Monthly Meditation Themes

 

At the beginning of every month, TRIUNE members receive an electronic newsletter which also includes a seed thought for meditation. If they choose, members are encouraged to incorporate these thoughts into their own daily meditation routines. Meditation themes are usually seasonal and/or address a specific topic or situation needing immediate attention. Please feel free to join us in meditative focus.

 

 

January 2023

 

We've all been dealing this past year with our own everyday, personal stresses; but beyond that, we've witnessed almost constant disturbances of some sort or other around the entire world, from political unrest to unrelenting covid variants, the war in Ukraine, increased climate anomalies and many other examples too numerous to mention. The planetary ethers have been fraught with strife, chaos and imbalance.

The vibrational network of the entire planet is in a disturbed pattern, affecting all life forms in some way. Currently, we're experiencing on a planetary level something akin to how we might personally feel when we are upset over something on the everyday, mundane level. When this happens to us, we are unable to think clearly and move forward with our lives, at least until we can calm down and collect ourselves. Similarly, like an overly distraught and emotionally exhausted human being, the planet itself is in great need of an extensive "calming down" period. This unfortunate situation has been brought about by humanity's own selfish and negative thoughts, words and actions -- and only humanity can fix it.

In a letter to one of her students in 1935, Helena Roerich spoke about this, while explaining the necessity of "discharging" these negative energies in order to prevent further damage to the planet. We already know that ashrams have always sent out certain disciples to various vulnerable places on the planet to function as these dischargers. In her instructions, Roerich said that "the number of dischargers is very small, and they bear the whole burden of maintaining the planet's balance." However, anyone who wishes can help those who carry this burden.

We need to understand that we personally contribute, by our own thoughts, words and actions, to the very negativity which we hope to dispel. As painful as it may be, we need to honestly examine our own selves to discover how we may, perhaps even unconsciously, be doing this and then work to correct it. For the month of January, therefore, let's honestly examine our own behaviors and concentrate on how we can rid ourselves of any which might disturb the planetary etheric network...while at the same time working to increase those behaviors which are beneficial.

 

November 2022

 

Here in the United States, November is the month in which we celebrate our Thanksgiving holiday. These days with all the chaos going on in the world, it may seem as though there's very little for which to give thanks -- high inflation, making it tough to pay those monthly bills; covid and all the other viral strains lurking about; the war in Ukraine and atrocities being committed against civilians; continuing political unrest in the United States, England and so many other countries; harsh weather anomalies from climate change; and so much more it's enough to make our heads spin! One has to wonder how in the world we can possibly take time away from all this to "give thanks" and, indeed, should we even bother to do so?

Deeply, truly feeling gratitude and thankfulness...and showing it to others...is actually often mentioned in esoteric literature. We are encouraged to practice it, not just because it is the right or kind thing to do, but because of its physical, psychological and spiritual benefits. When we feel negativity and/or irritation, a psychic substance called "imperil" is deposited along the nerve fibers of our bodies, affecting not just our physical bodies, but also our, etheric, astral, mental and higher bodies. It causes a sort of cold "brittleness" to the aura and is one of the surest ways to stifle spiritual growth. One of the best means for dissolving and ridding oneself of imperil is to genuinely feel thanks or gratitude. As proof of this, when feeling irritated, giving thanks or feeling a deep sense of gratitude will almost immediately manifest physically as a soft, comforting and calming warmth radiating from the heart center outwards to all parts of the body and soothing the nerve fibers.

It's not an easy thing to do, but consistently feeling and showing to others thankfulness and gratitude can be accomplished. TRIUNE member Tasha Halpert has given a suggestion on how to do this.  Here is what she says:

"Giving thanks can become a mindset: When I step into my hot shower on a cold winter night, I give thanks. When I slide into my comfortable bed, I do so again. A nice sunny day is another occasion for thanks. I have been and will again be grateful even for difficult circumstances, some of which seem nothing to be grateful for. However, while these may at the time seem to be something to regret, they may turn out to be helpful, or even useful lessons. Giving thanks may help us see that. Research shows that people who practice gratitude regularly not only live longer but are also healthier. To help make gratitude become a habit, before beginning a task or performing a ritual, become quiet and do the following. Take 3 breaths in and out. Focus on light as you do, drawing it in through your heart center and breathing it back out. Say quietly or even mentally in silence, 'I am grateful for this opportunity to ( fill in that for which you are grateful ) and I give thanks for ( fill in any other thoughts regarding why you are grateful ). May it be so.' As you remember to do this, you will soon have a habit that will grow into a consistent attitude of gratefulness."

