Stretch Your Body.

So excited to finally receive my copy of the International Journal of Spiritual Direction & Companionship, featuring my story "Listen Like a Lotus Growing out of the Mud." (December, 2024) It tells the story of my pilgrimage back to Plum Village, France after Thich Nhat Hanh had passed away, and an experience of being deeply listened to while sitting and reflecting at the lotus pond at Lower Hamlet. @sdiworld #spiritualdirection #plumvillage #thíchnhấthạnh #lotus #deeplistening #presence #buddhist #interspiritual

"Returning to the Source is Silence, which is the way of nature." Robert Sardello Let go of all the noise in the world right now, and sink into this mostly silent week-end retreat at the Martha Retreat Centre, Lethbridge: Friday, March 14 - Sunday, March 16. Discover the wisdom that lives within. Register at: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/deepening-into-silence @martha_retreat_centre @douglas.e.macarthur #silence #silentretreat #meditation #yoga

Join me for this 7 Class Online Yoga Nidra series: Mondays, 7-8:30pm MST February 10 - March 24 Learn body-based practices to ground, resource and regulate your nervous system, then relax fully as you are guided into the profound restful meditative state of yoga nidra. #yoganidra #yoga #meditation #rest #sleep #resilience

Such a beautiful sacred space for a Day of Mindfulness yesterday at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta. Feeling so grateful for our sangha and the support of this community.

A Day of Mindfulness expands your view of yourself and the world. Join us this Saturday, Jan 18, 9:30-3:30pm at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta (by donation) See link in Bio for more info #dayofmindfulness #meditation #mindfulness #retreat #buddhist #plumvillage #yoga

Join us for a Day of Mindfulness: Cultivating Wise Hope in Difficult Times, Saturday, January 18, 9:30am - 3:30pm The Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta (By Donation) See link in Bio for more info @douglas.e.macarthur #mindfulness #meditation #plumvillage #sangha #yoga #buddhist

From my family to yours Blessings of peace and joy to all. May you feel the roots of love deep in your being.

As we approach the Winter Solstice, take time to rest and turn inwards. Join me online for a special Yoga Nidra & Christmas Lullabies: Thursday, December 19, 7:30-8:30pm (Link to website in Bio) #yoganidra #meditation #wintersolstice #christmas #lullabies

Join me and the Anacortes Mindfulness Community ONLINE for a guided practice of deep relaxation (yoga nidra) to help us tune into our body’s wisdom and the stories embedded in our cellular memory. Relax and breathe…and listen to the wisdom and stories of all the ancestors (biological, spiritual, and land) that live and breathe in you. Tuesday, Dec 3, 7pm (mountain) More info and receive link: www.anacortesmindfulness.org #yoganidra #ancestors #mindfulness #relaxation #plumvillage #meditation

Learn to sit like a Buddha One Day Retreat: Cultivating Equanimity in an Ever-Changing World Saturday, November 16, 9:30-3:30pm Online and In-Person @martha_retreat_centre Retreat Centre, Lethbridge Join me for a full day of practices to cultivate inner balance as you respond to the demands of your own personal life, and the world we live in. Through gentle yoga, breathwork, meditation, poetry, and inspired by the elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air), we will learn how to find a “calm, clear space inside.” More info and register here: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/cultivating-equanimity-in-an-ever-changing-world #yoga #meditation #retreats #mindfulness #equanimity #peace #yoganidra #breathwork #relaxation #buddha

We so need to find and create places of stability and peace together these days. Join me for this one day retreat @martha_retreat_centre Saturday, Nov 16, 9:30-3:30 MST In-Person and Online, so friends from both near and far can join. @douglas.e.macarthur #meditation #yoga #mindfulness #healing #peace #fiveelements #5elements #breathing #pranayama #yoganidra

Thich Nhat Hanh took great joy in writing letters to his students, and loved to receive letters back. "Love and Trust: Letters From a Zen Master" is a beautiful collection of intimate letters Thay wrote to his monastics and lay students on the path. It seems to answer some of the questions I asked Thay in my own letters published in "A Lotus on Fire" In the preface to "Love and Trust", Thay says "Reading the letters I have written, you can see yourself, see you in me, and see me in you. Thanks to the insight of the Threefold Emptiness, the connection between teacher and student becomes eternal." May we all continue our teacher beautifully into the future. @parallaxpress #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #spiritualteacher #interbeing #zen

Just posted some new Healing Path Yoga and yoga nidra meditations to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKk4J0BrNjuTGUTGDdXQq9g/videos?view=0 - Healing Path Yoga for Pain - Yoga Nidra: See with Spiritual Eyes - "Becoming One with Mother Earth" #yoga #meditation #mindfulness #yoganidra #healing #yogaforpain

Just returned from our "Nurturing Silence" retreat at Samish Island, WA. Loved all the colors and shades of silence we dipped into. @shanneranner

