Seek Only the Truth

Seek only the Truth: Reflections on the MindBodySpirit Festival and the Rise of Hidden Agendas

There was a time when I looked forward to the MindBodySpirit Festival—a space that felt set apart from the noise of the world. A sanctuary for healing, growth, and truth. A place where people of all backgrounds could explore spirituality, wellness, and deeper connection with themselves and one another.

But recent events have made me pause and reflect.

What Happened?

A Jewish practitioner—affiliated with a charitable organisation—was removed from the Melbourne festival after pressure from a vocal group. The official reason? “Safety concerns.”

But let’s be honest. This wasn’t about safety. It was about exclusion.

And exclusion—when masked as concern—often points to something deeper. What begins with the silencing of the Saturday people (Jews), too often extends to the Sunday people (Christians)… and eventually to anyone who upholds the values that shaped Western civilisation: freedom of speech, individual dignity, and moral responsibility.

Suddenly, a festival that once celebrated spiritual diversity seems to be promoting something else: ideological conformity.

What Does the MindBodySpirit Festival Really Promote?

That’s the question I now feel compelled to ask.

Is this festival still a celebration of human potential and spiritual growth? Or has it become a platform for selective inclusion—one that quietly undermines the very cultures and faiths that laid the foundation for many of its ideals?

Where once there was openness, there now seems to be quiet censorship. Where once there was inclusion, there now appears to be fear of diverse voices. Where once I felt inspired, I now feel the chill of an unspoken boundary.

And that saddens me.

Because true healing must be rooted in truth. Not selective truth. Not ideological truth. But the kind of truth that is open to all—even when it challenges us.

Why Is This Festival So Popular?

It’s colourful. Creative. Uplifting.

It draws large crowds. It appears harmless—even empowering.

But that makes the question more urgent: Why is such a popular, culturally influential event aligning itself with exclusionary ideologies?

What happens when spiritual spaces stop being neutral and start becoming vehicles for political narratives? When “love and light” becomes a slogan used to silence anyone who questions a dominant worldview?

I used to leave the MindBodySpirit Festival feeling uplifted and inspired. But lately, that sense of lightness has been replaced by unease—not because of one isolated incident, but because of the deeper shadow it reveals.

After what unfolded in Melbourne, I’m left questioning whether I can, in good conscience, continue to support the festival. With it now heading to Sydney, I find myself asking: should I quietly protest by not attending? Or is silence just another form of complicity?

While I suspect a formal complaint or open letter might be ignored, I still believe it’s worth speaking up. Even a simple protest email can serve as a reminder that people are paying attention—that integrity still matters.

Let’s Return to the Heart

Seek only the truth. That’s the spiritual call I keep hearing.

Not the truth we’re told to accept because of fear, popularity, or pressure— but the truth our souls recognise when we hear it.

And so I share these reflections not to condemn, but to question. Because questioning is a sacred act. It’s the first step toward wisdom, healing, and freedom.

If the MindBodySpirit Festival cannot uphold truth, integrity, and spiritual courage, then maybe it’s time to seek that spirit elsewhere.

Let us be seekers, not followers.  Seekers of real light. Real love. And above all… real truth.

The Double Standard: Who Really Supports Openness?

We often hear that traditional institutions—like the Church—are closed to other viewpoints. And yes, like any institution, the Church has its flaws and must continually strive to grow in compassion and humility.

I’ve heard people criticise ministers or priests for giving sermons on sin, warning that without change, one risks eternal consequences. Some left the Church because of this. Yet in the real world, when organisations promote discrimination or exclusion, many turn a blind eye—especially if it doesn’t directly affect them. Speaking up might cost them social standing, opportunities, or comfort.

What the minister or priest offered came from a place of love and concern. But what many others promote today often fuels division and resentment. So ask yourself: which message would you rather follow?

The Real Double Standard

What troubles me is the growing double standard in our society.

Many modern activist movements—particularly within the pro-Palestinian lobby—speak passionately about rights, justice, and freedom of speech. But when someone with a Jewish, Christian, or Western perspective tries to speak, they’re often shut down, excluded, or even threatened.

Let’s be clear:
Freedom of speech must apply to everyone.

Yet increasingly, we see:

• Disagreement being silenced. 

