The Subtlety of Transformation.

There is a precept within the Buddhist tradition speaking towards the willingness of heart to move from suffering to equanimity. It is the basis by which we cultivate the energy of transformation, and a catalyst for own inner peace.

There are so many ways in which negativity may reach us. Whether directly by hatred or ill will, or indirectly through the chattering of our own self-inflicted ‘wounds’ – it manifests within and all around us. We see it within the onslaught of media images. We recoil when presented through the actions of another.

So often, we are misguided in thinking ours to be a passive role. Impulse begs to silence the angst – though, in reality, our denial serves only to strengthen its resolve. In the end, we’re left wondering — what, if anything, may be done?

In looking more deeply, we realize that the energy to suppress is equal to the energy to transform – though with widely disparate result. And, yet time after time again we choose – the path which causes additional harm.

Buddhism (and, perhaps our own experience) teaches that we can not and should not deny that which may ultimately serve to expand our heart.

But, what does that mean? And, more importantly – how is the energy of transformation engaged?

As Thich Nhat Hanh teaches, we must learn to look deeply into the energy of our emotions, identifying that which may ultimately empower our fear. We redirect the energy into our own transformation.

“You don’t feel the need to fight against your anger or your fear anymore,” he shares. “because you see that your anger and your fear are you. So you try to handle them in the most tender way. There’s no fighting anymore. There’s only the practice to transform and to take care.”

It is the practice of helping our heart grow each and every time.

In peace…

Namaste ❤️

About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

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