A Quick Note & Excerpts About Light, Shadows, “Houdini’s Last Month (and Allhallowtide)” October 31, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Food, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Japa, Japa-Ajapa, Life, Mala, Meditation, Mysticism, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Religion, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, All Hallows' Eve, Allhallowtide, Babul Sharma, Choti Diwali, Dhanteras, Diwali, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, fear, Halloween, Harry Houdini, Kali Puja, light, mantra, puja, Rig Veda, Rāmāyaņa, Samhain, seance, Susan B. Anthony, The Ramayana
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Happy Diwali and Kali Puja! Blessings, light, love, and peace to everyone, everywhere!
Peace, blessings, and treats for all, especially those observing or celebrating Samhain, Halloween, and/or Allhallowtide.
For Those Who Missed It: This compilation post contains previously posted (and updated) content. It is an extra “treat,” because it is Halloween. It is also a bit of an apology since I didn’t mention Diwali on Tuesday and Wednesday. NOTE: Some links will direct you to sites outside of WordPress.
“My chief task has been to conquer fear. The public sees only the thrill of the accomplished trick; they have no conception of the tortuous preliminary self-training that was necessary to conquer fear.”
— Harry Houdini
During the darkest times of the year, people all over the world celebrate light. In each culture’s stories and traditions, light overcoming darkness is a metaphor for good overcoming evil; life overcoming death, wisdom overcoming fear; love overcoming hate; hope overcoming despair, and knowledge overcoming ignorance. Once again, the celebrations kick off with Diwali, the Indian festival of lights.
This year (2024), Diwali overlaps Halloween, Allhallowtide, and Samhain.
Click on the excerpt title above for more about Halloween, Allhallowtide, Samhain, and Harry Houdini.
The Houdini Museum’s annual Houdini Séance will be online at 12:30 PM EST. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.
“oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ
tat savitur vareṇyaṃ
bhargo devasya dhīmahi
dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt”
[Conscious, subconscious, unconscious mind, and every plane of existence, we meditate on the (adorable) Light, that it may inspire us, enlighten us, and remove our obstacles.]
— “Gāyatrī Mantra” from the Rig Veda (from Mandala 3.62.10)
Diwali is a five-day celebration which takes its name from Deepavali, which are rows and rows of lamps. It is a lunar calendar based holiday observed throughout India, parts of Southeast Asia, and the diaspora by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Newar Buddhists. Each day has different rituals and customs, which may vary between religious, cultural, and regional traditions. But, the common threads are the (clay) lamps and other great displays of light; pujas (“offerings”); feasts and sweets; epic tales of heroes and heroines prevailing; and a focus on relationships and also on wealth.
While some communities start earlier, most people’s Diwali celebrations begin with Dhanteras (October 29, 2024), a day that the Indian ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy designated as “National Ayurveda Day” (in 2016). Many pujans (“offering ceremonies”) are dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, fertility and abundant crops, and overall good fortunate. People also create decorations, including rangolas, which are associated with Lakshmi; clean their homes; and buy something new — usually gold, silver, clothes, and gadgets.
The second day of Diwali (which was Wednesday in 2024) is known as Choti (“little”) Diwali and, also, as Naraka Chaturdasi. Naraka is a Sanskrit word for “hell” and the day is associated with the story of Krishna defeating the asura (“demon”) Narakasura. Again, the elements of the story — as well as the rituals and traditions of the day — have symbolic significance related to the ways people live their lives and the ways their souls can be liberated from suffering (i.e., hell). Some people spend the day praying to the souls of their ancestors, sending light for their afterlife journey. In some regions (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Karnataka), Choti Diwali is the main Diwali day. People get oil massages and take ritual baths. Some people also spend part of the day visiting their temple. For people celebrating the “little” Diwali, the second day is a day to visit friends and family and share sweets and gifts.
“Fiery-eyed Durga astride a golden lion; Saraswati resplendent in white along with her swan; a glowing Lakshmi seated on a lotus in bloom; and Kali with her frightening garland of skulls. The legends that surround them are told over and over again and soon the children know them by heart. For them, as it is for me, these beautiful lotus-eyed goddesses are not just religious icons but part of one’s family. They laugh and cry, quarrel with each other over petty things, they have fragile natures despite their powerful forms. They are often jealous, angry, greedy and plot deviously against their enemies but still they need to be loved by their devotees, Then they appear, splendid, glorious and benevolent, to dazzle us with their all-pervading light.”
— quoted from the “Introduction” to The Book of Devi by Bubul Sharma
The third day (today, October 31st) is the biggest day for most: Diwali! It coincides with the darkest night of the festival and is normally marked by people getting together, feasting and celebrating. In fact, this is a time when the youngest members of the family visit their elders; businesses owners give gifts to their employees; and, instead of the fasts that are commonly associated with some Indian religious rituals, there are great feasts. Pujas are again made to Lakshmi. For some people, however, pujans are dedicated to Kali, the goddess of time and change, creation, power, war, destruction, and death. In many ways, making an offering to Kali highlights the fact that Diwali is a day of renewal, new beginnings, and starting over.
