Letting Things Go

"Sometimes letting things go is an act of far greater power than defending or hanging on."
Eckhart Tolle (from the book - A New Earth)

What other people think of me is truly none of my business.
What other people choose to believe is none of my business either.

It's funny, hilariously funny,  because at the end of the day - it really doesn't matter! It really doesn't. Most of the time people are looking at life through their own beliefs. If you believe people are out to get you, that's what you'll see. If you believe everyone lies, that's what you'll see. If you believe you are unlovable, that's what you'll see....around every corner and in the face of every person you meet.

The natural laws that govern this Universe see everything and maintain balance everywhere. Those who choose to put their energy into dishonorable conduct, dishonesty, degrading others, selfishness and revenge will only attract into their lives more of the same. It's that simple. Those who choose to learn from their mistakes with humility and focus more on loyalty, honesty, love, true partnerships/friendships, support and patience will align themselves with that and draw in more of the same.  In retrospect, the idea of defending oneself and trying to get another to see your true intentions is absolutely ridiculous! We are simply not, nor will we ever be, responsible for what others think or how they behave.That is 100% up to them and their choice. And the choices we make are what shape our lives and our future.

I awoke this morning with an undeniable sense of deep gratitude for my life as I stand, in awe, of the beauty and love that surrounds me and continues to unfold each and every day. Thank you, to everyone and everything, that has brought me to this moment. Especially to those of you who have been dishonorable, angry, dishonest and hurtful. Thank you. You have taught me to see my own beauty and to really understand what I want my life to be.

Inspired

What an incredible weekend.

Not only is it Spring (which I love) but I had the great pleasure, and honor, of teaching this weekend at 2 different Yoga Teacher Trainings in Toronto and Hamilton (which I also love).

It's just so cool to be with a room full of aspiring yoga teachers from so many backgrounds, so many different countries, different cultures. Their excitement and energy is contagious. They all seem so keen with such high hopes and aspirations about the path that's being laid before them. I remember being like that and feeling like I was becoming part of something really sacred and special. When you start to delve into all the history and philosophy of yoga, it's origins and it's true meaning - there's a very palpable energy that enters the room. You can get the sense of just how ancient and amazing this whole practice is. Thousands and thousands of years of people training their bodies, their minds; searching for answers on how to make life meaningful and powerful. I obviously know yoga is not the only way to make life meaningful and powerful, but the richness of it's history is quite remarkable. Quite amazing.

But I have to admit...there was a tiny part of me that thought "Oh boy! These folks have no idea what they're in for!" LOL!! At first when you learn yoga, true yoga beyond just the postures and the workout, you can sometimes feel like your life is now going to become totally blissful, and easy and so much less stressful. When, in actual fact, sometimes the opposite is true for a little while. All the teachings are great...but it's putting them into practice, and remembering them when life starts to squeeze you, that is the challenge. Because the truth is - whether you're a 'yoga teacher' or not, you are not immune to stress. Especially now in our modern world when we're no longer sitting around in caves all day meditating for hours on end.  Challenges will still present themselves. You will still get deeply disappointed, angry, upset, panicked, hurt by other people and by life. That is why the teachings focus so much on Trust. Humility. Patience. Because without all that - it's nearly impossible to truly 'practice Yoga'.

But my heart and my deepest wishes for success and endless joy go out to all the aspiring yogis I met this weekend. May your hearts remain open and may your newfound practices give you strength and more of those moments of indescribable bliss and connection that make it ALL worthwhile! Om Namah Shivayah...