Categories: Uncategorised

    A Dharma Glimpse by Dayamay Dunsby

    I had been feeling frustrated with myself recently after a perceived failure on my part to master certain behaviours that can be destructive.

    The tendency, for me, is to aim high and overwhelm myself with great expectations about becoming pure and perfect. Even though I know in my bones that it’s not possible.

    I am perpetually fallible.

    As I was inwardly beating myself I happened upon a teaching about “natural growth”.

    Trees were used as an analogy for the process by which nature forms organic matter by providing the conditions that allow growth to happen. The tree has soil, water, sunlight and most importantly, time.

    The tree doesn’t have to do anything. It is forged and shaped over decades of exposure to the elements, the harsh and bitter rain and wind and the warmth and nourishment of the sun. The result is a simple, natural radiance that stands tall as a testament to the life force from which we all originate.

    This comforted me greatly. I knew that my need to feel in control of my own growth and healing was, to some extent impeding a deeper, perhaps more important thread of an overall process. Maybe there is a value in just being where I am with it all. Allowing myself to fail, while continuing to engage with the practice that feeds my roots and waters my leaves.

    Namo Amida Bu.

    Sign up to the temple newsletter on Substack for teachings, Dharma Glimpses and news from Bright Earth.

    No Comments

    About the Author

    Satya Robyn ()

    Website: http://www.satyarobyn.com

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *