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Embodying the Call to Live Our Truest Self: Journey of Ted Shawn from polio to dance

To know god without being god like is like trying to swim without entering water - orest bedrej


In the realm of human potential, there lies a profound truth: within each of us resides an untapped reservoir of strength, resilience, and creative expression. This inherent capacity, often veiled by the limitations of our minds, awaits the moment of awakening, the moment when we heed the call to embody our truest selves.


Ted Shawn, a pioneer in the world of modern dance, epitomizes this transformative journey. From the depths of physical limitations, he discovered a hidden wellspring of strength and passion, embodying the transformative power of embracing one's authentic calling.





As a young divinity student, Shawn contracted polio, leaving his legs paralyzed. Confined to a wheelchair, he faced an uncertain future, his dreams of pursuing a traditional career seemingly shattered. Yet, amidst the darkness of despair, a glimmer of hope emerged – a faint whisper from within urging him to embrace the world of dance.


Despite the daunting prospect of pursuing such a physically demanding art form, Shawn fearlessly answered the call of his soul. With unwavering determination, he embarked on a rigorous training regimen, pushing his body beyond its perceived limits. His unwavering belief in his potential ignited a spark of transformation, defying medical prognosis and reawakening his ability to walk.

Shawn's journey not only restored his physical mobility but also propelled him to the forefront of modern dance. He became a visionary choreographer, a captivating performer, and a passionate advocate for the art form. His unwavering commitment to his craft inspired generations of dancers and artists, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.


The story of Ted Shawn serves as a poignant reminder that the call to embody our truest selves is not merely an aspiration but an imperative. It is an invitation to venture beyond the confines of self-doubt and embrace the transformative power of authenticity.


As we navigate the complexities of life, let us draw inspiration from Shawn's unwavering spirit. Let us cultivate the courage to listen deeply to our inner voice, to heed the call of embodiment, and to unleash the boundless potential that resides within each of us.


May Ted Shawn's story serve as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a life of purpose, passion, and profound transformation.


The pursuit of understanding God or knowing God's nature has been a central theme in human thought and spirituality for millennia. While knowledge about God can bring intellectual satisfaction and a deeper connection to the divine, it is ultimately the act of embodying God's attributes that holds the key to true transformation and spiritual growth.


To simply know what God is, without embodying those qualities, is akin to possessing a treasure map but never embarking on the journey to uncover the hidden treasure. It is a passive pursuit that fails to tap into the transformative power of divine love, compassion, wisdom, and justice.


On the other hand, embodying God's attributes is an active and transformative process that requires us to align our actions, thoughts, and intentions with the values and principles that reflect God's nature. It is about striving to become more loving, compassionate, wise, and just in our daily interactions with others.


This process of embodiment is not about achieving perfection or becoming a deity. Instead, it is about recognizing the divine spark within ourselves and cultivating those qualities that reflect the highest potential of humanity. It is a lifelong journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation.


Here's why embodying God's attributes is more important than simply knowing what God is:

  1. Embodiment Leads to Action: Knowing what God is without embodying it is like having a powerful tool without using it. Embodiment translates knowledge into action, enabling us to make a positive impact on the world.

  2. Embodiment Fosters Transformation: Embodiment is not just about knowing; it is about becoming. It is a process of personal transformation that aligns our character and actions with the divine qualities we admire.

  3. Embodiment Creates a Ripple Effect: When we embody God's attributes, we become a beacon of light, inspiring others to do the same. This creates a ripple effect of positive change in the world.

  4. Embodiment Connects Us to the Divine: Embodiment is a bridge that connects us to the divine essence within ourselves and the divine presence in the world around us. It is a path to deeper spiritual connection.

In essence, knowing what God is provides knowledge, but embodying God's attributes is what unleashes the power of that knowledge to transform ourselves and the world around us. It is the embodiment of divine qualities that truly makes us godlike.

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