A Quick Note & EXCERPT: “Purpose Driven” (a Tuesday post, that’s also for Wednesday and Thursday!) December 30, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 7-Day Challenge, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Japa, Japa-Ajapa, Life, Loss, Meditation, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, catechism, Christmas, Dr. Nick Hobson, holidays, Imani, Kuumba, Kwanzaa, New Year's, Nguzo Saba, Nia, Sita (Joan Weiner) Bordow, Surya Namaskar, Swami Satchidananda, Twelvetide, Yoga Sutras 1.12-1.14
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” – “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating!
“My research over the last decade has helped understand why rituals in particular (and not any other behaviors like habits, for instance) are effective at battling negative emotions. Be it anxiety, stress, fear, doubt, sadness, grief – you name it. Rituals are there to save the day. The dread we feel after experiencing a loss happens because it feels like the situation is outside our control (and it usually is). Rituals reinstate that control.”
— quoted from “The emerging science of ritual – a new look on an ancient behavior: And how you can use it to live life to the fullest” by Dr. Nick Hobson (contributing to the ThriveGlobal.com, Dec. 7, 2017)
There is something to be said for a good ritual. I don’t just mean a habit, something you do repeatedly — even if it’s something you are in the habit of doing at a particular time. Neither am I just referring to a tradition — which could be a group habit and/or a ritual that has been passed down through generations, but has lost some of it’s deeper meaning. No, I am referring to something that is more like a ceremony; something infused with purpose and meaning.
Consider your exercise routine. You may be in the habit of doing a certain kind of physical activity at a certain time on certain day(s). Changes in your routine (and the resulting cancellations during the holidays) may leave you feeling off kilter. However, you know you will return to that routine (or something similar) because it serves a purpose and you value the experience. It may even connect you to a community.
No matter what you do, if you have that regular routine, you probably experience something more than physical well-being. You may notice mental and emotional benefits that serve you on multiple levels of your life. You may even do the thing you do for those specific benefits. In this way, what you do could be considered abhyasa (“[continuous and deliberate] practice, [engaged with sincere devotion]”) (YS. 1.12-1.14) However, those extra benefits are just that — lagniappe (“a little (something) extra”). They are gifts that are not intentionally part of the exercise.
Now, consider the physical practice of yoga, which you could consider a ritual within a ritual. It is part of a larger practice, and that larger practice intentional includes benefits beyond the physical. If you go to a different class; use one of my videos or recordings; and/or practice on your own, the ritual of the practice — i.e., the order in which we do the practice and the meaning behind the order and what we do within the sequences — still includes the deeper meaning and serves a deeper purpose, one that is beyond the physical-mental. One of my teachers once argued that this is true even if/when the meaning and purpose are not explicitly stated.
The meaning and purpose are baked in; they were part of the creation process.
Click on the excerpt title below for more about these holidays and our New Year’s Day tradition that is also a ritual!
Updated & Revised! Purpose Driven (a Friday post, that’s also for Saturday and Sunday!)
“Nia (purpose) — To make our collective vocation the building and development of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.”
— The fifth of the Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
For people celebrating Kwanzaa, “Nia (Purpose)” is the focus for the fifth day (today, Tuesday); “Kuumba (creativity)” is the focus for the sixth day; and “Imani (faith)” is the focus for the sixth day. These final three days of Kwanzaa coincide with the fifth, sixth, seventh (or eighth) days of the “12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting).
If you are following along with the symbolic meaning of the gifts in the song, you will notice that the 5th, 6th, and 7th gifts are infused with purpose, meaning, creativity, and (of course) faith: “five gold rings” are the first Five Books of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament (which provide the back story for the three Abrahamic religions); “six geese a-laying” for the six days of creation; and “seven swans a-swimming”, the consistently most expensive gift, stand for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, knowledge, counsel, fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord) or the seven sacraments (Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Six, Marriage, and Ordination). As for the eighth day, those could be considered extra (spiritual) gifts: “eight maids a-milking” for the eight beatitudes (or blessings).
