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Today started and ended at the Medicine Wheel. Some Native Americans used these “sacred hoops” in rites and rituals. This one is a copy, about a 45 minute hike through the desert from the retreat center. I left at sunrise to pray there and returned at sunset to close out my day.
Facing north, I prayed for balance between hardship and blessing.
Facing east, I praised God for wisdom to fill each day.
Facing south, I prayed that God would create in me a generous heart.
Facing west, I prayed that when my life comes to a close, I will be filled with joy and gratitude for the gifts of each day.
With my arms raised to the sky, I renewed my vow to make this world a better place. With my feet planted firmly on the sand, I reminded myself that I am but one part of creation.
This was a good way to begin and end this day. And you know what? You can pray this too…no medicine wheel required.
That really is a great way to start and finish the day. Thank you for sharing.
I Pray with you, Rev. Jennie
Without a medicine wheel, I decided to head to my back yard, to try this meditation. I figured the cars and neighbors would distract me, but I was pleasantly surprised.
As I faced north, praying for balance between hardship and blessing, I also thanked God for the many lessons I’ve learned through struggle.
As I faced east, praising God for wisdom, I thanked him for the wisdom of others that carries me through when I am stymied by life.
As I faced south, focusing on generosity, I was facing our home, which is a palace compared to what so many have. I breathed deeply and reaffirmed my commitment to be generous in time, resources, and spirit.
As I turned to the west, I took a moment of gratitude for this day. This day of spring breezes and new green shoots from the ground, this day of children’s laughter and my family’s love. This is a good life.
I raised my hands to the sky and felt the earth below my feet. The warmth from the sun touched my palms, warming them in a way that to me feels a lot like the presence of our Creator– books tell me it’s far away, but the sun is right here, changing everything without my noticing it. Likewise, the ground supports me, keeps me from freefall, just as God’s love does every day.
Thanks, Jennie, for encouraging me to take a few minutes to live fully into this day.
Ah, “Reverence” Jennie, Jesus was in the dessert 40 days, it brings me a peace seeing you visiting this Holy place and knowing your heart is for God. With you on the Way. You will return an inch taller!
<, Lois