Facing who we really are is often the most challenging of tasks. We tend to want to present ourselves in the best light, in a picture perfect manner, as infallible, always right, without imperfections. At least that is our outer presentation, as it is hard for us as human beings to face our own imperfections and so we primp ourselves into what we are not.

As the world changes at the current rate, rapidly now, if human beings are to keep up there must be a shift into conscious acceptance of what it means to be human, to be as the other animals upon the earth, no more perfect or imperfect than the cats and dogs of our dreams, the birds of the air, the fishes of the seas, or the soft-footed animals who walk gently upon the earth.

Facing who we are each day is the challenge of all time, but becoming fully who we are is the challenge of this time. We are creatures who must come into alignment with nature and the natural world. It can’t be ignored any longer: it’s all about survival.

Sometimes challenges loom large and impossible, yet as soon as they are tackled they are found to be quite easy and manageable. It is the human mind that throws up blockages and fears, and yet it is the human spirit that has the ability to scale the impossible. Sometimes it is best to pay attention to the mind for it has the ability to figure out many things, yet at other times only the spirit will provide the necessary wit, intelligence, and guidance. Often it is better to still the mind and let the spirit speak. Remember this as you go about your day, as fear and habits, as mind talk and body restrictions seek to hold you back. Listen and act according to your true energetic self. Your spirit will not disappoint you.

Every day offers the opportunity to plot a new course, to take a new route, to veer off the well-trodden path and go off on an adventure. Every day is a day of opportunity. With that in mind, hold onto the bigger picture and the true desires of your spirit, which might actually be leading you in a direction and toward a goal that you are at this time totally unaware of. Look to your dreams for guidance—messages from your spirit—as much as you look to the world outside of you for signs and messages.

To engage opportunity means not only making decisions and taking actions, but remaining always open, a part of you always attentive and listening for the openings that will take you on your true journey. At the same time, remember that every step is a step on your true journey. Be open to the opportunity that that insight offers! Live with awareness every day.

Wind plays with water, ruffling its calm surface, dispelling energy, taking it afar. And yet high above the wind stillness reigns, just as it does deep in the water’s depths. Remember this as you face your discontent and that of others. Remember that in retreat to stiller and calmer energy there is time for reflection and rejuvenation. In retreat may clarity address your worries and your truth be known and accepted. Still the wind and calm the waters of your own soul with this same intent, taking respite in the depths and in the heights of your own being.