Daily Reflection Sit

Pitta, joy, is not dependent on any outside circumstances but instead arises from our practice and our freedom from greed and aversion.  It can arise in the midst of pleasant and unpleasant conditions.  We can see joy manifested in the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu.

Joy is a central factor in Buddhist teachings. Joy can be experienced during formal practice, while we sit, alone and/or with a sangha. And it can arise off the cushion too, when we practice kindness, appreciation and gratitude. What brings you joy?

We can experience a happiness that is not dependent on pleasant vedena - the dhamma joy that comes with fully being with what is arising and passing with acceptance, non-judgment, interest, and care.

Be on the lookout for joy in small ordinary moments. Nurture it.

Appreciating and savoring small moments of joy.

There are the everyday kinds of joy with their big and small delights and there are the quieter kinds of joy that come from meditation, from setting aside our burdens and the busyness of the day. They are to be enjoyed! Savor the flavor!

Exploring the evolutionary, societal and personal conditioning which make it challenging to arouse and sustain joy.

It is a joy to receive and it is an art. Compliments are an easy way to practice and experience this joy. We all secretly want to be seen and appreciated for who we are and what we do. Notice, feel, breathe, let the compliment land, then, and only then, say “thank you” and shhhhh (finger to mouth), no buts, no qualifiers, just “thank you”.