Ahimsa

Lead with Compassion using G.R.A.C.E.

Lead with Compassion using G.R.A.C.E.

The news lately has been filled with tragic stories describing marginalized groups facing himsa (violence or harm). When we see injustice we might be compelled to react. However, when we react rather than respond, we might not act with ahimsa, non-harm in thought, word and deed towards all. Joan Halifax, PhD from Upaya Zen Center suggests we have G.R.A.C.E. Roshi Joan created this model for bringing compassion into interactions with others.

The Stonewall Riots Reflect the Yogic Teaching of Ahimsa

The Stonewall Riots Reflect the Yogic Teaching of Ahimsa

The Stonewall riots started in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 and lasted 6 days. After years of abuse and being told by society that their way of life was wrong, the patrons of the Stonewall Inn had enough. They did not want to live a life of shame, so instead of letting the shame build up and turn into anger, they fought back. This brave act is an example of practicing ahimsa (a = no and himsa = harm).