OPENNESS

OPENNESS – definitions
1. Lack of restriction; accessibility.
2. Lack of secrecy or concealment; frankness.
3. Acceptance of or receptiveness to change or new ideas.
As a component of human activity the term openness has come to mean an overarching concept or philosophy that is charactrerized by an emphasis on transparency and collaboration. Applied to people openness refers to how open-minded, imaginative, creative and insightful they can be. In our spiritual lives it is a valuable quality.

We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves, to exercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may both give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing and inclusion.
~ Max de Pree

It is about time you realized the nature of the universe. Your days are numbered. Use them to throw open the windows of your soul to the sun. If you do not, the sun will soon set, and you with it.
~Marcus Aurelius

True happiness depends on spiritual good and having the heart ever open to receive the Divine Bounty. Men should hold in their souls the vision of celestial perfection, and there prepare a dwelling-place for the inexhaustible bounty of the Divine Spirit. You are always in the presence of God. Open the windows of your soul so His presence may be within you.
~Baha’i Writings (‘Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks)

 The Buddha taught that flexibility and openness bring strength. Openness doesn’t come from resisting our fears but from getting to know them well.
~Pema Chodron

Their minds were closed and hardened, for even to this day that same veil comes over their minds when they hear the words of the former covenant. The veil has not yet been lifted from them, for it is only eliminated when one is joined to the Messiah. So until now, whenever the Old Testament is being read, the same blinding comes over their hearts. But the moment one turns to the Lord with an open heart, the veil is lifted and they see.
~2 Corinthians 3 v 14-16

With an open mind, seek and listen to all the highest ideals. Consider the most enlightened thoughts. Then choose your path, person by person, each for oneself
~Zoroaster

Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and nights, but your ears thirst for the sound of your heart’s knowledge. You would know in words that which you have always known in thought……… But let there be no scales to weigh your unknown treasure And seek not the depths of your knowledge with staff or sounding line, For self is a sea boundless and measureless. Say not “I have found the truth,” but rather, “I have found a truth.”
~Kahlil Gibran

Creator of the seasons of life, Soften my resistance to emptying.
May I welcome each inner season as a catalyst for my transformation.
Faithful Friend, Deepen my trust in You.
Ease my doubts, fears and discouragements.
When I am feeling vulnerable Remind me that You are my safe haven.
Divine Mystery, May I ever be more rooted in you.
Draw me into solitude. Entice me into endless encounters
Where I experience oneness with You. Holy Whisper, Open the ears of my heart.
May I hear Your voice within the silence As well as within the noise of my life.
Re-awaken me so that I can listen to You wholeheartedly.
Bringer of Good and Giver of Growth,
We yearn to be open and receptive To Your Generosity.
May we trust Your presence Amidst the cycle of emptying and filling.
~The Cup of Our Life by Joyce Rupp