I am still quite new to the perilous land of Instagram and I was recently inspired by Josh Schrei of the The Emerald Podcast, whose episode ‘Guardians and Protectors’ suggests a prayer of protection that might be used before opening social media. Reflecting on this, a jumble of other invocations poured forth.
The Muse:
Have I connected to the spirit of inspiration and creativity herself, this one who takes the heartbeat of the Earth and brings it forth into language and image? Have I offered my gratitude? What else may I offer you?
The Messenger:
Have I engaged the force that spreads the good message? Put my prayer out that this post be an answer to a deep unmet longing, a gift for a weary wanderer hungering for these very words?
The Grief Well:
Have I poured out any tears or rage at the state of the world and at the fact that I need (or choose) to use these platforms at all? Cleared any channels that may have me blaming or projecting on the way others engage with them, or on the company itself? Offered it all back, to Her?
Guardians and Protectors:
Have I asked for my eyes to be protected from the distraction and triggers I may encounter while posting? Have I asked for protection from the constant checking of the number of likes? Have I got something else engaging to offer my attention to in the aftermath to appease the addict?
The Innocent-Sage:
Can I welcome all outcomes?
If no one engages at all, has the post been a learning opportunity, a gift to the community? Can it be offered free of expectation?
Should the post be plucked and spun to virality, is it an authentic representation I would stand by and defend in the face of criticism?
Now, I am ready to post.
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