Reflection
One of the simplest objects in my meditation room is a single candle. Yet its flame reminds me of one of the deepest teachings in Buddhism: impermanence. The flame appears constant, but in reality it is changing from moment to moment, just as our thoughts, feelings and bodies are constantly changing. Sitting quietly before a candle has become one of my favourite ways to contemplate this truth. As I observe the flame, I am also invited to observe myself—not as something fixed or permanent, but as part of the continual unfolding of life itself.
Haiku
“The candle’s pure light
Flickering, revealing
My impermanence.
As I watch the flame glowing,
Buddha nature unfolds.”
From “Stillness | Moments of Buddhist Practice in Verse” written January 2023
Stillness is a collection of haiku, senryu and short reflective poems inspired by my Buddhist practice, meditation, pilgrimage and the quiet moments of everyday life. Sometimes a few carefully chosen words can express what a much longer article cannot.
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