Today’s message comes from my Daily OM message of the day. It seemed to be a perfect addition to my Magical Monday thoughts.
Here is the message in its entirety: “Though the universe as a whole is imbued with an undeniable aura of magic, we can further fill our lives with magic by creating a collection of magical things. More than being simply beautiful, such objects can potentially play an active role in the shaping of our experience as each magical object serves a unique and multifaceted purpose. Some inspire us to reflect while some have the power to positively influence our moods. Others take us back in time, capturing in their essence memories locked in history or helping us reaffirm our connection with the universe. Magical objects can be found almost anywhere and can be practically anything, from gifts of nature to manmade artifacts. You’ll know an object is truly magical when it touches you deeply, awakening some primal part of yourself that is more profoundly connected to the ethereal.
There is no right or wrong way to introduce a magical object into your life—the collection you create can be large or small, kept in private or publicly displayed. You may already be in possession of such objects. Perhaps you keep a smooth river stone next to your bed because its presence is soothing. Or you find yourself intensely drawn to certain antique items that seem to radiate light and energy. Whatever the nature of the objects you deem magical, there are many ways to utilize them. Those that help you reach a contemplative and relaxed state may best serve their purpose on your personal altar or in some special place in your home. Objects that bring you comfort can be kept in a small pouch and carried throughout the day. Or you may feel compelled to infuse your collection with beauty by making it into a collage that naturally draws your eye and stimulates your soul.
Everyone can benefit from surrounding themselves with magical objects. Our lives are made just a little more light and fun when having magical things in our presence. If you feel you don’t have anything magical in your life, ask the universe for help, and it will not be long before a meaningful artifact, a simple feather, a special stone, or another powerful item reveals itself to you and fills your life with enchantment.”
I have many items in my possession that I carry or display in my home, past and present. Many of these items represent support for different emotional, physical or spiritual needs. Some items are just wonderful representations of significant times in my life or in my family’s history. They are truly magic to me in that as soon as I bring them into my consciousness, they evoke certain memories or feelings. You may have such items in your possession. You may not consider them to be “magical,” but consider what they do for you. Do they take you back to a special time in your life or in the life of someone else you’re connected to? Do they instantly remind you of someone special? Do they bring up warm feelings of love, security or comfort? Do they remind you of your own strength and courage during trying times?
As I read this Daily OM message today, I was reminded of something I taught my youngest daughters that I learned while they were young. It comes from a book written by Thich Nhat Hanh for children in which he presents the basic teaching of the Buddha in a way children can understand. In his book, A Pebble for Your Pocket, he offers many practices that children can do alone or with others to help them transform feelings of anger and unhappiness and reconnect with nature and living in the present moment. Here is an excerpt from the practice which is the title of the book. “Sometimes when we become angry during the day, it is difficult to remember to stop and breathe. I know a good way for you to remember to stop and breathe when you are angry or upset. First go for a walk and find a pebble that you like… Now put your pebble in your pocket and take it with you wherever you go. When something happens during the day that makes you unhappy, put your hand in your pocket, take hold of the pebble, breathe deeply, and say to yourself, ‘Breathing in, I know I am angry. Breathing out, I am taking good care of my anger.’ Do this until you feel a lot better and can smile to your anger.”
As an adult, this practice has helped me let go of many uncomfortable feelings and situations in order to enjoy the wonder of the present moment. What helps you experience the enchantment of now?
