om mind
A
ll throughout human history, people have been
allured by happiness. The pressure to have, be, and
do what makes us happy is relentless. Happiness
is big business, as the self-help industry is not
struggling to make ends meet. In whichever way we
define the perfect life, we all want to live happily ever after.
As yogis, we are acquainted with the quest for enlightenment.
Many of us have sought out a guru, one who will help us move
from darkness to light, because if there is darkness in our lives,
we can’t possibly be happy.
The Bible quotes Isiah as saying: “The people who walk
in darkness will see a great light.” All across the globe, the
movement from darkness to light is something every good human
must experience if we wish to be happy.
We understand darkness to be suffering and anguish of
the worst kind, however, the dark is as natural and organic
as the light. Neither exists without the other. While we equate
enlightenment as the absence of dark, we can still be enlightened
in the presence of darkness.Gandhi said: “In the midst of darkness, light persists.” Without
darkness, it would be impossible to even know light exists.
The following meditation can help you release fear and
aversions you have about darkness. Embracing your darkness
won’t make you a bad person, promote evil deeds or harm toward
others. It is simply a way to understand darkness exists, and when
you realise this, the light becomes so much more evident.Do it now
Begin in a comfortable position, in a safe and quiet room,
preferably in the dark. Close your eyes and witness the complete
absence of light. With your mind’s eye, study the dark. Notice any
sensations that arise. Do you feel afraid or ashamed? Continue to
explore the darkness without judgement.
Next, bring your attention to the place within you that gives you
most comfort, such as a feeling of connectedness to your soul. Go
there and feel safe. Let this feeling of contentment shine light on
the darkness that surrounds you. While the dark is still there, you
are no longer gripped by its influence. Instead, you are bringing the
force of light to your life.
Once upon a time, folklore character Snow White said,
“Remember, you’re the one who can fill your life with sunshine.”
So, in your darkness, let your light lead the way, and may you live
happily ever after.Jill Lawson is a writer and yoga teacher in Colorado, USA
(jilllawsonyoga.com)“We understand darkness to be
suffering and anguish of the worst
kind, however, the dark is as natural
and organic as the light. Neither exists
without the other. While we equate
enlightenment as the absence of dark,
we can still be enlightened in the
presence of darkness.”