The latest Mission Impossible is out: Ghost Protocol
You can read about the premiere here: Tom Cruise rules red carpet at 'Mission: Impossible' debut and you can read an interview with star Jeremy Renner here: Jeremy Renner gets into the action .
The trailer looks great! Can't wait to see the movie.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Clearwater Community Volunteers put on Winter Wonderland
Each year since 1993, the Clearwater Community Volunteers put on Winter Wonderland, which is a two to three-week long charity drive in downtown Clearwater whose proceeds benefit the children of Pinellas County. Winter Wonderland is a complete Christmas village with an entertainment stage, photos with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, a hot chocolate shop, a petting zoo, pony rides, playground, a Bouncy House, a Giant Slide and the Holiday Express Train!
Entrance to Winter Wonderland is free but we ask visitors to bring a non-perishable food item and/or an unwrapped toy. The toys and canned goods are donated to local area charities, such as the Homeless Emergency Project sponsored by Everybody’s Tabernacle.
Winter Wonderland is open from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weeknights, and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weekends. For the starting and ending dates of this year’s Winter Wonderland, please check the event details in the sidebar of our website.
People from all over the world have visited Winter Wonderland, gazing in awe at the thousands of lights that adorn the real pine trees and enjoying the wonderful entertainment that is on the stage all the time that Winter Wonderland is open.
Entrance to Winter Wonderland is free but we ask visitors to bring a non-perishable food item and/or an unwrapped toy. The toys and canned goods are donated to local area charities, such as the Homeless Emergency Project sponsored by Everybody’s Tabernacle.
- Date: Fri, Dec. 2, through Wed, Dec. 21
- Times: 6 – 9 pm weeknights, 4 – 9 pm weekends
- Location: NW Corner of Ft. Harrison Ave. & Drew St, Downtown Clearwater, Florida
- Cost: Free, with a small charge for some rides and refreshments
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Pomeranz promotes Dianetics at MIBF (Manila International Book Fair)
MANILA, Philippines - David Pomeranz returns to the Philippines for the 32nd Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), ongoing until Sept. 18 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
On Sept. 18 at 3 to 5 p.m., Pomeranz is set to perform his hits and promote L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics, the landmark work that launched the worldwide movement for The Church of Scientology, of which Pomeranz is a member.
Pomeranz believes that the real barriers to a happy and valuable future are the upsets, failures, fears and mistakes of the past.
“These things hang around us like ghosts spoiling every chance to create a new and better life.” he says. “I had my own personal fears and internal barriers that blocked my way and threatened to destroy my chances to achieve my goals.”
Knowing and using Dianetics can help you break free of those barriers, Pomeranz notes, as Dianetics discusses the different dynamics or areas of life that are essential for real success.
“Dianetics enabled me to shake off the shadows of the past and see the life the way it really is. It gave me the power to deal with life in a positive and constructive way,” Pomeranz asserts. “I have a great career doing exactly what I want to do, a wonderful wife and family, and, I am proud to say, many friends that I’ve been able to help to lead happy and fulfilling lives.”
Dianetics is published by Bridge Publications and will be available at the MIBF.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Kirstie Alley Hits the Catwalk for Malaysian Designer Zang Toi
Tweeting Monday that she was “scared,” Alley jokingly asked fans and fashionistas to avoid eye contact during the show. “DONT make me laugh,” she wrote. “Gotta keep ‘model face’ … oh, who I am kidding??”
And though she was worried about falling on her “well dressed ass,” Alley took to the runway effortlessly, and at the end of the day, was grateful for the experience.
“Thank you all the REAL models for letting me share @ZANGTOI runway with you,” she Tweeted. “You all were sooo sweet and looked soooo gorgeous!!! I had the time of my life!!!!”
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Tom Cruise is CRAZY
I don't say he's crazy because he's driving a formula 1 race car at almost 200 mph. Oh no. It's what he does afterwards. Just watch the video ...
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Tuesday, August 09, 2011
Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International Hosts 42nd Annual Anniversary Gala
Over 1,000 Scientologists and guests attended a gala event in Hollywood Saturday night, marking the 42nd anniversary of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre. Guests included many of the Church’s well-known members, including John Travolta, Kelly Preston, Anne Archer, Jenna Elfman, Jason Lee, Ethan Suplee, Erika Christensen, Priscilla Presley and Nancy Cartwright.
The evening’s guest speakers included John Redman, Director of Demand Reduction for California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Redman highlighted the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which is supported by the Church: “Our partnership with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has changed everything. I have never seen anything like it in my career. The materials are unmatched, and I don’t say that flippantly, because I have probably seen everything that has come along in drug education. These materials connect, they are interesting to the kids, and they are designed for youth and fun to work with. I’ve seen them in action and they work. The Foundation and the Church of Scientology are as committed and as serious as we are when it comes to educating the world about the dangers of drugs.”
