Avoiding the Void ...

Through silence,

solitary practice,

and simple living,

we begin to

fill the empty

reservoir.

David A. Cooper

It is part of the human experience to feel a void inside.  I have read that the void first comes to our attention when we begin to separate from the idenity of our parents, realizing that we are not just an extention of them.  So if we are not them, exactly who are we?  We begin to explore many avenues ... sports, creative expression ... vying for attention in various ways.

We are all very unique even though we have so many similarities.  We attempt to meet our needs differently, and not always successfully.  Over time, we stuff our void with endless activities appropriate and unappropriate ... all a part of the learning curve.  We wear different hats, slip into other people's shoes, and search outside of our selves ... if only we could fill the void.

The void can be called a yearning or loneliness.  It can be called depression or anxiety.  Although not a human form, it sometimes sleeps only to come roaring awake demanding to be fed.  The last place we think to look for solution is deeply inside.

Once we begin the journey within, we create an awareness that helps us tune in to the light and dark residing inside.  We seem to start out carrying a small candle, but our light grows along the way enabling us to see more and more of who we are and who we are meant to be.  Sometimes it takes a blow torch to reach into the darkest parts of our selves, but the rewards of forgiveness and letting go of the past lightens our weary soul.

There is a little book quite old by now entitled, "THE HOUND OF HEAVEN".  The story reflects how we run from our true connections with the Divine.  We search for meaning in all of the unfulfilled places before we finally surrender to who we are spiritually.  We cannot avoid the void forever.

It all begins with cleansing the void and then proceeding gently gathering qualities true to our nature.  By being in the present moment, growing comfortable in the stillness, and remaining mindful we finally fill our void with self-love, self-respect, self-forgiveness and engagement with the Divine.