NOTICING

We are surrounded by countless other living things, but we don’t acknowledge them as such.  We see them only as objects.   

Other living things appreciate, in their way, being noticed as something living.  Spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle says that they welcome being paid attention to, even if only for a moment.  Tolle cites the example of a flower.  A flower knows, in a flower’s way, when it is being looked at, admired, and it values it.
 
A tree, especially a tree that has lived a long time, is likewise well aware of being looked at.  This writer is eternally grateful to three ancient Coastal Oaks at the Los Angeles County Arboretum.  Their presence he felt so intensely that it changed the whole course of his life.   

What is felt is that all living things are Brahman.  When living things notice each other it is Brahman doing the noticing.