Podcasts about buddhist christian

Lena is a Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist & Transformational Speaker, offering the ancient practices of meditation, energy medicine and psycho-spiritual healing to the modern world. Lena is a global teacher and speaker with areas of expertise including conscious leadership, meditation, energy medicine, longevity, holistic health, human optimization, plant medicine, shamanism, sacred reciprocity and ecosystem consciousness, supporting people to embody their highest human potential as they step into their purpose. Lena interweaves her medicine lineages from South America, Central America and Asia into her ceremonial plant medicine work, supporting the healing and transformation of humanity and our earth by being an instrument of energetic harmony. Raised in a hybrid Buddhist/Christian home, Lena was introduced to meditation as a young child and now integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience in her healing and teaching work. Formally trained with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work both from The University of Georgia, Lena is dedicated to guiding others on a journey of embodied purpose, presence and liberated wholeness. Additionally, Lena has studied and trained in Asia, Central America and South America, weaving her lineages of Mahayana Buddhism, Mopan Maya Ancient Medicine, Q'ero Peruvian Shamanism and Shipibo Medicine Wisdom into her global work as a speaker and medicine woman. Lena is the founder of The BEING Method ~ a systematic method for igniting your highest human potential through mindfulness & meditation and The Meditation Membership ~ a curated membership of audio and video meditative teachings channeled by Lena, interweaving meditation, mindfulness, energy medicine and breath. An essential part of Lena's healing work is hosting transformational workshops and immersions in sacred lands all over the globe. Throughout her career, she has guided thousands to transform their suffering into strength by accessing their multi-dimensional existence as souls in human form. Lena has been featured in Vogue, The NY Times, Telegraph, World Travel Magazine and has graced the cover of Yoga Magazine three times. Additionally, she has been featured on TV networks such as Bravo and Lifetime. Lena is the host of The Medicine Wisdom Show where she discusses a variety of holistic medicine and healing modalities with other leaders in the field. Visit her websites to learn more about her healing programs, transformative workshops and international immersions: lenafranklin.com

How can we stay open to, and perhaps even become curious about, our rough edges? Today we delve further into the themes of Richard Rohr's book, 'Eager to Love,' focusing on the integration of the negative and the spirituality of imperfection. We're joined by very special guests Adam Bucko and Kaira Jewel Lingo, who share personal stories of their encounters with St. Francis and discuss the value of suffering, the Bodhisattva path, and the importance of accepting one's imperfections as a means to spiritual growth. Both share stories about the importance of feedback within community settings, as well as the integration of external practices with internal spiritual journeys. The conversation concludes with practical advice on how to approach life's challenges with joy and acceptance, noting that we're all on the road together, and everything belongs. Kaira Jewel Lingo is a Dharma teacher with a lifelong interest in spirituality and social justice. Her work continues the Engaged Buddhism developed by Thich Nhat Hanh, and she draws inspiration from her parents' lives of service and her dad's work with Martin Luther King, Jr. After living as an ordained nun for 15 years in Thich Nhat Hanh's monastic community, Kaira Jewel now teaches internationally in the Zen lineage and the Vipassana tradition, as well as in secular mindfulness, at the intersection of racial, climate and social justice with a focus on Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and activists, as well as artists, educators, families, and youth. Based in New York, she offers spiritual mentoring to groups and is author of We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons in Moving through Change, Loss and Disruption and co-author of Healing Our Way Home: Black Buddhist Teachings on Ancestors, Joy and Liberation. Adam Bucko is an Episcopal priest, teacher of contemplative spirituality, spiritual director, and activist. Born and raised in Poland under a totalitarian regime, his early exposure to spiritual activism deeply shaped his life's orientation. A committed voice in the renewal of Christian contemplation and new monasticism, he authored Let Your Heartbreak Be Your Guide: Lessons in Engaged Contemplation and co-authored Occupy Spirituality: A Radical Vision for a New Generation and The New Monasticism: An Interspiritual Manifesto for Contemplative Living. Currently, he directs The Center for Spiritual Imagination in New York, dedicated to democratizing monastic spirituality and teaching contemplative prayer in response to the cries of the poor and the earth. He also serves as a priest at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City, New York.  Together, Kaira and Adam lead The Beloved Community for Engaged Spirituality, inspired by the social vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thich Nhat Hanh, and the Buddhist-Christian teachings of Engaged Contemplation.   Hosted by CAC Staff: Mike Petrow, and Paul Swanson Resources: A PDF of the transcript for this episode can be found here. Grab a copy of Eager to Love here. To learn more about Kaira Jewel Lingo, visit her website here. Learn more about Adam Bucko, here. To find out more about Adam and Kaira's monastary, visit here.

Henri Nouwen gave a series of lectures on the importance of following Jesus in an age of anxiety which became the basis for this book. Following Jesus explores calling and purpose, fear and hope, and why, when the twenty-first-century seeker has so many choices, including atheism and secularism, the greatest reward for those looking for fulfillment is to choose to embrace the truth of God's love. Henri Nouwen offers warm, insightful, and practical spiritual habits to help readers navigate the oft-less- travelled, but ultimately life-giving road of faith in and through following Jesus. Our Guest: Robert A. Jonas, Ed.D. (Harvard University), M.T.S. (Weston Jesuit School of Theology) was a dear friend of Henri Nouwen and is the author of The Essential Henri Nouwen, (Shambhala Publications) and Henri Nouwen (Orbis). His most recent book is, My Dear Far-Nearness: The Holy Trinity as Spiritual Practice (2022 Orbis). Trained as a psychotherapist, Dr. Jonas is an author, father and grandfather, video artist, musician, environmental steward, and retreat leader. Dr. Jonas is the director of The Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton, MA whose website is an extraordinary resource for contemplative Christians and for Buddhist-Christian dialogue. https://www.emptybell.org/ ___________ Book Discussed: Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety https://amzn.to/3frmy7R (US) https://amzn.to/3cWRWta (Canada) ___________ SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: henrinouwen.org/donate/ * SIGN UP FOR FREE DAILY E-MEDITATIONS: henrinouwen.org/meditation/ * MORE FREE RESOURCES: henrinouwen.org/ * FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/henrinouwensociety/ TWITTER: twitter.com/nouwensociety FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/nouwensociety/ PINTEREST: www.pinterest.ca/henrinouwen/

https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_USLena FranklinWelcome, dear audience, to an extraordinary encounter with the profound and transformative wisdom of Lena. As a Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and Transformational Speaker, Lena bridges the ancient and the modern, offering the timeless practices of meditation, energy medicine, and psycho-spiritual healing. Drawing from her rich heritage in South American, Central American, and Asian medicine lineages, Lena's ceremonial plant medicine work is a testament to her mission: to heal and transform humanity and our Earth through the power of energetic harmony.Raised in a hybrid Buddhist-Christian home, Lena's early introduction to meditation blossomed into a lifelong integration of Eastern philosophy and Western neuroscience. With formal training in psychology and social work, she guides others on a journey of embodied purpose and liberated wholeness. Her global studies in Mahayana Buddhism, Mopan Maya Ancient Medicine, Q'ero Peruvian Shamanism, and Shipibo Medicine Wisdom weave a tapestry of holistic healing that resonates deeply in her teachings and practice.As the founder of The BEING Method and The Meditation Membership, Lena provides a systematic approach to igniting human potential through mindfulness, meditation, and energy medicine. Her transformational workshops and immersions in sacred lands across the globe have guided thousands in turning suffering into strength, revealing the multi-dimensional existence of the soul in human form.Featured in prestigious publications like Vogue and The New York Times, and gracing the cover of Yoga Magazine thrice, Lena's influence extends to television networks such as Bravo and Lifetime. As the host of The Medicine Wisdom Show, she shares her deep insights and engages with other leaders in holistic medicine, illuminating paths to healing and transformation.Join us as we delve into Lena's remarkable journey and explore the profound wisdom she brings to the world, guiding us all toward our highest potential and the sacred harmony of our souls.https://www.lenafranklin.com/http://linkedin.com/in/lena-franklin-922aa199 https://www.paypal.me/Truelifepodcast?locale.x=en_US

Welcome to a brand new dose of Fire and Soul-- the space to deepen your inner awakening and activate your highest expression. I'm honored to welcome Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist and beautiful soul, Lena Franklin to the show.You may know Lena through her work in the shamanic realms as well as host of The Medicine Wisdom Show where she discusses a variety of holistic medicine and healing modalities with other leaders in the field.This conversation runs deep in the refined nuances that transform shadow to light, the courage it takes to allow ourselves to be truly seen, and a powerful reminder that you hold within you the power to shape your reality. This one changed me on the deepest levels. It'll open you, too.Get ready to be inspired to break free from societal conditioning, follow your true north, and explore the embodiment of Divine Grace with profound gratitude as we walk the path of awakening together.Listen in to Lena's wisdom-– cosmic fuel for our conscious evolution. Let's journey!Lena is a Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist & Transformational Speaker, offering the ancient practices of meditation, energy medicine and psycho-spiritual healing to the modern world. Lena is also a founder of The EAST Institute, a leading global organization integrating ancient, indigenous ways of working with medicine and modern science. Lena teaches and educates on the Art of Conscious Leadership and Ecosystem Consciousness, supporting people to embody their highest human potential as they step into their soul's purpose.Raised in a hybrid Buddhist/Christian home, Lena was introduced to meditation as a young child and now integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience in her healing and teaching work. Formally trained with a bachelor of science in psychology and a master of science in social work, Lena is dedicated to guiding others on a journey of embodied purpose, presence and liberated wholeness. Lena is the founder of The BEING Method ~ a systematic method for igniting your highest human potential through mindfulness & meditation and The Meditation Membership ~ a curated membership of audio and video meditative teachings channeled by Lena.An essential part of Lena's healing work is hosting transformational workshops and immersions in sacred lands all over the globe. Throughout her career, she has guided thousands to transform their suffering into strength by accessing their multi-dimensional existence as souls in human form. Lena has been featured on Bravo, Lifetime, the cover of Yoga Magazine, and in The NY Times, Telegraph, World Travel Magazine and more. She is the host of The Medicine Wisdom Show where she discusses a variety of holistic medicine and healing modalities with other leaders in the field. Visit her websites to learn more about her healing programs, transformative workshops and international immersions: lenafranklin.com and theeastinstitute.comHost Resources:Check out the Soul Essence Retreat in Ojai, CASign up for the weekly Fire and Soul love letter Connect with Michelle on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I.    Meta-Apologetics A.    Apologetics: Defending the Christian worldview as objectively  true, compellingly rational, and existentially pertinent to the whole of life (1 Peter 3:15-6; Jude 3) B.    Meta-apologetics: thoughts about how to engage in apologetics, strategies and values. II.    The Christian Apologist's Moral Compass A.    All are called to check their moral motives and develop godly characterI strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize (2 Corinthians 9:27).Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers (1 Timothy 4:16).B.    Yearn for Kingdom ministry (Matthew 6:33) C.    Put yourself second to the ministry; do not promote your brand or ego! Let others compliment you. III.    Godly Character A.    Humility, not self-promotionThis is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief (1 Timothy 1:5; KJV; see also 1 Corinthians 15:9). B.    Show love, not strifeAnd the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.  Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,  and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will (2 Timothy 2:24-26).C.    Dependence on the Spirit moment-by-moment (John 15; Acts 1:8). See Francis Schaeffer, True Spirituality. D.    Intellectual preparation for apologetics 1.    Know your Bible (Psalm 119; 2 Timothy 3:16) and biblical interpretation (2 Peter 3:16) 2.    Know biblical and systematic theology to ground your worldview (Acts 17:10-11) 3.    Know logic and logical fallacies; how to argue carefully and assess arguments carefully (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) 4.    Know your own culture: worldviews and means of communication (technologies) Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do (1 Chronicles 12:32). 5.    Be above reproach in citing your sources in speaking and writing (Exodus 20:15) 6.    Behind all these six principles is the importance of being studious, a good scholar Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true (Ecclesiastes 12:9-10; see 1:17; 8:9, 16).I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught (Luke 1:3-4; see also John 21:24). IV.    Opportunity and Uncertainty in Apologetics A.    Break new ground! It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation—Romans 15:20). B.    Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 Cast your bread upon the waters,For you will find it after many days.Give a serving to seven, and also to eight,For you do not know what evil will be on the earth.If the clouds are full of rain,They empty themselves upon the earth;And if a tree falls to the south or the north,In the place where the tree falls, there it shall lie.He who observes the wind will not sow,And he who regards the clouds will not reap.As you do not know what is the way of the wind,[a]Or how the bones grow in the womb of her who is with child,So you do not know the works of God who makes everything.In the morning sow your seed,And in the evening do not withhold your hand;For you do not know which will prosper,Either this or that,Or whether both alike will be good (NKJV). C.    Calculate effort in relation to effect and chances of success. D.    Embrace unexpected opportunities. 1.    Paul at Mars Hill (Acts 16-17): unscheduled mission trip before imposing intellectuals. 2.    Paul to Timothy Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine—2 Timothy 4:2 (KJV). V.    My Apologetic Surprises, Successes, and Failures A.    Surprise: Lecturing at a Baha'i meeting B.    Successful attempts  1.    Writing On Pascal and On Jesus 2.    Doing author events for two of my books at a local bookstore in Denver. Another one flopped (Fire in the Streets). C.    Unsuccessful attempts 1.    Debate with James K. A. Smith 2.    Doing a Buddhist-Christian dialogue at Naropa University (Boulder, CO) 3.    Secular publisher for Philosophy in Seven Sentences VI.    Attempts, Failures, and Successes before God A.    Seek God's Kingdom first, last, and always (Matthew 6:33) B.    Remember the audience of a holy God Now all has been heard;    here is the conclusion of the matter:Fear God and keep his commandments,    for this is the duty of all mankind.   For God will bring every deed into judgment,    including every hidden thing,    whether it is good or evil—Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.Resources1.    Greg Koukl, Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussion Your Christian Convictions, 2nd ed. (Zondervan, 2019).2.    Douglas Groothuis, “Cast Your Bread upon the Waters: Taking Risks in Christian Witness,” Christian Research Journal, 2014. https://www.equip.org/articles/cast-bread-waters-taking-risks-creative-christian-witness. 3.    Os Guinness, Fool's Talk: Recovering the Christian Art of Persuasion (InterVarsity Press, 2015). Emphasizes the rhetoric of apologetics and reaching those far from Christ through wise means. A new classic.4.    Douglas Groothuis, Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith, 2nd ed. (InterVarsity Press, 2022).5.    Douglas Groothuis, On Jesus and On Pascal, both Wadsworth, 2003.6.    Francis Schaeffer, True Spirituality (orig. pub., 1973; Tyndale, 2003). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Robert A. Jonas, is an author, musician, environmental activist, and retreat leader, and the founder and director of the Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton, MA, with an emphasis on Buddhist-Christian dialogue and the arts. A Christian in the Carmelite tradition, he has also received spiritual formation with Buddhist teachers. He is a student of Suizen, the Japanese shakuhachi bamboo flute (his shakuhachi album “Blowing Bamboo” is available on iTunes), a member of the Society for Buddhist-Christian Studies and the Eckhart Society, and past board member of the Kestrel Land Trust and the Henri Nouwen Society. He is a Visiting Lecturer at the Northwind Seminary, and author of several books and articles including The Essential Henri Nouwen and Rebecca: A Father's Journey from Grief to Gratitude. His new book, My Dear Far-Nearness: The Holy Trinity as Spiritual Practice, is an exploration of the Holy Trinity as three dimensions of spiritual awareness rather than dogma or doctrine. In this, his second visit to Spirit Matters, we focused on his new book and his provocative interpretation and application of the Trinitarian concept. Learn more about Robert Jonas here: http://emptybell.org/.

