“Before enlightenment; chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment; chop wood, carry water.” ~ Zen Proverb
The Enso (Zen) circle.
Enlightenment, strength, elegance, the Universe, the void…an expression of the moment…and a symbol of when the mind is free to let the body and spirit create.
This has become a part of me, quite literally.
And this has become a part of my being. Perhaps it always has been…
I’m drawn in by the word enlightenment. What does that mean? Really…mean.
“Enlightenment is the understanding that this is all, that this is perfect, that this is it. Enlightenment is not an achievement, it is an understanding that there is nothing to achieve, nowhere to go.” ~ Osho
Back to that idea of what this means…to me.
Awareness. Awareness of the soul, of a deeper part of who we are. The light. The dark. And I see this all as part of the journey. Perhaps that’s a journey inward first, a journey into the depths of who we are…who we really are. Have you traveled there? Is this a place you want to go? In moments of conscious stillness, we can travel that inward journey. In traveling down this path, we open ourselves to what is…what is us.
We are.
In this very moment, this one in which you are reading these words…this is it. This is your life. Just as this is my life, in this moment, as I type these words. And this is perfect.
Is this what you desire?
Back down that inward path again…
What are you creating? In you.
Our life is now. And like the Zen circle created by a single brush stroke, our life is the brush stroke we create, in this moment. Perfectly imperfect. Imperfectly perfect. No two moments completely alike.
Back to the journey…
It is one we all continue on. Are you conscious of the path you are traveling?
The Zen circle, to me, represents the moments of my life. This is a path I choose to consciously travel down…continually seeking a deeper understanding of enlightenment, grace, and strength in my life. Some days I soar. Some days I fall. And all are good and perfect…
Note: The Zen circle above was created by a wonderful friend here at the Jungle of Life…Lori, from Jane be Nimble. Lori, many thanks of gratitude to you, for the inspiration you bring to this world.
Hello Lance
I took a deep breath when I finished reading this. Your transparency and authenticity in this post was inspiring. And alongside that the words came with such a beautiful, calm, tranquil and peace-filled energy. Lance in this post, in this moment, I feel that you experienced that which you write about — enlightenment.
Those moments come to each of us I believe. Sometimes when looking at a flower. Sometimes when sharing a kiss. And sometimes they last longer to give us hope and faith that one day we can choose to live out of this state of understanding of the perfection of it all.
I think it is perfect that you have chosen the Zen circle — that single stroke to represent who you are at this time along the journey. As we look within, we see the perfection without.
In love & light I share this journey with you…
.-= Evita´s Last Fabulous Post ..7 Things I Wish I Had Known Earlier In My Life =-.
Evita,
I want you to know that you inspire me…to dig deeper, appreciate the beauty around me, love more fully.…
Thank you.
The Zen circle is truly like a new Zen circle being drawn in each moment of my life. And in that, it feels very much like a journey that is so worth traveling. Life is amazing and beautiful and today very especially — connecting to my soul.…
And it is an honor to travel this path…one toward deeper enlightenment…with you, sweet friend.
Hey Lance,
That Osho quote is pretty awesome. I just love the freedom that comes with the understanding that all is perfect as it is.
Eduard,
If we can really embrace that idea…that all is perfect, just as it is…there truly is enlightenment in that. The closer we move toward that, the more we are living in a heavenly place…now…
Oh, Lance, this line: Back down that inward path again… That’s SUCH a journey, isn’t it. So powerful, because that’s where all the knowledge, understanding, light, dawning of truth, awareness… It’s where it all resides. And we bring it up to the surface, play and practice, then sit back and observe how we did, where to adjust, watch the ripple effects, consider and ponder, and take in a deep breath and dive back down again, for more… More knowledge, understanding, light, dawning of truth, awareness… Over and again, until one day we notice that our trips inward are shorter, brighter, happier… energy infusing us with more rapid “Oh, yes, I see!” and “Yes, yes, I’ll do that, yes!” and one day, we realize we’re just checking in from time to time, because lessons are well learned and life’s great, we’re sailing over the hiccups as if they didn’t exist, and we MARVEL at all we’ve done. We! Us! And we celebrate each moment, each day, singing our songs…knowing, all the while, that some new lesson will come along, and we’ll open that familiar door, and go within seeking… And it won’t be scary at all!
.-= Julie´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Only Thing That Matters =-.