“Kuumba (creativity) — To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
Imani (faith) — To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.”
— The sixth and seventh of the Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
Online (Zoom) classes are cancelled today through Wednesday, December 31st.
People on the recording email list(s) receive backup recordings. There are also some practice videos on my YouTube channel. You can check the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes. You can also 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.
The playlist for the fifth day of Kwanzaa is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12302020 Purpose Driven”]
“Consider, for instance, in moments of grief, rituals help ease our pain and suffering. But, again I ask, how do they do this, and why rituals in particular? As my collaborators Mike Norton and Francesca Gino have shown, rituals alleviate feeling of grief and loss by increasing a feelings of control.”
— quoted from “The emerging science of ritual – a new look on an ancient behavior: And how you can use it to live life to the fullest” by Dr. Nick Hobson (contributing to the ThriveGlobal.com, Dec. 7, 2017)
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 yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
“You can perform japa, repetition of a mantra or Sacred Word, in the midst of your day-to-day work. Then, when it becomes a habit, even when you are working intensely a portion of the mind will keep repeating the mantra always. That means you have locked one end of your chain to a holy place, while the rest of the chain remains still in the outside world.”
— a note written by Swami Satchidananda, quoted in Sri Swami Satchidananda: Apostle of Peace by Sita (Joan Weiner) Bordow
I am offering in-person classes during January 2026. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2026 together!
### OM AUM ###
A Quick Note & UPDATED EXCERPTS Regarding Social Economics (the post-practice Monday post, revised for 2026) December 29, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Loss, Love, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, Bobby Ray Simmons Jr., Christmas, Claude Kelly, faith, family, Feast of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, holidays, Jessica Cornish, Jessie J, Kwanzaa, Lukasz Gottwald, Mishlei, New Year's, Nguzo Saba, Proverbs, Twelvetide, Ujamaa, Wisdom
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” – “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating! May you have a meaningful observation no matter if your focus is on the Nativity Fast / St. Philip’s Fast or the Feast Day of Saint Thomas of Canterbury (and London). Many blessings to everyone!
This is the post-practice post for Monday, December 29th. It includes new and re-posted content. The 2025 prompt question was, “What is your love language?” 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.
I am offering in-person classes at the beginning of January 2026. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2026 together!
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes (and holiday cancellations).
“We’re paying with love tonight
It’s not about the money, money, money
We don’t need your money, money, money
We just wanna make the world dance
Forget about the price tag
Ain’t about the, uh, cha-ching, cha-ching
Ain’t about the, yeah, ba-bling, ba-bling”
— quoted from the song “Price Tag” by Jessie J (written by Lukasz Gottwald / Claude Kelly / Jessica Cornish / Bobby Ray Simmons Jr.)
Some things (like people) are priceless. Yet, even when we know that, it is so easy to get distracted by the price tag. It is especially easy to get distracted this time of year, because of all the gift giving and receiving (and, for some, the possibility of a Christmas bonus).
On the fourth day of Kwanzaa — which is also the the fourth or fifth day of the “12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting) — we focus on “Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)” and go a little deeper into how we value and appreciate people and things. We also touch on the struggles that arise in a society that has never found a good balance between the material and the spiritual.
Even though “it’s not about the money,” I do talk about the money.
The following (revised) excerpt, from the 2022 “Social Economics” post, includes a 2025 update:
“The actual cost of ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ varies, depending on if you are giving a single set of each gift (i.e. only one set of five gold rings) or if you are going the cumulative route. According to PNC Financial Services Group’s annual ‘Christmas Price Index’ (which they have issued for
4142 years), the cost for one set of each gift in 2019 was $38,993.59; with a cumulative price tag of $170, 298.03, which was just barely more than the 2018 cost. In 2020, however, the cost was $16,168.10 – $105, 561.80. In 2021, the cost for a single set of gifts was $41,205.58; with a cumulative total of $179,454.19. In 2022, the overall cost went up 10.5%, putting the single set of gifts at $45,523.27 and the cumulative total at $197,071.09.”2025 UPDATE: This year, the overall costs for a single set of gifts went up (4.5%, from 2024, which was already up 5.4%, from 2023) to $51,476.12 and the cumulative total went up (4.4%) to $218,542.98. Last year, the highest percentage increase was for the partridge in a pear tree — because the cost of the tree (in particular the fertilizer for the tree) has steadily increased over the last few years. This year, however, the highest percentage increase — by far, at 32.5% — was the gift of the Five Gold Rings. (Unfortunately, the increase in the price of gold is a sign of not so good things to come as far as the U. S. economy is concerned.) NOTE: The Lords-A-Leaping also went up (again) and remains the most expensive gift (even more than the swans)!
