Background

Linda, who encountered Buddhism in 2004, initially drifted through various spiritual paths after abandoning her Catholic upbringing. Despite distancing herself from organized religion early on, she lacked a concrete spiritual practice. However, her perspective shifted when she started dating someone who had spent time at the Great Falls Monastery. Encouraged to attend a Thursday night meditation session in Portland, Linda reluctantly went, expecting it to be similar to the formal Catholic rituals of her past.

With a somewhat resistant attitude, she discovered that the experience was liberating. The hour of silence on the meditation cushion provided a welcome break from her busy life and the constant demands of her role as an employment law specialist. As an introvert, the opportunity to be in silence without the need for conversation was particularly appealing. Despite her initial skepticism, Linda found solace in the practice and has maintained a consistent attendance at Thursday night meditations since the fall of 2004. This routine has become a stable and continuous aspect of her life, offering her a powerful source of relief and tranquility.