In biology, the definition of environment is the place where organisms live or occupy. Thus, the environment includes all the elements surrounding the organism. Living organisms constantly interact with their environment and adapt to all environmental conditions in order to survive.
Today’s meditation is a recognition of the fact that we all live in an ever-changing environment that we have no control over. And that we can either be unhappy when our environment doesn’t show up in a way which we think supports us, or we can cultivate our own ability to show up at peace however our environment changes.
“As waves of emotion begin to settle, we may ask ourselves, “Although I feel wronged, what am I going to do about it?” Will we allow experiences of disappointment or even sometimes cruelty, to inspire us to our most courageous decisions and willingness to evolve?” – Matt Kahn
“Am I seeing this moment in a way that helps or hurts me?” – Matt Kahn
“The more aligned in Source energy we become, the easier each moment of transformation tends to feel. This doesn’t mean we are immune to disappointment, heartbreak, or devastation. Instead, we are keenly aware of how often life is giving us the chance to grow and expand. A willingness to be stretched and re-created into a more refined form is a testament to the fiercely liberated nature of our soul. To the ego, the soul’s willingness to grow under the threat of any circumstance seems foolish, shortsighted, and insane. This is because the ego can only interpret that reality as worry, anticipation, and regret.” – Matt Kahn
“Once you no longer rely on outside circumstances in order to feel good, or even require feeling good in order to be relaxed and open, something far greater than the tracking of ups and downs, or of gains and losses awakens within you. This is the heart of awakening.” – Matt Kahn
“Whatever happens, love that.” – Matt Kahn
There is an analogy about working with gemstones that walks us through the process of picking up something in its unpolished form while recognizing that – to the eye that knows how to see – there is potential in this stone, a diamond in the rough.
When we think about a polished gem, our mind creates the picture of a shiny end result while skipping over the steps of what polishing entails, and if you stop and think about it for a moment, you’ll immediately remember that polishing is an abrasive action. The shine is only brought forth by the process of removing (grinding down) whatever material doesn’t match the surface of the end product. Which reminds me of this gem of wisdom:
“A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a human perfected without trials.” – Seneca
Our willingness to accept the process of being stretched and re-created into a more refined form has a direct impact on the quality of our lives, and on our ability to grow through what we go through.
Are you willing to accept the constant change of weather in your environment as an invitation to grow and evolve?
Ego almost always stands in judgement of the willingness to be open to the change in weather, and even sees this acceptance as weakness. But when I’m aligned with source which is to be found in my connection to my soul, then the change in weather is just an obvious law of nature, and it tends to feel easier to deal with.
So, how can we cultivate this mindset of openness and alignment? Here are a few guiding mantras for self-reflection:
- Embrace the process: Remember that life’s challenges are a natural part of the journey toward self-improvement. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and transformation.
- Shift your perspective: Instead of viewing challenges as obstacles, see them as stepping stones. Ask yourself, “How can I learn and grow from this experience?”
- Connect with your inner source: Spend time meditating, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in other activities that help you connect with your soul.
- Trust the process: Have faith that the universe has a plan for you, and that even the most challenging experiences are ultimately for your benefit.
Today’s meditation journey is an embodied experience of being right in the middle of changing weather while asking the question: “Am I seeing this moment in a way that helps me or hurts me?” Please come and join our circle.
– pierre –
Today’s LIVE meditation is: I am the mountain.
(image credit: EgolenaHK https://www.shutterstock.com/g/EgolenaHK)