I have such a clear childhood memory of relaxing on the bank of the Komal River.
Marveling at the brilliant hues of the smooth stones under that cool,
Refreshing flow.
Was I hungry or hot or tired?
I have no idea.
I was just there.
I didn't have to seek out peace or wonder.
These were my birthright.
And they still are.
But I often forget.
Because I grew up.
And I got so good at seeing patterns,
Making predictions,
And setting expectations.
That I stopped being surprised.
And life lost much of its magic.
It may be yours as too.
We can get stuck in this rut of slowly nodding our knowing heads at the predictable mediocrity of our days.
The wonder fades out as we accept the mundane.
But I'd like to suggest that the magic is still there,
Only it's been dimmed by our expectations.
And there is another way of living that is so much more vibrant.
If that sounds like a welcome change,
Then consider this my invitation.
Won't you surrender your silly expectations and allow life to surprise you?
You turn to wonder again and again,
Over and over.
If you're willing,
May I help prepare you to do this today?
Begin by settling in.
Allow your eyelids to gently close or soften your gaze.
Place your full attention on your breath as you maintain a comfortable,
Alert posture.
With each inhale,
Settle deeper into your body.
With each exhale,
Become more fully present.
Take a few deep breaths now.
Allow your thoughts to turn toward the day ahead.
Calmly envision it according to what you expect.
With each inhale,
See a new scene of your day more fully.
Now,
Let these scenes of your day ahead become two-dimensional.
See them as drawings,
Maybe comic strips,
Or just words on a page.
However you see them is fine.
Now watch as they crumple up before you.
Go ahead and toss those expectations into the garbage.
Don't worry.
These won't make you irresponsible.
You'll still attend to your day.
But you'll see it anew.
Not as it was or always has been or the way you expect it to be.
And if you're ready,
You can make this little intention-setting promise to yourself.
Repeat these words aloud or in your mind.
I will live this day moment by moment.
Attentive.
Open to surprise.
Ready to receive.
The wonder and beauty that are always present.
May it be so.
Amen.
.