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics)—To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
— The fourth of the Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
A playlist inspired by the 4th day of Kwanzaa is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12292021 Social Economics”]
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 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).
I am offering in-person classes during January 2026. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2026 together!
### MISHLEI / PROVERBS 3:13 – 3:15 ###
A (revised) Note & Excerpt RE: Children, Heroes, Responsibility, & Power *UPDATED* December 28, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 7-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Movies, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Super Heroes, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, Art, Childermas, Christmas, Feast Day of the Holy Family, Feast of the Holy Innocents, Innocents Day, Kwanzaa, Nativity Fast, Neil Ellis Orts, New Year's, Nguzo Saba, siddhis, St. Philip's Fast, Stan Lee, Twelvetide, Ujima
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” – “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating! May you have a meaningful observation if you are observing the Nativity / St. Philip’s Fast and/or your focus is on the Innocents and/or Family. Many blessings to everyone!
“All six of these stories – nearly half the stories in the book – speak to me of a longing in our human condition, a desire for more life (either here or in the hereafter) or a desire to turn regrets around to something joyous….
None of the characters in this collection are more powerful than a locomotive, none are faster than a speeding bullet, but what they are able to do, I believe, reveals something of our desires, something of our humanity – the best and worst in us.”
— quoted from the introduction to able to…: a literary look at super powers by…, edited by Neil Ellis Orts
There is a lot going on. Today is the third day of Kwanzaa, which always corresponds with the third or fourth day of the “12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting). For some it is also the Feast of the Holy Innocents, also known as Childermas or Innocents Day. There are also people who spend the first Sunday after Christmas observing the Feast Day of the Holy Family. Finally, there are some Christians observing the Nativity (or St. Philip’s) Fast in preparation for Christmas. Each of these observations comes with a story and each story comes with a message.
The stories and messages associated with this day are all about children (i.e., future generations), heroes, responsibility, and power. More importantly, these stories and messages are for and about regular people. Fortunately, today is also the anniversary of the birth of a person who told stories with these same messages… and with these same types of heroes.
“…aware at last that in this world, with great power there must also come — great responsibility!”
— quoted from Amazing Fantasy #15 by Stan Lee (b. 1922), et al (August 1962)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE.
“Ujima (collective work and responsibility) — To build and maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems and to solve them together.”
— the third of the Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
Please join me today (Sunday, December 28th) at 2:30 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.
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12282021 Power, Responsibility, & Children”]
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 yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
CHECK OUT THE CALENDAR! You can kick off New Year’s Day 2026 in two ways (and in two spaces): with the very active practice of 108 Sun Salutations at 10:00 AM or with the very “chill” practice of a Restorative Yoga+Meditation practice beginning at 5:00 PM. All times are Central Standard.
Register to practice in-person (or join us via Zoom). Details are posted on the “Class Schedules” calendar.
12/29/2025 Update: I neglected to mention the Feast Day of the Holy Family (mostly because I forgot that it is a “moveable feast”).
### FOCUS ON WHAT YOU’RE ABLE TO… ###
A Quick Note & EXCERPT: “Celebrating What Supports the Practice” December 27, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 7-Day Challenge, Art, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Suffering, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, Charles Darwin, Christmas, holidays, Kujichagulia, Kwanzaa, Nativity Fast, Nguzo Saba, psychology, Saint John the Apostle, Saint Stephen, Sammy Davis Jr., social science, St. Philip's Fast
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” — “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating! May you have a good observation if your focus is the Feast Day of Saint Stephen or Saint John or the Nativity Fast / St. Philip’s Fast.
