December 8, 2002

meals

I broke myself of the habit of praying before meals — pretty much long before it was ever really a habit. At family gatherings it is usually done, but that’s about it. Depending on who’s family, it can be very official (the proper Mormon or Episcopalian verse) to very funny (we have family members who’s matriarch happens to be named Grace. Someone says, “grace” and others say, “Ron and Greg”).

I’m planning to take Buddhist refuge vows in March when the monks are here and in preparation (to make sure I really want to do it) I’ve been trying to keep the book to see what it will be like. I’m really having difficulty with refuge vow number eight - “In remembrance of their kindness, offering the fist part of any food or drink to the refuge objects.”

Two weeks ago I would go through an entire meal without thinking about it. Then I’d go to pickup the book and remember. Now I take a few drinks or a few bites and remember. I guess this is the point, that steadily you improve but man... it’s extremely hard to change years of conditioning.

posted @ 8:27 AM

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