Some things we need to learn to adequately navigate the environment in which we are living. Some things we can choose to learn. And sometimes, life gives us the choice of suffering or learning from what life has given us.
The texts on sadhana — yoga practice — say in simplified essence that mantra is the fulcrum between the unknowable universal and manifest particulars. What language we use and how we use it can either lead us towards skillfully navigating life informed by illuminated understanding or blundering through things with obscured vision (or, I add, somewhere in between, but which do you want to be your goal?). If you listen for your authentic voice, what words do you want to utter, which do you want to embody, which do you want to offer? The mantra is a tool (in the best sense of the word) to find a source for our own language (thought and spoken) that recognizes the common bond of dwelling together as neighbors (near or far) on this earth, in this universe.
New York City, June 13-14
Even though not documented much recently, the garden has moved into summer effulgence. It is a place of curiosity, wonder, and delight. What brings you joy and nourishment in these troubled times that are calling for ever more engagement?
How curious that the shadow makes the open shape of the wire look twisted.
This anecdote is a powerful incentive for those who could not care less about consequences of fossil fuel consumption.
Total electric bill this late spring/summer by month so far:
May 2011: $6.92 (PEPCO carrying charge); solar output exceeded usage
June 2011: $6.92 (PEPCO carrying charge); solar output exceeded usage
July 2011: $6.92 (PEPCO carrying charge); usage exceeded solar output, but by less than the extra output in May and June
Wow! How much was your monthly electric bill in the Southern and drought states? Do you know any one who would be persuaded only by the money? Tell them what a great investment it is, and they will start thinking seriously about it. Putting a dollar value on social good is the way to get through to those who only look at the numbers and do not see how budget numbers relate to real living beings and honoring the beauty of the web of creation (this would not be a veiled reference to something going on in that big domed building down the street; definitely, not).
It may not always work, but putting what you want in the language of those whose actions and beliefs are not in synch with yours is the beginning of communication and change. These cost savings say, in the language of those who care most about the money, that alternative energies are worth considering.
