm 18 Make conscious 16

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Inconscientized Ideas and The “Creation” of Disease Physical symptoms are designed to make us conscious of ideas we harbor or deny but which manifest outwardly to grab our attention. All physical manifestation takes place in a certain sequence of Creation. Let us, for example, take the case of the “creation” of a chair: 0. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Source of Inspiration Idea (i.e., of sitting) Concept of a form (i.e., of a chair) Vision (i.e., blueprint or picture of a particular chair) Physical Manifestation (i.e., the particular chair itself, manufactured or produced)

As such, physical symptoms or conditions are only the tip of the iceberg. They are the physical manifestation arising from a chain of causation, from idea to form. Merely suppressing or eliminating physical symptoms is thus akin to mowing grass. The grass keeps growing back unless you starve it at the roots. To “cure” physical conditions you must deprive them of: 1. 2. 3. 4.

“Earth” --- a favorable vehicle in which to grow “Water” --- emotions and inner images that feed it “Air” --- thoughts that affirm it “Fire” --- ideas that ignite it

Ideas at the root of physical conditions are like floppy disks in a computer. They can be useful and nourishing or inflicted with viruses. Fortunately we can remove the floppy disks of debilitating ideas, thoughts and emotions at the root of the ills we suffer. And we can reach into an infinite source of inspiration inside in order to cultivate more selfactualizing ideas, thoughts, emotions and lifestyle inputs. The process of ferreting out the emotions, thoughts and ideas at the root of physical conditions or symptoms is called “Soul Therapy”.19 Soul Therapy and Denial of a Higher Intelligence In the author’s practice of Soul Therapy he has found that simply being conscious and aware of what is happening within and around us is curative. Conscientizing what we sense physically, feel emotionally, think intellectually or intuit can contribute to spontaneous relief of some symptoms of dis-ease and upset. Awareness of sensations, emotions, thoughts and ideas that are operating within us serves to give us access to the higher Self inside, in a way that inspires and supports the organism’s attempt to heal itself and realize its potential. On the other hand, denial of the 19

A form of psycho-spiritual counseling pioneered by the author, drawing upon conventional psychology as well as a universal “Science of the Soul” (see http://www.scienceofthesoul.org/Treasury.htm) . Much of the basic theory is consistent with a Therapeutic approach called “Analytical Trilogy” pioneered by Brazilian pyscho-therapist Norberto Keppe (http://www.analyticaltrilogy.com/

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consciousness of the above is tantamount to denial of the Higher Intelligence that underlies all existence. The expression of the Higher Intelligence in man is his Higher Self (or Soul). Man accesses his Higher Self by the act of being conscious or paying attention, which is a prime faculty of his Higher Self. This is why Conscientizing can lead to spontaneous healing. Being conscious connects man to Higher Self which connects to Higher Intelligence, which is the ultimate inner renewable resource that we possess. Conversely, denial of consciousness is denial of Higher Self is tantamount to denial of the Higher Intelligence. Dis-ease, then, is the medicine or cure to restore the chain of awareness or consciousness. Conscientizing and Meditation Meditation properly done is a natural, dynamic form of conscientization and Soul Therapy. It is a process whereby one: o Becomes conscious of what is actually happening in one’s sphere of awareness on the mind screen (which we may be denying or unaware of); and o Slows down the mind to become aware of the reality beyond the mind The efficacy of Meditation is based on how it relates to the inner functioning of a human being. The Two-fold Nature of Man And the Benefits of Meditation A human being consists of “hu” (hummus/soil/earth) and “man” (the heavenly manna20). The hu is the mortal part of man’s being. The man is the immortal Higher Self. Or, a person consists of “per” (the earthly vehicle through which the “son” (higher self) expresses Itself. Or, an “individual” consists of the “indivi” (the indivisible, immortal part of one’s being) and the “dual” (mortal part of one’s being). The ultimate object of Meditation is to still the shifting, changing mortal body/mind -- the dual part of one’s being --- in order to access the immortal Higher Self. In the process one may access ideas and thoughts that can help resolve conflicts, meet needs and enrich goal achievement. In practice, “There is a great deal of evidence, both anecdotal and from empirical studies that Meditation has a wide number of benefits that are relevant to people at work today”:21 o o o o 20 21

Increased Productivity and Job Satisfaction Improved Relations at Work Improved Employee Health and More Positive Health Habits Increased relaxation and decreased stress at work

