Washing Dishes

From Thich Nhat Hanh Peace is Every Step......

"Once you are standing in front of the sink with your sleeves rolled up and your hands in the warm water, it is really quite pleasant. I enjoy taking my time with each dish, being fully aware of the dish, the water, and each movement of my hands, I know that if I hurry in order to eat dessert sooner, the time of washing dishes will be unpleasant and not worth living. That would be a pity, for each minute, each second of life is a miracle. the dishes themselves and the fact that I am here washing them are miracles!"

Now, how can I look at dishes as a chore ever again....I hope to project this message to my children as well....its so true...not only is it a miracle...but the fact that doing dishes means we had food to enjoy and hopefully will again, is a miracle in itself!

In the book Buddha Mom by Jacqueline Kramer, she talks about being a house holder. How nurturing and soothing it is to make a peaceful, joyful, home! If I spend all my time grumbling while doing housework, then its not love in the clean clothes or clean dishes or swept floor, its anger and resentment. Its also a job that needs to be done, so I'd rather set a positive example that it isn't drudgery..that there is enjoyment and satisfaction to be had.

The reason for this post and why I cant wait to wash dishes (insert sarcasm, but heh I am trying!!) is that I received the most beautiful package in the mail today from Zee. It was in a purple box with thoughtful quotes all over it (hand written) and inside was a lovely card with the most kind and considerate words that one could ever hear! She made me 6 dish cloths out of (I think) cotton yarn..off white...with flecks of color...I want to post a picture and MUST learn how!! She is such a considerate person to send me a home made gift!! I was so happy to receive it!! Nothing like a package in the mail!!! Thank you ZEE~