An Update from Elaine

An Update from Elaine

Elaine Jackson, our resident teacher, has been in self quarantine with her partner Keith since the beginning of March. She is using this time for retreat and doing prayers for the center and all of us.  She shares this with you during this time.

Walking into my meditation room this morning, I see the treetops through the window behind my altar. The sky is overcast and a gentle mist falls. As I sit down on my meditation cushion, I take stock of what is present now, in this moment, in this body and mind…right now. My feeling is one of peaceful gratitude for this precious life and all its many gifts. As I mindfully inhale, I allow that peace to fill me up. An inner smile emerges.

I recall that the world is in turmoil right now. We are sheltering against an enemy we cannot see. But we witness the destruction in its wake: the loss of friends and loved ones. It may be devastating, or at the very least, sobering. We also see the heroic efforts of the medical and research professionals along with their support teams as they work tirelessly to stem the tide. We are grateful.

There is something else arising. Thinking about it gives me goosebumps. It is the goodness bubbling up and pouring out in the form of volunteers assisting shut-ins, musicians and dancers offering their talent, neighbors standing on balconies singing together and much more. Many folks are digging deep to answer the question, “How can I help?” It is a visible, worldwide outpouring of love. I think, perhaps there will be a paradigm shift. Perhaps we are creating a world where everyone we meet will inspire us with their generosity and love. Hope arises. 

May we continue to think of benefiting each other.

 

In the words of Master Shantideva:

As long as space remains

As long as sentient beings remain

There too may I remain

To dispel the misery of the world.