05.29.2026 3 Short Teachings on Why We Meditate Sometimes the greatest inspiration comes in bite-sized moments — a few sentences highlighted in a book, a passing comment from a teacher, or a phrase that lingers long after it’s spoken. It doesn’t always take a full book, a long talk, or a week-long retreat to bring fresh wisdom to our life and practice. Sometimes, it’s a mere flash of insight — a small spark that lights the way forward. In that spirit, this Weekend Reader features three short video teachings on meditation, each offering a quick point of inspiration for your practice. While deeper study certainly has its place, meditation doesn’t require us to figure it all out before we begin — it simply asks that we show up and practice. We hope these brief teachings light the way back to your cushion, or help you stay there a little longer. —Lilly Greenblatt, digital editor, Lion’s Roar Jack Kornfield Answers the Question “What Happens When You Meditate?” Buddhist teacher Jack Kornfield explains the transformative effects of meditation on the mind, sharing how meditation guides us toward a more mindful relationship with ourselves and the world around us. ADVERTISEMENT Alisa Dennis on Letting Go of Goals in Mindfulness Meditation Practice Alisa Dennis explores the true essence of meditation and mindfulness practice, encouraging us to let go of striving for specific outcomes. Jan Willis on How Meditation Leads to Wisdom Jan Willis shares the essential role of meditation on the path to wisdom. Even for beginners, she says, the newfound awareness that meditation fosters leads to immediate insight.