I love this quote by Alan Watts because it reminds me that the gateway to freedom lies in the ability to meet each moment just as it is...without struggle or judgment. Often during challenging times it takes a great deal of courage to sit with the moment that is being presented to us. However, by practicing mindfulness, we let experience be the teacher and leave ourselves open to receive the understanding that will unfold naturally.
“The art of living is neither careless drifting on the one hand nor fearful clinging on the other. It consists in being sensitive to each moment, in regarding it as utterly new and unique, in having the mind open and wholly receptive.”
Alan Watts
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The Winter Olympics start in a few days and I was contemplating the various paths and inspiring journeys these athletes traverse in order to make it to a competition of this caliber. Of course we have all watched the stories spotlighting a person’s journey to the pinnacle of their sport. I was reflecting on why we are all so moved by these stories. I think it is partly because deep inside of us we recognize it as the journey we are all on in one way or another. Our journey may not make front page news, or be a gold medal winning endeavor, but we are all on our own Hero’s Journey, to use the phrase popularized by Joseph Campbell.
bility of a species to adapt, cooperate and work together with its environment in harmony - versus the idea we have been led to believe, where nature is ruled by competition and the strong conquering the weak. However, I am reminded of the inherent cooperation that exists in nature as I look out my window and view the scene unfolding at the heated bird bath. All varieties of birds are present and they are frolicking, playing and splashing in the water, despite the subzero temperatures. An eager squirrel patiently waits his turn to get a drink while watching curiously as the birds enjoy their hot tub bathing experience. It is a scene of complete joy, cooperation and communion.
If you are not familiar with Jack Kornfield, he has quite an interesting and unique background. He holds a Ph.d in psychology and also spent years training as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma. He is one of the key teachers that brought Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. The concepts Jack speaks about in this book are profound and yet simple. I feel that he speaks to a deep knowing within all of us and his words resonate with that wisdom we hold deep inside. I was drawn to this book years ago and I have returned to it time and time again for insight and guidance. If you are a newcomer to Buddhist psychology, this book perfectly addresses all the essentials, while delivering the wisdom behind these ancient beliefs. Although the subject matter covered is deep, this book is very readable and illuminates the guiding principles of Buddhist thought. Anyone looking for balance in their life should consider reading this most profound book. It is one of my favorites and is a joy to read.
