A teaching by Christopher emphasizing how to navigate life in times of divisiveness by practicing universal friendship, understanding and generosity, while avoiding tendencies towards hatred, aggression and violence. (Lecture given on September 15, 2025)

Self-Conduct in Divided Times

Heart of Heaven

“Healing Won’t Make Me Like You” is a melodic indie-pop song about autism and healing from trauma — the quiet, lifelong process of unlearning shame and reclaiming your true self. It’s not about becoming “normal” or changing to fit in, but about finding peace in authenticity after years of masking and misunderstanding. 
With soft female vocals, emotional depth, and an uplifting tone, the song speaks for those who are learning that healing doesn’t erase who they are — it helps them finally feel whole.

Healing Wont Make Me Like You

She sat by the door to the church every day
Praying that someone would care. 
All the fine ladies and gents came to pray, heard her prayer.

She sat at the table, her nose in a book,
Trying to hide in plain sight.
Did anyone notice? Did they even look -  offer a bite? 

Don’t straighten the line, follow the curve, trust in supply and demand.
Adore the Divine, then have the nerve to say you want a Christian land.

The question was simple, “Can you spare a dime?”
I’ve got a family to feed.
Look straight ahead, it’s not a crime, you’ve got your needs. 

Don’t straighten the line, follow the curve, trust in supply and demand.
Adore the Divine, then have the nerve to say you want a Christian land.

Feed the hungry, find the lost. Don’t complain how much it costs.
Love the ones no one else will, love your neighbor.
Heal the sick and offer hope, give the fallen ones a rope.
Do the things he told you to.


Living Simply

This one's for anyone who's ever felt like they were reading the recipe for life but still going hungry. "Gonna Get My Hands Dirty" is a folk-blues story that digs into some old, powerful parables: one about a house on fire where the people inside are too busy playing to notice the danger , and another about a king's son who forgets his inheritance and has to work his way back to remembering his own worth.  

It's a song about the simple, gritty truth that wisdom isn't found on a page—it's earned in the dirt, in the work, and in the choice to act with compassion. It’s about rolling up your sleeves and realizing that the only way to make things real is to get your hands dirty.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sūtra, this track is built on a foundation of raw acoustic guitar, weeping slide, and a wailing harmonica. For fans of story-driven folk and blues that asks the big questions.

Lyrics: 

(Acoustic guitar intro, slow and steady like a train rhythm)

(Verse 1)
The roof is on fire, the floorboards are hot
But the children are playin' with the toys they got
Don't see the danger, don't see the rot
In this burnin' house, they've already forgot.
A man stands outside, he's callin' their name
Says, "I got you somethin' better than this foolish game."
He don't waste his time tryin' to explain the flame
He just knows the gettin' out is the whole aim.   

(Chorus)
'Cause you can read the recipe 'til your eyes go blind
But the truth ain't on the page, it's what you do and find.
Gotta get your hands dirty in this world of mine
'Cause readin' ain't the same as cookin' when it's supper time.

(Verse 2)
I was a king's son, but I ran from my home
For fifty long years, I was destined to roam.
Dressed in rags and sorrow, chilled to the bone
Forgot the great fortune that I'd always owned.
I stumbled back home, but I didn't know the place
Saw my own father, but couldn't see his face.
He saw my shame, my fall from grace
And knew the whole truth would make me flee the space.   

(Verse 3)
So he hired me on for a poor man's pay
To shovel the dirt at the close of the day.
For twenty long years, he showed me the way
Built me back slowly, come what may.
He never once told me, "Son, you are my heir"
He just let my own work chase off my despair.
'Til I was strong enough, the real truth to bear
That the whole damn kingdom was always my share.   

(Chorus)
You can read the recipe 'til your eyes go blind
But the truth ain't on the page, it's what you do and find.
Gotta get your hands dirty in this world of mine
'Cause readin' ain't the same as cookin' when it's supper time.

(Bridge)
Then the ground beneath me started to shake and to groan
And a million helpers rose up from the stone.
They weren't from the heavens, they were flesh and bone
Born of this suffering world, to make it their own.   
They said, "The work ain't 'bout savin' just you from the fire"
"It's about stayin' behind, to lift everyone higher".   

(Chorus)
So I'll read the recipe, but I won't be blind
'Cause the truth ain't on the page, it's in the daily grind.
Gonna get my hands dirty for all of humankind
'Cause readin' ain't the same as cookin', and it's supper time.

(Outro, guitar slows)
Yeah, it's supper time...
Gonna help my brother...
Gonna help my sister...
It's supper time.
(Final chord fades)

Gonna Get My Hands Dirty

Collection of poignant and moving atmospheres provided in all keys, carrying depth, intimacy, and sincerity to enhance moments and narratives that require strong emotional weight and heartfelt resonance. Whether for touching, hopeful moments of grace, or for quiet griefs, reflective introspection, and emotional turmoil situations, these tracks provide expressive and emotive support, giving voice and weight to every tear, every smile, every gesture and every unspoken feeling.

