Desert Flowers is a community of people around the world using the readings, body prayers, meditations and insights which are offered by Dr Neil Douglas-Klotz (Saadi Shakur Chishiti) through his teachings and his books to deepen our connection to the One through a sharing of our experiences. Within this overall commitment, we seek to integrate this work with our efforts to give voice to our strong desire to be part of the healing of the disharmonies between human society and the natural world.

This community is a bit different from other email lists or groups. It has definite boundaries, which allow for "taking a breath" between conversations. Check-in times are fixed - we meet every 3 or 4 months for a period of two weeks. Also, the focus of Desert Flowers is on personal spiritual experiences, not on concepts or speculation. By sharing our spiritual experiences (which include the challenges of everyday life), we are experimenting with group-focused spiritual sharing and guidance.

In Egypt's Western Desert, rain falls only every 30 years. When it does, flowers bloom and go through an entire life cycle in a very short time, reseeding themselves for the next generation. In addition, large supplies of underground water can be brought to the surface, which also allows the desert to green. Desert Flowers encourages this kind of accelerated, yet rich spiritual growth in the midst of modern culture's transition from wasteland to oasis.

As participants, we are encouraged to send our written reflections to Desert Flowers periodically - between meetings. Then, about once every three or four months, we will be invited to join in the conversation during the ensuing two week open sharing period. At the beginning of each period, I send a set of mailings consisting of a reminder of our focus, a compilation of check-ins which have been received since our previous meeting, and a practice proposed by Neil. During the first two days, we will read this set of mailings and have time to focus on the practice from Neil. For the remainder of the first week, those who have not yet checked in are invited to do so. This is an opportunity to share your journey or to simply say "I am here."

After everyone has had a chance to check in, our group conversation could conclude or, for the remainder of our time together, we may share personal challenges, healings or celebrations for which we would like prayers or support. After any such sharing, some of us may be inspired and moved to offer a message which in some way says "Thank you" or "I hear you and I support you on your journey."

People interested in participating in Desert Flowers should contact
Richard McMurtry