I think we’d all agree, the Universe has been offering abundant learning opportunities for each of us! Astrologically, we are seeing historical events since the beginning of March and throughout the summer! Different people, different lessons, right? I think this design of differences is part of the infinite web of connection and support we are intrinsically part of.
A dear friend recently commented to me that despite my long term challenges over the time she’s known me, I don’t seem to get emotional. She’s right! I thought on that for a bit. Is that an indication of a closed heart, I thought. But then why would I cry while singing beautiful songs, when I see amazing performances, or the like? Well, this morning while in my morning pose with a hot beverage and cuddle-kitty on my lap; I received communication from a (different) dear friend and teacher that was so loving, so gracious – that I felt valued, really seen and respected, and I wept like a baby. Every time I think of it, I cry. There it is; my lesson. Learning to receive love, respect, and genuine kindness. I’m apparently unfamiliar with that ‘super power”. Living with unending hardship, I have adapted to.
This has reminded me of that phrase “There but for the Grace of God go I”, but from the perspective that we each have our challenge, our wounds, and fragility. And they will show up differently or perhaps be impossible to detect by an onlooker.
I appreciate the positive influence of folks who live with a more neutral perspective. I feel safe in their company, more willing to express myself, and more likely to feel understood. This experience has motivated me to notice aspects of my own conditioning that may be residing and acting out that might be described or experienced as critical, judgmental, resentful, or retaliatory. The time and culture I grew up in had no “racial inequality” because equality didn’t exist yet. Women were not seen as equals (still aren’t) and that’s just how it was! I’m grateful for the awareness and options available now, but/and I still find little pockets of old patterns I carry. It feels like having two languages. I know them both and have to choose which one is more accurately expressing me in this now moment.
We just received an accusation of racial discrimination at the store. The topic itself is disturbing to me, but the experience of being a party to it happening is beyond that. It would be “normal” to post a response of reassurance of our intention and offer a gift card if they give us another try, or something. But I just couldn’t go there. It doesn’t matter if I/we “did something wrong” or not. We, those of us walking around are carrying the choices of our ancestors. We’ve inherited them. Those choices then are part of how we got where we are now.
We ARE the perfect ones to own those consequences and do our best to bring healing now. So, no; not going to kick the can down the lane and claim a “faultless” role. And, we do have residue of old patterns in our sub-consciousness. That means things are present in our psyche that we may very well be unaware of. The clarifying question is what do we stand for? What can we contribute here, now, for the greater good? For all, not just ourselves. And I see that as one way of holding neutrality. Focusing on the bigger picture, the seven generations perspective.
Another piece to this is the part about carefully considering aspects, perspectives (ours and the other(s)), and choosing based on our wise inner guidance. As well as relinquishing any attachment or expectation for external approval. “Sweeping the temple steps” is a form of worship whether anyone sees you or not. Big one! And this is the road to living fully actualized and free.
The richness we experience together comes from the richness we share with one another.