We can adapt this formula to every area of life, from the simplest things we do every day to great situations of concern around the globe. We can be thankful for every little bit of forward progress we individually make each day, as well as for any progress the human race as a whole makes in solving the many problems we face. For the month of November, let's concentrate our meditation efforts on gratitude and thankfulness.

 

September 2022

 

We often see news stories about refugees from less developed countries being displaced from their homes as a result of political or social upheaval, thus leaving them homeless. Yet we sometimes tend to ignore the fact that homelessness is a crisis in wealthier, industrialized societies, too. Here in the United States, for example, a trip to any major city often shocks and confuses people who are unaccustomed to seeing encampments of so-called tent cities -- people living in great discomfort in all kinds of weather, in tents or under vinyl tarps on street corners or in local parks...often just a block or two from beautiful, well-to-do neighborhoods.

One wonders how so many people came to lose their residences, forcing them to live in such conditions. Of course, every story is different. Those living on the streets may be untreated alcohol or drug addicts or mentally or physically ill persons who find themselves unable to hold jobs, without family help or any other place to go. But contrary to popular belief, this isn't always the case. Runaway children or teens often escape unbearable situations, only to find themselves unable to financially cope in their new environments and forced to live by their wits on the streets. Many women find themselves homeless after escaping violent, abusive relationships. Military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress may find themselves unable to successfully hold a job and pay rent, forced to join the growing ranks of the homeless because they have nowhere else to turn for help.

A big problem is that many cities and governments simply fail to provide social services for lower income people, which would help reduce their risk of homelessness. A good number of homeless actually hold one or more low-paying jobs and fall into the category of the "working poor", those who who are employed, but don't make enough money to pay today's exorbitant rents. Lately, there has also been a significant rise in the numbers of families with children finding themselves, for whatever reasons, without a place to live. Thus, cities in wealthy nations which cannot or will not provide help to those needing it the most often find themselves hosting the largest homeless populations.

This subject of homelessness is our meditation theme for the month of September. It was suggested by Andrew Rooke of Australia, who talked about this issue after a recent visit to Canada, where he witnessed the growing number of homeless persons. Andrew made the following observations:

"I wish to suggest that we consider the fate of the many thousands of homeless people in the major cities even of 'first-world' countries. My experience recently of travelling in Australia and Canada has proved to me the enormous divide between rich and poor and that this divide is growing in our societies. Pretty soon in cities like Vancouver, Canada, where the poor and drug addicted flock due to the cold climate in the rest of the country, whole areas of the city are being overrun by homeless people camping out on the streets.  Authorities clearly don't know what to do about this situation where the problem is treated either as one of law enforcement, or simply of providing social housing for homeless people and creating ghettos of distressed people.

There are obviously social, economic and medical reasons for this situation but behind it is a real crisis of values and sense of purpose in our communities. We all have the opportunities to help with the physical problems experienced by homeless people by supporting philanthropic organisations doing magnificent work out on the front-line on the streets every day and night. Perhaps our further contribution could be to meditate on the real causes of this situation due to the often-misplaced values of our materialistic society, a lack of a sense of brotherhood and practical response to this crisis, and what we can do to spread knowledge of karma and reincarnation throughout our communities which ultimately explains a lot of these problems and our responsibility to do something about them."

Andrew is correct in noting the complexity of the issue of homelessness and the underlying reasons for its growth. One of the pressing problems facing those who are homeless is their lack of security -- the ever-present dangers they face, often robbed of their meager possessions, physically attacked or even murdered while vulnerably living or sleeping on the streets. While we may feel confused about how to begin to help change this terrible situation, we can start by thinking about and visualizing the homeless living closest to our own geographical locations and then doing this simple thing. During our meditations in September, we can send to them protective energies fortified with the following prayer: "We implore you God and your angelic hosts, that those who have no place to call home be surrounded by your protection from harm and guided to a place of peace and security."

Tasha Halpert also suggested that we use the following affirmation: Envision Light and feel within yourself a sense of identification with that Light as a home to be within and with which to be surrounded. Visualize this Light expanding to include those in need of a home. Send Love with this image and set the following affirmation. "May those in need of a home be guided to find a way to be at home and comforted within it."

 

August 2022

 

Roslyn Carter is the former First Lady of the United States and wife of past President Jimmy Carter. This kind and compassionate southern woman once made the following statement: "There are four kinds of people in the world -- those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver." Obviously, Mrs. Carter thought very highly of and was grateful to those who gave of themselves in service as caregivers to others.

