Starting from Here

Sometimes when I take a look at events past, I feel the need to make up for them somehow before moving on. Today I remember that what really matters is how I move forward from this moment.

Eating a pint of Ben & Jerry's one night does not mean that I must go without breakfast the next morning. This kind of remedy would produce more harm than good. In dealing with people and situations where we find fault in our own motivations and actions, I have found the kindest response for all concerned is to learn from those experiences. To act with a new awareness in this moment based on the lessons learned in past moments.

When the branches of a tree have been twisted due to harsh conditions, the tree does not dissolve a limb and start over, but instead it begins to grow in a way that creates balance. We can all learn from this simple example in nature.

Wherever you are, start from HERE.

Finding Meaning, Finding Solace.

I have always had a fascination with portals. When I was in Ireland, I took so many photos of doorways and windows in old church ruins. (This one to the left is not one of mine own.) When I was a kid I remember a few different cartoons where a character was transported from one world to another this way.

When I'm going through rough times, which has been the case for a long period now, I try to look for meaning in the experience. Why is this happening? What lesson do I need to gain from this? How can I grow? I believe in the idea that within each moment we have an opportunity to rise up to meet a great potential, to journey, if you will, into a new dimension of our existence. Anything can be a mirror.

But how do we interpret what we see? Look deeply. Sit quietly. Be still. This was my answer. When I get caught up in thoughts and emotions brought on by reacting to what I see in the mirror, like in the reflection of water, the movement creates distortion for the reflection. The simplest answer is to be still. Not lethargic. Not dull. But alive and still. Then a true reflection can be seen. One that shows Truth so deeply, it transcends and transports.

So portals are real. Perhaps my love of doorways, windows, and passageways is because they represent, in physical form, the beautiful human capability for internal transformation and transcendence that lies within each of us. This remembrance brings me comfort and deep longing.