Impermanence visits our “sacred circle” even when we face heaven and hell with an evenness of mind. In mayhem, we meet transformation.
Transformation is not five minutes from now;
it’s a present activity. In this moment you can make a different choice,
and it’s these small choices and successes that build up
over time to help cultivate a healthy self-image and self-esteem
(Jillian Michaels)
I’m fascinated with the idea of transformation as a present activity. In a single moment, we face a choice between same-old, same-old or going all in for transformation.
Transformation opens us to what has never been so there is no blueprint, and I would argue, no labels of failure or success.
I’ve been glossing over the immediacy of transformation and moving straight into its life changing effects. Transformation involves process but each step requires an immediate choice.
In many ways, I was viewing transformation as an eventual mindset. Mindset is where we are when transformation comes to call and then upheaval ensues.
Mindsets are not without merit, not at all. They are our bank of experience yet they, too, are subject to change.
In transformation, we enrich our life experience. Even in mayhem, there is merit.
Aim for Even posts offer equanimity in daily doses. No day or dose is ever the same, even if the aim is. You may read about the origins of Aim for Even here or on this site’s About page.
I love this inquiry Karen. Your words ring true for me as well. A mindset is that is framed around becoming something else, is one that is not in the present moment at all. When I look back at times of transformation in my life, there are made up of small steps of what seem like inconsequential choices. It is only in the looking back that I can pick out these breadcrumbs on the path that brought me here. There were mayhem moment along the way too!
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Thanks for this, Val! I value hindsight–in fact, I think it is crucial to transformation–your image of the breadcrumbs is so helpful to me. Imagine being present in each of those! Perhaps if I remember “breadcrumb” in the mayhem moments, I’ll be more likely to keep my eyes on the ground and not down the road. Much appreciated. 🙂
Karen
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