Our society does not provide much of an infrastructure for the care of those who cannot care for themselves. Lack of availability of services, particularly in rural or less populated areas is one problem. A shortage of compassionate, dependable and knowledgeable personnel is another. And even for those who are fortunate enough to have reliable services in their area, prohibitive costs often allow only the wealthy to take advantage. Thus, the burden of caregiving often falls upon those least prepared to provide it -- such as already overworked and overwhelmed family members struggling to hold it all together.

Ever since the start of the covid-19 pandemic, the need for caregivers has grown, whether professionals like doctors and nurses, or the impromptu family member unexpectedly thrust into the role through a series of unfortunate events. For example, especially during the early days of covid, many persons found themselves caring for children who had lost as yet unvaccinated parents to the virus. But even before covid, volunteer family members have been caring for family or friends, unselfishly giving of their time and energy to help with the daily routines of sick, handicapped or aging loved ones unable to perform many common, daily functions by themselves.

We have several caregivers in TRIUNE. No doubt they, like caregivers the world over, often find themselves discouraged and exhausted from the physical and emotional burdens they carry in this difficult and demanding day-to-day work. During our periods of meditation in the month of August, let's send gratitude and strengthening energies to all the caregivers -- particularly those who are unpaid volunteers -- who give of their time and energy so unselfishly. As a seed thought, you may want to use the following prayer/affirmation:

If you feel tired and overwhelmed,
I send you strength and hope.
If you feel alone or afraid,
I send you love and courage.
If you feel sad or unappreciated,
I send you joy and gratitude.
From my heart to yours,
take these things and carry on,
Knowing that you are cared for, too.

 

July 2022

 

One of the main roles of educators in the new era will be to help raise humanity's state of consciousness from the personality level, where the majority currently reside, to that of the Soul, the next step for the race's evolution. Even a brief look at today's news stories reveals just how disruptive and unproductive things have become around the world, as people unsuccessfully cope with issues from the level of the personality rather than the Soul. TRIUNE members Roza and Margarita Riaikkenen wrote some valuable insights about this very topic, and we feature here their contribution on this subject as our July meditation theme.

Here is what Roza and Margarita wrote:

When we recognize ourselves on a spiritual level, we start to feel our exquisite uniqueness and we manifest our unique abilities, talents, understanding, and will. At the same time we are beginning to realize that we are all united in Spirit, at the level of our spiritual Source. That is a beautiful feeling of connection and  at the same time freedom. What we discovered through the years – a lot of people confuse that natural unity with the state of uniformity and not only exercise this delusion as their own view but also apply all power they have to instill it in others, forcing them to conform to the ways which are very far from the free expression of what these people really are, both spiritually and naturally. Unity goes from the heart and is quite an achievement. Whereas uniformity can be forced and is nothing to be proud of!

Such mix up creates big problems in our time when our earthly nature is extensively studied by all sorts of power-seeking personalities and groups of people. They are becoming experts in manipulating us in one way or another. They may use our best intentions of serving the struggling humanity. When someone or some system tries to make us think uniformly, by propaganda and punitive actions, this means disrespect and violates us on a very deep level. The only possible way to withstand it is to be grounded in our everyday situation and simultaneously feel and express ourselves as a Soul, as a creation of Spirit and creator in our own right.

Only when we humans consciously and voluntarily unite in all our diversity with respect to anyone’s human dignity, can we expect that we will be able to transform our current mundane thinking and understanding, and that our new spiritual condition will result in such transformation of our physical condition that many maladies will become a remote memory and a lesson for humanity.
This is what we have to teach our children. We can meditate on our inner unity and on our respect and reverence for any other unique human being and any manifestation of life. Albert Schweitzer called it the ethics of "reverence for life".

 

 

May 2022

 

As we near the half-way point of 2022, it's been difficult for many of us to stay positive. After more than two years of the covid pandemic raging around the world, we continue to hear of the development of new variants of concern. Political turmoil continues in most countries. Here in the United States, gun violence is at an all-time high. Since February, we've daily witnessed the horrors of the war in Ukraine. As we try to navigate our own daily personal trials, these global events add to our stress and wear down our resolve. Sometimes the problems seem endless and finding solutions feels futile. Needless to say, we are all -- at the very deepest levels -- weary.