The stories in the Rāmāyaņa highlight all of the themes associated with Diwali — and the end is particularly pertinent to the third day. In the epic poem (which is part of the Mahābhārata), Rāma, his wife Sītā, and his brother Lakshmana are exiled by the brothers’ father. Their great adventure includes Sītā being kidnapped by the demon king Ravana (and rescued with help from Hanuman, the monkey king); a great battle where an entire army gets sick (and ultimately healed, thanks to Hanuman); the defeat of Ravana; and the revelation that Hanuman overcame his doubts, insecurities, and fears by focusing on the love and devotion for Lord Rama that shined (like a bright light) in his heart. Finally, after 14 years of exile, Rāma, Sītā, and Lakshmana returned home to Ayodhya — on the day that is now celebrated as Diwali. According to the legends, people lit up the city in order to guide the travelers home and also to celebrate their return. So, every year, people from all of the different religions light up their homes, businesses, and temples to commemorate this auspicious homecoming.
SIDE NOTE: As they travelled home, Sītā requested a pit stop in Kishkindha, because she wanted to enter Ayodhya with a company of women as her escorts. The request and fulfillment are conveyed in just a few lines, making up a minuscule portion of the epic poem. Normally, I would not mention this tiny passage — even though, if you think about it, it is a powerful moment when a woman who has suffered trauma and drama asks for (and receives) what she needs before facing what could be more trauma, drama, and judgement.
It also highlights the power of a group of women standing up for each other — which I highlighted in 2023, because Diwali fell on the anniversary of the birth of the birth of Elizabeth Cady Stanton (the social activist, abolitionist, and suffragist who was born on November 12, 1815, in Johnstown, New York). I’m mentioning here it again, in 2024, just in case someone needs the subliminal message.
“The moment we begin to fear the opinions of others and hesitate to tell the truth that is in us, and from motives of policy are silent when we should speak, the divine floods of light and life no longer flow in our souls. Every truth we see is ours to give the world, not to keep to ourselves alone, for in so doing we cheat humanity out of their rights and check our own development.”
— quoted from Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s speech at the National American Woman Suffrage Association convention (and birthday celebration for Susan B. Anthony), February 18, 1890
No Zoom classes today, but the Houdini Museum’s annual Houdini Séance will be online at 12:30 PM, EST (see link highlighted earlier in this post).
If you are interested, I will be hosting a First Friday Night Special tomorrow, 7:15 — 8:20 PM, CST. Details and a link are available on the “Class Schedules” calendar. You can request an audio recording of a practice related to the stories above via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
You can find my “Diwali” and “All Hallows’ Eve” playlists on YouTube and Spotify.
NOTE: You can use the search feature on YouTube. You may need to scroll through Spotify.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### Trick or Treat? / Trick of Light? / How About More Light? ###
EXCERPT: “Out of Our Worlds, redux” October 30, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Life, Loss, Movies, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Anne Froelick, avidya, Bernard Hermann, Grovers Mill, H. G. Wells, Howard Koch, Jack Paar, John Houseman, Mischief Night, Orson Welles, Paul Stewart, satya, svadyaya, svādhyāya, Yoga Sutra 2.20
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Happy Diwali and Kali Puja! Blessings, light, love, and peace to everyone, everywhere! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone looking out for others in the name of friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May all of us together be safe and protected / May we be peaceful and happy.
“‘With infinite complacence, people went to and fro over the earth about their little affairs, serene in the assurance of their dominion over this small spinning fragment of solar driftwood which by chance or design man has inherited out of the dark mystery of Time and Space. Yet across an immense ethereal gulf, minds that are to our minds as ours are to the beasts in the jungle, intellects vast, cool and unsympathetic, regarded this earth with envious eyes and slowly and surely drew their plans against us. In the 39th year of the 20th century came the great disillusionment. It was near the end of October. Business was better. The war scare was over. More men were back at work. Sales were picking up. On this particular evening, October 30th, the Crossley service estimated that 32 million people were listening in on radios…’”
— quoted from Orson Welles’s introduction at the beginning of the radio adaptation of The War of the Worlds
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE ABOVE FOR MORE.
“‘The world is not coming to an end. Trust me. When have I ever lied to you?’”
— Jack Paar, announcing for WGAR, October 30, 1938
Please join me today (Wednesday, October 30th) at 4:30 PM or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10302021 Out of Our Worlds”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### BOO! ###
EXCERPT: “The Angels (& Devils) Within Us” October 29, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Karma Yoga, Life, Loss, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Ahiṃsā, Ahimsa, ahimsā, Angels' Night, Cabbage Night, Detroit, Devil's Night, Emma Davidson-Dillon, Hell Night, James Eliot, Michigan, Mischief Night, Moving Night, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, St. John's College Oxford, svadyaya, svādhyāya, Thomas Alexander Walker, Tom Walker, Yoga Sutra 1.37, Yoga Sutra 2.33, Yoga Sutra 2.44, Yoga Sutras 1.33-1.34, Yoga Sutras 2.33-2.35
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Happy Diwali and Kali Puja! Blessings, light, love, and peace to everyone, everywhere! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone looking out for others in the name of friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May all of us together be safe and protected / May we be peaceful and happy.
