Changing Over Time

When it comes to making changes in my life, I have to admit that I'm not always as decisive as I would like to be, on certain things. Usually the biggest barrier or what can separate me from my commitment to make certain changes is "Doubt," which expresses itself as uncertainty and/or fear."

Any one of those three things can become a wedge and barrier to change. For myself, I have to be mindful to work/live through them. Otherwise I tend to give up on my commitments no matter how big or small. It's for that reason that just like some people condition themselves by training and running, I condition myself through the practice of Zen. It allows me to notice and discover the tools and capacities that I have within, so that I can face my dark corners, cut through and dissolve them.

I may have to come back to a particular challenge or problem 10, 20 or 50 times, not being fully successful in making changes and improving upon myself or situation. Just because I didn't get it the other 50 times is not a reason to give up and say, "I can't change." As Tony Robin's says, "The past does not equal the future." I have to be observant, build my internal motivation for change, get leverage with myself, be observant and use any opportunity to make progress on improving myself and my life in a positive way. It can be difficult, but it's not as complex as I usually make it out to be in my mind.

In conditioning mentally, emotionally and spiritually through Zen training, I usually improve my skills and understanding of myself, "challenges" and "problems." The real key is not giving up on the practice itself. As long as we have that, there is the possibility for hope, change and growth. it's my life-line. This has been a vital truth for me that has served me well in the short-term, but more so the long-term.

Namaste'

Jaye Seiho Morris, Curator
digitalZENDO