Today is the day I take a good look at my practice.
Teaching mindfulness challenges me to bring my practice out front to be viewed and experienced by participants. They come committed to changing their lives through learning the art of being present and open hearted, to hold themselves accountable as they journey toward freedom from suffering.
I hold myself to a high standard as an instructor and as a person. It is important to me to represent and embody what I am trying to teach. If not, then how can people learn from me ? Teaching MBSR and other programs challenges me to do my best so that I can be a power of example.
What I know to be true today, is that I am more able to see my own patterns of behavior and mind. I am more likely to pause and take notice of what is happening in my head, my heart and my body. It has become more fluid and more a part of my everyday behavior. I am able to work with my own fear, disappointment and pain with greater calm and acceptance than ever before.
This can only occur with consistent effort and commitment to staying the path of mindfulness. Everyday is the day that I take a good look. Everyday I recommit to bringing mindfulness, kind curiosity and compassion to my life and to the lives of those around me.
May all beings open to the light of their true nature.
May all beings find ease and peace.
May all beings be happy.
Keep practicing. Hang on. Sit and stay.