Blustery Day
As I sit on my back porch on a blustery October day, I take a moment to practice mindfulness and observe how nature adapts to the wind swirling around.
Cheyenne, Ted, and Memphis
My horses have figured out that facing away from the wind lets them continue grazing comfortably. They seem unfazed by the gusts, standing closely together for warmth and protection. There’s a palpable sense of community among them; they trust each other to watch their backs. Together, they roam the field, and one leads the way to a new patch of grass, always returning to their protective formation.
Above, hawks glide effortlessly on invisible currents, playing in the wind’s embrace. They circle and dive with apparent joy, embodying the spirit of going with the flow while maintaining grace and control.
In contrast, the leaves dance wildly in the wind, tossed about as if they had no choice in the matter. They seem completely at the mercy of the tempest, a state I wouldn’t want to find myself in.
It amazes me how readily nature adapts to the chaos the weather presents today. It prompts the question: how can we learn to navigate the "weather" in our own lives? Do we brace ourselves against the storm, or do we create a safe haven around us? Does such a reaction shield us or restrict our experiences?
Alternatively, do we choose to stand firm with our backs to the wind, allowing it to swirl around us while we move on to face new challenges? The wind isn’t out to harm us; it simply exists as part of life’s unpredictable nature. Some days are calm, inviting us to soak in the sun, while others urge us to seek shelter. Yet, rather than resist what each day brings, we can choose to embrace it. Or do we simply ride the currents, allowing ourselves to be carried wherever they may lead? Is there a way to invite playfulness into our response to life’s unpredictability?
This brings to mind the contrast between floating through life and fighting against it. I believe flow is about perceiving the events unfolding around us. Each moment, whether perceived as positive or negative, brings a lesson. Do we see challenging moments as opportunities to learn? Does facing difficulty encourage us to be more intentional with our decisions? Every day offers a chance for renewal in our choices. Do we distance ourselves from those who drain our energy? Should we seek work that ignites our passion? Can we commit to improving our education, delving into meaningful books, or surrounding ourselves with uplifting people?
We each have this one life to live. How we choose to confront the winds that come our way is entirely up to us.
Jill
November 2024
