Just before a friend sold her home in the South Valley, she went back to see her garden one more time. What she found helped her feel the cherished place is in good hands. Here is some of what she says:

The man who bought the house had asked us if he could help with the watering and work in the garden during the last two weeks before we closed. So, he had been there on his own, on and off. I am sharing a photo so you can see what he brought to place in the garden.

On that day, when I walked back into the garden, the light was crystalline and clouds were gently moving, bright and textured in that gorgeous blue we all love. I love the fall garden. On this particular day it reminded me of the “secret garden” in the book by that name: a garden showing signs of neglect yet magical. It was later in the day, quiet and the slight breeze was rustling a few leaves. I felt a presence – something different. It took a while for me to see it – but there it was, under the “goat tree,” a statue of the Buddha.

It looked so right to be there, and actually as if it had always been there. I guess the size of it is what caused it to be so meaningful. I couldn’t take my eyes off of the scene and then a shaft of light gently illuminated the side of Buddha’s face. I felt, or said out loud, or both: “Ah! Of course! I hadn’t realized that we’ve been preparing the garden and tending it for the Buddha the whole time we were here!”

Everything felt right and good and, needless to say, I was so happy. I simply walked and felt happy for all of the plants and for all of the time we had there and for all of the time to come. That feeling of the presence stayed strong and I recognized it as normal: something not temporary, but rather wholesome and deep and real – a background or foundation to the hum of daily living. It was a blessing to be able to leave the property with that lovely experience. I feel very lucky for it and also to be able to go forward with that same deep, still presence, no matter the external environment.

I’m reminded of the wise adage: before enlightenment, chop wood carry water; after enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. Life goes on…

Thank you, Dolores, for your mindfulness.