Hologram Thoughts

I passed a man on the street this morning. He was walking on the sidewalk, looking down, looking for a bit of money, or maybe a cigarette but that could still hold a light. I imagined him suddenly as a wealthy man, looking ahead as he walked, knowing that the world was his, and that there was no treasure except the one he already has.

I thought of those who walk through life looking to the heavens, seeking God for their treasure, yet never looking ahead long enough to value the treasures laid all around them. Their family, their well-being, nature, friendships, loves.  Yes, I do think that spirituality is a lifelong quest, but without seeing the pleasures that the heavens have placed around you, there is no joy here and now.

I thought of myself, and my treasures. My children, my wife, my family and friends who are family; how they are all I ever needed, and I am so thankful for them all.

To look into the blue diamond
to wander through the fields of gold
to smile at the moon and see her smile back

To listen to the birds of paradise
to speak with the wind
to wash away your sins in the streams of tears

To accept the sun upon your neck
– golden skin and sweat stained cotton
to see the life within the dirt at your feet

Questioning your thoughts
each one new and unique in this moment
each one eternally old, shared among the stars

Just one more reason I need to adopt a true vegetarian lifestyle.

Just as no pleasures can bring delight
To someone whose body is ablaze with fire,
Nor can the great compassionate ones be pleased
When harm is done to sentient beings.
- Shantideva