Question: I struggle as I get older and the purpose of my life changes. I begin to wonder, "Well, what is my purpose?" Is being mindful enough? Should I be volunteering? Should I be doing this or that to complete myself? I also struggle with the conditions of the world and my local community. The changes in our society weigh heavily on me, and I often don't know what I can do. But the conflict arises when my mind remembers...

Question: Concerning verbal and emotional abuse by a spouse... how does one deal with intimidation, put downs, blaming, coercion, withholding of affection, threats, diverting, denial, not keeping agreements -- all happening in a cycle? I am unable to leave due to a medical condition that keeps me financially dependent. I want to evolve as much as possible in this life. I meditate regularly...

Question: My father just passed away, and after fifty years of marriage to someone who was significantly dependent on her, my mother is struggling to find her purpose. I'm doing well thanks to Truth teachings. I've shared them with her when I felt it might assist, and she has responded. Any words you might have for her would be welcome.

Question: I recognize that my lower nature doesn't really like people. Parts of me are afraid of people and easily annoyed by them. I've been aware of this long before I came across these teachings. But I'm now seeing a big stumbling block for me: my mind has a thousand explanations, justifications, and rationalizations for why these negative, punishing thoughts seem so imminently reasonable...

Question: Can you help me understand the exercise "burn the wish" that you have spoken of? I have learned from your talks that insights and epiphanies are great, but they're not "It," and that I must constantly live a sacrificial life to remain in every moment. One of my most sincere wishes is to be around individuals who are interested in truth and presence, and a part of me is thinking that's a true wish.

Question: It does indeed appear that something conspires to help me discover the way out of useless suffering. It is encouraging whenever a sudden awareness sheds new light on old pain. Right then and there, I can't know where I'll arrive at any imagined destiny, but then there's a knowing that I don't really need to live beyond these present small glimpses. I fancy that freedom is stashed all around me...

Question: I am troubled by something I read in The Secret of Letting Go. I do understand and agree with your point that a fancy job title accompanied your life seems to lack meaning. However, the "rules" of this modern era state that being passive and letting life come to you leaves you vulnerable to missing out on the opportunities. In other words, being proactive prevails while passivity...

Question: I am 61-years old. I have been smoking crack for 12 years and I have lost everything. I was a millionaire at one time, but now I have no home, no family, and no money. How can I start believing in myself again?

Question: I would like a few helpful insights as to how I should handle (spiritually) my son's divorce. I'm a 66-year-old woman and he may have to live with me for a while. The whole situation is very stressful, and I worry about being able to hold up under it.

Question: I feel I have been on this path forever, but my life has not improved externally. I am very alone, have very little income, and I cannot see how to improve things. I hear what you say about not running away from the pain, not looking for something else to replace it, and I am so much better at being present than I ever was... only I am not experiencing anything like the success I dreamed of.

Question: What if a co-worker is a constant relentlessly negative person that looks to fault you (and most others) every single minute he can? He never shows signs of slowing down -- no matter what I have tried already.

Question: I am a mother with a difficult 16-year-old. I have read The Secret of Letting Go and many other books. I have met with professionals and still I keep on having to deal with difficult situations. I really don't feel letting go is the right thing at this time because I can't run away from my kid... I need to be present to have her consider her choices and their consequences. It's my responsibility towards her...