"Here there is no talk of the world's affairs - those matters that make wild the hearts of men." Chia Tao (779-843); trans. Mike O'Connor

Saturday, November 20, 2010

My Zen View and Haiku - Thankfulness - November 20, 2010

Thankfulness is in the quiet breathing of meditation when, without distraction, we are aware of the simplicity of the in-breath and out-breath. From there, we become aware of the gifts of sight and hearing and the beating of the heart. As our thankfulness expands we realize the generosity of others who have worked to provide food and shelter and we reciprocate by providing for them as well.

Gratitude is expressed when we smile to a child or move a snail off the sidewalk to prevent it being crushed. Gratitude is shown when we forgive others and ourselves for being so very human and we bow to those who have shown us our own struggles and where we can improve. We are grateful for this precious life and the precious life of others.

I am so thankful
For my fellow wayfarers
That I bow to them.

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