Honoring the Mother

Image via Wikipedia

I've just returned from a beautiful ceremony honoring the Divine Mother. This was my first time participating in the Hindu celebration of Navratri, the sacred festival commemorating the junction of Summer into Fall. What an amazing experience!

The moment I entered the room I was transported - the energy was breathtaking. Men and women sat in sacred circle with eyes closed, hands at their hearts, breathing in unison. The smell of sweet incense filled the air.

In the center of the room hundreds of rose petals encircled three candles, representing the three main energies of the mother: Shri Durga/Kali as strength and courage, Shri Laxmi as abundance and grace, and Shri Saraswati as awakened wisdom and knowledge. (In the Hindu philosophy all three are needed for a blessed life.)

Sitting humbly at the front was the Tantric Priest Amarananda Bhairavan (Nandu). I took my place, closed my eyes, and the journey began.

Prayer. Intention. Chant. Kirtan. Blessing. Chant. Dance. Ecstasy. Chant. Blessing. Gratitude.

There is nothing like be bathed in the sound of a hundred voices chanting. Sitting in that room the vibration of love reverberated throughout my entire being. The joy of peace moved my body naturally, the recognition of an ancient truth hand my voice knowing the words and singing the songs.

I've returned home infused with the love and gratitude. Deep in my core there is peace. A gentle smile graces my lips. I feel alive in my femininity. I'm heading to bed completely in love with life.

Namaste.