Tuesday Ramble

There is no need to go to India or anywhere else to find peace.  You will find that deep place of silence right in your room, your garden or even your bathtub.  

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross 

Good morning, everyone.  The weather has been gorgeous.  Couldn't believe that yesterday morning it was cold enough for the heat.  I love how it feels when it first comes up for the season.  So did Miss Minga.  Ran straight for her favorite pipe.  Forget my feet when the heat is on.

Felt good yesterday and headed for the center, the old one.  I played a few games of bingo.  Won $2.  Hope I don't have to pay taxes on it.  Picked up the Autumn candles I had bought from the Avon Lady--Whipped Pumpkin, Apple Cider, and By the Bonfire. They all smell super delicious.

During this past Sunday's sermon, the priest spoke about the virtue of silence which, as a virtue, isn’t given much thought in our culture today. In fact, we live in a world where there is less and less silence.  In this day and age, everyone including myself,  is 'wired' in one form or another--cell phones, tablets, smart phones, etc.  I remember when I was still working.  Everyday I rode that subway, just about everyone had something in their ears, just about everyone was listening to something or playing a computer game on their device.  No wonder no one noticed that an older woman with a cane had to stand.  No one pays any attention anymore. 

And the sidewalks are no better. So many times I see people walking on the street totally oblivious to their surroundings because they are concentrating on their phone or texting someone. And don't get me started on the supermarkets.  There is nothing worse than trying to get your shopping done while someone blocks the aisle while they talk on their cell phone.  You can scream 'excuse me' at the top of your lungs, but they are too engrossed in their conversation to hear you.

Silence is more than just the absence of speech. It means more than not speaking  Silence also means becoming aware of the constant noise and communication which surrounds us. Life requires periods of silence and healthy relationships require that we remain silent and listen to one another.  

 October is a good month to become more quiet, to listen to others more carefully, and to be more conscious of what we say so we don't hurt another's feelings.  Silence is important because it gives us time for reflection, time to think and get in touch with our feelings.  My feelings have been so scattered lately, I really need some silent time to get in touch with myself, but it is hard to clear thoughts from your head when you are waiting for medical results.  So, like I used to tell my clients, all I can do is try.

Well, time to shower.  I'm meeting my new endocrinologist today.  Sure hope she has some good news for a change.  I sure could use some.  Have a good one.