Babysitting

Our mind is a magnificent and necessary component to our human makeup. It allows us to engage with and be aware of the world in which we live. With our minds we think, feel, learn and grow- all integral components to this plane of existence. Most recently, however, I was reminded that it is also like a bored two year old because it will find a way to destructively entertain itself if not gently guided in its wanderings. I know this because I found my mind meandering down dark alleys that only served to bring me conflict.

 

It's been a peaceful week, the fruits of my many years of personal growth blossoming about me in a sea of contentment. As I took in the calm that surrounded me I soon discovered another level of awareness close on its heels, one that was skittishly scanning my environment for something to go awry. It was then I realized my mind was not comfortable with the serenity but instead was looking for trouble, trying to find something to sink its hooks into and create unnecessary drama. My two year old had awoken from her nap and wanted to go exploring, trying out the power of cause and effect. If I shine a light and my focus on this, can I turn it into an emotional theatrical explosion?

 

I actually had to chuckle to myself as I observed my mind searching for something to be wrong, something to analyze and dissect into all its faulty parts. My more sage state of awareness refused to be persuaded by my rambling mind and simply directed my mind's attention to my tranquil surroundings. And just like any other two year old, my mind stopped its feet in defiance and began once again its futile search for the chaos, turning over past conversations and situations in the hope that fodder for turmoil might be found there.

 

Like any conscious and compassionate parent, I once again redirected my mind to the soothing sights and sounds that filled my world. I took time to acknowledge and feel grateful for what was before me because I had created this for myself through much toil and effort. I paused a moment to honor myself and those in my life today that make this moment even sweeter.

 

And like any loving parent I did not shame my mind but simply understood that it believed it was taking care of me by remaining on alert for potential harm. I took comfort in knowing that our brains are wired to cling more tightly to and search for negativity as a means of survival- this is its normal developmental stage if you will.

 

As I continued to dance with my mind, assertively taking the lead, I realized that in this process of self discovery and healing it's easy to have tunnel vision that is always on an eternal quest to fix and scrutinize the next issue, lesson or layer. While I would never choose a path for myself that isn't about deeper personal healing and growth, I also believe that enjoying and relishing the fruits of our labor is vital and I am thankful for the forces that called this to my attention. "It's okay to sit back and enjoy," was the message I was receiving. Indeed, it is. I invite you my friends, to scour your life and your world for the harmony as you ease into the cradle of tranquility you have manifested for yourself, rocking your mind with the soothing lullabies of your life.

 

Be well and happy.