Boy Swallows Universe

by Trent Dalton

‘Sacrifice,’ he said. ‘Never grow attached to anything you can’t instantly separate yourself from.’

Why did I highlight this? Because it is important not to cling, or grasp. Everything is impermanent. This is not say one cannot Love or have joy, just know that in time it will pass…

‘You know what I realised in all that time with my mouth shut?’ ‘What?’ ‘Most things people say don’t need to be said,’ he says.

This for me goes hand in hand with listening. Compassionately. Much of the time what I utter should be more pointed and encouraging to the listener. I should try to drop the “I’s” and “me’s” a little in my speech.

Oh, come with old Khayyám, and leave the Wise To talk; one thing is certain, that Life flies; One thing is certain, and the Rest is Lies; The Flower that once has blown forever dies.