brother tadhg

Inner Castle Journeying: Sam's Session

Sam was feeling that life was becoming increasingly boring, that it was all a bit predictable He wanted an Inner Castle Journeying session with our a Anamcara ['soul friend, spiritual teacher] to go 'deeper', to find some energy, some meaning to life and get some energy and vitality in his life.

The Anamcara, seated near Sam, explained the techniques used to Sam and how as Anamcara he would act as guide to Sam, and even when Sam was visualising, experiencing and interacting with his Inner Castle Journeying both would be able to converse with each other - indeed the Anamcara would be making notes of the Inner Castle Journeying 'landscape'. During the preliminary discussion, which typically lasts five to ten minutes, Sam mentioned that he was going through a difficult time in his life and his work and relationships were suffering, that he felt responsible for a 'calamity' and just couldn't move on.

As Sam relaxed in his chair, our Anamcara handed Sam a pebble to hold. [Sometimes several pebbles are given, and sometimes these have the names of the rooms and places to be 'visited' written on them, sometimes a blank stone or pebble is used. In either case, the holding of the pebble or stone by Sam, in this case, is an important sign of 'intentionality' of Sam wanting to step into the 'gap', that liminal, imaginal realm of the soul. Sam received the pebble, gently grasped it, at the request of the Anamcara closed his eyes, and gave a half-smile [as these sessions are always conducted in a relaxed atmosphere].

You will notice that sometimes Sam converses with characters within this imaginal realm, sometimes he narrates what is going on ans asks for the Anamcara's guidance, and at other times answers questions put to him by the Anamcara or receives instructions on how to 'pause' events etc.

 What follows it part of Sam's session, and is related here with his permission. The Anamcara is the spiritual teacher who is assisting Sam. Do read, and let me know what you think? Could you benefit from such a session (wherever you are)?

 

SESSION BEGINS: THE DRAWBRIDGE ENTRANCE

Anamcara: With your eyes closed, breath slowly, Sam, relax, enjoy the journey, and as you do, imagine yourself standing at the entrance to a castle. You're standing on a bridge, a safe drawbridge, and to your left and right, below you is a water-filled moat, and the castle is in front of you. When you're ready, walk forward, and as you do - with your eyes closed - let me know what you see, feel, who you meet, and what you experience.

Sam: Okay, I'm walking forward, walking along a cobbled street. There are some people to my left and right. They seem puzzled to see me, but they're pleased to see me. They're nodding their approval and smiling at me. This is weird, its so real.

Anamcara: That's good Sam. Stick with it. Continue with the journey.

Sam: Okay. I'm in a courtyard, but in front of me there's a door, and so I'm going to walk towards it.

Anamcara: Is there a sing on the door, telling you what's inside?

 

INTO THE HALL OF MIRRORS

Sam: Hey, yes there is! I didn't notice it before. It says, 'The Hall of Mirrors', the room you mentioned would be a good one to visit during our early discussion. I'm opening the door, and I'm not in a long room, a hall, and there's about ten mirrors - they're on stands. The hall is large - enough to house the mirrors with plenty of space between them, there's some old, antique furniture along the walls, writing desks, display cabinets, and old grandfather clock gently ticking, and a long table at the far end of the hall.

Anamcara: Tell me more. Describe the room, please.

Sam: Well, its not too well lit. The room isn't dark, but it has the feel of 'dust'. Yes, it's a bit dusty. And at the far end of the table, at the far end of the room, there's a person sitting there. An elderly gentleman, and he's just noticed me. And he's getting up, and walking towards me...

Anamcara: Sam, do you remember the technique to 'pause' events?

With that, Sam stopped grasping the pebble and held it 'opened' palm, and gentle said the word 'pause'

Sam: Fascinating. Everything is paused. The clock has stopped ticking, the elderly gentleman is' frozen' in time. I'm the only one able to move.

Anamcara: In your minds eye, Sam, look from above at yourself.

Sam: Yes, I'm doing that. Amazing, I've just noticed that there's a small table to my left and it has a small figurine on it.

Anamcara: You remember we spoke about 'gifts' that you would be given along the way? This figurine is a gift for you. Pick it up, explore it, and because I can't see it, please describe it for me.

Sam: Okay, I'm picking it up. Oh wow. It's cold to the touch. Feels like bronze. It's about 12 inches high/25cms, and it's heavy. It's covered in dust. It's a figurine of a boy, standing, and he has his hands up to his face. Oh, my. So sad. The figurine is of a boy crying. But, who is it?

Anamcara: Okay Sam, you're doing well. Take the figurine - it's obviously a 'gift' for you, and I do believe it will be important later on.

Sam: I've done that.

 

TIME TO PAUSE!

Anamcara: Maybe, it right to start 'time' again, and when you're ready grasp the pebble gentle to show your intention to start things - remember, at any time you want to pause or stop things you only have to open you hand and stop grapsing the stone.

Sam: Yes.

Sam grasped the stone gently.

Sam: The clock has started up again, and the elderly gentleman is now coming closer, once more. He's talking. Saying something to me. Wow, that's great!

Anamcara: You're going to have to talk me through this Sam. If you could repeat his words as he says them, and tell me your reply as you think it, or better still you can speak your reply out loud so he gets to hear as well as me. Are you happy to do that?

 

THE ROOM GUARDIAN'S CONVERSATION

Sam: Sure..[slight pause]. The elderly gentleman greeted me. He said, 'It's great to see you here again, son. It's been quite a while, huh? But, you know you're always welcome here. And you've found the gift I left for you.

Sam [speaking out loud so the Anamcara can hear, and in reply to the gentleman in the imaginal realm]: Thank you, Sir. Thank you for your welcome, and for the gift. Have I really been here before?

Sam: He's replying, and smiling, and laughing. He's speaking, 'Why yes! You were a regular visiting to this room - the hall of mirrors - and you would spend some time reflecting on life's big questions and issues in your life, and then you stopped coming.

Sam [replying, out loud]: I'm sorry I stopped coming. I have a feeling that the hall of mirrors was beneficial, but it seems I've got no memory of it. I think I stopped coming because I got too busy, too caught up in the daily grind of life. I'm sorry!

Sam [relating the elderly gentleman's words]: No Sam, no apologies are necessary. I'm just glad you're here now.

Anamcara to Sam: This elderly gentleman is a Warden or Guardian of the room, Same. Don't forget you can ask questions.

Sam [Speaking to the elderly gentleman]: You're very kind. But, can you tell me why I came here before, and what are those mirrors for?

Sam [relating the elderly gentleman's words]: This is the Hall of Mirrors, a great place for reflecting on things. Please come closer....and look in the first of these mirrors.

 

TIME TO REFLECT

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: I'm moving to the nearest mirror. The Guardian has drawn alongside me to also look into it. He's put his hand on my shoulder. In looking up at him - he seems to be 10 feet tall/3 metres - he's looking down at me, smiling, encouraging me to look deep into the mirror. I do! Interesting. The mirror isn't reflecting just a static image of me as I look into. Oh, it's like a 'repeat tv program' of an argument I had with a great friend about a year ago. But, this is odd...

Anamcara: What's 'odd', Sam?

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: We'll. I'm sort of watching a 'replay' of an argument I had with a great friend, and the argument was so bad I haven't spoken to him for a year. I was so angry with him. And yet the odd thing is....I can see 'me', I can hear my voice and mr friend's voice, but I can't see him!

Anamcara: Ask the Guardian, Sam.

Sam [Speaking to the elderly gentleman]: Why can I only see myself and not my friend in the mirror, and yet I can hear both our raised voices?

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: The Guardian is speaking, so, so gently. He's saying, 'My dear son, this is all about reflection. You can only see yourself and not your friend, because it is important that you reflect on the situation. Also, this scene is from your friend's point of view, from his eyes, as it were.

