Meditation Instructions for Sun., Jan. 1, 2012

For this Sunday, January 1st, the focus for our meditation will be on Virtue. In a recorded talk by Caroline Myss (“The Sacred Contract of America”) she speaks of the mystic background of our nation’s founders, many of whom were Freemasons. They believed that Virtue was a necessary quality for a group of free people to govern themselves in this newly formed country. In the case of Freemasons Virtue meant a sense of reverence for the qualities of loyalty and honor that help bind a group together and allows them to prevail over any difficulty. Myss bluntly acknowledges the excesses and foibles that have come to characterize this nation in more modern times and challenges us to work toward “refocusing that shadow toward the light.” According to Myss, what distinguishes our country is that it’s origin, and therefore the purpose for its very existence, was created with a particular consciousness. When our founders created this nation of free people they knew our country would be called to a greatness that goes far beyond any exercise of military might or global diplomacy. We were created with a spiritual covenant that requires us to seek to operate more in the light than those we oppose. While we have strayed from what initially held us together we still have the extraordinary capability and resources to fulfill the promise held by our Founding Fathers. On the threshold of this new year 2012 brings many challenges in the form of an important national election, our continued efforts to see our country return to financial responsibility, and the inevitable requirement to adapt to increasing change as we shift into a new astrological age. Rather than allow these challenges to drive us further apart we want to work through prayer to increase our desire for the Virtue that will sustain us through these difficulties. Let us ask in our prayer and meditation that we see a return to honor, loyalty and Virtue that extends across the country and helps us bring this nation back toward the light.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Virtue across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Virtue feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I have a sense of honor and loyalty to a group that represents true Virtue? How does it feel in my body when I know I operate with a sense of Virtue that increases my loyalty to others? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Dec. 25, 2011

For this Sunday, December 18th, the focus for our meditation will be on Confidence. On this day of Christmas and as we look ahead to the end of this year and the beginning of another let us extend the energy of Confidence across this nation. May we be Confident that all those traveling to be with loved ones over the holiday reach their destinations safely. May all those struggling to find work feel Confident that they will obtain meaningful employment. Let us ask with Confidence that those who have gone hungry be fed and those without homes find shelter. Let us feel Confident that all hurts and disputes that arose during the year be resolved, and may those who have become estranged from each other find reconciliation. As our nation struggles with so many issues let us be Confident that those in elected office seek to best serve their constituents in a spirit of cooperation and bipartisanship. As we look back over the year now past let us be Confident that our experiences, both good and bad, will have helped us to grow stronger. Let us gather together this season with the Confidence that peace will truly reign over the nation and world. Let us ask with Confidence that all our prayers be heard, and may all who participate in this meditation find their lives filled with every blessing.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I feel Confident about asking for something? What does it feel like when I am Confident in a positive outcome? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Dec. 18, 2011

For this Sunday, December 18th, the focus for our meditation will be on Understanding. There is a Bible passage from Philippians that refers to “the peace of God, which passes all understanding.” This passage follows one that exhorts people not to “worry over things,” and the connection between the two is interesting. All too often we become stressed by feeling as though we always need to figure out or Understand the circumstances in which we find ourselves. When we are unable to reach an Understanding of what is going on it can be disorienting and uncomfortable. We don’t like feeling as though we don’t comprehend situations because it reminds us that we aren’t always in control. Yet this passage makes clear that real peace comes without necessarily being able to Understand. It is the gap that bridges a leap of faith when you accept a circumstance without needing to have it all sorted out and know exactly what is going on. In other words, we need to Understand and accept that we likely won’t Understand everything that happens in our life. Once we reach that point of acceptance life’s ups and downs take less of a toll on us. With all the uncertainty in our individual lives and in the future of this country we want to ask this week in our prayer and meditation that we reach an Understanding that acknowledges we aren’t in control. Let us ask that the peace that “passes all Understanding” fill us with serenity and extend across this entire nation.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am able to accept that I can’t Understand all that happens around me? What does it feel like when I am filled with the peace of knowing I don’t need to Understand everything in my life? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Dec. 11, 2011

For this Sunday, December 11th, the focus for our meditation will be on Essentials. There is a theory in psychology known as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in which it is believed that until basic and fundamental human needs are met, such as food, shelter, security, etc., the individual is unable to progress or master higher levels of functioning such as ethical conduct and what Maslow termed “self-actualization.” For the vast majority of Americans we have lost sight of how critical these basic needs truly are. Past historical events such as the great stock market crash and soup lines are now only dim memories from grainy black-and-white photographs in textbooks. Most of us never experience real famine, homelessness, or what could even be termed a hand-to-mouth existence. But more recent occurrences such as bank failures, corporate fraud, and a rising incidence in foreclosures and unemployment have introduced an entire sector of modern Americans to the struggle to meet basic needs in a way that has not been experienced in decades. As we approach the holiday season and find ourselves inundated with commercials urging people to lavishly spend (and implying that one can only be satisfied through the accumulation of these goods) it is easy to lose sight of what is truly Essential in life. Rather than focusing on the gaudy glitz of seasonal sales, let us consider what is most Essential and fundamental for our society to sustain itself and evolve. This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask that across this nation people’s most basic needs of being adequately fed, securely sheltered, and gainfully employed be met. Let us consider what is truly Essential for the most basic requirements of our society and ask that people be given the opportunity and resources to satisfy those needs.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I recognize what is truly Essential in my life? What does it feel like when I am grateful for being able to meet my most Essential needs? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Dec. 4, 2011

