Holding the Empty Space
In the weeks leading up to 2021, every time I thought about the new year, the image that came to mind was of my opened hands, palms up, forming a cup. Curious. I had no idea what it meant, but it felt like a clue.
For decades I’ve been a bit of New Year’s resolutions devotee. I’ve made basic resolutions in my twenties and created elaborate goals and related milestones in my thirties. The last ten years have been more about heart-based intentions – deeper changes on how I wanted to live my life. Always actionable and measurable. But 2021 was proving to be more elusive.
On Christmas morning, I took a hike in the balmy 55-degree drizzle – a rarity in the northeastern U.S. in December. The trail was deserted. Without effort or prompting, a mental review of the year began.
This past year was a jumble of dreams coming true (publishing a book, running a business, expanding and deepening personal connections) and unforeseen challenges (loved ones infected with the coronavirus, social and political tension, the strain of a global pandemic). In the midst of it all, I went through a strange growth spurt. Like an adult adolescence, it was awkward at first, but necessary. And then, sometime this autumn, I felt a sense of emergence – a counterbalance to the heaviness of 2020.
But where was this leading me?
What I realized walking in the woods on Christmas Day is that, for me, 2021 is already taking its own shape. I don’t need to bend it to my will. Rather, I need to let it unfold.
This is not a passive act.
Rather, it’s a practice. A daily practice of:
Living from the heart so how I feel (spirit) is in harmony with my thoughts (mind) and my actions (body)
Finding meaning in and seeking resolution to life challenges and viewing both as opportunities to know myself better
Trusting I have everything I need and the right people and circumstances will support my efforts
And the great thing about cultivating a practice is there is no right or wrong. Just a chance to do it again. And again. And again…
It’s my intention that by honoring these practices, I will create the space to have a deeper connection with my Athena Warrior Spirit. And by holding this empty space, I will nurture a feeling of presence, a love of life and a commitment to be a service. A feeling of being mindful and open-hearted. A feeling of gently cupped hands capturing the light.
My warmest wishes to you this New Year – may you honor your own wellness path. I look forward to sharing that journey with you.
Journal Reflections: How is the New Year feeling for you? Are there practices you’d like to cultivate? What might unfold if you honor those practices?