Anger and Sorrow

"If you are patient in one moment of anger,

you will escape a hundred days of sorrow."

Chinese Proverb

Anger was prevalent while growing up, and I vowed never to be angry, which of course caused resentment, repression, and denial of how I felt.  Information about how to handle anger was never available nor was it role modeled.  Through reading, I finally became curious and learned actions like screaming into a pillow and yelling into my diary.

It is foolish to believe we will be able to avoid anger whether it is our own or someone else's. Through trial and error we begin to learn appropriate ways to voice our anger.  Ideally, we can remain silent until we can work through our inner anger, but there are times the present moment is when it needs to be stated.  It is wise to have respect for who is present, but to have an artillery of acceptable words helps us to speak our feelings.

As we advance further into life we become more skillful in choosing words that are appropriate and navigate challenges more articulate manner.  We will have compassion for others and maintain a wider view of life experiences.  We will not feel the drive to 'verbally' attack.  We will choose to listen without comment, still respecting our own personal views.

 

The Twisted Tree

"The twisted tree lives its life,

while the straight tree 

ends up in planks."

Chinese Proverb

While riding his bike on the greenway, my grandson (4 years old) began pointing out trees to me.  I was delighted in his interest so we slowed our pace and began closer inspections of the differences in roots, trunks and branches.  "They are so different," he said in awe.   We found the gnarly trees to be intriguing.

The same is true with people.  When we begin to see them for his or her own offering, a deeper appreciation emerges.  Life does not unfold in a straight line, but curves and spirals into unexpected directions.  The process, in which we choose to face challenges in the road, is what makes our character different from others.

As people strive for authenticity, they begin to dismantle their masks and layers of protection.  Personal irregularities are seen as unique tools for adapting to rough terrain.  Some have traveled with heavy boots and camouflage and others scantily dressed and barefoot.  As we recognize the variances of experience, we hopefully develop a deeper respect for the scars we tend to hide.

 

Creative Follow Through

"Be not afraid of going slowly, 

be afraid of only standing still."

Chinese Proverb

When we push forward without one hundred per cent certainty, we often regret the pace of the action.  Even with exceptional ideas, if we move too quickly, all may be lost.  The best foundation is built upon stages where choices are made carefully.

If we move too slowly, we may never advance with our plans.  We may lose our insight and passion which impacts our progression.  It may end it all together.  There is an element of thinking too long about a decision which in itself may be an overall negative decision.

The best option when we are struck by a worthy thought, is to give it consideration with an open mind embracing both negative and positive aspects.  What resonates with in?  What is our gut telling us?  If the indecision drags on, perhaps it is best to let it go allowing ourselves to be open to the next inspiring insight.  Otherwise, creatively follow through.

Do Not Wait For A Teacher

"Teachers open the door,

but you must enter by yourself."

Chinese Proverb

Living spiritually does not mean a life void of challenge or loss.  It does not give protection from pain or suffering.  An airy fairy existence, it is not. To live spiritually, one continues to engage in the human experience, using awareness that minimizes drama and heightens the value of all people, places and things.

One does not wait for a teacher to arrive, as everyone around us is fully capable of offering a learning experience.  In order to succeed, one must participate in an authentic way, not just mirroring the actions of others.  We must search for purpose and understanding in whatever surrounds us and in whatever is stored within us.   

In the process of finding a loving spirit in all things, a connectedness is created with the sense of calm and peace.  In spite of hardships, the sense of unity with the Divine will assist us in navigating towards the direction we need to go.  We must initiate the steps and be willing to follow the path that opens before us.