It's absolutely necessary to take breaks from all the negativity. But what do we do when a simple break doesn't renew us, when it becomes difficult to carry on our spiritual work? We may find ourselves saying, "My heart just isn't in it." However, TRIUNE member Tasha Halpert, who has graciously provided our monthly meditation theme, says "If you follow your heart, you cannot lose your way." This is a very helpful seed thought for our meditations during the month of May. As we near the halfway point of an already challenging year, practicing Tasha's suggestions may help refresh our spirits. Clear-headed and renewed, we are better able to daily face our own personal karmic challenges and also make progress in our difficult esoteric work.

 

May 2022 Meditation
by Tasha Halpert

 

Some years ago, a dear friend, now in spirit and greatly missed, gave me a greeting card with the following saying: "If you follow your heart you cannot lose your way." I put the card where I could see it often as a reminder to consult my heart when I felt I didn't know which way to turn. I also learned to consult it when I needed reassurance that I was on the right track. I have put the saying at the end of each of my  emails, as the sentence printed on the bottom.

The heart referred to here is, I believe, our spiritual heart, the one located in the heart chakra and placed at the center chest. When we consult this part of us, we are able to see more clearly prior to acting on an important matter--or even an unimportant one, as it can be difficult to know the difference between them. To follow your heart is to express your truth and that truth could be seen as your connection with your Higher Self. It resembles a tuning fork that vibrates your highest good.

If you wish, prior to the meditation reflect on your current situation, whatever it may be and choose something requiring direction. To begin the meditation, sit quietly and focus on your breathing. Imagine that a bright light shines over your head and as you breathe in, sense it flowing down through the top of your head and into the center of your chest, your heart center. As you breathe out, sense it flowing out through the heart center or chakra to wherever it is most needed. Do this at least 5 times, more if so guided.

Then envision the planet suffused with brilliant white light with tinges of warm pink and soft gold here and there. Set your intention for a blossoming to emerge for the planet and keep filling it with light. Envision or speak aloud your intended question if you have one. Then finally, return to your everyday self and write any solutions you have been given, or any impressions.

MAY PEACE PREVAIL IN UKRAINE...MAY PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH!

 

April 2022 Meditation Theme
by Kathleen Hall

 

A couple of weeks ago, I felt the urge to walk in a special place I had not been to for a while. The walk turned into a beautiful and unexpected meditation experience that I would like to share with you.

The old forest was still, with a heavy mist settling amongst the trees in the late afternoon. Walking through the woods, I reached the edge of the sea which was veiled by a thick fog. Everything seemed transfixed in time with the gentle lapping of the waves merging with my breath. The smooth rocks, moist air, quiet woods and gentle sea engulfed me and I could feel the essence of the earth as a living being. I became one with the presence of this energy breathing in harmony -- still, ancient, majestic and beautiful.

As you also meditate upon nature, you may want to use this quote from British/Australian philosopher and metaphysician J.J.C. Smart as a seed thought: "It is in the still silence of nature where one will find true bliss."

 

February 2022

 

We are very grateful to Rene Wadlow of France who has provided this month's meditation theme on World Interfaith Harmony. Before reading his theme below, you may wish to read/download our "Religious Tolerance" cards. These contain visual symbols of many of the world's religions, which you can use in your meditations. The cards also contain a pledge to promote religious tolerance and are made to print out for further distribution. You can give them to friends or family, school groups, at church services or religious education classes, clubs, etc. Go to: http://www.triuneoflight.org/images/religious_tolerance_cards.pdf .

 

Interfaith Harmony Week by Rene Wadlow

World Interfaith Harmony Week, the first week each February, was set by the U.N. General Assembly in 2010 with the aim to increase dialogue and understanding among peoples. Reconciliation and forgiveness have been stressed. At the core of all faith traditions is the recognition that we need to love one another in order to live in harmony in an environmentally sound world. While there is still much to be done as some armed conflicts today have a coloring of tensions among religions or even schools within the same religion, we can work together to build bridges of understanding. There is a model for this effort who deserves to be better known: Chou Tan-yi (1017-1073) known as the Master of Lien-Hsi (the area where he lived).

During the Sung dynasty (960-1279), after a period of division and confusion, there was a conscious effort to bring together into a harmonious framework currents of thought which existed in China but often as separate and sometimes hostile schools of thought: Confucianism, Buddhism, philosophical Taoism, and religious Taoism. These efforts were called Tao hsuch - the study of Tao. Chou Tun-yi was a leading figure in this effort. He developed a philosophy based on the harmony of Yin and Yang, a harmony known through intuition as each person has within himself the capacity to know what is right. This capacity of intuition, what Chou Tun-yi called "straightforwardness in movement", properly developed, will lead to impartiality and universality, the Confucian ideal of sagehood. (See Fung Yu Lan. A Short History of Chinese Philosophy. New York; Macmillan Co. 1950.)

