Background: Sir Roger Bannister was an English neurologist and middle-distance athlete who was the first person to break the 4-minute mile. At the time, popular thought was that such a feat was humanly impossible. He trained in rigorous circumstances, never wavering from his goal. It was even more inspiring to know he was doing this training while attending medical school!

When I started my fitness journey in my sixties I was recruited to join a master’s running team. The term “masters” was used because we were all over fifty, not because we were so terrific. Being the oldest member (and slowest person on our team) it was a real stretch for my abilities. After about two years of participation, with the encouragement of my fellow team members and our coach, I participated in the National Senior Games. At age 65, I was able to finish in the top ten in my age group in both the 800-meter and 1500-meter races, proving to myself that it is never too late to strive for a new goal, even if it is to be a track runner.

During this time, I was starting to connect with others in the “soul realm” and thought who better to connect with that the first person who broke the 4-minute mile record. Perhaps he could give me some sage advice. Herewith is our discussion.

Janie J, Soul Connector: Did you ever get discouraged when training to break the 4-minute mile? If so, what did you do to keep your spirits up?

Sir Roger Bannister: Yes. I maintained focus and direction at all times. I knew I only had a small window on the timeline of my life to accomplish this. That in itself served as motivation for I knew once the time passed, my chance would be lost forever.

I wanted to go down in the history books for something with physical ability. I’m not sure where this desire came from. Perhaps within, as my family (father, most notably), wanted me to pursue a worthy vocation so I could ably support a wife and family as he and others had done. But I guess running was a first love to me. It brought immense joy and satisfaction. At times, I felt I was literally born to run. Maybe that’s it … maybe it was my goal in life — to satisfy my inherent needs and serve as an example to others.

Don’t get me wrong. It was immensely hard/difficult. I’m not even sure now how I did it other than sheer will and determination along with the hand of God guiding me. I asked constantly for guidance, probably to the point of being a pest. But it was only myself and intuitive mind (or higher self) to figure this out, so I used all means possible. It was like praying that never ceased. It was like talking to oneself and being your own teacher, cheerleader, and inquisitor (searching for answers) all in one.

I do feel anyone can do similar feats, but strong will, focus and daily habit are imperative along with assistance from God or one’s higher power. Constant effort. No letting up or “no excuses” as you folks say. Rough weather and minor ailments are not excuses to let up. One must push on through if greatness is to be achieved. No giving up despite great odds or seemingly insignificant progress. The effort is measured once the final attempt is made. All those intermediary steps seem insignificant until the final test or final run, where the goal is achieved.

If you are wondering if greatness is attainable by you or teammates, the answer is yes, by all means, but one must do the work with dedicated and unwavering attitude/mindset with no letting up. Follow my suggestions about determination and eliciting the hand of God to work in your favor.

Good luck, fellow athletes.
Sir Roger Bannister

On my trip to Nepal in late 2025, one of the most memorable days was a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO site outside of Kathmandu. This stupa (religious monument) dedicated to Buddha is one of the largest in Nepal. It is adorned with prayer wheels that can be turned as you walk around the stupa in clockwise direction after making a wish. One is to contemplate the wish as you walk peacefully around the stupa.

Insights from Buddha

The area is surrounded by lovely artisan shops with locally made drawing, tapestries, jewelry, and other interesting items. The street is filled with both tourists and  local Nepalese, as well as Buddhist monks. I was especially intrigued with the tapestries depicting stories of enlightenment. There are local schools that teach this craft! 

Many restaurants offer rooftop dining so one may observe the stupa. We secured such a table with an unobstructed view, and I decided there was no better place to have a soul connection with the Buddha. The following is a transcription of our visit.

Insights from Buddha

Janie J: Buddha, what is the most important thing for us to learn?

Buddha: First, thank you for coming to Nepal and for visiting my stupa! I’m so proud of my countrymen for constructing it for me (in my memory) for it means they did not forget me!

Now to your questions. There are three answers to what you should learn.

  1. You are enough as a divine being.
  2. Your struggles are meant to teach you.
  3. Lastly, one can achieve Nirvana while living an Earthly life if you follow my higher teachings which involve loving others unconditionally and understanding that suffering is man-inflicted. All one has to do is to be grateful for where he or she is on their journey.

Enjoy the rest of your visit. Namaste,

The Buddha, The Enlightened One who wishes all to be enlightened

We  left the hotel in Pokhara, Nepal at 5:00 am. It was still dark, but our guide assured us it would be worth it. Our bus drove up a steep, winding road. We held our breath each time another bus went by, wondering if both buses would even fit. After parking,  we hiked in the semi-darkness up a long path of stone, pavers, and compacted dirt.  There were old people, young people, families, and even children. We all made the memorable hike, seemingly in the middle of the night, just to watch. I mused, “this must be something if all these other people are making the climb!”

