Why the current focus on deepening one’s shamatha practice and one’s capacity of abiding in the light, clarity, and peace of Essence of Being? Because these qualities are real and true. A human being IS essence of Being, called by many names in many languages. A human being is NOT an aging body or brain, a set of financial concerns or abundance, a person of gender identity or any other personal identity. A human being is embodied essence of being; and essence of being is light and lightness, clear, responsive, and always at peace, utter peace. The more we frequent our experience of these true states of Presence, the easier it becomes to navigate the changes of life, body, health, and relationships. The more we live from Presence in present-moment, inner war with our self and others is nullified, thus the energy of war in the world is less fed by our psychic currents. The more we abide in the natural peace and loving-kindness of Presence, the more we psychically support peace and loving-kindness in the world and others.

This week we will use a mantra that we used in the classes and programs I created years ago. The mantra uses the identity of Soul, since that term and sense of identity is fairly common.

I am Soul, source of clear light; giver of dynamic life; director of all my intentions. I am Soul breathing.