Since I don't own a vehicle, I walk - a lot. Each evening as I climb the hill towards my apartment, I have noticed myself saying (or rather, panting!), "almost there . . . almost there!".
I got to thinking, where exactly is 'there'? Loaded down with a backpack full of books, the end-of-the-day trek can be tiring. But really, how can I say I have arrived if I haven't been fully present during the journey?
Lately I have been trying to utilize the 'present moment' concept to look at my little climbs a bit differently. If I find myself slipping into my usual mantra, I stop and say, 'But no, wait, I am here, now.' This shows that despite the perceived comfort and security of our destination, we must acknowledge the present moment. This is a great exercise in flexibility and patience. If we can live in the present moment, we do not suffer longing for the future that awaits our arrival. This applies not only to physical journeys, but also emotional and spiritual ones. If we are so focused on our destination, we will miss all the experiences and lessons along the way. With that, I leave you with a quote from Lao Tzu.
"A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.” Lao Tzu
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May all beings be happy!
