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TEA AND ZEN -  THREADS

TEA AND ZEN - THREADS

849 episodes — Page 8 of 17

THE MORNING POEM

Again, the work starts as soon as you open your eyes in the morning. Hopefully you got some good rest last night. Why go into the city or the fields without first kissing the Friend who always stands at your door? It takes only a second. Habits are human nature. Why not create some that will mint gold? Your arms are violin bows always moving. I have become very conscious upon whom we all play. Thus my eyes have filled with warm soft oceans of divine music where jeweled dolphins dance, then leap into this world. Nigel Lott, teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 10, 20251 min

THE MORNING POEM

Forget every idea of right and wrong any classroom ever taught youBecause an empty heart, a tormented mind, unkindness, jealousy and fearAre always the testimony you have been completely fooled!Turn your back on those who would imprison your wondrous spiritWith deceit and lies.Come, join the honest company of the King’s beggars -Those gamblers, scoundrels and divine clowns and those astonishing fair courtesansWho need Divine Love every night.Come, join the courageous who have no choice but to bet their entire worldThat indeed, indeed, God is real.I will lead you into the circle of the Beloved’s cunning thieves,Those playful royal rogues, the ones you can trust for true guidance -Who can aid you in this blessed calamity of life.Hafiz, look at the Perfect One at the circle’s center:He spins and whirls like a Golden Compass, beyond all that is rational,To show this dear world that everything, everything in existenceDoes point to God - Hafiz teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 8, 20251 min

THE MASTER ALCHEMIST

“You are the master alchemist. You light the fire of love in earth and sky, in heart and soul, of every being. Through your love, existence and nonexistence merge. All opposites unite. All that is profane becomes sacred again.” Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 8, 20252 min

THE MORNING POEM

To have loved is everything. I loved, once A hummingbird who came every afternoon-the freedom loving male- Who flew by himself to sample the sweets of the garden To sit on a high, leafless branch with his red throat gleaming. And then, he came no more. And I’m still waiting for him, ten years later, To come back, and he will, or he will not. There is a certain commitment That each of us is given, that has to do with another world If there is one. I remember you, hummingbird. I think of you every day Even as I am still here, soaked in color, waiting, year after honey-rich year. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 6, 20251 min

POWER

"When power is grasped in any name but Love, when it serves any end but peace, then, in the deepest sense, no power has truly been wielded. It is but an illusion, a fleeting shadow, devoid of substance or meaning." Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 6, 20252 min

THE MORNING POEM

Waiting The song I came to singremains unsung to this day.I have spent my days in stringingand in unstringing my instrument.The time has not come true,the words have not been rightly set;only there is the agonyof wishing in my heart…..I have not seen his face,nor have I listened to his voice;only I have heard his gentle footstepsfrom the road before my house…..But the lamp has not been litand I cannot ask him into my house;I live in the hope of meeting with him;but this meeting is not yet. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 5, 20251 min

TRUE WISDOM

"This is yet another in the series of quotes that have emerged over the years, some stretching back decades. This time, however, they are accompanied by a written reflection, a window into the workings of my mind. Yet, I must say, these words did not spring initially from thought, not by a long shot; they flowed from a deeper realm….one that resides within the heart and soul, a place beyond the grasp of the conscious mind." "In coming to the true wisdom of the heart we offer no resistance to circumstance, surrendering to it all with the utmost humility, we come before love, before God, wherein all questions are answered beautifully, and without reservation. Nigel Lott, teaandzen.org The profound statement, “In coming to the true wisdom of the heart we offer no resistance to circumstance, surrendering to it all with the utmost humility, we come before love, before God, wherein all questions are answered beautifully, and without reservation,” captures the essence of spiritual wisdom. It suggests that the path to true understanding and peace is not through forceful striving or intellectual pursuit, but through surrender, acceptance, and a deep humility toward the unfolding of life. At the core of this wisdom is the idea of resistance—the notion that much of human suffering arises from our unwillingness to accept life as it is. When we resist circumstances, we fight against reality, creating inner turmoil. True wisdom, however, lies in releasing this resistance and allowing ourselves to be fully present with whatever comes our way. By surrendering, we stop struggling to control our surroundings, and instead, we trust in the flow of life…..indeed not an easy task. This surrender is not passive or weak. It requires humility—a willingness to acknowledge that we do not have all the answers, and that there is a larger, divine force at play. In this space of humility, we let go of the ego’s need to be in charge and make peace with the unfolding mystery of life. When we relinquish our need for control, we allow ourselves to experience a deeper connection to love and God……a force that transcends logic and reason. In this space of surrender, all questions—whether about purpose, meaning, or the nature of existence…..are answered in their own way, effortlessly and beautifully. Love becomes the ultimate guide, offering clarity that is not intellectual but experiential. In coming before love or God, we experience an inner peace that needs no explanation or justification. Ultimately, this wisdom teaches that peace, clarity, and understanding are found not in resistance or in seeking endless answers, but in surrendering with grace and humility. By coming before love and allowing it to guide us, we discover that all our questions dissolve into the serenity of a heart fully at peace with the world as it is. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 5, 20258 min

