July 30, 2014.
Many belief systems seem to hold that difficulty is beneficial. This is reinforced by the all too popular adage: “No pain, no gain.”
Perhaps we should reconsider this philosophy. A small measure of discomfort may be necessary to encourage growth, but how much? Our hearts hold the hope that growth can be gained through love and kindness.
After a complicated dental procedure, I was given a prescription for pain medication. “Thank you,” I said, returning the slip to the dentist. “I don’t take any medication.”
“You might want to rethink that. Research has determined that when even moderate pain is experienced, the healing process is inhibited,” my dentist said, returning the prescription to me.
Could this same phenomenon be experienced on other levels, too? What if, instead of hoping for pain to bring rewards, we simply turned directly to the rewards themselves? We may not have the ability to determine the outcome of every situation. We can, however, choose how it affects us by looking at it from another view. Often I refer to those unpleasant times as the “cosmic itch,” which presents just enough discomfort to keep me from getting too complacent yet not enough to cause real difficulty.
Whichever belief system you subscribe to, know that you possess the power to affect your life’s patterns and dreams. When a thought or feeling or situation arises, it will naturally flow into the groove that presents the path of least resistance. Which beliefs present that avenue for you?
Imagine if they were like those of a dear friend of mine. “How are you?” I asked her, on seeing her for the first time in a long while. “I am in my usual state of grace,” she replied. “The difference is, this time I know it!”
We are all in a constant state of grace, yet how often do we remember?
♦Experiencing how your belief system influences your life♦
What is your belief system? Do you feel closer to the Divine when you are in crisis or in joy?
Do you invite hard times because you believe that they will help you to become stronger?
Notice how you have set up your life to foster those beliefs. Are you happy with your choice?
Pick one particular feeling, thought, or phrase that you use frequently. It could be “life is hard” or “life is good.”
Actually count how many times you use it in a day. How does the meaning influence your day and ultimately your life?
Remember: Only you have the power to change your life.
Namaste. ❤
❤ partially excerpted from The Secret Power of Yoga by Nischala Joy Devi
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