A year has come to its end and I have grown tired merely of thinking about all the things I have done and been through this year. Perhaps you have, too? Immediately after this thought my guilt joined in, reprimanding me for my wish for a relaxing vacation, slowing down and taking a break out of everyday life. Indeed, it was the essence of an old mentality which never lets one rest, after all, hard, intense work is the only way to succeed. Or is it?
So just before we all jump into a new year of many activities perhaps it would be best to create a little space in our lives, breathe a little, relax and (god forbid) allow ourselves a little bit of enjoyable time-off. Just as spacing in a sentence has its significant role and at times it is even the thing that defines the deeper meaning, so meditation has its role of healing in our lives. I don't mean the actual practice of meditation of any kind but more the balance of thought and action in our lives in general, spreading out to all walks of life. It is a time to release expectations of ourselves and others, relax without summoning energy to complete our tasks and aspirations. Just being relaxed with yourself, like after you have had a long walk and you sit in the shade, opening to the fresh breeze.
When we reach that state where peace can expand in us and take its deserving place, then we are able to accept ourselves as we are in the moment. This is what provides us with the necessary power to carry on with greater force. Sometimes it may seem to us that it's a shame to put on hold our desires, hopes and dreams in order to take that relaxing slower pace, but in fact, it is the disappearance of all these that opens new doors and the opportunity to welcome in new developments.
Going about in a relaxed manner, at times allowing ourselves to freshen up, allow better alertness and readiness along the way. The essence of "being at ease" (from peace) even in talk or action allows us to fulfill ourselves in bright, concentrated quality.
Even in the ancient book of Tao you can find reference to the importance of the "emptiness", suggesting that it has, in fact, an essential role, as with a clay vessel whose main use comes from its hollow part or a home which is basically squares of air. So, please, take your time-off, enjoy it and most important, know how to take time-off in the actual happenings of life. Remember to treasure the quality of slowing down and reaching relaxation while going about our tasks in life.
I believe that when we are rested we create a solid foundation with a clear sense of home. With such a strong base and supportive feeling of home, how can we not advance further?
May this be a relaxed and peaceful new year with much blessed, affluent and focused progress to us all!