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
The evening’s guest speakers included John Redman, Director of Demand Reduction for California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Redman highlighted the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which is supported by the Church: “Our partnership with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has changed everything. I have never seen anything like it in my career. The materials are unmatched, and I don’t say that flippantly, because I have probably seen everything that has come along in drug education. These materials connect, they are interesting to the kids, and they are designed for youth and fun to work with. I’ve seen them in action and they work. The Foundation and the Church of Scientology are as committed and as serious as we are when it comes to educating the world about the dangers of drugs.”
Dr. Michael Crosby, President of the 77th Street Division Los Angeles Police Department Clergy Council spoke about his experience with another Church-affiliated program, The Way to Happiness.
“The Way to Happiness is ageless. It is for all creeds, races and religions. And it offers a light in the darkest night for our cultures. Whenever I read one or more of the precepts I rejoice, because we have in our hands a simple yet effective way to teach basic values and principles to anyone—principles that forge strong relationships, honesty, integrity, civility, and self respect and competence.”
The Church of Scientology sponsors humanitarian programs addressing key societal issues such as drug abuse, human rights, moral values for a modern world, illiteracy and disaster relief.
In keeping with Mr. Hubbard’s words from 1951, “A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists,” the Celebrity Centre is the arts and cultural branch of the Church of Scientology and as such work with those whose broad visions for social enhancement are essential for positive progression of society.
The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Hollywood was founded in 1969. It was established to provide artists, professionals and leaders in every field with a distraction-free environment to practice their religion. Whether for up-and-coming artists or established public figures, a Celebrity Centre offers an atmosphere where all can discover Scientology for themselves. Other Celebrity Centres are located in cultural centers around the world including New York, Paris, Nashville, Las Vegas, Vienna, Florence and London. Celebrity Centres, like all churches of Scientology worldwide, are open to the public.
The popularity of Scientology among artists and professionals in many fields mirrors its current growth internationally, expanding more in the last year than the last five years combined and more in the last five years than in the five previous decades.
_________________
The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 9,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 165 countries.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Chick Corea
Return to Forever IV performs at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal on Sunday (Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier), the Ottawa Jazz Festival on Monday (Confederation Park) and the Toronto Jazz Festival on Tuesday (Sony Centre).
Friday, June 24, 2011
JOHN TRAVOLTA OPENS CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY MISSION IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN OCALA, FLORIDA
On Sunday, May 29, Scientologists, friends and neighbors filled 1st Avenue, joining actor and Ocala resident John Travolta and Ocala Mayor Randy Ewers at the dedication and grand opening ceremonies of the Church of Scientology Mission of Ocala, Florida.>>
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Cherie Ceberano
Thanks to Scientology, Marlènne Knows How to Speak the Language of Friendship
In the latest episode of “I Am a Scientologist,” Marlènne, a translator from French Guiana (Guyane), shares the impact Scientology has on her ability to relate to others.
Despite being fluent in her native French, in Spanish and English, and working on mastering Portuguese, before Scientology, Marlènne didn’t really understand how to relate to people.
“I didn’t think I really had friends,” says the French Guianan translator.
With Scientology, she was able to learn the basics of communication. And that made all the difference.
“I really understood what friendship was, how good a friend I could be, and how I could help people.”
And that is exactly what she does for a living.
“I help with written communication, business letters, and also emergency situations,” she says. “People are very happy to find someone who can help them communicate and be understood.”
By discovering what a good relationship she could have with others, she says, “it helped me improve myself at all levels.”
I Am a Scientologist is an original series on the Scientology Network. It features Scientologists from all walks of life and locations whose lives have been transformed and enriched by the religion.
This episode takes viewers from the studio of a Thai boxing coach in New Zealand to the ice rink where an award-winning figure skater from Mexico practices her routines. And it includes a Swiss golfer, an English author, and an American songwriter.
Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church’s global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Kirstie Alley - Dancing!
Who would have thought at the start of the season that Kirstie Alley would have become the talk of the dancing world? But she did: Kirstie Alley's Big 'Dancing' Transformation
Wow! Awesome job, Kirstie!
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Wow! Awesome job, Kirstie!
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Jumping off the tallest building in the world
Yes, that is Tom Cruise in the picture above, running along the side of the world's tallest building. This story happened in November, so it's not exactly hot off the press, but I was so amazed at the stunt that I had to post it.
The story and more pictures are here: Tom Cruise dangles from the world's tallest building as he performs a death-defying stunt for new Mission: Impossible movie
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
The story and more pictures are here: Tom Cruise dangles from the world's tallest building as he performs a death-defying stunt for new Mission: Impossible movie
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Saturday, May 07, 2011
Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
On Thursday, May 5th, Tom Cruise was awarded the Simon Wiesenthal Center's highest honor, the Humanitarian Award, for his longtime, consistent and substantial support.
