Saturday: it was a sunny, clear day in Atlanta. Wanting to spend some time outside, I decided to clear the debris from the summer garden. Most folks had done it weeks ago and had already planted autumn gardens. I knew it was time to get it done. While I had… Read More »Mindful Living and the Environment
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
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
While there are many books written on meditation, some from particular religious traditions and others based on individual experience, it’s challenging to find a simple, practical guide for meditation. There are many people who just want to know how to meditate. For them, here’s a brief introduction to the process.… Read More »A Beginners Guide to Meditation
You’ve heard this advice, or some form of it, many times: Visualize what you want most. Set your mind on it. Imagine it clearly. The universe will bring it to you. It is true that the human power of cognition is very powerful. By changing our thinking and the way… Read More »The Secret of Living in the Here and Now
I find myself driving along a familiar street. While my speed is within the posted limit, I pull behind a car that’s moving noticeably slower. The driver appears to have difficulty staying in the lane. At first, I’m annoyed. But then the car comes close to side-swiping a parked car… Read More »Focus and the Challenge of Multi-Tasking
Having some time one afternoon, I stopped in at a local bookstore. As is my habit, I went first to see the books on the reduced price table. As I looked over the titles, I stumbled onto a large hardbound volume of photos from the Hubble space telescope. I paged… Read More »Awe and Wonder
I am pleased to welcome a guest blogger to emerging: Glenna Shepherd, pastor of the Decatur United Church of Christ in Decatur, GA. I’m inviting you to take a few moments and consider Glenna’s most recent reflection on ritual and spirituality, both from a Christian and personal perspective. Glenna shares… Read More »Ritual: Grounding our Lives in the Present Moment.
