That's Right! I honor your path

That's Right! I bring an unprotected heart to our meeting place

That's Right! I drink from your well

That's Right! I hold no cherished outcome

That's Right! I will not negotiate by withholding

That's Right! I am not subject to disappointment

Ever wonder about the miracle of love? It's interesting to watch ourselves take on the heartaches of those we care about. It can be challenging to stand on the sidelines with someone you love as they struggle with a lesson, hurt themselves with their beliefs and actions, or wander in the labyrinths of depression.

Most people have someone in their lives who cannot be reached through well-meaning words, the sharing of books and ideas or the gift of compassion - they cannot move into a space of healing yet because the filters through which they view life simply will not allow it.

In those moments, the spiritual seeker must learn the art of Compassionate Detachment. As we honor the paths of those we love, from time to time we must stand aside to allow them the dignity of discovering their own strength in their own way. Consider your spiritual awakening - it was a very personal breakthrough, wasn't it?

When I recall the depths of sadness, loneliness and struggle that I created for myself as a young woman, I often take the time to bless the challenges. They inspired me to take ownership of my life, forged new facets of my personality and expanded my state of consciousness - which changed form often during the next 20 years of my spiritual growth and, even now, continues to evolve in ways I never imagined.

One's unique path of transformation unfolds exactly as it should. On the physical plane, our view is limited - the following ideas can re-balance your energy and bring you back in Compassionate Detachment with those you love:

• This too, shall pass
• All things work to our highest good
• There is more to life than meets the eye
• Just because I can't see how this will unfold, it doesn't mean that it won't unfold perfectly
• I am willing to honor your path
• Remember that we are all mirrors for one another - go within and allow any necessary healing to occur within you. In doing so, you may demonstrate the ability of awakening in a subtle way that can be received on a higher level
• When asked, give loving suggestions without expecting a particular outcome

Consider the possibility that well intentioned actions can actually stunt someone's spiritual growth if you try to move them forward too quickly. It is also a drain of energy to worry, try to understand their reasoning or path (we all have a hard enough time fully understanding ourselves!) or get frustrated - though all those very human responses are in our nature. Instead, quietly practice the true love which has no opposite. You might just find that this soul loved YOU enough to play the part of someone who is lost, simply to allow you the breakthrough that is needed on your personal journey of transformation. Wow. What a gift.

Today my intent is to practice the art of Compassionate Detachment and realize that, in doing so, I have the opportunity to discover new dimensions of unconditional love, acceptance and non-judgment.