Be the Change
What does that phrase mean to you? What in your current life seems to need the most change right now? What would you change about humanity, about the environment, about food choices, about current communication methods, about healthcare… the list goes on and on.
If you had magic powers and could change one aspect of society, what would it be? What do you find that voice in your head complaining about the most, or what do you find yourself wanting to change when having meaningful discussions with your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, or anyone that will listen? What have you done on a personal level to make the microscopic change necessary to begin the process of change within yourself?
Are you afraid of speaking or acting your truth? Does this fear create real consequences that make it impossible to truly live your truth? Do you fear what others will say about you? Do you fear that changing habits will be too hard? Do you fear you will fail? What would happen if you released the fear, and moved from this day forward with faith and gratitude for the ability to make the necessary changes to take back your life?
How often do you sit quietly and listen? Did you set a New Year’s resolution again this year? Have you created the steps necessary to make the changes that you need to find balance, contentment and peace in your life? Start with small steps, start by changing the word resolution to INTENTION.
What are you waiting for? How much power do you give others to affect change, or to stay static, in your own life? Can you be the change you wish to see? What does that look like, what does it feel like?
How badly do you want to change your life, your attitude, your health, or your situation from its current state? I have found that if we want real positive change, and we truly believe it is in our best interest, and if we can visualize our life the way we truly want it to be, then we have the innate inner knowledge to create our reality according to our terms. If we do this with an open heart towards all of humanity, and with respect to our earth, and a humbleness towards the creative process, then positive changes flow with abundance and grace.
Yes, there will likely be a few painful bumps along the way. You will likely question your decisions, you will possibly care too much about what others will say in regards to your choices. Nobody ever said living passionately and in alignment with our heart is easy; however, the many sages and saints throughout the ages have endlessly professed the beauty and integrity that comes with living and speaking our truth.
So I say it again… Be the change.
Peace in 2018, Jo Matson
Turning the Titanic with Flippers
Cancer has hit our family, and it has hit hard and fast. One month ago my sweet soul of a brother-in-law was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer, spread to his liver. As we were still reeling from the news, my father was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma which has spread to his lungs, stomach, lymph and adrenals. Needless to say, life happened while we were making summer plans. If ever there was a test for practicing mindfulness, patience, and perseverance, that time is now.
Having now spent close to two weeks with my parents and brother in the deep South (in June), my new reality has started to settle in, or at least sink in to how life changes when cancer comes to dinner. As both a participant and an observer to the family drama that unravels when a loved one is handed a shortened life sentence, I witnessed how words, expectations and fears can turn a healing opportunity into discouraging agony. State of mind, choice of words, and strength of spirit have a huge impact in the ability to think clearly and tap into the inherent healing capability of the body and mind.
As my father dutifully drinks down the various concoctions that I prepare, and laments over the unhealthy foods he shall eat no more, I can’t help but smile inside as his taste buds reawaken from their lengthy processed food coma, his blood pressure begins to lower, and his energy level “inexplicably” increases. Yes dad, there is kale with those beets and you will eat them, and eventually you will learn to love them. No dad, scotch is not on the approved list of drinks, but I promise you that the aloe, lime and coconut water cocktail I will prepare for you will fill the void nicely. It’s pronounced ‘keen wha”, not “quinoa”…. and yes, you have to eat it with you spinach and sprouts. Now open your mouth and take your oils under the tongue, chase it with the lemon and turmeric water, and LET’S DO THIS!!!
Restocking a semi-professional kitchen that my mom has ruled for 45 years is no easy feat. Re-educating and empowering her is one of the biggest challenges of our lives together, and time is of the essence. Visualizing and sharing this next chapter in my parent’s lives together, one in which they are healthy, happy and cancer-free, fuels my intention. As we navigate the research facilities, doctors, and newest immunology breakthroughs, we also stay focused on creating the healthiest environment, internally and externally, for my dad to not only survive, but thrive. His body literally will transform and strengthen for the fight of his life.
The wisdom of Ayurveda, along with the knowledge and experience of our incredible network of doctors, teachers, practitioners, herbalists and healers, gives me incredible hope for my dad’s healing potential.
As I was sharing my sadness and grief over the phone with my then husband, across thousands of miles, separated yet again due to forces beyond our control, he told me to stay the course and remember: my job of educating, encouraging and initiating change from my parent’s long history of set beliefs and habits is like turning the Titanic with flippers. But apparently I was blessed with some seriously strong flippers, because I do believe this ship is turning towards safer waters.
Namaste….
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