Eclectic Cleric

Finding a Solution

Sometimes, the solution to a frustrating problem is inside us all along. We just need to go in and go out - expanding our mind into a broader awareness that encompasses a larger solution set. Who knows?! The world may have an answer waiting out there. (Based on Genesis 40:8)

Getting Small

Enter this guided visualization to make yourself small and still. C. S. Lewis said, "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” Perhaps we can gain a peaceful, useful perspective by pulling back and making more space for the rest of the world. In Genesis 32:11, Jacob says, "I am too small for all the kindness that You have so steadfastly shown." That's the ticket to gratitude. As Steve Martin said, "Let's get small!"

Heart’s Desire

In a quieting meditation, seek out your heart's most pure and mysterious wish. Take a journey within to answer, what do you most desire in this world? What would you devote in return? (based in Jacob's conversation with God and angels, Genesis 28; photo by Kevin Malik)

Meditation: Walking and Talking

Take a walk in nature and talk to the trees. In Genesis 24:63, Isaac goes walking in the fields of an afternoon. Jewish sages call this one of the first instances of prayer. So, spend some time in nature - or simply in your mind's eye - communicating with the created world.

Meditation: Bloom Where You’re Planted

Can you be more authentically present in the place you already are? What's stopping you from embracing the life you have now? The Book of Esther says "Who knows whether you may have come to your position for such a time as this?" The Persian poet Hafiz said "This place where you are now, God circled on a map for you." And, Saint Francis de Sales and Mary Engelbreit say, "Bloom where you are planted!" Imagine it happening to you, by setting roots while sprouting buds.

Meditation: ”Rebuild Yourself”

In this guided visualization, we'll explore the places in our bodies that hold anger, fear, sadness, joy, and love; with each aspect of self, we'll take time to examine the feeling, clean and clear it, and put it back for better use later.

Meditation: ”Love Your Body”

Delight in what makes you uniquely you. Scan through your body, reflecting on what is special, amazing, and beautiful about each part. Great for self-image and before bed!

Going Clear

Where Leviticus and Charles Dickens meet: "Useless to change institutions without a change of heart"

Comedians and Bullies

On Refugee Shabbat, the Torah shares its wisdom for resisting tyrants.

Letting Go

C.S. Lewis said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.” It's also a piece of Giving Up and Letting Go - Thomas Friedman, America 2022: Where Everyone Has Rights and No One Has Responsibilities