Lessons in Impermanence and Detachment-
It happened in sloooooow motion~ As I watched it tumble out of the car, I knew instinctively that the padded container would not be enough to cushion the fragile contents inside. There was nothing I could do, but watch in dismay.
For those of you that know me; you know that my Quartz Crystal Singing Bowls are like part of my family. Over the years, I have collected an amazing array of Sound Healing tools- most of them are of various sizes and notes. All of them are special.
I travel everywhere to bring the Sounds of the Bowls to the world.
It's part of my life's work.
It is in my blood and my soul and it is what pushes me onward. This beauty was the first bowl I ever purchased - back in 2004. It took me a long time (years) to connect with it and to produce a sound from it. When we finally made our peace with each other~ it was magical, uplifting and life changing. Then, I went on a journey to follow the sounds and vibrations- and worked to capture the magic in all of the bowls I subsequently acquired.
If you've been on this journey of life for a while, (like me); you know that stuff happens and there are two ways to handle it. Either to deal with it; or to get all upset, tell our friends about it, complain, point a finger, or rail at our misfortune. I chose to deal with it.
In the instant after the bowl came crashing out of the car and landed on the pavement; I was upset at myself for being so careless, and angry that I was trying to move too quickly, and other voices that are not so nice- became very vocal. When I realized there was no one to blame, something incredible happened. I became very calm. I was reminded of the impermanence of life~ and letting go of attachments.
No drama, no tears, not even swearing! I came into full acceptance. Shit happens.
There was no one to blame.
The sounds of this beautiful bowl will live on in the hearts of the many souls that were fortunate enough to hear.
Nature is the perfect example in the study of impermanence. The seasons change, the trees aren't attached to their leaves, the snow falls, the rains come, flowers bloom and then fade.
Take a moment and look at your life, notice where your attachments are~ and what you are holding on to. As Thich Nhat Hanh says, "real peace and joy are only possible when we see clearly into the nature of impermanence."
As I continue this journey of life, it seems to always bring me the lessons I need the most. The more I teach people to live more fully from their hearts, the more the Universe wants to reinforce these teachings.
Thank you beautiful bowl, for your lesson, your service and for your vibrations of love that will continue on in those who shared your sound.
Peace ~ cathie
I'd love to hear your stories of detaching and how you deal with the impermanence of life~ please share your thoughts below~
Wow! Thank you for your comments about how you enjoyed this story- I also appreciate your metaphor about how the broken bowl is a sign that I’m “breaking new ground.” ONward and UPward we go!
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story, Cathy. I love your thought that while the bowl is gone it’s effects linger on with those that have been soothed by its sounds.
Also, the. bowl brought out something in YOU, that can’t be lost. In fact, you seem to be reaching a new level of growth, recently recoding music with your son. Perhaps the broken bowl is a sign that you a breaking new ground, let go of the old to make room for the new.
Thank you everyone for your comments! Seems as this post has really hit home for many~ And, with the recent events happening;
it’s even more poignant to honor our human journey~ Gratitfude!
Love this story because I feel it mirrors our world right now.
It’s not easy to stay calm when everyday there is more violence and carnage, thanks for reminding me to stay centered.
Yes. I love this. Thank you, Cathy, for your wisdom. As always.