Chapter 1: Embracing New Beginnings

In our fast-paced lives, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by thoughts and desires, neglecting the simple joy of existence. As Eckhart Tolle aptly puts it, “In today’s rush, we all think too much, want too much, and forget about the joy of just being…”

Recently, I came across an insightful article by Terry Pottinger titled “and we begin again..” which resonated deeply with me. You can read it here:

“…and we begin again.”

~ Willowrose

Feeling inspired, I decided to delve into the teachings of two Insight Timer instructors. Many years back, I engaged in Transcendental Meditation (T.M.), a practice that was once seen as unconventional but has since gained mainstream acceptance. Nowadays, various apps, including Calm offered by major health organizations like Kaiser Permanente, promote meditation widely. I’m curious how many of you utilize Insight Timer?

My partner often enjoys the sessions by Tony Brady on Insight Timer. His Irish accent has a whimsical quality, reminiscent of a leprechaun, yet he provides valuable meditative insights. Tony emphasizes mindfulness, gratitude, and the importance of starting anew while maintaining a positive attitude.

Today, I listened to a meditation titled "If You Had Your Life to Live Over, What Would You Change?" This reflective exercise encourages us to consider different paths we might have taken. Most of us could identify a few choices we might have made differently.

Here’s the meditation on Insight Timer:

What If You Had Your Life To Live Over? | Insight Timer

What if you were to begin again? Try something new. Turn over a new leaf. The thought that we might do this arises from…

insighttimer.com

As I contemplated this, several thoughts emerged:

• Live in the present; past mistakes should not cloud your current moments.
• While planning for the future is important, it’s essential to worry less about events that haven’t occurred.
• Let go of jealousy, as we each have unique gifts to offer.
• Be less judgmental of others in their choices and expressions.
• Practice more openness to new ideas and perspectives.
• Embrace forgiveness for both myself and others, celebrating imperfections.
• Cultivate gratitude earlier in life.
• Dismiss the "shoulds" that invade my thoughts and strive to live joyfully.

Another instructor I admire is Hugh Bryne, a seasoned teacher affiliated with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC. With three decades of experience, he has taught mindfulness meditation since 2000, along with mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. His advocacy for human rights and social justice is commendable, supported by his academic background in law and political science.

I would like to share a brief meditation by Hugh that focuses on self-compassion and kindness:

Self-Compassion Meditation | Insight Timer

This meditation invites us to meet ourselves and our experience with kindness and compassion, abandoning harsh…

insighttimer.com

In conclusion...

What about you? What adjustments would you consider making in your life? I invite fellow writers whom I respect to join this reflection. Please tag me so I can read your thoughts.

Yana Bostongirl Jessica Levine Philip Temple Liberty Forrest, Sahil Patel Dr. Gabriella Korosi Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles Alberto García ??? Sally Prag Michele Maize Margi Leininger Benighted Cheri Elkin John Whye

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Chapter 2: The Power of Reflection

The first video, "Carole King - It's Too Late (Official Audio)," reflects on life's transitions and missed opportunities, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

The second video, "Carole King - It's Too Late (Official Lyric Video)," emphasizes the emotional depth of the lyrics, inviting viewers to reflect on their own life choices.