Meditation Instructions for Sun., December 28, 2014

For this Sunday, December 28th, the focus for our meditation will be on Clearing.  Franciscan friar Mychal Judge served as chaplain to the New York City Fire Department and was killed when the World Trade Center tower collapsed in the September 11^th attacks.  He had entered the tower lobby to minister to the injured and dying, and a documentary film of the event shows him with a calm but concerned look on his face, his lips moving in continuous silent prayer.  One of my favorite prayers is attributed to him.  He wrote, “Lord, take me where You want me to go; Let me meet who You want me to meet; Tell me what You want me to say; and keep me out of Your way.”  It is simple but so complete a prayer.  I especially like the last line where he asks to be kept out of the way of the Divine.  All too often we resist giving over control of our life, and it can interfere with our ability to see and accept the path we are meant to take.  If we are able to Clear ourselves from getting in the way it opens up a realm of limitless possibility.  As another new year approaches let us consider this week in our prayer and meditation how we might be better served by Clearing our life in some way.  Let us ask to be gently shown if we are clinging to material things, habits, or people in a way that is holding us back.  May we be given the strength and discipline to Clear these obstacles from our life in order to have revealed an even better way of being.  In the new year may we ask that by Clearing out what does not serve us that it draws to us what is needed for us to progress.  Additionally, let us begin the new year by asking that this country as a whole embrace the concept of Clearing and let go of all that has held us back so we may fulfill our tremendous potential as a nation.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am aware that I create more space for miracles in my life when I am able to Clear out what I do not need?  How does it feel in my body when by Clearing any obstacles that remain I am able to better see the right path and move forward?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., December 21, 2014

For this Sunday, December 21st, the focus for our meditation will be on Playfulness.  So far I have owned three greyhounds in my life.  The first two were retired racers and were very serious dogs in personality who barely showed any interest in the multitude of toys I bought them.  My third greyhound never raced owing to her wisdom during her schooling phase to show “no interest” (as noted on her training records) in chasing a mechanical rabbit around an oval track.  I don’t know for sure if that was the reason, but her personality was significantly more Playful than the other two dogs.  She loved her toys and would run to get one whenever a visitor would come to the home and bring it to them.  Initially I wasn’t certain if this was a sign of insecurity and asked an animal communicator to find out why she did this.  The response was that she was so happy to see a guest that she was bringing them a present as her way of greeting them.  I recently had to put this third dog to sleep, and the other morning just before I awoke she came to me in a dream with a stuffed toy in her mouth.  She was happy and pain-free and filled with joy and Playfulness.  It was a wonderful reminder of all that I loved about her but also prompted me to not take things too seriously, as I am often wont to do.  In the evening after a long day when I would be sitting in the family room relaxing she would come to me with a mischievous look in her eye and entice me to Play with her.  It was a fun game we had where I would pretend to chase her through the house, and she would scamper just ahead of me always carrying a favored toy.  As hard as it was to say goodbye to another cherished animal companion I love the lessons we gain from them.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us consider whether we need to include more Playfulness in our life.  Are there times when we take ourselves too seriously and need a sense of humor to more gracefully navigate life’s challenges?  Let us think about ways in our life where we may benefit from being more Playful with ourselves, with Spirit, and with others.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I fully embrace a sense of Playfulness in my life?  How does it feel in my body when I allow myself to relax and be Playful in a way that brings a healthy release of tension?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., December 14, 2014

For this Sunday, December 14th, the focus for our meditation will be on Exploration.  In 1962 President John F. Kennedy gave a speech during a visit to Rice University in Texas in which he spoke about his interest in advancing our country’s space Exploration program.  He stated, “This country of the United States was not built by those who waited and rested and wished to look behind them.  This country was conquered by those who moved forward—and so will space.”  His speech served to motivate an entire generation to accept the challenge of space Exploration, knowing it would come at a price and with great risks.  It is hard to imagine now, with visits to an orbiting international Space Lab so routine that they are no longer covered on national television and barely garner a mention in the news, that at one time our nation was mesmerized by each successive feat as we sought to conquer space.  I still remember watching, awestruck, a grainy black-and-white live television feed as Neil Armstrong first set foot on the moon.  Although space Exploration may not hold the same attention it once did, there are still important lessons for us from that program that extend beyond science and astronomy.  The lessons have to do with being willing to go beyond what is known, recognizing that each uncharted step brings risk as well as tremendous gains.  By daring to chart undiscovered territory we are able to broaden our horizons and fulfill our potential beyond what we may currently expect.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider if there are ways in our life that we can step beyond the comfort of what we presently know and seek instead to Explore uncharted territory.  By being willing to take on the risks of Exploration may we discover more about ourselves and go beyond what we believe are our limitations.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am willing to take on the risks of Exploration in areas of my life I have not visited previously?  How does it feel in my body when I find that what I thought were barriers and limitations were removed through the daring of Exploration?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., December 7, 2014

For this Sunday, December 7th, the focus for our meditation will be on Responsibility.  Back-to-back rulings by entirely separate Grand Jury proceedings in the deaths of two black men by police officers have escalated tensions in many cities around this country.  The cases are more complicated than they initially seem, hugely controversial and terribly polarizing.  I lack any dogmatic commentary as to what I believe was right or wrong about either case.  Instead, they simply leave me feeling sad.  I am sad for the mothers of young black men around this country and the fear they must face every time one of their sons walks out the door to their home.  I am sad for our law enforcement officers and the incredibly difficult job they are tasked to do, knowing that many good officers are likely to feel hesitant and criticized as to their actions.  I am sad for people of color around this nation who daily must deal with prejudice and unfair judgment by others merely because of their appearance.  I am sad for honest, hard-working business people whose shops have been vandalized and looted by those who would take advantage of a terrible situation.  The only thing I can think to do is to pray that change be brought about to help heal our nation.  My prayer this week is that people everywhere across our nation take more Responsibility for their actions.  May those who are charged to “protect and serve” take that Responsibility to heart and be willing to carry out their duties with patience, understanding, and fairness.  May those who break laws accept Responsibility for their actions without resorting to unnecessary defensiveness and victimization.  May our community, religious, and political leaders all take Responsibility for calming rather than inflaming the anger that has rippled through cities around the country.  Let us ask that a greater willingness to accept Responsibility lead this nation to a more equitable enforcement of our laws that makes it possible for all to live in peace and harmony. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have accepted Responsibility for my actions, particularly if I feel they have fallen short?  How does it feel in my body when I am able to take Responsibility not only for my successes but also my failings?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., November 30, 2014

For this Sunday, November 30th, the focus for our meditation will be on Backing.  In a new television show on the A&E channel called, “Dogs of War,” a non-profit group called Paws and Stripes rescues shelter dogs, trains them to be service dogs and pairs them with veterans with PTSD.  In the first episode a veteran instantly bonds with one of the dogs whom he renames “E Suda,” which he explains is loosely translated in Cherokee for “My Six.”  In military jargon your “six” is the person who has your Back (think of a clock face with you in the middle, and the six o’clock position would be someone behind you).  Veterans with PTSD often experience hypervigilance and anxiety which can be exacerbated by situations such as crowds, feeling confined, loud noises, etc.  Many have difficulty sleeping due to night terrors and sleep walking.  To know someone is there who has your Back relieves much of the stress these veterans carry.  In the show you see the veteran, named Michael, begin to smile and appear more relaxed after he is paired with his service dog.  You don’t need to be a veteran with PTSD to benefit from feeling as though someone has your Back.  Everyone feels a greater sense of security and support from knowing someone is there for you.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider those who are present in our life who are Backing us up and serve as an important source of support.  Let us come to appreciate all those who are there for us to help watch our Back in a variety of ways.  Let us ask that everyone across this nation come to feel as though they, too, have someone who is watching their Back and will be there for them when needed. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I know I can let go of stress because there are others in my life Backing me up?  How does it feel in my body when I recognize the value of having someone there to watch my Back and be present when needed?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., November 23, 2014

For this Sunday, November 23rd, the focus for our meditation will be on Union.  As the United States prepared to enter World War II they tried a novel experiment in forming some of the units that would be shipped overseas.  For the men of Easy Company of the 506^th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101^st Airborne Division, the unit on which the book and miniseries, “Band of Brothers,” was based, they were joined together at the very beginning of their training.  Usually servicemen would go through their basic training followed by advanced training, such as infantry school, as individuals and would not be assigned to a unit until after they had completed all their required training programs.  For Easy Company, the military decided to form them as a unit from the beginning, and the entire group remained together through basic and advanced training.  By the time Easy Company was deployed they had spent months working and living together and had consequently formed a bond or Union that it is thought to have made them one of the best units on the battlefield.  The men spoke of knowing each other so well that they could recognize their fellow soldiers even at night just by the way they walked or from their silhouette.  They knew instinctively how each would react and worked together so effectively that they became one of the most accomplished and decorated units in World War II.  The men who survived credit the unbreakable Union with their fellow soldiers as the reason for their making it through the war.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us consider the Union we may have with others in our life.  With whom do we have such a bond that we feel almost as a single entity?  Let us recognize the opportunity for Union with others and appreciate how it can so tremendously enrich our life. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have had a bond or Union with another being that helps me achieve more of my potential?  How does it feel in my body when I am able to recognize the importance of being in Union with others in my life?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., November 16, 2014

