Embracing the New, Shedding the Old

The eclipse today, as I understand it, symbolizes change. A new era, another chance, a fresh start. What does that mean to you? To me it sounds fun, exciting, and adventurous. I love a new notebook, a new plan, turning over a new leaf.

But sometimes change is not so glamorous.

I spent this past weekend at home and under the weather. Outside it was glorious! Sunny, warm, and breezy after days of gray skies and rain. There were so many possibilities for activities, but my body told me to stay home. 

At first I didn't listen - totally ignored the message - like we do. So it spoke more loudly and I felt more miserable. Finally, I got it: slow down, look within, do the work. 

It was time to clean house, both literally and figuratively. Change is not only about embracing the new, it's also about letting go of the old. ​

Shedding what no longer serves us can take many forms: clearing out belongings you no longer need, shifting habits and thought patterns that aren't working, reassessing goals to align with where you are now, letting go of limiting beliefs. 

My tasks turned out to be inner work motivated by outer work. The burr-covered weeds that covered my clothes, tangled in my hair, and would not let go were great metaphors for obstacles that were plaguing me. The pile of discarded clothes ready to be donated finally made it out of the bottom of the closet and into the car so they can help someone else instead of cluttering my thoughts and draining my energy. The sore throat that was so aggravating reminded me of limiting beliefs around being a public speaker.

The weekend was full of symbolism, even if it was short on entertainment. 

So I ask you, what weeds do you need to pull from your internal landscape? What roles are you wearing that no longer fit? What patterns hold you back that you need to wash away?

Start by spending some time in your garden, closet, or bath tub and see what bubbles up when you get really quiet.

Warmly,
​Mary

All photos ©Mary Upham 2017