"In the woods we return to reason and faith." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Throughout the summer months, I have been paying attention to the signs that I receive through nature. Last week, as I finished up my morning meditation on my deck, I became aware of a large bird circling above me. Within seconds there were two, then four, and they kept coming until there were eight birds gliding gracefully upward being carried upwards by the current. I paused for several minutes, taking in their grace and majestic beauty. About an hour later and 15 miles north of where I live, my husband and I were on a bike ride. Once again, my attention was drawn to eight large birds circling off to my right. I decided to do some investigating and found that these eight majestic birds were turkey vultures. Did you know that turkey vultures play a key role in the circle of life. They are not birds that attack but instead are birds whose key role is to come clean up the mess left behind by others. Their unique digestive system allows them to absorb bacteria that other species would be sickened or potentially die if exposed.
So what does this whole encounter mean to me? How can I use this information to be my guide and speak to me? What profound message did this bring? This is what has come so far:
"Your mind often takes over. Stay in the presence of all that surrounds you and experience the natural flow of life. Surrender. Trust. It is as simple and profound as that. When doubts creep in, know they are an indicator that you are in your mind. Listen to the music of your heart. Trust your heart to lead you in the direction Source is taking you. All is well."
Of course! Through my life's experiences, I know that when I let go, things flow naturally and effortlessly. I meet people I could never intentionally orchestrate meeting, I feel the nudge to create something, I run into someone I haven't seen for a long time, or I feel the nudge to reach out to someone. It really isn't necessary for me to try to figure what to do or where to go or who to talk to next. It all happens effortlessly! My favorite prayer from A Course in Miracles goes like this:
I am here only to be truly helpful.
I am here to represent LOVE (God) who sent me.
I do not have to worry about where to go or what to say because LOVE (God)
who sent me will direct me.
I am content to be wherever LOVE (God) wishes, knowing LOVE (God)
goes there with me.
I will be healed as I let LOVE (God) teach me to heal.
(ACIM 2:5:18)
How can nature gently guide you back to effortlessly trusting the flow?
Have you found yourself putting in too much effort and feeling exhausted?
What message does this stir up within you?
May you experience the effortless flow of grace and love offered to all!
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