Exactly this! For the last few years, I lived off a diet of current events, decaf coffee, and desperate hope. After my five heart attacks (in 48 hours) this last March, I knew something had to change. Not only was this hurting me, but if this was hurting me, how could this possibly be of any help to anyone else? The second I had my first heart attack in March, I turned to meditation and meditated for hours. Not only did this likely save my life (even according to doctors), but it also showed me that I can only inspire positive change by opening up to my inner awareness, compassion, and wisdom. Now, my goals are simpler and arguably more effective. Thank you for putting this into writing better than I ever could. I hope you are doing well, and our paths will cross again soon! 🧡
"The future remains uncertain. The challenges we face are real and significant. But I believe that within each of us lies an innate capacity for compassion that, when awakened and practiced, can transform not only our own experience but contribute to the healing of our world.
This isn't wishful thinking — it's a conscious choice of which myth to live by..."
Yes, Jude...in theory. Let me offer one practical observation or rather a question, though. To a serious degree, your above piece seems to be focused on the social. So let me ask you this -- do you think that any kind of meaningful existential quest, any kind of spiritual growth, any change of "the way of looking" would still be possible in the kind of society described in Nineteen Eighty-Four?
Well thought
Well said
This was so heartening, especially this week. Thank you for this piece, Jude!
Thank you 🙏
Exactly this! For the last few years, I lived off a diet of current events, decaf coffee, and desperate hope. After my five heart attacks (in 48 hours) this last March, I knew something had to change. Not only was this hurting me, but if this was hurting me, how could this possibly be of any help to anyone else? The second I had my first heart attack in March, I turned to meditation and meditated for hours. Not only did this likely save my life (even according to doctors), but it also showed me that I can only inspire positive change by opening up to my inner awareness, compassion, and wisdom. Now, my goals are simpler and arguably more effective. Thank you for putting this into writing better than I ever could. I hope you are doing well, and our paths will cross again soon! 🧡
Really enjoyed reading this and am grateful for all the references to other teachers as well
"The future remains uncertain. The challenges we face are real and significant. But I believe that within each of us lies an innate capacity for compassion that, when awakened and practiced, can transform not only our own experience but contribute to the healing of our world.
This isn't wishful thinking — it's a conscious choice of which myth to live by..."
Yes, Jude...in theory. Let me offer one practical observation or rather a question, though. To a serious degree, your above piece seems to be focused on the social. So let me ask you this -- do you think that any kind of meaningful existential quest, any kind of spiritual growth, any change of "the way of looking" would still be possible in the kind of society described in Nineteen Eighty-Four?