Monday, June 8, we will meet online.
Dear friends,
This week, we will meet Monday evening, June 8, from 7-8:30PM ET online; Wednesday morning, June 10 from 7-8AM ET in person at our meditation space (3812 Northampton Street NW); and Friday, June 12, 12-1PM ET online.
On Monday, Susie will facilitate. She shares:
As I continue my meditation practice, I’m reminded again and again that it will always be just that — practice. I will always be a student. I don’t expect to ever say I’m “good” at meditation or give myself an A. Instead, I try to meet myself with forgiveness, non‑judgment, tolerance, acceptance, and love as I simply breathe in and breathe out.
When I sit with this truth, I find myself reflecting on relating — our mindfulness practice of interbeing. Being with others, and recognizing that we inter‑are, naturally brings me back to how I relate not only to those around me, but to myself.
During challenging moments in my relationships, I return to this inner connection. I ask myself:
What is my inner monologue?
What inside me feels steady and well?
What within my mind or body is quietly asking for attention?
I check in:
Have I moved my body?
Have I eaten mindfully?
Have I stepped away from technology long enough to breathe?
Have I honored my need for rest?
Have I listened for the voice inside that tells the truth gently and clearly?
When I notice negative internal dialogue, I try not to push it away. Instead, I acknowledge it as a conscious being and ask:
What is this trying to teach me?
What wisdom is hidden inside this discomfort?
Recently, during meditation, one realization rose to the surface with clarity: Let go.
Let go of what I’m trying to control.
Let go of fear, anger, worry, impatience, frustration.
Let go, so I can return to presence.
When I remember this simple mantra, my day becomes easier to navigate. My breath becomes a guide. My mind wakes up. My heart opens.
Maybe these reflections resonate with you and you, too, are exploring how to relate to yourself with more compassion, how to release what weighs you down, and how to stay present in the middle of life’s noise .
Whether or not you have experienced this, I invite you to join us Monday online.
Together, we’ll explore the practice of letting go, the art of returning to presence, and the gentle courage it takes to meet ourselves exactly where we are.