Love Energy: Michael Bernard Beckwith

A few years ago, I heard the buzz about The Secret, so I checked out the film to see for myself. Though I appreciated the universal principles that were spoken about, I believe much of it narrowly focused on their applications for financial wealth. There was, however, one person in the film who stood out to me - Michael Bernard Beckwith. His words and energy carried such resonance that I later sought out his work. As it turned out, he’s the founder and spiritual director of Agape International Spiritual Center in Culver City, CA.

When I was recently in the Los Angeles area, I was fortunate to be able to visit the centre. I was smitten by the fact that it’s situated in an industrial building in a humble neighbourhood. Not only did it help to confirm his authenticity, but also it was inspiring to see that he’s keeping it real with all of the fanfare he’s received.

While I missed the actual service, someone at the center let me know about the new live streaming events every Wednesday and Sunday at www.agapelive.com. As a member of the online community, I listened to his sermons via recordings and always found them to be revelatory and riveting. Through this new medium, it's been a whole new experience - witnessing Dr. Beckwith deliver the services, hearing the Agape choir sing and being part of the congregation through "streamland" has provided me with even more nourishment.

Bringin' Home the Mojo

Chess Players at Santa Monica Beach

Just got back from a trip to Vegas and LA.

Stayed on Fremont Street this time. You know the economy is challenging when sex trade workers are boldly staking out business in busy tourist areas. During one of his encounters, my partner was followed to Walgreens and waited for while he shopped inside - lol. Nice guy - he thought by explaining he’s married, she’d cease and desist. He eventually had to drop into security officer mode (from days gone by) and, in his best base tone, tell her that he wasn’t interested. Guess the over-politeness that we can be known for in Canada wasn’t working in the context. Anyhow, the casinos were not of the same caliber we’re used to, and I missed the gaudy monoliths of the Strip. Yes, Vegas is one of my guilty pleasures.

After the stopover, we headed to La-La Land. Not having stayed there for years, the size of the city was overwhelming at times. To get a sense of how large it seemed to me, the population of California is equivalent to all of Canada. As my Grandma used to convey, I sure felt like a "country mouse"! Nonetheless, I did enjoy its colors and textures. By the time we returned home, I felt as if I was living in a bucolic town. Vancouver is one of the younger cities in Canada, and she can be pretty monochromatic in terms of urban life.

I love my country for several key reasons, but there’s an energy about the States - a drive, determination and spirit - that’s contagious. Great opportunity to bring some mojo (yeah, baby) back with me and start the new school year off right.