I would like this week's reflection to be a chance to search inside yourselves and discover a bit more about your identity. An identity which you have the ability to create, and recreate, and then recreate again if you feel the urge to do so. Always remember, the footprint and impact you choose to leave on this planet and our society is YOUR choice. Contrary to all the naysayers, this is YOUR life. Contrary to all the negative energy you may come across that seems so hard to avoid and not let affect you, this is YOUR life.

One of the joys I hope to bring to your lives is the discovery that you do in fact control your attitude, your future, and the influence you have on others around you (whether good or bad, this is your choice). Unfortunately, there is a tremendous amount of hatred circumventing our existence. This hatred spreads like wildfire and causes much violence and unrest within and across the many cultures of the world. Where and when does it stop? It stops from the realization that not only do you NOT have to be a part of it, but you can actually reverse it by spreading kindness and compassion to others. Kindness and compassion are contagious and can be taught and learned.

One way I have learned to teach this is by showing others how to reflect on their daily habits and unveil the subconscious thoughts and attitudes that perpetuate these same habits. Meditation is an amazing tool to help one search inside themselves, by using brief moments in our chaotic daily lives to think, and exist, at a much deeper level through reflection and awareness. Slow, deep, full breaths help us slow down the world around us in order to see things a bit more clearly. Clearly enough to recognize the potential that you possess. The potential to help others in need. The potential to bring a greater sense of fulfillment to your own lives.

Now, please watch this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw71zanwMnY

Take a moment at this point to sit up in a tall, comfortable position……. and breath…… slow…. deep…. breaths…. please take as long as feels good here before you continue….

Hopefully you are feeling a bit more relaxed and thinking a bit more clearly now. Maintaining your composure, please answer the following questions. Be honest. As always, no judgment on my end. Since your classmates may also be reading your post only share what you feel comfortable with others reading. *Be sure your total response is at least 500 words.

(1) Are you happy with what is currently going on in your life? Why? Why not?

(2) Envisioning your ideal future, what are a few major achievements you will fulfill?

(3) What are your honest thoughts about and past experiences with meditation? (I 100% promise I would never make a negative judgment based on your response).

(4) Why do you think you feel this way?

(5) Do you believe you are in control of your life? Why is this?

(6) What do you think is the connection between Search Inside Yourself and Intercultural Communication Competence?

NOTE: ATTACHED is the chapter reading, and for number 7 because it is a book just read the summery of the book on google and compare it.