THE MORNING POEM

Sing songs that none have sung, Think thoughts that ne’er in brain have rung, Walk in paths that none have trod, Weep tears as none have shed for God, Give peace to all to whom none other gave, Claim him your own who’s everywhere disclaimed. Love all with love that none have felt, and brave The battle of life with strength unchained. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 4, 20250 min

THE MORNING POEM

No one can keep us from carrying God Wherever we go. No one can rob His Name From our heart as we try to relinquish our fears And at last stand — Victorious. We do not have to leave him in the mosque Or church alone at night; We do not have to be jealous of tales of saints Or glorious masts, those intoxicated souls Who can make outrageous love with the Friend. We do not have to be envious of our spirits’ ability Which can sometimes touch God in a dream. Our yearning eyes, our warm-needing bodies, Can all be drenched in contentment And Light. No one anywhere can keep us From carrying the Beloved wherever we go. No one can rob His precious Name From the rhythm of my heart — Steps and breath. KEEP THE FAITH PEOPLE, KEEP THE FAITH. Read By Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 3, 20251 min

THE MORNING POEM

Did you too see it, drifting, all night, on the black river?Did you see it in the morning, rising into the silvery air –An armful of white blossoms,A perfect commotion of silk and linen as it leanedinto the bondage of its wings; a snowbank, a bank of lilies,Biting the air with its black beak?Did you hear it, fluting and whistlingA shrill dark music – like the rain pelting the trees – like a waterfallKnifing down the black ledges?And did you see it, finally, just under the clouds –A white cross Streaming across the sky, its feetLike black leaves, its wings Like the stretching light of the river?And did you feel it, in your heart, how it pertained to everything?And have you too finally figured out what beauty is for?And have you changed your life? Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 2, 20251 min

A NEW YEARS MEDITATION

Sit in stillness, in the quiet embrace of the present moment. Close your eyes, and with each breath, let yourself fall deeper into the silence, where the noise of the world fades into nothingness. In this sacred space, there is no past, no future— only the eternal Now. Feel the breath of the Divine flowing through you, as ancient as the stars, as timeless as the sacred forces that weave the fabric of the universe. Breathe in, not just air, but the essence of life itself— the very breath of God, the energy that sustains and nourishes all things. Exhale, letting go of all illusions, of all attachments to the ego, to the fleeting world of form. Within you, a deep well of peace stirs, an ocean of stillness that has always been, beneath the surface of the mind. This peace is not of the earth, nor bound by time. It is the peace of the eternal, the peace of the soul’s true nature. It is the silence of the divine presence that dwells within and around you. Now, as you rest in this infinite peace, feel the current of divine love coursing through your veins, like a river of light flowing from the heart of the universe. This love is not something you can grasp with the mind, nor something that comes from another. It is the essence of your being— the very fabric of your soul. It is the oneness of all creation, the mystical force that connects everything, from the smallest grain of sand to the farthest star. Know this: You are not separate. You are not alone. You are an expression of the Divine, a spark of the eternal flame, born from the heart of the universe. In this moment, you are at peace, for you are part of that which is beyond all duality— beyond thought, beyond form. Let your heart be filled with joy, not the joy of the mind, but the bliss of divine union. This joy is not an emotion, but a state of being— the recognition that all is One, and in that Oneness, there is nothing but love, nothing but peace. It is the joy of returning home, to your true self, to the Divine within. Feel the mystical presence of the Divine surrounding you, inside you, as the sacred flow of life moves through you. You are both the seeker and the sought, the knower and the known. You are the Divine, playing in the form of a human, awakening to the truth of your nature. In this silence, in this sacred space, let your soul whisper its truth: I am that I am. I am the peace that moves through the world. I am the joy that flows in the heart of the universe. Know that this peace, this joy, this mystical truth is always with you, for it is your true essence. You are the Divine, and the Divine is you. When you are ready, return to the world, but carry the remembrance of this sacred connection within. You walk now with the presence of the Divine, for you are never separate, never apart. You are at peace, you are joy, you are the living expression of the Divine Mysteries. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Jan 1, 20255 min

Happy New Year

May peace fill your heart and love become your guide, now and always, throughout this new year and beyond. As we step into this new year, may you be surrounded by serenity and warmth. May your heart remain open to the beauty of love in every form. May kindness, joy, and understanding flow freely within you, and may you be a beacon of peace and love to everyone you meet. Wishing you a year of growth, grace, and the deep, enduring presence of love and peace in your life. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 31, 20244 min

THE MORNING POEM

Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 31, 20241 min

WHAT DO YOU THINK HAPPENS WHEN YOU DIE?

