It’s a ceremony that seemed very strange to me when I first learned about it. It was so different from anything with which I was familiar that it was difficult to understand. Several decades ago, I was told about a tradition among the Plains Indians called the Sun Dance. The… Read More »The God Who Suffers With Us
Many people find themselves caught up with worries and anxieties. Regrets from the past seem to haunt some people. They think to themselves, “If only I had done this differently!” or “I wish I had never done that!” Yet, the truth is this: whatever it is that we’ve done or… Read More »The Wonder of the Present Moment
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to participate in a training for Cognitive Based Compassion Meditation. Based on the classic Tibetan writings that are the basis for mind-training (lojong), Geshe Lobsang Tenzin of Atlanta’s Drepung Loseling Monastery developed this protocol in conjunction with researchers at Emory University. As I… Read More »The Contemplative Path: Communion with the Beloved
In an earlier piece, I explored a basic process for meditation for those who are starting a meditation practice. Continuing on this theme, I’d like to explore some of the differences related to meditation between Christian and Buddhist approaches. Of course, each great religious tradition maintains a tradition of meditation.… Read More »Christian and Buddhist Understandings of Meditation
“Discover a diverse modern metropolis steeped in unique blends of Eastern and Western traditions – only Hong Kong!” So claims the website of the Hong Kong Tourist Board. My recent visit to Hong Kong introduced me to a very modern metropolis with a more developed infrastructure than any major city… Read More »Hong Kong: A Unique Blend Woven into a Tapestry
Keep watch! Stay alert! Those are the words Jesus used several times in the gospels attributed to Mark and Matthew. The concept is clear: you don’t know when the realm of God will break into your life, so keep watch and stay alert. Don’t miss it. A very similar concept… Read More »Wake-Up! Stay Alert!
While enjoying lunch recently with the rector of an Episcopal Church near my home, I was asked a seemingly innocent question. It was one of those questions meant to be a kind of conversation starter. My colleague inquired, “What’s new in the world of psychology?” I rambled for a few… Read More »Spiritual Imperialism and Spiritual Practice
Yes, he’s a public figure. Yes, we’ve had a certain image of him. Yes, he was a hero to children. At the same time, the actions which led to Tiger Wood’s apology didn’t hurt the American public. Those actions hurt his wife, his family, and Mr. Woods himself. Tiger was… Read More »Tiger Woods: Apology and Forgiveness
