The first question I ask myself just about every day, is how my life contributes to the causes of war and environmental harm. The the second question is what am I going to do to minimize the harm I have already caused and, by virtue of being a middle class US citizen and taxpayer with a 401(k) plan, will continue to cause as long as I remain alive?
Asteya in Sanskrit means non-stealing and is the third yama of the yamas and niyamas set forth in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras as a critical part of the path of yoga. White people giving themselves a holiday created by Black people for themselves without both taking action against current injustice and inequity is a classic example of what would be stealing.
Could you give extra support to a Black business today? Donate to a Black-run organization working to fight for civil rights or voting rights or equal access to health care, education, and support services or against police brutality? Give mutual aid? Write to your elected officials about said issues?
We don’t have to do everything every day, but it is not ok to do nothing.
I am deeply grateful that I can soothe myself with food. I made basil, garlic chive pesto last summer when the garden was at its height and froze some (before adding cheese). The sourdough starter needs to be used at least a couple of times a month. I made enough dough to have a personal pizza four or five times. Finally got the crust both crunchy and chewy.
I could mention that work is busy, I am continuing to refine and expand making reparations and seeking decency and justice, and I am participating in an on-line meditation retreat with an hour of practice at noon every day this week.