Come join our meditation sangha for some weekly "Breathing Lessons" this fall. We meet Wednesday mornings, 9:30-11am (MT) both online and in-person at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta. Who knows, you may discover there's a Buddha peaking over your shoulder! More info at www.spiritinmotionyoga.com @douglas.e.macarthur #meditation #breathing #pranayama #mindfulness #plumvillage #behippy #thichnhathanh

This baby seal crawled right up out of the water to say hello, at Craig's Bay, Parksville, B.C. I felt such a deep connection looking into this tender creature's trusting eyes. The miracle of inter-being. #babyseal #oceanlife #everydaymiracles #interbeing

Hiked the Wild Pacific Trail near Ucluelet today, 3 years to the day since my accident. Feeling so grateful for how well I've recovered. Life is short. Live it fully. Love lavishly. @douglas.e.macarthur @writerlanacullis

Spectacular sunset from my girlfriends patio @writerlanacullis in Powell River. No wonder she’s such an inspiring writer!

So excited to be co-facilitating a "Deepening Into Silence" retreat with my dear friend Lanette Vawter, at the beautiful Samish Island Retreat Centre, in Washington State, Oct 18 - 20. More info and register here: www.nurturingspirit.creatingconnection.ca @douglas.e.macarthur @writerlanacullis @susan_scott_tnq #retreats #silentretreat #meditation #yoga #yoganidra

Join our sangha for a "Farewell Summer" Morning of Mindfulness this Wednesday, August 21, 9:30-11:30am. We'll meet down in the Lethbridge river bottom (behind the horseshoe pits) for gentle yoga, meditation, and forest bathing. Bring a mat/cushion, or lawn chair to sit on, and a snack if you'd like to stay and visit afterwards. @douglas.e.macarthur

Yoga Nidra meditation is a bit like walking a labyrinth, winding inwards breath by breath through many layers that obscure our True Self. Just posted a new Yoga Nidra Practice of "Coming Home" to my YouTube Channel. Don't forget to "like" and "subscribe" https://youtu.be/hzO5K0OPBmA #yoganidra #yoga #meditation #labyrinth #rest #relaxation #trueself

Congratulations to my friend Monique Giroux, and the publication of her book "Lost Intentionally: The Inner and Outer Journey of a Spiritual Nomad." This book is a rare glimpse into Monique's adventures traveling to sacred sites around the world (we met at Plum Village in France), as well as her inner spiritual journey and transformation. Order on Amazon or at your favorite bookstore. @flourishwithmonique @susan_scott_tnq #lostintentionally #memoir #plumvillage #spiritualadventure #innerjourney #nomadlife

"The healing of our bodies and minds must go together with the healing of the Earth. This kind of enlightenment is crucial for a collective awakening."---Thich Nhat Hanh Come and listen for more "Love Letters From Mother Earth" at our one day retreat at the Martha Retreat Centre this Saturday. There's only 2 more spaces left. https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/love-letters-from-mother-earth-rest-relax-and-be-nourished-by-nature @martha_retreat_centre #natureretreats #motherearth #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #yoga #forestbathing

We were blessed and in awe of a beautiful Sun Halo over our retreat at Samish Island last week-end. Our theme was "What is Enough?" as we envision a world more peaceful and just for all. According to Native American Indian prophecy, "sun halos indicate that people of all races, colors, and creeds will come together to heal the earth, bringing peace, understanding and healing wherever they go." May it be so. @writerlanacullis @shanneranner #peace #sunhalo #enough #interbeing #interfaith

"We need to learn to take refuge in Mother Earth - it is the best way to heal and nourish ourselves." ---Thich Nhat Hanh Love Letters From Mother Earth Retreat Saturday, June 8, 9:30am - 3:30pm Join us for a nurturing one day retreat, surrounded by the beauty of nature at the Martha Retreat Centre, Lethbrdge Gentle yoga & meditation in nature: journaling and poetry inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh. More Info Here: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/love-letters-from-mother-earth-rest-relax-and-be-nourished-by-nature @martha_retreat_centre @douglas.e.macarthur @flourishment.collective #meditation #mindfulness #retreat #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #natureretreat #yoga

Come and listen for "Love Letters from Mother Earth." Saturday, June 8: Relax and spend a full day being nourished by nature at the Martha Retreat Centre: guided meditation, gentle yoga, walk the labyrinth, journal, reflect, and just be. More Info and Register at https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/love-letters-from-mother-earth-rest-relax-and-be-nourished-by-nature @martha_retreat_centre @douglas.e.macarthur #retreats #natureretreats #yoga #meditation #mindfulness #labyrinth #sabbath #motherearth

So honored to have our Book Event at Analog Books featured in Rogers TV "Where You Live" series. I read from my story "Thay in Disguise", and Cat reads from her recently published book "Wildflower Seeds." Watch and listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=294c2lE_DBg @analogbooksyql @catcharissage @susan_scott_tnq @writerlanacullis @maryhillebrand12 @parallaxpress #authorssupportingauthors #memoir #bookreadings #spiritualpractice #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #mindfulness #interspiritual

