Thomas Jefferson talked about the “pursuit of happiness” in 1776. Actor Will Smith talked about the “pursuit of happyness” in 2006. It’s a timeless value. We look for it, long for it, and pray for it. How do we find it?
“Look Inside,” says Sister Jenna, the director of the Meditation Museum, in Silver Spring, Maryland. The museum has opened its new 2,000 square foot space at 9525 Georgia Avenue.
The crowd was standing room only this past Friday, April 10, at the Museum’s globally-broadcasted grand opening. Several celebrities and speakers were on hand including businesswoman and social activist, Marcia Dyson, Indian-American comedian and storyteller Vijai Nathan, Minister N.K. Mishra, from the Embassy of India, and many others who shared their life’s experiences and their spiritual journey.
Visitors took in the beautiful artwork and displays that express spiritual ideas and concepts. One set of displays focused on the world’s major religions, and highlighted a quotation from each one about light (or God’s loving energy), symbolizing a sense of oneness among all people. Other displays included the Eight Spiritual Powers that one can attain by practicing meditation; and the Tree Of Life, where people hung their written good wishes for our world. On the wall, asks the question, “Who Am I?,” inviting us to think of ourselves as spiritual beings having a human experience, not the other way around.
Director Sister Jenna talked about the benefits of practicing meditation, as a way to tap into our innate virtues of happiness, peace and love. Meditation helps us to be in the moment, rather than regretting the past, or worrying about the future. Guests took part in a guided meditation, and listened to the museum’s new CD titled Off the Grid, Into the Heart, for those of us who live busy lives, juggling career and personal demands. We strive to “have it all,” and now live in a world with more access to media than ever before, at the touch of a Smartphone or tablet. The CD helps us to relax, detach ourselves from the hectic world, and reinvigorate ourselves.
On a continuing basis, the museum offers many events, free of charge to the community. These events include Raja Yoga meditation, Reducing Anxiety, Cooking for Peace, Self-Esteem, Women and Spirituality, and various guests from the popular syndicated America Meditating Radio Show which feature experts in areas of finance, health, science, business and more.
For more information: www.meditationmuseum.org or call 301-588-0144.
