Being Awake

Cover of Joe Versus the Volcano

“My father says that almost the whole world is asleep. Everybody you know. Everybody you see. Everybody you talk to. He says that only a few people are awake and they live in a state of constant total amazement.” – Patricia Graynamore

One of my favorite movies is “Joe Vs. the Volcano,” which stars Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan (with a cameo by none other than Abe Vigoda to boot!).  This sometimes silly movie has some great quotes and a deeper meaning than many perceive upon first viewing it.  One of my favorite quotes is printed above, and I think it was this quote that gave me the answer I often give when people ask me how I am.

When people ask, “How are you?”  I will say (about 90% of the time), “ I am awake.”  I mean this on two levels.  First, I am actually awake and not asleep.  But on a second and more important level, I also mean that I am trying to live my life in a state of awareness.  While originating from Buddhist teaching and practice, I also find it an appropriate way of trying to live as follower of Christ.  I want to be aware and awake to the world around me, especially when it comes to my fellow travelers on the journey of life.  Only then can I truly be Christ to those I encounter.

If only I could practice this as much as I say it.