1.28.2009

Control

In these tough economic times, we need to be reminded that things always work out the way they are supposed to. Today's DailyOM seemed appropriate:
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The idea of trusting the universe is a popular one these days, but many of us don’t know what this really means and we often have a hard time doing it. This is partly because the story of humankind is most often presented as a story about struggle, control, and survival, instead of one of trust and collaboration with the universe. Yet, in truth, we need to adhere to both ideas in this life.

On the one hand, there is much to be said about exerting control over our environment. We created shelter to protect ourselves from the elements. We hunted for animals and invented agriculture to feed ourselves. We built social infrastructures to protect ourselves and create community. This is how we survive and grow as a civilization. However, it is also clear that there are plenty of things that we cannot control, no matter how hard we try, and we often receive support from an unseen force – a universe that provides us with what we cannot provide for ourselves.

It is a good idea to take responsibility for the things in life that we can control or create. We work so we can feed, clothe, and shelter our loved ones and ourselves. We manifest our dreams and visions in physical form with hard work and forethought. But at a certain point, when have done all that we can, we must let go and allow the universe to take over. This requires trust. It requires a trust that runs deeper than just expecting things to turn out the way we want them to. Sometimes they will, and sometimes they won’t. We develop equanimity and grace as we learn to trust that, with the guiding hand of the universe, life will unfold exactly the way it should. We are engaged in an ongoing relationship with a universe that responds to our thoughts and actions.

3 comments:

Jillie Bean (AKA Bubba's Sis) said...

I like to call it FAITH. :-)

StaceyG said...

That's exactly what it is. Replace Universe with God anytime!

Anonymous said...

I don't buy into predestination, despite Calvin's persuasive arguments after the break with Rome. Theology aside, if everything unfolds as it should, then our choices are as arbitrary as being in the wrong lane when a drunk driver hits you.

Yes, we must take responsibility for what we can control. As for the rest, Desiderata.