~ December 2010 ~ Visionary, Intuition & Dreaming Thread! ~

[FirstLight]

Here we are, the last onth of the year upon us, like that blanket of fresh snow now forcing us indoors
...perhaps to Dream a bit More?

The sun barely seems to show his face, and rings the northern sky instead of it's usual arch overhead...
even the Light hangs low this time of year...cold nights seem darker, somehow


So of course, we humans make this our time to Celebrate that *WE can CREATE LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS*


The symbolism here is that we Embrace the dark and quiet given to us by the Season
enter the cave to hibernate... and find the LIGHT WITHIN

...and find the Light that lives in Each of us...hence the whole "goodwill toward man"

The goddess of the North and the snow is Skaadi, in Norse tradition.
She is stormy and unpredictable, relentless in her pursuit of what she perceives as justice. She will stop at nothing to achieve her objectives. But she has passion and integrity, and the determination to live life in all its fullness, regardless of the harshness of her circumstances, or of the feelings of others about her.

She knows how to survive in a tough climate, how to provide for herself and her loved ones. She loves winter because it calls forth the best in her. It demands her strength and courage, not her weakness. It calls on her patience, and her understanding that there is a cycle of seasons in life, and that winter is an essential part of that cycle.

At times like this, we need to remember the lessons of Skadi. Beneath the apparent bleakness, life goes on. Within the dark womb of the Earth, new life is germinating and waiting to return. Out of darkness will come light. Out of seeming barrenness, new growth. Out of death, life. Winter will not last forever.
So cuddle up. Light your fire, and stay warm. Rejoice in the people that Spirit has sent you. Remember Skadi. Emulate her wild, untamed spirit, and enjoy Winter’s unique beauty.

~~~~~~~And no winter thread would be worth it's salt without a little FROST!!!

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
by Robert Frost (1923)

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound’s the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep

[OneGrassRoot]

1. Extra lovely!!!

Just wanted to tell you that.

:hug:

[FirstLight]

2. thanks!

I realized that 'hosting' this thread each month may even be something i can put on my resume...

like it matters, since i haven;t gotten any 'bites'
i should be devoting my time to my non-profit and freelance work...been having fun doing print and design stuff for friends to keep me busy.
so thanks for noticing... i love choosing the artwork and such ;)

:hug: to you too!

[OneGrassRoot]

3. Absolutely you can use it on your resume, imho...

Also, imho, doing these things that you're passionate about is the perfect example of what I mean when I say to DO SOMETHING that takes you toward what you choose to create, as you deal with the business of survival.

The whole staying in your passion thing, even if it's just doing one 10-minute task that is part of that passion. It's not about the end result (why should I do X because Y is never going to manifest)...it's doing it because you enjoy it and it helps things flow...it's the journey, as they say. ;)

More :hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

4. I realize this may seem off topic, but to me it's not....

and I feel blessed to have this visionary and dreaming thread to "ground" this message. Thanks, FL. :hug:

I know it's usually people's actual nighttime or lucid dreams and visions that are shared, but I want to share something about my dream, and about others' dreams which are more in the realm of daydreaming perhaps?

In chatting with my gal Kind of Blue, I wrote that I have difficulty conveying the "bigger picture" of Wishadoo that I've always envisioned. In sharing this with her, and with her helpful reply, I realized that I CAN express it after all.

Wishadoo! allows regular, everyday people like you and me to dream a better world and feel empowered to do so, and then take action in the doing. We can brainstorm about new types of structures (co-ops, time banks or whatever) and new ways of doing anything and everything. Websites dedicated to inventors/innovators/visionaries intimidate so many of us. At Wishadoo! we can come together to develop innovative ideas and create a new world.

An everyday people, grassroots thinktank.

Wishadoo! is where people can open their hearts and minds and dream, and share those dreams, and then work together to make dreams that benefit The Common Good a reality.

It even inspired the idea to have a separate section of Wishadoo! devoted to the dreamers and everyday visionaries. If creating and joining a group at Wishadoo devoted to this feels like too much of a commitment for people, then I'll think of something else...or someone else will think of it. I'm sure it will come.

I think opening hearts and minds is the first step, then people are more ready and able to dream and share -- even if only a little bit -- and then full engagement in discussion and brainstorming can take place.

Once this occurs, the wheels are in motion and the foundation is in place to work toward manifesting these visions and dreams.

Swwwweeeeeeeet!

:grouphug:


edit for clarity

[Fire Walk With Me]

5. The structure of our "society" is based upon "do what we say or else" and not rocking the boat

lest you find out what the "or else" is all about. It becomes a self-patrolling morass of fear and resentment.

