Alignment ...

maps

"there is no map.

you gotta write your own.

you gotta carve your own.

you gotta sweat, cry, grieve, laugh

and love your own.

and when you are all done,

that's all that will have mattered."

Bone Sigh Arts

                                                                         

Life could have been so much easier if we had been born with a personal navigation system. It could be advanced, of course, indicating not only what roads to take, but which relationships to cultivate, what schools to attend or employment to choose, and preventive health measures. Maybe in addition to a voice directing us, there could be bells and whistles to indicate when we were veering off course. Yes, maybe there could be some programmed affirmations rather than just hearing a woman say, "recalculating" after we've missed the turn.

Navigational systems are simply a reflection of how our culture relies upon outside sources. Information must be gathered for furthering mankind. Input from others is valuable to test and redefine theories. I have deep respect for the power of research providing understanding, application and advancement. However, all must be tempered by the guidance and insight we can receive from within ... harm no one.

We do have an internal navigation system. It is the voice inside of us, guiding us if we would but listen. The little voice of big wisdom has been called various things for endless generations: intuition, gut feelings, angels, or Divine Intervention.

Navigating through life, I have of course used available resources, but how many times have I said, "I should have followed my gut!" There are many memories of following some one else's advice only to later learn how it ultimately advanced their purpose and not my own. Instances can be recalled when I was so strong willed that I ignored my own inside voice in addition to the educated voices of others. (Note to self: trip didn't go so well!)

Tears and laughter as well as loss and gain are all an integral part of living this physical life. One unfortunately needs to know the one in order to appreciate the other. If we trust our inner guidance, however, we still experience difficult situations, but without the deeper drama and tearing of the soul.

During this time of my life, I find it vital for my body, mind and spirit to be aligned. In order for me to navigate around curves in the road, climb steep hills, and travel through seemingly unlit passage ways, I must feel inside all things resonating in relation to my purpose and kindness to others. Alignment makes for a much smoother ride!