The only time we are ever misled is when we refuse (for reasons too numerous to count and having nothing whatsoever to do with an external source) to see what is directly in front of us. We can deny it or we can attach something to it; and in so doing, create an expectation that, in one form or another, a need will be met. It is then that we actively overlook the obvious to envision our desired view.
So – knowing we cannot see a situation or a person with an impartial view while we hold any sort of judgment, bias, attachment or expectation – we learn to be much more accountable for our actions. Bottom line: we act/engage to achieve a desired result.
Rather than redressing the people, situations, and events that appear to lure us to the table, our inner desires are what we really need to question, evaluate, and assess. Ultimately, we are held accountable to ourselves.
And sometimes, after doing all that sifting and sorting to claim a firm hold on higher ground, there will be an even higher calling – so great that even though we can see the present encounter for exactly what it is and we know exactly why we should not engage:
because we are far too vulnerable —
we have failed miserably in past efforts and attempts —
and there may appear to be no external symbol of reward (possibly, quite the opposite, we will appear to be a failure)
— that situation is our saving grace. It is our opportunity to enter a challenge awake and take effective, conscious action to forever break the cycle.
Regardless the outcome, there will come a moment of engagement within that challenge that forces us to come to terms with our humanity. We will discover all of those things that make us weak and humble, also make us strong, resilient … united … when we recognize them as common denominators. We are one.
At those times, we must trust that we have been summoned forth to learn how to walk through the fire and not get burned. Getting singed however, is part of the learning curve.
Conscious Living & Wendy's Coffeehouse 