How do we not lose heart when hard times drag on?Here in the US we’re approaching the one year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of the people I’m in touch with are hitting a wall. The monotony, the stress of schools being closed, the isolation...

One of the most common misconceptions about meditation is that you have to stop thinking.Anyone who’s tried knows how futile this is. The mind can get still and quiet, but this comes through relaxation and patient, gentle effort, not an act of will.W...

During these long pandemic months, one thing that's come to mind repeatedly is how small acts can have a lasting impact in life, for better or worse. This is one of the reasons the Buddha stressed the importance of kaliyana–mitta, ‘wise companio...

I took a walk with an old friend recently. We were talking about some of the difficulties we'd each overcome in our lives, and the struggles we still faced in our personal relationships. Sitting on a bench, looking out over the Redwood park, she turn...

Dear friends,Tomorrow in the U.S., we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.I find strength and reassurance in the timeless reminders from Dr. King to undertake the demanding practice of love as a path to healing, justice, and true...

If you're still reeling from the events of the last week, rest assured: you're not alone. After such a stressful year, the events in the U.S. capitol pushed many of us over our limit, reflecting the deep divisions in society and the glaring realities...

Dear friends, As the year draws to a close, I've been reflecting on how we can sustain ourselves and renew the heart. So much has transpired this year: countless losses, fear and isolation alongside tremendous resilience and mass people’s movements a...

Dear friends,As the holidays approach and this incredibly challenging year draws to a close, I'm happy to share a small gift that I hope might lift your spirits and offer some support.In times like these, the days can wear you down if you're not taki...

Hi all,I hope you're hanging in there as this incredibly challenging year draws to a close. I wanted to let you know about a few upcoming events, and extend a warm invitation to join me for any that line up for you. Conversations with Family, with Sa...

Dear friends,I want to extend a warm invitation to join me for a meditation session Tuesday (12/8) or next Sunday (12/13). Details are here.When we hit a rough patch—especially a long one like 2020—it’s common to feel stuck, restless, worried. In man...