SET YOUR PRIORITIES

I have spent quite a bit of time on my bicycle of late. Today, I went from Oak Park, IL to Wheaton, IL and back. I use Google Maps to give me turn-by-turn directions to get on the Prairie Path. Every day, the navigation software recommends I turn into a cemetery. I always assumed it was some sort of programming error. Today I made the turn as recommended. As I rode through, I saw hundreds of tombstones. Some we shaped like spires and competed for the sky, some were short but ornate. All of them sought to bring someone's life to memory. These were a last statement by the occupants and their loved ones about a life lived. It brought the Evening Gatha to mind:

Let me respectfully remind you:
Life and Death are of Supreme Importance.
Time swiftly passes away and opportunity is lost.
On this night, the days of our life are decreased by one.
Each of us should strive to awaken.
Awaken! Take heed! Do not squander your life.

Every day, we work on many problems. Most are of little to no consequence. Coming face to face with our original nature and pondering the great matter of birth and death does not often make the list. Why?

Dogen said: "Do not waste time but practice zazen as if your hair were on fire." Apparently, in his estimation practice was very important. Why?

What is important to you?