• Faith-based or Western values dismissed as inherently flawed.

• Any questioning of the activist narrative met with labels or exclusion.

BodyMindSpirit Festival is more than an isolated incident. It’s a sign of the times—and a reminder of how vital it is to reclaim genuine openness, where truth, dialogue, and mutual respect still matter.

That’s not justice. It’s ideological control.

Ironically, the Church—so often accused of being inflexible—is, in many cases, now more open to dialogue than some of these supposedly progressive spaces. True openness allows for disagreement. For nuance. For listening. For human dignity—regardless of who is speaking. This is what we need more of.  And it’s what we are rapidly loosing.

But that’s not what we’re seeing here.The version of “freedom” being promoted by some activists today is conditional: You can speak—only if you say what we want to hear.

And that’s not freedom at all.

A Call to Return to Truth

What happened at the MindBodySpirit Festival is more than an isolated incident.

It’s a symptom of a deeper cultural shift—one that seems to target “Saturday people” (Jews), “Sunday people” (Christians), and anyone who still believes in the core values of Western civilisation.

First the Jews.
Then the Christians.
Then anyone who dares to question the approved script.

I used to love attending this festival. It felt like a celebration of healing, unity, and spiritual growth.

But now I find myself asking:

• What does it really promote?
• What values lie beneath the surface?
• And who is being quietly excluded under the banner of ‘inclusion’?

Because when a space that claims to celebrate unity starts suppressing certain voices—it loses its integrity. And when spiritual gatherings become tools of ideology, they stop serving the soul.

This isn’t about blame.
It’s about clarity.

It’s about the courage to see what’s happening—and to speak with honesty and grace.

🌿 

A Few Gentle Questions for the Soul

• Have we become afraid to see the truth right in front of us?
• Are we letting others define what’s “spiritual,” while silencing our inner compass?
• Are we willing to seek only the truth—even when it’s uncomfortable?

Because the soul doesn’t want slogans.

It doesn’t want noise.

It wants light.

It wants truth.

And it’s time we honoured that again.

Prometheus, the Nuclear Age, and the Divine Fire: A Spiritual Reflection for Our Times

Ancient Wisdom and the Fire Within

Ancient Greek mythology served many purposes: it helped explain the natural world, offered moral guidance, and shaped cultural identity. Myths gave people a way to understand the origins of the cosmos and the forces of nature—earthquakes, storms, seasons—by linking them to the actions of gods and goddesses. At the same time, these stories offered lessons about virtue, hubris, love, and sacrifice, often told through the lives of heroes, villains, and those in between.

One such myth is that of Prometheus, the Titan who defied Zeus by stealing fire and giving it to humanity. This fire symbolised more than warmth or survival—it stood for divine knowledge, transformation, and the power to create. But this gift came at a price. Prometheus was punished, and humanity was left to grapple with the weight of such power before it was truly ready.

In many ways, we are now living out our own version of that myth.

A New Kind of Fire

With the dawn of the nuclear age during the Second World War, the world split the atom—and with it, crossed a spiritual threshold. We discovered a fire unlike any before. One with the power to illuminate, heal, and transform—but also to annihilate.

The bomb dropped on Hiroshima ended the war, but it also shattered our sense of moral certainty. What followed—the Cold War, the arms race, and decades of global tension—left humanity in a quiet, lingering fear. That fear has never truly left us.

Today, we still live in the shadow of that fire.

A World at a Crossroads

In Gaza, Hamas has used civilians as human shields, creating a brutal moral confusion. Turkey eyes Greece and Cyprus—not with peace in mind, but with hunger for power and energy control. North Korea builds weapons in silence. China asserts dominance not only over trade, but also over the narrative of truth itself.

“Wokeness”—originally meant to awaken compassion—has too often become another tool for silence, manipulation, and division.

We are flooded with information, yet starved for truth. We are witnessing the rise of strongmen, oligarchs, and ideologues—those who seek control over conscience, land, belief, and thought.

It seems the world stands at a spiritual crossroads. One path leads to deeper chaos. The other, to conscious awakening.

The Sacred Fire and Caroline Myss

Caroline Myss teaches that the nuclear age wasn’t just a leap in science—it was a moment of spiritual reckoning. When we split the atom, we inherited a new kind of responsibility. The power we unlocked wasn’t just physical—it was energetic.

