April 16th - "Be the change you wish to see in the world."

This quote from Gandhi seems to ring very true to so many different people. It hits home because in one simple sentence we are given permission to dream to our fullest, to fulfill this dream, and also be transformed in the process. And what's more, not only is it profoundly simple, it's also inarguably true.

When I ask myself what change I want to see, I could think about things that I care dearly about, like the liberation of animals, about people everywhere fed and sheltered, equal and happy. I could think about an Earth with restored health, and love throughout the land. But this is not exactly what comes to mind. When allowed to dream whatever I may, I see this as an opportunity to reach in and grasp the truest possible sentiment. I imagine a profound bliss and brilliant, glorious, raptuous light pervading all mind, time, and existence. If this is the real change I want to see - not just for me, but for everyone - then the next step is to be it.

Wow. Quite a responsibility! :)

But not really. In meditation, I have the space to connect with this bliss. And in doing so, I become this change I want to see in the world.

Maybe I can, or maybe not, but certainly there will be growth and transformation in the process.

Another favorite quote, from Lao Tzu, is: "When I let go of who I am, I become what I might be." For such a task, this is the only way.