On dark early mornings in Arizona years ago, a scrap of paper tucked in the side of our hallway mirror invoked anyone looking to "do small things with great love." The prior occupants of our home had left this pencil-written reminder attributed to Mother Theresa. So as I'd tie my tie before driving to school I'd be gently prodded that today is more about how I go about my business rather than just what I do.
I knew then it was true and still do. Think of how you or someone else has said the simple phrase "o.k." Is the meaning the same when spoken out of frustration or patience? Acceptance or resistance?
Or how about the spirit with which we do things while on vacation as compared to busy times of every day life? Have you ever freely enjoyed some typically mundane task like food shopping, washing dishes, or walking somewhere while on vacation? How we do what we do matters.
Feeling pressured to enter another post here on this blog makes the process less satisfying and the results suffer, too. It's like trying to grow good tomatoes in bad soil.
Helping us to see how we're currently doing what we do is the role of good mindfulness practices. How do we speak to one another? What kind of attention do we really pay to our students? Are we really listening to what our own bodies and hearts are saying to us? Do we hear what the earth is asking of us?
All of this matters. If you're hungry for some encouragement and practical approaches, try reading any of the very accessible writings by Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh.
And if you wish, try slowing down during at least one moment today. I'll be working on that with you.
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