Carrying Water

There is a Zen saying, "Before Enlightenment chop wood carry water, after Enlightenment, chop wood carry water." What’s the difference? The tasks are the same. The need is the same. What about the frame of mind? Who is chopping? Who is carrying water?

There have been some major moves forward this week in creating an International Integral Salon Organization, and in creating a relationship between some of the salons that have already solidly emerged and Integral Institute. The Salon leadership Council, a self-selected group of experienced salon leaders from around the world, is now beginning the process of inviting some other "mega" salons, and their leaders, to join us in what can no longer be stopped.

The salons are roaring, their voices uniting, and these voices are being heard and are making a difference in their communities. Together, we can make a difference in the world.

As a co-founder of one of these mega-salons, It has been my privilege and honor to serve in the development of our local salon, and I consider it my highest cause and purpose to play a role in the development of an international organization of salons.

Venita, Tom, Jake, and Elle, all played significant roles in helping create the container in which all of this arises. Now, as we attempt to partner with Integral Institute, we each carry the container which holds the water.......and we must remain mindful that while the container is important, it's the water that counts.

It's time for us all to work together and carry water.

Digital Image by Gary Stamper