Our thoughts, choices, and words now ripple further than ever before.

Like the atom, each soul holds immense energy at its core. Used wisely, it can illuminate cities, heal hearts, and transform lives. Misused, it can devastate. The nuclear age didn’t begin the nightmare—it revealed just how close we’ve always been to misusing divine fire.

We can no longer afford to be unconscious.

Christ, the 72 Angels, and the Light We Carry

In Christian tradition, fire is not stolen—it is given freely by Christ, the Light of the World. His fire does not destroy. It warms, guides, and purifies. It lights our way when the world grows dark.

The 72 Angels, drawn from sacred Judaic-Christian texts, serve under Christ’s authority. Each angel holds a divine frequency, ready to guide us, protect us, and realign us with our spiritual truth. They are guardians of the fire within us.

Where Prometheus brought fire in defiance, Christ brings light in love.

The world may tremble—but we are not powerless.

Tending the Flame Within

While we may not control governments or armies, each of us carries a flame.

That flame is our conscience, our voice, our prayers, our compassion. It is the strength to act with kindness. The courage to speak truth. The humility to pray when we feel powerless.

We are not called to panic—we are called to presence.

The angels are near. Christ is in charge. Our task is to keep our fire clear, humble, and steady. To love when it’s difficult. To speak light into darkness. And to ask for divine help when we are weary.

Angel to Reflect On: Vehuiah

Vehuiah is the first of the 72 Angels—a bearer of courage, transformation, and divine will. When the world feels overwhelming, Vehuiah helps us reconnect to our inner spark and move forward with spiritual authority.

Invocation:
“Vehuiah, angel of divine fire, help me use my energy for good. Guide me to act with courage and wisdom. Let my light reflect the light of Christ.”

A Word from Scripture

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”
— Matthew 5:14

We are not meant to hide our light. We are meant to shine—so others may find their way, too.

Reflective Question:

What kind of fire are you tending today—one that consumes, or one that heals?

Poetry, Music, and Faith: Embracing Life’s Imperfections

  

Listening to a sermon recently, my priest shared a beautiful insight: God relates to humanity as a poet does to a poem. This idea invites us to see our lives as works of art—carefully crafted, reflecting beauty, and imbued with purpose.

This metaphor aligns with the energy of Guardian Angel Daniel, often associated with eloquence, inspiration, and creativity. Daniel’s presence encourages hope, artistry, and the transformative power of words, mirroring how God creates with intention and love. Life, then, can be viewed as a divine poem—unique, imperfect, and full of meaning.

Reflecting on this metaphor, I see parallels in my own life. Right now, my life feels offbeat, less like a carefully composed symphony and more like a melody out of sync. Yet, even in this chaos, I trust that God, the ultimate composer, is creating something beautiful. Life isn’t perfect, and its challenges are often our greatest teachers.

Growth Through Adversity

Difficult times can deepen our empathy, reduce judgment, and sometimes reveal our life’s purpose. For example:

• A health crisis might inspire someone to advocate for others or volunteer in health organisations.

• Financial struggles could lead to innovative ideas for helping those in similar situations.

• Personal loss might push someone to support others as a grief counselor or volunteer.

• Career setbacks can redirect someone to a passion project or new opportunity.

• Challenging relationships often teach us better communication and emotional growth.

Adversity, then, becomes a catalyst for growth and purpose. By confronting life’s challenges, we uncover strengths, passions, and unique ways to contribute to the world.

Finding Peace in the Chaos

In difficult times, it can be hard to hear the melody of life. However, moments of silence allow us to tune in to God’s presence. This quiet is like a dramatic pause in music—a moment of suspended anticipation filled with profound possibility. In this sacred stillness, I feel God’s peace, reassurance, and the promise that good will prevail.

I experienced this during my Camino walk in Spain, where, in the stillness, I felt God’s love and an overwhelming sense of peace. Returning to daily life, I’ve found it harder to quiet my mind, but I try to incorporate brief moments of silence into my routine—just five minutes to pause, breathe, and reconnect.

When life feels loud and overwhelming, I remind myself of that peaceful experience. By stopping, taking a breath, and embracing the silence, I reconnect with God’s presence and find calm amid the noise.

