For Memorial Day, Rev. Connie L. Habash (author of Awakening From Anxiety) is honoring those who gave their lives.
It’s Memorial Day weekend here in the US, when we honor those who have served in the military to protect our country. Both of my parents were veterans and I respect this holiday. I am contemplating it a bit more deeply, though. What, exactly, do I want to focus on remembering? And should it be limited to our nation, the United States? Isn’t there a deeper meaning to Memorial Day?
Yes, remembering the sacrifices made by those who died in combat, or were wounded or traumatized in the line of duty is important to honor. But I want to remember the reason why we fight.
I don’t like fighting and violence – most of us don’t. But throughout history, people have been willing to stand for what they believe. Even if it is against their religion or personal ethics, there were things that were so important that they would brandish a sword or gun into order to preserve them.
Safety is one of those things. Many tribes and families, through history, have fought in order to protect their village from raiders or invasion.
Freedom is certainly a foundational value that many across the world have taken a stand for. The Bible, Torah, Koran and Hindu scriptures all tell us of battles fought for freedom. Freedom of religion, freedom from corruption, freedom to govern ourselves. Even the Tibetans reluctantly were willing to fight for their land and their beliefs in the 20th century. And the people of India were willing to be killed while not fighting back in order to attain their nation’s freedom.
Tomorrow, I remember those who fought to preserve my country, but I also remember the millions throughout history who battled in order to create necessary transformation. To have the freedom that all humans deserve; to be safe, to govern themselves, to be able to practice and follow what they believe.
I remember them all on Memorial Day. May freedom, safety, well-being, and love prevail.
Monthly Meditation Class – Friday, June 4th!
Our next Monthly Meditation is this Friday, June 4th, 5-6pm Pacific/ 8-9pm Eastern. Join us from wherever you are, and however you are. We will continue to explore some breathwork for deepening meditation, and the 3 sounds of OM.
We’ll take the month of July off, and the next class with be Friday, August 6th!
Awakening From Anxiety
A Spiritual Guide to Living a More Calm, Confident, and Courageous Life
Competent, spiritual people suffer from anxiety and depression too: Spiritual people often find that their own expectations of living a life dedicated to a higher power makes them more susceptible to high-functioning anxiety. Sometimes, traditional relaxation techniques either do not work, don’t last, or, in some cases, actually increase their anxiety.
The missing keys to managing anxiety: Psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and interfaith minister Rev. Connie L. Habash shows us a way to transform our perceptions using mindful awareness, in order that we may live divinely inspired lives. In over 25 years as a counselor helping spiritual people overcome anxiety, Rev. Connie has taught that it takes more than chanting mantras, stretching, or relaxation techniques to calm anxiety. It requires a transformation in perception, moment-to-moment body awareness, and a conscious response to thoughts and emotions.