It's not what you look at that matter. It's what you see. (H.D. Thoreau)
Do something radical today. Show up for the crispness of this morning offered so generously to you without a demand in the world. // Delete the word 'ordinary' from your dictionary. // Do you really believe this day is devoid of miracles just because it's porridge again for breakfast? // Amazement is a good swimmer …
8 minutes reading time 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do' (Luke 23:33 - 34). As Jesus was about to be crucified he spoke these famous, powerful words. It is hard to find a more potent example of embodied love and compassion – a man asking for forgiveness for those who …
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."
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"
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 …
No matter what our religious background, Christmas is a time for many in our society when we are especially vulnerable to the exaggeration of pleasure and pain and the effect this has on us. Expectations can build up that things have to be 'extraordinarily pleasurable': a perfectly decorated house, the harmonious getting together of family, …
Continue reading "Pleasure And Pain – A Reflection at Christmas"
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 