This meditation invokes Guanyin (also known as Kuan Yin or Avalokitesvara), the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion who hears the cries of the world.

Part 1: Settling into Stillness

Find a comfortable seated position. Close your eyes and bring your attention to the natural rhythm of your breath. In the tradition of Guanyin, we are reminded that just as a mother would protect her only child with her life, we can cultivate a boundless love towards all beings. Begin to cultivate that feeling now. As you breathe in, imagine you are breathing in love. As you breathe out, imagine you are sending that love to all beings.

Part 2: The Journey to Potala Mountain

As you relax, imagine you are standing at the base of a lush, green mountain surrounded by a turquoise sea. This is Mount Potala, the sacred island home of Guanyin. The air is filled with the scent of lotus blossoms and sandalwood incense. As you begin to climb the path, you hear the distant sound of a waterfall, its waters the color of jade.

The path winds upward, past bamboo forests and ancient temples with curling roofs. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze, each one carrying a blessing. As you walk, you feel lighter, as if the cares of the world are being left behind with every step.

Part 3: Entering the Shrine

At the top of the mountain, you come to a beautiful shrine. Its doors are open, inviting you inside. As you cross the threshold, you feel an overwhelming sense of peace. The air is still and cool. Candles flicker, casting a soft, golden light. And there, on a lotus throne, sits Guanyin. She is depicted in her most common form: a beautiful woman dressed in flowing white robes, holding a vase of pure water in one hand and a willow branch in the other.

Her face is the embodiment of serenity. Her eyes are closed, not in sleep, but in deep listening. She hears every cry of suffering in the universe, and her heart responds with infinite mercy. She is known as the "one who regards the sounds of the world".

Part 4: Receiving Her Blessing

As you kneel before her, you feel her awareness turn toward you. Her eyes open, and she looks at you with such profound tenderness that tears begin to flow — not tears of sadness, but of release. You do not need to speak. She already knows your pain, your fears, your secret shames.

She reaches out her hand, holding the willow branch. She sprinkles the pure water from her vase over your head, anointing you with compassion. As the cool droplets touch your skin, you feel a deep healing. The places in your heart that have been hardened by grief begin to soften. The wounds you have carried for years begin to close. Guanyin's voice is like a gentle rain:"My child, you are held. You are loved. You are never alone. Let go now. All is well."

She invites you to rest your head on her lap. You feel like a small child again, completely safe, completely loved. She strokes your hair and whispers the six-syllable mantra of compassion: "Om Mani Padme Hum." You can repeat this silently to yourself, letting its vibration resonate in your heart.

Part 5: Becoming a Vessel of Compassion

Guanyin lifts your chin and looks into your eyes."You have received my compassion. Now, go and be my hands in the world. Be a source of kindness to all you meet, for in serving others, you serve the divine."

You feel a lotus flower blooming in your heart, its petals unfolding one by one. With each breath, the light of compassion grows brighter within you. As you slowly return to the room, you know you can call on Guanyin anytime, simply by whispering her name. She is always listening. Open your eyes when you feel ready, carrying her peaceful, merciful energy with you.

"Written for SOTR Live International Meditation Meditation"