January Theme: Friendship

Om Mitraaya Namaha.

We greet and honor the sun as a friend to all—the one who is affectionate and generous to all earth-beings, without exception.

First Week’s Contemplation

Imagine viewing ourselves as a friend and holding ourselves in unfiltered affection and generosity. How would we speak to ourselves? How would we hold ourselves? How would we move ourselves? Imagine something calling from deep within that says,

“I want nothing more than your presence. In friendship, time dissolves.” - Rumi

Be present, in friendship, with the Self. Let time dissolve.

Second Week’s Contemplation

Imagine that our yoga or mindfulness practice is a friend. A friend who simply asks us to show up—to come as we are.

“Your practice doesn't expect you to show up happy. It asks that you be present. It doesn't mind if you are put together or if you are a mess. You can arrive with a jumbled mind and a heavy heart. Your practice couldn't care less if you can touch your toes or meditate for hours. It asks simply that you show up." ~anonymous

Take one conscious breath. Maybe one more. And say to yourself, thank you for showing up exactly as you are. I like you this way. I’m glad you’re here.

Third Week’s Contemplation

Imagine being in friendship with every aspect of yourself. Knowing that every thought, every feeling, every memory… all of it… It all belongs. It all has purpose.

The Guest House

by Rumi

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

Copyright 1997 by Coleman Barks. All rights reserved.

From The Illuminated Rumi.

Fourth Week’s Contemplation

Imagine yourself as a friend with whom you can share companionable silence. Say to yourself:

“I meet myself in stillness, and we breathe.” ~anonymous

Do this. Every day. Make it a standing, sacred appointment. No mat or props necessary. No excuses. You are worth it.