Welcome to members of the Daily Kos Sangha* and all interested visitors who happen by.
Each of us has our own path; we come here by way of many different traditions, and of no particular tradition. While the language we use may differ depending on the traditions, teachers, practices, and teachings that have shaped our journeys, we find in common, generally, a search for who we truly are, our true nature, and to bring the peace and compassion born of that search into the greater world of which we area part. If you wish to share, or if you seek support, or if you simply want to say hello, please do, as this space is for you.
As I wrote last week, I was greatly influenced by the work of Dr. Albert Ellis, who in turn was shaped by his studies of the writings of Epictetus, the 1st Century Greek Stoic philosopher. As I wrote last week, Ellis’ philosophy of psychotherapy was to get patients to look at the way they think in a rational way, as taught by the Stoics. In short:
“It is not the things that happen to you that make you crazy, it is the way you talk to yourself about those things.”
- There is nothing that says you must be loved, liked, or approved of by everyone you meet.
- There is nothing that says you must be perfect in everything you attempt.
- There is nothing that says others must do what you want them to; no one appointed you Emperor of the Universe.
Conversely, you will always be better if you remind yourself at every opportunity:
- It is nice to be loved and approved of, but it is not a necessity. Some people are going to dislike me for reasons of their own, so there is no point in concerning myself with them.
- I am going to screw up from time to time. Life is a learning curve. Mistakes will be made, but if I persist in repeating them, that is when I may have a problem and need to try something else.
- Others are going to be themselves and do whatever their muse tells them to do. I don’t have to like or approve of it, any more than I want them to judge me.
Marcus Aurelius (121-180 AC) was a Roman emperor, philosopher, and warrior. He became Emperor in 161 AD, when he was 40 years old. He ruled for 19 years, until his death in the year 180. His reputation as a philosopher is in the Stoic tradition.
Marcus Aurelius wrote his Meditations while on a military campaign. He wrote his Stoic philosophies in Greek. His Meditations were written as a source of inspiration for his own personal guidance and inspiration during trying times.
I have tried to live my life by these philosophies. I hope this will help others.
For Today’s Meditation:
Here is a 20-minute meditation on drums by Dr. Byron Metcalf.
Nemaste
Peace this day, and every day.
Take this time to sit, and quietly take in your surroundings in a comfortable place.
Do not dwell on thoughts that enter your mind for long, as the need to empty the mind while sitting is what is to be realized, all the while concentrating on your breath: Breath in, and exhale out, and truly realize the moment of this time that is just for you, it is your place, your time, you are at home.
This is an open thread. Please add your thoughts, meditations, and reflections as you wish.
*Attribution: Creator of Dkos Sangha Weekly Thread, Brother “davehouck”.
