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Being on Time

Published in March 1991

Usually we use our awareness of time to justify a rushed quality in our lives - that there is not "enough" time. We look at our watch and say to ourselves, "I'm late. I'm behind. I don't have the time to be peaceful and enjoy the present moment."

The following verse can help us make our "time watching" an opportunity to breathe and smile, as we see the clock face as the face of the Buddha, smiling at us, reminding us of our true nature.

Looking at the clock
I see the clock smiling at me.
It is time to breathe peacefully;
Time to smile.

Jackson Metcalf
Salem, Virginia

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The Mindfulness Bell is a journal of the art of mindful living in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. It offers inspiration and resources for those practicing mindfulness in daily life and a connection to a community of people who aspire to live life deeply and in harmony with all beings. Subscriptions to The Mindfulness Bell support the work of Thich Nhat Hanh and the worldwide Sangha, as we offer methods for healing and transformation.