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Finding Rest in the Middle of Things: Bob’s Reflections on The Five Invitations
In this moving reflection, our community member Bob shares how the teachings of The Five Invitations provided profound grounding during a sudden family crisis. Through the heartbreaking loss of his brother, Bob explores practical ways to welcome difficult emotions, stay present in the chaos, and find a sanctuary of rest in our most challenging times.
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Finding Magic in the present
Claudia shares her recent feelings of calmness and happiness, describing a meditation experience at Zazen-kai where she brought flowers and invited her late grandmother’s spirit. A hummingbird’s presence during meditation symbolizes resilience and spiritual connections. She reflects on finding joy and gratitude, emphasizing the importance of perspective in one’s search for happiness.
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Nothing Happens
The author reflects on experiences in Alaska, where the unique quality of sunlight alters perceptions of time and activity. This contrasts with their home environment, where light dictates schedules. Through observing light changes, the author finds beauty in detachment and questions the need for busyness, realizing that the essence of light transcends location.
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Meditation is not clearing the mind
Adam reflects on his meditation practice, comparing it to laundry, where he cleans his mind weekly but faces challenges during stressful workdays. Inspired by Gelong Thubten, he learns meditation is not about clearing thoughts, but about gently returning focus. Emphasizing self-compassion, he advocates for mindfulness in daily life and embracing discomfort.
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Building the Bedrock: A New Father’s Journey into Meditation
The author, a father of a 9-month-old named Juniper, shares his meditation journey. He struggles with a restless mind but learns to embrace it with acceptance. Realizing his own delicacy, he reflects on his role as a parent, understanding that nurturing a safe environment for Juniper will help her grow stronger and wiser.
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Uncovering Joy: Four Realizations from Sitting at Hakone Gardens
In this reflection, Igor shares four key realizations from his meditative experiences at Hakone Gardens. He emphasizes the importance of presence and how focusing on the present quiets the mind, transforming perception. Additionally, he highlights the power of thoughts, the sustainable path through meditation, and the concept of the Middle Way, promoting gratitude as the…
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