Such a breath of fresh air to listen to Naheed Nenshi's inspiring vision for Alberta, here in Lethbridge today. I'm so tired of the divisive narrow minded kind of politics that Danielle Smith and the UCP spouts. Nenshi gives me hope that there are still politicians who truly care, and have a more informed and broader view for the good of all. @douglas.e.macarthur @sphillipsab @nenshi

So happy to be included in the recent Local Authors Fair at the Lethbridge Public Library. It was a great way to meet other authors and connect with new readers. Please support your local library. @parallaxpress @maryhillebrand12 @susan_scott_tnq

A sunset eclipse in Lethbridge this evening. Breathe it in.... Let it ignite your heart and soul.

Sophie really has the art of the "begging bowl" down pat. @briana_mckenna11

"Caitlin now sits on my bed, a reminder of the deep healing that was taking place in my mother's heart, and the yearning we all have to simply love and be loved. ---A Lotus on Fire Tomorrow is the last day to register for my 6 Week "Meditations and Reflections from A Lotus on Fire." Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm, April 2 - May 7, online and in person at the Martha Retreat Centre. More info and register here: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/a-lotus-on-fire-meditations-and-reflections-2 @martha_retreat_centre @douglas.e.macarthur @writerlanacullis @susan_scott_tnq @flourishment.collective #memoir #meditation #mindfulness #journaling #interfaith #thichnhathanh #plumvillage

Join me and other local authors tomorrow at the Local Authors Fair, at the Lethbridge Public Library (main branch) Saturday, March 23, 1-4pm. I'll be signing copies of A Lotus on Fire, and Tears Become Rain. https://www.lethlib.ca/events/local-authors-fair?id=1711220400-429415 @lethlib @analogbooksyql @catcharissage @parallaxpress

There is a lot of talk about inter-faith dialogue these days. We need to go deeper. Instead of just talking about beliefs and philosophy, we need to create inter-spiritual practices that will connect our hearts in the language of love that is beyond words and concepts. ---Vickie MacArthur, A Lotus on Fire Join me for our new book sangha, a place to practice together, to read and reflect, to listen, to journal, and share our own stories. Online and in person at the Martha Retreat Centre. Sign up here: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/a-lotus-on-fire-meditations-and-reflections-2 @martha_retreat_centre @susan_scott_tnq @writerlanacullis @theforestwhisperer #meditation #mindfulness #memoir #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #interfaith #writingcommunity

Join our Lethbridge sangha for A Day of Mindfulness (By donation) Spacious Mind, Inclusive Heart, Saturday, March 9, 9:30 - 3:30pm, at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta. Slow down...Create space in your body, mind & heart...Cultivate loving kindness towards yourself and all beings. More info and sign up: https://spiritinmotionyoga.com/workshops-events/ #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #mindfulness #meditation #buddhist #interspiritual #yoga

Deer Moments. “Suddenly a beautiful deer appears out of nowhere. I have no idea where it came from, or why it didn’t run away. Perhaps it felt my peaceful steps. We both stand very still looking into each other’s eyes. It is another sacred moment. Time stands still, as we stand still, lost in each others gaze” —-A Lotus on Fire

Our book reading at Analog Books got postponed because of frigid weather in January. The weather looks much warmer this Thursday for our book reading. So happy to be joining my friend and fellow author Cat Charissage to hear her read from her new book Wildflower Seeds. I'll be reading my story "Thay in Disguise" from Tears Become Rain, a beautiful collection of stories about Thich Nhat Hanh. @catcharissage @douglas.e.macarthur @analogbooksyql @maryhillebrand12 @parallaxpress #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #mindfulness #contemplation #buddhism

So excited to be joining Mary Hillebrand for an online reading of Tears Become Rain: Stories of Transformation and Healing Inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh Tuesday, Feb 6, 6pm Pacific Mary will share some background into bringing together 32 authors from around the world, and I will read from my story "Thay in Disguise." So grateful to the Anacortes Mindfulness Community for their invitation to be part of their weekly sitting and sharing. Please sign up through their website for the link: https://www.radiantlightzen.org/anacortes-mindfulness-community.html @tears_become_rain @maryhillebrand12 @parallaxpress @hisae_matsuda @kairajewel @thelotus_institute #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #mindfulness #meditation #healing #buddhist #transformation

Thich Nhat Hanh has offered us the best fruits of his practice. Our Dawning LIght Sangha will gather tomorrow morning at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta to remember Thay through meditation, and sharing of poetry and practice. All are welcome. Please message or email me if you would like the online link. #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #mindfulness #sangha #buddhist @douglas.e.macarthur @susan_scott_tnq @writerlanacullis

