Single Cup

Single cup: 

it seems that my single cup of coffee each morning  has become a ritual of deep appreciation, a moment of gratitude for it's flavor and warmth and it's sure ability to wake me for the day ahead. Not too long ago I would drink several cups a day, each proceeding one being less beneficial and more of a habit of design, not a ritual but a craving for its constant stimulation. For several reasons it suited me to cut back, just that single cup, prepared right after my sun salutations, my day greeted proper, and then I'm ready for coffee and my early morning writing. It's with drinking less coffee that my awareness grows in consideration to what I have, knowing that it's a self imposed restriction and that I'm always free to drink more adds to my joy, it's this one that's been selected  for the ritual of morning and my attention is drawn to the taste that it offers, steam rising from the cup, and being best appreciated in mindful sips of pleasure. 

a single cup, so deeply enjoyed. 

and this cutback of a habit has caused me to examine other aspects of my life, things that have always escaped my attention, or have never been given their true notice and appreciation. I find that each morning seems to call for me to be grateful for one more action performed, adding my thanks to almost every task involved for the beginning of the day, my single cup of coffee now entwined as an event of deep joy to all that life offers. Truly, it feels as if my entire day expands from just one mindful moment, how everything connects in a magical, seamless order, unfolding in a display of mystery and wonder.

from a single cup of coffee, so deeply enjoyed...

my world expands. 

~

Peace, Eric