Julie,
The journey inward is a journey that can provide such a depth of understanding. And moving in that direction, understanding “us” better — this really just takes us into “being” more true to our deeper values. You have said this so well, Julie…getting to that place where these trips can be short stops (or longer road trips) — all toward a continued awareness of ourselves.
Julie, it’s so good to read your words, and feel your spirit speaking through what you have shared. You are truly a gift here, and in my life…
Hi Lance, I like your Zen circle and quotes. Enlightenment (non-duality) is a fascinating subject. As Osho says, “there is nothing to achieve,” THIS is already it, here and now. THIS is always enough. Peace.
.-= Diane AZ´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Butterfly Dream =-.
Hi Diane,
Here and now…it’s what we have. Being in awareness of this, and truly believing that NOW is good and right…a wonderful place to be. Much peace to you, dear friend…
Hey, Lance! Awareness is certainly a big factor to happiness. I think back on all the levels of stuff I did not know about, but know about now. And when I think all layers yet to be revealed, I know that accepting and delighting in the moment will be the unifying theme. Each moment a teacher.
And YOU — I see you as always seeking, learning, looking inward to get closer to a better you, this Zen Circle part of the wonderful person you are . I see you as already Zen, and teaching us along the way. I am so glad to know you!!
xo
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Funny Typos, 17 (the caption cook edition) =-.
Hey Jannie,
And truthfully…you shine happiness big time!! So…you are well into awareness of self (I sure think you are, anyway). Love the thought — that there are many layers of each of us…yet to be revealed…all in due time. And until then, being fully in this moment…is a perfect place to be.
Jannie, you always have been wonderfully kind to me…and it is ALWAYS an honor to have you here. Today especially. Keep always shining your LOVE out into the world…and know that this LOVE you give so freely has touched me deeply.
xoxo
“In this very moment, this one in which you are reading these words…this is it. This is your life. Just as this is my life, in this moment, as I type these words. And this is perfect.”
This my friend is what I have also come to understand and accept lovingly. These lines made me swoon..“Our life is now. And like the Zen circle created by a single brush stroke, our life is the brush stroke we create, in this moment. Perfectly imperfect. Imperfectly perfect. No two moments completely alike.”
Tabitha,
So great to see you here today! NOW. It’s a very special moment, for all of us. And it is, because that’s all we truly have. And whatever that moment involves, it IS our life. Right, you know that. And it is all good…
Much peace.…
Hi Lance,
What a beautiful piece of writing. Ahhh, I felt like I just stepped out of a eucalyptus steam bath and was handed a cup of green tea.
You are a wonderful human being. Ever since we spoke about the Enso circle you are now wearing, and employed that as symbol for YOU and your BLOG — it has also told me so much more about who you are, Lance. And what a beautiful story it’s been.
Thanks for the kind words you spoke about me here, Lance, your words mean a lot to me.
~Namaste~
.-= Lori (JaneBeNimble)´s Last Fabulous Post ..Nearing Half Way =-.
Hi Lori,
Mmmm…steam baths and green tea. It all sounds so relaxing… {smile}
Lori, I am so grateful for YOU, for your work in creating this Enso circle, and especially for the friendship that has developed. It’s so good to be walking this journey with you, sweet friend…
Namaste
Well said — Enlightenment is Awareness.
And no one described Awareness better than Krishnamurti in my opinion.
“Do not think about yourself, but be aware of the thought, emotion, or action that makes you think of yourself.” That is awareness.
Abubakar,
Wow, that is a powerful quote you’ve shared. Being at that point…there really is such deep awareness in that… Many thanks for sharing this here.
Interesting idea Lance. I think for me there is a safety in not being enlightened. I am frightened by what I might find if I delve too deep below my surface. But there are pock-marks on that surface that I attempt to keep from view. But I wonder really what I would find if I took the time (ah…there’s the rub!) to really dig deeper. To awaken the longings in my heart. To face the light or darkness that is present at the awakening.
“Perfectly imperfect. Imperfectly perfect.”
That is what I think of for every aspect of my life. I don’t try to make my art perfect. There is a sense of calm in finding a flaw in it. Just as it is in people. But don’t we still believe that there are those among us who are perfectly perfect and our lives just cannot live up? I know that I find myself caught in that trap. Then I am always surprised when there is a humanness there, a sense that not everything is as it appears. That is enlightenment to me. To realize that not everything needs to be perfect. To be perfectly imperfect is imperfectly perfect for me.