Upon reaching our destination—Sarangkot, a popular viewpoint near Pokhara, Nepal, we were not  disappointed! Since we arrived early, I managed to get a front row seat. As I stood just behind the railings and gazed out to the Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake below, I started to understand the magnificence and size of the great Himalayan Mountains. 

Just before the sun rose, the sky and mountains started to glow, getting brighter each moment as the sun started to ascend. People gasped. They shook their heads. It was unbelievable—like nothing we’d ever seen. People from all over the world came just to see the sunrise on the beautiful Annapurna Himalayan Mountains. It was truly magical!

Later that day we had another meaningful interaction with the Himalayans. We ventured to the World Peace Pagoda, constructed by Buddhist monks from Japan. This involved a lengthy hike and again, the most astounding views.

At the pagoda, it is required to remove your shoes to enter the Shanti Stupa where Buddha adorns the entrance. This is a 115-foot white dome with panoramic views of Phewa Lake, Pokhara city, and the Annapurna Himalayan range. Quite a sight!

Our guide encouraged each of us to enjoy some quiet time at the monument, so I removed my shoes and walked about pensively, admiring the views.  Then it hit—a most unexpected message, which I will relay to you, because these are insights that all should learn.

“These Himalayan mountains are infused with peace, compassion, and joy for all humanity. Reason the Great One created them. Reason Buddha and others consider  them holy. They (the mountains) hold human emotions, then coat them with peace and compassion, and let them go. Releasing them to form joy.

All emotions—good and bad—are transformed. One way is through the power of the Great Himalayan Mountains. It’s a place to revere in its importance and novelty. A place to tell others about so they can experience the transformation that such a sacred place can create in one’s own life.

Namaste. Thank you for coming,

The Great One, the God of your understanding, All That Is, The Universe or Spirit. However one refers to it.

Remember it’s all the same deity, for we are all One. One with each other (humans), animals, plants, the sky, the heavens, and the Earth. All our thoughts are constantly being transmuted together to create the life experiences we all have.

Take care and enjoy your journey.”

In November of 2025 I ventured on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to India to see the Taj Mahal. While that was a magnificent experience in itself, what I did not imagine was how visiting Gandhi Smriti would impact me so profoundly.

This solemn retreat hidden away in the bustling city of New Delhi was quiet, insightful, and peaceful in it’s own way. You see, this is not only the place where Gandhi spent his last 144 days on Earth, but also the place where he was assassinated. Visitors can view his humble abode, his meditation chair, the beautiful garden, and the martyr’s column denoting the place where he died. His footsteps in concrete show the path from his dwelling/office towards his meditation chair across the garden where he was interrupted by his assassin.

In a lighter note, there is a long exterior walkway with many photos and explanations about him. It explains how he grew up in India, went away to college in England where he studied to be a barrister (an English version of a  lawyer) and why he traveled to South Africa. His struggles in South Africa resulted in freedom from the British Monarchy. This momentous task is more than most people are capable in an entire lifetime. But for Gandhi, it merely set the stage for his role in securing the same freedom for his homeland, India.

The man epitomized the word: Satyagraha, which means “a policy of passive political resistance especially that advocated by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule in India.” (Quote from the New Oxford American Dictionary.)

After becoming acquainted with the history surrounding Gandhi and his accomplishments, I was eager to have a “soul connection” with him. Herewith is our conversation.

Janie J: Gandhi, you lived an exemplary life! I was in awe and admiration when I learned about you on my visit to India. Please tell me what you feel was your greatest accomplishment.

Gandhi: At the time, I didn’t think my accomplishments were many or so significant. I was only trying to solve the next issue in my journey. It is only now as I look back and notice how all those little steps I took resulted in big accomplishments. 

I hope that I left mankind with the sense that one person can indeed make a difference in the lives of others and leave a mark on humanity.

I didn’t realize it at first, but then it became an obsession with me to fix (or at least bring attention to) the unfairness and unethical treatment of some peoples. This was not right! I found it to be indignant! It infuriated me so, but I learned to keep myself calm so my words and actions would be taken seriously for I knew that sudden outbursts and yelling would only draw negative attention to me and my efforts. I think I exemplified to others the purpose and power of calm negotiation.

My greatest accomplishment then, I feel, was to show all humans are equal or should be treated as such, using calm methods versus loud outbursts. Peaceful learning and peaceful co-existence is what I’d call it. Learning we are all equal, accepting it and acting accordingly, all without violence and mayhem.

All my best to you on your journey. Namaste.

