6 February 2010
Forgiveness
Posted by Robin Easton under: Hobnobbin' with Robin .
My blog was hacked this week. I’m not one to waste time on “this shouldn’t have happened”. Instead, I focus on what needs to be done. However, I allow myself to explore any feelings I have about it. I felt sadness. It takes skill to design disruptive code and know where to insert it, skill that could be channeled to benefit the hacker and the world. When I thought about this I saw someone who’d fallen through the cracks of life, and that’s a sad place to be.
A financially well-off woman once proudly told me that she never helps homeless people because they have the same opportunities that she has. I thought of statistics I’d read that stated the number of homeless people who suffer grave mental illness, and self-medicate. I thought of the young ones who leave home to escape sexual or physical abuse. I thought of the vets who weren’t seen or healed by the culture that sent them to war. When I hear people say that we ALL have the same opportunities to grow and change our lives, I’m not so sure about that. I’m not saying anyone should accept or submit to abusive behavior from a hacker or anyone else. I’m merely suggesting that to hate someone who is already suffering won’t do anyone good. I prefer to say, “I forgive you. I forgive me. We are both loved.”
So many of us say, “We are all one.” If that is the case, and I hate the hacker, then I hate Robin. I have to love whenever humanly possible. Including myself. If I don’t want to be like those who’ve judged me in my darkest hour, then I must live the Love that I am. I can still set healthy boundaries in my life. But I don’t want to hate. It’s not who I was born to be…or who I am.
This was an interesting week. I got little sleep, wasn’t able to put up a blog post, I learned a lot of new tech “stuff”, became utterly exhausted; my brain feels fried, I settled on a beautiful cover for my book with my kind editor, I probably walked 30 miles to keep my soul free, I did some yoga, chi gong, and was grateful to be alive each day.
Thank you to those of you who carried me through this week: Lance – Jungle of Life - you’ve no idea, my sweet friend, how profoundly you honored me – your loving soothing heart just “knows” and I love you for it, John Channings - you “see” and foster within me the freedom you “know” so well and have experienced – I love you for that and thank you for helping to bring the “girls” into so many lives. Hilary – you are a love and so loving – your caring touched me, Martyna Bizdra – you don’t even know me, and you selflessly helped me hunt down my problem with one email – you are beautiful, Stevie Ray – you love without inhibition or reserve – you make the world more joyous and right, Jonathan Wells – you watch over me like a beautiful guardian angel – I’m blessed beyond words dear friend.
Steve Aitchison – you made my week precious when I saw your passionate video, when I see how earnestly you keep reaching, growing and loving, I am moved to tears, Dorothy – you encourage me in a way that makes my heart sing – thank you dear love; you are brave. Chrissy Marie – we share a beautiful bridge of love across the pond, Stacey Mathews – your heartfelt email came on a day that I was very tired and your love kept me going – you ARE love, Elizabeth Brannon – you inspired me with your generous encouraging heart, we are kindred, Amit Sodah – your loving email got me through one of the hardest days – you’re a blessing to the lives you touch. Patty – you went the extra mile and sent your lovely sharing via email – I was moved by your thoughtfulness. —And most of all, I thank my beautiful husband – you are my most cherished friend and greatest love. You are kindness and love personified, plus you’re the goofiest person I’ve ever known.
And from my soul, I thank ALL those who come to visit me here – I don’t see you as JUST readers or bloggers, I see you as people who possess great dreams, courage, love and beauty. In light of all the love that surrounds me how could I possibly hate someone who is suffering and crying for help. I have few beliefs, but I have found Love to be the most powerful force in the universe. So I keep loving.
“Together, we can change the world. Through love, through caring, through peace, and through the dance.” ~ Stevie Ray (Stevie is a spontaneous dancer of Life.)
Love,
Robin
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74 Comments so far...
Dawn - Poetiscian Says:
6 February 2010 at 3:05 pm.
Welcome Back Robin! Just talking to my daughter about love. Attempting to explain to her that in its purest form – love does not require anything in return. Just simply love. For love is honorable and you are to be honored. Thank you for loving even the “hacker.” If we expend time on hating and getting back, then we waste time, which is better spent forgiving and simply moving on.
In the midst of the confusion, you were able to salvage a key concept. That it is important to love whenever humanly possible. And we has flawed humans have the capacity to love other flawed humans. What the hacker did was horrible, but what you did was incredible, and through your actions others will rise above their own injustices.
Keep bringing forth the light – waiting on your book.
Dawn
[Reply]
Julie Says:
6 February 2010 at 3:08 pm.
I’m so sorry this happened, Robin, and beautiful you couldn’t have addressed it any other way. You took the opportunity to share the truth about oneness and love in action in a circumstance other than is usually associated with love. This speaks volumes about who you are, and that you gift us with your wisdom shows you to be the teacher you are. Wishing you a restful remainder to your weekend and many lighthearted moments with your wonderfully goofy hubby. xoxo ~Julie
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Dear Julie, How heartwarming to see you here. 
I had the same thought as you when I really looked at all this. We don’t often associate love with this type of situation. I don’t know if it’s age or what, but I find myself wanting to stay in a place of love ALL the time. Little else is real for me. I am blessed to be surrounded by loving people everywhere I go. We are so often taught — probably through the media — that the world is FULL of BAAAAAD people. But I am finding that the world is FULL of GOOOOD people. Astounding people. If blogging has done one key thing for me, it is to REALLY see how many truly, deeply good people there are in the world. Thank you my dear friend for visiting me. It was just soothing to see you here. Robin xoxoxoxo
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Alexander M Zoltai Says:
6 February 2010 at 3:57 pm.
“…I have found Love to be the most powerful force in the universe. So I keep loving.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Love is the mystery of divine revelations!
Love is the effulgent manifestation!
Love is the spiritual fulfillment!
Love is the light of the Kingdom!
Love is the breath of the Holy Spirit inspired into the human spirit!
Love is the cause of the manifestation of the Truth (God) in the phenomenal world!
Love is the necessary tie proceeding from the realities of things through divine creation!
Love is the means of the most great happiness in both the material and spiritual worlds!
Love is a light of guidance in the dark night!
Love is a bond between the Creator and the creature in the inner world!
Love is the cause of development to every enlightened man!
Love is the greatest law in this vast universe of God!
Love is the one law which causeth and controlleth order among the existing atoms!
Love is the universal magnetic power between the planets and stars shining in the lofty firmament! 526
Love is the cause of unfoldment to a searching mind, of the secrets deposited in the universe by the Infinite!
Love is the spirit of life in the bountiful body of the world!
Love is the cause of the civilization of nations in this mortal world!
Love is the highest honor to every righteous nation!”
(Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 525)
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
Dear Alex, It is SUCH a gift to see you here. Very much so! I love this quote you shared. As I was reading it, about halfway through, I felt myself back in the rainforest and what it felt like to be there surrounded with megatons of Love. Many of the lines you shared here are experiences and insights into Love that I felt, learned, experienced in the rainforest. It is great peace. Thank you SO much for sharing this with me and others here. You wove another beautiful thread into the fabric that is Robin, the fabric that binds us all….LOVE.
Hugging you,
Robin
[Reply]
Wilma Ham Says:
6 February 2010 at 4:09 pm.
Robin, what you are saying here makes my heart soar so high. THIS is opening a whole new world for us, forgiving is not just a word for you, it is BE-ing the love that you are in action.
THIS is healing the hacker, this is healing all the injustice, this is taking a thundercloud away from the universe.
Oh Robin, you star, you healer, you wonderful image bringer.
Oh talking is easy but the DO-ing when these things happen is where it counts and you beautiful woman are doing what will bring the change. The world is not coming to an end, the world of hate and revenge and adversary is coming to an end, and you are the trailblazer to show us how.
Robin, you know that don’t you, you bring the current world down with being the love that you are and thus open a world where this all will end and we all become the love that we are in action.
Oh Robin, the thought of it will make the whole universe rejoice, it makes me rejoice and thank you so much for standing strong when these challenges hit you.
However you are seen, your efforts are not in vain and they will have the biggest ripples ever.
Thus I honor you and I will follow your lead and be strong too in the face of adversary like you have shown to me.
My sweetest friend, hugs and hugs and much love to both of you, Wilma
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Dearest Wilma, your sharing brought tears to my eyes. You are just SO SO alive. I think on the deepest level we are all being called to “trust in Love”. REALLY trust, that our love, ALL Love, literally changes the world. We may want to love and even try to love and maybe REALLY love, but can we also KNOW and FEEL through our entire being that Love is “CREATIVE”, Intelligent and knows no limits as to what is possible.
When you wrote: “…your efforts are not in vain and they will have the biggest ripples ever.” I got shivers because at this stage in my life I’m really seeing this. More than seeing; I am knowing it. I often feel I have merged with this great VAST expanse of Love and every time I act and respond with Love or another does so, I FEEL the ripples go through my whole being. Even when I send them out, it is as if I feel all the Universe sigh with great joy and peace. And the amazing thing is the great joy and peace is then sent back to me and all through me. It is like a intimate communion with Love, flowing back and forth between me and Love.
Oh dear WIlma, you inspire me to my fullest. I am more grateful than there are words to express. Someday I will sit and hug you and it will be like going home. Much love, Robin
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Wilma Ham Reply:
February 9th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
Yes Robin, you have merged with the love that the universe is, it cannot be any other way . . . the way you inspire with your words. You are more than words and one day we all will experience what you experience now, feeling through and through the great love that we are all part of.
I know we will meet and until then I know I am touched by your love ripples anyway, my dearest Robin.
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John - Zen-Moments Says:
6 February 2010 at 6:09 pm.
Well I guess the upshot of this Robin, is that you have learned some pretty cool tech stuff, you’ve added to your reserve of strength that will get you through other difficult times in the future, and you have had the wonderful opportunity to reaffirm the kind of understanding that makes you the person you are–and to demonstrate to others a path that really works.
I agree with your feelings about those less fortunate. I am not a religious person by the common definition of that, but I strongly feel the truth of that old saying “there but for the grace of God go I.”
Way-to-go Robin
John
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Dear John, What a lovely and loving comment. You summed up the rewards of my experience very well, very insightful. Those are the exact things I got out of it. I was telling my husband that writing about them reinforced them even more. As I wrote this post I felt a great peace and love come over me. It made me really think a lot more about compassion…and all thie things in my life that I was grateful for.
I am so very touched by your kind words, they reinforce so much goodness and inspire me, because I see you as one who is very wise and to have this part of me reinforced is a beautiful thing. It is a HUGE gift you give me. —I too am not a religious person, but I know, everyday, that what I have is blessing and gift…and as you say, “there but for the grace of God go I.” Knowing this allows us compassion. Thank you dear John. It’s an honor to have you here. Hugs, Robin
[Reply]
OneStonedCrow Says:
6 February 2010 at 9:32 pm.
Ryokan, a Zen master, lived the simplest kind of life in a little hut at the foot of a mountain. One evening a thief visited the hut only to discover there was nothing to steal.
Ryokan returned and caught him. “You have come a long way to visit me,” he told the prowler, “and you should not return empty-handed. Please take my clothes as a gift.”
The thief was bewildered. He took the clothes and slunk away.
Ryoken sat naked, watching the moon. “Poor fellow,” he mused, “I wish I could have given him this beautiful moon.”
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Oh Graham, what a fantastic story. I love lessons that shared and learned through stories. In many indigenous cultures that is how lessons were/are taught to young people. In that way they are not only enjoyable, but they’re remembered for some time. What also blew me away was that the story you shared here is exactly how I felt. I told my husband that I wish I could have given something more than my thoughts of love. Like the Ryoken says, “Poor fellow, I wish I could have given him the moon.” I am so touched by your wisdom and that you took time to share this story. I won’t forget it.
—I LOVED your article on the hitchhikers and the photography was off the charts in emotion. It’s one for National Geographic. Also, it was amazing to see the pics from your hometown. Quite an amazing life you live. Reminds me of when I lived in northern Australia. Thank you SO much for stopping in. Hugs, robin
[Reply]
Lydia Says:
7 February 2010 at 12:08 am.
You are such a light in the world, Robin. Something horrible and frightening happened here to your blog — something we all secretly fear — and you showed us how to behave and heal if and when something like this happens to any of us. You lead in profound ways.
Love,
Lydia
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
Dearest Lydia, what a treasure you are. I am SO heartened by your words and insight. I’m honored by your kind heart. Thank you. I think I’ve been through so much in my life that I’ve learned that there is very little worth getting bent out of shape over. I’ve learned to prioritize what is important to me. It makes life a lot simpler and more peaeful. Thank you for seeing, and for sharing your loving thoughts. Much love, Robin
[Reply]
marcel lemieux Says:
7 February 2010 at 12:13 am.
My dear friend,what a bad trip this must have been.
I can totally relate to your writings here, about feeling, tiredness and change but mostly about love, forgiveness, and continuing.
Love is pure energy without any flaws in it ..it maintain,s all life and lets the soul free to use it for whatever purpose. Before realizing all of the impact of love or forgiveness we may go through a lot of frustration, how,s, why,s and so on, but in the end love is the winner if we let go.
I cannot agree with the quote of the financially well-off lady as i have had a few times in my life been so hungry that when my trembling young hand was held out to panhandle, i was filled with gratitude for getting enough money to eat….or when much later on i ran out of gas in the middle of nowhere and a fine gentleman gave me 5 gallons of gas to make it to a station..i could go on with many examples and in life i had my turn to share and give…its never with one particular individual, its anyone..we are born, than we discover what we are made of and life give,s us experiences to try…Gratitude, compassion, love, all come in time.
