Life often has a different pace than what we, the good members of conformity, are ready to embrace.
Some folks understand the call of different drummers. They are easy on themselves, don't fight their truest nature and as a result live simple serene lives.
Cowboy Bob Ding is one of these chaps.
I've known Bob for years. We met in Calgary. Like Howard, he has this ez going nature, a calming influence surrounds him, and no matter what the agenda, when you're in his presence you know your back is covered. His talents seem so natural, so fluid, and yet, behind those abilities, is a patient and studied man whose rhythm is the most calming influence. And speaking of rhythm, man, can Bob Ding dance! He's one of the only men whose ever been able to two step with me and not let me take us to the floor in a heap of big hats, tall heeled boots, and bad timing.
For with Bob, his entire life represents good timing. He leads like he means it.
Over the last several days, as a result of my initial introduction via Howard, and Bob's subliminal influence, I've been thinking endlessly about the Toltec way. An ancient wisdom, a state of awareness and an agreement one makes with oneself, this way of being seems to mirror Bob's agreement with the universe.
Bob hasn't an enemy in the world. His good natured smile, his consistent practice of speaking only the kindest words toward all who enter into his life, and his pace with the universe, extends good karma back at him in spades.
Last weekend while in Portland Bob introduced me to real Chinese food...the ala carte kind...the kind where they bring these carts around and you choose from all these unpronounceable delicacies...I was awestruck by the choices put before me. Bob speaks Chinese, he knows these carts inside and out, and his preferences were those of seasoned culinary master.
Later that night, after the horse zen thing with Howard's mare Papillon, Bob invited all of us back to his place for dinner. I didn't know this at the time of the invite, but Bob's home is the stuff of legends, and he's an amazing cook. Combining his Chinese background, his rich western history, and his dedication to the simple joys found within and created in his kitchen, everything Bob touches seems to define the boundaries of masterpiece. I had no idea the treat instore for me when we arrived at his home. Like most perfect moments, the evening turned splendid-as the host shared his barebones history, his adventures, and some of the more profound moments that have graced his table.
I can think of no better word to describe the aura in Bob's dining room, other than to say it was heap full of tremendous grace, humility and understanding. The delicate flavors, fusion, and sensory overload represented the truest icing on the cake.
I must admit thought that what struck me as most telling was Bob's sense of peace with who he is. Indeed, I'll forever savor my first glimpse into Bob's world. Upon entering his enclosed front porch I found myself speechless. Everywhere I looked, subtle and pronounced elements dazzled every sense. Abstract bamboo forms, Chinese art, Western memorabilia, and creativity fell in overwhelming abandon around us. Bob's home is stuffed to the ceiling with elements of self, his zest for living, and his reverence for the arts. The entirety of the display before me was breathtaking.
I did not see clutter. I saw only a man in full compliance with who he is, a man whose home is his castle and a man who unapologetically lives his life doing the very best he can. I don't know if either Bob or Howard recognize this, but as long as I've known either gentleman, they've been wonderful spokesmen for the Toltec philosophy.
Briefly, the Toltec way basically includes four agreements. These "agreements" are self guiding boundaries that a person makes with themselves in order to embrace and pursue a path toward living an easier and fulfilling life. Those agreements are:
Make your word Impeccable.
Don't make assumptions.
Don't take things personal.
Always do your best.
Sounds simple eh? Common sense, easy, and very "oh, duh!"-like...
Yet...stay with me here...Just try to consistently apply these principles to your life. Just try.
True, some folks like Howard and Bob seem to have this natural ability to pull it off. They are so comfortable in their skin, that they instinctively lend comfort to others. And without knowing it, that place of peace with the universe becomes a magnetic field that draws others closer.
Because of these qualities, both men demonstrate that the art of living transforms. The art of giving embraces freedom. And that art is found in many forms, especially in the manifestation of a life well lived.
An existence that as Bob tends his guests and monitors the soup on the stove, can only naturally equal some of the most delicious moments we can know.
More information about the Toltec Way can be found here: http://www.miguelruiz.com/
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