Making 'Ity' cards is a sadhana (spiritual practice) in itself. They can be created with awareness, whilst chanting or with your determination (sankalpa - see glossary) held in your heart.They can be likened to Divination cards - these indicate something needed in your life, the message being conveyed by a 'higher' source.
The creation of these cards is simple - the beauty of the creation, in its individuality. I have created several cards with a number of women over the years & each card to each pack have been beautiful & unique.
Simply purchase pre-cut card ` available at newsagents/stationers (often called 'calling cards', you can get a large size), or cut out your own card. Decorate & write an 'ity' on each card include a simple phrase that you relate to specifically of that ity. I sometimes laminate my cards - but again this is a personal choice & an environmental decision. The new ones on water colour paper are a little more rustic. Store cards in a small draw string bag which can also be hand-made or perhaps wrapped in a favourite piece of fabric - tied with string & put in a box or again just put inside a box.
Choosing a card - the cards can be used in several ways. You might wish to choose one outright after quietly sitting & thinking about what you would like to bring about in your life. Or, hold the cards as a pack, focus on the 'issue' you need assistance with for several moments, when it feels write cut the pack, put half to one side, take the top card from the divided pack, this is your 'ity'. It may feel exact, it may feel 'yuk' often the yuk is the fact that you really need to address this 'issue' it is something that may frighten you, don't worry. Every card you choose is perfect - no matter how hard it seems. Watch your reaction, observe & record any experiences you may have over the month, write down the lessons you have learnt , including the harder experiences you may encounter.Keep them somewhere special, be organized so you can look at one a month. Try not to attempt too much too soon. You may wish to practise your 'ity' for several months in a row to gain a deeper understanding of the teaching.
I know for example, that Dazla & I chose to do non-irritability for the month of February. As soon as that choice was made we came into contact with irritability instantly. It was chronic in the first hour - the children were really stirring this up for us. We were pleased to have chosen one together as we were able to support each other & be there as a reminder, "Sweetie, 'member your 'ity' (Big grin on face), don't react, just observe your mind." At times it was getting rather hilarious, we were so cross, getting more & more irritated to the point of anger.
The whole family can benefit from the Itys. Enjoy the process of this practice.
