[ tin-ti-nab-yuh-ley-shuh n]
noun
the ringing or sound of bells
(dictionary.com)
I think this word describes the feeling of ah-ha perfectly. The voice of the bell announcing, feels the same as when I learn or gain a new insight. Hearing any chimes or bells, I am brought home in my body in that exact moment. It’s a funny feeling to return in an instant. To a crisp, uncluttered, easy place within me that announces, “right now”. Awake! It reminds me of how I feel when I really connect with someone. I think it is the sound of a soul’s vibrant recognition. Truth feels the same way. “Seek possibilities not problems” “Choose kindness over being right” “Progress over Perfection”. Thank you, Wayne Dyer and Fred Rogers for your many bells of wisdom. I hold much gratitude for the chiming insights on retreat, from teachers, or with friends.
"Our present moment is a mystery that we are part of. Here and now is where all the wonder of life lies hidden. And make no mistake about it, to strive to live completely in the present is to strive for what already is the case." -- Wayne Dyer
When I hear a bell, I follow the sound with my in-breath. This stopping re-orients me to the present moment. What awareness is there? Head, heart, gut…How am I doing? Is anything there that needs attention? I found a habit thought today that was dislodged by awareness. Habit thought: A job well done is best enjoyed with a sugary reward. RING! Really? Where did this come from? Sheepish truth…I had a sugary snack every day after school let out. I get to choose again. New thought: I want a job well done to be appreciated by myself. In this appreciation, if I want to splurge, a well-stocked box of tea is a wonderful gift to myself.
Now it is a few hours since that awareness and the sound softens as it tintinnabulates out. I will choose to remember this learning by putting my box of tea out in the open. The vibration of insight can be re-remembered with my visual reminder. This is the magic, appreciating the sound of growth. Time can dilute or erase the memory of insight if it has not changed into a new habit. Ringing my bell, I can remember and stay awake. Or I can forget and be in a “rung out” place. As my friend, Chodonla said, “We are messy miracles”. Gong! My hope for myself is to keep being open to hear the ringing and appreciate the tintinnabulation.
Namaste,
Laura