Learning from our mistakes

In the first chapter of the Tao Te Ching, we are told that the invisible ultimate is present in its manifestations. This includes very human error. To welcome mistakes means that one is trying something new, and enlightenment can often mean recognizing mistakes is a part of The Way. In my teaching career I gradually learned how to bring the best out of young students. I look back on this part of my educational and spiritual path as “kindly giving me chances to fail.” Best, Gene.

 

Morning Awareness

“Enlightment is absolute cooperation with the inevitable”
— ONE MINUTE WISDOM, Anthony de Mello, 1985

 

Master DeMello, can I bring about enlightenment in myself?
How so?

Think of the sunrise amid trees this morning.
Let the whole beauty enter you.

Am I forcing such loveliness beyond its bounds?

Not if you accept it as nature’s special gift to you,
as God’s divine abundance from all sides.
…..
I appreciate my physical trainer, Carl,
who walks me against hard breath,

as I surge toward the car gate
to see it open magically. At age 92,

I’m unsure of my ever standing atop
any mountain, even with Ensure.