In my usual morning spot, I sit, gazing through the window at the neighboring tree. The bright yellows have faded to browns, leaving much empty space. The tree has shed its leaves, which served it faithfully through spring and summer.
I ponder: Is it easy for trees to relinquish their leaves annually? This question lingers because I find it challenging to let go of parts of my life that no longer serve me. I tend to cling to feelings, thoughts, and an assortment of memories, some of which catch me off guard.
These feelings and thoughts I hold so dear are often tangled with misgivings, irritations, shame, and guilt. They reside in my body and mind, surfacing unexpectedly when I feel threatened. At my best, I notice them emerging; at other times, I remain oblivious.
When I embarked on my spiritual journey with meditation and centering prayer, my initial approach was to simply release these thoughts, feelings, and memories. This was in line with the strict discipline of centering prayer, which emphasizes returning to one’s intention through a sacred word. (Learn more about centering prayer here.) Initially, adhering strictly to this practice seemed vital.
Yet, when deep-seated memories, thoughts, and feelings bubble up from the unconscious, they signal a broader need for healing and wholeness. To dismiss them outright is to overlook the necessity of integrating and reconciling with these parts of ourselves. True healing arises from making peace with our memories, thoughts, and feelings.
In essence, just as a tree instinctively knows when to let go of its leaves, we too have an innate capacity to release what no longer serves us. This process, although natural, isn’t always easy or straightforward. It requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to confront what lies within us. Like the changing seasons, our journey of introspection and healing is continuous, each cycle bringing us closer to a deeper understanding of ourselves and a greater sense of inner peace.
Questions to Ponder:
1. What are the ‘leaves’ in your life that you might be holding onto out of habit rather than necessity?
Reflect on the aspects of your life that no longer serve your growth – these could be outdated beliefs, past grievances, or unproductive habits.
2. How can acknowledging and confronting these ‘leaves’ lead to personal growth and healing?
Consider the process of acknowledging these elements in your life and how confronting them could pave the way for new growth and self-discovery.
3. What practices or mindset shifts can assist you in the process of ‘letting go’, similar to how a tree naturally sheds its leaves?
Think about the strategies or changes in perspective that could facilitate this process of release and renewal in your own life.
Infinitely Precious 