Just Being Here Now

Beauty on The Beach-- A Pictorial Journey

2009-08-08T18:01:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's beach walk was different than the usual. I head out most mornings with London for about an hour walk. Yesterday, I decided to take along my camera. Behind the camera, I find that the world can look quite different, and I'm able to see the beauty in even the smallest things. So, instead of my usual let's-see-who-I-can-walk-faster-than kind of walk, I was taking in the scenery with no agenda for breaking a sweat or getting my heart rate up. It was a blissful little taste of enlightenment.

The photo to the left is my favorite. It's one of the many abandoned entrance ways that we pass each morning, but this time its textural beauty made me take notice this time around. Usually, I wouldn't give this much attention, other than seeing that it's clearly a withering away remnant of the architectural past just waiting for a developer to come and erase from existence.

The other thing I noticed are the many kinds of flowers that grow along the beach. I never realized how many varieties there actually are growing effortlessly in the sand.

There's also so much texture on the beach. Much of it from old pavers and cement blocks, but I find that they have characterr in their weathered state.

When I walk by these old pavers I wonder what stood behind them. I find old remnants of the past to be haunting and romantic in a certain way. It's like finding old relics from a time gone by. Maybe it wasn't that long ago, but I always wonder what the place looked like, was it once popular? It also provokes an emotion of sadness, because it represents the end of something too.

Wow, that was getting kind of heavy there for a minute. So now, onto a lighter, sillier side. As I was taking the photo of this sign, a passer-by vacationing from California asked me it this was a joke. It's funny, because I used to think the same thing when I first moved to Florida. Laughingly, I assured her that it's not intended to be a joke. She asked if anyone really shuffles their feet. I said I've never taken this sign seriously. How do you really shuffle your feet in water anyway?

The snack bar is positioned about mid-way between my beach access point, and the end of the board walk. I usually take a short pit stop here to get some shade while I'm doing a push up or two, and I always give London a sip of water. Speaking of boardwalks. This isn't exactly a boardwalk per se. Growing up in New Jersey, a boardwalk is a good 5-6 feet from the sand and it's made of wood. It doesn't feel anything remotely like a boardwalk, because it's actually like one really wide, long sidewalk. Actually, this is much better for my stride, than old uneven boards. But I do miss the character of the Jersey Shore, and nothing can quite compare to in my book. But for now, I'll enjoy these little "treasures."

Quest For Fun

2009-08-08T11:37:00.011-04:00

After watching and listening to blog guru Tim Ferriss' webinar on How to Build A High-Tra ffic Blog I really had a personal breakthrough. I happened along his lecture while scanning my favorite blogging promo site: Problogger. There are few videos that I will watch, requiring 50 minutes of my full attention, but this one is a gem. So, at about 5:30 pm, when all is quiet and the "babies" are taking their naps, I settled down on the couch with a nice glass of red wine and plugged in for an inspiring time.

This lecture is geared toward serious bloggers, and he touches the surface of the most important things to focus on. But what left the greatest impact on me is his work ethic. Tim Ferriss doesn't believe in relying on calendars. He stresses the importance of finding your "synthesis time." This is the time that you're the most in-sync, the best time to work or get the most productive things done. Tim writes the best from 1am-5am. His process- put on some good music, one glass of wine and yerba matte! Check out his 24 hour schedule here.

First, I'm backing up just a bit, because I want to start with something that has helped change my current outlook on my behavior when it comes to life and business. Tim said near the end of his lecture, and it really resonated with me:

Think BIG, play often and take FUN seriously.

He said this in reference to blogging and how it can be your own imposed hell if you let it. He says it's "OK" to go to the beat of your own drum and break the rules. The best bloggers and innovators in any field have broken the rules. My instincts ALWAYS say- do it this way, not the way they say, and I'm just so happy to see that someone has finally given me a pass.

So here I am at Panera, having some "me" time after my Weight Wat c hers meeting. (Can you tell I just learned how to use the web cam on my new computer?) I haven't ever really made it public that I've been going to meetings, other than to my immediate friends. I decided to jump on the wagon after the baby was born to knock off 25 pounds. I once had a friend question why I would join Weight Watchers since I have a background as a nutritionist. My response- "I need to answer to someone too!" The bottom line is, waking up on weigh-in morning to step on the scale in T-shirt and yoga pants just wasn't doing it for me. I have all the tools I need to succeed, I just like to have a place to go and connect. It has made a huge difference considering that I'm officially 19.6 pounds lighter since last December. I wanted to do the 20lb happy dance at today's meeting, but there's always next week. My goal is 7 more pounds, but I'm pretty darned happy right where I am too. I would rather this process be a "process," simply because I still want to "have my cake (wine) and eat it too!" I haven't changed my diet too much since I went on program. I've always had a good, nutritionally-sound diet in place.

