Summary
- Page 3 | Title: From the Editor
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Reflects on TRA's global, multilingual community and the importance of unity in Reiki practice.
- Discusses the challenges of inclusion, equity, and respect within the organization.
- Encourages non-English speaking masters to share their opinions and thoughts.
- Highlights the importance of slow, considerate decision-making for TRA's future.
- Page 4 | Title: Saying Goodbye to Phyllis Lei Furumoto
Author: Brian Brunius
Content:
- Describes the funeral ceremony for Phyllis Lei Furumoto in Kauai, Hawaii, attended by Reiki Masters from 15+ countries.
- Details the preparation of the gravesite, the memorial stone, and the funeral rites led by Rev. Kosen Ishikawa.
- Shares the emotional and spiritual significance of the ceremony, including the placement of Phyllis' ashes and the playing of the Shanti mantra.
- Mentions the presence of Hawayo Takata's family graves and her first Reiki office nearby.
- Page 6 | Title: Hawaii - Present and Past
Author: Natalia Litvinova
Content:
- Recounts a visit to Hawayo Takata's home and clinic in Hilo, Hawaii, and the emotional connection to Reiki's history.
- Describes the preservation of Takata's memory and spirit in her former home, which is still used as a healing clinic.
- Highlights the visit to Honpa Hongwanji Mission, where Takata was a member, and the deep sense of connection to Reiki's roots.
- Page 7 | Title: Reiki, Circle and Simplicity - Conference 2020
Author: Conference Team
Content:
- Announces the 2020 conference in South America, themed "Reiki, Circle and Simplicity."
- Encourages masters to share their experiences, challenges, and happiness in a collaborative and open environment.
- Highlights activities such as education day, AGM meeting, cabaret night, and cultural tours.
- Invites participants to bring music and poetry from their countries to share during the conference.
- Page 8 | Title: The Quest for Clarity
Author: Paul Mitchell
Content:
- Clarifies historical inaccuracies in TRA's history and the evolution of the name "Usui Shiki Ryoho."
- Discusses the founding of TRA, the role of Phyllis Furumoto, and the relationship between TRA and the Office of the Grandmaster (OGM).
- Explores the definition of the practice and the importance of the nine elements identified by Phyllis Furumoto.
- Addresses the mission of TRA and the significance of the statement "Reiki will teach you."
- Page 9 | Title: Burning the Midnight Oil
Author: TRA Board
Content:
- Describes the February 2020 Board Meeting in Gersfeld, Germany, focusing on member questions and organizational tasks.
- Highlights the use of Reiki energy to guide discussions and the application of "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz.
- Mentions the introduction of Kanbanflow to track projects and improve communication.
- Emphasizes the importance of transparency, listening, and finding clarity for TRA's future.
- Page 10 | Title: Synopsis
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Summarizes responses to the board's questions in the November 2019 article "Inclusion, inclusion, inclusion."
- Statistics: 136 of 463 TRA members responded, representing 20 of 35 countries.
- Key themes: gratitude for the board's work, historical perspective, emotional responses to change, and reconciliation.
- Discusses concerns about name changes, inclusion, and the role of OGM in TRA.
- Page 11 | Title: Inclusion and The Reiki Alliance
Author: Rick Bockner
Content:
- Explores the meaning of inclusion and the challenges of change within TRA.
- Encourages softness, heart-centeredness, and listening to foster a creative and inclusive community.
- Discusses the importance of honoring the spiritual lineage and the need for reconciliation and mutual respect.
- Shares a vision of TRA as a diverse, creative community united by Reiki.
- Page 12 | Title: Doing Reiki FOR or WITH my Cancer
Author: Jean-Michel Trifin
Content:
- Reflects on the difference between doing Reiki "for" healing and doing Reiki "with" what is present.
- Shares a personal journey of integrating Reiki with a cancer diagnosis, emphasizing acceptance and openness to life's unknowns.
- Encourages embracing vulnerability and trusting the intelligence of Reiki.
- Page 13 | Title: Membership Questions
Author: Kristen Bonney
Content:
- Discusses the core issues highlighted by recent community discussions and reactions.
