Awakening to the oneness at the core of life

     I experienced the state of being part of life itself, reflected in the simplicity of Pearlie. In that simplicity, in that presence, I am completely alone and yet everything is included.  For in freedom, in love, states of absence and presence are simply two faces of the same Beloved.

     Still, I sometimes wish Pearlie were still alive so I could feel her warmth and simple sweetness.  And of course I long to see my teacher again.  I am passing through the second winter without him. Sometimes I wonder if he has forgotten me.  But then I remind myself of what is most important. And in my own remembrance of what has been given, does his absence matter? (excerpted from Entering the Ordinary by Hillary Hart, Parabola, Summer 2006)

How do you experience being a part of life?  What are you doing?  When does it happen?  What is most important?

Norman Vincent Peale (The Healing of Sorrow, 1966, Inspirational Book Service, Pawling, NY) offers some guidelines (edited) intended to help manage grief and perhaps draw closer  "the oneness at the core of life":

1. Accept the fact that you are in a state of shock.
2. Despite your grief and sense of loss, try setting aside a few moments each day in which you open your mind to certain philosophical realizations.
3. Hold the thought that adversity can be turned into spiritual power if it is met with faith and courage.
4. Try prayer (mediation, mindfulness, ritual, etc. ) power.
5. Saturate yourself with spiritual readings.
6. Give expression to your grief.
7. Go on living normally.
8. Help someone else.

It is a this time of year, we are most reminded of "the presence of the absence" of loved ones and earlier times...may the spirit of the season fill your heart with love, hope, faith, courage and loving kindness. Peace be with you.