Imperfections as Beauty

In poetry, an unexpected pause or uneven rhythm evokes raw emotion. Similarly, in music, dissonance or a sudden key change can make the resolution even more poignant. Life mirrors this: times of imbalance may be shaping something extraordinary.

Though my life feels off-track right now, and the world seems chaotic, I trust that God is weaving everything into a masterpiece. Like a poet carefully choosing words, He is crafting something meaningful from the mess.

Tools for Navigating Difficult Times

Faith sustains me during crises, even when I can’t see the outcome. Here are some practices that help me through challenging moments:

•    Prayer: I pray constantly, asking for guidance and strength.
• Reflection: I look for lessons in my struggles, even if they’re not immediately clear.
• Gratitude: Practicing gratitude reminds me of life’s blessings, even small ones, like the ability to walk freely, or just being alive.
• Journaling: Writing helps clear my mind and process emotions.
•        Connecting to the Tree of life Guardian of the Day
   Ask: What lesson is this energy teaching me today? Use this as a focus for growth and self-awareness. 

A Question for Reflection

When life feels offbeat or overwhelming, what do you do to realign yourself? How do you find peace and purpose in the imperfections?

Let’s embrace life’s challenges as part of a divine symphony, trusting that even the dissonance is part of God’s greater masterpiece.

Guardian Angel Yelahiah: Justice, Truth, and a Call for Accountability

Embracing Courage, Justice, and Truth

In spiritual teachings, the energy of Guardian Angel Yelahiah represents courage, justice, and a commitment to truth. Yelahiah’s guidance inspires us to seek accountability, even when it’s challenging, and encourages us to act with integrity and courage. This call to honesty aligns closely with Christian teachings, which urge leaders to guide their communities with transparency, fairness, and humility. In a world increasingly shaped by double standards, the virtues of courage, justice, and truth that Yelahiah embodies are a beacon we need now more than ever.

Politicians and the Glass Houses of Accountability.

Scripture reminds us, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone” (John 8:7), cautioning against hypocrisy. Yet in our political landscape, many leaders are quick to criticise others while seemingly overlooking the issues within their own ranks. Recent controversies highlight this contradiction, from indirect answers about travel perks to a reluctance to acknowledge double standards. For instance, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently faced scrutiny regarding his upgraded Qantas flights. The lack of a clear answer on whether he specifically requested an upgrade raises questions and fuels public distrust, leaving citizens feeling let down by the people they trusted to lead with integrity.

The Call for Directness and Accountability: A Simple Yes or No

When questioned directly, the Prime Minister avoided a straightforward “yes” or “no,” deflecting instead to the perks others receive. This sidestepping has only fueled public frustration. Why not just answer directly? A clear response could have quickly settled the issue, and citizens expect leaders to be transparent—especially given that previous leaders have faced repercussions for much less. Former NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell, for example, resigned after failing to declare a $3,000 bottle of Grange wine. Why shouldn’t today’s leaders hold themselves to that same standard? By delaying his response, the Prime Minister raised questions of fairness and entitlement, adding to calls for an inquiry.

Leadership and Public Trust

In a democracy, trust in leadership hinges on fairness and the expectation that no one is above scrutiny. When issues are deflected, pressing concerns like the cost of living seem neglected, leaving citizens wondering if the focus is more on maintaining power than on genuinely serving Australia. This attitude risks eroding public confidence in the values of justice, honesty, and accountability, which are foundational to a strong democratic society.

A Double Standard in Reporting

Media coverage of Albanese’s Qantas trips reveals a split: some outlets question his relationship with Qantas, pointing to potential conflicts of interest, while others argue his travel arrangements are standard for a Prime Minister. This disparity highlights the need for readers to explore various sources to gain a balanced perspective, as political coverage can often reflect the outlet’s biases.

A Double Standard in Support for Women

A recent spotlight on the treatment of women in parliament has revealed a glaring double standard. While the previous Liberal government was criticised for not supporting women in parliament, recent complaints suggest similar issues within the current Labor ministry. Just recently, Jo Tarnawsky, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Prime Minister, claimed she was forced out of her role after raising a bullying complaint against colleagues. Yet, nothing was done—a cover-up, it seems. This troubling echo of past accusations feels unsettling, especially as some media quarters have remained silent. Many were quick to criticised the previous government for inaction, yet they chose not to follow up on this story.

