"...to offer no resistance to life is to be in a state of grace, ease and lightness."
Eckart Tolle
I love to randomly open an inspirational book and read whatever my eye falls upon first.
There are no accidents. The above quote was just what I needed to read yesterday morning.
"To offer no resistance." That seems a pretty tall order these days. Everyone on the planet is in their own personal struggle to adapt and ultimately accept. As emotional beings we cling to what we know. We live in the illusion that we have control over our lives. Then something big happens. An unexpected breakup, a death, disease, or the life-changing Coronavirus.
As you observe your reactions to this unprecedented time, first don't beat up on yourself. It is normal to feel fear. Strive to be mindful of the tendency to stay mired in that emotion. It is understandable to feel anxious. We have no touchstone, no comparison to equate this to in our lives. We are grappling to develop the tools to maneuver through a completely new reality. As we gain footing I would like to make a request: Be highly aware of what makes you anxious and where your thoughts are taking you.
When we cease to resist we may make room for inner peace. This occurs when we surrender. That inner peace is the state of grace that Eckart Tolle is suggesting.
Surrender does not create victimhood. Surrender is spiritual action. It frees us from the impossible belief that we can push and shove life to where we want it to be. Start to develop the ability to surrender by watching your thoughts. Be aware when your mind is filled with imagined horrors and decide not to live in future fear.
We are in this together. We always have been. The veil of separation is being exposed for what it truly is. An illusion. As we are forced to actually physically separate we will have an opportunity to appreciate how much our connections truly mean to us. How much we need and love others.
Surrender can open pathways to creativity. We begin to adapt by living in the moment. This crisis may lead people to recognize their true purpose and contribution. What if an outcome of this pandemic means more people go into medicine or science? What if a love of teaching emerges through home schooling? What if broken families heal when individuals see the fragility of life? What if Coronavirus shines a light on the insignificance of our petty emotions, grudges and attachments?
I have no doubt that good will come as a result of this global crisis. Perhaps we will begin to understand the truth. Our value has nothing to do with what we own, drive or live in. It has to do with how we think, act, and be. You can do your part by surrendering your worry and fear and deciding that you will create love and magic by using your unique gifts. Find a way to laugh each day. Use FaceTime to visit with friends and family, take advantage of the links available to visit art museums and virtually wander through their exhibitions. But mostly commit to love. Help in whatever way you can. Breath. That is probably the most impactful thing you can do for stress. Meditate on what is meaningful to you and know this too shall pass.
Here is an affirmation for today
Today I connect with my inner core of strength, love and joy. I spread love and light with each breath I take. I am safe, loved and loving.
Sending you love and light.
