I remember tulips from my childhood, our back garden was full of tulips come Spring. Soft pinks, dark amethyst and mauve alongside burnt-orange and saffron dancing happily; a feast for the senses.
Photo credit - Jennifer Ngoc Phan
Watching the Venerable monks on their Peace Walk, these last few weeks, clothed in their rich earth toned robes, receiving and gifting flowers along their peaceful journey, spreading peace and love everywhere they walked reminded me of happy peaceful days in my garden, barefoot among the tulips and inspired this painting.
Peace Among the Tulips
Although I did not attend the Peace walk in person, I was there in spirit and I found myself crying throughout the journey. For sometime now, I have felt that the world had become fragmented; however witnessing the tenderness shared between the monks and all the people coming together for values that unite all of humanity. It was spiritually uplifting and gave me hope.
Peace Unites Us
“This walk has shown that no matter what race you might belong to, whatever ethnicity you might come from, whatever religious faith you might adhere to, whatever the color of your skin might be, we all celebrate peace.” Everyone came together in the spirit of compassion and mutual respect.
Monk Bhikku Pannakara’s desire for the Walk was not to teach Buddhism, or convert anyone to Buddhism. His desire was to teach MINDFULNESS, which is a path of peace for all people.
He reminded us, that Peace is Within and sometimes all we need is a simple reminder that we can all cultivate a peaceful mind and heart, through mindfulness.
To stop and pause, even for a few moments, and notice one another, to be in the present moment; to notice the bird song, notice our sacred breath; the beauty and wonder that surrounds us.
Following the monks walk has been a soothing balm during these strange and bewildering times. I have found a new lease of energy growing inside of me. I am full of hope and feel peaceful; grounded and inspired. And I know others are feeling this too. I am deeply grateful to all who were involved in making the Walk for Peace possible.
Even though the air is still bitterly cold and snow, I am told, is on its way tonight, Spring has already sprung within me and flowing into my art.
The Tulips remind us to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of every day life. And their growth symbolizes the rhythm of life, endings and new beginnings. I have always found nature to be my greatest teacher and healer.
May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace. Love Marghanita x
