Ray Buckner offers a personal view of what it means to be Buddhist, gender-queer, and trans — and why they all fit together like "a miracle." I identify as gender-queer and trans, and also as Buddhist, and — though it might be surprising to some — it seems to me a miracle how these two ways of being fit together. As Buddhists, we recognize that we suffer very much. Just [...]
Healthy Desire: A Buddhist’s View of Mindfulness & Sex
Buddhist practitioner Ray Buckner shares how bringing mindfulness into sex helps us develop a healthier relationship with both ourselves and our partner, and deepens our connection between mind and body. Eyes wide, out of breath, I remember my exact words. Spoken slowly and softly, I said, “Wow. That was literally the most amazing experience I have ever had in my entire [...]
Countering Oppression by Cultivating Peace
What started as a mindful walk became a personal "disturbance of the peace." Ray Buckner on how taking a moment to pause can transform an unsettling situation into a chance to break down barriers. I had Pema Chödrön’s Practicing Peace in my pocket when I was stopped by a police officer. I was out on a mindful walk in a suburb of Dallas, Texas, while visiting my friend [...]
Even a Broken Heart is Fundamentally Good
Buddhist practitioner Ray Buckner on the struggles of letting go after a relationship ends, and how being on the dharma path can help. At this specific moment, and for over five months, my heart and being feel deeply broken— pained in a way not previously felt. It’s a pain that, sometimes, doesn’t diminish, even when countered with contemplation and deep reflection, or [...]