Friday, January 22, 2010

HOLDING CENTER, WITH LOVE

The beautiful image to the right was created by me during a visit David and I made to the temple Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Her downward gaze, the prayerful posture of her hands, and their position near her heart remind me of the importance of holding center, with love, particularly in the midst of feeling challenged.

It's been 9 days since my beloved partner, David, and I arrived in Thailand. Our stay in the country near Doi Saket, and our frequent travels to the city of Chiang Mai have been a challenge for our bodies. The combination of car exhaust in the city and smoke-filled air in the country from the daily burning of underbrush came as a surprise to us along with the physical effect it has had on our bodies.

As I practice, practice, practice holding center, with love, I realize I am immersed in a steady process of assimilating all that I am observing, each experience encouraging me into further awareness. With utmost respect for the process, I allow ancient memories held in the salt of my tears to be released; I identify what nourishes me and what I find depleting; and most importantly, I recognize it is okay to move on. Not only is this moving on okay, it is the way in which to most clearly honor the Wisdom that arises from my ongoing practice of holding center, with love.

Now, I bow softly to Thailand, to the lovely people who've touched our lives here, and to all we have experienced in this place of gentle smiles.

Holding center, with love,

Jane