Today, the currents of thought linked to Christianity, Islam and others need to be added to the currents of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. However the need to develop the capacity of properly using intuition remains a vital approach - a goal for the Harmony Week. We can develop a guided meditation for World Interfaith Harmony Week by first preparing our bodies and minds to open to inspiration. Then we can visualize light flowing from the symbols of the different faiths or images of their scriptures. These lights then combine in a central, harmonious center of light in which the symbols disappear and only a bright harmonious light remains.

 

November 2021

 

November is a time of year when many people remember those who have made their transition from the physical plane and passed over in death. Christians celebrate All Souls Day in early November, for example, and many people of Hispanic heritage honor the deceased on Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. The following Native American Prayer of Passage is a beautiful and fitting tribute to those Souls who are now on the higher planes, as well as a comfort to their loved ones who have been left behind.

I give you this thought to keep.
I'm with you still, I'm not asleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints of snow.
I'm sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awake in morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone.
I'm with you still, in each new dawn.

 

No matter how much we intellectually tell ourselves that we understand and accept death, it still breaks our hearts to lose a beloved family member or dear friend. During the month of November, please hold in your heart all those who have passed away, as well as those who must navigate their pain and loss and move onto healing.

 

July 2021

 

Covid, of course, still remains a great concern all over the world. As we enter July here in the United States, our President Biden had hoped that 70% of our population would have been fully vaccinated by now. We have not yet, unfortunately, reached that goal; and now the new Delta variant is rapidly infecting the unvaccinated around our country, threatening a surge in cases and a possible renewal of lockdowns and restrictions. The situation is even worse in so many other countries, and we all wonder if this terrible threat will ever end. The entire world is suffering from covid fatigue, with fear and uncertainty emotionally draining everyone. We seem stuck between two extremes. The first is a return to some sense of "normalcy" with businesses and schools re-opening, people traveling again, etc.; and the other is a nervous watchfulness, waiting and wondering what this tricky virus will do next and how it will ultimately affect the entire world.

I recently read an article in a Christian-focused magazine, offering advice on how to cope with our fears about covid and all the other stressors we experience these days. The article was peppered with numerous Bible quotes, and one particularly struck me as both relevant and comforting, as well as being good, practical advice for these wearisome times. (Philippians 4:6-8):

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds...Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things."

And so for the month of July and beyond, as we grapple with covid and also our everyday struggles and strife, let us use this beautiful quote as a seed thought. Let us meditate upon the privilege of being alive at this moment and the joy of being witness to the beauty and goodness of life here on Earth, with all her wonder and bountiful treasures.

 

May 2021

 

For many centuries, humanity has been led to believe the old adage that “money is the source of all evil”. This erroneous thoughtform remains powerfully present, even though money is simply crystallized, manifested energy and cannot of itself be either good or evil. It is simply a tool necessary at this stage of the human race’s development and brings to the physical plane the contents of humanity’s consciousness.

Unfortunately, people often fear lack in one form or another and so they selfishly grasp for more money. Because the global consciousness is filled with such doubts, the rightful flow and circulation of money has become pinched off. This energy disruption has resulted in the extreme contrasts we see today between the excessive wealth of some and the desperate poverty of others. It is a situation unbecoming a future civilization based on loving sharing, as governed by Divine purpose and principle.

The human race must adjust its thinking to accept money as spiritual energy, to be used not just for personal satisfaction, but to minister to group and global need. To increase the circulatory flow of this crystallized energy, humanity must also accept a new era of “simplicity” in which funds are used not for frivolous personal excess, but rather for necessities and useful ingredients that provide a creative, happy and fulfilling life for everyone, not just a privileged few.

Despite claims to the contrary, there are adequate resources to meet the needs of our global population. Once corrective measures are taken, there is enough food, fuel and other resources to provide a comfortable existence for all. The problem is one of distribution – or rather lack thereof – which restricts the flow of these resources to the entire populace. This restriction is the fault of individuals, corporations and governmental entities alike.