“Violence is clearly destructive. It springs from fear, one of the fundamental afflictions. According to this sutra, the practice of non-violence requires us to arrest our violent tendencies by cultivating thoughts opposite to violence.”
— quoted from the commentary on Yoga Sūtra 2.33 from The Practice of the Yoga Sutra: Sadhana Pada by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE ABOVE FOR MORE.
“No, don’t give up
I won’t give up
‘Cause there must be angels”
— quoted from the song “Angels” by Tom Walker (written by Emma Davidson-Dillon / James Eliot / Thomas Alexander Walker)
Please join me today (Tuesday, October 29th) at 12:00 PM or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10292022 Angels, Devils, Mischief, Cabbage”]
NOTE: This playlist has been updated in a way that may slightly change the timing when paired with previous practices (prior to 2023).
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### 
###
FTWMI: The Grace of Breathing Into How You’re Feeling (revised with an excerpt as a post-practice Monday post) October 28, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Suffering, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: Ben Harper, Brad Paisley, Elvis Presley, pranayama, prāņāyāma, Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky, Robert Greenberg, sensation, Vladimir “Bob” Davydov, Wally George
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Peace in / Peace out. Grace in / Grace out.
For Those Who Missed It: This post-practice post related to the practice on Monday, October 28th was originally posted in 2023. The 2024 prompt question was, “What is on your mind (and how are you feeling?) You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“If this symphony is misunderstood, and torn to shreds, I shall think it quite normal, and not at all surprising. It will not be the first time. But I myself absolutely believe it to be the best and especially the most sincere of all my works. I love it as I have never loved any single one of my other musical creations.”
— quoted from an 1893 letter from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to his nephew Vladimir “Bob” Davydov as posted in “Music History Monday: His Own Requiem?” by Robert Greenberg
How are you feeling today?
Perhaps you are feeling a lot. Perhaps you are feeling one emotion strongly — or a combination of strong emotions. Perhaps you are feeling so much that you are overwhelmed and feeling numb… as if you are feeling nothing.
No matter what you are feeling, take a moment to breathe into what you are feeling.
There is grace in that breath and the ability to breathe into what you are feeling.
Note, that I have not indicated or suggested that what you are feeling is positive, negative, or neutral; good, bad, or neutral. However, there’s a pretty good chance that you assigned a value to the idea of strong feelings, emotions. That’s what we do as humans. That’s one (really three… or six) of the reasons why sensations can be experienced in 108 different ways according to some Eastern philosophies.
2024 PRACTICE NOTE: This year’s practice focused more on breath and sensations/feelings/vibrations. Previous practices on this date have highlighted musicians born on this date (in 1969 and 1962) who really moved people and/or musical events that emotionally “shook” people. For example, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74, known as “The Passionate Symphony,” premiered today in 1893 (according to the Gregorian calendar) and Elvis Presley performed the first of two shows at the Pan Pacific Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, today in 1957.
Click on the excerpt title below to learn about some of the conspiracy theories related to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and his music.
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
The 2020/2023 playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10282020 Feeling Pathétique?”]
NOTE: The playlist is currently focused on Tchaikovsky; but, I plan to add some before/after music related to Elvis and some musicians born on this date.
“‘What’s your emotional power over women?’ demanded one obviously influenced female reporter.
‘Gosh…’ replied Elvis, whispering something inaudible into a mike provided for the occasion.”
— quoted from the 1957 article “Elvis Wiggles, Fans Scream at Pan-Pacific” by Wally George
### AIN’T NOTHING… ###
A Quick Note & EXCERPT: “Fourth Step: Once More, With Feeling” October 27, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Loss, Love, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Poetry, Suffering, Tragedy, TV, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: : Dylan Thomas, Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), intersex, Laura Inter, pranayama, Ronald Reagan, Sylvia Plath
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy; and may everyone recognize their whole self.
“Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light”
— quoted from the poem “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas (b. 1914)
There are a lot of noteworthy things related to this date in history — including the fact that Laura Inter founded Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), “a Mexican organization that works with intersex people, activists, and communities in Mexico, Latin America, and Spain”, today in 2013. All of the things, even the ones not mentioned in the practice and/or the excerpt below, are related to how we live our lives (i.e., how we spend our time) and how we interact with each other during the limited time that we have together.
The hope is that we can respect each other, be kind, and hold space for what each of us experiences on any given day.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELORE FOR MORE.
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old bray of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
or
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old brag of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
— quoted from two different editions of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (b. 1932)
Please join me for a 65-minute virtual yoga practice on Zoom today (Sunday, October 27th) at 2:30 PM. Use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10272021 Another Appointment”]
NOTE: Over the last few years, we have used four (4) different playlists on this date.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“You and I are told increasingly we have to choose between a left or right. Well I’d like to suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There’s only an up or down: [up] man’s old – old-aged dream, the ultimate in individual freedom consistent with law and order, or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism. And regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would trade our freedom for security have embarked on this downward course.”
