Alignment: Within Reach
You might remember that, as the current liturgical year began this past Advent, I was brought to a new “word of the year:” align. My prayer with this word is continuing to evolve, especially as I’ve had contrasting experiences of alignment/misalignment in my day to day life. You know what they say, “Be careful what you pray for!”
The first day of my injury:
on the bed, using BOTH a hot water bottle AND a heating pad!
Unfortunately, I’ve had the experience of navigating sciatic nerve pain these past three weeks. Through this unexpected, startling, and distressing experience I have been brought face to face with the kind of debilitating chronic pain that many people manage on a daily basis. It has, quite literally at times, taken my breath away. I’m so grateful that I have a wonderful husband, kind children, and thoughtful friends and family who have demonstrated love for me through their acts of care and concern. And, I now have an interior knowing, in my body at least, of how even a slight misalignment can lead to intense suffering.
Happily, I’ve largely been able to work remotely (and slowly!) during these weeks of pain. Although I do enjoy offering Soul Presence (spiritual direction) in person, I have been reminded (and grateful for!) how effective it can be over Zoom. After settling in to the virtual soul space together, and becoming mindful that, as always, we’re in the presence of God who loves us, it is awesome to step into the depth of soul conversation. Truly, Spirit knows no bounds and can flow wherever she is invited!
Getting ready for Soul Presence
In a Zoom-worthy outfit: sweater on top, pajamas on the bottom!
And, honestly, although slowing down, asking for help, and logging ridiculously few steps each day has been very hard for me, it has also been a good reminder about the value of rest. Rest is restorative. Rest is what is enabling my body to heal itself. Rest is an important element in deepening my relationship with God. Rest helps me to see what is right in front of my face, but what I often miss due to distraction or exhaustion.
Seeing the message, both on the mug and the tea tag. Plus, the focal point that helps my alignment.
As I’ve been forced to rest, I have needed to focus my attention on things within arm’s reach. The little gray statue in the picture above has become for me an anchoring focal point, reminding me in the midst of my pain to hold a gentle, inward gaze and to practice self-compassion. Through this practice, I have remembered that alignment is always attainable. Despite the challenges of life and the reality of pain, the One Absolute and True thing is always close at hand: God’s love is always present, here and now.
My prayer is that you, also, may remember that God’s love is always within reach.
Gratefully,
Laura
