[image from buddhanet.net]
Annie Dillard writes, in For the Time Being, "There is no less holiness at this time than there was the day the Red Sea parted, or that day the heavens opened and Ezekiel saw visions of God. There is no less enlightenment under the tree by your street than there was under the Buddha's bodhi tree.
In any instant, the sacred may wipe you with its finger, in any instant the bush may flare, your feet may rise, or you may see a bunch of souls in a tree.
In any instant, you may avail yourself of the power to love your enemies; to accept slander, failure or the grief of loss, or to endure torture. Purity's time is always now...."
The last paragraph here is a precious truth. As hard as it is to stay in the moment, it is the answer.
ReplyDeleteI love this - there is no less holiness or enlightenment available here-now than in the days of the Buddha or of anyone else... Thanks for posting this quote, I've not read the book but have just now placed a hold on the title at my local library.
ReplyDeleteIt is now, and we a tested now. Thanks Sherry.
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful words! Thanks for posting them Sherry. :-)
ReplyDelete(I just read about Pup too - sending a really big hug your way. x)
Yes, it is Now and in this moment that we must see that what we need is right here within our reach,
ReplyDeleteElizabeth
Wonderful post Sherry and I absolutely love the last paragraph, so full meaning for me.
ReplyDeletePamela