(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies)

(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies)

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of Vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of Vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of Vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of Vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of Vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this fourth episode (actually our first recorded episode), we interview Tessa Bielecki, former Mother Abbess of the Spiritual Life Institute and a Carmelite hermit in Tucson, Arizona. Tessa talks with us about her Polish Catholic background, founding a Carmelite reform movement, and four Carmelite wilderness monasteries. She also discusses her life today as a “urban hermit,” the impact of Fr. William McNamara, the relationship of “Holiness and Vitality,” life-affirming Christianity, the influence of J.R.R. Tolkien and The Lord of the Rings on the Spiritual Life Institute, contemplation as “personal passionate presence,” Teresa of Avila and Carmelite spirituality, interreligious dialogue (particularly related to the historic Buddhist-Christian dialogue at the Naropa Institute in the 1980s), and interspirituality today. Tessa Bielecki is a Carmelite Christian hermit and a pioneer in interreligious dialogue. Co-founder and former Mother Abbess of the Spiritual Life Institute (a Carmelite reform institution), she founded four eremitical monasteries in North America and Ireland. Later, after leaving the Spiritual Life Institute, she founded the Desert Foundation (with Father David Denny), exploring connections between the Abrahamic faiths. Today, Tessa lives in Tucson, Arizona, where she considers herself an “urban hermit.”To learn more about Tessa, or to donate to her 'urban hermitage,' go to: sandandsky.orgLinks: Charis FoundationGolden Turtle SoundSupport the show

Witness to World War II in Austria, Benedictine monk for the last 66 years, friend to Swami Satchidananda, and internationally-recognized practitioner of gratitude Brother David Steindl-Rast sits down to talk with Avi Gordon of the Integral Yoga Teachers Association. The discussion covers prayer and meditation, Swami Satchidananda, gratitude, fear and trust, the remembrance of death, joy, and other topics.Network for Grateful Living: https://gratefulness.org/Brother David's Bio (from A Network for Grateful Living):David Steindl-Rast was born Franz Kuno Steindl-Rast on July 12, 1926, in Vienna, Austria, and spent his early years there and in a small village in the Alps. He spent all of his teen years under the Nazi occupation, was drafted into the army, but never went to the front lines. He eventually escaped and was hidden by his mother until the occupation ended.After the war, Franz studied art, anthropology, and psychology, receiving an MA from the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts and a PhD from the University of Vienna. In 1952 he followed his family who had emigrated to the United States. In 1953 he joined a newly founded Benedictine community in Elmira, NY, Mount Saviour Monastery, where he became “Brother David.” In 1958/59 Brother David was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Cornell University, where he also became the first Roman Catholic to hold the Thorpe Lectureship, following Bishop J.D.R. Robinson and Paul Tillich.After twelve years of monastic training and studies in philosophy and theology, Brother David was sent by his abbot to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, for which he received Vatican approval in 1967. His Zen teachers were Hakuun Yasutani Roshi, Soen Nakagawa Roshi, Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and Eido Shimano Roshi. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies in 1968 and received the 1975 Martin Buber Award for his achievements in building bridges between religious traditions.Together with Thomas Merton, Brother David helped launch a renewal of religious life. From 1970 on, he became a leading figure in the House of Prayer movement, which affected some 200,000 members of religious orders in the United States and Canada. Since the 1970s Brother David has been a member of cultural historian William Irwin Thompson‘s Lindisfarne Association.”He has contributed to a wide range of books and periodicals from the Encyclopedia Americana and The New Catholic Encyclopedia, to the New Age Journal and Parabola Magazine. His books have been translated into many languages. Gratefulness, the Heart of Prayer and A Listening Heart have been reprinted and anthologized for more than two decades. Brother David co-authored Belonging to the Universe (winner of the 1992 American Book Award), a dialogue on new paradigm thinking in science and theology with physicist, Fritjof Capra. His dialogue with Buddhists produced The Ground We Share: Buddhist and Christian Practice, co-authored with Robert Aitken Roshi. His most recent books are Words of Common Sense for MInd, Body and Soul; Deeper than Words: Living the Apostles' Creed; 99 Blessings: An Invitation to Life; The Way of Silence: Engaging the Sacred in Daily Life; Faith beyond Belief: Spirituality for our Times; and his autobiography, i am through you so i.Brother David has contributed chapters or interviews to well over 30 books. An article by Brother David was included in The Best Spiritual Writing, 1998. His many audio and videotapes are widely distributed.At present, Brother David serves a worldwide Network for Grateful Living, through Gratefulness.org, an interactive website with several thousand participants daily from more than 240 countries and territories. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to episode 27 of The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living, a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh's deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives. In this episode, journalist Jo Confino is joined by much-loved international mindfulness teacher and author Kaira Jewel Lingo, to talk about her practice and community work, both as a monastic and subsequently as a lay practitioner and spiritual mentor.Together, they further discuss the intersection of racial, climate, and social injustice; privilege; denial; white awareness; hate and embedded white supremacy; deep listening; and spiritual practices for a world in crisis.   Kaira Jewel Lingo is a dharma teacher who has been practicing mindfulness since 1997. She lived as an ordained nun for 15 years, during which she trained closely with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Speaking five languages, she shares Buddhist meditation, secular mindfulness, and compassion practice internationally, providing spiritual mentoring to individuals and communities working at the intersection of racial, climate, and social justice. Her teaching focuses on activists, educators, artists, youth and families, BIPOC communities, and includes the interweaving of art, play, nature, ecology, and embodied mindfulness practice. She teaches in the Plum Village Zen tradition and in the Vipassana tradition.  In this episode, Kaira Jewel expands on the journey of her name – Jewel – and her route to the Plum Village practice; being the first ordained monastic of African heritage in Plum Village; Thich Nhat Hanh's guidance and support; embodying Thay's teachings; learning to take care of suffering; deciding to disrobe; her mission as a lay dharma teacher; practice as a way of life; deep relationships; and her plans to open a Buddhist-Christian practice center with her partner.She also dives more deeply into spiritual bypassing; healing racialized trauma; the importance of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) retreats and teachers; the story of the first Plum Village retreat for people of color; collective consciousness; adapting the Five Mindfulness Training to different ethnic groups; and her first book: We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons for Moving through Change, Loss, and Disruption. The episode ends with a short meditation guided by Kaira Jewel. [This episode was recorded on February 18, 2022, via Zoom.]  Co-produced by the Plum Village App:https://plumvillage.app/ And Global Optimism:https://globaloptimism.com/ With support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation:https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/ List of resources Kaira Jewel Lingohttps://www.kairajewel.com/  Plum Villagehttps://plumvillage.org/ Old Path White Clouds: Walking in the Footsteps of the Buddhahttps://www.parallax.org/product/old-path-white-clouds-walking-in-the-footsteps-of-the-buddha/ Ram Dasshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_Dass Brahmavihārāhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmavihara James Baldwinhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Baldwin Melina Bondyhttps://www.melinabondy.com/ Joanna Macyhttps://www.joannamacy.net/  Resmaa Menakemhttps://www.resmaa.com/ The Quaking of America: An Embodied Guide to Navigating Our Nation’s Upheaval and Racial Reckoninghttps://www.harvard.com/book/the_quaking_of_america/ My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodieshttps://shop.harvard.com/book/9781942094470 The Civil Rights Movementhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_rights_movement We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons for Moving through Change, Loss, and Disruptionhttps://www.parallax.org/product/we-were-made-for-these-times/ The Five Mindfulness Trainingshttps://plumvillage.org/mindfulness-practice/the-5-mindfulness-trainings/ Deep Adaptationhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_Adaptation Schumacher Collegehttps://campus.dartington.org/schumacher-college/ Buddhist-Christian Community of Meditation and Actionhttps://www.kairajewel.com/teaching/buddhist-christian-community-of-practice-and-action Quotes “What’s so powerful about Thay’s teaching in the community is this huge heart of inclusiveness. Thay and sangha are always reaching wider; the reach is like the brahmavihārās – the loving-kindness, compassion, joy, equanimity. They are immeasurable minds of love.” “Part of freeing ourself on the spiritual path is to undo and unravel these delusions and lies that our society has created, that history has wound around us, about who has value and who doesn’t – including patriarchy, or sexual orientation, or gender identity, or age; all these different ways that we are privileged or not.” “If you find yourself uncomfortable, or embarrassed, or triggered, or not sure what to say or do, really stay in your body and let yourself dwell in that experience of what it’s like to be uncomfortable. I think so many of our problems come from not being willing to be uncomfortable.” “Black is beautiful.” “James Baldwin has this quote, something like, ‘The reason why white people are so afraid to not hate, to stop hating, is that if they feel what’s beneath their hatred, it will be so uncomfortable.' They don’t want to feel it. So the hate is a kind of protection.” “If we can be with what is happening in the present moment, and we can, if we can not resist it, not push it away, not judge it, but embrace it with mindfulness, with kindness, with friendliness, with curiosity, with a clear mind, with presence which can be cultivated in every moment – then we have at our disposal so much more to meet the difficulties than we would if we were resisting and pushing away and fighting what is.” “What this time calls for – with so much change, with so much disruption, with so much at risk – is more and more of us holding down the fort, who are really doing the deep spirit work of seeing interbeing. And you need to slow down to do that. You need to have less. There needs to be space for that kind of consciousness to emerge.” “Anyone of any privilege needs to be in a space where that history is acknowledged and integrated into our practice.” “And if you think there’s something wrong in society, you are right. So it’s an inner and an outer affirmation of, ‘Yes, white supremacy exists and it is deadly.' And here are dharma practices that can help us as individuals in our relationships and our families, but also in our world, in our institutions, systemically, to see that everyone is being deceived by this story.” “We’re all learning. White folks have a different journey than many folks of color, but we’re all learning to wake up from this and we can help each other, we can support each other, and that looks different. It doesn’t necessarily mean doing the work together, but sometimes it can. And then maybe having affinity spaces where we have a chance to speak with our own groups.” “I feel what Thay taught is love, and he loved his disciples, every one of us, everyone who came to us; I felt he was radiating love and that’s healing. And so if you’re in a community where you are recognized for who you are, you’re not asked to be something else. And then the people there are practicing to love; it’s going to be a healing space. Love in the spiritual sense of each of us working to purify our minds and hearts, to see ourselves more clearly, to love ourselves, and then to really see each other clearly.” “These are times no other human generation has had to face: profound structural dissolution, and, really, the last days of what Joanna Macy calls late capitalism. This isn’t going to stand for very much longer as it is. And so these are times of apocalypse, right? Where the veil gets pierced – that’s the meaning, in Greek: being able to see through an illusion into what’s more true. So these are times of a lot of potential collective awakening. And these are also times of great suffering, separation, and illusion.” “All we have to do is be in the present. All we have to do is meet what’s happening now. We get so immobilized and drained of our energy by trying to meet what’s coming – but that’s not here yet. All we are required to do is meet what is here. And we can do that; we are all in the present moment.”

Welcome to episode 27 of The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living, a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh's deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives. In this episode, journalist Jo Confino is joined by much-loved international mindfulness teacher and author Kaira Jewel Lingo, to talk about her practice and community work, both as a monastic and subsequently as a lay practitioner and spiritual mentor.Together, they further discuss the intersection of racial, climate, and social injustice; privilege; denial; white awareness; hate and embedded white supremacy; deep listening; and spiritual practices for a world in crisis. Kaira Jewel Lingo is a dharma teacher who has been practicing mindfulness since 1997. She lived as an ordained nun for 15 years, during which she trained closely with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Speaking five languages, she shares Buddhist meditation, secular mindfulness, and compassion practice internationally, providing spiritual mentoring to individuals and communities working at the intersection of racial, climate, and social justice. Her teaching focuses on activists, educators, artists, youth and families, BIPOC communities, and includes the interweaving of art, play, nature, ecology, and embodied mindfulness practice. She teaches in the Plum Village Zen tradition and in the Vipassana tradition. In this episode, Kaira Jewel expands on the journey of her name – Jewel – and her route to the Plum Village practice; being the first ordained monastic of African heritage in Plum Village; Thich Nhat Hanh's guidance and support; embodying Thay's teachings; learning to take care of suffering; deciding to disrobe; her mission as a lay dharma teacher; practice as a way of life; deep relationships; and her plans to open a Buddhist-Christian practice center with her partner.She also dives more deeply into spiritual bypassing; healing racialized trauma; the importance of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) retreats and teachers; the story of the first Plum Village retreat for people of color; collective consciousness; adapting the Five Mindfulness Training to different ethnic groups; and her first book: We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons for Moving through Change, Loss, and Disruption. The episode ends with a short meditation guided by Kaira Jewel. [This episode was recorded on February 18, 2022, via Zoom.] Co-produced by the Plum Village App:https://plumvillage.app/ And Global Optimism:https://globaloptimism.com/ With support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation:https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/ List of resources Kaira Jewel Lingohttps://www.kairajewel.com/ Plum Villagehttps://plumvillage.org/ Old Path White Clouds: Walking in the Footsteps of the Buddhahttps://www.parallax.org/product/old-path-white-clouds-walking-in-the-footsteps-of-the-buddha/ Ram Dasshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_Dass Brahmavihārāhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmavihara James Baldwinhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Baldwin Melina Bondyhttps://www.melinabondy.com/ Joanna Macyhttps://www.joannamacy.net/ Resmaa Menakemhttps://www.resmaa.com/ The Quaking of America: An Embodied Guide to Navigating Our Nation’s Upheaval and Racial Reckoninghttps://www.harvard.com/book/the_quaking_of_america/ My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodieshttps://shop.harvard.com/book/9781942094470 The Civil Rights Movementhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_rights_movement We Were Made for These Times: Ten Lessons for Moving through Change, Loss, and Disruptionhttps://www.parallax.org/product/we-were-made-for-these-times/ The Five Mindfulness Trainingshttps://plumvillage.org/mindfulness-practice/the-5-mindfulness-trainings/ Deep Adaptationhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_Adaptation Schumacher Collegehttps://campus.dartington.org/schumacher-college/ Buddhist-Christian Community of Meditation and Actionhttps://www.kairajewel.com/teaching/buddhist-christian-community-of-practice-and-action Quotes “What’s so powerful about Thay’s teaching in the community is this huge heart of inclusiveness. Thay and sangha are always reaching wider; the reach is like the brahmavihārās – the loving-kindness, compassion, joy, equanimity. They are immeasurable minds of love.” “Part of freeing ourself on the spiritual path is to undo and unravel these delusions and lies that our society has created, that history has wound around us, about who has value and who doesn’t – including patriarchy, or sexual orientation, or gender identity, or age; all these different ways that we are privileged or not.” “If you find yourself uncomfortable, or embarrassed, or triggered, or not sure what to say or do, really stay in your body and let yourself dwell in that experience of what it’s like to be uncomfortable. I think so many of our problems come from not being willing to be uncomfortable.” “Black is beautiful.” “James Baldwin has this quote, something like, ‘The reason why white people are so afraid to not hate, to stop hating, is that if they feel what’s beneath their hatred, it will be so uncomfortable.' They don’t want to feel it. So the hate is a kind of protection.” “If we can be with what is happening in the present moment, and we can, if we can not resist it, not push it away, not judge it, but embrace it with mindfulness, with kindness, with friendliness, with curiosity, with a clear mind, with presence which can be cultivated in every moment – then we have at our disposal so much more to meet the difficulties than we would if we were resisting and pushing away and fighting what is.” “What this time calls for – with so much change, with so much disruption, with so much at risk – is more and more of us holding down the fort, who are really doing the deep spirit work of seeing interbeing. And you need to slow down to do that. You need to have less. There needs to be space for that kind of consciousness to emerge.” “Anyone of any privilege needs to be in a space where that history is acknowledged and integrated into our practice.” “And if you think there’s something wrong in society, you are right. So it’s an inner and an outer affirmation of, ‘Yes, white supremacy exists and it is deadly.' And here are dharma practices that can help us as individuals in our relationships and our families, but also in our world, in our institutions, systemically, to see that everyone is being deceived by this story.” “We’re all learning. White folks have a different journey than many folks of color, but we’re all learning to wake up from this and we can help each other, we can support each other, and that looks different. It doesn’t necessarily mean doing the work together, but sometimes it can. And then maybe having affinity spaces where we have a chance to speak with our own groups.” “I feel what Thay taught is love, and he loved his disciples, every one of us, everyone who came to us; I felt he was radiating love and that’s healing. And so if you’re in a community where you are recognized for who you are, you’re not asked to be something else. And then the people there are practicing to love; it’s going to be a healing space. Love in the spiritual sense of each of us working to purify our minds and hearts, to see ourselves more clearly, to love ourselves, and then to really see each other clearly.” “These are times no other human generation has had to face: profound structural dissolution, and, really, the last days of what Joanna Macy calls late capitalism. This isn’t going to stand for very much longer as it is. And so these are times of apocalypse, right? Where the veil gets pierced – that’s the meaning, in Greek: being able to see through an illusion into what’s more true. So these are times of a lot of potential collective awakening. And these are also times of great suffering, separation, and illusion.” “All we have to do is be in the present. All we have to do is meet what’s happening now. We get so immobilized and drained of our energy by trying to meet what’s coming – but that’s not here yet. All we are required to do is meet what is here. And we can do that; we are all in the present moment.”

