Following Your Soul Path
Like An Elephant: Following Your Soul-Path
A new feeling came into me the other day, something I had never had more than glimpses of before. I felt solid all the way through, solidly myself, settled all the way in. Unlike my usual state of mind, there was no trace of the needs, thoughts or judgments of other people. There was only me being on my path, 100% focused on what I am here to do in this life.
Not in a rigid way. Not stiffly determined, not pushing hard. Relaxed, grounded, centered, present in a fluid way, able to adapt as needed. It was the first time I consciously experienced my full integrity.
According to the Dictionary of Word Origins, “Integrity” comes from the Latin “integer” meaning “whole, complete,” which came from root words that mean “in touch,” which also gave us “intact.”
That is what I experienced: being whole, complete, in touch and intact. I had no need for anyone else’s help or guidance. I had my own inner authority. I felt powerful and strong in myself and immovable from my path, like a matriarch elephant stalking ponderously through her home territory, knowing exactly where she is going.
For me as a woman, this is a very important quality to experience. Women are still often expected to take everyone else into account, to put others’ needs before their own, to help others follow their paths. Sometimes there is so much to do for others, we forget to follow our own soul’s path, and end up feeling harried and resentful without even knowing why. We have lost touch with our integrity.
In this new state of integrity, it was clear to me that I am responsible for following my path, and so is every other soul. Sure, sometimes we can help each other. But the bottom line is that each of us has her/his own path, including every child. To be in integrity with ourselves, to be whole and complete, we need to keep our priorities clear, and stay in touch with our own soul paths, even if that means just taking three minutes to breathe and reconnect.
When have you experienced being in complete integrity with yourself? What and who helps you stay in touch with your own path? What or who distracts you? What are you willing to forego in order to be in integrity with yourself? These are questions I need to explore. Perhaps you may find them useful also.
I love this Rahima. Yes, I experience you in a very similar way and it’s good to hear you confirm that essence about yourself. Powerful statement and a good one for me to hear as well. Thank you. It’s what I need to remind myself daily. <3
I have had such experiences, too, momentarily, but sustaining this state seems nearly impossible…the “suck of life” sooner or later kicks in. Good questions to ponder. Thanks for sharing yourself so fully. Great contribution.
Xoxo
Thanks, Bev! True, it can be hard to sustain in daily life, though having had the experience, it’s now easier to remind myself and drop back in to my center.