Simplify
Life’s simple pleasures
Sun, sea, silence soothe senses
Time stops for wonder
For the past month and a half, I was engaged in the uncertainty of unexpected unemployment. As a nurse, I knew I could quickly begin work as a travel nurse and signed up with five agencies. I was actually approved for two different assignments right here in Alaska. But, I really didn’t want to leave the comfort of my space, with the ease of doing my spiritual practice and the joy of looking out on the bay. Fortunately, life offered the opportunity for a new position, one I’ve wanted for years, RN Case Manager for a local clinic. I will once again be working with a Native American community as well as other Homer residents and visitors.
A new job, of course, offers it’s own challenges and demands. This morning, I woke up with the resolution to simplify my life. To reduce the distractions I’ve allowed to consume my time, to stop pursuing the magic method for achieving wealth through on-line marketing, or dubious “contract” writing companies. As I lay in bed, reflecting on my life, my ever changing and evolving interests, I realized only one activity has remained important to me. And that is my spiritual practice. I will always write and I will always love my husband and I will continue to work as a nurse. But, now I know this most important thought to motivate my actions is striving to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
This means that I continue to work to overcome my poisons of desire, anger, impatience. I must recognize negative thoughts and not allow them to become words. I must always remember that at some point in space and time, during all of my rebirths, everyone was once my mother and so I must be gentle and kind. Working with the ultimate wonder has made me acutely aware that time is precious and I must not waste this gift of a human life. So, I simplify to concentrate on what is most important.
Skywalker Storyteller Works 
Thank you for such a lovely photo and poem, Skywalker, and for sharing your wisdom about simplifying life by focusing on what is most important. I am so grateful that we met in this virtual world, a sister in the journey of life.
Thank you Carol, my feelings about you exactly. 🙂
Glad you found the job you were hoping for, Skywalker. If I lived in Alaska, I wouldn’t want to leave the scenic view either.
Thanks, Jeff.
Oh that is so beautiful. You are so clearly in tune with what is important in this life. Courageous and loving. I wish we lived closer. Thank goodness for the blogging community.
Thank you Joanna. I wish we lived closer too and am grateful we have met through WordPress. I miss your blogs.
Happy you are once again employed. And that it is a job you’ve always dreamed of.
Great poem and photo.
Here is to wishing you the very best.
Uzo.
Thanks, Uzo.