A conversation on meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist Christian dialogue

How can pain become a power tool? How can the experiences that create resistance lead to transformation? Lena takes listeners through the BEING method and tips to becoming more mindful everyday. If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co . And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe.In this episode you will learn about:Knowing your passion, but waiting to know how to apply the passionYour souls purpose is not a coincidencePain is a teaching tool, suffering is optionalProcessing the pain to transform yourselfThe BEING Method : Being aware of your thoughts & Enlightenment comes through awareness Cultivating a more mindful present life with intentionsThe fear of power and owning your own powerThe Three A's: Acknowledge, Accept, Alternative ActionEpisode References/Links:Lena's WebsiteThe East InstituteLena's InstagramEAST InstagramGuest Bio:Lena Franklin is a Modern Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and Transformational Speaker, offering the ancient practices of meditation, energy medicine and psycho-spiritual healing in an accessible way for a modern lifestyle. Formally trained with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Social Work, Lena is dedicated to guiding others on a journey of embodied purpose, presence and liberated wholeness.Lena has taught transformational workshops and retreats all over the globe, guiding thousands to transform their suffering into strength by accessing their multi-dimensional existence. Raised in a hybrid Buddhist/Christian home, Lena was introduced to meditation as a young child and now integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience in her healing and teaching work.Lena is the co-founder of The East Institute, a global organization that exists to support the healing and awakening of humanity and the planet through ancient embodied practices, plant medicines and cutting-edge science.Lena is also the creator of The BEING Method ~ a systematic method for igniting your highest human potential through meditation and The Meditation Membership ~ a global community for awakening where members receive weekly meditations and transformational teachings transmitted by Lena.Lena has been featured on Bravo, Lifetime, the cover of Yoga Magazine, and in The NY Times, Telegraph, World Travel Magazine and more. Visit her website to learn more about her practice and schedule of meditation journeys, transformative workshops, corporate and continuing education offerings: www.lenafranklin.com  OPC Flashcards:OPC Flashcards are on AmazonOPC Flashcards are on our site  If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox.  ResourcesWatch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube!Lesley Logan websiteBe It Till You See It PodcastOnline Pilates Classes by Lesley LoganOnline Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTubeProfitable Pilates Social MediaInstagramFacebookTik TokLinkedIn Episode Transcript:Lesley Logan 0:00  Hey, Be It listener, how are you? Ah, okay, I can not wait for you to hear this episode. So I am going to try not to ramble because I just want to get into it because Lena Franklin is just, she's amazing. Like, here, a woman who's just so in touch with her, her purpose on this planet. And there's something about being around people like that, that makes it so much easier to step into your own power and awesomeness. And we talk a lot about stepping into your power and the fear we can have there. And I just share this with you. Because here's why, I didn't grow up with people around me who were doing things that I wanted to be doing. I didn't, I didn't know a lot of people who were being their true selves and unapologetically being that I didn't know a lot of people who weren't being in their eat, like working with their ego. I didn't know a lot of entrepreneurs, I didn't that this didn't happen. I didn't see that. And so I can, I understand if you're someone who is walking through this life and just going, it must be so easy for them. Because it wasn't I don't, I don't know that I don't recognize that. And I say this to you because what I did is, was scary. It was really hard. I felt like an imposter all the time. But I constantly tried to seek out people who were doing or had done the things I wanted to be doing. I kept seeking out those relationships. And here's the thing, every single one of us has a gift. And so what I learned in doing that, and putting myself in rooms and putting myself in conversations, putting myself in places with people who had a quality or a skill or had done something I wished I had. I had some that they wanted, because we all have amazing gifts. And I say that to you because this this new year it can be anything you want it to be and if you're listening to this, and another year, this day can be anything you want it to be and I can't wait for you to listen to her be it tips because she'll explain how you can do that. Because I don't I know I say that people go, "yeah, right Leslie like today's a bad day for me." But like get to the end of this podcast cuz you're gonna freakin love that you can. You have every day to have an opportunity to step into the person you want to be actually multiple moments in each day. And Being It Till You See It is not like a light switch. "I'll just turn it on, and now we're it." And it's not that it's going to be easy, everyday. Some days, it's going to be easy to Be It Till You See It and other days. It's gonna be like "what in the world I don't know what I'm doing. I'm scared. I'm afraid I'm tired. I'm freakin exhausted. Hello, like I can't be it today." But it's a practice. Everything we're doing is a practice and it's about the reps. And, and I just challenge you to keep listening. And keep Being It Till You See It and take those tiny action steps each day because they add up they add up it's like a snowball effect. So I love you. I'm so grateful for you. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Thank you for sharing it. You you need to know that every single download you do is a massive impact on so many others because every single download you have actually helps other people find this podcast every time you share this podcast, whether you text it, tweet it, Instagram at all those things. It is how people's lives get changed and if we're all Being It Till we See It doesn't make it easier for you? Right? It does. So thank you for being you. And after this quick message, Lena Franklin...Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guests will bring Bold, Executable, Intrinsic and Targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started. Alright Be It listener, what's up! Okay, so I'm so excited for today because I was listening to this amazing woman, when you hear voice, you're just gonna be like, "Okay, I could just listen to for hours." But I was listening to her while on my holiday vacation and she was talking with my dear friend Amber Shaw, we've had on the podcast so if you haven't listened to that when you go back. But I was I found myself talking to the two of you on the podcast and I wasn't not involved in the conversation. So I was like I just have to have her on so we ...(Lesley laughs) so I'm so excited to have you on here Lena that this is amazing. Can you please tell everyone who you are? What you're rocking like what you're doing in this world? Because it's beautiful.Lena Franklin 4:56  Mmhm, Thank you Lesley. I'm so grateful to be here. with you. So I'm Lena Franklin. I'm a modern medicine woman. I'm a transpersonal, psychotherapist, and transformational speaker. And my work is really all about sharing ancient eastern practices and ancient healing approaches, modalities here in the modern world in an accessible way for anybody to really optimize their human embodiment, to really be the best, most expansive versions of themselves. And I am honored to do this work. So I actually learned meditation originally, when I was a young child, my mom taught me meditation because I grew up in a Buddhist Christian home. So my whole life's journey has been this kind of interesting integration of East and West. Lesley Logan 5:51  That okay, so first of all, that is an incredible, interesting childhood to grow up with, and I think (Lena: yea) it's so amazing how things set us up. But I, you know, I, as I mentioned earlier, before we start recording, but also our listeners have heard like, Brad and I go to Cambodia a lot. And there's something when you go to a place where they practice these eastern practices, like really practice them. You can be you can come and be stressed out. And then that plane lands, it's like, you you're going to get ground. They're grounding you. Like it's happening. And you can go with it, or you can fight it. But I remember when I landed there, we got in the, in the tuck, tuck, and I was like, "Babe, My soul is home". And he goes, we haven't even it's dark. It's 10pm. We haven't seen anything. And I was like, "No, I feel so at peace right now." And then you go and you like, we're so great when they teach us a few things on, on honoring the Buddha and the temples, but also, like, just sitting still, and it is so it's so it sounds so common sense to sit still. But like it's so hard for us here to do that. (Lena: uhhu) And so I think it is so cool that you grew up with both of those as parents and your life. Because I think you can relate to people so well, because I mean, if you I was raised Christian, but even if you're not like just being in that Western society with one pair, and then having the Eastern practices from the other, like, you can actually like translate it really well.Lena Franklin 7:14  Totally, totally. I mean, it was so interesting. My dad's Christian, he is Presbyterian. And it's... we need I feel these eastern practices now more than ever, because of the the state of the world. And just it kind of feels like we're living in a pressure cooker. But yeah, I grew up witnessing my mom sit at our ancestral altar and light incense and all the rituals. And you know, when something horrific or painful was going on in the world, she would make us as kids sit in silence and tune into the compassionate heart, the energy that flows through our heart in really sharing it with the world in this intentional way. So, you know, at the time, I thought it was kind of strange, obviously, weird, like "mom's being weird. And her monk robe again doing, doing her, all her little woowoo spiritual things." But it planted these incredible, just powerful seeds within me, that didn't blossom until much later in my life.Lesley Logan 8:18  And I want to talk about that. Because like, I can imagine as a child, you're like, but none of my friends moms do this. Like my friend's mom, something bad happens. And they're like, probably panicked, like, and you think that that's the normal thing to do? Like, Mom, why aren't you doing this? And so, did you? Did you grow up knowing you were going to go into teaching this? Or did you kind of like, wind your way and come back around?Lena Franklin 8:42  Yeah, that's a great question. So I did not know as a child that I was going to be teaching this, but my mom did. So she would say things like, you're meant to bring people back to my homeland. So my mom was from Vietnam. Okay. So that's, that's where my maternal lineage is from. And I'd be like, "okay, Mom," you know, I have no idea what you're talking about. But just, she had that mystical, kind of healer energy, but because we were in a very conventional Western, you know, society in town. It wasn't fully acknowledged it wasn't fully honored. And so I didn't really realize the gift she was sharing with me at the time. But, you know, as I continued to, to evolve on my own path, I realized, you know, people will just gravitate towards me naturally. Not school, when when friends would be having issues or problems or you needed some support emotionally. I was naturally the person they would gravitate towards. So eventually, I realized I was meant to help other humans. I just didn't know exactly what that looked like.Lesley Logan 9:47  Yeah. So how, because I, I mean, I don't know. I don't want to like insert my life, but I think of like, I had no idea what that heck I was gonna be. So (Lena: yeah) like, and so as your as you're doing this, like, how, how did you go from like, "Okay, people are coming to me." And then to where you are today, which is you teach people like you're a life coach and you teach all these practices like, what was that shift? And then? And was it easy for you? Like, you're like, Oh, this is natural for me like, of course I'm doing this or did you feel like you had to work towards it in any way?Lena Franklin 10:23  Yeah. So most of my childhood life, like, even through high school and into college was very focused on physicality. I was a high level athlete, I played soccer, I got a full ride to play soccer at the University of Georgia. So it's all about physicality, competition, sports. And what, what really changed the trajectory of my life, Lesley was, was really my own pain and suffering. My mom actually suddenly passed when I was in my first year of grad school. So actually, you know, at that point, I knew I was meant to help people. I was in grad school for social work. So I was getting my master's in social work. And she suddenly, you know, died of a stroke healthy, you know, didn't have any any health conditions, but just had a sudden stroke one day literally I had talked to her earlier that day, she had been to a friend's horse farm and had the most beautiful, joyful day. And she had a stroke that evening, and was in a coma for a few days until we could see her and then she transitioned. So it was really through my experience of grief and loss and pain, that I fully committed to my yoga and meditation practice. And that's, that's what sent me on this trajectory, I realized, you know, sitting like you said, sitting still, it was more healing than the traditional therapy I was in at the time, because I could see myself in a way I'd never seen myself before, I was so much more expansive than the pain I was experiencing was almost like I was having this existential experience through the pain I was experiencing. And my mom, in that moment of her transition, she became a spiritual teacher in soul form, outside of, you know, human form. And so it was our souls contract together, you know, she was she was meant to transition when she did. And that's what sent me on my journey of helping, you know, so many other humans on their pathLesley Logan 12:31  That is so powerful, because I think so many people like, of course, my instinct is to say, I'm so sorry, because that is a terrible, tragic thing to lose that someone who's such a person in your life, such as support, but then also for that to be the reason why you are, who you are and doing what you're doing. It's almost like, if that didn't happen, how would we get how would you get here, you know?Lena Franklin 12:55  Exactly. It's like, you know, what you see in the Buddhist temples, the mandalas, and all of the, like, everything is shifting in divine sequence. And that was what was meant to happen, like a domino effect to set me on this, this path of really living out my soul's purpose in this particular lifetime. And then now, it's no coincidence that a big part of my work is teaching people how to alchemize and transform their pain and suffering into their greatest strength because those resistance points are really access points into our deeper healing and transformation.Lesley Logan 13:35  Okay, thank you for bringing that up. Because I was like, "How do I get the listener at home? who's like, okay, Lesley, that's great. She was set up her mom totally trained her set her up for this, it was, but that didn't happen for me. Like, that's not how like mine was so..." Like, how, how do you like, what is the thing that you can use to get people that you use to help people see that this great pain is actually their greatest default resource? Or? (Leana: Yeah), yeah. Like what? I don't know. I don't know if you can answer that. But like, do you know what I mean, like, how do what how do you tell someone who's sitting there and pain and suffering like this is actually going to be the greatest thing that ever happened for you?Lena Franklin 14:13  You know, it's important for someone to get that message. But they're not actually going to see the fruits of their pain until the fog subsides a bit. So it's what I would say to those listening because as humans none of us are exempt from pain and suffering. I mean, our the pain is inevitable suffering is optional, because the suffering is us fighting with ourselves not wanting to feel this present moment experience. So in that, whatever you're experiencing right now, whatever challenge, painful situation, piece of suffering. The most important question that you can ask yourself is, "what is this pain trying to teach me"? And if we If we think about that, like that everything is working in support of our evolution, even the most dark, painful moments, then we can flip the perspective and transform our lens to receive life in this much more easeful way, because of we're here on this planet, and we're going to feel challenging moments, then why not transform them into our greatest lessons, because that's actually why we're all here. So it's, it's trusting something that is beyond you, it's trusting the, that you're supported, and that you're loved, despite the pain that you're going through. And it's also I think, this is a really important piece, it's like getting out of our own way, releasing that victimhood that you know, we all actually possess during our life at some point. And then when we go through our deep healing, we can transform it, but this is not happening to you, it's happening for you. And that universal truth is so key. In all of this. Lesley Logan 16:02  You know, it is so key. And it's, I think it's like, I wish people I wish, like when you're young, and it's like I wish my parents had said, this is happening for you, you know, as opposed to not say anything at all, because having to unlearn that victim stuff. And some for some people, a victim mentality gets them attention. And so then they learn behaviors. Now, this is the thing that they're keeping. And so like, I think I would be the first one to say like, I have a really I have a hard time meditating, like, sitting still, (Lena: yep) like, yoga practices. Like, I finally found a teacher who talks the whole time I'm like, thank you so much. Like, please, my chatter is you got to talk over this. So. So I that's why I like found myself with breathwork. Because I really, when you talked about that expansiveness, you're like, I have felt that and like until you feel it, it's kind of like, what are they talking about these people? Right? But it is, it is a breath. That is a way I've been able to meditate. So how do how do you help the person who's like, "Okay, ladies, I'm hearing this. I've heard it many times. I'm ready to buy in. How do I sit? Still? How do I do this? Like, do you have tips for that?"Lena Franklin 17:10  Yeah, so okay, what I'll say is some, okay, we only use such a small part of our, percentage of our human brain, you know, like, 3% something very, very small. So much is happening within your consciousness within your body, beyond your human awareness. Every time you sit so many times, and I tell this to my meditation students all the time is a successful meditation is sitting still, from the first bell when the first bell rings, to when the last bell rings, it's a commitment to stillness, even if you're not perceiving anything, we'll say expansive happening. So for someone who's like, okay, that's, that's great, but like, I, when am I going to feel the benefit? It will come, you know, it's like, trusting this process that is deeper and more multi dimensional than what you can even perceive. So as humans, we know so little part of this is like just admitting, like we know so little. And going back to the basics is one of the most powerful things we can do. Connect to your breath, breathe deeply into your belly, sit still. Listen to your inner self, and cultivate the greatest relationship you'll ever have, which is the relationship you have with your soul. And I promise you, if you commit to that every day, you will begin to feel different, and you will begin to deepen and expand and transform yourself.Lesley Logan 18:47  Yeah, I mean, I, you are correct. And it's interesting. I was telling someone earlier today on another person's podcast asked me like, how did you even get into Pilates and I said, "It's the weirdest thing. I really didn't think I was gonna love it. I really thought this is gonna be this dumb thing." And I went, and in one moment, for the first time, even though I was moving, I wasn't sitting, I was doing the 100. But my brain and my body like had this like, it's like they saw each other for the first time and like, I felt parts of my body I never felt and I, I that that led me to be able to sit still from at least one belt to another, but it's the practice of it, right? It's like trusting like, Okay, I wasn't really good at this today. But I got down on the ground and that I do it again. And I do like it's your give. I giving my body confidence that I can do this. And so when I started doing breath work and mindfulness trainings, I was like, "Okay, I'm not going to be great. I'm gonna be a beginner at this." And I'm not, I'm not going to have the expanse of things because just like when I was beginner Pilates, I couldn't do the roll up. But you you do get there and it is this interesting thing because your brain is eventually going to once you get past like sitting still from bell to bell and going okay, so nothing crazy happened. I just sat here and like, nothing bad happened either the ceiling didn't fall in the world didn't float, I think that's another thing that people have to get used to is like, it's gonna be okay. (Lena: Yeah) If I just sit here for this amount of time. So you know, you you work with so many people and and you do some really awesome work and just helping people. I was listening to Amber's relationship with you and like what you've helped or do. And is there a framework or a system that you like to use with people? Is there something that you do that really helps people kind of step into their own power? Like, what is that something that you work with?Lena Franklin 20:35  I do, I would say, you know, one of my specialties and parts of my purpose really involve coaching and stepping people into the fullest expression of who they're meant to be. So in essence, like their daring, authentic power, and one of the portals into that is meditation, because that's, you know, that's a way that we intimately know or get to know ourselves. So there's a method that literally came through me one morning in meditation, and I have a, we have a meditation temple here at the house, and I was sitting there and you know, it's like, amazing, when you do open up and you become a clear channel, what, what moves through, because you actually have the space to hear it and to listen. So