Courageous Souls Center on Love
I’ve heard it everywhere lately.
From participants in a recent retreat, clients, to friends and family I’ve heard versions of the following:
“It seems like the world is on fire!”
“ Why are people saying and doing the unthinkable?”
“ What the hell is going on?”
“Sometimes I’m afraid to even leave the house…”
I understand how they feel.
The wars, political rhetoric, gun violence and devastating environmental concerns are just a few of the challenges we all face. And when I search my own heart for answers, I know this for sure:
- War has never created long term solutions.
- Screaming at each other has never resolved issues.
- Violence generates more violence.
- Ignoring how we treat the Earth has consequences.
So what can we do?
I suggest we follow the example of the courageous souls I’ve seen who choose to center on love.
It’s important to note, these souls are not in denial of what’s going on. They simply choose to center on love as their mindset, their state of being, and use love to guide their actions, and reactions, in the world.
I see they have a few traits in common that tend to ground them in love:
- A consistent morning routine that includes mind, body, and spiritual practices.
- They spend time in nature.
- A deep trust in something bigger than themselves.
- A study or practice that expands and deepens their spiritual beliefs.
- Choosing inspiring books, TV shows, podcasts, and conversations.
- A circle of family or friends dedicated to supporting each other through life challenges and celebrating together in happy times.
And on the days when the bad news doesn’t seem to stop, courageous souls remember to do their best to simply choose love one moment at a time. I know on those days I remember one of my favorite lessons from A Course in Miracles:
Lesson 188: The peace of God is shining in me now.
“The peace of God is shining in you now, and from your heart extends around the world. It pauses to caress each living thing and leaves a blessing with it that remains forever and forever. What it gives must be eternal. It removes all thoughts of the ephemeral and valueless. It brings renewal to all tired hearts, and lights all vision as it passes by. All of its gifts are given everyone, and everyone unites in giving thanks to you who give, and you who have received.”
Take a breath. Walk outside. Read an uplifting book.
And be a courageous soul this week.