Mindful Max

Last week in class I discussed Mindful Meditation and it's contribution in the decrease of relapse. I've noticed how many opportunities I've had to practice being mindful since.

The most simple definition of mindfulness I find is from the Mirriam-Webster Dictionary:

mind·ful·ness
ˈmīndfəlnəs/

noun

1.  the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.
"their mindfulness of the wider cinematic tradition"

2.  a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

What is the benefit? Being mindful allows me to remain present. It is in the present I find happiness. In the present I am free from worry, anxiety, and other emotions that disrupt my joy.

This is Max.

The past few days have been out of routine. We haven't had as much time together as I like. This morning he climbed in bed beside me and put his head on the pillow. He was simply present with me. Then I pet him. It was then I saw Max in Mindfulness. He lifted his head and fully enjoyed being pet. He wasn't thinking about the squirrel he likes to chase in the yard; his food and water bowls; he wasn't resentful that I'd been away more than usual. He was in the moment, simply enjoying being pet. 

I strive to be more like Max. 

I'm Listening

I was uncharacteristically angry this morning. It was anger born by hurt and disappointment. I was ready to "lose my cool". I convinced myself it was okay to take my anger out verbally on the offender. I'd gone down my checklist. They deserved it. They had it coming. They were wrong. They knowingly hurt me. They were selfish. They are selfish. They haven't changed....you know?

Then I went to mass with my son. On a Thursday. I even rearranged my schedule to accommodate the service.

And I heard:

“To you who hear I say, love your enemies,
do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you,
pray for those who mistreat you.
To the person who strikes you on one cheek,
offer the other one as well,
and from the person who takes your cloak,
do not withhold even your tunic.
Give to everyone who asks of you,
and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back.
Do to others as you would have them do to you.
For if you love those who love you,
what credit is that to you?..."

Thank you. I'm listening.