For this Sunday, November 16th, the focus for our meditation will be on Being.  One of the foibles of life is our tendency to want to label things according to a dichotomy where they are either good or bad.  Creating this opposition can be the basis for much of the conflict we experience in life.  It limits or restricts how we perceive and even interact with that situation or person.  Rather than feeling as though we have to pigeonhole something it is far easier if we recognize that it just is what it is and accept it.  This approach of objective neutrality is a key tenet to many Eastern systems of thought or belief systems such as Buddhism and Taoism.  By accepting someone or something as merely Being relieves us of the burden of having to further analyze them.  When we feel compelled to analyze instead it leaves us more prone to frustration because we seldom have enough information to reach an accurate assessment.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us ask if there are situations or people in our life where we would be better served accepting them as Being rather than labeling or judging them.  Let us ask to be shown how to better recognize the Being-ness of the people and circumstances we encounter so we may be relieved from the pressure of wanting to judge them instead.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have accepted others in my life as just Being without placing any value judgments on them?  How does it feel in my body when I am willing to encounter people and situations as merely Being what they are rather than assessing them?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., November 9, 2014

For this Sunday, November 9th, the focus for our meditation will be on Breakage.  One of the most popular books by Tibetan Buddhist nun and author Pema Chodron is titled, “When Things Fall Apart:  Heart Advice For Difficult Times.”  In her teachings, Pema speaks of the value of when things Break down in our life.  Breakage is inevitable and what matters most is the lesson we take away when it occurs.  Life is about weaving a tapestry of good and bad, high and low points, which means there are different colored “threads” that run through that tapestry.  If we wove our life’s fabric with a thread of a single color and texture it would be boring and monotonous.  The richness comes from the variety we introduce.  Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, sometimes the variety and richness become forced on us when something unexpected or initially unwanted happens.  It is those moments in life when things Break and fall apart that sometimes take us on a different path, one we might never have explored if not forced in that direction.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider if there are moments in our life when we have had to experience the unexpected in the form of things falling apart or Breaking.  Looking back, how did we deal with those experiences?  What was the most valuable lesson we came away with as a result?  How did that moment of Breakage set us on a path that might otherwise never have brought us to where we are today?  Let us give gratitude in our meditation for times of Breakage and ask for the strength and wisdom to recognize the rich contribution they make to our life.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have experienced the unexpected and had things fall apart and Break in my life?  How does it feel in my body when I have experienced gratitude for how Breakage has helped redirect and enrich my life?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., November 2, 2014

For this Sunday, November 2nd, the focus for our meditation will be on Aloneness.  I recently was astonished to read about a study where people who were forced to sit Alone in a room with nothing to do would rather give themselves electric shocks than go through the discomfort of complete solitude.  As someone who is very comfortable with being Alone and have never found it a lonely experience I find this an incredible result.  From my perspective the time we spend by ourselves is an opportunity to know ourselves better.  It is through periods of introspection where we can get more in touch with our inner thoughts and feelings and come to accept who we are as imperfect human beings.  For some, unfortunately, the notion of recognizing our flaws is too difficult.  Because they remain in denial as to their true nature they never come to really love and accept themselves.  This sets up a vicious circle of unrealistic expectations, inevitable disappointment, and subsequent self-loathing that makes people feel discontent with their lives.  The entire cycle can be avoided if we only learn how to be comfortable with Aloneness and embrace it as an opportunity for self-awareness and growth.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us consider how we perceive Aloneness.  Let us ask how do those times when we are Alone and separate from others make us feel?  If we find those moments unbearable let us ask to be shown how to convert them to a chance to bathe ourselves in self-love.  From those solitary times of introspection may we be shown how to better accept ourselves and consequently bring a greater sense of comfort to our relationships with others.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am completely Alone but do not feel at all lonely by the experience?  How does it feel in my body when I realize the moments when I am Alone give me an opportunity for valuable introspection that lead me to have more compassion for myself?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 26, 2014

For this Sunday, October 26th, the focus for our meditation will be on Strength.  In 1970 an Indian spiritual teacher named Sri Chinmoy began to lead meditation sessions for delegates and staff at the United Nations.  The sessions, held twice a week, continued for 37 years until Chinmoy’s death in 2007 and were devoted to creating a universal desire for peace.  Chinmoy advocated that aggression was spurred from inner weakness and fear.  So, at the age of 54, Chinmoy took up the sport of weightlifting to help promote his interest in peace and in the process made his feats of Strength legendary.  He put on weightlifting displays around the world to inspire others to transcend themselves and develop their own inner Strength, believing that would encourage greater world peace.  Have you ever known someone with genuine inner Strength who exuded a sense of peacefulness?  Such Strength doesn’t have to come from physical prowess but is more a reflection of inner stability and confidence.  People who possess this naturally radiate an energy that is calm and filled with peace.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask to be guided how to develop our own source of Strength that will enable us to feel real inner peace.  Let us also ask that our national and world leaders similarly be filled with a sincere Strength that bolsters their desire for peace around the world.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I recognize my own inner Strength?  How does it feel in my body when I am filled with a sense of calm and peace that comes from my own ability to be Strong?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., October 19, 2014

For this Sunday, October 19th, the focus for our meditation will be on Unconditional Support.  An HBO documentary titled, “State of Play: Trophy Kids,” covers four families in which the parents obsessively try to mold their child’s athletic abilities.  The film is uncomfortable and disturbing to watch as the often domineering, sometimes tyrannical adults manage to remove all the joy from what should be play.  Children are reduced to tears as parental coaches incessantly berate them for mistakes.  It becomes clear the parents are trying to live vicariously through their “child athletes” and have aspirations of ultimately gaining a return on their investment when the child turns pro.  However, there is a fine line between healthy parental support and unhealthy domination. 

