“It’s frustrating to believe that peace is some distant goal attainable only by a few fortunate souls blessed with good genes, superior brain chemistry, plenty of money, or a calling as a monk. But peace has not deserted even the crankiest and busiest among us. The most basic fact about being human is that peace is in our own true nature, our fundamental state of mind. There’s a Buddhist saying that peace is like a sun that’s always shining in your heart. It’s just hidden behind clouds of fear, doubt, worry and desire that continually orient you toward the past or the future. The sun comes out only when you’re in the present moment”. Joan Borysenko “Inner Peace for Busy People”.
I’ll be with you in a moment, a moment on the lips a lifetime on the hips, moment to moment, wait a moment, take a moment, I need a moment; how can we make the most of our moments?
Walk on the sunny side
Life is made up of a collection of moments, while some moments are beyond your control; how those moments are strung together and interpreted is up to you. Some days we think “everything went wrong” other days are interpreted as “good days”, the real truth is likely that both days had moments that make you want to go back to bed and moments that are neutral or good. If you are really struggling, you might need to make small moments of kindness even more important, more powerful, the focus of more of your attention. Focus on the flight attendant who was especially helpful rather than the character next to you who has confused a red eye flight with a sleazy pick up joint. Think of how nice she was to you as he leers and flirts while spilling his 5th vodka and sticky cranberry juice on your only outfit as your luggage didn’t make the connection!
“When you feel crazy busy, try taking a breath, and let go of whatever is on your mind. Think, here I am. Let your body relax, and feel your connection to the larger whole. This is not an easy task, but it becomes more and more possible with practice. Here you are. The possibilities for joy are all around you. Joan Borysenko, “Inner Peace for Busy People”.
Yesterday my moment came from turning off the baby monitor for 2 minutes, which didn’t feel particularly zen or kind, but did feel necissary. I know it can be hard, if you want some additional motivation try Joan’s book, she also has tapes. Check her out at www.joanborysenko.comThe book I have used today as inpiration for this post is one of my favorites because it is written in 52 short chapters which is realistic for busy, tired people.
Too busy to read? Try this little strategy all you have to do is count to 5
Take a deep breath in for 5 counts, hold it for 5 counts and let it out slowly for at least 5 counts. Do this 5 times.
Thank you for taking a moment with me this morning.
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