In this issue: The practice of patience | Warmhearted Leadership Study Group - begins September 27 | Good reads

“Patience” was the theme last Saturday during our “Company Time” one-day retreat/workshop at Green Gulch Farm. At work, and outside of work we are faced each day with the paradox of: 1) accepting the truth of our situations and, simultaneously 2) acting as change agents, always growing and making adjustments, looking for better ways to serve. Patience cuts through this paradox -- Instead of enduring what is unwanted, patience can be described as the practice of opening our hearts in the midst of difficulty and constant change.

Zen practice offers three ways to explore patience -- at work and outside of work:
- Acceptance of difficulty – not avoiding what is messy, unpleasant, or outside our comfort zones.
- Not acting hastily – particularly around issues of anger, tightness, and discomfort.
- Acceptance of what is true – accepting the truth of impermanence , the truth of our authentic power, and the truth of our human vulnerability.

With best regards,

Marc Lesser

Warmhearted Leadership: Study group, September 27, November 1, December 6. Our world needs more leaders (like you) who can make a difference.

(Please note: registration ends 9/12.)
Warmhearted Leadership integrates meditation and mindfulness practices, emotional intelligence, and business and leadership competencies.

- The program is designed to explore, enhance and integrate your spiritual practice and your leadership capacity so that you can be more influential and effective in your work and your life outside of work.

- Topics and practices include: right speech, generosity, difficult conversations, self-confidence, business development, and turning obstacles into opportunities. We will address issues of self-awareness, collaboration and skillful communication.

Three one-day sessions from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on three Saturdays: September 27, November 1, and December 6. Lunch will be provided. In addition, Marc will meet individually (by phone or in person) for monthly 1-hour coaching sessions.

-Each person will also be assigned a buddy for short check-ins twice a month.

Cost: $340 per month or $850 for the study group. Maximum number of people in the group will be 12.
Please apply to participate in this study group by September 12th, 2008.

-It may be possible to attend individual sessions. Preference will be given to those who can attend all three meetings.

Good reads
The Power of Story, by Jim Loehr – What’s your story, in your work and outside of your work? Our stories have tremendous power in how we view ourselves, others, and our world.

Beyond Thinking, A Guide to Zen Meditation, edited by Kazuaki Tanahashi – Translations of essays by Zen Master Dogen, the founder of Zen in 6th century Japan. Not an easy read, but well worth pursuing. “The essential teaching is everywhere; how could effort be necessary?