The Tree is itself. Never. Always. What Joy!
July 18, 2024

I had a dream this morning: In the dream I was newly arrived at an ashram and waiting, seated quietly, for my first meditation assignment.
The Guru beside me said: Contemplate a tree. As he turned to leave I stopped him with an upraised hand, “Wait,” I said.
A short pause followed after which I spoke: “The tree is itself.” He raised his eyebrows, then turned to leave again.

It’s Independence Day in the U.S which is making me think about freedom of course. Which makes me think of sovereignty which is defined as freedom from external control or controlling influence. I don’t think we can say that’s the state we’re in, right?