“Earth is always earth. The earth will always let anyone sit on it, and earth never gives way. It never lets you go-you don’t drop off the earth and go flying through outer space. Likewise, sky is always sky; heaven is always heaven above you. Whether it is snowing or raining or the sun is shining, whether it is daytime or nighttime, the sky is always there. In that sense, we know that heaven and earth are trustworthy.” – Chögyam Trungpa
The following reflection is based on teachings of Chögyam Trungpa, from his book, “Shambhala the Sacred Path of the Warrior.” There is a basic goodness to life. Earth does not require that we achieve some feat in order for us to receive her gifts. She offers them freely and without distinction.
We can catch little glimpses of this goodness in our daily routines. Maybe, you were in a building all day long. As you take your leave and step outside, you pause for a moment, breathe in the cool crisp autumn air; exhale with a sigh of gratitude. You trump through the fallen leaves and enjoy the crunch, crunch, crunching sound beneath your feet. A waft of chimney smoke stirs longings within as your eyes trace the curve of the crescent moon. You experience a light touch of appreciation for all that is inherently good.
Similarly, there is a basic goodness in every human being that contains great gentleness and appreciation. Each of us has a responsibility to help our world. Our quest then is to discover what unique gift we have to offer. Unless we can uncover our basic goodness, how can we hope to help improve the lives of others?
Trungpa suggested that we begin with the simple act of sitting with a good posture as we focus on our breathing. This unconditional meditation is not bound to any particular culture and it is without judgment and preconceived ideas. It enables our mind and body to synchronize as peacefulness unfolds within. Trungpa explained, “Through the practice of sitting still and following your breath as it goes out and dissolves, you are connecting with your heart. By simply letting yourself be, as you are, you develop gentle sympathy for yourself.”
Trungpa poses a poignant question, “How often have you connected with yourself in your whole life?” In essence, what is most important is a willingness to open up and befriend ourselves. It requires a willingness to face ourselves without resistance or avoidance of our discomfort.
As we open to ourselves, we can openly share our heart with the world.
~Liz Sorensen Wessel
(Mandala watercolor above, by ~liz)
I hope you enjoy this wonderful little poem written and performed by Tanya Davis called, "How to Be Alone".
Journal of Sacred Work 
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