We Think With our Hearts

On Friday night, I Zoomed in to a lecture given by the Jung Foundation of Ontario, We Think with Our Hearts, Reading Jung through Native Eyes, presented by visiting Indigenous Jungian Analyst Jeanne Lacourt.  I found the lecture to be an engaging exploration of the challenges of using a Jungian approach to indigenous cultures.

In retrospect, what came to mind were the lyrics by Van Morrison in his song, I Forgot that Love Existed:

If my heart could do my thinking
And my head begin to feel
I would look upon the world anew
And know what's truly real.

The lecture explored Jung’s assessment on indigenous cultures in North America and his assessment of the “Primitive” as he called the native people.  His assessment of Indigenous cultures was not positive in a number of ways.  He decided that Indigenous people were less conscious and lacked free will and were in a prelogical state.  My understanding of the thesis by the presenter, Jeanne Lacourt, critiqued Jung’s assessment as being flawed due to Jung’s cultural biases and his lack of engagement with the North American indigenous culture. 

The lecture explored the understanding of the Participation Mystique – a theory developed by anthropologist Lucien Lévy-Bruhl and adopted by Jung.  One source described this:

Jung’s central notion of participation mystique – namely that in participation mystique experiences there is a blurring of psychological boundaries between individuals, between individuals and their environment, and in some instances between individuals and objects.

This approach, in my understanding, was criticized by Jeanne Lacourt in that the object in the Participation Mystique was passive and played no active role in the encounter between subject and object.  In the indigenous culture, there is a spiritual connection between subject and object.  The spiritual dimension is opened.  For example, in Jungian psychology, if we encounter an animal such as a bear in our dreams, the bear is not a symbol.  It is the spirit of the bear which the dreamer is connected to.

I realize that I am getting into the weeds of this to a greater extent than usual in my reflections.  However, I wanted to give this background in response to the lecture and the idea of Participation Mystique.  The participants were asked to share experiences they might have had with the phenomenon of Participation Mystique.  I shared my experience of encountering a piece of art - a mask by an indigenous artist of a wolf-man. 

 

I encountered this in 2002 when Lorna and I were on a trip out west.  While in Vancouver, we visited an art gallery.  I was completely engaged with the mask when I saw it, but it was quite expensive, and I hesitated to buy it even though I certainly considered it.   I had the opportunity to return to the gallery, I believe, two more times and the force of my engagement, if anything, increased.  I succumbed to the apparent inevitable and purchased it and it sits on the wall in my office where I see it most days.

The Participation Mystique of this for me is the wolf.  I haven’t had a direct encounter with wolves; however, I have encountered on a traditional aboriginal teaching which has resonated with me.  

A wise elder is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.” He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?” The old man simply replied, “The one you feed.”

That mask spoke to me in a way that is beyond language.  I believe it was the spirit of the mask speaking to my spirit.  I hope you are blessed with the Participation Mystique on your journey.

 

Things Hoped For

For those of us who do not jump into the Christmas season early and often, we began the season of Advent a week ago.  Yesterday was the second Sunday of Advent.  I believe that Advent is more important than ever.   The secular Christmas season is well under way in our society.  I haven’t been to a mall recently, but I imagine that Christmas carols are being played to encourage people to buy, buy and yes, buy more to honour the child that was born in a stable with a manger for a bed.  It is, all in all, the height of irony that Christmas bacchanalia has the world - at least the Western world - in its death grip.  Sorry – I am being rather over the top here.  I promised myself that I wouldn’t indulge in my annual Christmas/Advent rant, but I seem to have broken it – and it wasn’t even a New Years resolution.  There will be lots of opportunities to not live up to any New Year's resolutions that I might rashly make in about a month’s time.

Back to Advent which is supposed to be the topic of today’s rant, sorry, – reflection.  In the worship service I was part of yesterday, we celebrated the Second Sunday of Advent.   We had the ritual of the lighting of the first and second of four Advent candles on the Advent Wreath.  Each of the four candles represent a theme, or value, or virtue which we can reflect on during Advent in our preparation for the coming (the advent) of the Christ Child.  There can be some variation in the themes but generally they are, Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.  The order may vary but we lit the first candle representing Hope and yesterday, Peace.  Peace is what many people associate with Jesus as he is often named the Prince of Peace, so, let me reflect on Hope. 

Hope, generally, means a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.  We can hope for many different things.  If you reflect on what you may have hoped for in the past or what you hope for today, what things would they be?  I can think of times when I hoped for fame, fortune, happiness and generally the fulfillment of what I happened to desire.  This could vary greatly depending on my circumstances.  However, they were usually focused on what I thought would fulfill my life.  There was an element of being like the kind of person I admired at that time. 

