An Excerpt & FTWMI: Perception, Commitment, & Grace April 1, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Baseball, Changing Perspectives, Confessions, Dharma, Faith, Lent / Great Lent, Music, Ramadan, Religion, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Chaitra Navaratri, George Plimpton, Karaniya Metta Sutta, Metta Sutta, Navaratri, peace, Season for Nonviolence, Season of Non-violence, Sidd Finch, Siddhartha, The Amaravati Sangha, Yoga Sutra 2.20, Yoga Sutra 2.36, Yoga Sutras 2.30-2.31
add a comment

Many blessings to all! “Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Chaitra Navaratri!” Many blessings to those observing Lent & Great Lent!

Peace, ease, and even more peace to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

“This is what should be done

By one who is skilled in goodness,

And who knows the path of peace:

Let them be able and upright,

Straightforward and gentle in speech,

Humble and not conceited,

Contented and easily satisfied,

Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways.

Peaceful and calm and wise and skillful,

Not proud or demanding in nature.”

— quoted from “Karaniya Metta Sutta: The Buddha’s Words on Loving-Kindness” (SN 1.8), translated from the Pali by The Amaravati Sangha. Access to Insight (2004)

This time of year is full of stories (including in poems) associated with various rituals, traditions, celebrations, and observations related to people overcoming challenges (and personal demons) in order to achieve peace. This is true about the Season of Nonviolence, as well as about Lent and Great Lent (for many Christians). It is also true about Chaitra Navaratri, the third day of which is today (Tuesday).

EXCERPT: The following slightly revised excerpt was originally posted in a slightly different context.

Navaratri, the Hindu festival of “nine nights” celebrating divine feminine energy in various manifestations, occurs four times a year. Magha Navaratri is one of the celebrations referred to as Gupta Navaratri meaning it is “hidden/secret” — again, not because no one knows about it, but because it is not as obvious as the bigger celebrations in the Spring and Fall.

Each day and night is dedicated to a different manifestation of Durga, the divine mother. Some people see the manifestations as nine different women; however, they are also seen by some as the same woman at different points in her story. For instance, her third form is Chandraghanta, whose name “one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell” comes from the image of the newly-wed Parvati. She is depicted as a combination of beauty, grace, and courage, with her third eye open — the result of all the (yoga) preparation performed by Her previous manifestation. That open third eye means that she is always ready to fight evil and demons. In fact, she is sometimes known as the “Goddess Who Fights Demons.”

Here “demons” can be a metaphor for anything that ails you physically, mentally, emotionally — even energetically, spiritually, and religiously. They can be challenges and hurdles that need to be over come. They can even be mistakes… sins… or vows (as I referred to them during the High Holidays) that can be absolved or forgiven. In fact, the faithful of all the different religions believe that there are ways (and even special times) when mistakes, sins, and broken vows are turned away… or washed away.

But, for a moment, let’s step back to the idea of overcoming challenges and hurdles.

For Those Who Missed It: The following was originally posted in 2023. Links, formatting, and some date related information have been updated.

“‘He told me his name was Hayden Finch, but he wanted to be called Sidd Finch. I said that most of the Sids we had in baseball came from Brooklyn. Or the Bronx. He said his Sidd came from “Siddhartha,” which means “Aim Attained” or “The Perfect Pitch.” That’s what he had learned, how to throw the perfect pitch. O.K. by me, I told him, and that’s what I put on the scouting report, “Sidd Finch.” And I mailed it in to the front office.’”

— quoted from the Sports Illustrated article (originally in the April 1, 1985 issue) entitled “The Curious Case Of Sidd Finch: He’s a pitcher, part yogi and part recluse. Impressively liberated from our opulent life-style, Sidd’s deciding about yoga—and his future in baseball.” by George Plimpton

During a conversation with one of my yoga-buddies [in March 2023], I mentioned that “context matters.” That statement can be taken in several different ways, but consider that — like kids during a spelling be — our understanding of a situation is based on context. Another way to say that is that our perception is based on context. Our perception is also based on expectation, which is based on our past experiences. This comes up in Yoga Sūtra 2.20, where Patanjali explained that we “see only what the mind-intellect shows [us].” This is also connected to what neuroscientists, like Dr. Beau Lotto, call our “space of possibility”. Politically (and socially), we can even think in terms of the Overton window (also known as the window of discourse) — just on a personal, individual level. How ever you look at it, it all boils down to one of the reasons why we humans make “bad” witnesses: We don’t always perceive The Truth; we perceive a truth (our truth).

In some ways, it’s like a Venn Diagram for “art”, where art is not an object, but, rather, the overlap between the artist’s intention and the audience’s perception. Similarly, if you have a subset of Facts in one circle and two other circles containing the understanding and/or awareness of two different people, there will be some overlap — which we will call the truth. But very rarely (if ever) will there just be one big, giant circle duplicated three times — which we can call The Truth. Yet, one of the yamas (external “restraints” or universal “commandments”), is a commitment / dedication to The Truth. (YS 2.30 – 31, YS 2.36)

Is that even possible? Especially today, in this day and age?

Yes, it is possible with awareness and grace.

I’m Thinking Several Aphorisms / Prose Really Illustrates Life For Our Overton Lookout Subsets. Click here for the 2019 post related to this practice.

Please join me today (Tuesday, April 1^st) 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 “04012022 An “Important” Story”]

Yoga Sūtra 2.36: satyapratişţhāyām kriyāphalāśrayatvam

— “When a yogi is established in truthfulness, actions begin to bear fruit. [Truth is the foundation for fruitful action.]”

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.)

### As far as I know, everything I’ve stated above is true ###

Purpose & Responsibility (the “missing” Wednesday post) March 29, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Ramadan, Religion, Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Bhagavad Gita, Imam Khalid Latif, Jack Hawley, Laylat al-Qadr, nasheeds, Peter Gould, Qur'an, Qur’ān, Ramaḍān, Reba McEntire, Responsibility, Robert Frost, Season for Nonviolence, Sūrah Qadr, Tennessee Williams
add a comment

“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. (Keep your eyes open!) Many blessings also to all, and especially to those who are observing Great Lent and/or Lent!

Peace, ease, and responsibility to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

This “missing” post for Wednesday, March 26^th features new and previously posted content, as well as excerpts. Since we have entered the final days of Ramaḍān, the practice and playlists include references to Islām. You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.

“Having a clear intention (Niyyah in Arabic) and understanding your position, talents, motivation and means as an Amanah (translated as ‘trust’, or ‘responsibility towards others’) are important elements….”

— quoted from The Heart of Design interview (with Imam Khalid Latif), entitled “Building Conscious Community” by Peter Gould

We begin each practice with a purpose, an intention. On one level, there are the reasons we are on the mat — and those reasons can vary. They can be small and very personal and/or the can be multifaceted and directly affect others (i.e., communal). They can be physical, mental, emotional, energetic, spiritual, and/or religious. Either way, I believe the reason(s) we have for being on the mat are connected to our purpose and intention off the mat. In other words, I believe everyone has a purpose in life and that we should be very intentional about how we move through our day — not to mention our practice — as we go about the business of fulfilling our purpose.

Keeping our intention in mind, keeps us focused.

“‘People are in fact the sum total of the beliefs they hold in their hearts, Arjuna, and there are indeed various kinds of faith. One’s faith corresponds to one’s nature, and one’s nature is equivalent to one’s faith….’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (17.2, abridged) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

The idea that everyone has a purpose (in life) isn’t just my belief. It is a belief held by many people around the world. It is a belief at the heart of many spiritual, religious, and philosophical practices. One could argue that there are whole industries built around the idea of living a purpose-driven life. Furthermore, research even shows the importance of having an overreaching purpose. And while many can agree on the importance of having a purpose, on and off the mat, there is not necessarily consensus on the origin of that purpose.

Some believe we each, individually, put meaning into our lives and, therefore, give ourselves (and our lives) purpose. Others, however, believe that purpose is God-given. That latter group includes people (and faiths) that believe in having a calling. Sometimes, the idea of a calling is only applied to people within a religious and/or spiritual field. Other times, as explained in the Bhagavad Gita (“The Song of the Lord”), people believe that everyone is called to do something and that the something they are called to do serves the greater community, as well as the greater good.

In other words, we all have a responsibility to ourselves, as well as to others.

“‘Your very nature dictates that you perform the duties attuned to your disposition. Those duties are your dharma, your natural calling. It is far better to do your own dharma, even if you do it imperfectly, than to try to master the work of another. Those who perform the duties called for by their obligations, even if those duties seem of little merit, are able to do them with less effort – and this releases consciousness that can be directed Godward.’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (18.47) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

This week, as I have been thinking about people involved in various civil rights movements, I have also been thinking about the responsibility that comes with purpose. According to the Bhagavad Gita, “The responsibilities of people in the various segments of society can be divided under four general headings: Seers, Leaders, Providers, and Servers. No particular group of people is superior to any other, but like limbs of the body, each has a respective role to play.” (18.41)

Throughout this sacred text, the word “responsibility” is associated (and interchangeable) with the words “dharma” and “sva-dharma” (“duty” and “personal duty”). These Sanskrit words have several other literal translations into English, depending on the context, including (personal) “merit”, “eternal law”, and/or “natural law”. There is, within this sacred discussion, a very definite understanding of free will, and the possibility that someone will intentionally or inadvertently not fulfill their purpose. However, there is also an underlying concept of predestination, based on our disposition (or nature) — and this underlying concept is related to faith as well as to duty/responsibility.

“Something we were withholding made us weak
Until we found out that it was ourselves
We were withholding from our land of living,
And forthwith found salvation in surrender.”

— quoted from the poem “The Gift Outright” by Robert Frost

“The violets in the mountains have broken the rocks. The world thirsts after sympathy, compassion, love.”

— quoted from the play Camino Real by Tennessee Williams (The first sentence is also the epitaph on his grave.)

March 26^th is the anniversary of births of Robert Frost (b. 1894) and Tennessee Williams (b. 1911). Normally, I might talk about how their talents were clearly gifts and callings — that also came with responsibilities. Had I been a little more focused, I would have referenced the fact gifts like theirs (like yours) can not be held back — even by rocks and fences.

I could have made these references because, this year, this week coincided with what some consider the holiest days during the holy month of Ramaḍān: the last ten days/nights and, in particular, the odd nights. More importantly, Wednesday night might have been the holiest and most sacred night: Laylat al-Qadr (translated as “Night of Power”, “Night of Destiny”, “Night of Value”, “Night of Measure”, “Night of Decree”, or “Night of Honour”).

“We sent it [the Qur’ān] down on the Night of Power.
And what can make you know what is the Night of Power?
The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
The Angels and the Spirit [the inspiration] descend therein by their Lord’s leave for every affair.
Peace! It is till the rising of the dawn.”

— Sūrah Qadr (“Portion 97 of the Qur’ān”) 1 – 5

CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE.

FTWMI: A Night of Great Power & Great Peace (a “renewed” post)

First Friday Night Special #42: An Invitation to “Planting & Transforming” (a post-practice post with an excerpt and links)

Take Another Look at Yourself (the “missing” Sunday post, which is a “renewed” post )

“Use your time wisely. Spend it only in pursuit of things that are good. Hold the world in your hand if you so desire, but never let the world use your heart as its abode. Your understanding of the world around you will be based off of how you take care of the world within you. Treat your heart as something precious and let only what is good for [it] have the privilege of receiving its love.”

— Imam Khalid Latif in a 2013 “Ramadān Reflection” for Huffington Post

Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Ramadan & Eid 2024”]

Some quick notes about the music: First, my playlists for the final days of Ramadān are not halal (“permissible”) in all Islamic traditions, because of the orchestrations. They do, however, feature musicians who are Muslim (with a few exceptions).

