The Gift of Refuge.

“The Fully Enlightened One, beautifully seated, peaceful, and smiling
a living source of understanding and compassion,
to the Buddha I go for refuge.
The path of mindful living,
leading to healing, joy, and enlightenment,
the way of peace,
to the Dharma I go for refuge.
The loving and supportive community of practice,
realizing harmony, awareness, and liberation,
to the Sangha I go for refuge.
I am aware that the Three Gems are within my heart.
I vow to realize them,
practicing mindful breathing and smiling,
looking deeply into things.”

My darlings, you may have heard me reference this idea of ‘taking refuge’.

In the Buddhist sense, taking refuge refers to our continuous recognition and willingness to move towards that which is most beautiful, truthful, and good. It humbles us, and deepens our capacity to understand and love.

In this moment – I could find no better representation of refuge than that of the hearts who have so lovingly gathered here – and, to share so graciously, their spirit.

Make no mistake, my darlings – it is kindness which changes this world. These micro-moments of reaching out, of ensuring another’s heart might be heard. To take the moments, irrespective of our day – to offer hope in the form of a hand.

This is what humanity needs most of all.

And, such a blessing that in my own time of need –  I have the gift of your light to help see me through.

My darlings, I don’t say it nearly often enough – but, I am so ever-grateful that you are here.

Much love, and deepest blessings ~ from my humble heart to yours.

Namaste <3

About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

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