Greetings Sadhakas,
This week in class
we are considering what it means to have "inner security" and
a "mind that cannot be upset".
Do not let your
peace depend on the hearts of others; whatever they say about you, good or bad,
you are not because of it another, for as you are, you are.
- Thomas
a Kempis
Even if you have
ninety-nine people cheering you, there will always be a hundredth to boo. That
is the nature of life, and to deal with it, we need simply to learn not to be
always on the lookout for appreciation and applause. If people say, "Oh,
there is nobody like you," don't get elated. Don't pick up your telephone
and call your friends to tell them what is being broadcast about you. That's
what most of us do, you know; that's why telephones are so busy. It is also why
so many people get dejected when fortune seems to frown.
My spiritual
teacher - a simple, straightforward woman who didn't mince words - used to tell
me, "You can't shut other people's mouths." It took me years to
understand that. This unlettered lady knew that we don't have any control over
other people's minds. You can control only your own mind. When you understand
this, you know you needn't be concerned about what people say about you: it
doesn't affect you, because your mind cannot be upset. You may feel hurt, but
you will have an inner security that cannot be shaken.
Words to Live By:
Inspiration for Every Day – Eknath Easwaran
The homework is
to consider what it means to have "inner security" and a "mind
that cannot be upset". Ask yourself how the practices of Yoga helps you
develop these states of being.
Blessings,
paul cheek
Rushing Water Yoga
360.834.5994
www.rushingwateryoga.com
Serving Yoga to Camas, Washougal, and Vancouver Washington
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