A Quick [REVISED] Note & EXCERPT: “Fourth Step: Once More, With Feeling” October 27, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Loss, Love, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Poetry, Suffering, Tragedy, TV, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), Dylan Thomas, intersex, Laura Inter, literature, Nyanasatta Thera, poem, Poetry, pranayama, Ronald Reagan, Satipattthana Sutta, Sylvia Plath, Theodore Roosevelt, Writing
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy; and may everyone recognize their whole self.
The following is a slightly revised version of a previously posted note and excerpt.
“Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light”
— quoted from the poem “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas (b. 1914)
There are a lot of noteworthy things related to this date in history — including the fact that Laura Inter founded Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), “a Mexican organization that works with intersex people, activists, and communities in Mexico, Latin America, and Spain”, today in 2013. All of the things, even the ones not mentioned in the practice and/or the excerpt below, are related to how we live our lives (i.e., how we spend our time) and how we interact with each other during the limited time that we have together.
The hope is that we can respect each other, be kind, and hold space for what each of us experiences on any given day. The hope is that each of us will step into the arena and co-create a world where all our hearts can shine and [sing].
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old bray of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
or
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old brag of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
— quoted from two different editions of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (b. 1932)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELORE FOR MORE.
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
— quoted “The Man in the Arena” portion of the “Citizenship in a Republic” speech (delivered April 23, 1910, Sorbonne, Paris) by former President Theodore Roosevelt (b. 1858)
Please join me today (Tuesday, October 27th) at 12:00 Noon 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 “10272021 Another Appointment EVE”]
NOTE: Over the last few years, we have used several different playlists on this date. If you are using a recording, double check the playlist date.
“You and I are told increasingly we have to choose between a left or right. Well I’d like to suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There’s only an up or down: [up] man’s old – old-aged dream, the ultimate in individual freedom consistent with law and order, or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism. And regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would trade our freedom for security have embarked on this downward course.”
— quoted from the 1964 “A Time for Choosing” speech by Ronald Reagan
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“And further, monks, as if a monk sees a body dead…, he then applies this perception to his own body thus: ‘Verily, also my own body is of the same nature; such it will become and will not escape it.’
Thus he lives contemplating the body in the body internally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body externally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body internally and externally. He lives contemplating origination-factors in the body, or he lives contemplating dissolution factors in the body, or he lives contemplating origination-and-dissolution-factors in the body. Or his mindfulness is established with the thought: ‘The body exists,’ to the extent necessary just for knowledge and mindfulness, and he lives detached, and clings to nothing in the world. Thus also, monks, a monk lives contemplating the body in the body.”
— quoted from Satipatthana Sutta (The Foundations of Mindfulness) translated by Nyanasatta Thera
ERRATA: The original title erroneously described this as a Monday post-practice post. (rev. 11/02/2026)
### CONTINUE TO BREATHE ###
Abilities & Achievements (the post-practice Monday post) October 19, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Abhyasa, Art, Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Meditation, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 8 Limbs of Yoga Philosophy, 988, Ayudha Puja, Buddha, Buddhism, Herman Hesse, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, Navaratri, Philosophy, Ranjit Hoskote, Samyama, Sharada Navaratri, Siddhartha, Siddhartha Gautama, Siddhidhatri, siddhis, Swami Vivekananda, yoga philosophy, Yoga Sutra 1.3, Yoga Sutra 1.30-1.32, Yoga Sutra 1.30-32, Yoga Sutra 1.32-1.39, Yoga Sutra 3.1-3.6, Yoga Sutra 3.45, Yoga Sutra 3.46, Yoga Sutra 4.1
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating their stories about friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This post-practice compilation post for Monday, October 19th, includes new and re-purposed content, as well as an excerpt. The 2026 prompt question was, “What is something you are able to do well and what is an ability you are still working on doing?” You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“At one time, when the two young men had lived among the Samanas for about three years and had shared their exercises, some news, a rumour, a myth reached them after being retold many times: A man had appeared, Gotama by name, the exalted one, the Buddha, he had overcome the suffering of the world in himself and had halted the cycle of rebirths. He was said to wander through the land, teaching, surrounded by disciples, without possession, without home, without a wife, in the yellow cloak of an ascetic, but with a cheerful brow, a man of bliss, and Brahmans and princes would bow down before him and would become his students.
This myth, this rumour, this legend resounded, its fragrance rose up, here and there; in the towns….”
“The myth of Buddha sounded sweet. The scent of magic flowed from these reports. After all, the world was sick, life was hard to bear—and behold, here a source seemed to spring forth, here a messenger seemed to call out, comforting, mild, full of noble promises. Everywhere where the rumour of Buddha was heard, everywhere in the lands of India, the young men listened up, felt a longing, felt hope….”
— quoted from “First Part: With The Samanas” in Siddhartha: An Indian Tale by Herman Hesse
There are many people, particularly historical and/or religious figures, who become so well known by their titles that some people do not realize the “name” they know is actually a title. This recently came up in discussions about Mohandas K. Gandhi, when someone didn’t know that mahatma means “great soul”. At least a decade ago, a group of scholars decided to create a new translation of the New Testament, in part, because they realized there were Christians who didn’t realize the word christ is an honorific or title meaning “messiah” or “[the] anointed”. Then there is the Dalai Lama, whose title combines the Mongolian word for “ocean” or “big” with the Tibetan word for “guru” (i.e., “teacher”). I’ll even admit that I sometimes forget that Rinpoche (or Rimpoche) is a Tibetan word meaning “precious one”, as opposed to being a family surname that people just assume when they join a religious family.
Another person who is famously remembered more by his title than his name is the Buddha (the “Awakened One”). The thing about these titles/honorifics is that they often reflect the story of how someone was able to do the things that made them memorable. In the Buddha’s case, his actual name has a meaning that is also part of the story. I have heard, Gautama Buddha started off as a prince named Siddhartha Gautama.1 Siddhartha being a combination of the Sanskrit words siddha (“achieved”) and artha (“means or meaning”). In other words, he was named the “one who achieved his goals” or the “one who achieved the meaning”.