For this Sunday, December 4th, the focus for our meditation will be on Simplicity. With the madness of Black Friday behind us we now find ourselves full bore in the frantic rush toward the end-of-year celebrations. It would take more than two hands to count the number of times I have heard people ask in the past week, “Are you ready for the holidays?” What the question implies is whether you have finished stringing lights, decorating the tree, getting gifts, sending out cards, etc. Look around and you see elaborate preparations being tended to everywhere. Stores began readying their holiday displays before we were even through Halloween. Instead of increasing the stress of the season, an alternative is to Simplify how we commemorate the holidays. Do less, not more, and choose to instead enjoy the Simple pleasure of company with friends and family. Engage in thoughtful conversation and savor the holiday meals as long as you can rather than spending days preparing food that will be consumed in 15 minutes. With our nation still under so much financial strain it would be helpful to return to the basics of what this holiday season is all about. When asked whether one is “ready” for the holidays the answer should be that we approach each and every day with a readiness to celebrate. This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider the Simple gifts we enjoy each day and give thanks for their presence in our life.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Simplicity across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Simplicity feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I enjoy taking time to Simplify my life? How does it feel in my body when I appreciate the Simple pleasures that fill each day? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Nov. 27, 2011

For this Sunday, November 27th, the focus for our meditation will be on Assistance. This time of year is one in which many people can feel overwhelmed by all the tasks that fill their lengthy to-do lists. Holiday preparations, cooking, shopping, wrapping and shipping gifts, mailing holiday greeting cards, traveling, etc., merely add to what is likely an already full agenda. For those of us who are loathe to delegate and ask for Assistance this season can sap our reserves, wearing us down physically and mentally. There are many reasons why we fall into this pattern. Sometimes we hesitate to ask for Assistance because we don't want to bother another individual. Sometimes we insist on doing it all ourselves because we are stuck in the rut of perfectionism and believe it is the only way it will be done properly. If there is one lesson to come out of this season it should be that we are mistaken to try and go it alone or to carry all our burdens by ourselves. If anything, the season is about being there for each other. It is only be recognizing the importance of sharing and delegating that we come to realize the value in reaching out to another and asking for Assistance. The act of asking someone else for Assistance can help validate the other individual and make them feel as though they are needed and wanted. It strengthens the bonds between people and can provide an opportunity for reciprocity that will make the other individual more willing to acknowledge when they, too, are overwhelmed and could use some help. Rather than stubbornly trying to accomplish all that is on our plate let us this week ponder how we might be better served by reaching out and asking for Assistance. Let us consider where in our lives we may be feeling overwhelmed and could be helped to relieve some of that burden. Additionally, let us ask that those who are struggling with impossible burdens also find the means to reach out and ask others for the Assistance they need.


Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.


Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am willing to readily ask others for Assistance? What does it feel like when I am relieved by the Assistance provided by others? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.


Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.


If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Nov. 20, 2011

For this Sunday, November 20th, the focus for our meditation will be on Polarity. The quality of Polarity is an inherent part of not only us but also the world around us. Beginning with something as small as a single molecule it requires an equal number of negatively-charged electrons in orbit around the bundle of positively-charged protons in its nucleus to provide balance and stability. It is as though this tiny part of our world mimics a fundamental principle to which all parts of life must adhere. I remember when I first began pursuing an interest in meditation and spirituality that I assumed it would lead to a life filled only with glorious highs and none of the lows. Instead, I discovered that the highs and lows both continue to exist, but neither end of the spectrum holds the same prominence they once did. The highs remain glorious but become less manic, and the lows also occasionally persist, but they lose a great deal of their blackness. To my surprise, I came to realize that without both we would likely be unable to appreciate when we are at the lighter end of the spectrum. If, as I had naively first expected, life only became a monotone of a single emotional level it would quickly become quite boring. This week in our prayer and meditation we want to gain an awareness of both the positive and the negative in our life and recognize the necessity of both. Let us acknowledge the inherent Polarity that exists within and around us and come to appreciate the stability and balance that result from its existence.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am aware of the inherent contradictions of Polarity that exist within and around me? What does it feel like when I appreciate both the highs and lows in life that Polarity represents? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Nov. 13, 2011