— quoted from the 1964 “A Time for Choosing” speech by Ronald Reagan
### CONTINUE TO BREATHE ###
A Quick Note & Excerpt About Breathing and…. October 26, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Donate, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma Yoga, Life, Meditation, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Science, Suffering, Tragedy, Vipassana, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Amnesty International, Betsy Driver, breath, breathing, Emi Koyama, gender, haṭha yoga, hatha yoga, intersex, Intersex Awareness Day, Intersex Day of Remembrance, Intersex Solidarity Day, Laura Inter, Max Beck, Morgan Carpenter PhD, Morgan Holmes PhD, Nyanasatta Thera, pranayama, prāņāyāma, sex, United Nations
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom on Intersex Awareness Day.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy; and may everyone recognize their whole self.
“[A monk] then applies this perception to his own body thus: ‘Verily, also my own body is of the same nature; such it will become and will not escape it.’
Thus he lives contemplating the body in the body internally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body externally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body internally and externally. He lives contemplating origination-factors in the body, or he lives contemplating dissolution factors in the body, or he lives contemplating origination-and-dissolution-factors in the body. Or his mindfulness is established with the thought: ‘The body exists,’ to the extent necessary just for knowledge and mindfulness, and he lives detached, and clings to nothing in the world. Thus also, monks, a monk lives contemplating the body in the body.”
— quoted from Satipatthana Sutta (The Foundations of Mindfulness) translated by Nyanasatta Thera
Prāņāyāma — the awareness of breath (and the extension of breath) — is a big part of the physical practice of yoga (haṭha yoga, regardless of the style or tradition). As we bring awareness to our breath, on and off the mat, we may start to notice the things that take our breath away. We can experience things that take our breath away because they are surprising and beautiful. We can experience things that take our breath away because they are surprising and terrifying. Then there are things that take our breath away because they are just surprising, unexpected….
We may rush to qualify them with some adjective or another and, in doing so, rush to some conclusion about what we need to do… when, really, we just need to breathe (that’s today’s first step); recognize what is (that’s today’s second step); and repeat the first two steps (that’s the third step).
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR THE RELATED POST (& VIDEO).
For Those Who Missed It: Third Step: Repeat the First & Second Steps
“Myth 2: Being intersex is very rare
According to experts, around 1.7% of the population is born with intersex traits – comparable to the number of people born with red hair.”
— quoted from the Amnesty International article “Its Intersex Awareness Day – here are 5 myths we need to shatter”
October 26th is Intersex Awareness Day, which highlights and raises awareness about human rights issues faced by intersex people. It also raises awareness around the fact that there are people — all around the world — who are born with one or more sex characteristics that “do not fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies.” According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, these characteristics include chromosome patterns, gonads, and/or genitalia.
While there may be just as many people in the world with red hair as there are people in the world with intersex traits, the latter are not as easy to spot. Estimates on how many people are born with intersex traits may vary (depending on the traits and/or conditions) from 3% to 0.0009%. Aside from the fact that I’m referencing statistics related to over 40 intersex conditions, the wide variation in estimates is related to the fact that some people are not initially identified (medically) as intersex. Additionally, some people may never be identified as intersex. Lack of diagnosis can be the result of something relatively small — like the fact that a baby’s chromosome patterns (and/or gonads) are not typically tested. However, lack of diagnosis can also be the result of something fairly major — like the fact that sex (and gender) are typically assigned at birth based on the external appearance of a baby’s genitals.
And, here’s the kicker: If a baby’s genitalia appears ambiguous (to a medical practitioner) and/or atypical, a common practice has been to surgically alter the genitalia. Sometimes, even a baby’s internal sex organs (gonads) will be altered. Again, these surgeries and medical treatments happen to babies, as well as to children and young adults, who are too young to consent and/or may not be informed about their options. Sometimes, even their parents are not informed!
Medical attitudes and practices related to people with intersex characteristics are changing, in part because of people like Morgan Holmes and Max Beck, who both participated in the first public demonstration of intersex people (and their allies) in North America, today in 1996. Dr. Holmes (a Canadian sociologist) and Mr. Beck (who died in of cancer in 2008) attended the American Academy of Pediatrics annual conference in Boston, Massachusetts, with the intention of delivering a presentation on the long-term outcomes of “fixing” intersex infants through cosmetic surgery. However, they were met with what they described as “hostility” and escorted out of the venue. They later returned, outside of the venue, to demonstrate and advocate for better medical awareness. In 2003/2004, Betsy Driver (who was mayor of Flemington, New Jersey, January 2, 2019 – January 3, 2023) and artist and activist Emi Koyama organized the first official Intersex Awareness Day on the anniversary of that first public protest. Since then, people like Morgan Carpenter and Laura Inter have advocated for self-determination, while also providing peer support and education for and about people who have intersex traits.
For the next two weeks — up until November 8th, which is Intersex Day of Remembrance (also known as Intersex Solidarity Day) — grassroots organizations around the world will host events related to intersex visibility. Some of these events will be celebrations and opportunities for networking. Some of these events will be moments of reflection and remembrance. Some of these events will be all about political action and advocacy. All of these events will be about putting an “end [to] shame, secrecy and unwanted genital cosmetic surgeries on intersex children.”
