Philosophy 06 (May 26 - Dec 27)

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What Is This Self?

Not-knowing introspection and self-inquiry — as in “What is this self?” — moves us into intimacy with who this is and what is happening.

- Susan Murphy, “A Koan for These Times”

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Don’t Follow Thoughts

Under the influence of thoughts, the mind does not remain focused on a single point;

It alternates between movement and stillness.

It is important not to follow thoughts and to focus without fixation.

- Khenpo Sherab Sangpo

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Skillful Attention

Skillful attention is not the same as watching the news or reading social media.

It’s choosing to direct our mindfulness and compassion to other living beings and to make a real connection to their experience with our minds and hearts.

- Kimberly Brown, “Overwhelmed? Pay Attention”

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Desireless Practice

We should practice without expecting anything special for ourselves, even enlightenment or peace of mind.

Any expectation is a desire and any desire is an obstacle to practice.

- Les Kaye, “Walking Past the Candy Store”

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Eager Faith

Eager faith speaks to one’s actions on the path.

It is the point when one turns away from causes of suffering and toward a path of liberation.

- Renée Ford, “Trust in Times of Uncertainty”

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Compassionate Communication

Just as watching one’s breath becomes something deeper over time, the practice of compassionate communication can lead to subtle but profound inner shifts.

- Katy Butler, “Say It Right”

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The Power of Traveling

When you travel, you not only leave your family, friends and possessions behind, you also leave yourself behind — your home self — and a different you emerges, perhaps one that is fresher, more vulnerable, more open to new ideas and things.

- David Farley, “The Four Noble Truths of Travel”

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Be Mindful of Habits

A habit becomes a personality, which then determines the course of your life and destiny.

- Dang Nghiem, “Rehearsing Suffering”

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Experiencing Impermanence

Feeling and naming bodily sensations and sustaining attention as they change, offer a direct experience of impermanence in real time.

- Beth Robins Roth

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Just Listen

Sounds, like everything else, arise and pass away.

Just by listening, you can experience the insight of impermanence, an understanding that was taught as crucial for the development of wisdom.
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- Sylvia Boorstein