Riley: So what do you think happens when we die? Erin: Speaking for myself? Riley: Speaking for yourself. Erin: Myself… “My self.” That’s the problem, that’s the whole problem with the whole thing. That word. Self. That’s not the word. That’s not right, that isn’t. That isn’t… How did I forget that? When did I forget that? The body stops a cell at a time, but the brain keeps firing those neurons. Little lightning bolts, like fireworks inside, and I thought I’d despair or feel afraid, but I don’t feel any of that. None of it. Because I’m too busy. I’m too busy in this moment remembering… Of course. I remember that every atom in my body was forged in a star. This matter, this body is mostly just empty space after all. And solid matter, it’s just energy vibrating very slowly, and there is no “me.” There never was… The electrons of my body mingle and dance with the electrons of the ground below me and the air I’m no longer breathing. And I remember: There is no point where any of that ends and I begin. I remember I am energy, not memory — not self. My name, my personality, my choices — all came after me. I was before them, and I will be after, and everything else is pictures picked up along the way. Fleeting little dreamlets printed on the tissue of my dying brain. And I am the lightning that jumps between. I am the energy firing the neurons, and I’m returning — just by remembering, I’m returning home. It’s like a drop of water falling back into the ocean of which it’s always been a part. All things, a part. All of us, a part. You, me, and my little girl, and my mother, and my father, everyone who’s ever been, every plant, every animal, every atom, every star, every galaxy, all of it. More galaxies in the universe than grains of sand on the beach. And that’s what we’re talking about when we say “god.” The One. The Cosmos and its infinite dreams. We are the cosmos dreaming of itself. It’s simply a dream that I think is my life, every time. But I’ll forget this. I always do. I always forget my dreams. But now, in a split second, in the moment I remember, the instant I remember, I comprehend everything at once. There is no time. There is no death. Life is a dream. It’s a wish made again. And again. And again, and again, and again, and again, and on into eternity… And I am all of it. I am everything. I am all. I am that I am. Erin Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 30, 20244 min

THE ART OF LOVING GOD

Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 29, 20241 min

S1 Ep 1THE WISDOM OF THE HEART

This is yet another in the series of quotes that have emerged over the years, some stretching back decades. This time, however, they are accompanied by a written reflection, a window into the workings of my mind. Yet, I must say, these words did not spring initially from thought, not by a long shot; they flowed from a deeper realm….one that resides within the heart and soul, a place way beyond the grasp of the conscious mind." “In embracing the true wisdom of the heart, we offer no resistance to circumstance, surrendering fully with the utmost humility. In this surrender, we come before love, before God, where all questions are answered with the utmost grace, and without reservation. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org These words point to a profound spiritual truth: true wisdom is not born of the intellect, but of the heart. When we surrender to life’s circumstances without resistance, we allow the flow of divine grace to enter our being. This act of surrender is not one of weakness, but of strength and trust. It is through humility….yielding to the present moment….that we encounter love in its purest form, the presence of God. In the quiet of surrender, we find answers to the deepest questions of the soul. No longer bound by the need for control or certainty, we open ourselves to a wisdom far beyond the mind’s capacity. Here, in the embrace of grace, we discover that love itself holds the answers, guiding us with a gentle, unwavering certainty. To surrender is not to give up, but to give over…..to give over to the divine flow, to the intelligence of the heart. In this sacred act, all is revealed, and peace follows. In the stillness of the heart, we are never lost; we are always found. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Meditation Sans Frontieres 501 (C) 3 Non Profit, Registered Charity Tax Ein 81-3411835 Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 28, 20243 min

FOREVER SACRED

This is yet another in the series of quotes that have emerged over the years, some stretching back decades. This time, however, they are accompanied by a written reflection, a window into the workings of my mind. Yet, I must say, these words did not spring initially from thought, not by a long shot; they flowed from a deeper realm….one that resides within the heart and soul, a place way beyond the grasp of the conscious mind. “Whatever is held sacred in our heart once is forever held there, once sacred forever sacred master that you are of your own soul." Nigel Lott These words echo the timeless truth that the heart, the seat of our deepest intentions and spiritual truths, is a vessel for the sacred. Whatever we choose to honor, to revere, to love deeply, becomes a permanent part of our being. The sacredness we hold within us is not fleeting—it is eternal. To understand this mystical notion, we must first recognize the profound power of the heart. In many spiritual traditions, the spiritual heart (just below the sternum) is a center of energy and consciousness. It is the gateway to the soul’s deepest desires, the place where we commune with the divine. What we choose to hold sacred in our heart becomes a living force within us, shaping not only our thoughts and actions but our very essence. When we sanctify something….whether it is love, wisdom, truth, beauty, or a higher calling….we are not simply putting it on a pedestal outside of ourselves. We are inviting it to take root within us, to transform us from the inside out. The sacred, once welcomed into the heart, cannot be undone or forgotten. It becomes imprinted on the soul, woven into the fabric of who we are. This is why we are reminded that "once sacred, forever sacred." The reverence we hold for something, whether it is a memory, a divine truth, or an ideal, continues to radiate within us long after the initial experience. The sacred does not fade….it is eternal in its imprint. Every thought, every emotion, every action stemming from that sacredness carries its energy forward, even through the most challenging times, although our awareness of that inner truth may fade during those moments. In this light, we are invited to recognize our own sovereignty, for we are "masters of our own soul." We alone choose what we hold sacred. Through our choices, we cultivate the divine presence within us. The heart is not a passive receiver; it is an active creator of the sacred. By embracing that which is holy and pure, we become not only recipients of spiritual grace but co-creators with the divine. Thus, the invitation is clear: to honor what is sacred within, to keep our hearts open to the mysteries of the divine, and to recognize that in every moment, we are the masters of the sacred space that dwells within us. What we hold sacred in our heart today shapes the essence of who we become tomorrow. So let us choose wisely, and may the sacred always be honored in the deepest chambers of our soul. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Meditation Sans Frontieres 501 (C) 3 non Profit Charity Tax Ein 81-3411835 Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 28, 20242 min

IN SERVING THE HEART OF ANOTHER WE EMBRACE THE ONE LOVE THAT CONNECTS US ALL.

