3. The Way of Water

Watch a wave, born as a ripple in the distance, which then disappears.  Suddenly it surfaces, growing, rising, propelled forward until it smacks into the undertow.  Opposing forces press the water upwards and pull on something inside of me, the swell of my dreams smashing up against reality.  The wave arcs, crests and crashes into a million liquid bubbles, washing up on the shore, a scalloped border that sparkles in the sunlight.  Wave after wave reminds me of all that is unsettled, then settles it in an instant, leaving me with a momentary sense of peace, until I am compelled to seek out the next ripple building on the horizon.

The ocean is vast and deep, truly unknowable.  Yet I feel it in me like blood in my veins, tides of emotion and the flow of experience.  We build up boxes of identity, one upon the other, to create a solid sense of self.  Meanwhile a river flows through our minds and hearts, emptying into an ocean that could swallow us whole.

Honor the way of water that flows within you and all around you.  Water partners with light to make everything grow. It keeps your body running smoothly and it fills the world with gentle beauty and awesome majesty.  Even a rainy day makes color deep and rich, clears the air and leaves a spotty patchwork of puddles to promote reflection.  Appreciate water in all its forms and formlessness.  It is a window into the magic of life.

Growing Tips:  Seek out water and listen to its call; crashing waves, a gurgling creek; rain on the roof.  Meditate on its movement or still reflection.  Create something that expresses how water flows through you.