Oneness Ministry

We are One

Sep 28

Hormone Power

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The individuals who are on a gender transition journey are well aware of the power hormones wield in life; however the average person may not realize just how powerful these little communicators are.  I devote an entire chapter to hormones in my new eBook, Sex and Sexuality, which is coming out next month. 

A hormone is essentially a chemical messenger that transports a signal from one cell to another, pretty simple right?  Well, there is power in simplicity.  Physically each person has certain body parts that trigger the hormone release in the first place.  In the case of Hormone Replacement Therapy (used mostly for post-menopausal women or post op women), or Contra Hormone Therapy (used for the treatment of Gender Dysphoria or Gender Incongruency) the hormone is introduced manually. 

In the book I get into the specific effects of each sexual hormone as they are used for CHT, without going into much about HRT.  The amazing thing to me is the end result of a little chemical that orchestrates the rearrangement of your entire body, short of growing new sexual organs.

Here is a quote from the eBook, Sex and Sexuality, “The sex hormones are powerful tools for communication amongst cells, just as sexual acts are powerful communication between animals.  It seems that all of life is about some form of communication or relational experience.  Almost all of human behavior can be related to communication in some form.  We have just discovered another form here in hormones which are the chemical start to potential sexual fireworks.    

The other lesson learned here is that male and female really are fairly superficial aspects of our being and that every human has both, otherwise there would be no way for a male to take female hormones and take on the characteristics of female (or vice versa).  It really is as simple as flipping a switch in the physical makeup of the body to shift from one sex to the other on a physical level.  Of course there is a complex process that occurs and many would not consider this simple, but the point is it occurs when the messenger (hormone) tells the cell which form to take, just like flipping the light switch on the wall.  What does not shift is the gender identity or sexual orientation which is hard wired into the brain.”

A note to my transgender friends, as you know, hormones are powerful tools, but do not change the mind or your Spiritual essence, if anything they do help to accentuate them though as in the process our body, mind and Spirit are aligned.  While they help many people, they are not for everyone, so make sure you are clear on your gender identity before you make this big step.  Going back is possible at this level, but not without permanent changes depending on how far down the road you get.  I for one must say hormones are the best thing I have done for myself since becoming aware of my transgender status.  Now to have the surgery so I can stop taking them!

😉 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Transitions

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Sep 26

Plan On It

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Transition is not usually something that comes out of nowhere.  Most often it is a calling that draws, nags, and prods till it is faced.  When this compulsion is finally faced life can get very emotional and confusing.  One of the tools we can use in Transition is a plan.  Planning gives an overwhelming beast a tamer appearance. 

Once the decision has been accepted, (I believe transitions where chosen before we are born and are a part of our destiny) the next step is to assess where you are and where you feel you need to be.  In the case of gender transition, this is usually fairly simple.  You may say, “I have a male body but feel I need to be in female form”.   Or it may be that you desire to dress as a woman but not to be one all the time.  This is where it is important to listen to your inner feelings and take action, test the waters so to speak.

Now that you are dressing as a woman and it feels right, or you are living a lifestyle that feels right, it is time to make plans to further that path.  Look ahead, consider the options, talk to people who are on a similar path.  Those who have paved the way can make your journey smoother.  Listen to the advice and then do what feels right to you.  Take all the advice and pick out the bits that fit the cogs of your life. 

Sit down with a piece of paper and write down your plan.  Think this thing through carefully and write each step of the journey down and include a timeline.  When thoughts are put in writing they have more power and when shared with those who support you, they are further energized.  (I suppose it is obvious if you share your ideas with those who criticize or ridicule you then the energy is zapped – this means you must put more energy in and may not build up enough to reach your goal).  Make your goals clear and provide as much detail as you can visualize.  Once you are done writing your plan out, look it over each day and focus on small successes.  What have I done to move toward completing my plan?  Be easy on yourself and be quick to forgive the shortfalls and praise the successes.  If something does not work out the way you planned and I can assure you there will be something that does not, simply re-assess, formulate a new plan and keep on trekking.  Every journey is an evolution or a process and we cannot always see the entire path, so just keeping stepping up and before you know it you will be exactly where you want to be.  Then it is time to re-assess and start a new journey!  Life is eternal my friends 😉

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 21

Living the Golden Rule

by Sequoia Elisabeth

What if you always lived by the Golden Rule?  How would this change your life?  As we know transition can be very challenging, so how much easier would it be if you followed the Golden Rule?  Just in case you do not know the Golden Rule allow me to enlighten you.  “Do onto others as you would have done onto you”.  Jesus Christ taught us this rule over 2000 years ago and yet I meet someone every day that either has never heard of it or simply does not follow it.  The Ten Commandments are wonderful and serve an important role, but the Golden Rule trumps even them in simplicity. 

This is a good measure or worth, How simple is it?  Ask yourself that the next time you are faced with a decision.  Simple always trumps complicated.  Why, because the ego mind likes things complicated, that way you stay confused and it makes control that much easier.  One of the reasons “the meek shall inherit the earth” by the way, the simple mind is closer to Divine Source and harder for the ego mind to control.  Think of it this way, the veil is thinner!  There are less veils to remove in order to reach Allah.

Just how does the Golden Rule benefit your life?  It is simple really, when you understand the other persons perspective you can be more compassionate and you can be more responsive to their needs, in the process your needs are met also.  Sometimes this seems like magic, but it is simply the law.  What you give you receive.  Let’s put this to the test.

A person takes your coat and you see him running down the street, what do you do? A) chase him and take it back, B) Pull your gun out and shoot him, or C) bless him on his journey and do not allow him to take your coat again?  I think it is fairly obvious that C is the answer we seek here, and if you look closely the person gave you a gift.  You will be more aware about handling your things and more awareness is the path to enlightenment. 

