In between my research and classes, I've been reading the book, "When Things Fall Apart", written by Buddhist nun Pema Chödron. I come back to this book once in while, especially during times of transition in my life. With humor and gentleness, Chödrön speaks about the nature of compassion, suffering, and the importance of learning to acknowledge all of life's experiences with mindfulness. Here are two passages from her book that particularly resonate with me:"Recognize impermanence and suffering and egolessness at the kitchen-sink level, and be inquisitive about your reactions. Find out for yourself about peace and whether or not it's true that our fundamental situation is joyful."
"When we hold on to our opinions with aggression, no matter how valid our cause, we are simply adding more aggression to the planet, and violence and pain increase. Cultivating nonaggression is cultivating peace."
1 comment:
Lisa, this sounds wonderful. I'm definitely going to check it out. It may just be the thing I need to read, right about now...
It's so wonderful to be able to read your thoughts, and to be with you, in this way. :)
And, I've awarded you with something. Go check out my blog.
Much love to you! xoxoxo
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