Enjoy the day!
Erin
.-= Erin Prais-Hintz´s Last Fabulous Post ..Coming to My Senses::Bead & Button =-.
Hi Erin,
And I think that’s really a big part of this — the idea of both the light and the dark that is there for each of us. Are we ready to “sit” with that? Erin, I deeply appreciate your honesty here. Digging into who we really are…that’s not always easy stuff. It can be hard to “face the truth” of some things…for all of us.
Personally, I think you are enlightened more than you think you are. Just like the beautiful artwork you create (and we are lucky enough to have a piece of that here!) — all of us…like that Zen circle…a stroke that at once is never same as before. Perfectly imperfect. Imperfectly perfect. Just as you are, sweet friend…and just as I am.…
Much peace to you…always…
Our life is now. Well put, my friend.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Pottery bird, cozy and big hit =-.
Hi Lynn,
Thank you so much.…
NOW…is our life.…
While I am walking this circle of understanding, I will endeavor to keep chopping wood and carrying water. Thanks Lance!!
.-= Dr. J´s Last Fabulous Post ..Lab Notes: 1 in 5 Health Insurance Claims Mishandled; Switching White Rice for Brown Cuts Diabetes Risk =-.
Dr. J,
Keep chopping that wood, and carrying that water…there is so much truth in that statement…and in our continued growth as we continue on the journey of our life…
Lance,
Thank you for sharing this part of yourself.…
This moment is exactly what I desire. I don’t believe I’ve created it, though..I believe it’s been created and I’ve allowed my heart to open fully to the moment as it is. When I release layers of my Being, I may then fully embrace each moment exactly as it is meant to be, without any of “Me” in it, just that sensations of the moment…
The Enso circle is such a perfect external representation of *your* internal self. Your Spirit embodies all that the Enso circle represents…Such freedom you have, Lance, freedom to create, love, laugh, manifest, heal…exactly as you do…All that you share makes my heart leap because you are Love, and I am inspired and encouraged by who you are.…
Much peace…
Joy,
It feels good to share all of this…something which really is so meaningful to me. Know that I am deeply grateful for you being here, and reading these words.
I love this concept you are sharing, Joy — this idea that we allow our hearts to open to the moment in front of us. It reminds me very much, that when we connect to that deeper part of our heart, we also are connecting to our soul. When we do that within the moments of our life — our life truly becomes “alive” in us. How wonderful that is!
Joy, your words continue to just hold so much meaning for me. It is an honor to have you here, and even more…it is an honor to call you friend. Much peace, always…
For me, zen circle is a symbol of … me (creator) in this universe. Before you draw the circle, there is nothing and everything. When you draw the circle, the sense of individuality springs forward, but it’s really not individual and separate being, it’s part of what it was (and still is). Yet, the sense of individuality is what gives us the fun of life, something that could not have been when there was no circle.
.-= Akemi –Real Life Spirituality´s Last Fabulous Post ..Soul And Higher Self In The Virtual Reality Game =-.
Hi Akemi,
You have shared this interpretation of the Zen circle so beautifully. A symbol of “me”. This really adds even more depth to my understanding of this. It’s the uniqueness of this created circle — that is just like us — and our very own uniqueness in this world.
Thank you so much for this…
Hi Akemi .. thank you for this explanation .. it’s really helpful .. as I’m in the process of learning — so I picked up Lance’s reply .. and thought I must drop in again and say I appreciated your description .. Many thanks — now I’ll remember everytime I see a Zen Circle ..
Have a lovely weekend .. Hilary
Lance — thanks for highlighting Akemi and her words … lots of thoughts for the weekend .. & happy running!!!
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Ever Thought of a Map as an Encyclopedia? =-.
Hilary,
Yes, Akemi has shared beautifully here. So glad it helped you, too (and so good for me to let her words soak into my soul, too). And…I will be off running in just a bit today!! Have a wonderful weekend!
Dear Lance.
You caught me out, I was reading this fast with my mind on the fact that I should not be here on your blog but being in the garden getting veggies for lunch. Then I stopped because I thought you deserve better than my fleeting attention and I read the post again.
Yes, in every moment I get to choose who I am being. A rushing bio-robot, quickly leaving comments or connecting with your thoughts and connecting with the spirit you wrote this in. I stand corrected and choose to re-connect but it shows how I keep trying to go somewhere where I am not. This time it was away from your blog to my veggies.