One more example of the Golden Rule, your best friend is telling things about you that are not true, so what do you do?  Put yourself in her shoes, and feel the situation.  How would you like to be treated?  I for one would like to be spoken to respectively and with care.  I would want my friend to point these untruths out to me so that I may correct my error.  I would want you to assume the best, a mistake.  When we assume the best and then investigate without judgment our friendship is preserved and even strengthened.  The important thing in relationships is to listen, be non-judgmental, and be forgiving.  Once you understand where the other person is coming from the situation will dissolve.  Let me leave you today with this Christian Prayer for Peace which I think sums up the best guide for living I have come across yet. 

“Blessed are the Peacemakers for they shall be known as the Children of God. But I say to you that hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.
To those who strike you on the cheek offer the other also, and from those who take away your cloak, do not withhold your coat as well.
Give to everyone who begs from you, and of those who take away your goods, do not ask them again. And as you wish that others would to do you, do so to them.”

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 20

Gender Roles

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Continuing from yesterday on the subject of gender roles, please read yesterday’s blog first.  I will get into the new eBook more on the next blog.  Gender role is something that many people take for granted and accept without question.  Others though are never comfortable in their gender role and live in the traditional roles of the opposite sex, for example a woman in combat military duty, fighting on the frontlines, or a young man who babysits and works in daycare. 

Obviously there is nothing wrong with this, my point here is that the roles that define man and woman are blurring.  Many young readers will question this blog as so what!  However the older reader will remember when the thought of a man working at a daycare was not acceptable, nor was a woman in combat!  Women did not break into male dominated professions till early in the last century and only on an exceptional basis.  Medical doctors for instance were all men till 1849 when Elizabeth Blackwell graduated from medical school in New York.  Now days 50% or more of medical doctors who graduate medical school are female. 

Many vocational professions still shun women, so why is this?  Is there really a reason why a woman cannot fix a car or fire a weapon?  I will tell you that from my view women are feminine in essence and for that reason are usually not ideal for aggressive vocations such as fighting.  The real issue comes in with stereotypes and is perpetuated by learning.  We are taught from the day we are born what a particular gender does.  If your sex was male at birth then you are taught what the gender roles of men are.  If for some reason you participate in a woman’s role then you are disciplined or corrected. 

Physically each person has gifts that give them an advantage and putting those gifts to work makes a lot of sense.  When it comes right down to it, anyone can do any job, however some people will have an advantage in certain work situations.  It is important to see the person for the skills they possess and stop using gender as a clear indicator as to whether this person will be good at it.  If a woman wishes to do wood carving or car repair and becomes good at it then they should be welcomed as much as anyone else.  The same goes for men who enjoy working with babies or love to sew.

Male privilege is something that also figures in here, because traditionally men have been more accepted than women no matter what they do!  This is changing in today’s world, thank goodness, however it still exists and all I ask is that you see it and stop supporting it.   All people are created equal in God’s eyes.

Personal relationships challenge our gender roles more than anything else, so I would like you to look closely at your life.  Do you treat the opposite gender differently?  Why?  Is it ok for a woman to open the door for her man or for a woman to buy flowers for her partner?  If they do does this make them masculine?  Is this just common courtesy?  Should we put limits on what a person can do just because they are a certain gender?  Or should we listen to our heart and do what feels good?   I think you know the answer to these questions and there is no right answer, only what works for you!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Transitions

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Sep 19

Gender Expression

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The following quote is from the new eBook coming out next month. 

“A few words about the differences of gender role and gender expression, while they are similar in that they are a choice, they are different in that gender expression is about our outer appearance and gender role is the activities we are involved in.  So wearing make-up and female clothes is a female gender expression, while a female gender role would be cleaning house and babysitting.  I hesitate to include this here as our roles and expressions are getting to be so varied and free.  The old rules are breaking down, so we are seeing women in combat duty now while 20 years ago that was almost unheard of.  Men are cleaning house, washing dishes and babysitting now days too and this does not make them female.  The best way I can put it is that we are integrating now as a society and our roles and gender expressions are much more open.  While a man in a woman’s role or a woman in a man’s role may be questioned, or even ridiculed, more of society is accepting them now.  Gender expression is the area which has less latitude.  In a male dominated society men expressing as woman are questioned far sooner than a woman expressing as a man.  It is assumed that everyone wants to be male!  (Not to imply this is choice.)”

I am sure you have an opinion on this topic and I am curious to hear what you have to say.  Gender expression has slowly gotten more liberated over time.  Just like anything else it goes through cycles.  The world today is shifting from a male dominated society to one that is more balanced and Matriarchal.

If masculine energy is active, feminine energy is passive.  We have both for a reason and right now the balance is shifting!  As much as it seems that there is much to do, take time every day to simply do nothing.  Play relaxing music if you like, but just take a few minutes at least to just sit and listen to the silence.  Get in touch with your feminine energy, the passive side that is soft, easy going, caring, compassionate and smooth.  Let go of the masculine energy or active side.  There is no need to be strong, hard, angular or aggressive right now.  Just relax and feel the peace.  The world needs your Peace, your Passivity and your Silence. 