The Holy Spirit or “Word” or “logos” “Meditation at Work, Benefits of meditating”; http://www.Meditation-at-work.org/id14.htm

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o o o o o o o o o o

Decrease in Stress Hormone Stress Reduction Deeper Level of Relaxation Improved Perception and Memory Broader Comprehension and Improved Ability to Focus Increased Creativity Development of Intelligence Decreased cholesterol Decreased likelihood of heart attack and stroke Increased Self-Actualization

These documented benefits of Meditation, including stress reduction, healing, and improved concentration are key factors for success in all material endeavors, let alone pursuit of higher “spiritual” objectives. Before outlining a simple technique of Meditation and what to expect (see the Appendix), let us draw analogies between the cosmogony22 of Meditation in alleviating disease of the human being, and Role Mediation/Clarification in resolving conflicts within organizations. In this respect, let us look at the organization as an “organism”. Organization as Organism A comprehensive analysis of the organization as a living organism in need of holistic treatment is beyond the scope of this booklet. However, for the sake of discussion, let us posit the following points: o There is a collective “life giving” root healing energy inherent in organizations as is the case with human beings. o “Holistic” for an organization consists of its high ideals and practices, and socially responsible objectives and activities. o Organizations, like individuals, can choose to adopt non-enervating inputs and processes, both as a matter of routine or to consciously address and treat conflicts or “dis-ease” in its ranks. o Herrings Law of recurring symptoms operates in organizations, too, whereby curative, holistic measures may require them to work through temporary aggravation of symptoms, to move in the direction of curing organization ills. o Organizations, like individuals, can choose to “conscientize” rather than deny and suppress symptoms of conflict or dis-ease, through its strategic planning, evaluation and staff development processes.

22

The creation of the world or universe; a theory or account of such creation.

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o Organizations can simulate the principles of Meditation through enlightened mediation of conflicts, and can encourage or support workers’ individual efforts to meditate and incorporate other holistic practices. Simulating Meditation can help organizations to slow down and calm scattered, conflicting systems and interactions, in order to access the “soul” of the organization, and draw upon or reconnect to its “Higher Intelligence” or mission, to facilitate healing and growth. An examination of a Role Mediation/Clarification model of conflict resolution can aid in developing a Meditation mindset in an organization. The Cosmogony of Roles in Organizations There is a direct link between the Role Mediation/Clarification model of organizations and the concept of human beings as entities having a Higher Self which can be realized and which can unite with a Higher Intelligence. In human beings, the absolute Higher Intelligence is symbolized by the circle or zero. It represents infinity, eternity, the all, “no-thing”, etc. In the organization, the zero/circle represents the absolute mission or purpose for which the organization incorporates. All that follows must align with that mission.

A point within the circle represents the Higher Self of a human being, which is “made in the image” of the Higher Intelligence---i.e., has the same essential immortal qualities. In the organization, the point within the circle represents the prime ideal, goal or aim that drives the entity towards oneness with its mission.

To avoid or resolve conflicts within organizations, the individual roles of workers (their “job descriptions”) must align with the mission of the organization; and their periodic goals and objectives must align with the goals and objectives of the organization. Conflict results when: o The mission and goals of organizations are ambiguous or not being followed o Its action plans are not in alignment with the mission or goals, or its goals are outdated and it is not receptive to innovation o The individual roles and goals of workers and/or departments are ambiguous, not in alignment with the organization’s mission/goals, or resistant thereto

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To some extent, normally occurring conflicts can resolve themselves if the organization has an ongoing holistic approach, rooted in a continual process of focusing awareness (Conscientizing) to thereby access the organization’s higher Intelligence. Ongoing Role Mediation/Clarification is crucial to this process of awareness. A further application of the cosmogony of the circle/zero, in the context of how “territorial prerogative”23 plays out in organizations can help illustrate this principle. Territorial Prerogative and Conflict in Organizations Let us look again at the symbol of the circle with a point in it’s center, in this case representing a worker within an organization. The circumference symbolizes the boundary of the workers role (or “territory”) within the organization. The role ideally aligns with organization and corresponding departmental missions, and the boundaries of which should be clearly understood and internalized by the worker. Let us say that the point within the circle here represents the worker, calm and centered on the job, with some idea of how to function in his/her role or territory. The Worker Moves to Meet an Invasion of Territory

