Buddhist thought leader Sebene Selassie—the meditation expert on Dan Harris's 10% Happier podcast and former executive director of New York Insight Meditation Center—explains the concept of “True Belonging,” and shows you how to use it to truly be your authentic, centered, and confident self in every moment, no matter where you are.When you feel you truly belong, you are finally free to be exactly yourself in every moment—no matter where you are or in what circumstance—allowing you to experience the peace, confidence, and contentment that are your birthright.
This is the essence of the Buddhist principle True Belonging. In You Belong, Selassie draws on ancient wisdom to teach modern readers how to walk the path of community and connection, while strengthening their ability to stand bravely alone. Combining personal insights with practical tools, she offers lessons for living in the present moment, forgiving, focusing, and breathing. You Belong welcomes everyone—especially minorities and people of color—to the practice of mindful meditation without judgement and brings the essence and powerful benefits of Buddhism to all spiritual seekers.
Sebene Selassie has studied Buddhism for more than twenty-five years and received a BA from McGill University and an MA from the New School, where she focused on Buddhism, Hinduism, cultural studies, and race. She is a graduate of the Community Dharma Leaders Program at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, and of the Professional Coaching Course training program at New Ventures West. She was the Executive Director of New York Insight Meditation Center, where she currently teaches and on the board of the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies. A native of Ethiopia, she lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Table of Contents
Introduction: An Imitation to Belonging 1
1 The Delusion of Separation 11
We Were Never Separate
2 Domination 39
Fueling the Fire of Not Belonging
3 Ground Yourself 71
4 Know Yourself 105
5 Love Yourself 139
6 Connect Yourself 167
7 Be Yourself 201
Appendix 1 Ten Tips for Meditating at Home 227
Appendix 2 Journal Prompts & Meditations and Practice 233
