A Time to observe and respond to what is going on in our hearts and spirits.

An invitation to be present to what is, whatever that is in any given moment. To let go of any false demands and letting things be. Permission for the day to be what it is.

Today a poem as a starting point for reflection.

As we prepare for stillness and mediation, become aware of the body, of breath. Take a few deeper breaths with a full inhale and exhale. Allow the body to sink, to be heavy and let tension go. Be free o let go, if only for this moment.

In these few moments there are no demands, nothing needed, nothing required. Simply to be in this space.

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.

Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,

some momentary awareness comes

as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!

Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,

who violently sweep your house

empty of its furniture,

still, treat each guest honourably.

He may be clearing you out

for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice.

meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes.

because each has been sent

as a guide from beyond.

— Jellaludin Rumi.

Allow what is to be within the quietness.

Become aware of any emotions that are surfacing, anything that you’ve been feeling and not given space to.

Know that you are the host of these emotions and feelings, they are not who you are. Observe them and let them be.

If helpful, name them either out loud or quietly inside.

As each emotion rises, be with it as long as is needed before letting it go as a prayer.

As you allow the emotions and responses to your journey to surface, there may be one or two in particular that draw your attention. Perhaps you notice a recurring anxiety or sadness.

If there is something you’re feeling a lot or have been feeling a lot, observe it, be with it.

We’re going to be with these things in a kind and compassionate way which is often harder to be towards ourselves than others.

We see the grace and compassion towards these feelings and hold them in a compassionate, loving and kind space.

If it’s helpful, invite God into that space – as Jesus, Holy Spirit, Love, The Divine, The Universe. Invite God into that space. Receive the compassion of God towards you and towards the things you’re feeling and the emotions you’re experiencing day to day.

Is there anything that God offers within this space and towards these emotions?

Do you sense an invitation from God?

If you sense a need or a desire that rises within you, express this desire and need to God. Name them/it if you can.

Receive what you need.

Remember compassion first of all towards yourself, then allow that compassion to flow out to those we live with and those we love, finally towards those we share thus human life with across the globe.

Return once more to the Rumi poem as a way to end.