Existence unfolds far beyond the boundary of my body or anything I can claim as mine. It is composed of surprises. It’s a true mystery — half the record is redacted. My success or failure will depend on how I respond to what I don’t know or can’t control.
Rumination is brute force. It’s the psyche pushing against the mystery for absolute answers. There’s no waiting, no trusting, just recycling the same scenarios to no end. Why did that happen? Is it good or bad? Real or created by my imagination? Who’s to blame? These questions are interesting but not relevant. They’re unanswerable.
Contemplation is quiet surrender: considering the universe and my place in it, choosing what I emphasize within myself, and which truth I align with. It’s an attempt to position my spirit within the mystery rather than as a know-it-all manager of it.
The difference between rumination and contemplation is acceptance. I can argue with the past but never alter it. I can attempt to persuade it with obsessive thinking, but I can’t remake it in my image of fairness. I am one of billions. What an ego, to believe I could grasp the whole of it.
Learning to contemplate instead of ruminate is to live comfortably with the unknown without making it a problem to solve or control. To come to know a thing for sure is to lose the conversation with the universe. I will know what I need to know when I need to know it. If I pretend I already understand, I rob myself of the dialogue I could be having with the universe: What are you trying to tell me today? What are you conspiring to bring about?
The answers may reveal themselves over a period of years, or never. I accept that I’m not entitled to know why — that every life runs beside a ditch full of garbage and gold.
My work is to be a good guest at the banquet of my life. To show up honestly — with a real face and an open heart. Prepare beautiful dishes, create an atmosphere of love and trust, of peace. Be hospitable and kind. Pay attention and listen to the stories.
I will understand why when it becomes necessary for my growth — and not before. No amount of rumination will change that.
Quote: There is no loss too great or challenge too overwhelming, provided you are anchored in your vision and your values, while following your destiny. Thomas Moore
Song Accompaniment: Real, Blessing Offor
2025 Accompaniments Playlist – Apple Music
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