it's, um, it's called the Being Method. And it's a way that we can work with our in our life, our emotions, our thoughts, in order to kind of what I call like, clear the space and to embody this authentic power that exists has always existed within us, but maybe has been tamped down by different thoughts, belief systems, different dense energies. So kind of briefly, I can move through it, (Lesley: Yeah) that was the Being Method and it's really helpful, you can use it outside of traditional meditation. So the B of being is become aware of your thoughts, you know, becoming aware of what's moving through your mind, we can't hear what we're not aware of. So what are the default modes of thinking that you experience on a day to day basis, because you have to begin identifying that so I teach a lot of kind of conscious mindful journaling, as people are on unveiling deeper layers of awareness. So become aware of your thought process. What are you thinking in a pattern way. The E is Enlightenment begins at the moment of your awareness. So I like this one because we think enlightenment is something outside of ourselves, something that is so far away that only Jesus, Buddha, other Ascended Masters were able to experience. No, the moment that you become aware of something that's in your consciousness is a moment of enlightenment. So we can have many moments of enlightenment throughout our day. So when you're becoming aware, it's you. Yes, you are in an active process of transforming yourself and healing yourself and you become aware. So it's like to me that that one gives a lot of hope.Lesley Logan 23:03  Cool, because yeah, we know you said enlightenment, I'm like, "Okay, I know, I don't know, that's like Navanna, that's like your floating on clouds." You're like, no, actually, won't you just became aware, like, enlightened? I'm like, "oop, I'm in."Lena Franklin 23:18  Yeah, I mean, and we can enlighten ourselves all day long, because we can become aware all day long. So I think that's a really important distinction, for you know, for for anybody, you know, in this realm, who wants to really cultivate a more mindful present life. Yeah. So the I is to ignite intention, you know, being so committed to what you want to call into your life, how you want to live, how you want to feel, and committing to that every day through thoughts and action. So what is your intention? What are you going to ignite in your life, for me this year is all about expansion and expansion, unapologetically in all ways. So my thoughts, my words, my actions are going to align with that intention. So being getting very clear, and of course, our intention shifts over time, you know, one month or one year, some intention may serve us but giving ourselves permission to allow that intention to, to evolve as we evolve. So, the end is all about non attachment, which is, you know, is actually a very traditional Buddhist psychology tenant. So and it can be one of the most challenging steps because when we desire something, we have an attachment to the outcome. But as much as you can, when you set your intention, and you commit to align to action, if you can release, you know, align with the energy of release, releasing that intention into the universe, to unfold in its own timeline, than that is key to creating the inner and outer life that you deeply desire. So that non attachment piece because your Higher Self operates from non attachment, it's your ego that operates from attachment.Lesley Logan 25:08  So that makes me think of just really quick side note, we had a guest, her name is Hazel, and she talked about miracle goals. And like, like not just going, oh, I want to have a house. She's like, I want to have a pimp mansion. I want movies and music videos, a film, I want to have big parties, right? She had no money, like, none. And then she's like, and but she's like, I'm gonna have this, I believe it. I have that intention. And then she like, did the first little tiny step. Right. And then nine months later, she's freaking in this mansion there. Yeah. But like, I when you say that, like I because I'm in a process of like a really big goal. And I'm like, I am really that's one I struggle with. Because it's like, I have to take the action every day. And so like not letting the action taking get attached to the you know what I mean? Like, it's like, because you got to do the things that some...you know ...(Lesley laughs) So that's a challenge.Lena Franklin 26:05  It is a challenge. Yeah. And so that's why it's a practice you you work with it every day, you set the intention, you make the aligned action. And then I love and this is a very kind of shamanic practice, but literally breathing, using your hands out from your mouth, from your body, and really aligning so deeply with that non attachment piece, that release piece, it actually creates a swifter result. It feels counterintuitive, but it creates a swifter result.Lesley Logan 26:34  I love that. I'm doing. Yeah, I'm borrowing that. Thank you so much ...(Lesley laughs)Lena Franklin 26:38  You're welcome. And then the last step is, is just what naturally happens, growth naturally happens when you practice the steps before in the Being Method. Your true nature is expansive evolution, your true nature is power, its success, its abundance. We're simply getting out of our own way, by working with our thoughts and reprogramming what's not in alignment with what we deeply desire. So the Being Method to me is, is such an accessible way to do some of this work.Lesley Logan 27:13  Okay, this is beautiful. I mean, I couldn't think of like it, that's a great way to be until you see it, because it's like, become aware of your thoughts. Yes, enlightenment, which have awareness, and then, and then you keep going through it. And I just What I also like about it, thank you for making remind people to practice because I do think that everything really is, isn't it? And we get hung up on, I didn't do it right. Today. I didn't do it. Oh, that's not working. And it's like, no, actually, that's part of practice, like, you're gonna stumble, you're gonna make mistakes, you can make tweaks and you're going to realize, "Oh, I'm totally attached today, I'm really attached. And now I'm aware of that thought." And, you know, so I think this is really helpful, because I do think you said fullest expression of ourselves. And I, I find that a lot of people struggle with, with either trusting that that's a possibility for them or being comfortable with that.Lena Franklin 28:10  Yes, yeah, I believe that, you know, one of the things that we're most fearful of is our power. It's really our power. And that's, that's where we carry so much resistance is like in that metamorphosis expansion, because all of our, all of those old, outdated belief systems get triggered, you know, "who am I to fill in the blank". And that's where I think we can't practice these things without compassion, self compassion, because we are imperfectly perfect humans, we're gonna falter, we're gonna make mistakes, we're gonna have heavy days. But this if we treat our whole life, like as its own living meditation, that our whole life is a practice, I think we can have more grace with ourselves. But this, you know, it's not, it's not easy. These practices may be simple, like, some of the concepts are simple, but they're not always easy to implement.Lesley Logan 29:07  Isn't that the truth simple is rarely easy. I, I'm so grateful we're having this conversation. Because it's like my first like, my second day back in my office, and I. And, you know, we're doing a big scary thing tomorrow, like I'm, we're, I've been wanting to expand on one of our companies big time, and I had to get away of like, the attention of when that was going to happen, because like, I wasn't seeing the growth that I needed to see. And so I was like, trying to like, control that growth. And I was finally like, okay, we're just going to pick a date. Where we're going to bring on these new teachers into the program because I do believe that if everyone has a Pilates practice, even a 15 minute one, they get connected to themselves. They connect to themselves and connect more to others, right? And they're practicing doing hard things through movement. So if you can't do it that day, how you talk to yourself on the mat is information for you. If you can't do it, but you pick something else, you just told yourself, I can do hard things I can find another way I can do this stuff. And so we're constantly reminding them. But I needed to have other people, other voices, because not everyone can hear mine. Not everyone's gonna understand the words that I use versus someone else's. And I've been scared to death because I'm like, of course, there's that ego. But what if no one likes him? What if people don't like that? What if this and this all this stuff. And I'm like, okay, hold on. We were feeling so good about this yesterday. You know, and so it's like, knowing that, you know, it's, it's not, it's not like when you get that enlightenment on that one Awareness Day, it's not the end, it's like, tomorrow's a new day. And there's a new thought later on and, and just being kind to yourself, and I love that you talk about grace, it's like, it's really not easy to work on this, but it gets easier, the more you do it.Lena Franklin 30:53  Totally, totally, it's almost like, like the client I had right before I jumped on with you. We've talked about this being her spiritual training, you know, like, training. Whether you're training your mind, your soul, your body, you're going to go through resistance, you're going to have sore muscles, you're going to feel creaky sometimes. But it's pushing through that resistance in order to discover a power that maybe you haven't tapped into yet. That's why I think I love what you do, because it's, it's all integrated. This mind, body, soul existence, whatever the access point is, it's all very, you know, can be a lesson that we take in every domain of our life.Lesley Logan 31:37  So I want to thank you, I, and I think it's like, you know, whatever gets you in, like, you start to get on the journey, right? So I want to go back to the afraid of our power. Because I do think like a lot of people here like often, like, because the reason I named this Be It Till You See It is because people ask me all the time, like, "how are you so confident?" I'm like, I'm freakin scared. I'm scared to death. I'm scared. People aren't gonna like me. I'm like, literally afraid of what people are gonna say. So I just Be It. I'm like, "well, if I wasn't scared, if I didn't care what people thought what would I do"? But I, I think a lot of people nod and go, yes. And then there's that fear. A lot of people don't talk about but that fear of the power of like, what they're capable of? And? And is that that because of the learn behaviors as a child? Or is it that we just haven't seen a lot of good people step into there? Like, what, what is that? Why are we so afraid of that?Lena Franklin 32:29  Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah... so it's a big piece of it, I would say the predominant piece is the ego, the individual ego, but also the collective ego, because we, the ego thrives on fear, and are the systems and you know, so much in society is thrives on fear. And a lot of the well meaning, you know, not always but but generally well meaning parents that we've had, they try to teach us things, but a lot of the lessons a lot of the belief systems are based in fear, you know, and some rightly so to try to keep us safe. But when we then are on this path will say, you know, spiritual growth or personal development, trying to be the fullest expression of who we're meant to be. Those outdated, I call them viral systems that we've been programmed with get activated, because our ego is the one that continues to keep us small to keep us in the, what I call the illusion of safety, not actual safety. And so inevitably, in order to embody your, your authentic power, we have to be willing to do the shadow work of unpacking, what are the belief systems that are still entrenched in my fear based ego? But I think a lot of it is conditioned, is programmed. (Lesley: Yeah) Throughout our life. Lesley Logan 33:58  Yeah. No, it's your so correct. Because I, I had an accountability coach from a program I did. And I was telling them what I was worried about. It's like, three years ago, I just started the company. And I was like, "well, I'm so afraid, because like, if my pl... my platform gets really big, then my friends who own their platform when they get mad at me, because I'm not trying to take their people." And she's like, and I heard myself say it right. I said it out loud. Yeah. Which is always interesting. And then she's like, "you have such a fear of success". And I was like, who would have a fear of success? Like, right, that sounds so dumb, but like it as you say, like a fear of our own power, it that's it. Right, like, because why? You know, like, for whatever reason I was I had this belief that I like I bragged, or I did better than other people wouldn't be able to do but who knows what that came from. But as you say that I'm thinking like, how interesting it kind of correlates. It's like, if you haven't seen it, if you haven't seen that around you or if you if for whatever reason you were told, like "hey, don't you'll hurt people's feelings. If you talk about the good things that you're doing." You know, that's bragging. Like, we, we do get that and then the ego is keeping us safe. Because it's like, well, don't do that cuz you're gonna get hurt, like you're going to hurt someone like all that stuff. And it's so interesting because we don't even know it until like we're going through life. And then it gets it causes issues, it causes friction, it causes us frustration in us and, and so it's just it's so fascinating, but I'm just going to this thing and I'm like, oh my god, it's such a, like, as I say, who have a fear of their own power. I'm like, Well, I have such as fear of success that I have to call it all that like, "oop, this is my fear of success talking". Lena Franklin 35:31  Totaly, and I know it's so interesting, because our, our initial response is like, who would be afraid of that? Like, who would be afraid of success or expansion or power or whatever. But when you really unpack it, it's like, oh, yeah, that's like a deep part of our core, you know, growth area is owning is owning our true power. Because true authentic power has nothing to prove. You know, and I'm sure you've, you've because you've interviewed so many amazing people. It's like when you're in the midst of that, of someone's presence, that that embodies that, there's like this lack of striving or just lack of pushing, it's like, they just are because they know their worth, and they love themselves. Deeply.Lesley Logan 36:14  Yeah, it's your that is so true. Like I would, I remember in my, like, major hustle days, not the fun hustle, not the like hustle that kind of has to like, come like you have to do a little bit of work. But like in the striving, like, I just got to push this boulder up a mountain, I would look at some of these people that I like, admired so much. I'm like, they just look like this. They just make it look like they're at ease. Like they are like, like, so chill. And it's. And it's, I thought maybe it comes with time or practice. But I the more I dive into this and like listening to you, it's like, no, they just start getting that ego out of the way more often than not ...(Lesley laughs)Lena Franklin 36:51  Corect, yeah, exactly. Exactly. It's like, okay, we don't want to demonize the ego, we just want to soften it enough. So our true authentic self empower can shine through.Lesley Logan 37:02  Oh, my gosh, girl, I could talk. I feel like I could talk for hours. I'm like, how do we just.(Lena: I agree) Like, when do I get, how do I get to work with you more? Okay, so where do you like to hang out? How do people get to work with you? Lena Franklin 37:14  Okay, so you can check out more of my work on my website, lenafranklin.com l e n a franklin.com And also, my husband and I just launched the East Institute, which is a learning institute that embodies ancient healing modalities. And we support people and work with people through the East Institute as well. And that's the EastInstitute.com and (Lesley: oh that's so cool). Yeah, yeah, yeah, it's, um, it's been amazing. It's a global organization, that really, we think of ourselves as a bridge between East and West, and really bringing ancient practices to the West in a really accessible way. So check it out.Lesley Logan 37:58  Oh my gosh, I'm going to also anytime I hear someone works with her husband, I'm like, Oh, hi, me, too. (Lesley laughs)Lena Franklin 38:04  Yeah, I love that we have that parallel. Because it's, yeah, anyhow, that's a whole another conversation. (Lena laughs)Lesley Logan 38:09  Yeah, yeah well, someday we can go. This is how you work with your husband.Lena Franklin 38:14  This is how you work with your husband and survive. Yeah.Lesley Logan 38:19  Well, amazing. Everyone, check out Lena Franklin on Instagram and the East Institute. Before I let you go. I mean, you've given us so many great tips that Being I'm gonna like, put on my wall. But any other bold, executable intrinsic or targeted tips that people can take away and take some action on in their life from this conversation.Lena Franklin 38:41  Yeah, there's a call like a mindset mindfulness hack that I use every day throughout the day. And it has been one of the tools that has been so accessible and transformative for my own life, my own growth, but also for my clients and students. So it's called the three A's and it's, it's a way for you to reprogram your thoughts and align more deeply with what you truly desire. I mean I'll just run through it real quick. So people have it. But the first the first A is to acknowledge. Acknowledge the thought you don't want to feel, acknowledge the judgment, acknowledge the negativity. So again, with compassion. The second A is to accept you're just having this thought because you're human. You know, this is a part of your human humaneness. We all have thoughts we're not proud of that we don't want to think or we don't want to own. So this is like the action piece of you know, shifting into your heart and just acknowledging that's a part of your humaneness. And then the third A is the transformative piece piece and that's alternative action, what are you going to do differently? So it could be implementing a mantra, a thought that you want to feel that you want to embody. It could be changing your habit, you know, little micro shift every day to shift a habit. It could be grounding yourself in the moment to shift from that hyper mental energy into your body, that that alternative action piece is the transformative piece of change and transformation. So the three A's, it's like how I work with my own mind on a day to day basis. And it's really, it's really helpful, very powerful,Lesley Logan 40:19  So powerful. I like envision myself just going through those steps in that alternative action. It's like, that's the best part because it's like, you can actually, like, make the decision to change in the moment. (Lena: Right, exactly) That's so empowering. Thank you. You're amazing, beautiful, I hope to we have to figure out ways to run into each other I'm going to definitely become your new best friend ...(Lesley laughs)Lena Franklin 40:45  On this day, let's do it.Lesley Logan 40:47  Wonderful. Well, the listener thank you so much for listening to this. How are you use these tips in your life? Do me a huge favor. Screenshot this tag, Lena Franklin, tag the Be It pod and let us know. And and you know, what do us a favor send the link to this pod to a friend because I I If this changed for you and something in your head. It's going to change for someone else. And if we as a collective even just actually understand being aware of the first part being aware, we can like really change the world there. Thank you so much for being here, everyone. Until next time, Be It Till You See It. That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review. And follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the @be_it_pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day! Be it till You See It as a production of As The Crows Fly Media.Brad Crowell 41:54  It's written produced, filmed and recorded by your host Lesley Logan and me, Brad Crowell. Our Associate Producer is Amanda Frattarelli.Lesley Logan 42:05  Kevin Perez at Disenyo handles all of our audio editing.Brad Crowell 42:09  Our theme music is by Ali at APEX Production Music. And our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi.Lesley Logan 42:18  Special thanks to our designer Jaira Mandal for creating all of our visuals (which you can't see because this is a podcast) and our digital producer, Jay Perdoso for editing all video each week so you can.Brad Crowell 42:30  And to Angelina Herico for transcribing each of our episodes so you can find them on our website. And, finally to Meridith Crowell for keeping us all on point and on time.Transcribed by https://otter.aiSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/be-it-till-you-see-it/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We Were Made For These Times: A conversation with Kaira Jewel Lingo   In this conversation with Kaira, we explore many rich topics including:   embodiment and mindfulness as not separate her new book We Were Made For These Times the practice of coming home to ourselves applying these teachings in the mess of real life rather than just a monastic situation social justice and mindfulness and how each of these need each other the mantras of True Love from Thich Nhat Hanh powerful teachings from 2 monks from Plum Village who attended COP26 the powerful practice of kissing the earth with your feet layered mindfulness and so much more   Kaira Jewel Lingo began practicing mindfulness in 1997 and teaches Buddhist meditation, secular mindfulness, and compassion internationally. After living as an ordained nun for 15 years in Thich Nhat Hanh's monastic community, Kaira Jewel teaches in the Zen lineage and the Vipassana tradition, at the intersection of racial, climate and social justice with a focus on activists, Black/Indigenous/People of Color, artists, educators, families, and youth. Now based in New York, she offers spiritual mentoring to individuals and groups. She is author of the just released We Were Made for These Times: Skilfully Moving through Change, Loss and Disruption from Parallax Press. Visit kairajewel.com to learn more.    Kaira is offering a retreat Dec 4 and 5, 2021, through Spirit Rock, on the same title as my new book: https://spirit-rock.secure.retreat.guru/program/we-were-made-for-these-times-kj1m21/?_ga=2.185343337.1993561752.1633760566-881770598.1633760566&lang=en   Along with her partner who is an Episcopal priest, she is offering a new Buddhist Christian community of study, practice and action that meets monthly. People can sign up here if they'd like more info. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftoybrmY3MixFXo2qrFxGajc2p3bn82WPeqbuRoRWKhwkNcg/viewform  

