The recent racially motivated shooting in Buffalo – some musings as a meditator

I haven’t posted for quite awhile but today I feel compelled to write down some thoughts. The recent racially motivated shooting at the Tops grocery store in Buffalo has sent me over the edge. All of the shootings over these past several years have been heartbreaking, but there was something about this tragedy that touched me deeply with many thoughts and emotions.

What triggered my reaction? Perhaps it was on the heels of the leaked Supreme Court document about Roe v. Wade. Perhaps it was because of the political rhetoric during this past primary season. Perhaps it was because I let down my guard once the presidential administration changed. I’m not sure, but I feel the need to put voice to some of my thoughts. Continue reading “The recent racially motivated shooting in Buffalo – some musings as a meditator”

Don’t Lose Hope! A Mindfulness Survival Guide to the 2020 Presidential Elections-Acknowledging the Life of Pastor Robert Graetz (May 16, 1928 – September 20, 2020)

Pastor Robert Graetz

If you are anything like me, when I see the presidential election adds on television, I find myself tensing up. My shoulders get tight. My stomach clutches. Then my mind takes over and I start doubting myself, losing hope and wonder how I will survive this election.

But mindfulness offers us a different way of being during these difficult times. Mindfulness invites us to find a place of calm and peace even in the middle of a pandemic, worries about climate change and all the destructive rhetoric we hear and read.

Continue reading “Don’t Lose Hope! A Mindfulness Survival Guide to the 2020 Presidential Elections-Acknowledging the Life of Pastor Robert Graetz (May 16, 1928 – September 20, 2020)”

They Posted WHAT on Facebook?? Transforming Reactivity into Empathy in a Time of Crisis

Trees

I suspect your experience has been a lot like mine: You open Facebook to see what your BFF is up to. You want to see a cute meme about kittens or puppies. You look for that inspiring quote posted by the friend who always knows what to share during difficult times – and WAM! There it is! Your beloved aunt or friend – whose political leanings are not the same as yours – posts THAT unbelievable post that is filled not only with hate, but downright inaccurate information.

How do you feel? Anger? Disappointment? Do you have a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach?

Continue reading “They Posted WHAT on Facebook?? Transforming Reactivity into Empathy in a Time of Crisis”