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: I'm watching a past scene of me and my friend arguing. Oh, boy, I do miss him. I can see and hear myself saying dreadful things to him. Wait...[slight pause], the image in the mirror has changed, and it's unfamiliar. The scene is of a dark room, and whoever is in that room, my friend, is alone, and I can hear sobbing. But I have a strong feeling it isn't sell pity, but despair on behalf of another. But for whom?

Anamcara: Ask the Guardian, Sam

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: He's gone. I'm looking around the room, but he's not here. The door I cam through is behind me, and I can see it's opened.

Anamcara: That's our cue that our time in this room is over, and it's time to leave. Are you  happy with that Sam?

 

TIME TO LEAVE...BUT THERE'S MORE

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: Yes, I'm now heading towards the door. I'm through the door now, in the courtyard, heading towards the drawbridge. Wait a minute....that's strange.

Anamacara: What's that, Sam? Is something different now?

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: Yes. Two things! The figurine isn't dusty any more, and it's not bronze. It appears to be gold! Also a huge tree is in the middle of the courtyard, but it wasn't there before.

Anamcara: What time of tree is it?

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: I don't know, but Im going closer as there appears to be a sign on the ground, near it. Hmm. One word. 'Yew'!

Anamcara: Okay, Sam, time to move towards the drawbridge.

Sam speaking to the Anamcara: Okay, I'm now nearly on the drawbridge. The people I saw before are even happier with me now, some are applauding, all are smiling, all approving, and I get the overwhelming feeling they want me to come back soon. I'm now on the drawbridge. Back where I started.

Anamcara: Well done, Sam. You did very well. Now, when you're ready, ungrasp the pebble to end the session, take some deep breaths and when ready, just slowly open your eyes

A full minute later, Sam opened his eyes.

 

UNPACKING IT ALL

Anamcara: What did you experience, Sam? What did you learn? And what was the significance of that figurine, that 'gift'?

Sam: I have to admit the experience was deeper, more profound, and more wonderful that I could have ever thought possible. I learned a lot about myself - about how busy I can be and how offhand I can be with those who are closest to me. I've learned that friendships are valuable, are 'gold', just like that figurine of my friend. And that figurine was my friend whom I had upset, I think.

Anamcara: That's a good session's work, there, Sam. But, there's more, I think! For instance, the Guardian said you had been to that room before and invited you back, as did those people near the drawbridge. You once had the power of reflection, but you never lost it, you just forgot to use it, and so I think you might consider some more sessions to go 'deeper'? Also, the 'gift' showed you that your friendship was valuable, was golden, and I think maybe there's some unfinished business to do in your daily life? And what about the gift? You said it could be your friend...but do you think it could be you?

Anamacara: One reason why the crying figurine could be you, is that inwardly you were crying at the loss of the friendship, and the tree that suddenly appeared in the courtyard was a yew tree! A yew! Now, the soul communicates in symbols, as it does it dreams or here in the Inner Castle, and this is a classic case of a homophone, a really interesting symbol. A homophone is a word that sounds like another, but has a totally different meaning. The yew is a tree, and that's what you saw. But, the symbolism is about 'you' (which sounds like 'yew'), but it's meaning is different. So, the crying figurine is you, Sam. You're gold! You're valuable to others, to your friend, just as they are valuable to you. What do you think?

Sam: Yes, I can understand that now. Yew means you! Very clever of my soul. I also know that the 'gift' of that figurine was an encouragement to do something. To contact my friend and to ask his forgiveness. It won't be easy after all this time, but I need to do it. I think that's one of the paramount things I understand today. You know, this remind me of an old school song we used to sing when I was five or six years old: 'Make new friends but keep the old ones, one is silver, one is..... [Sam paused].

Anamcara: What is it, Sam?

Sam: It's that 'gift'...it was me crying.....and yet it was gold. And that old school song was, 'Make new friends but keep the old ones, one is silver the other is gold. That one gift linked both me and my friend. So, deep! So, beneficial.

Anamcara: Sam, you soul wants you to have a full and wonderful life, and yet so often we don't pay attention to its language -  symbolic language - or we don't understand it. That's where people like me come in useful, as 'conduits', to assist you. Through symbolism in dreams, and in experiences like the Inner Castle Journeying, and yes in your daily life in those weird synchronicities, your soul is always communicating. And in this session, it seems clear that the restoration of your friendship between you and your friend is one step forward on your spiritual journey of a lifetime.

 

 

The abovementioned was part of Sam's Inner Castle Journeying session. One-to one Inner Castle Journeying sessions are available wherever you are (at 'solid' venues or via the phone or internet: msn messenger or skype etc), and workshops and retreats are available for you to experience and benefit from this experience. To find out more, do visit the website at: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle  or contact us direct.

Who Do You Think You Are?

I'm sure you have seen, or at least know something about the tv program, 'Who Do You Think You Are?'. 

GET READY FOR A SURPRISE

Each program centres around a celebrity, and through painstaking research we, the viewer, are taken on a fascinating, revealing journey of discovering the family history of that week's celebrity. There seems always to be surprises - and which family hasn't got those - and many tears as the well-heeled and famous  celebrity, who seems to have it all put together, discovers a grandparent or great-grandparent who, maybe, had a life of suffering through illness or persecution, a very humble beginning or spent time in a 'workhouse' etc.

It set me thinking. Who do you think you are? Who am I? What is our status, under the Divine, in the cosmos? Are we part of a cosmic accident, just bundles of DNA and carbon, or are we more?

I have some good news! You are more!

But What?

If you listen to some today, they will tell you...and I've heard humanity described as this...we are worms! Or when God looks at us he sees a 'train wreck'! 'He hates us', Ive heard some say. Now, this is not my belief, and it is certainly not part of sacred text's view of humanity. But, sadly there are some who believe that and (even more sadly) propagate that error, thinking they are right!

So, if you are not a worm, and not a 'train wreck'...what are you?

Sacred text says you are the apple of God's eye! You are a much loved child of God. And that the Divine desires a relationship with you and arranges a myriad of numinous events and synchronicities to get your attention. Such events are the ' winks' from the Divine to remind us, to reassure us, to draw us ever closer into a lovers embrace.

HUMANITY IN BLISS

C S Lewis in 'The Great Divorce' portrays a wonderful 'window' into heaven. He writes about seeing a woman radiating light and joy, and the inference that this is an important person, maybe the Vrigin Mary? Maybe not! Who is she? Do read what Lewis writes:

“First came bright Spirits, not the Spirits of men, who danced and scattered flowers. Then, on the left and right, at each side of the forest avenue, came youthful shapes, boys upon one hand, and girls upon the other. If I could remember their singing and write down the notes, no man who read that score would ever grow sick or old. Between them went musicians: and after these a lady in whose honour all this was being done.

I cannot now remember whether she was naked or clothed. If she were naked, then it must have been the almost visible penumbra of her courtesy and joy which produces in my memory the illusion of a great and shining train that followed her across the happy grass. If she were clothed, then the illusion of nakedness is doubtless due to the clarity with which her inmost spirit shone through the clothes. For clothes in that country are not a disguise: the spiritual body lives along each thread and turns them into living organs. A robe or a crown is there as much one of the wearer's features as a lip or an eye.

But I have forgotten. And only partly do I remember the unbearable beauty of her face.

