A life based in mindfulness and meditation brings to life wisdom, compassion, and the quiet, peaceful, happiness we call contentment. Shunryu Suzuki called this a life of deep joy, one that is even more than joy.

“The true experience of Zen is not some ecstasy or some mysterious state of mind, but it is a deep joy that is even more than joy.” Shunryu Suzuki

Yet, of course, this life of deep joy is not exclusive to Zen. It is available to everyone who practices a contemplative tradition.

For example, here’s what Sharon Salzberg says about the joy that grows in a life based on meditation.

“Through the regular practice of meditation we discover the real happiness of simplicity, of connection, of presence… We come closer and closer to living each day in accord with this lovely quotation from Wordsworth: “With an eye made quiet by the power of harmony, and the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things.”

“Our way is to see what we are doing, moment after moment.” Shunryu Suzuki

May you afford to slow down, relax and grow more steady and still. May you encounter the deep joy of meditation and mindfulness during this holiday season, and beyond!

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We’re located in historic Gloucester which is about 40 miles north of Boston on Cape Ann. Cape Ann is on the far northeastern end of the North Shore of Massachusetts.