Ruben Habito is the founding teacher of MKZCRuben began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. He came to Dallas in 1989, and is now married with two grown sons. He is a faculty member at SMU's Perkins School of Theology where he teaches World Religions and Spirituality, and directs the Spiritual Formation Program. https://www.smu.edu/PERKINS.Ruben Habito speaks four languages, travels widely and dialogues comfortably with people of many different faiths. But one simple, short Bible passage serves as his “home base.” It's Mark 1:11, “You are my beloved, in whom I am well pleased.”In Mark 1:11, Habito said, he finds a message that runs much deeper than a “warm fuzzy feeling” of being loved.“It's a way to look at the suffering and agony of all the people in the world throughout history and even now, including our own, and to understand, that in the midst of our travails, there is something or Someone that whispers into our ear, in and through all of this, that we are not forsaken, that ‘I AM with you,' that ‘You are my beloved,'” he said. Grounded in that verse, Habito has become a low-key but influential voice on the Perkins campus and beyond, as a faculty member, author, spiritual director and Zen Roshi (teacher).  At Perkins, Habito heads the spiritual formation program, as well as a certification program for spiritual directors, with the goal of giving students a spiritual grounding for their ministry. He also teaches courses in world religions, with an eye toward “unpacking what we can learn from the world's religions and enhancing and enriching our ways of doing Christian theology, ministry, and spirituality.”Beyond campus, Habito is founding teacher of Maria Kannon Zen Center, housed at White Rock United Methodist Church in east Dallas.  He began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. “The Zen Center is a central aspect of my life,” he said. “It is nourishing for me to be able to sit in silence with people from all backgrounds and traditions, or none at all, who are seeking something genuine and authentic in life.”  Mark 1:11 also informs Habito's personal practice of daily meditation, which he describes as “basically just sitting in silence, and basking in Love.”  Habito recently returned from gatherings of the Parliament of World Religions and the American Academy of Religion; he is often called on to speak at international interfaith gatherings and to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue.  He's also the author of several books – his most recent is Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible – that explore connections between Buddhism and Christian faith. Habito hopes his books and his work help make Zen accessible to people of all faiths as well as those with no religious beliefs. “Zen practice leads to an experience of our connectedness with one another,” he said. “That's an underlying and recurring theme in my own work and in my own life.  Going deep into the core of our being enables us to open our hearts to that transcendent mystery, and at the same time, see our intimate connectedness with all beings, with all the earth.” Habito's current research is aimed at crystalizing an understanding of the Trinity from an experiential perspective.  With the developments in systematic theology over the last few centuries, he said, a disconnect has arisen between spirituality and theology, with spirituality becoming a subdivision of practical matters that does not inform systematic theology, which attempts to explain ultimate reality in the light of Christian faith. Habito believes reconnecting the two areas can be mutually enriching. “More and more theologians are seeing that those two areas need to be reunited in order to do theology in a viable way that would address the crucial issues of our contemporary world,” he said.   

Hey y'all don't forget to check out the newly launched Coachable U School of Self Mastery and Conscious Leadership @ https://coachable-llc.mykajabi.com/foundations and join our community of students!Also, please head over to your social media channels and tag @CoachToriGordon when you share this episode! More information via my website @ https://www.torigordon.com/This week's guest is the incredible Lena Franklin!Lena is a Modern Medicine Woman in the form of Transpersonal Psychotherapist, Spiritual Teacher and Transformational  Speaker, offering the ancient practices of meditation, energy medicine, psychospiritual healing and soul work in an accessible way for a modern lifestyle.  Formally trained and deeply spiritually-attuned, Lena is dedicated to guiding others on a journey towards inner peace, emotional balance and a felt sense of liberated wholeness, through radical acceptance and Lovingkindness, as we transform our suffering into strength.  Raised in a hybrid Buddhist/Christian home, Lena was introduced to meditation as a young child and now integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience in her practice. Lena founded the BEING Method and the Meditation Membership ~ practical tools with a loving community to bring one home to oneself.  She's been featured on Bravo, Lifetime, the cover of Yoga Magazine, and in The NY Times, Telegraph, World Travel Magazine and more. Visit her website to learn more about her practice and schedule of meditation journeys, transformative workshops, corporate and continuing education offerings: www.lenafranklin.comYou can find Lena on all social channels @iamlenafranklin

Since the birth of the church, there has been a branch of mysticism that has invited believers into deep and complex experiences with the divine. On this episode of the Red Church Door Podcast, Colin shares his recent exploration with the Christian mystics and welcomes this week's guest, Robert A. Jonas, M.T.S. Jonas (as is he called by those who know him) is the founder and director of The Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton, MA, with a special emphasis on Buddhist-Christian dialogue, and on the arts. Colin talks to Jonas about the intersection of Christianity and Eastern religious traditions meet, the impact of the Empty Bell in Christian and Buddhist dialogue, and the role Jonas's deep friendship with Henri Nouwen has had on his own faith journey.   Show Notes: The Empty Bell: http://www.emptybell.org/ World Community for Christian Meditation: https://wccm.org/ Contemplative Outreach Center: https://www.contemplativeoutreach.org

Children's Literature, Ruth Sawyer's book Old Con and Patrick, Reading Aloud with Children. Connecting Across Space & Time through Books, the Power of Reading. Storytelling & Story Reading, Ruth Sawyer's book The Way of the Storyteller, Sacred Stories. Michael's STORYTELLING WEBSITE. Podcast Series THE MINDFUL STORYTELLER. Podcast Series MICHAEL THE STORYTELLER TELLS TALES. Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, Interbeing, Inter-being, Fierce Interdependence. Elders, Ancestors, NonSeparateness. Connections, Deathlessness, Connecting Across the Chasms of Life & Death. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Spiritual Practices, Sacred Moments, Childhood & Adolescent Memories. Elders - Dad William J. Malley, Uncle Dudley Mackin - Family Relationships. More Blood, Spirit, & Land Ancestors - Laurel & Hardy, Red Skelton, Jackie Gleason, Johnny Carson. Youngstown, Struthers, Ohio, Ministry of Lightness & Playfulness, Blue-Collar Buddhism. Questions, "Quest I On," - from Laurence Boldt's book Zen & the Art of Making a Living. Presence of G-d, God's Presence, Re-Sacralizing our Lives. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Sacredness, Sacrality of the Body. Appreciation of the Senses - Taste, Touch, Smell, Sight, Hearing - Being in our Bodies. Mindfulness, Bodily Awareness of Sweat, Pain, Being, Physicality. Father Nathan D. Mitchell's book Meeting Mystery: Liturgy, Worship, Sacraments. Mother Earth Spirituality, Buddhism, Christianity - Sacred Ground Community Church & Sangha. Eco-Theology, EcoTheology, Eco-Spirituality, EcoSpirituality. Embodied Theology, Embodied Spirituality. Gratitude for our Earthiness, our Earthy-ness. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Multi-dimensional Meanings of an Irish Folktale, a Family Story, Sacred Texts, or any Tale - Multiple Meanings & Interpretations; MICHAEL'S STORYTELLING Website. The MINDFUL STORYTELLER Podcast Series. MICHAEL THE STORYTELLER TELLS TALES Podcast Series.  Fr. William J. Bausch's book STORYTELLING, IMAGINATION, & FAITH, Quote of Fr. Jake Empereur, “The purpose of storytelling...is to break the imperialism of the one-dimensional meaning.” Cheryl Sodeman, Dream Visions, Spirits, Dreaming of those who have Died. The Value of Stories, Dreams, & Our Connections with Loved Ones who have Passed On. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Weaving the Past, Present, & Future Together. Harmful & Beneficial Seeds, Leaving Behind that which is Hurtful, Bringing Forward that which is Helpful & Worthy. NonDualism, Dichotomous, Dualistic Thinking. Culture Wars, Political Divides. Learning from History. Era-Centrism, Eracentrism, Era-Centric, Eracentric Worldviews. Point of View, Perspective, Allowing for Complexity. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Presence in this Moment, Holy Now, Mindfulness, Genuineness. Ministry of Lightness & Joy. Awareness of Nature, Friends, & Family. The Question as Quest-i-on, the "Quest I On" - Laurence Boldt. Buddhism, Thich Nhat Hanh, Conditions for Happiness. Direct Experience of Sacredness. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Western Education - To Discern & Discriminate, One of These Things is Not Like the Others. Michael the Teacher, Educator, Storyteller. CLICK HERE to Learn More about Michael's STORYTELLING Buddhism invites us into a Deeper Reality - Recognizing Our Inter-Being Natures, Our Fierce Interdependence. Free of Concepts, NonDualism, No Dichotomies, NonDichotomous Thinking - The View. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Mother Earth Spirituality, Hebrew Bible, Psalms. Judeo-Christian Tradition, Eco-Theology, EcoTheology, Eco-Spirituality, EcoSpirituality. Psalm 148: The Sun, Moon, Stars, Nature, Animals, Insects, Plants, & the Natural Elements - Fire, Snow, Wind, etc. - ALL IN PRAYER. Earth-centered Spirituality & G-d, the Great Sacred, the Great Mystery. Podcast Series: FRESH GREEN BLESSINGS: Reading the Judeo-Christian Bible through a Buddhist Lens with Mother Earth Eyes. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN. A Theology of Vastness. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Holy Week, Easter, Maundy Thursday, Jesus Washing Feet, John 13:1-20. Daily Questions reveal the "Quest I On" (from Laurence Boldt). Humility, Being Humbled. Buddhist Christian Spiritual Practices. Growth in Selflessness, Understanding, Compassion, Agape Love, Caring Beyond Oneself. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Holy Week, Easter Week, Coloring Eggs, Continuing Holiday Traditions, Christian Customs. NonDualism between the Secular & Religious, All as Sacred. Family Stories, Youngstown Childhood Memories, Gratitude, Aunt Eleanor Malley. Inter-Being, Fierce Interdependence, Continuations, Sacred Circles. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Our Inter-Being Natures & Fierce Interdependence. Remembering & Honoring Elders & Ancestors. Poetry, Michael's 1994 Poem about his dad William J. Malley. Youngstown & Struthers Ohio, Childhood & Teen Memories. Fathers & Sons. Love, Family Relationships, Humor, Connectedness. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Personal Aspirations, Possibilities - Easter, Lenten Holy Week or any week. Father Edward Hays' book A PILGRIM'S ALMANAC. The Power & Teachings in Our Misreadings Micro-Steps on the Spiritual Path. Health & Healing. Behaving “As If” - Who Do We Want & Hope To Be. Questions to reflect the Quest-i-on, the Quest that I Am On. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Legends & Stories of Saint Patrick, 5th Century Christian Mystic. Bible Dream Stories: Jacob & the Ladder, Joseph & His Brothers, Joseph & Mary. Jesus, Christianity, Pagan Ireland, Hibernia, Irish Chieftains. Irish Lore, Christian Mysticism, Prayer, Dream Visions, Sacred Voices. Responding to Spiritual Calling. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Interbeing, Our Inter-Being Natures, Non-Separateness, Our Fierce Interdependence. Buddhist Mindfulness Retreats with Thich Nhat Hanh. Michael the Storyteller & Educator, Storytelling with Children, Michael R. Kasony-O'Malley. CLICK HERE to LEARN MORE about Michael's Storytelling. Margaret Read MacDonald, Mikku & the Trees - An Estonian Folktale. CLICK HERE to LISTEN TO Michael Tell the Story of Mikku. Three Storytelling Mentors who are not separate (our inter-being natures, our fierce interdependence) from Michael in his Storytelling Work: Donald Davis, Jay O'Callahan, Kathryn Windham. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Irish-American Identity, Ethnic Heritage. Travels in Europe & South Korea, Visiting Ireland for the First Time. Grandma Agnes Malley, Prayer, Connecting with Ancestors & Elders. Thich Nhat Hanh - The Blood, Spirit, & Land Ancestors. Who We Are - Immigrants, Emigrants, Native Peoples, Friendship Circles, Places Where We Dwell, Birth Families, Adoptive Families. Value of Roots, Rootedness -- Like Trees & Plants - Our Sources of Nourishment. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

