Now Is the Time to Practice

This is a text-only edition of the book. The content is the same, but this edition is printed in standard size and does not include full page photos.

From the Introduction:

The mindfulness verses that form the basis of these reflections were composed in 2022 and featured in book 1 of this series, Awakening the Lotus. To write each verse, I would spend time in meditation, using the subject of the accompanying photo as an object of awareness. After completing the project, I had an even deeper sense of gratitude for the profound gift that this temple offers to the Ozarks. ...

Each chapter of this book contains a mindfulness verse, followed by a reflection, and closing with questions to support contemplation and practices to support application. The reflections are offered through the lens of my own understanding and practice; they are not definitive, but invitational. Our goal in publishing this book is to give to others a starting place for deepening their own practice, especially those unfamiliar with Vietnamese Buddhism, with the encouragement that you will do so with the support and guidance of your temple and teacher. ...

Most importantly, the reflections, questions, and practices are to be brought into daily life. As Thầy encourages us, "Now is the time to practice."