Mindfulness in a shopping centre

The following thoughts may appear somewhat judgemental, but please realise that I write as an ‘insider’. I was convicted as I sat mindfully in a shopping centre cafe today with a cake and a coffee. I was waiting for my phone battery to be replaced. And while filling in time there, I also bought a new outfit which I don’t need, but very much like…….

There are two pathways in life, analysed an ancient philosopher,
The path of folly and the path of wisdom.

Choose well. 

Laughter and chatter surround us,
Three older women converse, one wearing a Fitbit. Does she, like me, intend to move?
Two young people gaze into one another’s eyes, fingers touching.
A balding man sits alone.
“May I have little more hot water in this teapot?” he asks.

When one focuses, the noise is deafening,
A regular beat pulsates, though no melody emanates from the muddle of music.
Fake foliage adorns supporting structures above, from which yellow lights hang,
Skylights allow in sunlight but the accompanying heat is combatted by powerful air-conditioning.
High sugar, high fat treats make us feel ‘special’.

A huge hanging sign advertises a lottery, then sales, then gift cards,
Finally declaring that “Our shopping centres practise sustainability.”
‘Smart water meters’ alert management to leaks, you see,
And we should install them too.
Yet all the while, they artificially regulate the environment and encourage conspicuous consumption.

Great Creator, how often do we miss out on your best,
Substituting man-made sustenance, shelter and so-called security
For your wholesome, healthy provisions?
Forgive us. 
Deliver us from distractions of consumerist cultures.

There are two pathways in life, analysed an ancient philosopher,
The path of folly and the path of wisdom.

Choose well.