to my children’s children

Well, tonight we’re going a little off topic – it’s been an unexpectedly exciting evening.

During a break at work today, I was studying the Yamas and Niyamas of yoga – the behaviors and attitudes that form the ethical and moral foundation of yoga. I was particularly drawn to Aparigraha, the practice of non-possessiveness. Here is one definition:

Aparigraha – Non-possessiveness. Literally, “non-grasping.” Being content with what we have with a grateful heart. Letting go, not only of material possessions, but also of attitudes and concepts that no longer serve us.

It turned out to be an unexpectedly timely topic of study. When I got home this evening, I discovered that the house had been robbed in broad daylight while I was at work. Entry was through a basement window broken with a brick, exit was through the basement sliding glass door – left wide open. It was clearly the work of pros – odd places where I’d never think to keep valuables had been opened (e.g. the basement freezer) and seemingly every room and drawer and closet had been gone through. Fortunately, they were very tidy – little was displaced. They were obviously looking for easily-pawned small items – the only things missing are the ipod/speakers I use for dharma talks, the watch I use for timing meditation, my digital camera, and one pillowcase from the bed. Tons of computer peripherals, the stereo and TV, percussion equipment and tools all were not touched.

I spent a good part of the evening with a very nice police officer and a crime scene specialist who took pictures and dusted for fingerprints – both young women who exhibited a wonderful balance of professionalism and warm friendliness. Now everything is cleaned up, the broken windows are boarded, and I’m ready to call it a night.

I feel very fortunate that no one was harmed (Misty was sleeping in her usual place, and Fancy had been returned to her previous owner the night before), nothing was damaged, there was very little to clean up, and all of the stolen items are easily replaced. I’m pleased that I don’t feel shaken – somehow it feels like something that is part of life – and I feel an odd perverse pleasure that I have so little in the way of material possessions that are attractive to thieves. I guess meditation practice really does increase equanimity.