If I examine what I hope for these days, what comes to mind is things like good health and happiness for me and for my loved ones.  , I also think of hope that our leaders will be wise and bring a sense of right purpose to the decision they make – although, with the re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States at times that seems like a very faint hope.  However, if I turn my thoughts to more spiritual things which does seem appropriate when we consider Advent, there are many possibilities of what we can hope for.  One source noted that in the Bible, hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised, and its strength is in His faithfulness. Turning to one of the sources I depend on, Richard Rohr writes, “Hope, it seems to me, is the fruit of a learned capacity to suffer wisely and generously. The ego needs success to thrive; the soul needs only meaning.” (Daily Meditation December 3, 2014)

On reflection, much of what I have hoped for in my life have been ego driven.  The ego does not want to have to suffer, even when the suffering will bring us to a better place – which is not true of all suffering.  What doesn’t kill us does not necessarily make us stronger.  But we can (appropriately) hope that we will be able to see that God is with us even, or especially in our suffering.  We can hope for soul work in our lives that will open us more fully to God.  That is something to be devoutly hoped for.

Blessings on your Advent journey.

 

Is Donald Trump the Antichrist?

Donald Trump has been held up as a man ordained by God to lead the Untied States out of the wilderness of wokism and other far left ideologies.  This has been promoted by some elements of Evangelical fundamentalist Christianity, especially those who proclaim themselves to be Christian Nationalists.  Now in my view Christian Nationalist fall into the same category as the Holy Roman Empire when Voltaire joked that it was not Holy or Roman or an Empire.  Christian Nationalists are neither Christian nor Nationalist.  Well, perhaps that doesn’t quite fit as they are Nationalists of the worst variety; a Nationalist being defined as “a person who strongly identifies with their own nation and vigorously supports its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations.”

Those Christians who support Trump dismiss criticism of his moral failures and narcissism and generally unchristian behaviour to maintain that, if he is not the “second coming of God”, he is being used by God to fulfil God’s purpose just as God used a non-Israelite, King Cyrus, to return the exiled Israelites back to the Promised Land. 

What Christian commentators seem to have overlooked is the possibility that Trump can be seen as the Antichrist who’s coming is foretold in the Bible including the so-called Trump Bible which Donald Trump is hawking for $59.99.  Let’s explore the concept of the Antichrist and see if Donald Trump fits the bill.  Note, I have had the able assistance of ChatGPT in this exposition.

The concept of the Antichrist is rooted in Christian eschatology, primarily appearing in the New Testament and referring to a figure who opposes Christ and deceives humanity in the end times. Different traditions interpret the idea differently, but there are common themes in its description.  Biblical Characteristics of the Antichrist:

• Deception and Charisma: The Antichrist is described as a figure who deceives many through persuasive speech and charisma (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).
• Claims of Divinity or Authority: Often depicted as someone who exalts themselves above God or divine law (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
• Opposition to Truth: Promotes falsehoods and leads people away from Christian teachings (1 John 2:22).
• Global Influence: Exercises power on a large scale, often linked to political or economic authority (Revelation 13:7).
1. Criticisms and Allegations Against Donald Trump: Critics of Donald Trump who draw parallels to the Antichrist typically focus on his perceived characteristics or actions that align with some of these themes:
• Charisma and Polarization: Trump's ability to captivate a large following while deeply dividing public opinion has led some to see him as a figure capable of mass persuasion.
• Self-Exaltation: His frequent boasts and statements about his abilities or accomplishments have been interpreted by some as self-aggrandizing.
• Allegations of Deception: Critics often accuse him of spreading misinformation or prioritizing personal gain over truth.
• Political Power and Influence: His role as a prominent global figure with significant influence on political and social movements aligns with the concept of a powerful leader in some Antichrist narratives.

From my perspective, I believe that many charismatic leaders of all kinds are always appearing on the world stage.  This has occurred in the past and will undoubtedly occur in the future.  The archetype of the Antichrist reflects the possibilities that lie within people and wait to be activated by individuals with the abilities and perspectives and morals (or lack thereof) which will appear Antichrist like.  This has occurred in the past with people such as Napoleon, Hitler, and even Ronald Regan.  These claims often arise in times of political turmoil or division, reflecting societal fears rather than theological consensus.  Donald Trump does indeed have some or many of the characteristics of an Antichrist.  However, I don’t believe he will be on center stage beyond the next four years.  

Personally, the biblical prediction of an Antichrist is one which is a matter of belief and unbelief.  It may come to pass as the second coming of Jesus may come to pass.  I will let that mystery be and be concerned with how to live in this world as a Christian.   That is enough on my journey.  I hope you can navigate the possibility on yours.    

