We all can render a great service by listening to opposing opinions without agitation, discourtesy, or violence, and by offering our opinions not as nonnegotiable demands but as calm, courteous statements.
—Sri Eknath Easwaran, The Bhagavad Gita for Daily Living
There was a certain elder who, if anyone maligned him, would go in person to offer him presents, if he lived nearby. And if he lived at a distance he would send presents by the hand of another.
—The Wisdom of the Desert: Sayings from the Desert Fathers of the Fourth Century, compiled by Thomas Merton.
When we consider at our public and private lives, we may recognize that our communication leaves something to be desired: name-calling, finger-pointing, gossip, insults, divisiveness, and half-truths.
In this course, our goal is to become more aware of the words we use and act to contribute something positive to our loved ones and those in our social circles.
Drawing on the wisdom teachers of various traditions, we will engage valuable ways of practicing the mindful speech. In particular, we will focus on two specific, vital practices—apology and appreciation.
Each class session will have time for one-on-one exchange, freewriting, cultural analysis, spiritual practice and an open forum. Participants will commit to a particular project employing audio, video, and/or writing. Unsurprisingly, keeping a journal will also beneficial.
We will meet weekly via Zoom on Mondays from June 9 to July 28. Sessions will begin at 7:30 pm Central Time and go till 9:00.
Tuition: $150, payable by check to me or Paypal (markjchmiel@gmail.com).
