Tina ThrussellLast week, I ‘accidentally’ came across an interview with Rev. Michael Bernard Beckwith of the Agape International Spiritual Centre in Los Angeles, CA.
As is always the case, what the interview was about was in perfect alignment with what I’ve been examining in my own life. Rev Beckwith’s responses to the questions asked of him were wonderful affirmations that my studies and contemplations have been on ‘the right track.’
As an example, the interviewer asked Michael: “How do we overcome challenges to feeling more connected?
Michael replied, “The first thing we have to understand is we’re not here to live a challenge-free life. Challenges come to activate latent capacities longing to emerge in, through, and as us. So when we’re facing a challenge, it’s beneficial to ask ourselves, What gift of growth is this challenge offering me? It’s difficult, because society conditions us to believe success means retiring on a yacht somewhere, whereas authentic success is the evolution of our soul. So when we embrace challenge as an evolutionary accelerator, we realize it’s like a grain of sand in an oyster—we can expect a pearl to follow shortly.
The interviewer asked, “So seeing an opportunity instead of a problem opens the door to getting through the situation?”
Michal agreed, “Absolutely. We’re surrounded by opportunities, possibilities, and potentialities… don’t run from challenges, try to hide them under the carpet, or bypass them. Say, “This is my opportunity to grow, so I may become more, and never less, than my true self.”
This message is in SUCH alignment with my morning meditation practice! I’ve been making friends with my ego, whom I have been guided to call “Mama Bear” because she is my fierce protector. I’ve been letting Mama Bear know she doesn’t have to work so hard to protect me/keep me safe from being hurt. I tell her that getting hurt is simply an opportunity for growth, and I’m sure she wants me to grow into the best version of myself… so it’s ok if I get hurt now and then. I can handle it as a stepping stone to growth.
I’m happy, because I think Mama Bear is listening… she doesn’t try to talk me out of everything these days!
Does my sharing this help you in any way? I’d love to hear from you. You can call/text me at 403-860-7311 or write to me at info@shindao.com
