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Michael's
Mixt!
Michaeli
is a freelance contributor. The
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Sunday
24 November 2002
HOW TO STAY IN TOUCH WITH LIFE
Ongoing, in the illusive back of our minds we maintain an idea of the general direction our lives are taking. To be sure, we stand a very realistic chance of falling out of touch with all that is around us if we do not remain aware of what is contributing (or taking away) from our daily existence.
Feelings of being disconnected leave us wondering about the whole experience of living, and also render us more vulnerable to approaches in living that are not in our long-term interests, such as use of external stimulators or involvement in negative experiences, habits or relationships.
In consideration to a few questions here, we can ponder whether we might be staying connected to that which is going on around us, as well as growing in the process.
It's important to note that these issues involve our active participation on a regular basis. The input that comes from us will determine whether or not we are successful in them. Disconnecting from these concerns is something that will reduce our ability to survive and thrive in life.
Disconnection, as opposed to that profound spiritual practice and lifestyle of detachment, are two very different conditions. While we are capable of understanding deep spiritual precepts, when we actively practice detachment and disconnect with life, we find that we suffer the great sensations of estrangement that goes along with it.
So detach! But don't disconnect!
First off, and to begin with, we are wise to ask as to whether we are remaining connected to ourselves; do we feel good about who we are, and are we keeping our
heads above water? In short, what is the condition of our self-esteem?
In addition to a connection to the self, we need to survey whether we are we in touch with a person (or persons) who are significant to and in our lives?
Whether they are many, do we sense this intimacy from those surrounding us?
Along with that, how about this: are we connected to at least someone we love, one whom shares with us a physical intimacy and closeness? Is there the opportunity to know the feelings of sensuality, sexuality and loving romance in our midst?
A fourth question of connectedness has to do with whether we are living in the present time frame. In which
moment can we be found 'a past
one', 'a future one', or 'this
one'? Do we have a sense of overall presence, of mindfulness?
Finally, are we plugged in to some sense of purpose and meaning in our lives? Along with that, are we in overall control of what is going on with ourselves, and have a general harmony with life on a daily basis? Are we lucidly, coherently participating in the processes of life? Or not?
As we would survey this short checklist on some kind of regular basis, we are intelligent as we decide to remain connected to the ideas, as well as others that are represented to us in them.
Staying in touch with life, is maintaining the awareness of such things, and knowing that a constant sense of evolution cooperates with us. It makes for something more than drudgery, turning life into an adventure in the paradise of our perceptions.
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