Did you grow up in a religious/spiritual household? What does prayer look like for you now? Is it quiet reflection, spoken words, journaling, meditation, or simply an act of gratitude? Let’s open up and share our experiences in the comments. How were you taught to pray, and how has it evolved?

The conversation between Krishna & Arjuna is consistent with the wisdom I need as this 21-day journey continues. "With your mind intent on me, Arjuna, discipline yourself with the practice of yoga. Depend on me completely. Listen, and I will dispel all your doubts; you will come to know me fully and be united with me." - B.G. 7.1 As I reflect on this past weekend, I realize how gracious Spirit is. I can recall the exact moments I was aware of the wisest decisions I could make. I chose to do otherwise–a costly choice, but I'm thankful that I can see in retrospect the faithfulness and loyalty of Atman (my soul). When I dismiss my practice, I am less connected to my highest Self. Yoga provides me with the tools I need to master my willpower. Yoga grounds my thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. This is why Krishna advises Arjuna to "discipline yourself with the practice of yoga." Having my mind focused on pleasure and not "Krishna," I doubted the wisdom I initially was aware of and acted on impulse. Now I see why it is not wise to lean on your own understanding. Prayer: "Oh Great Spirit, I thank you for your ever-present help. You order my steps and grant me the freedom to choose. You do not shame me for my disobedience, but by the laws of the Universe, I am disciplined. This discipline points me right back to you. It is there I find grace. It is in your presence I find guidance, wisdom, and rest. I pray that my mind receives this, that my heart be open, and that my will be strengthened. you have provided clarity and a toolkit (yoga). I have a better understanding of its value and use. I trust your guidance over my knowledge. Ase.

On October 10th, I am starting 21-Days of Devotion and I’m inviting you to join me! I am devoting myself to 21 Days of Svadhyaya (Self-Study) as I rebuild a daily journaling routine that is rooted in self-realization. I will write a brief post in INSIGHTS everyday following my journaling practice until the end of October (at least). If you’re willing to devote yourself to this journey with me, then comment “I’m in!!!”

Last night I could not help but think of my grandmother and it brought me to tears. Although she transitioned over 10 years ago, this was only the second time I allowed myself to grieve her absence. Since her passing, my family has endured some hardships. Her remaining children/grandchildren are aging, some are experiencing conflict with one another, and some aren't speaking. Last night, as I felt this longing to be in her presence again, I realized how little I know of my grandmother's past. She helped raise me until I was 4, she fueled my interest in learning, reading, and problem-solving, and she was sure to remind me about the value of connecting to something higher than myself (God, Universe, Source, etc). She is a huge inspiration behind my spiritual journey and my willingness to pursue this life of leadership. She helped found the church I grew up in, she was one of many mentors in my early days of being pastor, and she was my biggest supporter/nurturer. Losing her at 19 was tough, but I didn't think about how valuable it would be to have her around at this phase of my life. I'm at a point in my journey where I know that I am powerful and that I come from a powerful lineage of leaders and teachers, but I don't know much about them. I am unfamiliar with the greatness that I come from. For anyone who resonates with this, I'd love to hear your story. Thanks for holding space 🫶🏾