LETting GO OF CONTROL

So much of the stress we experience in life comes from our need to control. Many of us suffer from the inner judgments and criticism that seem unavoidable every step of the way.

This week, I would like to invite you to experience a different way of being.

We often feel as though we have ‘made a mess’.

We did something, said something.

Because we felt compelled to do so. Because it looked and felt right at the time.

Because we did the best we could with all we had at the time.

And it didn’t turn out the way we want it to.

We feel like we have made a mess.

But breath.

We don’t know yet.

We thought it was a mess but we don't see the full picture.

As we dismantle our rigid perspective and expectations,

we suddenly realise uncertainty is our only certain.

We often don't realise

but our persistent need to be self-critical comes from our need to feel in control.

Although it seems irrational, perhaps deep down we rather believe we are at fault than to thrust ourselves fully in this unpredictable, precarious universe.

By letting go of the need to control, we are counting on nothing external but our organic true self.

As we shake loose the attachment to any existing gain, fame, pleasure and fortune, letting them come and go,

we are left with nothing but our essence.

With nothing to hide,

We become strong.

By making a mess, we are counting on authenticity, rather than perfection.

We don’t choose our emotions, they come and go.

We don’t control all our actions, much are driven by an unconscious force we cannot see.

We cannot be anything else but who we are, right here and now.

With nothing to change,

We become free.

Go on, make a mess.

Because there is no real ‘mess’ in life.

Our most spontaneous expression, even when it looks like chaos to the naked eye,

is actually perfect.

“To have faith is to trust yourself to the water. When you swim you don't grab hold of the water, because if you do you will sink and drown. Instead you relax, and float.” 
― Alan Wilson Watts

THIS WEEK’s EXPERIMENT: Drawing in total darkness

Today, try creating something in total darkness. Our goal is to make art free from the inner critic inside your head.

Since you cannot see anyway, you are now freed up to create lines, shapes and patterns.

When you switch the lights on, you’ll be surprised by what you see.