Gender expression is about what you show the world.  The desire to live an authentic life and feeling free to do so is everyone’s right!  Just because you appear to be man or woman does not make it so.  Just because you act one way or the other does not make it so either!  So how does one know if they are in the right body and gender expression?  They just do.  Gender is an inner feeling or knowing that most of us never question, if you are questioning it then I suggest you visit the website below and discover more.  The next blog will discuss gender role and preview the eBook Sex and Sexuality.  Ta ta till then,

😉 Sequoia Elisabeth

 Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 14

Perception Revisited

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Perception is a tool of the mind that can bring profound changes to your life, so let’s take another look at it.  First I believe it will help to clarify the difference between point of view and perception.  Standing on a hill high above a battle scene or actually swinging a sword on the battle field are points of view.  So is being a black person who is required to sit in the back of the bus.  Perception on the other hand is how this person experiences the situation.  Is the person standing on the hill judging the battle below as good or bad, are they perceiving a win or loss?  Is the black person grateful to simply be on the bus or are they angry they have to sit in the back?  Do you understand what perception is now? 

Take a hard look at your life and see if you can find a different way to perceive it.  Can you be grateful for something that maybe you were upset about before?  How about seeing an enemy as someone who is simply acting through compulsion and not necessarily targeting you?  Your choice to take things personally is a perception that you control!  Have you heard of no-fault law?  When an incident occurs each person takes responsibility for their own actions and no one is at fault.  It is a common law concerning auto accidents in some states.  Why can’t we simply use that principle in relation to everyone we meet whether they are in a car or not?  Someone bumps you walking out of a store, you say “pardon me” and go on like nothing happened, thinking “I hope they make it where they are going safely.”  This is the power of perception.  You have created peace, harmony, and good-will in a simple choice of perception.  Forgiveness can be a way of life! 

Our minds are so powerful that they are the tools we use to create the life we desire to live.  If you do not make choices consciously then they are made for you by your unconscious mind based on habitual decisions you made in the past.  We are even affected by other people’s choices which in some cases can be a good thing, like when someone drags you out of a burning building after you where knocked unconscious.  You decide everything, because it is your life!  Maybe you were in the building so you could be rescued.  These decisions are made in another place and time, be grateful for the experience. 

Just remember that your life is connected to everyone else’s life to the point everything you think, say and do affects someone.  Now this can seem like a big responsibility, but it is not.  Why? Because all is interconnected and what you put out you get back.  Change your life for the better by shifting your perception of events to the Highest Good.  Look for the good things in life, expect opportunities to present when you need them, and be grateful for everything that happens in your life no matter what it looks like on the surface. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 12

Reason for Reasoning

by Sequoia Elisabeth

In our discussion of the 6 senses of the mind we have arrived at reason.  The power of reason comes from the use of the logical mind.  Typically thought of as a left sided brain activity, recent research suggests it is not that simple.  I would be more inclined to say that the mind is not even in the body, but around it.  What is the mind if not intelligence and this is found everywhere. 

The logical mind is simply an aspect of the larger mind and is a tool which we use to navigate our lives.  The reasons for using reasoning are multifold.  Reasoning balances the imagination and intuition giving us balanced information to work from.  Every decision we make is run through a gambit of mental testing before we actually choose.  Of course we are talking about higher functions here not a simple, ouch that is hot!  Say you would like to get a new job.  Your friend approaches you with an idea of applying with her employer.  Your logical mind takes over and you quickly assess if this is an actual possibility.  The power of reason comes in when you compare the pros and cons of this new idea.  This is the way in which most of us use reason on a daily basis.  There is another way to use reason you may not have heard of. 

Reasoning is a great tool when used in prayer.  This is a Religious Science technique that Ernest Holmes taught almost 80 years ago.  It goes like this, state your connection to the divine, feel this connection.  I am one with all that there is, God is in me, through me, is me!  State what it is you desire in a positive way.  I am a money magnet.  Now use reasoning to reinforce this statement and create a feeling.  I am a money magnet because I see money everywhere, pennies on every corner, bills filling my wallet, and whenever I need money I have what I need.  I know this is true because I experience it every day in so many different ways.  State as many reasons as you need to create the feeling you desire.  Now give thanks for this as it is already so.  Know it, feel it and then you will experience it.  Gratitude is the juice that fuels this engine!  I am so grateful to be a money magnet! As you experience this in your mind, you will experience it in your “reality”.  The last step is to release the need for this to be true.  You know it is so, there is no doubt, so let it go and allow it to manifest.  I release these thoughts, words and feelings knowing they are created in the now.  Let go and let God.  Release is an important part of the process.  It is meant to be; so it is. 

Reasoning is a great way to make decisions, to create that which you desire, and to come to terms with that which has already manifested.  You may not be aware of everything that you create, and so you must reason with yourself as to why you are experiencing whatever is.  If you are in the later position, then I suggest opening your mind, eyes and heart to what is being created in your life and that you are the creator.  When you are consciously creating, you will still be surprised from time to time, but they will be pleasant surprises!  Use the power of reason in your life to make your manifestations more to your liking.  Accept your gifts so to speak. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 10

Remember Memory

by Sequoia Elisabeth

As we revisit the 6 senses of the mind, the next tool our mind offers up is memory.  This can be a double-edged sword, but then so can just about everything in our lives.  One of the main premises to my ministry is “what you focus on grows”.  The power of this can be enhanced though the use of memory. 

Do all your memories need to be happy ones to benefit you?  Absolutely not and here is why, gifts are present in every experience we have and if we suppress those feelings or refuse to process those gifts then they turn into obstacles, so even a horrible thing like getting raped or attacked can be a learning opportunity.  The lesson most often learned in this situation is forgiveness and love.  I will let you work out the how’s, because that is the process of learning! 

Memory can be used in so many beneficial ways and the simplest is the experience of Joy.  We can feel Joy any time we choose simply by remembering the most Joy filled moment in our lives!  The double-edge here is that it is possible to get caught up in these memories and no longer be living our life, but a past life.  Re-member the feelings of Joy, happiness, contentment and once you have that feeling in heart then go about your business, knowing that any time you need a boost all you have to do is re-member!  Once experienced an event becomes memory and the process of joining with that memory/experience is called remembering or joining again. 

