If you observe yourself and others, the basic entitlement we all assume is feeling good. In fact, when disharmony visits us (as it always will) we quickly seek remedies legal or illegal to feel better. In fact, all addictions are based on the entitlement to feel good. No news flash: Life doesn’t always feel good. Things happen that we wouldn’t happily pick of an events menu. Emotional pain such as loss, loneliness, anxiety and depression head the list that sends us running to Walgreens and CVS for relief. In addition, there is physical pain of all sorts. I’m not a fan of feeling bad, but I’ve discovered that the things we wouldn’t pick off Life’s menu usually contain lessons that lead us to deeper awareness.
Like a Pendulum
Life swings between happiness and sadness, joy and sorrow, love and loss. We live in a world of duality, filled with opposites. At the top of the pendulum is its fulcrum, the non-moving point containing the energy that is expressed as opposing directions at the bottom. What if we are the ones observing the opposites? What if we don’t chase feelings and thoughts and simply remain aware while having various experiences?
To be the observer while we are having an experience may free us from the great disappointment of not being able to hold on to the good and prevent the bad. Faith dictates patience and stillness in the face of the temptation that demands reaction. Responses on the other hand can come from allowing Life to express Itself through us and as us.
With love, Rosanne
