Many people do not realize that we have a choice in how we want our lives to look. We first must be aware of the direction we want our intentions to take us. Only then can we stoke our creative energies and build enthusiasm.
Take 2 minutes right now to visualize yourself looking at a blank chalkboard. See yourself answering the question: What is my life? The answer must be something more than the role we play at work, or the labels we wear like son, daughter, partner, parent.
Right Now Say To Yourself
- I will listen with total attention to my experience.
- I am the creator of my life.
- I am creating.
- I will love every minute of being with myself today.
This idea of Dharma—knowing why we are here—requires Karmic action to move us forward. However the paradox is that we will never know for sure what our purpose is without at least testing the choices that drive our Karma.
Often, people come to yoga hoping to find the answers through the poses. However, the poses are the questions. They are not the answers. They help make us aware of our attitudinal alignment. For instance, they ask us the fundamental question of whether or not we are focusing on our limitations or on our Dharma: Are we staying on our path? To co-create with the universe means we do our best to know who we are and actively share our unique contribution with the world. Woodrow Wilson, the 28th U.S. President said it like this, “You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world.” Whether President Wilson realized it or not, the Buddha shared the same message with us, “Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it.” Through the poses and conscious breathing, we harness the power of our mind to direct our 60,000 daily thoughts toward our great purpose and stay focused on our individual chalkboards.
"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us." – Mother Theresa
It may not always be easy to stay true to this voice of our Dharma Karma, but it is the only way to live in love with our lives. Jon Kabat Zinn says it like this, “Life is like the lottery; you’ve got play to have a chance at winning.” Today, really be honest with yourself and give voice to your best life. Love yourself, love your day, love your life!