Nature Speaks

sunset over Little Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan

There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story. I think this is also the dharma, not just dukkha, attachment and the poisons.

Continue reading

We All Want to be Happy

man standing by a mountain

We’ve just passed the 9/11 anniversary and you’ve probably heard a lot of remembrances about that day.  It’s the kind of event that you never forget where you were when you first learned about it.  I can even see in my minds eye where I was and the first images…

Continue reading

What is Reflective Meditation?

Reflective Meditation is an open, receptive, less structured approach to insight meditation.  It is grounded in the earliest teachings of the Buddha. Hallmarks of the practice are: Gentleness Curiosity Flexibility The roots of this practice are to be found in the Buddha’s early teachings and are based on learning to…

Continue reading

Getting Started

A sitting figure, possibly engaged in reflective meditation

Like any meditative practice, Reflective Meditation requires a significant commitment to realize the full benefits. However, getting started is easy. Here are some initial suggestions: Finding Structure Choose a comfortable position that you can hold for a period of time. Find a quiet place where you’re not likely to be…

Continue reading