More than ever before I have begun to peel back the layers
of myself: what I thought I knew, who I thought I was. Perhaps it’s the recognition of time;
embarking slowly but surely into my mid-30’s – which has allowed me to reflect
on my life thus far and also into the future.
More than ever before I am stepping unapologetically into my
truth. I have craved this and began to accept that, it is only when I dig deep
and strip away what is not benefiting me will my truths come to the
surface. They have no choice; I see that
when my sense of self is layered with falseness, the purity that is me is
tucked away. And perhaps, for some parts
of my life that was “necessary”, almost like a coping mechanism. But perhaps in saying that, I am making excuses. Regardless, I am valuing myself now more
than ever and along with that, the acceptance of letting go what – if I can be
honest – I knew deep down was not serving me.
More than ever I am aligning my passions with my daily life;
my interactions, my daydreams, my work, my past-times, my relationships and so
on. I am making a true effort in recognizing
and understanding deeply that my passions are not going to align with others,
just as theirs I may not align with.
What I am understanding is that, that has zero significance in being a
decent and compassionate human being. It
should take zero effort to be a kind person, regardless of one’s beliefs, ideas
or stances; it should just be a natural process. And yet, I have witnessed so much hate and
anger, which I believe powerfully comes from a place of misunderstanding. This misunderstanding comes from a place of
ignorance, and I don’t say this to point the finger. Rather, I intend to acknowledge and bring forth
this idea that, when one does not align with another’s ideas or opinions, the
popular alternative is to project anger and often downright hate. I encourage us all (myself included – this is
such a learning process) to recognize that, even when we don’t agree we can be
respectful. One doesn’t have to “get” another’s points of views in order to say
“I hear you, what you are saying and feeling is valuable – thank you for
bringing that aspect to the subject.”
How profound – can you imagine if we all discussed our differences this
way?
More than ever I am realizing
and owning my passions – and also realizing that these shift as I do. This realization in itself could warrant an
entire post, that would result in many pages surely, but for now I will say
that I have been keenly aware of the injustices all around us. School has opened my eyes to the many, many
social injustices within our society.
More so, it has allowed me to become profoundly aware of my “blinders”;
with no judgement, just awareness. I
have become very aware and passionate about compassion for all life – humans,
animals, the environment. Truly, I have felt this welcoming shift towards recognizing
the deep impact that our indifferences and ignorance has on each other as well
as all other beings on earth. These are
teachings that cannot be un-taught, regardless of how hard it may be
emotionally to understand. I write these
words because I have begun to understand where I was turning a blind eye, so to
speak – and if you are ready and willing – I softly encourage you to do the
same. Not only am I recognizing the
grave importance of stripping away my blinders to the injustices of the world,
but also am I seeing the significance in understanding that, while we all certainly
don’t come to the same conclusions, we can be soft but firm with our own
deep-seated values.
More than ever I am realizing the importance of connecting
with others in a deep and valuable way; in hearing their stances and views, acknowledging
their fears and concerns, and holding space when needed, without any
reservations or motives. In addition, I
am recognizing the value in protecting one self and understanding that not all situations,
conversations or people in general may be in our best interest and that should
be ok. I am learning in my own
experiences that, along with recognizing the value in (often painfully)
stepping away from particular situations, there are often times in which others
are going to do the same in regards to myself.
I am familiar with the old patterns of hurt that of course will rise to
the surface. However, I am also coming
to be aware of the value for all involved in mindfully releasing expectations
and also being ok with “agreeing to disagree” – how powerful!
Ultimately, I am beginning
to realize what an honour it is to have the time and resources available to
ponder these notions, have these revelations and dig deeper into research and
ideas that are lighting a fire within me.
What a blessing it is to not only begin to unravel my desires, goals and
passions but to be able to do so in a safe, secure and information-bountiful
space. I ask you, friends – with the
resources and time available to you, what lights your fire?
