How Do We Practice in Chaotic Times? - Daigan Gaither

Even when we see uncertainty and injustice all around us, can we navigate our life with grace and resilience?

Daigan Gaither emphasizes that our suffering and confusion are not barriers to practice but the very ground of it.

He reflects on how to stay grounded and compassionate during turbulent and overwhelming times, drawing from his personal experiences and Buddhist teachings. He reminds us that practice doesn't mean escaping chaos—it means being present with it. By noticing our feelings, turning toward discomfort, and showing up honestly, we can respond with more wisdom and care. Daigan encourages us to drop perfectionism and meet ourselves with kindness, because showing up—even imperfectly—is the practice.

He offers practical and heartfelt suggestions for practicing in challenging times:

1. Pause and breathe – Come back to your body and breath, especially when overwhelmed.
2. Name what’s happening – Acknowledge your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
3. Stay connected – Practice in community and reach out to others for support.
4. Lean into the precepts – Use Buddhist ethical guidelines as a compass, not a rulebook.
5. Embrace imperfection – The world is messy, and so are we; we can still show up with love.

Ultimately, Daigan's message is one of hope: he invites us to meet chaos not with avoidance or despair, but with curiosity, compassion, and presence. 

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Rev. Daigan Gaither (he/him) began Buddhist practice in 1995 in the Vipassana (Insight) tradition, then began studying Zen in 2003. He received Lay Ordination in 2006 where he was given the name Daigan or “Great Vow,” and received Priest Ordination in July 2011. Daigan speaks internationally on a variety of topics particularly around gender, sexuality, social justice, and their intersections with the Dharma. He also sits or has sat on a number of boards and committees that serve community needs and further social justice causes.

Daigan has a BA in Philosophy and Religion from San Francisco State University, and an MA in Buddhist Studies (with a chaplaincy certificate and a certificate in Soto Zen Buddhism) from the Graduate Theological Union and the Institute of Buddhist Studies. He lives in San Francisco, CA and identifies as a disabled, queer, white, cis male. Learn more at https://queerdharma.net

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CREDITS
Audio Engineer: George Hubbard
Producer: Tom Bruein
Music/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter