“We spend precious hours fearing the inevitable. It would be wise to use that time adoring our families, cherishing our friends and living our lives.” – Maya Angelou
Day 12 – My Time, Your Time, and Our Time
CENTERING THOUGHT
I cherish our time together.
SANSKRIT MANTRA
Ananta Swa Bhava (My true self has no limits or boundaries.)
Message of the Day
Today’s meditation shows us that we all live our lives according to our own tempo, rhythm, and flow of time. Our bodies and minds thrive when we follow the daily rhythms of sleep and activity that work best for us. Difficulties arise when we try to impose our style of personal time on others. Our meditation practice helps us listen and tune in to our own unique approach to personal time, and that teaches us to respect everyone else’s approach as well.
Journal Questions
- Successful relationships balance “my time,” “your time,” and “our time.” To begin, think about “my time,” which is spent being with yourself. Write down at least three ways to enhance this personal time, such as meditating, going on a solitary retreat, or enjoying solitary pursuits like reading or journaling.
- Next address “your time,” which is your loved one’s time. How can you make this person feel freer to be alone and enjoy it? For example, you could help motivate them to meditate or enjoy another hobby in which they spend time alone, be more accepting of their need for personal time, encourage them to spend time with their friends, or reassure them that you won’t be lonely or resentful about time spent apart.
- Do you enjoy being present in the here and now? List three things you like about it, such as feeling more focused, more interested, better connected to other people, or more like yourself.
- Reflect further on your experience today.