A few years ago I remember hearing a story about how a group of meditators got together deciding to meditate on something important to them. They wanted peace. They were following the ideas of an Indian yogi (one well-versed in ways beyond the tangible) Mararishi, who saw each individual as a part of the whole. A single element which in itself is representative of the whole. The belief was that it would only take 1% of the whole for it to have an affect on the whole.

Interesting, I thought.

Beyond that, this small group sought to reduce violent crime in Washington, D.C. Through their simple yet, focused approach, a study measured during a few weeks time, a marked shift towards a more peaceful city.

Correlation between participant numbers and effectiveness

This got me to thinking. So, if a small group can have such a great affect on an entire city. What would happen when a larger group joins together with a common intent. How could we make positive change on a large scale? Besides peace, what if the focus was on something else. Like the outcome of the presidency?

Hmm…there are definitely possibilities.

I’m the type of person who will meditate from time-to-time. Just when I feel the need to de-stress, get centered, or for some insight. So I wouldn’t call myself a serious meditator. But I want to be. It’s always a matter of not thinking about it on a regular basis or believing I just don’t have the time.

Wandered around Barnes & Nobles bookstore last week. Specifically looking for a book on meditation for an approach I liked. Many good ones there. But then I found it, “Practical Meditation for Busy Souls“. Awww…I think I’m in love! The authors Margo Adair and William Aal have touched upon how to practically include this activity in daily life. And even more importantly, it gives it relevance in the larger world. Not just for self-benefit, which of course is a beautiful thing. But to actually have an effect on our world by what we can do in the quiet, in the silence of our beings. Imagine making a true difference.

That’s what I’m talking about.