For this Sunday, November 13th, the focus for our meditation will be on Inquisitiveness. How is it that many of us come to decide our spiritual beliefs? Do we acquire most of what we believe we know from formal religious training (e.g., Catechism or Bible school) we receive when we are young? Or for some, perhaps we begin to explore alternative belief systems when we get older and develop the Inquisitiveness to find out for ourselves what other faiths and practices contain. In developing our spiritual foundation we have many choices before us. Our focus for this week’s meditation is to consider whether we want to move outside the passive acceptance of dogma handed down to us by others. Instead, we may want to use our Inquisitiveness to explore other faiths and read first-hand for ourselves the texts that serve as the basis for other religions rather than accept what others say about them. In addition, we may want to develop our own method of “knowing” in order to determine what most genuinely resonates with us in gaining an understanding of the nature of the divine world around us. In our meditation this week let us consider whether there are ways we would like to be more Inquisitive in gathering our spiritual wisdom.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle. In our efforts this week let us also consider connecting our energy to the vast etheric network that forms the Internet.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have a spirit of Inquisitiveness? What does it feel like when I am Inquisitive and want to learn more about a topic? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Nov. 6, 2011

For this Sunday, November 6th, the focus for our meditation will be on Balance. In this hectic, fast-paced world of ours many people find it challenging to maintain a Balance between work and home life. Yet both of these aspects of our life are necessary. For the vast majority of us, we need to work in order to be able to have the comfort and security to enjoy life. The problem occurs when one or the other all too readily consumes us, leaving little left for the other endeavor as a result. It is also easy to experience competing sources for our attention that make us feel as though we are being torn in different directions. One of life’s lessons is learning how to maintain a Balance between those interests. Rather than feeling as though we are precariously walking a tightrope, we would be better served if we recognized that Balance does not necessarily mean perfect symmetry. There may be times when one interest or another requires more of our attention. Instead of agonizing over what may be perceived as an unfair split of our time we would find it easier to simply remain flexible. A tightrope walker does not accomplish their daring feat by staying rigidly upright as they cross between platforms. They give with the movement of the rope and the pole they carry that helps them keep their Balance. This week in our prayer and meditation let us examine where in our life we may have gone out of Balance and ask that we find the flexibility to help us return to that state.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.Stage 1:Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Balance across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Balance feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I am aware I have Balance in my life? How does it feel in my body when I experience a sense of being in Balance? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 30, 2011

For this Sunday, October 30th, the focus for our meditation will be on Decontamination. I recently learned a startling statistic that the use of the Internet for pornography outnumbers its use for normal communication and social networking by a ratio of five to one. While I was certainly aware that the Internet had become an enticing environment for people to access and distribute pornography in the anonymity and privacy of their homes I had no idea it was this pervasive. The thought of my emails and Facebook or blog posts crossing the ether surrounded by at least five times more of this type of content is repulsive. Mentally it conjures up an image of being surrounded by an infestation of cockroaches or vermin, leading to our theme this week of Decontamination. Recently the rogue hacker group, Anonymous, which had previously worked against “establishment” targets such as Wall Street and banking sites announced a change in focus to find and disrupt web sites specifically designed to promulgate child pornography. Although this redirection of their efforts earned a tentative nod of approval from my corner there are other methods available to help Decontaminate the Internet from this appalling misuse. Those who operate such sites want to do so while remaining hidden and in darkness, hence the technical reference to that portion of the Internet dedicated to this type of activity as the “darknet.” Wherever there is darkness in the world the best solution is to bring what is hidden into the light. This week through our prayers and meditation we want to focus on filling the Internet with light. Let us use the light of our prayers and meditation to help Decontaminate this environment from that which would instead have it filled with darkness.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle. In our efforts this week let us also consider connecting our energy to the vast etheric network that forms the Internet.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I seek to clean out an infestation through Decontamination? What does it feel like when I use light to help show where an area needs Decontamination? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 23, 2011

For this Sunday, October 23rd, the focus for our meditation will be on Learning. Research studies on memory and aging have reportedly discovered that continually challenging the brain helps protect it against the onset of dementia. Novelty, in particular, as in the form of Learning a new language or skill seems to particularly help keep the brain “young.” I believe our spirit also retains its youthfulness when we preserve our inquisitiveness and ongoing desire to explore and Learn new material. There often is an excitement at discovering some new aspect of a body of knowledge you thought you already possessed. The key is to remain receptive to recognizing there is more to Learn on a topic and to never presume you have “mastered” a particular subject or skill. Most would advocate that Learning is a continual, lifelong process that never ceases. Learning can be in the form of facts and knowledge or in simple lessons such as how to avoid making the same mistake repeatedly. In our meditation this week let us examine whether there is something we could be Learning that would benefit us in our life.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have a desire to Learn something new? What does it feel like when I challenge myself by Learning something I didn’t know before? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 16, 2011

For this Sunday, October 16th, the focus for our meditation will be on Offering. For eons people have used Offerings in their spiritual practice as a means of appeasing the gods (“sacrificial offering”) or in atonement for some wrong or offense towards another (“peace offering”). An Offering can also be made as an expression of gratitude for the blessings one has received. In making an Offering one usually gives thought to what would best serve the intended purpose. In Native traditions a person might make an Offering of tobacco in recognition of the material’s importance to the history and culture of Native peoples. Followers of the indigenous Tibetan pre-Buddhist Bon religion use an Offering called the torma, a ritual cake made from barley grain and yak butter that is formed into a shape and ornately decorated. Modern Western religions formalize the process of an Offering by incorporating it as a routine portion of a religious service and even providing special envelopes to be used in making a donation. In each instance one is making a ritual Offering of some sacrifice to honor a divine presence or spiritual being. The action ideally should be much more than just the mere writing of a check and instead truly reflect our intent. This week in our meditation let us consider all the reasons why we might want to make an Offering in our life. What are the blessings we have received and how do we want to Offer an expression of gratitude for them?

