I walked into the local cafe expecting to meet a friend. She was not there yet, so I sat with a man who has often fueled my spiritual growth. Twenty five years ago I used to listen to his tapes about internal change. More recently he has broken open my thinking in person.
I asked about a conflict where people I care about are judging others. The targets of their disapproval are complete strangers, and yet they feel justified in condemning them. I cringed at the unleashing of ill will.
He told a story about someone who went to a restaurant with high end choices. The menu was printed on parchment paper, with enticing options written in calligraphy. The would be diner was satisfied to hold it in his hands. To reread the list of entrees and desserts. A server stopped at his table, but he waved her away. He was not ready to order.
People at other tables were smiling over their plates of pasta and asparagus with cream sauce. Chocolate mousse with whipped cream. He glanced at them, but reminded himself how lucky he was to have the menu. He discreetly ripped a corner from the bottom, and slipped it into his mouth. Yes, having the marvelous array of possibilities was enough.
Knowing how best to love others is a miracle. But without acting on it, our bellies are empty.
As I left I said I guessed I had come at the wrong time to meet my friend. But then I realized I had showed up at the right time and place after all.
Anyone who has love within him or her is not content just with knowing, but with doing what is good and true, that is with engaging in a use.
-Emanuel Swedenborg, Heavenly Secrets 503