“Is it?...is it?” I whispered to my guide.
     “Not at all,” said he. “It's someone you''ll never have heard of. Her name on earth was Sarah Smith and she lived at Golders Green.”
     “She seems to be...well, a person of particular importance?”
“Aye. She is one of the great ones. Ye have heard that fame in this country and fame on Earth are two quite different things.”
     “And who are these gigantic people...look! They're like emeralds...who are dancing and throwing flowers before here?”
“Haven't ye read your Milton? A thousand liveried angels lackey her.”
     “And who are all these young men and women on each side?”
“They are her sons and daughters.”
     “She must have had a very large family, Sir.”
“Every young man or boy that met her became her son – even if it was only the boy that brought the meat to her back door. Every girl that met her was her daughter.”
     “Isn't that a bit hard on their own parents?”
“No. There are those that steal other people's children. But her motherhood was of a different kind. Those on whom it fell went back to their natural parents loving them more. Few men looked on her without becoming, in a certain fashion, her lovers. But it was the kind of love that made them not less true, but truer, to their own wives.”
     “And how...but hullo! What are all these animals? A cat-two cats-dozens of cats. And all those dogs...why, I can't count them. And the birds. And the horses.”
“They are her beasts.”
     “Did she keep a sort of zoo? I mean, this is a bit too much.”
“Every beast and bird that came near her had its place in her love. In her they became themselves. And now the abundance of life she has in Christ from the Father flows over into them.”
     I looked at my Teacher in amazement.
“Yes,” he said. “It is like when you throw a stone into a pool, and the concentric waves spread out further and further. Who knows where it will end? Redeemed humanity is still young, it has hardly come to its full strength. But already there is joy enough in the little finger of a great saint such as yonder lady to waken all the dead things of the universe into life.”

So, in that modern fable we have a 'picture' of one of the Great Ones.

Who are you? You are, by Divine grace, one of the Great Ones (as depicted in that fable), or as some call them on earth (and with an eye on the future and humanity's future state), one of the Pre-Greats! Sacred text says the Great Ones will rule as co-workers with the Divine, and be higher and judge angels! And that new Kingdom rule has started!

YOU ARE A GREAT ONE, A PRE-GREAT

You are no worm, no train wreck, not unloved. You have meaning and worth! It is one of the tragedies of this age that many believe that the Divine is aloof, far off, is out to trip them up, and that they are powerless. This is akin to a prince or princess being snatched from the Palace by a jealour, courtier and being brought up as a pauper, unaware of his/her regal power and priveliges.

But, you have an elevated status because of the Divine, a noble origin, an awesome calling and purpose, great power, and an incredible destiny, all because of the Divine 'smile' in and on your life.

That's who you are!

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises Anamcara [literally 'soul friend', spiritual direction] sessions, available wherever you are. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/anamcara

Liminality: Standing In The Gap

The ancient celts of Britain saw the sacred all around them. For them, 'heaven and earth are only three feet apart, but in the thin places that distance is even smaller'. Thin Places, which can be times, events or locations, where the numinous, the Other, the Divine is palpable, still exist. And what's more...you are encouraged to enter these 'borderlands', to stand in the gap, and to experience challenge, risk (yes, risk), growth and maturity, to attain knowledge, assurance, wisdom, power and relationality.

So often in the busyness of life we can pass by those initiations to stand in the gap, and this is where Caolait [pronounced 'kweel awtc, meaning: 'thin places] comes in, as we organise deeply spiritual sessions and events which not only show you how to stand in the gap, but assist and guide you to experience it!

Standing in the gap is where we move closer to the spiritual, closer to the Divine [metaphorically, as the Divine is always present, and does all the initiating, and we respond]. We become (more) aware through guided meditation, guided angelic encounters, inner castle meditation etc, and so are more 'open' to experiencing the Divine 'nudge' or encounter. And it's so beneficial to those seeking answers, reassurance or empowerment, and more!

Have you ever stood in the gap? Practiced meditation? Ever reflected on your worth, status, calling, or your place in the universe, or what you should do next? Standing in the gap, to gain a new perspective could be very beneficial to you.

The Divine, too, commends us to enter that borderlands of opportunity, and says, 'I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap...' [Ezekiel 22:30a].

Liminal experiences, sometimes called 'thin places'  is something we all experience from time to time but usually never pay heed to, and so we loseout. But we'll show you how to be (more) receptive to them, guide you to stand in the gap, and 'watch' as you grow spiritually!

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises various deeply spiritual sessions regarding 'standing in the gap'.  For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org

 

TellingPlaces In Brief

In ancient times, it would be around the village fire that all would gather to listen to stories - stories tp make one laugh, one cry, and to instill a sense of community and fellowship. Some stories, before the advent of schools and colleges, would be about the 'mundane' and pass on wisdom of use to daily life and chores. Other stories would be about the cosmos above, about spiritual things and the Divine. And depending on the storyteller and listeners, such stories may be a blend of many 'strands' of thought.

Such village gatherings for most people are a thing of the past, but we still love stories. We watch a good movie or series on tv, we visit the cinema, and we meet old friends and shares whats happened to us recently. We love to hear stories, we love to tell them. Don't we?

TellingPlaces are our way of rekindling that spirit of fellowship with each other, of connectedness with the Divine and nature, of telling our life-story (or parts of it), or a meaningful story we've heard, and of being an active and encouraging listener. And in the process, we (re-)discover our place in the cosmos, the meaning of our life in the Divine, and encounter challenge, growth and even healing. TellingPlaces can be very cathartic.

TellingPlaces are open to all, and consist of 'how to' sessions; times to draw aside and experience nature, creation, awe and obtain inspiration; practical 'try this' sessions full of encouragement; and 'around the fire' meetings where we are all invited to share (if we wish) our story, our thoughts, and more. These are deep times of sharing, deep times of listening, and incredible times of spiritual growth and maturity.

TellingPlaces can be retreats that you may wish consider joining and which last for a few days, or sometimes we organise them, say for a few hours one evening per week for several weeks, and sometimes we organise events via the internet (especially using msn messenger where several can audio-visualy link up from anywhere on the planet!).

So, why not you? If you feel isolated, feel the pace of life too hectic, know that a deep TellingPlace encounter would 'revive your spirit, 'energise' you, give you some peace and a challenge, then we believe you would benefit from participating in a TellingPlace event. Don't hold back. This is your time to give, to get, to share, to be challenged, to grow, to excel, to experience awe, the numinous, and feel that sense of community that many never experience.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises events on this theme. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/tellingplaces

Journal: All Change

 

13 September 2011

It looks as though Northern Ireland, Scotland and the northern most parts of England took the brunt of the winds of the 'tail end' of hurricane Katia, and London and most of England escaped the worst of it.

Having said that, even here, occasionally the winds gusted and the leaves on tall trees in a local park 'whispered' loudly, shook and made that unusual rustling noise from on high.

Psithurism!

Psithurism! Isn't that a great word. It's a word albeit an archaic one, that exactly describes the noise of rustling leaves on trees caused by the wind blowing, and that 's what I heard. An amazing sound as thousands of leaves rustled on a myriad of trees.

And yet for all that rustling of leaves from the tree tops, it was noticeable that there are plenty of leaves on the pavement. The grey tarmac and pavement is littered with leaves of various shades of green, shades of green turning very slightly golden, and yellow, and various shades of brown, as colours once invisible are made plain. What else could I have been missing? 

The season is changing. Autumn approaches, and the trees are beginning to shed. And yet many people cry, 'We haven't really has much of a summer, and now it's starting to get cooler', as if their pleading will forestall the advent of autumn. It won't.

Seasons come and go, and we can either berate the 'clerk of the weather' for a bad summer, to no effect, or we can accept, enjoy and witness the ever-changing scenery as nature, once again, works its miracle of transformation, and we witness bird migration, cooler evenings, and the changing colour of the leaves on trees in all their richness as they shed their 'coats' bit by bit.

Truly, 'there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven...' [Ecclesiastes 3:1. The Book], and we can only witness the awesomeness of the Divine working away in the world, and be in awe that even in the city, nature continues to declare God' glory.

 

It reminds me of a story I once heard, and the crux of it was the phrase 'this too, shall pass!'. Summer is passing. Autumn is arriving, but this too shall pass, and give way to winter, and this too, will pass, and next year give way to spring!

And so the cycle goes on. What a great promise - the promise of change! But, also a great challenge to be aware, soak in the miracle that is nature, and revel, daily, in the opportunities we have that is the stuff of life, and be in awe, unless we're too busy to 'stop and stare' as William Henry Davies penned. So, with me, why not stop and stare occasionally.

 

 

 

 

DreamTelling: FAQ: What is....

