-
Reflections and New Horizons
As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting on the paths I’ve taken, the lessons I’ve learned, and the moments that have shaped my journey. This year has been one of exploration—not just of books and ideas, but of myself. From diving into Buddhist teachings to contemplating the impermanence of life, I’ve felt the…
-
Walking Between Worlds
In the quiet corners of life, I’ve found myself drawn to the teachings of great spiritual minds—not for their doctrines or rituals, but for the shared wisdom that transcends boundaries. One of the books that’s had a profound impact on me recently is Living Buddha, Living Christ by Thich Nhat Hanh. It’s a work that…
-
Reflections on Philosophy, Religion and Living in the Present
This year, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn to reading works that explore mindfulness, spirituality, and philosophy. As I delve into these texts, I’m reminded of how vast human history truly is and how ancient teachings continue to offer insights for our lives today. A recent visit to Fort Sumter drove this point home for me.…
-
Fort Sumter, Friendship, and the Passage of Time
The visit to Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown sparked reflections on history, sacrifice, and personal connections. Reconnecting with a friend highlighted the intertwining of past and present, reminding us of the courage of those who shaped our freedoms. The experience underscored the importance of remembrance in our ongoing journeys.
-
History’s Curse
Chapter One: The House on Bluff Road The U-Haul rattled down the dirt road, kicking up clouds of dust that hung in the humid air. Ava sat in the passenger seat, her feet up on the dash, one hand loosely holding her camera, the other tapping nervously against her thigh. The trees around them seemed…
-
Transforming our Backyard
Introduction Transforming a space can be both entertaining and therapeutic. Our recent backyard overhaul wasn’t just about building a patio—it was about creating an outdoor space that we could enjoy. Here’s how we turned a once cluttered backyard into a haven for relaxation and entertainment. Removing the Trees The project began with the tough decision…
-
Fire meditation
Have you ever tried to light a piece of wood that wasn’t meant for burning—like a large root pulled from the ground or a healthy tree limb? While the outer surface may catch fire briefly, the inside remains resilient, saturated with the water that once kept the plant alive. Life is much the same. When…
-
Living Fully in the Present with T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets
I recently read Four Quartets by T.S. Eliot, and it really made me stop and think about life—time, growth, spirituality, and everything in between. The poems are packed with ideas that were complicated at first, but the more I sat with them, the more I realized how deeply they connected to how I try to…
-
Solitary Reflections: A Journey with Thoreau, Aurelius, and Buddha
Navigating the complexities of modern life often leads to moments of introspection and philosophical inquiry. As I delve into The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching, alongside reflections from Thoreau’s Walden and Aurelius’ Meditations, I find resonant themes that challenge my perceptions of self and society, echoing the questions raised by a recent vivid dream. A Dream and Its Wake…
-
Walden and Civil Disobedience
Henry David Thoreau’s Walden and Civil Disobedience offer thought-provoking insights into a life unencumbered by societal norms, compelling me to revisit my favorite passages throughout. Thoreau’s point of view is that of a man who is unbothered by society. While living at Walden, Thoreau explored the inert beauty that can be found in self reliance, deep introspection, and nature.…