A Meditation From Ethics, Ferocity, And Harmony

One way of thinking about ethics is that we have a cannon, we have rules, and as lawyers, we’re bound to follow those rules. Another way of thinking about ethics is that on some fundamental level, all ethics are about not causing harm.

From either perspective, the question for me is, how to be a ferocious advocate and not cause harm? Which begs a larger question, which is, how can I not only not cause harm, but also, cause, or at least be a catalyst for, harmony?

Maybe that’s not realistic. But I want to imagine it is, or at least that there’s an ethical path that makes harmony possible. And then I want to find that path. Because if it’s find-able, and walk-able, then who knows? Maybe we can create more harmony in our lives and in the world than any of us can imagine...

(In loving support for all people suffering in the current conflicts.)

Transcript

Finding a comfortable posture,

A posture that will support your practice today,

Right now.

Taking a few intentional breaths and letting go of all the words.

My words are your internal words.

Dropping into the body,

The body in this moment,

Sitting,

Standing,

Lying down,

Walking,

Driving,

Wherever you are,

Wherever your body is in this moment.

Noticing the weight of the body,

The way that the body is connected to the earth,

Weighted down by the earth and to the earth.

Noticing the sense of each moment as it arises and passes away,

The pleasantness of the moment or the unpleasantness of the moment.

Maybe there are aches and pains in the body,

Or there's hunger,

Or there's sleepiness,

Or there's energy.

Maybe there are sounds in the environment,

Or smells,

Or there's a taste in the mouth.

Or the eyes are seeing something,

Even if they're closed.

Maybe thoughts are arising and passing away,

Or emotions.

What sense do you have of each of these phenomena as they arise and pass away?

Is there a sense that they are pleasant,

Or is there a sense that they are unpleasant?

Or really no sense at all?

And is it possible to attend to this present moment with love?

Whatever is happening,

And especially if thoughts or emotions are arising,

But also sensations,

If you notice there is anything difficult at all.

Is it possible to take a long,

Loving look?

The image that's coming to mind is pulling taffy with so much joy.

Can we take that long,

Loving look?

It doesn't need to take a long time,

Just a moment.

But looking in,

Is there harm that's been done to me?

Have I caused harm?

Looking at this question with love.

And then maybe taking this inquiry with you as you flutter the eyes open,

And if they were closed,

Take a couple of intentional breaths.

Move into the next part of your day.