Peace Amidst the Swirling

I came across this fresh sprig of flowers resting at the edge of a fountain. While water rushed steadily over its stem and droplets formed from the splashing, its delicate blossoms held steady. Reflecting on the continuous stream of thoughts that rush through my mind on a daily basis, I was reminded that I am the observer of these thoughts and can choose to let them swirl by without becoming disturbed.

The Bhagavad Gita assures peace for one who is able to remain steady in this way: “A person who is not disturbed by the incessant flow of desires – that enter like rivers into the ocean, which is ever being filled but is always still – can alone achieve peace, and not the person who strives to satisfy such desires.” (BG 2.70)