20 years ago, when the Twin Towers fell, many of us experienced some shared moments of suffering – confusion, shock, fear, anger, and grief (the ripples, reactions, and repercussions unfolding from that tragedy we’re globally still grappling with toda... Read more
Let Metta guide your actions
Metta is a Pali word which is most often translated as lovingkindness. It’s not a perfect translation because that’s not a word that is used in English. Other translations used are benevolence, good-will, loving friendliness, universal love etc. Me... Read more
Self-Compassion’s Core Questions
The quintessential question of Mindful Self Compassion (MSC) is, “What do I need right now?” That is, mindfully checking in with yourself, and if stress or struggle are present, showing up for yourself as you would a friend – maybe offering some so... Read more
Parenting Black Children in a Joyful and Sorrowful World
Diasporic Black parents are parenting in a complex time. We are from the South, from the Caribbean, from the Continent, Harlem, Brooklyn, Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw, and beyond. Our families are varied, multifaceted, rich in culture and wisdom,... Read more
Freedom on a Windowsill
Ahhhh...holidays! Just hearing that word has such nostalgic power. I dream of freedom from routines, time to meditate more, relax, hang out with family, friends and community who remind me of being loved and important to others besides myself.... Read more
Vesak, Full Moon in May
The upcoming full moon in May is Vesak, a special Buddhist holiday observed around the world, inspired by the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, peace and goodwill. Vesak honors his birth, enlightenment and death, all together. Vesak is joyful, celebr... Read more
Meditate For India – Benefit Saturday May 15th
India is suffering. COVID is ravaging the medical system and the supplies. We would like to offer refuge to feeling helpless or afraid. We have planned a 24/7 round-the-clock meditation and yoga marathon sessions offered by well-known global t... Read more
Everything Becomes Beautiful
At a meeting with Gil Fronsdal, a friend and colleague who knows Pali, the language of the ancient Buddhist texts he said what the Buddha taught is often not conveyed in its full richness with the translations we currently have. For example, the word ... Read more
Solidarity with Asian Lives
Akemi’s parents, BJ and Ron, at a #StopAsianHate rally in Irvine yesterday.
As I hear about the horrific murders of Asian American women at Atlanta massage spas this week, the latest in a string of over 3,795 reported anti-Asian hate incidents this p... Read more
All You Need is Love
It’s an overused phrase for sure, but the Beatles did land on some wisdom. I have been practicing mindfulness meditation for nearly 20 years, but only recently do I finally understand in my heart (not just my head) the truth that yes, all we do need ... Read more