I’m not a fan of amusement parks. I was a child with my father by my side on what I think was the only roller coaster ride of my life. I didn’t mind the bumper cars, I suspect it had something to do with maintaining some semblance of control. The tilt a whirl did me in. And I hunch this early loathing of what others seemingly enjoyed was a precursor of what would drive my life’s choices. I am willing to try things once, but if that once tells me it is not for me, so be it.
And that, my friends, is the basis of discernment. From what I can tell the ability to choose is absent for too many of us today. Some people love to be dazzled by facts. And, if we are not clear about what is essential, as the facts spin, we spin with them. Some people are addicted to winning; it doesn’t matter in what form. But the gamble that comes from not knowing what is ultimately precious has given rise to greed.
Some of us have danced with the devil and have learned how devastating that can be. Knowing your potential for doing harm is a powerful gift. It can help us remember there is another dance waiting for us. Choosing to not harm is a good starting point.
This time of winter, of drawing inward, of contemplating new beginnings can open us to a whole new way of being, a whole new dance. We have learned the ways of external power. We are witness to its cruelty. It will be a decisive victory when we choose to walk away from this vacancy of humanity and embrace our full and powerful potential.
Hone the skills of being human. Open the gifts that have been with us since birth.
Be amazed.
let kindness win 