I was looking for this quote the other day....the state of our nervous system is really what creates our perception of the world. I kept this entry open expecting some inspiration and it has now come from the most bizarre situation that I experienced today.I have been cordial with a taxi driver I have taken over the years. He usually talks a lot about a woman he is involved with whom he feels a sort of love/hate relationship with. He's discussed spiritual views, science...he's a pretty interesting guy until today when I got into his are, wished him happy new year and then to what seemed like an innocent comment from me...turned into something atomic. He says to me, you looking like everything good with you. I say yes, thank you,,,and then I make a self effacing comment I tell one or two people...which is....even if I am not good, I am great. From the moment I said that, he was on a rampage of words with me, saying that my comment was jingoistic (he didn't use that word of course) and that I offeneded him by bringing up my Buddhist doctrine. It was an absolutely weird exchange. At one point I suggested that perhaps we shoud stop the conversation and he could let me out. I even apologised for upsetting his sensitivity. In the end I had to get out of the car and walk away from him as quickly as I could as he accused me (rightfuly) of being sarcastic with him when he finally got to my stop. He left me feeling bewildered and stunned. I am certain that something deeper is at play. It is a perfect little cosmic puzzle that I know I shall be flipping over in my thoughts. What was most interesting is the concept of the standoff. WHen two parties are strongly opposed then they have to be mature enough to agree to disagree and to move on. But in that exchange today, I saw someone who was so combative he reminded me of my ex husband a bit, only he was worse if that was possible. I believe that this was because I had to take notice of it all, and I have.