In a post-documentary roundtable discussion former NFL quarterback Todd Marinovich, who was notoriously molded and consequently damaged by his father, speaks of the impact a parent’s obsession can have on a child.  Where does the line between healthy and unhealthy behavior become crossed?  As Todd states, one indication is “in how do you react when I play poorly.”  Rather than offering Unconditional Support, the unhealthy response is to criticize, harming the child’s sense of self-esteem.  Such parental bullying is not restricted to the world of athletics.  The same scenario plays out when it comes to any perceived talent.  Reality television shows abound of obsessive parents who try to push their children into dance, modeling, or any other endeavor where they hunger for eventual fame.  The harm from such excessive oversight is long-lasting, robbing society of well-adjusted adults.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us ask that parents, coaches, teachers, and any other adults who influence our children provide them with Unconditional Support.  May our children learn to live, love, and be themselves without fear of failure or disappointment. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have received Unconditional Support even if I have fallen short?  How does it feel in my body when I know I can attempt to achieve anything because of the Unconditional Support offered by those around me?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., October 12, 2014

For this Sunday, October 12th, the focus for our meditation will be on Transmission.  If you’ve ever seen an episode of “Dog Whisperer” with dog expert Cesar Millan you will notice how he instantly can calm an out-of-control dog merely by his presence.  As Cesar regularly notes, behavioral problems often are caused not by the dog but by their owner.  People who are themselves fearful and anxious have a tendency to Transmit that energy to their pets through the leash or even just by being in proximity to them.  As a result, the dog becomes fearful and anxious and begins to misbehave.  Cesar’s expertise lies as much in reading and modifying a dog’s behavior as in changing the behavior of their owner.  This phenomenon reminds us to acquire an awareness of the energy we carry in our physical bodies.  If an anxious dog owner can Transmit nervous energy to their pet through a leash or their physical presence, then we, too, are capable of impacting those beings we encounter around us every moment.  Pause for a moment and consider what you are feeling right now in your body.  Are you feel tense or relaxed?  Do you have a tendency to feel anxious or are you more calm by nature?  Ask to be helped in developing a greater awareness of the quality of energy your physical body holds in order to better recognize how your presence may affect others around you.  In our prayer and meditation time this week let us ask to be shown how to use our physical bodies as Transmitters of serenity and peacefulness.  If more people consciously choose to physically create a confident, calming presence we can generate a Transmission of energy that ripples across this nation and brings greater peace to all.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am aware of the physical nature of my energy and what I may be Transmitting through my body?  How does it feel in my body when I consciously seek to be a Transmitter of serenity and peace?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Oct. 5, 2014

For this Sunday, October 5th, the focus for our meditation will be on Choice.  A good friend has the practice of setting an alarm on her phone that chimes at noon each day and displays a visual reminder to “Choose Peace.”  This simple habit would prompt us to pause whatever we were doing at the time, take a deep, calming breath and let our bodies exude peace with the exhalation.  I had heard of such a practice through social media as well and decided to join the dispersed group of people who engage in this simple daily reminder.  The thought of being a part of a network of individuals each contributing in a small but collectively large way of bringing more peace to the world was irresistible.  After a couple of weeks of embracing this delightful habit I found myself one day stuck in traffic.  Rushing to an appointment, I began to feel fretful that I would be late when suddenly I heard the thought to “Choose Peace.”  Instantly I felt more calm and at ease with the situation.  It occurred to me that we have this Choice each and every moment of our day.  Isolating it to the same time each day with a reminder on my phone served as a good practice, but by no means am I limited to just noon to be able to bring in that same sensation of peace.  I realized I have the Choice to select a better option in any situation where I am feeling stuck or frustrated.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask what Choices we are making in our life and if we are feeling unnecessarily limited in the selections available to us.  If so, let us ask to be helped in recognizing there are alternative options and guided to Choose the ones that better serve us. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I realize there are often more options available to me to Choose from than I may initially see?  How does it feel in my body when I am thoughtful in the Choices I make even in my everyday life?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 28, 2014