"In serving the heart of another, we serve the heart within us and, the one love that connects us all...simply nothing therefore is left undone." Nigel Lott In the quiet acts of kindness, compassion, and love we offer to others, we discover something profound about our own humanity. The simple truth is that in serving the heart of another, we serve the heart within us, and ultimately, the one love that connects us all. This interconnectedness, often called the "oneness of being," teaches us that every act of love reverberates back to the giver, creating a continuous flow of connection that transcends time, space, and individual differences. When we truly, with all heart, reach out to help, listen, or offer our support, we are not just fulfilling the needs of another person. We are engaging in a deep, universal exchange of energy. In this moment of connection, we are reminded that the love we extend is not separate from us….it is an expression of the love that exists in all of us. By uplifting another, we raise our own spirits, nourishing the very essence that binds us to one another. This understanding invites us to see our actions as part of a larger, divine pattern. It’s a reminder that when we give, we do not lose; rather, we create a cycle of giving and receiving that is endless. In truth, nothing is left undone because each act of service ripples outward, leaving a lasting imprint on the world. At its core, this perspective calls us to live with intention, compassion, and empathy. It teaches us that by tending to the hearts of others, we are also by the process of osmosis nurturing our own, and in the process, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of love: unity and connection…..in the cultivation of creation itself. In serving another, we realize that we are always, in essence, serving ourselves….contributing to the harmonious whole of the world. Thus, nothing, indeed, is left undone. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 25, 20242 min

GUIDED MEDITATION ON PAIN (17 mins)

May you walk in the light of divine healing, always surrounded by the wisdom of your higher self. Let this mystical energy continue to nourish you, body, mind, and soul. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 22, 202417 min

POWER

Power, true power, can only come from the heart and the love found there, with all loving kindness and compassion. Wealth, true wealth. can only come from the heart and the love found there with all loving kindness and compassion. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 20, 20240 min

IT FELT LOVE

The people, places, and things we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our inner state. When we find ourselves in the presence of love and light—whether through a supportive friend, a peaceful environment, or a cherished object—we intuitively feel safe and open. In this space of love and light, we are granted a unique opportunity to connect with the deeper truths within us. These truths are also rooted in love and light, and they represent the essence of who we truly are. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 18, 20240 min

A GUIDED MEDITATION ON LOVE AND LIGHT

Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 18, 20246 min

SILENCE

“It is the silence within meeting the silence without. In that place out of time, all truth is to be found, beyond even a whisper”. Nigel Lott In the stillness of our own hearts, a profound truth awaits, one that transcends words, thoughts, and even the most subtle whispers. There is a space, quiet and infinite, where the silence within us meets the silence of the universe. In this sacred union, time dissolves, and what remains is a pure presence, untouched by the fluctuations of the world. This silence is not merely the absence of sound, but the presence of something far deeper. It is the space where the soul, free from the noise of daily life, aligns with the eternal rhythm of the cosmos. When we encounter this silence within, we come face to face with the truth of who we are, a truth that cannot be spoken, but only known through direct experience. In this sacred silence, there is no past or future, only an eternal "now." It is here that the mysteries of existence reveal themselves, not through words, but through a profound knowing that comes without effort or striving. All questions fall away, and the heart finds peace, because truth is no longer something to be grasped; it is simply something to be. Beyond even the softest whisper, beyond the reach of the mind’s grasping, this silence holds all answers. It is a place beyond time, where the soul rests in its original nature, whole, complete, and free. To enter this silence is to awaken to the presence of all LOVE, to the Divine that is always here, always now, beyond all forms, and constructs of the mind. It is in this sacred stillness that the soul remembers its eternal nature. The silence within meets the silence without, and in that union, all truth is revealed……through…. Grace. In this silence, we are HOME Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 17, 20242 min

THROUGH THE STAIRWAY OF EXISTENCE

WeAre notIn pursuit of formalitiesOr fake religiousLaws, For through the stairway of existenceWe have come to God’sDoor. We arePeople who need to love, becauseLove is the soul’s life, Love is simply creation’s greatest joy. ThroughThe stairway of existence,O, through the stairway of existence, HaveYou now come,Have we all now come toThe Beloved’s Door What holds significance for me, based on my personal beliefs, is that the journey towards connecting with a higher power is incredibly close, just a fleeting moment away at any given time, a blink of any eye. The path is inherent within each of us, much like the door that leads to this connection, one with what is. The notion of a stairway and a door is, in essence, a construct of our own minds, influenced by our egocentric selves. However, in ultimate reality, we have always been united with whatever lies beyond that door. There is no literal stairway or door; it’s a realization that can emerge in a singular moment, transcending such physical representations, whenever you are ready to do so, to surrender and transcend into the arms of the beloved. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 15, 20240 min

THE ETERNAL ’FRIEND’

