Overall, the daily observance of contemplating the majestic cosmos reminds communitarian associates to look beyond the surface of daily life to find wisdom in the cosmic forces that shape our world. It encourages a blend of cosmic wonder and earthly action, encouraging us to align our lifestyles with both the natural environment and the wider universe to ultimately discover our place and purpose within the global network of communitarian union eco-social missions.
The seven daily observances are an important tool for gaining traction in the areas of Personal Progression, particularly ‘Know Thyself’. For these reasons, the majority of novice as well as seasoned associates, utilize Tolstoy’s method of daily reflection that involves a rigorous examination of our actions and thoughts each evening. The central aim of this nightly self-audit is to acknowledge our shortcomings while also striving to cultivate humility to achieve continuous self-improvement.
From the 2nd year of association and beyond, communitarians set aside time in the evenings to cultivate the habit of self-reflection to refine our personal character as a way of preparing to share in ‘common’ wealth ‘common purse’ collaborative living. In a society that often prioritizes speed, efficiency, and consumption, these practices invite us to slow down and immerse ourselves in the larger cycles that govern both the earth and the cosmos.
Through regular observance of the night sky, we become more attuned to the flow of natural and cosmic events, deepening our understanding of how these cycles impact our emotional, physical, and social well-being. Utilizing the evenings to star-gaze to increase self-awareness, empowers communitarians to make thoughtful choices that align with the principles of Deep Union – sharing all with all, along with contributing to the responsible stewardship of the Earth.
Daily observances are not simply routines; instead, they are conscious deliberate practices that ground us in the present while connecting us to the greater forces of the universe. This grounding fosters a sense of continuity and resilience, helping individuals navigate the complexities of modern life with a sense of purpose that transcends the mundane. As we participate in these universal customs, communitarians reinforce our shared values, reminding ourselves of our collective role in nurturing each other and the earth. The observances act as a daily compass, orienting us toward Right Livelihood and encouraging us to engage in practices that responsibly steward the earth’s resources, contribute to communal well-being, and foster an interconnected way of living.
These observances are also powerful tools for collective learning. As we gather regularly to engage with the rhythms of the cosmos—whether it is aligning with the phases of the Moon, appreciating the energy of the Sun, or contemplating the eternity of the stars—we share insights, observations, and experiences that contribute to a communal knowledge base. This collective wisdom deepens our understanding of the natural world, guiding the ways we engage in collaborative provisioning, Right Livelihood, and sustainable gardening. By anchoring our actions in these cosmic and earthly cycles, we create a community that thrives in both harmony and purpose, seeing our small, daily acts as meaningful contributions to a larger, global network of communitarian unions.
Ultimately, “Contemplating the Majestic Cosmos” invites us to integrate cosmic inspiration into our daily lives, encouraging an ongoing cycle of growth and reflection that sustains both the individual and the collective. This intentional approach to living fosters a balance between self-development and communal responsibility, guiding us to live in alignment with the greater forces at play, and nurturing a sense of belonging to a broader, universal community.
By reflecting on cosmic phenomena and how time and space, the planets, sun, moon and stars impact our planet along with people, animals and oceans, communitarians develop a deeper awareness of interconnectedness and co-responsibility for caring for the planet and each other.
