Taking Up Residence ...

If there is any human tragedy,

there is only one, and it occurs

when we forget who we are

and remain silent

while a stranger takes up residence

inside our skin.

 THE GLASS RAINBOW

James Lee Burke

It is raining yet again this morning.  I tell myself that the rain is nurturing the flowers, trees, and gardens.  I repeat to myself that animals need the water for bathing, playing, and drink.  I selfishly wonder why it can't rain all night while I sleep and be sunny during the day when I have things to do.

So I sit in my comfy chair and read my morning meditations while listening to the birds happily chirping at the feeders.  I make an entry in my journal realizing that my attitude is not one of gratitude.  There is a heaviness weighing on my heart which will make for a very long day.

With any transition, whether it is relocating, career change, marriage, birth or divorce, there are blessings as well as losses.  Blessings are easy to embrace, but not so much with the losses.  Losses need to be identified as such especially if they are not tangible.  Once recognized, support can be established which brings balance back into the experience of change.

So as I assess my losses, I know that I must create more support in my life.  I miss the insights, encouragement, and presence of friends.  Action must be taken to establish new friends, yoga classes, energy work, and connection with other writers.  Managing my time better would help as well.  Tending to the yard early of the morn (when it is not raining), unpacking some boxes, and then reserving time for exploring new options.

If my issues are not recognized nor addressed, my energy will continue to be drained.  My spirit too easily can become a mere flicker of flame rather than the bright light I am meant to be.  Without appropriate interaction with others, it is too easy to "remain silent while a stranger takes up residence inside our skin."