Thoughts on the benefits of working with prisoners

When I enter a prison system, I become aware of my physical body agreeing to be locked into secure walls, electronic monitoring, turning in my only illusory samsaric identification via my drivers license, cellphone, car keys and money, relinquishing the illusion of freedom in this world of form.  In fact, I notice that the prisoners I will meet with today are in fact, in the same agreement. This helps me identify as just another human being in this environment.  Their karma has brought them here and so has mine.

I begin to recognize again that their presence is a reflection of my mind. And then, I know that we are all prisoners of our egos, and what I bring with me of value is the quality of my own meditation practice and its manifestations in how I view those I am with.  We share the deep desire for release from suffering and I am immediately grateful for having been provided with instruction for this relief  that I can share.

In sharing the practices I strengthen my own practice and energy available to those who have volunteered to participate.

Most of what I convey is not expressed in words, but emanates from the energy I bring to our practice.  

EMAHO!  How wonderful to have this opportunity!

More awareness to come……

In Bon,

Hannah