Much love to you, Wilma.
Wilma,
I so much appreciate what you have shared here. How easy it is, I believe for all of us, to do this that you describe…be present and yet not be present at all. To let the mind wander. And in that, we miss out on the rich connection to that moment. I most definitely know this, and it continues to be something that I must remain aware of. And really, all of this is reminding me too…to give my fullness to each moment. All of the moments.
Wilma, I really want you to know how much this comment means to me. It does. Your words…they are so true and honest. And in that, it touches my soul…and leads me to question where I truly am at in all of this. And for that, I thank you deeply.
Enjoy those vegetables, dear friend!!
Dearest Lance and Wilma, This dialog between you and Wilma and the post itself really touched me. I too am trying to be more present and not (when I have SO much on my plate) simply see everything as another thing to “get through”. When I get out of this “get through it” mindset, let go and be REALLY present, no matter WHAT I am doing, my whole body seems to relax more, I feel calmer AND enjoy life more. I am not always good at it, but I am learning to let go and BE fully present in any given moment. Yesterday I thought how.… it’s not about WHAT I do, but rather that I am PRESENT in whatEVER I do. Does that make sense?
Also dear Lance, this post reminded me a bit of a video (part of a talk I gave at The Institute of American Indian Art) and I called it “The Great Circle of Love: One Living Organism”. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5myoNmRKVmU And yes, it is ALL perfect. Because we are ALL “One”, not separate parts as we are taught to believe, if we negate, debase, harm, judge another part, we judge, harm, debase, and negate ourselves. One of the chapters in my book is titled: There is No Separation. It was one of the major lessons I learned in the rainforest.
Sweet Lance, something you give so freely and generously is that you open your arms and embrace all those around you. You are so so open, and I just love you for that and treasure that gift that pours from you like warm glowing sunshine. I mean, someone who will wear a pink wig and pull goofy face is my kind of people!! They are, in fact, to be revered, treasured, adored and love. You are mostly definitely a beautiful and rare “one of a kind” soul. AND you ARE drastically changing the world. I love you my dear friend. Rob
.-= Robin Easton´s Last Fabulous Post ..Naked in Eden – Book Trailer =-.
Robin,
Being present in our moments. It’s so easy to say…and so much harder to truly do. Our minds wander. We’re focusing on something else. Whatever — that takes us away from our moment (any of them). Perhaps that’s it, too — Robin. This sense of “being”. In the moment. It’s to somehow let that moment become a part of us. This makes so much sense. We can easily choose to do something, and still be “somewhere else”.
And I just watched your video. I am almost positive I’ve watched this before, and find your thoughts on this so moving. The Circle of Love…in this thing we call life. It is all perfect. And how fitting that your snake symbol so closely resembles the Zen circle. Robin, I love the symbolism of the circle for all of this, too — for this idea that we are one.…one living organism.
Robin, your words, always so sweet and caring. I’m letting them sit upon my soul, as I type this. And that is all so good.And that is truly your soul shining through, illuminating the path for so many…illuminating the path for me…in this great circle of love.
Love and light dear sweet friend.…
At times I do fret and worry and wonder. Then I remember. ..everything is exactly the way it should be…I can now move a bit further on in my circle and think that everything is exactly the way it should be and it is perfect.
Not easy to do when life hands you difficult situations.
.-= Kimberley´s Last Fabulous Post ..Tough Yoga Class =-.
Kimberly,
Everything being exactly as it should be…
When we let that thought really soak into our soul, there is something very wonderful about it. It’s one that I am working toward — and some days I see this thought beautifully within my own soul…and other days.…it can be hard to see the perfection of the moment. You are so right — it’s those difficult moments that make this so hard. To think “this is difficult” and “this is perfect”. Yet, if we can see the good of that moment — connect to something meaningful — what a gift to get to that spot.
Kimberly, thank you so much for these words…
Lance:
Great, enlightening post! I really enjoyed the quote about enlightenment and all of the thought-provoking questions that you asked. Thanks also for the explanation of Zen circle that is part of your blog design — I’ve been wondering about that for a while. Lance, this post and your questions really remind me just how amazing our journeys really are. Thanks for your enlightenment and the positive vibes that you send out on your blog!
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Celebrating Small (and Large) Victories =-.
