To carry yourself forward and experience myriad things is delusion. That myriad things come forth and experience themselves is awakening.
Eihei Dogen, Genjokoan, 1233
(Dogen was a 13th Century Japanese Monk, responsible for re-vitalizing Zen in Japan. He continues to be a source of inspiration & direction to this day)

To be in the World and experience the myriad things (objects/feelings/experiences/thoughts) is delusion. Like a projector, the energy is traveling outward. Self-centered. One perceiving an “Other”.

Myriad things come towards the perceiver then exist, that is Awakening/Enlightenment. Like air being drawn into the lungs or light being drawn into the eye, the energy is traveling inward. No separation. Being One with.

This writing started after a crazy weekend. Refusal by some, silence from others, disappointment, frustration, hitting bottom in a time of transition marked by lowness. Totally alone.

An all consuming fire. Ashes.

And yet, today is another day.

I became aware and remember I have Friends & Family, Health, Talent, Interests, Skills. Hope.

I was reminded of an insight I gained. People will do whatever they want to do. Even when a person is acting with someone else in mind, the person is doing what he/she wishes to do.

I have practiced with, been employed/exhibited by, even in relationship with folks who have said and done anything to anyone. No amount of liberalness, Spiritual Practice, no amount of experience, coolness, insight, wisdom or expressed affection have reality. 

And yet, there are folks who support others. People who are always there. These people become Family. No matter what, one can depend upon them. Not acquaintances, certainly not business (with a few exceptions).

So, I honor and acknowledge my Family. I come from a small Family. But we are close.

The fruition at the Full Moon of the Intention I set at the New Moon.

So, with those few Family members, the Phoenix rises.