I was robbed 8 months ago..all my photographic gear..3 cameras…i freaked out at first, then I hated, then I cried, than I forgive and let go..that was a tuff one for me…photography is a passion..today i have 2 cameras of better quality and continue my passion and sharing. Nothing is easy but with forgiveness and love in our hearts we make it better. And the chaos of this world we live for a while, we are made of a fabric of millions things with feelings, action-reactions, and the roads to walk are there..our choices are ours. May you continue your wonderful journey my friend with all the passion and love that reside,s in your heart..never surrender…never give up…i choose to be happy and so did you…peace Marcel
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Oh dearest Marcel, I cried reading this whole thing. Not out of sadness, but out of the richness of your life, of you. You have lived…and lived…and lived, in ways and depth that many don’t and many avoid. And to see you today embrace EVERY facet of your precious well-lived Life moves me to tears. I think this is one the most beautiful comments I’ve ever read. I understand with my entire being WHY you are so wise. Our lives have had different experiences (and some the same) but the similarity is that we both have lived more fully than I can express here. I just don’t have the words. Simply put we have lived. In some ways it doesn’t even matter whether the experiences were hard or easy, good or supposedly bad, but we chose to use it ALL to grow. We never stopped embracing Life and Love.
I am deeply moved by the honest telling of that young Marcel’s hand reaching out to panhandle. Yes, Marcel you know compassion to the very pit of your core. I am impressed and touched by the honest story of your camera loss. Yes, THAT would be a very hard one for you. You love to photograph what your heart and eyes see because you cherish Nature’s beauty sooooo much. It reflects to you who you ARE. I love your sequence of emotions when you lost those cameras, and yet here you are with even better cameras and a beautiful, loving, compassionate heart. And yes, I too choose to be happy. Thank you from my heart. You are a soul brother. Robin
[Reply]
Hilary Says:
7 February 2010 at 1:27 am.
Hi Robin .. thank goodness you’re back .. I’m just so pleased to see you. I just wonder if you perhaps could put a practical post up telling us what happened, and how you corrected it – so we can have it as a learning curve .. in a week or so you could delete it – we can copy it. A thought?
When I was away on my trip up north I was wondering how you were and thinking what awful times you must have been going through – all that unnecessary effort and delays .. when something happens that doesn’t need to – is so irritating and frustrating.
As you say though – we have to just get up and get on with it .. and often I too realise that thank goodness I’m in a better position because I can see other arenas and know that I’m moving forward to a happier, safer place. Whereas in so many walks of life – people are stuck in a job as such and can see no light … be they hackers, cashiers, shelf stackers, shop assistants etc
Welcome back and all’s well that ends well – except exhaustion .. but it was interesting how despite the hours in front of the computer, you were able to walk, practise yoga and chi gong (have to look that up!), ? music – not mentioned?; yet a beautiful book cover is chosen – roll on; your soul is SO ALIVE, you HAVE NOT STOPPED LOVING, and most important – you’re GRATEFUL TO BE ALIVE … so are we .. how wonderful to forgive – I’m sure we’re all learning so much from you – I know I do .. with love and hugs and I’m grateful you’re here as you .. it’s just good to have you back .. hugs and love Hilary
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Dearest Hilary, what a burst of LIFE this comment is. I just LOVE it and you. Do you know what is SO amazing? I felt you with me after you sent those emails just before you left. Over the week it was like I was drawing on some strength or goodness in you, both. I somehow didn’t feel so alone or bothered by the whole thing. To the point that I almost called this post: “I Am Not Alone”. Isn’t that wild?!! It really DOES go to show how much we all are connected. I mean, I literally felt you with me. THAT is FANTASTIC!! It goes to show the power of kindness and love…of even ONE person. And then after you, several others contacted me with love, concern and support.
Wow, Life is amazing. Like our friend Wilma talks about in her comment: the ripples going out. we often don’t even realize the affect and effect that we have on others. And when it is positive it makes ALL the difference in the world. Thank you SOOOO much for making a difference in my week. Hugs and love to you too, dear Hilary. Robin
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Richard | RichardShelmerdine.com Says:
7 February 2010 at 2:23 am.
Interesting twist on a hard set of events. I hope it doesn’t happen to you again.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Hi dear Richard, thank you for stopping in. I think like “John – Zen Moments” said above, that this experience did many things, but one of those was I learned a LOT of tech stuff that I didn’t know, and I also became stronger. I think when we embrace Life’s seemingly challenging experiences by putting them in the light of “learning experiences” we ALWAYS go away richer, wiser and tougher (our ability to embrace Life) people. Thank you for stopping in and sharing. I am honored. Robin
[Reply]
Lance Says:
7 February 2010 at 4:40 am.
Robin,
In a world that is all too often self-centered, you so beautifully embrace “us”…this idea that we are all in this together. I am so deeply honored to be here today, to know you, and to call you a dear friend. The beauty of your soul shines so brightly out into the world, and that is even more evident here today as I read of your week.
It’s so easy to see the bad in others…to focus on the negative, and miss something deeper. Robin, as I read this today, I am reminded that I can always choose….what I see in another. What beautiful footsteps you create…love…
Love never fails…
Love and lots of smiles,
Lance
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
My beautiful friend, Your sharing here is just BEAUTIFUL, Lance. Both in content and in the WAY it is written. When you mentioned “us”, I thought of my husband. Years ago (when I met him) and I would say, “How am ‘I’ going to….(whatever)?” And he would soothingly say, “How are WE going to…” Over the years I learned that here was a person who included those around him. He always saw life as something that “WE” would face together. I’ve never felt so included and embraced.
He is a Mohawk Indian, a professor and Native American storyteller. He once told a story about how we are all connected like the “spider plant”, which looks a bit like a rich bushy clump of long grass that arches our over it’s hanging plant pot. and from the “mother” plant are sent out these long cord-like strands, and at the end of each strand is a new baby spider plant. He tells how although each new baby plant is complete and unique in itself, we are ALL connected through the “mother” plant. The point being that we ARE a “we”. Or as you say, an “US”.
If you read “marcel lemieux” comment above it reminds us that often it is hardship that develops our compassion for others. There are people who come to my site, Lance, who have at one time in their lives lived on the street. They went on to build rich lives filled with insight that no book could ever have given them. as well as infinite compassion for others because they know what it means to go without.
I see in you, Lance, a deeply driven goodness that you were born with. Everything in you moves toward what is good. You have a great gift for soothing others and calming frayed nerves and even making others laugh. I mean, how many adults would pull the pig face on the window glass and use it for their avatar?? We just LOVE that about you.
