Emptying the Cup

Quieting my mind has been easier than ever before during this week of rest and reflection on the Chautauqua Ridge. Mischeivous boredom, wandering fears and busying habits still pop up at the edges of the quiet, but their temptations arenae tempting me much. They *sound* more like carnival hawkers than personal callings.

This morning's meditation brought forth the parable of the Accomplished Academian who sought spiritual counsel from a renowned monk. The monk interrupted the Professor's tales of his own accomplishments to offer him a cup of tea. The Professor continued reciting his Curriculum Vitae while the monk poured the tea beyond the rim of the cup. The Profie jumped out of his chair, startled by the tea flowing onto his lap.

"What are you doing?" The Profie exclaimed. "The cup is full! Stop pouring."

The monk continued pouring as he answered calmly, "Precisely. The cup is full. First we must empty it if we wish to add more."

Think I'll go back to bed. The rainy day outside the motel window is the perfect soundtrack for it.