Reba McEntire is one of the notable exceptions — notable, because in previous years she was the only female soloist and the only non-Muslim singer on the playlists. While this year’s playlists include several Muslim women as musicians and composers, “Pray for Peace” is still highlighted because it was re-released during the month of Ramadān in 2014 — but not just randomly in the month, the song was released in the last ten days of the month (during the holiest part of the month)!

Some songs on the playlist are Nasheeds (meaning they are religiously moral songs) that, in some traditions, are meant to be sung without instrumentation or only with percussion. I have, however, included orchestrated versions of these songs, because this seems to have worked best in an in-studio setting. I mean no disrespect by this choice. As far as I know, percussion or voice only recordings of the Nasheeds are available (if you want to build your own playlist). Alternatively, you can practice without the music — which is always a suitable option.

Finally, the YouTube version currently includes some additional before/after music.

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).

### Your Duty Is Calling! ###

Giving, Bending, & Doing What You Can (the “missing” 2-for-1 post for Monday & Tuesday) March 29, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Faith, Gandhi, Healing Stories, Hope, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, Ramadan, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.
Tags: 988, A&E staff, Action, alms giving, change, Clark Olsen, Dr. Susannah Heschel, Giving, Gospel According to Matthew, Hosea Williams, Imam Khalid Latif, James Reeb, John Lewis, Judge Frank Minis Johnson, Laylat al-Qadr, Lyndon B. Johnson, Mahatma Gandhi Canadian Foundation for World Peace, March for Our Lives, Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School, Martin Luther King Jr, Mohandas Gandhi, nasheeds, Orloff Miller, Ramaḍān, Reba McEntire, Robert F. Kennedy, Salt Satyagraha, Season for Nonviolence, Selma, Selma to Montgomery, Shriman Narayan, Theodore Parker, Valji Govindji Desai, Viola Fauver Liuzzo
add a comment

“Nowruz Mubarak!” Happy New Year to those who were celebrating! “Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. (Keep your eyes open!) Many blessings also to all, and especially to those who are observing Great Lent and/or Lent!

Peace, ease, action, and giving to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

This “missing” 2-for-1 post for Monday, March 24^th and Tuesday, March 25^th features new and previously posted content, as well as excerpts. Since we have entered the final days of Ramaḍān, these practices (and music on Tuesday) include references to Islām. The 2025 prompt question (for Monday) was, “What motivates you to cultivate change? (In other words, what do you consider a call to action?” You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.

“Action is how wisdom changes the world. Without action, our knowledge and insights die with us. Truly nonviolent action is centered in love and compassion. Actions speak louder than words, it is said, yet it is not so much loudness as clarity and truth that matters; a gentle action can be far more powerful than a forceful one. ”

— quoted from the “Reflection” section of the “Day 53 ~ March 24 ~ Action” page for the “Season for Nonviolence,” provided by the Mahatma Gandhi Canadian Foundation for World Peace

Change happens, every time we inhale and every time we exhale. Just notice how your belly rises and falls, how your low ribs expand and relax. Notice the giving and receiving, every time you inhale and every time you exhale.

This all happens whether we actively engage it or not. It happens whether we notice it or not, but take a moment to notice it and to notice what happens when you notice it. More changes happen, right? Maybe you start intentionally breathing a little deeper. Maybe you sit or stand up a little taller, spread your toes a little wider. Maybe you let go of something that no longer serves you. Maybe you engage your core.

Now, bring your awareness to where these changes begin. Yes, they begin with every inhale… and every exhale. They also begin inside of each and every one of us. Change will happen whether we are aware of it or not and whether we actively engage in it (or not). However, more change begins with more awareness — and awareness can be a call to “action”, which was the “Season for Nonviolence” principle on Monday, March 24^th.

“Truth (Satya) implies love, and firmness (agraha) engenders and therefore serves as a synonym for force. I thus began to call the Indian Movement ‘Satyagraha’ , that is to say, the Force which is born of Truth and Love or non-violence, and gave up the use of the phrase ‘passive resistance’ in connection with it, so much so that even in English writing we often avoided it and used instead the word ‘Satyagraha’ itself or some other equivalent English phrase.”

— quoted from “12. THE ADVENT OF SATYAGRAHA” in Satyagraha in South Africa by M. K. Gandhi (as published in THE SELECTED WORKS OF MAHATMA GANDHI, VOLUME TWO, translated from the Gujarati by Valji Govindji Desai; General Editor Shriman Narayan)

We saw people answer the call to action in March (and April) 1930, when people joined Mahatma Gandhi during the Salt Satyagraha in India, and again in March 1965, in the United States, when people joined the marches from Selma to Montgomery. We also saw people answering the call on March 24, 2018, during the March for Our Lives events in Washington, D. C. and around the country. In each of those examples, there were people involved who would be directly (and obviously) impacted by the changes they wanted. Additionally, there were people who (one could argue) would be indirectly and/or not obviously affected by the changes. Yet, every one of the protesters showed up with a commitment to nonviolence and to change.

They also embodied the “Season for Nonviolence” principle for Tuesday, March 25^th — which is also an important element of Islām, especially during Ramaḍān: They were “giving” of themselves.

“In my religious tradition of Islam, worship has elements that are both individualized as well as communal. Within those broader frames of what can be done individually or what can be done communally is also the idea of responsibility, both to the self and responsibility on a social level. So within the prism of giving, it’s seen as a spiritual act, meaning there is a need to understand the fulfillment of rights that the beneficiary has over us and to understand that the pinnacle of a community can’t be actualized until the most underserved and underprivileged needs are both recognized and met.”

— Imam Khalid Latif, quoted from the (April 8, 2021) A&E interview “Voices Magnified: Khalid Latif on the True Meaning of Giving”

The aforementioned events are a reminder that change begins with each of us taking a step towards change. Harnessing the power of who we are, individually and collectively, and giving what we can — every time we inhale, every time we exhale — and then going deeper. They are a reminder that change will happen (and is happening) whether we engage it (or want it).

However, if we want positive change, we have to do the bending and giving (on and off the mat).

“I do not pretend to understand the moral universe. The arc is a long one. My eye reaches but little ways. I cannot calculate the curve and complete the figure by experience of sight. I can divine it by conscience. And from what I see I am sure it bends toward justice.”

— quoted from an 1853 sermon by Theodore Parker

Click on the excerpt title below for more about the Salt Satyagraha.

FTWMI: A Little Salt

The following revised excerpt is from a 2024 post [when March 24^th fell on Palm Sunday (in Western Christian communities) and Purim (in some Jewish communities)]. This excerpt contains passing references to domestic terrorism and violence (but no explicit details). Some links have been updated.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

— The Gospel According to Matthew (6:26, NIV)

On March 24, 2018, 1.2 million people in the United States and around the world took part in the March for Our Lives demonstration against gun violence. The non-violent protest was in response to the mass shooting (on Valentine’s Day 2018) that killed 17 people and (physically) injured 17 others at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The primary protest event took place in Washington, D. C. and, like so many other “marches” on Washington, it was inspired by the marches during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960’s, which were inspired by the non-violent protestors who participated in the Salt Satyagraha in March 1930.

Three of those Civil Rights marches started in Selma, Alabama in March 1965. They were in direct response to the murder of activist and deacon Jimmie Lee Jackson. The first of the Selma marches, on March 7^th, was led by Reverend Hosea Williams and (the future congressman) John Lewis. Horrific images from that “Sunday, Bloody, Sunday” march were televised all over the world. The second march, two days later, was led by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It became known as “Turnaround (or Turnback) Tuesday”. In addition to Dr. King, some of the people who had marched and been attacked on the 7^th were joined by people who had seen the images from the first march and answered MLK’s call to action. Included in that group were Unitarian Universalist ministers and activists Reverend James Reeb, Reverend Clark Olsen, and Reverend Orloff Miller. While the images televised around the world on March 9^th were more “peaceful”, the ministers (who were all white) were attacked by three white men. Reverend Reeb, who had spent his entire adult life working for civil rights, died on March 11, 1965.

Neither of those first two Selma marches made it past the Edmund Pettus Bridge. In between the second and the third marches, President Lyndon B. Johnson gave his “The American Promise” speech (also known as the “We Shall Overcome” speech) to a joint session of the United States Congress and Judge Frank Minis Johnson (no relation to the president) decided in Williams v. Wallace, 240 F. Supp. 100 (M.D. Ala. 1965) that the marchers were exercising their 1^st Amendment rights and should be allowed to do so without interference from anyone.

Four days after Judge Johnson’s decision, 8,000 people gathered at Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, and started the walk that would lead them to the capital in Montgomery Alabama. By the time the movement reached the City of St. Jude, on March 24^th, approximately 25,000 people were participating in the protest. One of those people was Viola Liuzzo, a Detroit mother of five who volunteered to drive people back to their vehicles in Selma. Like Reverend Reeb, she was murdered after the peaceful protest.

“For my father, though, the march was not simply a political demonstration, but a religious occasion. He saw it as a revival of prophetic Judaism’s political activism and also of the traditions of Hasidism, a Jewish pietistic revival movement that arose in the late eighteenth century, according to which walking could be a spiritual experience.

He said it reminded him of the message of the prophets, whose primary concern was social injustice, and of his Hasidic forebears, for whom compassion for the suffering of other people defined a religious person.”

— quoted from an article about the 40^th Anniversary of the Selma-Montgomery marches, by Dr. Susannah Heschel

As I’ve mentioned before, not everyone who marched from Selma to Montgomery was African American. Neither was everyone Christian.

However, everyone was committed.

“And so as we go away this afternoon, let us go away more than ever before committed to this struggle and committed to nonviolence. I must admit to you that there are still some difficult days ahead. We are still in for a season of suffering in many of the black belt counties of Alabama, many areas of Mississippi, many areas of Louisiana. I must admit to you that there are still jail cells waiting for us, and dark and difficult moments. But if we will go on with the faith that nonviolence and its power can transform dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows, we will be able to change all of these conditions.

And so I plead with you this afternoon as we go ahead: remain committed to nonviolence. Our aim must never be to defeat or humiliate the white man, but to win his friendship and understanding. We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience. And that will be a day not of the white man, not of the black man. That will be the day of man as man.”

**— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)**

FTWMI: Keeping the Overcome Promise

“How long? Not long, because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)

“‘There is,’ said an Italian philosopher, ‘nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things.’ Yet this is the measure of the task of your generation and the road is strewn with many dangers.

First is the danger of futility; the belief there is nothing one man or one woman can do against the enormous array of the world’s ills – against misery, against ignorance, or injustice and violence. Yet many of the world’s great movements, of thought and action, have flowed from the work of a single man. A young monk began the Protestant reformation, a young general extended an empire from Macedonia to the borders of the earth, and a young woman reclaimed the territory of France. It was a young Italian explorer who discovered the New World, and 32 year old Thomas Jefferson who proclaimed that all men are created equal. ‘Give me a place to stand,’ said Archimedes, ‘and I will move the world.’ These men moved the world, and so can we all. Few will have the greatness to bend history; but each of us can work to change a small portion of the events, and in the total of all these acts will be written the history of this generation. Thousands of Peace Corps volunteers are making a difference in the isolated villages and the city slums of dozens of countries. Thousands of unknown men and women in Europe resisted the occupation of the Nazis and many died, but all added to the ultimate strength and freedom of their countries. It is from numberless diverse acts of courage such as these that the belief that human history is thus shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”

— quoted from the “Ripple of Hope” speech (or Day of Affirmation Address) by Senator Robert F. Kennedy (delivered during the “Day of Reaffirmation of Academic and Human Freedom” at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, on June 6, 1966)

Click on the excerpt title below for the first in a series of posts about Ramaḍān.

