THANK YOU!
Since announcing #projectmetta as a way to inspire hope, beauty, and goodwill during the coronavirus epidemic, we have received a wave of support and encouragement. We want to acknowledge that and thank everyone who has sent submissions. You are all full of inspiration!
To showcase some of what we have received, we have created a gallery at our #projectmetta page. Please check this page often as we will continue to update it with new videos, art, music, poetry, and hope from you. We also have a Youtube channel, where you could view and share all the videos. Let’s keep this wave going!
Although #projectmetta is an attempt to brighten an otherwise dreary circumstance, we are aware that other forms of care might be needed. As spiritual care professionals, we have a responsibility to share information that is vetted, cogent, and rational, and that we are reasonably certain that it will do more good than harm. In that vein, we want to share resources that we know will be beneficial:
- COVID-19 Information – Our friends at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles has a great primer on what exactly is the coronavirus.
- Online Meditation – There have been an explosion of online meditation and mindfulness offerings, covering all spiritual traditions as well as secular options. The Buddhist Chaplaincy Department at University of the West has a weekly Zoom guided meditation session that is worth attending. (Tuesdays at 12pm PDT, Zoom Meeting code: 679409428.)
- California Family Institute – As many people do not have access to private spaces or wi-fi, etc., Dr. Chris Hoff and his team are continuing to offer in-person counseling, as well as HIPAA compliance teleconferencing. Safety measures and physical distancing are in place.
- Dr. Carrie Doehring recently published article addressing self-care for chaplains and religious leaders. It is essential reading for anyone in the profession of caring for others.
We are heartened to see many of our colleagues spring into action in providing spiritual care using available technologies. If anyone wants recommendations, please contact us.
IBCF is here for you, too. Have questions or need help? Reach out. We’re in this together.