The adventure of life is continuously calling us to try new things, take new risks, and come alive in new ways. Nonetheless, it is sooo very easy to get comfortable with patterns, with routines, and even rituals that we create. As an aside, I happen to love rituals, they bring purpose and meaning to specific actions or behaviors. Whereas routines are simply behaviors we can come to live with that are almost robotic and unconscious. Those I am more inclined to avoid since they can become numbing.
Rituals remind me of my intent, my purpose, and my desire for growth and awareness. They “bring me home” to me and this intriguing journey I am walking. They frequently provide me that 30,000-foot view as well as a more profound understanding of my “Why” in actions, thoughts, and feelings. Daily holding the crucifix from my old religious habit while sitting in front of a Buddha statue for some may seem an oddity. For me it is a practice that reminds me that this life is so much more than the physical actions I take or the business I am leading and continuously developing. The connection is so real, peaceful, and creates or supports a calming perspective.
Over the last few days, I have also been meeting with folks I have met through two different groups I belong to. Folks from different parts of the world such as Bulgaria and England, as well as different parts of the USA. Connecting to other worlds, other ways of living, as well as the wide variety of cultures and perspectives just here in America, can be so enriching and so expansive if we are willing to let go of the concept of having the “right” way of doing things.
Connecting with others can be as uplifting, enriching, and profound as connecting with your own inner life. Truly listening to understand how people think, what they believe, and how all that impacts them, really allows you to connect with them in a profound way. I know it leaves me feeling so full and so expanded. It’s a joy.
How often do you leave a conversation and feel that someone never even saw you? It is as if they had answers before you even asked a question. They had a comment before you finished your thought. It can feel as if you are simply a stopping post before they move on to their real target. I think we’ve all had that experience.
Yes, as an example, quick conversations around details of an event don’t require deep sharing but even in that instance, you can feel either seen or invisible. Were they talking to you or simply relaying for the fortieth time the details to yet another guest. We have the ability to turn any conversation even at the supermarket into one where someone feels seen or appreciated. It’s so simple. An easy, affirming, connection can make a cashier’s day. It can bring a smile to someone who is lonely beyond words, or a moment of peace and gratitude to someone who is totally stressed by their screaming or fidgety baby.
Take a risk, try connecting with as many people as you can this week. You and they will be far better for it!
