Concentration of Mind
Out of a foundation of conscious conduct, the first steps of the mindful way, grows the second aspect of the path, which is called the...
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Tending the Garden
When we are willing to rest with trust on this earth, the great force of life will begin to move through us. I saw this...
The Bird in the Trap
A certain man caught a bird in a trap. The bird says, “Sire, you have eaten many cows and sheep in your life, and you’re...
Freedom Here and Now
The radiant abodes express the fruit of mental development. When they are in balance, loving-kindness, compassion, and joy rest in an unshakable equanimity. This peace...
Rumi’s Teacher
The great Persian poet Rumi had an extraordinary teacher named Shams. Even as a child Shams seemed different. His own parents struggled with whether to...
Heaven & Hell
A big, tough samurai once went to see a little monk. “Monk,” he said, in a voice accustomed to instant obedience, “teach me about heaven...
Water Into Wine
A century ago, a young student at the great Oxford University in England was taking an important examination in religious studies. The examination question for...
Forgiveness & Kind Intention
In the mandala of wholeness we are called to the practice of forgiveness. We must especially find a forgiving heart with family and those close...
Healthy Desire
Buddhist psychology teaches us to distinguish between the painful desire of addiction and driven ambition and the healthy energies of dedication and commitment. A dream...
The Mind and the Heart
The “Jewel in the Lotus” is the translation of the universal compassion mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum.” While it has many meanings, one explanation of...
Spiritual Life Takes Courage
Equanimity is not indifference, and compassion is not pity. True spirituality requires us to be fully present for life. For us to begin to look...
Awareness of the Dance
At times in intensive spiritual training, or in extreme or accidental circumstances, powerful altered states and energetic processes can emerge. We may become frightened by...