“Listen closely –
At this mountain temple,
The sound of the wind in the pines
And the whistle of the kettle
Are the voice of Buddha.”

These are the words once shared by 19th century Buddhist nun Ōtagaki Rengetsu. She is considered to be one of the most revered female artists in history.

There is an unexpected simplicity to these passages – her poetic images offering the lessons of Zen in way that words may never reach.

“A thousand grasses
bloom in autumn
but finding a single sprout
with a pair of leaves—
such a joy in spring!”

Her words speak to a celebration of mindfulness – a continuous, clear awareness of this present moment.

And, it is always here – now, isn’t it?

Like the first sweet apple of Spring, or the tickling of grass beneath our feet – it’s the nearly imperceptible ‘somethings’ that seem to lift our misted veil and bring us ever closer to the miracle of living.

So, take time, my dearest darlings – listen closely and gaze with wonder at all those much simpler things. Knowing, in time, they’ll serve to become – a path to your very own awakening.

This is the sweetness of our being.

In peace, love, and equanimity ~ namaste <3