I just eat less of a good thing!

And what would I do without my trusty points counter! (and calculator too) This thing goes with me everywhere. I don't buy processed foods too often, but what I love the best about this is- it helps me make better choices when I'm out at a place like Panera. I can go online, look up the nutritional content, and plug 'er in! FYI- a cup of black bean soup is only 1 point. Love it!

So by the way-- Jayzee if you read this, yes I'm working and yes, Kayzee lost 1.2 lbs today!

Next week: the "happy dance."

Hey....I'm waiting for you to leave a comment! Tell me what you like, tell me what you want to see. Do I make you laugh, or do I just make you yawn?

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Muffins

2009-05-29T10:44:00.005-04:00

Feeling extraordinarily spontaneous this morning, so I decided that it was time to take the rest of the day off-- and I mean to REALLY take the day off. So I've been puttering around the house, dusting, framing new pictures and tidying up London's room, and then suddenly the desire to make muffins came over me, so I went with it.

I've decided to dub my muffins-"Everything But The Kitchen Sink Muffins," because anything goes in my book. I like to think of the base ingredients as the "canvas," then after that, the sky's the limit!

I've been making these for a few years now. I first found a very basic recipe on the back of a Quaker Oats Box of Oatbran. I've changed my recipe radically by removing all of the refined sugar, while keeping in the the yum. These muffins are really a complete meal in themselves, covering several food groups. I like to grab one of these muffins on my way to the gym, or right before my power beach walk with London. My favorite way to eat them is with a schmear of cashew butter, and I'm good to go!

The Recipe-

Here's the recipe used on my 14-day detox program, using all organic ingredients.

The Base-

1 cup oatbran
2-4 tbs whole wheat flour. (optional) I like to add a few tbs to give it a bit of a cakier, bouncier texture.
1 tb of canola oil (cold-expellar pressed is best!)
1/2 cup of applesauce (my little secret is to buy applesauce with blueberry, or cinnamon added- oh yum)
1 tsp baking powder
1 egg + 1 egg white, or 2 egg whites
pinch salt

Then here's how I amp it up-

2 REALLY ripe bananas- mashed up and folded into the mixture
Nuts- any kind you like, but I like walnuts or cashew best
Dried apples
blueberries

and to pump it up even more...

cranberries
shredded carrots
shredded zucchini

I usually go with the nuts, blueberries, bananas and dried apples, but if you want to add one of the extras, go for it! Just be careful with adding too many ingredients, because some of the flavors may conflict. The bottom line is, just experiment and have fun.

Once you've mixed all your ingredients, bake in muffin tray. Grease your pan, and place a dollop into each section. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. Depending on the size of your tray, the recipe will yield about 8-14 muffins.

Enjoy!

Magic Pills & Other Stuff

2009-05-23T12:21:00.002-04:00

I realize how long it's been since I last wrote, and I realize how impractical it is to maintain my 3 blogs all at once-- this one, London's, and sheknitsintheloop. Lot's of writing, so little time. So, I've come to a crossroads- to merge or not to merge, that is the question. As my husband likes to remind me- K.I.S.S. Yes, you know it- keep is simple dumb ass. (ahem, I mean stupid)

Anyhew...I was going to do a cross post from sheknitsintheloop on "The Magic Pill" but you can just read it here. This post was sparked from viewing the latest 60 Minutes segment on aging and the benefits of red wine. You know the story, just a slightly new spin.

From time to time I may add a post here and there, and I'll continue adding new pics to London's site, but for the most part, I'll be posting to sheknitsintheloop. You can sign up for the feed here, or check out the blog for all the action!

Fast- Day 2

2009-04-07T21:27:00.002-04:00

Made it through day one without a hitch, and today quite the same. Since kicking off my detox on my 40th birthday, (OMG, that's right I forgot I'm 40!) my initial motivation was to try to figure out the mystery of this darned eczema I've been battling now for a few months. With all of my knowledge about nutrition, this one really has me stumped me.

It's funny, now that I'm on day 2 of my fast, the eczema is almost a forgotten issue. There's something so much bigger than that that has occurred within me. Maybe this all really is a blessing in disguise. I don't have control over this. Maybe this "condition" is my teacher after all.

I may figure this out, I may not, but the truth will come when the resistance stops. I've stopped wishing that it would "just go away" each time I looked in the mirror. It won't go away, no matter how many times I click my heels.