In his acceptance speech Tom said,
- Video: Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Wiesenthal Center Honors Tom Cruise and 3 Medal of Valor Honorees at its 2011 National Tribute Dinner
- Wiesenthal center honors Tom Cruise
- Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Tom Cruise honored by Jewish human rights group, the Simon Wiesenthal Center
Simon Wiesenthal was a holocaust surviver who later became a famous Nazi hunter. Between the end of World War II and his death in 2005, Wiesenthal is credited with bringing 1,100 Nazi war criminals to justice.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center is a global Jewish human rights organization that confronts anti-Semitism, hate and terrorism, promotes human rights and dignity, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations. The Center's educational arm is the world famous Museum of Tolerance. Founded in 1993 the museum challenges visitors to confront bigotry and racism, and to understand the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary contexts.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
In his acceptance speech Tom said,
Our challenge, ladies and gentlemen, is to make sure that we do all in our power to see to it that there will be no more Auschwitz/Birkenaus, no more Rwandas, no more Darfurs on our planet. That our children and their children may be free to live in a world where men and women are judged by their accomplishments and deeds rather then by their race or religion. That is why I support the Simon Wiesenthal Center and Museum of Tolerance. As Albert Einstein reminded us, "The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil but because of the people who don’t do anything about it." And as he wrote in a letter that is one of the prized possessions of the Center, "Without an atmosphere of intellectual freedom and tolerance none of us can imagine a life which would be worth living."- Tom Cruise’s Remarks on Receiving the Simon Wiesenthal Center's Humanitarian Award
- Video: Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Wiesenthal Center Honors Tom Cruise and 3 Medal of Valor Honorees at its 2011 National Tribute Dinner
- Wiesenthal center honors Tom Cruise
- Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Tom Cruise honored by Jewish human rights group, the Simon Wiesenthal Center
Simon Wiesenthal was a holocaust surviver who later became a famous Nazi hunter. Between the end of World War II and his death in 2005, Wiesenthal is credited with bringing 1,100 Nazi war criminals to justice.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center is a global Jewish human rights organization that confronts anti-Semitism, hate and terrorism, promotes human rights and dignity, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations. The Center's educational arm is the world famous Museum of Tolerance. Founded in 1993 the museum challenges visitors to confront bigotry and racism, and to understand the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary contexts.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Meet a Scientologist—Jive Aces Peter Howell, Swinging to the Beat of a Different Drum
Meet a Scientologist—Jive Aces Peter Howell, Swinging to the Beat of a Different Drum
Interesting video on the Jive Aces. they are a fabulous group. They recently did a concert for the L. Ron Hubbard centenary at Saint Hill.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Interesting video on the Jive Aces. they are a fabulous group. They recently did a concert for the L. Ron Hubbard centenary at Saint Hill.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Happy Birthday to L. Ron Hubbard
Today is the 100th Birthday of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology.
It is very fitting that I mention LRH on this site, after all he was a very popular writer, with a ton of NY Times bestsellers to his credit.
There is a great site on his life and achievements, with a ton of very cool videos:
- High Tech verion: L. Ron Hubbard
- Low Tech version: L. Ron Hubbard
I recommend checking out these sites.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Kate Ceberano Helps Open New Melbourne Scientology Church
The name synonymous with Melbourne, Kate Ceberano performed a song she wrote for the grand opening of the Church of Scientology of Melbourne.
Beautiful new building and even better is what this new Church will make available now to Scientologists and the community.
Thousands of Scientologists, dignitaries and guests from across the nation celebrated a milestone—the opening of the first Ideal Scientology Church in Australia.
Auntie Joy Murphy Wandin, senior elder of the Wurundjeri people, opened the dedication with the traditional “Welcome to Country” ceremony, welcoming Scientologists to the lands of her ancestors.
Scientologist, Melbourne native and award-winning singer and songwriter Kate Ceberano performed a moving rendition of her original composition “This Song is You,” written in honour of the occasion and the heritage of the city and all that Australia holds dear.
In tribute to the significance of the occasion Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, travelled to Melbourne from the United States to officiate at the dedication. He acknowledged the long parade of accomplishments by Australian Scientologists that culminated in the new Church.
“It is my honour to join you this evening and commemorate a moment that will live on in history for a long time to come. Not that you haven’t loomed large in history before, not that you haven’t triumphed over great adversity in years gone by, not that you didn’t stand firm for the dignity of Man, and not that you didn’t indeed uphold the God-given rights of all religions all over this world.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Kelly Preston interview: Baby Ben and Silent Birth
An interview with Kelly from the Today Show:
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Thursday, November 25, 2010
It's a boy!
As you probably heard, Benjamin Travolta arrived with us yesterday. Congratulations to John Travolta and Kelly Preston.
