The Reiki Raconteuse

When I first began the process of learning Reiki, I became familiar with the 5 Reiki Precepts. This was to be used as a guideline for each and every day. Although Reiki is not a religion, it does have deep roots in Buddhism. These 5 Reiki precepts can be viewed as a more simplified version of the Noble Eightfold Path. I was instructed each day by my Reiki Master to reflect on these principles in the morning as well as at night. It would be used as a reference as I navigated through the day. I appreciated the fact it was a short and easy to remember list. This initial list was created by Mikao Usui in the early 1920’s and it reflected these sentiments:

Just for today, I will not have anger.

Just for today, I will not have worry.

Just for today, I will do my work with integrity and diligence.

Just for today, I will be thankful for all my blessings.

Just for today, I will be kind to all living beings.

There was something so beautiful about the simplicity of the phrase, “Just for today.” These were the parameters of existence, to focus on just today. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Not next month. Certaintly, not even next year. This is living in the present: to be in a continual state of mindful awareness. For any person who is a recovering alcoholic, you may feel these words are slightly familiar. Alcoholics Anonymous which was created back in 1935, had a set of 10 principles that were penned by Dr. Frank Crane reflecting on the same notion of “Just for today.” Perhaps there is some link between the the words of Dr. Crane and Sensei Mikao Usui?

A while back, I read a book called “The Power of Now”, written by Eckhart Tolle. His core messages seemed in direct alignment with this goal, which was to be totally present in each moment. I read somewhere that those who are depressed are living in the past, those who are anxious are too focused on the future, so what does that mean for those who are in the here and now? It means clarity of mind and heart. Who wouldn’t benefit from some of that?

I try to embrace these precepts each and every day. It has helped me be calmer on the road in traffic. It has given me a nudge to be a little more sympathetic and kind to people who cross my path during the day. It snaps me back to reality when I find myself lamenting over the things that have occurred in my life that are beyond my understanding. I cannot control other people and the choices they make. All I can do is focus on self discipline and how I treat others in kind. Every interaction is an opportunity for growth. Everything will either amount to being a blessing or a lesson, and just for today… I will not worry about that.