This is a meditation to help individuals find unity with others, not separation. If you like, play soft, quiet music that will be relaxing. Sit in a comfortable position, or lie on your back. Read through this meditation once or twice to become familiar with it. You may record it as well. To begin, close your eyes and breathe deeply through your nose, in and out, several times. Concentrate on your breathing. Should any thoughts arise, gently acknowledge them and allow them to pass away. Return to your breathing each time this occurs.
When you feel sufficiently relaxed, in your mind’s eye, begin to walk down a narrow path in a forest. Notice the coolness of the air, the freshness of the foliage around you, and sun streaking though the canopy above you, dappling the pathway where you walk. As you move along, you start to hear voices in the distance. They sound melodious, full of high spirit and enjoyment. You wonder if you should intrude, since you have never been here before and are not sure if you would be welcomed. But the sounds are inviting and you are curious, so you walk carefully, prepared to retreat if necessary, but moving steadily forward. As you walk, you realize the sounds seem to be closer. Suddenly, a young child appears before you, smiling sweetly and motioning you to follow. You trust him because he is a child, yet as you walk, he seems to transform into an older child and then a teenager. When you begin to question in your mind what is happening, the child returns to his original form, beckoning you to keep up. Eventually as you continue, you arrive at an open area where a number of people are gathered. They call as if they know you well and are delighted to see you.
As you look at each person, you feel a kinship with him or her, as if you have known them before. They know your name, ask questions about your health and family, and let you know they have missed you. This seems quite strange to you, but you feel as if this meeting has happened many times before and you are comfortable and at home here.
Sit with them, share food and good conversation with them. Enjoy this time of peaceful coexistence. As you talk together, you realize you are not sharing words, but thoughts. These thoughts are pouring out from your heart as gratitude, understanding, kindness, tranquility, companionship and love. You realize this is exactly what you have needed for a very long time and wish it was how you could live your life always. It feels as if time is suspended, but eventually you realize it is time to return down the forest path to the life you know. Although it is difficult to part from these new friends, deep within, they send reassurance that you will be able to return at any time. Upon departing, look back and see these companions bathed in sunlight, waving good-bye. As you walk away, hear the beautiful sounds you enjoyed getting softer and softer, finally dying out completely.
You have returned to your world with a lighter heart. You are feeling happier, peaceful, and more at one with your surroundings, knowing you will be able to return to these friends whenever you choose. Enjoy this feeling for as long as you wish. When you are ready, begin to come back into your body, feeling your hands and feet, moving your fingers and toes. Take a deep breath or two and open your eyes, refreshed to continue on your life’s journey.
Return to this meditation whenever you feel the need to lighten your life and in turn, bring this light into your world for the benefit of others.
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