REMEMBERING I

REMEMBERING I

Our theme for this month of November is remembrance. Everyone knows that on the 11th we remember all those who have perished in various military events over the past century. This is but one kind of remembering. Our reflections will open up that topic. We will, of course, honour that national remembrance of the 11th and not diminish in any way. But we will use the rest of the month to consider other lights who have dimmed and extinguished.
The autumn is a good time to do this because we are observing the passing of another year, the fading of growth in the changing colours, the cooling air, the shortening daylight. We are, in a sense, fortunate to have such a vivid example of theses changes. I recall commenting to friends in an equatorial country I visited that they missed the drama of our passing seasons. They explained that they too marked changes, only in a subtler way with certain flowers and certain fruits.
Remembrance resonates for us in two distinct ways as mindful living practitioners. On the one hand we can use this time to recall those who have contributed to our lives in past months or years. To pause and acknowledge how we have been changed by our association with them, by their presence in our lives.  This may be a parent or sibling, an uncle or grandparent, a colleague or a beloved animal companion. It is appropriate that we take some time to remember these beings and express our gratitude in some way.
Much more broadly, we remember as a practice in itself. The essence of mindfulness as a practice is observing ourselves and remembering the patterns and habits which we have experienced. We do this to provide a foundation for new understanding or to establish a reference point for some new action.
                   
Yours , on purpose,                           
Ray
The purpose of life is a life of purpose
                                   Robert Byrne