I often revisit “For the Future to Be Possible” by Thich Nhat Hanh (October 11, 1926–January 22, 2022) to renew my commitment to skillful actions in daily life. I especially like the way he emphasizes our inner wealth and how to utilize it. In particular, the renowned Zen master insists that even if you have … Read more
I’ve been practicing mindfulness meditation for several years but only now starting to realize some of its deeper, more powerful benefits. Among them is the ability to avoid emotional reactivity when dealing with challenging situations or difficult people. Scholar Bhikkhu Analayo calls it the “middle path” that avoids the two unskillful extremes of reaction and … Read more
“You and your Buddha, why don’t you stick to the religion you were born with?” Jack Kerouac’s mother said when her son tried to explain Buddhism. This is exactly what Piper Ratliff feared her parents would say to her when she confessed to lying about her true motives for coming to Thailand. “She’s a religious … Read more
I made a lot of mistakes in my personal and professional life. When given the opportunity, I tried to correct them. Yet I don’t regret any of it. Everything I said or did eventually led me to the path I’m walking right now — the path of reading, writing, and helping other people start their … Read more