“The flag is comprised of a golden yellow field, with a purple circle emblem. The colours and circle don’t just avoid referencing gender stereotypes, like the colours pink and blue, they seek to completely avoid use of symbols that have anything to do with gender at all. Instead the circle is unbroken and unornamented, symbolising wholeness and completeness, and our potentialities. We are still fighting for bodily autonomy and genital integrity, and this symbolises the right to be who and how we want to be.”
— quoted from the creator statement entitled “The intersex flag” by Morgan Carpenter, PhD.
Please join me today (Saturday, October 26th) at 12:00 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10272020 Pranayama II”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### O ###
A Quick Note & EXCERPTS: “Being Grateful for What Will Be” / “What Does It Mean to You?” October 23, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Abhyasa, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah, Suffering, Sukkot, Vairagya, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Abraham Lincoln, cultivating gratitude, gratitude, Happiness, King Solomon, lojong, santosha, Sukkot
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“Chag sameach!” to those celebrating Sukkot! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy.
“And this too shall pass.”
— The old saying “Gam zeh ya’avor,“ in Hebrew (with Persian and Jewish origins)
Two questions have come up again and again over the last two weeks: “How could I spend my time?” and “What does happiness mean to you?” Both questions and this whole week of Sukkot — especially with yesterday’s focus on people who experienced major setbacks and “failures” — made me think of the phrase above that my grandmother often said. It also made me think about our overall perspectives, which is typically the underlying focus during my classes on October 23rd.*
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE!
“It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence, to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words: ‘And this, too, shall pass away.’ How much it expresses! How chastening in the hour of pride! — how consoling in the depths of affliction!”
— Abraham Lincoln speaking to the Wisconsin State Agriculture Society at the Wisconsin State Fair, September 30, 1859
Please join me today (Wednesday, October 23rd) at 4:30 PM or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Sukkot 3”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
*2024 PRACTICE NOTE: As I have repeatedly admitted, I have to work at keeping certain things simple. Point in case, I was in the process of remixing a playlist (combining two), because this seventh day of Sukkot coincides with the anniversary of the 1920 publication of Sinclair Lewis’s Main Street, the anniversary of the birth of Michael Crichton (b. 1942), and the birthday of “Weird Al” Yankovic (b. 1959).
Obviously, things didn’t work out as planned — and I’m not mad about it. In fact, I’m grateful.
### Books and music (especially those that inspire more art); People who create books, music, and other art; People who appreciate books, music, and other art. ###
Getting More Light [On Gratitude & Happiness] (the “missing” Tuesday post w/an excerpt) October 22, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 7-Day Challenge, Bhakti, Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Sukkot, Tragedy, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, A. H. Wilson, Alan Walker, Alfred Nobel, Anne Frank, Bhagavad Gita, Ecclesiastes, epiphany., Franz Liszt, gratitude, Jack Hawley, King Solomon, Kohelet, light, Sukkot, svadyaya, svādhyāya, Theodore Dreiser, Thomas Edison, tov
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“Chag sameach!” to those celebrating Sukkot! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy. May everyone follow through on a good idea!!
This is the “missing” post for Tuesday, October 22nd (with some references to October 21st). It includes some previously posted content and an excerpt. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“Breath of breath, said the Teacher; [like the shadow of mist that passes], all is breath.*
What profit has man in all his toil that he toils under the sun?
A generation goes and a generation comes, but the earth endures forever.
The sun rises and the sun sets, and to its place it yearns and rises there.
It goes to the south and goes to the north; the will goes around and around, and the will returns to its circuits.”
— Kohelet — Ecclesiastes (1:2 – 6)
(*NOTE: The Hebrew word “hevel” (variations of which occur in K-E 1.2, 3 times in the singular and twice in the plural, for a total of 7 times) is often translated into English as “vanity,” “futility” or “meaningless,” but is literally translated as “breath.)
Once again, we are faced with that time-honored — and time-honoring — question: “How could I spend my time?”
Since last Wednesday at sunset marked the beginning of Sukkot, some people have spent time in a a sukkah, a temporary shelter consisting of three walls of any material and a roof made of natural fiber. (Natural being something grown from the earth.) As I have mentioned before (see link above), people within the Jewish community and people who observe holidays commanded in Devarim / Deuteronomy, celebrate the “Festival (or Feast) of the Tabernacles (or Booths)” for seven days, 8 in the diaspora.
People will eat, sleep, socialize, and sometimes work in their temporary shelter — but, not necessarily every day. The first two days of Sukkot are both yom tov (“good day”), meaning they are the commanded days with obligations and restrictions similar to those observed on Shabbat (the Sabbath). For some, this means that normal every day work is forbidden. Depending on ethnicity and tradition, certain prayers, rituals, and traditions are only observed on the first two days, on the first and last two days, or throughout the week. For example, in some traditions, the time in the sukkah is the time to read Kohelet / Ecclesiastes.
“Everything has an appointed season, and there is a time for every matter under the heaven.”
