Real life is a graced ecology
in which we learn compassion
for Self and Other-EcoSelf
by growing in mindfulness
of Self as integral to Other,
and vice versa.
Growing in positive mindfulness
can feel more like work camp
than a peace-filled Paradise Ashram.
When I comprehend
Work Camp is the Trimtab,
trim-the-fat,
tipping point
purgative learning invitation
toward enlightened love full-promised,
then perfect compassion occupies my mind.
Longing sweeps in toward universal belonging.
When life together feels like
monolithic Boot Camp,
and not so much Campy Play
and it seems no way
it could ever feel another way,
then I mindfully reverse
so it looks like
sure-footed positive intent toward
compassionate campus of soulful practice
with each of us all day
OR positive intent becomes shared vocation
to help each other understand
when this golden feeling evaporates
and why
and how we might help each other
more mindfully approach our messy dysfunctions together,
a functioning natural family
called “human” nature.
If human life,
and other natural systems,
feels more like a root canal
than gold-capped stress relief,
then water the memories of past gold caps
by imagining how this root canal
already builds toward your sustainably
healthy tooth
in the mouth of this well-fed community
living in polyculturing planet’s
positive potential Eternal Moment.