J. K. (Joanne Kathleen) Rowling has written a complex tale that is worthy, in my opinion, of being included alongside your more traditional spiritual books on the shelf. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows may be an adventure story, but the underlying spiritual messages are for people of all ages; kids, teens, adults. Quite frankly, I found the book inspiring.
I'd like to recommend that after reading the novel, you go back and find the lines that are uplifting, that give direction for leading a happy life, and use each of those passages as a reflective meditation in a format like this:
Sit in your favorite meditation spot on a cushion or chair with a writing journal or notebook at your side and a pen or pencil. Before beginning to meditate write out at the top of a page the passage to reflect upon for the meditation session.
Close your eyes, and begin to breathe in a regular pattern such as 2 counts in and 2 counts out. Continue counting for a minute then drop the mental counting and go on with the pattern.
Breathing is a tie with the mind. When you breathe in and out in an even pattern at a normal rate of speed you calm both your body and mind. I recommend taking the time at the beginning of any meditation session to use this breathing pattern to help restore peace in your mind and restfulness in your body.
Now it's time to reflect on your chosen passage for a few minutes.
End your time of contemplation with an appreciation for at least one good thing in your life and a wish that goodness will spread from where you are to reach everyone in the earthly world and in all dimensions, including your loved ones and family who have passed on.
Take a deep breath, open your eyes, and spend a few minutes writing insights from the period of reflection in your journal.
Stretch out and go on with your day, holding tight the nuggets of goodness and love that live in your deepest heart, that you may shine as a brilliant light wherever you are!
Just a last thought - One of the strongest messages I received is that by choosing to love deeply we are warmed with the energy and strength to do what we must in life to be nurturing, and thereby feel happiness ourselves.
Article by Susan Kramer
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For offsite reading
Meditation for Teens and AdultsMore than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.
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Meditation for all KidsSitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.