You are offering people the, to some, brand new opportunity to choose something positive. Keep putting energy into your vision; it is still a bit of an upward struggle but you'll find that it begins to become easier and also, to accrue or "snowball" somewhat, as a result. Keep on keeping on.

:hugs:

[FirstLight]

6. Yes, dreaming our dreams into reality...

perhaps we should feel free to post THOSE kinds of dreams HERE as well ;) Me likey!

In reference to what you said about living your passion, it is very powerful to feel like I am doing something 'constructive'
and yes, i think i was getting bogged down by the 'to what end' kind of thinking. It doesn;t matter where it leads, just that i am RE-INFORCING the energy of forward motion and passion and joy!

I think I am getting it! :rofl:

and, in reference to the above goddess, i think she's me...in reading the description, i see a lot of the same characteristics...but then again, I *am* a Cappy female! ;)
"She is stormy and unpredictable, relentless in her pursuit of what she perceives as justice. She will stop at nothing to achieve her objectives. But she has passion and integrity, and the determination to live life in all its fullness, regardless of the harshness of her circumstances, or of the feelings of others about her.
She knows how to survive in a tough climate, how to provide for herself and her loved ones. She loves winter because it calls forth the best in her. It demands her strength and courage, not her weakness. It calls on her patience, and her understanding that there is a cycle of seasons in life, "

[Tsiyu]

7. Really nice FirstLight

Evokes the totally dark sweat lodge, cold earth, hot breath, no one sees your prayers or tears or fears or smiles.

Hope you and the kids get out to see some dazzling lights. The pic in the OP is awesome with the blue tree leaning in to say hey.

No intuition, Just thinking about those three little brothers and hoping they are okay, or found soon either way.


Peace

[MorningGlow]

8. Dream last night that I lost my shoes

They were my well-worn Birkenstocks (classic sandal style) but the straps were white instead of tan. I took them off in an antique store and then couldn't find them again. I kept hunting and hunting, but they had disappeared. So I walked home barefoot.

:wtf:

Yeah, no symbolism in that dream--none at all... :sarcasm:
:rofl:

[BlueIris]

9. I had a dream I was shopping for new furniture.

Mostly "vintage" stuff with a modern edge, in a new/antique furniture shop. I kept wanting to go into the back, where the good stuff was. This shopping trip took up like half the dream. It was pretty weird.

[MorningGlow]

11. I was wondering about the significance of the antique store

Interesting that it played a large role in your dream, too, BI. My rooting around in the shop looking for my shoes took up most of my dream too. :shrug:

[FirstLight]

13. here's some info...

veeerrrryyy iiinnnteeerresting!

"In general, shoes represent your approach to life. Wearing shoes in your dream, suggests that you are well-grounded or down to earth. It also represents your convictions about your beliefs....
.....To dream that you are not wearing any shoes, indicates that you have low self-esteem and a lack of confidence in yourself. You are dealing with issues about your self-identity. It also represents poverty, lack of mobility, or misunderstanding. Alternatively, to dream that you are not wearing shoes, represent your playful attitudes and relaxed, carefree frame of mind. You have a firm grasp and good understanding on a situation. If you dream that you lose your shoes, then it suggests that you are searching for your identity and finding yourself."

Dreammoods dictionary

New identity, without conforming...hmmmm!

[MorningGlow]

14. Hey, thanks, FL!

Cuz I'm too damned lazy to look it up meself. Narf.

Yeah, I suppose that self-identity thing does apply! Especially now. I don't know if you saw my question from yesterday, about why I'm feeling jacked up. I'm still sorting it out, but today I recalled that I have felt this way several times before in my life, before a big change--very wound up (in a good way), lots of anticipation, lots of energy. Of course, I don't know what that change is, but I'm pretty sure it's more internal than external, and it's already under way.

After mulling the dream over a bit more, I'm wondering about the symbolism of my favorite Birks. That was my identity in the past, but this past summer I didn't wear them at all--just didn't feel like wearing them. So losing them = losing my past identity, but that's all right. I'm getting a new one. :hi:

[FirstLight]

15. perfect, twin!

I'm getting that 'boosted up' for sure..maybe the pre-bday thing...add in the solstice and the eclipse, we are definitely stepping into a 'new dimensionality' of Self

yay! :hug: :woohoo:

[MorningGlow]

16. Not our birthday time for me, I'm afraid

I really don't enjoy my birthday--not because of aging or anything (I have stalled around the mental age of 19 anyway :P) but instead because my birthday celebrations are just so blah. January 2 is the time everyone says "phew! holidays are OVER!" and they really don't want to party with me (especially in the cold and snow). So I never really look forward to it.