—The other thing you said hear which also reminded me of “marcel lemieux” above is that we can CHOOSE what we want to see in others and ourselves. I think what we choose to see in others is what we choose to see in ourselves. In all the years of my life, Lance, (and there has been quite a few) Love has never failed me. As you say, “Love never fails…”
My life is made richer, more peaceful and joyous for the choices you are making. Never doubt it for even one minute. What you are choosing is creating one powerful and beautiful path. I have great faith in you and your presence in the world. You may not know it but you are changing my world, and many many others. Much love, robin
[Reply]
Si Dawson Says:
7 February 2010 at 4:50 am.
Thank you for writing this.
A couple of months ago, my company site got hacked. It took three weeks to clean up & basically killed the business for that time. Since I’d only started it a month or so earlier, this was… ahh, you know exactly how it is. Not fun.
Reading this helped me realise I still have a little healing to do in that area. Not quite at the stage of complete forgiveness.
Not yet.
Soon will be though, & thank you.
Si
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 5:20 pm
Dear Si, Welcome, and thank you SO much for this honest comment. Yes, I do know EXACTLY what it is like. LOL! I am glad my words helped. And do know, yours helped me as well. I don’t wish this on anyone, but it sometimes is helpful to know that we are not the only one going through something. At least for me it can help let go of things a bit more easily. I am enjoying your site very much. I just love the last post you put up on “Hate”. http://sidawson.org/2010/01/hate-is-just-resistance.html And your quote: “Hate is resistance. I’m resisting this nonsense, so of course, I’m just drawing it into me…. The empirical evidence is this: Stuff I hate I just see more of in my life.” That is brilliant. Thanks again, Si. I added your site to my RSS feed. Cheers, mate! Robin
[Reply]
Martyna Bizdra Says:
7 February 2010 at 4:55 am.
Robin , I am learning from you dear
have a beautiful week
xxx
Martyna
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Dear Martyna, Thank you so much for your thoughtful nature and generous help. I too am learning from YOU….and loving it. Hugs, to you dear one. Robin xox
[Reply]
How Much Input Can YOU Handle? | Solutions from Design Resumes & Thoughts from Julie Says:
7 February 2010 at 5:45 am.
[...] I am only a few days into this experiment but do you know what is happening? I am talking to people again. I hear their voices (ok, their tweets). I find myself getting to know the people I follow better. I can rejoice in their successes, like HRMargo celebrating her new position. I can share snow shoveling strategies with InterviewAngel and TheJobQuest. I can see new posts from my favorite bloggers, like Robin Easton. [...]
Julie Walraven Says:
7 February 2010 at 5:56 am.
Robin, I am sorry to hear that. Having met you mainly on Facebook, I know what a sincere person you are. As a fellow blogger, I can imagine the distress. Thanks for taking the high road and showing your true nature. Many people wouldn’t. But you did and that reminds me why I should visit more often.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
Dear Julie, What kind sentiments you left here. I am very touched and encouraged by them. It’s interesting; in taking the “high road”, as you said, I actually experienced far less stress than I would have otherwise. And I think I probably got my problem resolved much quicker because all my energy went into fully resolving the issue. Thank you dear Julie for helping me to see that more clearly.
I got your generous message on Facebook and will reread. I just was uried the last week undoing the mess on my site. BUT I am sooooooo touched by your genuine kindness. Such a beautiful gift. Thank you VERY much. Your comment here just made me feel happy. Hugs, Robin
[Reply]
Tess The Bold Life Says:
7 February 2010 at 7:45 am.
Robin,
That hacker (God’s fool) gave you the opportunity to show everyone how strong and real your love for humanity is. I agree we all haven’t been given the same opportunities. Those of us that know the truth about love have been given the opportunity to lead the way and that’s exactly what you have done here. I hope you’re soaking up all this love that is coming right back at you and what a wonderful way you have honored your friends here.
I was just talking to a friend Fri night. He thinks the world will come to an end unless we bomb a certain country. I told him the world is coming to an end but not in the way he thinks it is. Then I told him about all the loving bloggers I know that I had no idea were “out there.” And just think how many more are there that I don’t know about! And we’re part of a movement of love that he can join if he wishes. He was shooing me out of his home and I laughed all the way out and told him I’d be back. He is 73 and I don’t think he’s ever heard anyone talk like me but I gave him the opportunity to join us. I’m rattling now and today I thank the hacker who brought the love out in all of us!
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Oh! Dearest Tess, this is MARVELOUS! Yes, I was stunned by the love that came back at me from this post, from all the astounding souls here. It just blew me away and confirmed, yet again, that I AM on the right path to LOVE, as opposed to hating or taking revenge (if only in my mind). No, that is not my way. To see all these people respond and reinforce love, WOW!, it just blew my mind and uplifted me.
I agree with what you told your friend. He was blessed to get a dose of “Tess Truth”. I LOVED how you handled it and went away laughing. Good for you! What you said about a whole movement of love is EXACTLY what I am experiencing as well. That is one of the GREAT outcomes of the internet. We get to REALLY see how many good people there are in the world. Your comment here just THRILLED me, because it really cements home my own experience. I am hardly going to let one hacker take away two years of astounding love that I’ve experienced and been freely given by the beautiful souls who come and share with me and each other on these pages. That would utter foolishness.
I doubt seriously your friend has EVER heard anyone talk like YOU!! LOL! You probably left him reeling with a whole host new life possibilities and thoughts to ponder for his next 73 years. LOL! Aaahhh, Tess, there is no one like you. Such a joy. Hugging you, Robin
[Reply]
David Says:
7 February 2010 at 8:33 am.
Hi Robin. I didn’t know you were going through so much turmoil. I was pretty much absorbed in blog problems as well. I finally decided to shut down my blog. It is no more. But there is always another door opening when one shuts. So I have a new blog that is on Wordpress.com. Hopefully the folks who run the dot com side of WP will take care of more things and allow me to focus on trying to be creative.
I worked for 25 years with homeless people, the mentally ill and veterans so your comments about them really resonated with me. It seems like we share so much even when we are not actually communicating here in the wheel ruts of experience.
I would rather be up in the air anyway and I can always find you there Robin. Flying around and singing a song.
I had a funny moment this week while thinking of you. I was looking at a photo from childhood back in the NE. I grew up on a little hill in central Mass. We used to go down the road on our sleds in winter. The name of the road was Robin Road!! LOL.
Hugs to you my friend!!
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 10:14 am
Hi dear David, Sooooo good to see your warm spirit here. Did my heart wonders. I am very glad that you are not shutting down your blog completely. I would have missed you SOOO much. I just went to your site and added it to my RSS feed. I am grateful that you told me.
Also, I had no idea that you worked with homeless people, mentally ill and veterans. That REALLY touched me deeply. My immediate thought was that they couldn’t have had a better person helping with them. Your gentle and open…sensitive…nature would be healing in itself. I was sooo glad to hear that YOU had done this, given to the world in this way. And yes, we DO share so much. Whether we know it or not, our spirits just sense the kinship in each others energy. That is beautiful.
