Slogan #41
Two activities: one at the beginning, one at the end
Reflection:
Slogan 41 of the Lojong teachings, "Two activities: one at the beginning, one at the end," holds a gentle invitation for reflection, especially during times when fatigue weaves through the fabric of our daily lives. The beginning and the end, in this context, encourage mindfulness as we embark on and conclude our day's journeys, serving as bookends that hold the space for intentional living.
Embarking on the day with a clear intention, I find, sets the tone. It's a moment of calm before the storm, where I can ground myself in purpose, reminding myself of who I am beyond the weariness. It's a soft, deliberate start, a whispered promise to carry mindfulness through the day, no matter how heavy my eyelids or slow my steps. As the day unfolds, often blurring the lines between tasks and rest, I am reminded of the importance of returning to that morning intention. How did I embody my purpose? Where did I allow space for grace, for myself and others? This reflection is not a harsh critique but a gentle returning, a way to honour the effort it takes to live consciously amidst tiredness.
The end of the day calls for another pause, mirroring the morning's calm but coloured by the day's experiences. It's a time to let go, to release what was carried and what can now gently settle down with the sun. This is not always easy; the mind wanders, tiredness clings like a persistent fog. Yet, this practice of reflection, simple yet wise, helps in acknowledging the day's journey, appreciating the strength it took to navigate it, and preparing to rest, to rejuvenate.
In these moments of beginning and ending, I find my anchor. They remind me that every day is a cycle, a continuous flow of exertion and ease. My writing, much like my life, mirrors these rhythms—words flow, pause, and sometimes stagger under the weight of tiredness. Yet, each word, each pause, each breath is part of a larger dance of resilience, a testament to the power of mindful beginnings and reflective endings. :)