There are some awesome spiritual programs we lead, that you can benefit from. Such as: dream interpretation, inner castle program, angelic encounter sessions.

We thought it might be good to answer a few queries you might have, such as:

 what is 'active imagination' and

what is 'creative visualisation'...

... that are used in inner castle sessions and angelic encounter sessions etc. Some might find these terms unusual and a little foreboding, but we hope, here, to dispel any confusion, as both terms are both natural and supernatural - because you are both natural and supernatural, too!

And some might have concerns that active imagination or creative visualisation may compromise their religious faith, and the following, we hope and pray, will answer any queries you have, and show these 'tools' to be not only acceptable, but very useful and beneficial spiritual tools to aid your spiritual growth and maturity whether you are young, mature, a professional person, an artist, writer etc - whoever you are, you can benefit.

 

In outline:

 

Active Imagination

Active imagination is useful, especially during dream interpretation sessions.  Active imagination occurs when your anamcara, that is, your spiritual teacher,  gently guides you through the dream recollection session, say, and you are reliving or recounting the dream as though it was happening then, again. Active imagination almost runs by itself (in that no person or outside influence directs you), as you speak about the dream. There is no trance; and no hypnosis is used. All that happens is that you relax and are gently encouraged to relive, retell that dream by using a guided,  imaginative process.

In a religious sense, there is no invocation, and those of faith can indulge in creative imagination without compromising their belief. 

Indeed, in the Book, God speaks through and uses dreams a lot. See appendix A below.

In the spiritual sense, a lot is happening (only) because you are a spiritual, supernatural being, and 'wired' up that way by the Divine. And that's amazing, and makes active imagination a powerful, wonderful, safe, and revealing spiritual tool.

 

In the mundane, scientific sense, the psyche is part of 'you', still, and so in that sense using active imagination is entirely natural, if you want to look at it that way, but that's to be expected because you have a 'solid body', too. Nevertheless, even seen in this light, you are an amazing person, 'fearfully and wonderfully made', and are 'wired' up to use your imagination in the 'mundane' world, and so can find out more about yourself.

Active imagination happens all the time. When you're speaking to someone and you miss what they said because your attention 'drifted off' onto something else, or you walk a route home and suddenly realise you've covered a mile and not really been aware of your surroundings because you were thinking about the holiday advert on last nights tv, or you 'rehearse' what you would have liked to say to your boss...all that is creative imagination, and (naturally) is useful and beneficial.

Active imagination then,  is a useful spiritual tool that we all have by the Divine's grace, and can employ at different times, and it work wonders in dream interpretation sessions and other sessions, esepcially when guided by a professional, competent, spiritual teacher - an anamcara.

 

Creative Visualisation

Creative visualisation is similar to active imagination, see above. Your anamcara may guide you more, yes, may set the scene, and narrate different scenarios and ask (more) questions and start/stop the 'script' as you visualise scenarios, but like creative imagination, you are in control. There is no trance, no invocation, no hypnosis.

Creative visualisation is used, mainly, for ambling though the rooms and scenarios in the Inner Castle spiritual program sessions (and these are based on the classic works of Julian of Norwich), and for dream interpretation where only fragments of the dream are recollected or one finds creative imagination difficult.

Some are worried about the term visualisation, bu there is no reason to fear it. In one sense, even movie makers encourage you to use creative visualisation when the movie ends abruptly and you have to figure out exactly what happened. Don't we all like that kind of suspense, and don't we all 'put ourselves' into the movies' story to work it out. 'If I was him/her...I would have...'. and so we all indulge in creative visualisation. Or we might use available facts about the story and try and anticipate the outcome or the next except, or visualise what might happen in real life to a decision we make or words that we use. Visualisation is something we use all the time, but when directed and used as a specific tool it can benefit us wonderfully.

Creative visualisation, then, is another useful spiritual tool, entirely safe, and under your control.

 

When to book? How often?

Some may be confused as to when, how to book. Should one book a series of sessions or book for a one-off session?

Booking for angelic encounter sessions, inner castle sessions or dream sessions (and indeed any other sessions) is easy.

Some spiritual sojourners, like to book on a regular basis, and use their one-to-one sessions as a time of going deeper, and of building on the good work of their last session - it that case it's progressive.

Angelic encounters, and more so inner castle sessions and dream sessions may be used it this way. You'll discover a lot about yourself. In which case, you might like to book several sessions in one go! Maybe one a week, once a month, perhaps?

Others like to book for an angelic encounter or dream session etc because of a specific incident or event, or an upcoming challenge, and then they book one or two sessions allied to that specific need. That works well, too. For instance, when using the inner castle program, instead of working through a myriad of awesome rooms and exploring your inner landscape widely, someone with a specific need, challenge, impending decision or sports competition may like to explore just room - the room of decision, or the room of empowerment, and meet their need there!  In these cases, do book when you have a specific need.

Booking is easy - and to find out which of the awesome spiritual programs might benefit you - do see the link below.

Group seminars, workshops, roadshows and retreats are available.

 

 

The abovementioned explanations relate to spiritual programs organised by Jonathan Tadhg. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/

Appendix A

Below is a list of verses from the Book illustrating how God communicated with men and women of old, culminating with a verse that promises that, in future, men and women will have dreams of meaning, and visions (even more so, than before). Do check:

God speaks to Abram while he is in a deep sleep (Genesis 15);
God speaks to Abimelech the King of Gerar concerning his intentions regarding Sarah, Abraham's wife (Genesis 20);
Jacob dreams of a ladder to heaven (Genesis 28);
Joseph dreamed of his future success (Genesis 37) and interpreted the dreams of the Pharaoh of Egypt (Genesis 41);
Solomon conversed with God in his dreams (1 Kings 3);
Daniel interpreted dreams (in the Book of Daniel 2 and 4);
the Magi are told in a dream to avoid Herod on their journey home (Matthew 2);
Joseph, when betrothed to Mary, was told not to fear taking Mary as his wife (Matthew 1);
Joseph, now husband of Mary, was directed to flee with Mary and Jesus to Egypt (Matthew 2);
Paul was told to go to Macedonia (Acts 16)
 
In Acts 2:17 the apostle Peter quotes Joel 2:28 saying that because of the Spirit now out poured "...your old men will dream dreams."

Dream Interpretation: Shoes

Dreaming of shoes is significant, as shoes within a dream may indicate a homophone. A homophone is a word that sounds like another work, even though it has a different spelling and meaning. Your psyche or soul is a master at using symbolism to convey its meassage, and so finding homophones within dreams is to be expected.

Shoes, especially putting them on or taking them off, may relate to a choice you made in the past, are facing now, or will do in the future. Other elements within the dream may give clues as the to time-line: whether the choice was past, present or future, but shoes may infer choice.

Shoes within dreams, as mentioned, may indicate a homopone: shoes equals choose! Clever huh? They sound alike, but the true meaning needs a little work at uncovering. But, as mentioned your soul's language is symbolism, picture-language and inference.

 

The abovementioned interpretation of one aspect of a typical dream, and is given for outline purposes only.

Jonathan Tadhg interprets dreams. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/dreamtelling

DreamTelling: The Essence Of Dream Interpretation

Wouldn't you like to know what your dreams mean? Have you had a bizarre or profound dream? Maybe you've had, or are having a recurring dream? Our sessions about dream interpretation can assist you, wherever you are.

Dreams are your soul's way of getting your attention, of giving you information to resolve a past event, empower you for today, or to pave the way for peace about some future event.

And don't think dreams only occur when you're asleep!

Your soul continues to use imagination and symbol even when you're awake - so daydreams and synchronicity (odd 'co-incidences' in daily life)  is important and needs interpretation too.

Group seminars, workshops and retreats are available. And individual, private sessions are avilable wherever you are (in person, or by MSN Messenger, Skype, phone etc). A typical one-to-one session consists of our anamcara,  that is one of our spiritual teachers, leading you into recollecting your dream.

