Page 39 - Perceptions papers

seekers on a perennially modern, and centuries old path into the Divine Mystery. We are

concerned with developing abilities and capacity through emotional, intellectual, and physical

practices. We greatly respect all genuine traditions that seek to accept the responsibility of

humanity to care for each other and our world. We do not approve of the acts of those who use

sacred teachings to justify violence for political ends. Ripening Maturing physically is built in to

our nature. emotional, intellectual, and spiritual maturity requires culture, spiritual community,

guidance, commitment, and help from Above. At the heart of all we do is the work to nurture

mature human beings who can be of service to humanity and God. Study Study is the first,

primary and ongoing practice.

Study is in many directions: • The study of Rumi’s writings, his poetry, and discourses –

ultimately his magnum opus and most mature teaching – The Mathnawi • The study of sacred

and instructive texts from all traditions • The study of those with more experience - their

manners, their attitudes, the way they behave and what they attend to • The observation of

Nature, the world around us and the miracles in the creation • The study of ourselves - our

attitudes, our reactions, our behavior, our states, our deeper nature Adab The Mevlevi path

embodies respect for the whole of creation. We aspire to show respect to every individual -

beginning with respect for ourselves. The practice of graceful behavior and consideration

polishes the heart and ripens the human being. It builds the container that can hold Grace.

2. Refinement The development of subtlety and discrimination comes through music,

calligraphy, poetry, cooking and all the arts and civilized forms. We are meant to appreciate and

contribute to the richness of both the spiritual and the worldly. This is part of our contribution to

the world.

3. Sema The whirling ceremony is a formal ritual. Every part has meaning - on multiple

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