Sabbatical and Congrats Richard

Of one thing we can all be certain. Things change. Yogic philosophy advises we not become too attached to things, situations, or even people, for this very basic reason. Things will change, and the more as we wish for them to stay exactly as they are, the harder it is for our constitutions when they don't; the less we are able to enjoy what we have for fear of loss. The term in Sanskrit is Vairagya. Contrary to popular belief, this does not mean avoiding the joys in life; our possessions and... Continue reading

Thoughts About Joy

I woke one morning recently and, as always, noted the birds fluttering outside my window at the feeder. This alone was not unusual, but the fact that the movement persisted while two of my cats approached was peculiar. On closer inspection I found a black-capped chickadee trapped inside. The opportunistic little thing had somehow managed to squeeze herself inside the spherical feeder where the seeds are plenty. But she could not get back out. With several and various carnivores on high... Continue reading

Seeing in the Dark

It is interesting how in darkness we are able to see the most. And a truth that seems contradictory is a signal to take a closer look. Who contemplates their life during times of exuberance and great joy? What do we learn here? We learn we like it. We overindulge in it and strive to keep things exactly as they are. But of course, we can’t. Soon some misfortune will visit and she will leave us in that familiar place—a place that is not so joyous, a place that is at best slightly... Continue reading

Thoughtful Recovery

Hurrying is something I've sworn off of late. I know rushing doesn't get me ahead. But what your logical self knows and your good sense tells you often lose out to old ways and ingrained habits. Remembering to be in the moment is always, bar none, your best bet. Saturday afternoon I jammed my foot into a misplaced seven-pound dumbbell and did some serious damage to the second-to-last toe on my left foot. I was running out of time getting ready to head for Cullman. My band, After Two... Continue reading