This is best achieved by getting you to relax, maybe close your eyes, and he or she will use any number of amazing techniques to discover the meaning of your dream. Your anamcara might use the:

'video replay' and question technique: Here you re-create your dream in your minds eye, and can start and stop it as you wish.  Your anamcara can, when you pause your dream recollection,  then ask you questions about what you're seeing, doing and feeling, and so glean invaluable information. And then you can re-start or replay the dream over and over again.

question and answer technique: Here, prompted by your anamcara, you get to interview any characters within your dream, and so it's similar to the technique above in that you 're-live' the dream, but you also get to  interview characters within your to explain what they mean, what they said or what they represent. This is truly interactive. For those who can only remember a fragment of a dream, a variation of this technique is useful, and in such cases, that dream fragment is re-imagined, and 'pulled out' of the dream and interviewed.

flower petal visualisation: Here, you imagine a flower bloom, and in the centre of the flower 'head' you place the symbol or character from your dream that you would like to interpret. This technique is useful for those who have a good imagination or feel they are not imaginative, as the anamcara instructs you to move from petal to bloom centre, and back to petal  and so on, and asks questions;  and so gradually the dream's meaning in unliocked. This is also good for working with dream fragments, too.

 To date, professionals have been assisted, business people, sportsmen and women, artists, writers, those looking for work, teachers, the young and the young-at-heart. All have benefited, and so can you.

Dream interpretation sessions may include:

Finding out what type of dream is it: maybe it's a waking dream, a lucid dream, a prophetic dream, an epic dream, or a daydream etc. Very important.

Ascertaining your dream's overall conscious 'residence', that is, whether it comes from your subconscious or superconscious; and ascertaining this is all important when determing the overal meaning of the dream. Is it, for instance, about the past, a fear, or about giving guidance, or about the future?

Determining your dream's 'zone', allows us to discover whether it  is directed at the physical side of your body and daily life, events and incidences; or directed to your emotional wellbeing; or at your spiritual life. Which area of your life is the dream attempting to redress? Understanding this, can give you a better quality of life.

A listing and analysis of the significance of the dreams contents, that is the dream's content symbolism of objects, characters and the unfolding story of events. This can be an area that is confusing, but an objective professional, like our anamcara (spiritual teachers) can assist you to discover the meaning of symbols and archetypes etc within your dream, and this can be the 'key' to unlocking some relief about the past, or empowerment or healing for today, and/or maybe knowledge or assurance about the future etc. For instance, does your dream contain some family member or friend or s stranger?    Or did it contain spoken phrases, or maybe trees or something abstract like numbers or shapes? All this is of signficance.

In addition, we'll also note if there are any transitions in consciousness in your dreams as they unfold, or perspective changes (for instance, are you 'in' your dream or looking on as a third-party?) - all very telling; and we'll conclude by working with you to put it all together and formulate a dream action plan.

The abovementioned in an outline, and we think you'll find this and other aspects of your dream that may be discovered fascinating. Some people, like you, come back on a regular basis and see dream interpretation as part of their physical, emotional and spiritual growth.

So, what are you waiting for? There's only one way to objectively understand your dream's meaning, and we believe our objective, professional, and innovative dream interpretation program can assist you, and give your daily life a boost.

Wherever you are, you can benefit.

 

Jonathan Tadhg interprets dreams. One to-one sesions, wherever you are, are available. Group seminars, workshops and retreats are also available. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/dreamtelling

Dream Interpretation: Flying

Dreaming that you are flying, unaided, just like superman or superman women is an interesting topic.

If you're flying is easy and relatively uneventful in the dream, then you are on top of things, have things under control in your daily life.

But, if your flying is laboured or problemtatic then it may represent that you want to progress in daily life, but you're battling with people or events, and this needs to be resolved.

But, we would also need to take into account any feels you felt as your dreamed of flying. If you feel fear it may be that you're concerned about your ability to progress at work or in your chosen sport or profession? Feeling exhilaration may represent a desire to move on. Other elements of your dream will give clues. And maybe flying higher anf higher represents your spiritual journey to higher levels?

 

The abovementioned interpretation of one aspect of a typical dream, and is given for outline purposes only.

Jonathan Tadhg interprets dreams. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/dreamtelling

Dream Interpretation: Three

Dreaming of the number three, or of three obejcts or being told in a dream to do something three times can be important.

Further interpretation of your dream will give a more exact meaning, but in outline, three events repeated in a dream, or the number three appearing on an object, or three similar objects featuring in the dream , could represent a great desire by you for freedom. 

Your psyche is a master at using symbolism to convey its message, and so finding homophones within dreams is to be expected.

A homophone is a word that sounds like another word, even though it has a different spelling and meaning.Three sounds like 'free', and so you may have a yearning for freedom from something in your daily life.

Three, if its a cosmological, a numinous or spiritually-orientated dream, could represent the connectedness of mind, body and spirit; or it could represent the Trinity, and so the dream may have a profound meaning.

Alternatively, the number three may present your creativity, imagination, various skills you posses, and activity.

 

The abovementioned interpretation of one aspect of a typical dream, and is given for outline purposes only.

Jonathan Tadhg interprets dreams. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/dreamtelling

Inner Castle: The Moat Of Merriment

ROOM DESCRIPTION, ITS USEFULNESS, GUIDE AND MEANING

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and even if you come across this room, it may not be exactly the same as this - however this one is described to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through these rooms, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

The Moat Of Merriment

On your way out of the castle, you will once again cross over the drawbridge, spanning the moat, the moat of merriment. On this occasion we would suggest you take a swim! You deserve some recreation. Recreation? A nice word. Re-creation!

You don't need to remove clothes - and as this 'world' is accessed by imagination and intuition, you can decide to be completely dry after the swim! Why not?

As you slowly get into the water of this crystal clear moat, you feel the coolness of the water lapping at your toes. Then your knees, and then the coolness of the water around your waist. Nice! Can you swim? You can here! You move into the water, and feel yourself buoyant - floating gently and without effort. Don't fret! Nothing bad can happen here.

The water refreshes you! You feel alive! The burdens that you once had are now washed away.

You look around. Behind you is the castle - so strong-looking, built to stand forever, it seems. In front of you the forest, and from there a myriad animal sounds can be heard - not fearful sounds, but welcoming ones! Birdsong, too! Butterflies fly around you. Dragonflies, of all colours 'buzz' along the reeds at the moat's edge.

But you are in the cool, refreshing water. You're floating still, and in the cool water, with a summer's sun 'playing' down upon your head you let out a 'waaahooooo', a yelp of sheer delight. All is right with the world. You see this is the moat of merriment, and it cleanses, refreshes and brings you to the point where you can really appreciate life with all its 'twists and turns'. You love it!

You notice movement in the water. But you don't fear. It's seals! A family of seals, obviously also affected by the moat of merriment are playing in the water, and then all at once they are swimming around you, as if....yes...including you in their game of 'swim-tag! You laugh! They 'bark' gleefully. All is right with the world. You see, the seals are not just seals, but the joyful, playful, peaceful Wardens of the moat, and they're pleased to see you.

Interestingly, one of the small seals breaks away from you and the 'family' of seals, and swims to the edge of the moat. Through 'watery' eyes you see someone - not a seal - rise up out of the water, turn around, sit on the water's edge, watching you. They laugh loudly, and wave. You wave back! Immediately, the thought arises in your mind: ' Selkies! Shape-shifters! Don't you just love them?'

Sometime later, you swim to the edge of the moat, climb out. You're dry! You're clean, and refreshed. Re-created? All the dust and grime, old ways, and burdens that you once had, are now washed away. You're clean! You're also empowered to put into practice what you experienced and learned in the castle.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. The Room of Lost and Found is a wonderful place. A room where you can understand what was 'lost' and why, and how to 'find' it again. Wink! This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: Characters Within: The Red Giant

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and in such rooms, and indeed sometimes moving throughout the Castle, there are friendly characters to assist you. One such character is described now to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through the Castle, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

Character: The Red Giant

As you navigate the castle, occasionally you'll hear Rhita Gawr [pronounced 'rita' (to rhyme with bitter), 'gore'], also known as the Red Giant, because he's big, dresses in red, has a ruddy complexion and has 'celtic colouring, ie red hair.

