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
