MINDFULNESS

Unfortunately, sometimes I repel new ideas with a “Bah, humbug” reflex. I did that with ‘mindfulness’ until I really thought about the concept.

I reasoned that of course, I knew what I was doing. What did mindfulness have to do with it? But I came to understand that the term means more than noting what’s going on. It means making a conscious decision rather than an unconscious decision, if I am correct in my understanding.

I’m not advocating having ten minutes of meditation before you decide to buy a red dress rather than a blue. It seems to me that mindfulness would involve checking on what material went into the dress and where it was manufactured. Natural fibers? A country that employs child labor?

Last year I learned that there’s a symbol on items made under the Fairtrade guidelines. In fact, there are several symbols for items like chocolate products or tea that guarantee these products were not harvested under inhumane conditions, or were grown by small farmers. While no system is foolproof, this is at least something to learn about . . . and to be mindful of when you make a choice in the grocery store.

In addition to applying mindfulness to the origin of consumer goods, a significant application would be in everyday life. I’m still working on that one. Do I need to consider someone’s whole history when I’m deciding if I’m angry with them or not? How far should I carry this policy?

I’m still thinking about that, but at least now . . . I’m mindful that there’s something to think about.

Charlaine Harris

Comments

[Hank Phillippi Ryan]

If you can add to the "good and helpful and human" side rather than to the "destructive"--seems like a wise thing to do. We do what we can. And I agree, being aware you are taking an action is the only way to begin.

Happiest of new years, darling ones!

[Dean (Miranda) James]

Definitely an issue that bears further consideration. Being aware of our actions and their consequences is important.

[Elaine Viets]

"Mindfulness" seems to be especially important now in a country that is so divided. It is so easy -- and tempting -- to become the kind of person we hate.

[Charlaine Harris]

It's so important to understand that you need to think about lots of things, particularly whether or not you want to punish those who are exercising their freedom of speech. Even if the speech is hateful, it should be heard. I find myself getting very angry from time to time, and that's not helpful.

[Joanna Campbell Slan]

I have a friend who survived a long jail term by being mindful. He teaches it now. I think this is especially hard for writers because we live in other dimensions. Our mind is...there...not here. But I'm working toward being more mindful, too. Life is short. What am I missing by being somewhere else in my head?

[Charlaine Harris]

Joanna, I knew what you mean. I'm mindful of other worlds and other people, but i need to take time to be mindful of myself!