Just like space

And the great elements such as earth,

May I always support the life

Of all the boundless creatures.

And until they pass away from pain

May I also be the source of life

For all the realms of varied beings

That reach unto the ends of space.

a guide to the bodhisattva’s way of life – shantideva 

These very wise and compassionate expressions are indeed sage words to contemplate and weave into the fabric of intentional living. When I encounter them I am inspired. I recognize in these words, the heart of my own motivation and desire to enter chaplaincy training.

The notion of Life as unitive as well as, be-ing alive and present to each other attracts me. Each is so compellingly yet simply shared here. There is boundless wisdom in these guidelines as a way of life; so simple, and yet so complex – like me.

The process for chaplaincy training that I engage with asks the potential chaplain to be accountable to the spirit conveyed in, through and with these guidelines. To collaborate in a group setting where one shares deeply one’s journey with others and reflects meaningfully on how best to let the great elements and sources of life reach through us boundlessly feels like real human community and kinship to me.

And so I enter more deeply into life’s mystery pondering how I might bring mercy, love and compassion to a hungry world despite my faults and weaknesses. And I know more authentically that it is precisely because I am the recipient of mercy, love and compassion in my own hungry heart that I may yet hold the seeds for loving more of this imperfect world.

Thank G*d that Love is not reserved for the perfect and lovable. And may a grateful heart allow me to love more.