Take the gentle path. — George Herbert
We celebrate achievement. We encourage effort, determination, “giving it the old college try.” We are impressed when someone overcomes adversity, and we appreciate a good “coming-from-behind-to-win” upset. But what if true peace, accomplishment and esteem is best reached a gentler way?
Easy Does It
Being gentle with ourselves and others is not a manifestation of laziness or an indication we don’t care. Rather, approaching our problems, efforts and relationships with care and quiet is a loving gesture, a stance that projects trust and hopefulness. Effort is not bad, but neither is waiting. Easing into change can be more productive than forcing. Forgiveness and gratitude provide healing and grace that anger and resentment cannot. Moving gently affords us the time to see and appreciate our environment, to let the wisdom around us seep into our bodies and our consciousness. Going gently, with awareness and openness, can bring us results steeped in the deepest layers of truth and allow us a stamina for more demanding aspects of life. Approaching life with gentleness can soften us, and others, providing a fertile landscape for growth and enlightenment.