Having lived in Florida for many years, I had the opportunity to experience the eye of the storm for myself. You can just imagine the pounding of the wind and rain as only a hurricane can produce, abruptly stopping for a brief period of sunshine and calm, only to be followed by an even fiercer onslaught of wind and rain. An amazing experience I will never forget. That feeling of being so insignificant in the midst of the awesome power of mother nature.
I’m beginning to notice that same feeling of being in the eye of the storm as the world swirls uncontrollably around me. So much unrest and emotional turmoil on the planet at this time. Floods, fires, earthquakes. Famine, fear, dis-ease. Many of my contemporaries are experiencing major health issues in addition to the pain of losing one or both parents. Our faithful animal companions are taking on our grief and sadness, only to fall victim to a host of human-like maladies.
How do we find balance in the seemingly chaotic world we live in? How do we see through the cloak of fear that envelops the world in uncertainty? Perhaps begin by taking a moment to be thankful for what you have. You have the gift of life. The chance to breath in all that life has to offer. Life happens, but it’s how you respond to all the challenges that creates your reality. Take a moment right now to stop, take a deep breath and simply be present. Let go of all the regrets from the past and all the fears for the future. Simply be present with your breath. Your heart rate will slow down, your blood pressure will drop, your mind will quiet—giving you the courage to take the next mindful step along your path in this lifetime. There is always the calm after the storm. It’s how you weather the storm that matters.
