Perhaps what we want in a leader, in the leadership within ourselves, is the knowledge that we, as much as is possible, come from heart, that we use our heart as guide. That may feel vulnerable, that outward thrust of the chest, a soft thrust, one with the diaphragm moving gently up and down. The military stance does not allow the feel of the heart massage, of breath, so we want to lead from the heart gently, softly, intently.
I continue to read how important it is to have a vision to draw us forth. I choose peace as my vision and yet, it is complicated. We live in a world of ingestion. What do we do with the snails chewing on our plants? Today I wonder if reaching for neutrality and balance are more useful goals.
I sat in the Peace Garden at Green Gulch Zen Center on Saturday. I was with my daughter-in-law Jan. The bamboo rises and the lower branches have been trimmed, so the wood of the bamboo clicks as the tall bamboo branches sway above. It is like being in a wind chime. Click, click, click - stay awake and cultivate peace, balance, love.