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I make an Offering out of gratitude for the blessings I have received? What does it feel like when I choose an Offering that best reflects how I wish to honor another? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 9, 2011

For this Sunday, October 9th, the focus for our meditation will be on Gestation. Rather than thinking of this concept as referring only to the pre-birth in utero phase there are actually many times in our life when we experience Gestation periods. Each time we begin something anew, maybe a period of change or transformation, or perhaps even just a work or school project, there is an epoch of time at the beginning that resembles a Gestation. It is during this period that we may be concretizing our ideas, pulling out of the amorphous jumble of our mind the clarity that is needed to move the project along. This is a necessary period but one that can sometimes be frustrating. Just as one cannot rush along the development cycle of a fetus, the same is true with other Gestation experiences. We have passed beyond the starting point and believe we already have an end in sight, but the middle may still be taking time to develop and acquire the structure it needs before we can move on. During this period we can feel impatient at what we perceive to be a lack of progress or a feeling that we are “stuck.” However, there are occasions when such a lull is necessary and does not indicate a lack of forward movement, merely our inability to accept that it would take more time than we had anticipated. It may feel to some as we look ahead to 2012, whether one’s focus is on the Mayan prophecy or the national election, that our nation is also undergoing a period of Gestation. In our prayer and meditation this week we want to recognize the vital importance of nurturing this preparatory phase. Let us send prayers and energy that nourish us and our nation during this Gestation while we await the birth of what comes next.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have observed a period of Gestation in my life? What does it feel like when I recognize the importance of nourishing and supporting the Gestation process to provide for a healthy outcome? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 2, 2011

For this Sunday, October 2nd, the focus for our meditation will be on Experience. There is a joke about people who claim years of Experience in some skill or ability as to whether that consists of the accumulation of greater wisdom or merely the repetition of the same learning. In order for us to truly benefit from Experience it helps if we can examine each success or failure for what it teaches us. Some of our best lessons can come from when we fall short and subsequently gain an understanding of how we might adapt our approach to optimize our chances the next time we try. Even in success there are important insights that can come from determining what combination of factors may have led to the accomplishment. While a lot is to be said for the contribution of sheer determination and will, seldom does one consistently achieve success through mere effort alone. When one has triumphed sometimes there are still valuable lessons in how to perform the task more easily or with better results that come from examining how we managed to do what we did. In each instance, the advantage comes from a desire to seek a greater level of self-knowledge. To turn an Experience into a critical learning episode one needs to strike a fine balance between beating oneself up for a perceived failure and resting on one’s laurels for having made it. In the former instance one is likely placing undue blame and in the latter one is perhaps taking unjustified credit. If one instead were to take the approach of honest self-critique with the aim of future improvement, we would add to our base of Experience in a more positive way. This week in our prayer and meditation let us examine whether there are ways in our life that we can better accumulate true Experience and avoid repeating the same lessons over and over.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Experience across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Experience feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I am aware I gain insight from my Experience? How does it feel in my body when I learn something valuable from an Experience that helps me in my life? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 25, 2011

For this Sunday, September 25th, the focus for our meditation will be on Foresight. To have Foresight in one’s actions means that you take the future into consideration and act in a manner that makes you more prepared to deal with what will come. It requires us to think about the future consequences of our actions before we do something. Those who are trying to live more ecologically-minded realize the implications of continuing to use up a finite supply of natural resources and modify their behavior now to try and lessen the impact on the planet. New parents who realize some day their son or daughter will want to attend college begin saving for such an event in the very early years of their child’s life. Financial experts advise workers to begin saving in an investment fund as soon as possible and not wait until you near retirement to begin planning for that stage in your life. In each instance action is taken today that may only reap benefits decades later. It is therefore easy to put off taking such action today, feeling as though one has plenty of time left before being forced to proceed. However, by acting with Foresight for the consequences of what will come later it typically makes the future event a significantly easier experience. This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider the future in the decisions we make today and how we act. Let us ask to have sufficient Foresight so that when the future comes we will find ourselves better prepared to deal with whatever presents itself.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I exercise Foresight in my actions? What does it feel like when I use Foresight to consider the future consequences of my decisions today? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 18, 2011

For this Sunday, September 18th, the focus for our meditation will be on Pride. This was the focus for our meditation back in May of this year, but at that time it was aimed specifically at Pride for our nation. In this week’s meditation we want to examine all the reasons to have Pride in ourselves. While Proverbs extols that “Pride goeth before the fall,” it is referring to the hubris of claiming success or accomplishment without merit. However, when one is required to exert a significant effort to achieve something, or when one maintains an attention to detail and a level of care in the quality of one’s work this then offers a justifiable basis for Pride. Whether the accomplishment is the mastery of a craft, skill or ability, or perhaps the long-awaited completion of a degree program, these feats deserve a sense of Pride. Taking Pride in such achievements gives due credit to the patience and discipline often needed to see these tasks through to conclusion. Pride is extending the self-congratulatory slap on the back that you have crossed the finish line and have earned a well-deserved moment of satisfaction. Many of our young people struggle with issues of self-esteem and self-worth as they navigate their way through school and life. In our prayer and meditation this week let us help to model for them a legitimate appreciation for those times when we warrant a sense of Pride. This week let us find something about ourselves that makes us feel most Proud of who we are and what we have done in our lives.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have a sense of Pride in who I have become? What does it feel like when I have Pride for having made a significant accomplishment? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 11, 2011