— Kohelet — Ecclesiastes (3:1)
While many people — even non-religious people in various religious traditions — are familiar with the third chapter of Kohelet / Ecclesiastes, they may not realize that what comes before could be translated in a less than hopeful way. For example, if “hevel” is translated as “vanity,” “futility” or “meaningless,” the beginning not only reinforces the temporal nature of life, it makes it seem as if there is no point in doing anything. When everything we do — all the work we do — is seen as pointless, then our earlier question becomes, “Why bother doing anything?” or “What’s the point of doing anything?”
Of course, the point that the Teacher (King Solomon) reaches is the same point that Krishna explains to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita: there is good, there is evil, there is wisdom, there is ignorance/foolishness and — perhaps most importantly — that we are “supposed to live a truth-based life, a life of dharma [duty].” (BG 2.2)
Oh, and also, “Be happy. This is your opportune moment!” (BG 2.32)
“‘The ideal, Arjuna, is to be intensely active and at the same time have no selfish motives, no thoughts of personal gain or loss. duty uncontaminated by desire leads to inner peacefulness and increased effectiveness. This is the secret art of living a life of real achievement!’” (2.47 excerpt)
“‘To work without desire may seem impossible, but the way to do it is to substitute thoughts of Divinity for thoughts of desire. Do your work in this world with your heart fixed on the Divine instead of on outcomes. Do not worry about results. Be even tempered in success or failure. This mental evenness is what is mean by yoga…. Indeed, equanimity is yoga!’” (2.48)
— Krishna speaking to Arjuna in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley
Being “even tempered in success or failure” is easier said than done. While there are some people who seem to be born with an even-tempered disposition, many (maybe most) others have to work at it; practice, in order to cultivate the habit. We can learn a lot from either personality type, especially if we do a little svādhyāya (“self-study”) and put ourselves in their shoes.
For instance, how would you react if, like Alfred Nobel (born October 21, 1833), you spent much of your adult life working to make the world a better place — only to find out in a moment of grief that the world hated you (and your life’s work)?
Or, how would you spend your time if, after several months of working long hours (and after what others considered failures), you finally successfully tested the first (commercially viable) electric light bulb — as 32-year old Thomas Edison did in the late on the evening of October 21st, or sometime in the wee early morning hours of October 22nd, 1879?
Finally, how would you react if, after 35 years of success, all your hard work went up in smoke? Would you spend your time the way Thomas Edison and his team did in 1914? Would you give up or would you be gleeful, joyful, and grateful for what was to come?
“There’s only one thing to do, and that is to jump right in and rebuild.”
— A. H. Wilson, vice president and general manager of Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park
The following excerpt is from 2020/2023 post:
“Some would say that the ‘ah-ha’ moment came to Thomas Edison one night when he was ‘absent mindedly’ rolling a piece of lampblack (or black carbon) between his fingers. But such a depiction ignores all the previous experiments, his scientific knowledge, and the fact he had used lampblack in his telephone transmitter. Such a premise also discounts the additional changes that would be made before the bulb was commercially viable.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
“These are some sombre thoughts which amount to morbidity in one so young. Yet they ran like leitmotifs through the heart and brain of the youthful Liszt. The fifteen-year old boy kept a diary…. Containing quotations from St. Paul and St. Augustine, this journal also preserves Liszt’s own thoughts.
Wasting time is one of the worst faults of the world. Life is so short, every moment is so precious and yet, we live as if life will never end. [page 21]”
— quoted from “Book One: The Young Prodigy, 1811-1829 — Paris and the First World Tours ~ [Part] IX” of Franz Liszt: The Virtuoso Years, 1811-1847 (Revised Edition) by Alan Walker
Franz Liszt is on the 2024 remixed playlist (and the earlier playlists for this date), because he was born October 22, 1811, in Doborján, Kingdom of Hungary, Austrian Empire. During the Tuesday evening practice, I mentioned that he was on the playlist because it was the anniversary of his birth and that I knew some people found hope in his music (and his life story) during the Holocaust. I did not know, however, how he dealt with setbacks and/or “failures”.
Turns out, Franz Liszt lived a somewhat charmed life up until his father died unexpectedly, when Franz was 16. That is not to say that he didn’t have any bad days before that. In fact, he definitely struggled a bit over touring versus the possibility of religious life. However, after his father’s death, those struggles become all-consuming. His health suffered; he developed some bad habits (which made his health worse); he suffered his first romantic heartbreak; and even stopped playing and composing music. Eventually, however, he rallied, bounced back, and even played concerts that benefited people who had suffered great tragedies. Some credit his resilience to him cultivating a deeper spiritual/religious connection.
“‘Those who see Me in everything and everything in Me, know the staggering truth that the Self in the individual is the Self in all. As they live in constant spiritual awareness, I am never out of their sight or lost to them – nor are they every out of My sight or lost to Me.’” (6.30)
— Krishna speaking to Arjuna in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Sukkot 6 for 10222024”]
“‘I never did anything worth doing by accident, nor did any of my inventions come indirectly through accident, except the phonograph. No, when I have, fully decided that a result is worth getting, I go about it, and make trial after trial, until it comes.’”
