Toward the One, the perfection of love, harmony
and beauty, the only being united with all the illuminated souls,
who form the embodiment of the master, the spirit of
guidance.
These are sacred phrases, but nothing is sacred simply by calling it so. A sense of sacredness comes from within. It is an attitude with which one may approach any activity. The Dances of Universal Peace and Walks of Divine Attributes use the names of God and sacred phrases from the many religious traditions of the world. We recommend that you enter the circle with an open heart and mind, suspending judgements and prepare yourself for a direct experience.
So that our time together may be as meaningful as possible, we would like you to please note the following points:
1. LISTEN. Listen to the Dance leader and the person to the left and right of you. When you begin to listen, your voice will automatically begin to harmonize. Find the center of the sound.
2. FEEL. The Dances are designed to take us as a unit in to the sphere of feeling. If you go off in to the world of thoughts, gently bring yourself back to the feeling of the group. If you do this, the Dance will serve to refine and purify your emotional life.
3. CONCENTRATE ON THE SACRED PHRASE. The sacred phrase, sometimes called wazifa or mantra, centers the Dance. With each repetition feel the phrase touching your being in a deeper way.
4. MOVE TOGETHER. Restrain you exuberance and use the same energy to harmonize with others in the circle. Feel your body fully, then gradually or suddenly, become the whole circle.
5. WATCH YOUR BREATH. Breath is movement. Voice is breath. Breath is life.
6. DEVOTION. This is grace ~ to willingly surrender ourselves to the One in whom we live and have our being.
7. SILENCE. After the sound and music of the Dance has stopped, enter the silence. This is an opportunity to hear what has been created. In this silence one can absorb all the qualities evoked by the Dance. It becomes all encompassing.
8. AMIN/AMEN. This means "so be it" or "may it be so" and is used as an affirmation or seal at the end of a Dance of Universal Peace or prayer.
Dances are held in Rochester on the Second Saturday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Friends Meeting Hall, 84 Scio Street at the corner of Charlotte Street. Suggested donation $5.
For directions or more information call (585) 423-0563 or (315) 946-9854
Email information: Aeolea@juno.com
