Week 23: The Mindful Empath's Almanac

Week 23:The Mindful Empath's Almanac

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Transcript:

“I am not gay, but if I were, I would be the first one running out of the closet.”

~ Dolly Parton

Reflection:

I used to think that being gay was wrong.

I used to think that there was only ONE way to be human, to love, and to have a family.

I used to think that gayness was a sin, because that’s what I was told by the people that interpreted the Bible for me.

I don’t think these things anymore, and it’s not because “society” or “culture” has changed my values.

The truth of the matter is that the value of love and equality in the eyes of the divine is one that most Christians claim.

I think the one thing that really changed my opinion on this (as well as my views on race) was the realization that ASSIMILATION into the dominant culture was COUNTER to the Gospel of Love.

Assimilation requires uniformity.

It denies the dynamic uniqueness of the individual in favor of a homogenous sameness that feels safe.

Evangelization shouldn’t require assimilation, but that is what it has become. Evangelization and Colonialism are the tools of empire, of conquering.

Pride: to be conscious of one's own dignity.

Pride should be about recognizing that my dignity and personhood is not an affront to anyone else’s.

Pride should be about understanding that the Gospel of Love is an invitation to ALL who believe that LOVE is both the question and the answer to the purpose of being.

My dignity is not up for debate. Neither is the dignity of ANYONE regardless who they love, what they look like, who they pray to (or don’t), or their nationality.

Celebrate our LGBTQIA family and friends, and perhaps you might find some pride as well.

Intention:

Join me in this intention:

Today, I choose to recognize the divine presence in everyone I encounter.

Meditation:

Universal Love

Imagine a radiant light at the center of your being. This light represents the love that is inherent within all of us, a love that connects us to all beings. See this light expanding outward, reaching out to encompass everyone you know and love.

Breathe.

Now, visualize this light extending further, reaching out to people you don't know but share experiences with, like colleagues, neighbors, or fellow travelers. See the light embrace them with warmth and acceptance.

Breathe again.

Bring to mind the LGBTQIA+ community. See them bathed in this same radiant light of universal love. Recognize that their love is just as valid, just as beautiful, as any other form of love.

Silently repeat this affirmation, or one that resonates with you: "All love is welcome. All love is worthy. All love is a reflection of the universal light."

Spend some time simply basking in this feeling of universal love and acceptance. Feel the barriers between yourself and others dissolving. Recognize the shared humanity that connects us all.

Imagine yourself carrying this light of love with you as you move through your day. See yourself interacting with everyone you meet with kindness and compassion. Notice how this simple act of love can ripple outward, creating a more accepting and loving world.

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Cultivation:

Here are a few practical ideas for cultivating a compassion and connection with the LGBTQIA community.

* Educate Yourself: Learn about LGBTQIA+ identities, history, and current issues. There are many resources online and in libraries, like GLAAD or PFLAG.

* Use Inclusive Language: Avoid heteronormative assumptions and gendered language. Use people's chosen names and pronouns.

* Challenge Assumptions: Don't make assumptions about someone's sexual orientation or gender identity based on appearance.

* Be an Ally: Speak out against discrimination and prejudice. Support LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations..

Appreciation:

With a heart full of gratitude, I thank the universe for the boundless wellspring of love that flows through all creation. This love knows no boundaries, embracing every soul regardless of background, identity, or orientation.

I am deeply grateful for the gift of acceptance, for the feeling of belonging that comes from knowing I am loved and valued for who I truly am. This acceptance allows me to live authentically and share my light with the world.

Thank you for the beautiful tapestry of humanity, woven with threads of diverse experiences and perspectives. This variety enriches our world and reminds us of the universal love that connects us all.

May I continue to be a vessel of this love, radiating acceptance and compassion towards myself and others. With a grateful spirit, I step forward, ready to share the light of love in the world.

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