Friday, January 23, 2009

What things in life sustain you spiritually?

Spirituality is something I can get on board with.  My experience with religion has not been great, and come to think of it, the world's experience with religion has probably been even worse.  But spirituality travels far deeper.  So many things nourish the spirit every day if you stop to acknowledge them.  A beautiful day, a hug, a deep breath, running, music (both listened to and played), sex, a fresh cookie.  

For me, skiing is a meaningful experience that leaves me more invigorated than the soundest night's sleep.  All of my senses are heightened.  My minimally exposed skin tingles and stings with the cold air.  The snow, trees, and mountains are all serenely and perfectly elegant, and while I am intensely focused on the nuances of the trails: the dips, the crests, the textures, the best path; my entire body flexes and responds in perfect concert with the track of my eyes.  (Usually.)  The speed is thrilling and the delicacy of floating on powder is soothing.  It is zen wrapped up in a mountain and if I could I would be there every day; a junkie for the high of physical, mental, and spiritual acuity amidst freezing tranquility.

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