What is the “middle way?” (Might not be what you thought…)
August 12, 2024 | 12 CommentsAudio-only version is here.
Meditation practice begins at 11:36.
Dear Open Heart Project,
Hello, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who reached out to me after my cat passed away. Your kindness has been received and welcome.
In this video, I share something I’ve been thinking about in relation so my own spiritual journey, what in Buddhism is called “the middle way.” What is it in the middle of? How does one find this midpoint? I hope you find interesting things to think about in regard to this question.
Let me hear any reflections you have. I always love to hear from you.
With love,
Susan
categorized in: meditation, open heart project
12 Comments
That was wonderful, thank you Susan a bit of peace as my mum used to say.
I have a problem with a difficult neighbour.
We live in a building linked by walkways all my plants are there. She often walks past scowling and seems to truly hate me.
I have tried the meta bahavana which does sometimes work but I cannot do it all the time.
Then the feeling I get from her stays in my consciousness and will not go away.
Do you have any thoughts on difficult neighbours 🤔 Many thanks
Jane xx
Hi Jane. I am sorry you have this situation! I know how trying it can be.
It’s very kind of you to offer loving kindness to your neighbor but it is hard to force such a feeling when you are actually just irritated and upset at her (understandably). You could start by offering loving kindness to yourself for being unable to offer loving kindness to her. Start with your own suffering. And it is always best to start with what is actually going on. Keep me posted! <3 S
This talk is a great start to the week, thank you, Susan. There is a new Wim Wenders film out at the moment called ‘Perfect Days’ which I think is a beautiful portrait of the receptivity to life you’re talking about.
I hope your week is a little less painful this week.
Love from Alison (ps your hair looks great btw!)
Thank you, Alison–for everything. I LOVED THAT MOVIE!! I agree, it is a beautiful portrait of this exact point. xoxo S
Thank you Susan for this thought provocative talk on the middle way!
As I contemplate the subject of meditation and arriving at the breath, which seems to be the only true reality of being alive-then at death when breathing ceases -what happens next?
Nihilism or re-birth? Or perhaps neither of the two?
Please guide my contemplation further on this subject?
Sending love.
I share your questions! That is the best I can offer! Love, S
What a complex (and yet simple) and important talk…thank you. I will need to listen to it several more times!
I hope it will bring benefit to your life and your journey! <3 S
Dear Susan, Your description of “the middle way” made more sense to me than any other I’ve heard. And, I can see your description helping me as I continue on my path. Thank you. May you be well, Nancy
I am so happy to read this, Nancy! <3 S
Dear Susan,
This was one of your best and wisest videos I feel. It really speaks to how much you understand and also how generously you share this wisdom. I loved it! Thank you. ❤️
Michelle, thank you for every word of this. xo S