You can read more here: John Travolta and Kelly Preston Welcome a Son
Benjamin was brought into the world using the method known as "Silent Birth", which I would summarize as a birth occurring in an environment that is as quiet, calm and loving as is humanly possible to provide. Click here for the details on Silent or Gentle Birth.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
You can read more here: John Travolta and Kelly Preston Welcome a Son
Benjamin was brought into the world using the method known as "Silent Birth", which I would summarize as a birth occurring in an environment that is as quiet, calm and loving as is humanly possible to provide. Click here for the details on Silent or Gentle Birth.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
John and Kelly and little Benjamin!
Congratulations to John Travolta and Kelly Preston on the arrival of their baby boy, Benjamin.
Good news for the nicest two celebrities I know.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Good news for the nicest two celebrities I know.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
Sunday, November 21, 2010
More on Silent Birth
If you are interested in what "Silent Birth" really is then here is a complete rundown from the Church of Scientology itself:
MEDIA ADVISORY ON SILENT BIRTH
In view of recent incorrect media reports about "Silent Birth" the Church of Scientology International advises the media about the background and meaning of "Quiet" or "Silent Birth".
WHAT IS SILENT BIRTH?
Silent birth is all about providing the best possible environment for the birthing mother and her new baby. Its origins can be found in L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health and are firmly rooted in a fundamental and abiding principle that women, particularly expectant mothers, be given the utmost in care and respect.
A silent birth is labor and delivery done in a calm and loving environment and with no spoken words by anyone attending. Chatty doctors and nurses, shouts to "PUSH, PUSH" and loud or laughing remarks to "encourage" are the types of things that are meant to be avoided.
As L. Ron Hubbard wrote: "Everyone must learn to say nothing within the expectant mother’s hearing during labor and delivery. Particularly during birth, absolute silence must be maintained and the more gentle the delivery, the better."
The point of silent birth is NO WORDS. It does not mean a mother cannot make any sound during childbirth. It is doubtful that any woman could give birth without making any noise at all.
Mothers naturally want to give their baby the best start in life and thus keep the birth as quiet and peaceful as possible. That being said, a woman’s choice for her delivery is completely up to her and her doctor. There is no requirement to adhere to any specific routine. Just like care is taken in all other aspects of labor and birth, a woman and her doctor or midwife and any others present work out how to communicate without words.
Doctors respect the right of a mother to choose her birthing experience. Silent birth is not a medical model but a religious and philosophical approach based on L. Ron Hubbard’s research into the mind and spirit.
The principle behind not speaking during childbirth is delineated in Dianetics and to fully understand why, one should read the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. But to provide a brief explanation, L. Ron Hubbard discovered the hidden source of nightmares, unreasonable fears, upsets, insecurity and psychosomatic illness—the reactive mind. This part of the mind records all perceptions during times of pain and unconsciousness—which childbirth is for both mother and child. And words, in particular, spoken during these moments, can have an adverse effect on one later in life.
However, since the research, findings and practice of silent birth were first announced by Mr. Hubbard in the 1951 text entitled Child Dianetics, this method has been corroborated and applied by doctors, nurses and midwives world over.
The Church has no policy against the use of medicines to help a person with a physical situation and these principles do not preclude a mother from receiving any medical procedure needed to safely deliver the baby, including Caesarean section. These are medical decisions and these, too, are between the mother and her doctor.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
HOW DOES SILENT BIRTH ACTUALLY WORK?
There is no specific routine. Just like care is taken in all other aspects of labor and birth, a woman and her doctor or midwife and others present work out how to communicate without words. Different women have done different things.
IS IT A CHURCH RULE THAT THEIR MEMBERS MUST ADHERE TO THIS PRACTICE?
Not at all. A woman’s delivery is always up to her and her doctor.
DOES THE CHURCH HAVE RULES AGAINST PAINKILLERS, ANESTHESIA OR OTHER MEDICAL DRUGS?
The Church has no policy against the use of medicines to help a person with a physical situation. This is a matter between the person and their doctor.
DOESN’T L. RON HUBBARD RECOMMEND/ADVOCATE A NATURAL, DRUG-FREE BIRTH?
Yes, because it is best for the mother and the child. It is common knowledge that natural childbirth is best, but that doesn’t always work out, and it is up to the mother and her doctor.
IT HAS BEEN REPORTED THAT MANY SCIENTOLOGISTS WILL DEMAND A NATURAL CHILDBIRTH WITH NO DRUGS. WHY?
It is the mother’s choice. If they don’t use drugs it’s simply because a mother wants the best for her new baby.
IS IT TRUE THAT SCIENTOLOGISTS CAN’T TOUCH OR TALK TO THEIR BABY FOR THREE DAYS TO A WEEK? OR ARE THERE SEVEN DAYS OF SILENCE AFTER BIRTH?
Absolutely not, this is a complete fabrication and not a practice of Scientology.
DO DOCTORS AGREE WITH THESE PROCEDURES?
Of course. It’s a personal decision of the mother and doesn’t interfere with any medical procedure. Doctors naturally respect the right of a mother to choose her own birth experience.
