At the Edge?

We are constantly meeting edges in life. Yoga teaches us that the edge, the point of discomfort, unsure-ness, or fear, is an opportunity to be the observer. Instead of searching for a solution, we can be a witness, and acknowledge our feelings with compassion and curiosity.

The end result isn't really the point - it's the self-discovery we accomplish along the way.

At an edge, do we stay? Do we stay in the discomfort? Can we be with the experience that the edge provides?

Or do we run? Do we ignore or criticize? Do we brush off the entire experience as silly?

To meet an edge is to be aware of the edge in the first place - aware of our fear, aware of our discomfort, aware that we don't know what's on the other side.

I came upon a harsh edge last week, maybe unexpected. I signed a book contract! The book I have been writing for 4 years will be published. It's happening. Despite this being a "happy" edge, my doubt, fear, and critical voice all found a way to be part of my momentous occasion. I experienced waves of joy, and then waves of panic. I read and re-read the email from the publisher and worried she had made a mistake, or would change her mind.

I actually thought the day I signed a book deal would be a day free from all worry and fear. I thought the day I signed a book deal would mean all my problems were over from here on out. That's how badly I want to write, and share my writing. In reality, I am already a writer. Getting published is an accomplishment for sure, but not because I woke up one morning with a book contract in front of me.

I am a writer because I write - - every day.

I have a book contract because I sent out over 65 submissions, and ONE came back with a yes.

I have no idea what is on the other side of this edge. What I do know, is that the path to writing a book has not been anything like I expected when I started out, so I am sure I have many more surprises and lessons ahead. I do know that facing and acknowledging my fears at my dream coming true was wildly uncomfortable. I'm still trying to "be with the experience".

What are you experiencing?

Yoga and writing are great ways to explore your edge. Join me at the RISE yoga and writing retreat this February! 3 days of yoga and writing. Transformation is guaranteed.

To trust your body and its wisdom is to make room for a full experience, an experience free from your critical, labeling mind.

In the end, of course I signed the contract and leapt. I always experience resistance before I do.

I always have self-doubt and some voice telling me I am crazy.

But I always want to see what's on the other side. I just can't help it :)