“Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.”~Helen Keller
I’ve noticed a pattern in my life, and sometimes in the lives of others. Something will go “wrong” for me, or something will happen that I don’t like or don’t want, and I’m driven to push against it. Without realizing it, I find myself complaining, or strategizing how to fight the issue, or the person, I’m up against. At times I even plunge into frustration and darkness, overwhelmed with how “wrong” everything is and how hopeless I feel to change things. And the more I push against, the more the issue or situation seems to overcome me.
However I’ve learned to recognize this pattern, and like Helen Keller, to accept the darkness and look for the wonders in it. To accept the state I’m in, even if it’s one I don’t want or like. When I’ve stopped pushing through my feelings of desperation or frustration, I feel a rush of relief, of ease, and of peace. When I let myself be OK with where I am and what’s going on around (and inside of) me, I am more content.
I do believe there is a place for venting – and even ranting and raving at times – but there comes a time when staying stuck there simply keeps us stuck. When pushing against only makes the challenge harder or harsher. When I try and force an outcome, when I try to make the things I want to happen happen, rather than allowing them to unfold, I generally get nowhere…fast. At this point I reflect on Helen Keller’s quote and I look for the wonders and contentment in my situation – in my darkness.
Look for the wonder in all that you face. If you can’t find it, look harder.
Where are you pushing against your darkness and silence? Where can you find contentment and wonder?
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