This talk starts out discussing "identification" and "personal identity" as a kind of defense against the groundless, momentary, and insubstantial nature of our existence. It then presents a set of practices – momentariness, bodyfulness, and kindness – that can be used not only on the cushion when practicing sitting meditation but also in daily life.

The pandemic brings out emotions in us: anxiety, sadness, anger, impatience, worry, etc. This talk discusses the "anatomy of emotions" by distinguishing the sensation level from the interpretation level of emotion. This distinction is in relationship to the more general practice concept of the primary and secondary activity of mind. Realizing emotional freedom requires the skill to attend to the primary sensation level without any secondary interpretation whatsoever. Based on that skill, we can begin to develop the freedom to respond (rather than react), that is, to align our interpretations and actions with our highest intentions.