April 4, 2013
2013
April 4, 2013
PRIDE
I have a good friend who often says “there is pride before every fall.” I appreciate these words and certain situations call them to mind. As with most words of this kind, I like to visit the dictionary first: pride [prahyd] noun: A high or inordinate opinion of one’s own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as – Read More –
April 3, 2013
JUST BECAUSE ;)
April 3, 2013
THE MIND CREATES MISERY
The Tao doesn’t come and go. It is always present everywhere, just like the sky. If your mind is clouded, you won’t see it, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. All misery is created by the activity of the mind. Can you let go of words and ideas, attitudes and expectations? If so, then – Read More –
April 2, 2013
HIROSHIGE
Another favorite Japanese ukiyo-e artist of mine is Utagawa Hiroshige (1787-1858). Hiroshige is considered to be one of the last great ukiyo-e masters. The print above of the Awa Whirlpool (from the “Famous Views of 60-odd Provinces” collection) is a masterpiece of color using the ukiyo-e woodblock print technique. Whirlpools have long represented portals to other – Read More –
April 1, 2013
BECOME LIKE A CHILD
“Truly, I say to you, whosoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” Luke 18:17 We spend so much time in our lives obtaining knowledge, while simultaneously losing our childlike innocence and joy. To me, being “born again” means to return to a childlike state after attaining adult-like intelligence. It – Read More –
April 1, 2013
BALANCE IS…
helping others without neglecting yourself… genuinely appreciating those who help you… turning work into play… leaving work at work and being completely present at home… leaving the past behind… letting the future take care of itself… and living only in the present… taking time to center yourself… knowing when enough is enough… and knowing when – Read More –
March 31, 2013
OVERFULL
A university professor went to visit a famous Zen master. While the master quietly served tea, the professor talked about Zen. The master poured the visitor’s cup to the brim, and then kept pouring. The professor watched the overflowing cup until he could no longer restrain himself. “It’s overfull! No more will go in!” the – Read More –