Beautiful ceremonies and memorials honoring our teacher, @thichnhathanh as he is formally honored and takes his place in the stream of ancestral teachers, now two years after his passing. My altar reflects the love of the Buddha and Christ coming together in the altar of my heart, with a crystal lotus reflecting light in all directions. May we all reflect the stream of light and love passed down through Thay and our lineage of spiritual teachers. @thichnhathanh_foundation @plumvillagefrance #thichnhathanh #mindfulness #meditation #buddha #christ #interspiritual #spiritualteachers #ancestors

Awaken Your Heart to Love Beyond Boundaries: One Day Retreat @martha_retreat_centre Saturday, Jan 27, 9:30-3:30pm "Awake my dear, be kind to your sleeping heart. Take it out into fields of light and let it breathe." - Hafiz Join me for an experiential exploration of the Heart Centre, and all it's nuanced layers, through breathing practices, gentle yoga, reflection, and meditation. More Info & Register: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/awakening-the-heart-retreat-learning-to-love-beyond-boundaries @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @writerlanacullis @flourishment.collective #yoga #meditation #heartcentered #awakening #mindfulness #yoganidra

A sacred moment with our dear teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh, on the deck of his Sitting Still Hut, at the end of the 21 Day Retreat in 2012. It is a moment engraved on my heart, as is the very first time I looked in his eyes at the Awakening the Heart retreat in Vancouver the year before. It has been two years since our beloved teacher passed away, and yet he continues to be present in all of us through our mindful breathing, our walking, our kindness and compassion, and understanding. Dear Thay, It has been the greatest blessing of my life to look into your eyes, to receive your gaze and see myself reflected there, to receive these precious teachings and practices. It is my deep aspiration to continue your aspiration of building bridges of understanding, especially between Christian and Buddhist traditions, to create new expressions of "Beloved Community" as expressed by Martin Luther King. As you said "If there is a real encounter between Buddhism and Christianity, there will be a drastic change, and the most beautiful jewels in the tradition will be able to emerge." (Going Home: Jesus and Buddha as Brothers) I want to shine a light on these jewels, so they can reveal the deeper truths that are waiting to be discovered, and integrated into a deeper understanding for all, healing ourselves, and healing our planet. I give you my heart, dear Thay, as I continue to grow into your teachings of inter-being, "I am in you, and you are me." May we all awaken to this understanding with all beings, and with our precious Mother Earth. With love & gratitude, Vickie, Divine Oneness of the Heart @thichnhathanh @phaphuu @brstream @parallaxpress #thichnhathanh #mindfulness #meditation #belovedcommunity #interfaith #interbeing #plumvillage

"When we allow ourselves to rest and relax, healing becomes possible." ---Thich Nhat Hanh My 6 Week Yoga Nidra online course begins tomorrow (Monday, Jan 15) More Info here: https://spiritinmotionyoga.com/yoga-nidra/ #yoganidra #yoga #restorativeyoga #meditation #thichnhathanh #deeprelaxation

Yikes! Minus 30 tomorrow! We've decided to reschedule to Feb 22. Stay home, stay warm, and cozy up with a good book.

Please join our Dawning Light Sangha for a 3 month practice period and study of "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet": Weds, 9:30-11am (MST) online and in-person at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta. @sistertruededication @parallaxpress @douglas.e.macarthur @thelotus_institute #zenandtheartofsavingtheplanet #thichnhathanh #meditation #mindfulness #sangha #buddhist

So excited to join my friend and fellow author @catcharissage next Thursday, January 11, 6pm @analogbooksyql I'll be reading my story called "Thay in Disguise" from "Tears Become Rain: Stories of Transformation and Healing Inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh." It will be an evening inviting us all into deeper reflections on how we live, and how we heal individually and collectively. @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @maryhillebrand12 @tears_become_rain @parallaxpress #newbooks #newauthors #memoir #meditation #mindfulness #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddhist

"I Shall Not Hate." Words we all need to take to heart, and a book we all need to read right now by a respected doctor who knows the trauma and grief of losing 3 beloved daughters and a niece to the bombing of Gaza in 2009, and now many members of his extended family. I was privileged to hear Dr. Abuelaish tell his story when he came and spoke at the University of Lethbridge in 2013. My heart was both broken and inspired by his words. My heart continues to be broken as the violence repeats itself. "I understand down to my bones that violence is futile, a waste of time, lives and resources, and has been proven to beget more violence. It does not work, just perpetuates a vicious cycle. To find the light of truth, you have to talk to, listen to, and respect each other. Instead of wasting energy on hatred, use it to open your eyes and see what's really going on. Surely, if we can see the truth, we can live side by side." @izzeldin.abuelaish #peace #peaceinthemiddleeast #ceasefirenow

Doug and I are excited to recreate this moment from our France production of A Lotus on Fire , here in Lethbridge. One Love, One Heart, One Song: Readings and Music from A Lotus on Fire Wednesday, December 6, 7 - 8:30pm at the Martha Retreat Centre (By donation) RSVP Here: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/one-love-one-song-one-heart-an-evening-of-readings-and-music-from-vickies-book-a-lotus-on-fire @douglas.e.macarthur @martha_retreat_centre #interfaith #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddhist #livingbuddhalivingchrist #meditation #mindfulness #spiritualawakening