But then another person impinges on his/her territory---i.e., penetrates inside the imaginary boundary. The worker gets upset and moves from their center towards the periphery to meet the challenge. He/she engages and/or negotiates until no longer feeling threatened, upon which he/she retreats back to his/her center. To further illustrate this, let us look at the “invader” as another circle with its point in the center symbolizing that worker poised at his/her center. The two circles or boundaries overlap. Both workers move towards the shared space to meet the challenge. There is conflict over who controls decisions on how to utilize the resources (time, manpower, material and financial) in the shared space. The two engage and negotiate. Worker “A”

Worker “B”

23

In the book, “Zen and Creative Management”, by Albert Low, the author describes how conflict arises in organizations when people, like animals, act to guard their “territory” or the space they occupy and attempt to control.

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The more supervisors together with co-workers collaborate to define each role in relation to shared goals, objectives, a common mission and the process of decision-making, the less conflict becomes debilitating, the easier it is to resolve. The more individual workers can find a way to operate from their center and/or bring higher wisdom to the periphery in the process of negotiation, the easier it is to resolve conflict and share “space”. Role Mediation/Clarification should help workers (INCLUDING MANAGEMENT) become conscious of the congruency of organizational and personal mission, goals and objectives, in a way that they can realize the underlying unity, to help ease conflict and achieve goals. This process of Role Mediation/Clarification on the organizational level is epitomized by and can be enhanced by the process of Meditation on a personal level. Meditation and Organizational Development The process of Meditation involves first becoming aware of and slowing down the endless parade of thoughts (often conflicting) barraging the mind. This bombardment of thoughts is called “thought drift”. These thoughts and underlying ideas are associated with the conditions and events which we experience in our lives. Hopefully, through the process of Meditation we may be better able to become more aware that: 1. Thoughts are things with a life of their own; 2. We are not, in essence, our thoughts; rather we are the Higher Self that perceives these thoughts; and 3. The thought patterns occupying our mind space may or may not be serving a higher purpose in our lives. In advanced stages of Meditation one can stop thoughts completely and experience oneself as the Higher Self, devoid of the limitations of body and mind. This is called SelfRealization. At the highest stages of Meditation the consciousness of Higher Self merges with the Higher Intelligence; the meditator becomes a co-worker with the Higher Intelligence, expressing its essential qualities (while still living in the physical body).24 It is not difficult to understand how such a process, if true and experienced can dynamically, 1) enhance a persons creativity and health, 2) reduce suffering and stress, and 3) enable heightened states of bliss, peace and the capacity to love. The question is, how can one learn to meditate in such a way as to progressively reap its rewards? Qualities of A Universal Technique of Meditation There are a plethora of Meditation techniques to choose from. I shall, according to my experience, explicate a simple basic universal technique the ultimate goal of which is to realize one’s Higher Self and unite it with a Higher Intelligence. (The numerous practical 24

Eastern Mystics call this process “God Realization”

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benefits of Meditation which I detailed earlier, impressive though they may be, are merely some of the material ancillary benefits one accrues along the way). Any Meditation technique with the above objective should entail some of the following attributes: 1. It should focus on enabling the practitioner to go within, with the purpose of experiencing consciousness that raises awareness to the Higher Self and Higher Intelligence; 2. It should enable one to shut down all the avenues through which the attention and consciousness is scattered ---i.e., the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and two major excretory organs, therefore 3. It should be a silent Meditation without resorting to breath control, audible mantras, stimulation of chakras25 or other techniques that keep the awareness in the senses, and for the same reason 4. It should not involve taxing body positions or postures which make it difficult for the elderly, the infirm or the young to perform. Mastering advanced stages of the science of Meditation, like mastery of that of any discipline, is best facilitated by the guidance and assistance of one who has already achieved its end results.

