Walking Our Talk

It seems that one of the most challenging issues we face is in relating to each other.

We have our spiritual practices learned and implemented very nicely.

Until... we encounter other humans.

Why is that?

Could it be because that is where we have the least amount of control?

Yes, there is that forbidden word: control.

But, isn't that what we are always trying to do?

Aren't we concerned with being "on the ball" with important aspects of our lives, our behavior and our emotions?

Don't we even try to control our spirituality?

Do we not "try" to stay focused, centered, grounded, etc.

Isn't that “us” attempting to "control" how we practice the things we have learned?

In our own little world, we seem to do pretty well.

And then the monkey wrench gets thrown in.

It is very difficult to keep control when other people are just not cooperating with our agenda.

We want them to either "get with my program" or get out of the way!

They usually don't do either of those things.

There they are, messing up our Chi, thinking their own thoughts, making their own decisions, acting like... well, acting like them self!

How are we supposed to stay focused? Grounded?

When a person, any person, says to you, "Thank you for sharing your perspective.", in answer to your unsolicited advice, how do you feel?

When they appear to seriously not care about your opinion of them, do you feel angry? Hurt? Rejected?

If they are secure enough in their knowing to appear confident, even smug, does it offend you?

Do you want to point out to them their error? Ahhhh.... Is it an error?

Do we fiercely strive to practice not caring what others think of us?

In the book… The Four Agreements, Miquel Ruiz teaches us to "...not take anything personally".

But, when we actually witness someone practicing just that, our feathers get ruffled.

If we cannot recognize and appreciate the wisdom we want to practice, when we encounter it in someone else, then how will we ever be able to do it?

Namaste ~ Gina Paschall