A Lotus on Fire is at Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris. (No, it had nothing to do with the fire there!) @susan_scott_tnq writerlanacullis @douglas.e.macarthur @flourishment.collective #interfaith #thichnhathanh #buddhist #mindfulness #meditation

While I was in France, I had an enlivening conversation with Brian E Pearson, for his podcast The Mystic Cave. Brian calls his podcast a Sanctuary for Seekers: stories, conversations and reflections on the spiritual journey...on the other side of church. Touching on many themes from my spiritual memoir, A Lotus on Fire, Brian managed to get me to reveal some insights and secrets not shared in my book. It felt like an intimate conversation between friends. I hope you feel included. You can listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1577227/13817894 @douglas.e.macarthur @susan_scott_tnq @flourishment.collective @writerlanacullis #interspiritual #interfaith #buddhist #buddhistchristian #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #spiritualteachers #gurudisciplerelationship #darshan

Doug and I performed this show at the Centre Artistique Roy Hart in France, and now we're bringing it home to Lethbridge as a fundraiser for the Martha Retreat Centre, Weds, Dec 6. Sign up and donate (what you can) at: https://www.martharetreatcentre.ca/event-details/one-love-one-song-one-heart-an-evening-of-readings-and-music-from-vickies-book-a-lotus-on-fire @martha_retreat_centre @writerlanacullis @douglas.e.macarthur @susan_scott_tnq #interfaith #thichnhathanh #buddhism #satsang #mindfulness #meditation #chanting #spiritualsongs #awakening

Such a joy to finally receive my "author" copy of Tears Become Rain, stories inspired by @thichnhathanh. Much gratitude to @parallaxpress It feels like I am holding our writing sangha in my hands with all our experience and wisdom, so needed at this time in our world. Our stories "inter-are", reflecting the great heart and aspiration of our dear teacher and his community. Purchase "Tears Become Rain" at your local bookstore, @parallaxpress, or on Amazon. @maryhillebrand12 @susan_scott_tnq @hisae_matsuda @kairajewel #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #interbeing #buddhism #zen #healing #suffering #mindfulness #meditation

Even the Buddha needs to rest and heal, to restore peace, to be peace. Join me for a 6 Week Online Yoga Nidra course called "Rest, Restore & Dream a New World Into Being." Mondays, 7 - 8:30pm, MST Starting November 6. Cost: $60 (Includes online classes and recordings.) Learn embodied practices to ground you and regulate your nervous system, then rest deeply through the meditative practice of yoga nidra to relax and renew, as you are guided to listen and awaken to your soul's calling to be a spark of light in these difficult times. More Info and Register Here: https://spiritinmotionyoga.com/yoga-nidra/ @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @theforestwhisperer #yoganidra #rest #healing #selfcare #peace #relax #meditation #awakening #soul #yoga #traumahealing

If you sit still like a Buddha, you may be lucky enough to have a dragonfly land on your toe. Perhaps these delicate creatures are attracted to the calm peaceful energy. I wrote about a similar experience with a butterfly landing on me while at Plum Village in 2014, in A Lotus on Fire. "Silence has landed like a butterfly in my soul. This lightness is a part of everything I am and do. It contains my deepest joy and my secret inner longings. I can always go back to this butterfly silence within." ---A Lotus on Fire @plumvillagefrance @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @thelotus_institute #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddha #stillness #silence #dragonfly #butterfly

"Rain of blessing pouring down Kiss the earth and this holy ground. Holy water, heaven sent, Rain of blessing, our sacrament" @devapremalmiten Walking in the forest in France, I let the rain pour down on my face, and sang this beautiful song and healing mantra. As I came out of the forest, this rainbow appeared, a prayer of hope and healing for our world. #rainbow #mantra #chanting #prayer #hope #peace

So grateful to my dear friend and fellow writer, Lana Cullis, for her stirring Book Review of "A Lotus on Fire" in the Fall Yoga Bridge Newsletter for The Alberta Yoga Association (www.yoga.ca.) I have been a member for the past 25 years, so it is a great honour to be featured. "Vickie's narrative beckons the reader to consider their own capacity for listening, claiming, and naming personal conversations with all that may be known as Sacred." Lana Cullis Read the Full Review Here: https://www.vickiemacarthur.ca/book/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ALOF-YAA-Book-Review.pdf @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @yogaassociationofalberta #memoir #yoga #meditation #mindfulness #interfaith #thichnhathanh #plumvillage