You might see him sometimes as he stomps around the darkened halls of the castle, but you're more likely to hear his loud, 'booming' voice muttering to no-one in particular, some way off in the distance. He often sounds outraged, sometimes rude, and often threatening....but usually from afar....usually from another part of the castle.

Purpose? Well, originally Rhita Gawr, or the Red Giant's purpose was to protect the land, especially the area of Yr Wyddfa [prounced 'ear-widd-fah'], ie Mt Snowdon, and so he became a ferocious fighter. He stood 20 feet high and weighed as much as ten men - truly a ferocious giant. It is said that he killed twenty kings of England and used their beards as a cloak. Truly, nasty! However, he lost a battle to King Arthur, and died. He did what he had to do, until it was right for him to pass on. And now he protects the castle from intruders.

Origin? Well, this is a total mystery, but he frequented Yr Wyddfa, North Wales, and that's as much as we know.

Benefit? Well, he protects the castle, and though he sounds ferocious, and true, he once was a huge, giant, a killer...his killing days are over. His main 'weapon' now is to frighten away strangers and ne'er to wells, and he does this very well. So, he keeps the castle safe, for you to navigate.

But what should you do if confronted by The Red Giant?

The answer is very easy: stand your ground, do not fear, or maybe you could even befriend him. Do not run away. You see, many of our fears are 'magnified' when we run away and dont confront them. Then they grow in stature and ferocity, and then by default they do 'rule' our lives because of our timidity (and not any real power they have!). However, when you confront Rhita Gawr, the Red giant and/or befriend him he 'reduces' in ferocity.

So, he's twenty feet tall, usually, but he'll grow bigger asyou run away. So, stand your ground, and as he comes closer he'll be 'reduced' in size, foot by foot, as he comes one foot closer. So much so, that by the time he's next to you, he might only be six inches tall. Some giant, then? It's true!

The moral here is, giants have a purpose, and you do not need fear them. Confront them and you'll find they're not as big as you thought they were.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: Characters Within: Guardian Angel

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and in such rooms, and indeed sometimes moving throughout the Castle, there are friendly characters to assist you. One such character is described now to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through the Castle, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

Character: Guardian Angel

You have a guardian angel. Yes, you do! You might not always be able to see your guardian angel, as they have the power to be visible and invisible. And you guardian angel also has others powers, and can move from room to room with you, and move throughout the castle without any limitation. Of the rooms, Wardens of each room and other characters that you might meet in the castle, there is none stronger than your guarduan angel. A word from your guardian angel is enough!

What does your guardian angel look like, when visible? How you imagine your guardian angel is down to your imagination. You might like to think of the traditional angel as depicted in renaissance paintings: flowing gowns, peaceful, a lovely or handsome face, and exuding power? Wings optional. It's just an opinon, but we never 'got on' with those paintings of little chidlren with rosey-red cheeks, painted in mid-flight or looking wistfully at you, supporting their chubby chins with chubby hands, but if it works for you, then imagine that. Think of a benevolvent, lovely-looking, powerful being, in the shape of a human but from Beyond.

Purpose? Well, the purpose of your guardian angel, as you journey throughout the castle, is to minister to your needs, to protect you, and guide you. There is nothing in all of the castle to hurt you, but if you ever feel fearful, always call 'Guardian angel', and he/she will come to you in an instant, if indeed they are not already present. Remember: guardian angels can be invisible. And, they're powreful beings. They fly between you and the Ancient of Days, from whom they derive their power and purity.

Origin? Well, this is shrouded in mystery. From ancient text it looks as though they were created before mankind was created and before the creation of the material universe. There are stories of them singing as the Divine brought about the created order. They are ancient, powerful beings, but they look eternally young. We do know that angels and guardian angels are not deceased people, but were created by the Divine.

Benefit? Well, your guardian angel will assist you. Remember angels and especially guardian angels are noble and powerful beings, and they love you. Do show respect. These are noble beings and not butlers, but they will never complain, and will serve you when it is in your best interest. You do not ever need to fear your guardian angel.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: The Room Of Lost And Found

ROOM DESCRIPTION, ITS USEFULNESS, GUIDE AND MEANING

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and even if you come across this room, it may not be exactly the same as this - however this one is described to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through these rooms, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

The Room Of Lost And Found

As you enter the room, you noticed how cluttered it is. If the walls of the castle are stone, you can't see them for the 'jammed-packed' shelves of all sorts of items, hiding them. There are row upon row of high shelves, and your vision is thus limited. You stand there for a time, looking at all the things that have been lost. You half smile and think to yourself, 'I wonder if my umbrella is here?'.

You call out, and from the far corner, two people reply. A man and women (a married couple?) approach. Both are Wardens of this room, mature and each has a pen and pad in hand, and they explain to you that they find that which was lost, catalogue it, store it, look after it, and await the arrival of the true owner. They explained this painstakingly thoroughly, and then both winked, simultaneously. This unnerved you, just a little.

You mentioned, that you were in the hall, and had noticed this room's door ajar, and though your fae had tried to deter you [Editor - they always do, and more will be mentioned about our fae, soon], you had come in. The women expressed delight that you had entered. 'Very few come this way, my dear. Oh they might put their head around the door, but few come in. Pity, really', she said. And winked.

Despite the fact that your fae was pulling at your coat, and pointing to the door, wanting to leave this place, you stayed, and looked around inquisitively. Your fae hadn't been quiet since you entered the room - chatting incessantly. [Editor - they do that to - chat on and on and on - but more about them soon].

The male Warden of the room now spoke. 'Now that you're here, why don't you look around and find what you lost', and as if to pre-empt my next question, he continued and said, 'but you won't find umbrellas! But you will see what others have lost - lost pride, lost love, lost integrity, lost self-worth, lost self-respect, and more. You will see what you have lost, and don't worry that this room is so full, as you will find what you've lost within a few minutes, if you have a mind to find it'. And as he finished speaking, he winked again.

And so you set about searching the room, and sure enough, you found what you had lost. [Ofcourse, what you find, when you have an Interior Castle one-to-one ssession) will be personal to you, and your anamcara will work with you, after the session, to work through its relevance.]

Taking what you had lost to the Wardens of the room was, humbling, to say the least, but you were overjoyed at recovering that which was lost, so many years ago, during a 'wounding' . [These 'woundings' could be some untruth about you put about by a trusted friend, an embarrassing situation, the lost of a loved one, a divorce or bereavement, a rape or other event. At such times, 'something' is lost].

Oddly, both Wardens now spoke, as if rehearsed and had said this many times, 'Now you have found what was lost, and now it's found. Remember there is no comma between 'lost' and 'found'', they said, and with that both waved to me, winked, and disappeared behind a shelf, and carried on cataloguing items that others had lost. You stood there, happy that you had found what you had lost, but nonplussed by their last words, and all that winking.

Behind you, you now sense a 'an overwhelming, friendly presence'. You turn. It's your guardian angel [Ed -yes, more about these beings, later. Suffice to say that these, unlike Wardens, angels can move throughout the castle, from room to room]. You smile. Your guardian angel smiles.

You couldn't help but ask the angel, why these two Wardens always winked, and what their cryptic phrase had meant. 'It's quite clear', the angel said, 'The Winking was to assure you that what you had lost wasn't, really lost at all. You had it all the time, but you thought you had lost it, and had acted so. But you had it all the time. Hence the winks! And the phrase? This isn't the room of lost things, and things then found, for that to be the case, the Wardens are quite right, and then a comma should be placed in the room's title. This is the room where things are lost and then immediately found. Infact, so quickly, that they are never really lost at all'.

