October's Moon Totem in Full Splendor

Karen's 

A glance through my picture window,

With a sudden catch-breath,

Only inches away, I spy

Industrious creatrix.

Her abdomen, a gold and black mandala,

Wavers in wind gusts.

Legs extending equidistant,

Effect a delicate balancing act

On her woven work.

Braided zigzag anchors

Webbed hemispheric artifice.

Moment to moment, this:

A mindful solitary sentry
Suspended,

Grounded.


October Totem by Karen Newmand

Self Reflection:  Little spider is a powerful totem. Am I noticing more spiders in my life?  Am I living spider's gifts?

The Meaning of Work Truth:

To Work Truth is the opposite of Workaholism.

I have come to understand that the meaning of  'Work Truth', as it is taught in the Seneca tradition, is not a reference to doing what earns us an income or a means to support ourselves. To 'Work Truth' is to use our knowledge, hearts, hands and gifts with integrity and as the best we can in any given moment. Work Truth refers to all the things we would consider as activities of daily living, as well as how we use our gifts and skills to nurture ourselves and others, and to bring ease and beauty to our life. Our ability to Work in Truth is not a static process--activity and rest, ease and intensity, and returning to balance--always the movement toward living in balance.

Begin to learn what it means to Work Truth by noticing how creatures in nature do their 'work', how nature herself 'works'.

Self reflection:  What small action can I take to increase my awareness of the natural world around me?