Did you know that often times the things we remember never actually happened?  Or at least they did not happen the way we think they did, or did they?  This can get very serious since sometimes people are accused of doing things and in fact did not, even though a witness remembers them doing it.  Our memory can play tricks on us so just be aware of this and use this to everyone’s advantage.  Let go of any memories of anyone being harmed, what was done was done and once you have faced your feelings and processed your emotions, let the whole thing go and move on.   If you are in a difficult situation simply create a memory that will comfort you.  Use the imagination to create an event and then file that in your memory so that the situation is transformed into a pleasant one.  It is perfectly OK to create your life to your liking and in fact I would expect you to. 

My motto is to remember that which we desire and forget the rest.  The idea of remembering the past or else you are doomed to repeat it is a bunch of malarkey.  Honor the past yes, but please know that it is an illusion – a fabrication of the mind, for a purpose yes, but still a fabrication.  Choose to re-write your story and be joyous about it just the way it happened.  I remember being abused by a bully when I was young and I look back on that and laugh.  I see what I was doing, allowing myself to be humbled so that my ego would not take control.  I am grateful for all that happened then, the hard times and the good. 

Memories that are very old often change over time and get “weeded out” leaving only the pleasant aspects and this is fine, because the purpose of memory is to experience an emotion on demand.  Memories can also be used to navigate and to share knowledge, however it is my belief that memories greatest gift is in the feeling of it.  Can you remember your greatest Joy?  How about your greatest adventure?  What about your best gift received? Or your best gift given!  Knowing where you left your socks is only part of the reason we have memories, so go out and use memory to fill your life with Great Feelings and Pleasant Remembrances. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 8

Will Power

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The senses of the mind are tools for us to use in Transition.  How effectively you use these 6 tools will determine how successful your transition is.   Take will power for instance.  Your ability to use self-control, or discipline is immensely valuable in transition.  How well are you staying focused on your dream or goals?  Are you determined in your actions? 

Transition involves changing from one state of mind or being to another and this requires intense will power and self-discipline.  In order to stay focused on your dreams and desires a certain inner conviction must be reached.  It is like making an agreement with your-self or setting an intention.  Let’s say that you desire to lose weight and present your physical form in a certain way. 

Your beliefs are the most important factor in this endeavor, and these include your self-image and how you feel about yourself.  I love myself and therefor I am willing to exercise, eat healthy foods and only eat when I am hungry.  I will maintain my perfect vision of the physical form I wish to present.  “I WILL” This statement in itself is setting that intention and sealing the agreement with yourself or higher self.  It is a re-alignment of your thoughts to that which you desire!  Instead of focusing on the illusion of the present situation, you are focused on the reality of your desired results.  There is a certain feeling you get when you attain this goal, use the power of imagination and will to reach this feeling now.  Hold onto this feeling and use it as your guiding light. 

Will power is an inner guidance you use consciously to motivate yourself based on your inner convictions and goals.  Go deep within your heart and feel your desires.  Get in touch with these inner convictions and goals so that you can use your will power to stay focused and attain these goals easily.  Once you become clear on your goals or inner purpose, and use your will power to stay focused, it becomes a habit.  You become the person you desire to be!  You have transitioned. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 6

Imagination Leads to Creation

by Sequoia Elisabeth

In developing a Spiritual practice there are several tools that are instrumental in creating an open space for growth.  The one I use most is creative visualization and I recommend Shakti Gwain’s book with the same title.  I will summarize here so that you can get an idea of how to use this tool. 

By tapping into the power of the imagination and creating a vision of that which you desire, the door of creation is opened.  Say you need a new car and so you are visualizing the new car you are desiring, make the vision as real as you can by seeing the shiny gold paint and sleek styling, feeling the soft leather seats and firm steering wheel, and smelling the new car smell and the fresh air blowing in the window as you are driving down a deserted country road.  The more real you make the experience the stronger your emotion of joy becomes and the greater the probability of the experience manifesting.  Put no limits on the manifestation of this experience, simply hold the feeling of knowing that it is true.  Don’t forget to take the actions which will make it reality.  Remember, thoughts, words, and action!

The technique can be used for anything and for instance I used this method to assist my transition from male to female.  I still use it often by visualizing my body as I know it is.  I can feel my womb and visualize the rams horns which make up my internal sex organs; the coiled ovaries (the ram horns), the head of the ram (my uterus), and below this the mouth of the ram (my vagina)!  I visualize this as often as I remember and it helps to set up a schedule for meditation at least once a day.  Use this technique with every aspect of transition, voice, breasts, hair, face, etc. 

To energize the visualization place yourself in society interacting with others and if you are so inclined creative visualization works very well in loving relationships and sexual encounters.  How many times have you been making love and think of someone else?  What happens to this relationship down the road?  Be careful how you use visualization and intend that it be in the Highest and Best good of yourself, your partner and everyone everywhere. 

The secret to making this work is to ignore what appears to be true and know without a doubt that which is true!  Reason with yourself if you like and explain to yourself why you know this is true.  When you have a deep experience that pleases you greatly, use your memory to revisit this experience over and over.  These are each tools of the mind; imagination, perception, will, reason, memory and intuition.  Consider how you use these six tools of the mind and be aware of the possibilities!  If we only realized just how powerful we are in creating the life we desire, the world would be a much more joyous place. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Sep 2

Multiplicity

by Sequoia Elisabeth

“It is very easy to become caught up in individuality.  It is very easy to see others as separate and apart from ourselves, but the more knowledge we gain the more we begin to realize that we are not so different deep down. In fact we begin to realize that we share a very strong common bond. What makes one different to another is their perception on life. Deep down we have the same basic needs and we seek answers to the same basic questions.