This whole comment is so YOU, David. I got goose bumps when you said the road was called Robin Road. That’s so cool! What a great name for a road, LOL, and that you remembered it. Yes, our childhoods run parallel in so many ways. I see so much of myself in not only the experiences and way of life that you lived but in the way you saw and felt it as a child. I love when you write about that time of your life. It’s like you are writing my story as well. Thank you so much for sharing this endearing comment. It means the world to me. Hugs from Robin Road.
[Reply]
nothingprofound Says:
7 February 2010 at 9:54 am.
Robin, sorry for your troubles this week. I know it’s not pleasant, especially for someone so kind and loving as yourself. Yes, hating the hacker wouldn’t do you or him much good. So being the wise and happy adventurer you are, you’ve already left him behind and are moving on toward your next sunset, your next sunrise.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 10:21 am
Awwww, Profound, what a dear comment. I am touched by your kind words. You know, your beautiful sharing here is VERY powerful because it reinforces my choice to LOVE. So you not only help me to be a stronger more loving person, but you reflect that to the world and help others “let go” and love. Such a beautiful soul you are. What’s interesting is that you picked up on something that blew me away. The evening after I was hacked I actually DID see the sunset on my walk and I thought, “With this much beauty nothing else matters.” Thank you my wise friend. Hugs, Robin
[Reply]
Nadia - Happy Lotus Says:
7 February 2010 at 10:42 am.
Hi Robin,
I had no idea that your site was hacked! I am so sad that you had to experience such a thing. I am grateful that you had people who supported you through it and that you found wisdom in the experience.
Your words at the beginning about those who are homeless are thoughts that echo my own. I have never understood why some people are so harsh to those who are homeless. No one knows why that person is in such a position and it is not our place to judge another soul. People end up in circumstances for various reasons and some times not everyone sees the opportunities that they have. Compassion is key in such situations…actually, in all situations.
Love and blessings to you!
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 10:48 am
Dear Nadia, What a thoughtful sharing. It moved me deeply and brought tears to my eyes. I love you for the depth of your compassion. Just reading what you wrote here was soothing, and will be to so many. Thank you for expressing this so lovingly. It’s as if you spoke the words written on my own heart. Another aspect of this is that we don’t know another person’s soul journey, what they may be here to experience or learn….OR TEACH. I once knew someone who suffered extensive mental anguish and their suffering healed me. I learned compassion and many other lessons through knowing them. One day we had a heart to heart deep conversation, the deepest possible between two souls, and when I looked into their eyes I saw that they had come to help me heal, and it was their suffering that made me heal. I know that may sound odd, but for me it was a great revelation. Number one: that healing doesn’t always come in the ways that we might want or think it should. And two that we must never underestimate what another soul is offering. Sometimes our greatest teachers can come dressed in rags, chaos, pain, suffering and more. Life is a truly remarkable school…when we embrace it as such. Much love to you, Robin
[Reply]
Chrissy Says:
7 February 2010 at 10:58 am.
Hi Robin, I did wonder when I emailed you…tbh the last time I got bounced off to a hackers site was from BC and they totally screwed my computer. It was one of those dodgy software companies that use fear to get you to part with your money.
I confess that I was furious and wanted to “spit in their eye” (a good old fashioned saying from my Mother and it fits nicely 
) ~ love, pah! I can honestly say nothing was further from my mind. I called them everything under the sun!
Only you could be so generous and I agree with Si. I don’t blame you mate…I believe it is ok to be annoyed. I would go outside and swear very loudly….it helped me anyway.
I thought I was going to lose everything on my computer…….and was terrified.
However, the one that hit my computer seems to be very prevalent right now, so if anyone picks up the one saying your computer is under attack and you need to buy software from this site ~ Don’t do it!
If you see any strange icons in the bottom right hand side of your computer that you don’t recognise, run an anti-spyware program over your C drive.
I recommend a free copy of Malwarebytes to any of your readers and should you suddenly get a strange pop up when browsing the net, close down your browser and scan with it.
Many of these people are using a loophole in Internet Explorer, so if you use I.E, get it updated, Microsoft have since patched it.
System pro and Personal Security are both known names of this bogus software, no doubt by now there will be others.
I am not sure, I can do this “Keep Loving” thing towards people that create such mayhem but it is silly wasting your time hating someone you don’t know…
So instead, I am sending you love and hugs Dear Robin. A huge well done for getting your site back…:D
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 11:05 am
Dear Chrissy, I am laughing at you. I just love this whole lively rant and info session. You are SO funny. I could just picture in my mind going outside and shouting a few choice words at snow. LOL!! And all the while spouting your Mom’s “Love PAH!” LOL!!! I love that you just tell it like it is. It’s one of the many things I’ve always admired in you. And you always do it in such a lively and comical way…at least in the telling of it. What is even funnier for me is that you are one of the MOST loving people anyone could meet.
I also appreciate you sharing the tech advice here. I had one come up called “Internet Security 2010″, which is also bogas and acts just like you describe above. As well as many others. For us “Malware Bytes” got that one but (like AVG) could only detect the other ones, but not remove them. We had to download “AVAST”. It picked up a whole host of things. It scans you computer and email while it is opening/loading and will stop any “nasties” in their tracks before they can become lodged. We also used “Exterminate IT!” Love that name! LOL
What was good for me about not hating and getting caught up in the drama was that I had more energy to focus on fixing the mess. But then some people can channel their angst, fear or anger into energy to solve problems, fixing, etc. Regardless, I am touched by your love and always have been. Lucky me: I feel so blessed, Chrissy. Much love is winging across the pond to you my sweet friend. Robin
[Reply]
Keeper Says:
7 February 2010 at 11:19 am.
If you look at me with full of anger, then I will look at you with full of smile.
“If you hit me hardly, then I will hug you tightly.
If you wanted to kill me, then I will truly forgive you.
If you feel regret after all in the past, then I hope you can forget everything in this present and start to love people around you. ”
A nice thought, I wish I could feel that way at all times, but when it comes to offending or hurting my friends, I can be rather unforgiving. Alas, it is a never ending battle, and sometimes the darkside wins.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 11:22 am
My dear Keeper, What a beautiful quote. Is it yours? Or other? I’d not heard it. But I find it very soothing and life affirming. —Like with “Chrissy” above I really value your honesty about the darkside. I think we can all relate to having been there at LEAST once, if only in our thoughts. I think acknowledging it is the first step toward letting it go. I also am proponent of claiming exactly how we feel in any given situation. I’ve found, for myself, that to try and just make something go away doesn’t always work. I have to claim it and explore it and only then am I able to move on to a natural sense of resolution. I always love your wisdom and sharings. They are always something new for me. Sending you hugs and love, Robin
[Reply]
Stacey Says:
7 February 2010 at 12:25 pm.
Dear Robin,
I have never quite understood why a hacker would want to break into a site, especially one such as yours that is a place to share and learn, it seems there is very little for a hacker to “gain” by such a venture. As you said, this simply points to a person that is seeking attention in any way possible, it unfortunatly is the only way they have learned to accomplish this goal. While I have not been able to practice at all times the act of loving someone that has “wronged” me, I too have had this insight with some people. These are souls that truely need to be loved, and even if we can’t wrap our arms around them and tell them we love them as a fellow soul on this earth, we can send out love and compassion from a distance. Wishing them a more peaceful life.
