'Tis time to reflect on this almost past year, and to put out intentions for the soon to be new year. The old informs the not yet born, and the awareness of time passing brings a sense of urgency, to be wiser, kinder, and even more mindful . . .
Here is what I wish for this New Year:
To make my sitting practice a daily priority.
To spend less time being social with strangers, online.
To think twice before acting on the heart's closings.
To not expect too much, and be grateful for what is.
To make room for the unavoidable unpleasantness.
To not cling to pleasant things, people, or moments.
To have compassion for my imperfections, and those of others.
To uproot the hindrances, especially fear and anger.
To view each social interaction as an opportunity to learn.
To play catch with thoughts and chase away the impure ones.
To move more slowly and more deliberately in the world.
To be more with nature, and people, and less in my head.
To rest in the breath often throughout the days.
To walk each step, thankful for the earth beneath.
To practice loving kindness often, and forgive myself when I forget . . .
What are your intentions for 2014?
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Marguerite, what a fantastic list! I'll add one more item - to re-read the list often! (The most efficient part of my brain is my Forgetter) Wishing you a year full of kindness.
ReplyDeleteI read the above undertaking by Marguerite. Keep it up. Yours in dhamma _/\_
ReplyDeleteContemplated on this list of 15 for the last few days.
ReplyDeleteThis list has all that is required to find freedom from lamentation. If one has to add one more to make it sixteen, here is anatta's take:
To be contented, for this is ultimate freedom.
People are people.
ReplyDeleteNature is nature.
When defilement, delusion;
When delusion, pain;
When wisdom, no defilement,
no delusion, no pain.
~