what are you doing?

What are you doing? This title of the section randomly caught me from one of my Thich Nhat Hanh's favorite books called "Your True Home." I used to read one page from that book every morning right after waking up, using this as an early morning mindfulness exercise. I believe in the power of morning routines and starting our day with the right foot. Unfortunately, passed Saturday was not one of those mornings. Right after waking up, I sensed a gas smell covering our place and just found out that there was a severe and life-threatening problem with our heating system, which turned into a whole battle with the provider company. 

And here it was, my day was slipping from my hands even though I didn't do anything wrong. I could observe that my emotional scale was abruptly turning towards frustration, weariness, and tiredness. All those heavy emotions were rushing and hijacking my early morning, which would have consequences throughout the day. I knew I had to do something, and I didn't want this unexpected incident to ruin my precious Saturday after a long, laborious work week.

But I eventually couldn't avoid it. I had to go with the flow; however, I didn't want to go with the flow! I wanted to control the flow. It was a mind game, life not letting me control the situation and me pushing back harder. Then I decided to take a proper break from this inner battle, make Turkish Coffee for myself, and check random articles while technicians were still working on it. That's when I saw the news of Thich Nhat Hanh's transition to eternity. He was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk who inspired and influenced many in their mindfulness journey for those who haven't heard of him. 

I instinctively wanted to read one of his books in my library. So I picked up "Your True Home" and opened a random page. The master's question 'What are you doing?' interrupted my intrusive Saturday drama. The genuine introspection followed by this question aligned me back with my true self. I took a deep breath, accepted the situation, and made adjustments in our place until the problem is resolved (as of Monday, it isn't fixed yet).

I know we have a myriad of experiences throughout our lifetime, and as Rumi says, being human is a guest house in which we should welcome and entertain all sorts of thoughts and emotions that come with it. But finding joy effortlessly in different parts of life is the essence of true peace and happiness. Of course, it is not easy always, but it doesn't mean that we shouldn't try. 
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Now I convey the message of a sage man and ask you: What are you doing? I hope this question will find you at a time you most need.
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