Chop Wood, Carry Water

“Before enlightenment; chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment; chop wood, carry water.” ~Zen proverb

In my case, I'm picking stones from around my medicine wheel and placing them back one by one. I do this once each year around this time to clean the mimosa flowers that have fallen from the tree and landed in and around the fire pit - the wheel's center. I enjoy doing this because I'm given a chance to meditate, reflect and connect with what's in my yard.

When I moved to my current home 7 years ago, my courtyard was nothing but dirt. I did a lot of sitting in the middle of the yard in the beginning to connect with the land and figure out how to bring life around me. I wanted to have an edible yard, so I landscaped accordingly, while also honoring the four directions and elements.

 Today I thought about the changes I've recently made and continue to make. Change is a constant, but I am the one to decide the outcome; focusing on one stone at a time and staying in the present. I won't give up on my dreams or goals by staying present, only give my attention to what is -now and set the wheel(s) in motion to the next stone and chapter in my life.

 I'm becoming more grateful for what I have in my life, and in spite of some challenges and limitations, I am healthy and able to enjoy so many things. I am very blessed and know that I will succeed in all I set out to do, one stone at a time.

 Namaste,
 WS

New Beginnings

It's amazing how many times I've put something off because it's not the right time, date, year, whatever. I'll start my lifestyle change on July 1, 2014 (NEVER the middle of the month), or I'll start walking next month or..... you get my drift. Maybe we put things off because change is scary. What if I leave my relationship, will I find anyone else? I don't like my job, it's affecting my health and should quit and find another, but I've been here so long I'm sure I won't find something that pays as much... Both of the above examples I've lived through - AND SURVIVED! I also made a change by not waiting to change my life; hiring two trainers (in the middle of the month); following through with my fitness goals and trying really hard to manage my sleeping and eating. I've been going back and forth about buying property (I live in a small townhouse now); but I've been afraid of having a mortgage. I am currently debt free and love having the luxury of being able to take off on a trip any time I want, or buy that new motorcycle.... I went and looked at a new motorcycle on Saturday - bigger, faster, great touring bike - was planning on taking the pup on a trip back home next year. Turns out the bike was just a little big and I didn't like tippy toeing on it - especially if I had to stop fast. Next best thing.... Sunday I looked at a house and made an offer yesterday. Seller counter offered today and I'm going to accept. I've given notice to vacate so the manager can sell my townhouse and I've begun clearing out the clutter. Clearing out the clutter.... that noise in my head telling me I should be afraid.... Yes, I'm a bit nervous, but I'm very VERY excited. Time to go pack a room! Cheers! WS