Dear Friends,
At times it feels that change occurs almost imperceptibly. Recently, though, it seems like the earth has shifted on its axis. Everything is different, all at once. You are likely reading this at home, perhaps alone, with a partner, or with your family. Wherever you find yourself, please rest assured that though we may be separated by significant physical distance, we share the common experience of being touched in one way or another by the fear and stress which accompany the uncertainty of our present reality.
Long Beach Meditation recently transitioned to online classes with immediate effect. Our weekly offerings have been revised, and we are glad to be able to provide this important form of connection until it is safe and supportive to resume gathering in person. It was inspiring and encouraging to see so many of you join for our first Zoom meeting last Sunday. The wonderful participation and momentum continued with our Monday night offering. Then, due to popular demand, we reinstated Wednesday evening meetings as well. There is a clear desire for the Sangha to stay connected and we will endeavor to build on this promising beginning, navigating this challenging time together.
From a practice-oriented standpoint, the precautions that we must take seriously offer a strong opportunity to be attentive, mindful, and aware. Social distancing can be used as a valuable time during which we can sense how our bodies and minds are in relationship with this new frontier. If we find that we are fearful or worried, it is important to recognize that these feelings and emotions are natural and appropriate responses in light of the seriousness of what we face. Still, as practitioners of meditation, we trust in our capacity to be in direct contact with what is real, however challenging this may prove to be.
Having faced wars, famine, political upheaval, and pandemics throughout human history, it is clear that this too will get better with time—just how much time will be required remains in the realm of the unknown, as does the extent of the painful consequences for people around the world and within our community. In times like these, the depth of our practice is tested. As practitioners we make friends with not-knowing, one breath at a time. We follow the path of reducing suffering and revealing the refuge of being, even in trying circumstances. As panic, anger, sickness, and loss of life mark the weeks ahead, each of us can do our part to be lamps in the dark. The power of love, compassion, and connection to those around us is needed now more than ever.
In this time of restriction of movement, let us stay connected via Zoom, email, and phone. If you would like to connect one-on-one, please reach out to me directly: jokai@longbeachmeditation.org. I am happy to connect with you or to facilitate your speaking with one of our kind, talented Dharma Teachers who are also available to talk with you. Travis can be reached at travis@longbeachmeditation.org for help with Zoom, other technical questions, or with ideas on how we can better stay connected.
At this point in time, the truth of impermanence and the preciousness of life itself are the obvious living facts of our shared experience. Let us meet the challenges presented by the current pandemic with equanimity, skillful action, and open, loving hearts.
Bows and Thanks,
Jokai Blackwell, Guiding Teacher