The paramitas (or “transcendent actions”) are 6 things that you can do to change the world. I hope that after reviewing the first 3: generosity, discipline, and patience, you’re beginning to see that I’m not exaggerating.

Paramita #4 is called exertion, which doesn’t necessarily mean trying super hard even when you’ve run out of energy or being really busy or front loading your schedule with things to do, no matter how meritorious. It has more to do with relaxing and taking an interest in everything that happens. When things go well, you take an interest in that. When things go poorly, you can take an interest in that too. When you’re sick and tired of everything and unable to take an interest in anything, you can take an interest in that, too. Even if just for a moment.

The good news is that, through the practice of meditation, you already know exactly how to do this. When you sit and attempt to place your attention on your breath, this is exactly what you’re doing–taking an interest in it, which is different than thinking about it. You’re watching it….allowing it to tell you what it is…noticing that this inbreath is a little deeper or faster than the last one…that now you can place attention on the breath with very little thought…but now you’re overwhelmed by thought…this is what is meant by taking an interest. For more on exertion and a chance to meditate together for 10 minutes, check out the video.

And don’t forget to check out the 2 conference call/webinars next week on meditation and how to make it a part of your life! June 13 is full, but there is still room on June 18. (Attendance is free.)