The Value of Every Human Life. Tibetan Buddhism. Sogyal Rinpoche's The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Mystery, Wonder, Awe, Respect. Wisdom in Folktales, Sacred Storytelling. Perspective, The View. The Buddha & Jesus Christ. How We See Each Other. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Thich Nhat Hanh's book Understanding Our Mind: Fifty Verses on the Nature of Consciousness (formerly titled Transformation at the Base). The Formation of our Individual & Collective Consciousness. Artists, Poets, Novelists, Actors, Philosophers. Old Children's Literature. Choices, Agency, Power: Reverberations & Continuations - Bringing Books, Films, Art, & Stories - from the Past, into the Present, for the Future. Our Inter-Being Natures, Our Fierce Interdependence. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Humor as a Defining Feature of Humanity. On Not Taking Ourselves Too Seriously. Meditation as Spaciousness; The Tibetan Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche says Genuine Humor Creates A Space where there is None. Family Stories & Storytelling. Playfulness & Facing Death. Valuing Humor; A Ministry of Lightness. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “Your Dying Heart.” )

Offering the ancient practices of mindfulness and meditation utilizing a fresh, modern voice is the essence of Lena's work. As a Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapist, International Spiritual Teacher and Speaker, Lena will teach you that “to journey in inward is your highest calling.” Lena earned both her Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Masters of Social at the University of Georgia. As a licensed clinical social worker, Lena integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience. Lena's holistic healing work is grounded in Buddhist Psychology, Mindfulness Meditation, LifeForce Yoga and Insight Yoga in addition to psychodynamic foundations. Today, Lena has a mindfulness business based in Atlanta, GA where she sees individual clients, provides mindfulness corporate trainings, teaches personal growth workshops and guides meditation retreats around the globe. Lena is also the Head of Mindfulness for Welzen, a mindfulness meditation app featuring practices and programs to enhance your health and happiness. Raised in a hybrid Buddhist/Christian household, Lena was introduced to meditation as a young child. Today, this mindfulness foundation has grown into a deep passion to guide others on a journey towards inner peace, emotional balance and a felt sense of wholeness. Lena has been featured in various media outlets including the New York Times, Modern Luxury and World Traveler magazines. Please visit her website to learn more about her practice and schedule of wellness trips, retreats, and continuing education offerings: www.lenafranklin.com.   We dove deep in this conversation and talked about Lena losing her mother and how she connects with her on the other side. We also discussed ways to stay present and use this time at home to go within and shed layers not serving you anymore. Here are some of the main take-aways: 1. Ask yourself how can you live differently? What is wanting to be let go of and released, both habit patterns, routines and thoughts? 2. Use the 3 A's, a portable mindfulness practice to use anywhere. The first A stands for acknowledge. Acknowledge your uncomfortable feelings first. The second A stands for Accept. Breathe in acceptance and you might say to yourself: 'My darling, may I accept that this is part of my awareness right now?' The third A is for Alternative Action. You get to choose a new action rather than yelling, slamming a door or losing your cool. Come up with new actions you can take like focusing on your breath, taking a quick walk or time out, to rewire and shift your pattern. 3. Speak to yourself in compassionate loving words like you would with a child, such as calling yourself beloved, my darling, sweetie, etc. It might feel weird at first, but over time it will feel loving and kind.   Additionally, Lena led a beautiful bonus mindfulness meditation that incorporated grounding yourself and connecting to the present moment. Enjoy!    Connect with Lena Franklin WEBSITE:  https://www.lenafranklin.com/ FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/iamlenafranklin TWITTER:  https://twitter.com/iamlenafranklin INSTAGRAM:  https://www.instagram.com/iamlenafranklin/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSWnzoAXN9OARf6QSOufCtA   Enjoying the show? For iTunes listeners, get automatic downloads and share the love by subscribing, rating & reviewing here!   *Share what you are struggling with or looking to transform with Julie at podcast@juliereisler.com. Julie would love to start covering topics of highest interest to YOU. Please also let us know if you are interested to be a guest on her show to discuss where you are stuck, and do live coaching with Julie on her podcast.   Join host Julie Reisler, author and multi-time TEDx speaker, each week to learn how you can tap into your best self and become your You-est You® to achieve inner peace, happiness and success at a deeper level! Tune in to hear powerful, inspirational stories and expert insights from entrepreneurs, industry thought leaders, and extraordinary human beings that will help to transform your life. Julie also shares a-ha moments that have shaped her life and career, and discusses key concepts from her book Get a PhD in YOU Here's to your being your you-est you!    You-est You Links: Subscribe to the Podcast  Learn more at JulieReisler.com Become a Sacred Member at The School of Sacredology Join The You-est You® Community for Soul Seekers on Facebook Book Julie as a speaker at your upcoming event Amazon #1 Best selling book Get a PhD in YOU Download free guided-meditations from Insight Timer Julie's Hungry For More Online Program (10 Module Interactive Course)

Hello, and welcome to Methods, an exploration in guided prayer and meditation. This is the second of a two part conversation with Kevin Johnson. Kevin is a co-host for the Encountering Silence Podcast, and he studied Comparative Theology at Boston College with a specific focus on Buddhist-Christian interactions. He is an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT while writing his dissertation for Boston College exploring the relationship between apophatic and cataphatic theology in Nicholas of Cusa. He is founder and President of The Inner Room, a non-profit Roman Catholic lay organization that supports and engages in deepened prayer, stronger theological education and compassionate social action. The focus of his work is the recovery of Silence as a way of deeply engaging the world, fostering holistic wellness, and cultivating wisdom. Find Kevin here: www.kevinmichaeljohnson.com Feel free to catch up with us on social media @methodspodcast, or if you'd like, you can support us on Patreon. linktr.ee/methodspodcast www.methodspodcast.com www.patreon.com/methods www.instagram.com/methodspodcast www.facebook.com/methodsthepodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/methods/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/methods/support

Hello, and welcome to Methods, an exploration in guided prayer and meditation. These short segments, are going to consist of a conversation, followed by our guest leading us through their preferred method of prayer, meditation, or other form of practice. Today we talk with Kevin Johnson. Kevin is a co-host for the Encountering Silence Podcast, and he studied Comparative Theology at Boston College with a specific focus on Buddhist-Christian interactions. He is an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT while writing his dissertation for Boston College exploring the relationship between apophatic and cataphatic theology in Nicholas of Cusa. He is founder and President of The Inner Room, a non-profit Roman Catholic lay organization that supports and engages in deepened prayer, stronger theological education and compassionate social action. The focus of his work is the recovery of Silence as a way of deeply engaging the world, fostering holistic wellness, and cultivating wisdom. Find Kevin here: www.kevinmichaeljohnson.com Feel free to catch up with us on social media @methodspodcast, or if you'd like, you can support us on Patreon. linktr.ee/methodspodcast www.methodspodcast.com www.patreon.com/methods www.instagram.com/methodspodcast www.facebook.com/methodsthepodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/methods/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/methods/support

Support the show: Patreon l Glow l Episode Transcript A conversation on faith, buddhism, Christ...what if Christ and Buddha had met one another? Guest Bio: Bushi Yamato Damashii is an independent Buddhist Christian monk (Bodhichristo), and the founder and abbot of Sangha Bodhi Christo (SBC), our Buddhist-Christian practice and study community comprised of members, students, and teachers. He holds the head seat of teaching and guidance within Sangha Bodhi Christo as “Heiwa no Bushi” (Peaceful Samurai), which is the title given to the head monk of the community. Independent of any lineage, sect, denomination, or tradition of either Christianity or Buddhism, Sangha Bodhi Christo seeks to re-translate the “Golden Rule” of both traditions into tacit experience within the SBC community, and to share the interreligious practices and teachings of SBC to all beings. Heiwa is also the founder and director of Thomasville Buddhist Center in Thomasville, North Carolina. https://www.bushispeace.us/ Guest Music by Salt of the Sound You can also find all the musical selections from all our episodes on our Spotify Playlist.  Check out all the things over at the store...it's a great way to support the show www.canisaythisatchurch.com/store What are you waiting for; consider becoming a Patreon supporter of the show. You'll have access to many perks as well as guaranteeing the future of these conversations; even $1/Month goes so far as this show is 100% listener supported.  Follow the show: https://www.facebook.com/CanISayThisAtChurch/ https://twitter.com/cistacpodcast https://www.canisaythisatchurch.com/

Bushi Yamato Damashii returns for the second part of this two part interview. Click here to listen to part one. Bushi Yamato Damashi is the founder of Sangha Bodhi Christo (a Buddhist-Christian student and practice community), and directs the Thomasville Buddhist Center in Thomasville, NC. He is a student of Buddhist teachers Lama Rod Owens and Lama Justin Von Bujdoos. Like many American Buddhists, his practice is eclectic, drawing from the Daishin Zen and the Vajrayana lineages. Bushi, who also is known as Heiwa no Bushi, or “peaceful samurai,” speaks and teaches on topics such as “The Making of a Christ Sangha” and “Celebrating and Integrating Inter-Spiritual Energetic Healing Modalities.” Joining us on the podcast, he shares his insightful wisdom not only on Buddhism and Buddhist-Christian dialog, but also on the psychology of spiritual growth. Jesus and the Buddha did the same work. Were they different in their lineages or where they came from? Yes. But I believe that  Jesus and the Buddha both understood... we must become a very intimate people with one another, and then our books will begin to make sense — and not the other way around. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Lama Rod Owens, Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger Justin Von Bujdoos, Modern Tantric Buddhism: Embodiment and Authenticity in Dharma Practice Howard Thurman, Essential Writings Francis X. Clooney, Comparative Theology: Deep Learning Across Religious Borders The Matrix Film Trilogy Carl Jung, The Portable Jung Albert Einstein, Ideas and Opinions Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love Mahatma Gandhi, The Story of My Experiments With Truth Sun Tzu, The Art of War Never hold yourself or anyone else too seriously. — Bushi Yamato Damashii This is part two of a two-part interview. Click here to listen to part one. Silence became pretty much the foundation for the rest of my living with the life that I have; the foundation for the rest of my living. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Episode 74: Silence and the Peaceful Samurai: A Conversation with Bushi Yamato Damashii (Part Two) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Date Recorded: September 6, 2019

Bushi Yamato Damashii returns for the second part of this two part interview. Click here to listen to part one. Bushi Yamato Damashi is the founder of Sangha Bodhi Christo (a Buddhist-Christian student and practice community), and directs the Thomasville Buddhist Center in Thomasville, NC. He is a student of Buddhist teachers Lama Rod Owens and Lama Justin Von Bujdoos. Like many American Buddhists, his practice is eclectic, drawing from the Daishin Zen and the Vajrayana lineages. Bushi, who also is known as Heiwa no Bushi, or “peaceful samurai,” speaks and teaches on topics such as “The Making of a Christ Sangha” and “Celebrating and Integrating Inter-Spiritual Energetic Healing Modalities.” Joining us on the podcast, he shares his insightful wisdom not only on Buddhism and Buddhist-Christian dialog, but also on the psychology of spiritual growth. Jesus and the Buddha did the same work. Were they different in their lineages or where they came from? Yes. But I believe that  Jesus and the Buddha both understood... we must become a very intimate people with one another, and then our books will begin to make sense — and not the other way around. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Lama Rod Owens, Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger Justin Von Bujdoos, Modern Tantric Buddhism: Embodiment and Authenticity in Dharma Practice Howard Thurman, Essential Writings Francis X. Clooney, Comparative Theology: Deep Learning Across Religious Borders The Matrix Film Trilogy Carl Jung, The Portable Jung Albert Einstein, Ideas and Opinions Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love Mahatma Gandhi, The Story of My Experiments With Truth Sun Tzu, The Art of War Never hold yourself or anyone else too seriously. — Bushi Yamato Damashii This is part two of a two-part interview. Click here to listen to part one. Silence became pretty much the foundation for the rest of my living with the life that I have; the foundation for the rest of my living. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Episode 74: Silence and the Peaceful Samurai: A Conversation with Bushi Yamato Damashii (Part Two) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Date Recorded: September 6, 2019

Bushi Yamato Damashii is the founder of Sangha Bodhi Christo (a Buddhist-Christian student and practice community), and directs the Thomasville Buddhist Center in Thomasville, NC. He is a student of Buddhist teachers Lama Rod Owens and Lama Justin Von Bujdoos. Like many American Buddhists, his practice is eclectic, drawing from the Daishin Zen and the Vajrayana lineages. Bushi, who also is known as Heiwa no Bushi, or “peaceful samurai,” speaks and teaches on topics such as “The Making of a Christ Sangha” and “Celebrating and Integrating Inter-Spiritual Energetic Healing Modalities.” Joining us on the podcast, he shares his insightful wisdom not only on Buddhism and Buddhist-Christian dialog, but also on the psychology of spiritual growth. Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Lama Rod Owens, Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger Justin Von Bujdoos, Modern Tantric Buddhism: Embodiment and Authenticity in Dharma Practice Howard Thurman, Essential Writings Francis X. Clooney, Comparative Theology: Deep Learning Across Religious Borders The Matrix Film Trilogy Carl Jung, The Portable Jung Albert Einstein, Ideas and Opinions Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love Mahatma Gandhi, The Story of My Experiments With Truth Sun Tzu, The Art of War This is part one of a two-part interview. Click here to listen to part two. Silence became pretty much the foundation for the rest of my living with the life that I have; the foundation for the rest of my living. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Episode 73: Silence and the Peaceful Samurai: A Conversation with Bushi Yamato Damashii (Part One) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Date Recorded: September 6, 2019

Bushi Yamato Damashii is the founder of Sangha Bodhi Christo (a Buddhist-Christian student and practice community), and directs the Thomasville Buddhist Center in Thomasville, NC. He is a student of Buddhist teachers Lama Rod Owens and Lama Justin Von Bujdoos. Like many American Buddhists, his practice is eclectic, drawing from the Daishin Zen and the Vajrayana lineages. Bushi, who also is known as Heiwa no Bushi, or “peaceful samurai,” speaks and teaches on topics such as “The Making of a Christ Sangha” and “Celebrating and Integrating Inter-Spiritual Energetic Healing Modalities.” Joining us on the podcast, he shares his insightful wisdom not only on Buddhism and Buddhist-Christian dialog, but also on the psychology of spiritual growth. Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Lama Rod Owens, Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger Justin Von Bujdoos, Modern Tantric Buddhism: Embodiment and Authenticity in Dharma Practice Howard Thurman, Essential Writings Francis X. Clooney, Comparative Theology: Deep Learning Across Religious Borders The Matrix Film Trilogy Carl Jung, The Portable Jung Albert Einstein, Ideas and Opinions Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love Mahatma Gandhi, The Story of My Experiments With Truth Sun Tzu, The Art of War This is part one of a two-part interview. Click here to listen to part two. Silence became pretty much the foundation for the rest of my living with the life that I have; the foundation for the rest of my living. — Bushi Yamato Damashii Episode 73: Silence and the Peaceful Samurai: A Conversation with Bushi Yamato Damashii (Part One) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Date Recorded: September 6, 2019

