A big title for this little post.
Always dashing between two antipodes - that's me.
I admire Martha Stewart, and at the same time she unnerves me, as perfection often does.
The Zen-Priest Shunmyo Masuno spreads calm and serenity - though when I imagine how the Zen-monks really live, I shudder.
(I cannot find the English version of his book: I translate the German subtitle to: "How to tidy up and gain a pure heart through/by it" Tasker: Please help me: through or by?).
So: I'm muddling through, not by, and pick those pearls of wisdom that appeal to me. Sometimes I will quote a few.
I have a new plan:
As an eager diary-writer (hand-written diaries) I will try here to write a different version online. Daily finger exercises.
If my name were Martha, I would promise: Every day.
If I were Shunmyo, I would say: Wu Wei.
Being Britta, I say: I try to give my best.
Martha knows she knows perfection and is comfortable telling you how to achieve her ends. Zen magic-- why not?
ReplyDeleteDear Joanne, I admire Martha. She was at her best when she went into prison - and instead of crying "poor me!" she taught other female prisoners how to cope with their life - that is, what in the Thirties - or so I read - was called "to have spunk". I admire that!
DeleteIf I were Britta I would be happy. Your best beats mine all hollow.
ReplyDeleteDear Mimmylynn, that's not true and you know it. We all have glossy sides and others we don't tell (or brag) about. Martha's "spunk" is one answer. And not to compare. And saying: "I might not be Martha - but I am the best version of myself."
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