Wellness: What’s in the way is the Way.

This is a phrase I heard recently that helps me let go of resistance and transform obstacles when they occur.  In a broader perspective, our struggles can be embraced as a learning experience instead of a day spoiler.  Letting go of resistance opens our path to the “more” that is waiting for us instead of being mired in details and negative energy.   Rumi spoke of this, I believe, in his poem “The Guest House” which follows:

THE GUEST HOUSE

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.

Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

– Rumi, translation by Coleman Barks

Rumi is actually speaking of the negative mental energy here, which is an obstacle in and of itself, but of an internal nature rather than an external obstacle.  This perspective of embracing  presumes that our life path has a purpose:  to awaken and grow – we’re all on a journey towards wholeness.  And having an eagle’s perspective  vs.   a limited view of frustrating details allows us to take the higher road, to be open to allow Spirit to enter and expand our possibilities.  Keeping our focus on being mindful, open and present, is a different energy than the constriction of frustration and resistance.  Embracing an obstacle can give you an opportunity to leverage it towards your wholeness rather than see it as your enemy – it can become your guide to wholeness.    Welcome and entertain them all!!     BE WELL!

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