But yeah, this new dimensionality of Self is powerful stuff. Did you read our AstrologyZone forecast for December? It parallels Rick's stuff of course, with nice specifics on how it will affect us Cappies. Braced for several major events this month! Zoinks!

Slightly off topic--this summer my niece graduates from college and my brother turns 60. My SIL wants to make our annual trip out there full of parties. Because I turn 45 this year, she said she wants to include my birthday in the festivities. I won't say no--it might be one of the best birthdays I've ever had! Looking forward to it.

[FirstLight]

17. lol, i know exactly what you mean.

but the turning of the tide is always still a time of shift, i was thinking more on a personal level than a party level, ;)

besides, things are so crazy up here at stateline i avoid New years and usually hunker down. maybe I will have a dinner party sometime by the end of the month, that's about it...

I am so jealous, you will get a 'summertime bday'...! That's one of the things that bums me out about a january bday is the snow and cold!
Maybe one year (after one or both of us have published) we will have to go to the Bahamas or something for our bdays?!

I haven't read susan miller yet, going to soon!

[MorningGlow]

18. ROFL that's a deal!

I always wanted a summer birthday too. I considered changing my birthday to July 2 years ago, but my mother went ballistic because my brother's birthday is July 1 and that would mean I was trying to steal his thunder. Sheesh--old Italian ladies and their firstborn sons...nothing more irrational... :eyes:

[BlueIris]

10. Damnit. I had a dream about Elizabeth Edwards Thursday night.

As some of you know, I sometimes dream about politicians' wives (or former wives, as the case may be.) At some not so great junctures in their lives. In the dream, JE and EE were together, couldn't tell in what capacity, but they were. Planning children's schedules, that kind of thing.

:cry:

[MorningGlow]

12. Yeah, that one still stings

:(

[FirstLight]

25. dammitt, bad news

She's at the end, it seems... or damn close

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x9702878

[Sanity Claws]

19. Dream two nights ago -- would like to have some help with it

I was in a room with other folks, possibly in the dining room of the house I grew up in. A bird flew in and landed on the chandelier. The bird was about the size of a hawk or maybe a kestrel; it was white and had blue horizontal stripes. The color seemed to change; to others, the stripes looked red. It flew in from Mauritania; something about unrest there. There also some reference to Nigeria.

As part of the dream, I was looking a photo or a photoshoot with others. One person in the photoshoot seemed to turn from blue to red based on who he was near.

I can't figure it out. I even had to look Mauritania up. No idea of why it would show up in a dream.
Ideas?

[FirstLight]

22. very interesting...

hawk... is 'messenger' in native totem speak, it also brings to mind the reference of 'hawks of war'

where it came from...not sure about the significance of it, just listen for the name of the place in your daily routine...maybe on the news or on the radio? there may be another peice there...

the red and blue changing colors, in the bird and the people... It makes me think of red/blue states, etc..perhaps the changing colors depending on who is looking at what or what people you are near is like the way we seem to see all the politicians 'changing their stripes' when it comes to doing their jobs...

does that help?

[Sanity Claws]

23. Yes, helps

Changing stripes --- I think you got that part. I had not made the connection with that phrase.

You made me think further about the symbols. Perhaps the chandelier was about shining a light on something.
Hmmm.

[OneGrassRoot]

24. I thought the same thing about red/blue and changing stripes. ;) n/t

[Fire Walk With Me]

20. It is ever more possible to release old patterns

and in cases, life-and-death. Fear is incompatable with the new energy, and the positive is becoming mandatory.

Much is possible when you do it.

[FirstLight]

21. Obama Disillusionment Syndrome

What's going on with the increasing anger towards Obama and Dems and rethugs now? It's like we don;t see good guys or bad guys anymore, they are ALL bad guys...even the one we thought would 'save us' has seemingly turned tail.

do the PTB have something 'on' him?
is it part of the positioning as we approach 2012 (the spiritual gateway, not the election)

Interesting that many of us are waking up lately and feeling like the kool aid has worn off... (though some of the posts in GD are a bit over the top and almost Freeperific)

Is Obama actually playing 3D chess or is it as bad as it looks for most of us,
nobody fighting for us, so we have to find the strength within ourselves and our tribes to pull through the rough stuff?

what's your take?

[BlueIris]

26. Interesting that you've gotten no responses to this comment.

Are people afraid of being mocked? Heckled? Worse?