"Long may your awareness of love and its power abide within you, its undying beauty always to remain. If you should forget its presence in you, however, in times of trial and tribulation, do not worry, for it will never forget you, its truth forever your guide and friend." Nigel Lott In the grand design of life, love is the thread that weaves all things together. It is the divine essence that moves through every moment, transcending time, space, and circumstance. Love is not an external force that we must seek, but an inner truth that resides within us, waiting for us to remember its presence. When we are in alignment with this love, it is as though the whole universe is radiant with its energy. It is the source of all peace, joy, and fulfillment. Yet, life’s trials….our moments of pain, fear, and confusion….often cause us to forget the power of love. In these moments, we may feel disconnected from our true nature, lost in the shadows of the world. But here is the eternal truth….love never abandons us, even when we forget it. It is always there, unchanging and ever-present, like the sun hidden behind the clouds. Even in our darkest hours, love remains as the still, silent presence within us, guiding us gently back to the light. It does not judge us when we falter, nor does it depart when we stray from its path. It simply waits for us to remember, always faithful, always kind. When we forget the depth of love within us, we can trust that love never forgets us. It is the divine intelligence that whispers to us in the quiet moments, the soft pull that draws us back toward our true self. Love is our guide, our friend, our eternal truth. It shows us the way when we are lost, and it lifts us up when we are weary. It is the soul’s compass, pointing us toward peace, compassion, and oneness with all of creation. In times of trial and tribulation, know that you are held in the loving embrace of the Divine. No matter how far you may wander, love’s presence will never be lost to you. It is your birthright, your home, and your destination. When you forget, let go and surrender to the quiet space within, and there you will find it waiting for you. Love, in its purest form, is always with you. It is the breath you take, the thought you think, the life you live. Long may your awareness of it remain, and when you forget, may you remember that it has never forgotten you, being less than a blink of an eye away in any given moment. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 15, 20243 min

Embrace the Infinite Power of Love

There is a simple yet profound truth: love is all-encompassing. It surrounds us, it resides within us, and it is the very force that shapes our existence. The moment we open ourselves to this truth, a world of infinite possibilities unfolds before us. When we acknowledge that love is not just something we give or receive, but a constant, living presence in every moment, it shifts our perspective. Every breath, every glance, every touch becomes an opportunity to surrender to this powerful energy. Love is not confined to any one moment or person…. it is eternal, ever-present, and timeless. In the vast expanse of life, every individual is precious. Each heartbeat, every shared moment, is an irreplaceable part of the cosmic dance. There is no time to waste, no second to lose. Every moment is an invitation to love… to give, to receive, to be fully present in its transformative embrace. Know this: in the beginning, as in the end, love is all there is, and all that ever was, or ever will be. It is the essence of existence itself, the eternal force that connects us all. By surrendering to its power within us, we align ourselves with the very heart of life itself. So, love now. Love fiercely. Love deeply. For in love, we find the infinite potential to live fully, to be at peace, and to truly understand the preciousness of this life. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 8, 20242 min

A PRAYER FOR STACY ( who is having a heart transplant tomorrow)

We come together in hope, asking for healing and strength for Stacy. May their body and heart be fully prepared for tomorrow's transplant, receiving the gift of life with resilience and grace. During this time of waiting, may Stacy find comfort and peace in mind, body, and spirit. May they feel a deep sense of reassurance and support, knowing they are not alone on this journey.So it is. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 6, 20243 min

A FORGIVENESS MEDITATION

“In the practice of forgiveness, we are not required to forgive the act itself, but we are called to forgive the one who acted. For when we keep our hearts closed to another, we ultimately keep our hearts closed to ourselves. Through forgiveness, we free both ourselves and others—a shift from darkness into light.” “Close your ears and listen, listen with all your heart” Nigel Lott Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 6, 202415 min

EMILY DICKINSON

If I can stop one Heart from breaking I shall not live in vain If I can ease one Life the Aching, Or cool one Pain Or help one fainting Robin Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 3, 20240 min

HUMILITY

Humility is the grounding force that keeps us aligned with our true nature, ensuring an open and receptive heart. It is the profound understanding that we are vessels of a greater wisdom and power, and that no achievement or possession can ever define our true worth. Humility calls us to surrender to this boundless wisdom….always present within us…..and to its infinite love, a love that transcends all measure. It is the quiet strength that arises from the awareness that we are all interconnected, equal in the eyes of the Divine. Humility is the willingness to serve others without seeking recognition, to listen with an open heart and without agenda, and to learn from every experience, whether joyous or challenging. In this surrender, we are freed, and in our freedom, we come to know the true power of love. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org May All Love Become You Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 3, 20243 min

