“The miracle is not to walk on water. The miracle is to walk on the green earth in the present moment to appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now…It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice.” — Thich Nhat Hanh

 

It would be nice to have Thich Nhat Hanh come to Austin. There are probably sources that could afford paying his way so he could speak at the library or at the college.

Hopefully it would be arranged to be able to walk on the green earth.

Mello and I used to do some walking down by the Bandshell. Mello preferred it when the music wasn’t playing. He preferred to be the only dog there and myself to be his walker. Sometimes we would go across the bridge and park near the Marcuson ballpark and walk by the Cedar River.

It was nice to walk on the path above the river but sad to see that the swinging bridge was gone. My father and I would park on the end of Harmon and walk down the hill and cross over on the swinging bridge on our way to see Emil Schied and what he was up to along with the lemon he carried around (if I remember right.)

Last week I went to the Saturday discussion group that was held in Plainview, the home of “Open Mike” the third Wednesday of the month. The Saturday discussion was on how to discourage war. They pointed out that after World War II we kept the forces and have gotten to the point now where we have to keep war.

It was also decided that we cannot sustain the cost. It was also noted that kids are being brought up with guidance.

Another member, Jack, suggested electing mothers to office. This was followed by a comment that an American soldier relieved himself on some bodies.

It was mentioned that seniors in Owatonna talk with elders at churches.

A closing comment: “Jesus talks about when he returns the war will end.” There is always hope.