Presence and Compassion in a Violent World

As our societies unravel in fear and reactivity, we are called to live from our most awake and wise heart. This talk and meditation was first offered to Satyam, a community of Palestinians, Israelis, and internationals devoted to creating a future of justice, safety, freedom, and dignity for all. It invites us to move beyond the conditioning of “bad-othering,” and to cultivate clarity, compassion, and the capacity to respond in ways that seed healing.

In this talk, Tara explores: 

• how the trance of “bad othering” fuels division and how compassion can free us from blame.
• the practice of the U-turn—turning inward with kindness to transform anger, fear, and grief into care.
• the balance of a “strong back and soft front,” cultivating courage and tenderness in times of violence.
• how seeing the suffering beneath harmful actions allows us to meet others with wise compassion.
• how presence, RAIN practice, and shared belonging can guide us toward healing and peace.