Dandelions. 

Crunchy, green and very healthy looking. Large yellow flowers smile towards the heavens.

Many years ago we purchased a tool for weed removal. I find it in the back of the garage, shining as if brand new and not yet used. At first glance it looks like a medieval torture device. But upon closer observation I can see the metal talons, sharp and long, ready to dig deeply into the soil to get at the roots of my problem. 

On my first attempt,  I wear soft soled shoes and can’t seem to get my weight into the project. Bend, pull, extract. Eventually a pail of weeds is harvested.

On the next attempt, heavier soled shoes do the trick. My weight is enough to deeply plunge the talons of the tool into the centre of the offending weed, and I ply out roots and all. Impale, upheave, discard. I am reminded of walking meditation methodology. Lift, swing, plant. 

I walk slowly from weed to weed. Lift, swing, plant. Then impale, upheave, discard.

My satisfaction is deep like the roots of the offending weeds, so much so that I return nightly to pull at the dandelions with my trusty tool. 

Mind focuses clearly on the task. Walk from weed to weed. Lift, swing, plant. Impale, upheave, discard. 

Occasionally I glance up from the earth. I come back to the task at hand. A gentle reminder is all that is needed. 

The opportunity for meditation presents itself and I am content.

Lift, swing, plant.

Impale, upheave, discard.