“But in the evening, when the heat cooled down and everyone in the camp started to bustle about and gathered around, they heard the Buddha teaching. They heard his voice, and it was also perfected, was of perfect calmness, was full of peace. Gotama taught the teachings of suffering, of the origin of suffering, of the way to relieve suffering. Calmly and clearly his quiet speech flowed on. Suffering was life, full of suffering was the world, but salvation from suffering had been found: salvation was obtained by him who would walk the path of the Buddha. With a soft, yet firm voice the exalted one spoke, taught the four main doctrines, taught the eightfold path, patiently he went the usual path of the teachings, of the examples, of the repetitions, brightly and quietly his voice hovered over the listeners, like a light, like a starry sky.”
— quoted from “First Part: Gotama” in Siddhartha: An Indian Tale by Herman Hesse
Buddhism and the Yoga Philosophy share a history, some philosophical principles, and certain aims/goals. They both have eight steps intended to attenuate (or end) suffering. According to the Yoga Sūtras, practicing the Yoga Philosophy can enable someone to “rest in their own true nature” (YS 1.3); overcome certain obstacles and the accompanying ailments (YS 1.30-1.32); and “attain steadiness (or clarity) of mind” (YS 1.32-1.39). The text (and commentary) also includes the expectation that this clarity of mind directly (and indirectly) leads to physical vitality, which will, in turn, enable practitioners to do the things they are meant to do in the world.
Some of the things we do are done by using the six siddhis, “powers or abilities” that are described in the Sāmkhya Karika as “powers unique to being human.” While we can debate whether or not other beings can do these things, it is undeniable that humans, when we are at our best, can do these things. But, then, in the third and fourth sections of the Yoga Sūtras, there are a plethora of “supernormal” siddhis that sound like Jedi Knight tricks or super hero powers. These come from applying samyama, a tool formed by combining the last three limbs of the Yoga Philosophy: dharana (“focus”), dhyana (“concentration”), and samadhi (“meditation”)2 (YS 3.1-3.6).
While applying samyama — let alone getting to a place in your life/practice where you can apply samyama — might seem like a lot of work, there are actually five different ways (outlined in Yoga Sūtra 4.1) to achieve the most fantastical siddhis: they can be attained at birth (because they carry over from a previous lifetime); through the use of herbs or mantras; through the practice of tapas (in this case, “practices that cultivate heat, discipline, and austerity”); or by through samadhi (“meditation”).
Of course, for some people, prayer is meditation (and can also be a form of mantra) and a puja (“offering”) can be a form of tapas. For some, the greatest abilities/powers are like the Virtues given by the Holy Spirit: they can be offered as a blessing from the Divine.
“This means that the Yogi has attained the eight powers. He can make himself as minute as a particle, or as huge as a mountain, as heavy as the earth, or as light as the air; he can reach anything he likes, he can rule everything he wants, he can conquer everything he wants, and so on. A lion will sit at his feet like a lamb, and all his desires will be fulfilled at will.”
— quoted from the commentary on Yoga Sūtra 3.46 (or 3.45, in some text) from Raja Yoga by Swami Vivekananda
The following description of the ninth day/night of Navaratri is a slightly revised/expanded excerpt.
Today (Monday) is the ninth day/night of Navaratri, the Hindu festival of “nine nights” celebrating divine feminine energy in various manifestations. Each of manifestation of Durga/Parvati is a symbolic milestone (and a reminder that women “contain multitudes”). The final day3 is devoted to Siddhidhatri, whose name literally means “land/earth of achievements”. Her name can also be translated as “Giver of Perfection”, as She is believed to be endowed with all the siddhis (“abilities” or “powers”) in the Universe and, also, to be able to bestow all of them. Typically, however, She only gives nine of the multitudes — some of which are referenced in the aforementioned Yoga Sūtras.
During the big celebrations of Navaratri (in the Spring and Fall) the final day is a double celebration — which may mean more feasting in some regions and more fasting in others. For example, some celebrations on the ninth day of Navaratri will also be Ayudha Puja (“worship of tools”), when people celebrate peace and knowledge and give thanks for the tools of their occupation. This means that some will give thanks for musical instruments and others will give thanks for their farming machinery. At the same time, some will make their puja (“offering”) to Saraswati — who is associated with knowledge, the arts, and culture, etc. — and others will direct their attention to Lakshmi — who is associated with prosperity, wealth, and fertility, etc.
“We’re beyond even Shiva and Shakti here.
This Beyond that’s beyond all we can name, that’s your lesson!”
— quoted from poem 115 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
In art and literature, Siddhidhatri is sometimes depicted as being half of Shiva (with Him being half of Her), meaning that they are the embodiment the yin/yang symbol. When they are shown together in this way, they are each known as Ardhanarishvara, Ardhanaranari, or similar names that all highlight the fact that They are partially a woman.
When we look at the hero(ine)’s journey — as told through each day’s story, we are reminded that Durga/Parvati is a warrior or, if you will, a hero friend.
We are also reminded that each and every one of us has the ability to do something that makes a difference in the world. In our Navaratri-inspired journey, Siddhidhatri is a reminder to focus on what we are able to do and, also, to celebrate our achievements.
“To the yogi the whole wide world ripples into Nothingness:
it splashes like water on the water of Infinity.
When that Void melts, Perfection remains.
Hey priest-man, that’s the only lesson you need!”
— Poem 114 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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:
1In Herman Hesse’s novel Siddhartha, the Buddha is referred to as “Gotama”, (the Pali version of Guatama) and the titular character is a young man who becomes a follower of the Buddha.
2I use a translation of the final three limbs of the Yoga Philosophy that illustrates a progression of awareness. When dharana and dhyana are translated as “concentration” and “meditation”, samadhi is understood as complete absorption and/or “[perfect] meditation” (but is not necessarily translated).
