Releasing the Old Year, the Old You
Did you notice that New Year's Day fell on a waning
moon? For those who pay special attention to lunar
cycles, this day signifies a "letting go" phase before
new things can begin.
For me the first few days have been spent cleaning
out closets, giving items to Goodwill and books to the
library. At the same time, people from the past have
come back to help me release some old pains, albeit in
extremely difficult ways. This includes saying goodbye
to my grandfather who passed away on Christmas Day in
the Philippines.
I am comforted and inspired by something that Betsy
Downing of Garden of the Heart Yoga wrote:
"My experiences have led me to believe that after we
discover the depths of our own true nature of stillness,
peace, and strength, the real work begins. We seek to
transform those aspects of our personalities, habits,
and patterns that block that connection to our peaceful
center. It can sometimes be hard work to release our
negative mindset; to let go of criticisms, judgments,
insecurities, fears, guilt, the ways in which we close
our hearts, lack compassion, fail to honor ourselves,
become defensive, remember old hurts, and withhold
forgiveness of ourselves and others. Through this
process of change, however, we learn to connect with the
best in ourselves, to clarify our communication, and
speak from the heart with firmness and compassion. We
begin to live our lives from the larger perspective of
our spirituality."
The spiritual path is fraught with both painful and
joyful awareness as the Universe sends your soul exactly
what it needs at the precise moment. Often the timing or
event is not what we would prefer.
I have found it helpful to surround myself with
compassionate friends and even professional support. I
am grateful for your presence in my life. May this new
year bring you many bright blessings.
Garden of the Heart Yoga