For this Sunday, September 28th, the focus for our meditation will be on Sustaining.  Ecological programs and “green” movements are focused on trying to better Sustain our planet’s limited resources.  Someone approaching retirement spends years planning for that phase of their life so their financial resources will Sustain them until the end of their life.  In each instance there is a limited quantity of a resource considered precious and valuable that must be carefully considered in its use so it lasts as long as possible.  Beyond material resources there are other aspects to our life that similarly require care and planning to keep them going.  Friendships, for example, may sometimes require work to Sustain the relationship over a lifetime.  Family relationships certainly can take a lot of effort to keep them healthy and happy and Sustain those ties that can all too easily be broken.  The bottom line is the final result is well worth the investment in time and effort it may take to Sustain these important connections in our life to others and the world around us.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us consider what do we cherish most that we want to make sure we Sustain in our life?  If there are aspects to our life connections that we are not placing sufficient attention towards let us ask to be gently reminded of their value and shown how to better Sustain these relationships and resources so they remain a part of our world for as long as possible.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I appreciate the value of my life connections and enjoy working to better Sustain those relationships?  How does it feel in my body when I am surrounded by the joy and peace of knowing I will be Sustained throughout my life by the connections I make to others?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 21, 2014

For this Sunday, September 21st, the focus for our meditation will be on Non-Judgment.  Years ago I had a work colleague who I suspected was in an abusive relationship.  Although the signs of abuse were not obvious, at a minimum, it was an unhappy marriage, and I could never comprehend why she remained in it.  At the time, I assumed she stayed in this miserable alliance because of the money and lifestyle her husband’s net worth afforded.  Yet, year after year she spoke of how she didn’t love her husband, and it even appeared she was somewhat afraid of him.  Her apparent inability to launch her independence from him baffled me, and over time I lost respect for her as a result.  With recent accounts of domestic violence in the news I was reading the stories of other women who found themselves trapped in horrible relationships.  They repeatedly spoke of feeling helpless and with nowhere to turn even when they had existing connections to family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers.  The barrier for them to reach out to this network was the fear that they would be Judged.  Often the pressure came from having to drop the façade of revealing their life was not as perfect as they wanted others to believe.  Sometimes those who knew them well had previously declared their partner was not good for them.  By having ignored their counsel they were afraid that an about-face would be received with critical Judgment.  This fear of having others see them as less worthy unfortunately led many women to remain far too long in abusive relationships.  For those of us on the periphery of an abusive situation it made me realize how wrong I had been to Judge this coworker.  By no doubt telegraphing my disapproval I’m sure I became one more contact scratched off her list of possible places to turn if things became desperate.  Fortunately, she was able to eventually leave the marriage without triggering any violent repercussions.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us consider how we may leap all too readily to Judge others.  May we be shown how to react with Non-Judgment to those who may be most in need of our friendship and support.  Through a wider practice of Non-Judgment may more women around this country feel safe in reaching out for help and thus prevent more tragedies from occurring. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am able to suspend disapproval and react with Non-Judgment for someone?  How does it feel in my body when I recognize the importance of exercising Non-Judgment so those around me feel safe in reaching out?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 14, 2014

For this Sunday, September 14th, the focus for our meditation will be on Imperfection.  On a bookshelf in my office is a clay reproduction of my hands.  They were made at an art and intuition retreat taught by Rev. Jennifer Halls a number of years ago.  The process of making them required you to first create a plaster cast of your hands which was later filled with clay that hardened over time.  The project was difficult in many ways and a number of participants found it more frustrating than enjoyable.  Plaster casts cracked or broke.  Clay became stuck and could not be removed from the molds.  It was certainly an exercise in patience.  When you look closely at the clay sculpture of my hands you notice a number of flaws.  There are obvious cracks and extra bits of clay that probably could have been shaved off before the sculpture hardened.  For someone who regularly has to battle a tendency toward perfectionism I was surprised to find the flaws more fascinating than disappointing.  They reminded me of images I had seen of Mother Teresa’s hands.  They were wrinkled and gnarled and far from perfect.  But they made me appreciate the value behind Imperfection.  Thankfully, we are all Imperfect beings.  If we were without flaws or weakness life would likely proceed far too smoothly with no struggles or trials to help us grow and learn.  Rather than detest our Imperfections let us use our meditation time this week to feel a sense of gratitude for the lessons they bring.  Let us ask during our meditation time to be shown how to be thankful for our Imperfections and recognize the growth we achieve because of them.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am able to accept my Imperfections with gratitude and grace?  How does it feel in my body when I am thankful for my Imperfections and the growth they ultimately help me to achieve?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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 kmiritello@gmail.com

