It's not what you look at that matter. It's what you see. (H.D. Thoreau)
Today I am taking sides. I am taking the side of Peace. Peace, which I will not abandoneven when its voice is drowned outby hurt and hatred,bitterness of loss,cries of right and wrong. I am taking the side of Peacewhose name has barely been spokenin this winnerless war. I will hold Peace in my arms,and …
Continue reading "“Taking Sides”. A Poem by Rabbi Irwin Keller."
The world is in crisis. No question about it. The question is: How do we respond? We could become cynical. We could choose to 'opt out', to not get emotionally involved in any of it anyore, out of a feeling of helplessness, despair or overwhelm. Because, at the end of the day, 'What does it …
Compassion is a beautiful quality of the human heart, to be touched by anothers joy and pain, to wish another person well. At times we might experience a feeling of alienation from others. But we also know what it feels like to be kind, loving, to wish each other well. To be able to forgive. …
I love the childrens book 'Frederick'. Frederick is part of a family of mice. All the other mice are very busy during the summer, collecting corn, gathering barley, nuts and berries for the winter. Frederick in the meantime sits on a rock with his eyes closed (in a sense, he's a meditator in mouse world). …
Continue reading "Gathering Light – Summer Solstice Reflections"
Today I would like to share one of my favourite poems by Thich Nhat Hanh. The world is in desperate need for dialogue and, most importantly, compassion. There are far too many wars being faught, both with weapons and words. This will not stop until we start listening to those we perceive as opponents. Peace …
What made the news today: Tanks have been sent into a warzone.A corrupt politician's office has been searched.A sex offender has been arrested.A village will be destroyed for a coalmine.Somebody describes how they struggle to give up coffee. What didn't make the news today: The single mother working three jobs, hoping to secure a better …
I have spent the majority of the last 10 years of my life living,working and travelling outside the country I was born and raised in. What was originally planned as a 3-4 month adventure away from my home country has lasted now for almost a decade. As is probably the case for most people, the …
Remember the joy of hearing a baby giggle. Remember the sense of connection sitting side by side in meditation. Remember the pain felt at the sight of a human being sleeping rough in a world of abundance. Remember your heart jumping with joy witnessing an act of kindness. Remember the warmth of a friend's embrace. …
A good friend has seen all your sides And still chooses to hang out with you A good friend offers you shelter when the storms in your life threaten to knock you off your feet And doesn’t ask when you will leave again A good friend knows when a hug is more needed than a …
SOMETIMES MINDFUL 