Ease

 I love the word ‘ease’. It allows. It flows. 

I became aware of the simple power of that word when it was the choice of a friend of mine. We were at a prayer garden in Mount Shasta, at which strips of cloth and markers were provided. All visitors were invited to take a strip, and write a single word. The cloth was then tied to nearby trees as symbols of one-word prayers. 

Her choice of the word ‘ease’ was beautiful in it’s depth, because she knew she was dying from stage 4 stomach cancer. She wished to die with ease, and that is just what she did—simply and courageously.

We die as we live. This is a nugget of truth most people don’t care to think about, because we, as a culture of youth, like to push thoughts of death aside. We seem to think that if we never mention it, we won’t be touched, or if we mention it at all, we’ll be inviting death to visit too soon. 

When I focus on gratitude, I am living in this moment. I have this moment to live fully, to enjoy, to explore, to express creativity and joy. I am inviting ease into each moment. I am accepting the gift of Now.

In this Now, I feel a depth of gratitude for this day. My plan is to go to a lovely park this morning to sing with big-hearted individuals. We sing to each other, for each other, and for the world. We’ll practice songs which will invite ease into the lives of those who are heading into their transitions from this life. In the process, we will all emerge with joy in our hearts, which will allow the serenity of ease to wash over us in all we do. 

Just for today, I will allow gratitude to ease my path.