Meditation Instructions for Sun., Sept. 7, 2014

For this Sunday, August 31st, the focus for our meditation will be on Moderation.  An international prayer group that I belong to has set their focus for this next month on bringing an end to the violence wrought by extremist groups.  As I thought about this issue I quickly realized there is no place in the world that is immune to this problem.  Here in our own country we have the historical blight of the Ku Klux Klan and in more recent times the idiocy of the Westboro Baptist Church.  The problem with such groups is their firm belief that they are right, everyone else is wrong, and their mission in life is to make everyone adopt their views without scrutiny or question.  I’m not sure such extreme ideological groups even appreciate the luxury they have of being able to freely voice their opinions in this country.  It says something about the tolerance and fair-mindedness of this nation that groups that deviate so far from mainstream ideas have the right to exist.  There is nothing wrong with having diversity in the viewpoints presented for consideration by our citizens – I consider it to be a hallmark of our democracy that it actually encourages some dissension.  After all, weren’t our forefathers the original dissenters in not only voicing their dislike but acting upon them in creating this new nation?  The difference between diversity of opinion and extremism is the extent to which people are willing to allow differing views to be expressed and considered.  Extremists won’t even open their mind to consider the perspective of those who differ from them.  Moderation has been one of the pillars of this country’s strength over the years in that it allows differing or even radical ideas to be thoughtfully assessed and on occasion to even drive needed change.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us cherish the value of Moderation in this country.  Let us ask through our prayers that more people across this nation be open to receiving the viewpoints of others and to permit the peaceful communication of ideas that differ from their own.  Through greater respect for diverse philosophies and beliefs may the characteristic of Moderation continue to strengthen this land for many years to come. 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have recognized the value of Moderation in being open to the views of others?  How does it feel in my body when I am able to be Moderate and open-minded in my own beliefs?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., August 31, 2014

For this Sunday, August 31st, the focus for our meditation will be on Education.  A wonderful TED talk by career educator Rita Pierson addresses the challenges faced by teachers trying to reach students at risk of dropping out of the system.  Students who are on the fringe, who may live in conditions where they aren’t getting enough food or have warm clothes to wear, must bear the combined pressure of school with the already difficult task of day-to-day living.  Pierson also speaks about how hard it is for teachers to remain motivated and encouraging when facing students who seem apathetic or even incapable of learning.  She relates how one year, finding her classroom filled with students others would have readily rejected, she convinced them they were in her class because of their potential to be the best.  Over the year their attitudes improved, their grades improved, and most importantly, their lives improved.  Pierson declares, “Teaching and learning should bring joy.  How powerful would our world be if we had kids who were not afraid to take risks, who were not afraid to think, and who had a champion?  Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”  On this Labor Day weekend, as students return to schools across our nation, let us fill these halls of learning with the light and energy of our prayers to help support our teachers, administrators, and young people.  Let us ask that those seeking to Educate others be bursting with motivation, enlightenment, and patience, and may those who desire to better their life through Education find a champion who will encourage and mentor them in this goal.  The future of our country surely rests on the quality of Education we are able to offer our young people, so let us support this important endeavor through the combined power and light of our meditation and prayer.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country, placing particular emphasis on all our educational institutions.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have felt mentored and encouraged in my efforts to receive a quality Education?  How does it feel in my body when I recognize the burning desire to improve myself through Education?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., August 24, 2014

For this Sunday, August 24th, the focus for our meditation will be on Respite.  Much disruption has been left in the wake of the riots in Ferguson, Missouri.  Stores have been forced to close to prevent or repair the damage from looting, and schools have likewise delayed their opening by a week.  As a result, families with children are struggling not only to find groceries but also how to keep them safely occupied until life returns to normal.  In response, numerous community and church groups have set up food banks as well as supervised drop-in centers so families can obtain food and have a safe place for their children to play while they wait for schools to open.  The Respite from strife has been gratefully welcomed by residents, thankful to have their worries relieved as to how to feed their families and let their children safely burn off steam.  Recognizing there was a need, various groups stepped up and took action to provide this essential Respite for the members of their community.  It is unfortunate that this sort of positive response doesn’t make the evening news quite as readily as the negative violence that preceded it.  However, we can use this event as an incentive to look at our own communities and see if there are others around us who may also be in need of Respite.  Perhaps there is someone dealing with a serious illness who would love some company or a cooked meal.  Or maybe someone who is serving as the caregiver for a family member with around-the-clock needs would love a couple of hours Respite just to be able to get out and run some errands without worrying about leaving their loved one alone for too long.  This week let us consider how we might improve our own neighborhoods, towns, and cities by reaching out to others in need and offering them Respite in the way of time, comfort, companionship, or whatever will ease their burden even for a moment.  Let us ask that this willingness to offer Respite to others ripple across this nation, filling it with more kindness and generosity in its wake.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have been able to provide Respite to another person in need?  How does it feel in my body when I recognize the relief and healing that comes when Respite is made available to those under stress?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., August 17, 2014

