Simple Gifts

Image found here.

Today I baked bread and did yoga. I forgot how good these things feel. 


It was so delicious to knead the dough with my hands, to stretch my legs and my back, to hold my bare feet. I felt so connected to my body and the earth.  It was so wonderful to lay on the floor and just be still. I don't think we do that nearly enough. 


A wise man once wrote these words as lyrics to a beautiful Shaker hymn:

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'Tis the gift to be free

'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be

And when we find ourselves in the place just right,

'Twill be in the valley of truth and delight

When true simplicity is gained

To bow and to bend, we'll not be ashamed

To turn, turn will be our delight

'Til by turning, turning we'll come 'round right

I believe that bowing and bending are liberating, both physically and spiritually. Physically, it loosens our muscles, making our bodies stronger and more flexible. Spiritually, it helps us let go of our pride and let God enter into our hearts and our lives. In both cases, it brings happiness and helps us to "come round 'right." 


How grateful I am for the simple blessings in my life!