The Heart of Prayers
Sojong Reminder from Anam Thubten
Dear Dharma friends,
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Events or situations occurring outside of our own world can often elude our awareness. At times, this happens quite innocently, but other times, there may be an ulterior motive. Dwelling in a self-created bubble of solace and disconnecting may be appealing when it feels too painful to relate with what is happening in this troubled but beautiful world. On the other hand, in this age of information, many people are lost in the cycle of news and either become desensitized to the problems of humanity, or indulge in reactivity, like disappointment, bias, and confusion.
There is a balance to be found between finding peace of mind and not forgetting the world outside. Many spiritual practices are about self-inquiry, self-purification, and self-discovery, all of which are necessary. But sometimes we’re so fixated on our own inner awakening that the outside world, the lives of other people or politics are no longer part of our spirituality. In today’s world, unless one lives alone in a hermitage with little connection to people or information from outside, it’s almost impossible not to be the recipient of a river of news. We’re constantly informed of what is happening, in our own community and beyond. This dynamic actually allows us to be aware of all of the world’s woes and wrongs, which is not necessarily a bad thing. It can allow us to feel an altruism that inspires us to do something to bring positive change in the world.
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There are moments that we may feel helpless, like a sacred warrior without hands, but we don’t need to be discouraged. There is always one thing we can do for the world, and that is called prayer. Prayer is not passive, but active, even if you’re performing it in a relaxed posture on a comfortable cushion in your cozy meditation space. When prayer is practiced with authenticity, your heart is wide open, accompanied with sincere good will, compassion, and the intention to help others. It is the powerful intention of a passionate heart to bring benevolent change to the lives of human beings or other species caught up in a cycle of struggle. Such a practice is simply to pray that others may find happiness or the freedom they’re seeking. In this way, the very ground on which we’re standing is the perfect place for our heart to take action.
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During this Sojong, you might like to reflect on any news that you’ve heard or read in the last few days - like the immense suffering caused by war, immigrants risking their lives to find a better life, animals that are losing their habitat, or someone in your circle of friends who’s going through a difficult time. Hold them in your compassion, pray that they may be free from danger and all obstacles, and that they may find good circumstances that will bring ease to their lives.
With palms joined,
Anam Thubten
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