Message #8774

[Lucky Denver]

Nomaste Lucky

i think if u look at y these cities r created in the first place u might have an idea if they were done so for a laudible outcome.
In the higher ages these cities will be dematerialized and looked at as a bruise on the surface of the earth; and not conducive to a spiritual atmosphere in the ultimate sense of the word since an atmosphere conducive to peace and the attainment of enlightenment is very different then one that is found in the hustle and bustle activity and restlessness of city life. Having said this; i live in Los Angeles County and am very happy with the fact that there r so many spiritual activities here and that there r so many meditation groups and saints that travel thru this area. In a larger view God is everywhere and ultimately we will find him everywhere so y not start where we r now placed? It sounds like that is what u r expressing.

Jitendra

Indeed, you have stated exactly what I am trying to express.

I, too, feel the negative implications of cities in the sense of pollution, materialism, corruption, etc. and I am fortunate that my time in the city comes from commuting, as I come from a smaller town about an hour away and I don't think I could ever actually settle down right in the city.

In your words Steve, my message is that God *is* everywhere and we will find him everywhere, so why not start where we are now placed?  Yes, even if we are currently involved or even feel "trapped" within the city machine, that is no excuse to separate one's self from God or to ignore that He is, as you said, *everywhere*.

I'll be the first to sympathize with the notion of escape, the dream to "get out" and live a desolate life, far less materially driven and far more spiritually involved.  However, I am still against the idea that happiness or spiritual advancement *depends* on this for some folks.  Some feel that life, external and internal, will just automatically become better and they'll be a better person by default if they were to just up and switch locations, situations, etc.  Although I understand how a change of pace could and probably will be very helpful for many, it has to always be understood that change comes from WITHIN and this is why I could not agree more that we should be able to find God even in a place that seems to lack in God-spirit, because God is located in our hearts not in "nice places" on Earth.

Bless you all!
Lucky