Another pleasant evening spent together. The reading was from Deepak Chopras book, describing the path to effortlessness in our lives. It sounds good in the book but how can I bring this into my daily life? Is this realistic? All of these doubts are simply passing mental events. With each question we can return to the reality of daily life and risk the possibility of taking a bite of this delicious fruit. Acceptance of our doubting mind, Responsibility  that only we prevent an effortless life, Defensivelessness allowing life to flow through us without demanding our own agenda. Here are the beautiful words from that book to encourage all of us to engage in this practice now, before we miss our season:

This existance of ours is as transient as autumn clouds.To watch the birth and death of beings is like looking at the movements of a dance. A lifetime is like a flash of lightning in the sky, rushing by like a torrent down a steep mountain.

Let us fall like Earls maple leaves, free of concepts, delighting in our suchness.

The reading this week was from Charlotte Becks ‘Everyday Zen’. How we all practice at whatever point in our lives we are, that this is not about better or worse, simply allowing ourselves to be wherever we are. This is not a getout clause of embracing the challenges Practice offers us, more about an active acceptance of our humanity. To struggle is not failure, this is a Dharma door, if we can muster the courage to stay, even when the door appears to be tightly shut, or flapping open and shut in our face! Time to release that fearce grip on the handle and trust in the Path.

Hi all

Most Sangha members away this week although lovely to welcome two new people to practice with. The Dharma reading was from a Pema Chodron book.  This particular chapter was on laziness, how to identify it and transform these difficult experiences into opportunities for developing compassion. Good stuff, as we all agreed we continually give ourselves a hard time as we fall into the same holes, time and time again! Ah well, nothing like shared suffering.

Please also remember next week there is  no evening meeting as the Brighton Pebbles Sangha are running a Day of Mindfulness. All are welcome.

Breathing in I see the suffering of my mind, Breathing out I return to my breath and body, doing what needs to be done. With Metta.

Hi everyone

The group discussion followed a shared reading of the 14 Mindfulness trainings. The overall experience was one of openess and that these Trainings were more supportive than prohibitive.

There will not be a meeting on Sunday 14th Feb as the Pebbles Sangha in Brighton are holding a Day of Mindfulness, 10 - 4.30 at Patcham Community Centre. This really is a wonderful opportunity to support your practice and take some time out to take care of yourself.  If anyone would like to come for the day please let me know, or visit their website www.pebblessangha.com

Breathing in I smile, Breathing Out I release………Smile / Release