“nguzo (Swahili)
Noun
nguzo
-
prop, pillar (an object placed against or under another, to support it)
-
column, supporting pole
-
pillar (an essential supporting part of something)
-
(figuratively) a support or comfort”
— definition from WordSense.eu (and English dictionary based on Wiktionary)
Today is the second day of Kwanzaa and the second or third day of “The 12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting). While some (Orthodox) Christian traditions are still getting ready for Christmastide, some (Western) Christian traditions are celebrating the Feast Day of Saint John, while others (in some Orthodox traditions) are focused on Saint Stephen.
Even though the rituals and traditions may seem different from the outside, they share similar practices (see excerpt below). They also have similar effects on the inside: They keep people focused on their foundations.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT BELOW FOR MORE.
“I gotta be me, I’ve gotta be me
What else can I be but what I am
I want to live, not merely survive
And I won’t give up this dream
Of life that keeps me alive
I gotta be me, I gotta be me
The dream that I see makes me what I am”
— quoted from the song “I Gotta Be Me” by Sammy Davis, Jr. (written by Walter Marks)
Please join me for a virtual yoga practice on Zoom, today (Saturday, December 27th) at 12:00 PM. 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.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12272020 Will, Determination, & John”]
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 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).
“Umoja (unity) — To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.
Kujichagulia (self-determination) — To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves, and speak for ourselves.
Ujima (collective work and responsibility) — To build and maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems and to solve them together.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics) — To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
Nia (purpose) — To make our collective vocation the building and development of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.
Kuumba (creativity) — To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
Imani (faith) — To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.”
— The Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
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.
CHECK OUT THE CALENDAR! You can kick off New Year’s Day 2026 in two ways (and in two spaces): with the very active practice of 108 Sun Salutations at 10:00 AM or with the very “chill” practice of a Restorative Yoga+Meditation practice beginning at 5:00 PM. All times are Central Standard.
Register to practice in-person (or join us via Zoom). Details are posted on the “Class Schedules” calendar.
Updated for clarity. 12/28/2025
### You Are Supported! ###
The Day (& the Night) Before Christmas (w/excerpts) December 24, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Christmas, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Charles Dickens, Christmas, Christmas 1914, Christmas Truce, Clement Clarke Moore, family, Frank Capra, Henry Livingston Jr., holiday, holidays, Johann Pachelbel, New Year, Peter Hooton, Philip Van Doren Stern, Richard Rohr, Steve Grimes, The Farm, World War I, Writing
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“Peace and good will!” to all. “Happy Holidays!” and “Merry Christmas!” to all who are celebrating.
May you be safe and protected / May you be peaceful and happy / May you be healthy and strong! May you be nourished!
“I know because it’s Christmas, you’re surely hoping for some very special sermon. I don’t think I have one, really, [because] there’s really only one message. And there’s nothing new to tell you. It’s the same message that if you’re praying (and that isn’t always true of Christians), it goes deeper and deeper and deeper. If you’re quiet once in a while (and that isn’t always true of Americans), it goes deeper and deeper and deeper.”
— quoted from “Christmas 2016: Really only One Message” homily by Richard Rohr, OFM (delivered on Sunday, December 25, 2016)
For many people around the world, it is the day — and soon will be the night — before Christmas. This is a time immortalized by the stories, songs, poems, ballets, and movies I have referenced over the last few days. Just like all of the protagonists in the stories, we have no idea who may visit us (in person or in our dreams). Just like the narrator in “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (also known as “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”), which was originally published as “Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas” on December 23, 1823, we may have expectations and little something extra to do before we settle in for “long winter’s nap”; but, we have no idea what will happen next.
