Author Archives: alan

Underwater Meditation Retreat

I don’t have to tell Reedies about the magic of being underwater. After all, we invented underwater basket weaving. So here’s another underwater adventure (courtesy of Tricycle magazine) that might interest Reed’s aquatically inclined. (Note: it arrived in my Inbox … finish reading Underwater Meditation Retreat

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“Fish-inspired” Wind Farms

In order to reach maximum efficiency, windmills must be spaced far apart. This allows each rotor to capture ‘clean’ air moving across its blades. Unfortunately, arranging windmills for high efficiency means that wind farms must occupy a fairly large patch … finish reading “Fish-inspired” Wind Farms

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The Work of Scientists

A great article, Chasing the Higgs Boson, in the NY Times (Science, Mar 5) paints an elegant portrait of the ups-and-downs experienced by physicists working at the Large Hadron Collider over the past few years. Two large teams of physicists … finish reading The Work of Scientists

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Silent Meditation Every Thursday

A famous koan asks, What is this? You can investigate this or just “be in the moment” every Thursday, 2:15-3:15, Reed Chapel. The Thursday silent meditation periods are being hosted by two Reed students, Molly Jackson-Nielsen and Rebecca Shafer. Don’t … finish reading Silent Meditation Every Thursday

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Mindful Meditation & Difficult Emotions

Setting aside a few minutes to sit quietly, to meditate, to practice mindfulness, seems so at odds with our busy lives. Does anyone really have time to sit and do nothing? What could be the possible benefit? Long-time teacher, Sharon … finish reading Mindful Meditation & Difficult Emotions

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James DePreist, 1936-2013

James DePreist died last Friday. By the time I arrived in Portland in 1989, one could take it for granted that the Oregon Symphony was a professional ensemble with a national reputation, but DePreist was the engine that made it … finish reading James DePreist, 1936-2013

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Sharing Silence

I plan to return to the Chapel at noon tomorrow (Wed) for weekly silent meditation. All are welcome. There are no strong rules to follow: simply try to sustain an environment of silence and let the mental and physical chatter … finish reading Sharing Silence

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Carbon Tax: the gift that says “I care about you”

Chem profs don’t usually weigh in on tax policy, but it’s the season for thoughtful giving and nothing says, “I care about you,” like a thoughtful gift. That’s why I’m suggesting the US adopt a carbon tax in the new … finish reading Carbon Tax: the gift that says “I care about you”

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‘Change your mind’ with 5 minutes of daily practice

Maria Konnikova, writing in the NY Times (Dec 15, “The Power of Concentration”) says, “Even in small doses, mindfulness can effect impressive changes in how we feel and think — and it does so at a basic neural level.”

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‘Despair’ at Climate Conference in Doha

(Update: On 11 Oct 2021 the Reed College Board of Trustees announced its decision to divest the college’s endowment from fossil fuels. Read about it here.) With Hurricane Sandy behind us (except if you live in those forgotten parts of … finish reading ‘Despair’ at Climate Conference in Doha

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