I'll talk more about the juices tomorrow, and how I plan on "breaking" my fast in the days that follow. I can't wait to have coffee again, although I could actually live without it.

On The Fasting Train-- Day 1

2009-04-06T20:21:00.004-04:00

Finished my 14 day detox yesterday, and now I'm starting my juice fast. Day 1 almost gone, and it's been a great experience so far. Just a few hunger pangs, but nothing too substantial. In addition to juicing, I'm also drinking milk thistle tea, for additional liver support. To my surprise, it was quite tasty. It has almost a "roasty" kind of taste. I have stevia, which I thought of using, but it tastes great straight. I don't use stevia often, because it seems to have such an artificial taste even though it's a natural sweetener.

Here are the details about my fasting program, which you might find useful:
Day before fast:

In preparation, on day 14 of the detox it's advised to eat strictly fruits and veggies. I also ate one piece of gluten-free bread and a very small portion of brown rice once during the day. Drinking about 2 quarts per day is also a great idea to avoid dehydration and possible nausea.

During the fast it's best to not take supplements, since they can be hard on the stomach, and the digestive system is at rest. I also make sure to drink my juices immediately after they are prepared. Longer than 30 minutes, and fruits and vegetables can lose half of their nutritional value!

So here we are day one, and here are the juicing recipes that I've prepared for myself today:
Breakfast: 4 carrots, 2 apples, handful of parsley, chunk of ginger, 1 scoop Nano Greens.
Mid-Morning: 1 beet, 2 stalks celery, 2 carrots, 1/2 sweet potato, 1 scoop Nano Greens.
Lunch: "Soup" 2 tomatoes, 1/2 head cabbage, 1 cucumber, 2 celery stalks, 1 garlic clove, warmed slightly.
Dinner: more "soup," milk thistle tea.
Evening: watermelon, ginger, 1 lemon, 1 lime, 1 apple, 2 carrots, 2 tbs of ground flax.

The soup concoction was great, but I definitely had garlic breath afterwards. My drink to follow with a chaser of ginger fixed that problem!

I also made sure to have 1 drink with beet, and one with either cabbage or broccoli. Cruciferous vegetables are another great component to support the liver detoxification process, and enhance the flow of bile.

Now, 8:30 pm, and doing great. My only concern is sleeping. I feel confident that with all the nutrients I've received throughout the day, that I should be just fine.

Until tomorrow.....

Photo credit: Pink Sherbert Photography

Blessing or a Curse?

2009-04-01T11:39:00.002-04:00

Playing a little catch up here, because I had hoped to share my daily experiences while on my 14 day detox. My initial motivation for this was because of eczema breakouts I've been experiencing over the past few months. I've been so focused and dedicated to getting rid of this "affliction," but now, on day 11, things have turned out a bit differently than I had hoped for.

Let me start off by saying that physically and mentally, I feel like amazing. I think just deleting the caffeine and alcohol has created wonderful results. I also dropped a few pounds without even trying. So here's the part that's disappointing- the eczema is not gone, and I was SURE it would be cured with some good old flushing of the liver.

My first outbreak was on 3/25, then on 3/30, and also on 3/31. The problem is a bit more complicated, and now some harder work is in order. So I put my "nutritionist" cap on again and started to think that perhaps now I'm dealing with a food allergy. The food elimination process can be daunting! So for starters, I've eliminated the 5 known allergens: milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat. My instincts tell me that I may have a sensitivity to wheat, and believe it or not- garbanzo beans! Food allergies can also be created when a certain food is consumed in large quantities. Upon further reading, I learned that garbanzo beans can cause SEVERE reactions in sensitive individuals, as noted in the Encyclopedia of Healing Foods. What a bummer! I eat them roasted, I eat them raw, I toss them in salad, in soup, and make hummus. Figures.

Well, I have to say so far all is not a loss. I've learned a lot about myself in the process, and I'm so pound I've already stuck it out for 11 days! I've given myself the best gift I could ever give myself- health, happiness and longevity. What a blessing indeed.

Letters From The Dhamma Brothers

2009-03-28T18:13:00.003-04:00

Here's a book everyone should read!

I first heard about Letters From The Dhamma Brothers on Oparah's Sprit Channel. This book is about a group of inmates at Donaldson Prison who practiced a 10-day Vipassana mediation course in 2002. During their experience they came face to face with their demons, and found acceptance with their lives. For many of them it was a new chapter in their lives.

Listening to this podcast brought me to tears, because if these men can find peace, than anyone can. I feel blessed to have found the enlightening lessons found in this book!

