MIND-BODY-SPIRIT
of independence or being forced into retirement, they may slide into resignation — the acceptance of something undesirable yet perceived as inescapably inevitable. However, resignation is not to be confused with acknowledgment. Mustering the strength to stay in the “learning zone,” on the bridge between what was and what is occurring, is essential to the effective - ness of the transformational journey. We must remain long enough to grant ourselves permission to feel our way through shifts, to expe- rience transitions, and open to an entirely new wonder-filled way of being. Our evolutionary abysses play out in our relationships. Each of us has an ongoing relationship with “me, myself and I”, and simultane - ously with our interactions and projections into our world with others. The processes run parallel. Each contains the challenges of trying to reconcile our old perceptions with our new perceptions; then com- pound this by introducing someone else’s. Perceptions are always sub - jective, whether in intimate relationships or seeking common ground interculturally. On the intimate level, when trust is broken, whether by infidelity or myriad other causes, the assumed common path is no longer shared. Bereavement is experienced, and the need to re-identify ourselves is thrust upon us. In an intercultural environment, layers of complexity abound. Trust is key here. Trust-building can be achieved if there is a willingness to stay in the “learning zone” long enough to develop mutual respect. This neutral zone on the bridge lays open the space for the creative ways of relating to be revealed and embraced. Coming together interculturally, is compounded by conscious, un- conscious and assumed biases. Each party on the adventure to bridge divides draws on histories that have generated differing perceptions of A new book by Pathways contributor Patricia Ullman Entering the Mainstream: Cultivating Mindfulness in Everyday Life (A Manual for Practitioners, Teachers, and the Simply Curious)
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the abyss. Some may believe that differences are surmountable, while another’s contrary perceptions can present insurmountable obstacles. Desire, and an intention to bridge the gap, are critical to success. Trust must be grown so there is a shared safety in accepting it is possible to respect one another and have differing perspectives. Common ground may be discovered in shared values while resting on an agreement to disagree. This approach is a commitment to stay in the “learning zone” together while something more is revealed. Collaboration is being born. New bridges are being built. Uniqueness is to be celebrated. Look around! It’s obviously the “Divine Design”! Different isn’t dangerous because it is different. Different is simply different. Danger only raises its ugly head when meaning is attributed to differences. The only meaning distinctions have is what we give them. The greater the contrast, the wider or more profound the apparent difference, and the more un-spannable the dif - ference may feel. It is interesting that contrast lures us into the field of comparison, often negatively, and that carries us to the brink of a slippery slope of meaning-making and assumptions. Yet, contrast, a
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Sacred Circle Books ~ Gifts ~ Guidance for the spiritual journey
Lauded by critics as “brave,” “authoritative,” and “highly readable,” Entering the Mainstream features stories and guided meditations that are as stimulating to the seasoned practitioner as they are accessible to the novice. It is equally valuable for mindfulness teachers, offering guidance and a range of tools to help lead individuals and groups in urban settings. This new book and Patricia’s first book, Eight Steps to an Authentic Life: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times , are available on amazon.com.
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