A Moment of Silence

It's a paradox in itself. It can create tension, feel awkward, and be loud. Words can violently break it, leading to misunderstanding and isolation. Yet, it also holds the potential for peace, healing, and reflection.

Silence is not just what happens between moments. It has space and characteristics that range as wide as life itself. Silence is at the core of what makes us human.

Until we discover how to live in it and welcome all its visitors, what remains is one shallow transaction after another, ultimately keeping us scrolling for more—stuff and stimulation—as we go through the motions. Silence strips away the noise and connects us with what's pure and simple.

Embracing moments of inner and outer silence allows us to truly experience life and identify transformative moments. Instead of drowning out reality by turning the volume up to eleven or being mesmerized by our screens, silence invites us to live with presence. To paraphrase Rumi, silence holds open the door to our guest house, welcoming every visitor and surprisingly allowing us to navigate life with more grace and inner peace.

I created the Pause, Breathe, Reflect approach to mindfulness/meditation to help people find moments of silence and live more thoughtfully. Sports fans see it as a simple time-out at critical moments that helps them fluidly play the game. Others see it as a way to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with their higher self, higher power, and those who bring out the best in them.?

On November 2nd, I'm hosting our last online silent retreat of the year.

Let's face it - 2024 has been a humdinger of a year, and I bet you could benefit from a moment to turn down the volume, catch your breath, and reflect as we head into an uncertain holiday season.

Our retreat is not just a break from the noise but a valuable investment in your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It provides you with a community and the tools to navigate life with more ease.

Think of it as a holiday gift of self-compassion that will help you create a beautiful ripple in the world. I hope you'll join us.?

Until next week, have fun storming the castle!?

?Michael?

Over the last three weeks, I've conducted nearly three hundred Free Smartphone Wellness Checks.?I've discovered that it's common for our phones to be the last thing we touch before bed and the first thing we grab in the morning.?

Isn't it time we improved the relationship we have with our phones?

Take the first step by completing your wellness check and discover ways to improve your phone health.?

?Start by clicking?Phone.