THE LISTENING HEART

In the stillness of a deep, attentive ear lies an ancient and sacred form of connection. To be truly listened to….without judgment, distraction, or the need to fix…..is one of the most profound gifts we can offer and receive in this lifetime. It is not just a form of communication; it is a recognition of the soul, a moment of pure presence that transcends the surface level of words. When we are deeply listened to, we experience a profound sense of being seen. Not merely our actions or our words, but our essence. In this space, there is a rare opportunity for the layers of the ego to dissolve, and our true selves—our vulnerabilities, dreams, and struggles—can surface. This act of being heard creates a mirror for our spirit, affirming that we are not alone in this vast universe. We are seen. We are known. We are enough. In spiritual traditions across the world, listening is seen as a sacred practice. The concept of being present…..truly present…..in another’s moment is an embodiment of unconditional love. To listen deeply is to offer our full attention as a prayer, an acknowledgment that the other’s experience, however fleeting or transient, is sacred. This kind of listening is transformative. It opens us up to the divine in one another. It creates space for healing and grace to flow. When we are deeply heard, we are allowed to release the burden of carrying our struggles alone. We feel seen not only by others but by the Universe itself….affirmed in our humanity and divinity. In turn, when we offer this deep listening to others, we invite them into a space of safety and trust, allowing them to express their truths without fear of judgment. It is in this exchange….of being heard and of hearing….that the fabric of our interconnectedness is woven more tightly. It is a reminder that we are all part of the same spiritual journey, and in being present for one another, we honor the divine within us all. Ultimately, being truly listened to is a spiritual act of being known. It is a sacred moment where we are not just seen in our struggles, but in our fullest potential. It is a reminder that, in a world full of noise, the deepest truth we can share is often simply being heard, heart to heart. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 2, 20243 min

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI PRAYER

Make me a channel of peace,that where there is hatred, I may bring love;that where there is harm, I may bring healing;that where there is conflict, I may bring harmony;that where there is falsehood, I may bring truth;that where there is doubt, I may bring trust;that where there is despair, I may bring hope;that where there is darkness, I may bring light;that where there is sorrow, I may bring joy. Grant that I may seek not to be comforted, but to comfort;not to be understood, but to understand;not to be loved, but to love. For it is in giving with an open heart that we receive,it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, forgiven,and it is in selflessness that we find our true selves.It is in letting go that we awaken to what truly matters. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 2, 20241 min

Make Me a Channel of Your Peace

A Universal Prayer for Healing and Unity "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace" is a timeless prayer that transcends religious boundaries, calling all people…..regardless of faith or background, to become instruments of peace, healing, and love in a world that often seems fractured and divided, even at times seemingly torn asunder. While traditionally attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, the message of this prayer resonates with anyone seeking to embody compassion and offer light in the midst of darkness. At its heart, the prayer is a call for spiritual transformation. It begins with the simple yet powerful request: “Make me an instrument of Your peace.” This plea speaks to the deep human longing for connection and harmony. It recognizes that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the active presence of love, understanding, and compassion. To be an "instrument of peace" is to allow oneself to be a channel through which these qualities flow, to be a conduit for healing energy that brings unity to individuals, communities, and the world. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 1, 20243 min

COURAGE

Courage, has a profound deeply spiritual dimension. In many spiritual traditions, courage is not just about confronting external challenges, but also about the inner strength to confront the unknown within ourselves. It is the willingness to step into the unknown and trust in a higher purpose, even when the path ahead is unclear or fraught with difficulties. From a spiritual point of view, courage is deeply tied to faith. It is the ability to surrender one's fears and doubts and place trust in something greater than oneself…..whether that be God, the universe, or the inner wisdom that guides us. This type of courage is not about the absence of fear, but about choosing to move forward in spite of it, with our hearts open wide. In many spiritual teachings, courage is seen as an essential quality for personal growth and transformation. It takes courage to confront our shadows, our darkness to face our limiting beliefs, and to let go of old patterns that no longer serve us. It also takes courage to live authentically, with loving kindness and compassion, and in doing so giving expression to our true selves, even when doing so goes against societal expectations or challenges our comfort zones. In the face of suffering or hardship, our courage enables us to see the deeper meaning in our experiences. It allows us to hold onto hope, even when circumstances seem bleak. It is through the exercise of courage that we transcend the egoic defenses and open ourselves to an ever deeper connection with the divine, trusting that every challenge is an opportunity for spiritual growth and awakening. Ultimately, spiritual courage is about embracing life with an open heart, knowing that even in moments of fear or uncertainty, we are never alone. It is the courage to live with love, to forgive, to heal, and to walk the path of truth, no matter how daunting it may seem at times. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Dec 1, 20243 min

DO NOT STAND AT MY GRAVE AND WEEP

Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 30, 20240 min

HOPE

I HOPE this inspires. In the depths of despair, when the weight of the world seems unbearable, the concept of hope can feel distant…..perhaps like a flickering flame in a storm. Yet, from a spiritual perspective, hope is not just a fleeting emotion; it is a vital force that with courage can transcend our circumstances, a divine gift that connects us to a higher purpose. Hope, in its purest form, is not about wishful thinking or naive optimism. It is rooted in the belief that, despite appearances, there is a greater plan unfolding. In many spiritual traditions, this belief in divine providence, in the existence of a guiding force greater than ourselves, offers comfort during life’s darkest moments. It is the spiritual strength to face the present with courage, knowing that we are held in a love that transcends time, space, and circumstance. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org. 501 (C) 3 NON PROFIT CHARITY TAX EIN 81-3411835 Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 30, 20244 min

GOOD - NIGHT

“There are infinite possibilities that are born of knowing that all love surrounds you, lives within you and that all life including yours is so very, very precious, there is not a moment to lose. So love now all that you can, surrender to its power within you, to the heart of it, and know that in the beginning, as in the end, it is....all that is or ever was or ever will be.” Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 24, 20242 min

YOU ARE LOVE

You are the letter written by God, you are the mirror that reflects the divine, seek inside for all you want is all you are, there is nothing above or beyond...Rumi Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 22, 20244 min

