First, let me thank your grove for its existence. You may have heard talk of a revolution among pagans. Being one of the leading founders of the idea, I would like to give you my view on it. Here is an exerpt from my new book "Dreams of Light", where I lay out my action for the protection of the living earth. "Těr Solas Těr Solas is the name I have given to my kingdom of revolution. It is Gaelic, meaning “Land of Light”. “Land”, being the first word, stands for its main purpose. We retain as much unspoiled living earth as possible so that it may reign supreme as it is meant to and we may live in honor and glory. It is a kingdom as much of the land as of its people. “Light” refers to it being the new light of the world, shining bright to show the way into a new dream. The dream of such a place is as powerful as the rays of the sun. It is a vibrant place where magic and greatness can once again thrive and belief in the Divine can flourish. It is Celtic tribeland, divided into clan territories and provinces. So that we may live in an honorable society, the Brehon Code makes up the law and governs our ways. All who wish to partake and who have something to contribute are allotted clanland or a tenant place so that we may live together in the old ways. Those of any faith and persuasion can be welcome but must still adhere to the laws of Těr Solas. Members of any religion are accepted if they prove as worthy to the cause as anyone else. However, the attempt to convert others is not permitted. In plain words, it is a pagan land. As guardians of the natural world, we uphold and live by the pagan wisdom of the Celts. Any place we settle is held by blade and fury. Nowhere within this place is destructive modernization accepted or permitted. Our first and greatest purpose is to save and protect the earth, sea, and sky. Hence, we stand in harmony with the Divine. This revolution is one of reclamation of faith and environmental action. We combat everything that encroaches upon the splendor of the world. It is our fierce intention to ensure the survival of the living earth along with our aims and ideals. The truth of the Land of Light lies within the hearts of its people and the force of creation itself. Life is our goal, the Source is our destiny. All who have been touched by the idea of bringing purpose and greatness back into the world, you must discover what it is you need to do. Play your part and the world will see a change like never before. Many people pray for a change. It is time that you become the change which you want. Then you will not only see it but it will fill you completely. Rise cultures, rise faiths, know your identity!"I hope this has given you some inspiration to join me in answering the call of the earth, for it cries out for saviors. Beannacht Leat, Richard "Grčine" MacNeill
About once or twice a month I have a phone conversation with of meeting with my long time friend and mentor Ven. Subhuti Shibuya . Speaking with him always feels like I am learning something new. The wisdom that comes so easily from a man who spends every single day in meditation for hours on end. I have taken to recording our conversations because I fear that age is inevitably catching up to him and want to keep his words pure in the years to come. I would like to share with you the conversation I had with him yesterday
Rob: Hello Sensei, this is Robert.
Subhuti: Oh, ho, ho, Robert, my friend. How is Idaho?
Rob: Well it’s starting to get cold here, it should snow any time.
Subhuti: I love the snow very much, although it can be difficult to meditate upon. Frozen bottom can create suffering.
Rob: Was it hard for you to meditate when you first retreated to the snow cave?
Subhuti: Suffering is very important. If you don’t suffer you don’t become wise and strong. When you suffer you become wise and strong, that is the point. Therefore, don’t complain of suffering, but try to overcome and become wiser and strong, and more peaceful person. That is meditation, meditation is suffering. (Laughs) No doubt about it (laughs for a moment before retuning to seriousness) but if you meditate you feel good and strong, eh. That means, meditation, through meditation we are suffering. And by suffering, good suffering, we become more strong, wise, and peaceful. Without suffering we are useless like overprotected kids or something. When meditating, focus on your suffering, make it good suffering. You choose to either be made depressed by it, or become enlightened by it. It is all in you. Happiness is you, Buddha is you, enlightenment is you. You need nothing but you. That is meditation.
Rob: Thank you Sensei, I will focus on good suffering during meditation. Thank you for this teaching and sharing you wisdom with me.
Subhuti: No, no, no just talking with a good friend. Call me again soon.
Robert: Good bye Sensei
Subhuti: Bye