“Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible in us be found.” ~ Pema Chodron
Although we may not care to admit it, when we take an honest look at life, there is very little we can control, other than our choices and attitudes. Especially the laws of nature. Life is less about trying to make it what we want it to be, and more about navigating what already is: a daily journey of experiences, through both beautiful and rugged landscapes. Since change is the only constant, it serves us well to remember our innate ability to be resilient.
As humans, we are resilient by nature, although sometimes our ability to be flexible is difficult to remember. Instead of surrendering gracefully, naturally, to what is — we engage our egos, wrestle with fear, and exhaust ourselves with a war within. Imagine, on the other hand, if you woke to life each day in a state of resilience.
Being resilient is about staying open to changes in the moment, regardless of your expectations of what “should” be. It’s about giving up attempts to control, and accepting what is, rather than struggling to achieve what you think you want in reaction to present circumstances. It’s about trusting that life is on your side and working with you to fulfill your dreams. Resilience means you are willing to bend and trust your ability to return to your center, again and again.
Have you ever seen a brilliant flower growing out of a barren stone wall? Its growth is symbolic. Of you, of me, and of life. It isn’t easy, and it’s not supposed to be. But it can be and is joyful and wondrous. Join me as I take off my armor, step off the battlefield, and redirect my energy toward resilience this season.
“I haven’t failed, I’ve identified 10,000 ways this hasn’t worked.” ~ Thomas Edison