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We cling to our certainty. It could be certainty about the nature of the world, other people, or even ourselves. We live in very certain times.
Yet certainty is not the same as truth or accurate perception. In fact, certainty has a way of keeping us caught in our illusions because it requires defense against any opposing view, even facts, in order to be maintained. In this way, certainty becomes an idol.
Asking yourself “Are you sure?” invites spaciousness into the mind. A little space can help us see things more clearly because it encourages us to remain curious and examine the world carefully.
Nothing to defend. Nothing to hold on to. Just the opportunity to look at the world in a different way.
Apr 1, 2025
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I think everyone needs to doubt their existence.
Who is “I” and how much control do we have over ourselves? Your brain happens to you, thoughts happen to you, your likes and dislikes happen to you. Who is this silent observer within the mind? What limits does it set? How can I challenge it?
May 19, 2025
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Kind of obvious but asking yourself what you believe in is really valuable. There’s no pressure to have a deep-rooted belief system or to practice a religion, but having some sort of personal conviction about the world can be comforting and affirming
Feb 4, 2024
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If you know your limits and your words, questioning authority becomes courage.
Mar 4, 2024
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I’m not a parent and do not plan to be. Kids can wear me out fast with their high energy and noise level; it leaves me very over-stimulated. But it’s pretty extreme when people say they ”hate kids” and I often feel it’s a reflection of their childhood and beliefs around how kids “should be.” That they were expected to be quiet, obedient, and out of the way by their parents when they were little.
It’s fucking hard to be a kid. You’re dealing with a rapidly-changing body and underdeveloped brain, managed by flawed adults who are enforcing boundaries that you do not understand. It’s confusing and hard to manage your feelings and honestly just a lot.
People are impatient with kids when they‘re brand new to the world and figuring it all out, and this is a time kids need a friend the most. Children can also be teachers to adults with how they are less habituated to the world. They teach us how to be free and open-hearted and silly and imaginative.
A good practice is to be kinder and gentler with kids. If that feels difficult, start with gentleness toward your inner child. Maybe that’s the child in your life that needs your attention and kindness most.
Apr 16, 2025
May 6, 2025
I meant to post this yesterday. Absolutely beautiful morning for walk.
This morning is also beautiful but in a spring rain kind of way.
Mar 23, 2025