In the beginning, ... Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. - Genesis 1:3, NASB
The world was spoken into being. The Word is a creative act, and it is my conviction that our words have the potential to be creative and to co-create beauty.
When we speak, the words and their intention manifests a sound wave into the cosmos. Our words, as waves of energy, have a direct impact on the matter it moves through and comes in contact with. This is true not only physically but also with our psychology and brain structure. If we are constantly speaking (hearing) trash about ourselves we are reinforcing negative neuro-pathways. This shapes the way we see ourselves and our lives. Conversely, when we change the way we speak and think about ourselves in life-giving and positive ways, we are abandoning negative neuropathways, and rebuilding new positive ones.
As such, when we cultivate a practice of positive affirmations, we are actively engaging in brain fitness - a proven practice because it rewires our brains. The 25 cent word for this is Neuroplasticity - the good news is our brains can be retaught to work in healthier, life-giving ways.
Prayer is not just words and thoughts, In addition to our words, thoughts, and intentions It is not just right thinking but a transformational right-being.
The Mirror prayer exercise was shared with me by a dear friend, a fellow spiritual director and alternative health practitioner. This exercise when practiced regularly, and prayerfully helps us realize, accept, and affirm who we are. That we were created by and for divine love, recognizing this source that dwells in each of us and then living deeper into this source. It's a practice of compassionate self-care, especially when bombarded by negativity, shame and chronic negative self-talk.
Let's begin
I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship. I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings. My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. I salute that Source in you. Let us work together for unity and love.”
— Mohandas Gandhi
Looking into a mirror - Look into your eyes.
Take a deep breath and exhale, and repeat two or three times.
Notice how you feel while you are looking at yourself. Do you feel comfortable? Relaxed? Awkward, revolted? Shame?
Release these feelings taking a deep breath and exhale. Repeat two or three times.
Re-establish eye contact in the mirror and with gentle and deliberate intention speak Gandi's prayer out loud. You are addressing yourself - an audience of one, with the God-who-loves as your witness. No need to rush. Remember to breathe.
I offer you peace.
I offer you love.
I offer you friendship.
I see your beauty.
I hear your need.
I feel your feelings.
My wisdom flows from the Highest Source.
I salute that Source in you.
Let us work together for unity and love.”
— Mohandas Gandhi
