Morning Session 2: March 14, 2026
IN THIS SMALL GROUP
Small Group Inquiry
Reflect together on the following questions:
1. Recognizing the Pattern
Can you recall a recent moment when a defense mechanism activated (projection, rationalization, avoidance, etc.)?
What was the contact → sensation → urge sequence that led to the reaction?
2. The Inner Witness
In that moment, what might the principal witness have noticed?
Were there signals in the body, emotions, or mind that could have helped you mind the gap?
3. Applying the Five Strengths
How might the Five Strengths support transformation in that moment?
Strong Intention – What commitment helps you remain honest with yourself?
Familiarization – How do you repeatedly train awareness of your patterns?
Seed of Virtue – What wholesome response could replace the habitual defense?
Reproach – How can you gently but clearly interrupt self-deception?
Aspiration – What larger intention guides your practice?
4. Emptiness Takes the Edge Off
How might remembering that the self is not fixed or solid soften the need to defend or protect it?
Closing Reflection
Where in your life right now do you see the opportunity to replace a habitual defense with witnessing?
What might it feel like to pause in the gap and choose differently?
