A Lamp in the Darkness ~~ Illuminating the Path Through Difficult Times (Author: Jack Kornfield, PhD)

Jack Kornfield, PhD, one of the most revered mindfulness teachers of our time, is the co-founder of The Insight Meditation Society and of Spirit Rock Meditation Center, where I spent one of my doctural travel grant trainings ~ with him as one of my 6 mentors. In this book, he invites us to 'awaken' ... "Do not be afraid to face your difficulty. Turn toward it. Lean into the wind. Hold your ground."
I want to share some of his thoughts with you as we are moving into the center of several important holidays ~~ moving toward self-care and self-compassion should be a constant reminder on our list of "Things to do...". The hassles and chaos become prevalent, with situations that call for immediate attention everyday. We are burdened at such times, in some way, shape or form, so guiding ourselves through our days with some of Dr. Kornfield's wisdom in mind can certainly empower each of us when we need it ~~
YOU ARE NOT ALONE ~
" ...Life is difficult for everyone."
YOUR DIFFICULTIES ARE YOUR PATH~
"The warrior in your heart says stand your ground...You have all the support you need in your bones."
AWAKEN TO THE ONE WHO KNOWS~
"Loss and betrayal tear open the heart. Look through this gate for the wisdom that lies there. What matters now?"
LIVE IN THE PRESENT~
"The one who knows has the courage to acknowledge the way things are, and to care and love and trust, no matter what."
YOU WILL SURVIVE~
When we come to understand the paradox that what we most value in our lives was often born out of conflict and struggle, we can begin to get a glimmer that perhaps one day we may begin to embrace our difficulties and find grace in them, even if that day is not today."
OPEN TO THE VASTNESS~
"You may not see it now; but this very difficulty will strengthen you. Your heart will grow wiser, your spirit stronger..."
TRUST~
"...sense how many other people on this earth are facing the same problems: loss, conflict...Feel your common humanity with them. When you can awaken sympathy, courage often follows."
ENJOY THE JOURNEY ~~ through thick and thin ~~ Blessings & Peace to ALL!
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