ARE C-SECTIONS PERMITTED?
This is a medical decision, nothing to do with Scientology.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN FURTHER WHAT DIANETICS IS?
L. Ron Hubbard discovered the single source of stress, worry, self-doubt and psychosomatic illness, which is the reactive mind. This part of the mind records all perceptions in times of pain and unconsciousness and in particular, words spoken during these moments can have adverse effects on people later in life. Full information on this is available in the book, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.
WHAT DOES SCIENTOLOGY SAY ABOUT THE RAISING OF CHILDREN?
L. Ron Hubbard has written a great deal about raising children. In Scientology, children are respected the way any person should be albeit in a young body. This does not make them any less a person and they should be given all the love and respect granted adults. Scientologists also believe children should be encouraged to contribute to family life and not just be "seen and not heard," as the old saying goes.
Most children raised in Scientology homes are above average in ability and quickly begin to understand how and why people act as they do. Life thus becomes a lot happier and safer for them.
WHAT ELSE HAS L. RON HUBBARD WRITTEN ABOUT RAISING CHILDREN?
There is a lot written in Scientology about children. Scientology help people understand their basic nature and this alone helps parents tremendously.
Some of the basic principles Scientologists apply to parenting are summed up in the following quotes:
"Today's children will become tomorrow's civilization. Try to be the child's friend. It is certainly true that a child needs friends. Try to find out what a child's problem really is and without crushing their own solutions, try to help solve them. A child factually does not do well without love. Most children have an abundance of it to return." - "The Way to Happiness"
"The spoiled child is the child whose decisions have been interrupted
continuously and who is robbed of his independence." - "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health"
"Affection could no more spoil a child than the sun could be put out by a bucket of gasoline." - "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health"
"A good, stable adult with love and tolerance in his heart is about the best therapy a child can have." - "Child Dianetics"
"A human being feels able and competent only so long as he is permitted to contribute as much or more than he has contributed to him." "Child Dianetics"
DO SCIENTOLOGISTS CONSIDER CHILDREN ADULTS IN A SMALL BODY?
No. Scientologists consider children to be spiritual beings, like all people are but they need to be taken care of as children. L. Ron Hubbard has written quite a lot on the subject, including that "a child needs all of the love and affection it can possibly get" and that "a good stable adult with love and tolerance in his heart is about the best therapy a child can have."
Children need respect, love, help, and education. They want to help others from a very early age and it is important that adults allow them to do so, within the realms of safety. A child has to know they have a place in life, that they are important and that their contributions are meaningful in a real way.
Education is an important part of this, as a child needs understanding of the workings of his family and society to be able to contribute to them in meaningful ways and in this he can be greatly assisted by his parents and other family members.
CAN CHILDREN PARTICIPATE IN SCIENTOLOGY? HOW?
Yes, many children do and there are no age restrictions as to who may participate in Scientology auditing or training. Scientology Churches conduct courses and study programs specifically designed for young people. Children below the age of majority must first obtain written consent from their parents or guardian to participate in Scientology services. Like adherents of other religions, Scientologists are very proud when their children join them in the practice of their religion.
WHAT IS SCIENTOLOGY?
Developed by L. Ron Hubbard, Scientology is a religion that offers a precise path leading to a complete and certain understanding of one’s true spiritual nature and one’s relationship to self, family, groups, Mankind, all life forms, the material universe, the spiritual universe and the Supreme Being.
Scientology addresses the spirit—not the body or mind—and believes that Man is far more than a product of his environment, or his genes.
Scientology comprises a body of knowledge which extends from certain fundamental truths. Prime among these are:
Man is an immortal spiritual being.
His experience extends well beyond a single lifetime.
His capabilities are unlimited, even if not presently realized.
Scientology further holds Man to be basically good, and that his spiritual salvation depends upon himself, his fellows and his attainment of brotherhood with the universe.
Scientology is not a dogmatic religion in which one is asked to accept anything on faith alone. On the contrary, one discovers for oneself that the principles of Scientology are true by applying its principles and observing or experiencing the results.
The ultimate goal of Scientology is true spiritual enlightenment and freedom.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CORE TENETS OF SCIENTOLOGY?
Fundamental to Scientology is a view of Man as a spiritual being. In Scientology, the spiritual being is called a thetan. The term is taken from the Greek letter theta for "thought" or "life" or "the spirit." It is used to avoid confusion with previous concepts of the soul. The thetan is immortal and has lived—and will continue to live—through countless lifetimes. One is a thetan who has a mind and who occupies a body. The thetan animates the body and uses the mind.
Also fundamental to Scientology is a view of life as compartmentalized into urges (drives, impulses) toward survival. These are called the dynamics and number eight in all.
The First Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as one’s self. Here we have individuality expressed fully. This can be called the Self Dynamic.