For this Sunday, September 11th, the focus for our meditation will be on Resilience. As our nation commemorates the tenth anniversary of the lives lost in the terror attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania let us recognize the power of the human spirit to overcome such unfathomable sorrow. Ten precious years have passed. Ten precious years robbed of time not able to be spent with friends, colleagues, husbands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers. Yet, somehow, lives do go on. Amidst all the news coverage leading up to the anniversary the stories of those who have been able to move forward in living their lives speak volumes about the Resilience of human nature. Moving forward does not necessarily mean putting something entirely behind you, and it certainly does not mean forgetting. It means not allowing the pain and anguish to hold such a firm grasp on one’s life that you remain frozen in time. Summoning the spirit of Resilience gives a vital first nod to the awareness that gradually things will get better. It makes room for hope and eventually the return of even some joy into one’s life. More importantly, Resilience prevents other more negative feelings such as anger and hatred from consuming one’s spirit. Even against the backdrop of continued threats to our security as across this nation people prepare to honor the fallen from ten years ago they demonstrate the Resilience that is so characteristic of our country. In our prayer and meditation this week let us ask that the nation be completely filled with the spirit of Resilience that brings healing, comfort, and courage to all.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have the Resilience to move forward following adversity? What does it feel like when I know I am capable of a Resilience that allows me to overcome any feelings of sorrow, grief and pain? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 4, 2011

For this Sunday, September 4th, the focus for our meditation will be on Bipartisanship. This is a topic we have addressed several times over the past few years since the Meditation Project first began, but as recent events have shown it is a topic that can never be overemphasized. Lately the representatives of our political parties seem to have sunk to a new low in the childish finger-pointing and expressions of pique aimed at placing blame on others rather than taking needed responsibility. Under such conditions it will be very difficult, if not impossible, for our nation to accomplish what must be done to restore our country’s financial and moral health. In each instance our elected officials appear to have lost sight of their mandate to seek the highest good for the group they represent. To someone who has become unemployed and subsequently faces the potential loss of their home or a parent who deals with the unbearable pain of a child killed in a conflict overseas the recent conduct of our elected officials must seem absurd and insulting. This week in our meditation efforts let us remember that prayer is more than a petition in which we ask Spirit or God or the Universe for a favor. Prayer is energy, and when we send out a prayer with energy it impacts the world around us. Let us focus the energy of our prayers that our elected officials be filled with the true spirit of Bipartisanship in order to help this nation achieve its highest potential.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Bipartisanship across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Bipartisanship feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I am filled the spirit of cooperation that represents true Bipartisanship? How does it feel in my body when I am willing to accept or offer a compromise that is the basis for Bipartisanship and reflective of the greater good of the group? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Aug. 28, 2011

For this Sunday, August 21st, the focus for our meditation will be on Independence. Whether we like to admit it we are all much more influenced by those around us than we might otherwise believe. Even simple choices such as what to wear each day, or more significant decisions such as where to live or what sort of vehicle to drive, are to some degree influenced by what others will think of us as a result. We all like to be liked, and sometimes this influences our judgment. We can too readily opt out for the easy route so as not to go against the flow. While no one wants to be obstructive or difficult, a balance is needed in coexisting with others while still maintaining our Independence. The absence of some measure of Independence in our thinking is what can lead to the extreme examples of flash mobs and riots. In these instances, one individual or a small minority exerts undue influence over the rest of the group’s decision-making. If each member were better able to remain grounded and centered and check in as to what they thought was the right action to take such events would be less likely to occur. This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider whether there are ways in which we need to be less influenced by others and more Independent in our decision-making. Additionally, let us ask that our nation act in a way that allows us to remain Independent while still being willing to cooperate with others when needed.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have a sense of Independence in my decision-making? What does it feel like when I am aware I am acting Independently and not under the influence of others? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Aug. 21, 2011

For this Sunday, August 21st, the focus for our meditation will be on Appreciation. So much of the world’s discontent seems driven by unnecessary envy, greed, and just plain coveting what you perceive others to have that you don’t have. In doing so, you dishonor what you have already been given in life. It is a form of self-rejection that tells the universe you don’t recognize or Appreciate what you have and can offer. This can be true not only on an individual level but also in terms of our country. Many seem far too quick to criticize rather than Appreciating how blessed we are to live in a nation with the freedoms and opportunities that are our birthright. This week in our prayer and meditation we want to examine what we have already been given in our life that makes us feel Appreciative. It may be the comfort of a safe home, good health, loving friends and family, the security of a job, or some ability or talent we possess that allows us to offer a gift to the world. In addition, let us also consider those aspects of our own country that make us truly Appreciate how fortunate we are to be residents of this great nation.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am filled with Appreciation for who I am and what I have in life? What does it feel like when I realize how much I Appreciate all the advantages I have by living in this country? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Aug. 14, 2011

