After a stressful morning last week, I drove to the local botanical garden and sat for a bit. Communing with Mother Nature is one of the most satisfying antidotes for calming the mind, the body, and the spirit. All three of me were wanting to be soothed and pampered.
Glancing across the parking lot, I noticed that a wind had kicked up. Some of the trees were dancing to the whooshing sounds of the light gusts; others stood ramrod still. For the movers and shakers, I noticed that the upper part of those tree swayed, while the lower section did not budge. The trees that did not move at all were sufficiently sheltered by others.
Watching the trees sashay to and fro began to calm me down, and my mind soon cleared of the mist that had dampened my spirit. After a while, I was ready to go home, confident that I had let go, even if only temporarily, of the tension that had gripped me just moments earlier. Mother Nature had bestowed her graciousness upon me.
When something or someone disrupts your life, and you feel tossed about by the winds of frustration, notice the parts of your mind, body, or spirit that remain steadfast. Those are the parts that don't give in to the winds, because they have embraced the support around them. Whether it is deep breathing, words of advice from a trusted friend, a warm cup of herbal tea, a lover's hug, or a powerful sense of self, take care of yourself by accepting the comfort that shows up.
Ann Landers said, "Some people believe that holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go -- and then do it."
In letting go, you will find your strength. Manage what you can, and release that which you cannot. Hold steadfast to that which is helpful, kind, and understanding. Liberate that which is discouraging, disrespectful, and disheartened. Let it go, for it, too, needs its time among the trees.
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