Grabbing for Water

Today was quite a lovely Saturday. Not only was the sun shining and radiating across the blue sky all day, but I began my day with the alignment of my body, mind, and spirit as I dedicated 3 hours to myself to attend a workshop at my yoga studio that included yoga, conversation, and meditation. Each time I am at yoga I am amazed and inspired by the words of wisdom by the lovely ladies that teach the classes. This particular morning an analogy was shared that seemed so obvious, so true, yet so overlooked that I had never considered it before. While listening to this analogy of life and water, I was amazed. It seemed so fitting to my personal life and its recent events. In life we can approach things two different ways. We can grab at things with fast moving, clenched, and strong hands- expecting to catch what it is we have in sight. Or, we can slowly and cautiously bring our hands cupped together to scoop up what it is we desire. Think and envision. If we grab for water with clenched, tight hands, where none of our fingers are connected or interlocked, the water will fall right out of our hands and slip between our fingers and we will be left with nothing. However, if we put our fingers and hands together with effort and ease, we will form a cup-like shape, which will allow the water to sit nicely and abundantly in the palms of our cupped hands, allowing us to drink and quench our thirst.

Last week I was offered a job as a high school English teacher- something I have dreamed about for a very long time. As fate would have it, after moving home, applying to hundreds of jobs, working in various schools and learning from many people, I was finally given an opportunity to prove myself as a teacher, put all my experience and education to good use, and inspire young minds the way my teachers inspired me. I am extremely excited about this new chapter in my life that is about to open, (putting aside my fear of the unknown for now and walking boldly through the obstacles) and I have had a lot of time to reflect on the events leading up to this position. Through a power outage and horrible storm that caused so much destruction a few weeks ago, many people's lives were displaced; their homes were ruined, their lives were changed. I was fortunate enough to never lose power and to open up my home to those who did. Throughout this time of no power for some, there was no work for me as much of Connecticut was left in the dark. It was that week when I received a phone call about an interview. I had nothing to lose and everything to gain. I kept a positive attitude! I prepared myself as best I could for an interview, and I gave it my best shot. It was just a week later when I got the phone call with the official offer. My mind is still fuzzy over it. Is this really happening?! Saying goodbye to my wonderful colleagues now and the adorable smiles on the faces of the students will be very hard for me. I don't deal with change very well, but in a situation like this I have no choice. My dream is becoming a reality and I will do everything in my power to make it a success! Instead of approaching this entire situation with grasping hands and high expectations, I have felt more calm about it. I prepared myself; I gained confidence in myself; I made sure that each of my ten fingers were working together as a team to come together as cupped hands, reaching and longing ever so carefully for the job that I desire. Without even being aware of it, I have learned from my past experiences of grabbing at water and have learned to pick it up carefully and lovingly, opening my mind to new chances and holding them so gracefully in my hands.

I am beyond excited for what is to come. I know it will be an emotional week ahead but as I continue to be inspired by those around me and as they show their support for me I am humbled and I am ready!

"As I let go of the need to arrange my life, the universe brings abundant good to me."