The month of September brings about change. We witness this when we walk outdoors in the early morn or late in the eve: the air feels just a touch cooler, the stars shinier against a clear palette of midnight blue. We might even notice subtle shifts in nature as both flora and fauna begin preparation for the approaching fall and winter seasons. Sometimes, we forget that what we are witnessing in nature is happening within us as well. We are seasonal beings, all of us, yet many of us resist change. Perhaps it is fear or doubt or lack of trust. Perhaps it is because we have free well and therefore have a choice: we can accept with grace, faith, love or trust that shift is natural and beneficial, or we can dig in our heels and resist.
Resistance is an interesting choice as it takes a great deal of energy, energy that we need for our own healing as well as manifesting amazing things in our lives. This “energy suck” known as resistance can show up in many guises, and at times involves forcing or manipulating situations or people so that we can perpetuate constancy rather than accept movement and transformation. Often, when in resistance, we will also find means of justifying why we won’t budge; we might look for reinforcement via other’s opinions that support our non-movement, or we might look for “loop-holes” in any evidence or argument that would justify staying stuck in patterns. Non-growth, however, ultimately can have its pitfalls as stagnation can leave us depressed, anxious, heavy hearted or feeling battered. It can also impact those around us in less than positive ways.
For each of us the situation(s) we resist will differ, and we might believe it is easier and better for us to cling to “what was” rather than accepting the natural ebb and flow of our lives. But if we look to nature, and the ever changing seasons, even if very subtle here in the desert, we will see evidence that proves otherwise. Trees lose their leaves only to flourish again in the spring, caterpillars transform into cocoons and then emerge as butterflies after winter passes, and birds, both winged as well as those of the Snowbird variety, grace the valley until summer’s heat drives them away. Change, even if drastic, is part of nature and after change of any sort peace, harmony and balance will eventually, naturally, be restored. Even when we consider major upheavals in nature such as floods, fires, and storms, all of which seem to purge the earth of valued treasures, including life, we can witness that after a resting period life returns, albeit from new seed. If the earth heals after changes, so can we.
One of the most important characteristics we can master in order to accept change in our lives is that of adaptability. I can speak of these things because I have experienced them myself. I know what it is like to resist the seasons of my own life, and how, when I let go and allow for nature to take its course, without my help, amazing miracles occur. I also know that when I am in resistance, I tell myself all kinds of fancy stories as to why I should avoid changes in my own life. By mastering adaptability, my life flows effortlessly. Healing takes place at a much more rapid pace, and, as it is natural, it is less taxing and provides time for resting and rehabilitating before creating anew. As I sit here and write this, I am very aware that this is often a tough challenge. It takes practice, skill and patience. And, sometimes, we need help. We can practice yoga, mindfulness, meditation, sleep well, eat right and engage in exercise to help keep us balanced amidst change, but beyond that we might also need assistance from friends, loved ones and Healing Arts Practitioners to raise our consciousness and grow spiritually.
This September, let’s embrace change as a community by mastering adaptability in our lives. Let’s offer it love, respect and friendship. By doing we not only become more graceful amidst current change, but we allow ourselves the opportunity to heal old wounds and feel great again. We allow heart to feel its own glory and be filled with joyous light. Wishing you love, light, strength and freedom and blessing you with miracles beyond your wildest imaginations. Namaste!