" An eel that was not caught is as big as your thigh." - Madagascar
Andy Andrews, author of The Traveler's Gift, has written a book that contains a poignant statement, " The tragedy in life is not that man loses, but that he almost wins." At first I read the statement as an endorsement of persistence, but on second reflection I read it as a testimony for regrets. What exactly do we win in the course of our lives, and what keeps us from winning those things we "lose?"How do we report our "losses?" What motivates us to give greater power to what we might have achieved, or gained or "won" than what we currently have? What makes the "eel" that eluded us so large?
Our striving keeps us focused and alive, since death is surely the end of striving, but what is the quality of our journey in life, and what is the level of awareness of our present moment?
I recently attended a celebration of the life of one of my dearest friends. She was a jewel and an inspiration to so many people. I was stunned with her transition, and saddened by what I at first regarded as a truncated life. But she was such a winner! She won hearts and influenced lives, possessed life in every moment. She appreciated her relationship with Life and the genius of existence. She raised questions and learned as she taught others; she was so generous in spirit, so loving. Her life was larger than her death, which was a moment in time. In our relationship with Spirit, Life is huge and unending, while the transition from a physical existence to a non-physical one is a mere moment in time. The moment is an instance that does not disturb the nature of the relationship with Spirit, but matures it, like a new closeness, where winning or receiving is no longer important, because all is known, seen and complete.
Everyday that I live in relationship with Spirit is a win! Knowing that I am inextricably connected to Spirit makes my heart sing. I don't have to win or lose, but just be, just wallow in the joy of being in the eternal moment. My relationship with Spirit recasts the story of regrets. I know that my relationship is eternal, and that each experience in life is full and perfect, unfolding with purpose and love.
Celebrate the moments of being; whatever form we may take, our moments with Spirit will go on forever! There is no better way to win, and no greater story to tell.
