Dear Friends,
As we continue exploring The Third Wise Effort–cultivating wholesome states–I would like to share an excerpt from John O’Donohue’s poem For Courage. These lines remind us that even a small spark of energy can nourish qualities like mindfulness, kindness, and joy:
Close your eyes.
Gather all the kindling
About your heart
To create one spark
That is all you need
To nourish the flame
That will cleanse the dark
Of its weight of festered fear.
In practice, cultivating wholesome states does not require monumental effort. Sometimes, it is as simple as a kind thought, a moment of gratitude, or the intention to stay present. These small sparks of effort can grow into a flame that transforms our experience, cleansing the weight of fear or resistance.
The poem continues:
A new confidence will come alive
To urge you towards higher ground
Where your imagination
will learn to engage difficulty
As its most rewarding threshold!
As we nurture wholesome states, we often discover a new confidence and resilience. The very difficulties we face can become thresholds for growth and transformation when met with mindfulness and care.
Here are some prompts for reflection today:
- What kindling can you gather today to create a spark of wholesomeness?
- How might you nurture that spark into a steady flame in your practice and life?
Feel free to let me know your thoughts or experiences as you reflect on this.
With good wishes,
Andrea
Dearest Andrea,
Thank you. Thank you. Thak you. These emails are such a kind gift. Thank you for sharing your experience and wisdom through them.
The kindling that I often use is Thich Nhat Hanh’s gatha:
Breathing in I calm my body
Breathing out I smile
Dwelling in the present moment
I know this is a wonderful moment
When I first read this many years ago, it made me angry: How can he say this is a wonderful moment! He doesn’t know my life! Monk living a protected life! @#$%! Now I know a little better and welcome that wisp of a smile to open my heart in practice or through the day.
With lovingkindness,
Jim
Dear Jim, Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience with Thich Nhat Hanh’s gatha. I love how you described your journey with it–from initial resistance to welcoming that “wisp of a smile” as it opens your heart. It is such a beautiful example of how our relationship with teachings can evolve over time, becoming sources of inspiration and connection. I am glad these emails have been a supportive kindling for your practice. Your reflections are a gift in return–thank you for taking the time to share them.