  

Synchronicity; More than Just Coincidence

 Have you ever wondered about things that might be considered coincidences in your life but are more than can easily be dismissed as mere chance?  Sometimes they seem to be significant - more than just coincidence – due to the timing or events that are very meaningful in your life.  On January 14, 2025, I will be presenting a Dreamwork Canada workshop that will explore this phenomenon which Carl Jung called synchronicity.

Below is the information for you to join us in exploring this most curious and meaningful phenomenon.:

Dreamwork Canada presents

 

an opportunity via Zoom to explore

our dreams as a means of deepening                

and expanding our spirituality.

 

WORKSHOP: Synchronicity and You: More than Coincidence led by Greg Little

 

Join us:
     Tuesday, January 14, 2025 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. EST  (two hours) 
     On Zoom
     Cost: $40, or pay what you can

 

In his essay, On Synchronicity, Carl Jung declares, “I have therefore directed my attention to certain observations and experiences which, I can fairly say, have forced themselves upon me during the course of my long medical practice. They have to do with spontaneous, meaningful coincidences of so high a degree of improbability as to appear flatly unbelievable.” Jung named these “meaningful coincidences” synchronicity. 
In this workshop, we will explore:

• Jung’s hypothesis for synchronicity,
• examples of synchronicity in Jung’s work and in our lives,
• outline how to differentiate between synchronicity and “mere” coincidence. 

Participants will have an opportunity to discuss their experiences of synchronicity and explore the impact in their lives. 
Since Dreamwork Canada believes that exploring our dreams is essential to our psychological health, participants will also have an opportunity to examine dreams in a group experience. We invite participants to being one of their dreams to share in the group experience. 

Led by Greg Little, an Anglican Priest and Honourary assistant at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church in Strathroy, Ontario. He is a Certified Dream Group Leader and spiritual director from the Haden Institute.

Registration deadline: January 13, 2025 

To register: 
Step 1  Send your name and e-mail address to dreamworkcanada104@gmail.com so we can forward the Zoom link to you.
Step 2  Send your payment by e-transfer to dreamworkcanada104@gmail.com or request an alternative method of payment.  E-transfers are automatically deposited, no passcode required.
 
Questions?  Contact the registrar at dreamworkcanada104@gmail.com

 

Time Stands Still

I have been pondering how time can speed up and slow down.  Returning from our cottage in P.E.I. many people asked how my summer was.  My answer was inevitably, ‘It went by way to quickly.’  There is a general consensus that time seems to speed up as we get older.  However, it can also slow down – for example at the beginning of doing something new – a new job or going to a new place for vacation.  Initially the time seems to go very slowly but picks up speed as you become accommodated to the new situation. 

Einstein’s theory of relativity postulated that time slowed down as an object approaches the speed of light.  So, time really is relative.  I had an experience of this - or something like this some years ago when time seemed to stand still.  It occurred on my first visit to the Apple Farm Community in Three Rivers, Michigan, where later I would go often for spiritual retreats.  The Apple Farm Community was founded by Helen Luke, the author of wonderful books which delved into many different aspects of life as reflected in literature.  Luke’s magnum opus is Dark Wood to White Rose: A Study of Meanings in Dante's Divine Comedy.  It is a wonderful exploration of the journey into wholeness which is offered to each of us.

My introduction to Apple Farm occurred in the mid-1980’s.  I was on what I believe was called an introductory weekend with three other Apple Farm neophytes.  There are many things about my time there which are memorable and were pivotal in my life which was on the cusp of middle age at that time.  My memories of the people I encountered and particularly Helen Luke are to this day important ones as are the dreams I was given while I was there at that time and on subsequent visits. 

Of the many memorable aspects of that time one event stands out.  The four of us neophytes were meeting with Helen in the afternoon of the day after our arrival.  Just being with her was memorable and I remember her as a presence that far exceeded her physical size.  After some time, we were given a fifteen-minute break.  I decided to walk on the grounds and, being very conscious of the time, I checked my watch to ensure that I would not be late.  You need to be aware that I have quite an active complex about being on time, so this was not unusual for me.  After a while I checked my watch and discovered that very little time had passed, and I still had ample time to enjoy the grounds.  Shortly after I noticed one of the other newbies calling me to come back as - horrors of horrors - they were waiting for me.  I had kept them all, including Helen, waiting - one of my great fears.  I looked at my watch and discovered that it had stopped shortly after I started my little sabbatical.  I returned quickly giving my apologies and checking my watch again noticed that it had started working once again and continued to keep accurate time the rest of my stay at Apple Farm. 

