Zen in ten

Because one thing leads to another, here is my contribution* to total life fulfillment in 10 seconds or less:




1. Make your bed. The state of your bed is the state of your head. Making your bed enfolds your day in respect and gratitude.

2. Use butter. Be generous with yourself and others; there is no need to skimp or settle; there is always enough; and it tastes much better that way.

3. Say hello. This is a genuine act of true love: to give and accept friendship for no good reason.

4. Floss your teeth. It really will keep your teeth and gums in better shape; you will feel good about it; and, most importantly, you will no longer have to lie to the dentist.

5. Slow down on the yellow light. Save yourself the effort of making an excuse.

6. Be quiet. Nearly all of conversation is complaining, blaming or criticizing, which is so much fun until someone gets hurt. Silence never judges. It is infinitely kind.

7. Rake the leaves. Not because you'll finish and not because there is a prize, but because somebody has to.

8. Answer the phone. There is nothing in life that doesn't belong there. You can always hang up later. If it's a cell phone, by all means turn it off every now and then.

9. Exhale. This is what it really means to let go. Every other form of letting go is just imaginary. If you call yourself a "control freak" – and who isn't – remind yourself that you already know perfectly well how to let go. Then exhale. You'll feel pounds lighter right away.

10. Be. Forget all about this list; you already know how to live and you're doing it beautifully; there are no rules required, and no authority elsewhere.

*Recklessly adapted from the 10 Grave Precepts for the purpose of this writer's potluck.