What is it?
8 May 2025
Take a look at this. Suffering and wonder – side by side.
For the cat: Anguish – “So near and yet so far!”
For the baby: Delight – “What is it?!” Curiosity and interest abound.
I recently attended a week-long Zen retreat where we were invited to be present to each unfolding moment with curiosity and rigour. So much opens up when we pay attention like this. I wonder if our meditation practice could be more like this baby and her wonder and presence. An opportunity to really be present and see the flow of our own mind, as it is. A miracle of meanings and creativity.
Bringing this kind of attention to the everyday experiences in our life - our food, our morning routine, our partner or friend can refresh our life in each moment. We notice more. We notice how our attending transforms the things we are attending to. It is our life being formed in each moment, now, not just a bundle of activities or events.
In the Zen tradition, the concept of "the world as medicine" emphasizes that everything in existence can be a source of healing and transformation if approached with the right perspective and mindset. This means recognizing the inherent potential for positive change within oneself and the world around, even in seemingly challenging or difficult situations.
Let’s go for it, seeing we are here.
Timothea Goddard
Director of Programs and Training