For that brief interlude time stood still for me – me who has always been very aware of time and being on time.  I believe that the one who sends us dreams and synchronicities was giving me that lesson.  The trickster was playing with my on-time complex.  I still struggle with an overly active desire to be on time to places, as my wife who has no problem in this regard will attest.  However, when this happens, I remind myself of the time when my unconscious conspired for me to keep Helen Luke waiting.

May you be blessed to have time stand still for you on your journey. 

Lest We Forget

Yesterday I preached a Remembrance Day sermon based on the Gospel passage from Mark 12: 38-44.  This is the well-known passage of the Widow’s offering in which Jesus commends a poor widow for giving so much out of her poverty:

‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.’

The widow gave all that see had.  The widow’s offering – sometimes called the widow’s mite, represents for us today those who made the supreme sacrifice for Canada in war. The served and died for their country.  They gave everything that they had - their lives for their country - for their comrades - for their loved ones and all others who remained at home.  We give thanks today for their sacrifice.  Unfortunately, the sacrifice continues, and men and women are still called to serving and dying for their countries.  The Prince of Peace was born in Bethlehem, but peace does not yet reign.  We also remember those who serve and suffer because of the conflict – the effect can continue after they return home – through the effects of combat - both physical and psychological.  Their sacrifice continues.  Our response can be to honour that sacrifice and ensure that they are not forgotten.  But it can also be that we pray that peace will reign.  That war will no longer be carried out - that we will study war no more. 

Humankind does not seem capable of making this happen.  It can only happen through the grace of God.  We pray that some day it will be so.  Let us end with the prayer for the Armed forces and the prayer for peace from the B.A.S. 

The prayer for the armed forces:

Almighty God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women of our armed forces at home and abroad.  Defend them day by day with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

The prayer for Peace:

O God, it is your will to hold both heaven and earth in a single peace.  Let the design of your great love shine on the waste of our wraths and sorrows, and give peace to your Church, peace among nations, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts, through your son Jesus Christ our Lord.  

Amen

To Catch a Falling Leaf

 I was sitting at the dining room table at home a little while ago, looking at the accumulating leaves that have fallen to date.  There are lots more to come.  A leaf caught my eye as it dropped from one of the trees and floated gently to the ground.  I mused that Fall is a much more descriptive name for the season than Autumn even if Autumn is more poetic for this loveliest of seasons in this part of the world.

That falling leaf brought back to mind a story which had been read to me in school when I was in grade five or six which is now many, many years ago.  It was a story of a boy who had been told that it was good luck to catch a falling leaf on your birthday, before it hit the ground.  Actually, I didn’t remember initially that this had to occur on the person’s birthday.  However, this came to mind after some cogitation on the story.  I couldn’t remember much more about it but turned to my good friend Google to see if I could get a hit on what I remembered of the plot.  Unfortunately, this is one of the infrequent times when Google didn’t come through.  I did, however, find out that catching a leaf before it hit the ground is a common theme in folklore.

One source https://hypnogoria.blogspot.com/2015/10/folklore-on-friday-autumn-leaves.html, noted that, “author WJC Murray recalled that as a small boy I had whimsically been taught that there was a magic in a falling leaf if you caught it before it touched the ground.”  The same source had the following reference:

In 1878, the Folklore Society was founded to study such matters, and indeed to preserve these kinds of traditions, songs and rhymes. And in their first year of operations their official journal records the common folk belief that If you catch a falling leaf, you will have twelve months of happiness. (Folk-Lore Record)

The same source notes that, “Children’s author Alison Uttley, in her memoir A Year in the Country (1957), recalls a more exacting version, ‘We try to catch a dancing leaf, for every leaf caught is a 'happy day', but how elusive they are, these fluttering alive things, which slip through the fingers and evade pursuit!’”

I would appear that the premise of the short story (which at this point must remain without a title or author), was grounded in a well-founded tradition that the act of catching a falling leaf before it reaches the ground is good luck.

This reminiscence is nice to explore.  However, what it has actually shown me is how much stories, that I was fortunate enough to have read to me in school and at home when I was growing up, were so very important to me and how much stories were part of my formation in my becoming the person I am today.  In my memory, there were many times in school that stories were read to me, many of which are recalled as this one was.  Of course, the three Rs were essential for my education, but more than anything academic I was taught, the stories were the most important part of my education.  I wonder if the curriculum in the school system allows for students to be read stories.  I suspect not given all the responsibilities that have been placed on that system these days.

In case you are wondering, in my memory, the young hero of the story manages to catch a leaf just as daylight was dying in the West and his birthday celebration came to a close. 

May you be blessed to catch a falling leaf and put it in your pocket or some other special place.