Writing
Vessel- Embodied Prayer
Instructions: Have 2 vessels at the ready, 1 full of water, 1 empty
I have a few sacred symbols I work with to help me understand my relationship to Source, Life
Force Energy, Spirit, Creator, Great Mystery, God, Divine….the name less important than the
knowing that I am part and particle of something greater.
The vessel is an image I hold to be reminded that I am empty without what animates me and
gives me life and breath. "I of myself can do nothing, it is the being and doing that moves
through me that creates everything" is a prayer I offer. I often move this into an embodied prayer
by literally pouring water back and forth between two vessels to make the truth come alive for
me. I am lulled by the ease of the pour. The water streaming forth full of motion and clarity and
nurturance; then watching as it lands in the passive vessel’s open mouth, receptive and ready.
A rhythm between the two emerges, a rhythm that doesn’t have to be earned or worked at but is more like a chain reaction. Could this be a definition of flow? A rhythm that is not forced? A
magnetism exists between what isn’t yet and what will be. Empty to full, full to empty, a
pendulum of surrender + opportunity.
I believe this is how Spirit moves within each of us. All of creation as a big old Rube Goldberg
of divine design. I am so glad for my piece in the chain and yours.
Simple ritual with 2 vessels:
Hold the vessels in your hands and repeat:
I of myself can do nothing. It is Spirit being and doing through me that brings shape to me and
my life. This is my prayer. This is my practice
While pouring the water between the two vessels repeat the following prayers 3x each:
You are the source. I am the vessel.
May I flow with you today.
When I feel empty, remind me I’m full.