Rustling at the edges

Today I was enjoying a beautiful view of paddocks and bush, framed by distant mountains. The tree near me was gently rustling in the wind, its leaves moving in all directions. I was reflecting that this is how I often feel – moving in many directions and not quite sure if that’s how I want to be. And then I noticed that almost all of the tree was not moving at all. The large trunk was of course immobile, as were the larger branches – and even most of the small branches. It was mostly the leaves that were in motion, yet I’d perceived that the tree was.

I can see the same in my life, and wonder if you can too? That when I’m rustling at the edges it usually is just around the boundaries. When in fact when I remember to notice, I can see that my core and most of what’s around it is calm. This reminder of my constant linkage to that place of connectedness and knowing can quickly rebalance my equilibrium.

The trick is to remember to go back to that perspective, and having a way to remind yourself of this. That can be many things – a spiritual first aid kit for when you’re stressed, a symbol that you commonly see, a ritual or regular practice, or someone to talk to. For me it's often a return to gratitude. What is it for you?