Wandering Along the Path: Right Speech

More rain last night and this morning, and finally there is more predicted in a few days on the weather ap. This morning I listened to Anam Thubten's dharma talk, and he was describing some yogis urge to wander, traveling without purpose or destination, so that they might detach themselves from the chains of routine, comfort and expectation. I can't say I've ever had that urge, as a practitioner, because, firstly, I've been so very rooted by my family and responsibilities, and now that I'm retired, my desire for travel has definite destinations in mind, as well as a bathroom attached to every place I stay. I can't say my travel has suffered because of covid, as I was on call for half the year while our daughter was dying, and in traumatic shock this last half because of her loss. I'm not sure I would have gone anywhere regardless. So I guess you could say I'm well chained, but for the best of reasons, and as my good friend says, You're so tribal. It's true. WHen my kids live away, it's as if an invisible thread ties me to them. Once, years ago, as we were driving past my older daughter's house on our way back from visiting my friend further north, and we weren't stopping, as we'd seen my daughter and granddaughter first, I felt this tug on my heart, as if it was impossible to drive past without seeing them again. I've never forgotten that feeling. Now I have five grandchildren instead of just the one, but I feel it with all of them. Some days, I can't bear to look at their photos, as I experience the pull so badly. I think of this in myself as a good thing. I always knew my parents were by my side, steadfastly there for me, and I want to be that rock for my kids and grandkids, and, actually, my friends as well. Chains of love, as the old song goes.