Tiny Suns: August 24 - 30

Lance-leaved coreopsis

I spent this past week at a friend's vacation home in New Hampshire. First thing in the mornings, I walked down to the dock to watch the sun dance on the surface of Lake Sunapee. Along the way, I spotted a hundred bright yellow flowers, smiling like tiny suns. In their quiet beauty, they also welcomed me, the bees, the butterflies and any other early visitors. Pretty amazing for such humble beings, these roadside buddhas.

The flowers are my mindfulness teachers this week. Through their simple essence, they photosynthesize the light of each new day into nourishment for others. I want to be like that. I hope my presence brightens those around me. If only I remember each morning to set an intention to gladden the hearts of those who cross my path, to shine kindness, and to share my gifts.

Practice

Spend some time with a flower, whether in the yard or in a vase. Sit in uninterrupted stillness as your eyes take in its beauty, your nose its fragrance, your fingers its silky petals. Linger for a while. If you are patient enough, it will speak to your heart, one created being to another. Allow it to be your teacher. Absorb its wisdom. Honor your shared connection in this web of life. Be sure to express words of gratitude before jumping into the rest of the day.