if it walks like a duck, 

quacks like a duck, 

looks like a duck, 

it must be a duck.k

if it looks like a duck ...

the yoga mat is not a fashion walk.  admittedly, i like wearing the latest colors along with the best of them while taking great pains to avoid pants that make my @ss look big(ger).

but, frankly, the attire we wear has begun to take on a life of it’s own as yoga classes that encourage individuality, simply display the masses of warriors in today’s latest uniform.  

i'm #1 offender - but just so long as you realize the costume don’t make the actor real.

if it quacks like a duck ...

so you know the language and not afraid to use it.

sure, you’re a vegan to uphold the principle of ahimsa (non-violence).  but if you shame the non-vegan, how is this ahimsa?

and i’m glad you understand satya - but if in one breath you profess your alignment in truth and the next shares this nugget of gossip ...

you see where i’m going, eh?  anyone can learn a few words of sanskrit, but can you stand on your head while reciting lines from the gita ...? actually, i still don't care.

i just want to know that what you say is from a place of compassionate and pure intention.

if it walks like a duck ...

that’s what i want to know.  do you walk your talk?  are the clothes just a costume - or do you really seek the life?

being a true yogi has nothing at all to do with appearance.  or the sutras you’ve memorized.  or <gasp> even the mat your carry.

and there should be no need to preach - for the steps we take in our own lives will ultimately speak for themselves.

for a true yogi will walk the waddle.