There is a lot going around about the Mayan Calendar and what it does and does not mean. Many of us smile at the idea of an end to the world; however there is a kernel of truth in the concept. Each day is the end of, well, that day and each subsequent day is new and ripe with opportunity.
The group I have been meeting with on Monday and Friday nights have been sharing their wisdom and experience with yogic topics such as tapas (discipline / transformation) and aparigraha (non-attachment / non-clinging). We talk about our challenges and solutions to these practices. Their words come to mind as I center and prepare myself for each day. Allowing steadfast attention to my intentions for each day, I practice tapas. That keeps me in the day and in the requirements of today without putting things off to the future. This day will end – fill each day with thrall for the present moment.
Practicing aparigraha I also let go of how things unfold and develop, I get better and better at leaving the path of tomorrow until tomorrow. In this way I live in today fully. I embrace the interruptions of my “plan” by the unexpected call or conversation with a student, or the malfunction of a car, computer or cable connection as merely a moment in the day – not a breakdown of the “plan”. I also find some bit of information, lesson or strength in adapting to that event. Knowing that I am doing the best I can, with what I have, in the time I have to do it helps me practice for my self the compassion I have for others. While I don’t live in tomorrow I do know that what I do today lays the groundwork for what I do tomorrow, how I am, and where I am. I just don’t LIVE there.
So- whatever happens tomorrow, I am prepared because, I am living today fully.
Kyczy Hawk E-RYT200, RYT 500 is a yoga instructor specializing in teaching yoga to people in recovery and the creator of the SOAR(tm) (Success Over Addiction and Relapse) certification program. Find more about her and the SOAR(tm) program at www.yogarecovery.com.