avatarSuzie Alexander

Summary

Suzie Alexander encourages readers to embrace the present, learn from the past, and plan for the future without being burdened by it, inspired by meditation teachers Tony Brady and Hugh Bryne from Insight Timer, and invites fellow writers to share their thoughts on life changes they would make.

Abstract

The web content presents a reflective piece by Suzie Alexander, emphasizing the importance of living in the present and learning from past experiences. Drawing inspiration from an article by Terry Pottinger and the teachings of meditation teachers Tony Brady and Hugh Bryne on Insight Timer, Alexander suggests that it's never too late to begin anew, focusing on gratitude, forgiveness, and a positive mindset. She proposes that individuals should let go of past mistakes, worry less about the future, and embrace their unique gifts while being less critical of themselves and others. Alexander also touches on the importance of self-compassion and kindness, referencing a short meditation by Hugh Bryne on the subject. The article concludes with Alexander prompting a group of respected writers to share their perspectives on what changes they would make in their lives if given the chance to start over.

Opinions

  • The author, Suzie Alexander, is inspired by the teachings of Tony Brady, who emphasizes mindfulness, gratitude, and forgiveness, and Hugh Bryne, who advocates for self-compassion and kindness.
  • Alexander believes in the transformative power of meditation, as evidenced by her partner's appreciation for Tony Brady's work on Insight Timer.
  • She values the ability to begin life anew, suggesting that most people would choose different paths if given the opportunity.
  • The article conveys the opinion that living in the present and letting go of jealousy, criticism, and stubbornness can lead to a more fulfilling life.
  • Alexander promotes the idea of forgiveness, both towards oneself and others, and the acceptance of imperfections.
  • She encourages gratitude and the rejection of societal "shoulds" to live a joyful life.
  • The author's perspective on planning for the future without excessive worry indicates a balanced approach to time and its passage.
  • Alexander's invitation to other writers to reflect on changes they would make in their lives demonstrates her belief in the value of shared wisdom and community discussion.

You Still Can..It’s Not too Late

Begin Fresh and Anew

Photo by Author at the Oregon Coast

“In today’s rush, we all think too much, want too much, and forget about the joy of just being…”

Eckhart Tole

Yesterday I read an article by Terry Pottinger called “and we begin again..” You can read it here:

I was very inspired and decided to pick another two Insight Timer teachers to speak about.

Years ago, I practice T.M. (transcendental meditation). Meditation was considered rather counter-culture and offbeat then. Today it is mainstream and there are many Apps offered. Even large health companies like Kaiser Permanente offer an App called Calm. I wonder how many of you use Insight Timer?

My partner loves the meditation teacher Tony Brady on Insight Timer. To me, his voice sounds like a bit of a leprechaun but he does have some great meditations!

Tony is from Dublin, Ireland. His teachings focus on exploring and navigating a mindful path. He also focuses on gratitude, forgiveness, beginning anew and keeping a positive mindset.

The subject of the meditation I listened to today was “If you had your life to live over what would you do?” What would you change? I believe most of us would choose one or two different forks on the road.

Here is the meditation on Insight Timer:

Here are a few of my thoughts….

  • Live life in the present. The past mistakes are behind you and reliving them day to day will rob you of your moments.
  • I would still plan for the future but worry less about things that haven’t happened..
  • I would let go of the useless emotion of jealousy as each one of us has our own specific gifts to share.
  • I would be less critical of others..whether it’s in how they dress or the words they speak.
  • I would be less stubborn and listen more to new ideas.
  • I would forgive others and myself more easily and embrace my imperfections.
  • I would be more grateful early on in my life.
  • I would disregard the “shoulds” that permeate my brain and live life as joyfully as possible.

Another teacher we frequently listen to is Hugh Bryne. Hugh is a teacher with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington DC. He has practiced for thirty years and taught mindfulness meditation since the year 2000. He also teaches mindfulness-based stress reduction and other modalities. Human rights and social justice also are passions. He has a law degree from London U. and a political science degree from UCLA.

I’d like to share one of Hugh’s short meditations on self-compassion and kindness:

In conclusion…

How about you? What changes would you make? I would like to reach out and give a prompt to a few writers with whom I have the utmost respect. Please tag me so that I may read your answers.

Yana Bostongirl Jessica Levine Philip Temple Liberty Forrest, Sahil Patel Dr. Gabriella Korosi Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles Alberto García 🚀🚀🚀 Sally Prag Michele Maize Margi Leininger Benighted Cheri Elkin John Whye

Dancingelephantspress
Inspiration
Life Lessons
This Happened To Me
Self Improvement
Recommended from ReadMedium