Transformative Reflections on Mindfulness and Personal Growth

In this chapter, the speaker reflects on a transformative process that began after reading Parker Palmer's book. The speaker discusses Parker's influence on education and their personal experience of being depressed. They also mention the impact of Pema Chödrön's and Sharon Salzberg's work on their journey. The chapter highlights the speaker's realization of the importance of connecting with their body and sensory experiences instead of valuing only their mental constructs and ego. The speaker recalls a meditation experience at Canyon Ranch that brought them to tears and led them to apologize to their sister for devaluing her practices. The chapter also references the Indigo Girls' song 'Closer to Fine' and draws parallels to the story of the Buddha.