'If we only show up when things are easy, we are not showing up fully'

Let's broach the topic of:

When things don't go your way

(in other words)

When something happens that forces you to pay closer attention, be present, or show up more fully

We are creatures of habit. Face it, you probably have the same routine every day from when you wake up in the morning to when you release the weight of your body into your bed at the end of the evening. Of course there will be a few subtle variations here and there. I'm sure it looks something like..get up, walk the dog, feed the dog, brush your teeth, shower, get dressed, eat breakfast or grab something for the road, then drive the exact same route to work or class as we do every other day..you get the point. 

Stop to think about this for a moment. 

It is easy to get caught up in the blur that becomes our daily life. Conditioned routines and behaviors mean less mental stimulation and we are taken to this place where 'time flies', with an overload of information and tasks and it is very difficult to be fully present. Consider this: If you took a different series of streets to work each day, you may not be as comfortable texting while you're driving. Some of the daily familiarity with timing of stoplights and traffic is removed. You are forced to pay closer attention to what is going on and maybe think twice before pulling out your phone.

It is in these moments of surprise, change, difference--when things don't go your way--there is endless potential for the most beautiful space for presence of mind. Opening yourself up to something new can have a profound impact on your day, week, or even life.

Just a few days ago it was raining. I generally ride my bike to class so naturally I was annoyed when I looked out the window. I was not particularly interested in being pelted in the face by raindrops then sitting through class in soaking wet pants and frizzy hair. I quickly realized I had plenty of time to make it to class and decided to walk instead. Generally speaking, a straight week of rain will has an intensely negative impact on my mood (extended periods of cloudy darkness and no sunshine to give me that sweet, sweet Vitamin D leads to a rather sad and emotional state. This is also why I have always had an aversion to Winter) Nope, not this time. I was so blissfully happy walking in the rain you would have thought that sunbeams were showering me with warmth. I wanted to hug every person I walked by. 

But what was different? It was still cloudy, I hadn't seen the sun in at least a week, and surely hadn't been getting nearly enough sleep while fighting off a cold.

Instead of being miserable and doing what I always did, I let myself slow down, leave a little earlier, and make space for the beauty and renewal that rain brings on a crisp fall day. The gentle and soothing sound of raindrops hitting leaves and the top of my umbrella, the splash each puddle made as I walked directly through it, following my impulse to stop at a favorite coffee shop for lemongrass tea..it all made me feel centered, at peace, and wholeheartedly present to all of my surroundings and how I felt in each moment. The thirty minute walk from my apartment changed my perspective of the day completely. Dreariness and annoyance with the circumstances took a running leap towards appreciation and gratitude.

So next time something (perhaps unexpected) 'happens'..whether it rains , you forget your computer..and therefore have to take handwritten notes instead of typing, a road is closed on your regular route somewhere, or it starts to rain after a perfectly sunny day when you decided to spend the money to get your car washed..

Set your initial reaction aside momentarily and open up some space inside. 

You may find that there is something eye opening or wonderful on the other side.

Breathe. Be present. Love with your whole heart.

(in other words...and pardon the profanity)