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.

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