Homeless Meditation

I recently wrote a post for Elephant Journal. It doesn't have to do with children's yoga, but it's more of a personal reflection, experience that I had while living my days as a NYC commuter. Perhaps it will touch your heart and remind you to be mindful of each other - no matter who they are...something I try to instill in every child that walks into an Alluem Kids class.

"My heart broke as I was walking down 23rd St. this morning on my way to work. I've worked in New York City for almost 6 years now and I take the time to walk 2 miles from Port Authority to my office in preparation to sit for the rest of the day and stare at a computer screen. One can see a lot in a 2 mile stretch in the city and over the years, I've become very immune to my surroundings. I no longer flinch when someone randomly yells or shouts profanity, I don't jump at the sound of horns and sirens blaring, seeing a rat is like seeing a bird and I can dodge people rushing down the streets with the reflexes of a professional athlete (if you want to call walking through the city a sport!). There is just one thing that gets me every time...the homeless. Walking the same route, I see a lot of the same homeless people. Being the yogi and human that I am, I try to give what I can when I can - spare change, some of my lunch. When I realized one can only give so much out of their own pockets, I started bowing my head every time I pass and say a prayer for them - send them well wishes for strength and courage to make it through another day on the street. I ask for them to be protected and safe and find the path that will help them get back on their feet. And as I rush by to get to my desk job, my heart pounds wondering how can I do more to help?

Today was especially hard as I walked by someone I've never seen before - a young man maybe in his late 20s sitting cross-legged by the subway entrance. He had a small cardboard sign in his hands that read "HIV+ and Homeless. Please help." His eyes were shut and his hands were in prayer at his third eye supporting his head. He looked lethargic and weak and by the way he was sitting, he looked like a yogi in meditation searching for strength. As my eyes welled with tears, I kept walking. I wanted to go back and I fought with myself to keep walking - I had to get to work, but I wanted to help. I said a prayer.

In a world where there is pain and suffering, there is also hope and love..."

Read the rest of my article posted on ElephantJournal.com