Slogan #4

Self-Liberate even the antidote

Reflection:

Practice for the sake of practicing. Do the work because it is a part of being alive, the privilege of living.

This mindset shaped my morning sit today. I didn’t follow any specific guidelines for breathing or relaxing my body. I just showed up and rode the emotional waves that came crashing in as I sat in silence. I didn’t get attached to the sensations but sometimes dove into the depths of where the stories came from. I moved and fidgeted in my seat to find a more comfortable position and continued until my alarm went off.

I put my hands together at the center of my heart and bowed deeply with my chin to my chest.

Meditation has given me space to play with what bubbles up during my practice, whether it’s painful or happy experiences. It is a safe within myself that allows me to understand that a result isn’t necessary. There is no tangible goal to strive for. Instead, like Lama Rod Owens said, “If we don’t do the work, then we become work for other people.”

As I reflect on this slogan, I come to a place of embracing the process itself. It’s about showing up, being present, and allowing whatever comes up to be there without judgment or attachment that helps cultivate a deeper understanding and acceptance of all experiences, both on and off the cushion.