Learning from Water

Stress and suffering arise as a result of resistance to what we experience. When we resist we actually are attaching to the very thing that we are trying to avoid, thereby creating even more pressure on ourselves. By resisting we turn an experience into an obstacle, making it more concrete than it actually is.

So how can we find a more awakened approach to overcoming obstacles and resistance? I suggest we look at the nature of water for some simple answers.

Water has an intention. Its intention might be described as returning to the source. Returning to the sea or penetrating through the earth to return to springs are examples. Nothing will deter water from its purpose, nothing. It is a law of its behavior. So to begin we must know our over-riding intention, be clear about where we are going and why. This purpose must be bigger than ourselves; it must embrace both what we want and what we will give. It reflects our innate understanding that we are part of a greater whole.

Water is adaptable. It is not attached to its form in any way. It can change from solid to liquid to gas to fulfill its purpose. This flexibility allows it to continue to move, regardless of exte
al conditions. Think of glaciers moving down a mountain, seawater evaporating into the air and clouds where vapor condenses into raindrops.

Water is fluid. When water runs down a mountain, it moves within the confines of the terrain (experiences), at the lowest (closest to its source) point. It moves around, over or under large objects. Over time it wears obstacles down, beautifully.

Water is patient. It allows itself to collect (dams) until it gathers the strength or size to penetrate or move over the obstacle. Its fluidity is its nature, if water cannot move, it will be come stagnant and lose its energy.

Water gathers energy as it moves by absorbing oxygen, minerals, and nutrients. It freely gives these elements as it returns to the source. It is attached to nothing. It absorbs what is given and gives what is needed. Its only agenda is to return the source, to circulate. As it does this, all obstacles and resistance are overcome, dissolved and embraced. Everything is purified and left in its right place.

As you all learned in grade school science class, we are made up primarily of water. So this fluid nature of water is our nature as well. This is how the body functions and maintains itself, circulation of water. So how can we use these principles to overcome stress and suffering? Be like water.

Take some time to meditate on this. Get clear on your intention. You can connect to the fluidity in your nature through the awareness of your kinesthetic sense. You will discover another truth as well. That awareness has the same qualities and intention as water, to return to the source.

Is this your intention, to return to the source of your being? Are you willing to connect to your fluid nature? Are you willing to embrace everything in your path of return with detachment like water? If so, you will discover that all mental, emotional and physical obstacles (ego-conditioning) are dissolved and their energy recycled through your being.

Enjoy your day in the water park.