I was inspired to imagination after today's scripture reading and sermon. Hearing Anna's inspired reading of Luke's pronouncements about the poor, the grief-stricken and the isolated who would eventually claim their rewards of happiness and recognition, and the rich and happy who were "getting theirs" now got me to thinking about the shadow side of all of us and the hidden but opposite piece that is surely present but not obvious.

October is a month of turning and of ritual. The costumes of nature molt and change as green is supplanted by golden browns and subtle reds. Our sun tempers herself and casts her gaze more frequently to other regions. We buy our favorite Snicker bars or Reese's cups for the Halloween visitors. Some of us might think about which role we will play at the planned Halloween party, or consider which hidden part of ourselves we might one day a year freely own and display. October is a month up for grabs.

Many people know that as a Buddhist, one of the ways that I "pray" is through meditation. Warren's sermon the other Sunday where he talked about praying to the "not yet" or the becoming got me to thinking. Although I know there are differences in the interpretation of Warren's words, that concept spoke to me in some interesting ways.

Tomato Cucumber Salad, (Indian Recipe courtesy of the owner of the late Indian Restaurant located off Pearl Street)

Prep Time-10 minutes

Ingredients:
1 medium tomato
1 medium cucumber
salt, pepper, and cumin powder only to taste.

Optional:
2 tbsp cilantro
1 small carrot
1/2 medium onion

Method:
1. Cut beggies in small pieces, 1/4" or smaller.
2. Add spices and stir.
Serve at room temperature with tortillas, veggies-daal or by itself.