This morning I took the train from Malaga to Madrid. It was a 750 am train with one stop in Cordoba. The twenty-three minute walk to the train station from my home was in complete darkness on this mid-October morning. After getting through a brief security screening and check-in, I finally arrived at my seat on the air conditioned train. I’ve always enjoyed train rides, due to the tranquility and distance one travels without having to be the one to drive. It’s a simple journey, different than the stress one can feel when taking a trip via airports.
As our train left the station, darkness still surrounded us. I took the time to journal and check emails. But as we travelled through the Andalucian landscape, there were glimmers that the sun was slowly waking up. Eventually, I caught a glimpse of it as it peaked out over the countryside, and all of a sudden it burst out. And I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the beauty of this moment. Sunrises occur daily, but it’s so infrequent that I actually get to see them. I feel appreciative that I was able to witness this. I didn’t have time to properly do a full on meditation this morning, but I realized this served as my meditation.
One doesn’t need to be in a lotus position to seek a higher state. All that is needed is awareness and presence to all of your five senses. The moment was reminding me of the sacredness of life that is available to us all, whenever we are willing to witness it.
Next time you have the opportunity to opt for a train ride, take it. In Europe, train rides are a standard way to travel. But as Americans, we prefer to drive or fly due to comfort and a longing for immediate gratification. Allow yourself the luxury of lingering on a train, without having to worry about being the driver, traffic, being rushed, or anything outside of witnessing what is outside your window.
It Only Takes A Smile 