“But I know all of that, Gideon,” I protested. “I am aware of ‘change your thoughts and you change your world,’ and all the rest that goes with it. My question is, why did it take me so long to see things differently — to change my own perceptions?”

“Of course you know,” he replied. “Most people know, but they know in their heads, not in their hearts. Knowing that way is not true knowing. You were only aware of such things. Today, your awareness changed to genuine knowing. Again, let me emphasize that awareness comes from the head and knowing comes from the heart. When you really know something, you feel it deeply. And as to why it took so long, it is your nature to test various possibilities until you come up with the one that really works for you. Some people do it quickly, others take a little more time.”

“All these years, Gideon, I’ve been living on the out-skirts of life, almost like the proverbial prodigal son in a far country. I have been partaking of the crumbs that fall from the table instead of realizing that the table was set for me. Today it’s different. I have returned from the far country. I am home.”

“But you never were in a far country, John,” he answered. “You were always here. Wherever you go,you are always here. All you have to do is realize this and do the best you can with what you have at the time. This is one of the great secrets of life: live joyously in the present moment. As the Zen Master would say,‘When you work, work. When you play, play.’ Whatever you are doing, do it with a joyful heart.”

It felt so good being there. I stood up and stretched. My entire being seemed recharged with a new energy. Gideon sat complacently, observing me with a pleased expression.

“Race you to the house,” I yelled at him as I took off. A few minutes later, arriving at my doorstep panting,I checked behind me for Gideon but couldn’t find him.

Perhaps he was still sitting on the bench. Then I heard his chuckle. There on the porch, sitting as calmly as you please, was Gideon examining a rose he held outstretched in his right hand.

“How did you get here before me?” I asked. “I didn’t see you pass me.”

He grinned as he replied, “There are better ways of getting to places than running or rushing. Remember? I was always here. So were you.” He stood up, handed me the rose, waved good-bye and left. I stood there watching him as he strode away.

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