I see that flower

A few weeks ago, Myungju Sunim, the Abbot of the Detroit Zen Center, held a one-week residency at Brown University. Before we entered silence, Myungju talked about how our relationship with ourselves is similar to our relationship with non-human creatures. Human connections often carry an inherent expectation of reciprocity—be it with friends, with colleagues, or with intimate partners. But there is little such expectation when it comes to our intrapersonal relationship. It is like gazing at a single flower. You just behold it fully, giving it all your unconditional love and acceptance without seeking anything in return. How deeply are we willing to offer such unconditional love to someone or something else, or even more so, to ourselves? This piece was written in my contemplation of this matter.

Among all the blossoms in this vibrant New England spring, I am looking for that flower.

May 6, 2025, by Russell Greenberg at Grant Recital Hall, Brown University, Providence, RI