3As I mentioned last week, the fall (Sharada) celebration of Navaratri includes a tenth day, Dussehra or Vijayadashami, which commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over a 10-headed demon.
### “Whatever I’ve started, I’ll finish.” ~ #88, Lal Dĕd (translated by Ranjit Hoskote) ###
Just Enough Time To Create… & Shine! (the “missing” compilation post) October 14, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Beresh't, creationism, e e cummings, Ecclesiastes, Genesis, Gregorian calendar, Kohelet, Kushmanda, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, Marian Feast Days, Navaratri, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ranjit Hoskote, Sharada Navaratri, The Protection of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Vatican II, Yoga Sutra 1.25
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone celebrating the Protection of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary and/or creating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This “missing” compilation post for Wednesday, October 14th, includes new content and excerpts. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“You rule the earth, breathe life
into the five elements.
All creation throbs with the Unstruck Sound.
Immeasurable, who can take Your measure?”
— Poem 113, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth”, or words to that affect, are familiar to pretty much everyone who grew up in a community rooted in one or more of the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, or Islām). Those words are a common English translation for Beresh’t-Genesis 1:1, the beginning of the Torah (or Hebrew Bible) and the beginning of the Christian Old Testament. While the words are different in the Qur’ān, this is still the beginning of the creation story, according to the Abrahamic religions.
Every culture on the planet has a creation story. These stories almost always involve a force above and beyond that creates… everything, including time. Go a little deeper into those stories and their supporting theology and you will find the belief that everything that is created contains some trace of it’s Creator, some element or attribute of the Divine — including the ability to create.
“[Kushmanda] also lives in our hearts. The fact that she is smiling reminds us that we too are our most creative when we are smiling and feeling positive, courageous (a quality of heart), and strong.”
— quoted from the “Knowing Kushmanda” section of “Chapter 4 — The Art of Loving Your True Self” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
EXCERPT (REMIX): The following description for the fourth day of Navaratri is a revised and expanded excerpt. Some links have been updated/added.
Today was the fourth day of Sharada Navaratri. Some might think of Navaratri, the “nine nights” and days of celebration in the Hindu tradition, as being very different from their own religious celebrations — because it is a celebration that focuses on Durga, the divine mother, in various manifestations. However, Hinduism is not the only religion where the feminine aspects of the Divine are celebrated. It’s not even the only religion that celebrated the Divine feminine today, since some Christians in Orthodox traditions were celebrating the Protection of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary.
Furthermore, Navaratri is not the only religion in which an observation related to a woman, as the Divine, is associated with a period of nine days/nights. To my knowledge, however, Navaratri is unique in that it celebrates many different aspects of a single woman during the same timeframe. Each night/day is associated with a different manifestation of Durga/Parvati, the mother goddess, and is part of nine-part story cycle/journey that ends with a demon-king being destroyed.
This fourth day is dedicated to the Goddess Kushmanda who, it is said, “created the world with her divine smile” — a smile that also powers the sun. She is recognized as Shakti (the creative force) and associated with good health (specifically with improving health), wealth, and strength. She is like the aspects of the Virgin Mary that are remembered on Candlemas.
“The fact that this goddess, like Chandraghanta, rides a lion shows that the power of love is just as potent as the fire of transformation. It reminds us that the ability to love comes from inner strength. When we feel clouded by fear, anger, and grief, it can be difficult to imagine one day having the strength to love again. But Kushmanda is here to remind us that, no matter how brokenhearted we may feel at time, the power of love lives within us, and we can tap into it and become our creative best at any time.”
— quoted from the “Knowing Kushmanda” section of “Chapter 4 — The Art of Loving Your True Self” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
According to Kohelet — Ecclesiastes (3:1), “Everything has an appointed season, and there is a time for every matter under the heaven.” Since today (October 14th) was the last “deleted” day when papal-governed countries switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar back in 1582, why not think of today as a season to create change?
We can not only ask ourselves “How can I spend my time?”; we can also ask “What can I create during this time?”.
Asking and answering these questions leads us to the fourth step in our Navaratri journey: Create a plan that allows you to shine!
On a certain level, the aforementioned questions were being actively asked and answered when the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican, more commonly known as the Second Vatican Council or Vatican II, started it’s second working day, today in 1962.
These were also the questions, on a certain level, that e e cummings (born today in 1894) asked himself as he figured out the way he wanted to show up in the world.
Click on the excerpt title below for a post about e e cummings.
“i thank You God for most this amazing
day:for the leaping greenly spirits of trees
and a blue true dream of sky; and for everything
which is natural which is infinite which is yes”
— quoted from “i thank You God for most this amazing” by e e cummings (b. 1894)
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10142025 ‘i carry your heart’ [the celebrations remix]”]
“i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)“
— quoted from “[i carry your heart with me(I carry it in)]” by e e cummings
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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).
“At this point, and only at this point, surrender becomes a matter of personal experience—a state of gratitude powerful enough to fill your mind and consume all the afflictions that once used to agitate it.”
— quoted from the Yoga International commentary on Yoga Sūtra 1.25 by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD
### AUM ###
Just Enough Time To Create… & Shine! (mostly the blessings & music) **UPDATED w/excerpt** October 14, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Books, Changing Perspectives, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, e e cummings, Gregorian calendar, Kushmanda, Marian Feast Days, Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri, The Protection of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Vatican II
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone celebrating the Protection of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary and/or creating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“i thank You God for most this amazing
day:for the leaping greenly spirits of trees
and a blue true dream of sky; and for everything
which is natural which is infinite which is yes”
— quoted from “i thank You God for most this amazing” by e e cummings (b. 1894)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
Just Enough Time To Create… & Shine! (the “missing” compilation post)
Please join me today (Wednesday, October 14th) 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 by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10142025 ‘i carry your heart’ [the celebrations remix]”]
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
### 🎶 ###
Committing to Change, Knowing, & Unknowing (the “missing” Tuesday post) October 13, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Abhyasa, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Vairagya, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, Abhyasa, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Chandraghanta, Commitment, Gregorian calendar, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri, Vairagya, Vatican II, Yoga Sutra 1.12 - 1.14
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone learning to know friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This “missing” compilation post for Tuesday, October 13th, includes new content and excerpts. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“From what direction did I come, and by what road?
