Firekeeper,
As always, you have given me much to consider. I usually don't consider any answer satisfactory unless it raises other questions and that's exactly what has happened with this posting. Thanks to all!
It was precisely the frequency of questions on the effectiveness of Reiki for a specific outcome and the attendant responses referring to Intent that prompted me to ask the question.
I personally am of the belief that the Reiki whether it is directed by consciousness or not works and works in sometimes surprising and even miraculous ways. I second the question you posed: what's the problem here?
I don't know that a lack of intent is necessarily the answer either (or if it's possible - it seems that placing your hands on another's body implies intent of some type so clearly by starting a healing session, we are signalling an intent to facilitate something). Intending the Highest Good seems like the most encompassing come-from.
I have experimented in my own daily treatments with the intent for a specific outcome and I just don't get the hang of it. I have found the permission vs. no permission thing to be tremendous in its effectiveness though. Perhaps, as you suggest, knowing that loving energy is coming to you helps to open a more willing channel for that energy.
Thanks for your replies. I love this place!!
Sara