Any decision to restrict on the physical plane, no matter by whom, begins on the higher planes and so must be addressed there first. One way to help is by incorporating the following meditation/affirmation into our work for this month of May and beyond:

Assume an attitude of love, service and fairness to all. Visualize the global supply of money as a great, energetic stream of flowing golden substance, circulating around the planet. Try to “cleanse” this energy of any negative association others may attach or already have attached to it. Be open to experiencing its vibratory frequency and recognizing where there might be any areas of constriction of this flow. Visualize this supply as moving away from the forces of grasping and materialism, loosening and finally breaking these bonds. See it being magnetized instead by the forces of Light to be used for the purposes of manifesting a new, more just and equitable society and, thus, advancing the Divine Plan. Close with the following affirmation:

O Thou in whom we live and move and have our Being, turn to spiritual purposes the money of this world. Touch the hearts of all men and women everywhere, that we may let go of selfish and materialistic ways and come to recognize the true significance of money. Help us to understand the Divine Plan and that to bring it into manifestation, that which has hitherto been given to material satisfaction must now be freely given for group and global need. In the spirit of sharing and by Divine Command, let it be so. Amen.

(Many thanks to the Institute for Planetary Synthesis in Geneva for the idea for our meditation/affirmation. Their website is ipsgeneva.com.)

 

February 2021

 

Here in the U.S., we are beginning to recover from the trauma of the horrible attack on our Capitol building in Washington on January 6. Still, every day more and more details emerge about the true viciousness of the attack and the (thankfully) unsuccessful efforts to physically harm or kill some of our legislators. Common sense eventually ruled the day and democracy prevailed, but the whole incident has left an aching hole in the hearts of peace-loving proponents of freedom and democratic rule everywhere.

That is why it is so hard to watch the violent and ruthless suppression of our Russian brothers and sisters who have recently been peacefully demonstrating in support of Alexei Navalny, the leader of the opposition to Vladimir Putin.  All over the world, it seems, humanity is crying out for freedom, justice and an escape from the crushing restraints of selfish dictatorial rulers who, caring only for power and their own personal comforts, seek to silence their citizens.

Freedom and liberty are as essential to the life of a human being as are air and water. "Freedom," said Helena Roerich, "this bird of paradise, sings only in pure hearts liberated from their only jailer, whose name is Selfishness." We must, therefore, support our Russian friends and all others who are struggling, by sending them Light, Love, Compassion, Strength and  protective energies. They need our help as they struggle to express their divinely given choices of liberty and equality, along with their demands for truthfulness and transparency from their leaders. In our meditations for this month of February, we can use the following suggestions from Russian esotericist Helena Roerich as seed thoughts in developing ways to help:

"A prison deprives of freedom of locomotion and action, but how many other skillfully hidden forms of slavery still exist in all state systems? And the most lamentable of these is assuredly slavery of thought."

"The great ideas of liberty, equality, brotherhood -- ideas which alone keep humanity alive -- if these were to be put aside because they seem utopian, then it would be better for humanity to cease to exist. Unless these ideas are carried in the heart, humanity will sink..."

 

October/November 2020

 

Here in the United States, we are entering the final stages of a very contentious Presidential election cycle. The distress and division humanity is currently experiencing, as evidenced in our current political situation, is a painful problem not only here in the U.S., but all over the planet as well. While we have seen some progress in promoting a sense of global Oneness, no country -- no citizen of Earth -- is immune to the harmful effects of contention and division which work to eclipse the forward progress made. If ever a time cried out for global unity and synthesis, this is certainly it.

While it's easy to become discouraged, it's always helpful to regain our balance by viewing the current state of affairs in the larger context and from the esoteric and spiritual perspective. Permanent answers won't be found unless and until humanity as a whole can do this. We can help by stepping up our efforts to hasten global understanding and acceptance of this concept of synthesis. There is, unmistakably, a sense of some urgency to this task; but we are reminded that this work also requires delicacy and finesse.

"The new forms of civilization must be constructed out of a re-modification of the old ones, in order to maintain the continuity of consciousness from one civilization to the other." - Lucille Cedercrans

The Institute for Planetary Synthesis (IPS), located in Geneva, is working towards these aims; and TRIUNE has officially joined with the Institute's efforts. IPS is planning a series of special meditations for synthesis, the first Sundays of November and December. If possible, please take some time during that day and/or in your regular meditation periods to mentally link with the Institute and all other co-workers globally who are working for these same aims. This type of work is best done if we first individually identify ourselves from the Soul level, as Divine Souls who have incarnated here on Earth to do a job.

"Focus the consciousness in the cave in the center of the head and identify as the Conscious Soul Incarnate. Visualize a line of light extending upward from the center of the head through the top of the head to an overshadowing sphere of blue- white Christ Light, which symbolizes the Ashram of Synthesis and its center of Divine Purpose."

