Slow down your breathing, until it is gentle, smooth, and soft. Let go of any tension in your body by relaxing your jaw, your shoulders, your fingertips, even your toes. Continue until you feel light, fresh, and free.

Read the following Scripture verse slowly, savoring each word:

O God, you are my God,
    and I long for you.
My whole being desires you;
    like a dry, worn-out, and waterless land,
    my soul is thirsty for you. (Psalm 63:1)

Begin by asking yourself: What is my deepest desire?

Sit with this question for a while. Allow any answers that do come up up to float way. Do not judge these desires. Take note of them, welcome them, and let them go. After several moments, you may notice a single, recurring desire.

Take this desire and ask yourself: How will this lead me to love?

If the answer to this question is not clear--or if you realize that it does not lead you to love--return to the original question: What is my deepest desire?

Imagine obtaining the object of this deepest desire. What emotions do you notice? Upon obtaining this desire, do you feel whole, complete, and joyful? Are you left unsatisfied and hungry for more? If you feel unsatisfied, go back and start with the original question: What is my deepest desire?

You may not have an answer to this question within a single meditation; that is OK. Asking the question is often more important than finding an answer. Take up this meditation another time and begin again.

Close with this prayer or with one of your own: Lord, I long for you. Amen.