The Beauty Found in Presence
In the fall, we witness the world around us as it transitions into dormancy, a process that occurs each year. It is the liminal space between the exuberance of summer and the finality of winter. The active dying of something or someone can evoke discomfort, a feeling many strive to avoid. Yet, this very impermanence is what gives our lives meaning and beauty.
Navigating Life’s In-Between: The Liminal Beauty
We avoid the discomfort of now by remembering how good things were, or we skip to a version of the future where what we will lose is absent. We will stop at nothing to escape the pain of loss. And yet, in this transitional “in-between,” we often find the most profound beauty if we allow ourselves to stay present and bear witness.
Our minds can get caught up in the egoic pursuit, a term that refers to our ego’s desire for certainty and control, causing us to resist these transitional phases. We crave stability, security, and the illusion of permanence. This craving ultimately comes from the fear of what’s to come. When our mind lacks certainty, it yearns for safety. But life, like the seasons, is a constant cycle of change. When we avoid transition, we invite anxiety and overwhelm. When we avoid transition, we create needless suffering for ourselves.
Embracing Transition with Openness and Awareness
Approaching transitional periods with an open heart and awareness can help us experience their inherent beauty. One powerful way to do that is to ground yourself in the present using your senses. Listen to the sound of rustling leaves, feel the crisp air deep in your lungs, and turn your face towards the warmth of the golden sunlight. These sensory experiences serve as gentle reminders to tune into the present moment. By engaging our senses, we can truly appreciate the fleeting nature of the transitional season we are in – both literally and figuratively.
It’s easy when the ego takes over; familiar. It has protected us all these years from danger – judging the changing landscape as a decline or a loss. However, when we let go of these limiting beliefs and embrace the beauty of impermanence, we open ourselves up to a more profound sense of peace and gratitude. It requires you to act from the heart rather than the mind.
So, the next time you find yourself in a transitional period, whether it’s a season of change or a personal challenge, remember to pause and use your senses to appreciate the beauty in the ‘space between.’ Release the need for control and surrender to the flow of life. This surrender is where you will find a profound sense of peace and freedom.
Having a hard time with transitions? I’m here to help. Humble Warrior Therapy provides a supportive space to reconnect with yourself, others, and the source of your joy. Contact us today to learn more about our therapy services and upcoming retreats by calling (303) 688-6698 or click here to schedule an appointment with me.
Tags: Buddhist psychotherapy, ego and control, Feelings, Humble Warrior Therapy, Mental Health, Mindfulness, mpermanence, present moment awareness, seasonal transitions, sensory experiences