Cultivate gratitude for what is from "summary" of Being Zen by Ezra Bayda
One of the key teachings in the path of Zen is the importance of cultivating gratitude for what is. This concept may seem simple on the surface, but it holds profound wisdom that can transform our entire experience of life. When we cultivate gratitude for what is, we are acknowledging and accepting the reality of this present moment, exactly as it is without wishing it were different. This doesn't mean that we have to like everything that is happening, but rather that we are willing to meet each moment with an open heart and mind. Cultivating gratitude for what is also helps us to let go of the constant striving and grasping that can cause so much suffering in our lives. Instead of always wanting things to be different, we learn to appreciate the beauty and richness of each moment, regardless of whether it meets our expectations. This doesn't mean that we become passive or complacent, but rather that we are able to act from a place of deep acceptance and presence. In cultivating gratitude for what is, we also learn to embrace the impermanence of all things. This can be a challenging teaching to fully embody, as we naturally prefer stability and predictability. However, when we can see the impermanence of all things as a natural and beautiful part of life, we can begin to let go of our attachment to particular outcomes and embrace the flow of life as it is.- Cultivating gratitude for what is allows us to live with greater ease, joy, and freedom. It is a practice that can transform our relationship to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. By learning to meet each moment with an open heart and mind, we can begin to see the beauty and wonder that is always present, even in the midst of challenges and difficulties.
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