The Second Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as a sexual activity. This dynamic actually has two divisions. Second Dynamic (a) is the sexual act itself. And the Second Dynamic (b) is the family unit, including the rearing of children. This can be called the Sex Dynamic.
The Third Dynamic—is the urge toward existence in groups of individuals. Any group, or part of an entire class, could be considered to be a part of the Third Dynamic. The school, the society, the town, the nation are each part of the Third Dynamic and each one is a Third Dynamic. This can be called the Group Dynamic.
The Fourth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as or of Mankind. Whereas one race would be considered a Third Dynamic, all the races would be considered the Fourth Dynamic. This can be called the Mankind Dynamic.
The Fifth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence of the animal kingdom. This includes all living things, whether vegetable or animal, the fish in the sea, the beasts of the field or of the forest, grass, trees, flowers or anything directly and intimately motivated by life. This can be called the Animal Dynamic.
The Sixth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as the physical universe. The physical universe is composed of Matter, Energy, Space and Time. In Scientology we take the first letter of each of these words and coin a word—MEST. This can be called the Universe Dynamic.
The Seventh Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as or of spirits. Anything spiritual, with or without identity, would come under the heading of the Seventh Dynamic. This can be called the Spiritual Dynamic.
The Eighth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as infinity. This is also identified as the Supreme Being. This is called the Eighth Dynamic because the symbol of infinity, 8, stood upright makes the numeral 8. This can be called the Infinity or God Dynamic.
Scientologists usually call these by number.
A further manifestation of these dynamics is that they could best be represented as a series of concentric circles, wherein the First Dynamic would be the center and each new dynamic would be successively a circle outside it. The idea of space expanding enters into these dynamics.
The basic characteristic of the individual includes his ability to so expand into the other dynamics. But when the Seventh Dynamic is reached in its entirety, one will only then discover the true Eighth Dynamic. As an example of use of these dynamics, one discovers that a baby at birth is not perceptive beyond the First Dynamic. But as the child grows and interests extend, the child can be seen to embrace other dynamics. As a further example of use, a person who is incapable of operating on the Third Dynamic is incapable at once of being a part of a team and so might be said to be incapable of a social existence. As a further comment upon the Eight Dynamics, no one of these dynamics from one to seven is more important than any other one of them in terms of orienting the individual. While the dynamics are not of equal importance, one to the next, the ability of an individual to assume the beingness, doingness and havingness of each dynamic is an index to his ability to live. The abilities and shortcomings of individuals can be understood by viewing their participation in the various dynamics.
MEDIA ADVISORY ON SILENT BIRTH
In view of recent incorrect media reports about "Silent Birth" the Church of Scientology International advises the media about the background and meaning of "Quiet" or "Silent Birth".
WHAT IS SILENT BIRTH?
Silent birth is all about providing the best possible environment for the birthing mother and her new baby. Its origins can be found in L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health and are firmly rooted in a fundamental and abiding principle that women, particularly expectant mothers, be given the utmost in care and respect.
A silent birth is labor and delivery done in a calm and loving environment and with no spoken words by anyone attending. Chatty doctors and nurses, shouts to "PUSH, PUSH" and loud or laughing remarks to "encourage" are the types of things that are meant to be avoided.
As L. Ron Hubbard wrote: "Everyone must learn to say nothing within the expectant mother’s hearing during labor and delivery. Particularly during birth, absolute silence must be maintained and the more gentle the delivery, the better."
The point of silent birth is NO WORDS. It does not mean a mother cannot make any sound during childbirth. It is doubtful that any woman could give birth without making any noise at all.
Mothers naturally want to give their baby the best start in life and thus keep the birth as quiet and peaceful as possible. That being said, a woman’s choice for her delivery is completely up to her and her doctor. There is no requirement to adhere to any specific routine. Just like care is taken in all other aspects of labor and birth, a woman and her doctor or midwife and any others present work out how to communicate without words.
Doctors respect the right of a mother to choose her birthing experience. Silent birth is not a medical model but a religious and philosophical approach based on L. Ron Hubbard’s research into the mind and spirit.
The principle behind not speaking during childbirth is delineated in Dianetics and to fully understand why, one should read the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. But to provide a brief explanation, L. Ron Hubbard discovered the hidden source of nightmares, unreasonable fears, upsets, insecurity and psychosomatic illness—the reactive mind. This part of the mind records all perceptions during times of pain and unconsciousness—which childbirth is for both mother and child. And words, in particular, spoken during these moments, can have an adverse effect on one later in life.
However, since the research, findings and practice of silent birth were first announced by Mr. Hubbard in the 1951 text entitled Child Dianetics, this method has been corroborated and applied by doctors, nurses and midwives world over.
The Church has no policy against the use of medicines to help a person with a physical situation and these principles do not preclude a mother from receiving any medical procedure needed to safely deliver the baby, including Caesarean section. These are medical decisions and these, too, are between the mother and her doctor.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
HOW DOES SILENT BIRTH ACTUALLY WORK?
