I called my dear nephew yesterday to tell him about an exciting invitation ~ to share how mindfulness practices have transformed the suffering of addiction, in a documentary about my teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh.
“Our story will be represented, and the stories of all families who’ve struggled and been helped. It’s very hopeful.”
Throughout the conversation, he just kept thanking me for telling him, over and over in different ways. He was deeply touched.
He thanked me, yet his suffering has become my deepest realizations, forming the most meaningful work I do in my community. Where does he begin, and I end?
There is no beginning and no ending. I realized two things after our shared conversation. After everything my nephew has been through, his heart is unconquerable; it's so good. This can be said for all I meet in the recovery space; it's what endears me to this population--authentic and wise hearts.
Second, the importance of being seen. It’s a cliche, I know, but I don’t know how else to say it—both suffering and joy need to be seen to be fully realized. There is light inside of everyone, every situation. When we see it and address it, the light grows inside and around us. Seeing and being fully present is when healing begins.
I write this at 2:28 in the morning, awakened by the July 10 full moon outside my window, illuminating the garden in soft light.
