When I used to work, my whole being craves for silent retreats. There was a convent in the city that I went for a weekend to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. The convent is now closed due to dwindling clergy to run the place.
I haven’t worked since 2018. The last time I left the country was 2020 for rest and relaxation in Hawaii and recently, last week, I went to Nevada to see Grand Canyon.
Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.
My sister organized this day trip for me. The plan snowballed into a big group of nine, six siblings plus spouses. They wanted to extend the trip to Palm Springs. I stuck to my original goal to see the Canyon before I die. No, I’m not dying. No, I did not go to Palm Springs. I have to psyche myself up to be with groups again.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Call me Jimmy. Vegas is my last name. I am your tour operator said a man using a microphone. That voice woke me up. He has an electrifying personality. He was a breath of fresh air to keep people entertained. At the Eagle Point, I asked him to pose and soar like an eagle. That was fun. Fun is another game I play.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Last week, it rained in Las Vegas. It was great for the plants. The desert was filled with these yellow flowering shrubs and was beautiful. I have to feel the texture of this plant. When I caressed the flowers, tiny insects came out flying. It was magical. Being focused on what made me curious is another trick that I use to keep me centred.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
This bird is four times bigger than our blackbird in Vancouver. Huge! Blacker than black. They are not even scared of humans. I suppose they became friendly since humans were feeding them. As part of the mindfulness exercise, I don’t name what I see. I only identified it as a bird to keep it simple. Of course, I know that this is a Raven.
It was exhilarating to be in the wilderness. The sound of nature is music to my ears. This is life.
Practicing mindfulness is a paradox. It’s paying attention in a non-judgemental way. The body is in motion and stays in the moment. Mindfulness is being part of the Grand Canyon and as tiny as the helicopter.
Now I’ve tasted a sample of the Grand Canyon, I shall return to explore it further.
Photographs and Memories 