The Best

15 April 2010 at 7:02 AM (Every Where Present, Process, Uncategorized)
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The best, like water
Benefit all and do not compete.
They dwell in lowly spots that everyone else scorns.
Putting others before themselves
The find themselves in the foremost place
And come very near to the Tao.
In their dwelling, they love the earth;
In their heart, they love what is deep;
In their personal relationships, they love kindness;
In their word they love truth.
In the world, they love peace.
In their personal affairs, they love what is right.
In action, they love choosing the right time.
It is because they do not compete with others
That they are beyond the reproach of the world.

Lao Tzu
Passage Meditation, Eknath Easwaran p 39

In passage meditation one is encouraged to memorize a scripture or sacred text, on which to meditate. When I first read this piece, it did not sink in. I did not understand it. I suspect I have mental blocks from when approaching anything in poem format due to past traumas!
This morning though, is speaks to me. I am pondering what it is to be “the best” and to “not compete.”

Yesterday I had a meeting at work. I had reached my limit emotionally with trying to address a challenge, but also a limit on who to go to and how to get some resolution. I could not understand how I could so easily see a situation as problematic while others could not. It was crazy-making!

They meeting went surprisingly well…and okay it was stacked in my favor as two of my many bosses actively attended. I don’t believe I have ever known such guileless, freely given support. I am grateful.

Yet there was not tension in the exchange. Everyone used their good company manners. The issue was thoroughly discussed. A plan was created and a deal line set.

Upon reflection, I witness behavior of “the best.” But even more I got to move in the role of “the best.” Before attending the gathering I felt the support of the Universe. My sense was that this coming together would be productive and resistance free. That I could attend without having to make threat, lead the offensive or be on the defensive. That was a first for me with a work issue which for me is so emotionally charged.

Every where present. I marvel how Source demonstrations before I know I am in need, and without my even asking. So very, amazingly blessed.

Peace. Out.

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Let Nothing Upset You or God Alone is Enough

2 April 2010 at 6:32 AM (Every Where Present, Meditation)
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God alone is enough.

Let nothing upset you,
let nothing startle you.
All things pass;
God does not change.
Patience wins
all it seeks.
Whoever has God
lacks nothing:
God alone is enough

– St Teresa Avila
Poet Seers

Theresa of Ávila by Peter Paul Rubens


Let nothing trouble you

Let nothing trouble you.
Let nothing scare you.
All is fleeting.
God alone is unchanging.
Patience
Everything obtains.
Who possesses God
Nothing wants.
God alone suffices.

Eldridge Carmel Prayers

The version I heard first:

Let Nothing Upset You

Let nothing upset you;
Let nothing frighten you.
Everything is changing;
God alone is changeless.
Patience attains the goal.
Who has God lacks nothing;
God alone fills every need.

This little poem of Saint Teresa of Avila, dear to Catholics around the world, was found in her breviary after her death. Teresa de Cepeda y Ahumada, born in Avila, Spain, in 1515, is one of the best-loved saints in the Catholic tradition and a spiritual figure of universal appeal. A vivacious, talented girl, she entered a Carmelite convent at eighteen and passed more than twenty years there in doubt and division before she was able to dedicate herself completely to God. After that, her life is one of intense practical activity – establishing convents, teaching, writing, traveling – centered in the deepest spirituality and inner peace. Her three books are classics of world mysticism.

Passage Meditation
Eknarth Easwarn

Eknarth Easwaran

Eknarth Easwaran’s book Passage Meditation describes a technique that requires one to memorize and repeat a sacred scripture to meditate. The one above is one that resonates for me. I find it particularly helpful for reconnecting with the every where present. Easwaran would say the effectiveness comes from the fact that one is using sacred words from mystics, way showers and the like, somewhat like connecting into the cosmic consciousness that brought forth the words.

What I know for sure is that through repetition and over time, my recitation of this piece allows me to more vividly rest and know the omnipresence of Source. He invites you to select passages of your own on his site page Passages for Meditation.

Peace.

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