New Years Resolutions as Mindfulness Reminders

As 2008 approaches, I've been thinking about what resolutions I should make for the New Year.

But the problem with resolutions, I think, is that they seem too black and white. Either you met your resolution--like you've decided to quit smoking and you succeeded--or you didn't.

Maybe if we thought of resolutions as simply reminders for mindfulness we'd stick with them better.

As Buddhism teaches, it is the path that we walk toward enlightenment that is most important rather than then end result, which may or not be attainable.

But we can all be or do "more" or "less" of whatever it is we "resolve" to do.

I may resolve to not be angry in 2008. I doubt I can achieve never being angry in the New Year but I bet I can be less angry than I was in 2007. And while not perfection, that's a good thing--and attainable.

So, as you devise your resolutions for 2008--and more importantly, try to abide by them--think of your resolutions as simply mindfulness touchstones to help you on your path.

Mindfulness and Massage

I love massage.

I always feel better after I have one. I always wonder after I have one why I've waited so long to have another one.

I've also found that practicing mindfulness during a massage is a good exercise.

What, you ask, is the problem with being mindful during a massage? You just lay there while someone rubs you.

Unfortunately, the mind loves to wonder. Instead of appreciating the massage therapist's skills and healing touching, instead of concentrating on the muscles she is rubbing, instead of feeling the tension leave your body, I find myself thinking about stuff I have to do. Or stuff I didn't do. Or what I might blog about. Or some case I'm working on in my law practice.

Buddhism teaches us to be present in every moment. It is hard work in everyday life. It is even hard when you are spread out on a massage table in your gym shorts, covered by a sheet, the lights are low, New Age music plays softly in the background, and someone's skilled hands are trying to make you feel better.

Massage, at least to me, reminds me about the difficulties of mindfulness, but also of the rewards.

When I am experiencing only the massage and no other distractions intrude, the experience of the massage is even better--which is saying a lot since even a non-mindful massage is pretty darn good!

Technorati Tags: mindfulness, massage, massage therapists, Buddhism

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The Peace of Christmas Eve

About 6 p.m., it's like a switch is pulled on Christmas Eve.

People are finally off work.

The Christmas shopping is done.

Family has arrived.

The stress and craziness of Christmas Eve day gives way to the warmth and peace of Christmas Eve eve.

At least that's my experience through the years.

It struck me yesterday as it never had before.

My kids Matt and Sarah and Sarah's boyfriend Rene are all in the living room watching A Christmas Story on TBS. Wife Donna is finishing up our traditional Christmas Eve fare of clam chowder, crab dip, spinach dip, snack tray, and veggies.

The dogs lay on the floor by the kids, content.

We call my mom, Eva Belle, and wish her a happy birthday--yes, she's a Christmas Eve baby, hence the festive name.

And for a few transcendent hours, all is right with the world or at least my world.

Merry Christmas.

(Cross-posted to SD Watch.)

Technorati Tags: Tales of Christmas, Christmas, transcendence, peace, Christmas Eve

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