Recently, I read an article by a reporter who travels to
some of the most impoverished countries of the world. She writes about the
people she encounters and shares their stories. Although, I don’t remember the
names or places, a poignant image lingers, of a young boy who lives in bleak and
desolate conditions. Yet, he lovingly tended a small purple flower
that sprouted between the cracks of a stone wall.
Love is an invisible force. We search, we struggle and all the while Love Is and we are. When ready, we begin to let go of our frenetic activity and futile attempts to control what is beyond our doing. Only then can we awaken to our essence; we are home.
Often we react to life’s challenges as if we could control the universe. Day to day stress, if ignored, can culminate in physical symptoms of illness and pain (my most recent experience and of some colleagues). Restoration of health in body, mind and spirit is an intentional act of Loving; oneself and others.
We can intentionally create space for Love’s expansiveness by watering the seeds within our heart. One helpful way I have found, is to get in to a comfortable position and to breathe deeply. On each sail of air we can feel the stress and tension release from our body. Soon an ever deepening sense of calm settles over us like a warm blanket. Profound relaxation enables us to restore balance and a sense of well-being.
Offer a listening presence. Give up your efforts. Notice what you love. Trust in the healing power of Love.
Then, as Erie Chapman so graciously illustrated in this past week’s Journal essays, our movements become Love in action.
~liz Sorensen Wessel
Mandala by ~liz