Often some of the best moments are spontaneous moments that arise naturally together in community. On the last evening of our retreat @plumvillagefrance there was a beautiful circle of sharing music and poems at Lower Hamlet, behind the Dharma Nectar Hall with a breathtaking sunset in the background. The perfect moment for sharing a poem I wrote for Thay called "A Reflection of Love." "I'm already the water that gives life to the wave, I'm already the lotus blooming out of the mud. I'm already the tree in the soil of Mother Earth, the smell of fresh bread in the prairie of grain. I'm already the tea in a lazy white cloud, My mother's fresh smile in the face of a flower. I'm already the silence in the bell that's invited, Already the answer to all of my questions.............. I'm already the lover and also beloved. I am breath, I am life, a reflection of Love." ---A Lotus on Fire @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @thelotus_institute @sistertruededication @hisae_matsuda #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #meditation #silence #bell #love #interbeing #mindfulness #community

Such truth and wisdom for these times, reprinted in "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet." by Thich Nhat Hanh, from his own experience during the Vietnam war. "We kill each other because we do not know who we really are. In order to kill someone, first of all you have to give them a label: "enemy." Only if we see someone as our enemy can we shoot them without hesitation. But, as long as we still see they are a person, another human being, we can never pull the trigger. And so, behind violence and killing is the idea that the other person is evil, that there is no goodness left in them. Our view is clouded by hatred. We believe the other side to be a villain. And yet that villain is only a view, an idea.... These labels are dangerous. They have to be cut off. Views can destroy human beings; they can destroy love. Our enemy is not other people. Our enemy is hatred, violence, discrimination, and fear." @thichnhathanh @plumvillagefrance @parallaxpress @sistertruededication #peace #mindfulness #zen #buddhism #zenandtheartofsavingtheplanet

A Peaceful Memory: Walking meditation from a Day of Mindfulness at New Hamlet, @plumvillagefrance 2 days before the terrible Hamas attacks on Israel. Some of our new friends were retuning to Tel Aviv the next day, unaware of the terror and hatred about to be unleashed. I feel a deep sorrow and disquiet in my soul. And so I return to my breath. I return to the feel of my feet on the earth. I return to the memory of walking together in peace. I try to hold a place for hope in my heart. It is not easy. I walk for myself. I walk for my new friends. I walk for all those who cannot walk in peace, in Israel, in Gaza, in Ukraine, and so many other places of war and conflict. I slow down, I breathe, I walk, so my mind can be clear, so my heart can stay open. So I can take peaceful and wise action in a complex world. #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #walkingmeditation #mindfulness #meditation #peace

This is a happy moment: reading A Lotus on Fire to the Lotus Pond at Lower Hamlet, @plumvillagefrance. With their big broad leaves like big ears, it felt like a practice of mutual deep listening. A very attentive and kind audience. "Wandering down the hill, I find myself sitting by the lotus pond. Although there are no blossoms yet, the pond is blanketed with greenery, full of unlimited life and possibility. The morning sun is reflecting off the dewdrops glistening on the smooth broad surface of the large green leaves. The drops are like tiny diamonds, reflecting the light of the sun in all directions....I can feel my own heart beating, my own heart shimmering. We are both tiny sparks of light glistening in and out of eternity." --- From A Lotus on Fire, 21 Day Retreat, June 2012 @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @theforestwhisperer #thichnhathanh #interfaith #lotus #plumvillage #buddhism #interbeing #memoir

Swinging Meditation at Upper Hamlet, @plumvillagefrance. In, Out, Deep, Slow, Straighten, Bend, Smile, and Soar! @douglas.e.macarthur @susan_scott_tnq @theforestwhisperer #thichnhathanh #breathing #meditation #joy #smile #behippy #behappy

I have arrived, I am home. Such a joy to take A Lotus on Fire to @plumvillagefrance It is the fruit of many years of writing and practice. I always imagined placing it into Thay's hands, and looking into his eyes once more. But placing it into the hands of one of the 16 Buddha's in the Buddha field in Upper Hamlet was a very special and sacred moment. I felt Thay's presence and smile in my heart. @thichnhathanh @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @theforestwhisperer #interfaith #mindfulness #meditation #yoga #buddhism #memoir #plumvillage

Happy Birthday Dear Thay. Looking into your loving eyes, and encountering your teachings has been a great blessing in my life. I will continue you with every mindful breath and step, and every act of loving kindness. @thichnhathanh @plumvillagefrance

A Lotus on Fire, ancient wisdom for modern times. Can you guess where A Lotus on Fire is? (Hint: it's not Rome.) @susan_scott_tnq @theforestwhisperer @douglas.e.macarthur #interfaith #thichnhathanh #buddhism #mindfulness #meditation #ancientwisdom #plumvillage

Tomorrow is Launch Day! So excited to finally see all these inspiring stories make their way out into the world. Here's a quote from my own story "Thay in Disguise." "Perhaps Thay in Disguise is another name for that timeless, formless love that lies in all of us. Our practice is to simply breathe and to connect to the love we already are." Order at Parallax or your local bookstore. @tears_become_rain @parallaxpress @susan_scott_tnq @maryhillebrand12 #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #healing #transformation #buddhism #zen

