intention – Becoming and Beholding

Lately, the weight of the world

seems to hold me to my bed

upon waking.

Entering the day requires

an unfamiliar courage.

But even as I lay under

the comfort of my covers,

trying not to face the universal worry,

I know how to be lifted…

I remember to pause.

I look out the window and

my eyes gaze in wonder

at the trees in the morning sky.

I bow inwardly to the beauty of their sparkle.

If the grip in my chest still remains –

threatening to take away wonder and joy,

I place my hands on my heart

and breathe.

I remember to offer myself

love and care.

This anxiety is not about me.

I can let it go.

Then, I look to my right and smile.

My love is at rest and peaceful.

I am reminded to celebrate all the love in my life.

My heart is soothed and

begins to open to the morning.

This is how to start the day

when the world is in pain.

If we practice the art of

transcendance,

and remind ourselves

of what is true and real,

we can step into the Presence

that we are.

So today, I set my intention to

continue in this way

moment by moment,

mindful of what I choose to see.

As I take the covers off,

and step onto the floor,

I lift up my voice and say,

“thank you.”

I gratefully move forward.

Later, if I catch myself

again in the grip of worry,

veering off track,

I lift up a prayer.

I give voice to what is good.

I deepen my gaze and do the work.

This way, darkness and fear

don’t win.

And I am free to love generously.

Regardless of the subject matter, this is the only thing worth teaching; how to uncover the original center and live from there once restored. – Mark Nepo

Loving Presence of the Holy One, my one and only God, I rest in the newness of this day. The birds call and invite me to sing a song to you. I lift my voice and speak your name out loud, offering myself as a vehicle of your love and grace this day and every day. I know profoundly and more and more clearly that when I enter a day with this intention, that I begin in freedom. For when I am aligned with your being, I am being authentically me. Challenges may come today. My prayer is that whatever they may be, that they may serve my awakening. Therefore, blessed be this day! For my heart is full of gratitude for this beautiful life and I intend to live it with joy and extend myself in love to those who cross my path. I am awake. As I sing my song, know that I am here for you, my God. With my whole being, body and soul, I sing your praises. Thank you for this day.

Amen and amen.

Tag: intention

Unceasing Prayer

Morning Prayer II