Cover of Joe Versus the Volcano

“My father says that almost the whole world is asleep. Everybody you know. Everybody you see. Everybody you talk to. He says that only a few people are awake and they live in a state of constant total amazement.” – Patricia Graynamore

One of my favorite movies is “Joe Vs. the Volcano,” which stars Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan (with a cameo by none other than Abe Vigoda to boot!).  This sometimes silly movie has some great quotes and a deeper meaning than many perceive upon first viewing it.  One of my favorite quotes is printed above, and I think it was this quote that gave me the answer I often give when people ask me how I am.

When people ask, “How are you?”  I will say (about 90% of the time), “ I am awake.”  I mean this on two levels.  First, I am actually awake and not asleep.  But on a second and more important level, I also mean that I am trying to live my life in a state of awareness.  While originating from Buddhist teaching and practice, I also find it an appropriate way of trying to live as follower of Christ.  I want to be aware and awake to the world around me, especially when it comes to my fellow travelers on the journey of life.  Only then can I truly be Christ to those I encounter.

If only I could practice this as much as I say it.