Boxing Out Negativity is one of the many, wonderful groups working to promote strong communities in Chicago. We were thrilled to participate in their third annual Bike Out Negativity event, which combined a three-hour service fair, a bike giveaway, and a ride through the streets. The day before the event, when the forecast was sketchy, we were notified the event would take place “rain or shine!” There was a bit of rain, but then it cleared up, and the community turned out!

Mario is our newest Reiki Brigade volunteer and this was his first event. He was approached immediately by this gentleman who was familiar with reiki and eager to receive a session. “You got this, Mario!”

This little guy was determined to try reiki. His mother was dubious, so he had to insist she sign the waiver for him. There was so much going on in the room, but he sat quietly with his eyes closed the whole time, intent on getting the full experience. Afterwards he said, with a big smile on his face, “I felt a lot of heat… and shocks.”

Despite the rain there was a tremendous turnout and show of mutual support for the event and community. This is just a small portion of the crowd. I saw a lot of hugs as old friends reunited.

Mario and I were so busy giving reiki, we missed the group photo ops, so we posed on our way out.

Mario’s favorite part of the event was how peaceful and relaxed participants felt after their sessions, and the sincerity with which they provided that feedback.

My favorite feedback from Mario was during the ride home when he said, “I would do that every Saturday!” He was glowing.

This was one in a series of Restorative Justice Summit events hosted within the Westside community in collaboration with the CPD.

Thanks for having us! See you in August at the Street Love Ride!

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Here's to raising awareness and availability of the benefits of reiki!
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