On Sunday Oct. 30 about a dozen of us gathered at the beautiful Kiwanis area of Elena Gallegos Open Space in the foothills of the Sandias for a Day of Mindfulness. It was a beautiful, peaceful day where we strengthened our connections with nature, our practice, and each other. We sang some songs, did some mindful walking, seated meditation, had lunch, and listened to some guided relaxation and a children’s book The Coconut Monk by Thay. Altogether it was a lovely day, skillfully facilitated by Bee and David. Here are a few photos.
Following the wishes of the Sangha, with the time change we will now be meeting from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. This is so that there is still daylight for those driving home after the meeting. With the next time change on March 12, 2023 we will change back to 5:00-5:30 p.m. Please join us at the Albuquerque Zen Center, 2300 Garfield Ave. SE.
It was a perfect summer Sunday. The breeze whistled and sighed through the pines. The birds called out from near and far. Even the insects delighted in the present moment with us.
The Sangha eating our lunch mindfully and enjoying the peace of the day.
I’m sure that most of us showed up that morning hoping for everything to go well, and looking forward to a nice day surrounded by nature. But it wasn’t until a few hours later that most of us truly arrived.
The awkwardness of a new place and new people gave way to appreciation for the beauty and stillness around us. As we practiced sitting and walking meditation, we felt the acceptance of the mountain and forest to our presence. We were not in a strange place at all. We were exactly where we needed to be.
Thanks to David, Bee, and Jon for doing the mindful work necessary for this amazing day – and for ALL that they do. And thanks to everyone who attended and shared in our transformation of sufferings.
I take refuge in the Buddha – the one who shows me the way in this life.
I take refuge in the Dharma – the way of understanding and love.
I take refuge in the Sangha – the community that lives in harmony and awareness.
Quiet Mind Sangha Albuquerque 