Meditative Story Joseph Goldstein: It's ok not to know
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Oct 3, 2023 
Joseph Goldstein, co-founder of Insight Meditation Society, shares his journey of embracing uncertainty and the discomfort of not knowing. He discusses the concept of selflessness in Buddhism and the impact of teaching Buddhist teachings at Naropa. Joseph explores the importance of cultivating a 'yes mind' in mindfulness and meditation, accepting physical sensations, and acknowledging resistance and discomfort while cultivating gratitude.
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Early Teaching Challenges
- Joseph Goldstein's first attempt to teach mindfulness to a Western audience was met with polite disinterest at a Catskills resort.
- This experience highlighted the cultural gap and the challenges of introducing Buddhism in the West at that time.
Serendipity Shapes Path
- After returning from India with uncertainty, Joseph went on a cross-country road trip which led to a serendipitous meeting with Ram Das.
- This meeting resulted in Joseph being invited to teach meditation at Naropa University, shaping his future path.
Self as Conceptual Pattern
- The concept of self is like the Big Dipper: a pattern we perceive but that doesn't exist independently.
- Understanding non-self requires time and practice through meditation, transforming our self-identity.