— Thomas Edison, as quoted in “A Photographic Talk with Edison” by Theodore Dreiser (printed in Success Magazine, Feb. 1898)
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
### Sunlight/Daylight, Sustainable Electric Lights, Heart Light ###
Getting More Light [On Gratitude & Happiness] (just the music and blessings) **UPDATED w/link*** October 22, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Faith, Music, One Hoop, Religion, Sukkot, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, gratitude, Sukkot
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“Chag sameach!” to those celebrating Sukkot! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy. May everyone follow through on a good idea!!
CLICK HERE FOR THE RELATED POST.
Please join me today (Tuesday, October 22nd) at 12:00 PM or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Sukkot 6 for 10222024”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### ###
Your Terms/Causes & Conditions of Happiness & FTWMI: “Be Happy, Now!” (a 2-for-1 “missing” Saturday & Monday post w/ excerpts) October 21, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 7-Day Challenge, Baha'i, Bhakti, Books, Buddhism, Dharma, Faith, Fitness, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma, Life, Mantra, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Suffering, Sukkot, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Deuteronomy, Devarim, Eddie Izzard, Happiness, Happiness 101, klishtaklishta, klişţāklişţāh, lojong, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, positive psychology, pratītyasamutpāda, saṃskāra, Sukkot, Tal Ben-Shahar, vasana, vāsanā, Yoga Sutra 2.33, Yoga Sutra 4.29, Yoga Sutras 2.1-2.55
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“Chag sameach!” to those celebrating Sukkot! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This 2-for-2 post is the “missing” post for Saturday, October 19th, and the post-practice post related to the practice on Monday, October 21st. The 2024 prompt question on Monday was two-fold, “What is something or someone from your past and/or present for which you are grateful? What is a future something or someone for which you will be grateful?” This post contains some previously posted content. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“And they have made us Liars. We cannot tell the truth anymore. You cannot reprimand your children.
[In adult voice] ‘No Jonny, you said you you didn’t have a biscuit, but there’s crumbs on your face and you did have a biscuit. You have lied.’
[In kid voice] ‘But you said you had read the terms and conditions when you ticked that box. It’s too quick for you to read the terms and conditions. You read it and [makes the sounds of fast moving text].’
The truth is no one in this room has read the terms and conditions. No one in New York has read the terms and conditions. No one in the Universe — Even God has not read the terms and conditions….”
— quoted from Eddie Izzard: Live at Madison Square Garden (part of the “Stripped” tour) by Eddie Izzard
Any time we update something, start using a new app, or sign a contract for something, we have to acknowledge the “Terms and Conditions” provided in the agreement. We may not always read the fine print, but there is something explicitly laid out that defines expectations and consequences. In life, we don’t always have things explicitly outlined; but, the terms and conditions still exist. In Buddhism and in the Yoga Philosophy, we think of them as causes and conditions.
I have heard the Buddha discussed pratītyasamutpāda, which can be translated into English as “dependent origination”, or “dependent arising”; indicating that “if this exists, that exists; if this ceases to exist, that also ceases to exist”. Here, “this” can be a grain (or direction) of suffering and/or a grain (or direction) of wisdom. A similar rubric is outlined in the second section of the Yoga Sūtras, where Patanjali described how afflicted/dysfunctional and not-afflicted/functional thought patterns (kliṣṭākliṣṭāḥ) are like planted seeds that can lead to pain or pleasure. In both philosophies, the path to ending the causes and conditions of suffering includes meditation and right/skillful/functional thoughts, words, and deeds.
In the absence of the formal practice, both philosophies encourage cultivating the opposite.
“Now I’m allowing myself to lose my inner peace and happiness. This is a much greater loss than losing a portion of my material wealth. Furthermore, such occurrences are commonplace. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. In worldly matters I will do what needs to be done, but never at the cost of losing the pristine nature of my mind. I must adhere to the higher virtues of my heart.”
— commentary on Yoga Sūtra 2.33 from The Practice of the Yoga Sutra: Sadhana Pada by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD
Another way to think of these terms and conditions is simply as cause and effect — which includes the consequences of our actions, as well as expectations that arise from previous experiences. Some of our expectations are based on our direct lived experiences and some are based on the expectations of other people’s experiences. All of these expectations make up our conditioning. One of the intentions behind the 2024 Saturday practices has been to take a look at our conditioning; to bring awareness to our saṃskāra (“mental impression”) and vāsanā (a literal “dwelling” place of our habits); and to notice some of the reasons why we think, speak, and do as we do.
Once we bring awareness to our conditioning, we can start contemplating future conditioning: which seeds we want to plant and which habits we want to cultivate. However, the ultimate goal of all these practices is to find the state of mind that leads to less suffering. In Buddhism, the ultimate goal is nirvāṇa (or nibbāna, in Pali). In the Yoga Sūtra 4.29, Patanjali described a particular experience of samādhiḥ as “a cloud of virtue”. Either way you think of it, less suffering means… more happiness (whatever that means to you at this moment).
