The Nenes

Posted: February 20, 2012 | Author: Sandra Pawula | Filed under: A Compelling Question | Tags: Impermanence | 16 Comments »

A story and a contemplation ~

The Nene* goose lay flat on the asphalt, unmoving. Her body partially dismantled – just moments before – by the head-on force of a hurtling vehicle.

Her partner, or maybe gosling, stood tall. Flapping madly, trying to reach her.

A caring man stood between them, hovering above the frantic goose. His own arms spread wide open as he gently attempted to encircle and steer the bird off the road to safety.

But away from his departed love.

My friend observed, “He’s upset. His partner’s been hurt.” I said a prayer. We skirted around the scene and drove on.

It all happened so fast. It was like a dream. I thought she was white. Was it really a Nene? He was so big, so insistent, making a strong match for the man trying to assist him.

“This existence of ours is as transient as autumn clouds.
To watch the birth and death of beings is like looking at the movements of a dance.
A lifetime is like a flash of lightening n the sky.
Rushing by, like a torrent down a steep mountain.”
-The Buddha

This life is precious! But only if we use it well. How will I spend my time today?

Image: Snowmanradio / *The Nene or Hawaiian goose is the rarest goose in the world.

Satisfaction

Posted: January 23, 2012 | Author: Sandra Pawula | Filed under: A Compelling Question | Tags: Contentment, Happiness, Satisfaction | 8 Comments »

A reflection to help put your week into perspective!

Take a moment to consider your level of satisfaction. How much effort are you putting into “obsessively” trying to improve your external conditions rather than being satisfied in the moment?

“In Tibetan, the word for “body” is lü, which means “something you leave behind,” like baggage. Each time we say lü, it reminds us that we are only travelers, taking temporary refuge in this life and this body. In Tibet, people did not distract themselves by spending all their time trying to make their external circumstances more comfortable. They were satisfied if they had enough to eat, clothes on their backs, and a roof over their heads.

Going on, as we do, obsessively trying to improve our conditions, can become an end in itself, and a pointless distraction. Would people in their right mind think of fastidiously redecorating their hotel room every time they checked in to one?”

From Glimpse After Glimpse by Sogyal Rinpoche. Follow the link to sign up for daily inspirational emails.

This is part of my series of compelling questions.

If you enjoyed this reflection, please share the link with others. And I would love to connect with you on Google+ or the Always Well Within Facebook Page. With love, Sandra.

P. S. In my letter this week, I explored “Love and Attachment”.