A Moment at a Time

In the morning, before the chipmunks wake up, I go outside to collect ripe walnuts. We all know that walnuts come from trees. It is so ordinary, but when I pause and take a breath, wonder arises at the miracle of walnuts falling from a tree.

This week, I am collecting stories of awe and mystery; ordinary small moments, like looking out a window and catching a glimpse of the full moon, to big moments, such as a new mother awash in unconditional love while holding her child for the first time. I have heard stories that change the direction of a life, like standing on the still warm lava flow in Hawaii or being sick in insolation in a hotel room for a week while away from home.

What these moments, big or small, have in common is the falling away of the hyper-rational, too much to do, busy, preoccupied mind. There are mysteries and possibilities in your particular life, with your particular struggles and joys. The rational mind may tend towards quantifying or even discounting the value of your worth, your actions, or your practice. However, we can't know. We just can't.

Be willing this week to let go of your busy mind for just a moment at a time and allow the wonder and mystery to shine through.