This is another one of our smaller #Buddha statues. We painted it gold. We have multiple Buddha statues of various sizes, all over our front & back gardens. We practice Taoism but also adopted a lot of Buddhist practices - they tend to interconnect with many crossovers.
Wishing you all more peace & quiet, beautiful & soul-filled moments in life 💗❤️💗
No matter how sacred people claim they are, religious beliefs are subjective and not immune to criticism just like any other belief system or ideology. Criticism of religion is not an attack on individuals, it's a critique of ideas and practices that have societal implications. Religious people shouldn't be offended by criticism of their religion. #faith#prayer#spirituality#divine#belief#soul#sacred#blessings
The Shintō shrine Jōnangū (城南宮) in Kyōto, was a palace of Emperors from the beginning of the #Heian Period in 794. It has #gardens from different periods since then, and a patch of pink and white #plum blossoms around a big stone lantern is a most stunning sight to behold. Several years ago the head priest showed me around and explained the history in Japanese. Jōnangū is not well known to tourists, but it draws many reverent Japanese.
The third photo is of a teahouse and a reddish variety of plum blossoms. The last photo shows what my American friend whom I guided got: a seal written in #calligraphy by the shrine maiden (o-miko-san). Jōnangū is written down the center, with yesterday's date down the left side. The right side is what the shrine especially offers: houyoke - a #prayer to avoid obstacles or worries, such as with one's family. There is a great demand for such #blessings nowadays.
The New Year is a time to reflect on joy, hope, and tradition ~ January is a time for blessings, for joy, and for considering and perhaps resetting our ethical stances.
Today marks a period of clarity and progress in business as prior misunderstandings are resolved, facilitating smoother communication. It's a day for re-evaluating strategies with new perspectives. Rejuvenation and blessings may find their way into professional interactions, leading to strengthened partnerships.
For those of us who woke up feeling alone today, and any other day.
For those who have to navigate this earth and this life alone.
For those with no family.
For those who lost a loved one
Who are still mourning someone they wish they could give a present to.
To all parents out struggling to make ends meet an in evil capitalist society
But still able to provide the best holiday.
For those parents who can’t.
For Palestine, Congo, Tigray.
You’re all I’m thinking about today.
You are loved.
Today is the feast day of The Holy House of Loreto. Patronages: families, mothers. Prayers: for domestic stability, happiness, guidance in family roles.
*** UPDATE Serval House Heaters *** THANK YOU!!! There are now enough heaters for all four of the Serval/Caracal Buildings!!! All of the small cats will be toastie warm this winter. THANK YOU for the heaters, the donations, and all the likes, shares, and comments. Your support is truly truly appreciated!
I just found out about #WrensDay and wanted to share our 5 Carolina Wren babies from this spring just outside the kitchen window. We got to watch them build the nest, incubate the eggs and fledge these beautiful creatures. #CarolinaWren#blessings
If you are dealing with a Mother-In-Law who is a bit of a (How can I say this nicely?)...ahem, challenge then my thoughts and prayers are with you. Blessed are those who live within 2 miles of their Mother-In-Law. It is a fine line you must walk and I send you my love and hope you find peace. #Blessings