With palms together,

Good Morning Everyone,

The light is beginning to break on the horizon.  Soft.  No direct sunlight as yet.  The black sky ever so gradually lightens and the stars begin to fade.  It is morning of another day.  Robbie the Robot is busy sweeping the floor.  I have laundry in the washer waiting to be dried. But first, a sip of last night's coffee re-heated.

My student, Dave Novotny, arrives today from California to go to the retreat in Cloudcroft. We will spend this day talking about his understanding of the Zen precepts.  Tomorrow we will gather together the groceries needed, pack the things we need and at three start out on the nearly three hour drive up into the mountains.

It is always important to leave what you know as you begin.  Begin what?  Everything.  Each moment, each breath.  Is that really possible?  With effort and a willingness to stay here, right here, right now.

What blooms in such a moment is none other than your authentic self.  Whether that expression is silence, a word, a gesture, a laugh, a scream, or a tear. If we are present with it, it is yours.

I have heard many people, including myself, say in exasperation, "what am I supposed to say!"  In such moments, perhaps silence is best.  Perhaps a gesture is best. When we leave what we know...or think we know...the present moment reality can come forward. 

May you be a blessing in the universe.

Be well.