I confess, I'm not going to post anymore about what I think is coming until after it hits...or hits some more, depending on your perspective. After it's over, I'll post what I "know." It's not pretty, and I'll be interested to see what people have to add at that point.

[OneGrassRoot]

27. I didn't respond because I don't have a friggin clue.

:shrug:

[Fire Walk With Me]

29. As the Psychic Consortium said, Obama is a true teacher

And as I say, teaching us is like herding cats.

[japple]

31. I don't know about anyone else, but I am still comitted to President

Obama. I believe he is an enlightened soul whether he realizes it or not. We have no idea what he's dealing with and I feel like it is something terrible. Blue Iris, I hope your prediction is about BIG DIRTY STUFF involving the GOP, the teabaggers, and their nefarious dealings with our corporate overlords.

[Fire Walk With Me]

32. Others have said that he is well aware, and I've come to believe that as well.

Several things he's said have been subtle or not so subtle cues regarding the problems and the overall direction.

The "backstage" of international money and power grabs is truly awful. His ability to do his job each day in spite of, is truly inspirational to me. I hope to learn a great deal from him, and feel that I've already begun. I used to mock "hope". Now I find, upon examination, that it is an extremely high vibration of vast integrity. I'm really quite impressed...He is the perfect President at the perfect time.

Now all we have to do is become the "we" in "Yes, we can."

[eilen]

34. Enlightened or Not

I don't believe for a minute the tax cut deal was made because of the unemployment benefit extension. I had my doubts when he first announced it and when he made that speech where he was castigating the "left" for being "sanctimonious" -- that sealed it. The reason he is giving is false. I don't know what the real reason is. There may be a good reason, but helping the middle class and the unemployed was not it.

When he trotted out Bill Clinton, I knew it was a lie.

Today, listening to "progressive radio" whoever it is that tells me things made it very clear that the meme of the 2M unemployed is a herring... was loud and clear. There was even an article read out loud on the radio stating the "left" did not care about poor people! I have never heard such castigation of progressives and leftists than I have on so-called progressive radio. We are literally being hammered over the head to "get in line!"

The message police are out there.

The thing is, the unemployed don't necessarily want more unemployment, they want jobs, a way to earn a living. The act of going to Korea and hammering out another trade deal is antithetical to helping them.
What makes this even more surreal is Bill C. is sent to help him, the man who "ended welfare as we know it" Signed NAFTA, GATT, WTO-- Yeah, real advocate for the working class and poor.
Those were all tells.


Don't listen to the words of the politicians if you want truth. Look at their actions.

[Fire Walk With Me]

35. Mr. Clinton certainly did not appear very happy, did he.

But then again, he's been hanging around with Clan BushCo a little too much!

[Fire Walk With Me]

28. The Law of Transmutation of Energy.

A field of high frequency energy will uplift all present lower energy fields.

This is as simple as choosing to side-step a bad mood by praying your gratitude for what you are thankful for (even and including the bad mood), and as complex as the story shared by Thich Nhat Hanh...in Viet Nam, a battle was taking place between the Viet Kong and US forces. Four monks were walking across a small bridge through the battle, right between the two sides. The fighting slowed, then completely stopped. The monks continued on their trek.

If you are hurting, angry, or in any amount of negative/dark energy, put on/pick up your favorite comedy or your most passionately loved film, book, or music. CHOOSE to connect with it.

The same goes for going out and being of service. Make a sandwich and cola for the local homeless person(s). Send a bit of money to charity (especially if you yourself are in need).

Pray for the benefit of all beings, or especially those suffering from the same issues you seek to clear. A single skillful act of caring can make all the difference in the world.

Most importantly, seek and approach God as you know how. God is all light, and returns your attention in the form you present it. Simply for the joy of contact (or even attempting contact), this is the most powerful transmutation available, of which I am aware. That, or helping another to move towards such contact...a few happy "Praise God!"s a day don't hurt. You are praised in return.

CHOOSE the positive energy if you are having difficulty, regardless of your state. Practice this, build this muscle. Stay in lovingkindness, joy, and hope. Pray it for others. Go out and do things to create it in others.

Be blessed; you are beautiful even if you do not yet remember it.

[OneGrassRoot]

30. I appreciate this so very much...

"CHOOSE the positive energy if you are having difficulty, regardless of your state. Practice this, build this muscle. Stay in lovingkindness, joy, and hope. Pray it for others. Go out and do things to create it in others."


"Build this muscle." Gosh, that is so true. As with any new exercise or shift in how we think and respond, it takes practice and effort. I never thought of it that way.

There are so many wise, quotable statements here. Simply beautiful.

I sure could have used this yesterday. ;) I may print out and keep for future reference when one particular trigger arises for me and I get thrown off balance.

Thank you. :hug:

[FirstLight]

33. Had a dream I was PREGNANT! eeek!

I know it is symbolic of the changes I am making in life, and that the 'thing' I am birthing may just be myself...

But it was weird...I was in the last month of pregnancy, fat and waddling...
and i was trying to get through a party/family thing, where every one had a couch or a room to sleep in, and me and my kids were all displaced...it seemed like this took place in my old family house, where I grew up...
I could not find a place to sleep, and nobody cared I was pregnant (family or friends that were there, but they seemed to be friends of someone else, not mine)
I remember wanting a cigarette, and thinking how much would it matter if i smoked 'just one'
I remember thinking i was going to have a c-section, and being thankful i would not have to endure 'real labor' again...

weird, weird, weird...

[FirstLight]

36. May I request a reading?

the JOB SEARCH has me going crazy...

none of the normal options are working

should i just write myself a grant and start a non-profit?

i am at a loss but i NEED something to DO to feel relevant, and i need the money too...

any hits? type of job is should look at?
or even if you 'see' me in a place, give me an idea of how it looks and maybe i know the bldg?


(ps...i also know the stress of unemployment is screwing up my effectiveness as a mother and i can;t even begin to have a relationship because anyone would look at me and think i am looking for a 'meal-ticket'...so i just need to feel responsible and self sufficient again!)

[BlueIris]

37. I did a mini-meditation on that tonight and got that

you will start your next full time job, soon: when the Sun is in Capricorn, the Moon in Pisces. I "checked" a bunch of different job categories (retail, municipal, etc.) and got that the job will be in a library, if you can believe that. No health benefits, (sorry) but you will probably be able to manage, as you will only work there for six months to a year. My pendulum indicates the library is in a city that starts with an 'S.'

It's the next job that came through that's interesting to me. My pendulum says it will be in a private elementary school of some kind, possibly an "alternative" school of some type, though I got a "no" after asking if it was a charter school. It may have something to do with New Age activities, it may not. I get that you will work there for many years.

[FirstLight]

38. thank you for taking the time for this...

funny, at first i was worried about the city starting with an 'S'...thinking it would be sacramento, which would be a move away... but duh! I live in South tahoe...easier! I'll go poke around the libraries and bookstores too...nice direction.

as for the school thing, there is a school district near the washoe Res that I have worked for before... maybe i'll contact them. OR...my mentor is involved with another native group on a huge piece of land in the valley, and they need some help setting up things, like a spiritual'school' so maybe i'll be an administrator of some sort...

it feels good to have "some" kind of direction to look at, and also to think that I WILL be gainfully employed sometime soon again - whew!
:hug:thanks again, Blue

[FirstLight]

43. followed the lead...got a GOOD response!!!!

check the local county libraries, nothin. checked the phone book, no real bookstores up here...

so i wracked my brain and remembered...I used to substitute as a teacher's aide P/t and run the after school program in the school districe one little mountain town over...
so i emailed the gal who is the main administrator, in fact she remembered me!
(she even put a smiley face in her email, which is a good sign i think)
so she said after winter break, she'll see if there's any opportunities...I did even offer to work in the admin or school library too ;)

:bounce: cross fingers!!!

[OneGrassRoot]

48. Dang, you're good....

:applause:

:hug:

[Fire Walk With Me]

39. Had a quick, unsought blurb this morning...

Of George Bush's gloating face, and of the veil of denial/darkness going DOWN, pulling back, for just a moment, a glorious full second, and people SAW how they'd been used, mocked to their faces, of the money, resource, and power grab games going on, and how they don't believe that anyone can see them, and fuck them if they can...and more. The whole thing, revealed for a moment. The ongoing privatization of the United States to the money'd and corporate, through disaster capitalism of the country...

I believe that this is happening, that it is part of the 2010 "this isn't good enough/change" energy; Michael Moore and Assange and others are SICK of hte old way, as are many, many more, and it has to have an effect. It DOES have an effect. Even if there isn't vast revolution in an instant, or massive protests, enough people with the "ENOUGH" energy are making a difference. As I always put forth, watch the trends as they are most telling, and from them are more easily assembled an overview of the process and direction.

Edit: The only problems associated with this AFAIK would be if those who are making the changes, become quiet after managing to make a difference, but not follow through, or to sense that something big is going on, and lay back, instead of =continuing to take the opportunity to end the bullshit and create something wonderful=.

