If you knew a strangers personal story would you treat them differently? Often times we're quick to judge or be impatient because we're in a rush, self-involved, or even dismissive that others' might have their own story going on.
I can't count how many times clients have hinted at the fact that the world feels cruel, or unforgiving. My response is always the same, stating that we need to be cognizant of the fact that we're all in this together. What that literally means is that we're all on earth in this lifetime working towards goals, trying to attain growth in ways that we deem fit. But the truth is that we need to consider that the slightest gesture can create a huge impact in people's lives.
We've all probably heard of the term, "Pay it forward." This speaks volumes in regard to the impact, or energetic emanations we create. Let's say in your hurried morning heading to work you pause for a brief second to let a car into your lane. What about holding a door open for another, or simply offering a gracious smile, or knowing nod to honor the existence of another sojourner seemingly travelling on a somewhat parallel course as you?
I feel strongly and have repeatedly been justified in my belief system that these gestures create a momentary shift or elated feeling for individuals who choose to acknowledge gratitude and therefore go on to reciprocate the state of grace. In some ways, it's minimal and in others, far more of an impact.
In my work doing service to those in need, frankly, it feels like an honor. For instance, if I'm speaking with a woman who is riddled with anger and I'm able to assist by holding a space for the process to draw upon truth and forgiveness this holds tremendous possibilities. Let's say she heads home to her family and a child is acting up. Now that she's decided to trust in her own personal power and myself, her child will not have to face misguided anger. That child now can learn by moms example that there's a better way to flow.
In life, it's a true celebration to look for hidden truth and deeper meaning in the signs presented throughout each day. It's about paying attention, being mindful, and recognizing that loving yourself provides the offering of unconditional love to be given outward. Maintaining this balance creates a positive cycle that has the natural response through cause and effect.
We might respond by stating, "Well, that's great. If only I had the time, or in a perfect world." The quote from Ralph Emerson Waldo comes to mind, "~The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." This speaks volumes because it implies choice. Through difficult times and in joy we always have choices. Yes, it's true. If you were harmed in some terrible way by another, my response would still be the same. Not because I'm uncaring, far from it. It's because even if someone invaded our rights, body, thoughts etc., we can still choose what we do with it thereafter. We can choose the high road, we can choose a form of healing, or we can, (dependent on the circumstance), with time, choose to be an inspiration through it all.
'Interestingly, Socrates is famous for arguing that we must know Thyself to be wise, that the unexamined life is not worth living." It is a cruel irony that Socrates was condemned to death for corrupting youth. (for educating them to Philosophy and arguing that people are ignorant of the Truth.)
'Plato who wrote, 'The Apology,' was a beautiful writer (and one of the greatest Philosophers). His account of Socrates on Trial provides quite an eloquent and tragic description of the Last Days of Socrates, which is still very relevant to our post-modern democratic society. Most significantly, it demonstrates the 'stubborn' that society displays towards those who choose to question the customs and beliefs of their time (as any good philosopher must). This attitude is still very much alive today.' (~Aristotle, Metaphysics, 340 BC)
This history is raised for what seems the obvious point about being true, and daring to not subscribe to limited beliefs. We all need to be questioning aspects of life that don't appear to be apparent, regardless of some who choose another path. The question then becomes, how do we discern truth? First, it lives in our hearts. It's usually the simpler path, regardless of what our egos might argue. I've always claimed that I choose to lead a simple life. This doesn't mean that I don't process, or evaluate options. It doesn't mean I'm not intelligent, or I'm lazy. It simply indicates that my decision are based on serving the highest good. When life get's complicated, it's usually an indicator we've strayed from our highest purpose. By complicated, what's meant is more about entanglements, mistrust, second guessing, and co-mingling with those we don't feel aligned, share beliefs or identify to a sense of chaos.
Asking the reader, 'Would you treat them differently," beckons the deeper question, "How do you wish to be treated?" This suggests that karma plays a significant role in terms of energetically sending forth a vibration that respects self; therefore, holds others in the same light. To suggest that we're all perfect might seem like a leap, yet might it be easier to ascertain the concept that where we' are at is exactly where we need to be. We can be joyful, warm and kind and this is perfect. We can also be hurt, wounded, sad, angry, or even appear horrid, yet this is perfection in the bigger picture when we continue to remind ourselves that we have free will and make choices.
Conceptually it's necessary to go big picture to gain a higher perspective. Also, it's important to remember the lessons learned and the ability to find our voice and a path toward recovery is essential to living our higher purpose. We learn through pain and joy. What we forget is that when we are feeling level, those moments are often the right time to pause and do some self-discovery and grow while we're not in duress. If not, a source of stress or angst will hopefully alert you that you deserve something better and can re-claim balance and attain peace once more, ~Namaste, Coyote
Rev. Coyote Moon Ph.D.
coyotecounsel.com
