I Had a Dream of an Easy Life A Poem by Monica Hall

Performed by Robert Beatty with Saffire Bouchellion on hand pan accompaniment Hey friend — I used to dream of a flawless, straight-line life: honors, applause, zero heartbreak. But every perfect picture felt empty compared to this messy, raw, and strangely beautiful life I actually live. So here's to the tangled parts, the surprising joy, and the scars that made us: I’m grateful for the chaos that shaped me. Come sit with me — we’ll laugh, ache, and celebrate it together.   🙏 SUPPORT THIS WORK These teachings are offered freely in the Buddhist tradition of dana (generosity). If this practice benefits you, please consider supporting: linktr.ee/robertbeatty 📚 NEW CLASSES & RETREATS - STARTING FEBRUARY 2026 Love & Happiness: The Four Brahma Viharas - 10-week course, starts Feb 18 Mindfulness for the Awakened Heart - Thursday evening drop-in, starts Feb 26 Remembering Death - One-day retreat, Feb 21 Details & registration: robertbeatty.com 🧘 PRACTICE WITH ROBERT Morning Meditation (weekdays 6:30-7:15am PST) - robertbeatty.com Individual Guidance (first session free) - robertbeatty.com YouTube: youtube.com/@RobertBeattyBuddhistMeditation Newsletter: substack.com/@robertbeattymeditation #meditation #guidedmeditation #mindfulness #Buddhism #metta #lovingkindness #dharma #vipassana #InsightMeditation #lifeaffirmingdharma