[Shallah Kali]

40. I dreamt I married George Clooney

He was still George Clooney in name and looks but was a fisherman living on an island off the coast of New Brunswick (I think). He was wearing a gorton's fisherman type jacket and pants when he took me home to see the house. His two shipmates came over too. He had three kids, two girls and a boy, which I didn't meet then (I think, it is fuzzy, I think his first wife was deceased not divorced). I was all excited when he showed me a room done all up in purple, my fav color, thinking it was our bedroom but it was the eldest girls. HIs bed room was all shades of blue with a blue satin comforter.

[Sanity Claws]

42. Haha

He's mine, honey.

Did you see The Perfect Storm? That may have the inspiration for casting (pun?) him as a fisherman.

[Shallah Kali]

44. My Mom already said that to me

when I told her about the dream :P Heh. All I got was one little hug before I jumped to a different dream so don't be too envious. Now if I had a choice on a dream husband my conscious choice would have been Colin Firth or Hugh Jackman!

Oh I did see the movie but I wondered why I dreamed of him as a Canadian fisherman named George Clooney instead of a Mass. like in the movie why dream of him as him but not of his house on a lake in italy???

[Cleita]

41. So I had a dream in where the Vitamin

B-16 was mentioned various times including one time that a bottle with vitamin 16 was on the label and was shown to me in the dream. I am not a real vitamin enthusiast and had never heard of it. Back in my school days, it was never mentioned. So I decided to look it up and this is one of the references I found.

http://www.althealth.co.uk/help_and_advice/supplements/vitamin_b16/

So it really is a vitamin of sorts if only in label. My dream was not clear about if I was to take it or just bring awareness about it to others whom it might help. Do any of our ASAH members who are into healing know anything more about this?

[Shallah Kali]

45. dmg is related to tmg which your body converts to SAM-e w/help of b vitamins

I give tiny bit of tmg in wet food to my 16 yr old Angel kitty every other day so her poor joints don't hurt her so. She is rather stiff, moves gingerly and will meow in pain when picked up if I forget it. Fredric (kitty in my pic) adores her and wants to cuddle and curl up around her but if I forget her dose she will bop him on the head. I tried putting a bit of glucosamine in her food but she won't eat it but doesn't mind the TMG at all.

Methyl donors for more energy and mood by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
http://www.raysahelian.com/methyl.html

Unless your major is college was chemistry, chances are you don’t remember learning about methyl donors. But if you find the field of brain nutrients and anti-aging interesting, you will certainly want to learn more about these supplements. A methyl donor is simply any substance that can transfer a methyl group to another substance. Many important biochemical processes rely on methylation, including the metabolism of lipids and DNA. Scientists suspect that adequate methylation of DNA can prevent the expression of harmful genes, such as cancer genes. It’s quite likely that our body’s ability to methylate declines with age, contributing to the aging process, and therefore supplementation could well be beneficial. The research in this area is still very early and no firm answers are yet available.

In chapter 9 of Mind Boosters, I mention two of the B vitamins, folic acid and B12, to be methyl donors. Here I discuss four additional nutrients involved in methylation: TMG, DMG, SAM-e, and DMAE. All but SAM-e have been sold over the counter for a number of years. SAM-e became available in the US in 1996. Interestingly, some vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and beets, contain methyl donors.

snip

TMG, also known as betaine, is basically the amino acid glycine attached to three methyl groups. Dimethylglycine is similar to trimethylglycine, except it has two methyl groups. You may recall that a methyl group is a carbon attached to three hydrogen atoms (CH3). Both of these nutrients are powerful methyl donors. Methylation is an important factor in many biochemical processes in the human body. In chapter 9 I mentioned that the B vitamins folic acid and B12 lower levels of homocysteine, the harmful amino acid-like substance in blood which can cause hardening of the arteries and possibly damage brain cells. By reducing homocysteine levels, the risk for heart disease can be reduced. TMG and DMG are also known to reduce homocysteine levels and therefore could be helpful in reducing the rate of heart disease. It’s possible that as we age, the process of methylation becomes less effective and supplementation with TMG or DMG may provide health and anti-aging benefits.

snip

Because of its role in the making of neurotransmitters, SAMe has been tested in the therapy of depression. A number of studies have been published, mostly in Europe, evaluating this nutrient’s role in mood disorders. Back in 1994, Dr. Bressa, from the University Cattolica Sacro Cuore School of Medicine, in Rome, Italy conducted a meta-analysis of the studies on SAMe (Bressa 1994). A meta-analysis is a statistical pooling of already published research papers. Dr. Bressa concludes, “The efficacy of SAMe in treating depressive syndromes and disorders is superior to that of placebo and comparable to that of standard tricyclic antidepressants. Since SAMe is a naturally occurring compound with relatively few side-effects, it is a potentially important treatment for depression.”

