Shit has consequences

I just finished rubbing some arnica on my back to relieve some moderate pain I've been feeling on and off for over half a year.  This back pain, in addition to being painful, which nobody likes, has affected my life negatively in other ways.  It has sometimes taken me away from acrobatics.  It has made me not want to be so active, a part of my life I have come to truly revel in.

I've tried various things to solve this mystery: massage, drinking more water, sleeping with or without my mattress topper or with different pillow configurations.  And I just finished rubbing arnica on my back after months of back pain.

But this is Karma, world.  I *deserve* this back pain.  Does that make me religious?  Am I being too hard on myself?  I don't think so.  I deserve this back pain because karma means consequence and I have been lying down on the couch watching television since the two graced my living room (on and off, sheesh).  And I've been compromising my back at an angle while I do it.

It seemed like a small thing at the time, of no consequence.  But today while leaning over and watching television with an achy back, I decided I'd try to make myself more comfortable, and I removed a cushion from behind me.  My body shifted, relieved.  My mind reeled, informed.

Shit has consequences.  May my eyes always be open to the karma which surrounds us.  May my back heal in the coming weeks and from better care and maybe chiropractory (because shit doesn't just happen on it's own; I make this happen).  And may I find better things to do than punish my mind and body in front of a flat screen of electrons.

Teacher's mantra

I am but a guide.  I can hold your hand when the way is dangerous, for I have equipped myself to deal with the dangers.  I can tell you of the many pitfalls on the road to learning, for I have fallen in so many pits.  I can show you how to best use your time in practice, for I have spent much time in practice.  I vow to let you take your own journey into learning, for I am but a guide; I have not the answers, but only tools and knowledge to speed your journey.  I will humble myself to feed your natural beginner's mind, which has something to teach us all.  Thank you, oh wise one, for letting me share and guide your journey.