I am learning over and over how important it is to be in the moment. Not just that it’s important…but that it is essential. Being in the moment actually helps me hold the center. If I can be where I am, just breathe into it…I can find clarity. I can breathe and come in to myself.
When I do this…sometimes I get a message. That happened a few weeks ago.
I was driving down the road and encountered that smoky haze from the fire in Green Swamp Nature Preserve over in Brunswick County. While there are many benefits from the fire for plants and animals…the smoke was definitely choking me. I had the thought…it’s time to move to the mountains!
Almost immediately, this internal voice responded – I know you want to move away, but this is your place right now. Yes, Renee and I talk about moving to the country. But I guess it’s not the right time!
Practicing…bringing myself, over and over again, to the moment…allows me to become aware of the wisdom and guidance that is always available to me. Inside of me. Right there. At the center of me. My work is to bring myself fully into the moment and listen to what comes to me, from me.
So, my discomfort with the smoke became a chance for me to be in the moment and accept the wisdom that was poured into my heart.
Grateful.
Paula
One Response
“Center of Me”:
“They” say that mindfulness in the moment (awareness) and paying attention are foundations of emotional and spiritual development and maintenance. Presuming that to be true, “they” also say that there are many paths, so how does one effectively choose a proven prayer and meditation practice? And once chosen, what processes are recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen practice? Surely an absence of effective wise counsel would be a hindrance in the assessment of ineffective meditative and therapeutic healing processes. One of the best examples of this is that many professional therapists of persons suffering from combat related PTSD advise their clients to start only a therapist approved and monitored Walking Meditation practice since deeper practices also frequently trigger dangerously debilitating reactions.
Kirtan chanting, as you have personally observed, almost immediately enhances the mood of spirit, and at the very least enables a somewhat temporary reduction of personal suffering. I’m grateful that you are continuing to offer that at this time.
Might you have other thoughts and feelings about the all of this?
You are loved by the many, and I love you too.
🙏🏽