Ironic how the deepest quotations have double meanings, better yet, an enigma or zen that confounds the mind.
When first you read the quote, was the content or the author most important? Did you agree immediately in your mind or think it over for a while?
To get the most from this meditation take a few moments now to think over the quotation.
One secret of the universe is that it replies to the energy we invest QUITE efficiently. So while its true that the universe isn't required to be in harmony with human ambition, the world can certainly be a reflection of it.
If your eye is on the light then your body will be filled with light. That's right, where we focus affects how the physical world responds. And the light shines from "above" (in the heavenly realms) to "below" (the world we see).
And so consider the foxhole you are in right now. Is it familiar, confining, a trap? I hope not of course. But even if you are not in crisis, everyone struggles. And the struggle can be like a war, so your present circumstances could be called a foxhole. (You know, where you usually don't find atheists.)
Calling for air support during the heat of battle is quite different from taking a a few quiet moments to dry your socks.
But both activities show more faith than fear. And that is the most important thing about our battle. Expecting and requesting help from above and expecting (and welcoming) peace and renewal are two ways of showing our connection to all creation.
Now picture a shell-shocked soldier. They continue to rage and fight when there is no real enemy. If you are in yesterday's battle even now, unable to dry your socks and renew, then that's gotta be tough. And distracting. You can let it go.
Or if struggles have caused a breakdown -- an internal retreat of self-protection -- and they no longer pursue hope and life and light, that is shell-shock too. How effective could that possibly be?
Remember now, you can call for backup when it is needed. You can rest and renew right where you are.
The world is a scary and difficult place here below, sometimes. Ambition and attitude and danger at large. Let all those distractions fade. Its okay to take a few minutes and relax. The "opportunities" in front of you will be there when you return.
Focus higher for a while. It can be a lifesaver, like air support just in time. Or it can just be a few thankful moments with no conflict.
Now sit still and take a few moments or a few minutes with eyes closed to expand your awareness. Who is nearby? What does this moment FEEL like to you? Do you need air support or quiet renewal? The words are not so important, but how we ask.
Be at peace and you will be at one.
Looking higher for light and support and looking within for quiet renewal are actually the same thing.
Please reply with your bright reflections and any ambitions for future topics.
:)