While it is not fun to go through such an experience, it is valuable to remember that everything does happen for a reason, and on different energetic levels we attract each experience into our lives. We might not always understand exactly why at first, but usually with time we can come to understand the big picture. I am glad you came through it with grace, as you always do, and shared your beautiful perspective on it all!
I am deeply honored to be on your list of thanks. What a beautiful gesture, filled with such amazing love as always! And what a beautiful thanks to your husband, I truely loved this!
And the last reflection on this that came to me is perhaps the reason for a hacker to break into a site such as yours is because it is someone that is searching for true love in the world, and by hacking your site he/she is trying to “break into love”, whether it is a concious or unconcious act on their part.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Dearest Stacey, what a lovely sharing, filled with insight, wisdom and honesty. I too am and one to look at all things that happen as a chance to learn and grow. Something I learned in the rainforest was that, yes, we can make choices and go about our lives as best we can, and then at some point we have to let go and let Life happen, or better put, let Life teach us. I learned that Life, more often than not, led me down paths that I might not have chosen for myself, but because I was open to each experience as a vehicle for growth I discovered that Life always knew what it was doing. It offered me a MUCH larger chance to grow and fully become who I am.
When I hear people talk of their childhood and certain experiences “that shouldn’t have happened or been that way” I am always fascinated. I think we can learn from whatever has happened and use it as a guide or reference point as to what we want to choose NOW. But for me I realized one day that there was no “other”, there are no “should haves”. I got what I got and where do I go from here. To look at it as if someone owed me something “different” or “better” or “other”only kept me trapped in the past, and not in the present moment where I CAN make choices and shape my life now.
Also, your last paragraph just blew me away. YES! What a beautiful and soulful insight, a compassionate insight. Life is a wonderful mystery and we are all being taken where we need to go. You are so wise Stacey. You have a heart just FILLED with love and beauty. It is an honor to have your life touch mine and to include you here or anywhere. Your soul just speaks to me like clean fresh air and the elegant wild forests that you love. Just in being who you ARE you give me a great gift. One that is very precious. Hugging you, Robin
[Reply]
Bernsoft Says:
7 February 2010 at 12:39 pm.
There is truly nothing to hack upon when the doors are left open and unguarded. All is just an experience which invites new friends into this One Moment. We can trust that everyone does what they do because they are searching for somthing that they have misplaced. Someone was just merely investigating the heart of your Being in order to find the combination to unlock their own personal hearts. If they can see the inner you more clearly, they will hopefully see them selves more clearly. All is good and beyond good…….if that is what we choose to see.
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Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 7:32 pm
Oh my dear Bernie, This is so lovely. It is exactly how I experience this whole thing. Your writing here is just sooooooooo “sweet”!! Like magic wrapped around me and everyone it touches. You have such a way with expressing the “ease” that Life IS. when I originally wrote this post it was much longer and I took some out. One of the expressions I took out was this.
I feel no fear of “losing my site” (to use words that are commonly used). How I feel inside is this. I’ve been through SO much in my life, lifetimes inside of lifetimes. So much of what we can think is “crucial”…is non-existent, or an illusion. My site is not ME. It’s JUST a site (and I’m not even really sure what THAT is. An expression of me? Well, no one can take that away. I am, (like all of us), made of an indestructible fabric….Love.
Yes, while I am here on this “site” it reflects some of my heart, but it is NOT me. If I “lost” it, or my book, or anything else in my life, like my home, my car, my things or whatever….those things are NOT me. They are simply energy passing through me. While I see and love the energy in all things in my life, “I” am STILL my life. “I” am ME. We cannot lose what we are not. There is no loss when we experience Life as One, already whole and complete, full of everything we need and ARE. I am safe, loved and seen. I have little attachment to things. “Losing” a website is very low on my list of priorities. Embracing someone who may be hurting (or as you say, searching) is far more rewarding for me. Yes, my dear friend, all IS good and BEYOND good.
I am the sort of person who if I “lost” everything, I would only see that as an exciting door opened to a whole new adventure full of insights, growth and opportunities. Nothing is mine, and yet, EVERYTHING is mine…because “Nothing” IS everything. Thank you dear Bernie for the BEAUTIFUL magic that is YOU. I am so blessed to share in that with you. You are like the first rays of sunrise. I stand and watch them most mornings, as their glowing rays spread out over the desert, as they are compelled by ecstatic love. Hugging you, Robin
[Reply]
Elizabeth Brannon Says:
7 February 2010 at 2:12 pm.
Robin, I see you as you are, a true Warrior/ess, unshakeable in your wisdom.
The highest gift we can receive is the gift which you have embodied: the gift of understanding what it is that has created ourselves and this world, and of understanding how it may be turned into a world of bliss, rather than a world where every good thing is dragged down into loss and pain.
And so, when the heart is right, the giving is a perfection.
Thank you, Robin for this valuable message and all your wisdom teachings.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
Dear Elizabeth, I am so enjoying getting to know and “experience” you. You write beautifully and your sentiments are also beautiful and come from a deep well spring of wisdom. Every interaction with you there is palpable force that just feels SO good. Your comment here made me think of the quote”Be the love you want to see in the world.” But often we humans tend to live that selectively. So your words encourage us to apply it to all situations in life. I am honored by your kind and inspiring words. I value your insights and the love you impart with them. Hugs, Robin
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uberVU - social comments Says:
7 February 2010 at 2:44 pm.
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by RobinEaston: Are You Able to Forgive? http://bit.ly/aBMH0U…
Chris Edgar Says:
7 February 2010 at 4:20 pm.
Hi Robin — that is one of the biggest challenges of living, isn’t it — recognizing the suffering someone who seems abusive must be going through. I suspect that nearly everyone has a part of them that suspects that “the abuser is the winner and the victim is the loser,” and acknowledging that part and recognizing that it is also the product of suffering is a form of forgiveness as well, I think.