In what direction am I going, how shall I find the road?
I hope they’ll send me a map before it’s too late
or it’s all over for me, my breath all gone to waste.”
— Poem 9, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
We started a journey on Sunday. Or, maybe you just started. Either way, every journey starts with an awareness of where you are (and who you are) and where you want to go. Even if you are lost, on a certain level, there is an awareness of being lost and wanting to be… elsewhere. So, we started the journey this particular journey by identifying where we are and who we are. The second step was to take a deep breath in and a deeper breath out — to practice a little yoga, if you will. Now, the third step: commit.
Commitment is a big part of any practice. The Yoga Philosophy specifically encourages us to commit to the practice. Abhyasa is the “[continuous and deliberate] practice, [engaged with sincere devotion]”. Paired with vairagya (“non-attachment”), abhyasa is a mindful, intentional, and deliberate way of creating habits that serve you — on and off the mat. (YS. 1.12-1.14) It is also the gateway to change, transformation (if you will).
In many cultures, marriage or taking religious vows are seen as life-long commitments. These commitments are marked by ritual, tradition, celebration, and public declarations — all of which creates an opportunity for people to be held accountable and, also, serves as a reminder of the commitment. Weddings or confirmations, however, are simply markers or symbols. The ceremonies are not the commitment itself. The commitment is what you do on a day to day basis: show up and keep your promise.
“Up, woman! Go make your offering.
Take wine, meat and a cake fit for the gods.
If you know the password to the Supreme Place,
you can reach wisdom by breaking the rules.”
— Poem 19, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
While Lalla, the 14th century Kashmiri poet, mystic, spiritual teacher, and saint was forced into an abusive marriage at age 12 and stayed in that marriage for 14 years, she was always more committed to her spiritual and religious practice that she was to her marriage. The commitment that she made — of her own volition — was the commitment she kept, the commitment that sustained her through hardship, and the commitment that ultimately led to her transforming her own life.
Even though the journey that plays out through the story of Navaratri is a little different from Lalla’s story, it is still a story that involves commitment as a pathway to transformation and transcendence.
“I gave myself to Him, body and soul,
became a bell that the clear note of Him rang through.
Thoughts fixed on Him, I flew through the sky
and unlocked the mysteries of heaven and hell.”
— Poem 112, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
EXCERPT: The following description for the third day of Navaratri is a slightly revised excerpt. Some links have been updated/added.
Today (Tuesday) was the third day and night of Sharada Navaratri, the “nine nights” celebrating Divine feminine energy in various manifestations. 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 refer 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.
“Transformation is not something that accidentally happens to us. Like every part of the Navaratri cycle, it is something we initiate and experience again and again during our lives. For myself, day 3 of this cyclical practice (or week 3 or month 3, depending on how you structure your own Navaratri practice) is an opportunity to do something outside my comfort zone.”
— quoted from the “Cultivating Transformation” section of “Chapter 3 — Igniting the Fire of Transformation” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
In addition to being one the days “deleted” when papal-governed countries switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, October 13, 1962, was the first working day of The Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican. More commonly known as the Second Vatican Council or Vatican II, the meetings that spanned a little over three years were a journey and a commitment to change.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE FOR MORE.
“I find a lot of similarity between Goddess Kalaratri, who symbolizes the spiritual power of transcendence, and Goddess Chandraghanta, who represents the power of transformation (in chapter 3). While transformation happens from taking strong, consistent action to overcome our fears, transcendence results from applying spiritual knowledge to see traumas we have experienced through the eyes of wisdom. This ensures we never see ourselves as helpless victims at the mercy of a cruel world but rather as powerful manifesters of our own destinies.”
— quoted from the “Cultivating Transcendence” section of “Chapter 7 — Transcending Trauma with Wisdom” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10132020 Knowing & Unknowing, prequel”]
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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).
### Promise Yourself ###
The Next Step is Part of Getting Ready (the post-practice Monday compilation) October 12, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, First Nations, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Bramacharini, Bramcharya, Canadian Thanksgiving, Christopher Columbus, First Nations, Gregorian calendar, Indigenous Peoples, Journey, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Native, Navaratri, Ranjit Hoskote, Second Monday in October, Sharada Navaratri, tapas, Will Joyner
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom on Canadian Thanksgiving and the second Monday in October.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This post-practice compilation post for Monday, October 12th, includes new content and a series of excerpts. The 2026 prompt question was, “What is something you always do when you are getting ready to start something big and what is something you could do more often when you are getting ready to start something big?” You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“I trapped my breath in the bellows of my throat:”
— quoted from poem 42 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
This year, for nine days, we are taking a journey. Anyone can take this journey and we could start this journey at any time. I am suggesting it now for a few reasons. First, we are still in the middle of those “lagniappe” or extra days that were skipped, in 1582, as papal-governed countries switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. Another reason I am making this suggestion now is because today (Monday) was the second day of Navaratri (“nine nights”).
This is a yoga journey, in that it is intended to bring us closer to “a previously unattainable goal”. Even if your goal and desire is related to something you are continuing to day, it requires taking things step-by-step.
The first step is knowing where (and who) you are and where you are going. The second step is doing the things you do when you are getting ready to do something big. One of the things I do is take a deep breath in and a deeper breath out. Sometimes I do that in a stationary position; sometimes I move between positions. Either way, I start with a little bit of yoga.
Just like the first step, this second step is inspired by a manifestation of divine feminine energy who is celebrated during the nine days and nine nights of Navaratri.
