I am feeling very happy with the commitment I made to myself 40 mornings ago, to join the Winter Feast for the Soul practice. Thousands of people worldwide all joined in the 40 day meditation practice. The idea was started seven years ago based on the poem:
“What nine months does for the embryo, Forty early mornings will do for your growing awareness” Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi
The number 40 has such historical significance, it is the number of change. If we want to make a difference in the world then we must begin by inviting change into our own lives. I felt a deep connection to the other people that were also practicing, and the guided part of the meditation always gave such profound thoughts about life that I could carry throughout my day.
Yes, I have felt change in my work, my relationships, how I perceive the world, by not resisting or constricting. My body is moving more easily, my thoughts have a clarity that first arises in metta or loving kindness, being respectful of the journey we each have taken. Knowing we all have breaks in our lives and we get stronger and grow in these cracks.
My practice (which is ongoing) of meditation continues…thank you Winter Feast for the Soul for inviting me to see the value of meditation again in my life.