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 8th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
Wow! Dear Chris, this is brilliant and so YOU! I love it. It’s filled with deep level insight and thought. AND great compassion, a compassion that also includes ourselves. Your insight into: “I suspect that nearly everyone has a part of them that suspects that “the abuser is the winner and the victim is the loser,…” is a key insight, as I think it is VERY common for people to feel this way. I know I have at times in my life. And my conclusion to it was, as you say here: “…it is also the product of suffering…” Yes, seeing this is a step to forgiving both self and other. You know, Chris, the more I can claim my own human failings AND embrace and forgive them within myself, the more I can embrace others suffering or human failings. We begin to see ourselves in others or others in ourselves, and compassion and forgiveness are born. Thank you dear soul for expressing this so beautifully. You are a unique thinker. Hugs, Robin
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ZuzannaM Says:
7 February 2010 at 6:11 pm.
Dear Robin,
Sorry to hear about the Hacker-I am always wondering what these IT specialist are gaining by hacking to other people property. Never had a proper answer to this however, I know what hacking means. They corrupt the site to leave mess for you… Well, just like any crime this is an Internet crime. I am glad that you corrected the page and all is looking great again. As far as FORGIVENESS goes, there is no other option, if you want peace in your heart, then Forgiving is the key. Thank you for sharing your wise outlook for life.
Best wishes,
Zuzanna
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 9th, 2010 at 10:56 am
Dear Zuzanna, How uplifting to see you here. So good to have you reflect back to me my choice to let go and love. What was so wonderful for me — something I didn’t really think about until I read you comment here — was that I didn’t even have to make a choice. This is the first time I’ve seen this in myself that somewhere along the way in my life, I chose LOVE…period! No matter what happens. The trick with that decision was that it’s wasn’t a just a “mind” or “head/brain” thought-choice. It was a through and through total “being” choice. And it has stuck with me ever since, and only gets stronger with each passing year. So yes, I agree with you wholeheartedly; if we want peace in our hearts there is no other choice but forgiveness and love. Thank YOU dear friend for stopping in and just being who you ARE…Love. I think of you often and send Hugs and Love your way. Robin
[Reply]
Mary MacIntyre Says:
7 February 2010 at 9:43 pm.
Hi Robin,
You are oh so resilant! Small techie stuff just gets me so tense. You have the pesence of mind to go spiritual! You are such a teacher. Thank you. Local news, I have a temporary reduction of hours at work which I am going to use to see if I can generate new income. I’m curious about how I can focus my spirit and energy. I send you much love. And some more love. Mary
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 9th, 2010 at 11:01 am
Hi dear sweet Mary, I was just in VC and looked for you to share hugs, but it must not have you day to work there (as you said reduction in hours, etc.). I am touched by your kind encouraging words here; they are special to me. I think it is wonderful the choice you are making, brave, adventurous and it feels VERY right. I KNOW without doubt that YOU can do anything you set you heart on. I am sending you back a ton of love. And a gazillion tons more. LOL!! Hugging you, Robin
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Tweets that mention Naked In Eden Blog – Robin Easton » Forgiveness -- Topsy.com Says:
7 February 2010 at 10:36 pm.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Lance, Steven Aitchison, Artist / Designer , RobinEaston, JulieWalraven and others. JulieWalraven said: RT @RobinEaston Forgiveness http://is.gd/7POvt I love reading anything Robin writes! [...]
Patty - Why Not Start Now? Says:
8 February 2010 at 1:19 am.
Hi Robin – Oh, wow, now I understand why I couldn’t leave a comment. I’m so technically limited, though; I emailed you because I figured that it was something wrong with my computer, or our two computers weren’t linking up somehow. Ha! But I digress. This is a just such a beautiful exploration of personal forgiveness. We human beings commit such transgressions against one another (both real and imagined), and against ourselves. And yet it can be so hard to learn to forgive. So to see you walk into that and share it with us is marvelous and inspiring. Thank you, and I’m sending a big hug your way!
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 9th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Dear Patty, you are a gem!! This comment made me chuckle about being technically limited. Believe me, I know. I am only learning on the fly, that is why my brain became so exhausted. Steep learning curve. But I’ve discovered that you can find almost any help you need by Googling things. I had no idea what I was doing but I learned from all the available info online. —Also, thank you for your beautiful and wise words. I love this line: “We human beings commit such transgressions against one another…” The reason I love it is because you have included us ALL, which is SO healthy. It’s easy for us to think of someone ELSE as committing transgressions, and in our mind creating an “Us and Them” situation. But it’s another thing to embrace that there is no US and THEM, and that we ALL transgress. And to not only be forgiving with others but with ourselves as well. Thank you dear heart. I’m sending you a HUGE HUGE right back. Robin xo
[Reply]
TwittLink - Your headlines on Twitter Says:
8 February 2010 at 1:28 am.
[...] Tweets about this great post on TwittLink.com [...]
Zeenat{Positive Provocations} Says:
8 February 2010 at 11:26 am.
Oh Robin,
Those hackers have a way of invading…i know cause not too long ago my email, which i had used for nearly 7 years got hacked into..and weird emails were going everywhere….That was so bad…that my friends and family were receiving a virus from my email account..and i had no idea..till they told me…I did try to fix it…but by the time i could it was too late..the irreparable damage was done.
I immediately opened a new email account and let the old one go…no use bickering over something that isnt in your control…
What was in my control was my reaction to the situation…and I held ground…while my hubby shot complainant emails to the service provider. Finally he also saw that it was no use worrying..
Youre right…we have to rise above the pettiness and just live love…The universe will handle the negatives…I have faith…
Sorry i am always so so late….in commenting here….had read the post when you hit publish..but every time i wanted to comment..something or someone called…:)Life is like that na…..
But your advice and your reaction of love towards the hacker….i love you for that…for your open heart..and your immense love…I still have so much to learn from you my souls sister
Lots of love….
Zeenat.
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Robb Says:
8 February 2010 at 7:11 pm.
Kia ora Robin,
This morning I was sitting at my computer, having my coffee talking to Tara before work, and Taylor came out and quietly said, ” I have to leave home”. When Tara asked why he confessed he had fallen asleep with her lap top on and open and at some point during the night had knocked it off the bed and broken it. We have been through a lot with Taylor, but his honesty and his valour in fronting up really moved me, us. It was if Tara and I reacted as one, and where perhaps in days of yore I would have lashed out and been angry (my issues), we instead felt more concern for him than the object, which can be replaced, and as it turns out restored. I might find it harder to have such compassion for your hacker, or those whom destroy or disrespect our Wild Places, but my own growth is stimulated and nourished by the Love here. Rave on Wild Sister. Kia kaha.
Aroha,
Robb
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Ophelia Rising Says:
9 February 2010 at 6:54 am.
Robin, I’m so terribly sorry this happened to you – but in a sense, it gave us all a beautiful lesson, which you’ve so wonderfully communicated here. Love is always the best answer, for everything. I thank you so much for reminding us of that, and am SO happy that you’ve articulated something I feel to my core, but which, at times, is not understood or accepted.
What you’ve done is turn something potentially hurtful and negative into something positive and healing. And that’s one of the beautiful things about you – the way you look at the world, the way you SEE something wonderful in everything, and everyone. You choose to find the love and truth in all things, rather than to have the typical knee-jerk reaction and let it produce anger, resentment, fear – which is all too easy to do. You’re incredibly inspiring, and your voice is SO needed in our world, right now. I’m extremely grateful, and full of love for you.
