Microcosmic

January 16, 2015

“As is the human body,
So is the cosmic body.
As is the human mind,
So is the common mind,
As is the microcosm,
So is the macrocosm.
As is the atom,
So is the universe.”
~ The Upanishads

Whether you believe in an omnipotent power called God or Love, a Universal Consciousness or Soul of the World, the possibility of something similar, or the idea of no unifying power or intelligence at all; whether you call yourself religious, spiritual, agnostic, humanist or atheist; who among us hasn’t had the fleeting thought that, if we were in charge of the Universe, the world would be at peace and there would be no hunger, pain, sickness or injustice?

It’s easy to imagine how much better taken care of the world could be if only we had the power to make it so.  However, before you pat yourself on the back for a potential job well done, take a good look at the world that is currently in your care: your own body.

Just as you are a single entity dwelling in the greater Universe, so are the cells in your body single entities of the universe that is you.  You are the supreme being in charge of your bodily sphere.  How well are you taking care of it?

If humans are in need of guidance, inspiration or healing, they often pray, asking a higher power for help.  When the cells in your body ask for oxygen, exercise and nutrition, do you listen to their prayers?  If so, do you answer them by breathing deeply, moving and eating healthier food?  When your spine is stiff from commuting, do you make sure to stretch a bit before hunching over an iPad for hours?  When your mind is stressed out after a long day, do you take a few moments to breathe deeply and clear your thoughts before turning on the evening news?

Many wonder how a benevolent God could allow disease, drought and famine in the world.  You oversee the world that is your body and mind.  Ask yourself: are you a benevolent or a vengeful God?  When your stomach cries out for better nutrition, do you punish it by filling it with more empty calories?  Your neck holds your head up all day; your back keeps you upright.  When they are overworked and in pain, do you curse them for crying out to you for help?  Do you smite your tired mind with internet negativity, angry politics and TV or movies that showcase the worst of human nature?

Do unto the cells, organs and systems in your body as you would have this world’s highest power do unto you.

Answer your body’s prayers with good nutrition and regular exercise.  Provide daily bread for your mind by reading inspiring books, watching uplifting movies and clicking on positive stories.  Heal your heart by saying thank you on a daily basis and by being kind to others.

Be a force for good in the universe that is you.

“I sent my soul through the invisible,
Some letter of that after-life to spell:
And by and by my soul returned to me,
And answered ‘I myself am Heaven and Hell.'”
~ The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám

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Penne with Broccoli Pesto is both nutritious and delicious.

Penne with Broccoli Pesto
Super yummy and also good for you, this simple no-nut pesto makes eating your vegetables something to look forward to.  If fresh broccoli is not available locally, use frozen broccoli florets from a good local, organic farm.

6 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (20 oz)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup water
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for table
A pinch of ground red pepper
OR
1/2 of a fresh chile pepper, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
16 oz penne pasta

In a large, heavy saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.  Add broccoli and garlic and sauté while stirring for 10 minutes.  Add water, lemon juice, cheese and hot pepper.  Stir well, reduce heat to low and cover.  Simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes (fresh may take longer).  Remove cover and cook and additional 10 minutes, or until water is evaporated and broccoli is very tender.  Mash with a fork until mostly smooth, drizzling with additional olive oil until you get a texture that you like.  Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Cook penne al dente in boiling, salted water, according to package directions.  Drain well and toss with the broccoli pesto until well coated.  Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese available at the table.

Serves 6

 

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