I have always been in favor of pausing. Whether in the midst of a heated discussion, before making a big decision, or even when our everyday rhythms begin to feel uninspiring, stepping away from what is immediately before us and taking 10 deep breaths is always a good idea. I am also an advocate for getting away from the everyday. It isn't ingrained in American culture, nor is it seen as an act of bravery, or a sign of strength. Rather, you may feel judged by your colleagues, friends and family as they look at you aghast that you are "going on ANOTHER trip" when they choose to stay and keep grinding.  I do not judge if that is choice that someone else makes.  I have learned over the years, that it does not work for me.

 

On this trip home, which is a giant 3 week pause in itself, I am uncovering another benefit of stepping away from the known rhythms and letting go of the familiar patterns. When I hold the day's agenda lightly, allowing for unexpected twists and turns, the best moments happen!  I meet interesting people who are engaging and enjoyable; I say "hell yes" to going out dancing until 2 a.m.; I have long, meaningful conversations with friends who really see me and have known me for several decades.   Essentially, when I pause, I create space for new dreams, new ideas and new opportunities to flood in.  I choose to intentionally live in the flow of my unique universal rhythm.  Thus, the pause is powerful.

 

When we are unafraid of the quiet that results from pausing, we bring a part of us that is dying to be born out into the light.  This time in Sri Lanka, I am pausing and taking time to meet this next version of myself who is braver, wiser and softer.  This version (Nilmini 2.0 perhaps?)  no longer finds value in constantly striving for more, more, more. I no longer care what is at the top of the ladder I am on because the ladder is no longer relevant. I am grateful for the gift of being able to marinate in this particular pause in order to listen for the ancient cosmic truths.

 

With all that is going on in the world, much of which we cannot control, I encourage you to burn the map you have been diligently following.  Stop clinging to what is familiar and have the courage to let go in order to let in. As always, I am curious if this resonates and if so, what you find in this powerful pause.  Let's be brave together.

 

Nilmini