June 6--Where Do We Wonder?

People travel to wonder at the height of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars... and they pass by themselves without wondering. 
--Saint Augustine

    I must say it does take some effort and persistence to dig into the mysteries of one's own being. It can be considerably easier to travel to exotic lands than to open one's closet and release the skeletons. Another thing I've come to realize as a yoga and Melt Method teacher is how little attention folks give to the magnificence and mystery of their own bodies. It seems like they don't want to admit to having a body, especially if it hurts or troubles them in some way. 

    Yesterday included the memorial service for a dear friend who nearly achieved the impressive age of 90. The location and the many folks attending and involved incited some PTSD in me, in addition to grief. I used to think that going to funerals as one ages would get easier, given that the number attended would most likely increase. For me, each one is getting more difficult, as my own gets closer. Death of a loved one is definitely an opportunity to explore internally--how we grieve, how we live, how we appreciate others and ourselves. 

    I've been blessed to travel to the many places mentioned by Saint Augustine, and to wonder and explore myself deeply. This all has led to a very rich and interesting life. How gratifying is it that we have infinite inner and outer territory to explore, enough for many, many lifetimes!

        Leta