108 Mala Beads

A week or so ago a dear friend lost her mala beads. She was distraught by this and looked all over Yogaland. I happened upon them in the fitness room, hanging from a coat hook and as soon as I saw them, I knew they must be hers. Her relief in getting them back was touching and she explained to me her mala routine. Each morning she wakes up, closes her eyes and says a prayer for each of the 108 beads, gliding them gently between her middle finger and thumb. She says it is a way of honing right in on an intention, orienting your mind towards a goal each day.
I've been looking for things I can do completely for myself, in service of my body, mind and spirit and this resonated with me. Coupled with the fact that I've been developing a mission statement, the repetition each morning sounded very appealing. Yesterday I was in the shop, browsing at the different kinds of beads and found a set or two that I really liked. Alas, I had no money with me, I would have to run up to the house on the hill. A few minutes later I saw a friend who was a volunteer and is now in YTT. She told me that you really can't buy your own mala beads, they need to be gifted to you. And as it so happens, she had a set she was not using and would I like it?
The universe really does provide.

So this morning I woke up, sat on the meditation cushion my mother bought me before I came here, closed my eyes and started with the first bead.
"Be loving in my words and actions"
Be loving in my words and actions...
Be loving in my words and actions...

108 times my thumb and middle finger rolled one bead over the next until I was back at the tassel that marks the beginning and end. I kissed the beads and went about my day. It is still early but I feel those words following me around, as though to remind me of the intention that I've set. I can see how beginning every day with a similar prayer would gradually move me in the direction of love and kindness for all things around me. I like it quite a bit and will try to make it a part of my daily routine.

Monday I start my new seva, which means being in the kitchen at 6 AM. If I wake up at 5:30, I should be able to mala, brush and dress in time to show up puffy-eyed and tail dragging, but I'll certainly be there.