Tag: buddhism
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Musings
In my experience, the stories we tell ourselves (about ourselves) are some of the most powerful spells we can cast on our behavior and perceived quality of life. That’s why I think it’s productive to look inward, and examine what I’d like to adopt as a narrative.
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Musings
Ironically, I find my optimal state of self-perception arises from stillness and present-moment focus (where the perception is directed away from the surface self, and arguably allows a visceral perception of the greater self). A sense of well-being spontaneously arises, without any prompting whatsoever, which leads to me feeling good about myself for no tangible…
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Musings
In my experience, the quality and direction of my inner state is a big determinant of whether or not I enjoy my life. Outwardly, I may have to oppose or contradict, out of practicality or imminent concern. If that comes from a place of shortage–desire to control, out of insecurity or egotism (maybe they’re the…
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Musings
As part and parcel of this world, it seems we are all destined to fall at one point or another. The interesting thing to me is when a shift in perspective turns reactivity into empowered responsiveness–when we begin to ascend instead of constantly falling down. That shift in perspective, in my opinion, might be the…
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Musings
For a long time, I was pessimistic by default. The I realized the appeal of pessimism–that I could minimize disappointment through negativity–is still disappointing, and makes for a dreary existence.
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Musings
When I deal with my negativity, it seem to be my identification with it that determines how fast it leaves. Of course the emotion is me, but it isn’t me in my entirety. So I let it be felt, because otherwise, I would be denying a part of myself. At the same time, I try…
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Musings
For decades, I unthinkingly accepted the premise that fulfillment was achieved through intellect and action. Then I noticed quantifiable success didn’t guarantee fulfillment, within myself or even among the wildly successful. Then I noticed if my focus was on being present and empty, I wouldn’t stay that way–well-being inevitably rushed in, for no external reason…
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Musings
Ironically, even when it seems to put a relationship at risk, I’ve found that setting boundaries generally improves it. Sometimes, the person falls out of my life, but even more surprising is when they come back in, after reflecting on the exchange and stating they’re ready to honor the boundary. On a related note, I…
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Musings
After a while, I realized when I allow myself to be empty and still, I don’t stay that way–well-being inevitably follows, and inspiration follows that well-being. As I began to accept the idea that well-being is my default state, I also began to accept the related premise that this same well-being alchemizes thoughts and emotions…
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Musings
The true self, I believe, is not a series of narratives that run through my mind, reiterating who I was, who I am, who I’ll be, and/or why any of those narratives aren’t valid or real. It’s a wordless transcendence that becomes apparent when all the narratives quiet and still.
Kent Wayne 