I’ve had moments come up in life, when I could choose one thing, or the other. When coming across negative people, who seem to spit out rage, but who are simply unhappy and fearful and needing a kind word. Instead of reacting, I will (if in my *best* place) offer a smile or a soft kindness – and it’s amazing what comes of it. The whole thing gets switched around.
I love you for so many reasons, one of them being your ability to see into everything with such a clarity and vision, and it resonates with so many people who struggle and find themselves needing a loving alternative – especially today, in this world, which can be harsh and graceless. You offer such a wisdom and grace that reaches out and grasps the loving core that exists in everyone. You acknowledge the love and pure humanity that exists in everyone, and by acknowledging this, people rise to the occasion, to live their most powerful and divine potential.
Much love to you, dear friend.
xoxo
[Reply]
Amit Sodha - The Power Of Choice Says:
9 February 2010 at 9:20 am.
Oh Robin, thank you so much for the thoughts and all the encouragement! I’m sorry to hear about your blog getting hacked. I too have been in that exact situation, on more than one occasion but the blessing was the learning process of making my blog more secure and having a better appreciation of technology and know-how
One thought that occured to me when you talked about the woman and her views on the homeless. I written a few times about my experiences and it reminds me of when people say I don’t give to the homeless because they might spend it on alcohol. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but I prefer to give those people the benefit of the doubt. I’ll give them money with my heart behind it as a blessing, without thinking about what they might spend it on, that’s when they can decide what to do with that opportunity.
I hope you don’t mind me sharing but I know you’d appreciate a post I wrote some years ago about when you walk past a beggar – http://www.unlimitedchoice.org/blog/power-of-choice/when-you-walk-past-a-beggar/
Thank you to you always!
[Reply]
dava Says:
9 February 2010 at 10:39 am.
Robin,
This is my first visit to Naked in Eden. I’m sorry to learn you’ve had so much to deal with. Several months ago, I heard a story on NPR about a young woman who was raped and identified the wrong man as the rapist. He went to jail for years (maybe 15 years? I can’t remember – it was a long time). Eventually, the mistake was discovered and he was released, and he and the woman formed a relationship based on forgiveness. I cannot imagine dealing with forgiveness on that level, but knowing that it is possible gives me great hope.
Thanks for sharing your story. I will certainly visit again!
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Michelle (Artscapes) Says:
9 February 2010 at 11:21 pm.
I was wondering where you had gotten to… You have a huge heart Robin. I feel lucky to have ‘met’ you… ((hugs))
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Lindsey Petersen Says:
10 February 2010 at 9:37 pm.
Forgiving can be very exhilarating and can lead to a joyful life. (Who wants to carry bad thoughts about people around with them!)
Lindsey Petersen
http://5kidswdisabilities.wordpress.com
[Reply]
Jonathan - Advanced Life Skills Says:
14 February 2010 at 6:10 pm.
Hi Robin, guess I missed all the action while I was gone. Your sight got hacked? That is no fun at all, can’t begin to relate to that mentality. I love the way you addressed the pointlessness of negative emotions, especially with regard to those who are already disadvantaged. Let’s face it, there’s a million ways to be disadvantaged, many of which are not visible to the casual observer. I think we should all give WAY more focus to counting our blessings and let go of the goop. Robin. your precious heart is so big that it pulls us all in. And yes, love truly is the most powerful force in the universe. Thanks for your kind words dear friend!
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Mike Foster Says:
14 February 2010 at 8:09 pm.
the worst people, like the kind of soul who is so lost as to hack someone’s blog, are the ones in need of our love and help the most…happy valentine’s day, robin, hope you had a lovely one…
peace,
mike
livelife365
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Non-Resistance: When Spiritual Wisdom Escapes You, It's the Way to Go! Says:
15 February 2010 at 1:23 pm.
[...] [...]
suzen Says:
16 February 2010 at 10:10 am.
Dearest Robin – YOU are the shining example of what we are all striving to be – so strong in love as to be unruffled by such a sad attempt to disrupt your gracious and loving flow here! I had NO idea this happened to you. I might add you were smart not to call me to help you – techno wizard I am so not! haha! Blessed be that you have such awesome helpers!
Robin, the fact that there are people out there who have NO compassion for the less fortunate tears at my heart! I try to make up for them in my little ways – crocheting hats and scarves, making quilts and baby blankets, volunteering at the food pantry. I had my own experience, decades ago, where I actually lived out of my car for two weeks. I was employed at the time too – thankfully – since I parked in the company’s lot at night. I will never forget this. There were no shelters to go to back then or I would have!
We have no idea what the life circumstances are that people are facing and to not be helpful, or at the LEAST bit, compassionate……….well, if there is such a thing as “sin” – that’d be IT!
I feel so blessed to have found you here – and yes, there are so many, many loving people in blogland that I truly hope it spills out of “here” to the rest of the world. You, undoubtedly, are our leader!
Hugs,
(and welcome back!)
suZen
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soulMerlin Says:
22 February 2010 at 4:25 am.
Dear Robin,
What you say is profound and true. The ancient magicians would make themselves ill in the ‘bounceback’ effect of a destructive spell. In the short term it might seem weak to forgive, but the long-term effects are beneficial to both
I work with someone who is often destructive to me. Then I think of his troubles and I forgive…then he is wonderful to me (for a while)
But I am happier and forgiveness lives within freedom
xhenry
[Reply]
Sara Says:
23 February 2010 at 9:04 am.
Robin — Did you ever watch Star Trek? Whenever their spaceship was under attack, the captain would call…”Put up the Shield!” and this invisible force field would cover the whole ship, protecting it from the weapons so that the bombs would literally bounce off.
Your ability to overcome your anger at this person who attacked you and your site personifies the human version of this force field and it is just as powerful, if not more so. It’s the ability to forgive and then let go of the hate or anger. By doing this with the hacker, you took away all his or her power. Good for you:~)
p.s its also nice to see your site is back up and looking good:~)
[Reply]
Robin Easton Reply:
February 7th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
Hi Dear Dawn, I am touched by the lessons you are sharing with your daughter. Such a powerful insight to share with young people. What a gift you give her, what a gift you ARE. I agree that we waste valuable time, our valuable life when we focus on hate or revenge. We then become caught in the spider’s web that was thrown out there, often for that very purpose, to catch us up in the spider’s energy and become entangled. It’s a long sticky path that I have no interest in, for the very reason you state. It is a waste of my life and energy.
I also love your insight about loving actions inspiring those around us. My husband is amazing this way. He REALLY believes in modeling love. I am ALWAYS humbled in his presence when he does this in the face of anger, injustice, hate, etc. Thank you dear one for YOUR beautiful light. I so value it.
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