As a spiritual explorer, I was referred to the web site, “Abbey of the Arts,” which describes itself as a virtual monastery and global community for all. There are many beautiful ideas on the site but one of my favorites is the Monk Manifesto, where they encourage you to become a “dancing monk” and live a “compassionate, contemplative and creative life.”
They suggest you become part of their community by signing the Monk Manifesto (below) at https://abbeyofthearts.com/about/monk-manifesto/. I found many of the elements of the manifesto worth contemplation, like #1, #4 and of course I want more of #8. What speaks to you?
Monk Manifesto by Abbey of the Arts
1. I commit to finding moments each day for silence and solitude, to make space for another voice to be heard, and to resist a culture of noise and constant stimulation.
2. I commit to radical acts of hospitality by welcoming the stranger both without and within. I recognize that when I make space inside my heart for the unclaimed parts of myself, I cultivate compassion and the ability to accept those places in others.
3. I commit to cultivating community by finding kindred spirits along the path, soul friends with whom I can share my deepest longings, and mentors who can offer guidance and wisdom for the journey.
4. I commit to cultivating awareness of my kinship with creation and a healthy asceticism by discerning my use of energy and things, letting go of what does not help nature to flourish.
5. I commit to bringing myself fully present to the work I do, whether paid or unpaid, holding a heart of gratitude for the ability to express my gifts in the world in meaningful ways.
6. I commit to rhythms of rest and renewal through the regular practice of Sabbath and resist a culture of busyness that measures my worth by what I do.
7. I commit to a lifetime of ongoing conversion and transformation, recognizing that I am always on a journey with both gifts and limitations.
8. I commit to being a dancing monk, cultivating creative joy and letting my body and "heart overflow with the inexpressible delights of love."*