For this Sunday, August 14th, the focus for our meditation will be on Recreation. As a child one of my most fun memories is gaining possession of a large abandoned cardboard box. I don’t even recall what came in the container or who discarded it, but it was large enough for me to sit inside of it. With the assistance of some crayon art work I managed to transform that box into a magical spaceship and spent hours of imagination-fueled fun traveling through the galaxies. I also fondly recall the summer evenings spent playing with friends and cousins in the backyard until our escapades were only illuminated by the presence of fireflies in the darkness and parents inevitably called us inside. It is remarkable to me now how we could fill so many hours with so little. There was no equipment, no battery-operated toys or devices, and certainly no WiFi to bring us the basis for our fun. By contrast, today’s children appear incapable of Recreation without either organized team sports or electronic devices. Even their time for “Recreation” seems to be programmed into days that are filled from morning to night with activities designed to enhance college acceptance credentials rather than for simple fun. As adults it gets worse, and we tend to far too easily lose sight of the importance of Recreation. We mistakenly schedule time for a competitive round of golf or a demanding workout at the gym and believe we are allowing ourselves to have some fun. But when was the last time you acknowledged the inner child inside you and let yourself simply be entertained by something trivial? Just as sleep is restorative to our physical body, we need Recreation to help rejuvenate our mind and spirit. This week let us ask what we can do to bring some Recreation into our lives and help restore ourselves in the process.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am engaged in Recreation that brings me fun and joy? What does it feel like when I let myself participate in a Recreational activity that makes me feel more restored than drained? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., August 7, 2011

For this Sunday, August 7th, the focus for our meditation will be on Kindness. One of the lessons of my spiritual teacher, Reverend Rosalyn L. Bruyere, is that our culture today places more emphasis on intelligence than common courtesy. One need look no further than what fills our airwaves with so-called entertainment in form of situation comedies in which characters score points with the audience by wittily tearing down another person. Even in normal discourse one is perceived as being unintelligent if you are unable to articulate with surgical precision what is wrong with another’s ideas. I distinctly recall Rev. Bruyere asking her class, “Would you rather be smart or kind?” My immediate response was how could one be considered smart if you didn’t know to be kind? There is no reason the two must remain mutually exclusive, but an imbalance appears to have developed in our society where people are given more kudos for their intellect than their Kindness. Years ago a popular bumper sticker began to be seen in which a phrase referring to the senseless acts of mayhem that would often make the evening news was altered to instead remind people to “Practice Random Acts of Kindness.” While a simple philosophy it bears a weightier value in helping to right what is wrong with our society. This week in our meditation let us ask what acts of Kindness we could contribute to the world around us. Let us also use our prayer to help promote the quality of Kindness to be better appreciated and emulated and thereby improve our nation as a whole.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Kindness across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of Kindness feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I am filled with a desire to show Kindness to others? How does it feel in my body when I am the recipient of unexpected Kindness? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., July 31, 2011

For this Sunday, July 31st, the focus for our meditation will be on Resourcefulness. I happen to live in an area that is very eco-minded. As just a few examples, people here tend to buy food that is locally grown and harvested, there are several grocery store chains that no longer offer plastic bags and instead encourage customers to carry reusable totes, and throughout many neighborhoods you see rain barrels that have been installed to catch the run-off of water from a roof for use in watering gardens and lawns. In each instance people are becoming more Resourceful as a means of respecting the limitations of our natural resources. Unfortunately, our use of non-biodegradable plastic over the years has led to the formation of what is referred to as a “floating garbage dump” in the Pacific Ocean. The ocean currents have naturally collected the mostly plastic remnants into a huge “island” that some speculate to be as large as twice the size of Texas. The full impact of the presence of this much plastic on the fish, mammals, and organisms that live in the ocean is immeasurable, but it obviously cannot be positive. In order to prevent this and other similar damage to our natural resources from continuing to occur we need to be more Resourceful in finding alternatives ways to do things in our daily life that have less of an impact. It may mean bringing your own cup or container to your favorite coffee house rather than getting a one-use plastic cup or bringing your own bags to the grocery store instead of accepting plastic ones. This week let us examine how we want to increase our Resourcefulness out of respect for the planet and in acknowledgement that its natural resources are both limited and precious.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am aware of ways to be Resourceful that respect our natural resources? What does it feel like when I have a desire to limit my reliance on natural resources and find alternative ways to be Resourceful in the products I use? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., July 24, 2011

