#8 Zenecist Chronicles Reawakening—Lessons of The Forest | Getting Back Up The Moment of Magic
There are moments in life when we all feel beaten down, when the weight of the world seems too heavy to bear, and we wonder if we can ever get back up. I recently found myself in such a place, my spark barely glowing after a tumultuous week. But just as the forest lets go of its leaves, trusting in the strength of its roots, I discovered lessons that have reignited my journey toward recovery and resilience.
Finding Community
I was introduced to an oasis of warmth and support when I joined the nearby Unitarian Universalist society, or UUA. Unlike traditional religious structures, the UUA organizes itself horizontally, focusing on people helping people. This vibrant community provided the connection and love I needed. As I sat in their sunlit chapel, free from the confines of stained glass, I felt tears form behind my sunglasses, a welcoming peace I had long sought.
A Friend's Prayer and Awakening
The unexpected call from my friend Karl, a former Baptist minister, was another turning point. Despite our differences, his prayer with me was a symphony of love and compassion that moved me deeply. It was a reminder that sometimes we need others to help us rediscover our strength.
This act of kindness, paired with a newfound understanding of the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku—or forest bathing—resonated profoundly with me. By observing how the forest releases its leaves without regret, I realized that embracing change and letting go is part of life's natural course.
Glimpses of Gratitude
In the past few years, I came to an understanding that you can’t be happy if you’re not grateful, gratitude the cornerstone of happiness and resilience. Despite losing some of the 'leaves' I had accumulated throughout my life—relationships and comforts—I found solace in the simple joys and in redefining what success meant for me. It became about celebrating the small victories and embracing the detours along my path.
Redefining the Serenity Prayer
For years, I grappled with the serenity prayer, often feeling that courage should precede acceptance. Yet, life and experience have taught me the delicate balance of both serenity and courage. In climbing back from the depths, I realized that accepting the aspects I cannot change and finding the courage to tackle what I can is integral to my journey forward.
Harnessing the Moment of Magic
Finally, as I reflect on these experiences, I find inspiration in a poem by Victoria Safford. Her words capture the beauty of the present—the "moment of magic"—and remind us that even in our darkest times, we possess all the gifts we need to find joy and build true peace.
In all life's challenges, let us take a page from the forest's book. Let go with grace, stand firm with courage, and rise again with wisdom. These lessons, these moments of magic, are what illuminate the path ahead.
As I leave you with these thoughts, remember to take what you can and leave the rest behind. Together, let us move forward and dance to the rhythm of life, no matter how many times we fall.
Thank you for joining me on this journey.