Dear Friends,
As we continue this exploration of energy and wise effort, here is an excerpt from Joseph Goldstein’s Mindfulness that speaks to the courageous energy needed to sustain our practice:
Notice carefully the moments of coming out of long trains of thought. It’s like coming out of a movie theater. When we’re lost in the story, it all seems so real, yet all of it is just another transparent movie of the mind. What frees us from these endless cycles is the heroic power of viriya. We arouse the energy to be mindful of the flow of changing phenomena, rather than being lost in and carried away by it.
page 246
This kind of courageous energy is not about striving or forcing; it’s about connecting deeply with the present moment and redirecting our energy toward skillful and wholesome purposes.
Joseph highlights several reflections that can inspire this energy, including:
- Recognizing the preciousness of our human birth and the rare conditions that allow us to practice.
- Reflecting on impermanence, the uncertainty of life, and the inevitability of death as motivators for wise effort.
- Observing the cycles of habitual reactivity, noticing moments of mental wandering, and resolving to step out of these patterns with mindfulness.
Each of these reflections invites us to step into the present with a sense of purpose and urgency, nurturing the courage to engage fully with our lives.
What inspires energy and courage in your practice? Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences. I always appreciate hearing from you.
With good wishes,
Andrea
Hello Andrea and Sangha friends,
thank you so much for this series of wise and important teachings. 🙏🏻 I look forward to them each day and find that they are exactly what I need – when I need it – for my mindfulness practice.
My appreciation and deepest thanks, Sam
Hi Sam, Thank you so much for your kind words. I am truly grateful to hear that these reflections have been resonating with you and supporting your mindfulness practice. Wishing you continued inspiration and energy on your path. Your appreciation means so much.