Thomas Merton (1915-1968) was an American Trappist monk. He was also a writer, a traveller, a social activist, a poet and a seeker of the contemplative life.He was intent on exploring interfaith dialogues and developed deep friendships with the Dalai Lama, and Zen monk Thích Nhất Hạnh. As well as writing on his own faith … Continue reading On the Road.
In the moment.
For me, the biggest problem trying to live my life in the momentis that I always seem to turn up for it 20 minutes early.
Why meditate?
Information is Beautiful is a website founded by David McCandless that attempts to convey factual, evidence based information in graphic forms that bring clarity and understanding to the information. There are graphics on a wide range of topics from what a trillion dollars looks like (note the combined wealth of the 1%.....wow) to what are … Continue reading Why meditate?
Meditation on the road.
I have been meditating regularly for quite a few years now. I usually sit Zazen (Zen meditation) for 1 hour most mornings. Dawn is the best time for me. There is something about the stillness and the quality of the light first thing that I find very conducive to quieting down and settling into a … Continue reading Meditation on the road.
Stupa of compassion.
Today we went to visit the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion just outside of Bendigo. A stupa is a sacred building symbolising the enlightened mind and the path to enlightenment in Buddhism. This particular stupa is a massive structure with each side if its square base measuring 50 metre and tapers to a crown some … Continue reading Stupa of compassion.
Bed bound.
It's one of the best feelings in the world. Outside, a cold and a blustery wind rises and falls. An occasional far off rolling thunder admonishing it's lack of commitment. I am wrapped snugly in my doona. Listening to the sound of gentle rain on Ripley's roof. I can see from the grey morning light … Continue reading Bed bound.