FTWMI: A Night of Great Power & Great Peace (a “renewed” post)

There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.

Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify.

Some quick notes about the music: First, my playlists for the final days of Ramadān are not halal (“permissible”) in all Islamic traditions, because of the orchestrations. They do, however, feature musicians who are Muslim (with a few exceptions).

The Tuesday remix includes some (Gregorian) date-related exceptions. Reba McEntire is another notable exception — notable, because in previous years she was the only female soloist and the only non-Muslim singer on the playlists. While this year’s playlists include several Muslim women as musicians and composers, “Pray for Peace” is still highlighted because it was re-released during the month of Ramadān in 2014 — but not just randomly in the month, the song was released in the last ten days of the month (during the holiest part of the month)!

Some songs on the playlist are Nasheeds (meaning they are religiously moral songs) that, in some traditions, are meant to be sung without instrumentation or only with percussion. I have, however, included orchestrated versions of these songs, because this seems to have worked best in an in-studio setting. I mean no disrespect by this choice. As far as I know, percussion or voice only recordings of the Nasheeds are available (if you want to build your own playlist). Alternatively, you can practice without the music — which is always a suitable option.

Finally, the YouTube version currently includes some additional before/after music.

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).

*NOTE: This speech is also known as the “Our God Is Marching On!” speech.

### “Give a little bit / Give a little bit of your love to me / I’ll give a little bit / I’ll give a little bit of my love to you” ~ Supertramp (written by Richard Davies, Roger Hodgson) ###

Purpose & Responsibility (mostly the music & blessings) UPDATED w/post link March 26, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Imam Khalid Latif, Jack Hawley, Laylat al-Qadr, nasheeds, Peter Gould, Ramaḍān, Reba McEntire, Responsibility, Season for Nonviolence
add a comment

“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. (Keep your eyes open!) Many blessings also to all, and especially to those who are observing Great Lent and/or Lent!

Peace, ease, and responsibility to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

“Having a clear intention (Niyyah in Arabic) and understanding your position, talents, motivation and means as an Amanah (translated as ‘trust’, or ‘responsibility towards others’) are important elements….”

— quoted from The Heart of Design interview (with Imam Khalid Latif), entitled “Building Conscious Community” by Peter Gould

CLICK HERE FOR THE RELATED POST.

Please join me today (Wednesday, March 26^th) 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 “Ramadan & Eid 2024”]

“‘People are in fact the sum total of the beliefs they hold in their hearts, Arjuna, and there are indeed various kinds of faith. One’s faith corresponds to one’s nature….’”

“‘Your very nature dictates that you perform the duties attuned to your disposition. Those duties are your dharma, your natural calling. It is far better to do your own dharma, even if you do it imperfectly, than to try to master the work of another. Those who perform the duties called for by their obligations, even if those duties seem of little merit, are able to do them with less effort – and this releases consciousness that can be directed Godward.’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (17.2, abridged) & (18.47) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

Some quick notes about the music: First, my playlists for the final days of Ramadān are not halal (“permissible”) in all Islamic traditions, because of the orchestrations. They do, however, feature musicians who are Muslim (with a few exceptions).

Reba McEntire is one of the notable exceptions — notable, because in previous years she was the only female soloist and the only non-Muslim singer on the playlists. While this year’s playlists include several Muslim women as musicians and composers, “Pray for Peace” is still highlighted because it was re-released during the month of Ramadān in 2014 — but not just randomly in the month, the song was released in the last ten days of the month (during the holiest part of the month)!

Some songs on the playlist are Nasheeds (meaning they are religiously moral songs) that, in some traditions, are meant to be sung without instrumentation or only with percussion. I have, however, included orchestrated versions of these songs, because this seems to have worked best in an in-studio setting. I mean no disrespect by this choice. As far as I know, percussion or voice only recordings of the Nasheeds are available (if you want to build your own playlist). Alternatively, you can practice without the music — which is always a suitable option.

Finally, the YouTube version currently includes some additional before/after music.

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).

### ###

Giving, Bending, & Doing What You Can (mostly the music & blessings) UPDATED w/post link March 25, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Giving, Martin Luther King Jr, nasheeds, Ramaḍān, Reba McEntire, Salt Satyagraha, Season for Nonviolence, Selma to Montgomery
add a comment

“Nowruz Mubarak!” Happy New Year to those who were celebrating! “Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. (Keep your eyes open!) Many blessings also to all, and especially to those who are observing Great Lent and/or Lent!

Peace, ease, and giving to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

“And so as we go away this afternoon, let us go away more than ever before committed to this struggle and committed to nonviolence. I must admit to you that there are still some difficult days ahead. We are still in for a season of suffering in many of the black belt counties of Alabama, many areas of Mississippi, many areas of Louisiana. I must admit to you that there are still jail cells waiting for us, and dark and difficult moments. But if we will go on with the faith that nonviolence and its power can transform dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows, we will be able to change all of these conditions.

And so I plead with you this afternoon as we go ahead: remain committed to nonviolence. Our aim must never be to defeat or humiliate the white man, but to win his friendship and understanding. We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience. And that will be a day not of the white man, not of the black man. That will be the day of man as man.”

**— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama on March 25, 1965)**

*NOTE: This speech is also known as the “Our God Is Marching On!” speech.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RELATED POST.

Please join me today (Tuesday, March 25^th) 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.

Some quick notes about the music: First, my playlists for the final days of Ramadān are not halal (“permissible”) in all Islamic traditions, because of the orchestrations. They do, however, feature musicians who are Muslim (with a few exceptions).

Today’s remix includes some (Gregorian) date-related exceptions. Reba McEntire is another notable exception — notable, because in previous years she was the only female soloist and the only non-Muslim singer on the playlists. While this year’s playlists include several Muslim women as musicians and composers, “Pray for Peace” is still highlighted because it was re-released during the month of Ramadān in 2014 — but not just randomly in the month, the song was released in the last ten days of the month (during the holiest part of the month)!

Some songs on the playlist are Nasheeds (meaning they are religiously moral songs) that, in some traditions, are meant to be sung without instrumentation or only with percussion. I have, however, included orchestrated versions of these songs, because this seems to have worked best in an in-studio setting. I mean no disrespect by this choice. As far as I know, percussion or voice only recordings of the Nasheeds are available (if you want to build your own playlist). Alternatively, you can practice without the music — which is always a suitable option.

Finally, the YouTube version currently includes some additional before/after music.

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).

ERRATA: The original post contained a type-o regarding the location of the speech quoted above.

### 🎶 ###

“A good sequence is like a good story. There is a beginning (an introduction), the middle (the heart of the story), and the end (the conclusion)”

— Maty Ezraty

People often tell me that one of the things they like about my classes are the stories, as well as the way the poses and the music tell the stories. They may even wonder why I tell such stories. Bottom line: I come from a long line of teachers who think the practice is a way to tell our stories and also a way to process our stories, every time we inhale, every time we exhale. It’s a way to go deeper into our stories.

But, since we all have different stories, we need to get on the same page — and I just happen to have the privilege of turning that page.

Today is a day when I normally tell the stories of four very famous storytellers born on March 22^nd. These storytellers tell/told their stories in different ways. However, the storytellers themselves have something in common — other than the fact that they are all, as it turns out, the same gender and race and share the same profession and birthday. They all know/knew how to tell a good story.

Regardless of if you read the adult novels or children’s books of one of my parents’ favorite authors; the poetry of one of my favorite poets; or listen to the brilliant lyrics and music of the two composers on the list, you will find that they follow a simple structure. It is the same structure we follow in the practice; a structure containing the three parts highlighted by Maty Ezraty and, also, a Chekhovian promise (which we’ll get to in the end).

As I said before, today is a day when I normally tell the stories of four storytellers. (I have shifted, once or twice, to tell holiday stories.) However, this year, I feel compelled to start with the story of a fifth storyteller — and his story comes with it’s own Chekhovian promise.

“I would like to either pick up the mantle or stand next to my partner and hold the torch as we, you know, run into the Olympic arena of this society and discourse. Because aren’t we losing, Kelly, discourse? It’s black or it’s white, and that’s not the way the world works. We live in a gray world, and I want to tell gray stories.”

— Keegan-Michael Key, quoted from the (July 13, 2017) NPR interview entitled “‘You’re Never Too Old To Screw Up’: Keegan-Michael Key On ‘Friends From College’” by Kelly McEvers, Anjuli Sastry Krbechek

Born today in 1961, in Southfield, Michigan, Keegan-Michael Key is an award-winning comedian, actor, producer, and writer who has said, “I have always, or for the most part, identified myself as a biracial person.” So, already, he is a little different from the other storytellers. Also, while some of the others believe in comedy — and include comedic elements in their work, Mr. Key is the only comedian on my list (this year). He’s also the only one of these storytellers that uses his whole being (mind and body) to tell a story, especially when he is impersonating someone (like Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan, Phylicia Rashād, or Eva Longoria’s Desperate Housewives character Gabrielle Solis)

In addition to starring in movies, television shows, music videos, and video games, Keegan-Michael Key co-created and co-starred in the sketch comedy series Key & Peele (with Jordan Peele, the aforementioned partner). The Shakespearean-trained actor appeared in the musical comedy Schmigadoon! and onstage as Horatio in the Public Theater’s 2017 production Hamlet and as Gerald in the 2017 Broadway premiere of Meteor Shower (by Steve Martin). During the 2015 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, he brought his Key & Peele character Luther (then-President Barack Obama’s “anger translator”) to life. He has also appeared as an actor during the annual fundraiser for Young Storytellers [Foundation], which features work written by elementary, middle, and high school storytellers.

“Don’t you love farce?
My fault, I fear
I thought that you’d want what I want
Sorry, my dear
But where are the clowns?
Quick, send in the clowns
Don’t bothеr, they’re herе”

— quoted from the song “Send in the Clowns” from the musical A Little Night Music, music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by Hugh Wheeler

For Those Who Missed It: The following four profiles have been slightly updated since 2020.

Stephen Sondheim (b. 1930, in New York City, NY) was a legendary musical theater composer and lyrics, as well as an award-winning film composer. His accolades include 8 Tony Awards (more than any other composer), 8 Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, an Academy Award, a Laurence Olivier Award, and a 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom. In all my time working in theater, I can’t say that I ever worked on any of Sondheim’s musicals (or the musicals of our final birthday composer), but I’ve seen my fair share of both their works — and can definitely sing along.

Also born in New York City, NY, in 1941, poet Billy Collins has been called “The most popular poet in America” and has served as United States Poet Laureate (2001 – 2003) and New York State Poet (2004 – 2006). Collins considers “humor a doorway into the serious” and started his poem “Picnic, Lightning” by quoting Vladimir Nabokov. In Lolita, the protagonist says, “My very photogenic mother died in a freak accident (picnic, lightning)…”

The poem’s title is also the title of a collection of poems which my friend Mimi gave me in a moment when I was overwhelmed by grief. Fast forward almost a decade and, as if in a poem, I was dancing with Billy Collins on Nicollet Island and giving him a piece of Collins-inspired poetry. Even now, I can feel it…I can feel it…the joy of the moment, the joy of being alive; which fits in with his secret theory.

In a 2001 interview with The Paris Review, Billy Collins said, “I have a secret theory that people who are addicted to reading are almost trying to recreate the joy, the comfortable joy of being read to as a child…. Being read to as a child is one of the great experiences in life.”

Our second birthday composer is Baron Lloyd-Webber, or more properly styled, The Lord Lloyd-Webber…better known as the EGOT Andrew Lloyd Webber (no hyphen). Born today in 1948 (in Kensington, London), he was originally knighted in the 1992, given a life peerage in 1997, and appointed a Knight Companion of the Order of Garter (KG) in 2024. He has composed 21 musicals, a song cycle, a set of variations, 2 film scores, and a Latin Requiem Mass. He is an EGOT because he has won an Emmy Award, 3 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award (Oscar), and 6 Tony Awards — as well as 4 Laurence Olivier Awards and a plethora of other awards.

