A Letter from our Director
My dear friends,
Five years ago, Arizona State University’s Center for Mindfulness, Compassion and Resilience (nicknamed “Center”) was born from the love, imagination and generosity of so many individuals. Before Center existed, mindfulness practitioners from across the Phoenix area gathered in my living room to share their experiences with mindfulness practice, education and research. Many of these people thought they were out there alone, unaware of the support and friendship they would discover together. These conversations led to a community that has since expanded to include people from all across the world.
To say we had no idea what would come of our dream is a huge understatement. When we held the Center Grand Opening at the Desert Botanical Garden in 2017, there was enthusiastic support and acknowledgement of the importance of having a center at ASU that provided skills, education, community and belonging nested in mindfulness, compassion and resilience. And now, looking back, how the world has changed in the last five years, hasn’t it? Has your life called for more mindfulness, compassion and resilience over the last five years? I know mine has. I am so grateful for the people, resources and community that comprise Center.
To be present, focused and truly here for the current moment requires courage and commitment. To hold space for the suffering as well as the joy, to grow in stamina and strength with open-heartedness while living fully requires practice and willingness to begin again, and again, and again.
And so we begin again, moment by moment, aspiring to be fully alive and present for all that this life holds. We do so not only as individuals, but also as parts of families, neighborhoods, communities, society and as inhabitants on this beautiful earth. I am delighted to be on this amazing journey with all of you and our friends yet to come and those we remember tenderly. Looking back, I have so much gratitude and looking forward, I have so much hope. Thank you for making this dream come true and for continuing to co-create a more mindful, compassionate and resilient future!
With lovingkindness,
Teri