The question I posed before my virtues pick this morning was: What virtue do I need to resist the snares of self and desire? I was spinning around small things that bruised my ego yet my mind was fixated on them making them bigger and bigger and expending valuable energy into negative thinking. I wanted it to stop. I read an inspiring Baha'i quotation that reminded me that I am like a "finely tempered sword" [no. 72 from the Persian], but my value and worth is hidden in the "sheath of self and desire". The quotation beckons me to come out of the sheath. Implicit in this instruction is that I keep my own self hidden not allowing the world to see my brilliance and my talents. How does enthusiasm help me break free from these snares? Well, writing this this morning was very helpful, praying and asking for help to let go of the things that were holding me back and reading that enthusiasm means filled with spirit. Directing my attention to prayer and meditating on the quotation served to direct my energy to more exalted grounds and away from the pity party gearing up in my head. I began to plan my day, look at what it was that could be accomplished, areas where I could be of service and help to others. Dwelling on my mistakes and shortcomings was keeping me stuck. The tears cleared and I was smiling once more. Putting the words down here enabled the negativity to move out of my body, it was channeled instead into creating this entry. Looking outside of myself, beyond my own cares is where I get to invite enthusiasm in and when there is resistance well, I guess I turn back to prayer and revisit the quotation to remember once more. A systematic approach is what is called for, less I forget. I look forward to the wonder that awaits me today.
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