When we experience joy and fulfillment, we naturally want everyone we love to have the same experience. It is possible to create change for another person, but it requires a very strong bond of sympathy, trust and love – all qualities of expanded awareness. The only thing we can do is create a space for someone else to change on their own terms but we can’t direct the answer.
Day 18 – Expanding Other People’s Awareness
“The best teachers show you where to look, but don’t tell you what to see.” – Alexandra K. Trenfor
CENTERING THOUGHT
I bring to others the same joy and fulfillment I want for myself.
SANSKRIT MANTRA
Om Karuna Namah (My true nature is compassion.)
This Mantra creates a space of compassion and acceptance that encourages positive transformation for yourself and those around you.
MESSAGE OF THE DAY
As we experience greater joy and ease in our lives, it is natural to want to share this experience of expanded awareness with others. But even well-intentioned sharing can feel intrusive and unwelcome if it doesn’t build on the other person’s own curiosity and interest. Today’s meditation shows us that the best way to share the gift of expanded awareness is to simply let your awareness speak for itself, and then respond to other people’s curiosity and interest accordingly.
JOURNAL QUESTIONS
1. When we want someone to change, it will work best if our motives are selfless. Think of someone in my life whose behavior/attitudes bother me and list several reasons why I think it would be good for them to change – not for me but for them.
2. Using the same person, write my own personal reasons I want them to change. How can I get my own motives out of the way. Remember that no one needs to change simply for me and my reasons
3. Using the person again, how can I give them space to get unstuck? (Think of how I’d like someone to help me). Describe 2 things I can do to help this person change their situation looking at it as if I were in their shoes (not from my own values and judgement about them – i.e. could I be more open, appreciative, sympathetic?) Ask them what they need from me and show my approval and support.
4. Reflect further on your experience today.
Note:
“Transformation happens when you can reach out in generosity, in optimism and encourage someone else to open up to their awakened self.” – Oprah