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June 2005 Newsletter
Feature ArticleExploring Blind Spots
I had an easy blind spot the other day when I went shopping for charcoal at Abundance Coop. The charcoal had been piled by the front door the last few times I was there, but when I looked this time, I didn't see any. I asked a store worker if we were out and she said there were two bags there earlier. I followed her to the front of the store, where I thought I had looked, and there they were! Just where I had a blind spot! I got teased a bit for that one! In a more complex situation, a blind spot may be a prejudice against a person because he unconsciously reminds us of something unpleasant about our father. He may actually be a kind-hearted man, and a loving father with his children. Have you ever been repeatedly attracted to people who are selfish, insensitive, or neglectful? Perhaps they have been more deeply confused, and behave in self-destructive and violent ways with themselves and others. A blind spot may create an unexplained attraction again and again, to the same kind of unhealthy friend or lover, or work situation. Everyday Awareness PracticesWhen You're Really Cooking
Whether you feel cooking is a chore or really enjoy the creativity involved, you might want to consider using cooking time as an opportunity to practice being aware in the moment. Smelling the fragrances of herbs and spices, feeling your arm as you stir or chop, test tasting as you go, voices in the next room. All of what's happening can be taken in and let be. Focusing with the task-at-hand, without getting caught up in thoughts about what's next, how tired you feel, or what happened earlier in the day, allows your whole being to be present with what is. You may actually find you have more energy to enjoy your meal when you've prepared it with awareness! Remembering awareness is a gift to your self and others. Please take care. |
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Have you ever noticed how busy the mind can be when you're cooking?