|
Rani now
lives in a facility not too far from where I presently live in Wheaton. She
needs around-the-clock care. Years ago, when I worked at the TS, I would
quickly run over to her place and feed her lunch as she is now incapable of
doing so herself. Eating is a difficult affair as my sister suffers from a
curved oesophagus which can make swallowing precarious. Through the years I
have found that I need to be ‘truly present’ with her and forget about time
and my other worries, otherwise the experience of feeding her can become
frustrating. In turn, visiting Rani has become somewhat meditative and the
experience has helped me apply the practice to other areas of my life.
One day as I
was feeding her, I became aware of how much Rani goes through to eat her
meal. I could feel the guilt/shame I sometimes have. As I watched her chew
her food, I suddenly saw past my sister into the face of the being that held
her body. It was this incredible being who radiated compassion. The being did
not feel angry or upset, but joyful. I was ‘shown’ that there was no reason
for guilt or shame because the being chose Rani’s body and circumstances; the
soul had lessons to learn. While my sister's physical condition had nothing
to do with me, I was fortunate enough to be given the insight as to why she
was in my life. From a visceral level I understood Rani was a sacred gift to
me and I was a gift to her. Our lives came together to help our souls
progress in this lifetime.
The
experience left me grateful beyond measure for having this wonderful being in
my life. I realised that she is one of my greatest teachers.
|
