Have you ever walked into a room and forgot why you were there? Have you ever gone to the grocery store and left your list at home? I am often guilty of this kind of forgetfulness. Before getting to the corner I realize I’ve forgotten something important at home that I was supposed to bring along. As I return my husband chuckles, "What is it this time?" Out of frustration with my habit, I had even asked my guardian angel to assist me with this problem. No luck, until last weekend when experience became my best teacher.
While visiting my daughter in Oshawa, I watched an excellent documentary on Netflix called G-Dog. In the video Father Greg relates a story of being with a tribe in South America and walking in the jungle. Every so often the guide would stop a minute or two then continue on. After a couple of times, Father Greg asked why he was doing this. The guide replied, "It gives the Spirit time to catch up."
The next day with everything packed and purse in hand; I stopped to give everyone a hug and to pet the dogs. I headed to the store to shop for flowers for a great aunt. Five blocks away, no purse. This time instead of being upset with myself, I had to smile. With all the business of saying good-bye, I did not let my Spirit catch up with me. It was an opportunity to practice a lesson learned. Whenever forgetfulness arrives to take the time to ask, "Where is my Spirit?"
Zen master, Thich Naht Hanh, calls the above reflective pausing mindfulness, which can be heightened through a simple practice called –‘ the bell of mindfulness’; when you hear a bell, stop and be in the moment. http://plumvillage.org/mindfulness-practice/bell-of-mindfulness/
Helen Bonyai - CSJ associate