reflections on ambition and simplicity

[Fox of the Oaks]

In doing some reflection upon the current times and such, I have come to think it is important we aim for a way of life that is in harmony with the Earth, yet not so much aiming for some kind of success or achievement in one area or another (such as saving a forest, or publishing a book or running a workshop etc - because while they are important, I think constant ambition has it's roots in a kind of fragmented lifestyle - yes we can seek to protect and nourish Nature, and certainly as Druids this is most central, but I think we also can benefit from reflecting upon the inner mentality with which this is done.

My personal reflection of late has led me to value what I see also in the simplicity of Zen Buddhism and the like. A book by Thich Nhat Hanh called Creating True Peace is in my view the essence of Druidry, expressed through the teachings of Buddha. It's interesting how the Earth creates many sources of wisdom for us.

I see value in the simplicity of lifestyle spoken of there, and in other places, and also spoken of in Nature, and I think that such a way of being is a most influential lifestyle for our planet, it is very self contained, yet speaks loudly through the silence it holds, which can perhaps lead to a more lasting positive influence.

Speaking recently with a friend who combines psychotherapy with the Dao De Jing, I was reminded of the need for inner substance before creating outer action - if there is no real Awen within, outer actions become in a sense dead expressions, or, framed more positively, not as alive as they potentially could be. The Eastern practices such as Wu Wei (actionless action taught is Daosim) and the simplicity of ways such as Zen, really are worth looking into.

Nature seems to express itself most of the time in a state of tranquillity, yet will also, when the time arises, be fully ambitious - but such things usually last only a short while, and She certainly does her job most effectively, then the peace returns. I think that Nature's success through ambition is only so effective because the rest of the time is spent in balance and harmony. The inner quiet and peace contains great energy.

So I am thankful Nature knows how to remain peaceful most of the time, and doesn't constantly create storms, wild creatures and other expressions of ambitiousness overpowering Her natural state of inner peace. Compared to us humans who are constantly running here and there, seeking this and that, Nature is a fine example of balance. I reflect upon this in my own life.

I know many here are already well immersed in the profundity that Druidry brings about - here I am sharing my own recent ponderings for those interested.


Peace,
PineRaven.