James Patterson (b. 1947, in Newburgh, NY), is a bestselling novelist and children’s book author whose books can always be found in my parents bookshelves. Doesn’t matter if it is mystery, suspense, romance, or science, Patterson keeps you in the moment and keeps a Chekhovian promise (which is fast approaching). One of his protagonists is a 12-year old orphan named Max Einstein. Like her namesake, this Einstein is a genius with wild (in her case red) curly hair. She is told that her story combined with her emotional and intellectual quotients are why she is considered the world’s “last great hope.”

“‘When you convinced me not to quit, you said, and I quote, “If we are to help save the human race, we must recognize the humanity in all, no matter their station in life.”’”

— Charl speaking to Max and Isabl in Max Einstein: The Genius Experiment by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein

The “Season for Nonviolence” principle of the day (for March 22^nd) was “advocacy” — and all of the aforementioned storytellers have been advocates for literacy and storytelling. For his part, James Patterson has donated over 300 million books to school-aged children and the military, over $70 million to support education, and endowed over 5,000 scholarships for teachers. In 2020, he renewed a partnership with Scholastic Book Clubs and pledged $2.5 million to help teachers build their classroom libraries.

At one time, James Patterson was also seen as an advocate for diversity — in part because he insisted that a Black actor play one of his most popular characters, Alex Cross (who is African American in the novels). However, people’s perceptions changed a little, in June 2022, when Mr. Patterson was quoted (in the United Kingdom’s Sunday Times) as saying that “he and his fellow ‘white males’ were subject to ‘racism’ that prevented them from getting writing jobs. ‘Can you get a job? Yes. Is it harder? Yes.’ He continued by saying, ‘It’s even harder for older writers. You don’t meet many 52-year-old white males’ in film, theater, TV or publishing.”

The award-winning author apologized and issued a retraction two days after the interview was published; however, both came after significant backlash and factchecking that showed there were no gray areas here: his claims just didn’t match reality.

“According to the 2022 Hollywood Diversity Report, out of the 251 screenwriters for top box office feature films in 2021, nearly 68% were white; 47% were white men, specifically. A 2021 Hollywood Diversity Report showed that during the 2019-2020 season, out of the 1,214 broadcast script writers, only 26.4% were people of color, and white men made up 46.1% of the total. A similar trend extends across the scripted cable and digital industries.

In theater, according to the most recent Asian American Performers Action Coalition Visibility Report, nearly 90% of shows produced on Broadway and 76% of the shows by major New York nonprofit theater companies — which collectively set the theatrical agenda for the rest of the nation — were written by white playwrights. And multiple reports have highlighted the issue of men outnumbering women playwrights. For the book publishing industry, the numbers by race are just as staggeringly imbalanced, as a 2020 New York Times report showed. In 2018, nearly nine out of 10 books published by major houses were by white writers — which, based on the relatively even gender divide among authors, suggests that about 45% of the white writers published by major houses in the U.S. are men.

So, across these creative fields, white men — about 30% of the American population — consistently receive nearly half of all writing opportunities.”

“Out of the 44 co-authors I found in his front-line novel franchises — the ones aimed at global bestseller status — I only identified one woman of color: Rachel Howzell Hall (a bestselling crime queen herself and a former board member of the Mystery Writers of America). Nine others were white women.”

— quoted from the (June 16, 2022) NBC News “Think: Opinion, Analysis, Essays” article entitled “James Patterson’s carefully worded apology after ‘racism’ claim is an eyebrow raiser: The author said that he strongly supported diversity of voices, but that would be hard to tell looking at many of the co-authors he’s chosen to work with.” by Jeff Yang

Which brings us back to those Chekhovian promises.

It was Anton Chekov who said that if there is a rifle (or a pistol) hanging on the wall in the first chapter/act, it must go off in the second or third. He told another playwright, “It’s wrong to make promises you don’t mean to keep.”

Whenever we step on the mat, there’s a part of us that is making a promise. Whenever, I put together a sequence there’s a part of me that thinks about that promise, as well as about that second Sondheim song (“Putting it together…bit by bit…piece by piece”) and Maty Ezraty’s sequencing advice about the middle (the heart) of the story. I consider how can I build up to a big heart opener and how we each need to process our own personal story in order to not only lift and open our hearts, but to also support our lifted and open hearts — especially in a time when it is so easy to close off.

When I think about the fact that the practice is always a way to tell our stories — as well as a way to process our stories, I think about the music (and how I can use the music to tell our stories). The (original) March 22^nd playlist not only tells the stories of some great storytellers celebrating birthdays today (as I intended) and is a way to process our current life-plot (as I intended), it also reflects my story as a lover of stories. At some point, I plan to remix it to include a little Schmigadoon!. In the meantime, however, the absence of a specific track for Keegan-Michael Key just highlights the fact that the original list was all the same sex, gender, and race.¹

“A poet can feel free, in my estimation, to write a poem for himself. Or a painter can paint a painting for himself. You can write a short story for yourself. But for me, comedy by its nature is communal. If other people don’t get it, I’m not sure why you are doing it. I think the same can be said for being offensive, for no other reason than being offensive. Me personally, it boggles my mind.”

— Keegan-Michael Key, quoted from the (Feb 1, 2012) MovieWeb interview entitled “Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele Talk Key & Peele Series Premiere [Exclusive]” by
B. Alan Orange

In some ways, practicing yoga is simultaneously like writing a poem, painting a painting, writing a short story, and writing comedy. You do it for yourself and — especially in a group class — it is also communal. As Maty Ezraty said, “Practicing yoga is a privilege. And with this privilege comes a duty to be kind, to share a smile, and to offer yoga from the mat into the rest of your life.”

Here is a mini-practice (5 minutes) which you can use it as your whole practice as the beginning/introduction portion of your practice and finish with a deeper back bend (even if it’s the same back bend — just with more awareness, more breath, and more smile.

Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “03222020 Storytellers”]

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).

NOTES:
¹Just to clarify, since someone asked after class: While there are other storytellers I could have highlighted, the original focus was always the last 4 storytellers referenced above. I didn’t replace anyone, just added a storyteller and adjusted the narrative accordingly. Similarly, the playlist has room, time, and space, for another song (or two).

### Enjoy Your Story & Share Your Stories ###

#AccelerateAction for All Women Everywhere (the “missing” Saturday 3/8 post) March 13, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 19-Day Fast, Art, Baha'i, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, First Nations, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Meditation, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.
Tags: 19-Day Fast, 988, Baháʼí, Dashdondog Bayarmagnai, Elizabeth Hale, Enkhsaikhan Batjargal, Equal Pay Day, February Revolution, Galbadrakh Tsendbaatar, Graciousness, International Women’s Day, Kameron Traviss Glasper, Kathy Hutchins, Lent / Great Lent, Lizzy Hale, Lucinda Williams, Malcolm X, Margie Warrell Ph.D., Martin Luther King Jr, Mickey Guyton, Nyamjanstan Galsanjamts, Oliver Robin Frid, Ramaḍān, Russian Revolution, Season for Nonviolence, Selma, Selma to Montgomery, Tamara Makoni, Taylor Monet Parks / Tayla Parx, Temuulen Naranbaatar, The HU, Victor Franco
add a comment

“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. Many blessings also to all, and especially to those who were celebrating and/or observing the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast, Great Lent, and/or Lent on International Women’s Day and every day!

Peace, ease, and graciousness to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

This is the “missing” post for Saturday, March 8^th. You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.

“You weren’t born to be mistreated
And you weren’t born to misguided
You were born to be loved
You were born to be loved”

— quoted from the song “Born to Be Loved” by Lucinda Williams

Every part of you deserves love and appreciation. Sometimes, however, we take ourselves (or parts of ourselves) for granted and need a moment to very deliberately and intentionally give thanks. So, here’s a variation of the body scan I’ve used in practices on March 8^th for a little over a decade. After you review each part, take a moment to pause — close your eyes if that is comfortable for you — and breath into each part of yourself. After a few moments of awareness about how your body feels and how you feel about your body, continue to the next part.

THE BODY SCAN

There is a portion of your body that supports you all day, every day. Even when that part doesn’t work exactly as you would like or as others are able, it still keeps you grounded. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is a portion of your body that is related to creativity and pleasure that you might enjoy and indulge — but/and about which you may feel some shame and embarrassment. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is a portion of your body that is vital to your survival — even though you may want it to be smaller (and/or appear stronger). Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is a portion of your body that already holds all your joys and burdens — and you still expect it to do the heavy lifting. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is a part of your body that you may take for granted and is easily overextended — but/and you don’t really think about it unless something is wrong. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is a part of your body that gets a lot of attention (from others) — but/and may need some assistance to serve you. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
There is another part of your body that gets a lot of attention (from yourself and others) — but/and you may change it a lot. Breathe awareness into this part of your body and give thanks.
Now, go back and consider that every description matches at least one woman in your life. One or more may even describe you! Just think about the women who support you 24/7, 365 days a year. Think about the woman who created you and the women whose creativity inspires you. Think about the woman/women who play a part in your day-to-day survival. Think about the women with whom you share your joys, your grief, and your fears. Think about the women you (may) take for granted and those who speak up for you (and may be a little overextended in all the things they do). Think about the beautiful women who share their points of view and truths with you. Think about all the beautiful women in your life.

Now, breathe and give thanks for all of them!

“It’s more than strength
It’s more than physical
It’s more than faith
It’s more than biblical”

— quoted from the song “Woman” by Mickey Guyton (written by Victor Franco, Mickey Guyton, Kameron Traviss Glasper, Taylor Monet Parks, Oliver Robin Frid)

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women and also to bring awareness to the disparities and inequities often faced by women around the world. Possibly the earliest “Women’s Day” was organized in New York by the Socialist Party of America on Sunday, February 28, 1909. An annual, international event on a specific “special day” (i.e., the last Sunday of February) was proposed in 1910, during the International Socialist Women’s Conference (in Copenhagen); however, no date was actually set. Additionally, some people (in places like the United States) thought the idea was too closely aligned with socialism. On Sunday, March 8, 1914, there was an event in Germany that focused on women’s suffrage (and coincided with an suffragists march in London). However, these events were still pretty independent of each other until the beginning of the Russian Revolution: March 8, 1917 (on the Gregorian calendar) / February 23, 1917 (on the Julian calendar).

“[Mickey] Guyton said in a statement: ‘I loved the idea of writing a song that celebrates the power women have. Throughout history and even today, women have taken pain, setbacks, and doubt, and they turn that into inner strength, and they persevere to achieve incredible things.’ Guyton also shared the story behind the song: ‘The idea actually came from Tayla (Parx). At the time there was so much going on online about what defined a woman, and there was so many interpretations and the whole internet was ablaze, and we thought it was so important to release a song called “Woman” on International Women’s Day.’”

— quoted from the WRNS: Your Country 95.1 article entitled “Mickey Guyton shares the official video for ‘Woman’” by Kathy Hutchins

After World War I, the Russian Empire was plagued by food shortages and a lack of representation (under tsarist autocracy). On Thursday, March 8, 1917, women who were standing in bread lines in Petrograd (which was then the capital of the Russian Empire) were joined by women who worked as textile workers and disgruntled soldiers in a demonstration demanding “bread and peace”. After eight days of protests and strikes — which included some violent conflicts — Tsar Nicholas II abdicated the throne and women were granted the right to vote. While this did not end the The Russian Revolution (which was a combination of the February Revolution and the October Revolution in 1917), it did highlight the power of women coming together and was recognized by Bolsheviks like Vladimir Lenin. Women’s Day was celebrated in the communist circles around the world throughout the early 20^th century and became an official “non-working public holiday” in the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in 1965. It was first celebrated by the United Nations in 1975, and received an official designation from the United Nations General Assembly in 1977.

