In my previous newsletter I asked the question “What word or phrase will inspire you as you move into 2023?” There were many thoughtful responses. Words such as “Peace … Love … Power … Change … Gratitude … Listen.
Other replies included: “Thanks has a ripple effect of goodwill.” and “I AM creative. I AM empowers the quality you’re birthing in yourself.” Also an excerpt from Halcyon Days by Jacqueline Goldfinger “Go forth in peace, bring joy to the dawn, and grace, turn your face upon us.”
I was so grateful for the sharing of all these responses as they stirred in me a sense of hope and oneness. It reminded me that no matter what we are experiencing personally or collectively there is an eternal thread that connects us to one another through our thoughts and intentions. These thoughts have the power to transform and transcend any situation. They quite literally shift our vibration from a place of despair and darkness, to one of hopefulness, possibilities and even miracles. Believe it!
This is not to say that we should ignore, deny or suppress those circumstances and events that cause us to anger, fear, ache or grieve. Instead, what if you were to meet these uncomfortable situations and feelings as you would meet a treasured friend or a precious child. Meet these moments and emotions with the tenderness of a compassionate presence who knows you and loves you without conditions. In the face of compassionate presence, I believe you will also discover: Peace … Love … Power …. Change …. Gratitude …. Listening …. Goodwill … Joy …
So this is the mantra I choose to be my inspiration in the unfolding days: presence – compassionate presence. “May I be a compassionate presence”, for my beloved, for the stranger I meet, for things that are impossible to understand, for the Earth and for myself.
Here is a Rumi poem I often read to remind me to lighten up and be with life as it unfolds.
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
Empty of its furniture,
Still, treat each guest honourably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
—Rumi
Do you have a mantra that inspires you? I’d love to hear from you.
With Gratitude, Carole