- Questions whether TRA should maintain a common practice and the role of the Lineage Bearer in ensuring stability.
- Suggests the need for clear membership guidelines and a potential survey to gather member opinions.
- Page 14 | Title: Senior Membership - New Procedure
Author: Membership Team
Content:
- Outlines the new procedure for senior membership, including eligibility criteria and application process.
- Senior membership is for long-time members in difficult financial situations who are no longer active in initiating masters and students.
- Requires a minimum of 15 years of TRA membership and a combined age + membership of 90 years.
- Annual dues increased to $125, with a cap of 20% of the membership eligible for senior status.
- Page 15 | Title: Leaving and Coming Back
Author: Mel Hoffstead
Content:
- Shares a personal story of leaving and rejoining TRA, emphasizing the importance of honoring the Usui Shiki Ryoho tradition.
- Discusses the value of supporting the new Lineage Bearer, Johannes Reindl, and the sense of community within TRA.
- Reflects on the process of forgiveness, acceptance, and the benefits of being part of a global Reiki organization.
- Page 16 | Title: Australasian Regional Gathering 2019
Author: Conference Team
Content:
- Recaps the 2019 Australasian Regional Gathering, attended by 11 members with a combined 288 years of Reiki practice.
- Discusses impressions of the UK conference, the role of the new Lineage Bearer, and the importance of supporting Johannes Reindl.
- Highlights the sense of community, family, and being "held" by others in the group.
- Page 17 | Title: Website Tips
Author: Website Team
Content:
- Provides tips for creating events, finding pages, and searching for colleagues on the TRA website.
- Encourages members to update their contact information and use the international format for phone numbers.
- Page 18 | Title: Witness to the February 2020 Board Meeting
Author: George van den Berg
Content:
- Describes the February 2020 Board Meeting in Gersfeld, Germany, highlighting the board's humor, respect, and synergy.
- Mentions the use of "The Four Agreements" and the board's commitment to transparency and listening.
- Page 19 | Title: Dear Member
Author: The Board
Content:
- Addresses common topics and questions from members, including concerns about name changes and the timing of discussions.
- Clarifies the board's support for Johannes Reindl and the importance of open communication and reconciliation.
- Reiterates the requirement for alignment with Hawayo Takata's lineage for membership.
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Summary
- Page 3 | Title: From the Editor
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Introduces the new look of the "Just for Today" newsletter and reflects on the impact of the pandemic on daily life.
- Highlights the contributions of Marta Getty and the focus of this issue on honoring her legacy and looking to the future.
- Discusses the emotional and spiritual impact of COVID-19 and systemic racism, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.
- Encourages members to contribute to the newsletter and share their experiences.
- Page 4 | Title: Memories of Marta
Author: Kristin Bonney
Content:
- Recounts the first meeting with Marta Getty and the profound impact of her Reiki treatment.
- Describes Marta's teaching style, her loyalty to students, and her ability to create a sense of community and joy.
- Shares personal anecdotes about Marta's unique personality and her dedication to Reiki.
- Page 5 | Title: Working in the Present, Looking to the Future
Author: The Board
Content:
- Discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the postponement of the in-person conference.
- Highlights the board's efforts to keep the organization connected and running smoothly, including the introduction of credit card payments on the website.
- Mentions the selection of new interim board members and the successful Zoom meetings with members.
- Encourages members to participate in surveys to provide input into the future direction of the community.
- Page 6 | Title: Marta and her Marble Project
Author: Grainne Warner
Content:
- Describes Marta Getty's Marble Project, which involves using a marble to focus on sending Reiki to heal the planet.
- Explains the origins of the project and Marta's vision of spreading Reiki globally.
- Shares personal experiences of participating in the Marble Project and the deep connection it fosters with the Earth and the global Reiki community.
- Page 7 | Title: Leaning into the Future
Author: Paul Mitchell
Content:
- Explores the themes of change, transformation, and evolution within The Reiki Alliance.
- Discusses the importance of reflecting on the mission and membership of the Alliance, and the need for thoughtful and generous listening.
