Progress Isn't Perfect

Progress isn't separate from failure. In fact, if you don't allow yourself to fail in some way, your progress will be more limited. The expansiveness of being allows for incredible change and growth, but the more expectations we put on ourselves and the rigidity to which we hold ourselves to them can determine to a great extent how much farther we're able to go. When you struggle with something, try not to automatically label it as a problem, roadblock, set back, or limitation; instead, consider that there might be some other serious work happening inside your body, mind or heart, and that the universe is just taking care of your physical experience while you sort through your internal cosmic shuffle. You don't need to have all the answers, you don't have to appear better than you were yesterday, and you certainly don't need to hold yourself to anyone else's standards. Be gentle and patient with your practice (and your life!), and extend your compassion to fully include yourself. You're worth a whole lot and you deserve the adventure of discovering that for yourself.

The above passage was just a caption in one of my Instagram posts, but I was struck by it again today, after waking up feeling like I've been hit by a truck. Not only have I caught a bug, but the house next door is being framed and it's VERY LOUD. Sometimes life nudges you toward backing off a little, just to maintain the overall balance of things. All we can do is listen, and respect the messages we receive. So it looks like I'll be spending the day in bed! 

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