BLESSING FROM THE HEART – The way of compassion

This is an invitation to join us, in your own way, as we focus on a certain area of life for one month at a time. We begin each theme as the Sun enters a new sign of the zodiac according to western astrology. I have chosen themes which fit with the energies of each sign and have asked the Sangha groups in Scandinavia and those connected with the ashram in India to do this each month. I will do the same wherever I am in the world.

The impulse to do this came to me today, 11th Nov ’06, after listening to a BBC radio programme about young offenders in US prisons. Apparently there are thousands who have been sentenced to life imprisonment with no chance of parole. They were sentenced as adults even though they were underage and sometimes unjustly convicted as vital evidence was not presented at the trial. It was a programme that saddened me.

Blessing ceremony for Singing Heart Ashram, India

How to participate
When you use any form of *bodhisattva meditation, individually or in groups, you can focus the energy on the theme for the month. Perhaps you use the Gayatri Mantra, Medicine Buddha, Sufi heart meditation of compassion or Deeksha of intent. These are all bodhisattva tools. If you meditate silently alone or in a group you can spend a few moments at the end of the meditation, directing the fruits of your meditation to the theme. Keep the theme close to your heart during the month. Focus only on it from the heart and only when you feel clear and not emotionally involved in any way. Remember there is real power in blessing from the heart.

*Bodhisattva In this context, one who consciously works for the upliftment of consciousness on the planet.

Evening Arati blessings, Varunasi, India

2006
22 Nov. Sagittarius USA justice system: We focus especially on fair treatment for young offenders and compassionate review of the cases of those who have been judged too harshly in the past. Of course focus on this theme worldwide if you prefer to.
22 Dec. Capricorn Politics: Politicians and also the political systems around the world. You can focus on bringing the light into these systems or on bringing them down so something new can be created that allows the light its full expression.

2007
20 Jan. Aquarius Freedom: We can focus on many aspects of freedom – e.g. freedom to seek real truth, to express ones views, to fulfill true potential.

19 Feb. Pisces Compassion: The compassion that allows us to feel, recognise and respect the realities of others.

21 March Aries Military: That those in the military will be moved to defend the rights and liberties of all people.

20 April Taurus Mother Earth: So much we can focus on here - ecology, blessing the oceans and waterways, the skies etc. Also on people – especially in the western world - awakening to a deeper understanding of and respect for the traditions of the indigenous peoples of the world. That we all may respect and treasure our earth. That we put her well being before that of financial gain etc.

I hope you will join us.
Thank you - Jacqueline

Lotus offering the blessing of its beauty to the world