DARK NIGHT OF THE SOUL

There are many shades of a dark night of the soul.

Whispers of despair, loss and fear are arising for many of us. We do not need to be living with a catastrophic loss to feel the heaviness in our hearts. Nor do we need to diminish our suffering because others have it worse.

We must begin by honouring whatever voice our pain speaks. Listening deeply to hear what clouds may be passing in front of our heart. In this moment we give ourselves the space of allowance.

Knowing that we hurt.

Beyond this awareness we are challenged to find a soothing balm.

From a place of compassion and care, we must bring whatever light we can see that helps hold our angst. Each of us have our version of how we inspire ourselves.

From prayer to music, the ocean or reading. In these times, we need to increase the light. Some will say, "I don't have time". The reality is, "I don't prioritise my well-being". My teacher used to say that if you build your life around your meditation practice, it will happen. If you try to "squeeze" it around your schedule, it will not. Given the enormous stressors of our life, we cannot afford to not make time.

Our well-being is the sanctuary from which everything springs.

How we relate to our unfolding life is dependent on the balance in our minds.

The power of equanimity allows us to choose what matters and respond. We must protect our hearts these days. Not with barbed wire.

When we recognise the quiet wounds that are calling our attention, we can prioritise self-care.

One of the lights that soothes our soul is quiet and stillness. Getting off the life bus at the nearest stop and being alone.

Meditation is the gift we can offer ourselves for calm. No beliefs, candles or incense needed. Find a place, then your breath. Nothing special. A moment of light.

Hope lives in the alliance we form with our well-being.
Touching ourselves with this love, we remember that we matter.

PIPER DELLUMS