For this Sunday, August 17th, the focus for our meditation will be on Understanding.  Events this past week in Ferguson, Missouri once again highlight the fact that our nation has yet to heal the divides that exist among the many diverse racial and ethnic groups that comprise our melting pot of a society.  It is a shame that young black men living in America must be cautioned by their elders not to wear hoodies or not to speak back to police officers if challenged for fear that it could cost them their life.  It is a shame that police officers may henceforth hesitate in that critical flash of a moment when they must decide whether to act and place their own life at risk for fear they will be wrongly judged.  It is a shame that a family has lost a loved one.  Whether he was a flawed or perfect human being, his time on earth was cut short of what could have been the potential to accomplish much more with his life.  It is a shame that police departments across the country, having dealt with severe budget cuts over these lean years, may be reluctant to accept or use equipment no longer needed by our armed forces for fear that they will be branded as a “militarized” police force.  It is a shame that those who wish to publicly demonstrate their unhappiness over this sad incident must worry whether a handful of unreasonable individuals will behave aggressively to incite looting, vandalism, and more violence.  There is no “right” or “wrong” side to this story.  Instead, it makes ever so clear the flaws still so pervasive in our society when it comes to racial and ethnic issues.  This week let us focus the energy of our prayers and meditation across this nation and ask that people be moved to seek a deeper Understanding of others that will lessen the mistrust, the hatred, and the desire for violence.  May each side pause and try to Understand the motivations and emotions of those who differ from them rather than rush to judgment.  Let us ask that the light of our prayers fill this entire nation and help ease the tensions that have once again flared so they may be replaced by a desire for true Understanding.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and especially Ferguson, Missouri and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I seek to Understand something that initially seems so incomprehensible to me?  How does it feel in my body when I gain a deeper Understanding that helps me appreciate those who are different from me?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., August 10, 2014

For this Sunday, August 10th, the focus for our meditation will be on Self-Acceptance.  Have you ever heard the expression about becoming more comfortable in your own skin as you age?  There is something about the process of gaining experience and the wisdom that hopefully accompanies it that helps us learn how to become more comfortable with who we are as individuals.  Feeling comfortable and at ease with your individuality helps you have the courage to not be afraid to express who you are in the world.  It is remarkable how as very young children we see this same trait.  In that early innocent stage of life we lack the inhibiting desire to please others that can so often shape our behavior to what we think others expect of us.  We instead possess a love of life and of the world that allows us to Accept ourselves and freely reflect who we are to others.  If we first are able to Accept who we are and feel comfortable and satisfied in our own skin it can shield us from the worry that others won’t like us.  Pleasing others takes a much lower priority, if given any importance at all, to learning how to love and Accept ourselves as we are.  This week in our meditation time let us consider how well we have come to Accept ourselves for who we are.  Let us ask to be gently shown how to feel comfortable and at ease with the person we have become so we may be released from the inhibitions that prevent us from fully realizing our individuality.  In learning how to live completely at ease in our own skin may we come to understand that Self-Acceptance helps us not only love ourselves but also more readily accept the love of others without expectations or conditions.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands.

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project.

Ask yourself how do I feel when I recognize I have become comfortable in my own skin and learned how to Accept myself for who I am?  How does it feel in my body when I experience the Self-Acceptance that brings not only peace but a greater opening to the love of others?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., August 3, 2014

For this Sunday, August 3rd, the focus for our meditation will be on Imagination.  In his book of Toltec wisdom, “The Four Agreements,” Don Miguel Ruiz writes about our ability to change our reality by altering our perceptions and thoughts.  He encourages the reader by writing, “Imagine that you have permission to be happy and to really enjoy your life,” “Imagine living your life without the fear of being judged by others,” “Imagine living without the fear of loving and not being loved,” and my favorite, “Imagine living your life without being afraid to take a risk and explore life.”  His book explains in a profoundly simple way how we have the power and ability to eliminate so much of the unhappiness in our life that we ourselves create.  By changing how we think or feel about different circumstances it frees us from the false rules and agreements we have created that we feel obligated to honor.  Looking at life from this viewpoint opens up a huge realm of possibility for us.  After all, our limitations are set only by what is beyond our Imagination.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask ourselves how might we want to Imagine our lives to be different from what we are living today.  How could my life be altered if I were able to reach beyond the bounds of what currently defines me and Imagine something even greater?

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am able to freely use my Imagination in creating new alternatives for my life?  How does it feel in my body when I unleash my Imagination and discover I am capable of more than I previously expected?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., July 27, 2014

