Peace is Like a River

Why write about peace and rivers?  Perhaps because it is a way to celebrate our little section of the world, and the analogy works!  Granted it is not original, however, it does bring it home for us here in our little community. 

Rivers flow.  It is their nature.  A river, by definition, is a large quantitiy of water all flowing in a similar direction.  Our bodies and live's also have a flow.  One of the primary ways we notice our bodies and live's is when the flow stops - we hurt, we have pain, we can't move around with ease, or something bad happens.  When things are overwhelming, the flow stops and our bodies, minds, and emotions get stuck.  Not only do we not feel at peace, we can feel quite the opposite!

A river analogy is helpful here.  Looking at the larger perspective, seeing all the eddies, rocks, twists and turns that occur can be very helpful.  This larger perspective also allows us to see that, even though there is a problem area, the river still flows.  It takes great patience, particularly when the river appears to stop - and yet we know it flows underground.

Maintaining our sense of health is dependent on trusting that even when we can't see it, the river still exists.  Even when we have pain, even when we lose something or someone that we love, the flow continues.  Our bodies actually appreciate and respond to the subtle reminder that life flows, things change, life is bigger than what is happening at the moment, and yet the moment, too, is full of life, even in all its disguises.  A healthy and peaceful life includes embracing and dancing along the length of the continuum, and observing the flow so we can help restore stability.

What are some of the ways we can be like a river to help support this positive directional flow in our bodies and live's?  One of the first would be to get in touch with what is happening right now.  Look out the window at the green trees and the blue sky, step out and get a glimpse of the mountains, go to the river and just sit beside it.  Give yourself permission to enjoy the simple things.  Do nothing.  Our bodies take that as a message that it is safe to breathe,  inhale with ease, and find your rhythm.   That is where peace exists, in knowing and living in your own rhythm.   Let nature help you connect to the peace that exists in being a part of the flow of life.  Your body will thank you for it.