Poignant Atmospheres

https://bmgproductionm

Under Fragile Skies

Rebecca continues our series looking at the passing on of our love and resources.

Pass It On - Compassion

Welcome to Heart of Compassion: Meditations for Peace & Healing with Beth Shekinah Terrence.

This is a journey into the Heart of Compassion through a community Meditation for Peace and Healing. Join us for a time of heart-centered meditation.

Together, we will explore and connect more fully with the heart.  Through a journey into stillness, openness and love. We will delve more deeply into our own innate intelligence - the wisdom of the heart. 

The intention of these spaces is to provide support and community for those seeking to live a heart centered life; and to deepen their practice of cultivating receptivity and inner stability through meditation and healing practices especially in these challenging times.

This new series will be offered live a few times per month via Zoom with varying dates and times initially. Recordings will be posted here on SoundCloud or YouTube.

Come explore!

Sign up to join future live sessions and receive updates on Heart of Compassion Meditation programs at https://heart.bethshekinah.com/meditationforpeaceandhealing.

Heart of Compassion: Meditation for Peace & Healing 10.6.25

Don't cry because its over, Smile because it happened, wise words from a special person

Smile becasuse it happened

"The Patient Heart Blues" - A Song About Standing Strong While Walking Away
Sometimes the hardest thing in the world is knowing when to stay and when to go. This song came from studying an ancient Buddhist text about patience—but not the kind of patience where you just take whatever comes. Real patience, the kind that refuses to break.

The Buddha said when people come at you with "swords, sticks, and stones," you should be patient. But here's the twist: being patient doesn't mean being a doormat. It means having such unshakable inner strength that you don't need to hit back—AND being wise enough to protect yourself and walk away when you need to.

Sometimes walking away IS the strongest thing you can do.

Inspired by scholarly analysis of the Lotus Sutra, Chapter 10 For everyone who's still learning to put themselves first without losing their heart

🎵 "It's fire in your belly sayin' 'I won't quit,' / It's wisdom in your heart knowin' when to split" 🎵


Lyrics: 
(Verse 1)
Well, they comin’ at me with their sticks and stones,
Yeah, they comin’ at me with their sticks and stones,
But I got a strength inside that won’t leave my bones.

(Verse 2)
Buddha told me, “Son, you think of me,”
Buddha told me, “Child, you think of me,”
When the world gets mean, that’s when you’re finally free.

(Chorus)
‘Cause patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
No, patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
It’s standin’ so strong that you refuse to quit.

(Verse 3)
Now they call me names and they wish me harm,
Yeah, they call me names and they wish me harm,
But I keep my center, I keep my calm.

(Verse 4)
See, anger’s just a poison in your own sweet cup,
That anger’s just a poison in your own sweet cup,
You drink that down, you’re the one messed up.

(Chorus)
But patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
No, patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
It’s standin’ so strong that you refuse to quit.

(Bridge - Spoken/Half-sung)
Now listen here, I got somethin’ to say,
‘Bout compassion and boundaries and findin’ your way—
You can love somebody’s soul, their light divine,
But still walk away when they cross that line.

(Verse 5)
I built me a fence, strong and tall,
Yeah, I built me a fence, strong and tall,
Keeps me safe and keeps them from their fall.

(Verse 6)
’Cause if I let ’em hurt me, they hurt themselves more,
If I let ‘em hurt me, they hurt themselves more,
That’s just how karma settles the score.

(Chorus)
See, patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
No, patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
It’s lovin’ so deep but you still don’t quit.

(Verse 7)
Three kinds of patience, that’s what I found,
Yeah, three kinds of patience Buddha laid down,
Face your own pain, handle folks’ mean sound,
And know ain’t nothin’ permanent on this ground.

(Verse 8)
When you realize there ain’t no “you” to defend,
When you realize there ain’t no “you” to defend,
That’s when the sufferin’ finally ends.

(Final Chorus)
‘Cause patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
No, patience ain’t about just takin’ the hit,
It’s fire in your belly sayin’ “I won’t quit,”
It’s wisdom in your heart knowin’ when to split,
It’s lovin’ the world while you still protect it.

(Outro)
So when them swords come swingin’, when them stones start flyin’,
When them swords come swingin’, when them stones start flyin’,
I’m walkin’ away strong—ain’t no use in cryin’,
Got a patient heart, yeah, and that ain’t no lyin’.

[Harmonica wail]

The Patient Heart Blues

Retired the beginning of 2023. Been writing music seriously for about six years. Thanks for listening - and sharing!

Please like and share. 
Welcome to the musical world of The William Altig Choir, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sound.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and infused with deep spiritual themes, my music blends the rich traditions of blues and folk with modern elements, creating a unique fusion that resonates with both the heart and soul.

I've been captivated by the Lotus Sutra's messages of compassion, wisdom, and transformation since my youth. It's a journey of self-discovery that has found its voice in my music. Each song is a reflection of my own spiritual awakening and a celebration of universal truths.

