It's hot up here today and I have small throbbing in my temples from thinking about all the things I should be getting into order. I am also mulling what "exploring the contemplative life" now means to me. It used to have much more of a basis in christian traditions but that seems to be fading into the background in a way that is difficult to articulate. I have found that when a thing needs to be expressed, it comes in the proper time - perhaps through someone else's writing, an experience, or a conversation. I'll continue to wait for that time.
I've decided to listen, to really pay attention and to work on being mindful this summer. For a few days a week, I am looking after my Tiny Niece and it is an excellent opportunity to pay attention to very small things. I focus on a daily rhythm , on things located close to the ground - ants, tide pools, pebbles, and curious puppies - and things out the window - construction trucks, bikes, birds, and of course, more puppies. I have never noticed so many puppies in my life.
I have the advantage of not being a parent - someone who needs to get phone calls and shopping and errands done while looking after a child - so it can be a bit easier for me to focus. It's been a relief after too much time spent multi-tasking which is an illusion of efficiency that never became real.
My books are all in Calgary so I've been reading what is under my nose and to truly be mindful, I must take care of a few boxes of paper that followed me onto the island. Little by little I unbuild my nest instead of "petit a petit l'oiseau fait son nid". Maybe it's the same thing.