Reading Dear Layla/1
Ale Vázquez texted me the following photos and comments I understand this and feel it like an aching in my spine
Spiritual Exercises (for Social Workers, Nurses, Parents, Teachers, Students…)
“To take flight” every day! At least for a moment, which may be brief, so long as it is intense. A “spiritual exercise” every day—alone or in the company of a person who also wants…
War Stories
War is a lot of things I suppose, but it is not pure. And if there are issues of morality to be contended with, I think that the veterans’ stories are likely the key. They…
Why Did They Shoot Him? Questions from Iraq
[Another man approached me with the two children of his brother, killed by U.S. gunfire, by his side.] “This little boy and girl, their father was shot by the Americans. Who will take care of…
There’s Poetry and There’s Polemical Essays
Interviewer: Later this month you’ll be reading at the poetry festival, Split This Rock. Do you have an expectation for what you want the audience to take away from your reading? Alice Walker: A clearer…
Passage to India: From a Letter by Allen Ginsberg to Jack Kerouac
May 11, 1962 I do wish you were here, only calm and peaceful and not yelling at me much, as we could take long 3rd class comfy train trips to the Himalayas and read Mahabharatas…
Accompaniment
If we have one close friend who can understand us and know our aspirations, we feel greatly supported. A good friend does not have to do much. He or she only needs to see us…
Sunset Volcano Beach Soccer! Share the Wealth with John Nolan
This Sunday I will be sharing my experiences and reflections on soccer. Soccer is technically just a game, but those of us who play or follow soccer can rarely see it objectively. Soccer is necessary,…
What To Do
A student asked Soen Nakagawa During a meditation retreat: “I am very discouraged. What should I do?” Soen replied, “Encourage others.”
Gratitude/402
Being privy To the universe In which you orbit Like Hale-Bopp Has been the joy of my life And the awe for my eyes Ever since You were 23