I have been following internet coverage of the Monks as they walk for peace. Today they arrived in Washington D.C. However our walk is just beginning as we learn to not only walk in peace but to live peace. Focusing on our breath and surrendering to the sense of peace and calm is a continuing practice. A daily practice.
Some of you know my husband Bob has health issues. I have found myself in the role of caregiver, for which I was totally unprepared. Doctors scare me. This comes from past experience. So I am being given plenty of opportunities to practice mindfulness right now, not always successfully. I sit in waiting rooms focusing on the breath — breathe in, breathe out. I repeat to myself may I be calm, may I be happy, may I be peaceful. We can also direct this practice toward others, may you be happy, may you be happy, may you be peaceful, or taking it further, may all beings be calm, may all beings be happy, may all beings be peaceful.
These are not magic words that miraculously change the world. This is a practice, a way of being that is available to everyone, regardless of your religious affiliation.
The monks have reached their destination. But the walk for peace has not ended. Instead of reacting to everything going on around us, it is up to us to continue to walk mindfully through this world, sowing seeds of kindness and peace. If you need help getting started do a search for loving kindness meditation.
May you be well. May you be happy. May you be peaceful.
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