Freezing Up

"Fear narrows the little entrance of our heart. It shrinks

up our capacity to love. It freezes up our 

power to gives ourselves."

Thomas Merton

There are numerous choices we can make. We can remove ourselves physically, withdraw emotionally, and neglect to nourish our spirit. We can tell our lovely selves that there is nothing we can do which excuses us from living in the present moment. Withdrawing into what may feel like a safety zone, creates a numbness.

It is imperative that we find an action that aligns with our inner being. If we do not have an opinion, then maybe it is time to reach inside and get in touch with our belief system. Perhaps, we are afraid to give voice to our preferences and that is certainly understandable. This however, is not an excuse to not know where we stand.

It is a false concept to believe we are limited. There are always options, but energy must be used to explore them. Exploring what is in our heart, accepting our desires, and building personal strength advances us towards clarity in action. Our power needs to be regenerated through whatever means we choose, but there must be some level of action.

Respecting Images

"The beginning of love is the will to let those we love
be perfectly themselves, the resolution not to twist
them to fit our own image."
Thomas Merton

We find ourselves drawn to a person who is unique, charismatic, and dramatically informed.  Drawn like the moth to the fire, we are mesmerized by just the voice alone.  An unexplainable connection immediately builds, strengthening the new relationship.

Fast forward and we will find ourselves resenting this persons ability to gather others in any given place.  We may feel embarrassed by the flamboyant actions, wishing for someone who would just fit in.  This person now irritates us like a narcissistic know it all.

The ability to respect differences and embrace commonalities is vitally important with any contact.  Grounded in our own uniqueness, we are not threatened by others.  We are eager to listen and truly hear the message and receive its gift.  If we can allow each other to be who we are called to be, we can find ourselves thriving  in a loving relationship.