My Sunday List

June 18, 2023

Quote

How we open or close to the reality that we never arrive at safe enduring stasis is the matter, the raw material, of wisdom. —Krista Tippett, On Being

Song

Undivided Heart and Soul by JD McPherson. So tight.

I watched

We finished Drops of God. Well, H. finished it and I fell asleep during the finale, so I have to go back and watch the last episode. Very worth the time, in my opinion. I loved learning more about the world of wine.

Book

The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise, Pico Iyer.

I had never desired to visit the holy land before I read this book. Iyer is a master at describing what is an incredibly complex thing — religion — and boiling it down to its human elements. We read for all sorts of reasons — entertainment, obligation, interest — but this book reminded me of why good, clear, and emotionally observant writing is such a high form of art.

This is also a very important book, Practicing Peace, by Pema Chodron. I read it yesterday morning and am making it part of my daily practices — to pick it up and read any part of it — because it tells you how to recognize when you need to let go (all the time) and how to do it. I’m serious.

Thing

Blueberry and pecan muffins. I’ve been using this King Arthur gluten-free mix, which you can add anything to, and that was a delicious combo last week.

And here’s evidence of me wearing an apron.

Favorite Photo I Took This Week

Prayer

Thank you, Great Spirit, for allowing me the resources I need to recover, to grow, and to heal. Thank you for your guidance and the gift of this earthly experience. Lead me toward love and away from fear every minute.

Intention for the week to come

May I allow myself to relax during this blessed time of family and home, may I allow myself rest when I need it, and may my journey continue to grow into one of diligence, reverence, revelation, and love.

Something I’m thinking about:

Shenpa — the root cause of craving and aggression. I’m thinking about how to recognize it and what to do with it to turn it into something else when it rises. Breathe, wait, and pray for patience, mostly with the self.

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Before enlightenment; chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment; chop wood, carry water. — Buddha

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Habit

Looking for the thing that brings light to my mind. Reminding myself that what comes to my mind isn’t necessarily true and that it can go away as easily as it appeared, and that, in fact, is the desired flow.

Wishes

1. That I find ways to bring joy and beauty to every day.

2. That I take good care of my son, nurture my family and home, make good art, and keep myself clear of negative emotions.

3. That I meet others with love, even when I know I’m dealing with their trauma and not the real them.

4. That you will forward this to one person and that person becomes a subscriber too.

Happy Father’s Day to Hayes. I couldn’t and wouldn’t be half the mother I get to be without him in our lives. John Henry and I are deeply grateful for his patience, support, and love.

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Have a wonderful, peaceful, joyous week. And thank you for supporting my work here at The Autotelic.

Lots of love,

Allison

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