My style is characterized by emotive storytelling, powerful lyrics, and a commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Featuring contemplative blues, acoustic slide guitar, saxophone melodies, and the harmonies of a gospel choir, my music reflects a quest for enlightenment and a better understanding of the self.

Join me on this musical journey. Together, we can explore the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, finding solace, hope, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

#SpiritualMusic  #LotusSutraMusic  #ContemplativeBlues  #BuddhistGospel #AcousticSlideGuitar  #GospelChoir  #Self-Discovery  #SpiritualAwakening  #Hope  #The_William_Altig_Choir

Autistic Adult writing lyrics for songs for healing from PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Coercive Control and seeking Trauma Informed Care For Front Liners. All my songs are FREE, I invite artists to record my songs as long as words not changed and attribution given to AusticZone. Still building this platform so please be patient while I organise things. Bless you

Official music channel for Heal in Jesus, a christian ministry dedicated to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ our savior.

Now on Spotify!


MachineHeart an Australian-First Nation genre bender - From Amlbient acoustic romantic , spokenword and jazzy surreal sound-scapes to the far side of the musical galaxy! ( Dark sub, nu-glitch minimal punk metal pop garage country house, ) who enjoys mashing the in-betweens and the out of
 controls if they get in the way! 

Forged from love, pain, alienation, grief, joy, chaos, the stars, world travellings, stream of consciousness’s , community, communication ,clarity, dust , fog, smoke, dreams, disappointment, tears, laughter, encouragement, rhythm, harmony, timing , colour, visions, imagination, experience, courage or stupidity to think outside the box time too deep inside  , flipping shit up, just see what’s underneath, vocabulary hacking, non conformity, code cracking , fronting the back from blackness to  light, living in the positives , Because verbose no such thing as wrong or right and sharing the knowledge that everything is gonna be alright even if it feels like it’s the fight of your life. 

We got this! 

I hope something touches you!
 
It’s a lot!!  
There so much more on the way…

I recommend having  a dig , because if have made it here and only listen to one song, you are seriously missing out because the next could change your life.

If I can change one life for the better , it’s a good day!No one should ever stop changing and growing. Remember, even the worst decision you ever make  can take you to that perfect, place you needed to be, in that perfect moment!

Now!

Peace and Love

Machine Heart 💚

Riverside Church publishes weekly audio sermons displaying God's Mercy, God's Truth and God's Glory.

Beth Shekinah Terrence, MS is a Shaman, Transformational Facilitator, Speaker & Writer. She has been working in the field of Holistic Healing and Wellness for over twenty-seven years.  Beth Shekinah offers an integrative holistic approach to life and well-being, which incorporates education, self-exploration and experiential practices.  Her mission is to support others in living a heart-centered, balanced and joyful life through discovering the healer within.  

Beth Shekinah's journey into healing began at age of eleven when she found a book on Foot Reflexology in her grandparent’s bookcase.  This random selection opened the door of her mind to the understanding that we are all energetic beings and have the ability to heal ourselves.  At fourteen, she began to practice yoga and meditation. This practice deepened her exploration into energy and spirituality.  It also supported her innate understanding of the oneness of all creation.​​  

Beth Shekinah spent the next fifteen years on her own spiritual and healing journey before stepping forth as a practitioner in the field of Holistic Healing and Transformation in 1996.  Over the past decade, the shamanic path has become the foundation of her life and work.  At the core of this foundation is the acceptance that everything is alive and interconnected through the web of life.  For true change to occur, it must happen in both our inner and outer worlds.  

Beth Shekinah continues to pursue her own evolution as the catalyst for the work she brings forth to share with others.  She has trained extensively and holds Certifications in: Shamanic Healing, Bach Flower Remedies, Zero Balancing, Massage Therapy, Energy Healing/ Reiki, Herbalism, PEER™ Emotional Release Work​, Bodybreath Healing™, Alignment Technique and Recovery Coaching. In 2021, she obtained a Masters Degree in Restorative Practices. 

Beth Shekinah is also a person in long term recovery from trauma, addiction and fibromyalgia. She is passionate about sharing her healing and recovery stories to inspire hope and help others discover holistic recovery pathways. Explore her story, “From Numbness to Oneness: Recovering Body, Mind & Soul” on YouTube at https://youtu.be/zwoMEux2aek.

Beth Shekinah offers classes, workshops and individual holistic shamanic transformation and holistic recovery programs in the MD/DC area and virtually. She also offers a variety of professional development trainings focused on self-care, resilience and compassion for health professionals, leaders and coaches. 

Come explore with Beth Shekinah at https://BethShekinah.com.

Philosophy is the pathless path; our inborn search for Truth. It is the hope of Christopher Murphy that through his teaching endeavors he can remind others of this innate search for Truth and empower them to see the Eternal with their own eyes.

thethreeawakenings@gmail.com

New tracks tagged #Compassion