Winter Storm
There are times when nature reminds us that not all places are hospitable and real danger exists unless we are fully prepared...more than just physically. The same is true when we decide to face our wounds, hurts, and heartbreaks. The rewards of taking these journeys can be immense; although few are without sacrifice, turmoil, and tumultuous periods...perhaps equal to the peace we find.
As with any great expedition into the unknown, the better prepared we are, the more we understand the landscape, weather patterns, potential dangers and how to avoid or minimize them, resources, and survival techniques; the more likely we will succeed on our quest.
The same is true when we take the journey inwards. The landscape is wrought with various weather patterns, or emotions, that will arise as your awaken old wounds with the intent of healing. The dangers are that you will become caught in the hurt, pain, and atrocities you have experienced, and like an avalanche, you risk becoming buried in the memories. Yet, you realize that to heal, transform, and disempower these scars, you must indeed face them, but not head on or the challenges might be overwhelming. No, it is important to use finesse and skill to chart these waters. It will take the support of friends, family, and potentially a counselor trained in guiding you through the inner terrain, much like the Sherpa who knows the safest routes and signs of danger on the summiting of Mount Everest.
Like any survivalist, you will want to prepare yourself emotionally, physically, mentally, and even spiritually. Journaling, sharing your fears about the trip, connecting with those who have made the trip before you to learn the terrain and to know you are not alone and having a heart-talk with those closest to you will support the mental and emotional bodies. Physical exercise may be crucial to help burn off the residual emotions and energy. In addition, eating mindfully, in a healthy way will support your journey. Plus, these will make you feel better about yourself which is part of the outcomes of success. The spiritual aspect might include meditating, yoga, tai chi, or finding a teacher to help with the realm of the mystical. As you can see, the emotional and mental bodies are linked and supported by the same techniques, as are the physical and spiritual. When all are combined, you are ready for the expedition.
There may be mountains you cannot summit, passages that are blocked, and treacheries you were not anticipating.This is part of the sojourn, and as long as you are tenacious, you will find alternate routes, or recognize when the wisest thing to do is turn around and try to summit again when the conditions are more favorable.This is not failure, but deep wisdom and grace.May your journey be filled with grace and may you know you are not alone on this quest, for your guides and guardians are cutting the path before you and pointing the way.
