by Kate | Jun 7, 2023 | Strength
Buddhists do this thing called “dedicating the merit.” At the end of each meditation practice, we offer our efforts to the universe. One dedication of merit I use begins “by this merit, May all beings be freed from suffering.” Whether the...
by Kate | Jun 21, 2022 | Chronic healing, Strength
I start my day with a loving kindness meditation. “May you be safe. May you be strong. May you live with joy. May you be peaceful and it at ease.” I wish these things for myself, my loved ones, strangers, enemies, and all beings. I learned this meditation technique...
by Kate | Jun 15, 2022 | Strength
I am considering the kind promise “I will share my strengths compassionately.” The last word in that promise makes all the difference. Last week, I encouraged myself (and you) to show up in life as is – warts and all – knowing that by revealing our authentic selves,...
by Kate | Jun 8, 2022 | Strength
This month, I am exploring the kind promise “I will share my strengths compassionately.) Several years ago, a woman in a good mood got on the bus. She chattered happily, explaining that she had just finished her volunteer shift at a nursing home. Residents there were...
by Kate | Jul 14, 2021 | Strength, Vulnerability
Asking for help is a counter-cultural activity right from the start. It requires awareness of my own needs and limitations. The dominant US, culture is steeped in the myth of the rugged individualist, independent and self-sufficient. That cowboy doesn’t need help. I...
by Kate | Jul 10, 2021 | kind promises, Strength, Vulnerability, Weakness
We humans are a social species. We weren’t meant to survive or thrive on our own. Unfortunately, we (especially Americans) have created mythic heroes that are rugged individualists. They don’t need anybody. It’s a lonely life. Those of us who live with illness can’t...
