October 12, 2009

be still and listen

According to legend
the praying mantis teaches us
how to still the outer mind
and go within ourselves
exhibiting stillness and patience.

“And when you come to a meeting of many ways
and do not know which to choose,
do not choose at random, but pause and reflect.
Breathe with the trusting, deep breaths you took
when you first came into the world;
let nothing distract you, but wait and go on waiting.
Be still and listen in silence to your heart.
When it has spoken to you,
rise up and follow it.”
- Susanna Tamaro

"Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
- Psalms 46:10 NIV