[Cleita]

46. Wow!

This is really prescient. First because I'm old and lately have been concerned about aging, but also because I never would have been looking for answers in that direction. I didn't know it helped animals. We do have an aging dog who is obviously arthritic. I'm going to suggest to my son-in-law to add this to her diet. They are already giving her glucosamine.

Thanks for the info Shallah Kali.

[Shallah Kali]

47. doh! forgot to mention it works on my Mom too

she has taken glucosamine sulfate to good effect for years now but recently said her wrist and thumb were aching & the big joint of the thumb a little swollen so I told her to try adding the tmg. She said the next day it already felt better so I told her to keep taking it. tmg is soooooooooo much cheaper than same - under $5 at Swanson's for 90 caps w/a human dose of 1 or 2 per day. Also for sam-e to survive stomach acid it needs to be enteric coated so it wouldn't help my Angel to cut one up and force it in her. I put it in a bit of wet food or as a special treat beachnut baby turkey and she wolfs it down. She turns her nose up to glucosamine so many times I stopped trying and just stick with the tmg. lemme get you the link: http://www.swansonvitamins.com/Search?keyword=tmg&doSearch=true&ntt=dmg&n=0&ntk=Level1&x=0&y=0 I got the Swanson brand and just kinda unscrew the capsule to get a tiny bit out.

Swanson's Health Library entry on Betaine (Trimethylglycine)
Also indexed as: Betaine, TMG
http://www.swansonvitamins.com/health-library/healthnotes/assets/nutritional-supplement/betaine-trimethylglycine/~default

Betaine (trimethylglycine) functions very closely with choline, folic acid, vitamin B12, and a form of the amino acid methionine known as S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).1, 2 All of these compounds function as “methyl donors.” They carry and donate methyl molecules to facilitate necessary chemical processes. The donation of methyl groups by betaine is very important to proper liver function, cellular replication, and detoxification reactions. Betaine also plays a role in the manufacture of carnitine and serves to protect the kidneys from damage.3 Betaine is closely related to choline. The difference is that choline (tetramethylglycine) has four methyl groups attached to it. When choline donates one of these groups to another molecule, it becomes betaine (trimethylglycine). If betaine donates one of its methyl groups, then it becomes dimethylglycine.

[BlueIris]

49. Democratic Party may get a new chairperson.

Focused meditation. Tools used: intuition, pendulum. Date: 12/19/10. Time: 11:00 a.m.

Possibly next Spring. Tim Kaine will be jettisoned with the Sun is in Aries, I think.

Bits that came through to me: Politically moderate. Possibly a woman. From the Northeastern U.S. Didn't get a name, or current job title.

[BlueIris]

50. Interesting results I got from a medi I did last night on the 2012 election:

For the purposes of this meditation, I was focused on the presidential part of '12. As in, the Democratic nominees for president. Didn't try to break down the results into "votes for president" vs. "votes for Congress people," etc.

Tools used: pendulum. Time: 9:00 p.m.

Note: I asked nothing about why these responses came through the way they did. I also asked nothing about who would be on the ticket. Also, I didn't check the, er, "math" on these results. So I have no idea what it says about potential final vote tallies and such, or what it says about the nominees' chances of winning the election.

Q: What percentage of Democrats who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democrat in 2012? A: 60%

Q: What percentage of 18-25 year olds who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 40%

Q: What percentage of 26-40 year olds who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 90%

Q: What percentage of African American voters who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 50%

Q: What percentage of Latino voters who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 40%

Q: What percentage of LGBT voters who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 90%

Q: What percentage of independent and/or non-affiliated voters who voted Democratic in 2008 will vote Democratic in 2012? A: 100%

I double checked that last answer three times. With all the "Democrats have lost independents" hand wringing that's been going on, that answer surprised me. A lot.

[Fire Walk With Me]

51. 2011 is coming up.

Starting the year with a lot of energies...we are being pushed/led to higher ideals and the far more pleasant manner of living they cause, disconnected from the past...note that some spiritual texts mainly describe how to live; this becomes more of a concern due to our Koyaanisqatsi and growing realization that we must go another way. The weather is revealing itself as an increasing hazard, one which must be solved. There will be growing awareness of the problems we face, such as this, and empetus to observation/organization/solution. Some new ideas will show up thanks to the presence of the Higher Dimensions and their associated genius. "Why didn't anyone ever think of that before, it's so obvious!"

