Mindfulness: What it is and is Not

This is a public lecture given by Joseph Goldstein, a prominent figure in the field of mindfulness and meditation. The lecture, held at the Center for Mindfulness, was introduced by Judson Broome, the Director of Research at the Center. Joseph Goldstein, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Massachusetts, discussed various aspects of mindfulness, sharing his insights and experiences.

Goldstein began with a guided meditation, emphasizing the importance of being aware of one's body, breath, and the surrounding environment. He elaborated on the concept of mindfulness, clarifying that it's more than just living in the present moment or having an observing power of the mind. Mindfulness, he explained, also involves observing without filters like desire, aversion, or delusion, and maintaining a skillful, ethical attitude.

He highlighted the transformative power of mindfulness in understanding the nature of thoughts, emotions, and actions. By being mindful, one can observe the arising of impulses or desires before acting on them, creating space for wiser choices. Goldstein also discussed the ethical dimension of mindfulness, emphasizing its role in cultivating wholesome states of mind and its potential for liberation and awakening.

Throughout the lecture, Goldstein answered various questions from the audience, addressing topics like mindfulness in the context of addiction, race and diversity, trauma, and the spread of mindfulness through technology and apps. He stressed the importance of mindfulness in understanding and dealing with complex emotions and life situations, and how it can lead to greater compassion and wisdom.

The lecture concluded with Goldstein encouraging continued exploration and practice of mindfulness, underscoring its potential for profound personal and societal transformation.