Lasting contentment

Lasting Contentment…

“Contentment is a pearl of great price, and whoever
procures it at the expense of ten thousand desires
makes a wise and a happy purchase.”

- John Balguy

“From the very core of our being, we desire
contentment….I have found that the more we care for
the happiness of others, the greater is our own sense
of well-being.

- Dalai Lama

“Yesterday is a canceled check; tomorrow is a
promissory note; today is the only cash you have–so
spend it wisely.”

- Kay Lyons

_______________________________________________________

My Symphony

To live content with small means, to seek elegance
rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion;
to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not rich;
to study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly;
to listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with
open heart; to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely,
await occasions, hurry never; in a word, to let the
spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through
the common–this is to be my symphony.

- William Ellery Channing (1780-1842)

_______________________________________________________

How can we find lasting contentment in a world which
promises contentment through the acquisition of
possessions, positions, and prestige–all things which
will bring only temporary satisfaction at best?

William Ellery Channing’s phrase, “…to let the
spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through
the common…” points to an insight. By becoming
aware of common experiences that cannot be described by
words, we reach a deeper spiritual level–one where
authentic contentment arises. There is story that
illustrates this unfolding spiritual awareness.

There was a master who told his disciples a parable.
After he finished the parable, he left the disciples
alone for a time. When he returned, his disciples asked
him what the parable meant. He then asked them, “How
many of you know the fragrance of a rose?” They all
replied that they knew.

The master replied, “So, put the fragrance of a rose
into words.” All of the disciples were silent.

So it is with contentment. It cannot be gained from
words that describe it or explain it; these are only
symbols representing a particular experience. It does
not arise from possessions or positions, although we
can enjoy these things, use them as needed, and be
grateful for them.

True contentment arises when we begin to see with
spiritual eyes and “listen with an open heart” to the
common–the small miracles throughout God’s creation.

At that moment, a deeper level of spiritual awareness
begins to shine. The unconscious with its shadow of
discontentment dissolves in the presence of a conscious
light, and we feel a deep, authentic joy.

May you feel true contentment in your life, today and
always.

Wishing you many blessings!

Steve Brunkhorst

© Copyright 2008 by Steve Brunkhorst. All rights
reserved worldwide. Find many inspirational nuggets and
resources for achievement by visiting

http://www.AchieveEzine.com