With my first child 38 years ago, I remember being fascinated by how such a tiny frame all of 6 months here could sit up so straight and so strong, dignified and effortless. And also, following up your recent talk on compassion, how small children have it... No thought...No calculation as to how compassion affects THEM. I do believe this is 'real' compassion amidst all the phoney compassion around us.
I’m over the moon excited to have this 5 week series to look forward to - I just started today & am going to do 3 a day (am, mid day, eve) so may catch up to the last week of live episodes. BTW, I thought the sound in the retreat center was good - crisp, clear - I thought even a better sound than even IMC. Im so grateful to have stumbled on Gil / IMC…. I’m always surprised how kind and encouraging Gil can be in guided meditations. Gil inspires me to try to be a kinder person. he’s also motivating, to me at least, to keep trying to be in the here and now & that it’s totally possible to be in the here and now. Thank you, Judy b
Summary: - Gil introduces the talk from the Insight Retreat Center, where he teaches an IMC teacher training program, highlighting the importance of early Buddhist nuns and setting the stage for a five-week series on mindfulness meditation focusing on breath, body, emotions, thoughts, and life. - Gil emphasizes the foundational aspect of mindfulness meditation, particularly for beginners and experienced practitioners, to appreciate the simplicity of being fully present and finding refuge in awareness without seeking extraordinary experiences. - Gil uses the analogy of observing a clear mountain creek to illustrate the challenge of recognizing mental distractions and the importance of returning to the breath as a way to become aware of these distractions. - The meditation instruction encourages adopting a posture that reflects dedication to being present and uses the process of breathing to highlight moments of distraction, thereby fostering a clearer understanding and acceptance of one’s mental state without judgment. - Gil gives the perspective that recognizing distraction is integral to meditation practice, and this awareness facilitates a more present and connected way of living, enhancing relationships and daily activities through improved mindfulness and attentiveness. Thank you Gil. 🙏