Could it be that we are the same being only multiplied in number?

Initially, this may seem a strange way of thinking of ourselves but if we entertain it for just a moment we will see that is not as bizarre as first thought. Life is interconnected and is really one giant life form that is continually expanding, adapting, and evolving in complexity. The binding force of all life is: consciousness.” (Rev. Lorne McLean, Ph. D.)

Today we discuss Universal Mind and how this affects Transition.  Universal Mind is the consciousness that binds us all.  It connects us in ways we cannot imagine and in ways that we use every day.  No matter what language you may speak, Universal Mind is connected with that.  How else could a traveler arriving in a foreign land be able to learn the language if mind is not connected? 

Transition is about using this mind to shift your perception of “reality” to another level.  I have talked about the 6 senses of the mind on Feb. 4, 2010 (Intuition, Imagination, Will, Reason, Perception, and Memory) and we each have these tools to work with on an individual basis.  This is a good place to start and we are all on this journey at this time.  What I speak of here is taking this journey to the next level and tapping into Universal Mind by realizing that all Mind is connected, it is all One. 

I use the concept of a mirror to describe the one mind, however this may be hard for some to visualize since we are all different on the outside.  What we really are could be thought of as drops of water in the ocean.  Could this be why we look for ourselves in the form of water on other planets?  How do you find consciousness?  Do you even look for it? 

To me the journey is about awareness.  Be aware of the Universal Mind of which you are a part.  Consciously use the 6 senses of the mind to hasten your journey.  We are coming Home so to speak.  Be ready to make a jump to hyperspace!

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 30

Sex and Sexuality

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Transition is changing from one form or state of being to another, and this process can happen instantly or it can take many years.  It is human nature to resist change so most often it is a slow process.  Each person has a fundamental energy signature that characterizes the individual’s personality or character.  Transition involves a change in energy vibration or energy signature. 

In my eBook Methods of Raising Our Energy I describe several techniques you can use to facilitate transition and make it smoother just as I do in this blog.  Actually the eBook came first and then I was inspired to begin this blog because this is in alignment with my mission statement and ministry goals. 

Toward that purpose I have been working on a new eBook that addresses the subject of Sex and Sexuality.  In this dual natured world we live in each aspect of life can be used to better your life or to ruin it!  Sex and Sexuality are foremost on this list.  The level of energy that is put into any activity determines the result that is attained.  By level of energy I mean your intention and purpose.  When sex activity is used for pleasure only it becomes all about the pleasure and what I can get out of it.  It becomes give me MORE! 

Such is any addiction and the root to so much suffering in the world.  The mind gets stuck on what can I get out of this, or what’s in it for me?  This is a very destructive mode to operate in and if your life is not going the way you would like, I would look at this very closely.  When the coin is flipped and you approach sex with an attitude of what do I have to offer?  Or How can I serve you?  Then the energy is flowing in the proper direction, through you.  You become the Light that heals and lifts up. 

Sexuality is basically the essence of this energy.  I equate sexuality with spirituality.  The energy signature I mentioned can be thought of as your sexuality.  It is what you have to offer the world.  Sex is only one method of expressing this energy.  Friendship, Love, compassion, caring, gratitude, grace, and many others are ways of expressing your sexuality. 

Gender identity and sexual orientation are aspects of your sexuality that I discuss in my new eBook.  Please keep an eye out for it.  I am releasing it in time for Christmas and the winter holidays.  If you are interested in my other eBooks, please visit this website, Unity in Gender Diversity.

May your days be filled with Joy and your nights peaceful. 

:0) Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 23

Transitions Gift

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Using your passions, loves and transitions for remaining aware, alert and connected is to me their very purpose.  What are you experiencing as a major event, process, or happenstance in your life at this moment in time?  Let’s make some lemonade! (If it already is sweet we can add some raspberries)

School can be a very traumatic time in your life so I will use this as an example for how to use this challenge to better your life.  First of all, attitude is everything, so let go of any preconceived notions of how things are supposed to be.  I mean the movies and television are fun, but not necessarily accurate to actual school life.  The situations will also be slightly different depending on what level of education you are experiencing and your age.  Take the attitude of “everything is as it needs to be, for me to be the person I am to become”.  Stop for a minute.  Did you get that?  Read it again. 

Consider now who that person is.  Who are you?  Who do you want to become?  Do you have any role models?  What do you like about them?  How can you develop those traits in your own life?  

Now that you have an idea of who you are and where you are going, take that first step.  Be as aware as you can be of every little nuance.  Feel the wind on your cheek, the sun on your back and the hardness of the pavement.  Notice how you feel, however do not judge this feeling as good or bad.  Simply take mental notes.  The power of simple observation is not to be underestimated.  Once you can let go of daily drama and simply “be”, the sooner you will attract those things you desire into your life. 

From the perspective of a transwoman, notice those aspects of your life that are in sync with your desires and stay focused on the changes that will take you there.  It is about the journey and not the destination, so enjoy the journey!  It is not something to be endured, or suffered, so simply feel the pain of electrolysis, feel the embarrassment of being outed in the mall in front of all your friends, and feel the awkwardness of wearing a wig for the first time, so that you fully embrace this journey.  The less you resist these changes the easier it will be, because they are bringing you closer to who you really are. (Suffering is resistance to pain, when you simply allow the pain and not make a big deal of it, it suddenly becomes less intense.) In the words of the Borg (Star Trek) “Resistance is futile”.

