Asking Gratefully

 

 

       In his new book, The Endless Practice, Mark Nepo suggests a paradoxical unity in two apparently contradictory activities: asking for what we need and accepting what we’re given. 

 

       “Asking for what we need is a practice in being present and visible that lets us become intimate with our own nature.  Accepting what we’re given is a practice in being present to everything beyond us that lets us become intimate with the nature of life.”  (p. 59)

 

       Listening to what we want/need connects us intimately/respectfully with ourselves.  Letting loved ones know what we want/need connects us intimately/vulnerably with them.  Noticing what we have, with a grateful heart, connects us intimately/joyfully with life.

 

      Listening, disclosing, thanking – beautiful ways of saying yes to relationship at all levels. 

 

       Please and thank you come together.  Gratitude infuses every request.  Having happens.

 

       Happy Thanks-giving.  Happy having.