There is no specific routine. Just like care is taken in all other aspects of labor and birth, a woman and her doctor or midwife and others present work out how to communicate without words. Different women have done different things.
IS IT A CHURCH RULE THAT THEIR MEMBERS MUST ADHERE TO THIS PRACTICE?
Not at all. A woman’s delivery is always up to her and her doctor.
DOES THE CHURCH HAVE RULES AGAINST PAINKILLERS, ANESTHESIA OR OTHER MEDICAL DRUGS?
The Church has no policy against the use of medicines to help a person with a physical situation. This is a matter between the person and their doctor.
DOESN’T L. RON HUBBARD RECOMMEND/ADVOCATE A NATURAL, DRUG-FREE BIRTH?
Yes, because it is best for the mother and the child. It is common knowledge that natural childbirth is best, but that doesn’t always work out, and it is up to the mother and her doctor.
IT HAS BEEN REPORTED THAT MANY SCIENTOLOGISTS WILL DEMAND A NATURAL CHILDBIRTH WITH NO DRUGS. WHY?
It is the mother’s choice. If they don’t use drugs it’s simply because a mother wants the best for her new baby.
IS IT TRUE THAT SCIENTOLOGISTS CAN’T TOUCH OR TALK TO THEIR BABY FOR THREE DAYS TO A WEEK? OR ARE THERE SEVEN DAYS OF SILENCE AFTER BIRTH?
Absolutely not, this is a complete fabrication and not a practice of Scientology.
DO DOCTORS AGREE WITH THESE PROCEDURES?
Of course. It’s a personal decision of the mother and doesn’t interfere with any medical procedure. Doctors naturally respect the right of a mother to choose her own birth experience.
ARE C-SECTIONS PERMITTED?
This is a medical decision, nothing to do with Scientology.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN FURTHER WHAT DIANETICS IS?
L. Ron Hubbard discovered the single source of stress, worry, self-doubt and psychosomatic illness, which is the reactive mind. This part of the mind records all perceptions in times of pain and unconsciousness and in particular, words spoken during these moments can have adverse effects on people later in life. Full information on this is available in the book, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.
WHAT DOES SCIENTOLOGY SAY ABOUT THE RAISING OF CHILDREN?
L. Ron Hubbard has written a great deal about raising children. In Scientology, children are respected the way any person should be albeit in a young body. This does not make them any less a person and they should be given all the love and respect granted adults. Scientologists also believe children should be encouraged to contribute to family life and not just be "seen and not heard," as the old saying goes.
Most children raised in Scientology homes are above average in ability and quickly begin to understand how and why people act as they do. Life thus becomes a lot happier and safer for them.
WHAT ELSE HAS L. RON HUBBARD WRITTEN ABOUT RAISING CHILDREN?
There is a lot written in Scientology about children. Scientology help people understand their basic nature and this alone helps parents tremendously.
Some of the basic principles Scientologists apply to parenting are summed up in the following quotes:
"Today's children will become tomorrow's civilization. Try to be the child's friend. It is certainly true that a child needs friends. Try to find out what a child's problem really is and without crushing their own solutions, try to help solve them. A child factually does not do well without love. Most children have an abundance of it to return." - "The Way to Happiness"
"The spoiled child is the child whose decisions have been interrupted
continuously and who is robbed of his independence." - "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health"
"Affection could no more spoil a child than the sun could be put out by a bucket of gasoline." - "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health"
"A good, stable adult with love and tolerance in his heart is about the best therapy a child can have." - "Child Dianetics"
"A human being feels able and competent only so long as he is permitted to contribute as much or more than he has contributed to him." "Child Dianetics"
DO SCIENTOLOGISTS CONSIDER CHILDREN ADULTS IN A SMALL BODY?
No. Scientologists consider children to be spiritual beings, like all people are but they need to be taken care of as children. L. Ron Hubbard has written quite a lot on the subject, including that "a child needs all of the love and affection it can possibly get" and that "a good stable adult with love and tolerance in his heart is about the best therapy a child can have."
Children need respect, love, help, and education. They want to help others from a very early age and it is important that adults allow them to do so, within the realms of safety. A child has to know they have a place in life, that they are important and that their contributions are meaningful in a real way.
Education is an important part of this, as a child needs understanding of the workings of his family and society to be able to contribute to them in meaningful ways and in this he can be greatly assisted by his parents and other family members.
CAN CHILDREN PARTICIPATE IN SCIENTOLOGY? HOW?
Yes, many children do and there are no age restrictions as to who may participate in Scientology auditing or training. Scientology Churches conduct courses and study programs specifically designed for young people. Children below the age of majority must first obtain written consent from their parents or guardian to participate in Scientology services. Like adherents of other religions, Scientologists are very proud when their children join them in the practice of their religion.
WHAT IS SCIENTOLOGY?