Hi Tim,
Thanks!! A few months back — I just felt that the design here didn’t feel “right”. And so I began the process of finding that “right feel”. In that, there were so many things that came up — and so many that, while they felt good, didn’t feel “right”. And then, when the idea of the Zen circle came to be — and especially with the meaning (and simplicity) behind it — there was a moment where I “just knew” that was it.
Working with Lori to create the header image was a wonderful experience, as I’m sure you can attest to, also — as I know she created yours as well. She does amazing work!
Tim, thanks so much for all the support and good vibes you put out here — it is so good having your presence in this space.
You don’t even know how much I needed to read this post today. Really. I have had the strangest past 3 days. I was going down a path that was dark…very very dark. I pulled myself off the path today. One of the hardest things I have done. I am in a haze even now as I write this. But I know it’s the right thing. When I sat for moment and asked…is this right? Should I do this…and the peace of world came over me. I knew what I had to do…and I pulled myself out of the dark.
.-= Caroline´s Last Fabulous Post ..part of me died today =-.
Caroline,
I really believe we end up at certain places and in certain moments for a reason. Your being here, when you needed it, is one of those. As it is for me, also, reading your comment today. The reason — for me — is that this all just helps to even more solidify my own belief in this idea — that we are drawn to a moment for a reason. Caroline, I thank you for that — and it’s because you have shared openly here.
Recognizing that darkness…being aware of it…so good. Know that there is a reason for you being there, and for being here also.
Much peace to you always, wonderful friend…
Grace and strength are a powerful combo and soaring is the only way to fly
The Zen circle always reminds me of Lucent’s logo.
.-= J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..3 Take Aways from The Karate Kid =-.
JD,
Thank you, always, for your support, my friend.
The Lucent logo…ahhh.…yes, it DOES have the “Zen circle” look!
if your zen circle is a bowl, fill it. if it is a ring, wear it. if it is a planet, find a home.
Hi Lucy,
Such deep thoughts for your short and meaningful statement, thank you so much for this.
Hi Lance .. I’m having some serious up and down moments .. and this post is making me realise I can bring myself into line and be calm and let life flow — it is now that matters as I am here .. it is what I am doing .. and that at least I am in the zone of thinking to get my life together .. and I know there are so many dear friends in the blogging world — who give us such wise advice on centring ourselves .. it’s a blessing to be around them & in particular you and go with you on your journey .. calmly and peacefully and serenely moving forward .. Many thanks for a great post .. Hilary
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Ever Thought of a Map as an Encyclopedia? =-.
Hilary,
First off, know that I am thinking of you during all these moments you are currently experiencing. This idea of getting our life in order…perhaps we are all on that path, to some degree. Life is. It is this moment. Now. And there is perfection in that moment — even when that is a challenge to see. Hilary, I am deeply grateful for the openness you have shared here. Much peace to you, wonderful friend…
“This is it” sounds like a great way to put “it” to me.
So often, I think, we’re casting our minds into the past and future looking for “it,” but “it” cannot be found there. There’s a quality that this moment has that no past event, no matter how wonderful it may be, or fantasy about the future can have. Appreciating that quality, I think, is so important.
Hi Chris,
Ahhh.…that “looking back” or “looking forward”…and in that, missing the moment. And that’s not to say that remembering our past or thinking of our future are bad things — as I truly believe they are not. There is much good in that. Still, when that takes us away from the moment…from something else…we miss the beauty of this moment. Like this moment, right now — as I type these words in reply to you…this is it. And in that, as I am being in this moment, I feel a presence between you and I…just from these words I type.
Chris, these are such meaningful words you have shared. Much peace to you…
Lance, I never thought a circle would have so much power until I started at the zen circle. Very informative article and I must say, you have some poetry in you. Glad to see you share it here. Of course the enlightenment bit tells me that you are a secret yogini and a master at meditation so we are kindred spirits after all
!
Hi Farnoosh,
First off, know that your presence here at this particular article truly is very meaningful to me. I feel that very much, this idea of kindred spirits between us. Farnoosh, I am drawn in by the words you share, and in that — I feel your presence.
The Zen circle has become so deeply meaningful to me. And in this whole journey, this is such a “right” place for me to be today.
Now…that “secret yogini” thought…maybe I should spend some time with that one…
Much peace to you, dear friend…
Too sweet and too kind you are Lance and it shows with all the adoring fans and all the silent ones that probably don’t have time to how to express their thoughts here.….I look forward to more on the Zen circle then!
