Learning Through Contrast

“May you recognize in your life the presence, power, and light of your soul. May you realize that you are never alone, that your soul in its brightness and belonging connects you intimately with the rhythm of the universe. May you have respect for your own individuality and difference. ”

~John O’Donohue~

When experimenting with different ways of being, new dimensions open within the realms of spiritual awakening. One aspect of discovery is learning through contrast. There will be moments when you shine and others when you learn and it’s powerful to remember that either way, you emerge from the experience richer than before.

You are the bridge between the spiritual and the mundane. Whatever speaks to your soul becomes a unique aspect of your human experience. Navigate the contrasts of your life without judgment (self-directed or otherwise) in order to strengthen the various facets of your spirit that are ready to shine. Remember, shadows make the light more prominent.

Seek only to bring the best version of yourself to the present moment. As you evolve, your perception will expand and your actions will express the light of the Divine differently. We are collectively blessed by your Presence in the world.

Facing Challenges

“The spiritual practice of relationships is about working on ourselves only, freeing ourselves from the constricting grip of our own unhappiness. It is not the other person’s job to take our unhappiness away; our discomfort is our own responsibility. Attending to our own spiritual tasks – seeing our judgments, opinions, beliefs, demands, and staying present with the fears out of which they all arise – frees others to move toward us. Then, when they no longer feel the need to defend, they become more willing to take care of their job. Thus joy in relationships becomes possible.”   
~Ezra Bayda~   

The obstacle is the path. Be aware that what you do not want to change is exactly what you need to look at the most. Have the courage to turn inward and face your shadow-self with loving, ruthless honesty. Your attention and awareness begins the process of transformation.

Bring a sense of adventure to the journey of your life and seek to find unique ways to face the hurdles you encounter. Whether found in health, relationships, finances or within your spiritual practice, you are ready for something transformative to enter your life. Your willingness to be an active participant in your own growth guarantees movement in your experience.

Be kind to yourself. There will be moments of brilliance as well as times when you may miss the mark. Empowerment calls upon each of us to take personal responsibility for our current state of consciousness so that we can engage life with an open heart. Act from the heart and allow circumstances to unfold as they will.

Self-Realization

“Your own Self-Realization is the greatest service you can render the world.”
~Ramana Maharshi~

Impatience is an indicator that we do not trust the process of our awakening. The ego wants events to unfold differently and creates a low level of anxiety, always seeking for the next thing. This is a distraction that prevents us from truly appreciating the present moment and all that it has to offer.

Slow down and cherish what is in front of you, no matter what that may be. Even the most mundane moments are a gift from the Divine and your awareness can allow you to recognize miracles where none were perceived before.

Too often spiritual seekers develop attachment to outcomes. The process of awakening becomes laced with desire for better relationships, more abundance, balanced health… and we utilize these physical indicators to measure how our spiritual walk is progressing. However, realizing that you are already complete frees you from becoming lost within the illusion.

There is no way to achieve wisdom except to remove the obstacles that block your perception. This cannot be taught by others but must arise from within. This is self-realization. Allow the sense of wonder to take you on a journey of discovery. Peaceful presence can become the foundation of your life.