VI

CONCLUSIONS

Organizations that encourage or facilitate the practice of Meditation will ensure that workers bring more internal renewable resources to bear in fulfilling their missions. In the process it will facilitate transcendence of conflicts and allow workers to more clearly discern the role of work in the fulfillment of personal goals. Meditation and Role Mediation/Clarification in organizations both begin with confronting (Conscientizing) conflicting thoughts and interactions. In this context, the process of conflict or dis-ease is the cure ---- the organism’s effort to remove obstacles that impede its effort to realize Higher Self or Ideals and Higher Intelligence or Mission. We can not afford NOT to find the time to meditate and mediate roles in organizations. Paying attention to (but not necessarily indulging) inner and outer conflict, via Meditation and mediation --- while constantly returning the focus to ones center in Meditation or to goals in organizations--- is what slows down or defuses conflicting thoughts and conditions. 25

“The word chakra is Sanskrit for wheel or disk and signifies one of seven basic energy centers in the body. Each of these centers correlates to major nerve ganglia branching forth from the spinal column”; “Chakras”; http://www.sacredcenters.com/chakras.html

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Meditation and Role Mediation/Clarification enable staff to serve as role models of how to access inner personal and organizational resources to successfully re-educate oneself and others. At Pace University, student service and retention can only be enhanced and profit when staff and management become more self-reliant and resourceful by going within --- by Mediation and Meditation --- to resolve conflicts and spur growth. Meditation and Role Mediation/Clarification can be vital tools in developing a more holistic approach to life and organizational development. They are supreme means of cost efficiency in that the inner resources of self and organization are essentially infinite and, as such, imminently “renewable”, thus ensuring the highest of goal achievement. ################################

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VII

APPENDIX: Technique of Meditation

Meditation is concentration to the extent of stopping all thought and becoming aware of the underlying reality of one’s Higher Self and The infinite Higher Intelligence with which it is connected. In the Surat Shabd Yoga system of Meditation26 there are 3 main stages. Stages of Meditation 1. Repetition; remembrance27: Here one withdraws attention from outside objects and concentrates it in the eye center, between and behind the eyebrows28 by repeating sacred names which represent the Higher Intelligence.29 2. Contemplation30: One fixes one’s attention at the eye center until one becomes aware of melodious inner sounds31 3. Listening to the Inner Sound32: One focuses attention on the inner sounds experienced in contemplation, until the consciousness is drawn up and in, beyond the mind to the source of the Higher Intelligence within. (**This is an advanced technique requiring the guidance of a Meditation expert.) Getting Started BEST TIMES: The best times are between 3 a.m. and sunrise, when all is relatively quiet and peaceful, and when one is less likely to be disturbed. Or upon rising or just before going to bed are excellent times. In addition, one may take a few minutes at any convenient time of the day, if one can find a relatively quiet place. Even while sitting on the toilet can be a good time to fit in a few minutes of Meditation. In fact, Repetition (repeating sacred names) can be practiced at any time during the day when one’s complete attention is not required to perform a particular task---i.e., when out walking, jogging, on bus, train or plain, etc.33 It is also good to meditate for 2-5 minutes before making decisions, if you are in doubt or do not have immediate access to expert advice. Sometimes you can receive spontaneous insights. 26

“Surat Shabd Yoga”; Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surat_Shabd_Yoga). ”As a Sanskrit term, surat means "soul," shabd means "word" and yoga means "union." The term "word" means the “Sound Current,” the “Audible Life Stream” or the “Essence of the Absolute Supreme Being,” that is, the dynamic force of creative energy that was sent out, as sound vibration, from the Supreme Being into the abyss of space at the dawn of the universe's manifestation, and that is being sent forth, through the ages, framing all things that constitute and inhabit the universe.[1]. 27 Called “Simran” in Sanskrit 28 Commonly called the “Single Eye” or “Third Eye” 29 Beginners can choose their own names; advanced students usually are provided names by a Master Meditator 30 “Dhyan” in Sanskrit 31 Called the “Audible Sound Current” or “Celestial Music” or the “Word” or “Logos” or “Holy Spirit 32 Called “Bhajan” in Sanskrit 33 Reminds you of St. Augustine who implored man to “Pray without ceasing”.

