weathering the storm
These are difficult times. Everyday, there is uncertainty and imbalance in many of our lives. Many have had to make sacrifices and endure hardship. It can be exhausting to endure.
And yet, how can we come to the day with a sense of calm in the midst of this storm?
Being stressed out doesn't help us be more productive.
During times like these, I do well to remember a story about a monk who says to his colleague, "Today is going to be a very busy day. Instead of meditating for one hour, I must meditate for two."
Sitting in silence, doing nothing, would seem contrary to being productive and getting things done. In fact, it can provide the calm and clarity we need to come to the work at hand in a calm, confident, compassionate manner. When I am acting from this place of mindful decision-making, I take care of those I come in contact with. I make decisions that are well thought out, and I feel better, reducing the internal anxiety and stress. Slowing down seems like an unlikely ally when we have much to do. And it is exactly what we need to gain correct perspective and really see what is front of us clearly.
I have a lot on my plate right now. Home is not the "artful life" I long for. I spend less time cooking and eating artfully than I like. I try to savor every moment I do have at the table, knowing that it matters intensely to honor that ritual wholly. A good pot of soup is always a quick and easy remedy for this ailment. The pressures of the day to day business need to be met. It is sometimes difficult to step back and celebrate those things that are working well. And yet, we must.
Although I like the idea of positive affirmations, what I like better is slowing down to the speed of life. A calm, centered and compassionate life. It is something I work at and aspire to daily. I can just as easily slow down as i can speed up. It is all a matter of my environment for me. I do well when I take time to do the things that nurture me and help keep me centered. It may seem like an indulgent waste of time, but for me, it is exactly what I need to focus my effort- like an arrow targeting a bullseye. Deliberate. Sure. Calm.
Right now, I will focus on what is in front of me- solely, wholly, completely.
The rest will either take care of itself, fall away, or be waiting for me when I am ready.
copyright 2009 Alisa Barry
And yet, how can we come to the day with a sense of calm in the midst of this storm?
Being stressed out doesn't help us be more productive.
During times like these, I do well to remember a story about a monk who says to his colleague, "Today is going to be a very busy day. Instead of meditating for one hour, I must meditate for two."
Sitting in silence, doing nothing, would seem contrary to being productive and getting things done. In fact, it can provide the calm and clarity we need to come to the work at hand in a calm, confident, compassionate manner. When I am acting from this place of mindful decision-making, I take care of those I come in contact with. I make decisions that are well thought out, and I feel better, reducing the internal anxiety and stress. Slowing down seems like an unlikely ally when we have much to do. And it is exactly what we need to gain correct perspective and really see what is front of us clearly.
I have a lot on my plate right now. Home is not the "artful life" I long for. I spend less time cooking and eating artfully than I like. I try to savor every moment I do have at the table, knowing that it matters intensely to honor that ritual wholly. A good pot of soup is always a quick and easy remedy for this ailment. The pressures of the day to day business need to be met. It is sometimes difficult to step back and celebrate those things that are working well. And yet, we must.
Although I like the idea of positive affirmations, what I like better is slowing down to the speed of life. A calm, centered and compassionate life. It is something I work at and aspire to daily. I can just as easily slow down as i can speed up. It is all a matter of my environment for me. I do well when I take time to do the things that nurture me and help keep me centered. It may seem like an indulgent waste of time, but for me, it is exactly what I need to focus my effort- like an arrow targeting a bullseye. Deliberate. Sure. Calm.
Right now, I will focus on what is in front of me- solely, wholly, completely.
The rest will either take care of itself, fall away, or be waiting for me when I am ready.
copyright 2009 Alisa Barry
Labels: difficulties, meditation, weathering the storm
posted by Alisa Barry at
7:54 PM
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