Developed by L. Ron Hubbard, Scientology is a religion that offers a precise path leading to a complete and certain understanding of one’s true spiritual nature and one’s relationship to self, family, groups, Mankind, all life forms, the material universe, the spiritual universe and the Supreme Being.
Scientology addresses the spirit—not the body or mind—and believes that Man is far more than a product of his environment, or his genes.
Scientology comprises a body of knowledge which extends from certain fundamental truths. Prime among these are:
Man is an immortal spiritual being.
His experience extends well beyond a single lifetime.
His capabilities are unlimited, even if not presently realized.
Scientology further holds Man to be basically good, and that his spiritual salvation depends upon himself, his fellows and his attainment of brotherhood with the universe.
Scientology is not a dogmatic religion in which one is asked to accept anything on faith alone. On the contrary, one discovers for oneself that the principles of Scientology are true by applying its principles and observing or experiencing the results.
The ultimate goal of Scientology is true spiritual enlightenment and freedom.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CORE TENETS OF SCIENTOLOGY?
Fundamental to Scientology is a view of Man as a spiritual being. In Scientology, the spiritual being is called a thetan. The term is taken from the Greek letter theta for "thought" or "life" or "the spirit." It is used to avoid confusion with previous concepts of the soul. The thetan is immortal and has lived—and will continue to live—through countless lifetimes. One is a thetan who has a mind and who occupies a body. The thetan animates the body and uses the mind.
Also fundamental to Scientology is a view of life as compartmentalized into urges (drives, impulses) toward survival. These are called the dynamics and number eight in all.
The First Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as one’s self. Here we have individuality expressed fully. This can be called the Self Dynamic.
The Second Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as a sexual activity. This dynamic actually has two divisions. Second Dynamic (a) is the sexual act itself. And the Second Dynamic (b) is the family unit, including the rearing of children. This can be called the Sex Dynamic.
The Third Dynamic—is the urge toward existence in groups of individuals. Any group, or part of an entire class, could be considered to be a part of the Third Dynamic. The school, the society, the town, the nation are each part of the Third Dynamic and each one is a Third Dynamic. This can be called the Group Dynamic.
The Fourth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as or of Mankind. Whereas one race would be considered a Third Dynamic, all the races would be considered the Fourth Dynamic. This can be called the Mankind Dynamic.
The Fifth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence of the animal kingdom. This includes all living things, whether vegetable or animal, the fish in the sea, the beasts of the field or of the forest, grass, trees, flowers or anything directly and intimately motivated by life. This can be called the Animal Dynamic.
The Sixth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as the physical universe. The physical universe is composed of Matter, Energy, Space and Time. In Scientology we take the first letter of each of these words and coin a word—MEST. This can be called the Universe Dynamic.
The Seventh Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as or of spirits. Anything spiritual, with or without identity, would come under the heading of the Seventh Dynamic. This can be called the Spiritual Dynamic.
The Eighth Dynamic—is the urge toward existence as infinity. This is also identified as the Supreme Being. This is called the Eighth Dynamic because the symbol of infinity, 8, stood upright makes the numeral 8. This can be called the Infinity or God Dynamic.
Scientologists usually call these by number.
A further manifestation of these dynamics is that they could best be represented as a series of concentric circles, wherein the First Dynamic would be the center and each new dynamic would be successively a circle outside it. The idea of space expanding enters into these dynamics.
The basic characteristic of the individual includes his ability to so expand into the other dynamics. But when the Seventh Dynamic is reached in its entirety, one will only then discover the true Eighth Dynamic. As an example of use of these dynamics, one discovers that a baby at birth is not perceptive beyond the First Dynamic. But as the child grows and interests extend, the child can be seen to embrace other dynamics. As a further example of use, a person who is incapable of operating on the Third Dynamic is incapable at once of being a part of a team and so might be said to be incapable of a social existence. As a further comment upon the Eight Dynamics, no one of these dynamics from one to seven is more important than any other one of them in terms of orienting the individual. While the dynamics are not of equal importance, one to the next, the ability of an individual to assume the beingness, doingness and havingness of each dynamic is an index to his ability to live. The abilities and shortcomings of individuals can be understood by viewing their participation in the various dynamics.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Kelly Preston and Silent Birth
With Kelly Preston's new arrival due any time, my fellow blogger Tad has created the ultimate answer to any question you may have about "silent birth".
(By-the-way, it's actually called "quiet birth" but that sounds less controvertial than "silent birth" so the media likes to mis-name it.)
Anyway, head on over to Tad's website and check out Everything you Wanted to Know About Silent Birth but Were Afraid to Ask .
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
(By-the-way, it's actually called "quiet birth" but that sounds less controvertial than "silent birth" so the media likes to mis-name it.)
Anyway, head on over to Tad's website and check out Everything you Wanted to Know About Silent Birth but Were Afraid to Ask .
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard
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