Mahatma Gandhi, the great leader of men, setting the example of kindness, compassion, and equality through non-destructive means.

 

If you enjoyed this article, please follow me on Medium.com. My mission is to help raise the consciousness of mankind, one soul at a time. 

NOTE: This connection was done on Sept 12, 2025, just two days after Charlie was shot and killed.

JANIE J Soul Connector:  I am sorry you were shot. I believed in you. I didn’t always agree, but you were trying to get young people to think, which most have stopped doing. You’re doing the job their family/parents should have done.

What do you think will happen as a result of your death?

CHARLIE KIRK: Hopefully raise awareness for the work I was so passionately doing, ever since a young age. All I can do is hope I will make a difference in the lives of American young people ‘cause it’s the only way to change things—through the young decision-makers. The older ones have screwed things up with their complacent attitude, listening to rhetoric, and not using their critical thinking skills to analyze and think. They’re becoming robots, nothing more.

God and Jesus are looking down and crying for change. This is the reason I was sent to influence our country. I did my best. In the end it’s all one can do.

Thank you for connecting. Please come again.

“Knight” Charlie Kirk 

(I have been knighted for my Earthly contribution, but I’ll continue helping from this side to move things along.)

The following is an excerpt of a download from Pleiadian Masters about our life as humans. This chapter discusses the most important lesson we as humans are here to learn. Keep an open mind as you delve into their masterful teachings.

 

The next phase of human development is upon us now. It may take years for it to be completed, but it will be completed nonetheless with the help of many Pleiadian and non-Pleiadian beings. Since we are all One unity, it will be a joint achievement. More about that later.

How will this upleveling occur and what does it mean?

Each being, a human being in this case, has their own individual job or task to do. It’s much like an army of ants, each doing their part to literally move a mountain.

We each have a task to accomplish in our lifetimes. When we do our part, humanity reaches closer to our goal. It takes multiple lifetimes of struggle and strife to accomplish this goal. Beings must learn to be patient to achieve this end. This is but one of many lessons we each are to learn.

The timeline or when this great task is accomplished is not the end goal, rather it is the joint accomplishment of reaching new heights as a collective of human beings that is the crux of the matter. Joint action toward a common goal is another important lesson our lives take with us.

It is this joint cumulative ongoing persistent activity that exhibits that we are indeed One being that will help set us free on our human journey.

This journey takes lifetimes as we mentioned before. It will be uncomfortable at times. Many will give up and need to try again. Others will persist and make progress sooner or seemingly faster. Since time is virtually standing still in a vacuum while this process is unfolding, the length of time required to achieve or learn the necessary lessons is not really that crucial.

What is important though is that each being try his/her best each lifetime and make some small inkling of progress so that eventually all humanity rises together to new heights of understanding, exhibited by their acts of love toward each other and the rest of the Earthly environment. This includes animals, insects, and the physical environment such as the sky and bodies of water. It is this co-existing of all nature and all living beings that represents our journey to understanding that: 

 

We Are All One, one collective being, dependent on and affected by other segments. That will be our greatest accomplishment.

 

Knowing in our soul that we exists as One being is the greatest lesson we are here to learn.

Do not give up my dears. Instead give it your best attempt. Work towards this goal each lifetime.

The Pleiadian masters urge all being to focus their daily efforts towards achieving this lofty goal, for it will culminate in a happier and more joyous experience for all as a result of this new found understanding and cultivation of love. 

We are all love, created from the divine. In time, when all are ready to ascend, we will return to love and unite with our deity. Such a glorious sight and one truly worth all your effort.

(Message received from Pleiadian Masters Ozzo, O’Busco, Mariette, and Dono plus the others before them who paved the way.)

This is an excerpt from one of the downloads I received from the Pleiadian Masters.

 

All beings can achieve greatness. In fact, we are all made or created for greatness. Whether we achieve it in our lifetimes is up to us, but we are all quite capable.

This is because we were all designed by God, the great one, source, or our own individual higher power, to innately have greatness. It’s much like the bud of a bloom of a flower. All the potential is there. Provided the conditions are right – sunshine, water, and proper cultivation – the bloom will expand or grow into a beautiful flower.

Without sunshine, the plant will wither. Without water, the plant will shrivel up and dry, causing it to die. Without cultivation, it will also die.

But what exactly is the cultivation part? This, my friends, is exactly what is missing in the lives of so many humans. It’s the spark. It’s the tending to by others that nurtures one to grow.

Much as plants and trees often need others (be it other botanical plants, humans, or forest animals) to grow to greatness, humans need this also.

You see, we do not exist in a vacuum. We need other life forms to reach our potential.

