Quiet Day

Peace and quiet!  Do they go hand-in-hand?  I don't believe they do, but one can lead to the other.  As I go about my day, I observe people around me always listening to music, talking on the phone, or engaging some sort of auditory medium.  Sometimes I wonder if these people can simply meditate for a few moments with nothing other than the thoughts floating around in their mind.  In observing people, I do occasionally listen, and I am shocked at the vain subjects of discussion.  Is it that people are talking to hear themselves speak?  My ears violated by meaningless chatter uttered by people who rather think they are on top of the intellectual food chain, so to speak.  Is there not more to this life than the selfish interest of the one who is seeking someone to talk to.  Notice I said talk to and not talk with.  There is a huge difference.  The lost art of conversation and listening is an entirely different subject matter, but somewhat loosely connected to the topic at-hand.  Quiet day?!  What I would like to experience for this obscure holiday is a minimal amount of noise pollution...a time to gather my thoughts uninterrupted by those who don't know how to sit still and shut-up.  For a few moments, or an indefinite period of time, try sitting still with nothing but what happens to bounce inside your mind.  I'm willing to bet the time will lead to peace and tranquility, and you might be shocked to discover what you learn about yourself and your surroundings.  Yes, there is a world beyond you waiting for discovery.

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