Adept: Transforming Base Metal into Gold

by Jim Gillette
(San Antonio, Texas)

In Latin, "adeptus" means an alchemist who has attained the knowledge of how to transform base metals into gold. What do you want to become adept in? What areas of your life do you want to take the base elements and transform them into gold?
It may start with a desire or a need. It may be recreation or business goal driven. In any case, it starts with you being a novice and your passion or your perceived need drives you to take all the necessary steps to become an adept. It could be chess, river rafting, public speaking, organizing events, running a business, creating new products or software, or anything you want.

In the beginning, the role of gurus and teachers is very important. As you learn from many, in person or books or online, you begin crafting your own personal transformation. You never stop learning, and what you create becomes more and more personal. It is yours and yours alone. You will have internalized what you have learned from others and through analysis and personal processing.
Always know that you can become deeply proficient. Believe in yourself, focus your energy on where you want to go, and never give up. Have patience and trust, and never give up. Enjoy life to the fullest, always including the road along the way. Acknowledge the progress you are making and never give up. You are the alchemist of your own life. I wish the very best to the Adept that is emerging within you.
http://www.personal-growth-and-freedom.com/adept.html


Bio
In my life, there are two main themes that are parallel and intertwined. In broad strokes, they could be described as spiritual and material. In my early twenties, I had a profound spiritual experience that changed my life forever. During the time of this transformation, I went to India, spent time with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and became an instructor of transcendental meditation.
Here is a scene from the ashram I was at. In the center are Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and a visiting Indian saint, Tat Wale Baba.

When I returned to the states I initiated hundreds of people into meditation and began a lifelong journey to fulfill myself spiritually.

Also, like most people, I had to learn how to earn a living and achieve material success.

After completing graduate work in counseling psychology, I became the head counselor in a program for poverty level school dropouts. Later, when I married, and had my first child, I became dedicated to a career in business. I created and ran companies at both the retail and wholesale levels, with and without partners. I also served as a national marketing director for a manufacturing company.

Twice, I built companies to among the largest in the nation in their niche. Following that, I have worked as a small business advisor specializing in marketing and exit planning.


All during that time, I practiced meditation daily, led groups and taught individuals various spiritual practices. I also studied, practiced, and taught various “release” techniques. In the mid 90s, I graduated from CoachU to add those practical skills. I think it is very important to have a daily practice that gives us the tools to have a full, rich, balanced life in all areas. I find that many people have adapted to the challenging, achievement oriented lifestyle of our postindustrial, information-based society. Yet, many are still searching for deeper peace and resolution of conflict.
http://www.personal-growth-and-freedom.com/About-Jim-Gillette.html