A tree needs sunshine and water that is for certain. But it also needs animals to interact with it, like squirrels climbing or birds singing in it. Trees often communicate with other trees, forming large, intertwined root systems. Just like those root systems are hidden beneath the soil, our attachments to other people, animals and nature might not be visible; however these often-unseen ties are what sustain us or nurture us during the storms of life.

For example, remember when you felt a bit blue and decided to take a walk outside? Being among Mother Nature enjoying the trees, flowers, and chirping birds, you are often able to clear your mind and reach a higher level of happiness, pushing your sad feelings aside.

This is because we (meaning all living entities) are all connected, and we rely on each other for nurturing and growth.

This nurturing is essential for our growth to expand to the levels of greatness!

Humans should regularly walk in nature and fuel the bellies of the environment, much like the outside elements will fuel you, so all can achieve greatness.

You see, man cannot achieve greatness (his/her great milestones) in life without the help of other beings.

We must learn to rely more on others, not as a crutch, but as an added, although vitally important element to our well-being.

Let’s take a person with moderate capabilities in a specific field. They have a good ability to perform a certain task, whether it be in engineering, writing, or designing new equipment. However, if no one comes along to offer support and encouragement, it is doubtful they can master their trade adequately to reach mastery or as one would say, “greatness.” We all need the assistance from others, even if it is a little push to spur us to greatness.

This greatness is but another example of how all creatures on Earth are interconnected, the crux of the human experience. Pleiadians are here to assist in this important endeavor.

This is an excerpt from one of the downloads I received from the Pleiadian Masters

Our day begins with sunshine or rain, maybe a cold breeze or even snow. How or why does ‘how the day begin’ affect our mood, our spiritual health?

The answer: Because we let it. This observance should be a lesson to us all. A lesson we can use to our own benefit.

If sunshine and warm weather make you start the day in a happier mood – then create your own sunshine. Create the type of morning routine or ritual that feels right for you.

If it’s quiet time you crave, give it to yourself first. Create the scenario that feeds your soul (your spiritual health) first. Do not delay by telling yourself, you will do it later. The day may get away from you, filled with mundane tasks and other obligations, leaving you drained spiritually.

But if you serve your needs first, you will have the stamina to pursue other activities seamlessly.

How does this work? You see; by meeting the needs of our own spiritual health, we feel more fulfilled, ready for the day and happier in our soul. This newfound energy can help propel us through our day to accomplish those tasks we want or need to do.

How one starts off the day has a tremendous affect on the remainder of the day.

Think of this scenario: You wake up to a blaring alarm. Still dizzy and not yet awake, you push the snooze button. After another minute of slumber, followed by the repeated buzz, you reluctantly arise. As you stumble out of bed, you stub your toe on the bed frame, eliciting a cry from your mouth. You splash cold water on your face and try to wake up.

Now think about this scenario: You wake up without an alarm. You hear birds chirping outside your open window as a gentle breeze makes the curtains waiver. You sit up in bed, collecting your thoughts and feel an immense amount of gratitude for having another day to experience life here on Earth.

Which scenario seems preferable to you? It’s not that one scenario is better than another. Another completely different scenario might be your preference. The key is finding a routine that feels right within your soul, one that makes you happy to be alive, a method that fuels your spiritual health.

This is a necessity for all beings to acquire or learn how to acquire if they are to have a joyous life. It is theirs for the taking. It is their birthright. However, one must learn how to create such a life.

Learning to develop one’s own morning ritual can be the first step to creating one’s perfect life. Once you decide what feels good to you and what you want to experience, then go about creating such a system or routine.

After you’ve nailed down the morning routine that feeds your soul and thus impacts your spiritual well-being, then expand your vision to your daytime actions. Later focus on the type of life you’d imagine if only you could. Once you take steps to creating the type of human experience you desire, your spiritual health will flourish. You will have done it – mastered this thing called Life.

You will feel happy, joyous, and grateful inside. It matters not if you meet resistance or trials, your soul will hold and keep you safe. Your temperament will not change. You’ll be grateful for a wonderful life, even with the challenges. You’ll realize the tough times are there to teach you lessons and help you grow. Your spiritual well-being will grow as you learn to embrace these less-memorable components of life.

This my dear, is how it’s done. This is how humans learn to live an extraordinary life – a life filled with their own happiness and a life lived by example to others. The type of life that helps lift the consciousness or awareness of all beings. This helps all of humankind evolve. Such a life is key if we the Pleiadians wish to impact humanity. We all must do our part.

So each day, as you begin, think about nurturing your own spiritual well-being first. Design a life that feeds your soul and fuels your purpose. It’s your birthright and your responsibility to humankind!

Be well. Be safe. Be content with your journey.

 

Follow Janie's author profile on Amazon.com to learn more including the book release date.

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