The following description related to the second day of Navaratri is excerpted from previous posts.
“While this may sound like an extreme–and even scary–story, I don’t see it as the tale of a goddess who gave up everything to marry a god. Instead, I understand it as the story of a Truth seeker who gave up all distractions to merge with the ultimate Truth.”
— quoted from the “Knowing BRAHMACHARINI” section of “Chapter 2: Channeling Your Energy — Channeling Your Energy (when you’re feeling excited) with Goddess Brahmacharini, the one who follows brahmacharya (the path of self-control)” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals To Awaken Your Inner Warrior And Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Yesterday was also the beginning of Sharada Navaratri, the most celebrated of the four Navaratri festivals. Navaratri literally means “nine nights” and is a Hindu celebration of God / the Divine as a woman. Each day is dedicated to a different manifestation of Durga/Parvati and each manifestation marks a different point in Her journey. Today, the second day, is dedicated to the Goddess Brahmacharini (“Unmarried One”), who is also Yogini. Both of her names highlight her path.
A yogini is a woman who practices yoga. Brahmacharini shares a root with the fourth yama (external “restraint” or universal commandment), brahmacharya, which can be translated as following in the steps of God or “chasing God” — or even that the devotee is riding in God’s “chariot”. All of these translations are associated with the life of someone who is deeply invested in their religious and spiritual life. In art, Brahmacharini has all the symbols of an ascetic: bare feet, a mala (rosary) and a kamandalu (water pot). Since people consider her a symbol of bliss and calmness, some pray to her for moksha (“liberation” from suffering), peace, and prosperity.
People also believe Brahmacharini can endow them with strong concentration and self-control. In fact, her story is full of the great challenges associated with the austerity she practices in order to achieve her goal of marriage. To me, she, herself, is liminal in that she is the embodiment of the auspicious moment between the goddess being identified as a daughter and the goddess being identified as a wife.
“The story of Brahmacharini and Shiva is not meant to be the story of a romantic relationship; Shiva is merely symbolic of the true Self. He is pure consciousness, the eternal soul, which we strive to merge with vis–à–vis the power of spiritual practice.”
— quoted from the “Knowing BRAHMACHARINI” section of “Chapter 2: Channeling Your Energy — Channeling Your Energy (when you’re feeling excited) with Goddess Brahmacharini, the one who follows brahmacharya (the path of self-control)” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals To Awaken Your Inner Warrior And Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Each and every person on the planet (or a space station) “contain[s] multitudes” and experiences different seasons of life. At different stages in our lives, we are recognized in different ways. At different times in our lives we fulfill different roles. Each season and each role comes with different responsibilities and expectations, as well as with different skills, abilities, experiences, and powers.
Take a moment to recognize the path you are on; the journey that is your life; the season you are in; the roles you play; and the way you serve the world.
Take a moment to acknowledge that you can simultaneously experience excitement, anticipation, doubt, fear, hesitation, and joy every time you experience change.
Take a moment to do what you need to do to grieve and appreciate what is no longer and, also, to appreciate what is not yet — knowing that what is not yet is a possibility that could be or might never be.
Take a moment to remember that you and the things you do have meaning and are valuable.
Now, take a breath, exhale, and begin.
“I trapped my breath in the bellows of my throat:
a lamp blazed up inside, showed me who I really was.
I crossed the darkness holding fast to that lamp,
scattering its light-seeds around me as I went.”
— poem 42, quoted from I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
Several holidays are observed in the United States and in Canada on the second Monday in October. Events that took place on October 12, 1492, are directly connected to one of those holidays (technically, some of those holidays) in the United States.
Click on the excerpt title below for some history you know and some history you may need to “unknow”.
“… all of us who feel we “know” a certain field—any field, whether scientific or not—should, it seems to me, regularly ponder what we don’t know, admit what we don’t know, and not turn away from what we don’t know…. Perhaps the chance for more civil discussion of these topics lies in our willingness to mark out our own areas of knowing and “unknowing,” to pay attention to one another’s areas of knowing and unknowing, and to proceed humbly together.”
— quoted from an Autumn 2006 Harvard Divinity Bulletin article entitled “Knowing and Unknowing” by Will Joyner
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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).
### Breathe In / Breathe Out ###
A Sunday Journey (the “missing” Sunday compilation) October 11, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Mantra, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, Black Girl Day Off, Durga, International Day of the Girl Child, Jean O’Leary, Joseph Campbell, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, National Coming Out Day, Navaratri, Parvati, Pastor Appreciation Day, Ranjit Hoskote, Robert Eichberg, Shailaputri, Sharada Navaratri, The Associated Press, The New York Times, United Nations
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“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone nourishing their heart, body, and mind on Black Girl Day Off, Pastor Appreciation Day, National Coming Out Day, & International Day of the Girl Child.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate!
This “missing” compilation post for Sunday, October 11th, includes new content and an (expanded) excerpt. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“Forget the outside, get to the inside of things.”
— quoted from poem 95 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
This may seem like a regular, ordinary beginning. And it is. However, if you stick with me, we’re going to go on a journey.
You might be think that every time we get on the mat (or the cushion), we’re going on a journey, and that is true. Every time we get on the cushion (or the mat), we’re going on a journey; that is true. It is also true that every journey starts just like this: in this ordinary, regular world.
Maybe it’s a time for you that is really wonderful or maybe it’s not so great. Maybe this is an extraordinarily challenging time for you or maybe things are going relatively well. Either way, this is what passes for normal. (Every time we inhale, every time we exhale.) And this is where we start, where every journey starts.
This particular journey starts with an ordinary person. In this case, the ordinary person is an ordinary girl. Maybe you recognize her as a girl child, as October 11th is International Day of the Girl Child. Maybe, since it is also National Coming Out Day, you initially see her as something other than a girl… or, you don’t recognize how being extra ordinary is actually special. How ever you see her, she is just a regular, ordinary person — even if she is the daughter of a king (and even if she has already lived an extraordinary life).
