A Different Kind of Birthday Present

Some years ago, I was born during the month of October.  In our culture, it has long been something of a tradition to give a gift to a friend or loved one in celebration of his or her life on this day.  Perhaps it should feel good to give and to receive.  Like the birthday gifts that celebrate one’s life, gifts help us share our human experiences, but I often feel that many people have forgotten how to give.
Last year, I began, as I often do, by doing something different.  Instead of receiving gifts on my birthday, I decided I would gift something to other people.  I realize this is not a new idea, but it is a different kind of birthday present.  It is the gift of sharing the present moment with the people I care about and I cannot think of a better way to celebrate life.

One Regret

I attended a production meeting last night for a television commercial promoting the release of a magic kit.  Partway into the meeting, I took issue with a matter of ethics that the production manager refused to consider.  As I spoke to the production assistant, a young guy overheard her say that I was a magician.  His reaction was amazing to me.  His eyes immediately lit up and he, without thinking, announced, “He’s a magician!?”  He walked right up next to me as I was standing speaking with the production team.  It was as if all his inhibitions had vanished.

After the exchange of a few more words with the crew, I explained that I would now have to leave and then I did.  The only part that I regret is that I left without acknowledging the presence of that young guy, who for a few moments lost himself in wonder.  I will never forget the look of excitement on his face when he heard that I was a “real magician,” nor will I forget the look of longing in his eyes as they followed me as I silently departed.  I do not know your name, my friend, but I will never forget you.

Needles and a Nice Merlot (to Wash Them Down)

Recently, I’ve been rehearsing a very dangerous illusion; in fact, some magician friends of mine have suggested that I refrain from performing it.  I’ll admit that after the first rehearsal, I seriously considered yielding to their concerns.  It is the combination of effect and method that makes this routine less than sane, such that, if there is one magic trick that could make a magician paranoid, this could well be it.  I realize, though, that incorporating this routine is something that has expanded my artistic limitations, so that the audience can feel a greater range of emotion during my performances.  However, due to my persona during this piece, I am compelled to feel no obligations to my friends’ apprehension.  Cheers.

Tea with a Zen Master

An enthusiastic young man pleaded an old Zen master to take him as a student.  In his plea, the young man made obvious his advanced knowledge.  As he spoke at length, the master began to pour the young man a cup of tea.  He continued pouring even when the tea had reached the brim and overflowed.  The young man became quiet and realized that he needed to empty his cup before the master could fill it with the teachings that he desired.  The young man thanked the master and quietly departed.

It is difficult to imagine Magic existing without time, as time is a law of Nature, though, Magic often seems to transcend this law and perhaps, so too, my imagination.  Time is the teaching of the Zen master in the story above.  As he silently articulates, full attention cannot be given to the present moment when the mind lags in the thoughts of unfinished work constantly looming overhead. 

Imagine how stress-free life would be, if projects were completed and thoughts concluded.  Completing tasks leaves the mind and body free to experience this moment in time.

…So, take one sip at a time, my friend.