just be it It’s about the work involved in establishing a dedicated practice to feelings of a bigger belonging through practices aimed at increasing feelings of compassion, gratitude and forgiveness

Take a Verbal Vacation

Published on 07/03/19
by randy

We’re continually engaged in verbal chatter, whether with others or in our own heads. I find it very helpful to train to breaks from this chatter, whether through meditation, yoga, sport, or music. It may not last long, but it gives rise to awareness of the illusion to our separateness. I just found some notes from a retreat we did in Wisconsin with the Madison police force and a group of Vietnamese monks. Here’s a copy of those notes:

Thich Nhat Hanh

Meditation – Breath in – still waters
Breath out – I reflect clearly

Breath in – I’m space
Breath out – I’m free

If the mind is so preoccupied so there’s no space, you have nothing to offer. Most precious thing you can offer beloved ones is space. You must have space around you to be happy.

Dharma talk
Right thinking – reflects the situation as it is. Thinking that helps you understand more deeply. To be loving, compassionate and free.
Wrong thinking – urges you to blame another for all your difficulties.

You and the nature of love are impermanent. No one can swim in the same river twice, it’s always changing.
Our son is our continuation, he carries me into the future.

Law enforcement – a code of behavior that aims at producing harmony and peace. You cannot be taught through anger and authority.

A family should be organized as an organism. 1) protecting itself 2) healing itself
Mindfulness is our agent of protection and healing much like an immune system. Without mindfulness we bring into our bodies/family a lot of toxicity.

When talking with those who preach anger, violence, and fear, simply tell them, “I’ve heard enough of that, let’s talk about positive things.” There must be a code of behavior everyone accepts. Understanding is the very foundation of love. Do you take the time to look and understand? Can you handle yourself with compassion and understanding?

That's it. What Next?

Please leave your comment so we know what you think about this article. Trackback URL: Take a Verbal Vacation.