All we are saying... (from John, no not that one)

Hi everyone! Well, I missed all of last week.... I'm still covering for a colleague of mine in Oregon (she's tending to a sick mom). I was informed that she is coming back so December should start my (hopefully) exclusive local travel (hurray!). This must be one of those attachment things, because I sometimes feel irritated that I'm missing out on everything going on at home (including attending class). I did, however, bring my mat with me and thought of you all as I went through asanas and meditation. I'd like to relate an observation. I was driving up the "5" and was again struck by the beauty of the fall foliage juxtaposed against the pine evergreens (I thought of you, Rod!). The car I was renting had that Sirius radio which allowed for 4.5 hours of uninterrupted radio (it's 300 mi. - Medford to Portland). Well, it being the season of politics, I thought I'd amuse myself. I danced between NPR, Talk Left, Fox and Patriot (I'll let you figure out which side of the political spectrum each is on). Anyway, I became dismayed during the call-in periods. Believe me when I say that all sides were equally venomous. I've come to the conclusion that our country's political parties could all benefit from a little (or lot of) Yoga!

Later that night, I finished about 1.5 hours of asanas (4.5 hours of driving and listening to political commentary puts a lot of kinks into you) with a simple, but sincere, Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. I always feel better after that. It just seems to help me to wipe that last stubborn bit of tension away. It got me to thinking that it is just as important to wish (and practice) Peace for yourself (and mean it) as it is to wish it for others.

Jump on the Peace Train!

John