[pullquote]The quality of others’ lives have a direct impact on our well-being; the energy of generosity, as an antidote to acquisitiveness, establishes the reciprocal loop of happiness that occurs when we take others into account while making choices. ~ Michael Stone, Yoga for a World Out of Balance[/pullquote]
I sit in a chair, in the sun, on the bank of the river, reading a book. High, rushing water filters the honking of geese and the twang of a basketball striking the pavement. Compliments of the leafless trees, I see all.
I see the dog-walkers and the first horde of spring motorcyclists. I see the Sunday drivers slowing down to gawk at the river. Small packs of cyclists come and go in both directions. One foursome stops on the bridge, dismounts, and take turns photographing each other.
I set out in their direction, unsure if I’d reach them in time.
“Now I know you’d all rather be in the photograph,” I say, and they are surprised at my random appearance. I take the camera and corral them as I do all my subjects.
They’ve cycled this route for ten years and are delighted by the spontaneous kindness. I point out our house and tell them they are welcome anytime, for water, the bathroom, and coffee. If they catch us at noon we’ll throw lunch in as well.
Smiling, I head back to the chair and the sun and the book.
Before long, four chocolate bunnies appear at our door. It is my turn to be surprised.