When a spider makes a beautiful web, the beauty comes out of the spider's nature. . . How much of the beauty of our own lives is about the beauty of being alive?
-Joseph Campbell
I read the Power of Myth (a compilation of interviews for the PBS documentary series with Bill Moyers) a couple of years ago. It resonated deeply with me on several levels because I was questioning so much of my life. Joseph Campbell was not only an intelligent and educated man, he was also very wise. And if you ever get the chance to read the book, whether you agree or disagree with his theses, you will be challenged to think of religion, spirituality, and life in new and, maybe even, exciting ways.
The quote above reminds me of my experiences volunteering for the Omega Institute's "Being Fearless" conferences. It's been 2 years now and running that I've been a part of the Information/Help team. I love it so much. I began volunteering because I wanted to take the workshops and I couldn't afford them, but last year, I realized that I really enjoy being of service, of being a source of calm and love, and that makes a huge difference in those whose lives I've touched. When I am in my nature, like that spider, I am beautiful and the world around me is beautiful. And I don't just mean physically (although it is nice and I definitely appreciate physical beauty - has anyone seen my picture with Ryan Gentles!). But really I mean to have beautiful connections with each other, to share kind words, to touch someone's heart, to be open - these are the things that make life worthwhile.
Post your comments on the following questions.
Question: When do you feel most beautiful and alive? How much of the beauty of your own life is about being alive?
Read more about Joseph Campbell and The Power of Myth
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4 comments:
when you are open, there's so much to see, feel, do and learn. To be open is to live.
... and to really live, we must be open, to the beauty and abundance in in the world and even to the things that can scare us or hurt us.
Absolutely! To be open to whatever life has in store, can be both empowering and frightening but is necessary for growth.
I am often excited when I notice that I am regarding myself in the light of beauty and without negative thought. Training my mind to respect and support my spirit has been interesting. I'm amazed over and over again at how frequently negative or "non-nourishing" thoughts pop up. I find myself filled with a kind of awe as I watch the thoughts rise, though. And enjoy a chuckle as I realize how fleeting thoughts really are once they do arise. Creating a new language and expanding the palette with which I relate to myself and others is an exciting challenge that undertake with wonder and anticipation. So, what will beauty look like tomorrow? I can't wait to find out!
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