For this Sunday, July 24th, the focus for our meditation will be on Commonality. This is a return to a previous theme that we examined in September 2010 but at the time with an emphasis on the differences and similarities among religions. This week we want to use this theme to instead focus our intentions in helping to bring the stalemate in the budget talks to an end. It would seem that if both sides could first acknowledge what aspects of their proposals are shared in Common that it would provide a basis to then begin to reconcile some of the differences. Our elected officials appear far too quick to grasp at the outliers in the opposing party’s plans and trumpet those as representative of why the plan should be defeated rather than work from a position of identifying where there is overlap. If both sides can first agree on what they have in Common in their proposals this might make it easier to eventually reconcile the differences. This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask that our elected officials find a means to embrace where there is Commonality in the varying proposals and use that to help find a budget solution that will be in the highest and best interests of all.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am aware of what I share in Common with others? What does it feel like when I realize there is more that I have in Common with others than we have differences? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., July 17, 2011

For this Sunday, July 17th, the focus for our meditation will be on Cooperation. We visited this theme back in February 2009, and it once again is asking for our attention. At some point the current wrangling over the budget will come to an end, some sort of agreement will be cobbled together, but then other issues loom ahead that are likely to continue to provoke partisan discord. I don't pretend to begin to understand the difficulty in reaching a balanced budget and have to blithely admit I like to imagine it could be accomplished the way it was in the Kevin Kline movie, "Dave." Kevin's character is a presidential lookalike who ends up filling in when the real president suddenly dies. His character's naivete leads him to believe there has to be a way to reach a balanced budget, so one evening he and his buddy, Murray (played by Charles Grodin), sit down and figure out a solution on pages of legal pads. I'd like to believe all that is needed is to similarly order in pizza for a long night session and bring the right people to the table who are sincerely interested in accomplishing this goal, but I know that is not the case. What is needed, however, is a spirit of Cooperation, and right now that seems to be lacking in our political leaders on both sides of the aisle. This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask that our elected officials be filled with a willingness to Cooperate for the greater good of their constituents and this nation. May the spirit of Cooperation fill their offices and help advance the important work they are there to accomplish on behalf of us all.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am willing to Cooperate selflessly with others? What does it feel like when I am experiencing the spirit of Cooperation from others that helps us all to succeed? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., July 10, 2011

For this Sunday, July 10th, the focus for our meditation will be on Truth. Over the past several weeks much of the nation has anxiously followed the Casey Anthony trial in Florida. The outcome brought a wave of varying emotions. Some felt a huge injustice had been done while others thought the tenets on which our legal system are based such as the presumption of innocence until proven guilty and the need to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt were validated. About the only thing everyone agrees on is that the one thing the trial did not produce was the Truth. The answers continue to elude most parties as to the exact circumstances of Caylee's death. While it may be an altogether naive and overly optimistic view I like to think our legal system is founded on the principle to seek the Truth through as fair a procedure as possible. This is not the first time the legal process has resulted in a diversion from that principle, and it certainly will not be the last. However, a hallmark of our nation is its reliance on a fair system that is altogether absent from the barbarous way that so-called justice is meted out in some countries. For our justice system to continue to succeed we need to support its search for the Truth through our prayers. This week in our meditation session let us ask that courts at all levels across the nation be filled with the light of Truth. May all individuals engaged in the legal system in those halls of justice be motivated to work tirelessly to find the Truth, and may the energy of our prayers help to sustain them in their work.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I have a strong desire to seek the Truth? What does it feel like when I am aware that I am in possession of the Truth? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., July 3, 2011

For this Sunday, July 3rd, the focus for our meditation will be on Light. As our nation prepares to celebrate July 4th or Independence Day a popular image that is often associated with this holiday is the Statue of Liberty. While she stands for several ideals – the welcome to immigrants seeking refuge and an offer of freedom and opportunity – this week I would like her image as a beacon of Light to serve as our inspiration. Years ago when immigrants came here by boat she was often the first view they had of our country as they processed through Ellis Island. Her torch of Light held aloft greeted them and raised their spirits at the end of what was likely an arduous journey. Today she continues to motivate people to recognize what is good about our country and all that it represents as a model of democracy. Each week at the beginning of our meditation we raise the image of a brilliant star-like Light over our nation. This week let us generate the source of that Light from Lady Liberty’s torch and lift it high over the entire country, bringing Light that offers protection and healing from border to border of this great land.

As a reminder, we typically form as a group in our focused meditation every Sunday from 12:15 to 12:30 pm (Eastern time) and return to bring more energy to the same theme throughout the week as time permits. If you are unable to participate at that particular time there are instructions posted on how to energetically contribute at either an earlier or later time (please see “Instructions for Meditating at Alternate Dates or Times”). A few minutes before 12:15 you may want to get into your meditation posture and begin the relaxation phase.

Stage 1:
Sit (or lay down) so that you are relaxed and comfortable but your spine is straight and aligned over your pelvis (if seated). Begin by taking several slow, deep breaths. Follow the sensation of the breath down into your body. Breathe into your spine, your hips, and then your legs. Feel the breath reach your feet on the floor and then feel the connection through your feet to the earth's energy. Draw the earth's energy up through your feet into your body. Feel your body fill completely with this energy from your breath and the earth. Invite your own personal spiritual guides to join you in this meditation. Ask for those in the spiritual realm (especially the nation's Founding Fathers) who want to assist us in this effort to be present. If you have trouble feeling centered and fully in your body or feeling grounded to the earth ask Guidance to help you.