.…and I want you to know, that in this moment…my thoughts are completely on you and on the words you have shared. And they are all landing on my heart…and that is beautiful and perfect…
You are beginning to sound like a Zen monk
I enjoy reading meanings and stories behind a blog’s icon or symbol. I like yours very much!
.-= Evelyn Lim´s Last Fabulous Post ..10 Sure-Fire Tips To Making Creative Visualization Fun! =-.
Hi Evelyn,
So good to have you here today.
A Zen monk…
Know that I very much take that as a compliment…and send smiles and hugs to you. Evelyn, you shine beautiful light in all the reaches of your world, and it is so wonderful to have you here, sharing a part of that. Thank you, always, for the gifts you give…
Lance,
Life is a circle. It rolls on slowly or fast, but it never stops. Sometimes it rolls off the path, sometimes it gets crushed and dented by other things. But it remains round and moving. Our circles intertwine everyday with things and people that make our circle smaller or bigger. And our circles creates ripples around us (more circles) with the actions and words we put out there. It is all linked. It is all now.
Roll on Lance for the world needs your ripples !
M
.-= Mindfulmimi´s Last Fabulous Post ..What’s in a name… =-.
Miranda,
I want you to know…that having had our circles intertwine has been a complete gift to me. The ripples that you create…they are filled with such goodness and meaning.
Life is a circle.…I love that.…as it is something that keeps on going. With all it’s highs and lows.
Miranda, you bring goodness and joy here… Much peace to you, dear and wonderful friend…
Wow, such a simple post and one that stirs my heart… Almost to the point of encouraging tears to flow up and out of my eyes.
Lance, in the past year your writing has shifted monumentally (I was struck by that as I read this post), and it feels as if it’s coming from much deeper in your soul. In sharing those deepest parts of you — the ones that are possibly hardest to put words to because they defy description — you honor us all. You remind me of who or what I am, in a split second, and possibly for only a second (hence the emotional response).
I thank you for that.
Your discussion of enlightenment also makes me want to go back to Massachusetts to do a weekend meditation retreat at IMS. It’s been more than a year since I’ve been there, but gosh it’s beautiful in its simplicity and sparseness.
Love & joy to you!
Megan,
Knowing some about this path you are traveling right now, I can sense (at this moment) the emotion with which you have written. Megan, your soul shines through here so beautifully today, and in that — your soul deeply touches my soul.
I feel that shift, too. Perhaps I don’t see it as a monumental shift — and that could be completely due to small steps over the course of the year — which have brought to this spot, today. Know that what you are saying…this feels so good for me to read. And it does — because I feel like I’m on that “right” track…at least that “right” track for this moment. Megan, I also want you to know how good it is to know you, and know you more that just superficially, as I travel down this path called life. You shine such amazing light into the world.…
And this meditation retreat sounds like a wonderful way of connecting more deeply…with self…and with soul. I would love to hear more about this someday…
Love and light to you, dear friend…
Hey Lance!
I love this. It’s so true. It took me a lot of years to understand that this is my life. Each moment, every hour, minute, second as it ticks away is my life! Most times, great, sometimes, not so great, but as I live my life, second by second, I also understand that it’s my choice how I view my life!
So, even the not so great moments, well they’re pretty great, in their own, not so great way! 
Have a great day Lance!!!
Natalia,
It’s taken me many years, too.…and it’s one of those things where I can still easily slip up. The moments…how easy it is to turn my focus elsewhere…unless I am really conscious of that moment. And that’s all been part of the journey…and a journey so worth being on.
And it’s all great…
Which…so are YOU! And it’s a great day having YOU here!
Lance, this came at the perfect time! Not that any other time wouldn’t have been perfect also, or is there really a perfect time… ok enough with the rambling! Anyway, I am consciously trying to make an effort to get to that enlightenment that I think my life needs right now. I’m trying to catch up with my life and things that have been put on hold for good, or not so good reasons. I’m going to have to keep this post in my email for a while to remind me what I am trying to attain!
thank you my friend!
.-= Jenny´s Last Fabulous Post ..A Fresh Re-Start =-.
Jenny,
Your words…while you think they might ramble a bit…they really touch my heart. And they do, because it really all is perfect…where you are, and where you are seeking. You are filled with goodness and light. That shines through in the words you share. Much peace and love to you…
Every word of this post is just so full of peace and strength.
” deeper understanding of enlightenment, grace, and strength in my life. Some days I soar. Some days I fall. And all are good and perfect…”
Brilliant, Lance. I am impressed to continue a zen journey in each and every moment.
