Uncertain Moments: August 2 - 8

Who doesn't love moments of awe? Who isn't grateful for ordinary moments? Even in between moments are a curious place to be. It's the uncertain moments that throw me off. Uncertainty comes in all sizes. There are huge fears like global warming and concerns closer to home like struggling neighbors and terminally ill loved one. I'm certain you have your own basket of troubles to keep you awake at night.

Deep down, I know the certainties to which I cling, are illusions. No one is promised tomorrow. Living with uncertainty is an unavoidable part of being human. Mindfulness helps me name this discomfort and patiently invites me to become more comfortable being with the uncomfortable. This is one of the greatest insights mindfulness offers. The trick is not to flee suffering but to learn how to remain in its presence. I still have a long way to go. Who knew uncertainty could be such an unexpected teacher? Certainly not me.

Practice

Find a place in the middle of your life where you can sit without too much distraction. Show up just as you are. No need to fix anything or wait for things to settle down. The present moment will do just fine.

Sense the breath. It might be choppy or relaxed. It may be shallow or deep. It is okay just as it is. It is a sign that you are alive. Arrive in your body. Listen to the sounds around you. It doesn't matter if they are soothing or irritating. Be present to life just as it is.

If you are anything like me, before long worries will intrude. Don't ignore them or push them away. On the surface they may be loud and demanding but look for the subtle message underneath the pounding and the banging. Are thoughts trying to protect or alert you? Sit with them as you would sit with a troubled neighbor or a suffering loved one. Be present to life just as it is.

Sometimes there is no silver lining to the storm clouds heading our way. Sometimes life is hard and uncertain. Personally, I don't believe everything happens for a reason. Sometimes life is just life. Sometimes allowing life to be as it is, rather than pretending we can control it, is all we can do. Be present to life just as it is.

Find a place in the middle of your life where you can sit without too much distraction. Show up just as you are. No need to fix anything or wait for life to settle down. Be present to life just as it is.

This is the practice today.

This is the practice tomorrow.

This is the practice always.