The Devastating Beauty of This Life

Tradition teaches that Soul lies midway between understanding and unconsciousness. It is that earthy, complex and often mysterious realm of essence. Thomas Moore in his book, Care of the Soul, writes, "Care of the soul is not a project of self-improvement nor a way of being released from the troubles and pains of human existence."

The path of the soul takes us to the brink of precipices and sometimes over them...

This Life

Like you, I go on living as though this life
is not utterly horrific and utterly exquisite.

As though this life does not bring you to your knees
again and again,

Does not give you wings to soar over the canyons with ecstasy.

I, for once,
want to run to the village square
tear my clothes in fury
shake my fists to the heavens
and roar with rage
foaming at the mouth.

I want to fall on my knees in gratitude
let the rain of Grace fall upon me
turn my tear-washed face
towards the sky,

And sing the devastating beauty of
this life.


Mary Papacostaki in, Sister'sSinging

The Tiniest Generosity

TODAY’S ASSIGNMENT

You are assigned to be a beautiful, good, kind, awakened, soulful person, a true work of art as they say, a true human being. In a world filled with so much darkness, such a soul shines like gold; it can be seen from a far distance; it is dramatically different.

Anything you do from the soulful self will help lighten the burdens of the world. Anything. You have no idea what the smallest word, the tiniest generosity can cause to be set in motion. Be outrageous in forgiving. Be dramatic in reconciling. Be off the charts in kindness. In whatever you are called to, strive to be devoted to it in all aspects large and small.

Be brave, be fierce, be visionary. Mend the parts of the world that are "within your reach." To strive to live this way is the most dramatic gift you can ever give to the world.

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"At this moment you can choose kindness or cruelty, love or fear, generosity or scarsity, joy or bitterness." Rabbi Rami Shapiro, the Sacred Art of Lovingkindness