Where is God?
You may feel stunned to begin a meditation with such a question.
Or maybe relieve.
Because that was the question that drove you in search of a meditation today.
Welcome.
I am Angela.
And you belong here.
Your question belongs here.
All of your questions and doubts Your astonishment and curiosity,
Your wonder and joy on your spiritual journey belong here.
Our practice today offers a practical tool for times when you feel Disconnected from your spiritual center.
You are not alone.
People across time and traditions and cultures have felt the distressing absence of their higher power,
Often when they needed spiritual strength and support the most.
The experience of struggle on your journey can offer a pathway for your spiritual growth as you explore and lean into your questions and your practices.
So may you take heart.
And find hope.
Here today.
Regular mindfulness practice.
Can help you reconnect with your higher power.
With your spiritual center.
Let's begin.
Find a comfortable position.
Relax.
Yet alert.
You may choose to soften your gaze or close your eyes if that feels safe to you.
Or find a focal point that gives you a sense of connection with the place or people or purpose that hold you steady in shaky times.
As you settle into your position and settle into your body in this place,
Begin to bring your attention gently to your breath.
You don't need to do anything yet,
Except notice that your breath is present.
Your breath has been there for you all along.
Holding you.
Even in moments when you felt your breath was caught.
Or gone.
Were held.
And you don't need to hold your breath now.
You can release with one big ah.
And with the next inhale… Bring your attention gently to how you breathe.
Inhale slowly for a count of four.
Exhale to a count of four.
And let's repeat that a few more times to establish the rhythm.
You Now if it feels safe to you,
You may begin to shift your breath from presence into prayer.
By adding a simple phrase with your next inhale.
I am here now.
And with your next exhale,
You are with me.
This you may be simply the breath you are attending to in these moments.
It may be your inner wisdom.
Or the one you have known as God,
Or Spirit,
Or your higher power.
Rising up to reconnect with you on the quiet of your own breath.
Take a couple more rounds,
Inhaling,
I am here now.
And exhaling,
You are with me.
And begin now,
Gently,
To release your breath.
Returning to normal.
And when you are ready.
Begin to bring your awareness back to the space around you.
Moving at your own pace.
When it feels comfortable for you.
Open your eyes.
Thank you for joining me in this practice.