In telling the story of Christmas during yesterday’s practices, I mentioned that, the actual night before Jesus was born was not significant to everyone around Mary and Joseph. No one knew it was “the night before Christmas”. It seems obvious, I know: There was no “Christ” and therefore there was “mass for Christ”. But, really think about for a moment. Think about the fact that, even though some of them had received messages from the Angel Gabriel, Mary, Joseph, the Magi, and the unnamed people around them had no idea how lives would change… how the world would change.
Even if you look at the story historically (or allegorically) instead of spiritually and religiously, most people involved would not have imagined that the story would still be celebrated and told centuries later.
Similarly, soldiers fighting along the Western Front in World War I, today in 1914, would not have imagined that people living over a hundred years later, would still remember their Christmas Truce. They could not have imagined that there would be stories and songs and movies about their football games, their exchange of gifts, and their caroling. Stuck in their present moment, and all it entailed, they could not have known how so many would find inspiration in their actions of peace and human solidarity.
“The boys had their say, they said no (all together now)
Stop the slaughter, let’s go home
Let’s go, let’s go (all together now)
Let’s go (all together now), let’s go home
All together now (together, together)
In no man’s land (together, together)”
— quoted from the song “All Together Now” by The Farm (composed by Johann Pachelbel, lyrics by Peter Hooton and Steve Grimes)
Even if you are not in the middle of a war or a conflict, you have something in common with those World War I soldiers. Even if you are not an immigrant and/or expecting a child during (these) uncertain times, you have something in common with Mary and Joseph. Even if you do not have Ebenezer Scrooge’s “bah humbug” attitude, George Bailey’s despair, or the the Christmas cheer of the characters around them, you have something in common with them and the papa who is visited by St. Nicholas. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday and/or a cultural holiday — and even if you do, just at a different time — you have something in common with those who do celebrate (and those who do not).
We all have doubts and fears mixed in with hopes and dreams and wishes and prayers. We all have expectations mixed with an awareness — even if it is just a tiny bit of awareness at the very back of our minds — that we cannot know all of the wonderful things (and people) to come. Neither can we know what a difference we will make in the world and in the lives of those around us. And that, finally, is the thing we also all have in common with everyone mentioned above:
Every single one of us can do something that brings a little more peace and a little more joy into the world.
“‘Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night.’”
— quoted the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas”1
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE.
Here’s A Little “something, something” for the Holi-daze (the “missing” Sunday post)
A Quick Note & EXCERPTS RE: Light & Living “A (SAD) Wonderful Life” (the “missing” Saturday post)
CLICK ON THE EXCEPTS BELOW FOR THE STORIES.
“The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.”
— quoted from the poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost
Zoom classes are cancelled today. I have sent audio recordings to people on the Wednesday class list. You can check the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes. You can also 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.
For those who are interested, the December 24th playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12242023 Christmas 1914”]
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 yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
CHECK OUT THE CALENDAR! You can kick off New Year’s Day 2026 in two ways (and in two spaces): with the very active practice of 108 Sun Salutations at 10:00 AM or with the very “chill” practice of a Restorative Yoga+Meditation practice beginning at 5:00 PM. All times are Central Standard.
Register to practice in-person (or join us via Zoom). Details are posted on the “Class Schedules” calendar.
1NOTE: “A Visit from St. Nicholas” was originally published anonymously. It has been since been credited to Henry Livingston Jr. or Clement Clarke Moore.
### PEACE ON EARTH! ###
A Quick Note & EXCERPTS RE: Light & Living “A (SAD) Wonderful Life” (the “missing” Saturday post) December 20, 2025
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Chanukah, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Movies, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Advent, Albert Hackett, Chanukah, Charles Dickens, Christmas, Clarence Odbody, Frances Goodrich, Frank Capra, George Bailey, Hero's Journey, It's A Wonderful Life, Jo Swerling, Julian Horowitz, Maccabeats, mental health, monomyth, Movies, Nativity Fast, Philip Van Doren Stern, SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Shamash, St. Philip's Fast
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“Happy Chanukah!” to all who are celebrating. Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing Advent, observing the Nativity Fast / St. Philip’s Fast; and/or letting their light shine with kindness, friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, gratitude, and wisdom.
