“In the end, it is not enough to think we know. We must live it. For only by living it can Love show itself as the greatest principle.” – Mark Nepo

Such a beautiful passage from author, Mark Nepo – one which so delicately reminds us, that it is only through our action that the energy of Love may be manifested.

I think of this passage often, and typically in those moments where ‘thinking mind’ does its best to convince – that I am either too tired, too busy, too this, or too that – to reach out a helping hand.

In his “Book of Awakening”, Mark tells the story of Wu Feng – a Manchurian diplomat of the 1700’s who was posted with an aboriginal tribe on the outskirts of Taiwan. In time, Wu Feng became close friends with the Chief – who, in turn, offered Wu Feng a safe haven to live.

Wu Feng did his very best to ‘fit in’ – even though he was appalled by some of their more barbaric tribal customs. The worst of which included a ritualistic beheading – a sacrifice to ensure the livelihood of the others.

“Please, you must stop,” he begged to the Chief. Though, each year, his cries went unnoticed.

Finally, after 25 years Wu Feng once more pleaded with the Chief – only this time, he offered *himself* in the place of the tribesman.

“If you must kill this time, it will be me,” he bowed reverently.

The Chief stared long into the eyes of his old friend, knowing – he just couldn’t kill that which was dearest to heart.

From that day forward, the barbaric practice stopped – for which the tribesman were eternally grateful.

“Of course, Wu Feng could have been killed,” shares Nepo, “but his courage shows us that at a certain point, how we live inside takes priority. At a certain point for each of us, talk evaporates and words alone cannot bring Love into the open. Only the souls presence coming from us, can attract the soul’s presence in others.”

Indeed, a thoughtful reminder, my darlings – to view our thoughts, not as a means to an end; but rather, a conduit for compassionate action.

Namaste… <3