My "Ah Moment"

2009-03-17T05:16:00.003-04:00

Let me just start by saying--there are no coincidences! I woke up this morning ready to begin work, and began listening to Oprah's interview with Elizabeth Lesser about "Ah Moments." One of the first things she said that really resonated with me was- that when we think of letting go, we think we're letting go of our integrity. If we defend against "what is" it's not a very rational choice because "what is," IS. Why do we alwasy paddle upstream, if the flow is taking us in another direction?

Meditation is the best way to let go of the oars, to take our hands off and experience what is and allow things to flow downstream. Elizabeth went on to say that Abraham said it best- Everything flows downstream. What a powerful, yet simple concept! How did I miss the memo! Funny, how I said to Pam yesterday afternoon, "is it really that simple?" The answer was YES. Yes, it is, and the message was sent to me again just this morning, as clear as day. No coincidences!

An Oldie But Goodie

2009-03-05T07:52:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I listened to Zencast's podcast on the Four Noble Truths. Upon listening, it reminded me of my most cherished book: Awakening the Buddha Within, where I first learned about the Four Noble Truths. Lama Surya Das explains them in such an approachable way, which is what I appreciate most about this book. Lama Surya Das "brings Buddhism to the masses."

I first read Awakening the Buddha Within over 10 years ago, and it's been my trusty companion ever since. I consider this book a "Workbook on Buddhism." It's marked up with sticky notes, and highlights throughout. I love how I can turn to any page and find something useful if I need a little "instant inspiration."

I've turned on some of my good friends to this great book, because it covers all the fundamentals of Buddhism in a very down-to earth way, and Lama Surya Das' conversational style makes it easy for anyone to relate to this inspiring book. I highly recommend getting a copy. It changed my life, and it might change yours too!

Wash The Dishes

2009-03-05T07:48:00.001-05:00

As Thich Nhat Hanh says in the first few pages of Miracle of Mindfulness: "Wash the dishes to wash the dishes."

This simple, yet powerful statement always comes to mind when I was my dishes, (and baby bottles) and has since I first read this book about 10 years ago. I've read several books on mindfulness, but there's something about the simplicity in this metaphor that brilliantly explains the concept of mindfulness.

Morning Gifts- Gratitude and a Good Cup of Coffee

2009-03-05T06:37:00.005-05:00

Each morning I wake with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. It's for the simple things like- the beautiful morning sky at dusk, or a good cup of coffee. I notice that I wake with these simple thoughts, feeling like a clean slate. I also notice how interesting it is that as the day goes on, the mind starts to construct more complex ideas, and the more thinking that occurs, the more complex ideas get, and then the "monster" emerges. There's something so magical about this time of the day, and all the information I need is right here in these simple, subtle things. When the mind is quiet and clear, it's open and non-judgemental. So, as I glance outside my sliding glass door, I feel so much gratitude to be able to see the little jewel in these simple moments, and it's my goal to take this feeling throughout my entire day.

I want to share some thoughts about my practice over the past few days. The main thing I've noticed is that I'm not judging each situation. Second guessing, or maybe wondering at times if I should be doing something other then what I may be doing. If this is the "best use of my time." Isn't should a really funny word? When we say should, it's really because we've placed that expectation on ourselves, but it really doesn't have to get done in the urgent way we may think it needs to get done, and the wonderful thing is-- tomorrow's always another day to start again!

Unfortunately, I've inherited the the "day runner mentality" from my father. I create those daily tasks, and if at the end of the day I didn't cross everything off, there's this little sense of failure. Again, another crazy creation by yours truly! So why is it that we create these monsters? In my blindness for thinking ahead to crossing off those self-created tasks, I'm missing the most important thing- The Moment. That's actually what I need to "cross off" the list.

The New To Do list:

Wake up
Sit still
Be empty
Breathe
Let things unfold
Look out the window
Admire London's fuzzy head
Trust
Express gratitude
Do yoga
Breath again
Stay here now
Be diligent in the moment

I hear London stirring about, so here are a few inspiring words that I would like to leave you with this morning. I hope they bring you joy today.

Neither giving nor taking
Neither for nor against
Leave your mind at rest
With perceptions remain unconcerned
The Great Way is a mind open to everything
Everything which clings to nothing
With fixates no where
Radiant and stainless. Rest in the unmoved,
and spontaneous and you will soon reach Buddhahood.

--Teaching from Tilopa, a 10th century yogi.

Daily Dharma- Make Your Own Way

2009-03-04T11:58:00.002-05:00

Make Your Own Way

Hikers know that there are no passable roads in a virgin forest. However, a road will open up when you pull away the grass, thorns and wisteria. Swimmers know that there are no paths in the water, but as you swim you will create a pathway.Cultivation is similar. You only need to get on the path and walk and you will create your own path. The roads walked by the Ch’an patriarchs are theirs, not yours. You must depend on yourself to open up your own road.