The journey continues. A Lotus on Fire at St. Andres Cathedral, Bordeaux. Next stop, Plum Village. “From museums and cathedrals, to Roman aqueducts, to cave drawings painted by ancients peoples, I am struck by the fluidity of time converging in this moment.” @susan_scott_tnq @plumvillagefrance #interfaith #thichnhathanh #sacredsites #christian #buddhist #plumvillage #interbeing

Another scene from An Evening of Readings and Music from "A Lotus on Fire" at Chateau Malerargues, France. "Stuffing the last few items into my oversized suitcase, I reach up and carefully place my mother's Tilley hat on my head......I vowed to wear this hat as a way to take her with me, somehow, wherever I traveled...I walk for her. Perhaps one day I will come back to Plum Village when the fields are full of sunflowers, smiling with the kind of golden joy that cannot be contained in just one flower, one body, one religion." @susan_scott_tnq @thichnhathanh @plumvillagefrance #interfaith #ancestralhealing #grieving #interbeing #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddhism #mindfulness #walkingmeditation

Studio Theatre at Chateau Malerargues, Thoiras, France, a beautiful setting for Readings and Music from A Lotus on Fire. "This is the story of a moment of awakening, that was really part of many moments of awakening....This mystical love lives beneath the surface until something or someone touches the spark within us that ignites the flame that awakens the heart." (Prologue) @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur #interfaith #spiritualawakening #newbook #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddhism #meditation #mindfulness #yoga #theatre #voice #breath

So wonderful to be back at Chateau Malerargue, and my " French writing desk", with the Cevenne countryside just outside my window to inspire me. I spent many hours here back in 2017, sifting through my journals, and writing my memoir. Slowly, A Lotus on Fire began to take shape. It gives me such a sense of joy to now hold it in my hands, and to share it with others. "We pay so much attention to the first and last breaths, but what about all the breaths in between?" - A Lotus on Fire @susan_scott_tnq #interfaith #breath #writing #newauthor #thichnhathan #memoir #meditation #mindfulness #yoga

Doug and I are excited to offer an "Evening of Readings and Music" from "A Lotus on Fire" in the Studio Theatre at Centre Artistique International Roy Hart. This evening's event will be an artistic blending of readings and music. (If you happen to be in the Cevenne area of southern France, join us at 8pm!) @douglas.e.macarthur @susan_scott_tnq #interfaith #interspiritual #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #buddhist #contemplation #meditation #mindfulness #spiritualawakening #yoga #newwriters #voicework #breathwork

Follow A Lotus on Fire in France, starting with the beautiful Chateau de Malerargues. Such history here. If these walls could speak….what would they say? I'm sure there's some stories waiting to be uncovered here.

Loved Victoria Loorz' article in Richard Rohr's meditations today on "Edge Walking", walking along the hemlines of different religious traditions to find the places of inter-being. https://cac.org/daily-meditations/edge-walking-2023-09-15/ @susan_scott_tnq @religionsgeek @richardrohrr @artsmithapostle @kairajewel #interspirituality #interfaith

I’m discovering that one of the joys of being a new author is the new people and teachers I’m meeting. Such a blessing to meet Gyokei Yokoyama from the Sozenji Buddhist Temple in Montebello, CA. We had a deep conversation about honouring the lineage of a spiritual tradition while staying relevant and open to change. @susan_scott_tnq @religionsgeek @artsmithapostle @thelotus_institute #buddhist #interfaith #spiritualtradition #thichnhathanh

So blessed to have talented writing friends to brag about. Congrats Lana Cullis on your story published in the Globe and Mail August 21 on "Walking Both Sides of the Street." We all need to learn how to see from different perspectives. (Find Lana's article by googling Globe and Mail and Lana Cullis.) @susan_scott_tnq

Sunset at Park Lake. How does one ever put this feeling into words?

Restorative Life Story Writing: Living Peacefully with Chronic Conditions Weds, August 16, 5 - 6pm, MDT (Online) Join my friend Lana Cullis and her guest Set L. Shuter to explore how to expand creativity while living with a chronic illness, injury or disability. More Info and sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/spiritual-life-writing-registration-132590815699 @set_ls_ #writinglife #chronicillness #creativity #

View on my morning walk this morning. Feeling blessed, but prayers for the people of Maui.🙏🧘

"I have learned much in solitude. I have learned much from loneliness. It is only when we know how to be comfortable by ourselves in solitude that we can truly be there for each other in community." ----A Lotus on Fire: How a Buddhist Monk Ignited My Heart #solitude #loneliness #meditation #mindfulness #silence #thichnhathanh #spiritualcommunity

A Lotus on Fire was at the Community of Christ Temple, a temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace for all. So grateful for my Community of Christ roots that have nurtured me, and also allowed me to stretch and grow beyond the boundaries of one religion, to the beauty and depth that connects us all. #peace #interfaith #interspirituality #cosmicchrist #universalchrist

A Lotus on Fire was on the hill at Graceland University, where I attended over 40 years ago. So many memories, and so fulfilling to donate a copy to Graceland’s library.