- Encourages members to engage in spontaneous Zoom groups to discuss important questions and move the community forward.
- Page 8 | Title: Marta Getty's Healing the Family Tree with Reiki (HFT)
Author: Rebecca Bredenhof
Content:
- Describes Marta Getty's work on "Healing the Family Tree with Reiki" and her legacy to Rebecca Bredenhof.
- Explains the process of HFT and its significance in healing family patterns and promoting world peace.
- Shares personal experiences of working with Marta and the impact of her teachings.
- Page 9 | Title: A Zoom Chat with Johannes
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Recounts a Zoom conversation with Johannes Reindl, the new Lineage Bearer of Usui Shiki Ryoho.
- Discusses Johannes' feelings about writing for the newsletter and his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Describes the online self-treatment sessions and the Reiki Circle for Young Reiki Students (ages 17-25) initiated by Johannes.
- Shares Johannes' thoughts on the future of Reiki practice and the importance of community and connection.
- Page 10 | Title: The Disruption of Covid-19: A Potential Blessing?
Author: Kate Jones
Content:
- Reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as a wake-up call and an opportunity for transformation.
- Discusses the potential for Reiki practice to guide personal and global evolution, emphasizing resilience, surrender, and service.
- Encourages The Reiki Alliance to embrace regenerative thinking and become a participant in the evolution of humanity.
- Page 11 | Title: Marta, Woman of Many Roles in My Life
Author: Lida Perry
Content:
- Shares personal reflections on the impact of Marta Getty as a teacher, guide, and friend.
- Describes Marta's ability to inspire and support her students, and her dedication to the tradition of Usui Shiki Ryoho.
- Recounts a magical moment during a gathering in Sicily, highlighting Marta's storytelling and the deep connection she fostered.
- Page 12 | Title: New Members
Author: The Reiki Alliance
Content:
- Welcomes new members to the community:
- Basilia Bernabeu Martinez (Spain)
- Gráinne Warner (United Kingdom)
- Jean-Louis Kerleau (France)
- Joanna Hayder (Poland)
- Juan Figueroa (Mexico)
- Lies Pennings (Netherlands)
- Marianne Valkhof (Netherlands)
- Søs Hjorth (Denmark)
- Theo Leloux (Netherlands)
- Welcomes back returning member Maureen Conrad (United States of America).
- Page 13 | Title: We Hurt
Author: Laurence Fontaine
Content:
- Expresses the emotional and spiritual pain caused by the pandemic and the interconnectedness of human suffering.
- Reflects on the importance of Reiki in soothing grief, fear, and worry, and the power of community and connection.
- Shares a personal sculpture created in honor of Phyllis Furumoto's passing, symbolizing grief and love.
- Page 14 | Title: Nils Nordholm
Author: Nils Nordholm
Content:
- Introduces Nils Nordholm, a new interim board member of The Reiki Alliance.
- Describes his background, passion for helping others, and his journey with Reiki.
- Shares his vision for serving Reiki and the members of The Reiki Alliance.
- Page 15 | Title: Reiki, Circle and Simplicity
Author: Conference Team
Content:
- Provides an update on the planning and organization of the South American Conference, postponed to 2021.
- Encourages members to support the conference team with their Reiki energy and open hearts.
- Page 16 | Title: An Open Letter to my Students
Author: Lida Perry
Content:
- Shares a heartfelt message to students, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic.
- Encourages students to embrace change, practice Reiki, and find meaning in the current global situation.
- Quotes Pope Francis and emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and the transformative power of Reiki.
- Page 17 | Title: Resignations
Author: The Reiki Alliance
Content:
- Acknowledges the resignation of the following members:
- Anita Levin (Canada)
- Kelly Lee Tavson (Canada)
- Maria Chiara Capecchi (Italy)
- Mary McIntosh (USA-New Hampshire)
- Natalia Loseva (Russia)
- Raul Nestor Regules (Argentina)
- Ravi Inder Singh (USA-California)
- Page 18 | Title: Where Have We Come From? Where Are We Going?