-Ch’an Master Sheng-yen, from Dharma Drum

Today's Practice

2009-03-02T08:02:00.002-05:00

My favorite thing to do each morning while I'm working is listen to Mostly Classical on Skyfm. It's so soothing, and makes me feel so at ease and focused each morning. When I wake up around 5 am, turn on the computer, my music and one small dim light, providing just the right amount of light for what I'm working on. It amazes me how much I get done in these short 3 hours each morning. It seems to be more then any other time of the day, so I make sure to take full advantage!

Now, it's about 8 am, and surprisingly everyone's still asleep. It's still perfectly quiet, but that will change any minute! Jay is staying home today to help me out with London so I can hopefully catch up on some work. Speak of the devil- here he comes with socks and flip flops! Oh how chilly it is here this morning. I think the FL's Pan Handle will be getting some snow, but it feels like it will here too!

Once London goes down for his morning nap, I'm going to try out a new podcast- 20 minute yoga sessions from yogadownload.com Then, I'll finish it off with a meditation on Getting Stuck meditation from Learn to Meditate-Mediation Podcast. I hope to write later with my reflections on my practice!

Quiet time is over the boys are up!

Back on The Mat

2009-03-01T16:10:00.003-05:00

I know I've gotten side tracked lately from my daily readings on Comfortable with Uncertainty, but I'll get back to that soon. For now, I'm focusing on the imporatnace of getting back on track with my daily yoga and meditation practice. It's amazing how immediate the effects are. It's beyond me why I stopped! I guess having a baby might be a great excuse, but it's high time to get back in the groove! Going to the gym each day is great, but not including yoga in my daily practice has been the missing piece to the puzzle.

I love the Yoga Journal Podcasts, with Jason Crandell, which I started downloading last year. They are short, but sweet gentle yoga flow sessions, and are only about 25 minutes each. I love the idea of doing an occasional 1 hour and 15 minute session, but 25 minutes is just the perfect amount of time to reconnect. Today I did the Overall Toning class, focusing on a vinyasa flow of Standing Forward Bend, (Uttanasana) combined with Chair pose. (Utkatasana) I liked how these two poses were used to segway into lunge, down dog, plank, then cobra.

I love the idea of finishing off a great yoga session with a guided meditation. Today, I found a great podcast called Learn to Meditate-Meditation Podcast. I've been searching for some great guided meditation podcasts, and this one is perfect because they are about 15 minutes each, with some up to 20 minutes. The first half talks about a specific topic, with the last half on affirmations and a guided meditation. Some class examples are: Living Your Bliss, Freeing Your Mind, and Fear.

I guess that's enough yoga talk for today! Time to curl up on the couch on this chilly Sunday afternoon and enjoy my Sri Lankan Chai!

Commit Time

2009-02-27T11:22:00.005-05:00

Lately, I've been feeling slightly "restless" with my usual routine, or I should say "non-routine." In the afternoon hours, I find myself spinning my wheels, and not feeling particularly satisfied. I am very regimented about getting up early and "eating my frogs" first thing in the morning. In fact, I can't wait to get started. I work diligently from about 5-8am, but then this is when the disconnection with myself begins.

Once London goes down for his morning nap, it's almost as if I'm a fish out of water. I become overwhelmed at the prospect of doing everything and nothing at the same time if that makes any kind of sense at all! This is not unique to having the baby, in fact this is a strange dilemma I've dealt with for some time now. I have this sense of guilt for not getting something done, whatever that "something" is. Then, when it comes to the evening- I get back on track again. As soon as Jay comes home, I either head out to the gym or go to the grocery store. I proceed to make dinner, then wind down on the couch for a bit right before I begin to do my nightly knitting.

So why is it that there's a disconnect during the afternoon hours? Here's the final analysis as I see it- it's time to get back to meditating and doing yoga! Yes, this is the missing component! When I found out that I was 1 cm dilated with London at 30 weeks, I was told to lay off of any activity. Doing yoga and meditating went along with it. Sadly, I will admit I never got back fully into my practice, and my state-of-mind changed as a result. I used to carve out time each day to meditate, as well as do yoga. Each time I ended my practice, I would also ask myself- "Why would I not do this each day, when my well-being depends on it?"

