When Rivers Speak: A Meditation on Presence
Rivers flow through my life, and when I'm stuck or sad, hopeful or full of wonder, I find myself along their shores. Maybe water calls to you too.
This week, I offer you images from my home on the Kenai River in Alaska, that accompany, comfort, and inspire me, plus a favorite poem that guides my path, and a musical journey that speaks to the soul.
In the Arms of the River
Musician David Shaw's latest work is brilliant and soul-stirring in both his acoustic piano rendition and lyrical composition. His album "Take A Look Inside" offers two versions that speak to different parts of our being – one instrumental, one voiced. Both invite us to pause and listen deeply. I am playing them over and over, especially his songs, Arms of the River, Take a Look Inside, and One More Day.
Fluent
I would love to liveÂ
Like a river flows,Â
Carried by the surpriseÂ
Of its own unfolding.
An Open the Present Meditation (10-20 minutes)
Find a place outdoors, or wherever you are right now.
1. Begin by setting everything aside
2. Close your eyes, lift the corners of your mouth into a gentle smile
3. Take three deep breaths, wiggling toes and fingers
4. Stretch your neck side to side, giving your body a gentle twist
5. Notice the energy in your body without judgment
6. Connect to loving spirit or your peaceful place
7. If in nature, allow your attention drift to what catches your eye
8. Listen to "Arms of the River" (acoustic version) or the sounds around you
9. Let thoughts come and drift downstream
10. Stay as long as feels right
11. When ready, take several deep breaths
12. Slowly return movement to your body, wiggle your fingers, hips, toes
13. Record any images or thoughts that arose
14. Offer quiet thanks in your own words
What are you present to now?
Smile.
Love the simplicity of this piece and its offering.
simply beautiful...I love the call to nature in whatever form