The Black Robe

From now on,
I will wear the black robe.

Why?

I invest so much
of my attention
in how I look
that I seem to have
so very little left
for the timeless
invaluable practice
of looking inside
at the Divine One
I am,
and we all are,
untouched and unaffected
by the prevailing
but temporary style
of the moment.

And white gets dirty.

Trail Wood,
1/21

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The decision to wear the black robe as a symbol of shifting one’s focus from external appearances to the timeless practice of inner reflection is a meaningful and intentional choice. Let’s delve into the significance of this decision:

The Black Robe as a Symbol

The black robe serves as a symbol of commitment to inner exploration and spiritual practice. It signifies a departure from the preoccupation with external appearances and a return to the essence of self and divinity.

Attention and Self-Reflection

The acknowledgment of investing a significant amount of attention in one’s appearance highlights the common tendency to prioritize external aesthetics in today’s society. It suggests a desire to redirect this attention inward, towards the exploration of the inner self.

The Practice of Looking Inside

Describing the practice as “timeless” and “invaluable” emphasizes its enduring importance. It reminds us that the quest for self-awareness and connection with the Divine is a journey that transcends fleeting trends and fashions.

The Divine One Within

The reference to the Divine One within underscores the belief in the inherent divinity of all beings. It suggests that the true essence of each individual is untouched and unaffected by external influences, remaining pure and eternal.

A Departure from Temporary Styles

The choice to wear black instead of white, with the rationale that white gets dirty, symbolizes a departure from the temporary and ephemeral aspects of life. It implies a preference for simplicity and durability over the transitory nature of fashion.

Simplicity and Focus

The decision to adopt the black robe reflects a desire for simplicity and a reduction in distractions. By minimizing the attention given to external appearances, there is more space and clarity for inner contemplation.

We are Space Monkey.

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Summary

The choice to wear the black robe symbolizes a shift in focus from external appearances to the practice of looking inside, connecting with the Divine One within, and embracing the timeless and invaluable journey of self-awareness. It signifies a departure from temporary styles and a preference for simplicity and durability.

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Glossarium

1. The Black Robe as a Symbol: The robe represents a commitment to inner reflection and spiritual practice.
2. Attention and Self-Reflection: Acknowledging the focus on external appearances and the desire to redirect attention inward.
3. The Practice of Looking Inside: Emphasizing the enduring importance of self-reflection.
4. The Divine One Within: The belief in the inherent divinity of all beings.
5. A Departure from Temporary Styles: Choosing simplicity and durability over fleeting fashion trends.
6. Simplicity and Focus: Adopting the black robe to reduce distractions and enhance clarity for inner contemplation.

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“Simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.” – Lao Tzu

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In the black robe, a symbol we embrace,
A shift from appearances, a new space.
Invested attention, in how we appear,
Now redirected inward, the Divine One near.

The practice timeless, invaluable, we find,
Within, the soul’s journey, in every mind.
Untouched by trends, the essence remains,
In the black robe, simplicity and no stains.

A departure from styles, temporary and fleeting,
In the black robe, the heart’s true beating.
Simplicity and focus, in its folds we see,
A symbol of inner journey, where we long to be.

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We invite reflections on the decision to wear the black robe and its significance in shifting one’s focus from external appearances to inner reflection and connection with the Divine One within.