.-= Angelia Sims´s Last Fabulous Post ..No Stressin’, No Freakin’ =-.
Angelia,
This really is a journey…and one that continues to evolve…just as yours is too. Angelia, it really has become a realization that, no matter what happens in the moments of my day — there is something good in all of it. I may not always see that right away, but I’m just really starting to deeply believe this. So good having you here…always…
” … there is nothing to achieve, nowhere to go.”
Thank you for this. It resonates with my spirit on many levels, especially recently. A beautiful post, Lance.
.-= Chania Girl´s Last Fabulous Post ..Moments of Eternity =-.
Chania Girl,
Those are words that resonate with me, too. Sure, there are moments when I forget this completely, and get caught up in my own ego. When I fully live this thought, though…there is just an extra sense of peace…and that is so, so good.
Know that your being here, Carla, means the world to me. You are a ray of beautiful light into my life…
“our life is the brush stroke we create, in this moment”…LOVE this essential truth Lance…beautifully said.
Laura,
So good to see you here! Yes, we create the moments of our life, as they are each uniquely ours. Then — and this is the harder part for me — it’s really getting to that place of fully being in those moments.…
This is an amazing post and one that I can truly appreciate after the day I had yesterday (had a brief encounter with rip tides, coral rocks and a rescue team). Anyway, when I was standing upon that coral rock with my friends waiting for someone, anyone to come to our rescue, I thought about all that could have gone wrong and still could go wrong, but only briefly. My life was as it needed to be in that moment we grew closer, we appreciated being where we were and who we were. I know to some it may sound cheese, especially because we weren’t exactly stranded where no one would find us, but we realized how lucky we were to have each other and that rock to keep us safe. In everything there is something good, no matter how bad it may seem at the time. I have always been afraid of rip currents and rip tides but I didn’t let this little mishap scare me or define who I would be moving forward, instead we took this as a learning experience and an opportunity to grow closer, grow spiritually, and grow in knowledge. I hope this all makes sense, I’m still trying to make sense of it all myself. thanks for this awesome quote and message! You’re a true inspiriation!
… by the way, I’m smiling!
Hi Terie,
Thank you so much for sharing this personal experience you have just had. As I read it all, and think about YOU, in that moment — I really am drawn in by your sense of seeing that this was your life, in that moment — and it was as it should be. It could be so easy to think otherwise in a moment like this — and in that — also not fully be in that moment. And yet — it was so much more for you.
Terie, this all makes wonderful sense, and I am really grateful for you sharing it all here. Having you there is a gift today…and always…
L-O-V-E-D this post Lance!!! I completely agree with your perspective on enlightenment. Have you ever heard of Ainslee MacLeod? He is a spiritual leader and featured author on Oprah’s Soul Series. Last year we hosted a Soul Safari Transformation that brought travelers looking for spiritual guidance to Africa to learn directly from Ainslee. It was so powerful and valuable that we are doing the Soul Safari again in 2011! Maybe something you would be interested in
Hi Sandy,
You are sweet, thank you!! Hmmm.…yes I do believe I have heard of Mr. MacLeod. And this safari experience with him just sounds like a gift for all those who are traveling with him…a journey into Africa and a journey into self…
Sandy, I really think what you are doing is so filled with wonder and growth — and something I am very much interested in!
Have a wonderful weekend!
lovely and simple…exactly the point of zen.
and i love that when one of us bloggers are dealing with/contemplating/etc something, that energy seems to flow through several of us. I just wrote about awareness too!
love this post. thank you.
.-= brandi´s Last Fabulous Post ..balance. =-.
Brandi,
Do we over complicate things sometimes?? I know I do. And yet, the more I’ve went within…which has also led to this Zen circle having such meaning for me — the more I do find exactly that — life can be lovely and simple (so I love that you’ve said this). Okay…and NOW I have to read your take on awareness!!
Brandi, it’s wonderful to have you here today.…especially on this article…
Lance,
I love your zen circle. Love it! A client gave me a book by Osho years ago and I still have it on my book shelf. I soooo forget how precious the moment and life really is…last night my granddaughter and her friend were dropped off at a concert to see the Back Street Boys, they had lawn seats. My grandson was off to a friends house.
A huge storm kicked up and when my daughter was talking to me the siren in her town went off. She immediately got in her car and headed toward the concert. She said the trees were U-shaped from the wind blowing so hard. Then we lost connection.