The finale - ALEtruist - Part 4 (Sikhism, Buddhism & Hinduism continued... ) What happens when faith leaders from the world’s 6 prominent religions come together for a day? Brew Theology presents, “ALEtruist!” Altruist: noun. a person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare  Aletruist: noun. a happier person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others while drinking beer Back in May, Denver Brew Theology put on an amazing 5 hour Interfaith Community event with a Cause over Craft beer! This podcast (Episode 135) is part 4 of 4 - Hinduism (Ved Nanda), Buddhism (Diana Thompson), & Dilpreet Jammu (Sikhism) during a panel Q & A. Here's more 411 along with the entire schedule, below...  COMMUNITY?- A 5 hour event with Jewish, Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist & Christian faith leaders cranking out altruistic content!- Interactive Q & A panels with the speakers and participants engaging with the content.- Brewing up heathy conversations with new friends across the faith-religious spectrum while sipping on local craft beer. I mean... What could be better? CAUSE?Proceeds from this event went to Brew Theology, Urban Peak, The Table, & The Interfaith Alliance of CO. CRAFT?Seedstock Brewery provided the yummies! /// JERSEY Brew Theology presents ALEtruist coming up on November 23. A one-day interfaith community event sharing a cause and craft beer! More 411 and registration, HERE. If you are a fan of this episode and/or other Brew Theology shows, give this episode a share on the interwebs, rate Brew Theology on iTunes and give BT a brewtastic review! Head over to the Brew Theology website, www.brewtheology.org to learn more, and/or become a local partner, sponsor and financial contributor. Questions & inquiries about Brew Theology, the alliance/network, Denver community or podcast, contact Ryan Miller: ryan@brewtheology.org &/ or janel@brewtheology.org. /// Follow us on Facebook & Instagram (@brewtheology) & Twitter (@brew_theology) Brew Theology swag HERE. T-shirts, tanks, hoodies, V-neck's, women's, etc. all in multiple colors.E

ALEtruist - Part 3 (Sikhism, Buddhism & Hinduism) What happens when faith leaders from the world’s 6 prominent religions come together for a day? Brew Theology presents, “ALEtruist!” Altruist: noun. a person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare  Aletruist: noun. a happier person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others while drinking beer Back in May, Denver Brew Theology put on an amazing 5 hour Interfaith Community event with a Cause over Craft beer! This podcast (Episode 133) is part 3 of 4 - Hinduism (Ved Nanda), Buddhism (Diana Thompson), & Dilpreet Jammu (Sikhism). Here's more 411 along with the entire schedule, below...  COMMUNITY?- A 5 hour event with Jewish, Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist & Christian faith leaders cranking out altruistic content!- Interactive Q & A panels with the speakers and participants engaging with the content.- Brewing up heathy conversations with new friends across the faith-religious spectrum while sipping on local craft beer. I mean... What could be better? CAUSE?Proceeds from this event went to Brew Theology, Urban Peak, The Table, & The Interfaith Alliance of CO. CRAFT?Seedstock Brewery provided the yummies! /// JERSEY Brew Theology presents ALEtruist coming up on November 23. A one-day interfaith community event sharing a cause and craft beer! More 411 and registration, HERE. If you are a fan of this episode and/or other Brew Theology shows, give this episode a share on the interwebs, rate Brew Theology on iTunes and give BT a brewtastic review! Head over to the Brew Theology website, www.brewtheology.org to learn more, and/or become a local partner, sponsor and financial contributor. Questions & inquiries about Brew Theology, the alliance/network, Denver community or podcast, contact Ryan Miller: ryan@brewtheology.org &/ or janel@brewtheology.org. /// Follow us on Facebook & Instagram (@brewtheology) & Twitter (@brew_theology) Brew Theology swag HERE. T-shirts, tanks, hoodies, V-neck's, women's, etc. all in multiple colors.

ALEtruist - Part 2 (Panel Q & A - Abrahamic Religions) What happens when faith leaders from the world’s 6 prominent religions come together for a day? Brew Theology presents, “ALEtruist!” Altruist: noun. a person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare  Aletruist: noun. a happier person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others while drinking beer. Back in May, Denver Brew Theology put on an amazing 5 hour Interfaith Community event with a Cause over Craft beer! This podcast (Episode 133) is part 2 of 4 - Christianity, Judaism & Islam via Amanda Henderson, Brian Field and Ismail Akbulut. Here's more 411 along with the entire schedule, below...  COMMUNITY?- A 5 hour event with Jewish, Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist & Christian faith leaders cranking out altruistic content!- Interactive Q & A panels with the speakers and participants engaging with the content.- Brewing up heathy conversations with new friends across the faith-religious spectrum while sipping on local craft beer. I mean... What could be better? CAUSE?Proceeds from this event went to Brew Theology, Urban Peak, The Table, & The Interfaith Alliance of CO. CRAFT?Seedstock Brewery provided the yummies! /// JERSEY Brew Theology presents ALEtruist coming up on November 23. A one-day interfaith community event sharing a cause and craft beer! More 411 and registration, HERE. If you are a fan of this episode and/or other Brew Theology shows, give this episode a share on the interwebs, rate Brew Theology on iTunes and give BT a brewtastic review! Head over to the Brew Theology website, www.brewtheology.org to learn more, and/or become a local partner, sponsor and financial contributor. Questions & inquiries about Brew Theology, the alliance/network, Denver community or podcast, contact Ryan Miller: ryan@brewtheology.org &/ or janel@brewtheology.org. /// Follow us on Facebook & Instagram (@brewtheology) & Twitter (@brew_theology) Brew Theology swag HERE. T-shirts, tanks, hoodies, V-neck's, women's, etc. all in multiple colors.

What happens when faith leaders from the world’s 6 prominent religions come together for a day? Brew Theology presents, “ALEtruist!” Altruist: noun. a person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare  Aletruist: noun. a happier person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others while drinking beer. Back in May, Denver Brew Theology put on an amazing 5 hour Interfaith Community event with a Cause over Craft beer! This podcast (Episode 132) is part 1 of 4 - Christianity, Judaism & Islam. Here's more 411 and the entire schedule, below...  COMMUNITY?- A 5 hour event with Jewish, Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist & Christian faith leaders cranking out altruistic content!- Interactive Q & A panels with the speakers and participants engaging with the content.- Brewing up heathy conversations with new friends across the faith-religious spectrum while sipping on local craft beer. I mean... What could be better?CAUSE?Proceeds from this event went to Brew Theology, Urban Peak, The Table, & The Interfaith Alliance of CO.CRAFT?Seedstock Brewery provided the yummies! /// JERSEY Brew Theology presents ALEtruist coming up on November 23. A one-day interfaith community event sharing a cause and craft beer! More 411 and registration, HERE. If you are a fan of this episode and/or other Brew Theology shows, give this episode a share on the interwebs, rate Brew Theology on iTunes and give BT a brewtastic review! Head over to the Brew Theology website, www.brewtheology.org to learn more, and/or become a local partner, sponsor and financial contributor. Questions & inquiries about Brew Theology, the alliance/network, Denver community or podcast, contact Ryan Miller: ryan@brewtheology.org &/ or janel@brewtheology.org. /// Follow us on Facebook & Instagram (@brewtheology) & Twitter (@brew_theology) Brew Theology swag HERE. T-shirts, tanks, hoodies, V-neck's, women's, etc. all in multiple colors.

Our conversation continues  with Zen roshi and a Catholic spiritual director Ruben L. F. Habito. Ruben L. F. Habito is both a former Jesuit and a master of the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen. In his early youth the Society of Jesus sent him from his homeland in the Philippines to Japan, where he began his Zen practice under the guidance of Yamada Koun-roshi. Koun-roshi was a Zen master who taught many Christians students, an unusual practice for the time. In 1988, Habito received Dharma transmission from Yamada Koun. He left the Jesuit order shortly after that, and in 1991 founded the lay organization Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas. He has taught at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University since 1989 where he continues to be a faculty member. He is married and has two sons. Dr. Habito is the author of several books, all of which explore various aspects of Buddhist-Christian dialogue, including Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises, and Living Zen, Loving God.  In this concluding part of his conversation with the Encountering Silence team, Rubito speaks about what inspires him as a writer, the difference between centering prayer and zazen, the centrality of the breath in contemplation, and other topics related to his singular path as a Zen Christian. Spend one hour a week doing nothing; doing nothing in a very intentional and purposeful way. In short, not attempting to do anything, but just allowing... to be. — Ruben L. F. Habito Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Ruben L. F. Habito, Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible Ruben L. F. Habito, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises Ruben L. F. Habito, Healing Breath, Zen for Christians and Buddhists in a Wounded World Ruben L. F. Habito, Living Zen, Loving God Ruben L. F. Habito, Experiencing Buddhism: Ways of Wisdom and Compassion Maggie Ross, Silence: A User's Guide, Volume 2 Nicholas of Cusa, Selected Spiritual Writings World Spirituality: Jewish Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Jewish Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Hindu Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Hindu Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Islamic Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Islamic Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume Three World Spirituality, Spirituality and the Secular Quest Simone Weil, Waiting For God Simone Weil, Gravity and Grace Frances S. Adeney, Christianity Encountering World Religions Mary Oliver, Devotions: The Selected Poems Ignatius of Loyola, The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Dainin Katagiri, Each Moment is the Universe Episode 69: Christianity, Buddhism and Silence: A Conversation with Ruben L. F. Habito (Part Two) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Guest: Ruben L. F. Habito Date Recorded: May 3, 2019

Our conversation continues  with Zen roshi and a Catholic spiritual director Ruben L. F. Habito. Ruben L. F. Habito is both a former Jesuit and a master of the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen. In his early youth the Society of Jesus sent him from his homeland in the Philippines to Japan, where he began his Zen practice under the guidance of Yamada Koun-roshi. Koun-roshi was a Zen master who taught many Christians students, an unusual practice for the time. In 1988, Habito received Dharma transmission from Yamada Koun. He left the Jesuit order shortly after that, and in 1991 founded the lay organization Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas. He has taught at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University since 1989 where he continues to be a faculty member. He is married and has two sons. Dr. Habito is the author of several books, all of which explore various aspects of Buddhist-Christian dialogue, including Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises, and Living Zen, Loving God.  In this concluding part of his conversation with the Encountering Silence team, Rubito speaks about what inspires him as a writer, the difference between centering prayer and zazen, the centrality of the breath in contemplation, and other topics related to his singular path as a Zen Christian. Spend one hour a week doing nothing; doing nothing in a very intentional and purposeful way. In short, not attempting to do anything, but just allowing... to be. — Ruben L. F. Habito Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Ruben L. F. Habito, Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible Ruben L. F. Habito, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises Ruben L. F. Habito, Healing Breath, Zen for Christians and Buddhists in a Wounded World Ruben L. F. Habito, Living Zen, Loving God Ruben L. F. Habito, Experiencing Buddhism: Ways of Wisdom and Compassion Maggie Ross, Silence: A User's Guide, Volume 2 Nicholas of Cusa, Selected Spiritual Writings World Spirituality: Jewish Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Jewish Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Hindu Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Hindu Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Islamic Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Islamic Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume One World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume Two World Spirituality: Christian Spirituality, Volume Three World Spirituality, Spirituality and the Secular Quest Simone Weil, Waiting For God Simone Weil, Gravity and Grace Frances S. Adeney, Christianity Encountering World Religions Mary Oliver, Devotions: The Selected Poems Ignatius of Loyola, The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Dainin Katagiri, Each Moment is the Universe Episode 69: Christianity, Buddhism and Silence: A Conversation with Ruben L. F. Habito (Part Two) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Guest: Ruben L. F. Habito Date Recorded: May 3, 2019

How does silence form and shape the life of person who is both Zen roshi and a Catholic spiritual director? Ruben L. F. Habito is both a former Jesuit and a master of the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen. In his early youth the Society of Jesus sent him from his homeland in the Philippines to Japan, where he began his Zen practice under the guidance of Yamada Koun-roshi. Koun-roshi was a Zen master who taught many Christians students, an unusual practice for the time. In 1988, Habito received Dharma transmission from Yamada Koun. He left the Jesuit order shortly after that, and in 1991 founded the lay organization Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas. He has taught at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University since 1989 where he continues to be a faculty member. He is married and has two sons. Silence for me is not so much a set of external conditions, but more of an inner state of mind. — Ruben L. F. Habito Dr. Habito is the author of several books, all of which explore various aspects of Buddhist-Christian dialogue, including Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises, and Living Zen, Loving God.  In his conversation with the Encountering Silence team, he speaks about the relationship with silence and the fullness of a joyful life, as well as how his engagement with both Christianity and Buddhism has shaped his own relationship with silence. I felt some kind of unspeakable joy of just being in the middle ... if you are at a place within you that enables you to be at home where you are, that's where you can find that interior silence that can connect, and enable you to really open your heart in a warm embrace. That's what silence is for me. — Ruben L. F. Habito Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Ruben L. F. Habito, Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible Ruben L. F. Habito, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises Ruben L. F. Habito, Healing Breath, Zen for Christians and Buddhists in a Wounded World Ruben L. F. Habito, Living Zen, Loving God Ruben L. F. Habito, Experiencing Buddhism: Ways of Wisdom and Compassion Ignatius of Loyola, The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Barbara Brown Taylor, Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others Krister Stendahl, Energy for Life  Nicholas of Cusa, Selected Spiritual Writings Paul Knitter, Without Buddha I Could Not Be A Christian William Johnston, Christian Zen: A Way of Meditation Tilden Edwards, Living in the Presence: Spiritual Exercises to Open Our Lives to the Awareness of God  Thomas Merton, Mystics and Zen Masters Susan Stabile, Growing in Love and Wisdom: Tibetan Buddhist Sources for Christian Meditation Mary Margaret Funk, Discernment Matters Charles Curran, Loyal Dissent: Memoir of a Catholic Theologian Francis Sullivan, Creative Fidelity: Weighing and Interpreting Documents of the Magisterium Episode 68: Christianity, Buddhism and Silence: A Conversation with Ruben L. F. Habito (Part One) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Guest: Ruben L. F. Habito Date Recorded: May 3, 2019

How does silence form and shape the life of person who is both Zen roshi and a Catholic spiritual director? Ruben L. F. Habito is both a former Jesuit and a master of the Sanbo Kyodan lineage of Zen. In his early youth the Society of Jesus sent him from his homeland in the Philippines to Japan, where he began his Zen practice under the guidance of Yamada Koun-roshi. Koun-roshi was a Zen master who taught many Christians students, an unusual practice for the time. In 1988, Habito received Dharma transmission from Yamada Koun. He left the Jesuit order shortly after that, and in 1991 founded the lay organization Maria Kannon Zen Center in Dallas, Texas. He has taught at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University since 1989 where he continues to be a faculty member. He is married and has two sons. Silence for me is not so much a set of external conditions, but more of an inner state of mind. — Ruben L. F. Habito Dr. Habito is the author of several books, all of which explore various aspects of Buddhist-Christian dialogue, including Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises, and Living Zen, Loving God.  In his conversation with the Encountering Silence team, he speaks about the relationship with silence and the fullness of a joyful life, as well as how his engagement with both Christianity and Buddhism has shaped his own relationship with silence. I felt some kind of unspeakable joy of just being in the middle ... if you are at a place within you that enables you to be at home where you are, that's where you can find that interior silence that can connect, and enable you to really open your heart in a warm embrace. That's what silence is for me. — Ruben L. F. Habito Some of the resources and authors we mention in this episode: Ruben L. F. Habito, Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible Ruben L. F. Habito, Zen and the Spiritual Exercises Ruben L. F. Habito, Healing Breath, Zen for Christians and Buddhists in a Wounded World Ruben L. F. Habito, Living Zen, Loving God Ruben L. F. Habito, Experiencing Buddhism: Ways of Wisdom and Compassion Ignatius of Loyola, The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Barbara Brown Taylor, Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others Krister Stendahl, Energy for Life  Nicholas of Cusa, Selected Spiritual Writings Paul Knitter, Without Buddha I Could Not Be A Christian William Johnston, Christian Zen: A Way of Meditation Tilden Edwards, Living in the Presence: Spiritual Exercises to Open Our Lives to the Awareness of God  Thomas Merton, Mystics and Zen Masters Susan Stabile, Growing in Love and Wisdom: Tibetan Buddhist Sources for Christian Meditation Mary Margaret Funk, Discernment Matters Charles Curran, Loyal Dissent: Memoir of a Catholic Theologian Francis Sullivan, Creative Fidelity: Weighing and Interpreting Documents of the Magisterium Episode 68: Christianity, Buddhism and Silence: A Conversation with Ruben L. F. Habito (Part One) Hosted by: Carl McColman With: Cassidy Hall, Kevin Johnson Guest: Ruben L. F. Habito Date Recorded: May 3, 2019

Matthew 5:27-28 (KJV): Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Each deed performed, however secretly, leaves […]

Doing the Tibetan Buddhist phowa practice with Jesus Christ for HaHa (my Roman Catholic godmother, Aunt Mary). Sogyal Rinpoche’s The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. The Sacred Heart of Jesus painting. Dual or Double Belonging: On being a Buddhist Christian.

