Saturday, July 28, 2012

from my sister


I myself feel that I cannot get along with this society very well. There are so many things that make me want to withdraw, to go back to myself. But my practice helps me remain in society, because I am aware that if I leave society, I will not be able to help it change.

Thich Nhat Hanh

from
Being Peace

Boy, can I relate to that quote. I don't feel like I get along with this society very well most of the time. I have never really felt like I fit.

But here I am. So I show up and suit up. I do what I can when I can.

I don't know if I am helping to change it. I guess my act of being here and continuing on changes things. And that has to be worth something. It has to be enough for right now.

3 comments:

Joan said...

Those of us who know you well will agree that your being here does change things...for the better! Yes, you are worth something to those of us who love you!

Deb Shucka said...

It's more than enough, my friend. You bring much-needed light, just by being here.

graceonline said...

I have that book. Read it long ago. Don't remember this quote, but I'm sure it would have been a help to me, then as it is now. I too feel I do not get along with this society well.

A woman asked me the other day to tell my friends about her, let them know she needed a job. I told her I don't have anyone in my life today who has the power to hire. I know so few people.

Some of us are extroverts and do well in society, thriving in the mix.

Some of us do better in small circles, in gardens, sitting between the roots of trees and breathing in fresh air.

We all have our place. Once we find it, we are most productive working from there, don't you think?