For this Sunday, July 27th, the focus for our meditation will be on Simplicity.  Lao Tzu once wrote, “Simplicity, patience, compassion.  These three are your greatest treasures.  Simple in actions and thoughts, your return to the source of being.”  At first, it might seem puzzling that a concept as basic as Simplicity would be given equal standing with the grander ideals of patience and compassion.  Yet, on further reflection, the three seem to have a synergistic relationship among them.  Paring down one’s life and reducing unnecessary attachments can generate greater Simplicity.  The freedom that comes from the decreased burden of attachments can lead to greater patience.  Having patience, especially with another’s flaws or mistakes, may be the first step to experiencing compassion for them.  It all flows from Simplicity.  Additionally, Feng Shui experts will tell you reducing clutter in your home or office can boost your clarity of thought and productivity.  The added Simplicity of a clean and tidy environment can be beneficial for your mental and physical health.  But oh, how we love to complicate our lives and environments by overfilling them unnecessarily.  Just watch one of those horribly-gross-but-I-can’t-look-away episodes about hoarders on television.  While hopefully most of us don’t take things to that extreme, it may still be worthwhile to examine our life to see if we have needlessly filled it with excesses that merely complicate things for us.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us ask if there are ways we might benefit from introducing more Simplicity in our life.  Let us ask to be gently helped to see where we may be accumulating things that are not helpful or only weigh us down and then be given insight on how to ultimately Simplify those aspects of our life.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I have been able to recognize what is most essential and Simplified my life?  How does it feel in my body when I experience that sigh of relief from introducing greater Simplicity around me?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., July 20, 2014

For this Sunday, July 20th, the focus for our meditation will be on Fulfillment.  A very poignant video was making the rounds on social media recently that showed a family saying goodbye to their beloved dog.  He had battled osteosarcoma, and despite a leg amputation the cancer had continued to spread and was now making his life more and more uncomfortable.  The time had come to let him go in peace.  The family planned his final day as one of celebration of his life and to Fulfill every one of his joys for the last time.  He got to eat hamburgers, visit with friends, play in the park, and be surrounded by those who loved him most as he took his last breath.  For those who have known the unconditional love of a pet it is a tear-jerker of a video but also teaches us an important lesson.  What would we do differently with today if we knew it would be our last?  How would we Fill our day in the spirit of the final celebration of our life?  For me, I would want to spend time outdoors, be with my family and friends and dog, and perhaps fit in a wonderful meal.  I wouldn’t even think of shopping, doing chores, or tackling work tasks.  Obviously, however, we cannot spend every day as if it was our last, for we would then not accomplish any of the things that do tend to occupy our life and make it possible for us to live the life we enjoy.  However, considering this notion of Fulfillment might cause us to reprioritize how we Fill each passing day.  This week in our prayer and meditation time let us think about what Fulfills us the most and whether we devote enough time and attention to that in our life.  Let us ask to be guided in how to better balance our life so we may feel Fulfilled in all that we do each and every day.

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I am engaged in an activity that completely Fulfills me?  How does it feel in my body when I am able to recognize the priorities in my life that help Fulfill rather than deplete me?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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., July 13, 2014

For this Sunday, July 13th, the focus for our meditation will be on Perception.  In a book by Victor Chan about his friendship with His Holiness the Dalai Lama titled, “The Wisdom of Forgiveness,” he cites a conversation between the two on the topic of suffering.  The Dalai Lama is quoted as saying, “Much of our unhappiness, our suffering, is caused by discrepancies between our Perceptions and what is real.”  Further into their discussion the Dalai Lama offered the example that former President George W. Bush obviously thought Saddam Hussein was evil, and Saddam likely thought the same of the United States.  Neither was completely correct.  Despite my utter abhorrence of Saddam and the evil he perpetuated against his own people during his reign of terror there no doubt had to have been even the tiniest kernel of human decency present in him.  If you find this a bit of a stretch perhaps it is easier if you think of him as a young boy growing up.  Surely at some point in his life he must have been a normal, decent human being.  To paint him with a broad brush of total evil would be as biased as the unwarranted Perception of the United States as entirely evil.  I will readily admit we certainly have our flaws as a nation.  There are many facets of our society, our culture, and our government that do not make me feel particularly proud.  Having worked as a civil servant for most of my life I definitely have little patience for the overwhelming bureaucracy that often seems to hinder our ability to accomplish anything.  But despite that, I also have immense pride and satisfaction from knowing all the good we do as a country.  In none of these instances does a part represent the whole.  This week in our prayer and meditation let us consider the viewpoint of the Dalai Lama and ask whether we are holding onto a Perception about a person or something in our life that may needlessly be a source of unhappiness for us.  Let us ask to be shown how to alter our Perceptions in a way that helps us see more of the whole rather than a small sliver of what we believe to be the case.

 

In our efforts this week let us also continue to use the energy of our prayers and meditation to amplify the light that covers and fills this nation.  As we perform our meditation this week let us begin by re-energizing the brilliance and power of the light we create.  Just as before, begin by forming a concentrated ball of light that is so bright it is almost impossible to look directly at it.  Raise this sphere of light up high over the entire nation and then let its rays cascade down to create a solid, impenetrable dome of light that completely covers every inch of our country.  From shore to shore and border to border let the entire continent be filled with this brilliant, dense light that will serve to magnify the best and highest qualities of our country and the people who live across its vast lands. 

 

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, and connect to the circle of others participating in this project. 

 

Ask yourself how do I feel when I realize a Perception I have held is not helpful and needs to be updated or corrected?  How does it feel in my body when I change my Perceptions in a way that enable me to see more of the big picture?  Then send the energy and intention of those feelings 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