It’s August 1st, and school is just about two weeks away. Believe it or not, it’s a cool 70 degrees outside with a light mist – a welcome change after the scorching temperatures we’ve had. Just the other day, it hit 102 degrees! So, this little respite of clouds and comfortable temperatures in the 80s, which started yesterday and seems to be holding for today, is definitely appreciated. We could certainly use a bit more moisture, too.
Summer Changes
At the beginning of summer, I was experiencing classic symptoms of high A1C – brain fog and low energy. I have begun changing my diet and exercise and those are starting to lift.
I have returned to my yoga practice and I’m also experimenting with Qigong, Tai Chi, and breathwork to explore energetic forces. Will it work? I don’t know yet, but little by little, day by day, by doing the next right thing consistently, I believe I’ll find new ways to improve my mental and physical health so I can continue making a difference. My hope is that this next year will bring even more improvements to my life and allow me to better serve others.
Living in the Undertow
These treasured morning walks have been incredibly helpful. When I first started them, I was feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world. There’s so much turmoil, outright hatred, and racism. Our government, it seems, is becoming increasingly authoritarian, even breaking laws designed to protect free speech, arresting people without warrants, and deporting asylum seekers directly from courtrooms.
I started these walks feeling submerged by what I saw, and I believe my observations are accurate. The challenge, then, became: how do I live within this chaotic system this without being pulled under by the terrible undertow?
The Peace-Finding Journey
I began living with the question I just mentioned and having self-dialogues to try and discover some personal approaches that would work for me. I’m summarizing some of my answsers below. They aren’t that earth shaking, but as I learn to live more deeply into these answers I’m finding a greater peace within.
Focus on What I Can Change
The answer, I’ve found, lies in focusing on what I can change and reaffirming the good I see. It means choosing not to dwell on the negative. I have to acknowledge the good people around me, even those who might have unknowingly supported policies they haven’t deeply considered.
Even in these dark times, I’ve learned the importance of speaking out where I can, but always with a message of hope, love, peace, and service. My energy must be used for good. For me, that will likely manifest in my teaching, my interactions with friends, and whatever small writing and social media presence I have. I don’t think I would have arrived at these conclusions without the clarity these walks have provided.
The Principle of “It is what it is”
I’ve also uncovered a principle I call “it is what it is.” This means refusing to go overboard with extreme judgments. When something happens, I acknowledge it for what it is and its cause, but I try to refrain from immediate judgment or blame. All I can do is walk through it. Just as in past times of personal struggle and failure, I’ve learned to walk proudly, do the next right thing, seek help when needed, and be the best person I can be in that moment. Bad times, like good times, are cyclical; they don’t last forever.
Life as a Simulation
I’ve also been exploring the idea that life might be a simulation, designed to provide us with contrasting experiences and test how we respond – with despair or with positive action. Even from the horrific history of the Holocaust, we learn that while bodies can be imprisoned, the heart, mind, and soul remain free. No one can truly capture another person’s spirit.
Moderation in Language
This realization has led me to strive for moderation and temperance in my language, even as I stand up for what I believe is right. I refuse to let hatred consume me and make me a mirror image of what I oppose. There’s a profound power in a voice that speaks truth about our culture and who we aspire to be, even in the face of imposing societal norms.
Believe that Growth is Always Possible
Personal growth is always possible, even in the most idyllic of cultures. The Buddha, who had everything, rejected it for a harder life that led to exponential spiritual growth and immense influence. Jesus, born in poverty, taught us not to worry, reminding us of divine care and the true treasures of the heart. These are the profound lessons that days of walking and reflection have brought into my life.
Physical and Mental Well-being
Beyond the philosophical insights, these walks have also significantly improved my physical stamina, establishing a baseline endurance that I previously lacked. This has naturally led to a renewed commitment to yoga, focusing on strength, balance, and flexibility, and I’m already seeing benefits.
These physical improvements have, in turn, prompted me to address long-standing health issues like high blood pressure, high A1C, and being overweight. I’m eating more intentionally, incorporating beneficial supplements, and paying closer attention to my overall health. It’s a gradual process, but I’ve already made significant positive changes.
Looking Ahead
These walks have been incredibly good for me. I’m feeling more at peace and healthier. I’m looking forward to teaching my students again and thinking about how I can make these next few years my best teaching years ever. I pray for the wisdom and guidance to do just that.
These are my concluding remarks for this round of walks and for this August 1st diary entry. Thank you for listening.
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