"Do not dwell on the past. Do not dream of the future. Concentrate the mind on the present moment." --Buddha
This moment feels pregnant with anticipation. As we close in on the election I find my mind wandering to scenarios of what will happen next. I notice people doing all kinds of nervous behaviors. Some are preparing for post-election civil unrest. Many are just holding their breath.
At a time like this it's easy to slip into worry mode and become trapped by thoughts and emotions. This situation offers the perfect opportunity to practice mindfulness by surrendering to the living moment. Monkey mind can only take over when we forget to stay with what is right here, right now.
Thich Nhat Hanh, author of Peace is Every Step writes, "Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness. If, in our heart, we still cling to anything--anger, anxiety, or possessions--we cannot be free."
Each moment is rich with texture and depth. The feel of sunshine through the kitchen window, preparing and tasting a meal, putting on socks and shoes, folding laundry, walking from the car to the house or turning off a light switch. Each new moment is where life actually happens and it's the only time we have to experience anything.
I will often ask myself questions like, "Kim, where are you right now? What are you participating with?" This helps wake me up to the living moment. I'm surprised at how often I'm lost in thought; mindlessly feeding the dogs or putting a dish in the dishwasher and realizing I wasn't really there to enjoy the oatmeal and cinnamon that was previously in it.
As you move through the hours before the election, notice where you are. Feel into the body with gentle curiosity and sense what energy is there; see if you can soften. Coming home to the living moment is an invitation to relax with the way things are and let action flow from a place of self- compassion.
We will meet online WEDNESDAY at 6:30pm. The focus will be finding peace regardless of the situation.
Looking forward to seeing you!
Warmly,
Kim
“Peace is present right here and now, in ourselves and in everything we do and see. Every breath we take, every step we take, can be filled with peace, joy, and serenity. The question is whether or not we are in touch with it. We need only to be awake, alive in the present moment.” ― Thich Nhat Hanh, Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life
About us: This friendly, open-hearted group is for anyone interested in meditation and exploring awareness training. Newcomers are always welcome. The basic structure is guided meditation, conscious sharing and topic discussion. We go about 90 minutes, sometimes more or less but you are welcome to arrive and depart as your schedule allows.
Join Zoom Meeting
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(or call in only: 1 646 558 8656
Meeting ID: 117 191 836)
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