“The research is compelling: sexism hurts everyone. Societies that have more women participating in the labor market are more prosperous. Corporations that have more women in senior leadership roles produce better bottom line results. Peace negotiations with more women sitting at the table result in less conflict and fewer deaths. In families where gender stereotypes are dismantled (with mothers going to work and fathers sharing more of the traditional women’s work at home), sons grow up more self-reliant and daughters are more likely to attain senior managerial roles.”

— quoted from the May 6, 2017 Forbes article entitled “Be Bold For Change: Tackling Sexism Head On This International Women’s Day” by Margie Warrell, Ph.D.

While women’s suffrage was one of the big focuses during the first Women’s Day celebrations, International Women’s Day observations now also focus on workplace accessibility, education (which is sometimes restricted by gender), reproductive health issues, and raising awareness about violence and abuse against women. Pay equity is also a primary focus around the world — especially as more and more women participate in the labor force — and highlights the pay gap between genders and, also between women of different ethnicities. The 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action”, is inspired by the fact that, “At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.”

When comparing the 2023 United States earnings statistics of all people in the labor force (full time, part time, year round, and seasonal), women make an average of 75 cents for every dollar earned by their white, non-Hispanic male counterparts. The pay gap is a little less (83 cents for every dollar) when only comparing full time, year round workers. This means that, on average, it would take a woman until March 25, 2025, to earn the same amount that her white, non-Hispanic male counterpart made in 2024.

While it is a little shocking to think that it could take a woman in the United States three extra months to earn the same thing that a man (doing the same work) did in a calendar year, March 25^th is the earliest “Equal Pay Day” (in 2025). When the earnings statistics are broken down by ethnicity (or other factors*), the wage gaps become even more startling.

April 7^th — AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) Women’s Equal Pay Day
May 6^th — Mom’s Equal Pay Day (for women who work outside the home) is May 6^th,
June 17^th — LGBTQIA+ Equal Pay Awareness Day (which is not directly tied to statistics, since they are not available)
July 10^th — Black Women’s Equal Pay Day
August 28^th — NHPI (Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander) Women’s Equal Pay Day
October 8^th — Latina Women’s Equal Pay Day
October 23^rd — Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day
November 18^th — Native Women’s Equal Pay Day

Of course, the elephant in the room, is that many women work inside the home — 24/7, 365 days a year — and stay-at-home moms do not typically receive a paycheck. Neither do they always receive the same recognition as stay-at-home dads. Yet, they are an invaluable part of society — just like women who start businesses and/or work in other people’s companies. Additionally, women (on average) spend more time as the unpaid caregiver of children and adult family members — even when they and their spouse or partner both work outside the home.

International Women’s Day is about giving these women, and all other women, their flowers. It is also about teaching the children of the world, regardless of their sex or gender, that we all sing a woman’s song and, therefore, we all benefit in a society that respects women.

“When Kings fall to their knees
They sing a woman’s song
When birds scream in the trees
They sing a woman’s song
The sunrise in the east
Sings a woman’s song
Every heart that beats
Sings a woman’s song”

— quoted from the song “Song of Women” by The HU, featuring Lizzy Hale of Halestorm (written by Elizabeth Hale, Dashdondog Bayarmagnai, Enkhsaikhan Batjargal, Galbadrakh Tsendbaatar, Temuulen Naranbaatar, Nyamjanstan Galsanjamts)

Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “03082025 Women’s Day, redux”]

NOTE: Both playlists highlight women, as performers and as composers and songwriters. The Spotify playlist includes some silent tracks (for timing). The YouTube playlist has about 43 additional songs by women. Enjoy!

What is the difference between equality and equity? Well, that’s just a bananas question! [From 2023]

“A man dies when he refuses to stand up for that which is right. A man dies when he refuses to stand up for justice. A man dies when he refuses to take a stand for that which is true.”

— quoted from the March 8, 1965 sermon, at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church (in Selma, Alabama) by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“The most disrespected woman in America, is the black woman. The most un-protected person in America is the black woman. The most neglected person in America, is the black woman.”

— quoted from the May 5, 1962 speech (at the funeral Ronald Stokes) by Malcom X

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).

### GRACIOUSNESS is related to GRATEFULNESS ###

FTWMI: A Little Salt March 12, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 19-Day Fast, Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Donate, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Faith, Food, Gandhi, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma Yoga, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Love, Mantra, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Volunteer, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.
Tags: 988, A. R. Rahman, Ahimsa, Andrew Jackson, Civil Rights, Gospel According to Matthew, Jawaharlal Nehru, Jesus, Kamala Nehru, Khatija Rahman, Martha Nussbaum, Martin Luther King Jr, Mohandas Gandhi, niyamas, Raheema Rahman, Ray Cassin, salt, Salt Satyagraha, salt tax, satya, satyagraha, Season for Nonviolence, Season of Non-violence, Shriman Narayan, Sunil Khilnani, tapas, Theodore Roosevelt, U2, Valji Govindji Desai, yamas
add a comment

“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. Many blessings also to all, and especially to those celebrating and/or observing the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast, Great Lent, and/or Lent!

Peace, ease, and openness to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

For Those Who Missed It: The following was originally posted in 2024 (and includes some content posted prior to that).

“‘…the book I’ve been working on for about 10 years, and that I’m in the midst of trying to finish now, is about that; about how we can have a culture that cultivates the spirit of individual dissent.

‘I think it can be done. It can be done by having public examples of that. Gandhi, when he was on the salt march, had everyone singing the song of Rabindranath Tagore, which goes, “Walk alone, walk alone …” Now there’s some paradox in that, with a million people on the march! But he was cultivating the thought that each individual has dignity, and the dignity consists partly in the willingness to stand up to authority.’

Gandhi’s leadership of a march protesting about the salt tax imposed by India’s British colonial administrators is a vivid example of the kind of civic formation [Martha] Nussbaum is talking about. But she has homelier examples, too.”

— quoted from The Sydney Morning Herald article “Interview: Martha Nussbaum – As attitudes harden towards religion, the American philosopher turns her attention to the nurturing of faith, freedom and respect for difference.” by Ray Cassin (pub. September 1, 2012)

In the mid-1880s, the British East India Company (and then the British government) enacted a series of salt taxes, which made it illegal to produce or possess salt without paying a tax. By 1930, that tax represented 8.2% of the British Raj tax revenue. Even if you lived in a coastal town like Dandi, you had to pay the tax, or suffer the consequences. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi decided salt would be the focus of a direct action, non-violent mass protest.

As I mentioned [previously], some people laughed when Gandhi decided salt would be the focus of his satyagraha. People who are world leaders today scoffed back then, because they didn’t get it and they didn’t have his insight and vision. However, Gandhi wasn’t the first radical leader to emphasize the importance of salt. Jesus did it, in the Gospel According to Matthew (5:13 – 14), when he referred to his disciples as “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” In both cases, the teacher whose name would become synonymous with a worldwide religious movement indicated that there was a purpose, a usefulness, to the disciples and their roles (as salt and as light). I think it’s important to remember that Jesus was speaking to fishermen, farmers, and shepherds — people who were intimately familiar with the importance of salt (and light). They knew that (different kinds of) salt can be used for flavoring, preservation, fertilization, cleansing, and destroying, and that it could be offered as a sacrifice. They knew, as Gandhi would later point out, that people in hot, tropical climates needed salt for almost everything — including healing.

Gandhi’s “audience” was different. He was living in a time of industrialization and the beginnings of these modern times in which we find ourselves. He knew that people laughed and scoffed, because they didn’t completely understand the usefulness and vitalness of salt. He understood that some people took salt for granted. Even within the pages of Young India (which he used to educate and inform people), he debated with experts about the benefits and risks of salt consumption. He also knew that some people — inside and outside of British-ruled India — just didn’t get the inhumanity of charging people a tax for something that they could obtain (literally) outside their front door; something that was part of the very fiber of their being.

Remember, the human body is 60 – 75% water… and most of that water is saturated with salt.

“Next to air and water, salt is perhaps the greatest necessity of life. It is the only condiment of the poor. Cattle cannot live without salt. Salt is a necessary article in many manufactures. it is also a rich manure.

There is no article like salt, outside water, by taxing which the State can reach even the starving millions, the sick, the maimed and the utterly helpless. The salt tax constitutes the most inhuman poll tax that the ingenuity of man can devise.”

— quoted from a letter by M. K. Gandhi, printed in Young India, Vol. XII, Ahmedabad: February 27, 1930

From Wednesday, March 12^th until Saturday, April 5^th, 1930, Gandhi walked over 240 miles (390 kilometers) so that he could reach the sea shore in Dandi in order to break an unjust law. He woke up in Dandi, on Sunday, April 6^th, prayed and illegal made salt at 8:30 AM. The satyagraha against the salt tax would continue for almost a year. It would, ultimately, be one of the inspirations for Civil Rights Movement in the United States. It would also be one of the first times that women were actively involved in a protest in India. Kamala Nehru, the young wife of the man who would eventually become India’s first Prime Minister, was one of those women. She was also an advocate for women being involved in the movement and in politics. (So, it is not surprising that her daughter and grandson also became prime ministers.)

Over 60,000 Indians (including Gandhi) would be jailed before it was all said and done. But, when Gandhi began the march he was only accompanied by 78 men devoted to truth (satya).

“Truth (Satya) implies love, and firmness (agraha) engenders and therefore serves as a synonym for force. I thus began to call the Indian Movement ‘Satyagraha’ , that is to say, the Force which is born of Truth and Love or non-violence, and gave up the use of the phrase ‘passive resistance’ in connection with it, so much so that even in English writing we often avoided it and used instead the word ‘Satyagraha’ itself or some other equivalent English phrase.”

— quoted from “12. THE ADVENT OF SATYAGRAHA” in Satyagraha in South Africa by M. K. Gandhi (as published in THE SELECTED WORKS OF MAHATMA GANDHI, VOLUME TWO, translated from the Gujarati by Valji Govindji Desai; General Editor Shriman Narayan)

Even though thousands would join the movement, the 78 men who started the march with Gandhi (and many who would join in along the way) were people who practiced a dedication to ahimsa (non-violence/non-harming) and satya (truth) — the first two yamas (external restraints or universal commandments) of the 8-Limb Philosophy of Yoga. Since Gandhi once said, “God is Truth” and another time said “Truth is God,” there was also a commitment to recognizing a day-to-day awareness of a higher purpose, meaning in life, and supreme consciousness. This is one way to look at bramacharya, yet another yama.

Along with the business and logistics of the campaign, people participating in the march had to sleep outside, often wore a single white garment, and were dependent on villagers along the way to provide food and water for them to wash up. This means they also practiced asteya (non-stealing), aparagraha (non-attachment), saucha (cleanliness), santosha (contentment), and tapas (discipline/austerity). Furthermore, they chanted and sang devotionals to keep their spirits up; which can also be a way of practicing isvarapranidhana (releasing one’s efforts back to the source).

All told, the satyagrahis actively practiced all five (5) of the yamas (external restraints/universal commandments) and four (4) of the five (5) niyamas (internal observations) which make up the ethical component of the philosophy of yoga. One could even argue that, since people had to consider their feelings on the subject and make the decision to join the movement, they were also practicing svadyaya (self-study), which is the niyama I did not include above. Either way you break it down, Gandhi and the first 78 men set the tone for the movement. They were steeped in a way of life and a way of thinking that enabled them to respond rather than to react and to work towards change without being attached to the results.

