the art of attention, the fading of memories

Life's most precious moments seem to

pass so quickly.

In the blink of an eye things change. No two moments are the same.

There are many teachings that encourage us

to stay in the present because that is

where living actually happens.

Oftentimes we vacillate between residing in the past

or spring boarding off into the future, neglecting what is really happening

in the now as a result.

Nature provides lessons along these lines.

In the life of a gardener there is a

constant pull toward the future.

We daydream and plan and imagine what it will be like

when our plans come to fruition.

We see infinite possibilities,

always looking toward what could be. The same is true

with a renovator/decorator/restorer of houses.

We look at something and see it as it could become

with hard work and resourcefulness.

This is all part of the fun

of the process of tending to spaces, both indoor and outdoor.

But once in awhile we must take the time

to stop and celebrate the beauty

that comprises our present reality. In doing this,

we cannot help but cultivate a sense of gratitude for what is.

Gratitude is at the root of all spiritual practices,

a common denominator among all traditions.

That bucketful of peonies

gleaned from my neighbor's farm

is now gone,

their blooms and fragrance,

a faded memory.

I had filled pitchers and containers of peony blossoms and placed them

all around the house.

They adorned nearly every available surface.

When I walked into a room,

I encountered that heady fragrance,

and sometimes it nearly

knocked my socks off.

Now, all the blossoms have faded.

The containers have been washed and put back in their rightful places.

The memory lingers

simply because I focused my attention

on the moments I lived with their grace in my house.

Paying attention has allowed me

to carry that memory in my heart.

I paid homage to their loveliness each time I was reminded of their presence,

and now I pay homage by celebrating the memory.

For this I am grateful.

I encourage you to cultivate some mindfulness

of the grace and beauty in your own life.

Your memory and peace of mind will thank you for it.

Until next time...

Anne