The Sweet Seat of Serenity

Located less than a half mile from our door, I’ve come to think of this bench as my serenity bench. A peaceful location to lift lids and check the progress on various pots simmering on the back burner of my mind.

IMG_6660

In front, the Boise River moves languidly, dotted every now and again with Canadian geese and mallard ducks. Behind, I hear the chick-chick sound of birds and squirrels rustling for food; nature’s addition to the hushed steps of walkers on the Greenbelt — a peaceful serenade.

This serenity bench is my go-to place for plunging into some of the deeper pools of thought, and letting go of perceived control — allowing myself to be breathed by that which is greater than I.

Where is your “serenity bench?”

© lauriebuchanan.com

Being Still

Being Still by Laurie Buchanan

Being Still by Laurie Buchanan

The University of Life — Being Still Course Description

On a recent flight I took a photo of the propeller through the window. It was spinning so fast that it appeared motionless. It looked that way not because it wasn’t moving, but because it was spinning so fast.

Physics tells us that everything—without exception—is in motion. Even the massive rock you see in the photograph I took in Nova Scotia. Stillness is dynamic; it is un-conflicted movement (no friction). It can be experienced whenever there is total, unrestricted participation in the moment we’re in; when we’re unreservedly present with whatever we’re doing.

Stillness is a natural rhythm in the cycle of life. In the space that stillness creates—sacred space—we have the opportunity to quiet the mind and body; to re-group, re-charge, re-connect, and to find a point of reference; something to measure against. To find the wisdom we need to move forward. It’s here we’re embraced by the strength of calm serenity.

When we enter stillness, we drink deeply from the well of Divine Love. From this place, we can move back into the busy world refreshed.

Listen with your heart,

Laurie Buchanan

Whatever you are not changing, you are choosing.”
               ~ Laurie Buchanan

www.HolEssence.com
Copyright © 2010 Laurie Buchanan — All Rights Reserved.

Contentment

Contentment by Laurie Buchanan

Contentment by Laurie Buchanan

Last week I had the privilege of meeting 12-week old Ellery. I’ve heard so many wonderful things about him. He lives out of state but was here visiting his grandparents and aunt. He also came to visit us at HolEssence. There wasn’t a big exchange. As you can see, Ellery is at peace within himself—he’s the epitome of contentment.

According to Webster, contentment is the state of feeling satisfied with one’s possession, status or situation; to be satisfied with what you have. So what prevents many of us from being content? Desire. When we desire something we don’t have, we’re not content. It is my desire (no pun intended) to be at ease with who I am and what I have. I am content. One of my favorite quotes is by J. Brotherton:

“My riches consist not in the extent of my possessions, but in the fewness of my wants.” 

Listen with your heart,

Laurie Buchanan

Whatever you are not changing, you are choosing.”
               ~ Laurie Buchanan

www.HolEssence.com
Copyright © 2010 Laurie Buchanan — All rights reserved