“ Although I try
to hold the single thought
of Buddha’s teaching in my heart,
I cannot help but hear
the many crickets’ voices calling as well.”
-Izumi Shikibu (c 1000)

Sometimes following our spiritual practices can be a challenge because we are so distracted by the demands of everyday life. This is true for everyone – there never seems to be enough time, or enough quiet, to set aside for prayer, meditation, or contemplation. It is so worth it when we do! And yet, spirituality does not have to be a separate experience from the rest of our lives. We can choose to hear the beautiful song of the crickets’ voices as a gift from God. We can choose to express gratitude for the full and exciting lives we lead, however busy we may be!
-Lissa Coffey