In Japanese the character for danger also represents opportunity. During this time period when relationships and connection are both vitally important and physical contact often dangerous many of us have had the opportunity to be at home. This can be both good and bad depending on time and circumstance but it does offer an opportunity to experience time in a different way. I have just gotten two emails from friends apologizing for missing a zoom get together. They didn’t miss it. It hadn’t happened yet but was set up for a day in the future. I understand how this happens. It is not easy to remember what day it is. I recognize a change in the weather and the leaves on the trees maturing but there is no clear demarcation between a weekend and a workday or one from another. I still have some obligations to meet but there are many less scheduled commitments or routines that automatically mark the day. My morning now begins by checking the weather and deciding whether I need a sweater or not as I go for my walk. I decide what pants are most comfortable to wear and what shirt matches not only my pants but my mood. I moan a bit as I look in the mirror at my hair which is getting longer and wilder each day. I still care how I look but it is sans makeup without a need to appear professional. To my surprise I am discovering the satisfaction that comes with baking and reading a good book. I am seeing the neighborhood with new eyes and enjoying walking the dog and giving him a treat when he walks beside me and actually comes when I call. My mind is still concerned about staying intellectually alive and challenged to stay awake and deepen my meditation practice. My commitment to myself is to be present and really open to the moment as it presents itself. The days are passing quickly and to my wonder I am not bored. There are almost too many possibilities of things to do and learn. Sometimes I wonder who is this person who is not primarily therapist or mindfulness teacher but then I smile at myself and remember my commitment to myself to live what I teach: be in the NOW.
May the horror and danger we are facing in the aftermath of the George Floyd killing be a wake up call to the history of racism in this country, the unfairness of our judiciary system and and the destructive power of hate, greed and delusion. I can only hope that the horrors I am witnessing can be followed by wise action and greater understanding of our common humanity. May our hearts break open to act wisely and compassionately in putting down suppression and hatred . May we listen to each other and come together to end the harm being done not only to blacks but all people and the earth itself. May danger now truly be an opportunity for change.