On November first each year we celebrate All Saints Day, to remind us that there are fine examples of godly souls for us to emulate on our path to God realization.
When we read about or meet an enlightened soul in person, we see that it is possible for each of us to adapt our lives to reach the ultimate human goal. And while we struggle to improve ourselves we have the reflection of saints that point the way.
The book Mystics, Masters, Saints, and Sages by Robert Ullman and Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman, cover shown here, is full of inspiring stories.
No matter how much saints have suffered to get where they are, the journey was eventually worth it in more than one way: 1. They reached their eternal home of bliss in the past or if still living they may be blissed out now in their consciousness. 2. Saints serve for a much longer period than their human lifetime, through the recordings of their lives and deeds that survive their deaths.
A meditation
Begin by sitting up straight in a quiet and private place, either on the floor on a cushion with legs folded in, or on a chair with soles of feet firmly planted on the floor for balance. Fold your hands in your lap or place them palms up or palms down on your thighs.
Close your eyes and begin even and measured breathing such as 2 counts to breathe in and 2 counts to breathe out, 2 counts to breathe in, continuing this pattern throughout your meditation without actually saying the numbers.
Regular, rhythmic breathing calms the mind and relaxes the body, letting stress dissolve during your meditation and with enough sessions, reducing stress in your life.
Follow the flow of your regular breathing for a minute and for this meditation adopt an attitude of respect for the saints. Feel their goodness surround you, envelope you during your time of quiet communion.
If you are drawn to the life of a particular saint, think about the qualities they embody and that you wish to emulate. Reflect on how you can incorporate these traits in your daily life.
Now think on at least one loved one or pet in your life and from that point radiate loving and caring feelings out in ever widening circles in undulating pulses of livened energy, aim for encompassing far into the universe.
Finish your meditation by taking a deep breath in and slowly releasing it. Open your eyes, stretch out and move on with your day, but first write any new insights in your meditation journal for later review and reflection.
Invocation for Blessings
May the blessings of the saints
Keep me inspired on my journey home
To the place reflecting
The radiance of my soul.
Meditation and invocation by Susan Helene Kramer
For offline reading
Meditation Lessons for AdultsMore than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.
Recommended book: Mystics, Masters, Saints, and Sages by Robert Ullman and Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman available at Amazon.com
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