A Simpler Path
by BlackLion

We often have busy schedules and complex interactions with people in our lives. We tend to create hoops, hurdles, walls, and other obstacles in our path, whether consciously or unconsciously. We limit ourselves in any number of ways including when, how often, with whom, and which place. Isn’t there a simpler path to tread?

I had a dream the other night about driving in New York City with my mom. There was so much traffic and the roads were quite the roller coaster ride (in some parts, literally!). We eventually pulled over and asked for directions. As the gas station attendant tried to explain yet another complicated path, I saw, on the map he was using, a very straightforward route to get back home. I suggested it and he said, “or you could do it that way.” Essentially, by looking at the map in front of me, I could find the way home quite easily.

Taking a step back from our complex lives can help us better understand where we are headed. If the next steps that we “should” take do not feel that great, perhaps the question we could ask ourselves is why are we doing it in the first place? Take a few breaths and focus on what brings you the most joy. Once you are in the meditative state, look for a simpler path to get there. Do you have some “busy work” in front of you that you can just skip merrily past? Perhaps some upcoming scheduled events can be postponed or dealt with in a different way. Whatever you choose, be sure to feel good about what you have in the works and really wish to accomplish. With your new sense of purpose, you can joyfully follow your simpler path.