We all have a responsibility to speak out against injustice wherever it arises, advocating for work environments that foster dignity, respect, and equality for everyone.

The Role of the Media

The media’s part in this narrative is complex. Selective reporting has contributed to an atmosphere where certain politicians receive more criticism than others, depending on their political affiliations. Some media outlets quickly condemn the opposition while downplaying issues among favoured parties. This creates an unbalanced view that erodes public trust. Scripture tells us, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24), a reminder that justice must be blind to favouritism.

The Christian and Angelic Call for Integrity

In times of such political discord, we can look to both Christian and angelic guidance for inspiration. Yelahiah’s energy reminds us of the value of honesty and courage, and Christian teachings emphasises accountability, humility, and genuine leadership. If our leaders acted with these values at heart, they might rise above personal gains to serve truth and justice, creating a society where fairness reigns over favouritism.

As citizens, we are reminded to hold our leaders to these values, to advocate for fair treatment of all—especially women—and to seek transparency from those who govern us. Yelahiah’s courage and Christian principles together call us to aspire to a world of greater integrity, where we can count on leaders who build trust rather than erode it. In doing so, we create a future where our society stands strong, rooted in values that are timeless, sacred, and just.

Questions to Reflect on as Active Citizens to stay proactive and hopeful in the Political Arena:
(Feel free to respond in the comments)

1. What kind of leadership do you believe our nation needs?
Think about the qualities you want in those who represent you. Are you actively supporting leaders who reflect these values? How can you amplify their voices and hold them accountable?

2. Are you raising your voice for integrity in politics?
Are there ways you can demand more transparency and fairness from elected officials? How can you work with others to bring integrity back into public service?

3. How can you help create a culture of open discussion in our communities?
Are you willing to start conversations with people of different views and listen deeply? Could you help create forums where every voice is respected, fostering understanding and unity?

4. Are you contributing to a more united nation?
In a time of division, are you willing to reach across differences to find common ground? Are you using your voice to encourage hope and collaboration rather than resignation?

5. How can you grow your own political awareness and impact?
Are you staying informed and open to new perspectives? What actions can you take to strengthen your understanding and better engage with the issues that matter most?

Remember, meaningful change doesn’t come from a single leader—it’s built by active, engaged citizens who believe in their power to shape the future. Let’s remind ourselves that even the smallest efforts add up. Together, we can create the kind of political environment that respects integrity, honesty, and unity. Keep the faith, stay active, and let your voice be heard!

Truth-Telling for All: A Balanced Approach to History, Healing, and Spiritual Wisdom

Mikael’s teachings remind us that life is fluid, ever-changing, and filled with opportunities for growth. This perspective can guide our understanding of history, especially during times of social tension. In Australia, truth-telling has become central to addressing past injustices, particularly those concerning the Stolen Generations of Indigenous children. These children were taken from their homes, placed in institutions, and faced trauma. Truth-telling seeks to acknowledge these stories, fostering healing.

However, another group of children—the British orphans, also known as “child migrants”—has been overlooked. They too were sent to Australia, where they endured isolation, neglect, and trauma. Their experiences remain largely forgotten, highlighting an imbalance in how we remember history.

Christian and Indigenous Teachings on Truth-Telling:
Christian teachings emphasize the liberating power of truth. As Christ said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Truth is not selective; it is for the healing of all. The Bible also calls for justice for the marginalized: “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression” (Isaiah 1:17). Both Indigenous and British children deserve to have their pain acknowledged.

Indigenous wisdom, too, offers guidance. Truth is not just a set of facts; it is a lived experience connected to the land, community, and spirit. The concept of Ngapartji Ngapartji—reciprocity and shared understanding—emphasises the importance of mutual truth-telling. Truth-telling should aim to restore balance, not create division.

Fostering Inclusive Truth-Telling: 
To create a more holistic understanding of history, we must:

1. Broaden the Conversation: Recognised the injustices experienced by all marginalised groups, including the British orphans, alongside Indigenous Australians. This helps create a more complete historical narrative.

