Wow. Essay #1 is inviting me to dive right in and open up to creating a whole new framework for my life. Honestly, I have been a meditation “dabbler” my whole adult life, starting when I was 21 and I told my religious studies professor that I wanted to learn to meditate and he suggested a Vipassana retreat. That was definitely jumping in the deep end. I have come back to meditation again and again over the years.
I see Hinayana as a way for me to create a dedicated meditation space in my home, which I have yet to do. I have a place in mind, and I have a lovely meditation bench which provides good support. I understand the need for creating this intentional space in order to give me a foundation to grow from.
My work place in the hospital allows me to practice love and compassion, Mahayana. In the hospital we see patients and families at their most vulnerable. I have so many opportunities daily at work to practice and be present for people.
At this point in my journey, vajrayana feels very elusive and mysterious, so I’ll just stay open to its possibilities with an “empty cup” attitude.