Thich Nhat Hanh: Thank You.

Gratitude for your life

I want to share with you a few words in honor of the life and teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh (11 October 1926–22nd January 2022).

Thich Nhat Hanh is a Zen Master, a Buddhist monk, peace activist, spiritual leader, and founder of the Engaged Buddhist Movement and Plum Village Tradition, whose gentle teachings touched the hearts of many.

Dear Thich Nhat Hanh,

We never met in the physical realm.

Yet your words and the messages of integrity from your heart touch mine.

Simple, clear directions to live our life well,

to release our attachment to suffering,

And walk the path of peace.

Thank you for your teachings, love, and compassion for our world.

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This month, The Art of Living, by Thich Nhat Hanh, is the book we are reading as members of the SOARS Book Club.

Therefore, can you imagine my startled reaction when I received the message that Thich Nhat Hanh had transitioned?

So much wisdom, love, and tender care flow through the Art of Living.

In celebration of Thich Nhat Hanh's life and the teachings he inspires, one passage shines for me, which I would like to share with you today,

Extract from the Art of Living by Thich Nhat Hanh:

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When you breathe mindfully, you bring your whole body and mind into harmony, concentrating on the wonder of the breath.

Our breathing is as beautiful as music.

Breathing in, I enjoy my in-breath.

Breathing out, I enjoy my out-breath.

Breathing in, my whole body is harmonised with the in-breath.

Breathing out my whole body is calmed with the out -breath.

Breathing in, my whole body enjoys the peace of my in-breath.

Breathing out, my whole body enjoys the relaxation of my out-breath.

Breathing in, I enjoy the harmony of my in-breath.

Breathing out, I enjoy the harmony of my out-breath.

How beautiful is that?

We know how precious life is and what happens when we say “I can’t breathe”, — — so can you imagine how compassionate humanity would be if we tended to each other through harmonizing our bodies and appreciating our breath.

So, if your breath is available to you, I invite you to take a minute, savor the wisdom of this passage; pause, tune in, and notice the magic of your breath.

And may we always give thanks to all teachers who guide and support us on our journey of hope, healing, and inner peace.

Be well, dear friend.

In deepest gratitude for your life.

Thank you.

Ntathu xxx