As my daily meditation comes to an end, I anticipate the act of writing. Sometimes, it’s a moment of inspiration, prompting me to reflect on past events and past relationships, no matter how distant or painful they may be. Sometimes, however, my mind resembles a blank sheet of paper, resulting in apathy and inertia. During … Read more
“I will fail this test.” “I will be uncomfortable at the party.” “I think she’ll hate me for saying this.” Worrying about future events makes you self-critical. The ability to consider possible outcomes is not always bad: it can help you face any possible threats with clarity and confidence. However, prolonged anxiety can take a … Read more
“To realize a tranquil heart and clear mind is to have gone far along the path of meditation,” writes Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh (October 11, 1926–January 22, 2022) in his book The Miracle of Mindfulness. “During meditation, various feelings and thoughts may arise,” he adds. “If you don’t practice mindfulness of the breath, … Read more
Sometimes, you might need a personal consultation on how to meditate or overcome specific obstacles that hinder your practice. I believe my advice will be useful to those who consider meditation a part of their spiritual journey. As a lay follower, I do my best to embody the Buddha’s teachings in my daily life, no matter … Read more
It was late enough that I should have been asleep when I opened the conversation again. Earlier that day, a friend and I had been making plans to see “Citizen Kane” at a local theater during a weekend retro screening. It was one of those repertory events that made the ordinary theater feel slightly different: … Read more