This is so often the question, isn't it? Which is more powerful - to be in control of a situation or to release control of that situation? It seems obvious that the "right" answer is to release control. Most of us have or are dealing with our control issues, especially during this time of upheaval in our country and our world. At least it is easier to talk about with friends and loved ones than it was in the past.

In the path of enlightened awareness, the motivation comes from a deep place within. Intellectually, I am very clear that control simply doesn't work even though it may appear to in the short term. Self-control is most useful in creating a healthier flow of life, especially until I grow up in some specific area of my life. Once my awareness level catches up with the heart desire to change a behavior, there is little or no need to exercise self-control because I am able to flow with that desire in a very natural way.

As with many healing insights, I begin to have a...