Then meditate upon the concept of synthesis, what it truly means, how it can help heal the ills of the Earth and humanity, and remodify the old civilization into the bright new one we envision.

 

July/ August 2020

 

It's practically impossible not to be consumed by the current pandemic crisis, as it affects everything about our lives these days. Unfortunately as you know, cases in many parts of the world are on the rise, including here in the United States, where numbers are exploding exponentially. Medical professionals and others ask why things have been allowed to get so out-of-control, particularly in a supposedly developed, prosperous and widely educated nation like the U.S. There's no easy answer, but a quote from American Civil War-era President Abraham Lincoln comes to mind:

"You can't escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today."

This subject of personal responsibility should be on everyone's minds these days. Naturally, none of us are perfect, and it's certainly true that we all drop the ball, so to speak, every now and then; but generally, there seems to be two types of people: those who might be labelled "the givers" and others who are "receivers." The givers are the responsible ones, the people who can be counted on to deliver the job at work by the deadline, to show up for their appointments, to pay their bills on time, to help out in a crisis, to go out of their way to ensure that their personal actions don't inadvertently cause distress for anyone else. They do these things without thinking, almost automatically, simply because they understand that they have a personal sense of responsibility not only to those who depend upon them every day, but also to society at large.

Receivers, on the other hand, are different. They're not "bad" people. In fact, they are often more personable and likeable than others, including some givers. They simply don't seem to recognize -- or if they do, they choose to ignore it -- the fact of personal responsibility and its importance to the functioning of society. Perhaps years of conditioning have led them to realize that givers exist who inevitably pick up the pieces, and so they have become lax. While their lives are almost always less stressful because of this, they must eventually own up to the fact that not exercising personal responsibility hurts others around them and themselves.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the current crisis we are facing with the coronavirus pandemic. The recent surge in cases, for example has been attributed to, among other things, the lack of personal responsibility of many people in taking safety measures to prevent the virus spread. Simple things like mask wearing and avoiding crowded parties, etc. have simply been ignored by those who find it too personally inconvenient to do so. They consciously choose their own immediate comfort and desire over the well-being of others, even though the consequences to society are far-reaching and potentially devastating.

Helena Roerich once said: "Each man is responsible not only for himself, but also for others, for man is a creator of the whole world in the full meaning of this concept. All possibilities are contained within him. Of all creatures, only man has the gift of conscious free will. The sole expression of this freedom is the freedom of choice."

It's impossible to verbally "argue" the importance of personal responsibility. One either eventually realizes and practices it or not. It must come forward from deep within the mind and Soul. So during the months of July and August, we can meditate upon this important issue and put into the ethers thoughts and vibrations about the absolute imperative necessity that we all practice personal responsibility, at least where the pandemic virus is concerned. Perhaps by doing so, we can touch the minds and hearts of those who are as yet unaware.

 

June, July, August 2020

 

As we find ourselves still immersed in the global covid-19 virus pandemic, let's concentrate our daily meditations on the use of the "OM" for the months of June, July and August.

As you know, this mantra, chant, vowel sound or whatever you wish to call it is one of the major components of many meditation rituals. Many people open and close their periods of personal or group meditation with it. It's used in religious practices and is a staple tool for numerous esoteric students worldwide. It's been said that the vibratory rate of the sound we make when sounding the OM is akin to the natural vibrations we experience when in tune with nature or, taken to a higher degree, with Divine Beings and the entire Universe itself.

It would be very beneficial for humanity and the planet itself if we could counteract all the fear, anxiety and generally dark and negative vibrations associated with the worldwide coronavirus outbreak. Frequently and mindfully sounding the OM can help in this effort. It is known to help reduce blood pressure and the heart rate in individuals and to generally "stabilize" negativity in the ethers, both particularly beneficial things at this stressful time.

Sound healer, Dean Carter from the UK, has noted that often the OM is incorrectly pronounced by practitioners. The correct pronunciation of OM is to sound a long O, followed by a nasalized M, something to keep in mind. So for our own meditations if you wish to participate, we should settle into a calm state, clear the mind, take a deep cleansing breath, and then sound the OM. It's important to remember that we should be able to feel the vibratory effect of this sound first in the chest area as we begin to sound the long O. Then the sound should move upwards to the throat chakra area and, finally, the nasalized M will move upwards again to the ajna center in the middle of the forehead and finally to the crown chakra at the top of the head.