You couldn't help but laugh. 'So I had it all the time', you said to the angel. 'So coming into this room was a waste of time?.

From behind one of the shelves both Wardens shouted in unison, albeit it a jovial, supportive way, 'Never a waste of time. Sure you had it all the time. You never lost it! But had you not come into this room, you would have thought you had lost it, and would have forever acted as though you had lost it', they said. You leave the room, relieved, and walk along the hall.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. The Room of Lost and Found is a wonderful place. A room where you can understand what was 'lost' and why, and how to 'find' it again. Wink! This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Interior Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: The Room Of Mirrors Of Memory

ROOM DESCRIPTION, ITS USEFULNESS, GUIDE AND MEANING

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and even if you come across this room, it may not be exactly the same as this - however this one is described to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through these rooms, as they explored their Psyche through the CaolAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

The Room Of Mirrors Of Memory

The room has stone walls, very typical of a castle. This is a long room, and it has a high ceiling, is somewhat darkened as it has few windows, and yet it isn't 'unwelcoming'. There is an air of expectancy. The room is bare - no furniture, no drapes - just three large mirrors on three ornate golden frames, situated at the far end of the room. You approach, slowly.

You're aware of a kindly gentleman standing by one of the mirrors. He has a cheerful, welcoming smile on his rosey-red cheeked face, and be beckons you to come closer. You stand in front of the mirror.

The gentleman is the Warden of the Room Of Mirrors Of Memory, who frequents only this room, and he explains that by gazing into one of the mirrors you can see episodes of your past appear in that mirror as reflections.

The Warden speaks: 'You can command a mirror to show you the past, and some who have visited this room liked to call up images of good times to remind them of people and events long past and draw satisfaction from such images. Whilst others call up events that were painful, to try to understand what happened and why, and so draw meaning and strength. Whatever event you call up, rest assured that these are mere images of the past, and they have no power to harm you now. So, gaze into a mirror, and think of a past event'.

You gaze and see....[ofcourse, what you see would depend on taking part in an actual one-to-one (or group) session, guided by an anamcara (a 'soul friend', a spiritual teacher) at Caolait who will guide you in this spiritual program. You might want to call up a past 'happy' event, or you might want to think about something long buried in your memory. In this room you can do that - and perhaps you will see the event in a new light, and see how it has contributed to the mature person you are today. Remember, you are guided by your anamcara - a Coalait spiritual teacher who will speak to you and guide you.]

After spending some time in front of a mirror, you realise that there are a jumble of questions running through your mind, because of what you saw in a new perspective, and a desire for answers.

The Warden of this room, again, speaks: 'I can see you have many questions. One of my roles is to assist you. So, spiritual sojourner, do ask me your questions and I will take take to answer them to the best of my ability. And it may be that, to assist you, I may ask questions of you.'

You smile. and ask so many questions. The Warden of this room, who has your best interests at heart, answers fully, and for perhaps the first time, you see some past events in a new light. You weep! A burden has been lifted. You feel lighter, happier, less burdened than you have for many years.

'It is now time for you to leave,' the Warden says, and you thank him. He continues, 'I wish you well, my dear friend, and would recommend that you take what you have learned in this room and apply it to your daily life. Do explore other rooms in this castle, for there is much wisdom in them. It is customary for me to give a 'gift' to each visitor, and for you I will give....I will give, advice! From here, bearing in mind the 'tough' subject matter of what you called up and what you saw in the mirror, I suggest you take those stairs, and visit next the Great Tower of New Perspective'. The Warden there welcomes many who come through this room'.

You leave, and climb the stairs slowly.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. The Room of Mirrors Of Memory is a great place to 're-live' episodes in your life so that you can analyse events and gain differing perspective. This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Interior Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: Characters Within: You, The 'Shimmering Self'

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and in such rooms, and indeed sometimes moving throughout the Castle, there are friendly characters to assist you. One such character is described now to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through the Castle, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

Character: The 'Shimmering Self'

As you travel around the Inner Castle, you'll meet a number of characters - mostly aspects of yourself. But, for instance, as you dialogue with other characters or the fea (your ego), who is this 'you' that is talking, responding and overseeing the conversation? We'll that may be a tricky one to answer in a few minutes, and it does depend on which 'level' we attempt to answer he question.

In one sense, the 'you' that stands back and dialogues with the characters within the Inner Castle and navigates the Castle rooms, and can dialogue with your anamcara (whilst all this is going on) is the 'real' you. So, at one level, the 'real' you, is the 'observer' in the Inner Castle. And if you like, as you move throughout the Inner Castle, you can imagine yourself as you appear in 'solid' life. Why not? But if you want to imagine yourself differently, that's okay.

But, there is another sense in which you are m0re - and its something that the fea (your ego) is unaware of. Ineed, you too, may be unaware of the real nature of your being, of who you really are.

In essence, the 'you' you see staring back at you in the mirror is the 'body' you. That one's easy to understand for the body consists of cells etc. It's solid.

But, as reflect (no pun intended), you look at yourself and make a 'thought' comment such as, 'My, what a handsome guy you are!', or 'My, I look so beautiful'. This isn't the body's comment, but your psyche or soul in action. And usually, that's the part of you in action, under control - as it's you - in the Inner Castle. That's all the fea, the ego, understands. But, you're even more than body and soul.

To say you have a spirit is not entirely correct, for you are a spirit. You are a spiritual being, having a human experience. Your spirit is that elusive, mysterious, as-yet-not-entirely-known 'you'. If you like, we could say it is 'hidden' in the Divine. You spirit, that is 'you', is totally different, Divine-facing, and is immensely powerful. We might get inklings of our spirit in 'solid' life - and some, as they move through the Inner Castle, also see it represented as a blue light shining on the wall, but not the origin of the light.

The spirit, to us (at this time) in invisible, but you will feel its presence sometimes or 'see' the effect within the Inner Castle. It is the 'shimmering self' or symbolised in the Castle as the shimmering light, which is you, which may be seemingly 'clad' in your soul (with all it's symbols, flaws and thoughts), 'clad' in your body (with its wrinkles, cuts and grazes), and 'we' (or ego, residing in your soul/psyche) often think the 'cladding' (body and soul) is 'us' in our entirety. And it isn't. You are a spirit, and therefore 'higher' than body and soul. And yet your body and soul are inextricably connected.

So, that's 'you'. Easy huh? This is just an outline, so you can imagine how 'deep', exciting and beneficial an Inner Castle experiential, spiritual program, and other sessions and events CoalAit organises can be for you!

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle: Characters Within: The Fea [Wounded Ego]

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Teresa of Avila, in her work 'The Interior Castle', spoke of the psyche, the soul as likened to a castle, to be explored in an 'eyes-closed', meditative, relaxed, enjoyable, imaginative state - symbolism being the language of the soul. Coalait organises many spiritual, guided, programs, one being the Inner Castle program, and many are benefiting: finding out more about themselves, answering queries and drawing strength and wisdom from this program, overcoming obstacles and resolving past upsets, and applying this wisdom and new perception to their daily life. You can benefit, too, by a guided, spiritual session.

The rooms that you come across will be varied and different, and in such rooms, and indeed sometimes moving throughout the Castle, there are friendly characters to assist you. One such character is described now to give you an outline of the benefits many have experienced in navigating through the Castle, as they explored their Psyche through the CaoalAit 'Inner Castle' spiritual program.

Character: The Fea [Wounded Ego]

The Fea [prounced 'fay'] is part of you - it's your wounded ego, and we suggest you imagine you Fea as a rather mischievous imp - nothing too large. A jovial, small, 'loveable' imp. The Fea roams the Castle - so you'll sometimes see him/her and sometimes not, but you'll usually her him/her. And, he/she will sometimes accompany you, offering advice. Infact, too much advice, at times.

Yes, the Fea, your wounded ego, is an incessant talker. Chat, chat, chat!

