We live in interesting times, no doubt. Their expression is different around the world but the roots are the same: Intolerance and Arrogance. Intolerance of those different from ourselves, and the arrogance in thinking that others should be like us. It’s nothing new and probably won’t go away anytime soon. It is important to remember, though, that despite the hatred and bigotry and other seeming unfathomable happenings around us All is Well. All Truly is Well.
The Chinese writer Feng Menglong penned a short story in 1627 that contained the words, “Better to be a dog in a peaceful time than to be a human in a chaotic (warring) period.” Luckily it is easy to find peace and our inner dog even amidst chaos. There are so many opportunities to see and live in peace and beauty and to make those the dominant experiences of our days. It simply takes a willingness to focus on such things and to detox from what we usually allow our experiences to become.
As I sit here this morning, the sun is not yet risen and the sky is brightening. I see small birds relishing over the food I left them yesterday in anticipation of the cold night ahead. I hear them singing in gratitude and peace. I see in my mind’s eye the spring flowers peeking in wait for the warm day to come and thankful that the season’s change brings them a new life experience. The heat in the house is gentle and soothing; the sound is peaceful. Tea in hand, breakfast preparing. Lola sits in the window waiting to watch the sun appear over the mountain to bathe her in its glow. What a lucky dog am I with all that I allow to surround me! No amount of chaos – in my country, in the world, inside me – can force me to be a human in its face.
I do my best to start every day this way wherever I may be. In Mexico I arise before anyone and relish a warm cup of coffee with the cats. In a hotel room I enjoy the things around me and appreciate those who give of themselves to make my comfort possible. Wherever I am I find a way to take a moment to see or conjure in my mind representations of beauty and peace. It is very easy to do and the practice sets a tone that no amount of chaos can willingly break.
This Sunday, and always, may you find your inner dog and always live in peaceful times! It is easy and it is possible. For All Truly isWell.
With Blessings and Gratitude,
from Santa Fe, New Mexico
