Receiving All That Is

As I write this, the sun is shining and it's a beautiful fall day. The sedums outside my window are blushing pink, and my hands are warmed by a steaming cup of tea. I am grateful for the many wonderful things in this one precious life.

At the same time, I am aware of many terrible things. We are coming up on the two year anniversary of Hamas attack on Israel and the ensuing genocide in Gaza. In addition to Gaza, more than 100 armed conflicts are currently taking place throughout the world, including Ukraine, Syria, Central African Republic, and the Phillipines. Climate Change is wreaking havoc globally and most countries (including the U.S.) are doing next to nothing to remedy this. Here in the United States, we are seeing a consolidation of power and money in the hands of a few, while basic human rights are being eroded. We see a loss of affordable healthcare, crumbling infrastructure, a collapsing safety net for food and housing, increased gun violence, demonization of trans people and immigrants, rise in white supremecist ideology, and suppression of free speech. 

I take a deep breath and receive all of this, and also receive the sunshine, flowers and tea. I receive the gift of sangha - beloved community - who are walking the bodhisattva path to end suffering. 

At Clouds in Water, we are working on racial and economic justice through a partnership with the activist group ISAIAH, white practitioners are participating in practice groups in a partnership with "Reckon With," to look deeply and take action to undo racism, we have many activities to help you connect with other community members, plus classes and retreats to ground you in compassion and wisdom. 

Thank you for being a part of this community. I appreciate the many different ways we come together and support each other for the benefit of all beings.

by Rev. Sosan Theresa Flynn, Guiding Teacher