For this Sunday, May 6th, the focus for our
meditation will be on Catharsis. One of the definitions of the complex process
of Catharsis describes it as the “purification and purgation of emotions
that results in renewal and restoration.”
It is interesting to consider in contrast that blind rage would likely never
lead to renewal or restoration. Nor
would pent-up anger or hatred or other repressed negative emotions be capable
of providing any sense of rejuvenation. The key to Catharsis is that the emotion,
whether positive or negative (often the latter), must be released. It is through the process of dissipating
those feelings that we feel purified and cleansed. However, one of the problems is we can have a
sense of shame or guilt at the expression of negative emotions. Some people find it very difficult to
cry. Others castigate themselves after
they erupt in anger. We are all human,
and none of us is immune to experiencing the baser, negative emotions. Even Jesus became angry at the moneychangers
in the temple and overturned their tables in a fit of pique. Would any of us consider ourselves to be
above such a display and never lose control under similar circumstances? Life is challenging, and there are moments
when we may have unpleasant thoughts and emotions bubble up inside. Rather than try to contain or deny them, we
may be best served by allowing ourselves to vent in a healthy fashion. Whether through the outlet of physical
activity, complaining to a trusted friend, or writing an email that we delete instead
of sending, we all need some means to let go on occasion. This week in our prayer and meditation time
let us ask whether we are generous enough with ourselves to allow Catharsis
to occur without feelings of guilt or shame.
Let us ask to be gently guided to healthy release mechanisms that
provide the renewal and purification that only a needed Catharsis can
bring. By discovering the value of Catharsis
in our own lives may we also be willing to serve as patient listeners who allow
others to find their own means of release without fear of judgment.
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 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 what do I feel in my body when I have experienced
a Catharsis that cleansed me of an
emotion in a healthy way? How does it feel in my body when I allow myself
the release of Catharsis that brings
a sense of purification and renewal? 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
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