A Timely Reaffirmation

My mom sent the following article to me (originally from The Daily Om) and I found it quite a nice reaffirmation of my upcoming adventure, which in many ways will be a mental one. A lot of people have acted surprised and a bit wary of a life in which my only main task is to play hockey a few times a week. But really, does it get any better than this? A wise man by the name of Kevin Mahoney instructed me last evening that the greatest gift I am receiving this year is not so much money, but rather, time. When else am I going to get the chance to write the next great American (or will it be Danish?) novel, or learn to play the guitar, or catch up on my endless "To Read" list, all on someone elses dime, and while restarting the hockey career I was certain was over in the process? NEVER! So, if I'm not on the ice or at spinning, you can find me at a cafe in Copenhagen, sipping tea and being mindful (and if you see this as a good plan and want to donate to the "Lattes for Meghan Fund"), just let me know.

September 15, 2005Conscious IdleThe Art of Inactivity
Our world is one of cycles. Tides ebb and flow, one season gives way to the next, night follows day. In our own lives, we have periods of great activity and periods of rest. Just as high tide is no better than low tide and summer no better than spring, activity is not, in itself, better than inactivity. If fact, these times of rest and rejuvenation, idleness and dreaming, help us connect to ourselves and to our divine source. Our culture tends to applaud action and achievement. We are often most comfortable with ourselves when we are clearly traveling toward a goal. During these times of striving, we direct our energy outward. We take action on our vision and follow the steps that lead us to our goal. But there are moments in this process when the urge comes to take a break, retreat, or just lay low. The tendency may be to judge ourselves negatively as we may be less comfortable with these moments of down time which is a great time to check in with our intention. By being aware of your intention behind the action of laying low you can gain a higher perspective on it. Ask yourself if your intention is to honor an essential part of your being or to hide from it. Is your intent one that is ultimately kind to yourself - empowering rather than diminishing? Perhaps you sense it is simply time to pause and allow the universe work its magic on your behalf. When you feel the urge to have down time, trust that this is a natural part of the process of achieving your goals. Know that what may appear to be a deviation from your path can actually prove to be a shortcut and give yourself permission to do exactly as you are moved to do. Curl up under the covers with a favorite book or catch an old movie on TV. Soak up some sun or daydream the day away. Better yet, do nothing at all. Allow yourself to simply be - alive and at ease.