Dr. Duane Bidwell works to reduce suffering and promote abundant life in all of his teaching, writing, and research. Experiences as chaplain, pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, HIV/AIDS professional, and non-profit director inform his work as teacher-scholar-clinician. CST students have given him teaching and mentoring awards three times since 2014. He is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and practitioner of vipassana (insight meditation) in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. His most recent book, When One Religion Isn't Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People (Boston: Beacon, 2018), examines complex religious bonds–the experience of being formed by more than one religious tradition at the same time. The book builds on his work in transreligious pastoral theology and in Buddhist-Christian studies. Library Journal named it a Best Book 2018. Buy the book here.

Wakoh Shannon Hickey has been an Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Notre Dame of Maryland University in Baltimore. Her research interests include American religious history, particularly minority traditions and women leaders; Buddhism in East Asia and the West; religion and medicine; and inter-religious dialogue, with particular interests in Buddhist-Christian dialogue and issues of race and gender. Wakoh currently is a Spiritual Support Counselor (chaplain) in Sonoma/Napa, California, for Hospice by the Bay, one of the oldest and largest non-profit hospice agencies in the United States. Wakoh was ordained in 2003 as a priest of Sōtō Zen Buddhism, which she has practiced since 1983. In this Episode, we interview Wakoh Shannon Hickey, author of The Mind Cure: How Meditation Became Medicine (Oxford University Press, 2019), as she traces the 18th and 19th century Mind Cure and New Thought movements, and how this early history shaped and paved the ground for the modern self-help and mindfulness movements. Many of the first Americans to advocate meditation for healing were women leaders of the Mind Cure movement, which emerged in the late nineteenth century. They believed that by transforming their consciousness, they could also transform oppressive circumstances in which they lived, and some were activists for social reform. Trained by Buddhist and Hindu missionaries, these women promoted meditation through personal networks, religious communities, and publications. Some influenced important African American religious movements, as well. For women and black men, Mind Cure meant not just happiness but liberation in concrete political, economic, and legal terms. The Mind Cure movement exerted enormous pressure on mainstream American religion and medicine, and in response, white, male doctors and clergy with elite academic credentials appropriated some of its methods and channeled them into scientific psychology and medicine. As mental therapeutics became medicalized, individualized, and then commodified, the religious roots of meditation, like the social justice agendas of early Mind Curers, fell away. After tracing how we got from Mind Cure to Mindfulness, Wakoh tells us what got lost in the process.

Graham Hill & Amos Yong discuss Pentecostalism, the Spirit, & Asian-American Christianity. The GlobalChurch Project, podcast episode 13.Amos Yong is one of the world’s leading Asian Pentecostal scholars. His scholarship has been foundational in Pentecostal theology, interacting with both traditional theological traditions and contemporary contextual theologies.Amos Yong throws himself into a wide variety of topics. These include: Global Pentecostalism, theology and science, theology of mission, political theology, systematic and constructive theology, theology and disability, comparative theology, theology of religions, interfaith encounter/dialogue, and Buddhist-Christian dialogue.Amos Yong has authored or edited over 30 books, and almost 200 scholarly articles. He’s the past president of the Society for Pentecostal Studies.

We are joined by guest Candradasa, a Buddhist priest who helps us sort out whether someone can be a Buddhist Christian or a Christian Buddhist. What are the similarities between Buddhism and Christianity? What are the tensions or conflicts? Can someone be both? Also, if someone shot a gun in space, what would happen?

Robert A. Jonas, M.T.S., Ed.D., is the founder and director of The Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton, MA, with a special emphasis on the Buddhist-Christian dialogue and the arts. An author, musician and retreat leader, Dr. Jonas is a Carmelite Christian who has also received spiritual formation with Buddhist teachers. He is a member of the Society for Buddhist-Christian Studies, on the Board of the Henri Nouwen Society, and co-founder of Project Noah, which connects people of faith to wilderness protection. He is the author of many books and articles and plays the Japanese bamboo flute (shakuhachi) in sacred contexts. We spoke about how Buddhism has informed his Christianity, his work at The Empty Bell and how tragedy can contribute to spiritual growth. Learn more about Robert Jonas here: http://www.emptybell.org/bio.html

Buddhist/Christian teacher ChiSing discusses his path and how his cancer diagnosis has deepened his practice.

Brother David Steindl-Rast Spiritual Biography Brother David Steindl-Rast is an 86-year-old Benedictine monk who many consider the successor to Thomas Merton at the intersection of Christianity and Buddhism. Together with Merton, Brother David helped launch a renewal of religious life. From 1970 on, he became a leading figure in the House of Prayer movement, which affected some 200,000 members of religious orders in the United States and Canada. More than that, Brother David has developed a “common sense spirituality” that touches the heart of all the great spiritual traditions. He is an apostle of the spirit of gratefulness, described on his remarkable website. He says his favorite name for God is “Surprise,” because “Surprise” is the only name that does not limit the Nameless One. Brother David’s books include Belonging to the Universe (winner of the 1992 American Book Award), a dialogue on new paradigm thinking in science and theology with physicist, Fritjof Capra. His dialogue with Buddhists produced The Ground We Share: Buddhist and Christian Practice, co-authored with Robert Aitken Roshi. His most recent books are The Music of Silence, co-written with Sharon Lebell, and Words of Common Sense. In these interviews with Michael Lerner, which took place over a span of six months, Brother David talks about his life and work, the people and experiences that made him who he is, and his philosophy of living life with gratitude. David Steindl-Rast David Steindl-Rast was born July 12, 1926, in Vienna, Austria, where he studied art, anthropology, and psychology, receiving an MA from the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts and a PhD from the University of Vienna. In 1952 he followed his family who had emigrated to the United States. In 1953 he joined a newly founded Benedictine community in Elmira, NY, Mount Saviour Monastery, of which he is now a senior member. After twelve years of monastic training and studies in philosophy and theology, Brother David was sent by his abbot to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, for which he received Vatican approval in 1967. His Zen teachers were Hakkuun Yasutani Roshi, Soen Nakagawa Roshi, Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and Eido Shimano Roshi. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies in 1968 and received the 1975 Martin Buber Award for his achievements in building bridges between religious traditions. At present, Brother David serves a worldwide Network for Grateful Living, through www.gratefulness.org, an interactive website with several thousand participants daily from more than 240 countries. Find out more about The New School at tns.commonweal.org.

Brother David Steindl-Rast Spiritual Biography Brother David Steindl-Rast is an 86-year-old Benedictine monk who many consider the successor to Thomas Merton at the intersection of Christianity and Buddhism. Together with Merton, Brother David helped launch a renewal of religious life. From 1970 on, he became a leading figure in the House of Prayer movement, which affected some 200,000 members of religious orders in the United States and Canada. More than that, Brother David has developed a “common sense spirituality” that touches the heart of all the great spiritual traditions. He is an apostle of the spirit of gratefulness, described on his remarkable website. He says his favorite name for God is “Surprise,” because “Surprise” is the only name that does not limit the Nameless One. Brother David’s books include Belonging to the Universe (winner of the 1992 American Book Award), a dialogue on new paradigm thinking in science and theology with physicist, Fritjof Capra. His dialogue with Buddhists produced The Ground We Share: Buddhist and Christian Practice, co-authored with Robert Aitken Roshi. His most recent books are The Music of Silence, co-written with Sharon Lebell, and Words of Common Sense. In these interviews with Michael Lerner, which took place over a span of six months, Brother David talks about his life and work, the people and experiences that made him who he is, and his philosophy of living life with gratitude. David Steindl-Rast David Steindl-Rast was born July 12, 1926, in Vienna, Austria, where he studied art, anthropology, and psychology, receiving an MA from the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts and a PhD from the University of Vienna. In 1952 he followed his family who had emigrated to the United States. In 1953 he joined a newly founded Benedictine community in Elmira, NY, Mount Saviour Monastery, of which he is now a senior member. After twelve years of monastic training and studies in philosophy and theology, Brother David was sent by his abbot to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, for which he received Vatican approval in 1967. His Zen teachers were Hakkuun Yasutani Roshi, Soen Nakagawa Roshi, Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and Eido Shimano Roshi. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies in 1968 and received the 1975 Martin Buber Award for his achievements in building bridges between religious traditions. At present, Brother David serves a worldwide Network for Grateful Living, through www.gratefulness.org, an interactive website with several thousand participants daily from more than 240 countries. Find out more about The New School at tns.commonweal.org.

Brother David Steindl-Rast Spiritual Biography Brother David Steindl-Rast is an 86-year-old Benedictine monk who many consider the successor to Thomas Merton at the intersection of Christianity and Buddhism. Together with Merton, Brother David helped launch a renewal of religious life. From 1970 on, he became a leading figure in the House of Prayer movement, which affected some 200,000 members of religious orders in the United States and Canada. More than that, Brother David has developed a “common sense spirituality” that touches the heart of all the great spiritual traditions. He is an apostle of the spirit of gratefulness, described on his remarkable website. He says his favorite name for God is “Surprise,” because “Surprise” is the only name that does not limit the Nameless One. Brother David’s books include Belonging to the Universe (winner of the 1992 American Book Award), a dialogue on new paradigm thinking in science and theology with physicist, Fritjof Capra. His dialogue with Buddhists produced The Ground We Share: Buddhist and Christian Practice, co-authored with Robert Aitken Roshi. His most recent books are The Music of Silence, co-written with Sharon Lebell, and Words of Common Sense. In these interviews with Michael Lerner, which took place over a span of six months, Brother David talks about his life and work, the people and experiences that made him who he is, and his philosophy of living life with gratitude. David Steindl-Rast David Steindl-Rast was born July 12, 1926, in Vienna, Austria, where he studied art, anthropology, and psychology, receiving an MA from the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts and a PhD from the University of Vienna. In 1952 he followed his family who had emigrated to the United States. In 1953 he joined a newly founded Benedictine community in Elmira, NY, Mount Saviour Monastery, of which he is now a senior member. After twelve years of monastic training and studies in philosophy and theology, Brother David was sent by his abbot to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, for which he received Vatican approval in 1967. His Zen teachers were Hakkuun Yasutani Roshi, Soen Nakagawa Roshi, Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and Eido Shimano Roshi. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies in 1968 and received the 1975 Martin Buber Award for his achievements in building bridges between religious traditions. At present, Brother David serves a worldwide Network for Grateful Living, through www.gratefulness.org, an interactive website with several thousand participants daily from more than 240 countries. Find out more about The New School at tns.commonweal.org.

Brother David Steindl-Rast Spiritual Biography Brother David Steindl-Rast is an 86-year-old Benedictine monk who many consider the successor to Thomas Merton at the intersection of Christianity and Buddhism. Together with Merton, Brother David helped launch a renewal of religious life. From 1970 on, he became a leading figure in the House of Prayer movement, which affected some 200,000 members of religious orders in the United States and Canada. More than that, Brother David has developed a “common sense spirituality” that touches the heart of all the great spiritual traditions. He is an apostle of the spirit of gratefulness, described on his remarkable website. He says his favorite name for God is “Surprise,” because “Surprise” is the only name that does not limit the Nameless One. Brother David’s books include Belonging to the Universe (winner of the 1992 American Book Award), a dialogue on new paradigm thinking in science and theology with physicist, Fritjof Capra. His dialogue with Buddhists produced The Ground We Share: Buddhist and Christian Practice, co-authored with Robert Aitken Roshi. His most recent books are The Music of Silence, co-written with Sharon Lebell, and Words of Common Sense. In these interviews with Michael Lerner, which took place over a span of six months, Brother David talks about his life and work, the people and experiences that made him who he is, and his philosophy of living life with gratitude. David Steindl-Rast David Steindl-Rast was born July 12, 1926, in Vienna, Austria, where he studied art, anthropology, and psychology, receiving an MA from the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts and a PhD from the University of Vienna. In 1952 he followed his family who had emigrated to the United States. In 1953 he joined a newly founded Benedictine community in Elmira, NY, Mount Saviour Monastery, of which he is now a senior member. After twelve years of monastic training and studies in philosophy and theology, Brother David was sent by his abbot to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, for which he received Vatican approval in 1967. His Zen teachers were Hakkuun Yasutani Roshi, Soen Nakagawa Roshi, Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, and Eido Shimano Roshi. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies in 1968 and received the 1975 Martin Buber Award for his achievements in building bridges between religious traditions. At present, Brother David serves a worldwide Network for Grateful Living, through www.gratefulness.org, an interactive website with several thousand participants daily from more than 240 countries. Find out more about The New School at tns.commonweal.org.

Ogun, Ned and Jim welcome guest Jesse Tanner to discuss his graduate dissertation on the Buddhist/Christian connection. They will also talk about an interesting feature of food addiction: biology vs. spirituality (link to feature below), and, if God is principle/law, then what is God’s will? Our higher self, or the spirit that we always are? Refer to and receive guidance from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/food-addiction-could-it-e_b_764863.html.

* Enemies, Honeysuckle, & Compassion * In this Dharma Talk from the January 17, 2021, Sunday Morning SACRED GROUND Service, Parson Michael R. Malley speaks of... Metaphors in Nature and the Natural World; the Deadly Riot at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. on January 6, 2021; Thich Nhat Hanh's response to the 9/11 Terrorist Attack; Luke 11:24-26 and the Seven Evil Spirits; People being Saturated with Suffering; Perseverance, Diligence, Understanding, and Agape Love; Legacy, Mission, Purpose, and Meaning. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “My Black Rose.” )

In this Dharma Talk from the May 3, 2020, Sunday Morning SACRED GROUND Service, Parson Michael R. Malley speaks of... the Compassionate Listening of Thich Nhat Hanh & Art Gish, the Road To Emmaus in Luke's Gospel, the thin wall between us & the Otherworld at Beltaine & Easter, sacred birdsongs for the dying, and Jesus Christ opening our eyes & ears to the Sacred before us. (Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “My Black Rose.” )

Care to JOIN US LIVE for our NEXT ONLINE SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE? CLICK HERE. Today's DHARMA TALK includes: The Story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15). The Buddhist teaching that Love (Maitri) requires Understanding. Brothers & Siblings in the Bible. The Cultural Divides & Chasms - even within our Families & among Old Friends. The Mirror-like Wisdom of the Judeo-Christian Bible (and Michael's fondness for the King James Version). Thich Nhat Hanh's teaching on the Power of Humor & Humility (not taking oneself too seriously). His podcast series FRESH GREEN BLESSINGS: READING THE JUDEO-CHRISTIAN BIBLE THROUGH A BUDDHIST LENS WITH MOTHER EARTH EYES. Jesus, Maitreya (the Buddha-to-come), and G-d as Spiritual Helpers, Available Resources in this Moment. Parson Michael R. Malley's Dharma Talk from the February 14, 2021 Sunday Morning Service of Sacred Ground Community Church & Sangha. Want to JOIN US LIVE for our NEXT ONLINE SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE? CLICK HERE. Music: Courtesy of Adrian Von Ziegler, “My Black Rose.”