IT IS IN THE NOTHINGNESS THAT THE EVERYTHING IS FOUND

Out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, there is a field - I'll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about. Ideas, language, even the phrase "each other" don't make any sense....Rumi It is in the silence within meeting the silence without, in that space out of time, all love is found, beyond even a whisper. Nigel Lott Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 19, 20241 min

LAY DOWN YOUR BURDEN

Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 18, 20241 min

THE GREAT INVOCATION

From the divine light within the Mind of God,May light shine forth into the minds of all people.Let light descend upon the Earth. From the divine love within the Heart of God,May love flow into the hearts of all humankind.May all Love return to Earth. From the sacred center where God's Will is known,May divine purpose guide the will of humanity,A purpose that the Masters uphold and serve. From the center of the human race,May the Plan of Love and Light unfold,And may it close the door to evil. Let Light, Love, and Power restore the divine Plan on Earth. Tibetan Master Djwhal Khul Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 14, 20241 min

CARRYING GOD

No one can keep us from carrying God Wherever we go. No one can rob His Name From our heart as we try to relinquish our fears And at last stand — Victorious. We do not have to leave him in the mosque Or church alone at night; We do not have to be jealous of tales of saints Or glorious masts, those intoxicated souls Who can make outrageous love with the Friend. We do not have to be envious of our spirits’ ability Which can sometimes touch God in a dream. Our yearning eyes, our warm-needing bodies, Can all be drenched in contentment And Light. No one anywhere can keep us From carrying the Beloved wherever we go. No one can rob His precious Name From the rhythm of my heart — Steps and breath. Read By Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 13, 20245 min

Embracing the Path to Love and Peace

Life often challenges us with moments of anger, fear, and grief—emotions that arise from the primal belief that love is absent, or that we have become separate from the infinite, all-encompassing force that transcends time and space and is at the very core of all existence. But what if this grief, this feeling of isolation, is rooted in a profound misunderstanding? What if the absence of love we feel in certain moments is not an absence at all, but simply a disconnection from the truth that love has always been with us? In these difficult moments, the key is not to resist or suppress the feelings, but to use them as a gateway for transformation. Take this opportunity to focus on the parts of yourself that give rise to these emotions. Instead of letting them control you, turn inward and recognize them for what they truly are: an invitation to surrender to love itself. Love was never absent. It is the truth of who you are—always present, always waiting for you to return to it. By surrendering your fear, anger, and grief to love, you begin to heal. As you release these burdens, you open yourself to peace, understanding, and compassion. And as you walk this path, you are called to share the fruits of your inner work with the world. Offer kindness, understanding, and compassion to everyone you meet—not as an obligation, but as a natural expression of the love you are reconnecting with. In doing so you have a profound effect on the energy of this planet, and all hearts everywhere, near and far. There will, of course, be times when being kind or loving feels challenging. In those moments, remember: this is exactly where your work lies. Difficult feelings are opportunities to practice love and compassion—not only toward others, but toward yourself. Recognize these moments as signals that you are being invited to go deeper—deeper into your own heart, deeper into the truth that love is always available and always within reach. Ultimately, the path to peace is one of constant return. Return to love, return to understanding, and return to the truth that, in every moment, you are never truly separate from the One Love you seek—and already are, have always been. Of course, this may seem impossible at times, especially given the circumstances of any given moment. However, the fact remains that this is your work: to remember the truth of a Love beyond measure, a Love that patiently waits for your return. This work on yourself is the greatest gift you can offer humanity, and it is at the heart of the divine plan manifest here on Earth. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 10, 20242 min

Guided Visualization: Healing Power of Love - the Breath of Life.

As requested by a brother for all to use with a focus on the lungs but any part of the body can be the focus. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 6, 20249 min

ALL IS KNOWN WITHIN THE SACREDNESS OF SILENCE

Long may your awareness of love and its power abide within you, its undying beauty always to remain. If you should forget its presence in you however, in times of trial and tribulation do not worry, for it will never forget you, its truth forever your guide and friend. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 4, 20241 min

THE CARTOON RABBIT

When I was a small child, I often felt adrift in a world that was far too big and complex for my understanding. Severe trauma shaped my early years, casting a dark shadow over my childhood and leaving me seemingly bereft of any solace. In the midst of this turmoil, I found an unexpected source of comfort: a cartoon caricature of a rabbit. This sticker, bright and whimsical, adorned the wall above the hook where I hung my jacket each morning before kindergarten, all those years ago. During those overwhelming days, when the weight of my experiences felt like an anchor, that simple cartoon rabbit became my bastion of last resort. It stood as a beacon of stability, a silent companion in my struggles. While the world outside felt chaotic and frightening, its cheerful expression offered a glimmer of hope, a reminder that not everything had to be dark and heavy. Its presence served as a small but significant reminder that joy could exist alongside my pain, even if for the briefest of moments. At times when I felt lost and isolated, that sticker became a touchstone, a way to connect with a sense of innocence and playfulness that my circumstances had stolen from me. Reflecting on those years, I realize that the cartoon rabbit represented more than just a decoration on the wall; it symbolized resilience and the power of small comforts in the face of adversity. It taught me that solace can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places, and that even amidst trauma, there can be moments of light and joy, if but for a millisecond in time. In a world that often felt devoid of safety, that cartoon rabbit was a steadfast reminder that hope is always within reach, waiting to be discovered in the simplest of things. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 4, 20243 min