Last night after dinner, instead of knitting, I decided to browse through some magazines, and I came across an article about creating structure and setting boundaries. Isn't it amazing how we get just what we need at the right time? I came across this article in Family Circle, which is a bit ironic, because my mother gave me a gift subscription for Christmas, and I wondered why, since I would never think to purchase this magazine. Anyway, so I said what the heck, and browsed through. The article is called: Clear Your Inner Clutter. Here's the paragraph that stuck a chord:

Commit Time

"You may never feel balanced unless you find regular activity- and by regular, I mean every day-- that takes you out of yourself. Because the one thing you can rely on is that if you spend all your time like a hamster on a wheel, you will never feel that life has meaning. No matter what you choose as your peaceful interlude, you need to invest time and energy in order to yield returns."

Thank you mom and Family Circle!

Daily Dharma

2009-02-13T08:37:00.002-05:00

Our Work in the World

Some people think that they will practice the dharma once they have finished with their worldly business. This is a mistaken attitude because our work in the world never finishes. Work is like a ripple of water continually moving on the surface of the ocean. It is very difficult to break free from our occupations in order to practice dharma. The busy work with which we fill our lives is only completed at the time of our death.

--Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Meaningful to Behold

From Everyday Mind, a Tricycle book edited by Jean Smith

I've been so bad about reading up on my Daily Dharma. As I've said before, I'm guilty of "x-ing" these out when I feel overwhelmed with the plethora of emails that arrive daily to my inbox. What does it take to read this each day. 30 seconds, maybe a minute a most. I think I can spare it!

Teaching #4: The Wisdom of No Escape

2009-02-02T12:48:00.002-05:00

I'm just coming out of my "cloudy" state on this rainy Monday. I just started a detox yesterday, and the effects of caffeine withdrawal have taken their effect. But here I am ready to jump into the next chapter.

So back to Comfortable With Uncertainty....

The central question of this teaching is: How do we relate to discomfort? Do we lean in, or pull away? I think many of us reactively pull away from unsettling situations, hoping for them to go away. What if we were to be more inquisitive and really observe and see what's behind this unsettling feeling or situation? To step out of ourselves, then "look back in." Couldn't this become a learning experience?

Pema Chodron states- How do we practice with difficulty with our emotions, with the unpredictible encounters of an ordinary day? It's certainly easy to practice mindfulfulness when we set up our mat for meditation or yoga, but what about when something hits us unexpectedly? These are really the MOST important times to practice. Cultivating mindfulness in meditation of course helps us even more when these moments are presented to us, but if we can stand our ground during turbulent times, then as Pema says: We can bring ourselves back to the spiritual path countless times every day simply by exercising our willingness to rest in the uncertainty of the present moment- over and over again.....Staying is how we get the hang of gently catching ourselves when we're about to let resentment harden into blame, righteousness, or alienation.

Teaching #3: Comfortable with Uncertainty

2009-01-30T15:14:00.002-05:00

Better late then never....Actually, I first read this teaching upon waking this morning. It was a very overcast, rainy morning, but there was something so peaceful about it. London was still in his crib, going through his usual routine of cooing and playing with his little feet, so I snuck outside on the porch to read and watch the steam coming from my coffee into the misty rainy air.

Pema Chodron discusses the concept of finding comfort in not knowing what is going to happen next. The first thought that came into my head was a quote by Rumi- Cultivate Not Knowing. Aside from my favorite William Blake poem, this tends to be a favorite mantra of mine. The word "cultivate" reminds me of planting a garden, or the idea of nurturing. This not-knowing, as Pema Chodron states perfectly, is part of the adventure. Not knowing if that person will call, or if you get that big "job assignment." It's in these moments that we can really practice this.

A warrior accepts that we can never know what will happen to us next. We can try to control the uncontrollable by looking for security and predictability, always hoping to be comfortable and safe. But the truth is that we can NEVER AVOID uncertainty.

Pema does not capitalize NEVER AVOID, but I thought it would be appropriate to stress the importance of accepting this fact. Funny how human nature resists this reality.

The teaching closes with this final poignant thought-

If we find ourselves in doubt that we're not up to being a warrior-in-training, we can contemplate this question:

"Do I prefer to grow up and relate to life directly, or do I choose to live and die in fear?"

Tricycle's Daily Dharma

2009-01-30T08:41:00.004-05:00

Each morning, I receive my Daily Dharma. It's so smart how Tricycle sends this early in the morning, so it's ALWAYS the first thing I read before my day gets going.

Today's email seems so fitting, based on my studies of Comfortable with Uncertainty, and yesterday's teaching on The Healing Power of Bodhichitta.

Who is a Bodhisattva?

A bodhisattva is an ordinary person who takes up a course in his or her life that moves in the direction of Buddha. You're a bodhisattva. I'm a bodhisattva; actually, anyone who directs their attention, their life, to practicing the way of life of a Buddha is a bodhisattva.

