Tag: helping others

Our Collective Human Concern.

I’ve noticed recently a shifting of paradigm; that which once divided is beginning to right its course.

For in the midst of this now grave human crisis, one things stands undeterred – our ability to empathize with those in need.

Irrespective of our political leanings or the caveats of our social circumstance, the heart always retains its capacity to remain open.

When our eyes are visited with the suffering of another, we feel its expanse as the awareness once locked within self suddenly shifts. In this moment, the boundaries of our existence transition and our understanding of ‘I’ begins to grow.

Some may argue that we survive only through ruthless posturing and the actions which place us in a superior position. Though, I would contend the contrary to be true.

I believe the heart craves human connection. Even with all its messiness and complexity, that connection is imperative to the continuance of life on this plane of existence.

Because a heart absent emotion can not thrive; and a spirit absent service will surely die.

Ram Dass once wrote that love is a tall order for those oppressed by dark shadows. Having said that, how else might we effect a more kind and loving society if we are unwilling to tackle this darkness in others?

I believe there to be just one answer – we can’t. Though, what do you think my loves?

In peace…

Namaste ❤

A Handful of Blessings.

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” ~ Charles Dickens

I had just returned home from shopping yesterday, when a familiar voice rang out through the darkness.

“Tara,” he shouted. “It’s me, your neighbor, Jude.”

Jude has been such a kind friend through the years – always, knowing “just the right thing to do” without ever having to be asked. In my darkest hours, his smile has been a source of comfort, and of promise – a reminder that hope exists even within the shadows.

I hadn’t seen him for quite a long while, and was curious to know why on earth he was walking home at such late hour.

“I had to get rid of a few things to help make ends meet,” he said. Among them was his only means of transportation.

In that moment, I realized I was standing before a man who would literally walk miles to feed his family – and in my hands, 3 satchels of groceries.

My goodness, there’s nothing like a little irony to help drive a point solidly home. My darlings, remember how we talked yesterday of the power of action? That we might allow action to serve as a conduit for compassion?

These words have never resonated with me more.

I remember when I was much younger, my mother was pulling together a box of my older belongings – slightly worn clothes, and a few of my most favorite toys. Oh, how I cried at the thought of ‘losing’ these possessions. And when I asked, my mother said simply, “Because, someone else needs it more.” It was a hard lesson to learn, though – in fairness, I was just 7 years-old and not quite ready to understand the ways of this world.

The Buddha taught that when we give to others, it is without expectation of reward. To give without clinging to either the gift or to the recipient. Theravadin monk and scholar Bhikkhu Bodhi once said,

“The practice of giving is universally recognized as one of the most basic human virtues, a quality that testifies to the depth of one’s humanity.”

My darlings, to give, we must give without condition – to offer to others that which may be dearest to our heart.

Why? Because, someone else needs it more.

I’d like to honor the sentiment of my dear mother, today ~ and, offer in kindness that which has been so graciously shared to me. If we might take one step to alleviate the burden of another – my darlings, what a wonderful world this might be.

And so, on this day ~ I would like to offer this kind man the benefit of my ‘coffee fund.’ Though, first to ask permission of you, my dears ~ as, it is through your generosity that this site has been able to continue. And, perhaps to ask if you’ve a few extra coins in your pocket – that they might be shared with a dear man named, Jude.

For those who would like to make a donation today, all proceeds will be used to help a family in need.

Here is the link- >

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G5CNL8HAFVDWE

Or, alternately through here ->


Namaste, my loves ~ how wonderful it is that we needn’t wait a single moment before starting to improve this world.

Wishing hope, love and peace filled blessings to all.