Serving Angels

I’ve probably taught 6000 yoga classes to children and adults by now. Probably 90% of those went really well, but last week was one of the 9% or so that felt like they were "touched by an angel."  The participants, all but one new to yoga, smiled the whole time, laughed at the word "caturanga," made sound effects every time they did triangle pose, enjoyed every minute of class, helped make up some irregular versions of sun salutation, smiled more, laughed and participated 120% even when the poses were hard.  After our relaxation at the end, during which we imagined laying in the warm sand enjoying the hot sun, we all sat up and stayed quiet for a few precious moments – not an easy feat when you are between 5 and 9 years old, and right before dinner. The privilege was mine,to share this practice and renew my gratitude for this teaching, with the lovely children from the Youth Services Initiative.

grateful to serve

Overall it was one of my better years.  I seemed to have settled a little bit more into who I am – still pretty silly but now in a little bit more sophisticated way.  Maybe a little more serious because of my work these days.  In the jail and shelter work that I do, I hear some stories that go beyond heartbreaking.  I see the resilience of women who have been through horrific ordeals in both childhood and as adults.  Helping them with skills to regain their health and to gain the confidence needed to make productive choices for themselves is high on my list for what makes a good work week.  What I see pull them through their challenges is their strong connection to their Faith and for some who are still seeking, the strong desire for their path of personal investigation that will find the focus of their spiritual life.  Harder than the stories are those who have lost -hopefully only temporarily - the desire to make life different.  Those that are too thin, too heavy, too beaten down, getting too little support.   And this is in one of the healthiest counties in the country!   I find myself becoming increasing grateful for the Grace that I’ve been given and I’m asking for more energy for this service that I am drawn to.