Jawaharlal Nehru — who would go on to become India’s first Prime Minister — was one of the people who initially scoffed at Mahatma Gandhi’s idea to focus on salt. But, he and his wife participated in the movement. They saw the powerful effect of the movement firsthand. In fact, he indicated that the important legacy of the Salt Satyagraha was how it changed the mindset of the Indian populace.

“Of course these movements exercised tremendous pressure on the British Government and shook the government machinery. But the real importance, to my mind, lay in the effect they had on our own people, and especially the village masses. Poverty and a long period of autocratic rule, with its inevitable atmosphere of fear and coercion, had thoroughly demoralised and degraded them…. Non-cooperation dragged them out of this mire and gave them self-respect and self-reliance; they developed the habit of cooperative action; they acted courageously and did not submit so easily to unjust oppression; their outlook widened and they began to think a little in terms of India as a whole….”

— quoted from a letter addressed to Lord Lothian [Philip Henry Kerr, 11th Marquess of Lothian], dated Badenweiler, January 17, 1936, by Jawaharlal Nehru (published in A Bunch of Old Letters: Being mostly written to Jawaharlal Nehru and some written by him, selected and edited by Jawaharlal Nehru, with an introduction by Sunil Khilnani

Several American leaders, including two former presidents (Andrew Jackson and Theodore Roosevelt) have been quoted as saying that one can tell if a person is worth their salt (or not worth their salt) by their willingness to stand up for what is right and/or to put themselves at risk on behalf of a great cause. Fast forward to the United States in the 1960’s and we find another example of people engaging in a satyagraha. Once again, people gained agency through a faith-driven, grassroots movement.

Fast forward to today and we see lots of grassroots efforts and lots of agency being given to the populace. Some of these more modern movements may be based on the concept of non-violence; but, unfortunately, they are not always firmly-grounded in the practice.

“Such a universal force [Satyagraha] necessarily makes no distinction between kinsmen and strangers, young and old, man and woman, friend and foe. The force to be so applied can never be physical. There is in it no room for violence. The only force of universal application can, therefore, be that of ahimsa or love. In other words it is soul force.

Love does not burn others, it burns itself.”

— quoted from “Some Rules of Satyagraha” by M. K. Gandhi, printed in Young India, Vol. XII, Ahmedabad: February 27, 1930

(NOTE: The general explanation and rules were followed by a section of rules of conduct for various situations, including for “an Individual” and for “a Prisoner.”)

“Agape is something of the understanding, creative, redemptive goodwill for all men. It is a love that seeks nothing in return. It is an overflowing love; it’s what theologians would call the love of God working in the lives of men.”

— quoted from the “Loving Your Enemies” sermon at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. (11/17/1957)

Please join me today (Wednesday, March 12^th) 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 “04062021 Salt Satyagraha”]

NOTE: The YouTube playlist includes extra videos of featured songs.

“Even when a man takes revenge on others who hate him, in spite of him not hating them initially, the pain caused by his vengeance will bring him inevitable sorrow.” (313)

“When a man inflicts pain upon others in the forenoon, it will come upon him unsought in the afternoon.” (319)

— quoted from the English translation of the Tamil lyrics in the song “Ahimsa” by U2 and A. R. Rahman, featuring Khatija and Raheema Rahman (translation from IntegralYoga.org)

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).

2024 CORRECTION: I have previously misspoken the time when Gandhi broke the salt tax law. 8:30 AM, local time, appears to be the correct time.

### Be we are all accountable for our own thoughts, words, and deeds. ###

Reflections on Patience & “Treats” (the post practice Monday post) UPDATED w/extra excerpt March 3, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 19-Day Fast, Baha'i, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Food, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Meditation, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Science, Suffering, Vairagya, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 19-Day Fast, 988, Alexander Graham Bell, Baháʼí, Deaf Culture, Feast Day of Saint Katharine, Great Lent, Lundi Gras, Mahatma Gandhi Canadian Foundation for World Peace, mental health, Office of Prevention of Blindness and Deafness, Patience, Ramaḍān, Ramadan, Saint Katharine, Season for Nonviolence, shenpa, Shrove Monday, Shrovetide, Thích Nhất Hạnh, Thich Nhat Hanh, Who HQ, World Health Organization, World Hearing Day, Worldwide Baháʼí Community, Yoga Sutra 1.35
add a comment

“Ramadān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. Many blessings to all, and especially to those celebrating and/or observing the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast, Great Lent, and/or Carnival/Lundi Gras/Shrove Monday on World Hearing Day!

Peace, ease, and patience to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

This post-practice compilation for Monday, March 3^rd features new and previously posted content, as well as excerpts. Links to external websites are marked accordingly. The 2025 prompt question was, “What is your favorite indulgence?” (Bonus question was, “How patient are you?” You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.

“Patience and passion both come from a Latin word meaning to suffer or endure. Whenever we practice patience – cheerfully bearing with somebody who is irascible, or enduring discomfort rather than imposing it on others – we are embracing those principles and creating an opportunity to model nonviolence. By practicing patience we can respond rather than react, and by doing so, stay centered and at peace. There is only one way to create a nonviolent world, and that is by being nonviolent ourselves.”

— quoted from the “Reflection” section of the “Day 32 ~ March 3 ~ Patience” page for the “Season for Nonviolence,” provided by the Mahatma Gandhi Canadian Foundation for World Peace

Take a moment to consider the moments when you are most impatient. What are the causes and conditions? Are the certain people (or a certain person) that always seems to push your buttons? Are there people (or a particular person) to whom you extend a lot of grace and, therefore a lot of patience? Finally, how much patience do you have for yourself?

I find that I am the most impatient with myself and others when I am “hangry”; when I feel as if I (or someone I admire) is making an avoidable mistake; when I am not feeling heard/understood; and/or when I am not hearing/understanding someone else. I also see impatience arising in others for the same reasons and sometimes a perfect storm occurs and all of these things happen at once.

2024 EXCERPT (revised): “Anger and the Importance of Having ‘Treats’ Before You Speak”

I tend to think of impatience as being akin to frustration and it is important to remember that anger and frustration, fear, grief, worry, and anxiety are all normal human emotions. In fact, many Eastern philosophies, like Yoga and Taoism, consider everything — including our emotions — as manifestations of energy.

The aforementioned philosophies (and their corresponding sciences) view energy as being in or out of balance, stagnate or circulating. Since energy that is in balance and flowing appropriately is still the same energy, simply manifesting in a different way, every emotion has a near-peer and an opposite. In fact, we are often encouraged to cultivate the opposite(s) in order to flip or change the energy. For instance, the flip side of anger and frustration is kindness. So, if you are feeling angry or frustrated, doing something loving and kind — for yourself and/or someone else — can change the dynamic inside of you and all around you.

According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sūtras, when someone is “firmly grounded in non-injury (ahimsa), other people who come near will naturally lose any feelings of hostility.” (YS 1.35) That sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Well, full disclosure, I am not there yet. Sometimes my buttons get pushed and — despite staying mindful and practicing the four R’s and other mindfulness-based techniques — I think, say, or do something that contributes to someone’s suffering. Sometimes, I am the “someone” and everyone else just goes about their business. But, sometimes my actions contribute to the suffering of someone other than myself.

Forewarned is forearmed. So, if we know the causes and conditions exist for us to be irritated, we can take steps to cultivate patience. It is helpful to pause, take a breath, & maybe ask for (or offer) forgiveness. It can also help too indulge in a “treat” (or two).

Most people have go-to foods and/or beverages that could be considered their comfort food. However, sometimes the best “treat” is found on the mat or on the cushion. Just taking some time to sit and breathe can be loving and kind. For that matter, sometimes the “treat” can be found in the pews — especially if we are in the process of giving up certain treats.

“Anger is like a howling baby, suffering and crying. The baby needs his mother to embrace him. You are the mother for your baby, your anger. The moment you begin to practice breathing mindfully in and out, you have the energy of a mother, to cradle and embrace the baby. Just embracing your anger, just breathing in and breathing out, that is good enough. The baby will feel relief right away.”

— quoted from “Two – Putting Out the Fire of Anger: Embracing Anger with the Sunshine of Mindfulness” in Anger: Wisdom for Cooling the Flames by Thich Nhat Hanh

In addition to being the third day of the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast and also of the holy month of Ramaḍān, this Monday was also an auspicious time in the various Christian traditions.

In the Western Christian tradition, the Monday before Lent may be known as Shrove Monday by people already focusing on “shriving”. Shrovetide, which includes the three weeks before Lent, is a period of self-examination, repentance, and amendments of sins. Similarly, in Eastern Orthodox traditions which use a different calendar, this Monday marks the beginning of Great Lent is sometimes referred to as Clean Monday.

On the flipside, some people will spend this same period of time — anything from three weeks to two or three days — focusing on indulging in the things they are planning to give up during Lent. For instance, the Monday before Lent is also the last Monday of Carnival (in some Western Christian communities). In places like New Orleans and other parts of the Gulf Coast, it is also known as Lundi Gras (“Fat Monday”). Rose Monday, Merry Monday, and Hall Monday are also names associated with pre-Lenten festivities around the world. In parts of the United Kingdom, people may refer to this day as Collap Monday, because their traditional breakfast will include collaps (leftover slabs of meat, like bacon) and eggs. In east Cornwall, however, people traditionally eat pea soup and, therefore, call today Peasen (or Paisen) Monday.

Each name reflects what people value and, more importantly, each name reflects the different actions people are taking in order to fulfill their mission or serve the purpose in life. Additionally, the backstories associated with the Lenten season, the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast, and the holy month of Ramaḍān are all about getting ready for a change and for a deeper relationship with the Divine (whatever that means to you at this moment).

HEARING/UNDERSTANDING & BEING HEARD/UNDERSTOOD

“Every time a Manifestation of God appears, a fuller measure of inspiration for the next stage in the awakening and progress of humanity is released into the world. A human being—ordinary in every outward respect—is called to be a mouthpiece for God. One may call to mind Moses standing before the Burning Bush, the Buddha receiving enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, the Holy Spirit descending upon Jesus in the form of a dove, or the archangel Gabriel appearing to Muḥammad.”

— quoted from the “Introduction” section of “Bahá’u’lláh – The Divine Educator” on The Official Website of the Worldwide Baháʼí Community (https://www.bahai.org)

According to every story about every divine messenger, prophet, or spiritual leader, there is a calling and, also, a period of reflection and preparation. This preparation period puts an “ordinary” person in a position to literally and figuratively hear and understand the message from the Divine. We can look at the story of Moses — or even Arjun in the Bhagavad Gita (Song of the Lord) — and notice that the message is not always automatically and instantaneously understood or believed. We can do a little svādhyāya (“self-study”) and imagine that we might feel confusion, fear, awe, disbelief… maybe even a little frustration and impatience.

Up until now, I have mostly been talking in the metaphorical and figurative sense; but, take a moment to consider what happens when we literally and physically can’t hear or have a hard time hearing. It is something that happens to billions of people every year and there is no time period that prepares us to hear (and understand) in those situations. However, there is a time when we can get our hearing checked; take measures to prevent hearing loss; invest in tools, aids, and technology that enhances our hearing; and/or learn a new language. That time is now.

The Office of Prevention of Blindness and Deafness of the World Health Organization (WHO) designated March 3^rd as World Hearing Day. Celebrated annually, it is an opportunity “for raising awareness regarding hearing loss and promoting ear and hearing care, and calling for action to address hearing loss and related issues.” In addition to various events hosted by WHO and partner organization, the WHO website has a HearWho app that “gives the general public access to a hearing screener to check their hearing status and monitor it over time….clearly [displays] the users’ results and keeps a personalized track record of their hearing status over time.”

