The Birds of Worry

"That the birds of worry and care fly above your head, this you cannot change.
But that they build nests in your hair, this you can prevent."       Chinese Proverb







This Chinese proverb reminds us that we can choose whether or not to engage in thoughts that create fear and worry. A seemingly harmless thought might pass through our minds and within minutes send us on an internal tail spin of "what ifs" and "oh nos" which are usually based in future thinking realities that may or may not happen. Or in reverse, we may become stuck in thinking about the past, going over and over minute details of events that have already occurred. When we become mired in the hamster wheel of endless thought, then we are not fully present in the moment which is the point of power.


Developing the ability to not entertain thoughts that are self defeating requires awareness and a certain degree of discipline, ignoring the temptation to indulge in random thoughts which are not in the present moment. This doesn't mean we can't dream per se, but rather that even positive thoughts for the future could be held lightly, or they can easily trap us in expectations which root in fear. Continually bringing ourselves back to this moment, right now, this day, allows us to experience life fully.  Namaste.