Friday, September 28, 2012

Acoustic Treats

"Getting irrigated" Last nights' performance by Martin Joseph at Victoria's Alex Goolden Hall was like some full-on, hose-down water massage! The seemingly un-limited energy and generosity of this gifted Welsh Songwriter left me vibrating with a feeling of "no matter how confined circumstances may appear, there is change and promise all around!" And his anthemic "On my way...running, loving, stumbling" brought us all to our feet,in a village-making moment. Afterward, I passed out a "business card" to some acquaintances who had also enjoyed the show. As we parted, the fellow added, "I hope I don't have to use this (my services), but thanks".... It was a reminder that when we are honest with each other, our basic view of life is that we prefer life, not death. And I have often enough been asked if "spending so much time with death and dying" doesn't get depressing? Though I wrestle with depression on a rhythmic basis, I believe that, little by little, a more prevailing "focus of gratitude" seems to be the best "blue pill" I can ever need to reach for- of course getting together with friends and family for other music-making activity goes a long way to achieving a balance in the self-care department as well. So, we find our nourishment wherever we can, and hopefully keep "showing up" a little wiser each day! Thank you Corrie!

Monday, January 30, 2012

Staying with authentic experience....

A few friends gathered for a group meditation yesterday morning, which was part of a much broader "online community" meditation. I haven't done much of any "sitting" meditation for some time, and with others even less frequently.... However, something happened for me and the other 3 there, as we all agreed to share some of our experiences of what came up in the meditation, and how we might describe the "energy" within and between us, both during and afterwards, sitting in closer proximity. We agreed to "go deeper" than our usual safe, and familiar ways of communicating and relating to each other...(?)

I was aware of the great vulnerabilty I felt and the others also felt, but also of the great trust and responsibility that was implicit in our verbal reflections. Each one had a unique expression of what they had (and were) experiencing, and each one was able to be honest with the group about what was true and essential about what they saw and felt, in the moment. After finding a natural closing point, we relaxed into less intense being together, but the bond made during the meditation and reflections afterwards, made our "hanging out time" (over hot drinks) more potent and relaxed at the same time?!

If only we could carry that awareness and attentiveness out into our day.... and we can! Even if I have only very-superficial interactions with others in the course of a day, I can still remember their essential wholeness, through a brief meeting of the eyes, or any other more subtle soul imprint.... The urgent task before me is to also remember to hold the other with compassion!

I was also reminded by one of the group that each of us is here to do what we are good at, i.e. something that is unique to our particular experience and gifts. It was also reflected to me that each of us needs to put our gifts to their highest use, or towards where they will have the greatest impact. So, it thus follows that I need to revisit my musical gifts with this in mind, and to use my hands for music-making.... over and above swinging a hammer?.... Now if I could only find a way through this one!