Before we see flaws, weaknesses, or vice; before we see differences, disparity, and separation; and before we see invective, abuse, or insults; before any of that, see love first. ~ James Ricklef
I really like the way Ricklef describes the Ace of Cups in his book, Pithy Tarot. As I look at all the things in this card - a home, nature, relationships, divination, art and craft work - it reminds me to ask myself how I view my cup. Do I peer in and see only the dregs, what needs to be tweaked or changed altogether? Or do I acknowledge the imperfections while embracing those people and things completely, with unbounded love? Even when there has been loss that cup manages to refill itself, if I allow it. The button chosen today reminds me that these blessings do more than just fulfill me emotionally; they also keep me grounded when the waves get rough. During those dark and uncertain periods of my life, these are my touchstones.
Love is not the experience of beauty and romantic joy alone. Love or compassion, the open path, is associated with “what is.” In order to develop love—universal love, cosmic love, whatever you would like to call it—one must accept the whole situation of life as it is, both the light and the dark, the good and the bad. One must open oneself to life, communicate with it.
~ Chögyam Trungpa
~ Chögyam Trungpa
I often tread lightly rather than spill my full cup. A kind of foolishness to the third degree.
ReplyDeleteI think spilling the full cup might freak some folks out. :)
DeleteThis is why I try to write regularly in my gratitude journal; to acknowledge the love and abundance in my life. I even try to be grateful for the challenges in my life (Mostly in hindsight :D) because they teach me that love is always the answer
ReplyDeleteAs the Buddha said, hatred never ceases through hatred, but only through love. :) I'm guessing that would includes things as well as people.
DeleteIt's always I've learned the deepest life lessons through the struggles and difficulties.
ReplyDeleteI love this quote, "Love is not the experience of beauty and romantic joy alone. Love or compassion, the open path, is associated with “what is.” In order to develop love—universal love, cosmic love, whatever you would like to call it—one must accept the whole situation of life as it is, both the light and the dark, the good and the bad. One must open oneself to life, communicate with it.
~ Chögyam Trungpa
Communicating with life...beautiful!
I love that quote too.:) I mean really, what good is it to argue with life? I'd just end up with a headache and resentment!:D
DeleteAhha! Lol that's a good one!
ReplyDeleteLove what you say about those things that fill our cup being touchstones in times of darkness. Definitely feel that way with my kids! They are both often the cause of hardships, and yet also make my heart melt regularly. Though admittedly not at the same exact time I am tearing my hair out :D
ReplyDeleteI agree, my family can definitely be a grounding influence!
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