Take the Zen approach and let go, allow yourself to be swept downstream and if you go over a waterfall, trust that the landing will be smooth.  Things have a way of working out for the better when you stop getting in the way and simply follow the path before you.  Staying aware and alert will not only bring opportunity into your life it will make the experience that much richer.  Savor the opportunity to be, “You”. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 18

The Law of Correspondence

by Sequoia Elisabeth

The power in this Law of the Universe cannot be understated.  Once you understand this Law fully everything in your life will transform for the better.  It is not hard either, however it does take time to see this Law in action and therefore understand it fully.  The first step is to state this Second Universal Law and contemplate its meaning.

The Law of Correspondence: “As above, so below; as below, so above”. This Law tells us there is “harmony, agreement and correspondence” between the physical, mental and spiritual realms. There is no separation since everything in the Universe, including you, originates from the One Source. The same pattern is expressed on all planes of existence from the smallest electron to the largest star and vice versa. All is One. The Ancient Greek Temple of Apollo at Delphi was referring to this great Law of Correspondence in the inscription “Know thyself and thou shalt know all the mysteries of the gods and the Universe”. (Kotsos 2011)

We are One!  When you hear the statement God is all there is, this pretty much sums it up, but as simple as it is, it can be very difficult to conceptualize.  Stop what you are doing or thinking at this time and contemplate that “We are all One”.  This means that everything is connected and working together even though the opposite may appear sometimes.  In fact your opposite is a part of you too.  The significance of this is that what you see around, what is happening to you and what is happening inside you are all a part of YOU.  Each aspect of your being is connected, your thoughts, your body, and your spirit are always in communication and when your mind is open you can be aware of this fact. 

The Spirit has a larger view than the mental or physical aspects of your being so it is generally a good idea to be aware of the Spirit and follow its guidance.  Since we are all one this guidance in effect is God.  I have written about this many times before, so please understand that if God is all there is; then you are God, even if this is a small aspect of God.  As stated above the same pattern is expressed on all planes of existence.  A hologram is an image that reflects in 3D while containing the whole.  The One Source is reflected in all things at all levels.  When you start looking for patterns repeated on different levels it is amazing what reveals itself.  For instance, each cell in your body is alive, take the cell out of the body and it will continue living.  Within the cells are organs which are alive they are smaller patterns of the larger whole.  You are the larger whole.  Each person on earth makes up a collective human race like cells in the body of Gaia.  The solar system is made up of bodies called planets, and galaxies are made up of bodies called solar systems….

If you put a mirror in front of a mirror you see the pattern repeated as far as the eye can see.  This is what the holographic effect is.  This is what the One Source has done.  Everything in the Universe is a reflection of God.  So, the next time you get angry with your brother for taking something that belonged to you, ask yourself, if we are one, who really owns that something?  Is it really gone if we are all One?  When you give a present to your best friend, aren’t you giving that gift to yourself?  Since we are all One!  Maybe you can see the significance of this Universal Law, so now go out and test it, look for it and experience it.  Oneness is profound, almost beyond belief!! 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 16

The Law of Vibration

by Sequoia Elisabeth

This is an elemental and immutable Universal Law, meaning that it is fixed and will not change.  The process of vibration is fundamental to everything in the Universe.  Transition is the process of shifting this vibrational frequency on a fundamental and permanent level.  Some change is temporary and other changes are permanent, so be aware how this Law works so that you may fully harness its benefits.

“The Law of Vibration: “Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates”. The third and last of the immutable Universal Laws, tells us that “the whole universe is but a vibration”. Science has confirmed that everything in the Universe, including you, is pure energy vibrating at different frequencies. The axiom that “like energy attracts like energy”, upon which the Law of Attraction is based, has its foundation in this Law. Everything that we experience with our five physical senses is conveyed through vibrations. The same applies to the mental realm. Your thoughts are vibrations. All your emotions are vibrations where “unconditional love” is the highest and most subtle of the emotional vibrations and “hate” is the densest and most base. You can learn to control your mental vibrations at will. This is true thought power.” (Kotsos 2011)

There are some wonderful videos online that go into the specifics of energy or vibrational frequency, although most are over simplifications.  This is a complex process that exists at many levels from quarks to Universes.  Movement is our nature, so understand this and work with it.  The density of the object is relative to the vibrational frequency of the molecules within the object.  The slower the vibration the more dense it is.  Energy is neither created nor destroyed it merely changes form.  The process of forming diamonds from coal takes immense pressure and heat (two kinds of energy) combined to shift the vibrational frequency of the coal to that of a diamond.  Man has figured out how to do this by external means using plenty of energy.  I believe that humans are also changing due to cosmic factors, the energy contained in thought and environmental energies. 

Thought has energy that vibrates and when this vibration combines with the molecules of our body shifts occur.  This is how thoughts heal and thoughts change our appearance.  Aging for instance is a Universal Conscious thought, so everyone on earth ages.  In order to forgo aging one must vibrate above the frequency of this Universal Consciousness.  Spiritual Masters can do this, and many have done so.  You can do this also.  Our very physical structure can be changed by aligning our bodily vibration with that which we desire.  You may have heard the saying, “If you wish to be a millionaire then think like one”.  The same applies to whatever it is you desire; Be It.  In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the Peace you desire in the world”. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 14

The Law of Polarity

by Sequoia Elisabeth

This 4th Universal Law is one that we face every day and when we understand this Law and how to transmute it so many doors open that lead to Joy, Peace and Love.  On the transition journey seeing the polarity, knowing that they are two parts of a whole and embracing both parts leads us to freedom.