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PLACE: Ideally one should designate a quiet, peaceful place in one’s home in which to regularly meditate. After a while, as soon as one enters that space, one gets in the proper mood or frame of mind to meditate. Otherwise, brief Meditation can be practiced in a number of locations as cited above. DURATION: Beginners may start with five minutes at a time, gradually increasing the length as one gains proficiency. Advanced meditators are known to sit for two and one half hours or more per day. The most advanced meditators no longer have to “sit” to meditate, as they have reached a stage wherein they are in a constant state of Meditation in which they routinely hear inside what is called, “Automatic Sound”. POSTURE: Sit with the spine straight and still, but relaxed, in a comfortable chair (or cross legged on a cushion on the floor for those who can do it). The object is to be able to sit for long periods of time without moving. The hands may rest on the lap or knees. Clothing should be loose and comfortable. Ideally, where possible, the stomach should be empty. REPETITION OF SACRED NAMES: Choose one to five names which represent for you “sacred names” of the Universal Higher Intelligence (base on your “spiritual” beliefs). ** (When under the instruction of advanced adepts of Meditation, the student may be provided sacred names). These names are not and should not be “mantras”34. In this system of Meditation, no attempt is made to manipulate psychical or physical energy or chakras (ganglion). When relaxed and sitting, gently close the eyes. Begin to inwardly and lovingly repeat (not chant) the sacred names, slowly and reverently with the “tongue of thought”--i.e., silently within the mind. At the same time, notice or pay bare attention to whatever appears in ones sphere of awareness, straight ahead in the darkness with the eyes closed. No attention is to be paid to the breathing or any part of the body, and no words uttered out loud, because the object is to avoid any engagement of the physical senses. What to Expect Details of the advanced theory, practice and benefits of Meditation, and the role of a guide in achieving success are beyond the scope of this booklet. However, a general idea of what to expect in this system of Meditation may be helpful to those seeking guidance.

34

“Mantras are psychically potent sound syllables capable of influencing the human system”; “Mantras”; http://www.sanatansociety.org/indian_music_and_mantras/sounds_of_tantra_mantras.htm

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REPETITION OF SACRED NAMES: In the beginning a parade of thoughts may barrage the mind, and there may be a tendency to engage these thoughts. However, whenever any thoughts or twitches and itches arise, pay bare attention to them and simply return the attention to the repetition of the sacred names, while focusing attention straight ahead in the darkness at the eye center. This gives the mind something to do in order to eventually slow it down. Apart from the drift of thoughts, one may notice complete darkness or lights and colors, the sun, the moon or stars. Whatever appears, the object is to keep bringing the focus back to the eye center via repetition of the sacred names. If any troubling or questionable images appear, keep repeating the sacred names, which should make them disappear. If this persists (which is unlikely) find/consult a master of Meditation to assist you, which is preferable even in the beginning, especially if one expects to progress to the advanced stages. CONTEMPLATION: As one progresses in Meditation, one first loses all sensation of the body and the attention becomes fixed at the eye center, between and behind the eyebrows, inside. At this stage one may experience the melodious sounds---i.e., drum, flute, conch, bells, thunder, humming of bees, etc., and Radiant Lights which represent the “Word” or manifestation of the Higher Intelligence. (**Only pay attention to sounds coming from the right side or the eye center, as sounds coming from the left are considered to debasing35.) LISTENING TO THE INNER SOUNDS: In advanced stages of Meditation the experiencing of inner sounds and radiant lights represents the divine “Yoga” or union with the Higher Intelligence, in the form of “Divine Revelations”36. These Revelations are the divine nectar that guides and protects the meditator in everyday life, in the process of realizing one’s divinity. Hopefully as one progresses in Meditation one experiences a “taste of honey”---i.e., moments of bliss and inspiration, more mental clarity and concentration, more calmness and reduced stress, and a feeling of lightness. In order to perfect the process of Meditation and experience “Divine Revelations”, one is advised to seek the guidance of one who is an Adept at the practice. There’s an old Buddhist proverb which says, “When the student is ready the Master appears”, and a Chinese Proverb which says, “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself.”37 ################################## 35

“Shabd is coming from neither the right side nor the left side; the Shadb is coming from above our head. But because we are in the habit of hearing the sounds from the right and left, that is why we say that the Shabd is coming from either the right or left.”; “The Sales Agents of God”; by Sant Ajaib Singh Ji; http://www.santji.allegre.ca/sbmag/sbm23-12/qa100280.html 36 “yoga is the connection of the soul with its divine origin through revelations. Incessant or "uninterrupted" yoga refers to the stage of spiritual practice at which the connection with the stream of divine revelations has become constant so that it governs all actions of the person concerned”; “The Sacred Scriptures- A Shared Treasure, Circular Seven, January February 2001; http://centreworldreligions.org 37 “favorite quotes”; Julia Elaine Armstrong’s Art Gallery; http://artdanz.com/quotes.html

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