From the Shores of the Ottawa River

When I was in university after seeing a dentist he asked, do you notice you are grinding your teeth? I said no. I hadn’t noticed. He suggested I put a note beside me when I’m studying saying are you grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw? This little reminder worked wonders, as I noticed,  I  was able to stop the behavior.  I continue to use that technique today; I have a note on my computer screen that says are you sitting up straight are you holding or your breath? 

We hold tightly to control aspects of our life, relationships, children and even things which are out of our control. I admit that I like to be in control, doesn’t everyone? I am a methodical planner, and I think through all the possibilities before I act. But living life this way is stressful.

At the same time ,  as mediator, I am finding it easier to let go of my need for control or to be right.

Letting go of control does not always mean to do nothing. In other words, when faced with a issue, stop, , and watch your breath. Make an assessment, can you do something about it? If yes, then move into action, without emotions. Too often it is our emotions that prevent us from seeing clearly and missing opportunities that could make our life better. It is being in a calm state, and present. It makes a difficult situation easier to handle .

Freedom is letting go of always wanting to be in control, but it is just as important to move into action calmly when the situation call for you to do that and  of course knowing difference. If you can do something to make a difference, then do it.