“The Law of Polarity: “Everything is dual, everything has poles; everything has its pair of opposites; opposites are identical in nature, but different in degree”. The first of the mutable Universal Laws tells us that there are two sides to everything. Things that appear as opposites are in fact only two extremes of the same thing. For instance heat and cold may appear to be opposites at first glance, but in truth they are simply varying degrees of the same thing. The same applies to love and hate, peace and war, positive and negative, good and evil, yes and no, light and darkness, energy and matter. You can transform your thoughts from hate to love, from fear to courage by consciously raising your vibrations. This is what in the ancient Hermetic Teachings is called the Art of Polarization.

Neutralizing the Law of Polarity: This Principle of Duality may appear to be very real in your life but it operates only in the physical and mental realms, not in the spiritual realm where All is One. As it says in the Bhagavad-Gita “God is Above the Opposites”. By always placing the all-powerful, all-knowing Great Spirit of which you are a part behind your every thought, statement and action, and by always focusing on the “good”, even when things appear to be going “bad”, then in time you will neutralize the Law of Polarity such that it ceases to operate in your life.” (Kotsos 2011)

Relating this Law to gender transition, male and female are parts of the whole and when you see this transition becomes so much easier.  Take a paper sack and turn it inside out, notice the similarities and the differences.  Now turn your paper sack into a plastic bag.  Having difficulty with that?  Paper and plastic come from different elements and are thus not the same.  We are able to transition from male to female or female to male because each is a pole of the same thing, Human.  We are not turning coal into gold here, we are turning the sack inside out. 

Focus on embracing both parts of the whole and putting them in place respective to your personal gender identity.  In essence you are showing the world who you are, not who they expect to see.  We do this by Loving all of our body, not just the part we identify with.  How can you only Love a part of God?  Or Love only a part of your Partner?  True Love and complete transition are total Love of all aspects of who you are! 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Ps. Personal footnote here, Loving all aspects of who you are does not preclude you from changing your body to better reflect your image.  In fact the act of Loving your body requires that you modify it to your vision.

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 13

The Law of Rhythm

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Today’ blog is all about the 5th Universal Law.  These laws govern everything in the Universe. This law falls in the category of mutable, meaning that it is possible to rise above this law.  Remember that when you are aware of the laws and how they work then you can make use of them.  Otherwise you are stumbling through the dark.

“The Law of Rhythm: “Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides; all things rise and fall; the pendulum-swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates.” The second of the mutable Universal Laws tells us that the pendulum swings in everything. This principle can be seen in operation in the waves of the ocean, in the rise and fall of the greatest empires, in business cycles, in the swaying of your thoughts from being positive to negative and in your personal successes and failures. In accordance with this Law, when anything reaches a point of culmination then the backward swing begins almost unnoticeably until such time that any forward movement has been totally reversed, then the forward movement begins again and the process is repeated.

Rising Above the Law of Rhythm: To transcend the swing of the pendulum you must become aware of the subtle start of the backward movement in any of your endeavours whether it be to improve your health, your finances, your relationships or any goal you may set in motion. When you feel the Law start to draw you back do not become fearful or discouraged. Instead, knowing that you are one with the Omnipotent Universal Mind for which nothing is impossible, keep your thoughts focused on your outcome and fight to remain positive no matter how far back this transitory Law pulls you. Even if your efforts meet with failure, find comfort that by virtue of this very same Law, the upward motion must start again. In time your perseverance will be rewarded as the backward movements become weaker and eventually disappear.” (Kotsos 2011)

Like waves on the beach we all have our ups and downs.  When you get into this rhythm and go with the flow life is far easier.  Constantly swimming against the current is not only exhausting it is fruitless also.  Enjoy the bountiful times, and hold on during the sparse times.  It is like beginnings and endings, one leads into the other. 

The way you use this in your transition is to always stay positive.  No matter what things appear to be like they will soon change.  I have traveled all over the USA and there is a saying that each community says no matter where I am.  “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute!”  I laugh because it is the same no matter where I go.  This is the Law of Rhythm. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 11

Law of Cause and Effect

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Tania Kotsos is the author of the following two paragraphs which can be found here at Mind your Reality.

“The Law of Cause and Effect: “Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause.” In accordance with this Law, every effect you see in your outside or physical world has a very specific cause which has its origin in your inner or mental world. This is the essence of thought power.  Every one of your thoughts, words or actions sets a specific effect in motion which will come to materialize over time. To become the master of your destiny, you must master your mind for everything in your reality is a mental creation. Know that there is nothing like chance or luck. They are simply terms used by humanity in ignorance of this Law.

Your Desires are Instantly Created: The Law of Cause and Effect applies on all three planes of existence – the spiritual, the mental and the physical. The difference is that on the spiritual plane cause and effect are instantaneous such that they appear inseparable, whereas on the other planes our concept of time and space creates a time lag between the cause and the eventual effect. Know that when you focus on your goals and desires using creative visualization,  that which you wish to create in the physical world is automatically manifested in the spiritual world, and with perseverance, practice and continued concentrated thought, it will also come to materialize in the physical world.” (Kotsos 2011)

I trust that you can see the value in this 6th Universal Law.  Transitions blog has discussed creative visualization several times and it also talks about mind power or the power of thought.  Carrying those discussions forward we now see why the mind has so much power.  Cause and Effect can be as simple as dropping a stone (cause) and experiencing the stone falling to the ground (effect).  The effect of gravity is a cause and effect because you mind is so fundamentally structured around this effect that it is creating it any hint of cause.  So it is not universal law that we have gravity here on earth, it is a universal law that we have cause and effect which our minds have created.  Gravity is very important on earth.  We could not live here without it.  Thus here is your cause.  We have gravity because we need it to survive!  (Without gravity everything on earth would float off)  At some level we need to trust what our minds create for us with this caveat, “All that I see, feel, taste, and otherwise experience are in the Highest and Best Good of me, my community, and the Everyone Everywhere”.  Without this caveat the ego mind sends experiences that ensure its survival and most of these are contrary to the above statement.   

