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As I came across this mallard duck, I knew he was offering me a teaching. When we are called to such a moment, it is important to pause and allow yourself to receive it. We all feel the need to bury our heads at times. To not see what we know. While we can be half asleep, it is essential to keep an eye open to protect our hearts. This feathered friend understands that. When we stand on the rock of truth, there is a reflection to be seen. If we allow stillness to awaken us, our wisdom can help us to see into the murky waters of life.

Our challenge is to activate our courage to allow vulnerability to be felt. It is in these moments that we can hear what is true for us. We may still keep one eye closed and not make any changes. However, it is important to name and claim it. This is the alignment with the actuality of what we are feeling. If there is a person with whom we need to share this, we have clarity to speak with understanding. When we are willing to peek out from the places we are hiding, we empower ourselves with a deeper knowing. This is the wellspring of wisdom.

Quieting ourselves facilitates a relationship with places within that have been obscured by our frenzied avoidance. In order to open our heart to ourselves, we must soften it. We need to create safety by releasing our shame and the insistence that we must act. When we offer the reassurance of empathy we can become a trusted ally. We often run to others to confirm our truth. When we bring our listening heart to ourselves, we can offer this affirmation.

Just a duck on a rock taking a nap. Everything can be our teacher. When we ask ourselves what we need to learn, class begins. The instructors come dressed in our suffering. Perhaps as a disappointment, betrayal or loss. We need not hide our heads. We can simply begin by asking what needs to be released. While the answer might be clear, we will need to honor the ways that we are not ready. Change is an act of courage and self-love. Stand with yourself while inviting those that can help with awakening into your heart.

photo credit: Mitch D.