Prayer on the Summer Solstice
On the eve of the summer solstice 3 years ago, I sat on a rocky ledge somewhere in the expansive landscape of the Grand Canyon and watched the sun descend under the horizon. It was my first summer in the USA and my first taste of the deserts and big skies of the American South West. This continues to be one of my favorite images and moments, speaking to the whispers of the land and its sacred history.
Last night, 3 years later and at that same moment in the solar cycle, I was facilitating a sound immersion event. Like snapshots in time, I was able to see my own progression from then to now, and the myriad of tiny steps, chance meetings, frustrations, new learnings and opportunities. Just as I have moved on, so has the rest of the world. It seems there have been some significant changes in this short time frame - in technology, culture and politics. Truth be told, there have been moments where I've fallen into overwhelm and anxiety about the direction our human family is taking, and anger and pain for the the suffering that is occurring across the planet for humans, animals and the environment.
After quiet reflection, my message on the eve of summer solstice last night was this:
"Whenever you hear of the suffering of others - humans, animals, trees, or the maltreatment of our environment - the oceans, earth and air ..... do not allow your thoughts to move into despair. Do not experience paralysis or overwhelm. Press pause to the anger. Instead, connect to light. Focus on a moment in which you have felt strong, resilient, vibrant and powerful. Visualize and feel the qualities of the sun. Notice where you feel these qualities in the physical body. Notice the rise of an associated emotion. Then, in your mind's eye, envisage the human, animal, forest or ocean that is in need of help, and simply send this energy with the intention to support and heal."
This is a very simple and quick technique that moves us from helplessness into empowerment. We can support others with our intention, compassion and our energetic connection.
Photo © 2018 Jess Lakin, Grand Canyon at Solstice