Encountering Grief with Roshi Joan Halifax

On Being is a non-profit organization committed to promoting dialogue and community centered on spirituality, science, and healing. Recently, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, they invited Roshi Joan Halifax of the Upaya Institute and Zen Center to lead a brief meditation for all those experiencing grief and loss. Find a quiet place to listen to this meditation.

For reflection:

Roshi Joan offers the following phrases in the meditation:

May I accept my sadness, knowing that I am not my sadness

May I forgive myself for not meeting my loved one’s needs

May I forgive myself for mistakes made and things left undone

May I be open with others and with myself about my experience of loss

May I be open to receive the kindness of others as they support me in this journey of grief

May I and all beings learn from and transform sorrow

What arose for you in this meditation?

Which of the phrases most resonates with you?