I have been reminded lately that while others offer me wonderful "counsel" and "guidance", the conscious act of making a decision when difficulty arises falls on only one person..."me". Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote:
"Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right."
I have learned over the course of my life that none of my decisions are ultimately "right" or "wrong", they are part of a process of growth and development that challenges the very concept of who I think I may be. If I believe someone's assessment of my life, if I allow their opinions to make me "wrong" then I negate my innate wisdom.
It takes great courage to listen within, to trust that I really do know what course of action I should take...that the only "approval" I need is my own. I may not know or understand how my life will unfold...or the why's to what lies in front of me, but the inner landscape of my being is the place I need to return to in times of challenge. It is my sanctuary and where my "knowing" resides...and it is from this place of "knowing" and "being" that I can find peace in whatever pathway I choose.
The lotus flower is a favorite of mine for the simple fact that it starts as a small flower down in the mud and muck...it continues it's growth toward the light...moving upward until it bursts into the surface and opens into a magnificent flower. It is a symbol of awakening in both Hinduism and Buddhism, and for me it is a reminder to keep trusting my inner journey. So I leave you with a picture of it and yes...yet another Emerson quote:
"What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you."
Namaste
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