Author: Kalinka Staikova
Content:
- Reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Bulgaria and the global changes it has brought.
- Discusses the contradictions between humanity and hatred, and the potential for transformation in values and relationships.
- Encourages an open-minded approach to the future, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and caring for others.
- Page 19 | Title: Our Beloved Earth
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Honors the legacies of Phyllis Furumoto, Wanja Twan, and Marta Getty, and their deep care for the Earth and the environment.
- Discusses the potential for The Reiki Alliance to create a vision for the future, inspired by Phyllis' vision of collective responsibility and service to life.
- Reflects on the impact of the pandemic and the call for change in our relationship with the world and Reiki practice.
- Page 20 | Title: Whether or not
Author: Fran Freeman
Content:
- Expresses the emotional turmoil and fear caused by the pandemic, and the search for refuge and comfort.
- Describes the soothing power of Reiki and the connection to nature as sources of strength and resilience.
- Reflects on the importance of finding moments of joy and goodness amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
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Summary
- Page 3 | Title: From the Editor
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Reflects on the changes and challenges faced by Reiki Masters, both personally and globally, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Encourages readers to embrace change and transformation, and to use Reiki to address personal, community, and global needs.
- Highlights the theme of the OGM retreat: wholeness, change, transformation, terror, resistance, surrender, and integration.
- Invites the Reiki community to contribute to the newsletter and share their experiences.
- Page 4 | Title: Greetings from the Board
Author: The Board
Content:
- Offers a message of safety, wellness, and guidance to the Reiki community during challenging times.
- Expresses love and support from the board members: Eileen, Hildegard, Jolanda, Marten, and Nils.
- Page 5 | Title: An Inner Bond
Author: Phyllis Lei Furumoto
Content:
- Explores the concept of initiation and the inner bond to the Usui Shiki Ryoho system.
- Reflects on Phyllis' experience of being recognized as Hawayo Takata's successor and the energetic patterns of that time.
- Discusses the significance of initiation, community support, and the role of the lineage bearer.
- Originally published in Reiki Magazine #36 in 2005, reprinted with permission.
- Page 6 | Title: Exploring Change and Transformation
Author: Johannes Reindl
Content:
- Recaps the 12th OGM retreat, held virtually in September 2020, with 165 participants from 32 countries.
- Discusses the themes of change, transformation, terror, resistance, and surrender.
- Shares Johannes' personal journey and reflections on accepting the role of lineage bearer and the impact of COVID-19.
- Includes comments from participants about their experiences of terror, resistance, and surrender.
- Page 7 | Title: Show Gratitude to Every Living Thing
Author: Anu Butani
Content:
- Shares a personal story of using Reiki to help a small bird recover and fly away.
- Expresses gratitude for the experience and the healing power of Reiki.
- Page 8 | Title: The Circle
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Introduces Joyce Winough, Phyllis Lei Furumoto's wife, and her contributions to the Reiki community.
- Describes Joyce's organizational skills, dedication to Usui Shiki Ryoho, and her role in bridging Hawayo Takata's teachings with Phyllis' legacy.
- Highlights Joyce's acceptance of a role in the Office of the Grand Master (OGM) and her reflections on resistance and surrender.
- Page 9 | Title: Terror and Resistance
Author: Joyce Winough and Donna Harris
Content:
- Explores the themes of fear, terror, resistance, and surrender, quoting Guillaume Apollinaire's poem "Come to the Edge."
- Discusses the transformative power of vulnerability and the importance of facing fears in personal and community growth.
- Shares reflections from breakout groups on integrity, sacrifice, and contribution to the well-being of others.
- Page 10 | Title: Song of Kazakhstan Retreat
Author: Kate Jones
Content:
- Shares a song inspired by the Kazakhstan retreat, emphasizing unity, love, and connection in the Reiki community.
- Page 11 | Title: Resistance
Author: Susan Mitchell
Content:
- Reflects on personal and collective resistance to change, using examples from the Black Lives Matter movement and discussions within the Succession Core Team.
- Explores the impact of unconscious resistance on personal growth and community dynamics.