But all in all, more proof of higher vibrations, the desire to be in them and to stay in them, of the desire and need to move into them as the standard. Fighting from those who cannot change, will not change, I don't wanna, you can't make me... Deeper insight into the malfeasance of government and government-related actions and agencies. Some shocking. PC said that Obama wouldn't go after BushCo directly, and IMO has likely prevented some harrowing info from coming to light to early (pun intended). All things in their time. Doesn't the military/industrial complex take about half of the governments spending? That sort of thing won't disappear overnight, but will diffuse and slowly break apart in the increasingly positive energies.

There will be more people realizing that there IS hope, that something better can be created and best of all, =maintained=. Which makes very important solving the problems in its way. Increasing love for the Great Mother Earth and voices raised toward caring for her more completely. Initiatives may begin regarding neighborhood care/upkeep, and co-op farming, which are things which should increase significantly, if you consider them at all. Food prices are becoming ridiculous, and there are increasing shortages...grow your own. Start another generation of Victory Gardens.

"Victory gardens, also called war gardens or food gardens for defense, were vegetable, fruit and herb gardens planted at private residences and public parks in United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Germany<1> during World War I and World War II to reduce the pressure on the public food supply brought on by the war effort. In addition to indirectly aiding the war effort these gardens were also considered a civil "morale booster" — in that gardeners could feel empowered by their contribution of labor and rewarded by the produce grown. This made victory gardens become a part of daily life on the home front."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_garden

This because of need as well as the increase of "good ideas". In beginning to work in a more communal manner, we become included and empowered, and satisfied as to a better way of living that we are making our own. Thus America begins some level of spiritual enrichment, as predicted by the Maharishi and Yogananda. This will be important especially if the cost of oil continues to rise. Transportation costs equal higher goods costs, and food is key. Those hanging tomato plant growers as seen on television are looking more and more interesting :)

I'm not talking instant revolutions here, but the continued birthing of positive trends amidst the absolute of increasing positive energy. Trend-watching is a good way to gain some level of insight. Those who doubt the "2012" energy thing may gain a greater belief, and hopefully some happiness regarding it, as it's good news for those who want something positive (or at minimum, the groundwork for something positive to be created). It's easier and easier to make positive actions "stick", to take hold and to gain empetus. Forward-driving energy is the important thing, combined with positive intent.

I've got to work upon this sort of thing; I don't care for the ephemeral much at all either. However, too much information can cause a lack of work if it is believed that a particular direction is guaranteed. The 2010 election should hopefully make it quite clear that if you want something, you're going to have to get out and make it happen. Input begins to equal output.

What is the world you wish to create? So begin. It is become easier and easier to do so.

[Fire Walk With Me]

52. One of the main points of the economic crisis the money bastards have brought upon us

at a personal and a national level, world-wide, is to work upon creating any amount of self-sufficiency you can engender, including food co-ops with others, barter for skills and services, etc., and to WORK against corporate takeover of everything, which is of course what they're after. Self-sufficiency and co-operation with others at this level obsoletes the old meme of selfishness and Kontrol.

[Cleita]

54. Also, if we start banding together we can accomplish

things as a group that we can't individually. I know we should be able to band together as Democrats but it seems the party has been infiltrated and now controlled by global corporatists like the Republicans have always been. We have a small party of progressive Democrats, yes we are still registered as Democrats, that meet once a month here in my area. We hold the ideals of FDR, Kensyian economics and are generally pretty socialist in our philosophy. Hopefully, this idea can spread across the nation and we can grow in numbers and get organized into an effective political machine.

As to your suggestion, I haven't grown my own food for a few years, but I'm going to start doing it again and I will be donating any excess to neighbors and families in need. Even if all you grow is some lettuce for your salad it all helps.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

53. Tuesday before xmas I had a dream during a nap.

I dreamed I was in line to vote in a building. Sarah Palin showed up and was gladhanding her way down this row of voters, yakking and handing out free pens or pencils or whatever.

I told DH "Yuck! If I am gonna dream about some face on the TV, i wish it was an attractive male."
He said, "Keith Olbermann and Lawrence O'Donnell?" and I said, "Yeah, the lights are on in those guys."

:rofl:

I think I dreamed about Sarah Palin just from seeing her too much on the TV. AAAUUUGGGHHHH!!!

:banghead: :grr:

[BlueIris]

55. Q: What percentage of the popular vote will go to the Democratic nominee in 2012?

A: 60%.

Q: How many electoral votes will go to the Democratic nominee in 2012?

A: 246.

Time: 1 a.m., 12/28/10. Tools used: pendulum.