Values are time tested, allowing easeful, peaceful and happy living within their guidelines. I think the most basic and universally accepted value being to treat others as we wish to be treated.

To begin: Pick a quiet location where you will not be disturbed. Sit up straight on a cushion with your legs folded in, hands in your lap or palms up or palms down on your thighs. Alternately, sit up straight in a chair, hands folded in your lap. Close your eyes and begin some rounds of regular rhythmic breathing, such as 2 counts to breathe in; 2 counts to breathe out; 2 counts to breathe in and continue for a minute. Now let go of the counting but keep up the breathing pattern, and reflect on these thoughts:

When the foundation of our character is strong and stable we naturally act in ways to reinforce peace, ease, happiness. Block upon block of positive actions for our own and others' highest good creates a large castle of a beautiful life with spacious lawns to play upon, and sweet smelling gardens to lounge in for rejuvenation.

Values are the strong floor we walk upon in every activity. They support our positive attitudes and actions. Underlying, they support, but do not interfere with our choices. We still use free will every way, but when we are tired or not sure what to do, we can sit down and rest on a strong value, knowing we are safe while deciding how to proceed.

Nurture values, keep them in mind, use them as a safety net as needed while walking the tightrope of life's adventures. If you need a refresher course on values read any of the holy scriptures. They serve us by providing basic guidelines till we learn to listen and follow our inner guidance, our conscience, regularly.

Keep in mind that values are a basis for spiritual growth. The solid ground allows flowers' roots to hold up in the breeze. But the flower's life in the world is mostly above the roots in its interaction with the rest of nature.

Sink your roots in tried and true values
Allowing harmonious freedom of movement
In the world.

Finish your meditation with a deep breath in and let it slowly out. Write out any new insights or personal resolutions in your meditation journal for occasional review and further contemplation.

Article by 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.