A Little Shift Can Make a Crucial Difference

by Mariana Restrepo

Sometimes, our Buddhist practice can feel like a chore. We might find ourselves sitting down simply trying to get through it, feeling stuck or uninspired, or maybe just going through the motions. I’ve definitely had those moments. But recently, with the first glimpses of spring showing up all around me, I’ve been thinking about how I can bring a sense of freshness back into my practice.

One small change I made was refreshing my practice space, making it feel more inviting and reflective of the energy I want to cultivate. It’s amazing how a simple adjustment like offering a flower to your altar can shift things.

I’ve also been taking spring walks with my kids, and those moments have reminded me of the joy found in the simplest things. My son has been especially excited to find dandelions on our walks. A dandelion is a great example, I thought: some see it as a weed, something to be removed. Others see it as a bright treasure and the promise of what’s to come. That shift in perspective — from ordinary to extraordinary — is something I’m trying to carry into my practice, trying to notice the small, often overlooked joys that are always present.

But of course, not every session will feel joyful or fulfilling. And that’s okay. We can’t expect our practice to be perfect every time, nor should we place that kind of pressure on ourselves. Just like those spring walks, where some days will bring sunshine, and others bring rain and cold, our practice may feel different from day to day. Even the difficult days offer something valuable if we’re willing to see it. May we keep walking this path, finding joy in the simple things, and embracing whatever each day brings — in practice, and in life.

This piece was originally published on the Buddhadharma News Letter by Lion's Roar. To read the complete News Letter click here.