Daily Devotional: September 22nd

Daily Prayer X

Prudence, wisdom's beacon in the mind's expanse,

In discerning gaze, thy insights enhance.

A lantern in shadows, a compass true,

Navigating life's labyrinth with virtue.

Oh, Prudence, guardian of thoughtful thought,

In the tapestry of choices, finely wrought.

Foreseeing consequences, with measured gaze,

In the realm of reason, thy wisdom stays.

In the quiet chambers of reflective thought,

Thy counsel, a treasure, in values sought.

Prudence, guide us with your steady hand,

In the complex dance of life, help us understand.

Daily Meditation

"Now, if you want to grasp the ‘isolated and alone,’ you will not think.”

—Plotinus

Enneads V.3.13.32

In order to grasp the ineffable nature of God, we must not go into the deep stillness where thoughts and passions cease. Only then can we loosen the chains of our identity that mark us as different from the One. When that identity dissolves, we rest in the silence of the isolated and alone, the One, God.

Monthly Ascesis

Developing a practice of watchfulness is a powerful and effective way to create stillness in our souls, allowing us to behold God's presence in our lives.

This month, add this meditation practice to your morning prayers. This is particularly effective following a chanting session.

“The most basic and fundamental meditation practice is watchfulness or Nepsis in Greek. Watchfulness is the act of observing the mind while not chasing any thoughts or emotions that arise. You only need to sit down, close your eyes, and relax to do this practice. Then, watch your thoughts as they arise and fall away. Thoughts will continue to pop into your mind, and that’s ok. The key is not to follow them. For example, if your mind starts thinking about a project at work, don’t follow that idea and start working on the project in your mind. Just acknowledge that thought and watch it. Don’t feed that idea with more ideas; just leave it alone. Eventually, it will pass by, or a new thought will take its place. If that happens, just watch that thought without following it or allowing it to disturb you.”

-Excerpt from our new book, Ascesis: the Handbook of Platonic Practice

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