Enjoy the ride
If life’s circumstances have derailed you, here’s a short meditation to embrace the detour and travel the path the universe has set up for you. By Jill Lawson
We are plan makers. Whether detailed outlines or rough estimates, our plans help us get to wherever we wish to go. Without a plan, we might as well fumble along the road of life, for not mapping out a direction is a sure way to get lost. Or is it? John Lennon once said: “Life is what happens when you’re busy making plans.” From a barrage of ‘what-ifs’ to unexpected twists and turns along the road, even our best-laid plans are subject to detours. Just when we thought we had it all figured out, something beyond our control gets in the way and throws us off course. That is life.
If life’s circumstances have derailed you, embrace the detour and travel the path the universe has set up for you. Practice the following meditation to joyfully welcome a new direction.
Do it now
Begin in a comfortable position. Take several deep breaths to clear your mind and relax your body. Then, bring to your attention a recently cancelled plan. Perhaps it was a big plan such as a wedding you’ve been plotting for a year, or a small one like meeting your friend for tea on Friday morning. Now, highlight one shining expectation you had for your plan. Bring this pinnacle moment to mind.
Hold it in your heart for several moments, and then let the image fade. Next, imagine waves carrying your dreams out to sea. Let them merge with the ocean of possibilities.
Use the next few moments to process any emotions you might have. If you need to cry, allow yourself to weep. If you are angry, express your rage safely.
Once you’ve come to terms with the changing landscape of your life, spend a few moments looking within yourself. Label at least three areas for which you feel grateful. For example, you may be postponing your big moment at the altar, but you recognise how fortunate you are to still have love in your life. Focus on your blessings. Allow them to shine in your heart and light your journey along a new, undiscovered path.
Reflect on the following quote: “Whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should,” from Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. So, see life’s detours not as a tragedy, but as an opportunity to let it be and explore the divine forces of nature that are beyond your control.
Jill Lawson is a writer and yoga teacher enjoying life on the island of Maui in Hawaii (jilllawson.net)
Om Magazine
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