I am a reflection.

I am a reflection.

I am so grateful that I was able to spend the last four days at Tenth Gate Yoga Studio with kindred souls in the presence of such a beautiful person, Yogi Amandeep Singh. The experience was more than I can put words to. It fed my soul, inspired my heart and calmed my mind. I am filled with such a happiness that my smile feels like it has found a permanent residence. (Well, it may have seemed to vacate the premises for a few moments in 8th grade Algebra class today when the kids were enjoying the fact that a substitute teacher was in the room…. We all remember the smiles that brings to an adolescent!)

Nonetheless, my smile was at home, in my heart, and I held a peace about me. Spending these last few days in meditation and discussion was not only enlightening, but so fulfilling. I want to share this feeling with the world! I felt like I was floating all weekend and into today, even back at work. Entering the building and walking down the 8th grade hallway looked like a pathway to an adventure. I carried this mindset throughout the day and will strive to continue to do so as much is humanly possible.

When I was running errands in town, strangers were engaging me in conversations and everyone was smiling, friendly and helpful. I quickly realized that it was I who was smiling, friendly and helpful. They were a reflection of me. What I put out into the universe, I get back.

I look back at how I thought I had been ‘treated negatively’ in the past and realize that I invited those interactions into my life. What I saw in those occurrences and faces is what I saw in myself – judgement, insecurity, lack of self-love….the list goes on. I understand I had to experience those things to get to the place I am today. Without pain there is no pleasure, without sadness there is no joy, and without disappointment there is no acceptance.

I hope to be able to continue to see these beautiful reflections of myself, the person I am becoming, the happy person who is filled with gratitude, love for herself and love for others. Without all of the beloved others in the world, I would have no reflection. Thank you for being my reflection and for teaching me to look at myself, deep within. I look forward to the many lessons that are to come and for the myriad of reflections that I will see in you. I am and will be forever grateful.

I am a reflection.