However great our conceptual knowledge and understanding might be,
in the face of real experience,
concepts are like flakes of snow fallen on a burning fire.
Zenkei Shibayama, 1894 – 1974, Japanese Rinzai Zen priest, head Roshi of Nanzenji Zen Monastery in Kyoto
Mindfulbalance 
I just want you to realize how much I love, appreciate, and learn from, as well as look forward to your daily emails. Thank you. So much. Merry Christmas to you, your family and friends, and everyone over there in Ireland!
From La Crescent, Minnesota, USA.
Sent from my iPhone
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Dear Thomas, how nice to hear from you . Thank you for your lovely message and for your kindness in taking the time to write, I am always amazed – and encouraged – hearing from the different parts of the world that read the blog. I had images of a cold Minnesota and of lakes this morning. It must be a very beautiful part of the world. It is nice to be united across the world in these reflections on more conscious living, that try and put our shared experience into wider perspectives. I wish you and yours and very happy Christmas. Karl