It’s been several days since I could sit and focus properly on what I am doing here.  My Momma always said if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. So I have been practicing what she preached.  Ahimsa was yet again the practice of the week, and to be honest, I have failed miserably at the whole non-violence thing.  No, I haven’t been attacking people with a club.  I have had to derail some seriously unkind thought processes directed not only toward others, but more than that at myself.  Not banner week, but I am always completely up front about the fact that I am a work in progress.

So, picking up where I left off (and in a most appropriate place), let me discuss APARIGRAHA.  That pretty word is what we use to describe non-attachment to things and outcomes. Whoa-there’s another tall order.  One teacher of mine used “non-hoarding” to describe it.  Now, I’m not sitting here in a mass of pizza boxes and newspapers, but all of these descriptions remind me to check in when I ogle the books at Barnes & Noble and the shoes at the department store.  But, more importantly, I am reminded to ask myself what is it that I think I lack?  Because when I believe something is lacking, what does that say to the universe?  It says I lack faith that I have what I need.  That is not the message I need to send.  I need to send one of complete gratitude for all that I have had bestowed on me and all the good things to come.

When I bring up non-attachment to outcomes, I cringe a little.  It’s okay if you do too.  We are in an out-come based society. Earn more and you will be _________.  Look this way and________will happen for you.  Read this book and people will think_______.  Hang out with these people and______________.  Where does it end?  It won’t until we make the choice not to participate.

The best part of non-attachment is the pleasure that you gain from each moment.  If you are not attached to the results, you have the ability to enjoy all of the moments as you are in them.  All else falls away.  It is a practice in mindfulness like no other.

Thich Nhat Hanh has a great little book called THE MIRACLE OF MINDFULNESS that speaks to being present for what ever you are doing.  It is great.  And because I am a constant student, I have to revisit frequently.  But that is the best reminder I have of aparigraha.

So, enjoy the rest of your weekend.  Minute by minute, if you can. I know it’s easier said than done.  But the rewards are plentiful.  And when all else fails, just remember that we are always taken care of so there is no need to worry.

Love and peace…