We have entered the last month of the year and, yes, a new year will begin and we will start another cycle of seasons, but will you take a pause before you begin again? Will you take stock, reflect, digest, let go, and allow yourself to renew? To live life consciously, in this way, is a wonderful thing. This week's pause is an invitation to set aside time to do just that—to not rush the year's end, to not hurry toward a break or a holiday or the shopping, but to savor the winding down of a year and all that has transpired, so you can feel its fullness—so that you might be able to say “wow” before you move on. From that “wow,” you might smile in delight at the wonder of life and all it encompasses.
Sometimes, in a moment of joy or deep contentment, I stop and think, “If this were my last moment, I am okay. I am full enough, and this life has been enough.” It’s not a wish for anything to end; it’s simply the feeling of having been filled in so many ways. I feel complete. It’s a great feeling. I also know I have no say in it—I may live a very long time and have to let go of much more before I let go. I don’t get to decide when is “enough,” but still, it is nice to feel so complete. When we do, we make different choices; we see with different eyes. We aren’t searching as much, but savoring more. We have to give ourselves a chance to feel that by reflecting.
A whole year of life holds an incredible amount within it. It is amazing, really. We are not the same people we were a year ago. We shed that skin, literally and figuratively. Who are we now? What does our heart know about how we wish to spend our time and energy in this next cycle? Are we listening?
Many of you know the rituals I keep at the end of the year because you have taken part in them. My Mindful Reflections & Inspired Intentions Workshops and the New Year’s Day Meditation & Bell Ringing (though I am taking a break from it this year) are part of that process. They are essentially rituals that bring mindful presence to what we do. We all have rituals, but if you don’t have one to close the year, I welcome you to create one of your own.
What would it look like? What would feel good to you—something that brings forth a sense of reverence for your life? Because your life is amazing. It is a wonder to appreciate. It might be as simple as taking a solitary walk in nature on the eve of the New Year or the day itself. It might be writing about the experiences of the year (or taking my workshop and doing it in community). It might be something spiritual that calls to you. It might be making a piece of art, music, dance, or poetry—or simply improvising and playing. It might be meditating or sitting quietly for some time without mindless rumination. Your life is worth honoring in this way.
May these days of lessening light be rich in fullness and possibility. I welcome hearing what you choose to do.
Warmly,
Jean
P.S. For a number of reasons, I have decided to pause my yearly offering on New Year’s Day. I am sorry if that has become part of your ritual. However, I welcome you to join me for one of the two workshops (see below), and I will be offering a recorded meditation for the New Year—so keep a lookout for it!
