My journey is officially over today. However, I will continue on with my new habits acquired over the past 30 days. They are good ways to live. During those days, I practiced meditation 4 times a day, each one for 10 minutes at a time. I opened and poured 45 cans of beer down the sink and gave away 2 cartons of cigarettes. I expected more of a boost in my daily living experience, some euphoria from eliminating alcohol and nicotine in my life. I didn’t miss the beer, but the urge to light up a cigarette came 20 times a day and likely will continue.
A Zen Buddhist master once said: “Before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.” The first time I read that, I thought it was not true; there had to be a rush of new wisdom and a feeling of elation.” I believe I have become enlightened in a way, but I’m not smarter than I was. There is no rush, no elation. I’m still chopping wood and carrying water.
Was it worth the effort? I think it was, despite the fact that it wasn't all I hoped it would be, I'm happy I did it.
Congratulations Bill, so proud of you. Not sure I could ever do what you have done.
ReplyDeleteSharon, you are far beyond my capability, you could indeed do what I have done and beyond my journey.
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