Seek Out the Uncomfortable Truth
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Hi Reader, The poet Robert Frost said ‘the best way out is always through’ in his 1915 poem, A Servant to Servants. This is often quoted as ‘the only way out is through.’ I am unsure if he actually said the second version, but it is a more succinct way of sharing an important truth. And is attributed to Frost. Human beings are capable of incredible mental strength. But we have all at times fostered a reluctance to face the truth of our situation head on. Instead, we sometimes use our energy to avoid the truth, and try to endure the consequences. There are many reasons why we do this. As I commented in a previous article, at the appropriate time in your development, a truth may become apparent. The key point of that being the appropriate time. We can only accept or understand some truths when we are ready, and sufficiently prepared - even when we have already made a decision as to how we feel about something. Nevertheless, it is crucial that we continue to explore the decisions we make, and pursue the truth without preconception. There is a caution to leaving a truth unconsidered. Thought is cumulative. Fragments of truths and misinformation, when left unchallenged, take on a life of their own. Rumour, assumptions, denial, bias, doubt, and unexplored thought can grow into untruths that we learn to accept. This can present a great danger, when we take action based on misinformation. A few weeks ago I gave guidance on a technique for promoting alignment of thought to resolve problems and better inform your actions. It's a way to explore your thoughts, and seek out any uncomfortable truths, so that you may better understand and remedy them. By uncomfortable truths I mean aspects of our lives where we meet the greatest resistance when considering them. Something we have done or experienced that we don't fully understand - and as such it causes us discomfort. When used as a daily practice, this technique can help you avoid considerable anguish - and allow you to remain true to yourself. Only the truth will set you free. I was given this to share. “Pursue the truth with patience and always maintain an open mind.” I am going to end this article with a truth shared by a dear friend. It is a truth that I have given much consideration to over a period of years. But the time has been needed to enable me to accept it. I find it to be bitter-sweet, but undeniably true. “In order to be who you are, you must be willing to let go of who you think you are.” Focus on the light, always, Natalie Attenborough |
Focus on the Light
Hi Reader, I watched a stand up show the other night. It was the latest offering on Netflix from Ricky Gervais. During the show he commented on the likelihood of humanity destroying itself in one of many ways. It disturbed me because it was delivered in a matter of fact way. Like it's inevitable and almost preferable. And that kind of attitude is gaining traction. It's as if we have given up, accepted our inability to affect change, and are just plodding on to oblivion. He went on to say the...
Hi Reader, The impact of all actions can be cumulative. That includes thought. Cumulative actions increase in quantity by successive additions. And the greater the frequency of repetition, the more impactful. We all know this. The more you practice something, the better you get at it, and the greater its impact on you and others. Practice makes perfect. But do you fully acknowledge how this impacts your life? The effects of any mindset we allow to endure become cumulative. Negative mindsets...
Hi Reader, I recently qualified as a meditation practitioner and teacher. I’ve instructed meditation to groups on a few occasions, based on the experience of my own practice, and wanted to further my skills. I like to believe I can teach anyone to meditate, with meaningful effect. That being said, it requires an intent to participate regularly by the student. But if the student is willing, there are numerous methods for achieving focus and accessing the benefits of meditation. Several years...