Lift Yourself Up—Welcome Happiness

Sweep away negative and self-defeating thoughts with a conscious outbreath. Welcome happiness back into your heart and mind with a conscious inbreath. It only takes a moment—one transforming moment.
~Yogacharya Ellen Grace O'Brian

The events taking place this week will go down in history. For some it is a time to complain, to be fearful, anxious, and worried. Watching or reading the the news may keep us informed, which is important, but the design of news programs is to focus on the worst because that is the most sensational. Social media can be even worse. For those of us who have a regular practice of prayer and meditation, it is important that we don't allow ourselves to slip into despair. We won't be able to help ourselves or anyone else from that place. It is a time to rise above, to see the good around us, to be the uplifting presence of the light of peace and love in the world. Our regular meditation practice supports us in observing ourselves so that we don't go too far down into distress. We can stand back and realize what is happening and make a different choice. Our regular meditation practice calms our minds and brings us back to our hearts. Spending time in that quiet space supports us during our day in discerning what the right choices are to make. As Yogacharya says just taking one conscious breath calms the mind and body and brings us back to our peaceful center. Letting go of fear will let you see the light all around you and allow you to go forward with contentment and love. If you don't already have a daily practice, set an intention for this year to do that. It's more important than ever. Begin each day with intention, contentment, and love.