No Mud No Lotus

Abstract

"No Mud No Lotus" is a three-dimensional mixed media art piece featuring a crocheted lotus on canvas. It is inspired both by Buddhist philosophy about approaching life's experiences and challenges as fuel for consciousness evolution and awakening, and also the well-known Ho'oponopono prayer about forgiveness and reconciliation with the perceivable external world, a prayer that helps us remember that we have the power to transmute any muddy situation into the lotus. On this occasion of celebrating the life work of a dear soul, I am again reminded that no matter how much time and energy we invest in our human bodies and identities, past memories and future pursuits, diverse relationships and career adventures, all these are perceivable with the physical human senses and therefore ultimately temporary and illusory ... they are essentially dream-stuff we have dreamed up as infinite and eternal divine beings. Without exception, each and every life experience comprises the dreamy mud we grow through and eventually transcend, remembering our true selves as the eternal lotus. Yet, seemingly paradoxically, both mud and lotus exist simultaneously in the eternal now moment, so there is nothing to resist and nowhere to attempt to arrive at. We are the infinite and eternal space from which both spring forth. This piece is a visual reminder to stay lucid within the dream and at the same time to celebrate and savour every moment of life even though we know we are dreaming. The Ho'oponopono prayer helps us to both embrace and to also release each dream moment ... I'm Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Thank You, I Love You ... slowly we are remembering who we really are.