December 2, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation practice begins at 11:22
Hello, wonderful Open Heart Project. I hope you are finding sources of love and support during these unprecedented times. According to Buddhist wisdom, when we suffer sorrows and anger, we may reflexively react in three ways that actually increase our suffering. They are called the 3 poisons. Bad news: they’re poisonous! Good news: They’re optional! Please have a listen and... READ MORE
November 25, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation begins at 12:47
Dear, wonderful Open Heart Project, I have three basic suggestions for how Buddhist wisdom can help with heartbreak. Two weeks ago, we talked about the first step which involves figuring out how to work with your racing or clouded mind. Last week, I made suggestions for working with the overwhelming energy of the heart. This week, I share some thoughts... READ MORE
November 18, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation begins at 16:10
Dear, wonderful Open Heart Project, I have three basic suggestions for how Buddhist wisdom can help with heartbreak. Last week we talked about the first step which involves figuring out how to work with your racing or clouded mind. This week, I make suggestions for working with the overwhelming energy of the heart which, when shattered or upset, overflows with... READ MORE
November 11, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation begins at 14:36
Dear, wonderful Open Heart Project, Many years ago, I wrote a book called The Wisdom of a Broken Heart about how Buddhist wisdom helped me with my own broken heart. I recognize that so many of us are feeling heartbroken right now, whether it shows up as sobbing, rage, numbness, or all of the above. I get emails and messages... READ MORE
November 5, 2024 |
Today, close to 200 people gathered together to work with the energy of their hearts to bring benefit to this world. The practice of Loving Kindness is tailor-made for bringing everything we feel–love, fear, rage, sorrow, hope, hopelessness–to our meditation. There is no need to get rid of negative thoughts and have only so-called positive thoughts. Doesn’t matter! All are... READ MORE
November 4, 2024 |
Hello, excellent Open Heart Project practitioners. As we approach what may be an extremely tumultuous week here in the US and elsewhere, I wanted to share again something I posted a few months ago in the hope that it will support and strengthen you. I’m reflecting on a time I posted this message to social media: “What if we never... READ MORE
October 28, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation begins at 15:30
It seems we are in a time of heightened anxiety and fear–and for very understandable reasons. Most suggestions and techniques for calming yourself focus on altering your inner state by various means. Makes sense! But this is often not enough. In this week’s video, I make some suggestions from my Buddhist training about creating an environment from which you can... READ MORE
October 27, 2024 |
Our hearts continue to go out to those affected by the devastating hurricanes across the East Coast. One way I know I can be of help is to practice loving kindness for all those impacted by the storms. Our sangha gathering on October 4th practiced loving kindness for hurricane victims. Here is the recording. May our practice be of benefit.... READ MORE
October 21, 2024 |
Audio only version is here
Meditation begins at 9:10
I hope you and yours are well! As we get closer and closer to the US election, anxieties and tensions are bound to rise. We are in a state of divisiveness and fear. It is hard (impossible?) not to fall prey to sorrow and frustration. I wish I could tell you that Buddhism had some solution to all of this.... READ MORE
October 14, 2024 |
Meditation begins at 14:59
Audio only version is here
I hope you are well and safe. If you are in a region impacted by recent hurricanes, my heart goes out to you and I hold you in my practice. I know that doesn’t change or fix things, but it’s true nonetheless. This morning I got an email from one of you asking for some thoughts on compassion fatigue. First... READ MORE
October 7, 2024 |
Audio only version is here.
Meditation begins at 16:15
Dear, wonderful Open Heart Project practitioners, May all beings discover their inherent sanity and decency. Although it may sound improbable, meditation is a direct conduit to such qualities. It introduces space between what we think and what we do, how we feel and the conclusions we draw about self and other. Truly, the world is in need of people who... READ MORE
October 5, 2024 |
Yesterday, the Open Heart Project sangha gathered to practice loving kindness for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Posting her in case you would like to practice. This is a great example of what a sangha can do when times are difficult. Thank you, OHP sangha. I love you.