You'll recognise his/her voice as your Fea has no tact. Your Fea will offer advice, but in the most direct, tactless and rude way. You may have heard him/her before? What thing might your Fea say? Things like: 'You made a mess of that, everyone hates you, are laughing at you, so you had better not go back!' Or That's another wrinkle on your face. You're getting old, now', Or 'That driver cut you up, and you let him. You wimp!' Advice, but rude and condemnatory! You know that voice, already.

Unless your firm but fair - rather like talking to a little child, really - your Fea will talk the 'hind legs of a donkey. So, if it's getting all too much (whether you can see your Fea or not, but recognise that rasping, accusatory voice), just say, 'Fea! Thankyou for your advice or comment, but that's enough, please. Let's have some quiet, please'.

You, see, naming your Fea (or anything else) brings it into the light, into the open, and exposes it. Such 'things' only have power when they operate when we're unawares, when they're in the shadows. So, name your Fea, be polite, love the 'little fellow', bring him into the light, but tell him to shut up. And, your Fea will comply.

The Fea believes he/she has your best interest at heart, and will give you all sorts of advice, and sometimes it's just plain wrong to act on it. He/she is your wounded ego and believes it has your best interest at heart. But, your Fea is younger than you - born when you were 'wounded', is like a spoilt child who needs loving, and doesn't have a clue about who or what you really are.

You Fear only knows you as body and soul/psyche, and yet you are more. You are a spirit (see the 'Shimmering Self'), immensely powerful and as spirit you have your face turned God-ward, but not even many people, let alone your Fea, know and appreciate that.

Session End

Sometime later, the session ends. Your anamcara (yes, you've opened your eyes and are now conversing in the 'solid' world), explains what you 'saw' and experienced and continues to work with you, analysing the symbols etc, and how that can benefit your daily life. This can be challenging, but is very rewarding. And your anamcara is there to assist you.

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are. Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Inner Castle Journeying: Introduction

YOU, YOUR PSYCHE, THE CASTLE PLAN, THE ROOMS, CHARACTERS, GIFTS ETC

Wouldn't you like to explore your 'inner landscape', your psyche and understand the inner workings of your mind, your soul, and what it all means, and how it can assist you in your daily life, your chosen profession or sport; to excel, to grow and mature, spiritually; to find answers, to overcome obstacles and move on, and more? Then, the Inner Castle may assist!

Our anamcara, spiritual teachers (sometimes known as 'soul friends') will guide you through a meditative and imaginative process so that you can navigate the Inner Castle's various rooms, explore each room for meaning, find 'gifts', and dialogue with characters that you meet along the way who may impart great wisdom, and which may be of immense benefit in 'solid' life. It's ancient-future! It's based on the ancient and mystical works of Teresa of Avila.

Dreams

When you're asleep you have dreams, and this is your psyche's way of communicating with you, and invaluable it is too, to understand the meanings of your dreams. Why, you can find answers in your dreams, resolve niggling problems and doubts, find guidance to navigate your way through daily life, and maybe receive advice regarding future plans.

Synchronicity

But, what about when you're awake? Your logical mind may seem to predominate, then, but your psyche is still communicating with you. Yes, it uses symbols, and some of these even seem to 'leap out' at you in your waking life - as you become 'aware' of unusual events.

Have you been ever been thinking of certain words only to read them in an advert, say, on the side of a bus or hear them in the words of a song that just happens to be playing on the radio? Or maybe a feather appears in front of you as you walk along the street or a city street lamp goes off for for no reason at all as you walk by, or you see six crows perched on the top of a building, and you're 'jolted' into thinking, 'that's strange..what could it mean?'. Well, that could well be your psyche, the 'inner you', sending you a message. But, what does it mean?

Castle & Rooms

Teresa of Avila likened your Psyche or soul to a castle with a myriad of rooms. Based on her ancient-future work, we work with spiritually-discerning sojourners, like you, to guide them through this inner landscape, this Inner Castle, and many are benefiting. What about you?

You can learn more about yourself, answer queries, grow and mature, resolve past conflicts and upsetting issues, gain wisdom for today's decision-making and relationships, be (more) focussed, and understand yourself (more) etc. And this is achieved by you moving through the castle rooms, guided by an anamcara - one of our spiritual teachers, soul-friends. Rooms are varied: Why, you might find benefit by visiting the Room of Lost & Found, the Room of the Mirrors of Memory, the Room of the Window of Opportunity, The Great Tower of Right Perception, The Armoury (Room of Empowerment), and more.

Characters & Gifts

And, each room has it's own room 'guide' or Warden (as Teresa of Avila called them), who wants the best for you, and with whom you can dialogue and learn their wisdom - and apply it. In addition, there are characters that move between the rooms and you can dialogue with them, too. And gifts? These may be found in the rooms that you explore, or given to you by a kindly, passing, character, and these too can have great meaning and application.

What to do now?

The 'Inner Castle' is a very useful spiritual tool, using the soul's 'language' of symbol and imagination', and you can benefit today!

We believe you can benefit from exploring your Inner Castle, and one of our anamcara (soul friends) is ready and willing to work with you, wherever you are.

Do check out the other excepts about the Inner Castle to find out more. or book yourself onto a one-to-one session (which can take place via the internet, MSN Messenger, Skype or 'phone, as well as in person), or book for a workshop/seminar or a retreat.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises one-to-one sessions on the Inner Castle spiritual program, and group workshops/seminars and retreats on this theme. For more information, see: http://www.caolait.org/innercastle

Dream Interpretation: Whale

Depending on the context, to see a whale in your dream, may representyour intuition and awareness. You are in 'tune' with your inner sense of spirituality.

Alternatively, a whale may symbolise a relationship or business project that may be too big to handle., and you are feeling overwhelmed.

However, do not discount the 'word play' and that the dream may also be a pun on 'wailing', and it's a desire to cry out about something significant in your life that in your waking life you're silent and unhappy about.

 

The abovementioned interpretation of one aspect of a typical dream, and is given for outline purposes only. 

Jonathan Tadhg interprets dreams. For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/dreamtelling

All At Sea...

OUR BROKEN ONTOLOGICAL MOORINGS...

There are many ways of looking the human condition: the 'inward' (that is, how we 'feel' inside, our contentedness, happiness, peace etc), the 'outward' (that is, how we relate to the others, to nature, to the cosmos etc), and the 'upward' (that is, how we relate to the Divine, our faith, belief etc).

When any of these are out of balance we suffer a spiritual malaise.

Generally, and societally, it could be said that we all suffer to some extent to having an 'inward' challenge. Rather than live 'within' ourselves, we live externally, and so worry about what others will think of us, we are fearful, and lack peace and joy. It could be said to be a symptom of the age in which we live. Many live with a deep dissatisfaction.

It's as though we're in a storm at sea, and are like a small boat being tossed about, at the mercy of the waves and the wind. We feel helpless. Psychologists would say, our society, has broken its ontological moorings. We are 'adrift'.

That's a summary of society at large, but also on the microcosm scale, the individually scale, many experience this kind of 'being at sea', too. It materialises in deep feelings of fear and confusion. It sometimes produces stress-related ailments, or the overwhelming desire for more and more as the ego asserts itself more and more. It is evident when we ask those 'big' questions and get no answers, such as, 'Is there more to life than this?', 'What is my purpose in life'? 'What is my worth?' 'What does the future hold?' 'Is there life after death?'. And so on. Behind all this is an 'imbalance', a spiritual malaise.

One way to start to rectify this imbalance starts the moment we are aware of it. Ofcourse, if we're unaware of our need or don't name it, the spiritual malaise will continue unabated. Secondly, there are ways to restore the balance to our constituent parts through spiritual exercises and a recognition of our origin, purpose, power and destiny. Ofcourse, ego might rebel against this. Thirdly, because the 'self' can easily be deluded, it is good to have an impartial spiritual director to guide you.

 

Jonathan Tadhg organises events which covers this theme.  For more information see: http://www.caolait.org/anamcara