I often notice the relationship of shadows to patterns…
Especially pretty patterns made by leaves against concrete sidewalks and buildings. These patterns have their own rhythm, which subtly change throughout the day as well as during changing seasons. It's like the trees have their own kind of music, singing to us even if we did not hear them -- much like our inner patterns.
They are there, but how often do you pay attention to your inner-world? In today’s society we’re so caught up in work or outside responsibilities, that we forget to check in with ourselves. Or maybe your inner feelings have always felt too difficult to face, since early childhood. It seems easier to bury our feelings and keep moving, but in truth, repeatedly ignoring our feelings or pain can have great consequences. In time, the lack of practice in self-focused vulnerability catches up with us. Our ability to be in tune and listen to ourselves altogether can become lost. We're so accustomed to rushing, and by default running from our deeper needs or desires, that we eventually turn so far away from the version of ourselves that we love -- the version where we feel whole and at peace inside. This is a lifelong practice that takes a lot of emotional will power, but the journey to uncover your inner patterns is so worth it. Life ebbs and flows, and therefore so does our inner peace, but the more you experience even small moments of stillness, the smoother the process will be to keep bringing yourself back to inner peace or homeostasis.
If you’re not ready to dive head first into years of past experiences, try checking in with yourself over the last week or month. Did something bother you recently? How did you react (internally or externally)? Why did you react that way? Listen to your answers, and after each one comes, just keep asking yourself “why” to get to the root cause. Maybe think of what the situation reminded you of… Why did it remind you of that? Being aware of your feelings is the greatest gift you can give to yourself and others in your life. Just start small… Bring something hidden in the shadows to light. What’s not seen on the inside, determines how you act on the outside.