This regular, ordinary girl is our hero (our heroine, if you will). She is where we start, because every single one of us has a little bit her inside of us. Every single one of us is on a journey of transformation.
Or we can be… if you stick with me… and go a little deeper.
“I, Lalla, took that teaching to heart.”
— quoted from poem 95 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
In addition to being International Day of the Girl Child and National Coming Out Day, today was also the beginning of Navaratri.
This initial description of Navaratri is a slightly revised/expanded excerpt.
Navaratri (which means “nine nights”, in Sanskrit) occurs four times on the Hindu calendar and is a celebration of divine feminine energy — specifically of Durga, the divine mother, in various manifestations. Some people (read, mostly men) think of these manifestations as different women. Others (read, mostly women) recognize these manifestations as the same woman at different points in her life. The latter understanding is underscored by the fact that each day is dedicated to a different manifestation of Durga/Parvati and each manifestation marks a different point in Her journey.
Navaratri always begins by celebrating Durga as Shailaputri (“Daughter of Mountain”). Shailaputri is the daughter of Himavat, the Mountain King or Guardian God of Himalayan Mountains, and is recognized as a divine manifestation of Mahadevi and a reincarnation of Sati (the wife of Shiva), who then reincarnates as Parvati. In art, she holds a trishula or trident in her right hand and a lotus in her left hand, all while riding Shiva’s bull Nandi, whose name means “happy, joy, and satisfaction”. She is sometimes associated with the color orange and sometimes with the color yellow.
The fall (Sharada) Navaratri celebration, which started today (Sunday), is the biggest and most celebrated of the four celebrations. Rituals and traditions vary from one region to the other and, during this festival, celebrations in some regions may include other manifestations of the Divine. For example, some celebrations on the ninth day of Navaratri will also be Ayudha Puja (“worship of tools”) — when people celebrate peace and knowledge and give thanks for the tools of their occupation. So, some will give thanks for musical instruments, while others will give thanks for their farming machinery. At the same time, some will make their puja (“offering”) to Saraswati — who is associated with knowledge, the arts, and culture, etc. — and others will direct their attention to Lakshmi — who is associated with prosperity, wealth, and fertility, etc. These fall celebrations also include a tenth day, Dussehra or Vijayadashami, which commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over a 10-headed demon.
Click here (and scroll down) to discover posts that reference the other Divine manifestations celebrated during Navaratri.
Spoiler alert, the stories related to Navaratri are the stories about a girl or young woman who grows up to be a wife and a fierce mother goddess. Her physical, mental, emotional, energetic, and spiritual growth and maturity are part of her journey. She gains knowledge and skills along the way. She is celebrated for who she is at every point in her journey. Even if you see the nine manifestations as different women, significant transformation occurs over the nine days/nights.
On the flip side, many girls around the world are not afforded the time and space to grow up and reach their full potential. They lose their agency and bodily autonomy before they even have a chance to recognize that there are such things. To raise awareness about issues facing girls internationally — especially with regard to education, nutrition, forced child marriage, legal rights, and medical rights — the United Nations designated October 11th as International Day of the Girl Child back in December 2011. Also known as the Day of Girls and the International Day of the Girl, it was first observed today in 2012.
The 2026 theme for International Day of the Girl Child is “End child marriage and invest in girls’ rights!”. If you live in the United States, you may think of child marriage as a problem in other countries. However. marriage involving a child (defined as someone under the age of 18) is legal in 32 states (and at least one territory). Many of these marriages involve minors who are under the age of consent (16 to 18, depending on the state or territory) and most (~86%) involve a minor girl and an adult man. In some states, these children are not able to file for divorce — even when they experience spousal abuse — specifically because they are minors!
According to the United Nations:
- Each year, more than 12 million girls – roughly one every three seconds – are married before reaching adulthood….133 million girls are not attending school [this year].
- Adolescent girls aged 15-19 are more likely to not be in education, employment or training than their male peers.
- Nearly 1 in 4 ever-married or partnered adolescent girls aged 15-19 have experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.
- More than one third of adolescent girls and boys aged 15-19 consider a husband to be justified in hitting his wife under certain circumstances.
- The percentage of underweight adolescent girls aged 10-19 has only declined slightly in the last three decades, from 10 per cent to 8 per cent.
“It is true that Lal Dĕd was constructed differently by each community, but she was simultaneously Lalleśvarī or Lalla Yogini to the Hindus and Lal-‘ārifa to the Muslims; today, unfortunately, these descriptions are increasing being promoted at the expense of one another. In honour of the plural sensibilities that Kashmir has long nurtured, I will refer to this mystic-poet by her most celebrated and nonsectarian appellation, ‘“Lal Dĕd”’. In the colloquial, this means ‘“Grandmother Lal”’; more literally, it means ‘“Lal the Womb”’, a designation that connects her to the mother goddessess….”
— quoted from “1. Lal Dĕd: Life, Poetry and Historical Context” by Ranjit Hoskotein, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
I was not thinking of Lal Dĕd when I started today’s practice and post. But, she fits. She fits every aspect of these overlapping stories.
Also known Lalleshwari (“Mother Lal” or “Mother Lalla”) and several other related variations, Lalla was a Kashmiri poet, mystic, spiritual teacher (or pastor, if you will), and saint. She married at the age of 12 (as was the custom in her region during the 14th century) and escaped an abusive marriage in order to pursue her spiritual calling. Her name was changed to Padmāvati when she married, but she wrote that she always thought of herself as Lalla. While she is revered in Muslim and Hindu communities, some people (in each community) do not acknowledge that she was both. The do not recognize all that she was.
When Lalla wrote about following the instructions of her guru (in poem 95), she concluded with a metaphor that indicated she was free, joyful, and living/celebrating life without the expectations of the outside world (i.e., those who would see her in one dimension):
“From that day, I’ve danced naked.”
