Having just completed a fabulous year-long training program with my latest qigong teacher, I’m experiencing the mixed emotions of the joy of graduation and the sadness of a chapter in my journey having come to an end. Of course, endings open up space for new beginnings to sprout. In between, there is usually a time of transition–time to digest what we have just been through, preparing the ground for what is to come.
Lately, I’ve become aware that I feel uncomfortable in these transitional periods. I like having a goal and working toward it. It gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. But I’ve also become aware that continually doing more and reaching for more draws our attention to the future, leaving us less and less connected with the present.
So I’m learning to surf through times of transition, seizing the opportunity to maintain awareness of the present. I watch myself marinate in that rich soup of not knowing where I’m going next. Sometimes, you just have to sit with the questions.
We all go through many transitions in life, experiencing loss and gain and change in so many ways. Perhaps you’re there now. Our natural reaction is to fear the unknown and feel lost in confusion. Rather than pushing the river, trying to find answers, you may find that time really does heal all. Give yourself the gift of time. Linger in the spaces in between–watching, noticing, percolating. Every moment is a moment of transition, as we die to the past and awaken to the future.
Breathe now. Feel where you are. And simply notice.