I was so tempted to go to chaos in my mind of an outdoor concert and hundreds of kids caught in a storm with hundreds of parents picking them up. I didn’t. I decided to call the prayer line and then we went to the pool because I new there would lots of kids to watch play and also keep me in the moment and out of “a big story” in my head. I also text Mackenzie and told her Shelly was on her way to pick her up and get her out of there.
It took a couple of hours and when Shelly got there there were drenched but under cover. So what does this have to do with enlightenment? Hell if I know except that like Wilma I fought staying in the moment. It was also a reminder of how precious life is and how it can end at any moment for any of us. And oh how I forget that;)
Tess,
I really think what you are touching upon is what Brandi did also (up above). Awareness. And I really think that’s such a key to all of this — just being aware. And I sense that very much from you. Still…there’s this idea of being aware…and then really living that awareness. I know. It can be a challenge — to keep fully focused on the moment.
What a scary moment for everyone in your family — knowing Mackenzie was out during very stormy weather. As a parent, I can relate to those feeling of fear and chaos. And I believe very much that this touches upon awareness and enlightenment. In that moment — when this is all happening — we become completely in that moment. Awareness is heightened. And in that — enlightenment as to what truly matters in life…at least for that moment. (and perhaps it also becomes a larger part of our being after something like this).
Tess, thank you so much for sharing this story — it really touches upon the humanity in our soul…
Hi Lance.
I’d say our internals benefit greatly from being enlightened in one way or another. I am conscious of the path I am traveling upon, and although I can see ways I would travel this path much more smoothly, at least I know I am on a conveyor belt that is heading towards my desired location. This is much better than not having such a location. When you lack a destination, you start to act irrationally because there is no basis of your actions.
.-= Armen Shirvanian´s Last Fabulous Post ..You And Your Response To Competition =-.
Hi Armen,
That’s a great point! Being conscious of our path we are traveling…knowing where we are headed. Good stuff, for sure!! And — even if when we reach that destination it’s not the same because we’ve made adjustments along the way — still, so good to have been through this thought process. Thanks Armen!!
I love symbolism. Having a symbol to guide us and remind us of our true self is wise. I find myself really identifying with the compass. The compass, and the road map, have become a symbol I identify with a lot. It reminds me to navigate to my true north.
.-= Leisa Watkins´s Last Fabulous Post ..Are Your Dreams Guiding You To The Wrong Shore Line? =-.
Hi Leisa,
It’s great to “meet” you! Prior to starting this site, the idea of the meaning behind symbolism wasn’t something I thought of that much. Over the last couple of years, this really has taken on more meaning for me. And I think it’s in the idea that a symbol is something we can associate with, have with us (however we choose), and then live more in the meaning behind it.
And — I love what you have shared about the compass, and about it symbolism guiding you toward your true north…wonderful…
Thanks for sharing such a good post. Definitely, this information will help people to enlightenment inner soul . However, I found another interesting blog http://urbanmonkdiaries.wordpress.com/ which also provides valuable information about Personality and Self Development, spirituality, urban living and enlightenment.
Nyima,
Thank you so much for visiting here! And thanks for sharing a link to more material on this, as well. I will definitely check it out.
great post..keep up the good work…seems like your on the right track
.…I don’t know what I am…but I do know what I am not (thoughts, mind).…and this is not a logical understanding.…
ivan´s Last Fabulous Post ..Getting A Hair Cut While Living Abroad: Quick Tips For a Pleasant Experience
Hi Ivan,
I really believe it’s a journey for each of us…and when that is a journey that turns inward, it can touch upon our soul in some beautiful ways. So, we may not always have the “answers”…or they might change anyway as we continue on that journey. And it’s all good.…and it’s all perfect.
Ah, the Enso. I hadn’t seen this post before you set up a link on your most recent post, and now I’m glad you did!
I love this symbol. The Ouroboros has always been the one which spoke to me most often, but it’s the same. Yet different. Yet the same. =)
Thank you.
Delena Silverfox@Coupon Codes´s Last Fabulous Post ..Hostgator Coupon Code
Delena,
This article has special meaning to me, as this Enso circle is really so much of my being (in more ways than one!). So, I’m really glad to have you here today and reading this…
And I just looked up the Ouroboros, as I wasn’t familiar with it. Yes — the same, yet different… And I personally love this idea of the eternal return…