Share Meditation

Complimentary Community Gatherings where the simple act of coming together to share meditation results in new, meaningful connections.

Those who have attended my "Share Meditation" programs overwhelmingly agree that the experience was transcendent … beyond boundaries. What do I mean by 'beyond boundaries'? We have so many constructs in our lives that create artificial boundaries. I am not referring to the fence that physically separates neighbors, but the judgments, criticisms, complaints, perceptions and prejudices that we all hold. Boundaries only serve to accentuate our differences, rather than emphasize our similarities as human beings. And yet, there are concepts, such as compassion, peace, and assistance to those in need, that transcend those boundaries.

I know that I am fully capable of being beyond those boundaries - my struggle is how to live like that on a daily basis. Why is that so hard? My personal insight is that I have been conditioned to see, hear, and think about the boundaries for most of my life. Thus, my solution is to create regular opportunities that allow me to practice being beyond boundaries. And what better way to practice than by welcoming as many people as possible to join me.

These are, in fact, group meditations … opportunities that range from the traditional Guided Forgiveness Meditation to mindfulness meditations on listening and speaking, which I call Discussion Groups. I find that I have a chance to notice, contemplate and grow when I make a conscious choice to step outside of my routine. What better way to shine a light on my ingrained habits or long-held views? These meditations will allow you to take a stand, or a walk, with someone based on a shared value. These meditations will encourage you to share your personal beliefs in a supportive environment. Some involve connection through conversation; others rely on doing to create the bond. These meditations are ultimately ways to connect with others, on a deeper level that transcends boundaries.

All of these events are complimentary to the community. Consider them as a way to connect with me and to meet others with a shared interest.

• Discussion Groups - When I read a book that makes me reflect, I need the opportunity to discuss it in order to fully absorb what I have read. These days, I find myself drawn to personal spiritual journeys because they encourage me to ask, "What can I take from this into my personal life?"
• Guided Forgiveness Meditation - I have found that the more I learn to recognize how the qualities of forgiveness and patience feel within me, then the more I can come back to them during particularly upsetting, irritating or stressful times in my daily life. Just the process of recognizing when I need to come back to patience, allows me to approach habitual situations from a different perspective. To my great pleasure, the major regional newspaper where I live, The Ventura County Star, published a 3/4 page story on this meditation when I offered it at the start of 2008. Numerous people, from up to 40 miles away, braved a Southern California storm to attend the meditation, and we had to relocate to a large hall to accommodate everyone. All of the feedback I've received affirmed that this meditation touches people deeply.
  

• Nature Meditation - Often we mistake meditation for zoning out. Zoning out is a mindless activity, which dulls the senses. In contrast, a simple meditation technique is to engage the senses. I love meditating in nature because it is impossible to not be in the moment. I vary the location, from beach settings to garden settings depending on the season, so check and see where we meet next.
• Labyrinth Peace Walks - Moving meditations are the most powerful for me. The movement provides the additional distraction I need to quiet my own active mind. Labyrinths are a growing tool to bring communities together to take a stand, or walk, for peace.
• Spiritual Meditation Fellowship - Join a group of spiritual seekers who share their personal styles of meditation and support each other in our exploration of new techniques. Though hosted by the Camarillo United Methodist Church, this complimentary fellowship is open to all members of the community.

Please check my calendar to find out where and when the various "Share Meditation" programs are offered - you can easily search for them under the category of "Complimentary Events". While the programs do not have a fee, I do request that you RSVP on-line through my calendar, as some programs are popular and I may need to make arrangements for larger venues.

If my current schedule doesn't mesh with yours, consider making arrangements for me to offer the program At Your Place.  By signing up for my newsletter, I can keep you posted on future events and programs.