What is my present occupation? How do I feel about what I am doing now? Given the choice, would I stay on this path? Why or why not?
This were the guide questions reflected on at the first Inner Work Circle (TIWC) session in February held last Tuesday (Feb. 5) at the Peacemakers’ Circle. The group welcomed 2 newcomers to the circle.
After body relaxation exercises, the participants proceeded with kamustahan or touching-base with each other--sharing their highlight experiences within the past week. This was followed by a short silencing of the mind and praying for the world, before proceeding to the sharing of reflections on the theme.
The first sharing (from the most senior among the group) was about an unfailing passion for education and writing – two classic fields of endeavor through which he has creatively and unconventionally interwoven and crafted into his unique style of work as he sought to respond to the need for innovation and change in the existing social knowledge systems. Although passing through a transitional phase, he has found this to be a most purposeful path on which he will stay for the rest of his life.
On the other hand, another set of sharings heard touched on the challenges of reality and practicality vis-à-vis staying on the path of social service. Whether teaching pre-school kids or engaging in developmental work, such mission-oriented occupations are often inversely-proportional to financial stability (most especially in this country). The perpetual dilemma of “staying to serve in your beloved country versus working abroad to secure your future” came about. As pondering continues and reflections stay open ended on these personal issues one insight came out to address the fears of those concerned: “Even as details on your path change (as they are bound to), the essence of your mission can stay the same.”
Further sharing then gave emphasis to such “openness to change” and the wisdom of living in the present moment and being aware of one’s state of being (i.e. “being peaceful now”).
One participant shared how he appreciated receiving the guide question at this particular time of the year which was significant to him personally in relation to past experiences of pondering and questioning. It provided him with renewed energy and inspiration to move forward amidst doubts and difficulties clouding his path as he was reminded and made aware again that his answer/decision remains the same.
Whatever decisions we make in life, as long as we are open to whether the Higher Will is attuned to it or has other plans for us, and that we are aware of the true essence of it all, then it should turn out to be a worthwhile journey.
Next week (Feb. 12) we continue with the main theme of “Where Am I?” and our guide questions for the week are:
“How do I feel about myself being where I am? What gives me the feeling of being truly alive and well? What experience lately made me feel that way?
See you then!
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