Dear Friends,

As we near the end of this unforgettable year it is a natural time for reflection. Together we have encountered profound difficulties, yet in the midst of many unknowns we have continued to support one another. Each day, we wake up and face the circumstances of our world. It is easy to be swept away by the negatives which clearly stand out. The pandemic continues. In some respects, we have grown accustomed to the “new normal.” Still, the current surge in COVID-19 cases is sobering and scary, and the lockdowns, however necessary, are hard to endure, especially during the holiday season. As a country we have experienced political upheaval and volatility, and we continue to deal with economic challenges and various forms of separation and division across the nation.

Our list of hardships is not a short list this year; yet, as practitioners of meditation and present awareness, we understand the importance of taking a deeper look at our situation. To be identified with negative thoughts and perceptions always proves to be unsatisfactory. As practitioners, we are called into opening the hand of thought. In doing so, we embrace our agency. In doing so, we embrace our capacity to transform negative experience—even the smallest shift in perspective or thoughtful action can be immeasurably valuable. Fortunately, within the negatives of 2020 we can find subtle positives or silver linings which we can and must bring into our awareness: The end of the pandemic is in sight and vaccines are nearing availability. We expect to see a new administration taking the helm in the new year. Plans are underway to address economic strain, and our hope is that the support will be applied where it is needed most. Through this year’s shared struggle, we have grown closer! One day in the not too distant future, we will be able to meet all together again, face to face.

This year has been a real test for Long Beach Meditation, and we have passed the test with flying colors. Transitions always bring about vulnerability. When the loss of our ability to meet in-person at Bay Shore Church meant moving to online classes in a matter of days, we took the necessary steps and embarked on a new way of practicing together. With varying degrees of technological expertise, we found ourselves clumsily navigating Zoom. Over time, we gained confidence, embracing the nuanced art of muting and unmuting, among other things! How wonderful to have the capacity to connect with each other across the digital landscape during this time! I am encouraged to see that our membership has remained strong and participation steady and sure. A truth to be gleaned from this is that our Sangha, our wonderful community, is committed to this practice. We understand that circumstances are ever-changing and that we cannot control, or even accurately predict, the kinds of weather (stormy or otherwise) that we will be called upon to navigate. We can always, however, adjust our course to match the conditions. We can and we must keep going, straight ahead. Let us continually commit to making our best offering and to being of real benefit along our path.

As 2020 comes to an end and as we celebrate the holidays, I wish to extend my sincere and heartfelt gratitude for your practice and support of Long Beach Meditation. When we first come to the cushion and learn to meditate, we do so from the standpoint of the individual. We practice in order to better know ourselves. With time, our hearts open and wisdom grows. As the days, months, and years move inexorably by, our realization unerringly deepens and that which began as our practice expands to include everyone and everything. This is the practice and process of spiritual growth, of maturing, of taking our place in the refuge of Sangha which is open and inviting to all. Our vital exploration of the human condition endlessly reveals our remarkable capacity. Together we actualize the truth and the heart of who we are. What could be more important?

My warmest wishes to you, your families, and the community for lasting peace, good health, and happiness as we approach year end and go beyond. Should you wish to do so, please reach out to me directly at jokai@longbeachmeditation.org. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Bows,

Jokai

浄
Jo (Pure)

海
Kai (Ocean)