Beginning with reflections on global crises and personal hardships, Jack reminds us that while suffering is inevitable, how we respond shapes our lives.
Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Try online therapy at betterhelp.com/heartwisdom and take a step toward becoming your best self. In this edition of Heart Wisdom, Jack Kornfield explores: Dealing with challenges without getting overwhelmed Living in the present moment instead of fear-based thinking The power of intention and deep listening Becoming an “island of peace” in chaotic times Trusting the uncertainty and mystery of life This episode was originally filmed for Spirit Rock Meditation Center’s Monday Night Talks and Guided Meditations in April 2026.
“When faced with hardship, the mind tries to survive, protect, and fix. Be grateful for it, soften your feelings, and return to the present. As Ram Dass reminded us, you are okay in the here and now.” – Jack Kornfield
About Jack Kornfield:
Jack Kornfield received his monastic training in monasteries in Thailand, India, and Burma, and studied as a monk under Buddhist master Ven Charles. Ajahn Char and Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw. He has been teaching meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers who introduced Buddhist mindfulness practices to the West. Along with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein, Jack co-founded Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts and Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than 1 million copies.
Jack is currently offering an amazing series of transformative online courses that dive into important topics such as the basics of Mindfulness Meditation, Walking the Noble Eightfold Path, Opening the Heart of Forgiveness, Living Beautifully, and Transforming Lives Through Powerful Stories. To explore Jack’s entire library of courses, sign up for an All Access Pass. If you’d like to enjoy a year’s worth of online meet-ups with Jack and the rest of the community, join us for The Year of Awakening: A Monthly Journey with Jack Kornfield.
Visit JackKornfield.com and sign up for his email teachings to stay up to date with the flow of Jack and his fresh Dharma offerings.
“The question is not whether there is suffering, because there is suffering, and some of it is really bad. And it asks us to pay attention. But the question is how we respond.” – Jack Kornfield
Photo credit: Shift Drive
