Directing attention to my third eye, I could feel the tension build. Wait, I am supposed to be looking beyond ordinary sight. Let me clear my mind. I can hear my instructor telling me to focus. I breathe in and out and feel the warmth of the hot yoga studio envelop me. The steam embraces me and I relax. But I still can’t believe what my friend told me right before class. No, push those thoughts away. Focus on your breathing. If I was her, I would…wait. You are not her, and you need to focus. Those thoughts can wait. We both enjoyed our class and pushed everything away. Drenched in sweat, the peace descended on me. The tension released and somehow I felt a sense of clarity.
When my friends ask me for advice, I put myself in their position and answer as honestly as I can. No matter what, my friends know that when they ask me something, they need to be ready to hear what I have to say. I have learned over the years to hold back until I think they are ready to hear what I have to say. Sometimes that does not always work, but if I answered in any way other than the truth, I would have no peace. You see, I believe that in order to know peace, you must have that moment of no peace. Get it?
When a deep question is asked, you must dig deep for the answer. I believe that most of the time, you already know the answer, but it is uncomfortable to face. As humans, we go through all the emotions that make us who we are. Shock, denial, anger, bargaining with yourself (which often leads to guilt), depression, and my favorite acceptance and hope. During this time, you have no peace. Sleepless nights, anxiety, headaches, and tension occur until you finally come to your decision and know peace. At that time, you will begin to feel a sense of relief and purpose knowing what you have to do. When you begin to move forward, you will emerge a better person. Your time is coming. Trust me.
“The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen.“ ~Ralph Marston
