There are times in life that are filled with action and others that are more centered on reflection. The last few years have been much more of the latter for me - starting with the pandemic I had an opportunity to recenter and really focus on what matters. For three years, I had time and space to reflect, and the last year and a half of this period I also started writing this newsletter about once a week (over 70 posts!). Being able to take time to share what I’m seeing and learning in the world, has been a great gift to me.
This year, however, my life has gotten much busier. I am now squarely in a time of action: I changed jobs inside Google, my family life is rich and busy, and I fill what little free time I have left with a growing meditation and yoga practice. This is all good news and I’m very fortunate, but one consequence is I have a lot less time to reflect and write these posts.
The mantra they teach you in Vipassana meditation retreats is “Anicha” - “this too shall pass.” When you are meditating ten hours a day, you have all sorts of thoughts, emotions and pains that arise. Learning how to rest in “anicha” and really embrace impermanence is the key to breaking through.
In a similar way I know this time of action will also be temporary. There will come a time where I’m more reflective and I will have time to write about mindfulness again. That might be in a few months, or it might be longer…
I debated whether or not to write today’s newsletter or if I should just quietly stop writing… That didn’t feel right though – I really do feel like I’ve built a community here with a lot of you so I wanted to write a short note to explain my hiatus.
This newsletter was a real gift the past few years and I’m really thankful that you all have spent some time reading and sharing with me. Feel free to reach out anytime if there’s anything that’s on your mind. You can just reply to this email :)
Until next time. Take care,
🙏🏼
David
You bring up a very important point. In real life of a “householder” action never stops. In fact in Bhagavad Gita, Krishna identifies three paths to self realization: Path of Action, Path of Knowledge and Path of Devotion. The Path of Action entails being present to determine the needful action in any situation. The Path of Devotion includes mediation and devotion to the Truth. The Path of Knowledge is using true wisdom to discriminate between what is true and what is untrue.
So from that perspective, the need for action will never cease. It is the right measure between the three paths that leads one closer to one’s true potential.
As always, thank you for your thought-provoking post.
Will miss reading you David! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and all the best for this new season of action 🔥