As we move through from the age of fire into the age of the heart we must purify all that which is not in alignment with the language of the heart. To transform our negative tendencies we must first know what they are. To do this our shadow self and all it's attributes needs to be brought into the light. We are seeing this on a massive scale across the globe; the insidiousness of the human mind being played out on the world stage. Shadows live within all people for this is the reality of living in duality. When the mind is weak it is corruptible by the shadows and will act without care or regard for the well-bing of others. The mind controlled by shadows is only concerned for itself and gives rise to greed, covetousness, jealously and fear. Shadows have no empathy or compassion.

Shadows cannot be destroyed. Shadows are a part of the human condition. Our weapon against the shadows is courage. Courage is the power to accept and meet our shadow selves and keep them in the light of our consciousness. With an eye on our shadows and a commitment to love (compassion, care, empathy, forgiveness, acceptance) we can choose to act only from love and not from the whispers of the shadows.

Humanity will eventually come to embrace it's shadows and become whole once again. The time it will take is not known and it is a process. You, doing the work to drag your shadows out into the light and embrace them is what transforms us from beings who act unconsciously (being ordered about by the mind) to beings who consciously act from Love. When you make choices for the well-bing of others you raise your vibration. When you stop thinking and meditate you raise your vibration. When you give yourself to a person or cause without need of compensation, you raise your vibration as selfless acts of generosity come from unconditional love. The higher your vibration, the easier it is to see the shadows and not act upon their whispers. The greater your vibration the greater the vibration of humanity. This is how you can make a difference. Spend your time engaging in activities that raise your vibration. You are part of the collective consciousness. Your contribution to this collective matters.

Chanting holy names in Sanskrit is one way we can raise up our selves and create a field of vibration that brings healing and unity to everything it touches. Do this as often as you can. Chant throughout your day as you work, walk and play. As a Sangha, practicing together, we can exponentiate the positive vibrations we create. Serving the well-being of all serves our hearts and is the source of true happiness.

Kirtan has five parts: (1) Uttering God's name in prayer. (2) Spiritual lesson part A: scripture/philosophy. (3) Devotional chanting and singing. (4) Spiritual lesson part B: stories/interpretation. (5) Closing prayers that include prayer for the universal well being of all.

Bhakti Yoga Night is an opportunity to participate in a spiritually rich meditation practice that feeds the soul. Come practice with us and experience the peace that Kirtan can bring to your life.