Archive for December, 2009
What I do makes a difference
How often do we say that to ourselves?
It’s coming to the end of year, a time when we look back, reflect and overeat. In the last few days, I’ve had some space to reflect about how I feel about where I am lately, the pressures on my mind and what I can for others in the midst of being preoccupied with my ‘important’ lifestyle.
Couple of months ago, I volunteered to be part of a prep team for the Dalai Lama’s visit to Sydney. It all happened this week. It was a great change for me – being out of my comfort zone, using my able body to assist, watching technical professionals at work and of course, being part of the audience to hear the Dalai Lama.
The DL is a remarkable humanitarian. He wears many hats and is the focus point of so many issues – death, life, religion, science, politics, traditions, human nature – yet he answers all questions, be they personal or mystical, and doesn’t see barriers between himself and others. It is a humbling experience to see him and to hear him speak. For myself, I’m reminded of the beliefs I was brought up with, the ones I chose to accept or reject, as well as the more I do not know. I came out of it as after a psychological massage, letting go of stress I’d been carrying, being free to say I don’t know, and coming back to my centre; by understanding my attachments and being able to say “this is what I like and this is what I accept. I’m not wrong in my beliefs and neither are you”, and “Mate, you’re alright”.
There is too much to cover about Buddhism or the DL in any one location and I don’t attempt to do so here. What I wanted to celebrate, a weird word choice if any, is to have been able to contribute to his visit and his effect on the public. In return, I found again that I could share my abilities and be enriched by the process. So, to say the least, I’m a little tired physically but terrific mentally and emotionally. I’m feeling as clear and clean as a fresh spring, and as relaxed as a baby.
Ex libris art
Couple of lovely collections of bookplate art [via DRB]. The older ones the better, I think.
What kind of emblem or logo would you have for your library?
WAD 1 Dec
World Aids Day today. Go buy a ribbon at least.
LGBT Hentai
Looking for LGBT hentai - preferably not ‘male fetish of lesbian hentai’ kind eventhough that’s the main market for hentai – for a film programme.
Deadline, next two weeks. You can email suggestions to me. Thanks.