- Encourages self-reflection and openness to transformation within the Reiki community.
- Page 12 | Title: Who do we Need to Become to Serve the World?
Author: Laurence Fontaine
Content:
- Discusses the need to embrace creative tension and wholeness to serve the world effectively.
- Encourages stretching beyond known limits and choosing to serve the greater good.
- Page 13 | Title: Sweet Surrender
Author: Johannes Reindl and Donna Harris
Content:
- Explores the concept of surrender in Reiki practice and personal growth.
- Shares Johannes' reflections on obedience, listening, and the process of surrendering to the unknown.
- Includes comments from retreat participants on their experiences of surrender and trust.
- Page 14 | Title: Imaginative, Inspirational Mel
Author: Donna Harris
Content:
- Celebrates Melanie (Mel) Hoffstead's contributions to the Reiki community through creativity, movement, and music.
- Describes Mel's fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and her "Reiki and Creativity Sunday Evenings on Zoom" workshops.
- Highlights Mel's dedication to supporting her parents and her innovative use of technology to bring joy and connection.
- Page 15 | Title: Transitions: Shalandra Abbey, Jean-Michel Trifin, Jacqueline Hitchcock
Author: Various
Content:
- Honors the lives and contributions of Shalandra Abbey, Jean-Michel Trifin, and Jacqueline Hitchcock.
- Shares tributes and personal stories from colleagues and friends, highlighting their impact on the Reiki community.
- Page 16 | Title: Reiki Intervention During COVID
Author: Diane Domondon
Content:
- Recounts a personal experience of contracting COVID-19 and the role of Reiki in recovery.
- Describes the physical and emotional challenges of the illness and the support received from the Reiki community.
- Highlights the importance of Reiki in sustaining recovery and well-being.
- Page 17 | Title: Going Deeper into our Practice
Author: John O'Donohue
Content:
- Shares a poem encouraging patience, generosity, and trust in the process of personal and spiritual growth.
- Page 18 | Title: New Members, Returning Members and Resignations
Author: The Reiki Alliance
Content:
- Welcomes new members:
- Brigitte Arnold (Belgium)
- Gilberto Arias (USA)
- Lucy Price (Australia)
- Mirjam Top-Termaat (Netherlands)
- Roberta Louise Naimark (USA)
- Welcomes returning member Eduardo Andrés Andana Sobarzo (Chile).
- Acknowledges resignations:
- Irina Goriacheva (Russia)
- Jesus Rogelio Mendoza Posada (Mexico)
- Page 19 | Title: French Speaking Masters in Belgium Meetings
Author: Rita Vuylsteke and Jean-Michel Trifin
Content:
- Describes the local French-speaking TRA Masters gatherings in Belgium, held 4-6 times a year.
- Shares the format of the gatherings, including Reiki and life experiences, lunch, and Reiki treatments.
- Includes Jean-Michel Trifin's reflections on his 30 years of Reiki practice and his understanding of Reiki as pure consciousness.
- Page 20 | Title: Dear Reiki Masters of Usui Shiki Ryoho
Author: Patti Gould, Jenna Keck
Content:
- Honors Shalandra Abbey on her birthday, sharing a haiku and reflections on her contributions to the Reiki community.
- Mentions the creation of a Shalandra Abbey Memorial Page on Facebook for members to express their grief.
- Includes a favorite quote from Shalandra: "Get your mind out of the way and let Reiki do its job."
- Page 21 | Title: Jean-Michel Trifin - A Tribute
Author: Inger Droog
Content:
- Pays tribute to Jean-Michel Trifin, sharing personal memories and his impact on the Reiki community.
- Describes Jean-Michel's journey as a Reiki Master, his kindness, and his dedication to teaching and healing.
- Includes a link to a Taizé chant in his honor: Bless the Lord, my soul.
- Page 22 | Title: An Outstanding Person
Author: Christine Bay
Content:
- Shares a heartfelt letter to Jean-Michel Trifin, expressing gratitude for his guidance, support, and friendship.
- Highlights Jean-Michel's impact on her life and Reiki practice, and the legacy he leaves behind.
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