While many people like to sound the OM three times, you can do it as many times as you feel appropriate. Feel free to adjust your own meditation periods to whatever time limit feels comfortable for you. Namaste.

 

February 2020

 

In many countries, Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14. Sometimes, the entire month of February is associated with this holiday in showing appreciation and love -- often with cards and gifts -- to the special persons in our lives. It's a lovely sentiment, and life might seem a little gentler and kinder if more days each year were so designated.

The real origin and exact identity of St. Valentine, the namesake of the holiday, is somewhat obscure, and several people have shared the honor over the years, including a martyred priest who ministered to early persecuted Christians. Of course, the origins of the celebration are not as important as the expression of love with which the day is associated. However, the mundane meaning of the word "love" as used by the average person in the emotional sense is far removed from that universal concept with which we seek to work on the spiritual level. Torkom Saraydarian once wrote:

"Real Love is so deep. It is the ability to sense the Heart of the Sun. It is not personal, family or national love. It is not even international love. This Love means that you are devoted to something abstract and Divine. You are spiritually intoxicated with bliss."

It's interesting -- and usually quite illuminating! -- to look deeply into our own Souls and ponder whether or not we truly understand this type of intensity when we say we love all other living beings. But that is exactly what we're called to do. In "Applied Wisdom" we are encouraged to express "a part of the gift of the Christ to humanity" by being "the love of the Christ moving within the body of humanity to lift, to give strength, to bring light."

This is no easy task, especially in our current atmosphere of division and strife. Sometimes our tempers grow short and it seems next to impossible to maintain our equilibrium within the swirling and chaotic ethers that confront us every day. Then we often fail to recognize and honor with true Divine Love the Divinity which exists in others. But nobody ever said a life of service would be simple, and knowing and expressing Love in the Divine sense is far different from that expressed on the emotional level. The words of Helena Roerich to a student offer some insight when contemplating this awesome task:

"Service for the Common Good is the highest form of love, because it is devoid of selfhood. Love for humanity demands complete self-abnegation and self-sacrifice. For if love for the Beloved brings an answer from the Beloved -- love for humanity is crowned with a wreath of thorns."

So in our periods of meditation in February, let's try to "sense the Heart of the Sun" and explore the true depths of universal Love as we continue our work for the Divine Plan.

 

December 2019

 

December is, of course, a time of celebration when we look back over the events of the past year and look forward to starting a new one. Astrologically, it's always an important time of year, but this year is even more special. Lucis Trust, the publishing arm for followers of the teachings of Alice Bailey and the Tibetan Master D.K., has informed us of an extra-important date to remember this month -- the solstice of December 21.

According to the Trust, every seven years, humanity can expect an inflow of certain great Cosmic energies during Capricorn, which help on our esoteric work to a very great degree. We are asked that when we meditate on the 21st this December, we particularly focus on this idea. More information about this, as well as the "Festival Week of the New Group of World Servers" is available at their website:  www.festivalweek.org

Also on the 21st of December, co-workers around the world participate in the "Silent Minute" of meditation for global peace at 9:00 pm London GMT. This activity is preceded by a global ringing of bells. Ringing a small brass bell before and after meditation is something which can be easily incorporated into any regular meditation routine. The pure, clear tone attracts positive energies at the start and "seals" the intent of the meditation period at the end. So if you don't already do this, you may wish to add it to your regular meditation routine.

The Lucis Trust additionally offers esoteric workers words of encouragement at this rather confusing time on our planet, when many of us are having trouble staying focused, let alone optimistic that our efforts are truly producing results. We're reminded that the group work we are doing right now is a concentrated effort which will take two centuries to physically manifest visible results in all areas and, additionally, we are setting the tone for an entire 2,500 year cycle. If at times we begin to feel discouraged, it's helpful to keep in mind this great timeline and realize that it requires a great deal of patience, unselfish love, compassion, strength and fortitude to accomplish such difficult tasks. Take heart in knowing this.

Feel free to take into meditation the invocation below, provided through Alice Bailey.

 

THE GREAT INVOCATION

From the point of Light within the Mind of God
Let light stream forth into human minds.
Let Light descend on Earth.

From the point of Love within the Heart of God
Let love stream forth into human hearts.
May the Coming One return to Earth.

From the center where the Will of God is known
Let purpose guide all little human wills,
The purpose which the Masters know and serve.

From the center which we call the human race
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out
And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

 

OM  OM  OM

 

 

 

Monthly Meditation Theme Archives