--Kosho Uchiyama, Opening the Hand of Thought
from Everyday Mind, edited by Jean Smith, a Tricycle book

Read this Daily Dharma on tricycle.com

Teaching #2: The Healing Power of Bodhichitta

2009-01-29T07:56:00.008-05:00

Bodhichitta- a Sanskrit word, meaning "Noble or Awakened Heart."

This next teaching reminds me of something I once learned at sangha- how the healing power of compassion can set us free. So you ask, how do we feel that sense of compassion for the guy across the street? In seated meditation, surround yourself with the love you feel for your child, or a loved one. Think about how you want to protect them from harm, and how you wish them to always be happy. Then, to take this a step further- while you still have this strong feeling around you, think of someone not so close to you- someone at the gym perhaps, or the grocery store, and try to imagine that same compassion towards him or her.

It's easy to feel compassion for your child or a loved one, but the concept of feeling compassion for the masses, for your neighbor across the street can be a challenge sometimes. If we find the ability to extend our compassion to others, our own fear of pain and difficulties can begin to melt away. Pema Chodron explains what happens when we feel the healing power of compassion and bodhichitta:

When inspiration has become hidden, when we feel ready to give up, this is the time when healing can be found in the tenderness of pain itself. Bodhichitta is also equated, in part, with compassion- our ability to feel the pain that we share with others. Without realizing it we continually shield ourselves from this pain because it scares us. Based on a deep fear of being hurt, we erect protective walls made out of strategies, opinions, prejudices, and emotions.

Take in the pain of the world in....and turn it into compassion.

In very basic language, here's the takeaway: get out of your own head and your own stuff- start thinking about others; helping and serving others. This will set you free!

Teaching # 1: The Love That Will Not Die

2009-01-28T11:29:00.007-05:00

Today, as I begin my discussion series on Comfortable With Uncertainty: 108 Teachings on Cultivating Fearlessness and Compassion, I think back to how my dear friend Pam gave me this special book as I embarked out on on my own with a brand new business. This book has provided me with comfort and inspiration at some of my darkest moments. During those times when I couldn't quite see the "top of the staircase," I would simply open up my little book and start reading, always finding yet another "precious jewel." Thanks, Pam.

This first teaching explains how on our path to enlightenment, we go "down" rather then up. It's an interesting concept, because in my experience, many teachings don't directly address this. I think many of us get caught up in the idea that if we meditate or try to be mindful each day this will make life better or easier. I believe this is true, and false at the same time. Pema Chodron explains it like this:

Instead of transcending the suffering of all creatures we move toward turbulence and doubt however we can. We explore the reality and unpredictability of insecurity and pain, and we try not to push it away.

I think that when we actually dive into our challenges, we are better able to accept them, then move through the discomfort. As Pema states, we are warrior-bodhisattvas.

As we are able to move through and understand our painful situations, we also realize we are not alone. We move with millions of others on the same path. We are all interconnected, and we can help each other to become awakened from the fear of pain.

The awakened heart of bodhichitta is the basic goodness of all beings.

Comfortable With Uncertainty

2009-01-27T10:33:00.007-05:00

This morning, after knitting a few rows and drinking my morning coffee, I began to contemplate my daily "to do's." I keep my copy of Pema Chodron's book: Comfortable With Uncertainty 108 Teachings on Cultivating Fearlessness and Compassion nearby to remind myself that there's always time to read an entry or two. But I must admit, lately it has not been on my daily task list. From time to time I ask myself: "Why is this not on the very top of the list, and why is it not marked as URGENT?" That's the million dollar question!

So, today I realize that maybe my list needs some rearranging, and there's a few missing pieces. The things that I may think are "urgent" really never are. When I take those few minutes to meditate on an entry, it ALWAYS puts the rest of my day into perspective.

So this all leads me to an idea that I had a few weeks ago- to do a daily "blog study" of the book. I think by taking some time each morning to analyze a particular entry will help me to meditate on its significance, instead of just putting the book away. It's my hope to expand its meaning even more, and bring this into my daily life.

Tomorrow, I will open with the first of the 108 Teachings. Here's the rundown of what's to come for this week:

1/28: Teaching #1. The Love That Will Not Die

1/29: Teaching #2. The Healing Power of Bodhichitta

1/30: Teaching #3. Comfortable with Uncertainty

1/31: Teaching #4. The Wisdom of No Escape

2/1: Teaching #5. Loving-Kindness: The Essential Practice

Daily Reminders

2009-01-27T10:25:00.002-05:00

Take a walk

Take a nap

Read a book

Play with London

See the sunset

Meditate

Go to sangha

Listen to music

Talk to a friend

Just be still..........

