The search for meaning begins exactly where we are. If we want to seek connection with ourselves, with others, and with the divine, there’s nowhere else to work from. We don’t have to cross the distance between where we are and where we want to be in order to begin our journey. It starts from here.
It’s easy for me to wander off, feeling overwhelmed at all I don’t know and all I haven’t done. It’s easy to get stuck thinking there must be catching up to do before I can start. But on a good day, I can remember that I already have what’s most essential.
“For I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” and something within me urges me always toward wholeness. I believe it’s a spark of the divine that exists in everyone. My task is to wake up to that life force and pay attention to what’s happening now, without being distracted by what I have or haven’t done in the past or what I might do in the future.
Ok. Sure. But how?
The best way I know to begin being present to what is unfolding in my life, is through the breath. Our breathing is another way we are wonderfully made. Without a thought we bring into our bodies the air that sustains life, and exhale what we do not need to make room for the next breath. Our breath requires no attention, but it is with us every moment. When we are mindful of the breath, it gives us a way to find our balance, clear our minds, and pay attention. When we notice the act of breathing we have the chance to relax body and mind, and become grounded in the present moment.
Even the story of creation in Genesis begins with breath. The Hebrew word ruah, translated as the “spirit” of God moving across the waters at the beginning of creation can also be translated as “wind” or “breath.” Ruah is also the breath of life breathed into humanity by God. Creation begins with ruah; life begins with ruah. It seems fitting that our journey to God would begin with the breath, as well.
Our breath is always available as a starting place, which is good, as starting is something we must do over and over again. No matter how many mornings we wake up, we have to start each day anew. It’s the same with our practice and prayers. Every day we begin again. It helps to have a routine for beginning, and a focus on the breath is elegant in its simplicity. Our breath is where we are. It’s a start.
What helps you to begin again?
I try to start each day with the words, “I greet this day with Joy for I am blessed.” This sets my attention and intention for the day. I also try to make sure that I voice to God a desire that I will be a part of what God has in mind for the day with the emphasis upon me being a part of God’s day rather than the opposite. I have to confess I have been kind of sloppy on this part of my morning declaration.
When I feel like I am moving too quickly or too caught up in my head I will go on a bit of a wander. I will drive around by myself for a bit just going where I feel led until I get to a place of feeling centered. I like walks like that too.
Well all of that said, I have to begin working again. Later.
Thanks for your thoughtful comment, John, as well as for your encouragement at thepracticaldisciple.com. It sounds like you’ve found a way to set a good tone for the day when you awake, which is so important. Even on a day when my first thought is “Can it really be this late ALREADY?” it’s good to remember to bring that kind of positive approach to getting the morning started. If not the first thought, perhaps the second or the third!
And giving yourself permission some days to “go on a bit of a wander” is lovely. So glad you wandered by here!