Mindfulness in Community
And, more learning from being a dad.
I hope this note finds you well! I wanted to share two things that have been on my mind lately, offering some food for thought and maybe a bit of inspiration for your week ahead.
The Power of Practice Community
I've been diving back into Radical Dharma lately, and two passages about practice communities really struck a chord. Lama Rod Owens shares this beautiful insight about how practicing in community can act as a mirror, revealing aspects of ourselves. Meanwhile, Jasmine Syedullah, PhD., reminds us that while practicing together draws us closer, we're all on our own unique journeys, moving at our own pace, and occasionally in different directions.
Practicing in community does provide accountability, structure, and a focused time set aside for practice, but that's not all. This feels especially relevant as I begin another year of leading the Community Practice Group tomorrow.
On Impermanence
The other night, something seemingly ordinary turned into a reminder about impermanence. As we were heading up for our bedtime routine, I scooped up my older son. He looked at me and asked if he was too big to be carried to bed. "Of course not," I told him. "I'm strong enough to carry you up." He responded with a hug as we made our way upstairs.
It hit me later – one day, it will be the last time I carry him to bed, and I won't even know it when it happens. But you know what? That thought doesn't make me sad. Instead, it makes me appreciate each of these moments even more. Impermanence isn't just about things ending – it's about appreciating what we have right now, in this moment.
What's present for you now? I'd love to hear from you too.
Sending you all the good vibes for your week ahead!
🫶🏻
Stephen