I think that August is one of my two favorite months; the other being October.
Even though I am close to experiencing 60 years in this body of mine, I still remember the summer days of August as a kid. Back in those days, by the time August rolled around, I was fully relaxed and in summer mode...totally into enjoying the moment. Then, as the beginning of the month turned into the end of the month, there was a twinge in my gut. Summer is coming to an end. School is around the corner. Freedom will soon disappear...again.
Today, I try to stay in the moment and take it all in but, at times my mind is also thinking ahead to what the future might bring. This is normal, and as spiritual aspirants we might have learned to stay more in the present, and less in the future, by conceptualizing less on how things might be and enjoying the gifts we have right now.
The mind is always trying to plan and control its own destiny; trying to avoid as much change as possible. Being in our head (mind) is another way of trying to shape our own future and control it.
There is a difference between planning and trying to control change (or trying to control the things you really have no power over).
We need to plan for our future retirement...we need to plan for trips...for the week ahead, etc. It's even good each morning to go over in your head what you plan on achieving that day: set your goals; assess the situation; make your plans and move forward.
There is even for those who work on the metaphysical level, who put out to the universe (the God of their understanding), what they want to attract to their lives. They put it out and let go of the results, letting the universe bring it when it is supposed to come.
What I am speaking of is a different type of conceptualizing, one of control and fear.
Trying to control situations with other people by conceptualizing the conversation between others is a form of control. Conceptualizing or daydreaming about hitting the lottery is another form of trying to control something you have little power over. Play the lottery game, and then let it go.
We all do it. The trick is to not waste valuable time trying to control people and outcomes. Plan to do your best and then let it go. Try not to daydream your life away.
Instead of conceptualizing/daydreaming on how you would like things to be, make things happen now.
In 12-Step programs, there is a saying; "I make plans, and God laughs."
We think we know what is best for us, and we have to plan for it. But resistance to outcomes that do not go according to our plan only causes pain.
So in the month of August, my Ah-Man Blog posts will focus on the topics of change, resistance and self-inventory.
In just a few weeks, Liz and I will be making another trip to Brazil to see John of God. For details on how you can participate, see the article below.
Namaste,
Michael