May you be safe and protected / May you be peaceful and happy / May you be healthy and strong! May you be nourished!
This is the “missing” compilation post for Saturday, December 20th. My apologies for not clearly posting the music before the practice. 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 are fettered,’ said Scrooge, trembling. ‘Tell me why?’
‘I wear the chain I forged in life,’ replied the Ghost. ‘I made it link by link, and yard by yard; I girded it on of my own free will, and of my own free will I wore it.’”
— quoted from A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
This is a strange time of year, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Amid the hustle and bustle, the business and the cheer, there is sadness and fear. There is also SADness. Yet, there is something that cuts through a lot of the dichotomy — because it embraces it. There is something for which we all slow down: our favorite holiday story (or song).
Many people have a favorite holiday story (or song) even if they don’t celebrate the holiday. Many people find hope and meaning in a Christmas tale — or the Chanukah story — even if they’re not Christian or Jewish (or religious in any way). People seeking that hope is the reason why theatrical productions of holiday stories, like A Christmas Carol (which was first published on December 19, 1843), are cash cows for non-profits. People wanting to “get into the spirit” also the reason why watching holiday movies, like It’s a Wonderful Life (which premiered today, December 20, 1946), is a tradition for so many families.
We are all drawn to certain elements that come up in all these stories.
These are the same elements we find in the Hero’s Journey or monomyth and they include a “Supernatural Aid” (or magical helper) who facilitates the journey from one state of being to another. These helpers can be a ghost (or three), an angel (second class), an extra candle, and/or God (whatever that means to at this moment). They simultaneously aid the hero/heroine and the viewer/reader. Even when they are extraordinary (and magical), they serve as a reminder that, just as each of us can be the light, each of us can be the shamash/helper who spreads the light.
“Let me see the light
Give me something to live by
Let me see the light
I need something to live by
Help me see myself in my reflection
Shine tonight
Let me shed the light in each direction”
— quoted from the song “Shine” by Maccabeats (written by Julian Horowitz)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR SOME STORIES (and a little bit about SAD).
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR WEDNESDAY’S CHANUKAH POST & EXCERPTS.
One More On Words [& Stories] (the “missing” Wednesday 12/17 post, w/EXCERPTS)
“Every time you hear a bell ring, it means that some angel’s just got his wings.”
— Clarence Odbody (AS2), quoted from It’s A Wonderful Life, (directed by Frank Capra; screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra, with additional scenes by Jo Swerling; based on “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern)
Saturday’s (instant reply) playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Chanukah (Day 3 – 4) & Shabda 2025”]
MUSIC NOTE: The YouTube playlist includes some videos, the musical version of at least one which is not available on Spotify. A date/theme-related playlist is also available The 2020 playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12202020 A SAD Wonderful Life”]
“Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. And when he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?”
“You see George; you really had a wonderful life. Don’t you see what a mistake it would be to throw it away?”
— Clarence Odbody (AS2), quoted from It’s A Wonderful Life, (directed by Frank Capra; screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra, with additional scenes by Jo Swerling; based on “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern)
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 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).
I will offering in-person classes during January 2026. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2026 together!
### LIGHT IN / LIGHT OUT [INTO THE WORLD]! ###
A Quick Note & UPDATED EXCERPTS Regarding Social Economics (the “missing” Sunday post) December 29, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Loss, Love, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, Bobby Ray Simmons Jr., Chanukah, Christmas, Claude Kelly, faith, Feast Day of the Holy Family, Feast of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, Jessica Cornish, Jessie J, Kwanzaa, Lukasz Gottwald, Mishlei, New Year's, Nguzo Saba, Proverbs, Twelvetide, Ujamaa, Wisdom
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” – “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating! “Happy Chanukah!” to all who are celebrating. May you have a meaningful observation no matter your focus is on the Feast Day of Saint Thomas of Canterbury (and London). Many blessings to everyone!
