Our mind constantly balances tasks shaped by our feelings, where every choice is fueled by the emotions which manifest our future.
Since emotions lead we must take an honest look at our state of being. Are we in a healthy place, capable of navigating life’s lows? Blessed in a way that uplifts those around us?
Beyond basic needs lies the deeper question of how we relate to the world — to both individuals and humanity at large.
Electronic networks now dominate our exposure to ideas, leaving our knowledge of others incomplete. Before reacting with fear or outrage, we should ground our understanding in firsthand observations within the context of our own lives.
Wisdom is to separate our feelings about circumstances from the manner in which we respond to those circumstances. Yet, it takes exceptional courage to defy everything that ‘makes you, you’, and consciously overcome rash reactions.
Anyone who declares they act as they do, ‘because of things that happened’, are proclaiming to be a product of their environment. Unable to escape suffering through the use of inner strength, they become a kind of zombie. Only by seeing things differently can their behavior change.
“I will never rest, until [something else] changes! Since suffering will always exist, I too must suffer, suffer until I die!” – The Wretched
Happiness can be endlessly postponed if we wait for ‘must haves’ to arrive. Insisting that everything be fixed before we are happy is needless torture. Change, difficulty and loss are all a part of life, as such it is better to discover a pathway to acceptance and gratitude as we navigate life’s challenges.
Subconscious behaviors must be made conscious if we are to break habituated decision making. Thoughts emerge from a mind at rest. Observe them and the level of urgency each brings, learning which ones matter the most.
In a relaxed, open state of being we can discover these drives. Not acting until we cannot resist an urge. Paying attention to these urges, we can see how our clingy mind smothers the space where new ideas might form.
Discipline transforms our natural talent into demonstrated ability. Not the miserable type of ‘forcing yourself’ discipline but a tendency to stick with something. In place of aching for a goal we practice staying with a grace that can accept the sacrifices required of any path chosen.
We want to trust others, without broken contracts, to feel safe while remaining emotionally available. Memories of times we felt let down or hurt can affect our mind, body and spirit, provoking harmful reactivity, illness and depression, while hijacking our decision making process.
In interactions, desire for connection can backfire. We often want to change another’s mind. To influence them to not just see, but share our perception. Online or in person, communications always entail a certain degree of risk.
As Gandhi said, 'My life is my message.' Every action we take sets a pattern in motion, shaping not just our lives, but the lives we touch. By being lighthearted and attentive, we guide ourselves toward peace.