2. Encourage Education: Truth-telling starts with awareness. Educational systems must include all stories of injustice to foster empathy and understanding.

3. Apply Mikael’s Teachings of Adaptation: As life changes, so should our approach to history. We must remain open to learning new layers of truth and adapting our understanding.

4. Promote Healing Through Acknowledgment: True healing requires acknowledging all forms of suffering. By recognising  the trauma of both the Stolen Generations and the British orphans, we create space for collective healing.

Conclusion: The Path to Reconciliation:
Mikael reminds us that life’s challenges, including confronting historical truths, are opportunities for growth. Truth-telling must be inclusive, revealing the full spectrum of experiences. Both Christian and Indigenous wisdom offer pathways toward healing, justice, and balance. Only by listening to all voices can we foster true reconciliation and move forward as a unified nation.

Reflective Questions for Inclusive Truth-Telling and Healing

Feel free to respond:

1) How can we ensure that the stories of all marginalized groups, like the British child migrants, are included in national conversations about historical injustice alongside Indigenous stories?

2) In what ways can truth-telling become a tool for unity rather than division within a community or nation?

3)  How does Mikael’s teaching of adapting to life’s changes apply to how we perceive and engage with historical narratives?

4)  What role can education play in fostering a more inclusive and balanced understanding of history?

5) How can we practice truth-telling in a way that honours both Christian teachings of justice and Indigenous wisdom of reciprocity and balance?

6)  What are the potential benefits of acknowledging all forms of suffering, and how might this contribute to collective healing?

7)  How can individuals and communities embrace a fluid approach to understanding history, allowing for growth and new perspectives over time?

8)  What challenges might arise when trying to expand the scope of truth-telling to include all stories of injustice, and how can these challenges be addressed?

 

Face Your Feelings to Heal

Last Thursday morning, I woke up feeling an unusual heaviness, not realising it was World Mental Health Day. The angel energy of the day was Yeiazel—the angel who listens and comforts from the heart. As I lay there, I was overwhelmed by a deep sense of loneliness. I reflected on how those who seem superficial often appear to thrive, effortlessly forming connections. It felt as though those of us who genuinely care, who try to do the right thing, are frequently overlooked or left behind.

My mind kept circling back to an event I attended earlier in the week. I noticed some relatives casually moving about the room, socialising with ease, acting important, yet barely acknowledging family members. They only spoke when directly approached, out of politeness, but there was no real connection. The sting of judgment and their indifferent energy weighed on me, especially as I found myself on the receiving end of it.
It’s hard to understand why this happens. I’ve never gone out of my way to hurt anyone. I try to be supportive, celebrating others’ successes sincerely. Yet, often the response I receive is cold, sometimes filled with resentment or jealousy. It’s baffling. Why do superficial people seem to have so many connections? Is it all an illusion? Perhaps there’s a lesson in this, something the angels are trying to help me see.

Later that morning, I attended a breakfast with like-minded women, seeking connection that goes beyond the surface. Their warmth and kindness struck me so deeply that I found myself in tears. I didn’t expect to cry, but I was grateful for their compassion. Still, the pain from Tuesday’s event lingered, and my soul felt heavy as I tried to process it all. It was as though I had been bottling up these emotions for far too long.

Keeping these feelings inside hasn’t served me well. It has led to self-doubt and unhealthy comparisons, especially when I think about the shallow nature of certain family members. But crying today, in a safe and supportive space, was cathartic. It reminded me that vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a true mark of strength. I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve built and the family members who show up with authenticity and care.

When we allow ourselves to cry, angels like Yeiazel come near, offering comfort and healing. They may not take away the pain, but they help us carry it, bringing clarity and peace. Last week, I felt that presence guiding me through the hurt, reminding me that it’s okay to release my emotions. In doing so, I’m rediscovering my strength.

Yeiazel’s gentle energy reassures me that in vulnerability, there is strength. In letting go of what no longer serves us—whether it’s resentment, self-doubt, or pain—we make space for healing and emotional peace.

The experience of shedding these heavy emotions has been a reminder that we are all on a journey. Some days, we feel the weight of the world, but by letting go of what burdens us, we move closer to a place of lightness and clarity. Last week on World Mental Health Day, I was reminded of the importance of releasing what no longer serves us. It’s a step toward healing, toward living with more intention, and finding peace within ourselves.

