praying for each other
In times of great stress, people will often revert back to - or take up practices from - the religion of their childhood. I’ve seen too much, studied too much, have come too far to go back full force, but I still hold dear many of the things I learned from the Pentecostal Church. We visited the sick. Performed hands-on healing. Sang and danced ecstatically, experiencing the Holy Spirit (glossolalia). Prayed for each other, and over each other.
Over the years, the act of prayer has morphed and changed as my spiritual path has changed, yet has also remained a constant. It is now becoming, once more, a practice of blessing and comfort, not only to others, but to myself as well. I’m currently on a small web forum where a subset subject is prayer requests. I’ve been joining in the prayers, doing my own peculiar brand of invocation and metta, and feeling my heart expand with love and peace with each effort. As I feel fear and anxiety during this chaotic time in our nation’s history, the act of praying for the good of all is a grounding force. Being grounded also allows me to also think clearly on how best to participate in what life is bringing my way, instead of behaving in a reactionary manner.
If this time is bringing you fear and uncertainty as well, please join me in praying, meditating, thinking good thoughts - whatever works - for those in need. Our times require the conscious efforts of compassionate, grounded individuals.
May you be happy.
May you be peace-filled.
May you be healthy.
May you know yourself as loved.
Blessed be.
photo credit: 19melissa68