— quoted from poem 95 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
As I mentioned before, some people who celebrate Navaratri view the different manifestations of Durga/Pavarti in isolation — just as some people view Lalla as a person with single, flattened identity. However, recognizing the Divine manifestations as the same woman at different points along her journey, highlights the symbolism of Her adventure and creates an opportunity for us to embody our own journey: meeting our own challenges head-on, vanquishing our own demons, letting go of what no longer serves us, and returning to (our) whatever passes for normal with a “boon” — something that benefits us and those around us. Of course, the ultimate boon is the ability to overcome our fears, live freely, and achieve our goals.
Overcoming fears and living freely requires ending ignorance. Sometimes that ignorance is inside us; it is also all around us. National Coming Out Day (NCOD) was established in 1988, as a day of awareness. It is also a day of support for people who are “coming out of the closet”. Co-founders Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary selected October 11th as this day of awareness and celebration, because it is the anniversary of the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1987.
Approximately 750,000 people took part in the 1987 march, which garnered the first national coverage of ACT UP and AIDS activists. The day after the march, thousands participated in civil disobedience actions at the United States Supreme Court Building. While drag queens, drag kings, and transgender people participated in the Gay Rights movement from the very beginning, Jean O’Leary eventually expressed remorse for the fact that the march and other events she organized were not as inclusive as they could have been and that she made disparaging remarks about people who became known for, quite literally, kicking the closet door open.
“In an interview in 1993, Dr. Eichberg said: ‘Most people think they don’t know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact, everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes.’”
— quoted from The New York Times obituary “Robert Eichberg, 50, Gay Rights Leader” by The Associated Press (dated August 15, 1995)
As I mentioned in passing (during the practice), today was also Black Girl Day Off (which is directly related to the fact that yesterday was World Mental Health Day) and, also, Pastor Appreciation Day.
If you are up for the journey/adventure, pick a goal, a desire, a destination (if you will). Of course, you have to acknowledge where you are in your journey.
So, that’s the first step: identify where you are and where you want to go. The second step (Monday’s step) will be doing what we need to do to get ready.
“We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life waiting for us. The old skin has to be shed before the new one can come.”
— quoted from A Joseph Campbell Companion: Reflections on the Art of Living by Joseph Campbell
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify [Look for “05252022 Pratyahara II”]
If you are struggling, 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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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).
### He Ma Durga (honoring the Divine Mother) ###
An Excerpted Note & A Post EXCERPT: “Deep Listening” September 1, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Abhyasa, Bhakti, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Japa, Japa-Ajapa, Karma, Mantra, Meditation, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Vipassana, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Dharma Singh Khalsa M. D., Ek Ong Kaar Kaur Khalsa, Guru Granth Sahib, Guru Nanak, Japa-Ajapa, Japji Sahib, John Metcalfe, meditation, sikh, Sikhism, Song of the Soul, spirituality, stillness
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).
Stay safe! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“Deeply Listening,
Yoga
And the hidden systems
Of the body
Make themselves known.
Deeply Listening,
The wisdom
Of all sacred scriptures in the world
Is revealed.
Oh my soul,
Those who surrender themselves in Love
To the Divine
Continuously blossom and bloom.
Deeply Listening
Sorrows
And errors
Depart.”
— quoted from Japji Sahib: The Song of the Soul by Guru Nanak (Translated by Ek Ong Kaar Kaur Khalsa)
Our practices, on and off the mat or cushion, give us the opportunity to pay attention to how the mind-body works — and to really listen, deeply.
Listening deeply is one of the important lessons in the Japji Sahib (known in English as The Song of the Soul) an ancient Sikh text at the beginning of the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the Adi Granth or primary sacred text / scripture in Sikhism. Originally compiled and printed by Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh guru, on August 29, 1604, it was placed in the Golden Temple in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, today (September 1st) in 1604.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
FTWMI: Deep Listening (*Revised) – the post-practice Friday post
Please join me today (Tuesday, September 1st) at 12:00 Noon 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 me at myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “09012024 Deep Listening”]
MUSIC NOTE: The playlist contains John Metcalfe’s album Tree (with the remixes); however, one track has been moved. The story behind the album is beautiful (and it is about working). Additionally, I encourage you to deeply listen to Track #11 (which is the Japji Sahib).
A First Friday playlist is also available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “09012023 Trusting, Listening… Deeply”]
When using the First Friday playlist you can start with Track #1, #2, #3, or #5. These are instrumental tracks. Track #4 is the Japji Sahib.
“If you
Trust what you hear
When you listen,
Then you will know
What you see,
How to understand
And act.”
— quoted from Japji Sahib: The Song of the Soul by Guru Nanak (Translated by Ek Ong Kaar Kaur Khalsa)
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
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 an app, which I have not 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 need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
LIMITED SPACE FOR HOTEL DISCOUNTS!
NOTE: The translation by Ek Ong Kaar Kaur Khalsa is the foundation for The End of Karma: 10 Days to Perfect Peace, Tranquility, and Joy by Dharma Singh Khalsa, M. D., which I quote during the practice.
### BREATHE, LISTEN, REST (& do it all over again) ###
EXCERPT (repost): “All These Easter Eggs Are About Hope… Not Blind Optimism” August 23, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Abhyasa, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Loss, Music, Pain, Philosophy, Poetry, Suffering, Tragedy, Vairagya, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Adrienne Wilkinson, Books, Captain Lexxa Singh, Fitness, mental health, Philosophy, Stoicism, William Ernest Henley, Writing
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Many blessings to you all. Make sure to rest, relax, hydrate, and smile (when you can) — especially if you are observing the Dormition (Theotokos) Fast.
Stay hydrated & be kind, y’all!
“Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.”
— quoted from the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley
Click on the excerpt title below for more about William Ernest Henley (b. 1849) and how his life and work continues to inspire billions.