“Changing mindsets: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all”

— The 2025 theme for World Hearing Day

2025 UPDATE: World Hearing Day coincides with the anniversary of the birth of Alexander Graham (b. 1847), which is also the feast day of Saint Katharine (Drexel) (d.1955) Click on the excerpt title below for more about their lives.

Liminal, Lofty, & Rare Days – Redux (the “missing” Friday post)

There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.

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 Little Patience Goes A Long Way ###

Many Liminal & Lofty Days (the “missing” Saturday post) March 2, 2025

Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 19-Day Fast, Baha'i, Bhakti, Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Life, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 19-Day Fast, 988, Abdul-Baha, Alice O. Howell, Amends, ‘Alá’, Baháʼí, Bhagavad Gita, Bob Delyn a’r Ebillion, Bob Delyn and the Ebillion, Carnival, Dewi Ddyfrwr, Great Lent, Jack Hawley, kriya yoga, Mrs. Corinne True, niyamas, niyamās, Ramadan, Ramadān, Rhygyvarch, Saint David's Day, Saint David., Sami Yusuf, Season for Nonviolence
add a comment

“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. Many blessings to all, and especially to those celebrated and/or observed St. David’s Day, the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast, and/or Carnival on March 1^st.

Peace, ease, and amends to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!

This “missing” post for Saturday, March 1^st is a compilation of new and revised versions of previously posted content. I may update some embedded links later this week.

You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.

“Invite the Sacred to participate in your joy in little things, as well as in your agony over the great ones. There are as many miracles to be seen through a microscope as through a telescope. Start with little things seen through the magnifying glass of wonder, and just as a magnifying glass can focus the sunlight into a burning beam that can set a leaf aflame, so can your focused wonder set you ablaze with insight. Find the light in each other and just fan it.”

— based on “X – Meeting Mercy Muchmore” in The Dove in the Stone: Finding the Sacred in the Commonplace by Alice O. Howell

Our lives and our practices are full of little things that we miss if we are not paying attention; little things that make big differences. During the Saturday practices, for instance, we spend a little time at the beginning of each practice “finding the balance within the imbalance” and doing the warm-ups from Ram Dass’s Be Here Now. This takes up very little time, but allows us to (a) gather some important information — in the form of sensation — that will inform our practice and (b) prepare our mind-body in a different way than we do during the other asana practices.

Another thing that may seem small, but is actually quite big, is the way we build the physical practice. Yes, we always build the poses and the sequences from the ground up, but this year we are also building the physical practice by adding poses (and combinations of poses) week by week — which brings awareness to the fact that there are many different ways to move into and out of each pose. While the ways we do it can seem insignificant or small, they can actually make a big difference in the overall effect of a pose, a sequence, and/or a practice. Similarly, practicing with the philosophical elements, with intention, and with a focus on a final meditation — as we do on Saturdays (especially this year) — can not only be nourishing, it can simultaneously elevate and deepen our experience.

For Those Who Missed It: This is an abridged, revised, and updated version of a 2021/2023 post.

“‘There are yet others whose way of worship is to offer up wealth and possessions. Still others offer up self-denial, suffering, and austerities (purifications). Others take clerical or monastic vows, offering up knowledge of the scriptures. Some others make their meditation itself an offering.

‘Some offer up prana, the mysterious vital energy force within them. They do this through control of the breath, literally stopping their inhaling and exhaling.

‘Yet others abstain from food and practice sacrifice by spiritualizing their vital energy – that is, by figuratively pouring their own vital life force into the Cosmic Life Force. The whole point of all these various methods of sacrifice (worship) is to develop a certain mental attitude. Those who live with a truly worshipful attitude, whose whole lives are offered up for improvement of the world, incur no sin (no karmic debt).’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (4.28 – 30) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

For billions of people around the world, the next few weeks (or month) will be devoted to sacrifice and nourishment — specifically, nourishment that comes from sacrifice. I realize that, in the base case, most of us do not think of nourishment and sacrifice in the same heartbeat. Perhaps, if you are a parent without a lot of means, you have to sacrifice (go without) so that your child(ren) can eat and be nourished. But, in most other cases, “sacrifice” and “nourishment” seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum. And they are… if we are only talking about the body. If, however, we are talking about the mind-body and the spirit within, then sacrifice and nourishment can sometimes go hand-in-hand. As we give up something, let go of our attachment, we bring awareness to how we are using our time, energy, and resources. We also bring awareness to the difference between need and desire. Finally, we find ourselves facing our greatest need/desire: the longing for belonging.

The desire to be (and feel) connected to something more than our (individual) self crosses cultural, socio-economic, and geographical boundaries. It crosses the barrier that is sometimes erected by language and age, religion and philosophy. It is, it seems, as much a part of being human as breathing… or eating. So, it might seem ironic that one of the ways in which people “feed” that need/desire to belong is to go without, to give something up. Yet, all of the major religions and philosophies have some ritualistic traditions that involve fasting and/or abstaining from certain behavior for a predetermined period of time. For certain Christians, that period is Lent/Great Lent (which starts this upcoming week for both Western and Eastern/Orthodox Christian communities). Both the Baháʼí Faith and Muslim communities started their own observations, the 19-Day Fast and the holy month of Ramaḍān (respectively), at sunset on Friday night.

I call these “liminal days”; because even though all days are transitional and threshold days on a certain level, these days are specifically designated by various traditions as in-between times. Not “regular” or “ordinary” days, but days when there is a heightened awareness of what’s to come and the need to be ready for what’s to come. While the customs and beliefs are different within these different traditions, people all over the world are actually preparing: Christians observe Lent to get ready for Easter; the Baháʼí community observes their fast as they prepare for a new year; and fasting during the holy month of Ramaḍān, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is preparation for peace, a spiritual pilgrimage, and for each individual’s destiny.

NOTE: I typically focus on Ramaḍān at the end of the holy month. So, keep your eyes open.

“The second wisdom is this: Fasting is the cause of awakening man. The heart becomes tender and the spirituality of man increases. This is produced by the fact that man’s thoughts will be confined to the commemoration of God, and through this awakening and stimulation surely ideal advancements follow.

Third wisdom: Fasting is of two kinds, material and spiritual. The material fasting is abstaining from food and drink, that is, from the appetites of the body. But spiritual, ideal, fasting is this, that man abstain from selfish passions, from negligence and from satanic animal traits. Therefore, the material fast is a token of the spiritual fast.”

— quoted from article entitled “The Divine Wisdom in Fasting – From Table Talks by Abdul-Baha” by Mrs. Corinne True, printed in Star of the West, Vol. IV (No. 18), dated Mulk 1, 69 (February 7, 1914)

For those who are not familiar: The Baháʼí Faith is a monotheistic faith that believes in the oneness of God and religion, as well as the oneness and nobility of humanity. The community believes that, historically, there has been a “progressive revelation of religious truth” which has been shared with the world through the voices of the prophets or Divine Messengers, known as “Manifestations of God” (which include “Braham, Krishna, Zoroaster, Moses, Buddha, Jesus Christ, Muhammad, and, in more recent times, the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh”). People within the faith are taught to honor the value of different religious and philosophical traditions as well as the value of education, especially in science (which is viewed by some faiths as being contrary to religion).

The Baháʼí calendar consists of 19 months, each with 19 days, and each month (and day) is named after an attribute of God. To maintain the integrity of the calendar, there are 4 – 5 intercalary days just before the final month. The final month, which began at sunset on Friday, is known as ‘Alá’ (“loftiness”). We often think of “lofty” as meaning something in a high or elevated position, a noble goal. When speaking of textiles, it is also something that is thick and resilient. Consider for a moment, that even those who are guided by a different calendar are spending this time focused on a higher, deeper, more resilient and lasting connection with the Divine (whatever that means to you at this moment).

Similar to Passover and Yom Kippur (in the Jewish tradition), the 19-Day Fast, the holy month of Ramaḍān, and the upcoming Lenten season all contain elements of the Yoga Philosophy’s niyamās (internal “observations”) and also fall under the rubric that Patanjali calls kriyā yoga (“union in action”), which is a combination of the final three: tapas (“heat, discipline, austerity” and the practices that cultivate them); svādhyāya (“self-study”); and īśvarapraņidhāna (“trustful surrender to higher reality”).

“For this material fast is an outer token of the spiritual fast; it is a symbol of self-restraint, the withholding of oneself from all appetites of the self, taking on the characteristics of the spirit, being carried away by the breathings of heaven and catching fire from the love of God.”

— quoted from Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahā (page 70)

On a purely physical level, fasting and/or abstaining from certain indulgences provide physical detoxification. When the elimination is done in order to achieve a higher, loftier, goal (than just physical detoxification), one can also experience mental (and sometimes emotional) detoxification. Mind-body purification is the practice of śaucāt (“cleanliness”), which is the first niyamā. A pure mind-body begins to cultivate non-attachment and a sense of peace, ease, and “contentment” — which is santoşā, the second niyamā.

In Chapter 17 of the Bhagavad Gita (Song of the Lord), which focuses on “The Path of Threefold Faith”, Krishna defines tapas (the third niyamā) as “to melt” and states, “‘The purpose of purification is not pain and penance, but to deliberately refine one’s life, to melt it down and recast in it into a higher order of purity and spirituality.’” Practices that cultivate this melting/refining experience are not easy. In fact, in most cases they can be detrimental when engaged without community; for the wrong purpose(s); and/or under the guidance of someone who is more focused on pain, punishment, and penance than on transcendence. In fact, the Gita specifically (and emphatically) reinforces the fact that these practices are not intended to be a form of self-punishment. They are not abusive — which is why every major religion has exclusions based on age and physical-mental conditions.

The fact that these practices/rituals are not intended to be abusive does not mean that they are not hard. In fact, they can be brutally challenging — which is part of the reason why (when practiced in community) people feel bonded by the experience. These challenging situations are also a great opportunity for self-study, which is the fourth niyamā. Svādhyāya is not only observing your reactions and responses to challenging situations, but also taking note of your reactions and responses to sacred text or — in the physical practice — how your body is moving (or not moving) through the poses.

Another element of self-study involves contemplating how one would react if they were in certain historical and/or biblical situations. For instance, the 40 days of Lent are meant to mirror the 40 days of prayer and fasting that Jesus experienced in preparation of the final betrayal, temptation, crucifixion, and resurrection. In sharing the wisdom of fasting, the Baháʼí teach about Moses and Jesus fasting for 40 days (and how those practices became Passover, Lent/Great Lent, and the holy month of Ramaḍān) and how “the Blessed Beauty [Bahá’u’lláh]” fasted when focused on receiving the teachings. To receive the teachings, each of the divine messengers or prophets had to completely and trustfully surrender to the Divine, which is īśvarapraņidhāna, the final niyamā.

“My Lord, show me right from wrong
Give me light, make me strong
I know the road is long
Make me strong”

— quoted from the song “Make Me Strong” by Sami Yusuf

It would be nice if, once committed to the path, there was no hesitation or doubt and no attachments/aversions that lead to suffering. However, even when we look at the lives of people who whole-heartedly committed to a spiritual path, we find that the challenges of the path can try even the souls of saints, prophets, and mystics. Consider, for instance, the story of Saint David, whose feast day was Saturday (March 1^st), and how his adherence to the path he chose wasn’t well-received by some of his followers.

Saint David was a 6^th century Welsh archbishop whose recorded death date is March 1, 589. Since he is the patron saint of Wales, as well as of vegetarians and poets, Saint David’s Day (March 1^st) is a big deal in Wales. People dress up in traditional clothing — sometimes yellow and/or green, sometimes with a bit of red; wear leeks and daffodils; and (traditionally) children participate in concerts and festivals.

