Looking at Life With An Open Mind

I read this column the other day in our local newspaper Big Sky Weekly written by Jeni West. Not sure if it was my mood, or the fact that it's something I think about often, but it touched me. I thought it was important enough to post it on our blog, in attempt to share it with a few people who would never have the chance to read it in the paper. I tried to post it as link, but was only able to get the link for the whole issue, making it harder for you to read the specific article I'm talking about. So, I'm gonna completely copy and paste it here......

Getting over the Fear Factor
Learning to look at life with an open mind

BY JENI WEST

Satellites falling out of the sky, every inactive volcano becoming active, the earth spinning completely off its axis... Somewhere between morning sickness and finally being able to hold my newborn son, I believed whole-heartedly in these fear-based thoughts I'd contrived from hearsay, media, and hype. I'd stay up for hours at night thinking about what to do and where to run and I was projecting all these fears onto my son.

Then, something changed. With a shift in conciousness, I began looking at life differently. It was the beginning of something new: letting go of that which I could not change, and just accepting what is.

How did I get to that realization? I was tired of feeling so low. Horrified to look at myself, I was always seeking change in others. But when I did finally look inward, I found the key, and answers to lifelong questions. Listening to my body instead of my ego, I became sensitive to the world around me. As a result, I am a better mother, a better friend, and life is good. Is it perfect? No way, not even close. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Change is certain. We are in continuous motion and evolution. By accepting this, we can embrace a new way of life, become more in touch with our rhythms, as well as the world's. Stop and listen to yourself, listen to your children. We can make decisions that honor our bodies, mind, and spirit. Ghandi said, 'Be the Change you wish to see in the world'. It begins with me. It begins with you.

Begin by being present. You may find yourself in the tram line, impatient, or in line at the post office, in disbelief the person in front of you needs to mail 37 letters, all weighed individually-and all you need is one stamp. In those moments, take a deep breath and remember, 'nothing is next'. Take a look around and realize you are here, nowhere else. How does that feel?

Eckhart Tolle said, 'There was never a time when your life was not now, nor will there ever be.'

Don't let one moment go un-noticed. When we're present, we're at ease, focused, and in alignment with the universe and ourselves. In those moments we radiate, open in heart and mind.

Practice being present for one moment a day. It is remarkable, uplifting, and will come easier and easier.

Jeni West spent most of her life romping around the mountains of Northwestern Montana, and has lived full time in Big Sky since 2006. She is a mother of a beautiful three-year-old boy and is a certified Yoga Instructer under Yogi Amrit Desai.

Thoughts??

As I was writing this, I recieved a phone call about a search and rescue operation for a 24 year old male that has been missing since Wednesday. (Today is Monday) They were seeking permission to extend the search onto the property I caretake. I am hoping to go out and lend any hand that I can.

All the more reason to practice being present. Life is precious, and you only have one chance.