This is the “missing” post for Sunday, December 29th.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.
I am offering in-person classes at the beginning of January 2025. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2025 together!
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes (and holiday cancellations).
“We’re paying with love tonight
It’s not about the money, money, money
We don’t need your money, money, money
We just wanna make the world dance
Forget about the price tag
Ain’t about the, uh, cha-ching, cha-ching
Ain’t about the, yeah, ba-bling, ba-bling”
— quoted from the song “Price Tag” by Jessie J (written by Lukasz Gottwald / Claude Kelly / Jessica Cornish / Bobby Ray Simmons Jr.)
Some things (like people) are priceless. Yet, even when we know that, it is so easy to get distracted by the price tag. It is especially easy to get distracted this time of year, because of all the gift giving and receiving (and, for some, the possibility of a Christmas bonus).
On the fourth day of Kwanzaa — which is also the the fourth or fifth day of the “12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting) — we focus on “Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)” and go a little deeper into how we value and appreciate people and things. We also touch on the struggles that arise in a society that has never found a good balance between the material and the spiritual — a struggle that also plays out in the back story of Chanukah, which happens to coincide with Kwanzaa and Christmastide/Twelvetide this year.
Even though “it’s not about the money,” I do talk about the money.
The following excerpt, from the 2022 “Social Economics” post, includes a 2024 update:
“The actual cost of ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ varies, depending on if you are giving a single set of each gift (i.e. only one set of five gold rings) or if you are going the cumulative route. According to PNC Financial Services Group’s annual ‘Christmas Price Index’ (which they have issued for 41 years), the cost for one set of each gift in 2019 was $38,993.59; with a cumulative price tag of $170, 298.03, which was just barely more than the 2018 cost. In 2020, however, the cost was $16,168.10 – $105, 561.80. In 2021, the cost for a single set of gifts was $41,205.58; with a cumulative total of $179,454.19. In 2022, the overall cost went up 10.5%, putting the single set of gifts at $45,523.27 and the cumulative total at $197,071.09.”
2024 UPDATE: This year, the overall costs for a single set of gifts went up (5.4%, from 2023) to $49,263.47; the cumulative total went up (3.67%) to $209,272.00; and the highest percentage increase was for the partridge in a pear tree — because the cost of the tree (in particular the fertilizer for the tree) has steadily increased over the last few years.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics)—To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
— The fourth of the Nguzo Saba (or “Seven Essential Pillars”) of Kwanzaa
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12292021 Social Economics”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is a new app, which I have not yet researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
I am offering in-person classes during January 2025. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2025 together!
### MISHLEI / PROVERBS 3:13 – 3:15 ###
A Saturday Full of Light, Children, Heroes, Responsibility, & Power (a short note with excerpts) December 28, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Changing Perspectives, Chanukah, Christmas, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Meditation, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Super Heroes, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, 988, Chanukah, Childermas, Christmas, Ethics of the Fathers, Feast of the Holy Innocents, Hanukkah, Innocents Day, Kwanzaa, Maccabees, New Year's, Nguzo Saba, Pirkei Avot, siddhis, Stan Lee, Twelvetide, Ujima
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“Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” – “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating! “Happy Chanukah!” to all who are celebrating. May you have a meaningful observation if your focus is on light and/or the Innocents. Many blessings to everyone!
“(1) Rabbi [Judah HaNassi] would say: Which is the right path for man to choose for himself? Whatever is harmonious for the one who does it, and harmonious for mankind.
Be as careful with a minor mitzvah as with a major one, for you do not know the rewards of the mitzvot. Consider the cost of a mitzvah against its rewards, and the rewards of a transgression against its cost….
(3) Be careful with the government, for they befriend a person only for their own needs. They appear to be friends when it is beneficial to them, but they do not stand by a person at the time of his distress.”
— quoted from Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) (2:1 & 2:3)
There is a lot going on. Today is the third day of Chanukah and the third day of Kwanzaa — the latter of which always corresponds with the third or fourth day of the “12 Days of Christmas” (depending on when you start counting). For some it is also the Feast of the Holy Innocents, also known as Childermas or Innocents Day. Each of these observations comes with a story and each story comes with a message.
