From my morning reading in Lodro Rinzler’s book, Walk Like a Buddha:
Sacredness is not just an idea. It is an experience. Having a realization of sacredness means that you experience an element of power and dignity in everything, including the ballpoint pen you are using, your comb, taking a shower, or driving your car.”
~Chöygam Trungpa Rinpoche, Smile at Fear, p. 112
I have long held that there are both meaning and significance to be found in the simplest of tasks if we hold the intention to experience them.
Filing important papers, waiting for a meeting to begin, making that first cup of coffee at work: all can be inherently sacred moments.”
Re-reading Rinzler’s book in recent days, and especially coming on to this quote from Chöygam Trungpa Rinpoche, the founder of the Shambhala lineage of Buddhism, has been like the appearance of a guidepost along the path I walk, indicating the way forward.
The Path of Consecrated Action Keeps us in the Now
The Bhagavad Gita, the sacred text of the Hindu religion, speaks of the path of consecrated action as focusing one’s attention on every action as if each was of great significance. By following this path, we stay in the present moment and can experience freedom from the monkey-mind’s chatter. It keeps us focused on the present moment.
How to get started on your own path of consecrated action
- Get up from your chair mindfully with your attention on the muscles that produce the movement.
- When you stand, pause for a few seconds of gratitude for the ability to move freely and at will.
- Take each step as if you are walking on rice paper, taking care of foot placement and leg swing.
- You can do within normal speed or you can slow it down for greater effect.
The path of consecrated action is available as you drive, as you work, walk, or even wash the dishes.