A Sign Of The Times: Part One

2020 was a challenging year at best—some of us being tested more than others—but the thing about challenges is that they're inextricably bundled with the opportunity for reflection and change. Which is to say, what are we being shown—collectively and personally—and how will we address it?

Without going into specifics, I've felt all sorts of ways about things this past year. At times I've felt like a disappointed parent—not angry or any less loving, but a little let down by our unconscious behavior and the consequences that have come out of it. Other times, I've been moved to tears by our unlimited capacity for kindness and selflessness, so much so that I've been overwhelmed with gratitude for the painful circumstances we find ourselves in, and the catalyst it has the potential to be. And still other times, I've witnessed some of our behavior and felt a heartbreak like no other heartbreak I've ever felt before.

But that being said, I seem fortunate enough to return back to the center—to the axis—to a place not caught up in these contextual, temporary circumstances—the emotional roller coaster ups and downs, highs and lows. And while I can't say it's a permanent state. Not yet, anyway. With many years of practice and attention behind me, It does feel more and more like my homeostasis.To a large extent this comes from a place of "privilege"—one I've touched on directly and indirectly on this site numerous times—the privilege to be supported by the love of friends and family. My roots, if you will. My safety net.

I don't take this "privilege" lightly—and perhaps "gift" would be a better word, a less loaded word—because it fuels me with an unbiased sense of gratitude. The centeredness, the homeostasis, I feel comes from this. Through the contrast between challenges and disorder and comfort and peace.

Yes, 2020 was objectively a year like many of us have never seen, but the adversity and pain has provided the world many opportunities to demonstrate how much we love and care for one another, as well as the rest of the planet at large. If, like me, you're "privileged" enough to have the unconditional love and support of others, don't let a moment go by not devoted to gratitude. It's grace, it's radiant and can't be quantified.

I love you all.

*This is part one of a two-part post. Click here for part two.