FTWMI: All These Easter Eggs Are About Hope… Not Blind Optimism
“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
— quoted from “The Sermon on the Mount,” in The Gospel According to Matthew (7:14)
“It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.”
— quoted from “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley
Please join me today (Sunday, August 23rd) at 2:30 PM for a “spirited” 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.
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “08232020 Henley’s Invictus Day”]
(NOTE: The playlists have slightly different before/after practice content. Both include the poem, but the YouTube playlist has a little more!)
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
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 an app, which I have not 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 need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### YES! I WILL LEAVE A LIGHT ON!! ###
roj vay’ potlh ngIq (“Peace is an important part of the process”) [the “missing” Wednesday post] August 19, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Love, Movies, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Science, TV, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Alexander Courage, American Sign Language, ASL, BSL British Sign Language, Dorothy Miles, Dot Miles, Gene Roddenberry, Google Doodle, Howie Seago, Jonathan Frakes, klesha, Klingon, klishtaklishta, klişţāklişţāh, Leo Damian, Marnie Mosiman, music, Passion/Warrior, peace, Philo T. Farnsworth, Riva, Scholar/Dreamer/Artist, Science Fiction, sign language, sign languages, Star Trek, Television, Thomas Oglesby, universal translator, William T. Riker, Woman/That Which Binds Them, Writing, yoga philosophy, Yoga Sutra 1.5, Yoga Sutras 1.30-1.32, Yoga Sutras 2.2-2.11, Youmee Lee
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing the Second “Feast of the Saviour” (in August) and/or exploring friendship, peace, freedom, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).
Stay hydrated & be kind, y’all!
Pardon me, while I catch up!
This “missing” (and backdated) compilation post for Wednesday, August 19th, includes new and re-purposed content, an extra poem, a previously posted video, and a series of excerpts. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“RIKER: So none of the background which we have provided would be helpful in understanding why they continue to fight?
SCHOLAR: The portfolio will indicate that the conflict is over a piece of land, or wealth, or some other tangible asset. But we both know that is not the case.
RIKER: They’ve been at war for so long, it has become personal.
SCHOLAR: Exactly. The basis for peace must also be personal….”
— quoted from Star Trek Deep: Next Generation, “Loud as a Whisper” – (season 2, episode 5, aired January 9, 1989), conversation between First Officer William T. Riker (played by Jonathan Frakes), Riva (played by Howie Seago), and the Chorus (played by Thomas Oglesby as Scholar/Dreamer/Artist, Marnie Mosiman as Woman/That Which Binds Them, and Leo Damian as Passion/Warrior)
Understatement of the Day: There is a lot of conflict in the world.
Most of the conflict in the world is not new. We may point to something that happened yesterday or two weeks ago or two years ago or six (or ten or twenty) years ago as being the beginning of the conflict. However, more often than not, the roots of the conflict go much deeper than whatever we can point to at this moment. I think this is true about global conflicts, as well as about individual conflicts — and this idea is highlighted in the Yoga Sūtras.
According to the Yoga Sūtras (1.5; 1.30-1.32; 2.2-2.11), everything we think — and, therefore, everything we say and do — is a seed that can be described as klişțāklişțāh (“afflicting/dysfunctional or non-afflicting/functional”). (That which is klesha (an “affliction”) grows into suffering. Every seed (regardless of how it is colored) can be dormant, attenuated/weakened, intercepted, or fully activated/rooted through our actions. Part of the practice is about being very mindful of what we “plant” in the world and very deliberate and intentional about what we uproot versus what we nurture. One of the ways we do this is by practicing peace.
“Shanti Shanti Shanthi Om”
“Peace [within us], Peace [all around us], Peace [to and from everything and every one we encounter] With our conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind and on every plane of existence.”
— Sanskrit and English, quoted from the end of the shantipats
There are, without a doubt, a lot of pithy, poignant, and even meaningful quotes about peace. However, again and again, I come back to a reminder found at the end of every shantipat. The importance of peace is emphasized by the fact that the word shanti (“peace”) is repeated three times.
That final “peace” is drawn out and can be translated as an emphatic “Peace, because I said so!” or “Peace, because I demand it!” However, more often than not, I translate the three repetitions as, “Peace within us, peace all around us, peace to and from everything and everyone we encounter.” Then, I tack on a little reminder: “Peace, like [insert quality of the day] begins within.”
In other words, peace is personal and [finding your personal] “roj vay’ potlh ngIq (peace is an important part of the process).”
Since our experiences are different, the details of our conflicts are difference. So, if we want peace, we have figure out “qaStaH nuq jay (What the bleep is happening?)” and the best way to communicate with ourselves and others [i.e., “Holchaj yIjatlh. (Speak in their language).”]
August 19th is the anniversary of the birth of three people who changed how we consume media and what media we consume.
Click on the excerpt titles below for the 2020 post and the 2023 note related to Philo T. Farnsworth (b. 1906) and Gene Roddenberry (1921), and the related 2025 post that connects their television innovations to the work of Dorothy “Dot” Miles (b. 1931).
“…people meet and part.
The word becomes the action in this language of the heart.”
— quoted from the English translation of the poem “Language for the Eye” by Dorothy Miles
“I gave a lot of thought this year to my own Christmas list
I think these should be given to all, and no-one should be missed;
The first and most important is that we should learn to Love…
Ourselves — and then each other as we will in ‘heaven above’.
And after that Intelligence., growing like a seed;
And then a little Discipline, a scolding when we need!
And last of all, when all these are working as they should.
The right amount of Humour to make life good.”
— quoted from the English translation of the poem “Christmas List” by Dorothy Miles
Wednesday’s “Courage filled” playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “08192020 To Boldly Go with Courage”]
Playlist Note: The YouTube playlist includes an interview with Gene Roddenberry and the Dorothy Miles poem “Language for the Eye” (which is also below).
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
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 an app, which I have not 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 need 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).
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