Be the Change, Stand for Peace

Working with the energy of Guardian Angel 39 Rehael, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how we approach history, especially when it comes to colonialism and the conflicts in the Middle East. There’s this delicate balance between respecting the past and not letting it define who we are or how we act in the present. This brings me to a concept I’ve found really valuable: filial submission—the idea of honouring what came before while still being responsible for creating our own path forward.

Now, more than ever, I believe we need to find ways to respect all sides and embrace peaceful action, especially when it feels like the world is pulling us toward division. History is complicated, but rewriting it to fit a specific agenda or narrative isn’t the answer. It’s one thing to acknowledge the wrongs of colonialism, for example, but another to only focus on one side of the story, erasing any contributions or complexity. That’s not how we learn, and it’s not how we heal.

When I think about demonstrations we see today, especially regarding the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, I find myself reflecting on what real peace looks like. A recent example stands out to me. Israeli memorial events tend to be quiet, respectful, and they don’t interrupt public life. Yet, I’ve seen Palestinian protests turn into something that causes public disruption, with flags of terrorist organisations on display. And I ask myself, how does this lead to peace? How can we change things if we aren’t focused on peace at our core?

The truth is, if we want to be the change, we have to stand for peace in every sense. It means not provoking the public, not antagonising the police, and not escalating tensions with symbols that fuel hatred. Real peace comes from action, yes, but peaceful action—one that respects others, even when we disagree.

And that’s where filial submission comes in again. To me, it’s about recognising the weight of our history and our ancestors’ struggles, but it’s also about knowing when to evolve. Rehael’s energy teaches us this: hold onto what’s valuable from the past, but don’t let it drag you into repeating cycles of pain. We have the responsibility to act with integrity now, and that means choosing peace, even when it’s hard.

This lesson feels deeply personal to me. It’s made me reflect on how much of my own history I carry and how it shapes my perspective on the world. I have no desire to rewrite the past or seek revenge for the injustices my ancestors faced. For instance, my ancestors were forced to leave their homes in Asia Minor in the 1920s due to their Christian faith. I don’t harbor anger or resentment over it. Instead, I choose to learn from that experience, grow, and apply the lessons to the present.

So, how do we apply this on a personal level? How do we balance honouring the past with moving forward in peace? Here’s what has worked for me:

1. Respect History, Don’t Rewrite It: We all come from somewhere, with our own stories and legacies. It’s important to acknowledge the truth—whether it’s the pain of colonialism or the contributions that came from it. But rewriting history to suit a particular narrative won’t heal wounds. We can’t erase the painful parts or pretend only good things happened. Instead, we must face the past honestly and move forward.

2. Demonstrate Peacefully, With Integrity: If you believe in a cause, show it, but do it in a way that fosters understanding rather than conflict. I’ve learned that true change comes when we protest with compassion, not aggression. No matter how justified the anger may feel, waving flags tied to violence and provoking the authorities won’t bring us closer to peace.

3. Respect Others, Even When It’s Difficult: It’s not easy to respect those we disagree with, but it’s essential for real progress. Filial submission calls for humility—it’s about letting go of ego and pride, accepting that sometimes we’re not always right, and striving for a greater good.

4. Evolve, Don’t Get Stuck: We honour the past by learning from it, not by being bound by it. There’s a time to let go of old grudges, even if they feel justified, and a time to focus on building a future where peace can thrive. I’ve had to reflect on what I carry with me and how much of it serves me now. Sometimes, letting go is the most powerful act of all.

In the end, being the change and standing for peace means acting from a place of understanding. It means not letting history become a weapon we use against each other, but a teacher that guides us forward. It’s personal, it’s ongoing, and it’s something each of us can embody.

Let’s commit to creating a future built on respect, integrity, and peace. We’ve all got the power to be the change—so let’s stand for it together.

This is not about lecturing or pointing fingers; it’s about sharing what I’ve come to believe and how we can apply these lessons in our own lives. I hope this resonates with you, and maybe, it’ll spark some reflection on how we can all contribute to a more peaceful world.

Let’s be the change. Let’s stand for peace.