Contrast Creates Clarity
In my last entry I referred to dark/light as an example of Yin/Yang. The first thing that comes to mind when I think in these terms is black and white photography. This is one of my favorite artistic mediums. The edges are more apparent than they are in color photography.The lack of color calls to the imagination. The shadows or dark areas give definition and clarity to the light. Rather than working against the light, the dark supports the light, making it shine more brightly.
Emotions are judged harshly if they have been labeled as negative. Fear is deemed negative in the Western mind and yet, in Eastern philosophy, it is seen as one of the Master Teachers. Fear definitely has two sides. Legitimate fear can save your life. Unrealistic fear can paralyze you. Learning from your fear increases your self-awareness and nurtures your spiritual growth. Sitting with an intense and uncomfortable emotion brings insight and often healing. Here is a practical example: When you feel fear rising, sit quietly and ask "Master Fear, what have you come to show me?" Then listen with an open mind and heart for the answer.
I have shifted the way I language emotions because even extreme happiness can stress the body and the mind, creating imbalance. I now assess my emotions in terms of intensity. I am currently experiencing wonderful times with my family and the intensity of joy and fulfillment feels overwhelming at times. If I were grieving, it would be tempting to fight against the experience rather than embrace it. In both cases, as the intensity rises so does the sense of being overwhelmed. Balance is found when I embrace the experience and become aware of what I need to remain healthy physically, mentally and emotionally.
I am passionate about life. Human beings experience life through their senses and that includes emotions. When I am out in nature, I stop and drink in the visual wonder of it all. I take deep breaths and smell what is around me. I close my eyes and listen. I pay attention to the memories and/or emotions that these sentient stimulants evoke in me. I want it all. At the same time, I seek balance so that my responses (physical, mental, emotional) do not toss me around or throw me against the walls of my life. Been there; done that. It is exhilarating to soar (yang) and it is necessary to come back to earth and walk (yin) in balance.
Life is a process, a journey in which the present moment is more significant than the destination. Awareness is the key. Seeing the edges of clouds in the photo above is a good example. Each of you made a choice between jumping immediately to the words or taking a moment to explore the picture. Either way, stop now and look at the clouds. Notice the clarity of the edges, shapes, light and dark. Then take a deep breath and appreciate what nature can do for you and in you...if you give it just a moment.
This is an invitation to slow down and be aware of your moments....be present with yourSelf, your heart, your mind, your body and emotions. Not just as you read this but as a consistent experience in your life.
Love and Peace All Ways, catherine
Would you like to slow down & see more clearly? May I walk with you and support your journey? If so, I would love to hear from you.
Contact me with questions, appointment requests, or whatever is on your mind and heart: [email protected]