REMEMBER LOVE

‘I was dead, I came alive. I was tears, I became laughter. Love’s wealth arrived, And I became Everlasting fortune.’ -Rumi In the midst of life’s challenges, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by suffering. Yet, beyond this turmoil lies a profound peace that exists within the hearts of all. This inner sanctuary is not a fleeting state; rather, it is a timeless presence of all LOVE eternal that has been with us all-ways. This peace, is a LOVE that permeates our very existence. It is the quiet thread that connects our breaths, reminding us that we are never truly alone in our struggles. Even in the darkest moments, this love persists, offering solace and strength. Ultimately, this peace will remain with us, undiminished, even when our earthly journey comes to an end. By acknowledging and nurturing this love, this force within, we can navigate our lives with grace, knowing that we are connected to something greater than ourselves. In this way, we can transform our suffering into a pathway leading to peace. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 4, 20248 min

THE ENERGY BODY

Our energy body, manifesting at 528Hz the resonance of Love often referred to in holistic practices as the subtle body, plays a critical role in our fundamental well-being. This energetic framework akin to a fine mesh net surrounds and interpenetrates at the cellular level morphing into the nervous system body, and can influence our emotions, thoughts, and health deeply. Just as we maintain our physical hygiene, it's essential to cleanse our energy body to foster balance and vitality. It originates a few inches from the skins outer surface. Negative energy is any energy that does not resonate with our core nature, of Love, and can stem from various sources, including stress, emotional turmoil, toxic relationships, and environmental factors, trauma. When we encounter these influences, they can accumulate within our energy body, leading to feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed, all the way to trauma and shock. Regularly cleansing our energy body helps release this negative buildup, allowing for renewed clarity and emotional stability. Here are some reasons why cleansing is vital: Cleansing helps alleviate anxiety and negative emotions, promoting a more peaceful state of mind. A clear energy body supports better decision-making and creative thinking, leading to greater personal and perhaps professional success. Many believe that physical ailments can be linked to energy blockages. Cleansing can help prevent these issues from manifesting in the physical body. A purified energy body fosters a deeper connection to oneself and the universe, encouraging personal growth and spiritual exploration. Incorporating these practices into your routine can help maintain a healthy energy body, ensuring that you remain vibrant and connected. By prioritizing the cleansing of negative energy, you pave the way for a more harmonious life. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Buy me a cup of tea and sign up for a paid membership at $5.00 per month Tea and Zen - Meditation Sans Frontieres is a reader-supported publication, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 2, 202411 min

MAY THE GREAT SPIRIT - watch over you.

As the sun sets and the stars awaken, may you find peace in the quiet of the night. May the Great Spirit watch over you, guiding your dreams and filling your heart with love. As you rest, may you be wrapped in the warmth of the earth and the wisdom of your ancestors. Sleep well, and may tomorrow bring you strength and joy. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Please donate and support my work at meditationsansfrontiere.com Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 1, 20240 min

EMBRACING THE UNKNOWN

We often cling to the illusion of control, believing we can dictate the outcomes of our experiences and relationships. However, as I reflect tonight—something that has become a recurring theme for me—it's clear that we truly have no control over the outcomes of any person, place, or thing. We can set our intentions with all our hearts, but once those intentions are voiced, it becomes essential to let them go and allow the natural course of events to unfold. This notion can be particularly challenging. Many of us harbor strong preferences for how we want things to be in order to feel happy, or conversely, how we wish to avoid situations that might lead to unhappiness. Yet, regardless of our desires, the fundamental truth remains: we do not control outcomes. When we articulate our intentions, it's important to direct our will toward them, while also recognizing that the Universe, God—or Love, as I prefer to refer to it—will ultimately determine the path forward. This acknowledgment requires a deep acceptance of the present moment and an understanding of a larger picture of existence in which we play a vital role. Our heartfelt intentions are heard; the universal love, or God, is listening. Yet, there is a deeper dynamic at play that often escapes our perception. Our senses are limited, and while personal growth can enhance our understanding, only a few truly comprehend the profound intricacies of life. The journey toward Love, whether on an individual or collective level, frequently necessitates navigating through shadows and challenges. I firmly believe that intentions grounded in love and kindness will eventually manifest, though the timeline may not align with our expectations. It's vital to remember that, in the vast cosmos, our perception of time is merely a human construct. A year on Earth might translate to a mere millisecond in a broader universe, emphasizing how limited our understanding truly is. Ultimately, if our intentions are anchored in compassion and love, I trust they will harmonize with the universe's will. My goal is to embody these values in every action I take. Embracing the unknown and letting go can be liberating, allowing us to experience life in its fullness, free from the burdens of control. Nigel Lott teaandzen.org Please donate and support my work at meditationsansfrontiere.com Get full access to Tea and Zen - Threads at teaandzen.substack.com/subscribe In the quiet between heartbeats a whisper calls you home, you are not broken you are becoming. These threads of silence and sound are letters from the threshold, offerings from the edge of stillness. Nigel TEA AND ZEN - MAIN LIBRARY DONATE

Nov 1, 20243 min