As the year 2011 drew to a close, more than 150 participants made their way to Prana, headquarters of The Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, also known as Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens. The night was chilly, but the Spirit was warm.
Paul Kaye, one of the Presidency of MSIA, made introductions, and was his inimitable self, bringing grace and humor together to lead us in our meditations. A first for this New Year’s Eve event, and thanks to Julie Lurie & Now Productions, it was also streaming live online to over 100 people tuning in from all over the world. New times, new techniques.
After an invocation of Calling in the Light, we began by chanting Ani-Hu, an ancient name for God coupled with a word for empathy. We listened to a Breathing Meditation by John-Roger, founder of MSIA, in which he described a form of Sahaj Yoga; this was followed by another brief J-R meditation on Letting Go.
We had a few minutes to discuss with a partner what we would like to let go of in 2012, and then wrote these things on paper. The papers were ripped and crumpled and disposed of by the very efficient Assisting Team, and Paul once again called us forward into the Light.
Another couple of J-R excerpts, one on Divine Love and another on Intention as the Key Method, were offered, and then we were given some time to write our intentions for 2012 (using the very nice stationery provided), which we took home to save for next New Year’s Eve.
Then we practiced Spiritual Exercises (SE’s) for about 20 minutes (a silent meditation), and we were welcomed back with two more meditations, the So-Hawng and the HU Breathing Meditation, as well as some J-R excerpts.
As Paul brought the evening to a close, there was a sense of deep peace for all, and a quiet prayer for the new year. The remainder of the evening involved light refreshments and socializing in the dining hall. For me, this way of celebrating the coming of the New Year has become a tradition, and one of profound meaning. Regardless of the weather, the night was warm with intention and anticipation. God blesses us all, in many ways.