The stories and messages are all about light, children (i.e., future generations), heroes, responsibility, and power. More importantly, these stories and messages are for and about regular people. Fortunately, today is also the anniversary of the birth of a person who told stories with these same messages… and these same types of heroes.
“…aware at last that in this world, with great power there must also come — great responsibility!”
— quoted from Amazing Fantasy #15 by Stan Lee (b. 1922), et al (August 1962)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE.
Remember, “It’s Much More Than Just a Candlelight”* (the “missing” Saturday post w/excerpts)
Please join me today (Saturday, December 28st) at 12:00 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “12282021 Power, Responsibility, & Children”]
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).
I am offering in-person classes during January 2025. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2025 together!
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.
### BE THE LIGHT ###
Here We Are Again [in 2024] / All Together Now (mostly the music & felicitations) December 24, 2024
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Football, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Christmas, Christmas 1914, Christmas Truce, Joe Henry, Johann Pachelbel, New Year's, peace, Peter Hooton, Steve Grimes, The Farm
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“Peace and good will!” to all. “Happy Holidays!” and “Merry Christmas!” to all who are celebrating.
May you be safe and protected / May you be peaceful and happy / May you be healthy and strong! May you be nourished!
“The boys had their say, they said no (all together now)
Stop the slaughter, let’s go home
Let’s go, let’s go (all together now)
Let’s go (all together now), let’s go home
All together now (together, together)
In no man’s land (together, together)”
— quoted from the song “All Together Now” by The Farm
Please join me today (Tuesday, December 24th) 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 “12242023 Christmas 1914”]
I am offering in-person classes during January 2025. Click here for more details and to reserve your spots now. Let’s start the 2025 together!
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.)
### PEACE ON EARTH! ###
EXCERPT: “How We All Come Together, Even When We’re Apart” December 26, 2023
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Christmas, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Yoga.Tags: 12 Days of Christmas, Black Eyed Peas, Boxing Day, Christmas, Feast Day of Saint Stephen, Kwanzaa, rituals, Saint Stephen, traditions, Twelvetide
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“Happy Boxing Day!” Happy St. Stephen’s Day and “Kwanzaa, yenu iwe na heri!” — “May your Kwanzaa be happy!” to everyone who is celebrating!
“But if you only have love for your own race
Then you only leave space to discriminate
And to discriminate only generates hate
And when you hate, then you’re bound to get irate, yeah
Madness is what you demonstrate
And that’s exactly how anger works and operates
Man, you gotta have love just to set it straight
Take control of your mind and meditate
Let your soul gravitate to the love, y’all, y’all”
— quoted from the song “Where Is the Love?” by the Black Eyed Peas
Here’s an excerpt from my philosophically-focused post about different rituals and traditions people are celebrating today:
“In truth, however, all holidays are ‘made up’ and many have slightly sketchy backgrounds. But we don’t necessarily think about those sketchy back-stories or dubious beginnings when something is part of our tradition. Instead, we cling to what we know and if any part of our tradition or ritual becomes problematic, we move it to the background and cling to the spirit. (Hence the reason people no longer ‘bleed’ their cattle or neighbors for Saint Stephen’s Day.) Over time, though, our rituals and traditions can become a little like balancing with a stubbed toe — our focus is determined by what you were taught and what you value.”
Click here to read the entire post.
Please join me today (Tuesday, December 26th) 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 (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Tuesday playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [“Look for “12262020 Boxing St Stephen’s Kwanzaa”]
CHECK OUT THE CALENDAR! You can kick off New Year’s Day 2024 in two ways (and in two spaces): with the very active practice of 108 Sun Salutations at 10:00 AM or with the very “chill” practice of a Yin+Meditation practice beginning at 5:00 PM. All times are Central Standard. Register to practice in-person (or join us via Zoom). Details are posted on the “Class Schedules” calendar.
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.)
A Joyful Practice 