Engaging in self-reflection this way helps us to see things as they are, not as they seem. We invite ourselves to go deeper, to investigate our habitual patterns of judgment and values that we often take for granted. As we do so, we find that there is space there, a gap where we can decide how we want to proceed. We don’t have to be prisoners in our own mental cage.
Our local sanghas around the world and Nalandabodhi Akasha offer online meditation practices throughout the week. All are welcome to join, regardless of background or experience
In the idealized sangha, everyone joyfully comes together and shares study and practice space. It is beautiful. However, what of the pain of community and the challenges we face together?” Stephanie Mikolaj asks. “Can there be a place for pain and conflict in this precious jewel, and can it in fact strengthen our bonds to one another?
One of our beloved translators offers her insights in both English and español. “I have no issues with taking refuge in the Buddha, the teacher, the human being who showed us the path to enlightenment . . . nor with taking refuge in the dharma, the Buddha’s teachings,” writes Adela Iglesias. “But the process is not always that straightforward when I try to connect to the sangha.”
The author describes the experience of using Mindful Gap, the first step of the Emotional Rescue Method to work with the busy mind of stress and anxiety.
The author has an unexpected experience of “joyful diligence” during a medical test, and offers a contemplative exercise for coming back to the present moment during everyday activities.
