Since we’re on the precipice of September’s supermoon and a lunar eclipse, powerful cosmic energies unfold, encouraging us to reflect on the past and prepare for positive transformations.
Again, as above, so below. Are you ready?
(Featured image by Enchanted Seashells)
This is a wonderful day.
I have never seen this one before.
~ Maya Angelou
Seijaku: stillness in the midst of activity, is an advanced and powerful form of T’ai Chi Chih.
“The Japanese speak of Seijaku as serenity in the midst of activity. Not escaping from the world to some mountaintop as is taught in the Indian teachings. But finding the real meaning, fulfillment, energy and wisdom in the midst of everyday hustle and bustle – building a silent and imperturbable center while active in the disappointments and triumphs of our busy lives. This is real fulfillment.” Justin Stone Speaks on T’ai Chi Chih®
Seijaku (stillness, tranquility, solitude): The principle of seijaku emphasizes the fundamental Zen theme of emptiness, which implies an inexhaustible spirit.
It is in states of active calm, tranquility, solitude, and quietude that we find the very essence of creative energy. Silent pauses in music, as well as motionlessness in dance and theater, illustrate the power of seijaku.
In meditation, we strive to achieve self-awareness and focus, to learn how to quiet our mind.
I think that’s why it’s called a practice, because it’s a daily exercise to try and attain and actualize that state of being.
Some days it works; often it does NOT, but it’s a life goal. My brain often goes off on a tributary, thinking of funny things like the Seinfeld episode where George Costanza’s dad screams “Serenity, NOW!” (I’m working on that; like I said, it’s a practice…)
I helped this monarch butterfly escape from being trapped in the fence and she flew away unharmed.
And just when the darkness
became too much to bear
and the struggle too hard,
the light broke through
and the caterpillar emerged
a butterfly
delicate but unbroken,
wild and gentle,
finally free to spread its lovely wings
and fly away on the wind. --L.R. Knost
“If everything around seems dark,
look again, you may be the light.”
Rumi
Sometimes all we need is the perfectly petite flower of a fragrant geranium to change darkness to light; sadness to joy — and sometimes WE are the light.
This is what my heart dreams about in the deep of night.
Fairies dance in the moonlight
With hearts that shimmer bright
And wings that flutter softly
Making magic in the night”
~ Randi Kuhne
Credit to artist, image curated from Pinterest.
Even while it rains, my early morning view from an east-facing window was otherworldly and spectacular.
No filters or editing, just a landscape filled with rain, the break of day, and a sun who continues to rise and shine, no matter what.
There might be an inspirational message here about the indomitable will to survive in adversity or it’s simply a sunrise. Either way, it brings joy and gratitude on the first of February.
Some Wednesday wisdom.
“Rather than being your thoughts and emotions, be the awareness behind them.” Eckhart Tolle
Born in Germany and educated in the UK, Tolle’s teachings focus on the power of present moment awareness, which he believes is key to achieving a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. Tolle encourages us to focus on the present moment and to let go of negative thoughts and emotions, in order to experience a deeper sense of self-awareness and connection to the world.
