Captive

About 3 months ago, our cats moved into our basement.  This would be weird, but their relocation coincided with the exact moment we brought home. 9 month old, 70lb mutt named Bruno.

It's horrible.  My sweet super social cats have been relegated to sleeping on piles of laundry. One of the cats, Annie, is a bit brave.  She hangs out at the top

Of the basement stairs and hisses at the puppy when he tries to eat her head.

But our poor Lula cat is way too timid.

My love went to bed and I decided to hang out in the quiet for a few before heading up to bed.  About 10 minutes passed and I thought I heard something. After a sharp intake of breath and a little adrenaline rush, I realizes it was Lula.

She is sitting on my lap for the dirt time in 3 months.  I'm so sleepy, but I don't have the heart to move her.   Sigh...

Please forgive grammatical errors, I am too tires to proof!

Grace

Grace.  Fluidity. Effortless.

Grace. Without obstacle.

Grace. Selfless kindness.

Grace. Peaceful communication.

I've been thinking a lot about the idea of grace. Using the visual of grace in the physical, we can connect to a better understanding of grace in practice.

Think of a ballet dancer.  A female form dressed in a flowing skirt.  As her strong legs lift her body, she is airborne and her skirt gently floats around her. 

The movement appears effortless. As if gravity is no obstacle. As if she has removed herself from struggle. The gentle smile on her face tells is that she is at peace.

I strive to be like that dancer.  Showing the world grace by removing obstacles and communicating peace.  Never forgetting that exhibiting grace requires the discipline of a trained dancer.  Grace is not inaction, rather it is compassion in action. 

Be kind.

That's it. Just be kind.

At least once a day, intentionally trying to do something kind. 

I've been practice this for the last week or so. Some great stories are brewing already.  

Happy 2014.