The Importance of Balance

2009-01-13T05:35:00.002-05:00

January 13, 2009Tricycle's Daily Dharma

The Importance of Balance
While we may concentrate on one particular aspect of the path at a time, it is important to have an overall balance between the different aspects. Meditation should progress hand in hand with study, without either one being neglected. Having cleared away doubts intellectually, we should integrate our understanding with the experience of meditation. In this way our practice will be balanced and complete.

--The Dalai Lama, A Flash of Lightning in the Dark of Night
from Everyday Mind, edited by Jean Smith, a Tricycle book

A Little Bit of Daily Dharma

2009-01-06T10:49:00.002-05:00

January 6, 2009 Tricycle's Daily Dharma

Buddha Knowledge
Just as the water flows under the ground So those who seek it find it,Without thought, without end, Its effective power all-pervasive, Buddha Knowledge is also like this, Being in all creatures' minds; If any work on it with diligence, They will soon find the light of knowledge.

--The Flower Ornament Scripture, trans. by Thomas Cleary
from Everyday Mind, edited by Jean Smith, a Tricycle book

I get these great little "daily reminders" each day delivered directly to my Inbox. When things get hairy, I delete these along with all the other spam I receive. (Yes, I admit that I do this sometimes!) So maybe, by taking the time each day to stop and read this will just bring me away from that "hairiness" if I just stop for just a minute. Also, why not take things even a step further and examine each daily message. What am I getting out of this message today? In a nutshell- there's always a lesson in every action, and if we're not awake we we'll miss it.

Contemplating a Strawberry

2009-01-05T11:06:00.004-05:00

As I was slicing strawberries on this beautiful morning, I was really thinking about each strawberry, and how very often I just want to rush through slicing them. I felt so peaceful just slicing away, that it became an act within itself. I knew at that moment that I was practicing. I was being mindful of what I was doing. Not brushing it off as something that I would rather just get out of the way quickly.

It's in these moments where we can really learn to cultivate patience and acceptance of what is, no matter how boring or menial things may seem, and to stop thinking about the moments that may follow, which haven't even arrived, and may not.

What a nice lesson a strawberry can teach us.

Letting Go

2009-01-03T11:37:00.004-05:00

This is one of my favorite peoms by I must share this simple little poem today, because it is a wonderful reminder to focus on what is now, experiencing the beauty and joy of it, then letting it go...........

He who binds to himself a joy

does the winged life destroy;

But he who kisses the joy as if flies

Lives in eternity's sunrise.

-William Blake

Cultivation is Key

2009-01-02T20:56:00.000-05:00

What if we stopped caring so much about what was coming next? We spend our days and hours planning and tracking and then, after planning and tracking, we worry and worry more if we tracked or planned correctly. Vicious cycle it is. What if we didn't know what was coming next? Had no agenda. What if we truly lived in the present moment? Life would be dramatically different huh?

Pleasure and Pain

In Comfortable With Uncertainty by Pema Chodron, the entry: Recognize Suffering explores the importance of recognizing what leads to our suffering. In our untrained minds we are always seeking pleasure, but forgetting that pain is following right behind. They are both inseparable, but our lazy minds always seem to forget that! Pema states: "Pain and pleasure go together; they are inseparable. They can be celebrated They are ordinary. Birth is painful and delightful. Death is painful and delightful. Everything that ends is also the beginning of something else. Pain is not punishment; pleasure is not reward."

As I ponder this subject of pain and pleasure I think of something as simple as my "to do list," and I think to myself: "If I get all of this stuff done, I will be so happy!" Don't we all do this mindlessly each day, and then wonder why we're no more or less happy then we were when the day started. Actually, we may even feel let down just a little, because our expectations were not met. Hmmm........something to think about today!

DAILY NECESSITIES

Tips and Pointers for Building a Spiritual Life from Scratch

Pray

Meditate

Be aware/Stay awake

Bow

Practice Yoga

Feel

Chant and sing

Breathe and smile

Relax/Enjoy/Laugh/Play

Create/Envision

Let go/Forgive/Accept

Walk/Exercise/Move

Work/Serve/Contribute

Listen/Learn/Inquire

Consider/Reflect

Cultivate oneself/Enhance competencies

Cultivate contentment

Cultivate friendship and collaboration

Open up/ Expand/ Include

Lighten up

Dream

Celebrate and appreciate

Give thanks

Evolve

Love

Share/Give/Receive

Walk softly/Live gently

Expand/ Radiate/Dissolve

Surrender/Trust

Be born anew