A Lotus on Fire in the meditation garden at the Community of Christ Temple.

Feeling honored and excited that my story "Thay in Disguise" has been included in this beautiful collection of stories about Thich Nhat Hanh. Yesterday, some of the 32 authors from 11 countries, met online for the first time to share about ourselves and our process. Tears Become Rain will be released October 10, and is published by Parallax Press. More info and pre-order here: https://www.parallax.org/product/tears-become-rain/ (Also available on Amazon) #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #parallax #mindfulness #meditation

A Lotus on Fire at a Buddhist temple in Wakayama, Japan. Thanks @jasonshawrichards

Thich Nhat Hanh teaches that although their bodies may be long gone, our parents and ancestors live on through us, both their happiness and their suffering. In "A Lotus on Fire" I write about how I used some of Thay's practices for healing the past in the present moment. Listen to a recent reading with Two Palms Up Sangha, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zFcoynbGgQ @susan_scott_tnq @deepbuddhism #thichnhathanh #innerchild #plumvillage #interfaith #ancestralhealing #spiritualmemoir

A Lotus on Fire is coming to Calgary! I'm excited to offer a book reading next Monday, June 26 at Community of Christ Calgary: Dinner at 6pm, Reading at 7pm. My book designer, Beate Wichmann will also be there, so we will also be talking a bit about the design and layout process. Would love to see you if you live in or close to Calgary. More Info and RSVP here: https://mailchi.mp/communityofchrist/congregational-update-sent-6-6-14-2023 @cofchristyyc @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @itsaparkerthing #spiritualmemoir #interfaith #thichnhathanh #mindfulness

A long beautiful mindful walk for "A Lotus on Fire" to the end of the pier in White Rock, B.C. May we all take peaceful steps wherever we are. #walkingmeditation #mindfulness #thichnhathanh

I never tire of this view at Samish Island. It is rest for my soul. So blessed to attend the Nature, Nurture and Justice Retreat last weekend, integrating contemplative practices with mindful action for our planet. #contemplation #meditation #climateaction #mindfulness

A wonderful book reading at Chilliwack Community of Christ last Tuesday, with the theme of Happy Teachers Will Change The World and Mindfulness in Education. Thanks to Shonnet and Gwyn for hosting. #mindfulnessineducation #thichnhathanh #wakeup #plumvillage #interfaith

So honored to be joining my mentor, Tim Scorer, who wrote the Foreword for my book, for Readings & Conversations around "A Lotus on Fire." Online Speakers Series Weds, June 7, 7pm Alberta time Sign up Here: https://naramatacentre.secure.retreat.guru/program/at-the-centre-with-vickie-macarthur/?lang=en

A beautiful moment from the Deva Premal & Miten concert in Toronto, with just the men singing. Doug's tenor voice still melts my heart. (photo by Alexandro Santiago.) @douglas.e.macarthur @devapremalmiten #mantra #meditation #yoga #satsang

Sophie knows who to vote for, for better healthcare, better education, and a better planet. @sphillipsab #albertaelection #ndp

A dream come true for Doug and myself backstage at the Deva Premal & Miten concert in Toronto last Sunday (photo by Alejandro Santiago), as I finally placed a copy of my spiritual memoir, A Lotus on Fire into Deva's hands. Such joy. A Lotus on Fire was sparked by a moment of awakening with Buddhist Master Thich Nhat Hanh and speaks to the vast Love beyond the boundaries of culture, language and religion. Deva & Miten's music and mantras have attuned me to that same universal Love that wants to sing and dance its way through all our hearts. Om, Shanti, Peace to all. @devapremalmiten @susan_scott_tnq #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #interfaith #interspiritual #mantra #yoga #meditation #buddhist #universallove #alotusonfire #awakening

Slow down. Breathe, Take time to just be, and be inspired by the beauty of trees. "Nurture Your Roots" one day retreat, Saturday, May 27 at the Martha Retreat Centre. www.martharetreatcentre.ca #yoga #meditation #natureretreat #treebathing #mindfulness

We all have a story to share. Join Susan Scott and myself online for "The Art & Challenges of Spiritual Memoir," this Weds, May 17, 5pm MDT. I'll share about my writing journey, from letters in my personal journals to publishing "A Lotus on Fire." Presented by Awakening Spirituality. Sign up for free on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../spiritual-life-writing... @susan_scott_tnq @douglas.e.macarthur @sebastianlwrites #spiritualmemoir #thichnhathanh #plumvillage #writerscommunity

A beautiful musical gift from Plum Village monastics to close out "The Way Out Is In" Retreat last week-end in Oshawa. I could feel Thay's smile in my heart. #plumvillage #thichnhathanh