For some people, “the state of being happy” is an ecstatic kind of joy; for others it is “not being miserable”; and then there is everything in between. Both Yoga and Buddhism feature practices centered around happiness. For example, the second niyama (internal observation in the Yoga Philosophy) is santosha, the practice of contentment. In Tibetan Buddhism, one of the lojong (“mind training”) techniques is “Always maintain only a joyful mind.” (#21) Again, these are practices; the jumping off points for meditation and contemplation.
What if, however, you were commanded to be happy?
FTWMI: The following is a revised/updated version of a 2020 post entitled “Be Happy, Now!”
“Be joyful at your festival – you and your son, and your daughter, and your manservant, and your maid-servant, and the Levite, and the stranger, and the orphan, and the widow who live within your city.
For seven days you must celebrate the Festival to YHVH*, your God, in the place which YHVH* shall choose, because the Lord, your God, will bless you in all your produce, and in all the work of your hands, and you will only be happy.”
(*NOTE: YHVH is commonly translated as “the Lord” in English.)
— quoted from Devarim – Deuteronomy (16:14 – 15)
In the Torah (and the Christian Old Testament), there are a list of commandments. Mixed into that list are certain dates the faithful are commanded to observe. We think of them, in the modern context, as “holidays” and they are filled with ritual and tradition. Sometimes the mandate is general and left to interpretation (like when it says in Deuteronomy, “‘… and they shall not appear before the Lord empty: Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee.’” Other times, however, it is very specific about who, what, when, and even where. Sukkot, the “Festival (or Feast) of the Tabernacles (or Booths)” is one of the times where the details are specific — even when they appear vague.
For seven days, 8 in the diaspora, people within the Jewish community and people who observe the commanded holidays, eat, sleep, socialize, and sometimes work in a temporary shelter. The shelter, a sukkah, consists of three walls of any material and a roof made of natural fiber. (Natural being something grown from the earth.) In 2020, when the pandemic created so many obstacles to the ways in which people typically observed and practiced their faith here, finally, was a time when there was less challenge. Yes, true, it was still best for people [around this time in 2020] to socially distance, wear masks, wash your hands, and avoid big gatherings — but, it was also best (when gathering) to be outdoors. It’s like Sukkot was tailor-made for 2020.
“1. Give yourself permission to be human.
2. Happiness lies at the intersection between pleasure and meaning.”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
One of the significant things about Sukkot is that it is a time for people to come together regardless of their circumstances, gender, religion, or political affiliation. It is a time for all to remember challenges of the past; while also celebrating better days ahead. Another especially noteworthy thing about Sukkot is the symbolism behind the rituals. For instance, one of the points of being outside in the most basic of shelters, exposed to the elements, is to remind people of the time when their ancestors were living in simple, temporary shelters when they were exiled in the desert for 40 years. It is also a good time to remember how much we have — as well as the fact that we could be happy with less. Sukkot is a reminder that life can be full, even when it is simple and bare-boned. It is a time of appreciation and it is also about accepting the present moment.
That last part — accepting the present moment — is easy to overlook. However, the commandment specifically states that the celebration occurs in a place chosen by God. In other words, we might not be where we want to be or where we thought we would be. (Hello, 2020!) This is something I point out every year, but it was especially pointed out to me in 2016, when the creamery, where I held my 2015 Sukkot retreat was no longer available… and again, in 2017, when it was no longer as easy to schedule time in the church where I held the second retreat… and again, in 2019, when the church camp I had planned to use experienced a fire and had to cancel the bulk of their season. And, then, 2020… once again, things were not as we planned — despite the fact that CP graciously offered to help me plan that year’s retreat. On the face, it might sometimes seem that we are “destined” not to observe this time — and yet, we do, every year… just not necessarily in the place that we thought.
“3. Keep in mind that happiness is mostly dependent on our state of mind, not on our status or the state of our bank account.
4. Simplify!”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Many people refer to Sukkot as the “Season of Happiness”, because they view the instructions in the Bible as a mandate to be happy. Since the instruction is to be joyful, or rejoice, about things that have yet to happen — blessings yet to come — one has to wonder: How can we be “independently happy” and celebrate something that hasn’t happened yet? It’s a good question. And, it turns out, there are some really good answers.
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, an expert in Positive Psychology and the author of Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment and A Clash of Values: The Struggle for Universal Freedom, used to teach a class at Harvard University called “Happiness 101”. In his class and through his research, he offered 6 very practical tips for cultivating happiness. Those tips are featured in the practices during Sukkot (and are highlighted throughout this blog post).
“5. Remember the mind-body connection.
6. Express gratitude, whenever possible.”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Sukkot 2”]
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices (on Monday).
Monday Practice Note: Since the prompt question, on Monday, October 21st, elicited several references to educational pursuits, I mentioned that we are in the month of ‘Ilm (“Knowledge”) on the Bahá’í Faith calendar.
This practice also included a teaser for Tuesday.
Click on the excerpt title below for additional content referenced during these practices (including an explanation about the “hedonic treadmill” (or “hedonic adaptation”).
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
A Joyful Practice 