7 VITAL KEYS FOR EMPOWERING YOUR LIFE IN THE NEW THE MILLENNIUM
APPLIED SAMURAI WISDOM
DR. GRANT KRUHLY, SENSEI AND FOUNDER
VITAL KEY # 4
As I sit to write this post, I am enjoying a nice glass of wine to set the stage for this next vital key, drinking. I am reminded of a good friend and mentor of mine, Paul from England. Paul is a cultured gentlemen who helped me a great deal with my career some years ago. Spending a much time on inner work, Paul enjoys a high degree of inner peace and happiness. From personal observation I can attest to the fact that he lives above the negative effects of the environment and is unaffected by the worldly “system”.
One of the things that I noticed about Paul was his dining etiquette, especially if I were a guest in his home. I never entered his home without him having first prepared a tasteful little meal, served with wine, always with a table setting. Then, a year ago, I met Dr. Guy Ferru, another cultured European gentlemen. I observed and experienced the same etiquette and conscious care toward eating and drinking, especially as his guest. I have never been to Europe, but what I have noticed with both of these men is a sense of care and joy in taking nourishment. Eating and drinking is an event, and it’s made all the more special by sharing it with whomever.
This of course has always been my experience with my Japanese friends and teachers. My Sensei in particular is a real study in focused presence if I simply pay attention to him as he is drinking his tea or sake. That’s what I want to suggest here for everyone. Using the common act of drinking as a subject of focus, really allow yourself to fully be present and taste the drink. Do it slowly, whether it’s water or fine wine, and be present. Honor what you are doing. Did you know that most people will take more care for their car than themselves? I have always found that amazing. We can only live for three days without water, it’s that important.
If your sharing the moment with someone, remember the Japanese phrase, “ichi go, ichi e”, which means that each encounter is totally unique and will never happen again. Since that is true, cherish it; that is happiness.
As with all the Vital Keys, activate your senses by coming fully into your body. Imbue it all with a sense of grace and charm and feel gratitude emerge for being alive and awake. All of this is possible in the simple act of drinking something. Amazing, isn’t it? Yet, entire spiritual systems like the Japanese Tea Ceremony are nothing more than just that!
Dr. Grant Kruhly, Sensei & Founder
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