Originally posted to Galactic Roundtable discussion group, April 27, 2009.
Having taken a few days off between writing assignments, I am watching a tree grow outside my apartment. It allows the wind to bend it, the finches to harvest its seeds. It only produces seeds and leaves, but it does so with a great steadfastness which I admire.
My own mind is terrifically unsteady. Its placid surface explodes with likes and dislikes. Mine eye is not single. My purpose is not steady. I am distracted by this and that and tossed from one place to another.
I would give myself up to some great project but then a desire for distraction arises and I trade it all for one more soppy movie. But I have wisened up: I am now watching the craving and avoidance surface, without going along with either.
Never mind unfinished business. Just the daily wants and don’t wants are enough to undermine the best of intentions.
But I have a few days left to watch my mind in operation and explore the middle ground between like and dislike….