Amritapuri ashram

Mindfulness

For the last few years there has been an eagle that perches in the Western canteen rafters, watching for an unsuspecting Westerner to be inattentive to their food, e.g. walking away to get something and leaving it on the table, holding it up in the air when talking, etc.  Whenever it sees an opportunity, it will swoop down and grab the food from the devotee’s hand or plate.

Yesterday it occurred to me that this is an incredible opportunity for us to learn mindfulness.  If we stay mindful, we are much more likely to be able to eat what we have purchased.  Otherwise, it will be the eagle’s feast!

Today I realized that the eagle itself is a model of mindfulness.  It is alert in every moment and has single minded focus.  As a result of this attention to detail, it is successful in its endeavor nearly every time!  May we all learn to have this level of focus and dedication.
– Karuna, USA

Comments

2 responses to “Mindfulness”

  1. aumsree

    Waawh! Indeed a great lesson from the Eagle, the deadly hunter that never misses a chance…

  2. Renu Wadhwa

    Yes it is true. One has to be alert, vigilant to grab the opportunity. Amma teaches us that even while we are sleeping we should remain awake.
    Once upon a time there was a rich man with a big ego. He used to sleep a lot and never paid attention to any of his deeds. He was always busy in mundane things and with time he lost his business. This was a major setback and he realized his mistake that he was never in time. After that he used to get up early pray to God and respect appointments and time. This deed bore positive fruits. Once he reached a place ahead of time and there was a business meeting. The other participants in the meeting reached late, and the company who had to give orders came earlier and lo this man was there. They started discussing the project and he got the project. After that he never looked back. I think this story justifies that one should always be alert. Amma also teaches that by living the present, we sow for a brighter future.

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