In this meditation, I begin a new series exploring meditation with Mary, who within the Franciscan tradition is regarded as a profound example and teacher of prayer and contemplation.
The Scriptures tell us that Mary “pondered all of these things in her heart.” Her example offers us another way of meeting the events of our own lives — not simply reacting to them, but creating a space in which they can be held with reflection, awareness and grace.
After settling into the present moment through the breath, we bring to mind something in our own life that feels mysterious, difficult or unresolved. Rather than immediately analysing it or becoming caught in our emotional response, we practise seeing it from a little distance and allowing it to rest within the stillness of meditation.
We ask what this experience might teach us, what wisdom might emerge from it and how it might deepen our capacity for compassion and love. If it feels comfortable, we invite Mary to sit with us in this space and to help us ponder the experience gently.
This meditation offers a contemplative practice for moving from reaction towards reflection, creating space for wisdom, discernment, peace and new understanding.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Meditating with Mary
00:51 – Entering the present moment
01:28 – Settling into stillness
02:05 – Mary, Mother of Life
02:48 – Pondering things in the heart
03:18 – The mysteries of our own lives
04:09 – Moving from reaction to reflection
04:50 – Creating space for grace
05:42 – Bringing an experience to mind
06:20 – Seeing the experience from a distance
07:02 – What can this moment teach me?
07:51 – Pondering without judgement
08:18 – Inviting Mary into the experience
08:42 – What wisdom might emerge?
09:14 – Resting in the presence of the Mother
09:49 – Handing over the experience
10:29 – Returning to the breath and body
11:16 – Closing bell
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