Join Our Election Session Livestream, November 5, 7pm EST – Root deep in your spiritual values as we face the most consequential election of my life. When you join our Newsletter, we will send you a link for the Zoom event a day and then an hour before.
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See you then and enjoy this preview of our Election Day Conversation.
Summary
In this conversation, Josh Summers and Miles Sherts delve into the intricate relationship between spirituality and democracy, exploring how practices like meditation can inform our understanding of democratic engagement. They discuss the role of ego in personal relationships and political dynamics, the historical context of Buddhism in political landscapes like Burma, and the importance of personal experiences in navigating political tensions. The dialogue emphasizes democracy as a spiritual practice that requires ongoing effort and awareness, particularly in the face of polarization and conflict.
Miles Sherts: https://www.practicalpresence.org/
Books by Miles: Conscious Communication, The Tyranny of the Ego, Human Nature
Takeaways
Democracy and meditation both require constant practice and effort.
Ego can hinder both personal relationships and democratic engagement.
The political landscape of Buddhism in places like Burma is complex and nuanced.
Personal experiences can shape our understanding of political tensions.
Democracy should be viewed as a spiritual practice that fosters inclusion.
Navigating political polarization requires empathy and open-heartedness.
The practice of democracy involves recognizing our shared humanity.
Ignoring the outside world can detract from our spiritual practice.
Emotional responses to political events can be integral to our practice.
Healing in a polarized environment requires understanding and connection.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Spirituality and Politics
10:06 Emotions and Spiritual Practice in Political Contexts
15:00 Democracy as a Spiritual Practice
21:54 The Challenge of Inclusivity in Democracy
22:52 The Intersection of Democracy and Meditation
25:46 Ego and Relationships: A Deeper Connection
28:58 Personal Stories: Bridging Political Divides
