Know “That I’m One And Also Two”
by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
In my garden’s care and favor
From the East this tree’s leaf shows
Secret sense for us to savor
And uplifts the one who knows.
Is it but one being single
Which as same itself divides?
Are there two which choose to mingle
So that each as one now hides?
As the answer to such question
I have found a sense that’s true:
Is it not my songs’ suggestion
That I’m one and also two?
Recently I came across an essay in The Marginalian about the ginkgo tree. The essay reflects on how the ginkgo leaf is not just one leaf, and yet it is not quite two, as it lives in the tension of both/and (my favorite word).
Our church campus is graced by rows of ginkgo trees lining the sidewalks as one enters. Another Fall season is upon us, and they will cast their golden fan-shaped leaves. As one walks into the building, we are passing through nature that is inviting us to notice, pause, wonder. That is quite a grounding practice for me, knowing, that the sum of the world’s parts are good and beautiful. Also, being with life’s paradoxes, like the ginkgo leaf.
I find mindfulness meditation supports my intention to know “that I’m one and also two” if only for a moment.
Mondays & Thursdays
12:15 – 12:45 pm
Room 407 @ Second Presbyterian Church
7700 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260
or
Zoom! - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83998337582
Meeting ID: 839 9833 7582 - Password: 672891
Join others in Mindfulness Meditation on Mondays and Thursdays at 12:15 pm. Brief discussion, followed by silent practice and concluding with observations, comments or wonderings.
Take refuge in the present moment. Mindfulness Meditation is the opportunity to rest in Presence in a supportive environment with others. No experience, fee or registration is necessary.
P. Scott Sweet, LCSW, LCAC
Executive Director
CenterPoint Counseling