Gentle Being

              "We have a tendency to think in terms of doing and not in terms of being."                          Thich Nhat Hanh

This day may be the first you have had to yourself since the holidays began. By now, family has gone home, friends no longer linger, and your space begs to be restored. You are probably tired of eating big meals and digesting leftovers. Let me give you permission to slip into comfy clothes and do nothing for a while.

Sometimes this simple act cannot be accomplished unless you seek private space ... wherever that may be. A place without noise except perhaps for the sound of the wind. You can find connection by looking up to the sun or watching the moon float by.  There may be relief for you while gazing at the stars and feeling recognized.

When you are at peace with your lovely self, you are the very best person to be with. In stillness, the sense of self can be accepted, supported, and loved unconditionally. This creates a sense of peace that balances emotions and adjusts direction. Allow the self to gently 'be' as life gently unfolds.

 

Propelled by Tension

"If, in our heart, we still cling to anything - anger, anxiety or

possessions - we cannot be free."

Thich Nhat Hanh

Every day, we need to maintain a clear image of ourself, not just during meditation or a stroll through the park. Being mindful is not something one schedules in. It is intended to be a way of living. Unresolved emotions and dwelling in our shadow complicates life and leads us farther away from whom we are meant to be.

We cannot avoid chaos, but we can move through it with less damage if we face it directly. If we carefully assess and make an aligned decision, the drama will not thicken. Resistance doubled with fear increases negativity and causes unnecessary damage. Be clear of intention and motivation for end result.

Transformation is meant to free us from restrictions that keep us small. With the absence of clarity, we will not flow within transition. Challenge can nudge us into deeper understanding and pivotal advancement. No matter what is surrounding us, we can center within and strengthen our core. New perspectives and insights will unfold.

Hissy FIt!

"When we recognize that our suffering is based on images

instead of current reality, then living happily in the 

present moment becomes possible right away."

Thich Nhat Hahn

It is no wonder we desperately seek peace outside of our lovely selves. We have our higher self attempting to guide us, our ego misdirecting us, and our inner child pitching a hissy fit! Chaos within leaves very little room for clarity. Our higher self adjusts to be silent, and our ego minimized, but the inner child ... we must take her hand and heal her.

It is not easy to discover this inner being as she has been buried beneath trauma, disillusionment, and endless repression. An invitation needs to be extended to her, informing her that it is not only safe, but imperative for her to come out and play. As we reintroduce ourselves, a childlike freedom escorts us forward.

Apologies need to be offered to this little one, and with heightened listening, we begin to understand her compounded dysfunction created by our own personal detachment. Welcoming this child fully into our lives, we experience a sense of completion with creative flair and unlimited energy. Hold her, hug her, and welcome her back.