Every December, I share Barbara Crooker’s poem “Solstice” in a dharma talk. She speaks of the despair after 9/11, a despair that remains 23 years later as the dark times in this world continue unabated.
How can practice help?
We can learn to open our hearts and find space to hold the suffering of all with equanimity. We can let go of judgment. We can recognize our interconnection. We can see that everyone is a Buddha. We can be kind. We can shine light in that darkness.
Each day, as difficult events arise in our personal and collective lives, we can choose compassion and skillfully, creatively find ways to alleviate suffering. You may be the only light with a kind voice, a gentle touch, a caring note, a big hug, a helping hand … for someone at any moment. Don’t miss the chance!
With awareness, intention, and attention, may we remember to never let the darkness be complete. May we all shine on.
-Reishin Denise Leong
