a repost from elsewhere 04 - the Oriental Orthodox Order in the West

Equanimity

Mindfulness practice provides the foundation for love to become a true spiritual path. The ability to concentrate allows us to focus our minds even in times of emotional stress, and equanimity refines our ability to remain a friendly audience to any and all experiences. Equanimity can itself be known as love because it is the matter-of-fact, gentle acceptance of things just as they are. I often teach that relational love equals equanimity plus knowledge of the beloved. Equanimity allows us to relax and keep open, and concentration refines our ability to pay attention to our beloved's words, needs, feelings and gestures, and to remember them. Together, equanimity and concentration are the necessary supports for any communication or listening skills we attempt to bring to conflict resolution; without mindfulness our skills fall apart when we are triggered into habitual reactive patterns.

~Polly Young-Eisendrath

noted and understood

Spirit of Lust - John Dowson

the vile spirit of lust in me is jealous of the love i have for my wife. it flings its images, thoughts, and desires at me.
i note this presence in my life.
i watch for signs of its coming.
i stand ready to stave off its onslaught.
i pray for strength and willpower.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of GOD, have mercy on me, a sinner.