Now that you know that every prayer is answered all you need do is stay focused on that prayer and know in your heart that all is well.  Use creative visualization to guide your life using your highest desires.  The Universe cares not what you create, but you do!  Whatever you are experiencing now is something that you have created either consciously or unconsciously.  Depending on where you are in your level of awareness, it may seem like things are happening to you and that other people or things caused them.  Understand the Law of Cause and Effect so that you can move forward in your Journey of Love! 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 9

The Law of Gender

by Sequoia Elisabeth

There are 7 Universal Laws that apply equally to all things in this universe.  The sacred teachings of all traditions touch on these Universal Laws in some way.  To better understand these laws and how to apply these to our lives the next seven blogs will be a countdown of 7 Universal Laws.  Knowing the law is one thing, applying this law is another thing altogether.  Add these tools to your notebook so that the transition journey is all the more fulfilling.  

Tania Kotsos in The Seven Universal Laws Demystified lists the seventh law as,

“The Law of Gender: “Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles”. The last of the seven Universal Laws is evident throughout creation in the so-called opposite sexes found not only in human beings but also in plants, minerals, electrons and magnetic poles to name but a few. Everything and everyone contains both the masculine and feminine elements. Among the outward expressions of Feminine qualities are love, patience, intuition and gentleness and of Masculine qualities are energy, self-reliance, logic and intellect. Know that within every woman; lay all the latent qualities of a man and within every man those of a woman. When you know this you will know what it means to be complete.” 

Many people would consider this law to include the duality of nature, however this law is about gender only and duality is considered in a different law.  This law is about the whole and the aspects of that whole.  To express gender fully one must embrace both masculine and feminine energy.  The fullness of being contains both. 

Let us consider this in regards to people.  A man has both energies and expresses masculine energy primarily.  Situations will arise that he will need to express feminine energy, for instance while caring for children.  In an emergency situation where people are injured and swift action is needed to save lives and respond to environmental stresses the man will need both masculine energy and feminine energy.  The injured need the feminine energy of caring and compassion while the swift action and problem solving skills of masculinity will also be necessary.  Without both he is not going to be as effective in his response.  A woman in the same situation has the same energies at her disposal, but will most likely tackle the situation differently.  It is simply a matter of using the same energies differently. 

Society needs to get over its identification with men are this way and woman that.  There are no rules, unless you make them or accept the rules others offer you!  Allow these energies to flow naturally through you and know that all is well. 

I will point out here that gender identity is how the brain is wired and follows the same Law of Gender.  Transgender individuals are wired such that the traditional male = masculine or female = feminine is reversed.  There is nothing “wrong” however; it merely is what it is.  Each person is comfortable expressing themself in one fashion or the other.  The physical body need not dictate how the individual expresses themself.  The important thing is that each individual feels the freedom to allow the Law of Gender to express through them as it needs to. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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Aug 6

Modeling Your Environment

by Sequoia Elisabeth

Our thoughts are more powerful than we know and one of the principles which can assist us on our transition is “guilty by association”.   When you are aware of this principle you can use it to your advantage instead of suffering its consequences. 

This principle works by proximity, be it thought or physical location.  Whomever or whatever we associate with we become like.  This is why children often go into the professions their parents where in.  Growing up with physician parents or farmer parents greatly increases the likelihood of the child going into a similar field.  In fact I believe this is one reason why we chose the parents that we did.  Our birth families expose us to the elements that we need to grow, and it matters not if that environment is harsh or served with a silver spoon.  All situations have advantages and disadvantages. 

We learn from our surroundings and the behavior of those we spend time with.  This learning is unintentional most of the time, however when used constructively it can be very powerful.  The concept of apprenticeship and internship works this way, as does immersion learning.  When we wish to learn something new the best way is to find a teacher who can show you the “ropes”.  Volunteer if you have to, but get into the environment in which you would like to be working or be like.  If you desire to be a millionaire then hang out with them!  The same goes for drug dealers or prostitution, if you are hanging with those types you will be like those types.  You may have heard the saying “if you want to know who you are, simply look at your friends”. 

This same principle will benefit a transsexual person transitioning from male to female.  If you desire to be the woman you feel yourself to be, hang out with women.  Study their behavior and mannerisms so that you can immolate them.  How do they speak, walk, laugh, flirt, sit, interact with each other, interact with the opposite sex?  Children do this instinctively from birth, however a transsexual has been programmed in the opposite and must unlearn the rearing lessons on gender behavior and learn the new behavior.  Basically the MtoF releases their male persona (no longer identifies with it) and then allows the female persona to emerge (identifying as woman).  Some will have picked up pieces along the way because of innate feelings guiding them.  It really depends on how strict the environment was in which they were raised. 

For those who desire to start their own business, finding others who are in that business to associate with will make their likelihood of success so much greater.  Or if you are quitting smoking then you will want to stay away from other smokers and places that are associated with smoking like the bar or buddies who smoke. 

You may remember stories of gangs like “West Side Story” or “Boyz in da Hood” and if you hang out with a particular group then you are guilty by association!  Be careful the groups you hang out with and make sure you wish to be like them.  This goes in every situation whether it is on the playground, at church or at work.  I suggest hanging with people you want to be like, so if you desire to be successful then hang with successful people.  If you like art then hang out with artists, take classes in art, collect art, go to art parties.  This process will be fun when you are using it consciously. 

🙂 Sequoia Elisabeth

Unity in Gender Diversity

Gender Related Spirituality Transitions

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