By stopping along my way, I remember that it's my job to take the time and appreciate this stunning, unconditional gift. The rose isn't going to leap off the bush and jump into my path. If I rush past, I'll miss out on this little slice of heaven. If ignoring that gift becomes a lifestyle, I may even begin to believe that the world around me is entirely unspectacular or ungenerous. Is it? Or am I just too busy running through my own life to notice the parts of my world that are beautiful?
Taking in the scent reminds me that my own essence is something that needs expression for its own sake. The rose doesn't ask permission to be what it is: beautiful, natural, aromatic, unselfish. It does not discriminate in its giving -- and, worth noting, it does not take responsibility for my reaction to it. It grows and blooms and celebrates itself with no commentary or criticism. What might be possible if I liberate myself -- even for a moment -- into a similar attitude?
I invite you to experiment this week by noticing something amazing that you might usually take for granted? In the midst of your stressful, busy, scattered life, open up a little space for the antidote. The exercise will only take a moment, but the payoff may last much, much longer.
Join me for yoga this week: Home studio, North Hollywood:
Tuesday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m., Sunday 10 a.m. Burbank YMCA:
Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., Thursday 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.
For more information about classes, email me or visit the class schedule on the Yoga Bits blog.
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