“” To the untrained eye ego – climbing and selfless climbing may appear identical. Both kinds of climbers place one foot in front of the other. Both breathe in and out at the same rate. Both stop when tired. Both go forward when rested. But what a difference! The ego – climber is like an instrument that’s out of adjustment. He puts his foot down an instant too soon or too late. He’s likely to miss a beautiful passage of sunlight through the trees. He goes on when the sloppiness of his step shows he’s tired. He rests at odd times. He looks up the trail trying to see what’s ahead even when he knows what’s ahead because he just looked a second before. He goes too fast or too slow for the conditions and when he talks his talk is forever about somewhere else, something else. He’s here but he’s not here. He rejects the here, is unhappy with it, wants to be farther up the trail but when he gets there will be just as unhappy because then it will be “here”. What he’s looking for, what he wants, is all around him, but he doesn’t want that because it is all around him. Every step’s an effort, both physically and spiritually, because he imagines his goal to be external and distant.”
– p. 206, Art of Zen and Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
Loving this book. Loving my crochet kitchen goodies of this week ( hot pots, washcloths, and dishtowels). Pictured is the hot pot , pattern is here. Loving especially,,,, my birthday present today…that beautiful red Nancybird bag! Isn’t it gorgeous! Other knitters/crocheters and readers to be found at Ginny\’s.
Have you read this book? Are you an ego- climber or a selfless climber? I think we are all both at times. It is certainly my goal to try and be more where I am at the moment physically. It is not the ideal place, and I do get homesick. But wherever we all find ourselves, there is some beauty in that if we hold up our heads and look for it . x
Oh angelina 
I enjoyed that little bit of the book, it sounds like an inspiring read. Ive been focusing a lot on being present and appreciating the now, I think I could do with a bit more of your books wisdom. Happy birthday! What a fabulous bag:)
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Posted by karenjj88 | August 18, 2011, 5:08 amHappy Birthday. Here is definitely a great location. We have the book in our bookcase, but I’ve never read it. Now I want to! Great bag and the crocheting just looks amazing.
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Posted by Cheryl | August 18, 2011, 9:44 amhmm.. I agree. I think we all have a bit of both. I like your picture. Its very colourful. I like the pot holders too, but I don’t know how to crochet! http://www.karmama.ca/2011/08/yarn-along_17.html
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Posted by Amanda | August 18, 2011, 1:29 pmHappy happy happy birthday to you, lovey dear!! Love the bag – the color is awesome. And the crochet. I never read the book, but I remember it being popular when I was in high school. Which I guess would make it a classic ;)
xo
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Posted by Jodi | August 18, 2011, 2:05 pmhappy birthday selfless climber! : ) your creations are lovely. i know the book but have never read it. perhaps it’s time.
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Posted by Anushka | August 18, 2011, 3:30 pmyes, happy birthday! loved the book when i read it (it’s been so long). it’s still timely though, a true classic.
your purse is so cute, i did notice it right away, but your crochet is amazing, i’ve never learned more than the chain stitch. i feel inspired!
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Posted by Lori | August 19, 2011, 5:10 am…and another Happy Birthday from here in Tassie!! It is hard being far away from loved ones, isnt it? and it’s not always easy living in and enjoying the moment but when we do – oh boy its good!! Keep at that selfless climbing!!
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Posted by Evi | August 19, 2011, 1:18 pmthanks guys, thank you all so so much . its so lovely to have people who take the time to send a thoughtful wish my way. xxx
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Posted by ohangelina | August 19, 2011, 1:47 pmHope your bitrthday was wonderful! I love your birthday bag and your cheery hot pot. Thanks for leaving such a kind comment at my blog. It made me smile.
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Posted by Erica S. | August 22, 2011, 1:44 pm