Saint David was known for his pilgrimages; his strict adherence to disciplined discipleship; and his miracles. He was a descendent of Welsh (Celtic) royalty and, some say, that his mother was King Arthur’s niece. He founded at least 13 monasteries and was known to enforce a strict code of conduct among his brethren that included hard physical labor, regular prayers, a minimalist vegetarian diet, and great charitable works. Furthermore, the monks were required to practice such a severe form of non-attachment that they could not even refer to the Bible as “my book”.

Saint David is known, in Welsh as “Dewi Ddyfrwr” (“David the Water Drinker”), because of stories that he mostly consumed water and the occasional bits of bread, vegetables, leeks, and herbs — sometimes even standing in a cold lake and reciting Scripture. One of the miracles attributed to Saint David is that he survived his bread being poisoned by his brethren (who were tired of his challenging regime). Legend has it that the bread was split between the bishop, a dog, and a raven — the latter two dying wretchedly and almost instantaneously.

It is said that springs of water often appeared during important moments in Saint David’s life and that he was followed by a dove. It is also said that he raised a youth from the dead and cured the blindness of his teacher, Paulinus. However, the most well-known miracle associated with Saint David is that while he was giving a sermon at Synod of Llanddwei Brefi, people complained that they could not see or hear him. Instantly, the story goes, the ground rose up — so that all could see and hear him. Then, a dove landed on his shoulder. I’m not sure what he said during that sermon “on the mount”, but some of the words from his final Sunday sermon (in 589) are well-known and a portion have become a well-utilized saying in Welsh, a reminder of what is important: “Gwnewch y pethau bychain mewn bywyd.” “Do the little things in life.”

“Brothers and sisters, Be joyful, and keep your faith and your creed, and do the little things that you have seen me do and heard about. I on the third day of the week on the first of March shall go the way of my fathers. Farewell in the Lord.”

— based on “62. The Assembly of Mourners” in Rhygyvarch’s Life of St. David (circa later 11^th century)

Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “03052024 More Lofty Days”]

MUSIC NOTE: This is the correct music for the 90-minute practice.

Pethau Bychain Dewi Sant — Bob Delyn a’r Ebillion / St. David’s Little Things — Bob Delyn and the Ebillion

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).

NOTE: Sundays during Lent are considered anniversaries of Easter and the Resurrection; therefore, they are not counted as days of penance.

### BELIEVE IN THE LITTLE THINGS ###

« older posts newer posts »

A Joyful Practice

An Excerpt & FTWMI: Perception, Commitment, & Grace April 1, 2025

“This is what should be done

By one who is skilled in goodness,

And who knows the path of peace:

Let them be able and upright,

Straightforward and gentle in speech,

Humble and not conceited,

Contented and easily satisfied,

Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways.

Peaceful and calm and wise and skillful,

Not proud or demanding in nature.”

— quoted from “Karaniya Metta Sutta: The Buddha’s Words on Loving-Kindness” (SN 1.8), translated from the Pali by The Amaravati Sangha. Access to Insight (2004)

Yoga Sūtra 2.36: satyapratişţhāyām kriyāphalāśrayatvam

— “When a yogi is established in truthfulness, actions begin to bear fruit. [Truth is the foundation for fruitful action.]”

### As far as I know, everything I’ve stated above is true ###

Purpose & Responsibility (the “missing” Wednesday post) March 29, 2025

“Having a clear intention (Niyyah in Arabic) and understanding your position, talents, motivation and means as an Amanah (translated as ‘trust’, or ‘responsibility towards others’) are important elements….”

— quoted from The Heart of Design interview (with Imam Khalid Latif), entitled “Building Conscious Community” by Peter Gould

“‘People are in fact the sum total of the beliefs they hold in their hearts, Arjuna, and there are indeed various kinds of faith. One’s faith corresponds to one’s nature, and one’s nature is equivalent to one’s faith….’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (17.2, abridged) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (18.47) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

“Something we were withholding made us weak Until we found out that it was ourselves We were withholding from our land of living, And forthwith found salvation in surrender.”

— quoted from the poem “The Gift Outright” by Robert Frost

“The violets in the mountains have broken the rocks. The world thirsts after sympathy, compassion, love.”

— quoted from the play Camino Real by Tennessee Williams (The first sentence is also the epitaph on his grave.)

— Sūrah Qadr (“Portion 97 of the Qur’ān”) 1 – 5

— Imam Khalid Latif in a 2013 “Ramadān Reflection” for Huffington Post

### Your Duty Is Calling! ###

Giving, Bending, & Doing What You Can (the “missing” 2-for-1 post for Monday & Tuesday) March 29, 2025

— quoted from the “Reflection” section of the “Day 53 ~ March 24 ~ Action” page for the “Season for Nonviolence,” provided by the Mahatma Gandhi Canadian Foundation for World Peace

— quoted from “12. THE ADVENT OF SATYAGRAHA” in Satyagraha in South Africa by M. K. Gandhi (as published in THE SELECTED WORKS OF MAHATMA GANDHI, VOLUME TWO, translated from the Gujarati by Valji Govindji Desai; General Editor Shriman Narayan)

— Imam Khalid Latif, quoted from the (April 8, 2021) A&E interview “Voices Magnified: Khalid Latif on the True Meaning of Giving”

“I do not pretend to understand the moral universe. The arc is a long one. My eye reaches but little ways. I cannot calculate the curve and complete the figure by experience of sight. I can divine it by conscience. And from what I see I am sure it bends toward justice.”

— quoted from an 1853 sermon by Theodore Parker

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

— The Gospel According to Matthew (6:26, NIV)

He said it reminded him of the message of the prophets, whose primary concern was social injustice, and of his Hasidic forebears, for whom compassion for the suffering of other people defined a religious person.”

— quoted from an article about the 40th Anniversary of the Selma-Montgomery marches, by Dr. Susannah Heschel

— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)

“How long? Not long, because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)

— quoted from the “Ripple of Hope” speech (or Day of Affirmation Address) by Senator Robert F. Kennedy (delivered during the “Day of Reaffirmation of Academic and Human Freedom” at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, on June 6, 1966)

### “Give a little bit / Give a little bit of your love to me / I’ll give a little bit / I’ll give a little bit of my love to you” ~ Supertramp (written by Richard Davies, Roger Hodgson) ###

Purpose & Responsibility (mostly the music & blessings) *UPDATED w/post link* March 26, 2025

“Having a clear intention (Niyyah in Arabic) and understanding your position, talents, motivation and means as an Amanah (translated as ‘trust’, or ‘responsibility towards others’) are important elements….”

— quoted from The Heart of Design interview (with Imam Khalid Latif), entitled “Building Conscious Community” by Peter Gould

CLICK HERE FOR THE RELATED POST.

“‘People are in fact the sum total of the beliefs they hold in their hearts, Arjuna, and there are indeed various kinds of faith. One’s faith corresponds to one’s nature….’”

— Krishna speaking to Arjuna (17.2, abridged) & (18.47) in The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners by Jack Hawley

### ###

Giving, Bending, & Doing What You Can (mostly the music & blessings) *UPDATED w/post link* March 25, 2025

— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama on March 25, 1965)

CLICK HERE FOR THE RELATED POST.

### 🎶 ###

More Stories and Music [the 2025 version] (the “missing” Saturday post) March 22, 2025

“A good sequence is like a good story. There is a beginning (an introduction), the middle (the heart of the story), and the end (the conclusion)”

— Maty Ezraty

— Keegan-Michael Key, quoted from the (July 13, 2017) NPR interview entitled “‘You’re Never Too Old To Screw Up’: Keegan-Michael Key On ‘Friends From College’” by Kelly McEvers, Anjuli Sastry Krbechek

“Don’t you love farce? My fault, I fear I thought that you’d want what I want Sorry, my dear But where are the clowns? Quick, send in the clowns Don’t bothеr, they’re herе”

— quoted from the song “Send in the Clowns” from the musical A Little Night Music, music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by Hugh Wheeler

“‘When you convinced me not to quit, you said, and I quote, “If we are to help save the human race, we must recognize the humanity in all, no matter their station in life.”’”

— Charl speaking to Max and Isabl in Max Einstein: The Genius Experiment by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein

So, across these creative fields, white men — about 30% of the American population — consistently receive nearly half of all writing opportunities.”

— Keegan-Michael Key, quoted from the (Feb 1, 2012) MovieWeb interview entitled “Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele Talk Key & Peele Series Premiere [Exclusive]” by B. Alan Orange

### Enjoy Your Story & Share Your Stories ###

#AccelerateAction for All Women Everywhere (the “missing” Saturday 3/8 post) March 13, 2025

“You weren’t born to be mistreated And you weren’t born to misguided You were born to be loved You were born to be loved”

— quoted from the song “Born to Be Loved” by Lucinda Williams

THE BODY SCAN

“It’s more than strength It’s more than physical It’s more than faith It’s more than biblical”

— quoted from the song “Woman” by Mickey Guyton (written by Victor Franco, Mickey Guyton, Kameron Traviss Glasper, Taylor Monet Parks, Oliver Robin Frid)

— quoted from the WRNS: Your Country 95.1 article entitled “Mickey Guyton shares the official video for ‘Woman’” by Kathy Hutchins

— quoted from the May 6, 2017 Forbes article entitled “Be Bold For Change: Tackling Sexism Head On This International Women’s Day” by Margie Warrell, Ph.D.

“When Kings fall to their knees They sing a woman’s song When birds scream in the trees They sing a woman’s song The sunrise in the east Sings a woman’s song Every heart that beats Sings a woman’s song”

— quoted from the song “Song of Women” by The HU, featuring Lizzy Hale of Halestorm (written by Elizabeth Hale, Dashdondog Bayarmagnai, Enkhsaikhan Batjargal, Galbadrakh Tsendbaatar, Temuulen Naranbaatar, Nyamjanstan Galsanjamts)

“A man dies when he refuses to stand up for that which is right. A man dies when he refuses to stand up for justice. A man dies when he refuses to take a stand for that which is true.”

— quoted from the March 8, 1965 sermon, at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church (in Selma, Alabama) by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“The most disrespected woman in America, is the black woman. The most un-protected person in America is the black woman. The most neglected person in America, is the black woman.”

— quoted from the May 5, 1962 speech (at the funeral Ronald Stokes) by Malcom X

“Something we were withholding made us weak
Until we found out that it was ourselves
We were withholding from our land of living,
And forthwith found salvation in surrender.”

— quoted from an article about the 40^th Anniversary of the Selma-Montgomery marches, by Dr. Susannah Heschel

**— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)**

**— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 25, 1965)**

Purpose & Responsibility (mostly the music & blessings) UPDATED w/post link March 26, 2025

Giving, Bending, & Doing What You Can (mostly the music & blessings) UPDATED w/post link March 25, 2025

**— quoted from the “How Long? Not Long” speech* by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (delivered in Montgomery, Alabama on March 25, 1965)**

“Don’t you love farce?
My fault, I fear
I thought that you’d want what I want
Sorry, my dear
But where are the clowns?
Quick, send in the clowns
Don’t bothеr, they’re herе”

— Keegan-Michael Key, quoted from the (Feb 1, 2012) MovieWeb interview entitled “Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele Talk Key & Peele Series Premiere [Exclusive]” by
B. Alan Orange

“You weren’t born to be mistreated
And you weren’t born to misguided
You were born to be loved
You were born to be loved”

“It’s more than strength
It’s more than physical
It’s more than faith
It’s more than biblical”

“When Kings fall to their knees
They sing a woman’s song
When birds scream in the trees
They sing a woman’s song
The sunrise in the east
Sings a woman’s song
Every heart that beats
Sings a woman’s song”

Reflections on Patience & “Treats” (the post practice Monday post) UPDATED w/extra excerpt March 3, 2025