Stage 2:
Stay relaxed and begin to make a connection with the others in the group by perceiving that we are present in the same room and formed in a circle. Feel yourself make contact with the person on each side of you in the circle by taking their hand -- one to the right and one to the left. Feel the energy of the group grow as you make this connection. Recognize there are groups all over who are doing similar activities with the same intention. We are connected to them as well as to each other. Feel the grid or network that is created from this energetic connection. We receive energy from it as we feed energy to it.

Stage 3:
Place a brilliant white light over the center of the country. Extend blue rays out from the center of that light in the four directions (north, south, east, and west). The blue rays fill the country from border to border and sea to sea. Connect to the energetic grid or network created across the circle. Use that grid to direct energy to the manitou of the nation (see "Explanation of the Grid or Manitou" for more information) with the intent of sending the energy of Light across the nation.

The way to do this is to perceive in your body how the quality of brilliant Light that is healing and protective feels. Ask yourself how do I feel when I am surrounded by Light that I know protects me? How does it feel in my body when I am filled with Light that brings healing? Hold that sensation and allow it to intensify as you feed that energy to the grid or network with each breath.

Stage 4:
Close by disconnecting from the group circle. Feel as though you release the hand of the person next to you and feel yourself break from the group.

Stage 5:
Thank your guidance and those in the spiritual realm for coming to assist you in this endeavor. Ask them to continue this work from their plane on your behalf. If you are able, you may want to repeat this process throughout the week, focusing on bringing light and energy to the meditation topic. When you do, connect to the same network or grid of energy created by the group at the original meditation session. Direct your intention to help support and grow that group energy. Be sure to disconnect from the group at the end.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., June 26, 2011

For this Sunday, June 26th, the focus for our meditation will be on Serenity. Roz Savage is a British solo ocean rower whose exploits I have been following for several years. She is a former management consultant who chucked it all during an intensive examination of her life purpose and picked up the cause of keeping our oceans clean of pollution. To promote her cause she became the first woman to complete the 3,000-mile Atlantic Rowing Race, last year completed a solo row of the Pacific Ocean, and this year is tackling the Indian Ocean. In addition to vicariously getting to live through the blog updates (www.rozsavage.com) and podcasts of her adventures I admire her ability to clearly express the deep insights she reaches during the long periods of solitude during her ocean journeys. Her recent post describes how the ocean is rarely calm enough for her to clearly see the fish swimming below its surface. She came to the realization people bear some resemblance to this. She writes, “A lot of the people are like a choppy ocean, all froth and noise and ripples and waves. You can’t see past the surface because it’s going ten different ways at once, reflecting what is around them, just as the ocean reflects the colours of the sky and the clouds. But when the surface is calm, you catch a glimpse of the hidden depths, and what moves there, the life beneath the surface, and the ocean’s true nature is revealed. When you meet those rare people who are calm enough, and brave enough, to let you glimpse their true nature, it is unforgettable.” Her remarks allude to being centered and genuine, traits that prompt a sense of Serenity from those who possess them. All too easily we can lose our grasp on that feeling of Serenity. The hectic pace of life intrudes and makes our life too “frothy” or out of fear we build barriers that block others from seeing our true nature. This week in our prayer and meditation let us reflect on this quality of Serenity. Let us ask what impedes our ability to generate a state of internal calm and Serenity and what enables us to have the self-assurance to allow others in so they may appreciate our depths.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I am feeling a sense of deep calm and Serenity? What does it feel like when I am able to remain centered in a way that brings Serenity and the courage to allow others in? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., June 19, 2011

For this Sunday, June 19th, the focus for our meditation will be on Movement. Movement is essential for overall good health of the body -- a body that is too rigid, that spends too much time frozen in postures of limited range, is one that tends to foster muscular atrophy, shortening of the tendons, inflammation, and all the pre-conditions that can lead to disease states. Our vitality is dependent on our ability to Move. Beyond the mere physical action of Movement, however, this concept also implies that we are not static beings. We do not remain the same, nor should we. In addition to the changes in our physical body that Movement brings, there are also changes that occur in our emotions, our attitudes, etc. If we are unwilling to allow these changes to occur we can become stuck in place and remain less adaptable. Just as physical activity expands our body's abilities, our readiness to engage in Movement signals our willingness to expand our thinking or to change our mind. This week in our prayer and meditation we want to ask in what way are we perhaps resistant to change and Movement in our life and how do we instead want to more fully embrace it.

Please follow the same practice as before: Get centered in your body, ask to bring in your guides and others who are there to assist us, connect to the circle of others participating in this project, and create the brilliant star-like light over the nation. Extend blue rays from the center of this light to the nation's four borders and then connect to the grid or matrix that extends from the circle.

Ask yourself how does it feel in my body when I enjoy my ability to engage in Movement? What does it feel like when I allow Movement to help me change who I am? Then send the energy and intention of that feeling to the grid for the nation.

Be sure to disconnect from the circle at the end and express thanks for those who have helped us in this effort.

If you have feedback or experiences you would like to share please let me know via e-mail to k_miritello@bellsouth.net or kmiritello@gmail.com