The world as we have known it has come to a near screeching halt.
We are being called upon to do things we never thought possible in this land of the free and home of the brave. We are being quarantined in our homes. We are required to stay away from our friends and family.
The COVID-19 virus has given the world an opportunity to turn within. We are being given a rare chance to stop our mad dashing about and are given time to take a deep breath and think about things we may not have given thought about previously. I see this as an invitation to go within.
Feeling Helpless
Many people will keep their focus on the television “news” and follow the reported “statistics” and will end up feeling terrified and helpless. However, there is another way. You do not have to look at what is being reported. If you use the opportunity to retreat from the world, to really go within, you and others who do the same will likely come through this challenging time much stronger and far more resilient.
Get To Know Yourself
It is times such as these when knowing oneself is imperative. One way of getting to know oneself is through meditation. Meditation is used in virtually every religion as well as in practices such as yoga.
Meditation is not mysterious. It is simply a means of getting to know oneself. The word mediation means “to cultivate” in Sanskrit or “to become familiar with” in Tibetan. It is the practice of self-observation and self-development. This is a time to go inward and build upon the deep resilience each and every individual has at their core.
The Art of Reflection
Of course there will be moments of uncertainty, which is perfectly normal. After all, this is a first experience in our lifetime. But it is also a time to reflect upon what is truly important to us in life. Suddenly we realize how important our health is, our family, friends, community and the role we play in the lives of those with whom we interact.
I pray that each of you stays safe and stays well and becomes more familiar with yourself than you ever have before. And I know that this too shall pass. May you and yours be stronger in the aftermath.
