St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and his life is celebrated on the anniversary of the date of his death March 17, AD 461.

I find the following lines from The Shield of St. Patrick - attributed to St. Patrick and paraphrased by Cecil Frances Alexander - truly a bulwark of strength and inspiration:

“Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me;
Christ to comfort and restore me; …”

A meditation inspired by St. Patrick’s devotion

Sitting in a quiet place; perhaps your meditation room or garden, fold your hands in your lap and close your eyes.

Begin a gentle even breathing pattern such as counts 1, 2 breathe in; counts 3,4 breathe out; counts 1,2 breathe in; counts 3,4 breathe out and continue. When your breathing becomes relaxed and regular stop counting and begin listening to the sound of your breathing for another minute.

Take time to think about what the word ‘devotion’ means to you.

Does it make you feel fortified and strengthened on your spiritual path? How can you develop devotion in your life? Read about lives of the saints? Read great poetry? Listen to uplifting music?

Decide on one way to develop devotion in your daily life.

Now, again turn your attention back to your even breathing for a minute. Then take a deep breath and stretch. You may want to take time to write down your new plan as a reminder.

St. Patrick's Day Prayer
Spring Mindful Meditation
Daily Meditation and Prayer for Lent
Easter Prayer
World Peace Prayers and Affirmations
Friendship Prayer and Meditation
Meditation Garden
Easter Prayer for Children

Meditation and photo of meadow in North Holland - Susan Kramer

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For offline reading

Meditation for Teens and Adults
More 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.

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Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.