Via Basel: Circle of Respect–A Universal Ritual
Brother Joe Kilikevice
A prayer, a reflection and a ritual to begin.
In a circle or not, standing or sitting,
A calm, kind voice leads us,
The sound of the bell sets the rhythm,
Breathing in, say yes to life,
Breathing out, gratitude for the present moment,
In and out, yes and thanks.
Left palm facing up, we belong to the universe,
Birthed from stars, flaring forth out of the original fire.
Right palm facing down, acknowledging,
Mother earth, green and nourishing,
Holding hands, we belong to each other as well.
Beholding, loving sacred gaze, into the eyes,
Left and right, all around, and ancestors.
The wonder, the variety, the diversity,
Colors, origins, ages, genders, and traditions,
All accepted, welcomed, respected, none excluded.
Blessings given and received in silence,
Hands to heart, taking it all in,
Carrying it with grace throughout the day.
Distilled to its essence,
Breathe
Belong
Behold
Bless.
Steve Miller
A version of the above ritual was led by Joseph Kilikevice, OP, and Steve Miller to begin the celebration of my 80th Birthday on February 14, 2026 in the American Writers Museum in Chicago. Started by Brother Joe over 30 years ago, the circle of respect ritual has been repeated thousands of times in our Male Spirit Retreats, and other gatherings all over the world. For more information Shemcenter.org, under Resources: Inter-spiritual Practices. If you would like to use this ritual, please do; simply credit the Shem Center!
As far as my 80th celebration you’ll have to wait a few more weeks for details.
Until then be well and in Peace.
Basel Al-Aswad, father of EIL founder Christopher Al-Aswad, is a yogi trapped in an Orthopedic Surgeon’s body. His loves in life include reading, writing, hiking, enjoying nature, meditation, and spending time with his large Iraqi family; now, semi-retired, he is exploring new avenues in medicine, education, public speaking, teaching, and social engagement.
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