David Jones is a retiree after an enjoyable 35-year career with the American government. Diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, he works through things by sitting with the breath and other meditation techniques. David writes about mental health and enjoys exploring the intersection of Abrahamic religion and Buddhist teachings. Scary movies, reading, writing and helping folks as they walk along their paths are among his most favorite things. He dearly loves his wife, their five children, and all their grandchildren. And yes, he’s aware that he’s weird.
11 Ways to Be a Light in the Darkness
At the end of his life, Buddha encouraged his followers to be lights unto themselves because his light was about to go out and there was still plenty of path they needed to walk.
No Self. Yes Self. Maybe Self?
Have you ever met folks who have a visceral dislike to concepts like “I,” “Me,” or “Mine?” I certainly have. Like Buddhism itself, views such as No Self can become religious doctrine because of how we use them.
Who is Thousand Hand Thousand Eye Guan Yin? (and why is she so relevant even now?)
The eyes on the hands means she’s open to a thousand viewpoints so she can identify—and identify with—the specific individual whose cries she hears.
The Dharma of a Pendulum
Once we realize that every political decision can be reversed or muted by time or vote or lawsuit, a lot of the stress eases. Then whether your side wins or loses, you can still be okay.
Joyous Variety in Meditation
By David Jones I believe meditation is less about when, where, and how you sit than about what you're doing while you sit. Of course, it becomes a healthy habit when pursued regularly. Having a regular time and place to sit without distraction is preferable,...
Right Thinking and the Punna Sutta: What to Do When We Come Across Hostility
Punna’s solution to the challenge of living around uncivilized people wasn’t to judge them or to avoid them. He was determined to go down there and help folks sync up with their Buddha Nature.
Advice for When Your Practice Repeatedly Stall
By David Jones Have you ever watched in distress as your practice starts, stops, restarts, and restops in a mad cycle? Here are some reminders for that. 1. Try not to disparage yourself. Yes, the cycle is frustrating, but be patient. We should be compassionate...
Olympic Outrage at the Drag Last Supper: Enraged is Engaged
Controversies are like viruses, and they grow and spread the same way. The infection of a mere few can erupt into a full-blown pandemic of outrage as millions mindlessly comment and react, spreading the contagion.
A Mindful Touch
Mindfulness allows me to touch everything and everyone when I become aware of them and honor that bond. Even in my ignorance I’m connected to the entire universe and all that exists in it.
9 Reminders from a Recovering Helper
I must manage myself. I’ve suffered from White Knight Syndrome in the past. I need to remember balance when aiding others.